What our clients say about us: reviews of Think Sicily

Reviews of Think Sicily, its villas and its service

All clients of The Thinking Traveller receive a feedback form on their return. We ask them to tell us all about their impressions, their experiences and their opinions. Here below you will find scores of client reviews of Think Sicily, its staff, its service and Sicily as a destination.
For feedback and reviews of our villas, please see the individual property pages.

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What our clients thought of the Think Sicily team

Conde Nast Traveller Readers Awards Winner 2011 | Think Sicily The Think Sicily team is a small, enthusiastic group whose sole aim is to help you get the most out of Sicily: the best villa for your group and the best holiday experience possible. The London based Client Managers offer expert advice, not only about Think Sicily's villas - all of which they have visited and often stayed at - but also about Sicily in general: what to see and do, how to get there, activities for children, etc. Once you have booked, our Pre-Departure team will ensure you have all the information necessary to get the most out of your trip and that everything runs smoothly.

Once on holiday, you will be able to call upon our award-winning on-the-ground staff, who are there resolve any problems you might encounter, and give you information, tips and advice. They know Sicily and Think Sicily's villas like the back of their hands, so you will know you are in good hands!

In 2011 Think Sicily was voted the best villa rental company in the world by readers of Condé Nast Traveller magazine.

Here are come client reviews of the Think Sicily team:

"Federica Musco (our Concierge) of Think Sicily met us on arrival and visited 2 or 3 times during our stay and was extremely nice and helpful." The Rosen family (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"My experience with the London team was OUTSTANDING. I rate Vicky very highly and she was incredibly helpful and sympathetic to my freelance situation before the holiday. Top marks to her. I didn't really speak to Michela althought the info pack she sent me was excellent... Ornella was very friendly and helpful. We didn't really use her but I know she would have helped as much or as little as we could have needed. She gets a gold star." Andrew Hayes-Watkins (stayed at Gioi)

"Federica was fantastic, she made our every wish come true." Aylin Gorener (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Michela really made the booking of La Pergola and arrangements of our events while in Sicily truly special. She provided us a lot of information and arranged our day trips, airport pick up and drop off and sicilian evening cook! All was handled on time and professionally. We really enjoyed all of it! Everyone was so nice and professional... Michela also provided us information on Aviis rental car in Taormina which worked out perfectly! The whole Holiday was excellent thanks to Michela!" Gilbert Resultan (stayed at La Pergola)

"Your whole team have been wonderful especially Alex he was just amazing and so so helpfull. Claudia was also a 'gem'... whole company was and is 'class', so much so we want to book again next year!... Barbara wonderfully helpful and although we did not meet her we had the comfort that we could call her at any time... Thinking Traveller a class act." Nula Roberts (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"Excellent support; a great experience all the way around... We love Think Sicily and we will use your services again and recommend you to others wholeheartedly." Cheryl Ellis (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"Vicky and Michela were extremely helpful, informative and prompt in getting back to me and also had good suggestions." Alexandra Larkin (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"Absolutely no complaints whatsoever... Please pass our thanks to Barbara who could not have been more helpful when we got stuck with a problem regarding transportation one day." John Leslie (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"Both Katy and Michela were extremely knowledgeable about Sicily and the properties. They were very patient with my inquiries and always courteous... Ornella always replied to my texts and was very nice... Superb company, your staff are a credit to you! Also I discovered on my return your excellent Sicilian recipes on your website. I wish I had found that when we were there. It would have given me some inspiration." Lizzie Bowen (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Michela was very helpful. She kept in close contact with me and made sure that all of my needs and desires were quickly met. Very personable as well... We spoke with Ornella once or twiceand she was very accommodating... Would we recommend The Thinking Traveller? Absolutely! Impeccable service and fantastic choices of villas." Danielle Giornandi (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"They could not have made it easier for me. The payment was well coordinated. Katy made sure I had the basic booking information and Rosanna worked all the details and coordinated with the owners to make sure all was ready for our arrival and stay. Another person was the on-site coordinator, Frederica who was also great and available if we needed anything. She was there when we arrived to introduce herself, give us her contact information and checked-in with us a few times to make sure we had what we needed." Mary Anne D'Onofrio (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Ornella was superb! Both in helping us out while while we there and arranging somewhere to stay on our last day at very short notice. a couple of calls and everything was arranged! Bravi, bravi, will happily book with you again and tell many others about you." Oonagh Jobling (stayed at I Lentischi)

"Ornella was very helpful...We got married at the villa and the whole day was magical. Federica (our Concierge)was great and we couldn't have done it without her. Thanks to all that helped on the day." Paul Stillwell (got married at Villa Farli)

"Superb service from London!... Ornella was great, she helped us when our bags did not arrive at the same time as we did and kept in touch with the airport." Annica Gayer (stayed at Priscilla)

"The booking process was all very satisfactory. Claudia was very helpful and always prompt in returning phone calls and emails... It was reassuring to know that we could contact Barbara (and we did!) with any queries or problems. Having good local support is a nice touch." Vicky Steele (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"The professional, yet warm, process was a pleasure to deal with." Paul Slepakoff (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Everything was expedited easily and promptly. All questions answered in a timely way... We were happy to meet Ornella at Casa alla Scala. We had to call on her a couple times and she was VERY prompt in helping us and getting back to us... I would surely recommend Think Sicily to anyone who asked or was interested in a trip to Sicily." Janet Allgair (stayed at Casa alla Scala and Villa Armerina)

"All parties very helpful... Barbara contacted us a couple of times via text which was good to know someone was there but not invasive plus when we sent a text with a query she responded very quickly." Elaine James (stayed at Ballata)

"All staff were fabulous... All my experiences were professional, courteous, prompt and helpful." Rebecca Head (stayed at Orata)

"Thanks to the teams in London and Sicily for a wonderful, memorable honeymoon." George Calvocoressi (stayed at Priscilla)

"We would definitely recommend your agency." Ronnie Deutchman (stayed at Giara and Villa San Tommaso)

"We loved the entire experience. Everyone had a great time and we all can't thank you enough for everything you did to make our vacation fantastic. The villa was amazing as is all of your staff. thank you so much." Anon (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Really impressed with the whole package. Have used many companies but this was the best. Friendly, informative and felt like a very personal service... Thank you for a really good holiday!" Janet Thomson (stayed at Casa de Arena)

"Michela was particularly helpful regarding wi fi and internet connection. Great! Ornella was particularly helpful when our bags didn't arrive with us on the aircraft from Rome... We have always received your brochure and despite the fact this was our third trip to Sicily this was our first trip with you. We sure as hell would use you again. Thanks." John Back (stayed at Archimede)

"Very pleasant and knowledgable team who were very quick to comeback after initial enquiry... Barbara was always there if we needed her the text we received on arrival and confirmation of departure was very helpful and reassuring." Graeme Pallant (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"No complaints. Impressive service. Very responsive and helpful - especially in placing villas on hold whilst deliberating... Barbara was very good. Always responded promptly to messages." Ben David (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"Michela was simply marvellous; providing a very professional service, with a genuinely personal touch. Thank you... Ornella sorted out transfer from and to airport; was not intrusive, but certainly accessible and helpful if and when required." Susan Polywka (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"(The London office was) quick, responsive, professional and efficient... We did not need intervention by Barbara, but here availability and welcoming message, was nice and gave confidence in case we would need her help." Wiebe Goslinga (stayed at La Fenice)

"Barbara was superb!" Lesley Alexander (stayed at Il Cappero)

"Barbara was very helpful and easy to contact, she booked us into a great pizzeria having found out the one we wanted to go to was closed for renovations." Karen Murray (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"Fabulous attentive and knowledgable service." David Wallwork (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni)

"Impressive service. Very responsive and helpful - especially in placing villas on hold whilst deliberating... The Local Support was very good. Always responded promptly to messages." Ben David (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"We ran into a problem at the Catania Airport...my problem...by leaving the information package on the plane. Your office immediately responded to a frantic email I sent from the rental car office addressing our problem. Terrific response to getting directions to the house." David Powell (stayed at Villa Sant Tommaso)

"Alex was a great help with advise and liaising with the owners. Michela was very efficient and fast. She sent us a lot of useful information via email and through the post... Ornella called to ensure all was okay and offered us to call at any time." Kim Stephenson (stayed at Mila)

"I couldn't fault your attention to detail and friendly efficient service. V. impressive!... I loved the fact that Barbara was there for us if we needed her (and we did once or twice!), but that she didn't bother us otherwise. Wish more tour operators would be so considerate. Nice to feel so independent, but with a silent support there if needed... This has definitely been one of the best holidays I've ever been on. We don't normally book through a company - prefering to do it all ourselves, but all that has changed now! Thank you." Penelope Battrick (stayed at Ballata)

"All the staff were very helpful and efficient." Rosemary Naunton Morgan (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Ornella was superb and the system in place with texts was excellent. She sorted out the problems we had with courtesy and promptness." Janice Robinson (stayed at Gioi)

"Michela was very attentive... Ornella was very good." Tessa Birch (stayed at L'Olivastro)

"Ruth and Claudia couldn't have been more helpful." Sara Kozak (stayed at Il Piliere)

"I cannot highly commend Alex or Claudia enough in their efforts to make sure that we chose the correct villa and that everything was ready for our visit to Sicily. They were both always exceptionally helpful and easy to contact...Barbara was fantastic - she got in contact with us, even on a Sunday to make sure everything was going well and was extremely helpful when we had some minor electrical issues at the property." Jasmin Rahman (stayed at Le Chicas)

"Katy was extremely helpful and accommodating at the booking stage and her local knowleedge was invaluable... Barbara was great - although our contact was minimal and we had no problems - I needed to confirm something and she responded immediately. I was confident that if there was a problem I would receive the necessary help. Its so refreshing to have a local support team who actually support instead of flogging expensive add ons... Would I recommend The Thinking Traveller? I cannot think of enough superlatives to describe the whole experience of The Thinking Traveller. I have absolutely no negative comments at all and cannot wait to book the 2012 holiday." Jill Jackson (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Barbara and Ornella were very good when needed...How did we enjoy our holiday? Fantastic - best villas that we have stayed in and the whole experience was really excellent. Many congratulations on the recent award - much deserved." Mary George (stayed at Villa Favola and L'Olivastro)

"(The London Office offered) outstanding customer service... Barbara was excellent." Amanda Brooke (stayed at Cecilia)

"(The London staff were) charming, lovely and so helpful...We had an accident with our hire car and Barbara was just fantastic. A real lifeline. A great mixture of warmth and professionalism." Ronke Arogundade (stayed at Cala Bianca)

"I found all the staff, especially Ruth and Rosanna to be among the most efficient of agents I or our family have ever used. They anticipated everything and were always one step ahead. Service with a capital S!... Ornella was our local support and very helpful... You are a very efficient organisation and one of the best companies to deal with. Thank you." Catriona Yates (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"Claudia was very helpful and when she then went on holiday Rosanna took over and was great too... Barbara gets a full 5 (out of 5) rating." Lady Blackett (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"All very helpful (in the London office)... I texted and telephone Barbara and got replies immediately both times." Tony Corrigan (stayed at Serralunga)

"Would I recommend The Thinking Traveller? Absolutely - professional, well organised, thoughtful and responsive. brilliant!" Genevieve Duhigg (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"First of all, we would like to say thanks at all The Thinking Traveller staff, Katy and Michela, both of them has been very kind and professional." Rosanna Veggetti (stayed at Casa delle Sirene and Ballata)

"Katy and Rosanna were simply outstanding. All queries, requests or problems were dealt with simply and efficiently andd with a real elegance. They acheived a level of service I have not experienced with any other European based travel company... All very good and likely to return to Sicily. If and when we do I would unhesitatingly use The Thinking Traveller again." Christopher Price (stayed at Le Corti di Cannamara)

"Both Ruth & Michela were extermly helpful throughout all aspects of the selection, booking and pre-departure process." Catherine Mortimer (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"Claudia was particualrly helpful with our often muddled requests... Barbara was fantastic." Catherine O'Neill (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"After looking at the brochure and spending time looking at various properties on your website, our travel agent dealt with your office to book everything for us. If we had any questions, she forwarded them to you on our behalf. Responses were always efficient and clear. All of our requests were dealt with and answered. It was an easy and efficient process... Many times when you book a vacation based only on pictures and a website, you have some reservations and are nervous about what you will actually find. We were not disappointed by the Thinking Traveller! Your website and information was 100% true to what we received. I would not hesitate to book with the Thinking Traveller again!!" Franco Magliocco (stayed at Palazzo Hedoné)

"Ruth and Claudia were excellent. they gave me the sense of a real personal and knowledgable service... Barbara rang us one the first night to welcome us which was nice." Nick Hatton (stayed at La Corte)

"I thought your service was really very good indeed... I found Ornella extremely helpful... she made good recommendations regarding our departure day." Lynn Doughty (stayed at L'Olivastro)

"Your staff were all extremely helpful... Ornella was extremely helpful! She gave me directions and organised a wonderful boat trip. Her assistance on everything was excellent... I would definitley recommend The Thinking Traveller to a friend." Philippa Devas (stayed at Mila)

"Exceptional service from Rosanna - very good client service and so big thanks indeed. We did feel looked after. Also appreciated Katy's initial advice. Ornella was very helpful indeed, and again provided exceptional client service - big thanks." Keith Haviland (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"BOTH Claudia and Katy were especially helpful arranging the celebration for our 25th anniversay. It was outstanding!" James Lodestro (stayed at Le Sorbe and Conca d'Oro)

"We were very impressed with the service given to us pre travel... Fortunately we did not need any input from Barbara but having spoken to and texted her I was confident that she was available should we have needed her... I would certainly recommend your company to friends. The service throughout the booking was excellent." Sharon Stewart (stayed at Casa Romito)

"Alex, Rosanna and everyone else I have spoken to has been first rate. From start to finish a wonderful experience and one I would recommend strongly. I will definitely book again!!" Chris Woodhead (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"Michela was very helpful. We explored many options over a period of time and she was responsive throughout... The ThinkSicily experience was excellent." Tony Davis (stayed at Priscilla)

"Barbara was excellent and prompt help in sorting out minor problems. Good to have her on call." Stephanie Owen (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Barbara was amazing and very helpful." Steven Bishop (stayed at Casa Manu)

"Ornella was incredibly reactive!" Mardiros Kaloustian (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"Didn't meet Ornella but had frequent contact via email and found her extremely helpful and made good recommendations regarding our departure day." Lynn Doughty (stayed at L'Olivastro)

