Trundling our bags behind us, we walk a couple of blocks to meet our bus and driver, Aurelio, at 8:30 a.m. On a Rick Steves tour, one is expected to haul your own bags. No excuses! Almost everyone has a small bag and backpack. One of the things I like, is that there are no fashionistas on the tour. And yet, we all look decent in our active, easy wash clothes and sturdy shoes.
The ancient Greek site of Segesta is our first stop for meandering through a magnificent Doric temple and hilltop theater.
I couldn't decide which photo to post of the temple!
The plastic-protected schedule for the day.
Our driver, Aurelio, is ever so safe with a beautiful, clean bus for his passengers.
Maria Grammatico is a Sicilian pastry icon, known worldwide for her story and baking skills. After World War II, times were difficult, and 11-year old Maria and her little sister were sent to live at the San Carlo Monastery. Maria worked in the kitchens and learned the art of pastry making from the nuns. She left the convent at age 22 to begin her climb to baking stardom. What a treat it was to meet the charming Maria at her Culinary School, with her interpreter (whose name might have been Mark); he said, "I married into the family."
Maria shows how she makes almond cookies with the dough of three ingredients: egg whites, crushed almonds, and sugar.
Now, we get to try our hand at rolling the cookies. It's harder than it looks!
We're in Sicily and, of course, we must learn about cannoli!
Yum! Almond cookies and cannoli! And, oh yeah, wine and more wine.
There are so many delicious dishes of regional Trapanese food and "Mark" is kind enough to describe each!
Historical building with Moorish roof in Erice. It overlooks the town of Trapani, our next stop for 2 nights.
The sunset in Trapani was pretty and quick. After all, it is February!
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