Southern Italy -2008 Part 1

We took a small group of 18 and had a delightful journey together. Our group blended well. Occasionally we all had some free independent time. It was not a slow journey, we were constantly on the go --- so we did get to see much of this spectacular region.

Day 1: We left Dulles International Airport for a non stop flight to Rome via United Airlines. The flight was smooth, the seats were awfully close together and both my husband and myself had front seat mates who decided to recline and almost be in our laps. We had to ask them to please put their seats up so we could use the restrooms, move about the cabin on the 8 hour flight. I watched “No Country for Old Men” and “Elizabeth, The Queen”.

Day 2: We arrived in Rome close to 8 AM and had a 4 hour layover until our flight to Palermo. The layover really drained us. We celebrated arriving at the airport with our first espresso, "un cafe," of the trip. We went against my own rule and upon settling in our hotel, we took a siesta. And that was without some Prosecco!

In Palermo, we stayed in the Grand Alberge Sole which was in a great central location. We were given a large, clean room, very warm tones. It even included a lovely teapot with teabags etc. The room had a view overlooking the central city church. My bathroom had a Jacuzzi tub. I enjoyed the personal service from check in to check out. We had a wonderful time meeting before and after dinner in the upstairs bar. Fabio, our bartender went out of his way to make our evenings enjoyable with everything from nuts, figs to cheeses and an assortment of appetizers. He wanted to enjoy what was typically Sicilian in flavor.

Matteo, from the reception desk suggested that we dine at Le Delizie di Cagliostra and it was delightful. We had a 4 course dinner at $35 euros per person. The dinner started with sautéed eggplant (yum!), rice balls stuffed with spinach and cheese in marinara sauce, Pasta al' oglia with eggplant, veal picatta & roasted small potatoes, and for dessert, canolli & cassata. We also had fizzy & natural water, bianco d'alcamo & nero d'avola bottled wine, and café. Of course we were served Limoncello afterwards. It was a wonderful first night in Sicily!