an insight into the many reasons to visit the beautiful southern Mediterranean island of Malta.
Overview
Firstly, the country is made up of an archipelago of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino. Malta, being the largest island, is home to the magnificent capital city of Valletta, brimming with a rich culture, historic squares and streets full of classical architecture. A relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, diverse cuisine and friendly locals greet you in the charming small villages and towns which cover the picturesque landscape. English is spoken throughout the whole country as it is one of Malta’s official languages.
Further more, this captivating Mediterranean paradise typically has over 300 days of sunshine every year. As a result, Malta enjoys a hot, dry summer season from May to October averaging 27C and a mild, pleasant winter season from November to April averaging the high ‘teens.
Attractions
The City of Valletta is home to a vast array of visitor attractions. Museums, galleries, works of art and historic buildings such as the Grand Master’s Palace, National Museum of Fine Arts, St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Lascaris War Rooms to mention but a few, make for a very cultured visit. In addition, Valletta is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the famous Saluting Battery just beneath Upper Barracca Gardens, where cannons are fired daily to mark the times of 12 noon and 4pm, gaze across the magnificent Grand Harbour to the 3 maritime cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. For evening concerts and multicultural entertainment there is the Manoel Theatre and the Mediterranean Conference Centre. Both have an active programme of international and domestic artists including the acclaimed Malta Philharmonic Orchestra.
Malta, Gozo & Comino have often been the location for numerous movie and TV shoots. For instance; Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Assassin’s Creed, By The Sea, The Count of Monte Cristo and of course ‘Popeye’– starring Robin Williams, which even had its own village built here.
Shopping and souvenir hunting are well catered for in Malta. You will find delightful boutiques and craft shops selling unique local products; clothing, ornaments, delicacies, wines & spirits. Thanks to Malta’s British legacy there are also many recognisable UK high street stores if required and also the ultra-modern, high-quality shopping mall at Tigne Point.
Historic Sites
Historic sites are everywhere in Malta and Gozo. Malta’s former capital, the ancient, walled “silent” city of Mdina has a timeless atmosphere and breath-taking medieval and baroque architecture with much to explore. There are fortifications and towers from the Knights of Malta to the British era such as Fort Manoel, Fort St. Elmo, The Red Tower and The Citadel in Gozo. Archaeological sites include UNESCO World Heritage temples and megalithic monuments – The Hypogeum labyrinth, Tarxien Temples and St. Paul’s Catacombs.
Outdoors
Beaches, Lidos and Bays are scattered around Malta’s coastline. These crystal clear waters consistently rank among the cleanest in the Mediterranean. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. The Blue Grotto, St. Peter’s Pool, Inland Sea and the Blue Lagoon in Comino are well worth a visit. The sandy beaches, such as Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha and Mellieha Bay, are predominantly located in the North of the island.
Sports – scuba diving, snorkelling, water skiing, sailing, paragliding, windsurfing, horse riding, golf, clay pigeon shooting, cycling, climbing, abseiling, jogging and walking are just some of the outdoor tourist activities that can be enjoyed all year round in Malta’s wonderfully accommodating climate.
Diving Entertainment & Nightlife
You will find a selection of restaurants from fine-dining, seafood, pizzerias and take-aways, plus cafes and bars, in almost every town and village across the islands. During the day, fresh fruit and vegetable stalls can be found in the streets and the smell of fresh coffee drifts from cafes also serving real gelato ice-cream. Local village ‘Festas’ with fireworks, processions and marching bands are a regular occurrence throughout the islands between May to September.
How to visit Malta. There are very regular flights from all European domestic airlines e.g. Air Malta & BA, as well as value flights with Ryanair, Easyjet, Malta Air, Jet2 and TUI. There is a daily ferry service from Sicily which also carries vehicles, and cruise ships have a regular visiting schedule to dock in Valletta’s Grand Harbour.
The U.N. has classified Malta as one of the safest places in the world to visit. In addition, the health facilities are first class and easily accessible.
Consequently, we look forward to welcoming you to ABC Diving in Malta for a fun filled and unforgettable holiday – at any time of the year !
