Aida at the Teatro Massimo

The Teatro Massimo in Palermo it is the largest Theatre in Italy and one of the largest of Europe (the third after the Opéra National de Paris and Staatsoper in Vienna), and is world renowned for its perfect acoustics.

The Teatro Massimo was dedicated to King Victor Emanuel II and inaugurated on 16th May 1897 with a performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s Falstaff. Although you will be more likely to recognise Massimo not for its glorious past but for the final scene of the Godfather Part III : The climactic and gripping opera scene shot right on the staircase of this majestic theatre.

Italy is Opera's ancestral home, so why not experience a must see event in one of the most fascinating theatres of the world.

Teatro Massimo offers visitors a rich choice of operatic seasons throughout most of the year.

Aida will be performed from November 26th to December 7th 08. Bookings are essential!

Sicilians DO dress up for Opera - expect some glamour...

Glamourama : Ristorante Charleston

Those who would like to try a little haute cuisine, (paying prices that are "haute" too!) should opt for one of the most elegant restaurants in Palermo, such as the Charleston in gorgeous Mondello (about 10 km from Palermo).

Picturesque setting with incredible views: of course you pay for the privilege, but it's worth it.

Charleston is a classy landmark on the Mondello lido since 1913. This former aristocratic haunt is now the domain of head chef Nino Tantillo. Its aristocratic structure dominates the beach on a pier of its own. The speciality today, as it was back in 1913 is pesce spada (swordfish), simply and wonderfully prepared. Desserts are delicious, in particular cassata and semifreddo; an almond ice-cream cake drizzled with hot chocolate sauce. Again, it's pricy... but memorable.

Closed Wednesday in winter.

Viale Regina Elena, Mondello

Tel: (091) 455 851 or 450 171.

advanced booking is essential

Glamourama : Siciliamo's guide to the most exclusive "treats" in Sicily

Siciliamo introduces its first guide to the most exclusive Sicilian "treats" : Boutique Hotels, intimate restaurants, celebrity hot spots and all the components to those travellers seeking glamourous, luxurious and über-cool entertainment in Sicily.

Glamourama is for those who do not mind spending some extra money for a get-away in total bliss and intimacy.

This week in Glamourama, Siciliamo discovers Caol Ishka Hotel in Syracuse.

Caol Ishka is one of a kind. This boutique hidden gem only features 10 bedrooms to better spoil its guests, while the warm mix of materials, designer furniture and antique pieces have all been blended in a rustic environment.

The garden merges with the surrounding nature: a wide lawn beside the splendid swimming pool with Mediterranean plants and aromatic herbs gives way to bamboo, wild grass and spontaneous vegetation.

Rooms are stylishly designed and equipped with all modern comforts; bathrooms are spacious and comfortable, characterised by designer washbasins and large walk-in showers with Iroko decking and glass walls. Oversized doors have been crafted by local artisans with various finishes: bisazza mosaic, mirrors, fabrics, gold leaf.

For food lovers, the Zafferano Bistrot offers creative menus based on Sicilian traditional flavours. The chef only proposes recipes in harmony with seasonal and high quality local ingredients and flavours.

Info & Reservations

Glamourama : Panasia Beach & Lounge bar

Chill out on sofa beds, sip a cocktail at sunset or dance 'till dawn at PanAsia Beach & Lounge Bar in Taormina's Mazzarò beach.
This is one of the most glamorous and original seaside establishment , where Sicily meets the Montecarlo party-scene.
Panasia is chic and exotic at the same time. All the interiors (and exterior) design comes directly from outstanding Milan hottest designers.
Crowd at Panasia is hip and trendy and mainly youngish - Cool chic is the unofficial dress code for this place.

Via nazionale-spisone
Taormina (ME)

Glamourama : La Giara club and restaurant

Sexy and stylish, La Giara club and restaurants perfectly resembles all the essence of the Sicilian "Dolce Vita" in Taormina.

A piano bar supreme, where locals and well-to-do tourists dress in their best to order fine wines and dine al fresco.

It is an elegant classy yet electric place, with its stunning terrace overlooking Taormina's bay. La Giara is steeped in history with a clientele that has over the years included the many millionaires just passing by...

Booking essential

+39 0942 233 60

Vico Floresta 1 - Taormina (ME)

Glamourama : Hotel Quartara

Exclusive, prestigious boutique hotel, on the smallest island of the celebrities' favourite Aeolian archipelago : Panarea.
Hotel Quartara features a stunning Cromotherapy Jacuzzi and a "fine dining" restaurant.
There are 13 rooms, four of which overlook the sea and have a balcony. All rooms are decorated with handcrafted teak wood furniture, with each one a different style: colonial, minimalist, Chinese, etc.
In Broccia Restaurant a special dimension has been created for special people, where sensations, emotions and rhythms come together to captivate and hold the essence of life, of a way of being.
Chef Francesco Mansani is inspired by the creative kitchen, exalting fresh ingredients of the island.

Info and Reservations

Glamourama : Baglio della Luna

The natural elegance of Sicily is evident in the rural setting offered by Hotel Baglio della Luna, a rare example of ancient Sicilian memory at the doors of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. A courtyard circumscribed by high walls, guest quarters, and an old tower immersed in a natural and exuberant landscape evoking a Greek and Arabic past, places that invite one for an authentic experience.

The respectful restoration has salvaged the ancient structures dating from the 13th century which are set in a very green garden, full of Mediterranean plants. Here you will find the wellness corner with the relaxing hydro-massage pool and a very comfortable sauna.

"Dehors" is the refined and elegant restaurant of the Hotel, open to guests and the public at large and renowned throughout Italy for a cuisine that goes from the traditional to the most innovative, always featuring Sicilian elements and offering a carefully selected wine list showcasing Sicilian Greats, the best Italian as well as French and International wines.

Info & Reservations

Glamourama : Palazzo Federico

Have you ever dreamt of living like a prince or a princess?

The Palazzo Conte Federico is one of the oldest and most important buildings in Palermo. It is in the centre of the old city only a few steps away from the Palazzo Reale, the Cathedral and the Cappella Palatina.

Your hosts Count and Countess Federico will take you on a cultural trip around the 12th century palazzo and will make you feel just like at home.

The guest room, the “Federico Suite”, is unique in its style.

Exactly as it was in the 17th century, it summons up a surreal, almost timeless, atmosphere. The monumental bed, made from the panels of the old music hall ceiling, is a masterpiece, as is the wardrobe. In addition, there are brocade curtains, antique furniture, carpets and paintings.

Info & Reservations