Living in Sicily Italy: 7 Harsh Truths They Don't Tell You

[@TheSicilianLife]

𝗪𝗲 𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗟𝗟 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗹𝘆! 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵: 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗩𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝘅𝗮𝘀: 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀 kzbin.info/www/bejne/iavalKWnqtelntk&pp=gAQBiAQBsAQB

[@annamariaalaimo2581]

Narrow streets have never been a problem for real sicilians. We actually love our ancient, small villages and we believe that those narrow stone paved streets are so charming.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@annamariaalaimo2581, Thanks for watching! We also think they are charming - we love the alleys and narrow streets for exploring, and Croce, who was born and raised in Sicily, has no problem. I am the one who has difficulty driving as I was born and raised in the U.S. Please watch more of our videos to get to know us more. 😊

[@jac3271]

Exactly!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@jac3271, thanks for watching. We appreciate it. 💚 Ciao, Carol

[@kat1963]

May I point out there is no “Sorry” to your negative innuendos regarding the difference in cultures. You “ARE” the immigrant… Embrace your new environment and let “Go” of your past cultural life. Live your new life to its fullest!!!😊😊😊 “LIVE. LOVE AND LAUGH” I wish you the “ BEST” Ooodles of love and laughter!! I’ll see you in Sambuca di Sicilia❤❤❤

[@TheSicilianLife]

@kat1963, thank you for your kind-hearted comment, and we certainly appreciate you watching. 😍Croce was born and raised in Sicily so he is not an immigrant but 100 percent Sicilian. I am an Italian citizen but born and raised in the U.S. I already embrace my new environment or we would not be retiring in Sicily shortly. As far as letting go of the cultural past, that's the beautiful thing about life - you can enjoy the mix of life's experiences and turn it into a blend of wonderful memories. I couldn't agree more about live, love, and laugh! We have posted nothing but positive things about Sicily since we started but people were complaining saying we were not giving a realistic view and painting a romanticized, untrue picture. So this is delivering balance. Love and laugther - of course, each and every day. Hope you meet you in Sicily! 😊 Thanks again.

[@terenceduplock4160]

Spent five years in Sicily and then moved to Sardinia. Would recommend anybody thinking of leaving Sicily to check out the life here. No water shortages, polite but fast drivers, fantastic neighbours ( we are only foreigners in our commune), and publics services and transport that work. It does help if you can learn the language

[@TheSicilianLife]

@terenceduplock4160, thank you for sharing that good report. Sardengna is a gorgeous island for sure. We have family and friends in Sicily, and Croce grew up there, so we will choose Sicily. Going back to roots, so to speak. We have friends in Sardegna, and they say it is even more affordable than Sicily which is really saying something. 😊 Appreciate you adding value to the conversation. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@kat1963]

Sorry to say we are experiencing water shortages this year

[@TheSicilianLife]

@kat1963 Yes, it isn't surprising. Praying for more rain. Thanks for your comment! We appreciate it. 😊

[@luminouslink777]

How much does on need per month to live on Sardegna?

[@TheSicilianLife]

@luminouslink777, Hi and thanks for watching. 😊 Here's a video we did about the costs for Carini, Sicily. Sardenga is much cheaper, they say. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗟𝗬: 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIaUiWN-m65nh5o Hope to help. Ciao, Croce & Carol Amato

[@finikitooo]

I lived in Sicily for 4.5 years and I loved it, I got used to all their quirks and learned to live there. I did not expect it to be like in the US. Driving takes a little time but it is fun. I never saw a High School shooting, I never saw police brutality, and if you are not involved with the maffia, you won't even know they are there, they do not bother you. Food is so good and so healthy, that it will never compares with the food in the US and is cheap.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@finikitooo, exactly! That's why we are headed back to retire in Sicily. Can't wait. Thanks for watching. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@danielt1739]

Most of the comments offered as a negative are actually what makes me like to move to Sicily! I'm sorry but this sounds like you want Sicily to look and feel like Kansas City. I appreciated your concluding remarks. You brought back the balance. Thanks.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@danielt1739, we appreciate you watching~! 😊 I suppose this is the very first video of ours that you have watched...We don't expect Sicily to be anything other than exactly what it is. People were accusing us of 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 giving a positive, 𝓻𝓸𝓶𝓪𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓬𝓲𝔃𝓮𝓭, and unrealistic view of Italy/Sicily, and they wanted the full picture. Yep, there is definitely balance on this channel, as a whole. Because folks want to guage their expections on the real world; not some fairy tale. However, the only thing on that list of truths that really bothers me is the trash littered in many areas on the island. 𝗪𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝘀𝗼𝗼𝗻. So as you can see, it has not deterred us in the least. 😍Wishing you all the very best~! 𝗪𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻. 💕💚 ~Croce & Carol Amato

[@diggercable3949]

Truly enjoy your videos. They are short and on point with no bs. Please keep them coming !😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@diggercable3949 Thank you so much! Your comment made my day! 😍 Thanks for watching. Will do!

[@johnsmith-gk4ry]

I stayed in Sciacca for a vacation in 2018. Sicily is one of the best palaces I ever went to. The people were great. What a great time we had.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@johnsmith-gk4ry Hi John, that's fantastic! We will be retiring to Sicily, so to be sure, we absolutely love it. Anyplace you live is going to have its challenges, but in the end, we love it. The warmest people on Earth for sure~! So glad you had a great experience. We have too and that's why we're planning our retirement there. Just wanted to give a dose of reality to help folks with their expectations. Thanks for watching. 😊

[@pasqualeventura945]

I have been to Sciacca many times and you are absolutely wright, what a beautiful town and great people !

