There are places that take your breath away. Malta is one of them. From rugged coastlines to megalithic temples, this scintillating island country is truly heaven on earth.
What makes Malta so enchanting?
Charm, elegance, and an overall calming effect that triggers cathartic aahhhhhhhh moments. With that said, expect to be lulled into a catatonic state as you stare incessantly at glistening turquoise water and sultry, hypnotic waves. If that description spoke to your soul, PRESS PLAY to vicariously experience Malta, Popeye Village, and Gozo - three idyllic destinations that encapsulate Mediterranean living.
Video 1: Malta
I covered plenty of ground touring fishing villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites, grottos, and prehistoric temples that predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids. There were numerous wow moments as I sailed, traversed, and sauntered from one peaceful spot to the next. Can you guess which site was my favorite? Hint: The name means "Southeastern port" and showcases colorful luzzus (traditional Maltese fishing boats) throughout its waterfront.
Video 2: Popeye Village
Raise your hand if you ever watched Popeye, the animated series, or the 1980 Disney film featuring the late Robin Williams. If so, Popeye's Village brings the film set and cartoon to life as you interact with characters you know and love.
Video 3: Gozo
There are seven islands that make up the Maltese archipelago. Gozo is the second largest and boasts rugged terrain, ancient structures, majestic basilicas, and seaside caverns. Gozo is a short ferry ride from the northern tip of Malta and worth exploring via hop on, hop off buses - the only way to fully experience glorious Gozo.
I spent 5 full days in Malta so I didn't have time to lollygag or waste. The following is a checklist for those with equally compressed schedules.
Malta
Valletta - Malta's Capital
Mdina Gate
Rabat - St. Paul's Grotto and Catacombs
St. George's Bay
Spinola Bay
Balluta Bay
Sliema Seafront
Vittoriosa Waterfront
Popeye Village
Blue Grotto
Three Cities - Senglea, Vittoriosa, Cospicua
Marsaxlokk Market
Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples
Gozo
Victoria - Gozo's Capital
Ggantija Temples and Ta'Kola Windmill
Ta'Pinu Basilica
The Citadel
Fungus Rock
Calypso Cave
Dwerja Bay
Xewkija Square
Mgarr Harbour
Marsalforn Bay
Overall, my Maltese trip was quite relaxing despite my short visit. I personally enjoyed cheaper hotels, food, transportation, and entrance fees. It's more affordable and warmer than other European destinations. And most people speak English. BONUS!
If you're looking for fresh seafood, gigantic pizza slices, all day sunbathing, boating, and Maltese hospitality, this place is for you. 1.6 million tourists visit densely-populated Malta each year since there's always new places to discover throughout this heavenly hotspot. I would live here. Would you?
Resources
Photo Gallery: To access my photo highlights, click here.
Tallinja Card: Public transportation is the most cost effective way to roam the island. Instead of paying 2 Euros for every single trip, I purchased an explorer card, which allowed unlimited bus travel for 7 days. Cost: 21 Euros
Hotel Recommendation: Holiday Inn Express is situated within cosmopolitan St. Julians and steps away from St. George's Bay. The area is typically teaming with tourists, shoppers, night clubbers, beach goers, casino aficionados, and more.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”