Welcome

Thank you for visiting Sicily Inside and Out, a space where you can discover the real Sicily through the eyes of someone who has lived and breathed its culture for over 20 years.

My name is Rochelle Del Borrello, an Italo-Australian writer who has been calling this stunning Mediterranean island home for much of my life. Through this blog, I want to share my authentic experience of life in Sicily—not the picture-perfect version you might see in movies or travel brochures, but the real, raw, and wonderful place I’ve come to know intimately.

Why Sicily Inside and Out?

Whether you’ve already fallen in love with Sicily or are just beginning to dream of a visit, this blog offers you a unique perspective on the island. Here, I write not only as a traveler, but as someone who has lived as an expat in Sicily for two decades. This island isn’t just a destination for me; it’s a way of life that I’ve embraced with all its beauty and challenges.

Sicily Inside and Out is a collection of my personal stories, insights, and reflections on life in Sicily. I’ve filled the blog with memoir-like entries, diary posts, and a curated selection of lists and recommendations.

These posts provide practical tips and insights for those looking to experience Sicily in the most authentic way possible. My goal is to provide you with a nuanced, down-to-earth picture of Sicily that goes beyond tourist clichés and explores the culture, history, and daily life that define the island.

What You’ll Find Here

Sicily is a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and a culture shaped by centuries of tradition and the influences of many different civilizations. On Sicily Inside and Out, you’ll discover:

• Photography: Capturing the soul of Sicily is no easy feat, but through my photography, I hope to offer you a glimpse into the island’s vibrant colors, its hidden corners, and the everyday moments that make this place so special. You’ll see Sicily not just through a traveler’s lens, but from the perspective of someone who has lived here and understands its rhythms, textures, and contrasts.

• Memoirs and Personal Stories: Living in Sicily as an expat has been a transformative journey. Through memoir-like entries, I reflect on the highs and lows of this experience—the cultural differences, the challenges of adapting, the joys of being part of a close-knit community, and the sometimes overwhelming beauty of life here. These stories are deeply personal, offering you a true sense of what it means to live on this island.

• Diary Entries: In the more intimate diary posts, I share my everyday life in Sicily. From navigating local festivals to simply enjoying a quiet morning overlooking the sea, these entries give you a candid, real-time view of life in Sicily. I hope these snapshots of daily life will inspire you to slow down and appreciate the small, beautiful moments—whether you’re here on the island or dreaming of a future visit.

• Lists and Guides: Looking for practical advice on how to make the most of your time in Sicily? My blog features curated lists and guides filled with suggestions on how to experience Sicily in the most authentic way. From hidden gems in off-the-beaten-path towns to local customs you should know before visiting, I offer insights that only someone who has lived here for years can provide. These guides are designed to help you immerse yourself in Sicilian life, offering tips on everything from the best places to eat, to cultural experiences that will deepen your connection to the island.

• Cultural Insights: Sicily is more than just beautiful landscapes; it’s a place with a unique and vibrant culture. On the blog, I delve into local traditions, folklore, festivals, and the rich tapestry of Sicilian history that still shapes everyday life here. Whether it’s understanding the significance of a religious celebration or learning about the art of Sicilian cuisine, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of what makes Sicily so special.

• Creative writing inspired by Sicily: Poetry, sketches and short stories inspired by the history, culture and landscape of this enigmatic Mediterranean island.

Subscribe for a Deeper Dive

If you’re passionate about authentic travel experiences or simply love Italy, subscribing to Sicily Inside and Out will keep you connected to the latest stories, tips, and insights about this incredible island. By subscribing, you won’t miss a single post, and you’ll be the first to receive new content that will inspire and guide your Sicilian journey.

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