Taormina is perfectly situated to offer students easy access to the beautiful and historically important treasures of Sicily. With a strong vocation for tourism, Taormina offers many hotels, restaurants, bars, discos, entertainment and sports (windsurfing, scuba diving, mountain-biking, mountain-climbing, rafting, tennis and golf). For walkers, the surroundings of Taormina are a beautiful paradise. There are several trails leading down to the sea and up to the picturesque village of Castelmola. You can also climb to the top of the highest mountain in the area, Monte Venere, where one of the three Greek Venus temples is rumored to have been. Of course, the entire region is also known worldwide for its traditional food and the very particular type of rich red wine made from the grapes grown on Mount Etna, which is the largest active volcano in Europe.

This program is perfect for those who have always wanted to learn to cook traditional Italian and Sicilian dishes, just like mom makes. With this ‘casalingua’ (homestyle cooking) course, students will learn the art of Italian cooking from a real Sicilian ‘mamma’ or ‘papa.’ Learn those tricks and tips that turn homemade Italian dishes into something special. Three times a week, students will gather in the family home of their teacher to learn how to prepare a full Italian meal. This includes a first course, a main course, a side dish, and one dessert. Participants will also sit down and enjoy dinner with their ‘mamma’ and her family.

• Chance to learn traditional Italian cooking with a real Sicilian ‘mama’
• Classes are taught in the ‘mama’s’ home
• Dinner with your ‘mama’ and her family is included

Participants: International mix of students and professionals, most are Europeans with some US and Canadian students

Other: Elementary level of Italian recommended.

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