"Ornella was very helpful and friendly. Always called when promised." Alan Fairhead (stayed at Respiro)

"Barbara was very helpful when we needed her." Janet Lear (stayed at Cala Bianca and Lilli)

"All your staff is excellent and very helpful. Especially Federica but also Ornella." Irene Fellner (stayed at L'Olivastro and Casa delle Sirene)

"As a company I cannot fault you. Superb, efficient, professional and generally... outstanding really!" John Fowlie (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"Barbara was very helpful - replied to all texts promptly and efficiently." Karen Roberts (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"Very impressed with the overall company...would use you again... Barbara very helpful and prompt in her responses, we were very impressed by her and she is a credit to your company." Rob Siderfin (stayed at Cinnamon and Villa Principe di Lumia)

"Ornella was terrific." Tamara Joffe (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"Barbara was very kind and attentive." Gudo van Hal (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Very nice people to deal with, efficient and helpful... certainly we would recommend Think Sicily to anyone considering a group venue." Jessica Skippon (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"We got a very quick response to the problem from Ornella with the washing machine." Darren Jones (stayed at I Ciclopi)

"Federica Musco (our Concierge) was very accessible... Would recommend The Thinking Traveller without hesitation" Liesl Eisenbeiss (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"We were very happy with everybody we dealt with. Since the first day we contacted the agency, everything went extremely smoothly, and the process of renting a house for a month was completely easy and flawless... Barbara checked in with us one over the phone, and she was great." Simona Stevens (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Barbara and Ornella were available, helpful and well informed. I appreciated knowing that they were ready to answer any questions cheerfully. This is a major asset." LI (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"(The London office was) very helpful - really glad to have Claudia's tip to take paints for my children so that they could paint the pebbles from the beach near Buzza Alta - this kept them busy for days!" Alison Huckle (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"Ornella was responsive and very pleasant to work with." Michael Lewis (stayed at Priscilla)

"One of the best travel agency I have ever seen." Peter Kallay (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Katy always brilliant... Barbara and Ornella were helpful and understanding both great to contact." Callum Innes (stayed at Mila)

"Barbara was very helpful." Imran Musaev (stayed at Pizzo Castellaro)

"Ornella was outstanding in her service." Rashmi Guha (stayed at Gioi)

"Both Ruth and Michela were brilliant." Therese Holmes

"I will most definitely return to Sicily and book through ThinkSicily. Everything was truly excellent - from both the initial booking and information to the actual villa itself." Anna Marie Crescnzi (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Very responsive to all inquiries. We sent lots of last minute emails and Rosanna was prompt in her replies. We only spoke to Ornelia on the day of our arrival. She was helpful. We were in contact with Frederica (our Concierge) who helped us set up our Mt. Etna excursion. Always accessible." Gary Pilchak (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Claudia was very helpful - really glad to have her tip to take paints for my children so that they could paint the pebbles from the beach near Buzza Alto - this kept them busy for days!"

"Vicky was helpful in providing different dates and her views of the different villas. It's nice to hear from someone that has actually been to them. She was also very helpful in getting us an odd number of days (10) instead of the usual 7 or 14... Barbara was fantastic- very helpful and good with directions! It was very comforting to have someone available if we needed help, she was quick to reply to texts and followed up with us." Elizabeth Lombardo (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"It was refreshing to recieve such clear and prompt service and advice. When we made our booking we were clearly advised and guided. We appreciated the support and assistance from Michela - we felt she cared that all went well." Daniel Casey (stayed at La Timpa)

"The booking process was extremely easy - Katy was very helpful and Michela was very prompt in responding to my questions. I have to say the team were very efficient and I would certainly book through your company again as a result." Victoria Grantham (stayed at La Pergola)

"Rosanna was very helpful." Anders Gratte (stayed at Villa Favola)

"I would like to say that not only was Claudia of help, but Rosanna was extremely helpful in her absence. Barbara was terrific and very accessible. I'm not sure we would have enjoyed our vacation as much if it weren't for all the chats I had with everyone involved, Ruth, Claudia, Rosanna, Barbara, and especially our caretaker Rosaria. Each person contributed a bit more knowledge about Sicily that helped smooth our trip -- we had no contacts there otherwise and no previous experience in that area, so it really made all the difference." Theresa Kennedy (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"Both Ruth and Michela were brilliant." Therese Holmes

"Rosaria (the caretaker) and Barbara were terrific and very helpful!" Victoria Row-Traster (stayed at Ballata)

"Michela was really great. Whenever I e-mailed she got back to me very quickly and was always positive and extremely helpful; nothing was too much trouble." Mark Oliver (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"All communication was responded to immediately. The advice given was good and helpful and everything promised to be done .. was done! Very professional." Susan Dutton (stayed at Casa al Faro)

"All seemed fine - my emails were answered quickly and fully and it was very helpful to have the shopping done and wine ordered in advance of our arrival. The Etna trip was great as well... Both very nice, particuarly good marks to Ornella who sorted our minor plumbing problem." Harriet Joll (stayed at I Lentischi and Casale Castelluzzo)

"Always very responsive...even when personnel changed... Ornella went out of her way to show us the property when we were visiting Sicily last year and she made herself available to assist us several times since then, including upon our arrival." Joe Russo (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"Both Katy and Claudia were very helpful. Claudia also helped us to answer lots of logistical questions about the holiday ranging from flight times to babysitting... Barbara was a star - even when i needed to call her in the middle of the night. Nothing was too much trouble for her and she followed up on all she did." Andrea Morris (stayed at Cecilia)

"Everyone was extremely helpful, making for a very smooth pre-trip preparation and trip itself... Barbara was instantly available and incredibly helpful to us on several occasions. Thank you!" Daniel Shaw (stayed at Villa Principe di Lumia)

"All the people in the office were friendly and knowledgable. They work as a great team. One feels very well looked after... Barbara was instantly available and incredibly helpful to us on several occasions. Thank you!" Liz Lake (stayed at Casa Manu)

"Excellent advice and an immediate response from Ornella. Thank you." Yvette Yeates (stayed at Aphrodite)

"Barbara was fantastic, super efficient and helpful." Rochelle Heslam (stayed at Cinnamon)

"All excellent from the UK side... Ornella was available and very helpful when I experienced a couple of problems." Beverley Hampton (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Barbara was fantastic and incredibly responsive to any problems we had. Again another touch about the holiday which contributed to peace of mind, to know that if problem arose one had access to almost immediate help." Georgina Perceval-Maxell (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Both were very helpful when we had problems with the hire car." Jonathan Elliott (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Barbara and Ornella were both extremely helpful with sorting out an AWOL wine delivery which we had ordered privately. They also helped us with taxi bookings and communication problems and were always on hand to help and quick to respond. It was very much appreciated and made our holiday run more smoothly... Both Vicky and Michela were very helpful. It was on Vicky's recommendation that I finally chose L'Olivastro and we were definitely not disappointed! Michela was especially great as our pre departure contact for answering lots of little questions we had and always getting back to us promptly." Katie Dias (stayed at L'Olivastro)

"Can't fault a thing. Especially being a Travel Agent. I am happy to know my clients would get this level of service! Your are the best fo all the villa comapnies!" Carmen Reinstein (stayed at Casa Manu)

"Katy was very helpful in choosing the right house. Rosanna was very very helpful, it was pleasant to speak to her, she understood all my worries and felt very secure with her. I liked the advised she has given me and she always was very polite and friendly. Thank you so much Rosanna." Ingrid Heuschmidt (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"(The London office staff) could hardly be better... Barbara (the Local Manager) was perfect." Peter Herbert (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Both Claudia and Ruth (in the London office) are outstanding." Matthew Bubear (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"Rosanna & all your staff went the extra mile, arranged wonderful dinners and even located a church and priest in Scicli where we renewed our wedding vows....our 50th." Laurence and Patty Guggino (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Both Katy and Michela were very helpful and I had discussions with both of them. The information they supplied was appropriate and helpful to us...Ornella was very helpful and told us how to get to the hospital and then the pharmacy so a big thank you to her... Barbara answered our query on accessing Mt Etna very speedily and acurately. Thank you both!" Nicola Lloyd (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"Barbara was excellent and responded to texts even outside normal hours - much appreciated." Ian Millward (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Stopped by the London office to make my last installment and enjoyed meeting the team. Everything went smooth... (The Local Support team) were timely, friendly and answered all of our questions." Joseph Loiacano (stayed at Orata)

"Both Ruth & Michela were excellent offering advice both before & during our holiday...Your service was fantastic from start to finish. I asked quite a lot of questions & if your staff couldn't help straight away (their knowledge was quite extensive!) they got back to me as soon as possible. " Sara Harpin-Shipley (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"We have already recommended Think Sicily to friends and clients.You have a great team and great villas." William Otto (stayed at Le Sorbe and Baia dei Turchi)

"Probably the best holiday company I have dealt with. I avoid these surveys generally but you deserve congratulating. Look forward to return to Sicily, perhaps nearer Etna but Puglia prob first (with you)." Martin Knight (stayed at Pizzo Castellaro)

"Barbara was fantastic and was available to help out immediately when necessary." Vicky Deacon (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"Service was great. Katy was extremely helpful and patient with us getting our booking organised chopping & changing etc... Barbara was fantastic!" Sam Skinner (stayed at Ballata)

"(The London Team) were extremely helpful...(In Sicily) Barbara was immediately available when we needed her." Chantal Wierstra (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"All the Think Sicily staff have been nothing but helpful from start to finish." Nicola Saunders (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"All the staff were incredibly responsive, profession and friendly... Barbara (Think Sicily's Local Manager for West Sicily) was very helpful and immediately available." Jay Hochheiser (stayed at Conca D'Oro)

"Your staff was very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Everything went very smooth and uncomplicated." Nils Schlote (stayed at Ballata)

"Excellent service from start to finish!" Nikki Butt (styaed at Conca d'Oro)

"Barbara was very professional and very helpful." Robert Budihas (stayed at Villa Favola)

"All (the staff) rated top rank. Michela was incredibly prompt in answering any queries and always helpful. Vivienne Ibrahim (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"I was impressed with the communication and attention we received during the booking process. I have never received a telephone call prior to departure to check all was in order, as I did from Claudia - exceptional!" Lisa Ruddock (stayed at Il Cappero)

"Top marks. Could not have been any better... In Sicily everything went smoothly so we didn't really need Ornella, but she did check that we were ok which was nice." Franciske Evans (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"The knowledge, patience and kindness of Ruth and Rosanna has amazed me. And I speak with a lot of similar service providers." Giovanni Lega, Italy (stayed at Belquis House)

"Ornella is a star!" Derk Hendriksen, US (stayed at Pietra Nera)

"Ornella was fabulous and extremely attentive." Judy Doyno, US (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Booking went very well as the gentleman we spoke to told us he had personal knowledge of the villas we were talking about which gave us a lot of confidence. When we were onsite both Ornella and Max (on Ornella's day off) were very helpful, in particular when our son was ill, Max made arrangements for us to visit the local doctor. Please pass on our thanks to him. Ornella talked the maid into going to pay a parking ticket on our behalf so extra thanks to her too!" Joseph Holderness, UK (stayed at Pietra Nera)

"Very helpful and professional as always. We had forgotten to arrange transport from Catania to Cefalu and one phone call to Ornella and all was sorted. Thank you... Truly our best holiday to date, it was wondeful and we will definitely go back again." Anne Kelly, Ireland (stayed at Oriente)

"Max and Ornella were always very helpful and responsive." Nicola Wherity, UK (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"The London staff were all excellent as well...Our holiday was fabulous - and we are seasoned travellers who have been many places in Europe, so it is hard to impress us. However, we were impressed by everything connected to our experience with ThinkSicily. Your organization is the best that I've used." Nancy Hargrove, US (stayed at Torre Marabino and Mandranova)

"Excellent service, responsiveness and attention to detail... Ornella was highly responsive to our calls." Sheila Brenmer, UK (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni)

"Max was outstanding, an incredible support. Nothing was too much trouble for him, he helped us out several times at the drop of a hat. Think Sicily are lucky to have a support manager of the calibre of Max... Think Sicily are the best company we have ever travelled with, and we have travelled with a lot of high end companies (elegant resorts, powder byrne etc). We would travel again with Think Sicily and would heartily recommend you." Caroline Lotfy, Ireland (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"Excellent service, helpful reliable staff...Max called us when we arrived and organised the meeting with the owners... best services ever seen." Nemeth Imola, Hungary (stayed at Cinnamon)

"(During booking) both Katy and Rosanna were very helpful... (In Sicily) both Max and Ornella were very responsive and conscientious". Juliana Farha, UK (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"Max was immediately accessible and helpful when we had a problem." Libbie Howey, UK (stayed at Acquamarina)

"Ruth was efficient, friendly and very helpful. She answered all of my questions thoroughly and promptly... Because Think Sicily had organized everything so well we had no need of them! It was lovely, however, to get a text message from Max inquiring about how we were enjoying our stay and asking if he could help us... We have rented villas in Sicily with two other agencies in the past. Think Sicily outdid them both in terms of service and attention to detail." Gretchen Adams, US (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Andrea was brilliant, wonderful, funny and eternally patient... Ornella was superb. Always available and always able to offer advice and organise things for us. Thanks." Yvette Yeates, UK (stayed at Al Plemmiro)

"The Thinking Traveller's London staff were all very helpful and efficient... Max sent us a couple of text messages, in order to ensure us that we were free to contact him. That was very thoughtful... Great holiday and we definitely want to make use of The Thinking Traveller again." Janne Drangsholt, Norway (stayed at La Rocca)

"Rosanna (in London) was wonderful. This is the 8th villa I have rented through different rental companies and she was fabulous. The best I have worked with... Frederica (our Concierge) helped us. She was wonderful. Her recommendations for beaches and lunch spots were perfect. She understood exactly what we wanted. She was always accessible and never too busy to help." Jocelyn Stewart, US (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo).

"Both Katy and Claudia were very helpful and provided extremely useful information which helped us choose our destination and also eased our stay once we had decided on a villa.... Only had to call the Local Manager once to ask about leaving the villa keys as we left very early on Sat morning and Ornella was very helpful with this." James Meacock, UK (stayed at Archimede)

"Ruth was extremely helpful and efficient... overall we felt Federica did a great job (organising the wedding)... ThinkSicily made our wedding, and the holiday surrounding it, something we will remember forever. The booking, the planning, the villa itself, and the hospitality and food were beyond compare." Paul Hardy and Rob Smith, London, UK (got married and stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo).

