View of Mt. Etna from the Greco Roman Theatre in Taormina. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
First, the logistics: Tender ashore, 15 minutes from ship to pier; shuttle bus to town, 25 minutes up a windy road; 5 minutes to go seven levels on an elevator — and our time in Taormina begins.
Europe’s highest volcano, Mt. Etna forever looms in the distance. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
The beautiful city is perched on the side of a mountain, looking like the lip of a terra cotta vase. In the distance, Mount Etna is smoldering. A gorgeous day in an unforgettable place.
From tendering ashore to strolling Taormina takes about 45 minutes. © Ralph Grizzle
To absorb and appreciate Taormina, my son Alex and I strolled the streets for about two hours. We window-shopped only a little, stopped for gelato (who can resist?), and paid 8 euros (kids enter free) to wander about the ruins of the old Greco Roman Theatre.
Bring euros for gelato, no matter how good the ice cream on the ship may be. Nothing beats a 3 euro cone of gelato. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
The views were spectacular as were the contrasts of flowers against the backdrop of the sea, ancient buildings and the volcano. After exploring for two hours, we thought we would leave as you should always leave, wanting more.
Taormina, perched high above the Ionian Sea. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
Gods of antiquity: Mt. Etna and the Greco Roman Theatre. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
Clinging to cliffsides. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
Crystal Serenity anchored in the harbor below. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
Crystal Serenity through a threshold at the Greco Roman Theatre. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
After two wonderful hours, Alex and I leave Taormina. © 2012 Ralph Grizzle
