Agrigento-based travel and tourism company Essence of Sicily has been named a finalist for Virtuoso’s prestigious ‘Highest Annual Growth: On-Site Partner Award’. This award, coveted in the global luxury travel industry, celebrates the company’s exceptional growth and its ability to offer unique and personalised travel experiences in Sicily. The nomination is not only a success for Essence of Sicily, but also an important showcase for the entire island, which is confirmed as an emerging destination in the high-end tourism scene. Being a finalist for an award from Virtuoso, a network that brings together the best travel agencies and luxury tourism service providers around the world, means being recognised as an excellence in the sector, a reference point for the most demanding travellers.
Essence of Sicily: Tailor-made Itineraries to Discover the Soul of the Island
Founded with the aim of offering tailor-made itineraries that enhance Sicilian history, culture and gastronomy, Essence of Sicily specialises in exclusive and personalised travel experiences. The company is Virtuoso’s only preferred partner in Sicily, a status that guarantees travellers the highest quality services and access to unique experiences with attention to detail. From the choice of accommodation, often historic residences or charming hotels, to the culinary experiences, with tastings of typical products and cooking lessons, from guided visits to archaeological sites and the most characteristic villages, to boat tours along the coasts, every aspect of the trip is designed to offer a deep immersion in Sicilian culture and traditions. Customisation is the key to Essence of Sicily’s success.
Sicily and Luxury Tourism: a Growing Trend
Essence of Sicily’s nomination for the Virtuoso award reflects a broader trend: the growing popularity of Sicily as a luxury destination. The island, with its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, culinary traditions and hospitality, is increasingly attracting high-end international travellers looking for authentic and personalised experiences. According to recent figures, luxury tourists spend around €25 billion in Italy, and a significant portion of this spending is on visits, tours and shopping in Sicily. This positive trend demonstrates the growth potential of the luxury tourism sector in Sicily and the importance of investing in high-quality services capable of meeting the needs of an increasingly demanding international clientele. Sicily is no longer just a destination for mass tourism.
Authenticity and Local Collaboration: the Philosophy of Essence of Sicily
Essence of Sicily’s success is based on a clear philosophy: to offer authentic and personalised experiences that allow travellers to discover the true essence of Sicily. The company actively collaborates with local partners, such as farmers, artisans, tour guides and chefs, to create itineraries that enhance the island’s cultural, food and wine and landscape heritage. This focus on authenticity and collaboration with local realities is a distinctive feature of Essence of Sicily, resulting in a richer and more meaningful travel experience for visitors. It is not just about seeing the most famous sights, but getting in touch with the culture, traditions and people that make Sicily a unique place in the world. The partnership with Virtuoso reinforces this philosophy.
Future Perspectives: Sicily as a World Class Luxury Destination
The partnership with Virtuoso, a global network of luxury travel agencies, further strengthens Essence of Sicily’s position in the international market, opening up new opportunities for growth and development. Virtuoso’s award nomination is an important recognition that not only celebrates the company’s achievements, but also highlights Sicily’s potential as a world-class luxury destination. The island has all the right cards to compete with the most sought-after destinations of international tourism, thanks to its millenary history, its unspoilt nature, its excellent food and wine and the hospitality of its inhabitants. It is essential, however, that all the actors involved – operators in the sector, institutions and local communities – work together to create an integrated, sustainable and high quality tourist offer, capable of attracting a demanding clientele and of enhancing the territory’s resources in a responsible manner.