Placed like a stepping-stone between the boot of Italy and the tip of Tunisia, Sicily has been in a cultural tug of war for centuries. Its location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has attracted merchants, invaders, and immigrants. First the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. Then Byzantines, Arabs, and Vikings. Finally, Normans, Germans, and Spaniards. In the process, these diverse cultures have seasoned everything from the island’s language to its cuisine. Part European, part African, it’s still Italy, only with cacti and palm trees, souk-like markets, couscous and saffron.
 
The fertile volcanic soil supports hillside groves of olives, almonds, pistachios, oranges, and lemons. Historic ruins are everywhere. And encircling it all are over 280 beaches, from stunning black to velvety white to Lipari’s silvery-gray. But of all the attractions you’ll find here (and there are many), one of the best is Sicily’s authenticity. The island is what Italy used to be, and as we visit smaller ports like Xlendi and Porto Empedocle and get to know the people, you’ll find it hard to pick a favorite.