"Very helpful adn friendly staff." Staffan Holm, Sweden (stayed at Aphrodite)

"Alex and Rosanna were really helpful... When we had a problem with the internet wi-fi connection, the local staff couldnt have been more helpful and sorted it all out the next day with visit from IT engineer and one of the owners - settings on our laptop had to be changed." Jane Sayer, UK (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"Very helpful, especially Ruth who 'designed' our trip for us. Great to know that she had been to these places and knew them already." Gerald Rogers, Dublin, Ireland (stayed at Belli Spa Resort and Torre Marabino)

"All very efficient and accommodating. Katy was great, I like to book with people who know their product well." Sophie Hatton, UK (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"Max was extremely helpful especially when the world cup games weren't on the TV!" - 10 minutes later the World Cup was on TV! - ed. Gemma Serpillo, Belfast, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"(The London office staff were) all excellent, very helpful and responsive... Ornella was a great resource, very responsive and helpful. Having an island contact is a great perk. She's like a concierge." Christopher Evans, California, US (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"Katy was amazingly helpful from start to finish. There were no negative surprises and I attribute that to her.... We were impressed with Ornella's concern for our happiness while there." Bruce Marzullo, NY, USA

"I found the booking experience to be effortless and the people involved to be very accessable and helpful." Brenda Rossi, Canada (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"Max has been absolutely helpful... good job." Ermes Elsener, Switzerland (stayed at Casa Manu)

"Both Ruth and Rosanna were delightful and great to work with." Susan Razzetti, Utah, US (stayed at La Pergola)

"Apart from my client manager I got some very useful and helpful information from a guy I rang at the weekend to ask about various villas, quite charning... Max was very helpful on a number of occasions, even warning us in advance of a road closure on the day of arrival because of a mountain rally." Gaza Westfall, London, UK (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Max was charming and very helpful in providing us with information about leaving La Mora on the final day between vintage car rallies." Liz Hardy, UK (stayed at La Mora)

"Max was fantastic when we lost the keys to our villa and despite it being a Sunday evening he took time to help us out and flag up the problem with the volcanic cloud which we were blissfully unaware about!" Helen Keen, Bristol, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"Andrea was the reason we ended up booking - we were trying to work out flights ourselves and failing! Rosanna was excellent when we had to change the car rentals for our extended stay...Max was very helpful, first with the internet key and second fielding all our enquiries when our travel plans where changed due to the volcano." Eleanor Logue, UK (stayed at Funcia)

"Max was terrific, showing us a villa in which we were interested for next year, and giving good advice which helped us to find a way back to the UK. We very much enjoyed meeting him." Juliana Abell, UK (stayed at La Foresteria and Belli Spa Resort)

"Rosanna is particularly helpful. Responded to every single email of mine promptly, answered my queries effectively and made all arrangements on our behalf with the hotels." Martin Gan, UK (stayed at Torre Marabino and La Foresteria)

"My only dealings were with Max. I would rate his assistance very highly indeed." Anthony Collins, Dublin, Ireland (stayed at Funcia)

"Ruth and Rosanna were awesome." Michael Melio, US (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"I always got an email reply to a question in a timely fashion. Payments were very easy....Ornella was great and responded quickly if we needed her." Nancy Luedke,
Madison, US (stayed at La Rocca)

"Max sent a text when we arrived and gave us excellent directions to Mount Etna." Linda Scott, UK (stayed at La Corte)

"We have rented Villas throughout Italy from a number of agencies over the past 6 years. Think Sicily is by far the most organized, professional and helpful organization that we have encountered... Both Ornella & Max made themselves easily available. I spoke and/or corresponded with both during our stay. They were very helpful and were of great assistance in resolving our internet problems. Max went above and beyond the call of duty by delivering an internet stick to us on a Sunday!" Ron Truant, Ontario, Canada (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni and Egesta)

"Excellent, Ornella helped sort out a couple of problems." Ian Buckley, UK (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"The service from the office staff was excellent and very efficient, down to double-checking that we had received our voucher and information pack, and planning alternative arrangements in case we hadn't (which it had, right on time!)... We had to contact both Ornella and Max due to transport problems and they were helpful and efficient. It was a great relief to know we could contact them whenever needed - not sure what we would have done without them on our disastrous return journey!" Vicky MacBean, London, UK (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"Ornella was wonderful in helping us work out a few problems." Kay Lupo, US (stayed at Villa Saracena and Masseria Moscala)

"Alex and Renata were very knowledgeable and helpful I was impressed with the promptness with which they replied to my emails." Edward Clair, US (stayed at Balu')

"It was a pleasure to be able to talk to people who actually knew the properties and had time to discuss our requirements." Dominic Strange, Oslo, Norway (stayed at Il Ferrarolo)

"Service was great - Ruth got back to me really quickly with properties that were available for our short-notice booking, gave me good information on the property and the area." Pete Lawson, London, UK (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Max and Orneall were exceptionally helpful and efficient." Julia Whitburn, UK (stayed at Palazzo Hedone, Belli Spa Resort)

"Alex was very helpful, responding efficiently to requests." Fran Campbell, Surrey, UK (stayed at La Corte)

"All the people I spoke to were very helpfull and friendly, it made the booking process enjoyable and informative." Andrew Brown, UK (stayed at La Corte)

"All were very helpful, and Ruth was knowledgable and understanding when I wanted to change bookings." Jane Allen, UK

"Good telephone conversation pre-holiday and friendly e-mails felt able to ask anything...(We didn't use Ornella or Max) but we get the impression they would be as good as everyone else in Think Sicily." Pauline Whittaker, Hants, UK (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"Both (Max and Ornella) absolutely wonderful, esp with one after hours medical emergency." Mary Gleeson, NSW, Australia (stayed at Al Plemmiro and Le Fenice)

"Thank you for a wonderful last minute trip - the first family holiday for us with our toddler. Everything was perfect. The villa was exceptional and your attention to detail and support assisted us in so many ways. Thank you!" Heather Sturman, UK (stayed at Il Borghetto).

Reviews of ThinkSicily.com and booking with Think Sicily

Our website is generally the first contact our clients have with The Thinking Traveller and certainly one of the most important booking tools. We try to make it as user-friendly, accurate, extensive and representative as possible, while also concentrating on the quality of photography and writing. It is a constant work in progress and is improved and updated on a daily basis.

Most of our clients give it high marks, as well as some very constructive ideas, and third party specialists, such as The Good Web Guide rate it highly: "If you are planning a trip to Sicily then you must visit this excellent and informative website... Based on obvious encyclopedic knowledge of this magnificent Mediterranean island, Think Sicily has produced a stunning range of villas along with details of beautiful hotels, tailor-made itineraries, add-ons and general information... "

But here's what our clients say:

"The website was perfect. And I was a little nervous about what the experience would be like once we arrived. Everything was beautiful." Mike Romano (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"A well informed website with useful links and insights into Sicily. Loved the recipes." Andrew Hayes-Watkings (stayed at Gioi)

"Easy and convenient with great support." Cheryl Ellis (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"Excellent! The Think Sicily staff is extremely professional and very helpful. Michela, Rosanna & Ruth are the best!" Gilbert Resutan (stayed at La Pergola)

"Excellent website, user friendly and alot of useful information." Fiona Posar (stayed at La Riva)

"Outstandingly good website - easy to navigate and lots of info / pictures." Mark Anderson (stayed at Egesta)

"Very good and clear site." John Leslie (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"Accurate photos that were extremely helpful in our choices." Ronnie Deutchman (stayed at Giara and Villa San Tommaso)

"The website was very helpful--the photos very accurate." Janet Allgair (stayed at Casa alla Scala)

"Very easy to use, plenty of info and good photos." Vicky Steele (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"It is excellent with great honest photos!" Lizzie Bowen (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Super easy to use." Oonagh Jobling Aitken (stayed at I Lentischi)

"This website showed with great detail the villa and its surroundings, but in reality it is even more beautiful in person. The feeling you have when surrounded by such gardens and grandeur cannot be put into photos. They did such a great job, but be prepared for even more!!! As to booking, it was easy to follow and was great for planning. The experts working with us throughout the planning process helped keep me calm. They were there to help with even the most minor of issues. The staff in the booking process were professional, courteous, knowledgeable and responsive to my inquiries in a most timely manner... payment was well coordinated. Katy made sure I had the basic booking information and Rosanna worked all the details and coordinated with the owners to make sure all was ready for our arrival and stay." Mary Anne D'Onofrio (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"What I especially liked that all of the photos were reality (so not wide-lens photos giving the impression of something much bigger than in reality).Your site is a very good reflection of the quality you offer and deliver!!" Wiebe Goslinga (stayed at La Fenice)

"Very accurate website and photos reflected the lovely accommodation." Graeme Pallant (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"I don't think the website photographs did the villa justice; the inside of the villa was much better than expected!... We don't normally book through a company - prefering to do it all ourselves, but all that has changed now! Thank you." Penelope Battrick (stayed at Ballata)

"Lovely website, easy to use. Lots of information." Rosemary Naunton Morgan (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Brilliant at every step." Sara Kozak (stayed at Il Piliere)

"One of the main reasons I chose to use The Thinking Traveller was the easy to navigate website with plentiful information and photos of the properties... We were extremely pleased with the property and thought that the photos on the website provided a very accurate description of the villa." Jasmin Rahman (stayed at Le Chicas)

"Many times when you book a vacation based only on pictures and a website, you have some reservations and are nervous about what you will actually find. We were not disappointed by the Thinking Traveller! Your website and information was 100% true to what we received. I would not hesitate to book with the Thinking Traveller again!!" Franco Magliocco (stayed at Palazzo Hedoné)

"We did all of our research online, all required information was available. The photographs of the villa were extremely accurate... Outstanding Payment process straightforward." Jill Jackson (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Very clear details & easy booking." Tony Corrigan (stayed at Serralunga)

"Gorgeous pictures!" Ronke Arogundade (stayed at Cala Bianca)

"Very informative." Lady Blackett (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"Website is very useful...Both Ruth & Michela were extermly helpful throughout all aspects of the selection, booking and pre-departure process." Catherine Mortimer (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"The brochure is lovely but not sure you need it as the website is so good." Genevieve Duhigg (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"It is very user friendly... I found all the information to be very accurate." Catriona Yates (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"Very clear, easy and user-friendly... a good efficient system." Lyndon Norley (stayed at Giara)

"It was wonderful to find a site that spoke English. It was easy to find you on the Internet and your information was complete and very helpful. I liked being able to telephone you and reach a real person." Mary Gearon (stayed at La Fenice)

"The website was very good for my circumstances. I made a late booking so to be able to look at specific availability for nearby weeks was a real help." Nick Hatton (stayed at La Corte)

"Website very good and easy to use; information and photos accurate too... Your staff were all extremely helpful. I would definitley recommend The Thinking Traveller to a friend." Philppa Devas (stayed at Mila)

"We were very impressed with the service given to us pre travel. I would certainly recommend your company to friends. The service throughout the booking was excellent." Sharon Stewart (stayed at Casa Romito)

"(The website is) very straight forward... Payment process was good but Katy and Rosanna were simply outstanding. All queries, requests or problems were dealt with simply and efficiently and with a real elegance. They achieved a level of service I have not experienced with any other European based travel company." Christopher Price (stayed at Le Corti di Cannamara)

"Website is excellent." LI (stayed at Gioi and Il Gabbiano)

"I especially appreciated the section that identifies some of the potential problems, 'think about'." Sara Marino (stayed at Le Corti di Cannamara)

"(The website is) very attractive and easy to use... (booking) was easy, trouble-free." Stephanie Owen (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Very good website; lots of information on the villas as well as surrounding areas. Pictures were accurate, which isn't always the case!" Theresa Kennedy (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"An excellent website very easy to use and lots of great pictures." Darren Jones (stayed at I Ciclopi)

"It was very easy to book and I received a lot of helpful information from your staff when I telephoned with queries." Therese Holmes

"Very nice people to deal with, efficient and helpful." Jessica Skippon (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"We did not have a paper brochure... only the website which was accurate and informative... (The London office was) very responsive to all inquiries. We sent lots of last minute emails and Rosanna was prompt in her replies." Gary Pilchak (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Website was very clear and really helped identify best options... It was refreshing to recieve such clear and prompt service and advice. When we made our booking we were clearly advised and guided. We appreciated the support and assistance from Michela - we felt she cared that all went well... We had never previously used The Thinking Traveller. The easy to use website and the very helpful staff on the phone in London gave us every confidence in our booking. You have the balance right - a clear website backed up by helpful professional staff. Please thank the staff who helped us find the right place and enjoy a special time in Sicily... Well done all!!" Daniel Casey (stayed at La Timpa)

"We love ThinkSicily's professional approach and drive to keep improving the service. Please keep doing so. Customers notice! Thanks!" Paul Carpentier (stayed at Cecilia)

"Yes, it (the website) was all completely straightforward and helpful... We found the photos of the villa and surrounds totally representative and were not in any way disappointed... The whole set-up (The Thinking Traveller) was completely efficient, which is all you ask for really. Also, we felt, very reasonably priced, given the standard of the accommodation." Mark Oliver (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Very comprehensive and easy to use. The villa was just as it was portrayed on the website... All communication (with our London office) was responded to immediately. The advice given was good and helpful and everything promised to be done .. was done! Very professional." Susan Dutton (stayed at Casa del Faro)

"All seemed fine - my emails were answered quickly and fully and it was very helpful to have the shopping done and wine ordered in advance of our arrival. The Etna trip was great as well." Harriet Joll (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"The technology being used is up-to-date and provides a nice overview." Joe Russo (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"Could not expect more stuff (on ThinkSicily.com)!" Timo Veromaa (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Extraordinarily good... superb... You guys do an excellent job!" Brian Toller (stayed at Egesta)

"Very accurate photos and description of the property." Nicola Lloyd (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"Booking was easy, responsiveness good.... stopped by the London office to make my last installment and enhoyed meeting the team. Everything went smooth." Joseph Loiacano (stayed at Orata)

"We were helped promptly at each step of the way... Very professional." Bill Altmann (stayed at I Ciclopi)"I was impressed with the communication and attention we received during the booking process. I have never received a telephone call prior to departure to check all was in order, as I did from Claudia - exceptional!" Lisa Ruddock (stayed at Il Cappero)

"The website was extremely clear and accurate.... Think Sicily was an outstanding service from beginning to end." Judy Doyno, US (stayed at Villa Farli)

"The website was very accurate, the photos we saw were exactly what the villa looked like... Everyone in your London offices answered all of my questions that I had about the villa." James Costabile, US (stayed at Addaura)

"Nice to see the villas with summary data (beds, people, map), and good pictures also. Would be nice to have a price indicator on the search page too... Booking went very well as the gentleman we spoke to told us he had personal knowledge of the villas we were talking about which gave us a lot of confidence." Joseph Holderness, UK (stayed at Pietra Nera)

"Excellent internet service provided with speedy answers to questions...Excellent service at all times." Jacqui Granby (stayed at La Rocca)

"Very clear and strtaightforward to use. The photos and descriptions of properties were excellent... We had a wine delivery which despite my rather late order it arrived on the Saturday we arrived which was great. The wine was very good, particularly the red wine." Julie Walsh, the UK (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"Il sito è veramente accattivante Le foto corrispondono alla realtà...Andrea Usai è davvero efficiente (direi un grande!) Ancora Grazie!" Gabriella Bernardi, Italy (stayed at Al Jafar)

"Not cheap, but nice selection of small places to stay, perfect and friendly service before departure, excellent roadbooks for on the way, we where happy travellers!" Isabel Constandt, Belgium (stayed at Mandranova, Torre Marabino, Cas'almare and La Foresteria)

"Accurate photos and site is easy to use...The whole (booking) process was very smooth... the wine delivery, waiting for us upon arrival was a good service." Susan Striepe (stayed at Cala Bianca)

"Everything was really perfect... If you operated in other countries like France or other parts of Italy we would use your services for sure." Pawel Debowski, Poland (stayed at Giara)

"Excellent! The photos were wonderful and the written material contained all the necessary info." Gretchen Adams, US (stayed at Il Ciliegio).

