Here is a simple recipe of how to prepare one of the most delicious Sicilian sweets – the cannolo:

Ingredients for 10 servings:
For the waffle
300 g white flour
30 g sugar
25 g butter
1 glass of marsala
1 pinch of salt
1 egg
Olive oil

For the filling
300 g of ricotta cheese
150 g of sugar
1 glass of rum
½ pack of vanilla

To prepare the shape of the cannolo
You would need 10 bamboo or metal cylinders long around 12 cm and with a 3 cm diameter, covered with olive oil

Preparation of the waffle

Mix all the ingredients for the cannolo (without the egg), until you get a smooth texture, knead it and form a compact ball out of it, cover it with a napkin and leave it in a cool place for half an hour. Then knead for some more minutes and leave again for 30 min. Roll out the dough until you make a thin leaf out of it. Then cut it in quadrangles of 10 cm on each side and pass over a thin film of the beaten egg.

Roll the dough quadrangles around the cylinders, so that you start from one angle of the quadrangle and make it meet with the opposite angle around the cylinder. Fry in hot oil. Remove the cylinders only when the waffles have cooled.

Preparation of the filling
Then mix well the ricotta cheese with the sugar, the vanilla and the rum. You can also add small pieces of orange peel or chocolate. Fill in the waffles with this mixture and you can decorate the both ends with dried fruit or chocolate powder. You can also spread a bit of powdered sugar over the connolo.

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In the Italy Travel Notes first videocast we are going to discover the Baroque town of Noto in Sicily.

Videocast 1 Italy Travel Notes presents Noto in Sicily

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by Clint Jhonson

What do you think about when you hear someone talk about Sicily? Some of us think about old movies with Sicilian Mob. If you want to discover a new face of Sicily and a wonderful travel destination, do not hesitate to include it among your places-to-spend-the-holiday inventory. An autonomous region of Italy, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Here you will find Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe.

Phoenicians, Punic settlers from Carthage and Greeks colonized Sicily, a land with a rich history, in the 8th century BC. Sicily was part of the great Greek civilization. In the year 242 BC, Sicily became a Roman province. Due to its strategic position in the center of the Mediterranean Basin, many settles chose to colonize it. Today, Sicily has a population of almost 5 million, but there are 10 million Sicilian descendants around the world in USA, Argentina, Canada, Australia and EU countries.

The population on the island is very heterogeneous, with many immigrants from Tunisia, Morocco, Nigeria, India, Romania, Russia and China. A unique place full of art, beautiful landscapes, archaeology, history and tradition, Sicily is a seventh heaven for tourists. If you want to discover this island, all you have to do is to rent an apartment for the holiday or one of the exquisite Sicily villas. You can do that with a substantial advantage for you by opting for one of the available last minute Sicily packages.

The reason why Sicily fascinates millions of people today is its tumultuous historical past. Sicily was a Greek colony, a Roman province, an Arab emirate, a Norman kingdom and many more. These civilizations left behind vestiges seen today, such as the Phoenician settlements, Punic cities, Greek temples, Roman amphitheatres and Arab castles. Sicily is a mixture of European, African and Asian influences.

There is also a conglomeration of styles, so you can see classical, Romanesque, gothic and baroque buildings in the same place. This diversity attracts tourists from all over the world, who come to spend an interesting holiday in the beautiful Sicily villas. If you are looking for last minute Sicily accommodation, you will find a list of available apartments and villas.

This land benefits from the blessing of a wonderful landscape, with extravagant mountains and divine beaches, with coasts enclosed by orange and lemon orchards, with delightful forests in the northeast and rolling hills in the centre. Olive plantations, vineyards and wheat fields complete the picture. The blue sky of Sicily and its green fields are unforgettable memories.

Another of Sicily’s attractions is its famous cookery. Here, you will find some unique dishes not made anywhere else in the world, such as “Tonno alla palermitana” (tuna Palermo style), “Il timbale del gattopardo” (Sicilian pie), “Caponata” (eggplants with tomatoes and olives) and “Maccu di San Giuseppe” (bean paste with fennel). There is no wonder that so many people come here for their holiday and that last minute Sicily packages and Sicily villas are in great demand.

On our website, you will find the best Sicily villas and last minute Sicily packages. You will find all the information you need in order to take the right decision: price, location, photos. If you want to discover a magical place where people and traditions from the north, south, east and west mix to create a unique culture, come to Sicily. You will discover the exquisiteness and mixture of an island like no other.

About the Author

Sicily is a land of diversity and great natural beauty, an inimitable historical and cultural place. Spend an unforgettable holiday on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. If you are looking for last minute Sicily accommodation, you may be certain that you will find the best Sicily villas and hotels. This will be the best holiday you ever had.

