As 27 January is marked in the US as a day dedicated to planning your next vacation, we’re using the moment as inspiration to spotlight a Sicily pairing that captures the island’s range beautifully: Brucoli and Catania. Together, they offer the best of both worlds: quiet seaside recovery and vibrant city discovery, a balance that can be especially valuable when travelling with dialysis and wanting a trip to feel safe, smooth, and genuinely enjoyable.
Brucoli: a calm coastal reset
Brucoli is a small seaside village with a harbour atmosphere and an unhurried feel. It’s the kind of place where mornings start slowly, where the sea breeze does the talking, and where your plan for the day can be beautifully simple.
What makes Brucoli special isn’t a long checklist of “must-see” attractions. It’s the experience of quiet coastal life: gentle walks by the water, the comfort of a slower schedule, and a setting that naturally supports well-being. If you’re looking for a base where you can keep things easy, especially on treatment days, Brucoli offers a calm backdrop that makes a holiday feel effortless.

Catania: Sicily’s vibrant heart
Then comes Catania, a city with energy, flavour and a strong sense of place. Sitting in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania is known for its bold character: Baroque architecture, lively streets, and a food culture that invites you to stop and taste. In winter, it’s ideal for exploring without feeling rushed by heat or peak-season crowds. You can take your time, move at a comfortable pace, and build your day around short, rewarding experiences.

Catania is also perfect for patients who love local life. Markets, cafés, neighbourhood streets and small cultural stops can become the highlights without needing long day tours. For many people, that’s the sweet spot of a great holiday: you don’t have to do “a lot” to feel like you’ve truly experienced the destination.
Why this pairing works so well
When you combine Brucoli and Catania, you create a travel rhythm that feels balanced. Brucoli gives you space for quiet and recovery; Catania gives you culture and energy. This “two-mood” approach also supports a planning style that many patients find helpful: one calm base plus one vibrant base, rather than moving constantly from place to place.
Whether you picture yourself in Brucoli’s quiet seaside calm, Catania’s vibrant street life, or a little of both, Sicily offers an escape that is warm in spirit, rich in culture, and perfect for patients who want their holiday to feel truly restorative.