"Best information I've ever received. Thats why I like ThinkSicily. Any chance of you expanding to other places? Yvette Yeates, UK (stayed at Al Plemmiro)

"Without hesitation, Think Sicily has to be the best specialist holiday company we have booked with. The pre departure information really made a differnce to our enjoyment." James Meacock, UK (stayed at Archimede)

"It was the best, easiest website I have encountered to date." Paul Rickard, Colorado, US (stayed at La Corte)

"All went very well thank you. Grateful to for ease of booking our second location while we were in Sicily." Kim Burke, UK (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"I found the booking experience to be effortless and the people involved to be very accessable and helpful." Brenda Rossi, Canada (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"The pictures and description of the accommodation were clear and accurate." David Hyde, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"Great website, even works on i-phone." Ermes Elsener, Switzerland (stayed at Casa Manu)

"Very professional presentation with an accurate depiction of the facilities." Ron Truant, Ontario, Canada (stayed at Il Palmetno dei Castagni and Egesta)

"Extremely straightforward." Ian Buckley, Warwicks, UK (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"Excellent." William Mockler, Toronto, Canada (stayed at Ballata)

"Good, clear website, easy to navigate and photos of the property were very authentic and accurate." Claire Killeen, London, Uk (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"Your website is very nice, the pictures are beautiful and it is user friendly with a lot of information." Christine Fabiano-Main, Pennsylvania, USA (stayed at Oriente)

"I would say that the photography did not do justice to the property!" Dominic Stange, Oslo, Norway (stayed at Il Ferrarolo)

"Really easy to use, lovely photos, thorough information. Good to have travelling times from airport." Pete Lawson, London, UK (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Lovely & clear, easy to use." James Hindson, Southampton, UK (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Easy to navigate on the website and the photos and descriptions were accurate." Emilie Clarkson, London, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"Only used you for one our hotels having already booked three others - wished I had found your website sooner." Pauline Whittaker, Hants, UK (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"Best website we came across when looking for rental in Sicily." Mary Gleeson, MSW, Australia (stayed at Al Plemmirio and La Fenice)

"Very clear and helpful information about the properties and local areas." Karen Harkness, London, UK (stayed at Villa Armerina)

"Excellent detail in the information." Heather Sturman, UK (stayed at Il Borghetto)

"Easy to use and our experience confirmed its accuracy." Keith Branthwaite, Cumbria, UK (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"Really terrific." Anthony Weigh, London, UK (stayed at La Corte)

"I found your website contained pertinent information and plenty of photographs of the various accommodation which is an absolute must!" Jennifer Bagguley, Loughborough, UK (stayed at Mandranova)

"Great for you to show late availability for our week, as for people like us who were looking to book at the last minute, we really didn't have time to go back and forth with an agent to check availability on sites." Toby Kwan, London, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"The website was excellent and it was easy to review the information." Nina Parker, Massachusetts, USA (stayed at La Corte)

"Generally informative, well designed and accurate." Michael + Jeanette Durman, Birmingham, UK (stayed at Masseria Maggiore, Mandranova and Torre Marabino)

"Good pictures, good description and ease of use." Sergey Kurenkow, Russia (stayed at Il Girasole)

"Very good qaulity of photos and good information." M Cvetkovic-Waseem, Cheshire, UK (stayed at La Casina del Biviere)

"The website photos reflected the location and facilities very well." Sheila Bremner, Essex, UK (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"The website was very well designed and easily accessed." Mimi Conway, Connecticut, USA (stayed at Il Ferrarolo)

"Very easy to use and the photos and descriptions were very accurate." Leigh Salvo, California, USA (stayed at Virzi, Villa Armerina, Donna Carmela and La Corte)

"Excellent - one of the easiest and best." Stephanie Owen, London, UK (stayed at Villa Principe di Lumia)

"The photos were very accurate. Casa Nuvola was everything it promised from the photos." Helen Goatcher, East Sussex, UK (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"Lots of photos and detailled comments. Great." Etienne Boire, France (stayed at Cecilia)

"Everything is very useful." Oxzana Kabanova, Moscow, Russia (stayed at La Pergola)

"Casa Di Pietra is even better in the reality than on the photos." Istvan Brandhuber, Hungary (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Excellent: proactive & reactive!" Francis Richard, Rome, Italy (stayed at Villa San Filippo)

"The website was very straightforward and provided useful information about all the hotels with clear photographs. The description of our hotel was excellent and, alongside the photographs, really captured the atmosphere well. Following my initial enquiry, my email was responded to promptly." Esra Uzayilir, Glasgow, UK (stayed at Torre Marabino)

"Great website and great photos and yeh accurate I would say." Heather Robertson, Edinburgh (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"Website is excellent and really informative." James Price, London, UK (stayed at La Mora)

"The villa was exactly as shown on the website and surpassed our expectations." Sandra Cape, Surrey, UK (stayed at Oriente)

"Very clear, true representation, no hidden aspects." Marco Rosso, Bavaria, Germany (stayed at Hera)

"Easy to use. Great selection of villas." Tom and Jan Bergen, Pennsylvania, USA (stayed at Respiro)

"Thanks for including an 800 number for calls from the US." Peter Tezza, Georgia, USA (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

Reviews of our App guide, "A Portrait of Sicily", and our holiday information pack

The Thinking Traveller's support starts even before you leave! In fact, several weeks before departure, you will receive an exhaustive information pack designed to help you get the most out of your trip and to ensure that everything runs perfectly to plan. This pack includes:

- a copy of our full colour, 192-page published guide, A Portrait of Sicily. - now available as a complimentary App for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch.

- a House Guide, complete with detailed directions to your villa, useful tips about how to get the most from the property and information about the surrounding area, including local - restaurants, beaches, shops and leisure activities

- a detailed Thinking Traveller map of Sicily

- a selection of The Thinking Traveller postcards

Here's what our clients think:

"Top shelf. And we used every bit of information provided to us." Mike Romano (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"An excellent pack of info. Good directions to the villa and a very useful guide. A very high standard." Andrew Hayes-Watkins (stayed at Gioi)

"Quality of portrait of Sicily good." Frances Payne (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"Absolutely, the BEST. I have rented many properties over the years, no other Agency provided such detailed directions, information, suggestions, etc.; you obviously take pride in what you do." Paul Slepakoff (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"I did download the APP you put together on my iPad and that was helpful." Janet Allgair (stayed at Casa alla Scala and Villa Armerina)

"Both the guide book and the map were excellent. It was like having an actual Rough Guide to Sicily but more personal. It was really useful having the map when we were driving around." Vicky Steele (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"The Sicily guide was all in all very good, compact with lots of good restaurant tips." Annica Gayer (stayed at Priscilla)

"Excellent and useful guide to Sicily." Sue Wright (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"Map was so useful as we drove around quite a lot. Booklets were very good." Lizzie Bowen (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Great to have on hand. Very helpful!" Courtney Cushing (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"The House Guide tells you about the area, suggestions of what to do and see, detailed navigation directions, which would otherwise be difficult to find as so many streets are not marked well and GPS does not work everywhere. But with the photos used to show how to get there and the markings along the way, it was well done in finding our villa... Excellent detail." Mary Anne D'Onofrio (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"The Portrait of Sicily was a helpful supplement to other guide books with helpful personal insights to the island. Tips at the airport to pick up car etc was very helpful." Graeme Pallant (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Much more impressive than other providers." Ben David (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"Just sending the envelope with these booklets and the nice lay-out were great and part of the pre-departure pleasure." Wiebe Goslinga (stayed at La Fenice)

"Terrific!" Paul Casey (stayed at Casa alla Scala)

"Much more impressive than other providers." Ben David (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"I thought the blue wallet was brilliant, it had a map, booklets and all information necessary for us to take with us. I was very impressed with it. Particularly the directions to the villa." Kim Stephenson (stayed at Mila)

"All excellent." Tessa Birch (stayed at L'Olivastro)

"5 out of 5! Very useful!" Sara Kozak (stayed at Il Piliere)

"Very handy to get the map - thank you." Alison Hackett (stayed at I Ciclopi)

"All excellent." Janice Robinson (stayed at Gioi)

"Used all info quite a lot on holiday." Tony Corrigan (stayed at Serralunga)

"Directions to our villa (which was off the beaten track!) were easy to follow and very accurate." Jill Jackson (stayed at Cinnamon)

"The map was brilliant." Ronke Arogundade (stayed at Cala Bianca)"These were very helpful and guided as for most of our stay!" Catriona Yates (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"Your booklet that arrived in the mail was beautiful and very helpful." Mary Gearon (stayed at La Fenice)

"The map was very good; also the information booklet." Philppa Devas (stayed at Mila)

"If I could give the information booklet 10+ I would. I wish other companies could provide such important information in such a concise and compact form. It was a complete life saver - from getting around to visiting tourist spots etc." Heather Robinson

"Excellent advice on airports etc much appreciated." Stephanie Owen (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Terrific!" Chris Woodhead (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"A Portrait of Sicily is beautiful and gives a nice overview." Helle Nielsen (stayed at Addaura)

"All very useful for quick info on site." James Noble (stayed at Funcia)

"A Portrait of Sicily is great!" Mardiros Kaloustian (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"An excellent pack...many thanks." Rob Siderfin (stayed at Cinnamon and Villa Principe di Lumia)

"The boolkets and all the other information is excellent!!" Irene Fellner (stayed at L'Olivastro and Casa delle Sirene)

"Excellent information, VERY useful." John Fowlie (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"I think that providing information is a real plus. I had a lot of my own material and maps, but it does enhance the experience to have information provided by those who know the area well." LI (stayed at Gioi and Il Gabbiano)

"Having the road map was really helpful and the instructions for the villa were very good." Alison Huckle (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"Used the map everyday! Info booklet very useful." Gary Pilchak (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"The book was very interesting and the map was helpful." Elizabeth Lombardo (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"All very useful and just enough detail." Daniel Casey (stayed at La Timpa)

"The information provided was excellent - we used the guide to Sicily all the time and found it really informative. The map was also great." Susan Dutton (stayed at Casa al Faro)

"The book was a true asset. I used it to plan other areas of Sicily to visit, locate restaurants, find good activities for the kids--a very useful tool--thank you so much!" Staci Cunliffe (stayed at La Riva)

"First class quality in appearance. Content was decent and fairly representative of reality." Joe Russo (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"I actually found A Portrait of Sicily more accessible than The Rough Guide." Liz Lake (stayed at Casa Manu)

"All very simple and straightforward - including the directions to the house." Andrew Morris (stayed at Cecilia)

"We used all of the materials extensively and found them to be accurate and helpful." Daniel Shaw (stayed at Villa Principe di Lumia)

"Particularly appreciated the Portrait of Sicily which gave good concise introduction to places and very helpful for planning trips to places. The map and information booklet with restaurants, supermarkets etc also made settling into the area much easier and was something I wish other villa companies would replicate!" Georgina Perceval-Maxell (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Very good level of information, well presented." Peter Herbert (stayed at Cinnamon)

"All the info is fantastic and puts you at ease before you embark on your journey." Matthew Bubear (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"I really liked A Portrait of Sicily and we used it a lot." Nicola Lloyd (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"The house guide was excellent." Ingrid Heuschmidt (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"Printed material is good and provided adequate background" Joseph Loiacano (stayed at Orata)

"Excellent general information - used it a lot." Ian Millward (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Excellent brochure, helpful Guide Book." Bill Altmann (stayed at I Ciclopi)

"The joining info was extremely useful, we loved the detailed directions, right down to which bus to get on when getting off the plane and felt very pleased with ourselves to be on the front of the right bus!" Lisa Ruddock (stayed at Il Cappero)

"I found the materials very useful in preparing for the trip as well as once we arrived." Jay Hochheiser (stayed at Conca D'Oro)

"Everything in the information pack was fantastic. The map, the guide and the info on the house was perfect." Catherine Pirone, UK (stayed at Oriente and Casa de Arena)

"The guide was very very helpful. We actually used it instead of our guides. Also restaurant tips were very helpful." Pawel Debowski, Poland (stayed at Giara)

"Excellent service and packs." Austin McGrath, Ireland (stayed at La Foresteria)

"It was great to receive this unexpected service which pleasantly surprised us." Willemijn Denooij, Holland (stayed at Masseria Maggiore)

"A Portrait of Sicily was a very nice addition to the guide books we had already purchased. Snapshots of the main regions and towns were very useful. The map was excellent, and the directions to the villa were perfect." Gretchen Adams, US (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Invaluable!" Nicola O'Sullivan, US (stayed at Casa Carcicera and Pietra Nera)

"The restaurant tips were good and we also appreciated the suggestions as to which other towns and places would be worth visiting." Janne Drangsholt, Norway (stayed at La Rocca)

"Very well put together guide and booklet on how to get from the airport to what we should expect on the holiday." Elizabeth Cade, UK (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"Best support info I have recieved from any holiday company - very useful." Fran Campbell, UK (stayed at La Corte)