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You just can’t ignore Sicily, if you are out to travel Italy. Sicily certainly is the place brimmed with captivating beauties, exotic sites, luring landscapes, seducing skylines, mesmeric mountains, bewitching beaches, oceanic charms, and lots more. If you are looking for loads of scenic beauty, Sicily has it all. Its pleasant climate and scenic beauty make it a perfect vacation & travel photography destination.

Separated from the mainland Italy by the Strait of Messina, Sicily is an exotic island, in west of the southern end of the Italian peninsula, in the Mediterranean Sea. Sicily also includes the Aeolian Islands, the Egadi Islands, the Lipari Islands, the Pelagie Islands, the Pantelleria Island, and Ustica Island. There certainly are numerous reasons to visit Sicily, but here are top 10 reasons.

1. Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is one of the major tourist traps of Sicily. Located on the north coast of the island, Palermo is known for churches, palaces, museums, theatres, and other remarkable sites. Some of the top attractions of the capital are – Cathedral, Catacombe dei Cappuccini, Gesu Church, San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Cappella Palatina, Palazzo dei Normanni, Museo Archeologico, and Quattro Canti.

2. Taormina, a charming hillside town, is one of the main tourist resorts of Sicily. On the east coast of Sicily, about midway between Messina (ancient Messana) and Catania (ancient Catana), Taormina is home to some of the finest beaches of Sicily. Some of the attractions of Taormina are Giardini Naxos – beach resort, Letojanni – beach resort, Teatro Greco – impressive open-air theatre, and Torre dell’Orogio – clock tower.

3. Cefalù, an attractive city in the province of Palermo, is one of the major tourist attractions in the region. Located on the northern coast of Sicily, on the Tyrrhenian Sea, Cefalù is Sicily’s main beach resort. Cefalù is known for its attractive Cathedral (Duomo) dominating the centre of town, old town streets, pretty harbour – Piazza Marina, and gorgeous beach. Cefalù is about 75 km east from the provincial capital and 185 km west of Messina.

4. Ragusa, a city in southern Italy, on the island of Sicily, is one of the well known tourist traps. The city is known for its impressive baroque architecture. Ragusa is one of eight jewels of Val di Noto region that have been listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ragusa Ibla, which is home to most of the tourist sites, is famous for its narrow streets, steep winding steps, old churches, and fantastic views.
5. Catania, the economic center, is a great tourist attraction of Sicily. Located on the east coast of the island, at the foot of the active volcano Mount Etna, halfway between Messina and Siracusa, Catania is known for ancient monuments of Roman Age, baroque and historical churches, palaces, liberty style mansions, urban parks, and numerous other sites. It is also famous for its La Playa beach.

6. Syracuse (Siracusa) offers a nice mix of ancient and modern, on the eastern coast of Sicily. It is an attractive old town known for its Greek ruins. Once described by Cicero as “the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all,” the ancient center of Syracuse is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Neapolis is the ancient city that has the Greek Theatre, Quarries, Caves and Roman Amphitheatre. Other attractions of the town include Apollo Temple, Old Town on Ortygia Island, Cathedral, Piazza Del Duomo, Sanctuary Madonna Della Lacrime, Maniace Castle in Ortigia, and Ipogeo in Duomo Square.

7. Mount Etna or Etna Volcano certainly is one of the top reasons to visit Sicily. It’s a “must see” site, widely known for its scenic beauty. One of the finest expressions of Scenic beauty, Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe, on the east coast of Sicily, close to Messina and Catania. On top of the Etna volcano, you can enjoy fantastic views of ocean, or you can enjoy walking around the old crater, or you can enjoy skiing down the Etna.

8. Sicilian Beaches are the top attracts of Sicily. You can really find some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily. The places known for beaches are Catania, Taormina, Cefalù, Eraclea Minoa, Ragusa, and the Aeolian Islands. La Playa beach (Catania) is an excellent beach. Mondello (near Palermo) is a very popular beache. Sabbie Nere (Vulcano) is the best beach on the Aeolian. Other notable beach resorts include Giardini Naxos and Letojanni (Taormina), and Saint Vito lo Capo, near Trapani.

9. Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie), including Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi, and Panarea, is an archipelago of attractive islands in the Tyrrheanian Sea. Attracting up to 200,000 visitors annually, the Aeolian Islands are popular tourist destination in the summer. The islands have some of the fantastic sites and beaches. Vulcano is known for its fango baths. Lipari and its Museo Archeologico Regionale Eoliano are major attractions of the islands.

