Imagine a place surrounded by clear translucent waters, no cars, silence and barely 50 residents. As Italy grapples with a localised lockdown to counter the second COVID wave, some people are just luckier than others to live in awesome spots. Who wouldn’t like to be trapped on an idyllic isle where it’s warm throughout the year?
The island of Alicudi, part of Sicily’s stunning Aeolian archipelago, has succeeded in remaining COVID-free.
Let’s face it: if one has to deal with any sort of lockdown being stuck on a picturesque, peaceful island may turn into the ultimate escape and a safe haven. Bars and restaurants are shut anyway during winter, just two stores are open. Isolation here can be a bliss.
Locals lead a simple life. They don’t seek the social buzz and enjoy home-cooked dinners savoured on panoramic terraces under starry skies. The few social gatherings are at the tiny harbour where people wait for the ferry. Residents say that they feel lucky and safe, far from the scary contagion threat. It’s like living in another world, a paradise on earth.
So how did this untouched corner of Sicily succeed in staying ‘virus-free’ throughout the hot crowded summer?
Alicudi is an off-beat destination. The farthest out into the open sea among the seven Aeolian islands, it can only be reached by hours-long boat trips. It’s the least visited by tourists who tend to prefer its more popular, mundane sister-isles for long stays.
There’s just one short narrow street. No smog. Old mule trails and trekking routes unwind through the lush wilderness. The brightly coloured fishermen dwellings are connected by layers of hundreds of steps that make you flex muscles and forcibly exercise. Donkeys, the sole means of transport, only carry luggage and heavy stuff. The pebble beach is dotted with weird mushroom-shaped rocks and abandoned boats.
Alicudi is not an easy place to live in for people addicted to modern comforts, which is another plus point in COVID times. But it’s ideal for nature lovers seeking a detox, soul-searching experience.
Forget crowded piazzas. Fishermen hang out in front of their houses and kill time admiring the blue sea or spinning tales of flying witches and donkeys.
Time stands still. COVID here is a faraway nightmare.
Source: forbesmagazine