A Slow Life in Sicily
A Guide to Finding Meaning, Connection, and a True Sense of Place in Sicily.
The one constant in life is change, something that I have always embraced. I’ve backpacked around the world, lived in different countries, and leaned into the unknown more times than I can count, always excited by the prospect of expecting the unexpected. But in 2019, when I decided to leave London, it was one of the hardest choices I’ve ever made. At the time, I was working as Culture Manager for Jamie Oliver, a role that I cherished. It brought together everything I loved, people, purpose, and the chance to help shape a culture where others could thrive. I had spent 22 incredible years in London and yet here I was ready to walk away from it all. Truth is, I was deeply unwell and I knew that I had to make some significant changes to my life.
In 2020 I packed up my life in London, took a leap of faith and moved to a remote town in the heart of Sicily called Mussomeli to launch a community kitchen called The Good Kitchen. My journey has been profound in many ways. It is one of slowing down, healing and fully embracing the simple joys of life here in Sicily. When I am not cooking in The Good Kitchen I am learning how to harvest my olives on my farm that is located in one of the most beautiful areas of Sicily called Torre Salsa.
Recently, Sicily has been in the spotlight, yet it saddens me to encounter travellers who leave feeling worn out and missing out on the island’s true magic. Rushing from one tourist spot to the next, they sometimes miss the real heart of this place. Sicily has so much more to offer if you take the time to slow down. This Substack is an insider’s guide to the places you don’t usually hear about, the people who make them special, and how to travel in a way that supports small, local, and sustainable businesses. It will also give you valuable information and guidance, if like me you fall in love with the island and want to call it home. A Slow Life in Sicily is about more than just visiting. It’s about truly connecting.
Thank you for your support and for joining me on this adventure.
Hi Danny! Welcome on Substack 🥳🥳
U know when the first time I understood u was moving in Italy to create a community kitchen, the first thing I said to Davide was: “Danny is crazy! In Sicily??How he could handle the bureaucracy here? It will be so hard, I don’t want he have bad times”, practically I looked like the classic over protective Italian mum.
I’m so happy to say I was completely wrong, what u created it’s pure magic.
I know u think u didn't do anything special but trust me YOU DID and it is SPECIAL.
U are right about tourists they run everywhere without enjoying the country and following the last place on Tik Tok.
If u want u can check my page, no pressure about it, I have to re-edit some post like the one on Florence was one of my first and it could be e better.
Have a wonderful day my friend! ❤️❤️❤️❤️