I've just started a great new book as recommended by my bestie, "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke. It has brought back many memories of our trip to Sicily earlier this year. The beginning of the book is set in Florence, and it's pretty awesome to read about all of these places I have visited. But of course, it lists a few new places which I plan to check out next May when we are in Florence again. One of the main characters in the book is a chef born and raised in Sicily so that has definitely spurred memories of the wonderful food we sampled while in Sicily. But let's talk about Sicily.
I was very anxious to explore Sicily after realizing that Allison's great grandparents were from small towns in Sicily. We researched to find the specific towns where her great grandparents lived and we couldn't wait to experience the culture that her ancestors grew up in. I have always been obsessed with Genealogy and my burning question has always been WHY here, why did they settle in the towns they did.
My first impression was how different the landscape and food was from mainland Italy and how much things reminded us of home. I loved how friendly and approachable the Sicilians were to us. I admired their value of family and the hospitality they showed us through their love of food, much like most southerners.
You don't have to have ancestors from Sicily to really enjoy their culture and traditions; they will make you feel welcome no matter your heritage.
Three things that really stuck with me:
Exploring the Sicilian connections, experiencing the rural landscape and interacting with proud Sicilians are only a few of the things that attracted us to Sicily.
If you think Sicily sounds like a place you would like to visit, please reach out, I would love the explore the possibilities with you. Click here to get in touch with us.