Options
Wondering About Excursions!
My wife and I are taking the Sicilian Odyssey trip in September -- can't wait -- and we're wondering about which excursions to choose, if any.
We have taken two Tauck trips in the past, one to Northern Italy and the Italian Lakes, and one to the Amalfi Coast and Capri. Loved them, but weren't big fans of the excursions, especially the ones that took us to (pompous anti-American) lectures. We learned to stay behind and go to a store that allowed us to sample olive oils and wine instead.
Seems that the entire Sicilian Odyssey trip is a series of exclusive excursions, so don't know if we have to go above and beyond, but very curious as to anyone's opinion who has been on this particular tour before.
Grazie mille!
0
Comments
My husband and I enjoyed the sightseeing on this tour. I do not recall any lectures.
Very few lectures on Tauck tours.
There was an optional excursion to Mount Etna the year we went. Expensive - and not worth it. It was the same tour that would have been included in the Ponant Mediterranean tour we took years ago but that was cancelled because of the weather.
The Sicilian Odessey was a wonderful trip. Even the bus stops were great - delightful treats!
When I went to Sicily, walking in and around an Etna crater was a highlight for me, but it was included on the tour. Also, whereas I don’t get the need for people to visit wineries on tours, our visit to an Etna winery was really good with an excellent charcuterie plate. We ordered some wine and more since, which we have never done before.
We went in spring 2024 and I do not recall anything anti-American on that trip (or any of the other 11 trips I have taken). You will meet the Baron on day 2. He's an interesting guy and has things to say about Italian history and politics that you may not agree with.
Watch either version of "The Leopard", either the old film with Burt Lancaster, or the new version on Netflix. It will give you an idea about the history and the struggle between the ruling class landowners of the time, and Garibaldi, the General who unified Italy in 1861 after having been inspired by the American and French revolutions.
It's a fabulous trip. Stunning ancient mosaics and archeology, beautiful scenery and excellent food. Really nice hotels. Relax and enjoy it.