Attitudes towards homosexuality in Sicily are generally less tolerant than in the north of Italy. This is certainly in keeping with the more traditional outlook of Sicilian society and the role of women and men in the home.

While there is no legislation discriminating against the lifestyle but same-sex couples are often frowned upon. This doesn't mean you can't go to Sicily and indeed you will find gay friendly businesses, but it may still be hard to get a matrimoniale or double bed.

The first openly gay pride parades were only held in 2010 in both Palermo and Catania, so change is happening, but perhaps slower than other centres. Although 10,000 people reportedly marched in Palermo for gay rights so there is a sizeable community.

Generally in large cities like Catania, Taormina and Palermo you will find a wider variety and spectrum of gay bars and accommodating hotels. Here people are generally more tolerant of same sex couples and you will find places for cruising, clubs and saunas and far less discrimination.

Taormina is generally considered the top gay and lesbian travel destination in Sicily.

The wonderful resort town is centrally located so you could easily use it as a base for travel in the region - a train line and good bus services link it to Siracusa and Catania for easy day trips or up to Mt Etna or small towns in the area. This would save you having to worry about finding suitable accommodation in too many places. For those content to just explore the town itself it's definitely a romantic spot for couples with modern boutiques and galleries to browse, fine views to enjoy of the coastline and the volcano, and plenty of good restaurants to choose from.

There are Greek and Roman remains to explore, a wonderful season of summer plays and concerts, and plenty of hotels to choose from that give same sex couples a few options. Another option is to simply rent a villa. For those that like to be more active Taormina is also the perfect place to base. Here you can ski on Mt Etna in winter, swim or sun bathe by the coast in summer or take a wine tour through the local countryside.

If you are looking for gay friendly beach then Oasi di Vendicari (natural park) is the right one located around 5 km before you the baroque town of Noto in the direction of Noto Pachino. It is a very nice gay friendly nudist beach with laid back atmosphere.

You may find a number of resources quite useful in planning your trip to Sicily. Some worth checking out include:

Guida Gay - Business listings of gay friendly places including Catania and Palermo

Orsi Siculi - Local homosexual community in Sicily

Gay Sicilian - Lists cruising spots in Palermo and beaches

Gay Associations:

Open Mind

Arcigay - The national gay and lesbian association of Italy

Useful websites:

Gay guide to Sicily

Tour groups:

www.outandabouttravel.com

www.tototours.com