Operation Sicily

05/11/2025

BIG NEWS….. Operation Sicily just featured in the Daily Mail!

I’m so proud to share that the Daily Mail has published a full feature about my renovation journey here in Sicily!

It’s surreal to see this story, buying an abandoned villa for €21,500 and slowly transforming it into an off-grid family home, reaching so many people.

What started as a small personal dream has grown into an incredible community of people around the world who share a love for restoration, sustainability, and chasing new beginnings.

Thank you all for your support - every comment, suggestion, and bit of encouragement really does keep me going!

You can read the full article here:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-15260825/Dolce-Vita-man-Manchester-bought-renovated-dream-Italian-home.html

As autumn settles in and the weather becomes more chilly, many of us may be fantasising about sunnier climes overseas. But for Jonathan Smith, of Manchester, this is his reality.

30/08/2025

From the UK to Sicily... and now to the Daily Telegraph Thrilled to see our journey featured in the press-what an exciting milestone to share with you all!
I've linked the full article in my bio.

28/02/2025

Hey everyone,

Sorry I’ve been a bit quiet in here! Things at the villa have been non-stop, and between the renovation, running the YouTube channel, and family life, there just aren’t enough hours in the day. I didn’t want to spam you with rushed, half-baked updates, so I figured it was better to wait until I could give this group the attention it deserves.

That said, I do have big plans for this space! I’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes footage, as well as useful info on the whole process—visas, house hunting, and everything in between. I just need a bit more time to make that happen.

In the meantime, I’m still here, lurking in the background and checking my notifications as much as if can so if you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Thanks for sticking around—I appreciate it!

Jonathan

08/02/2025

Ready to Transform a Sicilian Villa? Join My Expat Renovation Adventure in Italy! 🌞 Welcome to Operation Sicily! Follow my journey of renovating a historic Sicilian villa, embracing expat life, and exploring this beautiful island. Tired of the cold and grey UK, I’ve made the leap to sunny Sicil...

08/02/2025

Week 22 goes live at 9am tomorrow over on my YouTube channel! Link Below

https://buff.ly/3CJ3iEa

Ready to Transform a Sicilian Villa? Join My Expat Renovation Adventure in Italy! 🌞 Welcome to Operation Sicily! Follow my journey of renovating a historic Sicilian villa, embracing expat life, and exploring this beautiful island. Tired of the cold and grey UK, I’ve made the leap to sunny Sicil...

01/02/2025

🏖️Unveiling Sicily’s Secret Treasures 🏖️

Beyond its famous landmarks, Sicily is dotted with lesser-known locales that captivate the curious traveler. Savoca, a picturesque village perched on a hill, gained fame as a filming location for The Godfather. Its charming streets and historic churches offer a serene escape. Meanwhile, Scopello, with its ancient tonnara (tuna fishery) and stunning Faraglioni rock formations, provides a tranquil seaside retreat.
Hidden Highlights: Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its exquisite Baroque architecture, with palaces and churches that narrate tales of a bygone era. The Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago, boast crystal-clear waters, unique geological features, and a rich maritime history, making them a paradise for explorers. Erice, a medieval town perched atop Mount Erice, offers cobblestone streets, ancient castles, and panoramic views of the Sicilian coastline.
Your Travel Style: Do you prefer uncovering hidden gems off the beaten path, or are iconic tourist spots more your style? Share your travel preferences and any secret spots you've discovered! 🌍🗺️

25/01/2025

🎥 This weeks episode will go live at 7am tomorrow over on the youtube channel. If you're a new follower please head over to the channel and if you enjoy the videos please subscribe for weekly updates as I continue on this journey 🙏 🛠️

24/01/2025

Ever wondered why Sicilian builders' merchants are some of the best in the world? See what makes them so unique!

23/01/2025

Week 19! 🏡💪 Stay tuned for weekly updates! 🎥🇮🇹

22/01/2025

🌋The Living Giant of Sicily 🌋

Standing at approximately 3,329 meters (10,922 feet), Mount Etna is Europe's tallest and most active volcano. Its frequent eruptions have been documented for thousands of years, with activity dating back to 1500 BC. Despite its volatility, the fertile volcanic soils on Etna's slopes support thriving vineyards and orchards, making the region agriculturally rich. Fascinating Facts: Mount Etna covers an area of 19,237 hectares, making it one of the world's most massive volcanoes by volume. The volcano's eruptions have shaped Sicily's landscape, creating unique geological formations and fertile lands ideal for agriculture. In 2013, Mount Etna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, acknowledging its geological significance.

Question for You: Would you embark on an adventure to hike Mount Etna and witness its awe-inspiring landscapes up close, or do you prefer admiring such natural wonders from afar? Share your thoughts and any volcanic experiences you've had! 🏞️🔥