Malta
A gorgeous pearl of an archipelago nestled in the Mediterranean, Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world, both in land size and population (just over 400,000 people). It consists of 3 main islands…Malta, Gozo and Comino. The islands are dotted with charming little villages, vibrant cities & picturesque countryside.
Malta has something for every kind of traveler…history from the dawn of civilization, rich culture, hospitable people, mouth watering food, thriving nightlife & adrenaline pumping adventures all set against azure blue waters. It seems like life in Malta meanders along a gentle pace much like its cobbled streets, a place where children play outdoors, families live, eat & pray together, a place where happiness trumps all other purposes.
The architecture in Malta is fascinating in its variety…from Neolithic temples (believed to be older than the pyramids of Egypt), medieval towers, grand Baroque churches (300+) to the jaw dropping Roman and Byzantine Palazzos, it stands as testament to the country’s deep reverence to art, religion & culture.
There is a good mix of the old and new…malls built in majestic palaces, modern homes fitted into charming century old houses, cobbled streets littered with boutiques, offices & banks, all go to prove that the Maltese are looking ahead while taking pride in their past.
Tourism provides a big boost to the economy & Hollywood has explored many parts of it already, (think Game of thrones, Da Vinci Code, Agora, and many other period epics) most of Malta is still relatively unsullied by the scores of cruise liners and port hoppers who come peeking into this window to the past.
Malta also seems to have an exciting array of adventures to offer...the natural cliffs, rocky terrain, countless beaches all make it ideal for everything from zip lining, abseiling, climbing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, mountain biking, hiking...the list is endless.
We arrived on the day of the Santa Marija feast. So the whole country was shut down in celebration but the grand fireworks at night sure gave us a warm welcome.
Mdina
The Mdina (old town) is called the “Silent City”. A city fortified by bastions, the Mdina is a jewel shining over the rest of the landscape. The unmistakable old world charm takes your breath away as you walk along the deserted serpentine streets, the colorful doors & shutters of the century plus old homes, the sinuous shrubs that hug the lime stone walls, the quaint shops, cozy eateries & museums…a walk around in the Mdina is sure to fill you with a sort of lingering romance that stays with you for long after you have left its bastions.
We stayed in a gorgeous villa that was literally built on the wall of the Mdina. It is a 4-bedroom villa that is tastefully done up. Located just steps away from restaurants, museums, theatre, and churches, it is ideal to catch the grand vistas of the landscape. It has a pool on the terrace where you can cool off, a lovely little kitchen where you can make your own meals & some cozy living spaces. Mr. Anthony Pace is the villa manager, butler and housekeeper all rolled in one. Anthony is an absolute delight who will not only cook you gourmet meals, entertain your children, give you insider tips on what to see and do and make reservations for your dinners (and threaten the chefs with dire consequences if they fail to treat you right ;) ) All in all, the stay at a villa in the Mdina is paradise. Of course, paradise doesn’t come cheap, so the money will make sense only if you are a party of 8. There is a hotel in the Mdina as well called the Xara palace (http://www.xarapalace.com.mt/), apparently another great option to stay in & experience the Silent City.
Gozo
The island of Gozo is home to the breathtaking azure window, the Ggantija temples, some fantastic beaches & a beautifully renevoated old town & Citadella, many crafts stores and sea side eateries. A short ferry ride away from the main island, Gozo is a must to soak in the Maltese rural charm and way of life as the main residents of Gozo are farmers, craftmen & fishermen. It is also great for adventures such as snorkeling, para sailing, scuba diving & has several hiking & biking trails.
Food
Maltese cuisine is based on a Mediterranian diet, so expect to eat lots of healthy meals. The fresh salads, soft cheese, aromatic olive oil, and crazy sweet cherry tomatoes are lip-smacking good. The sea food is so fresh, one would imagine it jumping off the plate. The prickly pear jam & the Maltese Bajtra (liquor) are both a must try!
Tip: Vegetarians have lots of options. Gluten free options such as breads, pizzas and pastas are also common in many restaurants in Malta...so a haven for those on a Celiac diet.
Below is a list of restaurants we tried in Mdina, Rabat, St.Julians, Dingli cliffs & Valetta
Coogi’s: (http://www.coogis.co/) The cutest little restaurant that happened to be located in the house next door. Our family favorites: Sformatino Di Zucchine, the Buffala and Timpana.
Umami:( http://www.umamimalta.com/) Alfresco dining, the best Barolo wine I’ve had the privilege of tasting accompanied by an exquisite herb Gnocchi…hands down the best meal I had in Malta.
Bacchus:( http://www.bacchus.com.mt/le-jardin-secret.aspx) A cool respite for a hot day…perfect setting to have a glass of white wine and crunchy Greek salad.
Fontanella: ( http://fontanellateagarden.com/ ) for the cakes, especially the Baci cake…and the view!
Sharma’s:( https://web.facebook.com/SharmaRestaurant/?_rdr) The only place where you can find ethnic food in the Mdina. Go there if you are craving some spicy Indian or Lebanese. Don’t forget to reserve a table on the terrace…the indoors is a bit gloomy.
Da Pippo: (https://web.facebook.com/pages/Da-Pippos/139140196157092?_rdr) Coziest little place in Valetta. The huge portion of garlic prawns was polished off in seconds…the bread was fresh and warm.
As I walked the silent cobbled streets of the Mdina on the last night, I promised myself that I'd go back to Malta soon to soak again in its history, adventure, warmth and charm...