"Wonderful, used it continuously throughout our mini Sicily tour. Perfect size for carrying and your information was spot on. Used many of the little comments eg cafes, cable car journey to Erice was amazing as was Erice." Pauline Whittaker, UK (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"We rent a lot of villas around the world and found your guide one of the best." Tom Bergen (stayed at Respiro)

"Both of the guides were truly outstanding. They provided a concise overview of Sicily as a whole and were invaluable in our travels. I commend you on the thought and care that went into their production." Richard Vondrasek, US (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"The restaurant tips were good and we also appreciated the suggestions as to which other towns and places would be worth visiting." Janne Drangsholt, Norway (stayed at La Rocca)

"I have not had such good background info from any other villa firm." Edward Holdsworth, UK (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Info pack is fantastic! A Portrait of Sicily is informative and looks beautiful, directions were perfect, map was great. Best pre-holiday pack I've ever had." Peter Lawson, UK (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Superb infomation offering genuinely helpful advice on Sicily and our choosen villa and its surrounding area. Also great advice on local shops and places to eat." James Meacock, UK (stayed at Archimede)

"The book is good - I found it quite useful to have an overview of various subjects, often before going into more detail with a Lonely Planet guide (that's exactly what it's supposed to do - ed.) We appreciated the production qualities of the Portrait book and map - well done." David Chaikin, UK (stayed at Masseria Maggiore)

"All brilliant and offered local information perfect for our villa. We had found it hard to find info on San Vito lo Capo and your brochure was of great help (hopefully it will continue to be difficult to find info on this area and it will remain a hidden italian gem for years to come!)." Sophie Hatton, UK (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"Outstanding!... Think Sicily is outstanding!" Christopher Evans, California, US (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"All of the supporting information was top notch, beautifully designed." Bruce Marzullo, NY, USA

"Well produced and easy to use.... I felt it (A Portrait of Sicily) was really well written." Susan Gillingham, UK (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"I thought all of this (A Portrait of Sicily and the holiday pack) was excellent!" Ursula Mackenzia, UK (stayed at Conca D'Oro)

"Very useful." Linda Scott, UK (stayed at La Corte)

"The Guide to Sicily and the map and booklets were extremely helpful. We used the map and Guide to Sicily for reference on a daily basis during our stay." Ronald Truant, Canada (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni and Egesta)

"We thought this information was excellent and really helped us when we first arrived." Nick Perry, UK (stayed at Il Piliere)

"The guide book contained interesting information that one would be unlikely to have found in other books, so added an extra dimension to the holiday." Vicky MacBean (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"Found the map extremely useful and in fact used it to travel all around Sicily after our stay at Belli Spa." Claire Killeen (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"Map was much appreciated. The information booklet on arrival in Sicily was extremely helpful and the cautionary language on driving in Sicily struck an appropriate balance." Edward Claire, UK (stayed at Balu)

"Excellent, useful and professional." David Myers, UK (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"It was brilliant to have all this information in advance and read-up before we left." George Williams, UK (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"Map was excellent and used all the time." John Wilcox, UK (stayed at Donalegge)

"Good quality books with useful information." Andrew Brown, UK (stayed at La Corte and Casa Majus)

"The information pack you provide is a professional and very useful service." Emma Jackson, UK (stayed at Virzi)

"Fantastic guide booklet...it's wonderfully concise and great to have! Thank you!" Celine Baggen (stayed at Casa Favonio)

"The booklet was the perfect travelling companion and we used it to select restaurants that you had recommended." Belinda Diamond, UK (stayed at Hotel Signum)

"Very useful and much appreciated, especially the information about where to shop for food and restaurant recommendations." Toby Kwan, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"An excellent presentation...we enjoyed the guidebook as well as the map as we traveled through the country." Nina Parker, US (stayed at La Corte)

"Extremely good." Louise Aylett, UK (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"The small booklets about each house were very well done and much appreciated. The driving directions and maps were excellent." Christopher Grisanti, US (stayed at Principato and Villa Saracena)

"Very nicely presented and organized details about the villa, directions to the villa, information regarding restaurants, shops and other aspects." Diana Brotherton (stayed at Al Plemmiro and La Collina di Mandorle)

"The map was extremely useful, and we wore it to a shred by the end. We would have been lost without it. The information booklet was a helpful guide - location of the nearest supermarket, restaurant recommendations, etc." David Fairer, UK (stayed at Orata and La Rosa dei Venti)

"Very well done, great quality, we were very happy to receive it." Isabelle Meyrier (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"Very complete and accurate." Sergey Kurenkov, Russia (stayed at Il Girasole)

"High standard of information and most of it very relevant." Sheila Bremner, UK (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"The guide gave a nice overview. The map of Sicily was good for excursions." Mimi Conway, US (stayed at Il Ferrarolo)

"Couldn't have made the trip without that material." Leigh Salvo, US (stayed at Villa Armerina)

"Superb. Nice tips included in the guide book and the map was invaluable when hiring a car." Ben King, UK (stayed at Capofaro and Belli Spa Resort)

"We were very impressed with all the info provided and the quality of the presentation." Helen Goatcher, UK (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"(The guide was a) very nice addition - extremely helpful." Bill Brace (stayed at I Lentischi)

Reviews of our Think Experiences

In-villa cooks, a wine delivery service, helicopter trips over Mount Etna and the Aeolian Islands, 4x4 Mount Etna adventures, yacht and speedboat charters, guides and airport transfers are just some of the extra services that we call Think Experiences.

Here's what are clients think of our Think Experiences:

"4X4 trip was great, transfers went smooth and comfortable, we had a wonderful driver and travel companion. Our guide made the whole trip more special for us." Aylin Gorener (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Wine delivery - no problems. Racing bicycle delivery and service - excellent." William Taor (stayed at San Giuliano)

"The cook was good - we tried it once and was good value." David Sneddon (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"All of our excursions (Mt Etna, winery tour and transfers) and in-villa cook experiences were absolutely perfect!" Gilbert Resultan (stayed at La Pergola)

"We thoroughly enjoyed our two home-cooked dinners. The Etna tour with Roberto was excellent." David Nickols (stayed at Balu)

"The in-villa meal that was cooked for us was fantastic." John Leslie (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"Car and transfer arranged very efficiently at short notice." Mark Anderson (stayed at Egesta)

"The transfer and heli trip was fantastic and not problems at all. The in-villa cookery class was a lovely introduction to Sicilian food and I highly recommend it (Katia Amore is very informative and very skilled at giving a relaxed, interesting and pleasant cookery experience." Sue Wright (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"The food was wonderful and excellant value." Paul Stillwell (stayed at Villa Farli)

"In-villa cook is exceptional fantastic service and food." Connie Musumeci (stayed at Badia)

"The wine delivery was a very good idea!" Vicky Steele (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"The in house chef was just phenomenal. Some of the best food we have ever eaten, and a wonderful way to have an authentic experience of Sicily." Danielle Giornandi (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"Was great to have the wine delivered and ready for us in the flat!" Courtney Cushing (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"The wine delivery was a great service and we loved having it." Mary Anne D'Onofrio (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Transfers were great and Ornella contacted the driver and he waited for two hours while the bag situation was sorted out." John Back (stayed at Archimede)

"Wine delivery was a useful service." Susan Polywka (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Wine delivery very slick, nice freebies too." David Wallwork (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni)

"Wine delivery was a great idea. Good quality wine with extras. The cook made us a delicious lasagne and ricotta pudding - neither of which lasted very long!" Penelope Battrick (stayed at Ballata)

"The dinner prepared the first night was great. The wines provided were excellent." David Powell (stayed at Villa Sant Tommaso)

"Wine delivery and pre-order of shopping were extermely helpful in getting us started. Car transfers where on time, drivers were very nice and polite and knew where they were going and cars were in good condition... The food prepared by our in-villa cook was fantastic." Catherine Mortimer (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"The Planeta wine was fantastic. We used the in-vill cook for the entire week. Salvatore was an amazing cook and we thouroughly enjoyed his meals. We were a large group (16) and this made our evenings very pleasant and easy. Everything was fresh and delicious. We had a few younger children on our trip and he accommodated any meal suggestions which we made." Franco Magliocco (stayed at Palazzo Hedoné)

"Unfortunatly we didn't request any of your wonderful services like those, but we hope for the next year, because we are thinking to book already from the Thinking Traveller our next August vacation." Rosanna Veggetti (stayed at Casa delle Sirene and Ballata)

"Loved the food and winde delivery services, very helpful indeed." Genevieve Duhigg (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"We only used the wine delivery - fantastic idea.Great!" Catherine O'Neill (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"We arranged a boat trip on two separate days and on both occasions everything went very smoothly. We had a great couple of days... it was all very well arranged." Catriona Yates (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"In villa cook was fantastic - one of the best meals we had in Sicily! They were lovely people who welcomed us and made us feel at home immediately." Mary Gearon (stayed at La Fenice)

"Wine delivery turned out to be a fantastic idea and the wine was excellent. We used the in-villa cook on our first night (we arrived early evening) and they cooked a wonderful meal and it was a stress free way of settling in." Lynn Doughty (stayed at L'Olivastro)

"The transfer to and from the airport worked well, they were there when we landed and were there at the agreed time for our return journey." Nick Hatton (stayed at La Corte)

"FANTASTIC! I used the wine delivery service; the in-villa cook; transfers; guides at Siracusa, Scicli and Etna; and I also received assistance in shipping of goods to and from Sicily." Sara Marino (stayed at Le Corti di Cannamara)

"The wine delivery worked well. The cook and her team did a fantastic job of the food. We ate very well." Jane Rowley (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Wine delivery perfect. Wine tasting- very nice. Cook- fabulous!" Gary Pilchak (styaed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Wine was great. Cook was good." Anders Gratte (stayed at Villa Favola)

"Food cooked by villa cook excellent." Ann Stow (stayed at Addaura and Casa Carcicera)

"We had the in-villa cook come over and prepare us a traditional Sicilian meal on two occasions. There were antipasti, home-made pasta, fish, meat and delicious deserts. She also chose some local wine to accompany our meal. It was perfect for us because dining with a two year old can be tricky!" Victoria Row-Traster (stayed at Ballata)

"In-villa cook - we were lucky to have the twin brothers 'Giuseppe & Nino' cater & cook for us! What an experience!" Sophie Clark (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Michela arranged a taxi transfer for us which was ideal as we arrived tired and with many bags. We had also arranged a mini-shop of groceries and wine which was very good." Staci Cunliffe (stayed at La Riva)

"The wine was there and most welcome upon our arrival, and the cook prepared several delicious dinners for us and cleaned up beautifully." Daniel Shaw (stayed at Villa Principe di Lumia)

"Wine delivery service excellent." Joyce Kitchen (stayed at Pizzo Castellaro)

"Superb in-villa-cook by Mariella." Paolo Ricci (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Transfer from the airport - flawless!" Diane Kline (stayed at La Riva)

"Wine was delivered on the day and was excellent." Beverley Hampton (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Gabriella the cook is a lovely proud italian lady, great cook and Very devoted to her work. She does a great job of keeping the property clean." Willow Jeffries (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"We booked an in-villa cook. Very good and super easy. Good value for the $...tons of yummy food." Jennifer Greene (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Dino, our in-villa cook was excellent and the 2 meals we had were quite delicious." Nicola Southgate (stayed at Pietra Nera)

"Wine delivery was great. Winery tour was great." Steven Radwany (stayed at Il Borghetto)

"In-house meals and extra cleaning services good." Edwin Lee (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"The Planeta wine was delicious and it was lovely to see it there on our arrival!" Petria Lenehan (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Private guide Elena took us to Segesta and Sinalunte and she was fantastic." Brian Toller (stayed at Egesta)

"The groceries I booked were all there, so we could feel at home right away... Theresa was a great chef." Ingrid Heuschmidt (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"We used the wine delivery which again was great for short trip when it might have taken us some time to find nice wines. Would have loved to use some of the other services if we had had more time especially the Etna trip and in-villa cook." Georgina Perceval-Maxell (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"In villa cook was superb... the best food I have ever had on holiday." Mark Hughes (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"Ben prepared a superb meal for us. My mother was really happy with her 70th birthday." Per Setterberg (stayed at Il Borghetto)

"I think the wine was the best I have had and our in-villa cook was grea, very friendly and a great cook." Chantal Wierstra (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"The wine delivery was competent, the wine itself was ambrosial. I have never tasted such a wonderful Chardonnay in my life and the Merlot was deep and smooth - exquisite!!" Vivienne Ibrahim (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"The 4x4 Etna trip was fantastic and Roberto (the guide) was very knowledgeable and good fun... We also had a guide give us a whirlwind tour of Catania before we went to the airport and that was very enjoyable." Nicola Saunders (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"In-villa cook was great. Delicious seafood very nicely presented." Franciske Evans (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Mt. Etna trip and Guide were fantastic! Siracuse English Guide was fantastic! Bus and bus driver were great. Boat and captain was absolute fabulous!! Sandra the chef and her helpers were a delight and the food was fabulous. She even adjusted menues to our request." Judy Doyno, US (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Transfers made whole trip run very smoothly. Excellent." Richard Dixon-Clarke, UK (stayed at Orata)

"Loved the convenience of ordering wine in advance of our arrival!" Charlotte Russo, US (stayed at Rocca Ognibene)

"The in house cook, Francesca and her husband were terrific and cooked us superb meals." Betty Guagliano, Canada (stayed at Addaura)

"We only experienced local cook and it was excellent." Grazia Liberatore, Italy (stayed at La Fenice)

"Wine delivery there on arrival and very good." Henriette Manners, UK (stayed at Il Borghetto)

"We thought Ellen (the babysitter) and Carmela (the cleaner - although we called her doctore carmela as she spent a long time helping me get sea urchin spines out of my foot! ) were absolutely great -they could not have been nicer or more helpful... The 4x4 trip to Etna was a really good day out and Roberto was very interesting. "

"In villa cook was fun and our family enjoyed the occasion." Nicola O'Sullivan, US (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"We had a wine delivery which despite my rather late order arrived on the Saturday we arrived which was great. The wine was very good particularly the red wine... We also had an in villa cook - Gabriella cooked a superb fish meal for us at Buzza Alta. I would definitely recommend it." Julie Walsh, UK (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"The boat charter was fantastic! The home cook was also good." Bodil Prestmo, Norway (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"I cooked with Angela and it was a great experience. Food was great!" Pawel Debowski, Poland (stayed at Giara)

"Wine delivery was perfect." Peter Gfoeller, Austria (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Wine delivery, waiting for us upon arrival.good service." Susan Striepe, US (stayed at Cala Bianca)

