What do the first two seasons of the thriller series have in common? White lotus ? Give the leading role to the luxury hotels where the plot takes place. The San Domenico Palace in Sicily has captivated viewers with its enchanting setting, its luxurious suites and its Italian charm.
White lotus The phenomenal series airing on OCS, directed by Mike White, features a couple of vacationers as “odious” as “odious” in dreamlike settings (Hawaii for the first season, Sicily for the second season, and Thailand for the third). appeals as much to its remarkable casting as to its plot, the suspense of a modern version of Agatha Christie, the formula so effective It wouldn’t be without the right setting, luxury and comfortable atmosphere. For the three seasons, hotels from the Four Seasons chain were chosen. After the exoticism of the Four Seasons Resort Maui in Hawaii, it is easy to understand the immediate heart of the production team, in search of Italian charm in its 2nd. for the season for the Palazzo San Domenico.
A vibrant place full of history
Overlooking the Ionian Sea, history shines through every corner of the hotel, where remnants of the past have been religiously preserved sent their second son to the convent of San Domenico; Every one of these young men who passed through its walls had a picture of him that forever marked the place. A sculpture here, a font there, you must keep your eyes open, for there are often antiques hidden in the corner of the corridor. In all, 300 works is gathered in this palace, where the old is in brilliant contact with modernity. And this is perhaps the side that shows the least of the series. What it reveals, on the other hand, White lotusit is the majesty of the place and the luxurious comfort of the legendary hotel, which in its time lured royal families, politicians, but also artists such as Oscar Wilde, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and even D. H. Lawrence.
The monastery, which became a grand hotel in the 19th century, was taken over by the Four Seasons and reopened in the summer of 2021. As always, the Canadian hotel group did not spare the surrounding resources . The Palazzo San Domenico has 111 rooms, divided into the old part (the cells of the monks, which have become comfortable, to say the least) and the most modern part, which contains extraordinary suites, some of which have their own large balcony. a view of the blue Ionian sea, even their private pool.
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Total relaxation in the heart of fiery Taormina
We could talk about the luxurious comfort of the hotel, but in the end what stands out the most are the pervasive aromas of citrus fruits and flowers, the song of cicadas that mark the days and of course the majesty of the landscape. The view of Etna to the west, the sparkling blue of the water the eye can see, and the ancient theater perched to the east… After the photos are taken, the iPhone without hesitation is set aside to make room. for reflection.
The beating heart of the hotel is at the edge of the infinity pool, which can be found after a pleasant stroll through the citrus grove. Do not look for the beach at San Domenico Palace, the footage was added by the production. The city of Taormina is located on the heights, so you will have to focus on the pool. Dolce & Gabbana beach towels, paired with outdoor sun loungers and four-poster beds, herald an experience combining the sophistication and sweetness of Italian living.
Four Seasons / Press photo
We may be tempted to never leave the place, although the ancient city of Taormina has a lot to offer. Its narrow streets, squares and alleys attract visitors who enjoy strolling and discovering the spectacular scenery, an improvised detour from many tourist spots are (Taormina is one of the most visited places in Sicily, and this is strongly felt in summer), ancient the theater above the gulf of Naxos, the foyer of the 9 April Square or even the Duomo. . But it’s time to return to the tranquility of the most beautiful hotel in town.
Decent service
The San Domenico Palace offers a five-star experience with a little extra Sicilian soul.From breakfast to the last drink at the bar, accompanied by enthusiastic piano notes (this is not the only line), the traveler allows himself to be transported from one place to another, completely taken care of by the attentive team. A strong Italian accent. The customers, mostly Americans, are not mistaken. From the attention to detail on the bed, the fresh fruit offered on hot summer days, the hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen available by the pool, you’re satisfied at every stage of the day.
Four Seasons / Press photo
When it comes to dining, guests may be tempted by the poolside Anciovi Seafoods, which offers a fresh and varied menu, or Principe Cerami, the palace’s star restaurant, where service is at its peak. Definitely book a table on the panoramic terrace overlooking the Gulf of Taormina and the mysterious Etna, which will probably add the splendor of the evening, and allow yourself to be carried away by the recommendations of the staff, as warm as they are professional. Inexplicable is the Luca Crimi Mount Etna spaghetti, a special dish of Chef Massimo Mantarro, a son of the region, for which he drew on his childhood memories and which, despite its apparent simplicity , evokes a rare sensation.A match with one of the Sicilian nectars that has been prioritized by a passionate chef by a sommelier who will take the most chauvinistic of French wine lovers with him.
Between the charming decor, the place steeped in history, the attentive service and the absolute comfort, San Domenico is worth a once-in-a-lifetime experience to experience the Sicilian soul at its best.
San Domenico Palace, Piazza San Domenico, 5, 98039, Taormina, Italy. Phone: +39.09.42.61.31.11. Open March through October More information at Fourseason.com.
Source: Le Figaro
