Italy might be the world’s most celebrated tourist destination. Sicily, the small island off the southern coast of Italy, has the perfect combination of history, food and Mediterranean waterfront destinations to delight tourists. One such beach town is Taormina, which offers attractions ranging from beachfront lounging to shopping. The tourist’s best bet is to stay at one of the numerous waterfront hotels and take a short gondola ride up the hill to enjoy shopping and amazing restaurants. In addition, shoppers on the hilltop are treated with a one-of-a-kind view of Mt. Etna, an active volcano that sometimes glows in the evening. Visitors should consider renting a car, because viewing the ancient Greek temples at Agrigento and touring the mosaic-adorned Roman Villa make nice day trips.
Contributed by Emily Kohlheim