Our trip began by taking a Ryanair flight from Germany to Catania, Sicily airport. Ryanair is a low budget airline with no frills but gets you to where you want to go. We boarded the plane and were on our way. The closer we got the more excited I got. I LOVE traveling, not flying…Lol. I was excited seeing the landscape as we were flying in. I’ve never been this far south in Italy before so I was very curious about what it would look like. We arrived at the airport and rented a car to our destination. I would highly suggest renting a car. The island is very drivable so if you have a few days to spare you can easily drive the entire island and experience what it has to offer.
We made our trip to Sicily in April which allowed us to see snow capped Mt. Aetna which is simply beautiful. I think Mt. Aetna likes to make itself known because we saw smoke a few times billowing from its top, waving at us as a reminder of its unpredictable nature. It’s amazing how something with the potential of major destruction creates a soil that is so fertile that it entices farmers to plant their produce there. The result is some of the biggest produce you’ve ever seen. The lemons and artichokes that we saw were huge and looked simply delicious.
Now, you have to be a very brave soul to drive in Sicily. The highways aren’t too bad but the cities are crazy. Rules are just a suggestion. If the car behind you wants to pass you they will just make a third lane on the shoulder or down the center line with other cars coming towards them. We were told they learned to drive using scooters and their driving reflects that. They dart between cars as if their car is a scooter and it happens quickly, so keep your eyes open. One of our friends that live there said the saying is. “You watch your front and I’ll take care of your back” So, don’t look back, just make sure you’re clear in the front and go for it.
Catania
Our hotel was located outside of Catania so that is where our exploration will begin. Catania is a beautiful city that sits at the base of Mt. Aetna and located on the east coast of Sicily. It’s the second largest city in Sicily after Palermo. It’s definitely worth a visit. I think I had the BEST cannolis ever in this city. I’ll share more about my “sweet” experience in Sicily in another post. This city has actually been destroyed a few times by eruptions from Mt. Aetna but that doesn’t stop the city from rebuilding and starting over again.
It’s really nice when you know someone that lives in the area and thankfully for this trip we did. While hubby was off working, I was able to venture off on a little tour myself. Thankfully my friend drove because I already shared how dicey the driving can be. She found parking and made sure to pay the “parking mafia”…Lol. This is the guy waiting to show you where to park and then commences to take your money. I don’t think he’s official but he looked a little too scary NOT to give him your money.
Local hangout 
Fishmongers at work
La Pescheria
When I went to the town center, it was the day for the LA PESCHERIA (fish market). I LOVE markets. Of course these days they tend to be more filled with tourists than anything; however this one was definitely filled with locals. The fishmongers can tell if you’re local or tourists meaning if you’re a buying customer or just observing. If you’re buying you get attention. If not, let’s just say you might get a smile. I truly enjoyed observing the interactions between the vendors and patrons. Hearing the Italian greetings going back and forth. Seeing the excited interactions between noticeable friends. I could stay in this atmosphere all day long. Moments like this just does something to my soul. I may not eat a single thing but I’m completely filled up with the experience and memories and the pictures (evidence that I was actually there.) I would have LOVED to have purchased some fresh fish but not always an option when you’re in a hotel.
Formaggi – Say cheese!! 
Snails anyone? 
Artichokes galore
FRESH…..that’s the only word that comes to mind when I think of this market. From the meats that were hanging up to the freshly cut and sliced fish to the abundant produce piled high to the hand-made seasoning packets ready for you to use in your next masterpiece, anything you could imagine was at this market. Of course, right around the corner is the shop that makes fresh pasta everyday that you can get to-go. Italy….it’s my happy place. Anywhere in Italy…I’m not picky.
Sorry, squirrel moment but I’m back now!!
After the visit of the market we walked around the city center and enjoyed the beautiful weather we were having. We also decided we would get a little bite to eat before we headed back. A tip when you’re looking for a snack (cup of coffee, a cannoli or two, gelato, must I go on.) If you buy your snack at the counter and stand to eat, the charge is a little cheaper than if you decide to sit. Keep that in mind when you’re about to pull up a chair.
My visit to Catania was more then I expected. I would encourage you that if you’re ever in the area you must make a stop and take in the sites. On to the next stop…..
I still have such a love for Sicily. I went in 1999 and spent almost 5 months there. Catania was amazing and I drove up to that top of Mt Etna and took pics with the lava flowing. This is where I learned to eat fries with mayo and had the best pizza and spaghetti of my life there.
Love it! Can’t wait to give Italy the respect it deserves once the world is back to normal ops 🙂
Wow!! Very nice pictures. However, the snails were a direct turnoff, since Ajay and I have been trying to figure out what creature had invaded his space recently. Yes, it was slugs, or snails without the shell. Really freaked us both out, until we identified what was going on. lol
Beautiful photos! Haven’t visited Italy yet but its definitely on the list post COVID19!
Thanks for sharing your story!
Thank you!!! This is definitely a must-add!!!