Malta

The Maltese Islands are an archipelago of islands that are like stepping stones in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and North Africa. Formerly a possession of Great Britain because of its strategic location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Malta is a collection of many cultures, including Italian, French, Portuguese, Arabic, and Turkish. Its capital city, Valletta, was founded by a French knight in 1565. Throughout the capital as well as the country, there are fortresses and castles that reflect its strategic advantages during the Crusades and other historic conflicts. Valletta has museums, castles, and beautiful gardens waiting for its visitors to enjoy as well as one of the finest natural harbors in the world.

The Maltese are known for their celebrations. In February, the entire country celebrates Carnival. Every village also has a festa, which is a unique celebration of patron saints.

Because Malta has Mediterranean climate, which means a hot, dry summer with only a little rain in the fall and winter, it is the perfect summer vacation destination with its unique archeological and architectural sites to explore as well as its beautiful beaches to wander.

Tourists can fly to Malta or arrive by ship, either on a cruise ship or a smaller vessel, sailing directly to the islands. There are ferries between the islands. For ground transportation, there are car and bicycle rentals, but in Malta it is more fun to go on a Jeep Safari tour. Because the fishing villages are so picturesque, visitors have to get out into the countryside.

Lodging on the Maltese Islands is unique. Visitors can rent farmhouses, villas, and apartments with swimming pools for the season or go to three-star resorts. The local wines and beers are rich and of high quality. Because there is little firewood, true Maltese cooking, which combines the typical Mediterranean diet with Turkish, Italian, and Arabic influences, is done in slow-cooking earthen pots. The Maltese have a special way of cooking fish, which is a main staple of their diets. Easter is a favorite time in Malta because there are traditional Maltese delicacies that are only served at Easter.