The comfort and relaxation of an island vacation
For most of us a holiday on a sunny island in the Mediterranean comes with the inconvenience of having to use a dictionary for pretty much everything if we do not want to experience the embarrassment of using clumsy sign language to order a scoop of raspberry ice cream. If this prospect spoils your idea of a good holiday there is still hope for you: Malta. The former British colony is still English-speaking to this day, though the locals can also communicate in their native Maltese if they want to avoid eaves-dropping tourists. So pack your bags, book a convertable for a rental car and begin your island vacation!
Located between Sicily and Tunisia Malta, the Pearl of the Mediterranean, consists of the three islands Malta, Gozo, and Comino, as well as numerous small, uninhabited islands. All of them pair gorgeous landscapes with fascinating history and culture.
Even though there are relatively few sandy beaches on Malta you can still enjoy a beach holiday. The most popular ones are Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay, both of them are easily reached by car. Renting a rental car is a good idea, as this allows you to explore the entire island. You won’t be wasting away in your car, though, as distances on the 16 x 9 mile island are not far. Circle Malta and discover all the hidden treasures it contains.
Take a break from the sun and take in some of Malta's history and culture
Your trip is not limited to afternoons on the beach or leisurely cruises across the island, as there is an abundance of culture to sample. Just take your rental car to Valletta, the capital, which should be at the top of your list of places to go. The old fortification, erected in 1565 by crusading knights, was fought over for centuries. The gigantic city walls still bear traces of this struggle. Considering the number of cathedrals, palaces and gardens, it comes as no surprise that UNESCO has welcomed Valletta’s old town to the prestigious club of World Heritage sites.
Mdina, the oldest town in the country, and the Tarxien Temples, a prehistoric underground temple complex, go even further back in history and are popular excursion destinations.
Enjoy Malta even after the sun goes down
The island’s nightlife mostly takes place in the towns of
Paceville and
St. Julian. Numerous bars, cafés, and discotheques invite tourists in for a drink. If you prefer less touristy facilities you can check into one of the little restaurants and pubs in the old town of Valletta.
Ferries take you to the second biggest island of the archipelago. Gozo has great historical sites like the Ggantija temple and the citadel in Rabat, the biggest town on Gozo. Ramla Bay lures sun seekers as well as friends of unspoiled nature, who will soon discover that Gozo has managed to preserve its original charm.
The tiny island of Comino with a steady population of four is every water sportsman’s dream. Scuba diving and snorkelling are immensely popular here, as the water quality allows stunning views underwater. Surfing, water skiing, and sailing are for all those that try to stay above the water. Don't worry about booking a large rental car to haul all of your gear around because everything you need to enjoy the local water sports will be supplied for you. Comino also has the best bay of all: the Blue Lagoon. This place is especially romantic at night, when the moon bathes it in eerie blue light.
Indulge in Malta's Mediterranean meals
Any Mediterranean country will always be judged on the quality of its traditional food, and Malta has no reason to shy away from competition. Kinnie (lemonade made from red grapefruit and herbs), lampuki pie (a delicious fish pastry), aromatic rabbit stew, Bragioli (filled beef steaks and olives), and kapatuna (a Maltese Ratatouille) are the most popular delicacies.
Whether you have a passion for hiking, water sports, or culture: you will find that Malta exceeds your expectations of a good holiday.
Maltese hospitality, sunny afternoons on a lonely coastal roads, and honey colored houses make relaxing an easy task. Book your rental car today and become an expert of this unforgettable island.
