An unforgettable trip especially created for the travelers who dream of Italy

How about Sicily as your next destination?

Here’s a tailor-made trip to suit your needs: book now individual local experiences or an organised tour of the island!

There are three types of travelers when we talk about Sicily:

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Those who have always dreamt of Sicily and already know what they want to see.

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Those who have heard about Sicily’s beauty and, therefore, the urge to book a trip to Italy is very strong.
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Those who haven’t yet picked a destination for their next holiday.
Whatever your circumstances, this is where you will find the answers to why Sicily is the ideal destination for your holiday

Some places simply need to be seen at least once in a lifetime, and Sicily is certainly one of them.

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It is, in fact, an island that – due to its climatic characteristics, the way of life of its inhabitants, and the cuisine that distinguishes it – can offer a unique, unforgettable, and definitely enjoyable experience.

The experience we provide is a full immersion in the authentic Sicilian lifestyle through all of your senses.

You will have the opportunity to discover the the true essence of this island.

You will enjoy the tastes and scents of dishes with irresistible smells and flavors experiencing feelings you will remember forever.

You will be captivated by the enveloping and unmistakable expression of the terroir and the region’s fine grape varieties, perfect to complement unforgettable local delicacies.

The Sicilian sun will provide a show that your eyes will hardly want to miss: the golden reflections of the sea at sunset, the wilderness of a yet untouched land, the charming lanes and old town centers of thousand-year-old cities, and the majestic silhouette of a smoking volcano.
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Unique experiences that will forever be etched in your memory and that you can enjoy without worrying about anything, thanks to the full-experience formula.Not to mention that you will meet the Sicilians, unique people who will welcome you with smiles and open arms, with such warmth you would never expect to find so far from home.

All your senses will be caught up and drawn to new, unique, and special emotions, sensations, and experiences.

And you know what? It will only hit you once you’re back how unbelievable this trip was, and the fun you had.

When you look at the photos of your vacation in Sicily, then you will notice that smile on your face.

Happy to have experienced this land the proper way: carefree, and with your eyes yearning to discover yet another piece of it.

And then, you’ll picture yourself walking again through the picturesque alleys of ancient villages, feeling the warmth of the Mediterranean sun on your skin and tasting the unmistakable flavors of Sicilian cuisine and wines.

Because your experience in Sicily will be totally different from anything else!

Brittany
I am a Certified Sommelier level 2 with the Court of Masters and an Italian Wine Specialist with the North American Sommelier Association.

I am also certified in North and Central Italian wines through Ian d’Agata’s 3iC curriculum.

I’ve had the privilege of learning from renowned mentors like Master Sommelier Peter Neptune and working with iconic winemaker Giorgio Rivetti.

I’ve participated in harvests in Piedmont, Tuscany, and Sicily, and have served as a sommelier at Benanti on Mt. Etna.

With extensive experience in wine production and sales, I now consult and represent selected Italian wine brands in the US market, primarily in California and New York.

The day I discovered this land, I became aware of my mission: to bridge, helping people all over the world to discover the many nuances of this corner of paradise.

What is it that Sicily stirred in me? The memory of my grandparents, Sicilians who moved to America, and the cultural and culinary experiences I shared with them.

Each of these experiences made me appreciate something very important: nothing else compares to such a land!
Brittany

Unlike the conventional travel agencies, I wanted to create a truly unique experience, tailored to your own needs and 100% personalized!

Read more about what they say about me and let me take you by the hand on this adventure!

Brittany Carlisi has been mentioned in Rick Steves Sicily Guide,
Katy Parla Sicily Guide and other local newspapers.
“Sicilian Wine Experiences on Mt. Etna: Brittany Carlisi is a level II sommelier and she and her team have close, personal relationships with the owners of each winery. Just ask us today how we can help set you up with Brittany for a truly unique, personalized Sicilian experience.”

Source: immersiveitaly.com

“To really experience Mount Etna, beyond just getting the view of it from Catania, you should stay in one of its surrounding towns. […] If you want a stellar food- and wine-focused tour on the volcano, contact Brittany Carlisi.”

Source: katieparla.com

Brittany Carlisi, a wine educator based in Catania, arrived with the producer Antonio Benanti and brought bottles from his winery on Mount Etna.”

Source: Food and Wine Magazine

“Contessa Consulting, the brainchild of Brittany Carlisi, unlocks the secrets to a spectacular Sicilian vacation, leveraging a lifetime of experience in the wine and restaurant industry.”

Source: Men’s Journal

“During our visit, Brittany Carlisi recollected the impact of her first harvest experience right there, demonstrating her deep connection to the tradition and craft of winemaking.”