[@pasqualeventura945]

I also have cousins in Castelvetrano which is not far from Sciacca.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@pasqualeventura945, wonderful! I haven't been yet, but we're going to get around to different places in Sicily when we get back. Thanks for watching. 😍 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@TheSicilianLife]

@pasqualeventura945, need to head south sometime after we're settled, so we can visit there too. 💚 Thanks! Ciao, Carol Amato

[@RetiredNomadAdventures]

Thank you for sharing both the good and the not so good. It’s so helpful to have a complete perspective. The trash situation would hurt my heart. I’m so surprised about the TV tariff. I’m very impressed with you driving there! Such a beautiful place and your love for Sicily comes through! ❤

[@TheSicilianLife]

@RetiredNomadAdventures, Ain't THAT the truth! Yes, it is pretty bad in some spots. Won't let it consume me, though, as there are so many positives. Appreciate you coming by to watch and to comment ~ thank you! ❤️ Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@MoreThai]

Just came back from 3 weeks in Catania and everything she said are 100% true!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@MoreThai, first of all, thank you for watcing our video and commenting! We appreciate it. 😊 I hope you had a lovely trip, and it wasn't ruined by rains or floods! Blessings, ~ Croce & Carol Amato

[@lorenzo21973]

.. probably whatever orange or fruit that you can get in Sicily is by a mile better to whatever orange you can find in any supermarket in the United States. I remember my Sicilian roommate telling me how in the north of Italy we were getting just the discard of their first choices (and he made me try what they have normally). And that is mainly do to not just to the terrain (volcanic in Sicily), but mainly on how the distribution of goods goes in United States, where everywhere you eat the same brand that comes from the same places. And the fact that you cannot touch it is mainly for igiene (supermarket they need you to wear disposable gloves before getting your vegetables and fruits).

[@TheSicilianLife]

@lorenzo21973, yes, that is definitely true. Thanks for adding to the conversation and adding value here! Thanks for watching. 💚 Ciao, Carol

[@Explore-with-Isaac]

A lot of valuable information thanks for sharing. Sicily is a my list of places to visit the next time I’m in Italy 🇮🇹

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Explore-with-Isaac, Hi, Isaac! 😊 Yes, even with the negatives, it's such a great place. We love it! Thanks for watching. 💙

[@annamariaalaimo2581]

@@Explore-with-Isaac come to Sicily. You'll find so many reasons to love this blessed island🥰

[@Explore-with-Isaac]

@@annamariaalaimo2581 I’m hoping to make it over in 2025. Fingers crossed 🤞🏾 😉👍🏾

[@melissawalker7570]

Great video very informative for non locals. Yes every country has its challenges, the beauty and magnetic charm of Italy is undeniable!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@melissawalker7570, yes, indeed, so very true! Thanks for watching and for taking time to comment. 😍 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@susanlombardo8444]

I was in Carini last year in October. I had stayed in Palermo for several nights and wanted to see Carini. I had an espresso and a cornetto at the Cafe in Carini. Then I walked around and went into a Church. Then I drove up the mountain, Google took me up the mountain onto a dead end street, in front of someone’s fenced garage. Then I noticed there was a fire on the mountain, very close. I got so scared seeing the smoke was so close, I left the mountain and drove to Cefalu. As well, while driving to Cefalu, I saw 2 other fires on different mountains. That is very scary these fires happening all over. What made you choose to live in Carini? After staying a couple of nights in Cefalu, I then went and stayed in Caccamo several nights. I am coming back to Palermo this Fall. 😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@susanlombardo8444, Hi, Susan, and thank you so much for watching and for your great comment! 😍 Yes, in the summertime, the mountain wildfires can be worrisome. I witnessed many times, from my veranda, the seaplane going down to the Tyrrhenian Sea to pick up loads of water to put the fires out. The drought this year is wreaking havoc on the area, and we are praying for the farmers whose livelihoods are devastated. Oh, you were there ~ how awesome! 💚 Oh, yes, I can see how that could give you a fright. Wonderful you will be coming back. We didn't choose Carini; Carini chose us. 🤣 Croce was born and raised in Carini and has family and friends still. You can start with this very short video, if you like: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m4vIk5qibpeSnLs Appreciate it, Susan. Have a good evening. ~ Carol

[@pasqualeventura945]

I have cousins in Caccamo, they own Oleificio Ventura !

[@TheSicilianLife]

@pasqualeventura945, we have good friends from Caccamo who now live in Carini, Sicily. Need to visit there sometime! Thanks for stopping by, Pasquale! 😍 Croce & Carol Amato

[@susanlombardo8444]

@@TheSicilianLife yesterday I went to Motta d’affermo, Santo Stefano de Camastra and Cefalu. Then we went back to Palermo, busy day!! on our way back, we went a little too far, we passed Carini. if it was still light outside, I would’ve definitely gone back up to Carini, maybe another day, I’m here for several months 😀👍

[@TheSicilianLife]

@susanlombardo8444, Susan, oh, it sounds wonderful~! Busy but fun. We can't wait to get back. Have a great time. I'm sure the weather is glorious! Thanks for commenting. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@FrancescoRossi-q4s]

Hi again from Lombardy. Everything you say is more or less true here too except for waste management and driving. Concerning waste management, of the 20 Italian regions, the 3 best regions are Veneto (Venice), SARDINIA (so this has nothing to do with North/South), and Lombardy. Where I live, in Bergamo province, waste is used to generate energy and the quantity of recycled waste is the same or better than Germany. The 3 worst regions are Lazio (Rome, Italy's capital city), Campania (Naples) and SICILY (sorry guys! 😏) Concerning driving, parking, etc., the rules are more strictly enforced in Northern Italy. This is reflected in the cost of insurance. The most expensive province is Naples (1), and the least Aosta, in the far North West (117). The most expensive Sicilian province for car insurance is Messina (17) - Palermo (26) - and the least Enna (91), so Enna is the place to go for a relaxing drive.😏 Concerning the TV license, this was a political decision and it was adopted because under the previous system many people did not pay this tax, so someone thought "if you have electricity, you probably have a TV". The solutions adopted in other European countries are probably also strange for someone from the US, so this is not a specifically Italian thing.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@FrancescoRossi-q4s, Francesco! Oh, my word - you are a gem! Thank you so much for the background on all of these things! You should have been on our video! So good to know the details of why things are the way they are. We really appreciate you sharing your knowledge! You're the BEST! Thank you! 💚 Blessings, ~ Croce & Carol Amato

[@MissRed92837]

Great video. Thanks for sharing! 👍🏼😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@MissRed92837, so happy you think so! We appreciate you watching. Have a great rest of your day. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol

[@tquist61]

