Malta & Gozo

At first glance Malta appears to be steeped in the past.  Ancient temples, the oldest free-standing structures in existence, traditions dating back over 2500 years and buses that could have been around when Malta gained independence in 1964.  It all makes you wonder if the country should be declared a living museum.  Though Malta has a rich history it also offers beaches, bars, bustling Mediterranean life, friendly locals, a passion for festas, water sports and excellent opportunities for scuba diving.

 

 

Best time to visit

February to June (before the heat)

 

Experiences

  • Wandering around the magnificent fortified capital of Valetta, built by the Knights of St John
  • Enjoying the view overlooking Malta from the city of Mdina
  • Experiencing a festa, lasting up to five days and including fireworks, the parade of the patron saint, brass bands, food, drink and general celebration
  • Scuba diving at the Azure Window, a giant rock arch in the cliff surrounding the Inland Sea on the island of Gozo.
  • Swimming at the Blue Lagoon, one of the best bathing spots in the Mediterranean

 

Eat

Timpana – oven baked macaroni with egg, meat and tomatoes, mqaret – deep friend pastries stuffed with chopped, spiced dates.

 

Drink

Kinnie – a soft drink flavoured with bitter oranges and aromatic herbs

 

Interesting facts

Churches, ancient buildings; crazy drivers, British tourists; crusading knights, the Maltese Cross; pedestrianised Valetta.