Disney has introduced a novel vacation experience set in Sicily, surprising many with its departure from the typical Disney vacation archetype. Adventures by Disney, a division of the Walt Disney Company renowned for its group tours across various continents, has unveiled its latest itinerary, centered around the Italian island of Sicily, known for its cannoli and captivating locales like Mount Etna.
Chantel Pevey, the lead trip developer for the Sicily adventure, expressed that Sicily seemed like an ideal choice for exploration this year due to its rich cultural heritage and captivating history spanning over 10,000 years. The 8-day journey promises to immerse travelers in Sicilian culture, visiting five UNESCO World Heritage Sites and showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes and traditions.
The adventure commences in Palermo, with visits to notable landmarks such as the Monreale Cathedral and Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest theater. The itinerary then meanders across the island, stopping at Agrigento to explore ancient Greek architecture, Siracusa for a backstage tour at Opera dei Pupi, and Mount Etna for an off-road Jeep tour of the iconic volcano. The tour concludes on the picturesque Ionian coast in Taormina, where guests can enjoy a leisurely boat outing around Isola Bella and the Blue Caves.
True to Disney’s essence, storytelling takes center stage throughout the journey, with immersive activities like puppet-making workshops and ceramics painting integrated into each day’s agenda. However, the highlight for many travelers is the culinary exploration of Sicily’s gastronomic delights.
The trip is deliberately curated to appeal to food enthusiasts, offering experiences such as a village visit in Sant’Angelo Muxaro, where travelers can sample local delicacies like olives, bread, honey, and almonds, and enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by local families. Additionally, the itinerary features culinary tours of Palermo’s Capo market, wine tastings at Barone Villagrande Winery in the Mount Etna region, and opportunities for tasting Sicilian specialties like panelle, caponata, and cannoli.
Adventures by Disney trips are distinguished by their “adventure guides,” who serve as embedded tour guides and are hailed as the trip’s “secret sauce.” These guides, including one local expert from the destination, infuse Disney storytelling and impeccable service, enriching travelers’ experiences with insider knowledge and cultural insights.
During the inaugural summer of the Sicily trip, Adventure Guide Davide showcased his homeland’s culinary treasures, including pasta con le sarde, arancini, and cannoli, emphasizing Sicily’s status as a culinary paradise within Italy.
In summary, the Sicily adventure by Adventures by Disney offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, culinary exploration, and Disney magic, providing travelers with an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most captivating regions.
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