Nice video! We just returned from Sicily last week (our 2nd trip), staying in Ortigia and Cefalu. I would concur with all of harsh truths. That said, we had a wonderful time. We did have one bad evening when we decided to drive to Catania for the evening from Origia. The traffic and parking was so bad in Catania, we ended up giving up and driving back. I'm sure there were better ways we could have gone to avoid the issues we experienced... but if I were to make that day trip again, I would take the train.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@tquist61, thank you so much for watching and for commenting. You certainly added value by sharing your experience here. We appreciate it! 😍 Love your attitude for sure! Challenges happen, and you made the best of it and learned from it for the future! 💚 Have a blessed day. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@ptrs559]

In Italy at any supermarket if you want to touch the fruit or vegetables you have to use see thru gloves. If you don’t you will receive a scolding.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@ptrs559 Thank you for that clarification. I appreciate you watching and adding value. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol

[@charliemoffett]

Outside of the trash issue, most of these "harsh realities" are just circumstantial for living in a different environment and are barely inconvenient. I half expected square pizza to be on the list. Anyway, glad to see these videos and buona fortuna a tutti.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@charliemoffett Hi, Charlie! Nice to 'see' you and thanks for watching! Yep, they are pretty benign...but we absolutely don't want to be accused of only providing a shiny, romanticized view of Sicily, that's for sure. So to keep it balanced, we decided to try to come up with a few things that bother us or annoy us. The trash is the most upsetting, but the others, not so much. 😍 Thanks so much. Grazie mille. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol

[@katerose8393]

Sounds like you are near Palermo, which is where I’m staying right now (Porticello area). We’ve been visiting Sicily for years, but always the south east, and loved it. This is my first time in the north and i’m very sad to say, if i could go home early, i would. The driving is SO MUCH worse here, every trip out is stressful with people just driving at us from all directions. Normally we spend hours driving to explore places, but i’m hating it so much I don’t even want to go out. And then as you said, if you do manage to get somewhere it’s really hard to get parked - and this isn’t even high season. Plus the tiger mosquitoes are relentless so I can’t even enjoy the glorious weather, because there isn’t enough repellent in the world so i need to be mostly covered up. Also not a problem we ever had on the south coast! The icing on the cake is the constantly barking neighborhood dogs, and the guys who were letting off actual mortars next to the road to celebrate some festival thing they had last sunday. I’m sure we’ve just been a bit unlucky, but i wont be coming back here 😢

[@TheSicilianLife]

@katerose8393, I can sympathize with you, but I do think it's just 'luck' as you say. The driving could have been worse a particular day of the week as I remember, Sundays were particularly bad in Palermo but not as bad during the week. The mosquitoes can be dealt with - just need a bit of patience finding the right product that works with your chemistry - but I understand that it's frustrating short-term. For us, these annoyances are not enough to keep us away from all of the beautiful and wonderful things about Sicily. We definitely need to explore the southern portion, and we are looking forward to it. Sorry you're having a bad experience this go around. Hope you have safe travels. Take care. ~ Carol

[@katerose8393]

@@TheSicilianLife thankyou, i appreciate the sympathy right now! If you didn’t go to Ortygia yet, you have a treat in store! It’s truly magical, but you must find a place nearby to stay so you can wander the little streets after dark. My first visit i was up until well after midnight just needing to see what was around each new corner 😍

[@TheSicilianLife]

@katerose8393, thank you ~ will definitely do it. 😊

[@TravelHungryForLife]

Wonderful share and channel friends All the best stay safe and healthy Grazie 👌🏻👌🏻👍🏻👍🏻🤗🤗

[@TheSicilianLife]

@TravelHungryForLife, thank you so much for watching and for the kind comment. 😍 We really appreciate it. Blessings, ~ Carol

[@joannedecarolis4613]

We were there in May 2024 and did not see a big trash problem. If you are in Italy you should expect narrow streets. The issues you complain about seem trivial. Enjoy the beautiful Sicilian and Italian culture. I wish I was there instead of here in NJ without the beauty, warmth, food and culture in Italy.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@joannedecarolis4613, hi Joanne, first of all, thanks for watching. We appreciate it. We weren't 'complaining' but delivering what people have asked for many, many times, which is a realistic view, not sugar-coating, romantized view. We were accused of only ever giving the positive side of Sicily, Italy, so we did one video with the challenges. Many people said they want the balanced view because they need to have real expectations when they go. As we said in the video, some places are super clean. Many are not. The only serious issue is the trash from the list we mentioned. It literally breaks my heart. They are making progress, though. We absolutely do enjoy it ~ that's why we're moving back. 😍 Wishing you all the best. ~Croce & Carol Amato

[@michellespezialetti3122]

Thanks for the information ❤

[@TheSicilianLife]

@michellespezialetti3122, you're welcome, Michelle. Glad it's helpful. 💚 Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol

[@ninaanetteassarsson4328]

Its pretty common in Europe w8th payed toilets. Not just for cleaning, also to keep out homeless ppl for sleep there and drug users.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@ninaanetteassarsson4328, yes, we are finding that out. Some folks have even told me in some parts of the U.S. it is common, like major cities. I definitely understand, but it was frustrating when I wasn't prepared. 🤣 Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@ninaanetteassarsson4328]

@@TheSicilianLife I know, been living in Michigan and travel a lot around US. Like in Europe, different laws in different countries/states. Shortages of water is a problem in many places. We just waste too much ! When I was growing up in Sweden it was a lot of talk about save on water and electricity..I live in Spain now.. not much talk about it until the water level go tooooo low !

[@TheSicilianLife]

@ninaanetteassarsson4328, yep, it's an infrastructure problem for sure. We get to enjoy the antiquity and charm of the old world, but need to adapt and accept the challenges that come with it. 😍 Thank you for sharing your experience with us and adding value. Ciao, Carol

[@ninaanetteassarsson4328]

@@TheSicilianLife Its a spending problem lol when your bank account is down to 0...you run without money...the same with the fresh water. Welcome to Europe by the way 🙂 New places new challenges where ever we move 🙂 Even with in Tx its a lot of differences. Its a big state.

