Siracusa, Sicily Again

From Malta it is only 90 miles to Siracusa, Sicily and since we so enjoyed it 2 years ago, we decided to go back. The last time we did the major sightseeing of the old Roman ruins and historical landmarks (posted on the blog under July 2010) and so decided this time around we would just eat, drink and be merry ! We anchored outside of the harbor and would dinghy in to walk, mingle and experience the wonderful sights and sounds of the old city. It was exuberant and full of life as we remembered it and were not disappointed.

One of our favorite places in Siracusa is the outdoor market. It is undoubtedly the best we have found anywhere in Europe. Abundant fresh fruit, veggies, homemade cheeses, olives, fish and nuts. What more could you want. And of course it comes complete with the theatrics and liveliness that only the Italians can create. The little band below was playing in front of our favorite vendor - the Cannoli King.

Sooo, the Cannoli King has of course, the best cannoli ever with homemade cheese and we just cannot resist. He also has homemade fresh ricotta and smoked mozzarella that we always get. And best of all he is such fun as you can see below. He grabbed Willow (after asking Richard of course) and whirled and danced her to the funky little band. Great fun as well as great cannoli's....

We have had so much fun with the Italian people this year and we know it is because somehow we have shifted our perception. We used to take their "fake mad" and demonstrative nature personally. Now that we have spent enough time with them we are comfortable and so it is that they are warm and playful with us.

We also revisited a favorite little Mom and Pop restaurant. It sits back off the street in kind of a cave and has only 5 tables. Mom cooks and Pop serves and serenades the customers singing with great robusto to the little music box in the corner. And great food also as you can see we cleaned our plates.

We are thankful for a light, playful and totally fun time in Siracusa but it is time to move on as we are wanting the quieter serenity of anchoring in crystal clear water and a slower pace. Till soon.....