Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
First Time Sicily
For more information, see
Survival Guide
Top Tips for Your Trip
»
Late spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit
Sicily; temperatures are more moderate, prices are
lower and crowds are much smaller than during July
and August
Checklist
»
Verify validity of your passport
»
Organise travel insurance
»
Pre-book popular festivals, opera and
theatre performances, rental cars and ac-
commodation
»
Inform your credit card company of
your travel plans
»
Most hotels and other accommodation in Sicily in-
clude a simple breakfast in the price
»
Check if you can use your mobile (cell)
phone
»
Sicilians dine late, especially in bigger cities, where
restaurants don't typically start filling until after 9pm
What to Pack
»
Cannoli
are meant to be eaten with your fingers,
not a fork and knife!
»
Sturdy shoes for walking or hiking and
sandals for the beach
What to Wear
Appearances matter in Italy. The concept of
la bella
figura
(literally 'making a good impression') encap-
sulates the Italian obsession with beauty, gallantry
and looking good. In cities, suitable wear for men is
generally trousers and shirts or polo shirts, and for
women skirts, trousers or dresses. Shorts, T-shirts and
sandals are fine for summer and at the beach. For
evening wear, smart casual is the norm. A light sweater or waterproof jacket is useful in
spring and autumn, and sturdy shoes are advisable at archaeological sites.
»
Round two-pin electrical adapter (to fit
Italian sockets)
»
Picnic-friendly pocket knife with cork-
screw
»
Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat
»
Driver's licence and map if hiring a car
»
Mobile (cell) phone charger
Sleeping
Advance booking is recommended during Easter Week and in the busy summer months, es-
pecially along the coast.