[@TheSicilianLife]

Yes, most definitely a several-pronged culprit. We are currently in Texas but Croce retires in a few months' time, and we are getting excited. The size of Texas and Sicily are similar. There are a lot of similarities, but we will be enjoying all of the beautiful differences for sure. Thanks for commenting. 😊 ~ Carol

[@pamelawalton1643]

Very Informative. Thank You. Y'all are So Sweet 😘🙌🤗👍

[@TheSicilianLife]

@pamelawalton1643, Hi, Pam! Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. Thanks for watching. 😍

[@mariademasi1760]

Every region has its problems My relatives live in the south east part. I am going this week! So excited to see the whole island this time

[@TheSicilianLife]

@mariademasi1760 Ciao, Maria. Yes, indeed, so very true. We absolutely love Sicily, and I just had to come to grips with some of the 'culture shocks' I suppose. 😍 Oh, that's wonderful ~ have a great time! I'm sure it will be lovely, and you'll make special memories. Thank you for watching and for commenting. 💚

[@luciagonzalez4899]

I want to hear the good and the bad as I plan to retire in Sicily! My ancestors are from Godrano, Palermo. From what I am researching this is a very small commune.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@luciagonzalez4899 Hi Lucia, that's exactly right. I would want to know both sides as well. We love Sicily and are going back so the pros definitely outweight the cons. Godrano, Palermo is not too far from where we will be. So excited for you! 😍 Thanks for watching.

[@sicilybywalk]

Great video! Cheers

[@TheSicilianLife]

@sicilybywalk, nice to see you! We appreciate it. 😍 Thanks for watching.

[@DoItMyselfPeg]

Just about all of those things would certainly bug me too! Not the television tariff since I will always have a TV! Nice job!!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@DoItMyselfPeg, oh, you and me both! Thanks so much for watching. Since we have computers, we just watch anything we need to on our big screens there. Unless there will be a TV there, we won't buy one. I think there is one there, actually. Now you have me wanting to go through the pictuers again to see if there is. 😍 Thanks for watching!! Appreciate it! Blessings, Carol

[@pasqualeventura945]

I have a friend who owns Stop & Go restaurant in Villa Grazia di Carini . Have You ever eaten there ? I love Carini and have many friends in the USA who are from there . I really like your video’s and I hope to meet you both when I move back to Sicilia ! Pasquale Ventura

[@TheSicilianLife]

@pasqualeventura945, Ciao, Pasquale, so nice of you to comment, and we appreciate you watching! I don't remember the name of the restaurant, but we have eaten at a restaurant in Villagrazia di Carini, and we were speaking English at our table. And a couple next to us started talking to us, and it was the owners. We really enjoyed talking with them. They live there and their sons are back and forth. I don't remember their names as it was quite a while ago now. Will have to ask Croce if he remembers the name of the restaurant or their names. Wonderful to hear you're moving back. Yes, of course, we can meet when you come. We'd love it! Have a great day and thanks again! 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@pasqualeventura945]

Carol and Croce, thank you for your kind reply ! My friends name is Giuseppe and his restaurant is about ten minutes from the Palermo Airport . Joe and his wife lived in Brooklyn NY and they both speak fluent English , the food at their restaurant is very good . They have outside and inside dining . Bye the way, they have two daughters and no sons . If you go there please tell Joe that I think of him often and with a warm heart . I was born in La Vucciria in the city of Palermo and my heart will always be in western Sicilia ! Hopefully, I will be moving back next spring or early fall and when I return I hope to meet you both as well ! Sinceramente, Pasquale Ventura

[@TheSicilianLife]

@pasqualeventura945, oh, good to know! Okay, so it wasn't their place we were at. We will definitely go and relay the message when we get over there. Wonderful, Pasquale, that's something great to look forward to. We will plan on it. 😊 Thank you! Ciao

[@yvanapantino273]

An additional negative is that there is a level of cognitive dissonance about the realities of facing ever increasing drought in Sicily an island which is already 70% desertified. Just been listening to various farmers throughout the island who point out they haven't had rain for between 6 and 14 months. They fear they will have to abandon their farms unless the government and the ppl wake up and take action.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@yvanapantino273, it is a dire situation, and I appreciate you sharing that information. They are certainly in our prayers. Thank you for watching. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol

[@dclv7033]

Great video !! Have been enjoying your series and look forward to each installment. Quick question for Carol….do you have your Italian driver’s license or will you have to take the written/driving test (administered in Italian, naturally) at some point ? Thanks a bunch.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@dclv7033 Thank you so much! 😍 Great question! Even our Italian family in Italy says the test is very difficult. 🤣 I speak the Sicilian dialect fluently, but I do not speak or write Italian very well at all. We go to AAA to get our international driver's license before we head to Sicily, ($30), which will expire in a year. Then, when we're visiting our family in the U.S., I will just renew it. Hope it works because I won't ever pass an Italian Driver's Test. 🤣 Appreciate your kind words. ~Ciao, Carol

[@tonimariehurley]

Sadly, the migration problems is everywhere now. Ive yet to visit Sicily but plan on it. My family is from Palermo and Caccamo.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@tonimariehurley, Hi Toni, yes, that's very true. PM Meloni is trying to work on it, I think. Wonderful family heritage - hopefully, you can visit soon. Thanks for watching. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@CWRTalentPassitOn]

So far the only real issue is trash.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@CWRTalentPassitOn, that's the one that hurts my heart the most for sure. Thanks for watching and for commenting. We appreciate it. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@matthewgrippi9172]

Great info! I can live with those frustrations. Good to have realistic expectations though.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@matthewgrippi9172, We agree completely! Yep, knowledge is power and can help us not be disappointed when things do happen. Thanks for watching. ❤️

[@janetlombardi2314]

Good information, as always. I have seen the situation with the rubbish, and it really does need to be sorted. The government needs to take control and start imposing rules and regulations.There should be a work programme for each town put in place for the youths that don't work. It's a shame for such a beautiful island to have this reputation. I have seen many comments from tourists that have complained about the rubbish. Many of the other issues, I guess you learn to live with, even though it can cause anxiety. I suppose wherever you live in the world, there will always be some kind of issue that is a problem. Thank you, and I look forward to more videos.Take care, and have a great day 😊💕

[@TheSicilianLife]

@janetlombardi2314, Hi Janet. Good to 'see' you. 😍 Yes, it is such a shame because Sicily is so very beautiful. Non-profits like Sicilia Plastica are making a big difference, though, with sending in volunteers to clean up areas that are the worst. You're right, it does affect tourists, and in the end, the bottom line. Absolutely ~ there are issues anyplace you live, and we have chosen Sicily for retirement, so all in all, it's a wonderful place. 💚 Thanks for watching!