10. Sicilian (Italian) Foods & Wines surely are one of the top reasons to visit Sicily. You find a very wide rage of local and Italian foods & drinks in Sicily. Every city and town in Sicily has its own dishes as well as the more popular Italian foods. You can enjoy various local specialties in Sicily. You can also enjoy some of the finest Italian wines in Sicily.

Author writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing listings for hotels, apartments, Sicily holiday villas, and tips from Travel accommodation specialists.
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You just can’t ignore Sicily, if you are out to travel Italy. Sicily certainly is the place brimmed with captivating beauties, exotic sites, luring landscapes, seducing skylines, mesmeric mountains, bewitching beaches, oceanic charms, and lots more.

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by Mansi Aggarwal

Sicily has made an indelible mark on the European traveling scene. Is it because of the Volcano that is still burning, or is it because of the rich cultural heritage that the city carries? The European experience has been adorned by the Italian influence. The Greek domination has left such marks on the settlements around Rome and rest of Italy including Greece and Sicily that it has become next to impossible to miss it. The roman leftovers are grand enough to attract the historians as well as the tourists.

Sicily is one of the most sought after destinations in Italy. The tourism advantage that Sicily can give is just an added feature. The reason for this is that it is essentially a culturally charged city. The city has in itself treasured the exploits of the second Great War as well as the ancient historical facts that a significant part of world history. The city holds a distinct aura as differentiable as its language, which is a mixture of many nearby languages. The Mediterranean influence on the place can be felt by the cuisine that is served in its lavishly decorated restaurants.

Sicily holds a unique history that is flanked by the exploits and rule of many dynasties. The geographical location of the place gives a very wrong picture of it being part of the Italian rule. Though it is now a part of Italy but its origin and history is different from that of Italy. The main land of Sicily is separated from the Italian land and thus it finds many indigenous people living in it. How ever it has been a favorite of almost all the empires. The Carthage, the Greeks and the Normans fought over the land too much and it saw the changing the hands. Rome was finally the victor and they ruled it for a long time. Then in the late 19th century Italy took over the control. However the impact of mafia on the island is too much and large part of the land is still under its influence. The city also has the honor of perpetrating the mafia concept.

The Greek and the roman influence on the city can be seen by the architecture that is seen around the city. The enormous size of the cathedrals and platforms dazzles the mind of the visitors. The Sicilian backdrop has been used by many film makers and performers. The sheer grandeur of the roman and Greek constructions makes it one of the most sought after destination in southern Europe.

Mount Etna is one of the volcanoes that is still active apart from being the tallest in Europe. The rich thick forest cover around the Etna region is an added attraction to the tourists. Apart from the seldom traffic problems and delays in flights and trains, the city offers a vista of traveling experiences.

The city is easy to approach, as it is a part of most of eastern and southern European tours. The individual visit can also be a good idea. From romanticism of the mafia to the raw power of nature Sicily has it all.

Mansi Aggarwal writes about Sicily travel. Learn more at http://www.destinationsicily.com

Article source: Expert Articles

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By Isabella DeRobertis

Life on board is relaxing and it provides unforgettable experiences since reaching some of Sicily`s most beautiful cities by yacht does not provide the same sensations as when landing in by aeroplane or driving in by car. The best way to begin a sailing tour around Sicily is from the historical centre on the Island of Ortigia, Syracuse. The base port in Syracuse is situated on the eastern coast of Sicily and is one of Sicily`s main attractions due to its archaeological zone and historical testimony and also being a centre of industry and commerce.

Moreover, the broad waterfront of the Island of Ortigia, is an ideal place from which to appreciate the unique panoramic view of Porto Grande that witnessed great battles and it is ideal for a point of departure for a sailing Sicily tour. Syracuse has two ports to yachting, the main one being Porto Grande and the other one being Porto Piccolo (otherwise known as Porto Marmoreo). The most profitable thing was that the Sleep in Sicily travel agency offered us a 50% discount the night before embarkation and the night of disembarkation for the chosen bed and breakfast in its franchising.

Syracuse and its Province attract tourists for the high quality tourist services, beautiful coasts and historical remains; moreover the area`s scenery and architecture provide a spectacular backdrop. Amongst the most famous marine localities are Noto, Avola, Capo Passero, Fontane Bianche, Arenella, Marzamemi, Brucolii e Angone Bagni.