Source: Cheese, wine and bread

So, in a nutshell, here's what is going to take place on your trip to Sicily:

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It all starts with your getting in touch with us. And for that, here is a helpful form that I will link here. You can book your appointment using the calendar that shows the available slots.
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Step2

We will read your message and understand your preferences and expectations.

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Step2

We will get back to you and, during the interview, we will craft your trip to Sicily, tailore-made for you: together we will decide on the stops, visits, and experiences that best suit your tastes, schedule, and budget.

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Upon your arrival in Italy we will provide you with all the assistance you need to enjoy the experiences you have requested and, if you have selected it, we will be at your service from the moment you arrive at the airport, with our fleet of luxury Mercedes vehicles ready and waiting for you.

A truly one-off and fully customized journey ranging from the single experience to the exclusive full-immersion tour!

These are some of the testimonials that those who have already had one of the travel experiences we offer left for us

Those who have already been on one of our holidays know that what we have to offer is priceless and exceeds all expectations without fail… and that is why it is appreciated by all our customers.

Shelley Lindgren

Brittany Carlisi's dynamic tours of Italy are the best way to experience Italian wine, food, and culture in a true hospitality professional fashion. Her years of working in the US with Italian wine plus living while giving personally guided tours in Sicily and Rome for years magically create the perfect journey into the past and present of Italy - you won't want it to end. There's so much to see, taste and experience through all that Brittany puts together. Her tours are the way to visit Italy!

Shelley Lindgren

Restaurateur, Sommelier, Author, and James Beard Award Winner

Katie Parla

If you want a stellar food and wine-focused tour, contact Brittany Carlisi.

Katie Parla

Food & Beverage Author and Culinary guide

Jeff Porter

Having been lucky enough to travel around the world and throughout Italy, I would be hard-pressed to find a more passionate, dynamic, fun & talented person than Brittany Carlisi. Her knowledge and contacts on Mount Etna helped make Sip Trip, my travel documentary, complete. From granita to wine, Brittany KNOWS who to meet and where to eat!

Jeff Porter

Sommelier & Host of Sip Trip

Joe Bastianich

I’ve worked with Brittany Carlisi for over a decade in the Italian wine business, both in events and sales. Brittany is an expert in Italian food, wine, and culture. She is the go-to person for an authentic, immersive experience regarding all things Italy, with an emphasis on Mount Etna. Brittany is a natural and charismatic host that uses her passion for creating a fun and educational environment for her guests.

Joe Bastianich

American restaurateur, winemaker, author, television personality and musician

Romy Hawatt - Owner Riana Yacht

We have engaged the services of Brittany Carlisi on several occasions over the past years to conduct and manage the food, beverage, and entertainment elements for several bespoke Sicily and Stromboli Volcano cruises on Riana Yacht.On each occasion, Brittany curated extraordinary wine, food, and cultural events on board as guests sailed the beautiful Sicilian waters.

Romy Hawatt - Owner Riana Yacht

Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Investor, Aviator, and Commodore - at PMYC

We contacted Contessa Consulting to help organize visits to a few wine producers on Mt Etna. They planned a beautiful day for us visiting two wineries, both of which met the profile of producers we were interested in visiting, including delicious wine tastings and food! Cristian was incredibly communicative and easy to work with to meet our needs. One of our favorite days during our trip to Sicily!

Ben Picillo

Client Testimonial

We contacted Contessa Consulting to help organize visits to a few wine producers on Mt Etna. They planned a beautiful day for us visiting two wineries, both of which met the profile of producers we were interested in visiting, including delicious wine tastings and food! Cristian was incredibly communicative and easy to work with to meet our needs. One of our favorite days during our trip to Sicily!

Taylor Parsons

Client Testimonial - Los Angeles

Brittany planned an incredible day on Etna! She is connected to some of the best purveyors on the island, all of whom treated us like we were old friends. From exploring lava tunnels to eating ourselves silly at a pistachio farm in Bronte to learning how to make granita from a master, the day Brittany planned us on Etna was without a doubt one of the best days of our trip!

Becca Cherry

Client Testimonial - California

Brittany and Cristian put together a wonderful itinerary that felt like it was planned by a best friend, completely tailored to all my interests. We ate well, took in Mt Etna’s beautiful views, and learned so much about local life in Sicily. Unlike other tours that feel impersonal and run according to the convenience of the tour company, my experience with Contessa Consulting was the complete opposite. Their tours are personal and one-of-a-kind, often taking place in people’s kitchens and living rooms. I highly recommend Contessa Consulting for a unique and off-the-beaten-track adventure in Sicily.

