word of advise for those going to Palermo, Sicily

[smores]

my family was on a med cruise last summer--we decided to "do" palermo "on our own" so, we hired a taxi (they will be right at the dock). we went to Taormina (were able to view mt etna and the sea) went shopping and visited the 10,000 seat greek amphitheater built in 3rd century bc--fabulous--but, the taxi drivers can be shifty--if you know what i mean. we agreed on a price for our "tour" when we got back near the boat (yes, he didn't take us back to the place we were picked up) the cost of the tour tripled. the more we argued--the less english he spoke! amazing--we had to hail a police man to settle the dispute--and then walk back to the boat. so, just be savy if you tour on your own!