SICILY

You can describe Sicily as a “low risk” destination - there are no rare illnesses requiring vaccines, foodstuffs and tap water in all towns and Sicily's cities is safe. If you are traveling over the high summer months, limit your exposure to the sun, especially during the first few days and over lunchtime between 11am and 4pm when the sun is strongest. Be sure to bring sun lotion, a sun hat and sunglasses. 

In case of emergency, the number for the police is 113, who can also call an ambulance for you. Many doctors in Sicily speak English and hotels and resorts will be able to recommend a doctor if needed. You are eligible for free emergency care under the Italian health care system, but be prepared to pay costs erasing from hospital admittance or medical consultation. The EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) is widely accepted in Sicily to cover for minor and emergency treatments, though private travel insurance is always recommended.

Pharmacies are open during the week, often closing for lunch and then open late until 9 or 10pm. There is a rota for emergency opening hours, so you will always find a pharmacy open over the siesta or after hours. That information is usually displayed at the door or the window.

The mafia is the probably the first thing that comes to many people’s mind when thinking about Sicily, but the mafia does not bother tourists and it’s highly unlikely that you would run into anything connected to the group. Chances are higher that you might encounter pickpockets, thieves and purse-snatchers and caution is always advisable when in more crowded areas.