Operation Sicily

Just to let you know…

I’ve started using Instagram a lot more to share quick renovation updates, problems, and behind-the-scenes stuff that never fits into the weekly YouTube videos.

It’s much easier to post there in real time, so that’s where most of the “in between” progress now lives.

If you’d like to follow along more closely:
👉 www.instagram.com/operation.sicily/

P.S. If you don’t have Instagram, I feel you. I’m basically a dinosaur when it comes to tech and social media… this is the first social media account I’ve ever had in my life, and only because of Operation Sicily 😄

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 166

Operation Sicily

You Decide: Floor Tiles or Kitchen Colour!
Which should I lock in first for the villa?
I’ve narrowed it down to these final options 👇
What do you think fits best with the Sicilian vibe?

Cast your vote - the most popular choice wins!

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 291

Operation Sicily

2026 Resolutions: Mine & Yours!

Mine: Finish the interiors (floors, kitchen, bathroom), build the 40,000 L rainwater collection tank, open the roof terrace… move in & throw a massive open party (you’re all welcome!)

And maybe… just maybe… start another renovation project 👀

Now it’s your turn 👉 What’s your 2026 goal?
Drop it in one line below 👇 Let’s kick off the year dreaming big - whatever that looks like for you!

1 month ago | [YT] | 883

Operation Sicily

NAME OUR VILLA! (I’ll make a sign)

It’s time to give the villa a real name - something that captures its soul. Think Sicily, olives, citrus, the tower, off-grid living, or the whole Operation Sicily spirit.

💬 Drop your best name ideas below!
I’ll shortlist the top picks, run a final vote, paint the winning name on a sign and give the winner a shout-out in a video!

Here are a few starter ideas to get you thinking 👇

1 month ago | [YT] | 245

Operation Sicily

GRAZIE & MERRY CHRISTMAS

When I started documenting this journey, my goal was simple, to show my two boys what can be achieved with determination. I wanted them to see the struggles, the wins, the repetitive days, the long nights… and how anything is possible with the right mindset.

I’m not a builder, I don’t speak Italian and I don’t have much money, but I am determined to turn this abandoned Sicilian villa into something beautiful, brick by brick, no matter how long it takes or how hard it gets.

At first, I never planned to share any of this publicly. But I thought, maybe someone out there would enjoy following along, or even feel inspired to take a similar leap. I still remember the feeling of that first subscriber, it was surreal.

Now, people from over 87 countries are watching this story unfold. The channel’s been featured in major UK newspapers and I’m even in talks with two TV production companies… honestly, I still can’t believe it sometimes.

99% of the time, I’m here working alone, early mornings, late nights, Sundays when the videos go live, but your comments, advice, encouragement and support make it feel like I’m never really on my own. You’ve become part of this journey with me, part of the Operation Sicily family.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. ❤️
For the coffees, super thanks, the kind words, the motivation and the belief.

Wishing you peace, good food and time with your loved ones.
Buon Natale from Sicily
Jonathan

1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 1,099

Operation Sicily

24-HOUR AMA: Move, Budget, Off-Grid - Ask Away!

It’s time for a focused 24-hour AMA (Ask Me Anything)!

I know I’m not the biggest talker, you don’t hear me chatting much in the videos! Most of the time, I’ve got my headphones in, deep in the zone, working solo here in Sicily. So this is the perfect chance to ask me anything you’ve been wondering, whether it’s something I haven’t covered yet, something you’re unsure of, or you’re just feeling a bit nosy 😄

Drop one question below about:
Moving to Sicily
Budget, costs, or planning
Off-grid systems
Family balance
Or anything else you’ve wondered this year…

I’ll pick the top questions and answer them in a special voiceover update on the channel

Fire away (don’t be shy!) 👇

1 month ago | [YT] | 332

Operation Sicily

GUESS THE COST: Terrace Retaining Wall!
Let’s play a quick challenge 👇

How much do you think it cost (materials only) to build the rear terrace retaining wall?

Drop your best guess in € below!
The closest answer gets a shout-out in Sunday’s video and a pinned comment

Hint: It was a full DIY build, and I bought all the materials locally here in Sicily.
The terrace is roughly 65 sqm and the wall stands four courses high.

The photos aren’t perfect, but they’ll give you the idea 😉
Let’s see who really knows their renovation costs 😄

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1 month ago | [YT] | 208

Operation Sicily

HELP ME NAME MUM CAT!

If you’ve been following the channel for a while, you’ll know I’ve been feeding and caring for this stray mum and her kittens here at the villa

She’s been through a lot, raising her kittens outdoors, surviving the Sicilian heat and slowly learning to trust me. I’ve been feeding her 2-3 times a day and over time she’s become a real friend ❤️

She really does need a proper name though, I’ve just been calling her Mum Cat!

Drop your name ideas below, something that suits her personality, her story or life here in Sicily
I’ll pick my favourite and reveal it in an upcoming video

A small note: Any support through Buy Me a Coffee or channel memberships goes straight back into caring for the local strays. It really does help feeding them 2–3 times a day adds up fast, and your support makes a genuine difference ❤️

Let’s find the perfect name for this little legend 👇

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1 month ago | [YT] | 219