Malta is comprised of three islands- Malta, Gozo, and Comino. This island nation has been inhabited for over 4,000 years as evidenced by stone age pottery. I have thought about visiting this small, but diverse country for a while now. Malta is an E.U. nation and is located halfway between Sicily and Tunisia in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. The Maltese Tourism Board has graciously agreed to host me for 7 nights and I’ll be departing early tomorrow April 5th, 2012. After traveling 18 days through Spain, I am eager to welcome a change of scenery and the chance to experience some of Malta’s multi-faceted culture (Italian and Arabic.) I have the rare opportunity to spend Catholic Easter in Malta and I am expecting religious processions in addition to mind-blowingly delicious food. I have heard this place is utterly amazing and unforgettable, but don’t take it from me. Here’s a list of why it’s so awesome:
1. It is the 10th smallest nation on Earth and the 5th smallest nation in Europe.
2. The Maltese Language- Arabic mixed with Sicilian Italian is truly one of a kind.
3. Like in Venice, glass blowing is somewhat of a big thing in Malta. I will get the chance to see some glass masters at work at Malta Glass Blowing in the town of Ta Qali.
4. Wine! The Romans began the wine-making traditions on the islands over 2,000 years ago. Now there are few, but popular varieties available. I will be wine tasting at the Meridiana Winery.
5. The Blue Grotto, is a natural wonder. The underwater caverns can be accessed by boat and are a popular activity for tourists.
6. Because of the country’s long history, there are several Megalithic structures and Roman ruins to visit.
7. Maltese cuisine is unlike any other in the world, incorporating Arab cooking techniques with typical Sicilian Italian ingredients.
8. Valletta, the capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. Dwejra aka “The Azure Window” in Gozo. This huge naturally arched rock formation is a sight to behold. It has been featured in several Hollywood films and is one of Malta’s most iconic images.
10. The beaches in Malta are everywhere and you’ll never be too far away from one. Gozo’s Ramla Bay is considered to be one of the finest beaches in the country.
I will be updating my blog with posts about Malta along the way. I cannot wait for this adventure. Stay tuned for more!
David.
Other great online resources for the country:
http://www.new.visitmalta.com/
I would like to give a special thanks to Visit Malta and ScotteVest Travel Clothing for their support.
Alfred Grech
on Jul 28th, 2012
@ 5:30 am:
Malta is tiny but packed with beauty and history. Our sister island, Gozo, is equally beautiful with fanstastic scenery and also historic sites:
Please watch these two Youtube videos to get an idea what we have here:
Valletta Grand Harbour & Upper Baracca: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e26i9IRCLlg
Fascinating Gozo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OASKsquCZ5I
If you would like to see move Youtube videos about Malta, please search Youtube for jasalf5959 touring malta.
Andy
on Jan 16th, 2013
@ 5:28 pm:
I am really upset that I missed Malta when in the region. I have always wanted to go there. Mainly for the reasons that you suggested. Thanks for sharing!
David Hoffmann
on Jan 16th, 2013
@ 7:54 pm:
Hi Andy thanks for your comment. Malta is stunning! Where have you been in the Mediterranean?