The Village That Clings to the Hillside, Motta Camastra

The Village That Clings to the Hillside, Motta Camastra

While standing in Castiglione di Sicilia, looking out across the valley, I noticed a tiny village perched high on a rocky ridge. The houses looked like they were holding onto the mountainside for dear life, stacked so tightly it was hard to tell where the 

The Aeolian Islands a UNESCO Site

The Aeolian Islands a UNESCO Site

Off the northern coast of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands rise out of the Tyrrhenian Sea like something out of a dream seven islands, each shaped by fire and sea, each with its own rhythm and story. You can smell sulfur on the breeze, hear church 

Where to Stay in Taormina

Where to Stay in Taormina

Our one night at Hotel Continental in Taormina was absolutely lovely. Getting to Taormina itself is part of the adventure driving up a winding hillside road full of sharp hairpin turns that reveal stunning views with every curve. Parking When it came to parking, we 

Sunday Market in Randazzo, Sicily

Sunday Market in Randazzo, Sicily

Sunday mornings in Randazzo are anything but quiet. The town comes alive with the sounds of chatter, the hum of conversation, and the rhythm of footsteps echoing through the cobblestone streets. The weekly market fills the streets, a sprawling collection of tents and stalls that 

Sicilian Moor’s Head Pottery: The Story Behind the Iconic Teste di Moro

Sicilian Moor’s Head Pottery: The Story Behind the Iconic Teste di Moro

If you’ve wandered the streets of Sicily, especially in towns like Taormina, chances are you’ve noticed striking ceramic vases shaped like human heads. These are the famous Sicilian Moors Head Pottery, or Moor’s head pots, and they’re among the most recognizable symbols of Sicilian craftsmanship 

Teatro Greco

Teatro Greco

The Teatro Greco is Taormina’s most famous landmark and one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in Sicily. Built in the 3rd century BC by the Greeks and later expanded by the Romans, it was once used for dramatic performances, gladiator contests, and public spectacles. What 

Istanbul Excursion

Istanbul Excursion

A Memorable Day in Istanbul Our day in Istanbul began with a surprise. There was a large protest happening near the city center, so MSC made a last-minute change. They rerouted us by ferry to a different drop-off point to keep us away from the 

An Excursion to Ephesus: A Journey Through History

An Excursion to Ephesus: A Journey Through History

Our excursion to Ephesus began with an early morning arrival at the port of Izmir, Turkey, aboard the MSC Sinfonia. Excitement filled the air as we disembarked and prepared for a day of exploration. I had chosen the Cultural and History Tour, eager to step 

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Athens: The Old Tavern of Psaras

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Athens: The Old Tavern of Psaras

Tucked away in the charming streets of the Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood, lies a restaurant that exceeded all expectations—The Old Tavern of Psaras. While many reviews warn that Plaka’s eateries cater mostly to tourists, this historic gem, dating back to 1898, proved to be an 

Exploring Old Town Corfu

Exploring Old Town Corfu

Visiting Corfu, Greece: Exploring Old Town Corfu Disembarking from our cruise ship, we decided to walk to Old Town Corfu. The journey took approximately 40 minutes, though taxis are readily available for those who prefer a quicker route. Discovering Old Town Corfu Corfu Town has