From Our CEO - A Trip to Sicily

In late September, I, along with 46 adventurous AAA members, had the pleasure of visiting Sicily on our AAA South Jersey Exclusive CEO Trip. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Our latest adventure took me through the bustling streets of Palermo, the ancient ruins of Agrigento, and the picturesque town of Taormina. Each destination offered a unique glance into Sicily’s rich tapestry of food, culture, and architecture.

Our first stop was Palermo. One of Palermo’s most striking features is its eclectic architecture. Walking through the city, I was awestruck by the Norman Palace, a grand fortress adorned with dazzling mosaics that tell stories of a bygone era. When it comes to cuisine, Palermo is a paradise for food lovers. The busy city’s street food scene is legendary, and I made sure to indulge in its offerings. One of the cannot miss highlights was arancini -- crispy rice balls filled with meat or cheese. They were an incredibly delicious treat.

We wandered through the markets that highlighted Palermo’s culinary culture. Here, vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, and an array of local delicacies. I savored the flavors of panelle (chickpea fritters) and sfinciuni (a thick, spongy pizza topped with tomatoes, onions, and anchovies) as we strolled through the lively stalls.

Leaving the lively streets of Palermo behind, we journeyed to Agrigento, a town renowned for its ancient Greek temples. The Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. This is a sprawling complex of well-preserved ruins that date back to the fifth century BC. The temple’s architecture is remarkably intact, with its imposing facade standing as a testament to the skill of its builders of its time. Visiting these ancient monuments was a humbling experience, a reminder of the enduring impact of Greek civilization on Sicilian soil.

Our final destination was Taormina, a charming town perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea. Taormina’s stunning natural beauty, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a must-visit destination in Sicily and my personal favorite of the journey.

Taormina’s winding streets are lined with medieval buildings, quaint shops, and vibrant cafes. The Palazzo Corvaja, a medieval melting pot with Arab and Norman influences, is a testament to the town’s diverse architectural heritage. The town’s piazzas and gardens provide peaceful retreats where one can soak in the serene atmosphere and indulge in unparalleled beauty.

Taormina’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of land and sea. Fresh seafood is a highlight, and we were sure to enjoy dishes like spaghetti ai frutti di mare, a pasta dish brimming with clams, mussels, and prawns. The local markets offered a bounty of fresh produce, from sun-ripened tomatoes to fragrant herbs.