SPLENDID SICILIA 9 DAYS • 13 MEALS $ FROM 2919
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES • Visit a medieval palace where a countess welcomes you. • Explore the Archaeological Park of Neapolis with an expert guide. • Explore Corleone to learn about its anti-Mafia movement. MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS • Journey to the beautiful seaside town of Cefalù. • Set out on a comprehensive panoramic tour of Palermo. • See the well-preserved Greek theatre in Taormina, “the jewel of Sicily.”
IT’S YOUR CHOICE! (Be sure to arrange before trip departure)
DAY 7 | Visit the hilltop village of Savoca or travel to Castelmola, a town with unparalleled views.
CULINARY INCLUSIONS • Learn to make ricotta at a family farm in the countryside. • Take part in an unforgettable homemade farmhouse lunch. • Sample ‘street food’ at a local market in Palermo.
ACCOMMODATION Days 1 – 4 Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa, Palermo Days 5 – 8 Hotel Villa Diodoro, Taormina ROOM UPGRADE AVAILABLE Upgrade your standard room to an incredible sea view room. CALL FOR DETAILS
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
TOUR ACTIVITY LEVEL See page 163 for details.
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Splendid Sicilia TS355 2018_AUD.indd 30
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relax and come to know the beauty of Sicily as you spend four nights in both Palermo and Taormina. Day 1: Palermo, Italy - Tour Begins
Welcome to Palermo (UNESCO) — Sicily’s vibrant and welcoming capital. Bursting with Arab-Norman architectural masterpieces, its history is waiting to be discovered. Experience the sights, sounds and charms of this sparkling Mediterranean island. This evening, come to know your fellow travellers during a welcome dinner. (D)
Day 2: Palermo - Monreale - Palermo
Set out on a comprehensive panoramic tour of Palermo. See the historic squares of Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria and Piazza Bellini with their exotic blend of Moorish, Norman and Baroque styles. After being introduced to the Palace of the Normans and La Martorana Church, explore the cathedral that houses the Imperial Crown of Constance of Aragon. Then, it’s off to the nearby town of Monreale. Its 12th-century cathedral dazzles from the moment you step inside. Return to Palermo for a stop at an open-air market to taste traditional Sicilian “street food.” Later today you are invited to a medieval palace where a countess welcomes you on a tour of her family’s home and joins you for an aperitif and hors d’oeuvres in one of the palace’s chambers. (B)
Day 3: Palermo - Corleone - Palermo
Head to the heart of Sicily. Find a warm welcome in the village of Corleone, the namesake of the family from the movie The Godfather. For decades the villagers have struggled with the connection to the Mafia and are fighting back. Join a local resident who will guide you through the CIDMA (International Documentary Centre of the Mafia and the Anti-Mafia Movement). Hear tales of the Mafia’s brutal past, the plight of the Sicilian people and the struggle to eradicate the Mafia. Make your way back to Palermo for the evening. (B, D)
Day 4: Palermo - Cefalù - Sicilian Countryside - Palermo
Journey into the countryside. Stroll the medieval streets of Cefalù, a seaside town and home to one of Sicily’s most magnificent cathedrals. Then we are off to experience a day on a family farm. Learn about the variety of products they create and observe how they make a Sicilian favourite – ricotta cheese! Watch a chef prepare other local specialities before sitting down for a hearty lunch featuring family recipes made from their products. Return to Palermo for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
8/4/17 11:16 AM