It stands to reason that visiting a prize-worthy jewel of the illustrious Mediterranean comes with certain risks: high expectations can lead to disappointment when reality fails to meet preconceived ideals. With paucity in imperfections and a plethora of justifiable reasons to visit, Malta’s ornamental qualities need little refining. Dig a little below the surface and her bounty of treasures emerge with a glint of brilliance. She is not perfect but travellers to Malta reap rich and satisfying rewards. Here are the top reasons to visit Malta, things that should compel you to book tickets this year.
Liquid Resplendence - the Mediterranean
Inherent to visiting the Mediterranean is an expectation that the colourful lustre of the sea, depicted consistently in travel literature, will be authentic. The waters surrounding Malta’s coastline are no exception. Whether wandering the cobblestone streets of the capital Valletta, travelling in an archetypically orange, Maltese bus across the island or swimming in the waters offshore, the rich colours of the water reflecting the warmth of the sun are always enticing to inquiring eyes. Water does not get richer than that of the Blue Grotto, located on Malta’s western frontier: as the boat passed through the caves, the water became iridescent under the changing shadows cast by the contours and projections of the rugged walls. Disappointment is not on the menu: take a visual splash into Malta’s glistening, liquid brilliance.
NOTE: These photographs do not do it justice. You really need to see it to behold the beauty.
Historic Intrigue - Catacombs
The number and variety of archaeological sites crammed into one small island is astounding. Many of those with historical significance date back to Greco-Roman times and are accessible to paying visitors. A religious site of particular interest are the Catacombs of St Paul. With paleochristian origins, the ancient burial sites - found in the city of Rabat - are a representation of religious diversity: people of multiple religions from Roman times can be found buried side by side. Walking through the two catacombs, open to the public, was ecclesiastical and inspiring - a step back several thousand years. Malta is a treasure trove filled with archaeological stories waiting to be told.
Memoirs of Childhood - Popeye
Remember, as a child, learning about the superhuman strength of spinach by a disproportionately muscular, tube-smoking sailor named Popeye? Thanks to the ingenuity of Robert Altman and onscreen prowess of Robin Williams, the north-eastern Maltese town of Melliena became host to an eighties film depicting the fictional character. The life-size set Altman had created remains and is now a popular site to visit. Even as an adult, it was thoroughly enjoyable. It’s yet another trinket comprising Malta’s charm.
Convenient, Short-distance Overland Travel
Due to the nature of its size and terrain, traversing the length and breadth of Malta is a simple feat, whether done in a car, on a bus or even on a bicycle. Distances between major towns are short and the roads have been well maintained. If you don't wish to drive, then taking the boldly adorned orange public bus is a reasonable option, as routes are extensive and frequently covered. Plus, the on-board encounters you have in Malta are rewarding and authentically provide an insight into local perspectives. Traveling from Valletta to the south, west, north and back to the east by bus, in five days, was simple. It also averted the development of a headache induced by navigation anxiety.
For fares, routes and timetables, click here. NOTE: Many of the 1950-era buses were replaced with a modern fleet a year or two following my visit.
Quaint Mediterranean Fishing Villages - Marsaxlokk
Innate to island living are a lively fishing culture, a slow pace of life and rustic charm; coastal Maltese towns fit this mould. Strolling along the dock in Marsaxlokk on Malta’s southern coast painted an unpretentious rustic picture: palm lined roads separated stuccoed-sandstone semidetached houses of staggered height - emitting a sense of Morocco - from wooden boats, all moored in calm waters, hand painted in various combinations of primary and secondary colours. Strolling further revealed fishermen-cum-craftsmen giving their pride and joy a touch up with a splash of fresh colour. Old men sat together on public benches, eating the grilled fish and vegetables their wives had prepared: a trademark of Maltese and Mediterranean culture. The savoury aroma of the food lovingly arranged on their plates wafted seamlessly across the midday breeze, prompting pedestrians to consider retiring for lunch. Marsaxlokk set a tone of simplicity that could have mollified a soul at the height of angst: it was, in essence, charming.
Should You Visit Malta?
Visiting Malta during a cold and inclement Roman winter was an obvious choice: sunshine, warmth, turquoise splendour and island charm were the drawcards. However, at the end of the journey, other prize-worthy features to the jewel of the Mediterranean materialised. Unveiled was a charming island paradise laden with inimitable treasure. With a radiance that swiftly evolves to near-perfection, why wouldn’t you be seduced? After all, we are only human. No decision making is required: go online and book tickets now. It's the most logical thing you'll do this year.
