Inside our itineraries Q&A series: Solo travel in glorious Western Sicily

Take a behind-the-scenes peek into the world of independent travel as we sit down for a chat with our Italian specialist solo tour manager, Alessandro Viscuso.

Finding the right destination for an independent getaway can be a bit of a hurdle – while many might be open to the idea, it can feel like there’s simply too much to consider before committing. If that sounds familiar, or you’re taking your first steps towards solo travel, look no further than the scenic shores of Sicily. With a pleasant climate, marvellous archaeological sites and welcoming towns, this Italian island gem remains a popular choice for all kinds of travellers and lends itself perfectly to a solo escape.

Don’t just take our word for it, though. We’ve recently spoken to our expert Italian tour manager, Alessandro Viscuso, about the perks of travelling independently and why Europe – and his native Sicily, in particular – is an ideal destination to discover in the company of like-minded explorers. With that in mind, here’s what he had to say:

What inspired you to become a tour manager, especially for solo traveller tours?

When I was a child, my dream was to travel and explore the world. At that time, I had no idea how to make it happen or what it would entail, but I made it a reality! I worked on cruise ships for 16 years, always in destination-focused roles. Eventually, I felt it was time to turn the page and dedicate myself to helping people discover Sicily, my birthplace.

That personal journey, turning my childhood dream into a profession, is what inspired me to become a tour manager, particularly for solo travellers, who are also looking for adventure and discovery.

How long have you been leading tours in Sicily?

I have been leading land tours in Sicily for about two years, but I have been escorting tours for much longer. Before becoming a shipboard destination manager, when my time for escorting tours became limited due to administrative responsibilities, I used to lead and translate tours all over the world, including Sicily, of course.

What makes the Snapshot of Western Sicily – Exclusively Solos tour special?

This tour offers a unique combination of guided activities, group moments, and free time, both during visits and at the resort. It’s carefully balanced to allow customers to enjoy time together with me as their guide, while also having the freedom to explore independently if they wish.

One of the best experiences on this tour is our visit to Cantine Pellegrino, where we enjoy a Marsala wine tasting. The group loves this experience, not just because of the delicious, fortified wine, but also because of the rich history behind it. It’s also a fantastic moment to relax, socialise, and enjoy some light-hearted fun.

Beyond that, the tour offers a wonderful balance of history, culture, tradition, and leisure. We visit charming, less-travelled towns like Erice and Trapani, which are incredibly liveable and full of character. The final day is designed for relaxation, which our customers always appreciate after an enriching week of exploration.

What’s your favourite part of guiding solo travellers through Western Sicily?

It’s hard to choose just one! Although I’m originally from the eastern side of the island, and there’s a friendly rivalry between the east and west, particularly between my hometown of Catania and Palermo, I have to say that Western Sicily is full of hidden gems!

One of my favourite moments on the tour is our group meal in Palermo, where we dive into an authentic street food experience. It’s a no-frills, genuine taste of traditional Sicilian cuisine, enjoyed in a vibrant local market. The bustling atmosphere still retains its old-world charm, making it an unforgettable experience for our customers.

Can you share a standout wish-list moment from this tour?

One standout moment is when we enter the medieval village of Erice. Many people may have heard of it, but stepping inside is a completely different experience. The beautifully preserved houses, churches, and public buildings give it a fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Unlike some of Sicily’s more famous destinations that struggle with overtourism, Erice remains a hidden treasure.

I love watching our customers' reactions when we reach the panoramic viewpoint. The sweeping views over the bay leave them astonished, especially when the weather is clear, which is most of the time. That said, even on foggy days, Erice takes on a mysterious, dreamlike quality that makes the experience just as unique.

What local insights or hidden gems can solo travellers look forward to?

The Egadi Islands are a true hidden gem. The optional boat ride to explore two of the three islands is always a highlight. The food on board is fantastic, and the atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed. Everyone who has taken part in this optional excursion has described it as an unforgettable experience.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Erice is another must-see. I’d also include the resort where we stay, it’s not just a hotel, but a piece of Sicilian history. It was originally a tuna fishery, and when I explain its historical and cultural significance to our customers, they gain a much deeper appreciation for the place. Everything on this tour is interconnected: the resort, the island’s history, the salt pans of Marsala, everything tells a story.

A fun cultural insight I love sharing is the way Sicilians from the east and west use different terminologies. There’s a light-hearted rivalry between the two sides of the island, and I enjoy teaching our customers the different ways we "talk." It’s always a fun conversation!

Do you have any tips for making the most of the destinations on this itinerary?

Be prepared to walk! Some of the most incredible sites, like Erice, Segesta, and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, require a fair amount of walking to truly experience them. The tour is well-paced, so everything is spread out over the week, but comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure are a must!

How do you create a welcoming and social atmosphere for solo travellers?

The first step is breaking the ice. I always tell my group, “We are a team.” I try to establish an informal, relaxed atmosphere while still respecting everyone’s personal space. I share anecdotes, encourage conversation, and make an effort to sit with different customers during group meals.

Guiding a solo traveller group may seem easy from the outside, but in reality, it requires a lot of intuition and sensitivity. You’re working with people of different personalities, moods, and travel expectations. My goal is always to create a social, inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable.

How do you balance structured excursions with personal free time on this tour?

It’s all about balance. Whether we’re talking about free time during the daily excursions or time at the hotel, the itinerary is designed to offer flexibility. Coming from a luxury cruise background, I always go the extra mile for my customers, but I also understand the importance of having time to relax and recharge.

If there’s free time during a visit, I let customers explore at their own pace. And when we return to the hotel, I make sure to be available if anyone has questions or wants recommendations, but I also take that time to unwind myself.

What’s one essential item solo travellers should pack to enhance their experience in Sicily?

It may sound simple, but a swimsuit! Sicily is famous for its history and culture, but one of the unique advantages of this tour is that it also allows time to enjoy the beach and the sea. Whether it's for a swim in the resort’s pool or a spontaneous dip in the Mediterranean, having a swimsuit handy is always a good idea.

Of course, there is so much to see in Sicily that the beach might not be the first priority for most visitors. But I appreciate that this tour offers a well-rounded experience, history, culture, cuisine, and a chance to soak in the natural beauty of the island. It’s the perfect way to enjoy everything Sicily has to offer!

Set off on a Sicilian solo escape with Newmarket Holidays

Explore the world the way you want to with one of our Italian adventures, tailor-made for independent travellers. If a solo holiday has piqued your interest, or you simply want to chat through your options, give one of our friendly travel experts a call to get the ball rolling on your next escape. For further information on our entire escorted touring collection, you can also visit our website.