Can yo believe it no, Granita and brioche today! Instead I enjoy a Caffe Latte and what nice change that is for the day.

After breakfast my cousin Nello's wife Marisa and their daughters Vera and Federica, and friend Simone pick me up and we head to Isola Bella for a day on the beach . On our way we stop at the bakery and purchase our panini with provalone cheese and prosciutto for lunch. 
Isla Bella known in Sicilian as Isula Bedda is a small island near Taomina and is Also known as The Pearl of the Ionian Sea, and was a private property until 1990, when it was bought by the Region of Sicily, being turned into a nature reserve. There is a narrow path that often connects the island to the mainland beach. The island has a small and rather rocky beach which is a popular destination for sunbathers. After lunch Federica, Vera and I crossed the narrow path to the Island paying €4 entrance fee to walk around this tiny little Island. Rip Off!

King Ferdinand l of the Two Sicilies gifted the island to the nearby town of Taormina in 1806. The island was then bought from the town by a Ms. Trevelyan, who built a small house facing the sea and imported exotic plants, which thrived in the Mediterranean climate. Subsequent owners kept up the island, until the owner went bankrupt, and auctioned the island in 1990 . The island had been noted by conservationists as early as 1983, and it was quickly obtained by the Region and designated as a protected natural site. The island is home to several species of birds, and a few types of lizards. 

In the afternoon Marisa drove us to Castelmola, at the top of the mountain, where we had a walk around and then dropped into the Turrisi Bar, a bar/cafe totally focused on penises. There are so many Penises; from furniture, lamps, menus and decor. It was such a hot day that we relaxed over a hazelnut frappe and enjoyed the panoramic views this bar had to offer.

We returned down the mountain to refresh ourselves at my cousins friends house, where we shower and change into some neat casual clothing, before walking through the main street of Taormina. This famous town is totally geared up for the tourists and on the main drag there are boutiques and restaurants that are quite pricey, Given that I am with the locals, they do know where the affordable restaurants are. During a walk we got to see Dolce and Cabana in the flesh, he seemed to be drawing quite a crowd. 

For dinner we joined my cousin Nello, Paola, and their friends at "Zeppos Restaurant" for dinner. Great Sicilian Cuisine. After dinner another walk, returning to the cars before being driven home to Acireale.