Located in the Mediterranean sea approximately 93 kilometres south of Sicily and 288 kilometres north of the African coast, this small yet charismatic country is made up of three distinctive islands – Malta, Gozo and Comino. Malta was part of the Roman Empire and played a significant role in Roman Christian history, which consists of centuries under the rule of the Defence of the St John or the Knights of Malta. This highly religious influence is apparent in Malta’s backdrop, which encompasses several churches, chapels and shrines seen throughout the city.
Malta was freed from British rule in 1964 and is now an independent nation – it also a part of the European Union. Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English, although Russian and Arabic is also frequently spoken in certain parts of the island. British influence can easily be observed throughout Malta from its red telephone boxes to the preferred driving style of the Maltese.
A decent portion of Malta’s economy springs from the tourism industry. With a population of 400,000, the Republic of Malta is known for attracting tourists from all over the world, particularly from England and other parts of Europe. Tourism to Malta has risen more than any of its Mediterranean counterparts in 2010 with an astonishing 12.5% increase according to the TimesofMalta.com.
Malta is known for its souvenir and gift shops that offer a huge collection of handicrafts such as, Gozo lace, silver filigree, pottery and decorative glass pieces. And surely, one can’t leave Malta without having a taste of the traditional Maltese Bajtra Liqueur, which is made of prickly pear fruit and known for its unique flavour.
Malta guarantees hot, dry summers coupled with short cool winters making it pretty much the perfect beach holiday any time of the year.
And if its sunny Mediterranean climate, sandy beaches, and attractive coastlines weren’t enough, Malta is also renowned for the luxurious five-star Fortina Spa Resort, which offers deluxe health and beauty treatments and is part of the overall Malta Experience. The resort offers over 250 treatments to choose from and is a perfect spot for unwinding, relaxing, and releasing stress with a choice between Ordinary, Wellness or Spa bedrooms.
And for the ultimate dining and wining experience, Malta offers a wide variety of restaurants catering to different appetites including steak, seafood, Italian and Asian cuisine. Whether you’re into seafood linguini or mouth watering risotto, Malta has some of the best authentic pasta and pizza dishes that Europe has to offer.
Although previously a huge senior destination, Malta has recently become increasingly popular among younger tourists for its unique nightlife and clubbing scene. Paceville in St.Julian’s, which is located on the northern part of the island, boasts an exciting combination of nightclubs, lounges and bars that play the best in trance, R&B, hip hop and alternative. If you’re not a huge clubbing fan, Malta also boasts a diverse selection of theatres, opera clubs, diners and casinos to choose from.
The best way to get around is by renting a car, which is a great way to explore the island. As you drive along the coastline, it is easy to get mesmerized by Malta’s intriguing landscape, which consists of beaches, caves, hills and cliffs of all sizes and shapes. Bus rides are also a popular and reliable option and can take you just about anywhere for under a Euro.
Gozo, also known as the Isle of Calypso, is a small island of the Maltese archipelago known for its distinctive landscape and picturesque hills that attract rock climbers, divers and mountain bikers from all across the world. It is also the perfect solitary beach getaway to spend the afternoon relaxing under the sun. Gozo is often referred to as one of the most tranquil destinations in Europe.
Valetta is usually a popular central location for tourists due to its proximity to some of the biggest tourist attractions Malta has to offer. Also known as ‘The Knights City’, Valetta is the capital of Malta and is known for its museums and cathedrals. It was founded in 1566 by Jean Parisot de Valette and subsequently named after him.
Republic Street is known for its stylish edifices that eventually lead you to Marsamxetto Harbour, which is bustling with pedestrians, tourists and shoppers alike. And if you want to grab a quick coffee or a bite to eat, there are plenty of cafes and eateries at the side streets before you make your way to the St. John’s Co Cathedral, which is known for its breathtaking interior that boasts Baroque art and is often regarded as a sacred place for worship.
The Cathedral Museum is also a popular tourist destination in Valetta and holds two of Caravaggio’s works including the infamous “Beheading of St John the Baptist”. And one can’t leave Valetta without paying a visit to The Upper Barakka Gardens, which offer an exquisite and rare view of the Grand Harbour. Valetta offers several great outdoor activities to choose from including wind surfing, yachting, rock climbing, sailing and diving for both newcomers and those that are experienced.
The ancient site — M’dina, also known as ‘The Silent City’ is the former capital of Malta and is known for its distinctive architecture and shades of sandstone that are derived from the Middle Ages. Many describe a visit to the Grand Master’s Palace as travelling back in time as it encompasses the 4000 year old Tarxien temples. Although ‘The Silent City’ is beautiful at any time of the day, for a truly unique and surreal experience it is best to visit at night time as that’s when the city truly becomes alive.
The Blue Lagoon, an island off the coast of Comino is known for its crystal clear blue and turquoise waters that have lured swimmers, snorkelers and divers from all parts of the world.