On the sailing yacht heading south from Syracuse and surpassing Cape Murro di Porco, one will arrive to the outstanding protected marine nature reserve of Plemmirio (Maddalena Peninsula). Plemmirio faces Ortigia and apart from nesting Greek remains, it boasts enchanting caves and a seabed rich in fauna typical of the Mediterranean hence making it ideal for divers. Moreover its landscape is marked by typical Mediterranean vegetation, especially by the dwarf palm tree. Proceeding coastwise, one reaches the beautiful sandy beach of Arenella, then Fonatne Bianche bay, to then proceed to Avola coast, which is the extension of the town Avola where typical prehistoric Sicilian tombs are found. The itinerary continued to Marina di Noto, which is the seaside extension of Noto, otherwise known as the Baroque City and is also listed in UNESCO world heritage. Along the coast south of Siracusa is the superb Vendicari nature reserve, which is southernmost of all Italian reserves made up of marshy areas and various sea outlets; hence it is an area rich in flora and fauna.

Proceeding along the coast, one reaches the charming and quiet seafaring village of Marzamemi (from Arab meaning harbour of doves) equipped with berthing facilities, to then proceed to visit the nearby Pachino with the Cave of Calafarina amongst its natural attractions and to taste the Mediterranean cuisine decorated with the famous Pachino tomatoes. From Pachino one can proceed to the Southeastern end of Sicily, Capo Passero that is a paradise for divers, ideal for a relaxing holiday and excellent for historical sightseeing. In front of Portopalo there is the little Island of Capo Passero and right between the isle and Sicily is the strategic point for tunny fishing and an attraction for bird watching. Furthermore, for those who wish to sail farther, at a distance of 90 km there is the beautiful Island of Malta with its archipelago to wonder about the Islands’ prehistory remains, go back over the footsteps of St Paul and find out where the Knights of St John defended Christendom.

This is only a page of our onboard diary and cannot wait to embark again!

For more details on SICILY CHARTER, SAILING AROUND SICILY, SAILING YACHTS here: http://www.sicilycharter.blogspot.com/

For more details on SICILY TOUR, SICILY HOTELS, SICILY TRAVEL here: http://www.sleepinsicily.com/

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

by Enrico Forte

If you want to live a new way to enjoy with your bike, then read this article about an unique of a kind tour of the Sicilian coast.

In the Sicily island it’s possible to practice road, off-road, leisure and competition itineraries to visit its attractions. There are paths and itineraries created only for bikers. It’s an new way to join the benefits of the bike and the view of unique natural landscapes and the Baroque art of the churches and buildings protected by the UNESCO patrimony.

There are trips in the natural park of the Volcano Etna, and tours through the oriental coast roads at the discovery of the “Baroque Towns” of the Noto Valley. You could discover wild zones like Cavagrande and the Vendicari Natural oasis or the fishermen’s village of Marzamemi and the ancient centre of the city of Syracuse and its Greek theatre.

Other great places where biking are the Nebrodi mounts, the cave of ice in the Etna mountain, the ducea of Maniace, the Trearie lake and Taormina.

Here you are some tips to help you enjoy your adventure…
* Take information about the bicycle assistance on the path you decide. (It’s not a problem if you choose to buy road book)
* Have your bike serviced every six to twelve months.
* Spend as much as you can on your bike
* Control your training level before to start (The Etna tour are very hard)
* If your equipment works reliably and safely, there’s no need to upgrade everything each time.
* The best time to upgrade your equipment parts is when you notice that anything is worn or damaged on your bike.
* Try low-fat high carbohydrate foods like bananas, cereal bars and dried fruit
* Drink plenty of fluids to keep your fuel and fluid stores up between training sessions and rides.
* Avoid caffeine or alcohol in the days before an important ride, to avoid dehydration.
* Consider the weather conditions

Enrico Forte is the editor Volcanoetna.com and he is an expert about trekking trips in the Sicily island. Enrico is one of the expert writer ItalyTravelNotes is very happy to collaborate with. If you need a travel guide to Sicily Holidays we do heartily recommend that you visit Volcanoetna.com for this expert advice.

Waqar Awan

The climate of Sicily islands is one of the most beautiful climates on earth. It is typically Mediterranean with warm dry summers and cool wet winters. The climate of the island can be divided into two main classes viz., the climate of the coast and the climate of the interior or the climate of the mountains.

The climate of the coast

The climate of the coast is warm and sunny in the hotter months and mild and wet in the cooler months. Due to the pronounced Mediterranean effect, it has no extremes of temperatures. The temperature of hottest month at the coast is 75 F while the coolest is only 63 F which is very comfortable as compared to the continent Europe whose temperature at this time of the year is around 30 F in most of the countries. The coast, therefore, is the favorite place for tourists in winter.

