Sicily is the largest island on the Mediterranean Sea. It constitutes an autonomous region of Italy, the Regione Siciliana. The first time I read of Sicily was on the Mario Puzo's Godfather...and like many people; I started associating it with the La Cosa Nostra - the Mafia. However, the island has shed the tag of organized crime in the recent years and is today a major tourist hub. Below are some things you will need to know about the island before you go there.

1. Sicily is as traditional as any Italian region can be

If there is one thing that you cannot accuse Sicily of, it is abandoning the Italian traditions. You will still find women wearing the ancient Italian garbs. The menfolk will still gather in the local pubs and drink themselves stupid as they catch up on local football and politics. You do not want to be on the opposing side in these discussions.

2. History

The earliest human settlement in the island dates as far back as 8,000BC. However, more recent settlement dates to 750BC when the island of Sicily was home to Phoenician and Greek colonies. For the next 600 years, the island would see the Greek–Punic and Roman–Punic wars. The city would see the rule of Vandals, Ostrogoths, Byzantines, Arabs and Normans in that order.

3. Climate

Being a Mediterranean island, Sicily boasts a Mediterranean weather that is characterized with mild and wet winters and hot, dry summers. The island is suitable for travel throughout the year and is thus a nice place to vacation with family.

4. Attractions

Sicily is a place that you would love to see. Its physical and manmade attributes make it one of the most beautiful on earth. Among the most popular tourist attractions in the city includes; Mount Etna, Valle dei Templi, Palazzo dei Normanni, Villa Romana del Casale, Perlamo Cathedral, Aegadian Islands, Alcantara, Orto Botanico di Perlamo, Isola Bella and many more.

5. Cuisines

Sicilian dishes are some of the healthiest food in Europe. They are prepared with ingredients and vegetables that are locally grown such as tomatoes, artichokes, olives, citrus, apricots, aubergines, onions, beans, and raisins. Couple this with seafood caught from the surrounding waters such as tuna, sea bream, sea bass, cuttlefish, swordfish, sardines, and others and you have yourself a gourmet feast that is unrivaled anywhere in the world.

Apart from the above attractions, Sicily is surrounded by the turquoise crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean which are ideal for surfing, sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and many other beach sports. This is a destination that you do not want to miss.