Taormina is a picturesque hill town hugging the rugged eastern coastline of Sicily. With its steep, narrow passageways and breathtaking vistas, for me, it’s pure magic…

The first time I woke up in Taormina, it was almost exactly 10 years ago and my first time visiting Sicily. Having landed in Catania the night before and, although my introduction was cloaked in darkness, I do remember that, despite my jet lag and fatigue from the long flight, I was immediately captivated…

Awakening in a new place is always a bit disconcerting. Was I dreaming? Was I really in Sicily? The wooden shutters had kept out the light so, just to be sure I was here and to let the new day in, I opened them wide and was greeted by a postcard-perfect view. I felt like the princess who was viewing her fairy tale kingdom!

Gazing over the tiers of colorful rooftops and balconies bursting with spring color, was the sea…the endless sea and sky of Sicily… A sea and sky that dazzled with the myriad shades of blue stretching into the endless horizon. I was immediately overcome with the sheer beauty of this place…

Taormina was a lovely introduction to Sicily…I promised myself that the next time I returned it would be on my honeymoon… Well, fast forward to fall of 2016 and, not on my honeymoon but, a fortuitous confluence of circumstances brought me back to Taormina. And, much to my delight, I again found it to be simply marvelous.

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Oh, some say it’s become touristy and over-crowded. Well, perhaps to some degree but, unfortunately, that is often the fate of beautiful places, isn’t it? They are “discovered”, their “secret” is revealed and they quickly become magnets to tourism and all that that can bring with it – positive and negative. I try to take it with a grain of salt, and focus on finding and enjoying as much “local flavor” as possible.

This recent visit culminated My Italian Journey of eight (8) weeks in Italy. Taormina was the perfect finale for my 10-day road trip through Sicily with my friend and fellow blogger, Margie Miklas.

Looking forward to returning to Hotel Villa Schuler (where I had stayed in 2007), we were welcomed with warm hospitality including a beautiful bottle of wine, fresh fruit and scrumptious Sicilian dolce. (Enjoying an aperitif on the terrace with owners, Gerhard and Christina Schuler, on our last evening was particularly enjoyable.)

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The views in Taormina are absolutely intoxicating…Mt. Etna stands vigil and everywhere you look there’s an attractive balcony or terrace with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.

After a visit to the Greco-Roman Theater and lovely public park, Parco Duca Di Cesarò, enjoy the eclectic offering of cafes and restaurants lining the main thoroughfare and tucked in side streets. At every step you’re invited to linger, enjoy the view, an aperitif, and la dolce vita!

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Opportunities to window shop and people watch are everywhere! Boutiques offer all kinds of delightful temptations – from haute couture to local handicrafts…it’s all colorful eye candy.

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A highlight of our visit was meeting and spending time with several dynamic local entrepreneurs that we had connected with via social media. Along with Simona (Tripping Sicily) and Sarah (White Almond Sicily), we were treated to a morning sail with Adriana (Kimi Sicilian Gourmet), Maria Letzia and Giovanni at the helm and, later, a visit to Villa Britannia where Louisa offers tempting cooking classes.

A little wine, some tasty Sicilian specialties and new friends all made for a perfect and memorable time. We parted with lots of hugs and promises to return…

Succumbing to Taormina’s charisma once more, making newfound friends, and savoring the local lifestyle…

♥ How I love this place and its people. How could I ever be tired of Taormina? ♥

♥ Sicily’s siren song is calling me back and I want you to join me! ♥

♥ Let’s plan YOUR custom Trip to seductive Sicily! ♥