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Sicily 10-Day Slowcation
USD $5,400 – Trip cost per person. (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)
A down payment of half the trip cost, per person is needed to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.
*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.
Payments made by credit or debit card are subject to processing fees at the time of booking. These fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account which does not incur any processing fees.
I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?
There is no single supplement for this trip and every person who signs up will get their own room. Note that we do not offer roommate pairing on this trip. If you would like to share a room with someone you know, please note that the Palermo hotel only offers rooms with 1 double and 1 single bed.
What is included :
- 9 nights accommodation (single occupancy)
- Trip host
- Activities as noted on the itinerary
- Private ground transportation
- Breakfast served daily
- 4 lunches, 2 dinners
What is not included :
- Visas (if needed)
- Insurance
- International flights
- International airport pick-up & drop-off
- Some dinners & lunches
- Gratuities
- Optional activities
- Souvenirs
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Smile policy
We welcome all kinds of travelers and the group dynamic of each trip is different but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You should be able to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.No complainers
Our goal is for everyone to have fun and a trip of a lifetime. On our trips, you should be able to let the small stuff go and exercise flexibility when things do not go according to plan. If you are a traveler who finds fault with everything and complains about the little things, then our trips are not right for you. Come with an open mind and adventurous spirit, and you will have the trip of a lifetime!Italy is not like home
Expect things to be different than what you are used to back home and remember that it is all a part of traveling and experiencing new places! For example, water pressure, bed and pillow firmness, and room temperature may be different than what you are used to back home. Also, Wifi may be spotty, slow, or even unavailable in certain remote areas.Trip host
Your trip host will help you have an unforgettable experience and can answer questions & offer suggestions. He/she will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip but is not your personal assistant. Travelers should exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our trips. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your host who will be with you every day throughout the entire trip.Semi-independent trip
Our trips are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your host can offer recommendations for alternative activities but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities. Additionally, you’re free to arrive before or depart after the trip but pre-/post-tour plans, accommodation, transport, etc. are yours to arrange. We do not offer assistance with any plans outside of the trip dates. -
This trip requires a low to moderate level of physical fitness. Some towns in Sicily are located in elevated areas, requiring some walking up and down hills.
To participate in this trip you should be able to:
- Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day unassisted, up and down hills, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces, with and without an incline.
- Walk up and down multiple flights of stairs.
- Be comfortable on your feet for up to 4 hours unassisted, walking and standing, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions.
- Get in and out of a van without assistance.
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A slowcation is a slower-paced type of travel during which you only stay in 1 or 2 “base” locations as your base and explore the area in-depth from your base. This differs from a traditional tour in that you don’t have to pack up and move from place to place on a daily basis. It also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and truly experience a place rather than stopping there quickly before moving on to the next place.
Most days have planned activities and excursions with some meals included. In each place, you will usually have at least 1 free day where you get to choose what you want to do. Your host can recommend things to do during your free time. Whether it is organizing excursions with your fellow travelers, a happy hour, or just lounging by the pool; the choice is yours!
Find out more about how our slowcations work by clicking here: HOW IT WORKS.
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Each group usually consists of around 6 – 14 travelers. We prefer small group travel because, based on our experience, small groups are more easily able to integrate into local society and generally have more authentic contact with the locals.
A small group number also means that the participants will receive more personal treatment from the trip host, who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.
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Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.
The minimum age on our trips is 18.
Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples.
Check out pictures from our trips to get an idea of the group dynamic by clicking HERE.
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While most daily activities are already included in the trip price, you will have some free time and your trip host can recommend activities that might interest you. Activities in your free time are not included in the trip cost and are at your own expense.
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Airport pick-up is not included in this trip. The arrival airport is Catania Fontanarossa (CTA). Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or pre-arrange airport pick-up with a transport company such as Welcome Pickups or one that you find on travel sites such as TripAdvisor.
Airport drop-off is also not included on this trip. The departure airport is Palermo (PMO). The hotel can help you arrange a taxi to the airport.
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Currently, US, Australian, Canadian, UK, and EU passport holders traveling to Italy for less than 90 days DO NOT need a visa.
If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Italy.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
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The official currency of Italy is the euro (EUR).
Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using a currency converter online.
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We strongly recommend using ATMs while in Italy as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to withdraw money out from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.
You can find ATMs at almost all bank branches as well as at large supermarkets, gas stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices. There are several banks in town so you won’t have any issues finding an ATM.
Since euros are a popular currency, most banks in your home town/city will exchange your local currency for euros. This a very convenient way to get euros but be aware that some banks might not have favorable exchange rates or charge additional fees to exchange. It is best to check with your bank to see what fees are associated with exchanging money in your home town.
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Credit and debit cards are widely used in most towns and cities in Italy. However, at small, local businesses such as coffee shops and bars, cash is the main method of payment. Therefore, it’s best to carry cash in case you come across a place that does not take card payments.
It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Italy. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries or currencies if they haven’t been forewarned about your travel plans.
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While tipping isn’t mandatory in Italy, it is customary. Rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is the norm. If you do decide to tip, around 10-20% of the total bill is appreciated.
