A Sicilian Slice of Heaven

Tuscany, Rome, Venice and Capri are all tourist meccas, particularly in the summer, but Sicily? Many Italianophiles never get there ... which is their loss, since it's got all the fabulous food, friendliness, and friezes you'd expect elsewhere in that picturesque nation, except with less crowds and precious few tourist traps.

If you like to travel in style, there's never been a better time to plan a trip to Sicily, now that the Verdura Resort is about to open its doors. This relaxing luxury destination opens in about a month's time — although it's already accepting bookings — and includes a world-class golf course, holistic spa, gourmet restaurant and elegantly decorated rooms. Plus, it's on a gorgeous stretch of beachfront (if all you really want to do on vacation is sip a glass of prosecco and relax).

Verdura's design is as much about environmental conservation as pampering guests. (But trust us, there's plenty of the latter!) Solar panels generate power for many areas of the property, including its main facility building and the spa. Double-glazed windows help conserve energy year-round, and low-energy light bulbs are used hotel-wide. No cars are allowed on the vast property, minimizing emissions and gas usage.

A night at Verdura doesn't come cheap; prices start at around $1,000 for its smallest rooms — but rates are discounted almost a third from July 15 to 31. Since you're virtually guaranteed great weather and scrumptious food, this unique Italian experience may actually be, well, priceless.