But now we are heading to southern Italy, where thrilling culture - both ancient and modern - abounds...
We in America should find it easy to connect with and appreciate Bari and its culture. This city, one of the truly great and beautiful centers of southern Italy, is the very epitome of a "melting pot" society so valued in the United States. As a strategic port during the Crusades, Bari was invaded on several occasions by different cultures, some coming from as far away as northern France and Arabia. A vacation to Bari throws you right in the middle of this compelling heritage, the signs of which will be recognizable in everything from the features of its people, to its unique architecture, language, and cuisine.
As we look south, just over the sea, we find our next destination: the capital of the Mediterranean's grandest Island...
Those familiar with Italy will sense that a noticeably different air permeates Palermo, one suggestive of being in an entirely different country. Ask a native whether he/she is Italian or Sicilian and hear the sweet sound of "Io sono siciliano/a!" tickle your ears! As you walk the Palermo streets, the city's distinctiveness will reveal itself to you, whether you are passing Arab or Norman architecture, traversing its famed food/spice market, or just observing the rituals and mannerisms of each native. But if you want to immerse yourself in the delicious culinary culture of Palermo, try each of this city's famous if unusual dishes and your palate will be more than pleased that you decided to visit this historic city!
This is a Suggested Vacation.
This suggested vacation is all about you and your independence. If you like what we've put together just the way it is, just click and your vacation is all planned; if not, amend, add, and replace anything you like. You may change the number of days in each city, add or remove options, even change our suggested means of transportation between cities. Do whatever you'd like, after all, it's your Italy Vacation!