Sicily is located at the toe of Italy’s boot and is the largest island in the Mediterranean and home to the highest active volcano in the world. Its strategic post between Europe and Africa is key to its turbulent past as most ancient empires flexed their muscles here including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs. Traces of these cultures are deliciously reflected in the varied cuisine across the island. Getting around is easy if you hire a car. The toll road is wide with many tunnels as it was carved through the mountains but beware in the villages where the roads are narrow and aggressive drivers abound using their indicators and full beam to pressurise you to move out of the way so that they can overtake on impossibly dangerous corners. There is much to see and do from swimming in the warm Mediterranean waters along the rugged coastline to exploring ancient ruins and archaeological sites to gourmet restaurants for fine food and wine and of course, not forgetting the dramatic excitement of a visit to Mount Etna. There will never be a dull moment.