Mia

Client Testimonial - California

Many thanks to Brittany and her team. Our family had the most wonderful and memorable experience in Sicily. The communication was perfect and every detail was accounted for. Our 2 days were tailored made for us and took into account our dietary and physical limitations. The experiences were as authentically Sicilian as one could hope for in a 2 day period. Everyone was so open about their life in Sicily which gave another pleasing dimension. If you are thinking of a holiday to Sicily, I highly recommend you get in touch with Brittany.

Antonio Alvaro

Client Testimonial - Australia

The last two days have been incredible, definitely every day has been better than any other day in my life. But each day had a certain connection with each other. Yesterday was the best, as well as today. Both were like a symphonic work, where you programmed the wine to harmonize with every element: the people, the environment, the wine itself, everything. Also, today's excursion was mind blowing and helped make everything even more special.

Jordan

Client Testimonial - Los Angeles

Brittany created such a beautiful day for us that gave us more connection with Sicily and what is produced/grown and made there than any other day of our trip. She was super communicative and booked us with so many great experiences even though we had only given her a few days' notice! I’d highly recommend her services whether you want to plan a whole trip with activities spread throughout or you’d like a window into the very authentic Sicily for a day or two. I loved that the activities we ended up doing didn’t feel touristy at all and felt incredibly genuine and special.

Molly Reader

Client Testimonial – Maryland

Brittany has the knowledge and network of contacts to make your trip great. But what made her special for us was her ability – and willingness – to work with us tirelessly to be sure that we got exactly the trip we wanted and for a very fair price. Look no further!

Alex Keeney

Client Testimonial – Oregon

If you’re looking for the best guide to everything vinicultural, oenological, and gastronomical in the environs of Mount Etna, then you must look up the fabulous Ms. Brittany Carlisi. Steeped in the wine business in both Italy and the US for many years, Brittany finally decided to settle back in Sicily, the land of her family heritage. Through the personal relationships she has developed with all the key players in Mount Etna’s resurgent wine industry, she can get her clients in the door to many properties and fantastic small producers that would otherwise not be accessible to the casual visitor.

Ben Bowen

Client Testimonial - San Francisco

A journey through the flavors and fragrances of a thousand-year-old land

    Experience

    Wine Dinner at Cave Ox

      Experience

      Bronte Pisstacchio DOP Farm

        Experience

        Salumeria Visit

          Experience

          Wine dinner in Randazzo

          Among the many full experience programs we can suggest to put together your dream holiday, there are also exclusive and unforgettable food and wine experiences such as:

          Such little treasures are to be enjoyed and savored and will leave great memories and delightful sensations on the palate and in the heart.

          Taste fine wines from local wineries, attend exclusive cookery classes to learn the secrets of this land’s traditional recipes, and be overwhelmed by the authentic flavors of arancini, pasta alla Norma, Sicilian cannoli, and the tastiest granita you’ve ever had.

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          Some of the Cooking Lessons you can take with us include:

          Let your palate enjoy every nuance of flavor that Sicily’s many varied vineyards offer. 

          Fill your goblet with red wonder, white awe, and sparkling cheer.

          Every sip, as well as every bite, will be a journey into the heart and soul of Sicily’s age-old culture.

          When the tasting is over... put your glass down and follow me! You will not regret it

          There is more to Sicily than prestigious vineyards and great food.

          Your wish is our command: just ask, and we will take you on an exploration of the natural, historical, and architectural wonders of this land: you will get to discover the captivating Baroque cities of Noto and Modica, and contemplate majestic Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe…

          But fear not: Etna is considered a safe volcano, as its characteristic is that it has a very slow and therefore easily controllable eruption that rarely reaches great distances from the volcano’s crater. Therefore, if you dream of visiting an active volcano, you can do so here in total safety!

          Some of the activities we offer related to the volcano also include:

            Experience

            Winery Visit on Mount Etna

              Experience

              Etna Crater Tour with volcanologist

                Experience

                E-bike Tour on Mount Etna

                  Experience

                  ATV's Excursion: thrills & views

                  Every corner of the island tells a story that is just waiting to be discovered, admired, and experienced.

                  Sicily is an incredible land, an unbelievable island, surrounded by three seas that present unique landscapes and breathtaking views. And not simply because the sight of the sea from land is magnificent, but also because land seen from the sea is sublime.

                  Precisely for this reason, if you want to experience them to the full, all you have to do is board our catamaran or luxury yacht and skirt the enchanting Sicilian shores.