[@janetlombardi2314]

@@TheSicilianLife I was there for nearly 3 months last year. It's an amazing place to be. Enjoy every moment 😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@janetlombardi2314, fantastic! You can really soak in the culture and enjoy with that length of stay. Wonderful~! Thank you. 💝

[@ptrs559]

@@janetlombardi2314 some places in Sicily you see no trash like in Taormina. The town is spotless.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@ptrs559, absolutely true! 😊 The problem with trash is hit or miss and depends on the area. Thanks for adding to the conversation, we appreciate it. Thanks for watching, too. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@janetlombardi2314]

Yes, some parts are spotless. 😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@janetlombardi2314, Yes, it amazes me at how clean some areas are in Sicily! Thanks for watching, Janet. Have a great day. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol

[@ruthgirl]

I lived in Napoli for a few years and I can agree with everything you said. I would add the frequent strikes, especially public transit, as a frustrating inconvenience. Also, that you have to pay for water wherever you go and then, as you said, you have to pay to use the toilet. They charge you going in and coming out, LOL.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@ruthgirl, Hi Ruth, Thanks for watching and for adding value with your comment. 💕 We appreciate it. YES! The strikes are something else! We weren't affected personally by them so much, but I know a lot of folks were. Workers do not have the protections in Italy as we are used to in the U.S. so it's a completely different thing that they have to deal with. Postives far outweigh the negatives, though, so we're excited to be going back. 😀 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@ellenpurssord2668]

I’ve spent some time in Calabria which is similar to Sicily in many ways. I don’t like the trash but the thing that distresses me most is seeing the stray animals, mainly cats. I’ve seen so many stray, starving kittens, it just rips your heart out. It’s a beautiful place but I just wish there were more animal welfare centres.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@ellenpurssord2668, oh, yes, that is a very sad situation. We used to see a lot of stray dogs in Carini, Sicily, but that situation has improved a lot. Haven't seen so many cats. We do appreciate you watching. 💕 Thanks for sharing your experience with us all. We have family in Calabria, and we love it there. Yes, they need to allocate more resources for this worthy cause. Thank you. Croce & Carol Amato

[@Lovingtowi]

The trash bothers me too and the drought this year had me worried..hoping for better weather conditions

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Lovingtowi, thank you so much and thanks for watching! 😍 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@supermeredith100]

Great video

[@TheSicilianLife]

@supermeredith100 , Appreciate that very much. 😊 We definitely want to give a balanced view and share negative things just every once in a while to keep it realistic. Thanks for watching. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@maryjanekolesar8325]

I fell in love with Sicily while visiting Palermo during a Covid cruise. Looking forward to returning to visit Messina. However, while you talk about the lack of garbage pick up, I was so disappointed in that people don't poop and scoop after their dogs! We had to constantly watch where we stepped. 🥲☹

[@TheSicilianLife]

@maryjanekolesar8325, I have no doubt that you fell in love with Sicily ~ there is definitely a LOT to love. Yes, it's disappointing that people can be so inconsiderate! Thanks for watching. 😍 We appreciate it. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@mattwright2964]

We've just got back from Sicily. Love the place and the people but let's be really honest re the litter. The litter problem is by far the worst I've seen. I thought the UK was bad. There is so much litter piled along the edge of roads in Sicily that it spills out into the carriageway at times. I've heard all sorts of justifications/explanations for this problem. While some of the explanations like mafia/councils in respect of landfill sites might have some threads of truth, the real hard truth is a lot of this is just excuses. Most of the litter is ordinary recyclable stuff people throw out of their car windows. Yes amongst this are some fly-tipped large items like mattresses, tyres, chairs and ironing boards etc that might arise from issues with access to proper top sites, but to repeat the vast majority is ordinary trash. There is an ingrained automatic culture of throwing rubbish out of car windows. This is the harsh truth. They all blame everyone else but then even nice people just don't seem to know better. It's almost instinctual. You seem so much piled up you can't help wondering at one point they will realise they are going to have to remove all of it. If they don't the roads will start to become impassable at points. It's truly bizzare.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@mattwright2964, thanks you for shedding more light on this very disturbing topic - and sharing recent, first-hand knowledge. It literally hurts my heart - more than any of the other issues. The other things pale in comparison. I'm sorry your trip was negatively affected by this. Some areas are super clean while others seem like a dump. Question: What was your favorite thing about Sicily? Food? Certain location? Thanks for watching and for your thoughtful comment! 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@katerose8393]

Plus you rock up to your airbnb and there’s this great long list of what you have to sort your trash into, and different days to put endless different bins outside. I struggle to see why i should spend time on my holiday sorting and managing trash when apparently half the world is tipping full bin bags down every street!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@katerose8393, Ain't THAT the truth! I understand perfectly what you mean. Very valid point! Thanks for watching. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@eleanoreagly4844]

I recall when I was under age 5 I recall all the toilets in department stores in the midewest were pay to use. I think it was 5 cents that unlocked the stall door. Mom would have me go in and use and then when I was finished she would make certain I did not close the door so she could enter to use the toilet. Sometimes a lady coming out of a stall would hold a stall door open to allow another person to enter and use. At the same time the gasoline stations had free access to toilet.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@eleanoreagly4844, Wow, that is so interesting. Thank you for sharing your memories and bit of nostalgia. We appreciate you watching and taking time to comment. 😍 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@wasitmagic]

I'm here for a year plus, and none of these things perturb me. And, I certainly don't depend upon l'uomo to drive in, "scary," places! The garbage is bad in Marsala area, an area to avoid for many reasons. But, the little towns on the north shore between Palermo and Messina all seem to be super clean and garbage-free. P.S. You will have really arrived after taking and passing the exams for the Italian patente.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Owowgoodcomment0, that's great! To be fair, in the past, I've had anxiety even as a passenger in the U.S. which I think is due to me being hit by a car as a child. It is getting better so I'm glad for that. Yes, some places are super clean and others not so much. Honestly, I don't ever plan on taking the driving test. I wouldn't be able to pass it with only being fluent in Sicilian. 🤣 Thanks for watching. We appreciate it.

