There aren"t many places in the world you can ski and then hit the beach afterwards for a refreshing dip; see Greek, Roman, Etruscan, medieval and Arabic architecture all in the same town; and meet some of the friendliest people in the world. The richness in culture is demonstrated in the theater, cinema and art found everywhere. The coastal towns, the Mafia, the wines and foods, the astonishing history - all are explored in this guidebook. Included are the Tyrrhenian coast, which runs the length of Sicily"s northern shore; the Aeolian Islands, with their steaming volcanoes, mud baths, crystal-clear waters and beaches; the Ionian coast, with its stunning sea views, woodlands, spectacular gorges and numerous old towns. The cities are not forgotten. Palermo, the capital, is described as "modern-day anarchy," but it"s an anarchy you"ll fall in love with. Siracusa was once the cradle of Greek civilization in Italy and a rival to Athens as the most important city in the Western world. The archaeological treasures here date back 2,700 years. Full color throughout.