24/10/2026
One of my favorite days in Sicily was one that brought me right into the heart of Sicilian life. 🇮🇹🫒
My friend Josephine invited me to spend the day with her family on their farm in Partanna, a beautiful agricultural area in western Sicily.
Josephine grew up in New York City with deep Sicilian roots, and years ago, on a trip back to Sicily, she met her Sicilian husband, Nino. Today, they live here with their kids, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, gardens and generations of tradition.
And this was my first time actually picking olives!
Her husband Nino showed me how to use the harvesting basket, and I was laughing the entire time as I pulled those gorgeous green olives from the trees.
What I loved most was being welcomed into their real life. Learning how the olives are grown and harvested, walking through the vineyard and garden, seeing pomegranates and citrus nearby, and watching everyone work together.
And, of course, enjoying a beautiful Sicilian lunch full of homemade vegetables and local flavors.
These are the experiences I treasure most when I travel. Not just seeing a place, but feeling connected to the people who call it home.
And one of the greatest gifts of spending so much time in Sicily has been the friendships I’m making along the way. 🇮🇹💗
P.S. If you would like to be personally hosted by Josephine in Western Sicily or want an itinerary or Sicilian Heritage tour, reach out to her at Isola Marea Travel & Experiences. Not an ad. Just a joyful recommendation. 👭