[@dolcevitaCC]

Yes, in Italy, Greece, France... pharmacy is the place where you find people who know what they are exactly the drugs they are selling and they also make preparations prescribed by doctors like special creams or personnalised preparations. The pharmacy is not selling pizzas or ice cream...😂

[@TheSicilianLife]

@dolcevitaCC, that's very good. Ah, a sense of humor also? Cool! Thank you. 🤣

[@dolcevitaCC]

​@@TheSicilianLifeI lived almost 20 years in Canada, that's why I know this 😊 Now in Greece, but probably move to Italy soon... I'm French (Nizza), my grand parents were Italian, I've been married with an Abruzzeze guy born in Rome for 15 years, so I feel more Italian than French. I was considering also Sicily, around Trabia, not to far from Palermo😊 but still not sure....

[@TheSicilianLife]

@dolcevitaCC, oh, what a wonderful heritage you have! Nice ~ Trabia is directly on the sea ~ should be so beautiful. Wishing you all the best as you decide your future plans. 💝 ~ Carol

[@dolcevitaCC]

@@TheSicilianLife Thanks a lot and I wish you a lot of happiness and joy in your life in Sicily😉🙂

[@TheSicilianLife]

@dolcevitaCC, I appreciate it. 💙 😘

[@MiaMassi-]

I too hate the trash it’s so sad , thanks for this it is very interesting 😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

We love Sicily, so it is something that hurts my heart. Appreciate you watching, @MiaMassi-. 💚 Have a great day. Blessings, ~ Carol

[@SlimjimMK11]

90% of the things you mentioned in your video, I enjoy here in the Philippines.. From trash to traffic to driving 5 lanes in 3 lanes.. Almost forgot the local corruption.. My perfect retirement..

[@TheSicilianLife]

@SlimjimMK11, wow, that's interesting. Yep, local corruption is real, and they only think about their own pockets. Can't let the negative overshadow everything, though, as we love Sicily and plan to retire there. Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@massimilianolucania9767]

The money that you pay in your electric bill in regards of the tv is what we call “canone Rai” which is basically the license for having a TV set. It is used to part fund the Italian public service broadcaster Rai, which, as a matter of fact, being public is supposed to belong to everyone like any other public service. I know it can be bothering…. 🤷🏻‍♂️But several public broadcaster in Europe ( basically, government run TV broadcasters) work more or less in the same way.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@massimilianolucania9767, Ciao Massimo, thank you for watching! 😍Yes, appreciate the extra clarification and value you bring. Thank you! Well, what about for people who don't have a TV? I've read there are forms they can fill out and be exemt, but I don't know. We appreciate you! Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@Pueblo-p2v]

Wow benvenuti in Sicilia ,you are a very good People from Texas Its true ,sicily Is a big nation ,very nice

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Pueblo-p2v, thank you for the kinds words. We appreciate you watching our video. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@fv1291]

Those are just minor inconveniences. Gotta go with the flow. 😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@fv1291, Absolutely agree! Exactly right, but folks wanted a balance of info so as to help with expectations. We're retiring in Sicily so we love it! Thanks for watching and for your thoughtful comment. 💚

[@fv1291]

​@@TheSicilianLifeA big hello from California. 😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@fv1291 🙋‍♀️ Ah, one of my favorite places to fly into is San Diego. My aunt used to live in Ramona, and another in Escondido. Beautiful place!

[@fv1291]

​@@TheSicilianLifeI'm in Hillcrest near the zoo. 😊

[@TheSicilianLife]

@fv1291, oh, what a cool place! Appreciate you watching. 😊 ~Carol

[@jeanjacques9980]

Deposit scheme as in Germany. Half the money that goes to the island just vanishes, we know where, the bridge is a case in point. Super fast ❤️

[@TheSicilianLife]

@jeanjacques9980, pretty much the case. Yep. They have monies appropriated for the trash problem, but why is there still a trash problem? Yep, you got it. The bridge - it's a bit annoying when it happens, but I like it. 😍 Quaint and sort of fun. Thanks for watching and for your comment. We appreciate it. 💙

[@Pueblo-p2v]

Its possibile to visit Napoli city, using a big boat of Tirrenia or Gnv of Grimaldi Lines,or to Flight from Palermo to Napoli Airport. Visiting Amalfi coast, Napoli city near the Sea of lungomare via Caracciolo. Capri, Ischia ,Procida ,Salerno . Campania regione Is a big turistic site ,very kind. Also Palermo Is a very beautyful city, And people Who live in this city are most loyal friendly with big love for friendship, i likes Palermo,sun and Sea and cannolo siciliano and cassata Siciliana,try It.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Pueblo-p2v , yes, it would be so nice. We need to get around to those different places when we come. 💕 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@GregoryHorton-vz7pq]

Buongiorno! I usually watch your videos on my wife’s KZbin account. I noticed that you are living in Carini. I am retired, living in Oregon, and in the process of applying for dual citizenship. My grandfather, Salvatore Candela was born in Torretta. I am trying to get hold of his birth records. Is there a service in your area that you could recommend to help me get this done? We could be neighbors one day. Grazie!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@GregoryHorton-vz7pq, Hello there! Currently, we are in Texas with family, but Croce is planning to retire, and we are moving to Carini, Sicily in several months. Wonderful family heritage, that's awesome! Croce's brother lives in Torretta. I think the best thing to do for birth records is ask someone at the Municipal building downtown Carini where they suggest you go. They may say one of the oldest churches or perhaps an official place in Palermo, or maybe the cemetary. Sorry - just not sure. Please keep me up to date with your plans. 😊 Wishing you all the best as you prepare. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol

[@GregoryHorton-vz7pq]

@@TheSicilianLife Thank you Carol for the fast response. I will follow up on your hint, the Municipal building in Carini. Best wishes right back at you for your Sicily adventure.

[@TheSicilianLife]

You're very welcome, @GregoryHorton-vz7pq. 😊 Good deal. We appreciate that. 😍 Have a blessed day. ~ Carol

[@juliecunningham4200]

In New Orleans you have to pay for the bathroom in a lot of places

[@TheSicilianLife]

@juliecunningham4200 Wow, didn't know that, Julie. 💚 I appreciate you sharing. Do you think it's because of Mardi Gras? Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol

[@salvatoreemma]

Wow. What a 180 from some of your other videos. 🤔 but I appreciate the whole story of what’s going on there.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@salvatoreemma, Salvatore, yes, we are 100 percent in favor of Sicily, but some people would say we don't give the whole story. That prompted us to give the few negatives we have encountered. As you saw, we adjust, move on, and keep enjoying Sicily. There's good and bad with anyplace we live. 😍 Thank you for watching and for your comment! It is much appreciated.