The climate of the mountains

The mountains are found in the interior of the island of Sicily. There height of about 3000 feet tempers the climate. The hottest month on the mountains records 63 F ( 12 F lower than at the coast ) and the coldest month has a temperature of 32 F (21 F cooler than at the coast). Due to severe winter on the mountains, tourists prefer mountains in summer when the weather is most pleasant and sunny.

In a nutshell, therefore, Sicily has two types of climates, one with warm dry summers and cool wet winters found on the coast and the other with cool dry summers and cold wet winters found on the interior of the island.

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Victor Tuszing

Sicily is the biggest island and an autonomous region of Italy. It is also a world-wide renowned holiday spot and each year millions of people are planning to trip there and to spend beach holidays in Sicily.

Sicily attracts with its natural beauty, rich historical remains, warm and friendly people and great accommodations offered by luxurious resorts and 5 star hotels. Almost every tourist agency offer a few hot travel deals to Sicily, especially off-season. Most deals consist of a seven day stay, airfare and accommodations with breakfast included. There are also all inclusive vacation packages that include all meals, drinks, snacks and some activities such as tours of different cities.

Tourists who take a tour of Sicily should not forget to visit Palermo, the capital city, mount Etna, which is an active volcano, Catania, which has some of the most beautiful beaches of the island, Taormina, a stunning town built on a hilltop, and other interesting vacation resorts such as Messina, Syracuse, Agrigento, Corleone, Cefalu, and Trapani.

The southern coast of the island has many sandy beaches, so it is preferred by tourist that want to spend relaxing beach holidays . Beaches from there are surrounded by stunning landscapes dotted with olive groves, vineyards and wheat fields. Very good beaches to spend holidays are also on the Aeolian Islands. In front of the northern coast of Sicily are located the Aeolian Islands that include islands of Stromboli and Vulcano. These islands offer great amenities for scuba diving and snorkel tours.

Travel deals offered by luxurious 4 and 5 star hotels attracts itself many tourists. Anyone who is interested to spend a luxury holiday in Italy has to take in consideration the fact that in Sicily can be found some of the best spas and thermal baths of the country! Most luxury hotels and resorts of Sicily have spa facilities and there are also some specialized in thermal treatments. Sicily has numerous active and dormant volcanoes (the most famous being Etna), so many spas and baths take their water from natural hot springs.

Beside natural beauty, great beaches for relaxing holidays, rich culture and history, Sicily has also a very pleasant weather all year round, so no wonder that a huge number of tourists are planning a trip and are looking for travel deals to this jewel of Italy!

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James Burrows

Italian cuisine has long been feted for its exquisite flavours. However, there are many nuances to the food of Italy, depending on the region from which it comes. Catania in Sicily offers visitors a whole new experience for their palates and visitors to that region must not miss out on sampling the delicious fare that is on offer there.

There is the Osteria I Tre Bicchieri, a fine dining restaurant located a few minutes away from the cathedral in Catania. A truly wonderful culinary experience, the restaurant has tied up with a reputed Sicilian wine merchant to supplement their excellent fare with the right wines.

In the same building, there is another place with a more rustic, country style cuisine. The food in Cantina is simple yet delicious. However the real treasure in this particular restaurant is the rooms slightly beyond the Cantina. Here, the setting is opulent with high ceilings and lavish interiors. The food, prepared by the head chef, Carmine Laquinangelo, is beyond comparison is a guaranteed delight to the taste buds.

Another famous Catania restaurant is the dining room of the Excelsior Grand Hotel which was revamped in 2001. Le Zagare is an elegant dining space with flowering plants and candles serving to provide a delicate backdrop to the exquisite cuisine. The scorpion fish and lobster preparations are highly recommended.

To fulfil the cravings for Catanis style seafood, a restaurant that must be visited is the Osteria Antica Marina. Here a patron merely indicates which item of seafood he would like to have and it is then cooked and served. Another notable place for seafood is the Al Molino, on Via Molino. The fare is mostly fresh fish cooked in a variety of ways. This place is a big favourite with the locals, as the atmosphere is lively.

Italy would not be the same without pizza. All’Antica Osteria is a charming pizzeria, with a menu filled with Italian mouth watering delights. The maccheroni is homemade and served with cream pesto, and one must also try the Stocco, a white fish dish made with a mixture of vegetables and pine nuts.

For those looking for absolute authenticity in their cuisines, Il Canile satisfies on both the Continental and the Sicilian front. Situated in the Villa del Bosco hotel, Catania, the risottini with mushrooms is a one-of-a-kind meal, especially when ordered with seafood pasta.

Perhaps the best way to discover new tastes and flavours in a foreign country is to follow in the footsteps of the locals. Italians are very particular about their food, and mostly have unerring judgment when it comes to ordering what they like.

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