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Dreaming about your next vacation destination? Turn it into reality and consider visiting Sicily, Italy. Surrounded by three different seas—the Tyrrhenian Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and the Ionian Sea—there are amazing views and experiences waiting for you.
Here are some reasons why it should be on the top of your travel list:
#1 Journey into a glorious historical past
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The famous German writer Goethe praised Taormina’s beauty when he made his visit in the 1800s. Centuries later, the same sentiment is echoed by tourists. Be transported into the past when you wander down Corso Umberto, where you’ll pass by palaces and churches, then take a short break at shops and cafés frequented by visitors all over the world.
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The most striking landmark of all in the city is the Ancient Theatre at Taormina, built by the Greeks and overlooking the magnificent view of the landscapes. It’s still being used—during the summer, there are music and theatre performances to enjoy.
#2 Nature views that’ll take your breath away
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Those who love the sun and the sea will feel at home at the beaches along Agrigento. Get ready to be astounded by panoramic views of the sea if you make your way up the cliffs. It’s perfect for those who want to relax, visit historical ancient temples all while feasting on the idyllic sea and coastal views.
#3 Sicily’s dining options are unparalleled
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You’ll be spoilt for choice when you dine in Sicily. Scrumptious street food awaits you, such as arancini—they’re fried rice balls stuffed with meat ragu, peas, or even mozzarella!
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You can find fresh seafood everywhere in Sicily because of its proximity to the sea. So don’t be surprised that one of its favourite dishes is the spaghetti ai ricci (spaghetti with sea urchin)! While the presentation is simple enough, it takes a long time to make because the chef has to scoop out only the good part of the meat.
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Don’t forget about dessert. Sicilian’s trademark dessert is the cannoli—a tube of fried dough filled with sweetened ricotta with pistachios, fruits or even chocolate chips as toppings.
#4 Explore world-renowned architectural wonders
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Make a trip to Agrigento and visit the Valley of the Temples, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. There you’ll find a valley with monuments which showcase the classical culture of Sicily. These temples are dedicated to the ancient Greek gods, such as Zeus, Pollux and Heracles.
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The capital city of Sicily, Palermo isn’t short of architectural wonders either. Once under the rule of Arabs and Normans, the two cultures fuse and this can be seen especially in the Palazzo dei Normanni - originally an Arab castle that was turned into a palace for the Norman king.
Ready for your own Sicilian adventure? Make it the trip of your lifetime by travelling with Holiday Tours’ nine-day Sicily package, which starts from RM3,930 per person. Click here for more details!