Since writing my web travelogue on Peru for BootsnAll in 1999, I have had the opportunity to travel with my wife Stephanie for extended periods of time (at least two weeks each) to the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula, Russia, Scandinavia, Estonia, Paris, New Orleans, Tuscany and the Dominican Republic. I don't know why but I haven't felt the desire to write about these travel experiences. Maybe my desire to write about travel has passed.

But something changed when I went to Sicily with Stephanie and Emily, my 2-year old daughter in May, 2004.

I believe the reason why I am writing again is that Emily has forced a change in this 30-something, wanderlusting ex-backpacker. She has opened up a new world for me. Because I now see half of the trip through her eyes. And she not only has changed how I witness what I see but my entire method of travelling. She has shaped me into a responsible parent who needs to ensure that travel is done safely and with an eye to her well-being and enjoyment. Most importantly. she has helped remind me of my travel mantra: to be open and spontaneous, to always enjoy the moment, and to strive to travel off the well-worn (paved) road.

OK, OK... Stephanie and I did visit the ceramic shops in Taormina and Cefalu. But we also showed my daughter isolated olive groves reached via wildflower-framed dirt roads. And dingy but colorful character-laden fish markets. And sugary perfume-laced chocolate factories.

I'd be privileged to help spread a little information to anyone considering spending time on this remarkable island – with or without children.