'To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not having seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the key to everything.' So said Goethe. Noto lodging. Tuscany might want a look in, and Rome might beg to differ, but Sicily, with a history of foreign occupation across the centuries, is certainly fascinating, with a real pot-pourri of culture, cuisine and architecture. Plus the odd volcano. Discount hotels Caltanissetta 

The little known Aeolian Islands just of the northern coast of Sicily are an undiscovered delight, particularly if you're looking for peace and quiet surrounded by the pleasures of nature. Noto lodging The sea is deep blue, warm and clear, ideal for underwater swimming and fishing, accompanied by flying-fish, swordfish, turtles, sea-horses and hammerfish. Noto lodging. The islands are bathed in a limpid clear light, setting off the black volcanic pumice stone. Booking Hotels Taormina Vines are cultivated on the coastal strips and around the towns. Taormina Accomodation On the island of Vulcano bathe in its warm sea-water, heated by underground volcanic springs. Noto lodging. The active volcano on Stromboli offers a spectacular opportunity to observe lava flows and frequent noisy minor eruptions. Erice Bed and Breakfast

A source of revenue for the Sicilian economy has been money sent home from migrants. Noto lodging Like many Europeans, in the nineteenth century and early twentieth century, a number of Sicilians migrated to countries such as the USA in search of work. Noto lodging. Although far from home strong links bound Sicilian migrants to their families and communities in Sicily. Discount accommodation Acitrezza In fact, today, some Sicilian Americans are thinking of returning to their roots and small complexes of retirement houses are being constructed for American Sicilians. Farmhouses in Egadi Islands It is hardly surprising that Sicily should exert its "pull" on its own people as it has done to many others in the past. Piazza Armerina lodging

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