Somewhere in the heart of the Mediterranean sea, southern of Sicily, someone might come across with the Maltese Archipelago. Only three islands on this complex are populated; Malta, Gozo and Camino.
I have been there three times so far, all of them for business related matters, so I did not probably have all the time available to spend for sightseeing but, nonetheless, I had some taste of this scenic tiny country.
Getting to Malta
Surprisingly enough, there are plenty airliners which flew up there. Aviation is a promising sector and the Maltese community really seems to embrace it. By the way, they also hold the annual Malta International Airshow (MIA). There is dense bus connections to everywhere or, simply, move around by taxi (it will be affordable, no worries!).
Where to go & what to see
If you fancy lively nightlife and frenzy partying San Julian is the place for you; not for me though! 😉 Restaurants, bars, etc will be on your front yard.
Mdina, Noble or Silent city,- name it as you like!- is a castle town that will make you delve into timeless. Get inside the walls and stroll around the paved alleys. Watch out for any Lanisters around! Yeah, city was used as GoT settings; so welcome to King’s Landing!
Valletta is picturesque as well but in a different way. Walk on the spacious streets, admire the buildings and take a panorama of the stunning harbour waiting to canon the invading pirates!
Time permitting, you might find a visit to Popeye Village quite interesting. Perhaps not so significant sight but worth to take a look and have some photos. Locals say that they could spent there all day long with their families during summer; no argues about it of course.
I would like to explore Gozo island and to have some dives there but my short stays didn’t give me the opportunity to do so.
Maltese cross meaning
- live in truth
- have faith
- repent one’s sins
- give proof of humility
- love justice
- be merciful
- be sincere and wholehearted
- endure persecution
Life & People
Malta is on the threshold between Europe and Africa. Throughout the 7000 years of history, people of many different cultures populated these islands. Knights of St. John put their mark as well in the recent centuries and somewhat gave their stamp/ identity.
Both the people and the language is a profound result of the island’s rich history. Maltese might look not easily approachable but they are quite the opposite; they are really warm and friendly! Everyone speaks English so there is no communication barrier. Note, also, that they are driving by British convention, on the left side of the road… like maniacs.
All in all
Many might find it a dull escape, but to me Malta is a destination that definately be one of my choices.