                  Here is just a taste of the wonders that are awaiting you in Sicily:

                    Experience

                    Palermo

                      Experience

                      Trapani

                        Experience

                        Etna

                          Experience

                          Lipari

                            Experience

                            Salina Cruise

                              Experience

                              Olive Oil Tasting

                                Experience

                                Wine Tasting

                                You will thus realize that there isn’t just one way to visit and discover Sicily and its most famous locations: Palermo, Trapani, Modica, Noto, Lipari and the Aeolian Islands, Marzamemi, Salina, and many other characteristic places you’ve probably never even heard of.

                                You can cruise on crystal-clear waters, discover hidden caves, or enjoy a refreshing dip in secluded and picturesque coves, while surrounded by nature that is often still untouched

                                Or you can stay on board sipping good wine, and enjoying some delicious treats while being charmed by the slow rocking of the waters and a unique view of Sicily: the island seen through the eyes of its sea.

                                We'll make sure you fall in love with Sicily

                                Our mission is to offer you a unique, authentic, and customized experience.

                                We strongly believe that every trip should be an enriching experience, that leaves a deep mark and enables the traveler to change for ever and for the better.

                                To this purpose, we have designed some tours that can make people enjoy, even in a limited time, the main experiences, sensations, and emotions felt by those who live the Sicilian lifestyle everyday.

                                We deeply know this wonderful island in every one of its facets and wish to convey to you, too, our endless love for this land and its people, its many varieties of wine, and its unmistakable aromas and flavors.

                                We want to share its most fascinating and best-kept secrets, with full-experience tours, where you will not have to think about anything except enjoying this magical island, or individual experiences that will always live in your heart.
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                                Just let the slow pace of the island envelop you and regenerate you. We'll take care of the rest!

                                Your trip to Sicily starts here

                                Don’t miss the unique opportunity to live this authentic and unforgettable experience. 

                                Answer the questions in our quiz by telling us a little more about yourself and describing the type of trip you would like to make.

                                The information you provide us with will be used to provide you with a personalized package tailored to your requests.

                                I look forward to meeting you face-to-face,

                                Brittany Carlisi

                                Your trip to Sicily starts here

                                Don’t miss the unique opportunity to live this authentic and unforgettable experience. 

                                Answer the questions in our quiz by telling us a little more about yourself and describing the type of trip you would like to make.

                                The information you provide us with will be used to provide you with a personalized package tailored to your requests.

                                I look forward to meeting you face-to-face,

                                Brittany Carlisi

                                FAQ: frequently asked questions

                                Thank you so much for organizing such a wonderful experience for us on Friday.The tours will forever be a cherished memory for me and my family.Everything has been beautiful on this island but the day we spent around Etna was truly something special.

                                Jennifer Larson

                                Client Testimonial - New York

                                Thank you for the amazing experience we had the best time, everything we had wished for and tried so many great wines.Cave ox was amazing too, we rolled out of the restaurant. No Fennell haha!Stay in touch and will make sure to reco you to others coming to Sicily 🍷

                                Annabelle Allchin

                                Client Testimonial - Australia

                                Thanks for the great Etna tours; Wineries were both very welcoming and had good pours to taste, Mt. Etna tour was also very good.A very nice day spent! Thanks for putting together such a great itinerary.

                                Stephen Castro

                                Client Testimonial - California

                                I wanted to say how fantastic yesterday was. All parts of the experience were unique. Luca was an excellent guide on Etna. Emmanuele and his staff took great care of us with amazing food and wine. And lastly, our time with Alice was unique; we spent several hours just chatting about wine and tasting. Not to mention Patrick was a pleasure to ride with and gave us a native’s perspective on various topics about the island. Thank you for setting this all up on short notice!

                                Adit

                                Client Testimonial - Los Angeles

                                Brittany planned an absolutely magical trip for me around Mt. Etna! I wasn’t super familiar with the area but had a general idea of the kinds of things I wanted to do and see. After a quick conversation about my interests, she suggested several activities that were a perfect fit and planned a few days in this special place that I’ll never forget! Brittany is connected with seemingly everyone around Etna, and we were welcomed warmly and treated like family everywhere we went.

                                Emily Henson

                                Client Testimonial - Boston

                                One plus with Brittany Carlisi is that she customizes the tour for you and works within your budget. She made herself available while I was in Sicily, which is a huge plus, and she contacted me during my trip to make sure that I was enjoying myself and that everything was going well. I highly recommend working with Brittany if you’d like an unforgettable time in Sicily.

                                Julie Martini

                                Client Testimonial - Los Angeles

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