Now don't flame me, but I've been reading warnings about kidnappings and "don't walk out at night" etc. I consider myself a pretty savvy traveler now and don't scare easy but thought I'd ask you experts. I would be alone and would love to rent a car and do the island.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32253 posts
Jill, Could you post some information on where you read these "warnings about kidnappings"? You might have a look at This Website for current information.
Posted by
Cesena, Italy
791 posts
Have been to Sicily several times. It's safe. Don't worry. I've lived in Italy for two years and haven't heard about any kidnappings. I've walked around Palermo at night....no probs. You'll be fine....just take the usual precautions that you would anywhere else. Have fun!
Posted by
Toledo
653 posts
Jill, I've traveled solo all over Italy, Turkey and Greece, and haven't had a major problem. I lived in Rome for several years as well. Don't be fearful - just take the same precautions you would in a city in the US. I had "warnings" from well-meaning friends (don't know where yours are coming from) who had never been out at night in a foreign city. Frankly, my travel wear doesn't look like I'd get much of a ransom, either. So, as one solo woman traveler to another, have fun on your trip!
Posted by
Scottsdale, AZ, USA
1127 posts
I've been to Sicily several times and never had a problem. In fact, I feel safer in Italy than I do in the US. However you should always be alert to your surroundings no matter where you are.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32253 posts
Jill, Another thought that just occurred to me. If you're really concerned about safety on Sicily, you might be more comfortable taking the Sicily tour. The Guides are excellent and always make sure tour members are aware of any "risks" in each town they visit. Given your location, you may enjoy taking a short drive to Edmonds on January 14th and attending a presentation on Sicily. While these are primarily intended to sell tours, I'm sure you'll be able to get some good information. The Guides from Italy / Sicily will be there (as well as Rick's knowledgeable staff), so you could ask them directly. The presentations are all free, but you would have to register with ETBD. Check the home page of this website for the "Test Drive A Tour Guide" event. Cheers!
Posted by
Los Angeles
1825 posts
Just don't marry Michael Corleone while you are there.
Posted by
OP
Sun City West, Arizona
152 posts
LOL @ Richard. I WISH!!! :) Ken, thanks for your tips. I don't think I'll be doing anymore Rick tours though. I have been reading random things online about safety. I do take it with a grain of salt but thought I'd toss the question out there. When I'm being held hostage by the Sicilian mafia with a horse head in my bed, I'll think of ya'll. ha ha
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32253 posts
JILL, "I don't think I'll be doing anymore Rick tours though." I'm curious, did you have a problem on one or the tours, or just prefer to travel independently? I normally combine a RS tour with some self-guided travel, and find that combination has worked well. I will hopefully be booking my sixth tour in 2012. Cheers!