[@nadiapaladini7922]

The thing with the trash really shocks me. I can't understand it.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@nadiapaladini7922, Nadia, you and me both! It still upsets me SO much. Croce gets annoyed with me because if we pick a spot at a beach, and there's as little as a bottle or a piece of paper on the ground, I will want to clean everything around us so we can enjoy it. Thankfully, there is a non-profit called Sicilia Plastica who has volunteers go around cleaning the environment and picking up trash and plastic bottles. They are wonderful. I understand the causes, but I don't understand why the government doesn't appropriate more funds to it. Well, it's like Croce said, corruption. Sad, really. But there are lots of wonderful things about Sicily that still make us want to call it home.❤️ Thank you for the comment and for watching our video. Much appreciated.

[@martag3046]

Is there somethink you like?

[@TheSicilianLife]

@martag3046, I see you're new, so I understand your comment given that you don't know us very well. 😍 We have chosen Sicily to retire to, so we absolutely LOVE Sicily! The reason we made the video was to not be guilty of putting out video after video of all positive, wonderful things about Sicily, and never, EVER saying a negative word...People want reality, not a dreamworld. It's not vacation every day when you live there. Knowledge is power and helps with expectations when people come. Sure. I mentioned several positive things in the video. I mentioned the quaintness and beauty of the area, and that I wouldn't change that bridge if I could. I mentioned what a positive thing it is to be able to get prescription medication WITHOUT a prescription, etc., etc. Did you stay around for the end? That was very positive. 💚 So this video is to give BALANCE to our constant raving about Sicily. Welcome to the channel. I hope you stick around and check out more videos. Thanks for watching. ~ Carol 😊

[@MichelleKumler]

The traffic sounds like here in Florida 😂

[@TheSicilianLife]

@MichelleKumler, that's funny. You may be right! It may be similar to driving in the cities. Thanks for watching and for the comment. Much appreciated. 😍

[@katewalker5358]

thats wear you get the saying 'spend a penny'!!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@katewalker5358 Hi Kate! That's a good one. Well, it was new to me so it was frustrating to say the least. When you've got to go, you've got to go. 🤣 Thanks for watching.

[@roiloubia4483]

In Sicily thee villages streets were made mostly for donkeys..

[@TheSicilianLife]

@roiloubia4483, yes, most definitely. We enjoy expoloring down the narrow alleyways on foot sometimes. Thanks for watching. 😊 We appreciate it. Blessings, ~ Croce & Carol Amato

[@user-wx5um5eg1x]

Wow ,the traffic looks like philippines.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@user-wx5um5eg1x, yes, sometimes it can get chaotic. The smaller towns are not as bad, of course. Thanks for watching. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@Winterbiker333]

Carol, how is your Italian? Just like to know if you need to speak Italian?

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Winterbiker333 Hey, there. Good questions! I'm fluent in the dialect so I speak Sicilian. I do understand 90 percent of proper Italian, and can speak a little. However, I just use the dialect, and everyone understands me and is very kind. 😍Thanks for watching. We appreciate it.

[@YOCOSMINMAX16]

Reality #6 is also in Romania

[@TheSicilianLife]

@YOCOSMINMAX16, oh, very interesting. We appreciate you sharing that. Thanks for watching. 💙 Blessings, ~ Croce & Carol Amato

[@bonnyvondolores2647]

Did you live there first?

[@TheSicilianLife]

@bonnyvondolores2647, thank you for asking, Bonny. Yes, Croce was born and raised there. I've lived there several times for extended periods. Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@harmlessgrey]

Interesting that he blames the trash problem on government corruption, and then she goes on to point out that it is actually due to personal behavior and habits.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@harmlessgrey Welcome to the channel. It's a multi-faceted reason for the issues as discussed. The money that is given to the region should be appropriated for trash cleanup, but they don't use it for that. That's corruption. So the lack of cleanup is due to corruption. The continued problem of it happening over and over is due to migrants and irresponsible people. Absolutely. Thanks for watching.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@angela64355 Thank you for answering - exactly right! A mix of government, inhabitants, and migrants. They are getting better now with fines in place and trying to catch the people so here's hoping for the best. 😊 Thank you!

[@36flamingo63]

@@TheSicilianLife corruption of LOCAL government. And of the local people who dont care about rubbish on their own territory. Other than "we love our Sicily"; the Sicilians prove it, then! And all the South italy is so.........

[@TheSicilianLife]

@36flamingo63, right. Exactly. There are definitely issues with that. Even with the problems, we love Sicily. 💚 Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@annphetamine1]

I'm really not happy with your comment that the "migrant problem" is contributing to the "trash problem ".

[@User-dt57bs4yy]

I understand that hearing the truth is painful but must be said. It's the same here in NYC the migrants throw garbage everywhere and don't bathe.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@annphetamine1, Ann, first of all, thank you for watching and for sharing your opinion. We greatly appreciate it. Do you live in Sicily? All the locals, and those in authority, say that it is a contributing factor. We lived there and saw that it was not the whole reason, but a part of the whole. Not a happy fact, but true. Thank you for coming by. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol

[@TheSicilianLife]

@User-dt57bs4yy, thanks for your comment. It's a sad situation. The migrants need help but the societies are overrun, and they are falling through the cracks a lot of time. I appreciate you watching. 😊Take care, ~ Carol

[@GH-zy2dh]

that what every liberal would say:)

[@TheSicilianLife]

@@GH-zy2dh Well, I am not sure about their stance, but we each have our own perspective and experiences we draw from. Thanks for watching and for commenting. We appreciate it. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@camus5477]

But it happens that you are not in America and don’t expect that every place is like America!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@camus5477, no, of course not. We do NOT expect Sicily to be America. In fact, we mentioned several positive things in our video. Remember, Croce was born and raised in Sicily, and we love Sicily that's why we're retiring there. Folks requested a balanced view because we never post anything negative. So we delivered. You don't know us yet, but that's okay. Thanks for watching.