"Gabriella prepared a wonderful meal for us the evening of our arrival, which was a great treat." Juliana Farha, UK (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"Had wine delivery....good service... We were good-to-go!" Anthony Bosco, US (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"The 4x4 trip was excellent. Roberto was a fantastically knowledgeable guide." Lindy Ambrose, UK (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"The cook and helper were outstanding! The food was wonderful and they couldn't have been more gracious and kind with our children. They were the highlight of our holiday. The boat charter was very nice." Michael Lewis, UK (stayed at Priscilla)

"I was overly optimistic so we brought the wine back with us - loved it and are dying to go to the Planeta winery next time. The in-vlla cook was perfect - makes life so much easier and it was so good too." Yvette Yeates, UK (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"Wine delivery worked fine. The band you booked for the villa was fabulous. We had so much fun we asked them to come back another night. 4x4 outstanding--Roberto was so knowledgeable and nice. Boat charter again outstanding. The second day on the boat the owner ordered lunch on the boat for us and it was beautiful." Jocelyn Stewart, US (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Cook was amazing. Best meal we had in Sicily." Rachel and Sean Mast, US (stayed at Casa al Faro)

"Wine delivery service was great... With regard to the cook, we found the food amazingly good. We can't compliment them enough." Paula Hardy and Rob Smith, UK (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"The cook was excellent - we booked them twice and would highly recommend ." Jane Brook, Australia (stayed at Badia)

"The cook was excellent and the food very good." Anthony Bocchiere, US (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"Lucia i(the cook) is worth her weight in gold!" David Sundelson, US (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"We used the in-villa cook (3 times) The ladies cooked us some amazing meals!! and were very professional and gracious hosts. I would highly recommend using the in-villa cooks to anyone." Brenda Rossi, US (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"Simone was our driver/guide for most of the week. He is fabulous! He was friendly, courteous, knowlegeable and sensitive to our needs. For us "connecting" with someone like him makes all the difference. He became part of our family in a way. Definitely enhanced the experience. Our Etna guide, Roberto was also just great." Bruce Marzullo, US

"Helicopter - Aeolian Islands with Icarus. Female pilot, absolutely brilliant. A costly extravagance that I could barely afford - but I don't regret it for a second." David Chaikin, UK (stayed at Masseria Maggiore)

"Lucia the cook and her help Nina were fantastic. Such lovely kind people. We enjoyed the meals prepared very much and asked them to come back. Again another lovely meal!" Pat and Brian Tollin, UK (stayed at Cecilia)

"Wine delivery was great." Susan P{emberton, UK (stayed at La Favorita)

"The in-villa cook (and team) was amazing. They created a delicious wedding breakfast for seven for us, and tidied, and were smiley... Truly gave us a taste of the freshest most delicious Sicilian food, a definite highlight of the holiday." jo Malone, UK (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"The wine we ordered was there when we arrived and the fresh lasagna and freshly baked bread was delicious. We really appreciated this special touch that we have not experienced in any of our previous travels. The in-villa meal prepared by Gabriella was amazing, and let us fully appreciate the local cuisine of northern Sicily. Our boat trip along the coast of Cefalu, arranged with the able assistance of Rosanna, was one of the unforgettable highlights of our trip, as was the visit to the winery at Relais Santa Anastasia." Jon Kuhl, US (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"Rosanna was able to book a fantastic guide and driver for a visit to my husbands father home town in MessoJusso. Tha worked out great." Joe Bisagna, US (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"We used your transfer service which was very good. Thank you." Susan Razzetti, US (stayed at La Pergola)

"We really enjoyed the in-villa cook... it was really, really nice to have food ready for us when we (finally) arrived!" Amanda Mattingly, US (stayed at Cecilia)

"The wine tour at Planeta was amazing from the warm welcome and excellent hospitality to the fantastic wine and Olive Oil tasting, followed by an al fresco lunch, the highlight of my trip! Also the home cook service was great, amazing food and enough to eat the next day too! Also a nice way to get to know the owner of the villa too!" Helen Keen, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"The 4X4 Etna trip and guide was an experience of a lifetime! " Kok-Swee Gan, UK (stayed at Torre Marabino and La Foresteria)

What our clients enjoyed most about Sicily

In 2009 readers of Conde Nast Traveller voted Sicily as their favourite destination, citing its history, culture, hospitality, cuisine and wine... We find that our clients have much the same opinion! So don't take our word for it, see what they have to say and start planning your holiday to the top destination in the world!

Find out more about Sicily from our on-line guide to Sicily >>

"I have travelled the mainland a bit. I never went to Sicily. I missed everything. Tremendous place. Easily the best part of Italy." Mike Romano (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"History. Fresh fish so simply cooked and so delicious... A fascinating island." David Sneddon (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"Beautiful beaches in the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Loved the town of Ortigia and of course our villa! Ragusa, Siracusa, Noto and Taormina were towns that we really enjoyed: rich in architecture and culturally very interesting." Andrew Hayes-Watkins (stayed at Gioi)

"History. Fresh fish so simply cooked and so delicious." David Sneddon (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"It's beautiful and fun, the food and wine is delicious and the people are lovely." Cheryl Ellis (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"Historic sights, culture, focus on food and wine, sunshine and scenery." David Nickols (stayed at Balu)

"The villa and it's remoteness were very special... Selinunte - ruins and beach restaurant - well worth the trip." Jonathan Boyle (stayed at Profondo Blu)

"Sunshine and warm nights in October and the beautiful beach." Katy Peagram (stayed at Serralunga)

"It is a very beautiful country with great food and wine. It is a great place to escape from the stress of London life... We would recommend Fontaine Bianche - a lovely sandy beach with fantastic restaurant." Alexandra Larkin (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"The food, the atmosphere, historical sites (Palermo in particular) - the overall experience." John Leslie (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"It was lovely to stay near Noto - beautiful and access to a range of sights and interesting towns was easy. Loved the pool at the villa and the views." Kate Philip (stayed at Gioi)

"Location of the Villa was stunning... Segesta - the temple & the amphitheatre - is a must-see. Trapani worth a day trip." Mark Anderson (stayed at Egesta)

"Chilling out on the beach. Going up to the old town (Taormina) and shopping." Rebecca Head (stayed at Orata)

"People, food, wine, wandering around the towns, shopping for the stunningly fresh local produce." Avril Page (stayed at Volo)

"The relaxed atmosphere, amazing scenery, beautiful wines and the weather." Elaine James (stayed at Ballata)

"The villa, beach, and weather." Judith Atkinson (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Everything. The people the weather and the food." Paul Stillwell (stayed at Villa Farli)

"The villa - it was absolutely gorgeous!" Sarah Brown (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"The food, the people, who are very friendly and helpful, the weather." Kathleen Ranneck (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"The warmth and genuineness of its people." Paul Slepakoff (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"Geography, ruins, churches, some of the food. Views from the villa". Lillias August (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"It is genuinely Sicilian, much of Europe is less distinct now, a pleasure to be somewhere so authentic... Ortigia in Siracusa was amazing, the beaches around Vendicari and Noto itself." Oonagh Jobling (stayed at I Lentischi)

"The views from the Villa were absolutely incredible, and Cefalu was such a friendly, beautiful little city." Courtney Cushing (staed at Casa Nuvola)

"The weather, pool and the beach... Cefalu is a nice town. The beach in Mondello is great." Rolf Eriksson (stayed at Lilli)

"The weather, Mount Etna which did erupt a bit while we were there. The flowers, the sea, the opera at Taormina's ancient theater. Catania is a really nice city and I must say I did not expect that. And we loved the fish and fruit markets there. The local festivals and the local art. I bought plenty of stuff to bring back home including some ceramics which are gorgeous and famous." Mary Anne D'Onofrio (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"The weather, the nature, the sea (and the diving and snorkling), the mix of cultures, the villages, the Italian/Sicilian food... Scopello, Erice (a must!), the cathedral in Monreale (also a must!)." Wiebe Goslinga (stayed at La Fenice)

"We have been to Sicily many times and really love the place. The great weather, the food, the beaches everything!... The beach at San vito lo Capo is lovely... Erice is lovely with some good restaurants." Karen Murray (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"The mix of beautiful ruins, fabulous Barogue architecture, incredible food and really warm, friendly people. We stay in Italy twice a year but this was first visit to Sicily. Really bowled over. It feels very different to other parts of Italy... We loved Ragusa, Aidone (our local village) - fantastic museum and Greek city of Morgantina was superb - very atmospheric with wonderful views over to Aetna. Enjoyed Siracusa." Janet Thomson (stayed at Casa de Arena)

"Sicily has been on the list for a long time, we enjoyed the diversity of the island, travelling to Taormina, Mount Etna, the Aeolian Islands... the food, the wine, the weather... it was all fab!" Graeme Pallant (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Food and people, the driving! Chilling at the villa. Views fo Etna at sunset. Etnaland is amazing for kids." David Wallwork (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni)

"Siracusa, Catania and Taormina were delightful and our experience at the villa was just wonderful... The beach we went to at Fontane Bianche was very nice... The wines and fruit were excellent." David Powell (stayed at Villa Sant Tommaso)

"The scenery and historic centres. But perhaps most of all the pool... Noto is gorgeous." Janice Robinson (stayed at Gioi)

"The quality of the sea was outstanding as was the seafood to go with it." Daniel Wilkinson (stayed at Orata)

"We really appreciated the friendliness of the Sicilian people. Nothing was too much trouble, and they were very kind. We loved the laid back, almost old-fashioned simplicity of life there, the beautiful weather and of course the food." Penelope Battrick (stayed at Ballata)

"The weather was beautiful and the people were friendly and helpful... Taormina was really beautiful and full of history. Catania was also full of historic buildings." Kim Stephenson (stayed at Mila)

"The peace of the Villa, the fabulous views, the wonderful food...the lovely people we met. Lascari beach was great." Sara Kozak (stayed at Il Piliere)

"We loved the house, the beach, the food and the simplicity of life in the town (Scicli)." Elaine Wasserman (stayed at Palazzo Hedoné)

"The food was amazing... Scopello was lovely, Segesta was great and Ragusa Ibla and Ragusa marina beach was stunning and not too crowded despite being August... How did we enjoy our holiday? If the scale went up to 10 it still wouldn't be enough. All that's missing is post Sicily councelling for the misery I feel being back in cold anti-social and Canolli-less Britain." Ronke Arogundade (stayed at Cala Bianca)

"The tranquil setting of the villa and the nearby beaches. Only a few local tourists, no congestion... Selinunte, Planeta Winery tasting with aperitifs in Sambuca di Sicilia, Da Vittoria and Il Vignetto restaurants, the beach in front of Da Vittoria is particularly nice." Jasmin Rahman (stayed at Le Chicas)

"We did an excellent trip to Mount Etna which was incredible." Amanda Brooke (stayed at Cecilia)

"Food, wine, warmth, sunshine, beaches..." Jill Jackson (stayed at Cinnamon)

"The scenery everywhere but the interior and Siracusa in particular. Ortigia at night was just stunning." Mary George (stayed at Villa Favola and L'Olivastro)

"Selinunte & surrounding area: Zingaro nature reserve and surrounding area: the old town at Sambuca Di Sicilia." Tony Corrigan (stayed at Serralunga)

"Lovely combination of beach and countryside with a little culture." Lady Blackett (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"The food and wine - especially the bread man on his tuk tuk at the garden gate with warm brioche in the morning! Ragusa and Modica are wonderful and really worth a wander around off the beaten track and into the back streets. Go to Duomo in Ragusa and have the tasting menu!! Dont try to drive home!" Genevieve Duhigg (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Mix of sites to visit locally - Etna, Taormina, nearby islands as well as relaxing on beach and local restaurants." Lyndon Norley (stayed at Giara)

"Weather : warm, little bit windy. Nice food and wine. Friendly people." Anne Mandel (stayed at Casa Manu)

"Location of villa (great views back to Catania & Mt Etna), layout of house and facilities, fantastic weather ." Catherine Mortimer (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"The food was amazing, such fabulous, fresh ingredients and wonderful fish. We enjoyed the buzz of the towns in the evenings... The archaelogical park in Siracusa is well worth a trip. Siracusa and Noto were terrific." Lynn Doughty (stayed at L'Olivastro)

"The beaches and people... Would recommend San Vito Lo Capo for the beach and Taormina is also spectacular." Joe Conti (stayed at Serralunga)

"The nature reserve (Lo Zingaro) was our favorite thing. We felt very lucky to have it so close to the house. We hiked to the first beach with the children and loved the experience. We also rented a boat and went along the coast of the reserve to reach other places to swim that were too far for us to hike to... All visitors should visit Scopello in the evening. It is so charming and has easy parking (although you have to pay). Also liked Erice, Segesta, and especially liked Marsala, a lovely Italian town." Mary Gearon (stayed at La Fenice)

"The kind, generous people. The delicious food and the beautiful landscape... Scicli was spectacular! We also visited the Vendicari Reserve, Ragusa, Noto and the local beaches. We were not disappointed with anything and would highly recommend these destinations." Franco Magliocco (stayed at Palazzo Hedoné)

"The wonderful views, beautiful countryside and coastline..." Philippa Devas (stayed at Mila)

"We had a great time. Weather was stunning. Cefalu was a perfect location for a week's holiday. Strolling through the narrow streets before dinner was a joy... Lack of English people where we were! It felt unspoilt and therefore natural... The climb to La Rocca is a must, just make sure you take some water and wear footwear with some grip. We tried a different restaurant each time we ate out, we were never disappointed, even in the main square the service is good and the qualty fine, just make sure you eat outside and watch the world go by! Just stick with the local 'house' wine, no need to drink anything more expensive." Nick Hatton (stayed at La Corte)

"Relaxed, warm and friendly. Great for family... Valley of the Temples, Selinunte, driving around and stopping in small towns / locations. Take the helicopter ride up Mount Etna - especially when smoking." Alan Fairhead (stayed at Respiro and Le Chicas)

"We enjoyed the remoteness and the lack of other tourists... We recommend Noto, Modica, Siracusa and Marzamemi." Nicola George (stayed at Casa Carceicera)

"The combination of wonderful climate, intense colours, food, drink, and deep and varied history." Keith Haviland (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"Beautiful landscape and views from house, trip to Palermo, seeing Etna erupt in the night, the nice Sicilians." Helle Nielsen (stayed at Addaura)

"The people, the food and wine, the surroundings and the sea. We have seen Sardegna and Puglia but this was a delightful unknown area to us." James Noble (stayed at Funcia)

"The private beach only a few steps from the villa, the wonderful garden, the nice swiming pool, many places with shade around house.... good wine... The 4x4 Etna trip was fantastic." Jaromir Vejpustek (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"Good granita in Pachino: try mandorle and caffé. Check out the flamingos in Vendicari. Noto is an absolute must: beauty everywhere. Sciacca is lovely too, Modica, Ragusa... what can I say? Magic. 'Gelati Divini' is a must, right in front of the Duomo."

