Italy

We chartered a pretty epic speedboat in Syracuse, Ortigia in Sicily. Our boat excursion included swimming to a restaurant — perfect family-friendly day.
I had booked a total of two pre-planned experiences for our week in Sicily. That’s pretty much my usual speed: two per week. I’ve found that nothing stresses me out more than a fully packed schedule, especially on vacation. I need my headspace. I need time for…spontaneity. I need to wander. I also need, if I can get it, a...
Swimming platform? Swimming hole? Cliff-jumping spot? It’s all of those things, really. This spot became the central point for our entire week in Sicily.
I didn’t quite realize, when I had booked our flat in Ortigia, Sicily, exactly where we would be staying. I knew we were near the water, I knew we were in the old town of Syracuse (that’s the Ortigia part), but never in my wildest dreams did I realize that we were literally across the street from this: Must Do:...
The food markets in Ortigia, Sicily are to die for! Family-friendly + offering nuts & dried fruits, charcuterie boards, Sicilian wine & other goodness. YUM!
I love visiting local markets, and the one in Ortigia, Sicily, is NOT to be missed. In addition to the usual fresh produce, this one stands out with stalls like the decadent build-your-own-box of fancy Italian cookies, or the sandwich-maker who has been making sandwiches — while entertaining crowds of people — for decades. Or the oyster stand where...