Trip host: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip around 80 – 100 euros at the end of your trip based on past travelers’ feedback.
Local day guides: A suggested tip is 5 ~ 10 euros per guide, per day/excursion/activity.
Drivers: If you were satisfied with the drivers’ service on full-day tours, we suggest leaving 5 euros per day at the end of the day.
For more information about tipping, please see our blog on tipping.
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We recommend having access to anywhere between 600 – 900 EUR either in cash or by credit/debit card. We strongly advise budgeting more than you plan to spend in case of an emergency.
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Most smartphones work in Italy and when using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in Italy, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below:
Welcome to Italy! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day.
You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.
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Both hotels you will stay at offer free Wifi and most restaurants and other public places will offer it as well. Connection may be weak in your room and/or only available in the lobby or common areas of the hotel. Keep in mind that it may not be as fast and the connection may not be as strong as you are used to back home.
If you absolutely need an internet connection, it is best to get an international plan for the duration of your stay.
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In Italy, the most common outlet fits European pin plugs also known as the standard “Euro” outlet (see picture below). Italy operates on 230V and 50Hz. Converters and/or adapters might be necessary for your electronic devices.
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Temperatures will vary during this trip as you will be exposed to different climates between the coast and Mount Etna. Please pack appropriately for the different weather.
Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:
- Comfortable walking shoes (good traction & ankle support for cobblestone streets)
- Sturdy hiking boots (for Mount Etna)
- Lightweight clothing that dries quickly
- Warm clothing (for cooler weather & Mount Etna)
- Light jacket/cardigan (for cooler weather)
- Warm jacket/coat (for Mount Etna)
- Scarf (for cooler weather & Mount Etna)
- Thermal layers and clothes (for Mount Etna)
- Rain jacket
- Wind breaker (for Mount Etna)
- Gloves (for Mount Etna)
- Umbrella (for shade & rain)
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag (for day trips)
- Swimsuit (for hotel pool, not heated)
- Reusable water bottle
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Adapters/converters for electronics (bring 2 or more just in case)
- Prescription and/or over-the-counter medicine
- Sunscreen (biodegradable, if possible)
- Shampoo/conditioner/soap*
- Washcloth
- Extra bag for souvenirs (if needed)
*All rooms are equipped with a hairdryer. Some small toiletries such as hand soap and shampoo are also provided in your room but it’s best to bring or buy your own as they are sample sizes.
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Laundry service is available at the hotels. The price list will be available at the hotel reception.
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The tap water in Sicily is safe to drink. If you go to larger cities, many travelers have said that they don’t enjoy the taste of the water in the bigger cities but it is still safe to drink. You will be able to purchase bottled water but to alleviate the plastic waste epidemic, we recommend a reusable filtered water bottle like LifeStraw or Grayl.
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Most areas that you will visit on this trip experience fewer crimes compared to bigger US and European cities. As with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not to leave belongings unattended to avoid being an easy target for a thief.
When going to larger cities, pick-pocketing is more common and you should not put anything in your back pockets, especially when taking public transportation or at a crowded or touristy spot as thieves target these areas.
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Restaurants throughout the area offer a wide variety of foods. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip although options might be limited.
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Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website before traveling to see any recommended vaccinations.
If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.
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We offer private trips depending on the size of the group and availability.
Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.
Flights
Your arrival airport is Catania Fontanarossa (CTA) and your departure airport is Palermo (PMO).
*Please do not book any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your trip within 24 – 48 hours of booking the trip.
Visa
US, Australian, Canadian, UK, and EU passport holders traveling to Italy for less than 90 days do not need a visa.
If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Italy.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
On this trip, you will spend 6 nights in Syracuse and 3 nights in Palermo. Both hotels are centrally located, perfect for exploring on foot and enjoying local sights and restaurants.
NOTE: There is no single supplement for this trip, and every person who signs up will get their own room. However, if you would like to share a room with someone you know, the Palermo hotel only offers rooms with 1 double and 1 single bed.
*We do not offer pre-/post-tour accommodation. Once the trip is confirmed, we will send you the name of the hotel so you can book extra nights should you need them.
Syracuse
This is a family-run hotel set in a historic 19th-century building located directly on the city’s iconic Piazza Duomo. It offers an unbeatable location just steps away from cultural landmarks, cafes, and shops.
*IMPORTANT: The hotel rooms are simple, yet comfortable. The rooms are large with comfortable beds, hot showers with good water pressure, and all that you will need for a pleasant stay.
Palermo
This early 20th-century hotel reflects a rich aristocratic heritage, set between the iconic Teatros Massimo and Politeama, and just steps from the buzzing pedestrian street Via Principe di Belmonte. Once home to noble families and later used as a WWII shelter, it has also served as a set for period films thanks to its well-preserved Art Nouveau charm.
Today, it is fully restored as a 5-star property and features hand-engraved stained glass, marble columns, a serene massage spa, sauna, fitness space, and an American bar known for its classic cocktails.
We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We work with Travelex, which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.
For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N