"Beaches, the food, the low key aspect of the locals and tourists. Cefalu is delight." Beatris Head (stayed at Il Cappero)

"Small barocco cities and villages, nice people." Mardiros Kaloustian (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"The view and the weather! Cefalu was great - we went there a few times to the beach and in the evening. We had a pizza in the main square and of course sampled gelato at the artisan shop at the beginning of the old town." Karen Roberts (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"Swimming in the ocean. Seafood. Climb up Mount Etna." Tony Davis (stayed at Priscilla)

"Landscapes, archeology, temples, sea, hot day & cool night, good food..." Pascal Hirtz (stayed at Serralunga)

"The weather, the beach and location at Acquamarina." Claire Manktelow (stayed at Acquamarina)

"The view and the weather! Cefalu was great - we went there a few times to the beach and in the evening. We had a pizza in the main square and of course sampled gelato at the artisan shop at the beginning of the old town." Karen Roberts (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"The friendliness of the people, the wonderful water and the beautiful weather." Irene Fellner (stayed at L'Olivastro and Casa delle Sirene)

"The weather, the food, particularly the abundance and low cost of fresh fruit and vegetables." Darren Jones (stayed at I Ciclopi)

"The climate, the Sicilian people, the Madonie." Edith van de Wal (stayed at La Mora)

"The weather, the beaches, the food ....really there isn't much we didn't enjoy! The Valley of the Temples is truly spectacular and not to be missed." Natalie Warman (stayed at Villa Principe di Lumia)

"The villa, Mount Etna, the boat... Catania fish market is worth a trip. It is something that is fast disappearing in Europe and no longer really exists in the US. It is sad to realise, and definitely worthwhile." Liesl Eisenbeiss (stayed at Don Arcangelo all'Olmo)

"Swimming in the pool, cooking in the kitchen and hiking down to the phenomenal waterfalls and pools of Cassibile - we went twice!" Tamara Joffe (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"The weather and food ... particularly the first week with Cinnamon's garden produce." Rob Siderfin (stayed at Cinnamon and Villa Principe di Lumia)

"Access to sea and culture and weather... Temples at Selinunte." Aidan Coleman (stayed at Villa Armerina and Profondo Blu)

"The sun and the villa and the food and wine..." Elizabeth Lombardo (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"We enjoyed the villa experience. The views from Respiro were breathtaking. Our cook made amazing meals. We enjoyed Sicily immensely... The entire island is very scenic. I couldn't believe how mountainous Sicily is. Taormina was a great town to visit. Great shopping and restaurants. Cefalu was beautiful as well as the towns just outside of Palermo." Wendy Morris (stayed at Respiro)

"The variety of geography, people, food, historical sites. What's not to like? Noto is lovely, Modica was a surprise and we loved Ragusa Ibla & Ortygia... Anyone going anywhere near Palermo should not miss Monreale. In general, the Greek and other ruins are all awe-inspiring. We enjoyed the beach right at Cefalu for swimming and people watching." LI (stayed at Gioi and Il Gabbiano)

"We have been before twice: the people are kind, the food is georgious, the sea is beautiful." Gudo van Hal (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"Weather, sea, historical sites, Etna's eruption." Pavla Love (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"The food, the setting... the peace and quiet. Everywhere you looked was like a scene from a movie!...We also visited San Vito lo Capo twice - the beach was gorgeous and the views on the drive down were breath taking! " Victoria Row-Traster (stayed at Ballata)

"A Mediterranean jewel with a surprising lack of tourists (first 2 weeks of July)." Paul Carpentier (stayed at Cecilia)

"The beaches, Mt Etna, small historic towns, wine, food and Casa delle Sirene!" Sophie Clark (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Definitely the old towns - Modica, Scicli, Noto, etc. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. Very un-touristy, too." Mark Oliver (stayed at Casa di Pietra)

"The historial sites and the beautiful scenery could be visited in the morning and then have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the villa's pool." Susan Dutton (stayed at Casa del Faro)

"In Taormina we found that it is really a small community. Everyone knows everyone and you begin to feel a part of the culture. We made friends we will keep for many years to come. That kind of experience s hard to match! I would recommend Erice - which we really enjoyed and would have planned to spend more than an afternoon there had we known how lovely it was. We also enjoyed Castlemola - a gem and very comfortable to visit. We went to Sciacca just for the fish but would have loved an idea of how to get a quick spa - even though we were dashing off. Trapani was also lovely." Staci Cunliffe (stayed at La Riva)

"Wonderful scenery, sea swimming, great food and wine, lots of interesting historical sites and great variation in topography around the Island. Friendly and helpful people." Harriet Joll (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"The opportunity to visit the place (Sicily) from which my parents came to America and to do this with all of my family from such a beautiful place as Villa Saracena...Take a trip inland at least one day, as there is a very different view of Sicily than what is one the Coast." Joe Russo (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"Sicily is an undiscovered island and not cosmopolitan - that makes it just wonderful - there isn't the feeling of the package tourist which tends to be typical of warm islands... Syracuse is wonderful and feels very local... Vendicari Nature Reserve is just wonderful for those not keen on packed lidos. There is a tonnara there which is just awsome - even for kids to understand how tuna was made. You can also walk around there so its great for nature lovers. We went every single day for the whole week. Noto is a wonderful town but a day trip. The area of the Gioi villa is excellent as there is alot to see and do around it." Denise Borg (stayed at Gioi)

"Food, scenery, friendly people, unspoilt, served by a scheduled airline(!)" Andreqw Morris (stayed at Cecilia)

"The magical blend of history, physical beauty and diversity, culture and food - all on one not-too-big, not-too-crowded island." Daniel Shaw (stayed at Villa Principe di Lumia)

"The weather, the food, the villa and the scenery... Cefalu was gorgeous and the beach very clean. The staff and the food at Al Porticciolo in Cefalu were superb, the maitre d' made us feel like locals and always gave us a lovely welcome." Liz Lake (stayed at Casa Manu)

"Vendicari Nature Reserve, Cava Grande di Cassibille nature reserve - a tough walk back up but lovely pools and great flowers, the cable car on Mt Etna - expensive but an experience! Market in Siracusa (go in to the town early to make it an easier experience all round). We all enjoyed a real Italian lido experience for a treat at Fontane Bianche. The children thought they'd gone to heaven - chips on the beach!" Nicola Lloyd (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"Food, wine, sunshine and the fantastic pool in the Villa!" Matthew Bubear (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"Food, wine, hill top towns, having a house with a pool." Brian Toller (stayed at Egesta)

"The place is magical, we loved the the food and the people and exploring the coast." Fiona Read (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni)

"Too many to list - weather was great, people were friendly, food is fabulous." Joseph Loiacano (stayed at Orata)

"Food, historic sites, villa accommodation... Noto, Siracusa, Marzamemi, Ragusa all terrific." Christopher Aulich (stayed at Casa Carcicera)

"Easy access to the sea and wild flowers everywhere! Things to recommend? Generally museums are very good. We particularly enjoyed the Punic Ship museum in Marsala and the Dancing Satyr in Mazara perhaps because it was good to concentrate on one item - the other museums are excellent but can be a bit overwhelming! Ortygia is a particularly nice town just to wander in." Ian Millward (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Hmmm. The food? The people? The wine? The sights? Probably the chance to relax in a quiet village before the crowded season..." Bill Altmann (stayed at I Ciclopi)

"Villa, landscape, people. Palermo generally... Alastro Planeta wine." Michael Van Der Graaf (stayed at Ballata)

"By staying in villas instead of hotels, we had the most relaxing holiday we have ever had...The staff and the Sicilian people were great. Loved the variety of historical sites and visiting many small mountain towns which seem frozen in time." William Otto (stayed at Le Sorbe and Baia dei Turchi)

"Italy, weather, Etna, new place, villa, villa views, mountain walks in the Nebrodi... Castello Nelson near Bronte is well worth a trip." Martin Knight (stayed at Pizzo Castellaro)

"The wild flowers, the friendliness, the good food found in restaurants, the ice-cream." Vivienne Ibrahim (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Cooking with the Duchess... the Greek archaeological sites." Chantal Wierstra (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"The countryside - we loved the Madonie Mountains." Lisa Ruddock (stayed at Il Cappero)

"The great landscape with extremely wide views. The spring time adds to it probably a bit of color that might be missing during the rest of the year... We visited Segesta and Erice and I would recommend both places." Nils Schlote (stayed at Ballata)

"The food and the wonderful things to see and do... Marsala wine tour, Selinunte and lunch on the beach at La Pineta." Nikki Butt (stayed at Conca D'Oro)

"Very friendly people and amazing wild flowers at this time of year (April)... Segesta and Monreale quite stunning." Cristopher Preston (stayed at Casale Castelluzzo)

"What's not to enjoy! The food, the people, the villa, the views - all wonderful." Nicola Saunders (stayed at Crossing the Rock)

"Discovering family roots, visiting historical sites, food, wine, the markets in Palermo, Erice, Segesta, Agrigento, Cefalu... the meal prepared by the owner was one to remember for a lifetime." Jay Hochheiser (stayed at Conca D'Oro)

"Beautiful beaches, culturally interesting. Amazing food, friendly people and not at all touristy... One of the best holidays we had in a long time!" Franciske Evans (stayed at Casa delle Sirene)

"Sicily has it all - climate, geography, beaches, cities, history and best of all - food that was off the charts... I very much liked Siracusa, Noto, Ragusa, and Taormina." John Cassanos (stayed at Villa Glicine)

"The countryside. The weather for March was really good. The villa was fantastic in a beautiful setting." Josephine McQueen (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Volcanoes, clear clean sea, stunning scenery, captivating culture, delicious food and friendly people. A top combo!" Richard Dixon-Clarke, UK (stayed at Orata)

"Noto - in particular Noto Antica - my wife fell in love with this 'romantic' location. Easy drive down the motorway A18 as well... Lido Caparena in Taormina (executive area) was good - but need rubber shoes for the rock. Kids loved the cable car trip up Mount Etna - their favourite part of the holiday. Siracusa archeological site is fantastic, and there is a very friendly cafe/granita/fresh juice place inside its entrance. The archeological museum in contrast was very dull!." Joseph Holderness, UK (stayed at Pietra Nera)

"Everything... we just love the island!" Derk Hendriksen, US (stayed at Pietra Nera)

"Mondello (Palermo's beach) was lovely and surprisingly uncrowded given the high season. We also loved Selinunte and the beach restaurant La Pinetta was superb." Tom Drake, UK (stayed at Conca D'Oro)

"Sicily is beautiful and unspoilt, yet primitive and harsh especially in the south. We enjoyed the contrasts of the regions and exploring the sights. We even enjoyed the driving but our rental car took a beating! Sicily is a very special place." Nicola O'Sullivan, US (stayed at Casa Caricera and Pietra Nera)

"We had a very relaxing holiday and the weather was amazing. We loved Noto and we loved all the Vendicari beaches...The 4x4 trip to Etna was a really good day out and Roberto was very interesting." Nicola Wherity, UK (stayed at Al Plemmirio)

"It is a lovely country. The coast and the mountains are beautiful. The food is also superb... Cefalu is very pretty. I would recommend a trip to the Madonie Mountains." Julie Walsh, the UK (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"We loved the island - the people, food, history, geography... We fell in love with Cefalu." Lynn Gadd, UK (stayed at Cecilia)

"13km beyond Selinunte, is the best preserved Greek stone quarry in Europe, the Cave Cusa, dating from the 6th century BC. The Selinunte columns were cut here, and the remains of gigantic half-finished columns litter the site, some still embedded in the rock. In spite of the tourit board's efforts to put it on the map, with a large car-park and a little museum, it remains almost deserted and extremely evocative... Even though this was the middle of the Italian holiday season we only once shared our beach with another person in the seven days we were there. The water is wonderfully clean, as is the beach." Libbie Howey, UK (stayed at Acquamarina)

"We had been to Sicily several times before but this was our first experience of the region between Palermo and Messina. While it's certainly beachy and lacks the Baroque towns you find in the south east, the landscape was breathtaking, and the people were very warm and open... Discovering a new part of the island made us appreciate Sicily's diversity." Juliana Farha, UK (stayed at Le Sorbe)

"The weather , views, swimming, pool and beach, eating at local restaurants and exploring the towns nearby... Villa Romana del Casale, Agrigento, Siracusa, Morgantina, Marina di Ragusa, Enna..." Patricia Ferguson, UK (stayed at Casa de Arena)

"The environment/culture/food. Very friendly people... Beside usual famous towns and known historical sites we recommend everybody to experience Sicily in their own way. There are many lovely little towns with local bars and restaurants apart from crowded areas." Ferenc Boom, Holland (stayed at Masseria Moscala)

"Sicily was captivating, with a real sense that it is a working island and that tourism is a secondry consideration, which we liked. The scenery took us by supprise as it was beautiful and stunning. We had also heard comments about the amount of rubbish on the island but we didn't come accross this at all in Syracuse or Ortygia in fact it was spotless. Great food, (ok) wine, scenery, friendly locals make Sicily a great destination, just don't tell everyone, keep it our secret to enjoy unspoiled by high rise tourism." James Meacock, UK (stayed at Archimede)

"We loved Sicily and our vacation there... Things to recommend?: The ruins at Segesta, Erice and the restaurants in Cefalu that have dining areas on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Also the beach at Cefalu was one of the better ones on the island." Paul Rickard, Colorado, US (stayed at La Corte)

"What we most enjoyed about Sicily? The beauty, variety and genuineness." Michael Buschmann, Montreal, Canada (stayed at Villa Principe di Lumia and Badia)

"The relaxed nature of Sicily and the food + wine! Cefalu, the stretch of beach a few miles east of Pozzallo, and Noto." Gerald Rogers, Dublin, Ireland (stayed at Belli Spa Resort and Torre Marabino)

"We love Sicily, locals in the shops in Paceco were so friendly, wonderful ancient sites to visit, delicious food and wine." Jane Sayer, UK (stayed at Villa Verderame)