[@camus5477]

@@TheSicilianLife Good! Italy is a romantic country, wherever you go it’s beautiful, and charming. I just came back from the south of Italy and omg, its blue Adriatic Sea, the beaches and the small towns are magical; but yes, the traffic a little rough. It was pretty much clean. Here and there some garbage on the side sides of roads specially but not that much. Blessings!

[@TheSicilianLife]

@camus5477, oh, I am sure you made some unforgettable memories! 😍Thanks for watching. We really appreciate that and your comment. 💚 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@BHBULOP]

the tax on television is paid throughout Italy, not just in Sicily. The term TV license fee, improperly called Rai license fee, refers to a tax on the ownership of a television, calculated per household and not per number of televisions in the home. For some years, the annual amount has been charged on the electricity bill divided into 10 installments from January to October. from January 1, 2024 the amount has been reduced. collection through the electricity bill will last for the whole of 2024, then there will be a reform of the laws, at the request of the European Union

[@TheSicilianLife]

@BHBULOP, Thank you for that great information. We appreciate you watching and for adding value. 😊 Good to know.

[@thewebhorse]

I'm afraid of you misunderstood! The former prime minister Renzi (that such clown became famous pretty much in all world to be unable to say not just a word in English) got mandatory the payment of TV tax putting them inside the electric bill. In other words if people doesn't pay the company cut off them electricity.... so whether sicilians as whoever Italian pay it

[@dolcevitaCC]

​@@TheSicilianLifeThe tax for TV on the electric bill is the same in Greece, around 70 euros per year

[@TheSicilianLife]

@thewebhorse, thank you for adding that clarification and information. I appreciate it. Thanks for watching. 😍

[@TheSicilianLife]

@dolcevitaCC, interesting - didn't know that! Thank you for sharing. 💚 Have a great day.

[@scottchace780]

What about the Mafia? Are they visible to you? Any problems or issues with them?

[@TheSicilianLife]

@scottchace780 Hi Scott, we have no issues at all. We can't tell their presence or anything. No problems for us at all. We do appreciate you watching and for taking the time to comment. 😊

[@SmockedBebe]

If you don't like the way they drive in Italy, get off the sidewalk

[@TheSicilianLife]

@user-jd2fe1pu4w, 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 That is hilarious! Best comment yet! Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@Angel-su6re]

Please be proud of your country and do your best to keep it good so no negative feedbacks from visitors. Hope to visit someday as I know someone from Palermo.🙏✝️🙏

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Angel-su6re , yes, indeed- good advice for sure! Thanks for watching. 😍 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@martinkaiser5263]

Well, Sicily is not the US.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@martinkaiser5263, no it certainly isn't, and we appreciate the distinct differences. That's why we're moving back when Croce retires soon. Thanks for watching. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@johnmaggiorino4493]

And the hospitals?

[@TheSicilianLife]

@johnmaggiorino4493 Great question. I've been to doctors and dentists, and I have had a great experience. But I haven't required a hospital stay yet so can't talk from personal experience. Croce's family has had good experiences with the hospitals in Palermo. We do appreciate you watching, and for the comment. Thank you! 😊

[@Animalkisser]

What bothers me the most is all that trash.

[@TheSicilianLife]

@Animalkisser, yes, you and me both. That's the only serious issue, in my opinion. They are making progress, I think. Thanks for watching. 😊

[@Animalkisser]

@@TheSicilianLife Well, I hope they fix the problem before I move there. ;-)

[@TheSicilianLife]

@@Animalkisser Oh, it's great that you're moving. Where are you based now? What part will you move to? How exciting! 😍 ~ Carol

[@Animalkisser]

@@TheSicilianLife Hi, Carol. I live In northen Spain. I was thinking Acireale. I love the architecture in that part of the island. But thanks to your videos I found out about Carini, which looks lovely. I guess I need to rent before buying property there. Planning on moving toward the end of next spring.

[@TheSicilianLife]

Oh, that's wonderful! The western part of the island is not perfect, but you don't have to deal with the vocanic ash, smoke, slippery roads from ash, and all the rest of it. Yes, renting would be best to get a feel for it. That's a great plan. Keep us posted! 😍 ~ Carol

[@BB-sy3ge]

You moved to another country and expect it to be like the US, it's not, you complain a lot and then say it's okay, just accept things as there are, be happy

[@TheSicilianLife]

@BB-sy3ge, this must be the 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 video you watched from our channel because you don't know us very well, that's for sure. 😊 Every video we have done so far has been positive. People were accusing us of 𝗡𝗢𝗧 giving a realistic view of Sicily - so we did this video listing some challenges. Croce was born and raised in Sicily. These are not complaints - but 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 challenges we have experienced. It helps viewers manage their expectations. We know why things are the way they are, and we 𝗛𝗔𝗩𝗘 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝘁. 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝘆 𝘄𝗲'𝗿𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗼𝗼𝗻. We are very happy people. 💕 If you see our videos, you'll see it's true. Thanks. Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@OptimisticSatellite-zn1yn]

Great To Retire In Italy But What Do You Do When Your Elderly For Medical Care

[@TheSicilianLife]

@OptimisticSatellite-zn1yn, thanks for the question and for watching our video. We sure do appreciate it. Croce and I are both Italian citizens, and we have full eligibility to the health care system in Italy. Other than some nominal fees, here and there, it's free. We don't know if we will go back to the U.S. at some point when we are elderly...not sure. Going to take it one step at a time. We love our kids and grandkids, and we love Sicily. One day, month, year at a time. But we will get good medical care. 💚 Thank you! Blessings, ~ Carol Amato

[@altaischurale7324]

Toilets - The largest city in the U.S. - New York , has NO public toilets -I would gladly pay. $ 1 to use one that is clean.......

[@TheSicilianLife]

@altaischurale7324, yes, I would too in that case. Absolutely! Thanks for watching. 😊 ~ Carol

[@OptimisticSatellite-zn1yn]

RICO Racketeering..

[@TheSicilianLife]

Oh, very interesting. I had to look that term up, @OptimisticSatellite-zn1yn. Thanks for watching and for the comment. 😊 Blessings, ~ Carol Amato