Sicily, Italy

June 2023 - my first-ever trip to Sicily, and I still can’t quite believe it took me this long to venture this far south. Having lived in Italy for years, I somehow overlooked this incredible island. Perhaps it took over a decade of living abroad—and seeing Sicily’s allure brought to life in The famous TV show The White Lotus—to reignite my curiosity and help me truly appreciate the boundless beauty Italy has to offer.

Sicily is nothing short of a masterpiece, a gem shimmering with history, culture, and natural splendor. From its ancient Roman and Greek ruins that echo millennia of history to its breathtaking coastlines where turquoise waters meet rugged cliffs, the island’s beauty is both diverse and profound. Its baroque architecture is among the finest in the world, adorning charming towns with an elegance that transports you to another time. And the cuisine—Every meal is a journey of its own, blending Mediterranean flavors with a distinctive Sicilian flair that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. Noto and Marzamemi ( featured above) among some of my favorites along a beautiful one week journey around beautiful Sicily.

We started our journey in Palermo. Walking through its streets, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of history and the artistry of the Baroque era all around you.
We started our exploration at the Quattro Canti, a crossroads that feels like the beating heart of Palermo. Its symmetrical beauty, with statues and fountains symbolizing the seasons and the city’s protectors, is a perfect introduction to the grandeur that defines this city.
From there, we wandered to the Palermo Cathedral, a structure that feels like a living timeline of architectural styles. Each detail tells a story—Norman roots, Gothic aspirations, and Baroque flourishes, all blending seamlessly.
A quieter but equally enchanting stop was Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, where we found a sense of peace among intricate frescoes and tranquil cloisters. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and truly absorb its beauty. It's a also a destination to get great Cannoli and typical Sicilian sweets, which you can't miss.

Our next stop was Scopello, a charming and picturesque village perched above the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Along the rugged coastline, it’s a place where time seems to slow down. We went to visit the Tonnara di Scopello, an enchanting historic tuna fishery surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The views were nothing short of breathtaking, and this idyllic spot quickly became the highlight of our trip—a perfect blend of history, nature, and tranquility.

Our next stop was Cefalù, a coastal gem that feels like it belongs in a postcard. This charming town, between the sea and a dramatic rocky backdrop, greeted us with its golden sandy beaches and narrow medieval streets.
The centerpiece is the Cefalù Cathedral, a stunning Norman structure that dominates the town square with its twin towers and intricate mosaics inside. Wandering through the quaint streets, we discovered hidden boutiques, cozy cafés, and the unmistakable scent of fresh seafood wafting from trattorias.
As we strolled along the waterfront, the beauty of the town revealed itself at every turn—a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural splendor. Cefalù felt like a warm embrace, leaving us with memories of stunning views and a sense of timeless tranquility.

Taormina - missable highlight near Tulum are the Chichén Itzá ruins (See images above). Although the journey to this UNESCO World Heritage Site requires over three hours by car from Tulum, it’s an experience that is truly worth every mile. Chichén Itzá is not just a must-see for the Yucatán Peninsula—it’s a portal into the grandeur and ingenuity of the ancient Mayan civilization.

On my way to Chichén Itzá, I included a stop in Valladolid (See images below), a charming colonial town that sits relatively close to Chichén Itzá. Vibrant and colorful, Valladolid is a delightful place to stretch your legs and soak in the local culture. Its cobblestone streets are lined with pastel-hued buildings, and the central square is alive with activity, from street vendors selling handmade crafts to locals enjoying leisurely afternoons.

Noto - Exploring Valladolid also gave me the chance to visit Cenote Suytun (See images below), a must see, just a few miles away from town. This combination of ancient history and authentic Yucatán charm made the day unforgettable. If you’re visiting Tulum, planning a trip to Chichén Itzá with a stop in Valladolid is a must—it’s a journey that captures the essence of the region’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.

Marzamemi and

Camera Travel companion The Camera That Captured This Journey was Leica Q2 -

The List

This list is a curated selection of restaurants, attractions, and boutique hotels that stood out during my journey. I’ve put it together in the hope that it will serve as a helpful guide. Food in Tulum in particular, is more than just a meal; it’s an adventure in itself.
The culinary scene is as dynamic as the landscape, with an array of options ranging from global influences to authentic Mexican cuisine.

Eat

See

Sleep

• Matcha Mama: $$$ (Zona Hotelera) good acai bowl and matcha latte.

• La taqueria $$ (Zona Hotelera) nice casual place with good pizza and tacos.

• Taqueria la chiapaneca $ (Tulum town) easy and authentic Mexican food, loved the empanadas.

• Posada Margherita: $$$ (Tulum beach) great location and internal garden, good pasta with cute table setting on the beach, especially for dinner.

• Porfirio’s Tulum: $$$ (Zona Hotelera) great tuna tostada and seafood.

• Burrito amor $$ (Tulum town) Amazing burritos and guacamole.

• Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage Site and pristine natural sanctuary.

• The Zona Hotelera in Tulum is the heart of the action with hundreds of hotels and restaurants.

• Tulum Maya Ruins a site that perfectly blends history and natural beauty.

• Chichén Itzá ruins UNESCO World Heritage Site, a portal into the grandeur and ingenuity of the ancient Mayan civilization.

• Valladolid, a charming colonial town, Vibrant and colorful.

• Cenote Suytun, a must see, just a few miles away from Valladolid.

• Nomade Hotel $$$ A tranquil retreat blending bohemian charm and eco-luxury.

• The Distrito Panamera $$$ A chic boutique hotel combining modern design with Tulum’s bohemian spirit, offering stylish accommodations, a rooftop pool, and a vibrant atmosphere just steps from the beach.

• Lula's Boutique Hotel: $$$ A cozy and intimate escape, Lula’s Boutique Hotel offers charming, minimalist accommodations with a personal touch, nestled in the heart of Tulum’s lively town.