"We loved the climate, the food, the people, the towns. A great introduction. Hope to see other end of island next time." Kim Burke, UK (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"An authentic experience. Friendly people. Great food. Awesome history and natural beauty." Bruce Marzullo, NY, USA

"We found the people to be warm and inviting and for the most part the scenery was amazing... I would definitely recommend visiting Taormina, Siracusa and Noto." Brenda Rossi, Canada (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"Taormina was wonderful and the people very friendly and helpful. The Greek Theatre fabulous and Villa Communale so very beautiful... We were there the last week in April and the weather was PERFECT! Sicily is amazing, we thoroughly enjoyed it all.....the beauty, the history, the cities, the countryside, the food and the people... We would highly recommend the little family run restaurant "Gallo Cedrone" in Castlemola. We had a wonderful lunch there - the food (bread too) all homemade and delicious all served with pride and love....don't miss this experience." Susan Razzetti, Utah, US (stayed at La Pergola)

"Friendly people, excellent, interesting food, and very interesting sites. Things to recommend?: Enna (very unspolit and spectacular position), Scicli (unspoilt as not so full of baroque treasures), Siracusa." Anthony Bicknell, UK (stayed at Torre Marabino)

"The incredible history of the sites; the tiny streets although a smaller car would have been better! Capo San Vito - beautiful beach, the fresh oranges and lemons from the market square in Scoppello - the children made wonderful fresh lemonade!" Eleanor Logue, UK (stayed at Funcia)

"I loved the wild flowers which were in full bloom when we visited, absolutely gorgeous, and of course the food, I am trying to find a shop that sells Cannoli in Bristol!" Helen Keen, Bristol, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"Where does one begin? This was our 3rd visit in 9 years. Food, warmth, history, views are among the attractions. On this trip we took advantage of the location of the house to visit Zingaro twice." Anthony Collins, Dublin, Ireland (stayed at Funcia)

"The variety of Sicily provided us with a totally diverse and enjoyable vacation. We were able to experience seaside communities on one day while climbing Mt Etna the next. We were able to stroll through small villages and large cities, explore historical sites and enjoy various types of food and drink. It was a totally full and rewarding vacation." Marianne Bregartner, NY, US (stayed at Conca D'Oro)

"Late autumn sunshine. Playing with the children on the beach on November 1st! Mount Etna was spectacular, much more atmospheric than I had imagined." William Swan, Kingston-upon-Thames, UK (stayed at Villa Farli)

"The vistas (numerous) and historical sites; the wine and of course - cannoli! Things to recommend? Selinunte is spectacular as is the Cathedral in Monreale - they were highlights of our trip. Erice is a wonderful town. The beach at S. Vito lo Capo is worth visiting, but only in warmer weather. The vistas along the drive to S. Vito lo Capo are breathtaking. The east coast including Taormina, Catania and Siracusa provide bountiful views and rich history. Mount Etna is amazing." Ron Truant, Ontario, Canada (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni and Egesta)

"We loved the baroque towns and the beaches. Things to recommend?: Don Serafino in Marina de Modica was wonderful for lunch. We also liked Siracusa."William Penn, Seattle, USA (stayed at Villa Farli)

"Things to recommend?: the beach of Selinunte with Restaurant Pineta." Anke Ohm, Koln, Germany (stayed at Ballata)

"Villa, Weather and Italians! Mount Etna was a great day out. The in-villa chef dinner was a real highlight." Ian Buckley, Warwicks, UK (stayed at Baia dei Turchi)

"It is gorgeous, mediaeval streets, coastal beautiful scenery. Something for everyone... Cefalu was lovely. Erice was interesting. Mount Etna was fab." Nicki Perry, Kent, UK (stayed at Il Piliere)

"Time away from work! Just wandering around the streets of Gratteri was lovely and very soothing, and we loved being up in the mountains - especially during the spectacular thunderstorm!" Vicky MacBean, London, UK (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"The lovely garden!" Kerstin Berglind, Sweden (stayed at Il Borghetto)

"Where to start? The people - and especially how they were with our baby daughter. From the elderly nonnas to the smart young men, everyone would stop and coo, comment how beautiful she is (of course I agreed!), and give us advice on where to take her, and what she should be wearing... Vendicara - wonderful beach, and stunning nature reserve, Modica - not just one but TWO stunning Duomi, and chocolate to boot... in Siracusa Do Schogghiu is our favourite restaurant, for its authenticity, and its stunningly fresh fish... Don Camillo - some of the best food I have EVER eaten, and just down the street from Archimede." Siobhan Turner, London, UK (stayed at Archimede)

"What did we enjoy most? The weather, people, sites, food, and the Think Sicily properties." Stuart Danoff, Stamford, USA (stayed at Hotel Signum and Belli Spa Resort)

"We particularly enjoyed Selinunte, Agrigento and Erice, using Balu' as a base. We also had a wonderful evening at the opera in Palermo and recommend that guests explore that option, but leave plenty of time for the drive and parking. After leaving Balu' we visited Siracusa, Enna, Cefalu and Taormina and enjoyed them all, but our week at Balu' remains the highlight of our two-week holiday in Sicily." Edward Clair, USA (stayed at Balu)

"Loved it, will definitely be going back to Sicily and hopefully to another Think Sicily property... we enjoyed the weather, the people, the food and the atmosphere." Claire Killeen, London, UK (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"We particularly enjoyed Selinunte, Agrigento and Erice, using Balu' as a base. We also had a wonderful evening at the opera in Palermo and recommend that guests explore that option, but leave plenty of time for the drive and parking. After leaving Balu' we visited Siracusa, Enna, Cefalu and Taormina and enjoyed them all, but our week at Balu' remains the highlight of our two-week holiday in Sicily." Edward Clair, USA (stayed at Balu)

"The people, architecture, scenery, art, food, wine, everything. Cefalu is a fantastic getaway." Christine Fabiano-Main, London UK (stayed at Oriente)

"We love the scenery, the people, the history, the food and wine, pretty much everything. Things to recommend?: for this particular property, the beach at Porto Palo outside Vittorio's Restaurant and of course the long stretch of beach below the house in the direction of Selinunte. The archeological site at Selinunte is great. The seafood antipasti and the Spaghetti Vittorio (seafood) at Vittorio's are excellent." Alison Lopez-Edge, Switzerland (stayed at Cinnamon)

"Taormina and Cefalu. The Sicilian people generally were extremely welcoming and helpful." Lucy Mitchell, St. Andrews, UK (stayed at Buzza Alta)

"The people the town the historical sites Mt Etna and the food." Andy Field, New York, USA (stayed at Villa Saracena)

"The weather, the scenery & the people. Oh and the food. Actually we enjoyed everything. The best of the world in one island." James Hindson, Southampton, UK (stayed at Il Ciliegio)

"A meal in a restaurant in the Madonie Mountains on the way back to Catania... A swim on Lipari... the impromptu meals we had in Palermo, Agrigento and in the mountains." Dewi Pritchard, London, UK (stayed at La Rosa Dei Venti - Ponente)

"Very peaceful villa, Greek archaeological sites and good food." Christopher Bailey West, Oxfordshire, UK (stayed at Balu)

"Sicily was a voyage to another world. Especially in the interior at Virzi with the winegrapes, smells and flavours was a wonderful experience by his own. We loved that all was slowed down. Better taste of life! We really enjoyed the views in Erice, the wonderful beach in San Vito lo Capo, and the beautiful town of Trapani. We were very much surprised of Palermo. Especially the Kalsa district is of real charme." Roberto Frezza, Switzerland (stayed at Virzi)

"Swimming in the pool at the villa. The local beach... Siracusa is beautiful, the Greek theatre and caves are incredible." George Williams, Bristol, UK (stayed at Villa San Tommaso)

"Combination of rugged landscape, beautiful sea, nice villages and great food. The appartment was also very nice... we recommend Ortigia, Taormina, Catania." Martijn van Pieterson, London, UK (stayed at Il Palmento dei Castagni)

"We enjoyed Sicily very much-covered 1500km by car and found the people very friendly. We enjoyed the churches and monuments and Cefalu, Noto and Sciacca were lovely." John Wilcox, Newark, UK (stayed at Donalegge)

"Lovely villa and magnificent setting and views. We are all fans of Nero D'Avola (a Sicilian wine)!" Alan Devlin, Cambridge, UK (stayed at Il Piliere)

"Very peaceful villa, Greek archaeological sites and good food." Christopher Bailey West, Oxfordshire, UK (stayed at Balu)

"Scopello is magical and some hidden and great places to stay, nature reserves by Capo San Vito and also by Noto were beautiful. Best eating is in Ragusa! Cucine e Vino and Duomo! very impressive...And Val Di Noto was a great place to stay...with fantastic food and people running it are very friendly and helpful." Celine Baggen, Amsterdam, Holland (stayed at Casa Favonio)

"The food, wine, people, the childfriendly atmosphere." Jeroen Van De Sande, Amsterdam, Holland (stayed at Hotel Signum).

"We had a fabulous time and can't wait to visit some of the other islands and other properties. We really enjoyed the atmosphere, the food, scenery, people and the as yet unspoilt nature of the islands... Salina so beautiful." Belinda and Iain Diamond, Shrops, UK (stayed at Hotel Signum)

"Every day held a surprise - from the little roadsweeper giving us directions with a jolly smile to the emptyness of the autostradas, then there was the amazing way the traffic works in the large towns. We were driving like Sicilians by the end of the holiday which was quite relaxing in a kind of topsy turvy way! Things to recommend?: An awful lot. Ragusa, Modica, Noto, Marina di Ragusa, Agrigento, Pachino, Erice, Selinunte, Enna, Taormina... Lots of little pretty beaches dotted along the coast... Etna and so many others I can't remember just now. We must go back!" Pauline Whittaker, Hants, UK (stayed at Donna Carmela)

"Friendliness of people, excellent food and wine. Far better than northern Italy. Great that it has not been discovered so far by the average tourist." Dominicus Doriat, Germany (stayed at La Corte)

"Excellent and especially the food cooked by the local cooks. Sicilian food and superb... the historical and architectural interest and lovely beaches... Ortigia, above all. Ragusa, Noto and even Scicli had a lot of charm if you walked." Edward Holdsworth, West Sussex (stayed at Villa Farli)

"The mix of oustanding natural beauty and interesting history... Walks in the Madonie Mountains." Neil Smith, Brighton, UK (stayed at Ballata and Mandranova)

"Fantastic... Thank you for a wonderful last minute trip - the first family holiday for us with our toddler. Everything was perfect. The villa was exceptional... We loved the people, the food, the scenery and the beach for our toddler!" Heather Struman, UK (stayed at Il Borghetto)

"I love the people, the scenery, in fact the whole feel of the place. I love Italy but Sicily is in a different league." Heather Robertson, Edinburgh, UK (stayed at Belli Spa Resort)

"In total Sicily is a great place and a lot to discover! We will come back." Karsten Doppler, Munich, Germany (stayed at Il Gabbiano)

"The villa, views, food and hospitality... Local shops and cafes in the mountain towns near Cefalu. Plus Cefalu itself." Ailsa Glen, Brighton, UK (stayed at Il Piliere)

"Sicily is a huge natural, artistic and historical patrimony, everything is to be enjoyed!" Elisabetta Rubini, Milan, Italy (stayed at La Tartaruga)

"Syracuse early in the morning for the most wonderful markets, the Teatro Greco is a must, and the Baroque town." Judith Connolly, Dublin, Ireland (stayed at Casa al Faro)

"The scenery. Unspoilt towns and villages. The history and the historical sites (eg Selinunte, Erice, Monreale). Silician cuisine (especially the seafood) and local produce. Sicilian wine." Toby Kwan, London, UK (stayed at Ballata)

"The country is beautiful and the people are really friendly. All the beaches in that area (Noto) are lovely - particularly the ones in the Vendicari Nature Reserve." Cressida Sparrow, London, UK (stayed at La Collina di Mandorle)

"Sunshine, food, wine, Mount Etna, not many British tourists! Feeling you are in authentic Italy." Margaret Reed, Suffolk, UK (stayed at Cecilia)

"We enjoyed the beautiful landscape, the interesting cities and towns, the train rides through the countryside as we traveled and the friendly people that we met... Cefalu, the Egadi and Aeolian Islands, Trapani, Erice and Palermo are the towns we visited that are must sees." Nina Parker, Massachusetts, USA (stayed at La Corte)

"Unbeatable combination of history/culture/food and sea/sun. Palermo had more than we expected - the churches and thier architecture/art cannot be over-emphasized. Smaller places such as Castelbuono (with the Serpotta stuccos in the castle chapel) and Erice were real gems." Vladimir Konovalov, Moscow, Russia (stayed at La Fenice, La Rosa Dei Venti - Ponente and Il Palmento dei Castagni)

"The weather; a pool of our own; eating outside and evenings outside; the many-layered cultural history - something for everyone! Things to recommend? Cefalu definitely... We loved all the Greek and Roman sites and have now visited all the main ones and feel enriched by it." Susan Gillingham, Oxford, UK (stayed at Poggio Pigio)

"Our house, pool, food, visiting old towns, local people... actually everything! Wherever you go whichever town or village you visit there is always something to see and the food is so good." M Cvetkovic, Cheshire, UK (stayed at La Casina del Biviere)

"Gratteri is amazing, Mount Etna exciting, Filicudi and Alicudi wonderful... but everywhere you could find beautiful places!" Chiara Fantinelli Veschetti, Brescia, Italy (stayed at Casa Nuvola)

"Easy to get to but no hordes of English tourists. The climate is great and the food and wine are delicious! Syracuse is a must and Noto is beautiful and charming." Steven Bishop, Gloucestershire, UK (stayed at La Collina di Mandorle)

"Sicily, new to us, was fascinating, with an astonishingly varied history and scenery. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the beautiful houses we stayed in." Fiona Larkin, Kingston, UK (stayed at Balu and Villa Glicine)

"We loved the city of Cefalu. We rented a boat there, via Max, and that was very nice. We loved to be on the water! Palermo is very nice, beautiful, but better to visit in Spring or In Autumn. With kids it was too hot. But we really enjoyed it." Karin Bijlsma, Lochem, Holland (stayed at Villa Favola)

"Visiting areas untouched by tourism - experiencing 'authentic' Sicily, Piazza Armerina, Enna, and Aidone!" Terje Tondel, Bristol, UK (stayed at Casa de Arena)

"Modica town for an evening walk... Home cooking at our villa was the best meal we ate... Letojanni beach -just out of Taormina... Porto Palo beach - which is wonderful for children." Helen Davies, London, UK (stayed at Villa San Filippo)

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