In addition to the program excursions, MCAS offer extended faculty led trips to the Aeolian Islands and Naples/Pompeii in the semester sessions or, in the summer sessions, to Palermo.

For details of these extended excursions follow the links below:

Aeolian Islands • Naples/Pompeii • Palermo

Aeolian Island optional excursion
Fall/Spring semesters
Fall 2008 Cost: $550
Spring 2009 - Fall 2009 Cost: $700

Named after Aeolus, the Greek God of the wind, and said to have been the site of Odysseus’ encounter with the Cyclops Polyphemus, this stunning cluster of volcanic islands, situated off the north-eastern coast of Sicily, bear traces of human existence and conflict from the Neolithic onwards and served as pirate or corsair strongholds up to the 19th century. The excursion to the Aeolian Islands gives students the opportunity to explore the ancient Greek ruins and museums, volcanic hikes and mud baths, breathtaking views and beach areas not to mention the great local traditional cuisine/arts and crafts.  For the duration of the tour students are based on the Island of Lipari. The cost of this tour includes private bus transportation between Syracuse and Lipari, site tours and charges, hotel accommodation, and MCAS staff on-site.

If you would like to participate in the Aeolian Islands tour, you must sign up in advance. Please print out the registration form and return it with your payment to the SAI California office at least one month prior to the start of the term. Registration is on a first come, first served basis. Please contact the MCAS Admissions Officer with any questions: mail@studyabroadsicily.com

For information on the Aeolian Islands, visit: http://www.initaly.com/regions/sicily/aeolian.htm