Malta |
| Friday, 22 February 2008 00:00 |
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Whoever longs after a holiday with sun and see but doesn’t want to embark on a complicated language course would agree that Malta is an ideal holiday destination. The former British colony that, aside from the original Maltese language, retains English is located between Sicily and Tunisia and enjoys the reputation as the ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’. And rightly so, as the nation spread out across the three islands of Malta, Gonzo and Comino, doesn’t only impress with a breathtaking landscape but also with a captivating history and culture. Numerous other smaller islands belong to Malta alongside the three main islands, though not inhabited.Although Malta possesses relatively few sandy coastlines, a fun beach holiday is not out of the question. The most popular costal regions are by far Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay, both of which you can reach easily with your hire car. This is mainly due to the small size of the country – the island is measured at just 10 x 5 miles – allowing for easy travel to all the interesting destinations. Malta lends itself positively to an excursion in your vehicle to discover the hidden treasures of the island. For those culture lovers, a large number of cities are scattered across the three islands and are ready to be explored. A visit to the capital Valleta on the Maltese island is a definite must. The old fortified city, built by knights in 1565, was viciously fought over for centuries; a history that the city walls to this day bears witness to. It was not without good reason that UNESCO declared the historic city a World Heritage Site, for the numerous cathedrals, palaces and gardens will quickly captivate. Malta’s oldest city, Mdina, or the ‘Hypogeum of Tarxien’, a prehistoric underground temple complex are also favoured destinations. The nightlife on the island takes place mainly in the cities Paceville and St. Julians. Here you will find numerous bars, cafés and discos that are aimed at tourists. For a somewhat more authentic experience it’s worth visiting establishments in the small lanes of the historic Vallettas. If you are up for a boat trip, you should definitely visit the second largest island of the archipelago. On Gonzo you should not only look forward the Ggantika temple complex, but also the Victoria Citadel, being the biggest city on Gozo-. The beautiful Ramala Bay attracts many nature lovers to the island, experiencing its original charm. Comino, the dwarf island, with a mere four permanent inhabitants is a gold mine for water sport fans. Diving and snorkelling are especially common as the good water quality offers a breathtaking peek into the life under the water. Whether waterskiing, surfing or sailing, you have plenty of possibilities. Comino has definitely got the most beautiful bay, the Blue Lagoon. A trip in the evening is recommended particularly for romantics who want to discover this magnificent spot in the moonlight. Malta is also provided with a culinary culmination. Among other things you should try the traditional Kinnie from bitter oranges and herbs, as well as Lampuki Pie (fish pastry), the delicious smelling rabbit stew, Bragioli (Beef Roulade with olives) or Kapunata, the Maltese version of Ratatouille. Whether you are a rambler, water rat or a culture enthusiast: Malta has everything that the heart desires. The friendly and relaxing atmosphere between the honey-coloured houses and the solitary country roads, your holiday will be an unforgettable experience.
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