Malta - the eternal paradise

"But Malta comes to my heart when I do think of you, And I am by the wayside waiting for you." ~ Edward Kofi Louis

Practically invisible on the map, Malta presents charming corners that invite to be discovered by anyone who visits this small Mediterranean archipelago. Obviously, its idyllic beaches with turquoise waters, where you can relax in a dreamy atmosphere, are the main attraction of the three islands that the country consists of. But Malta has so much more to offer.

Malta is the smallest EU member state. It is located in the Mediterranean Sea and consists of three inhabited islands - Malta, Gozo and Comino. The other four Maltese islands are uninhabited. Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English, with almost 90% of the population speaking English. Italian was their official language until 1934, before it was abolished.

Valetta

The capital of Malta - Valletta is the commercial, administrative and tourist center of the country. Its history is closely related to the Knights of the Order of Saint John (the so-called Hospitallers), which was founded in Jerusalem at the time of the Crusades.

You must visit the archaeological museum, the Cathedral of St. John, where you can see Caravaggio's masterpiece "The Beheading of St. John the Baptist".

Barakka Gardens

The Upper Barakka Gardens is a public garden offering perhaps the best views in the walled city over its famous Grand Harbor and Fort St. Angelo in the Mediterranean.

Lower Baraka Gardens offer great views of the Grand Harbor and breakwater from the shore. The Upper Barakka lift connects the Upper Barakka Gardens to the Lower Barakka Gardens, and is another famous Valletta attraction.

Near Valletta is the town of Sliema, where my hotel was. Here are also the shopping centers of some famous and local brands.

Gozo

A trip to Malta would not be complete without visiting the beautiful island of Gozo.

It is my favorite island of the Maltese archipelago and is well known internationally for its beautiful beaches, impressive geological formations and relaxed atmosphere.

Mdina

The former capital of Malta is called Mdina or the "Silent City" because very few cars are allowed to enter the city walls, and the businesses here have strict noise regulations. You even see signs urging silence all over the city.

The pride of the city is the Cathedral, as well as the fortress embankment, which reveals a wonderful view of the island.

The Three Cities

The Three Cities of Malta (Birgu, Senglea, Cospicua) are historic districts with beautiful narrow streets located across the Grand Harbor from Valletta. It is a place full of history and culture; don't miss the fortress of St. Angelo.

The cities are older than Valletta and were the first fortified place built by the knights after their arrival here. Despite being close to the capital, they are much less visited by tourists and this makes them quieter and more peaceful.

What to eat and drink in Malta

Maltese cuisine is both fresh and flavorful, combining Italian, French, English and Arabic culinary influences, all brought to the islands by historical occupiers over the centuries.

Due to its location and landscape, Malta's gastronomy is predominantly rural and based on seasonal produce and seafood. Many classic recipes include a tart base filled with vegetables, cheese, meat, fish, pasta or rice.

Pastizzi - These are one of Malta's most famous snacks that you can find pretty much anywhere. They are made of dough filled with mushy peas.

Maltese Bread – Malta is the perfect place for bread lovers because some say it is the best bread in the world. Try Hobz Biz-zejt (bread with olive oil, chopped tomatoes, onions and spices) and ftira (a ring-shaped bread).

Aljotta – Boiled fish soup with tomatoes and garlic.

Imqaret - These are date cakes which are traditional Maltese treats.

Kannoli Tal-Irkotta /Maltese cannoli/ - Like Sicilian cannoli, Maltese cannoli are just as delicious and addictive.

Qaghaq tal-Ghasel /Maltese honey rings/ - Although the literal translation of these sweets is 'honey rings', there is no honey in the filling. The main ingredient is pekmez.

Kinnie - A slightly bitter, fizzy drink with an orange and herb flavor that is only available in the Maltese Islands and nowhere else in the world.

Cisk - The local refreshing beer.

Wine - Some of the most popular wines in Malta that you should try are Girgentina, Chardonnay and Ġellewża.

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love to travel and explore new places and cultures. However, my trip to Malta holds a special place in my heart, not only because of the incredibly beautiful places I was able to visit, but mostly because of the people I met along the way and who made this vacation unforgettable:)