Summer in Sicily.. and Beyond!

Several Sigonella families had great adventures abroad this summer. If you’re daydreaming about future travels, here’s some inspiration! If you’d like to share your adventure, email thesig@eu.navy.mil.

LIZ POE

Where: Frankfurt, Berlin, Hamburg and Hanover

Who: Me, my husband, and our two year old

We rented a car so we could have flexibility with a toddler while being able to see several cities. We arranged to do one indoor activity (usually a museum) and an outdoor activity (zoo or botanical gardens) with a period in between to accommodate a nap. In 11 days we managed to go to three zoos, four museums, an aquarium, two castles, Legoland, and Miniatur Wunderland, as well as the major sights in the

Best Surprise: We happened to be in Berlin during their Festival of Lights which was very cool!

Travel Tips for Sicilian Road Trips From Kristin Clipperton-Allen

1. Do not trust Google Maps if you miss a turn and it reroutes you. Always find a safe place to turn around and go the original route.

2. If you need a snack or to use the restroom, look for cafes as they are generally open during riposo (the traditional Italian rest period that starts from 12:00 until 1:30 and lasts until 2:30 until 4:00 when many shops and restaurants are closed).

3. Call your hotel before booking and ask if they are offering any specials (or better yet, have an Italian friend call).

4. Pack water because a lot of lodging won’t provide it and it is a huge pain to have to find a market when you are tired from traveling.

STEPHANIE MCCUTCHEON KALISH

Where: Alberobello, Italy

Who: My family of 4 (including daughters aged 11 and 5)

We drove from Sicily, to mainland Italy and across the boot to the town of Alberobello. We stayed in our own private Trullo and got to wander the majestic streets of this stunning UNESCO city. Additional highlights in this region included the Zoosafari Park where all manner of animals came up to our car to greet us and the amazing Grotte di Castellana.

Best Surprise: The Zoosafari Park was not only a drive through zoo, but also a whole theme park with additional walk through exhibits and rides. It entertained and enchanted us all for the entire day.