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When visiting Sicily, you'll encounter one of the Mediterranean's most distinctive and historically significant flags. The Sicilian flag, with its striking trinacria symbol and bold red and yellow colours, tells the story of an island that has stood at the crossroads of civilisation for millennia. From ancient Greek coins to modern football stadiums, this remarkable emblem continues to represent Sicily's unique identity, fierce independence, and cultural pride. Understanding the Sicilian flag enriches any visit to this extraordinary island, revealing layers of meaning that connect ancient mythology with modern regional identity. Whether you spot it flying from government buildings in Palermo or adorning local products in bustling markets, the flag serves as a constant reminder of Sicily's complex and fascinating history.

Buon Natale! Christmas in Italy offers an enchanting blend of ancient traditions, sumptuous feasts, and heartwarming family celebrations that differ beautifully from holiday customs elsewhere. From the mystical arrival of La Befana to the legendary Feast of Seven Fishes, Italian Christmas traditions create unforgettable memories steeped in centuries of culture and Catholic heritage.

The second season of HBO's critically acclaimed series The White Lotus transported viewers to some of Italy's most breathtaking locations, with Sicily serving as the magnificent backdrop for this dark comedy-drama. From the dramatic coastlines of Taormina to the baroque splendour of Noto, the White Lotus locations in Italy showcase the island's unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. If you've been captivated by these stunning settings and dream of experiencing them firsthand, this comprehensive guide will take you through every key filming location whilst revealing how you can stay in luxury villas that place you at the heart of this Mediterranean paradise.

Puglia, Italy's sun-drenched heel, offers some of the country's most authentic and extraordinary dining experiences. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming family-run trattorias, the best restaurants in Puglia showcase the region's exceptional agricultural heritage through dishes that celebrate locally-sourced ingredients and time-honoured culinary traditions. This comprehensive guide reveals the finest restaurants across Puglia's most enchanting destinations, ensuring your culinary journey through this remarkable region is nothing short of extraordinary.

"Montalbano sugnu!" So the famous fictional Sicilian detective announces his presence as he calls at the homes of suspects, witnesses and friends. In his perennial quest for whodunit, Inspector Montalbano's manner and his glorious sun-soaked baroque environs couldn't be more different from the dark and damp Danish crime dramas that compete for TV audiences. Adapted from the best-selling books by Sicilian author Andrea Camilleri, the TV series of Inspector Montalbano is set in and around the fictional town of Vigata, which was originally based on the Camilleri's home town of Porto Empedocle a few kilometres west of Agrigento. However, when RAI, Italy's state broadcaster, decided to transform the books into a hugely successful TV series, the great Inspector was seconded to the more picturesque area of Ragusa in southeast Sicily.

Greece has a knack of producing and inspiring writers and poets. Homer was hooked on Ithaca, Sappho was seduced by her native Lesbos, and Kazantzakis (remember Zorba?) was created on Crete. Fowles fell under the spell of Spetses, Lord Byron was bewitched by the eternal summer of all The Isles of Greece, and the Durrells, Gerald and Lawrence, were dazzled by Corfu. The enormous international success of the recent TV series, The Durrells, has confirmed the enduring popularity of this most eccentric of English families, while at the same time showcasing Corfu's myriad charms. The island's tourist board must be the happiest in the world.

Discover the best things to do in Kefalonia, from hidden beaches to charming villages, in our ultimate guide to this stunning Greek island.

Discover the best places to stay in Taormina, Sicily with our guide to exclusive villas, sea views, and cultural highlights.

When booking your next Mediterranean holiday, it can be difficult to choose between beguiling Italy and enchanting Greece. Why not let your stomach make the decision for you? Will it be Italy and its pizza, pasta and arancini or Greece and its moussaka, giro and halloumi?

Dive into the heart of the Mediterranean's largest marine reserve, Alonissos Marine Park, home to diverse flora, fauna, and the endangered monk seal.

Uncover hidden gems to expand your next European holiday, with lesser-known city breaks that promise unique and enriching experiences.

Ensure you have everything you need with our holiday checklist for families, a practical packing list to help your holiday run smoothly from the start.