Outside of the modern city of Agrigento lies the Valley of the Temples, or Akragas, home to what are thought to be the finest Greek temples remaining outside of Greece itself. I was able to book into the Hotel Villa Athena right on the grounds of the archeological park. This hotel had its own …

I have driven in Italy many times in the past, but this was my first time using a GPS. (I am sort of amazed that I did it without one, frankly!) Some of you have driven here as well, and others will in the future. Here are a few tips that I have learned this …

  Sicily is famous for its Baroque architecture, and some hill towns are almost outdoor museums of this architecture. 3 were close to Siracusa and highly recommended, (each a Unesco world heritage site) so I took a day to drive to each. This style of architecture was very popular in Italy in the early …

This ancient Sicilian city is a great stop on any tour of Sicily. The mixing and intermixing of so many cultures is evident everywhere here. The settlement dates from 734 BC, and at one point, Siracusa was the largest city in the world! Due to its location and importance, it was fought over countless …

I am starting my first trip after getting approved for Global Entry which includes TSA pre-check.  We all agree that I am not a terrorist. I am so excited. So, I get to Chicago on United, pick up my bags and go off  to American’s terminal to check in for the Rome flight.  Went …