My Thoughts on Malta and Where to Go

I have just returned from 3 weeks in Malta. I must admit that upon arrival I was a bit uncertain about how I was going to like spending 3 weeks there.

We were staying in an apartment just outside of St. Julian’s in a town called Swieqi. At first glance it was difficult to imagine where all of the beautiful beaches were as it felt like a city. It actually reminded me of Casablanca in Morocco. On my first day, I was escorted down to the harbor by my daughter. She had been in Malta for 3 weeks already and told me that she liked swimming at the harbor. So, off we went in our beach attire, carrying our bags. The journey was stressful. It was very hot and we were walking through busy streets, running frantically across streets for fear of being run over and then finally we were on the home stretch on our way down to the water. I was completely stressed out. When we finally arrived at the harbor I saw people jumping into the water from the jetty that was right next to a park bench. She said “this is it” and put her stuff on the bench and started getting ready to jump in the water. I looked at her as if she was kidding. This is where we were going to swim? No beach, just a park bench for everyone to lay there towel on. I didn't want to start the holiday being the mean Mom so I went with the flow. All ready in my bathing suit, I made my way down the ladder that looked like it was as old as Malta. I was very reluctant but I had faith in my child. Once I hit the bottom rung, I jumped in and Wow!!! The water was amazing. It was clear, blue, fresh and just perfect. There were no boats and it was a very peaceful spot to swim. It turned out to be one of the best places to go in the area. After a few days there, I realized that this is what life was like in Malta. There are people going swimming from any entrance point possible. There are many tiny coves and harbors that feel protected but in fact, you are swimming in the middle of the sea. I think it took one second for me to forget about the crazy walk that we took to get there and I knew at that moment that 3 weeks in Malta was going to be bliss.

I think that Malta is a really nice place to visit. However, I think that a few tips and some planning are necessary here. The reason I say this is that Malta does not feel like your typical sunny get away. Unless, you have landed at a resort hotel, it will feel more like a city than a beach. Just be aware before you go. There are lots of beautiful beaches and getting out on a boat is a must do while visiting Malta. Know before you go and you will have a really nice time here. I ended up really loving my time there and I would definitely go back.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely!!! The swimming is amazing, the food is fantastic, the people couldn’t be friendlier and the big bonus is that they speak English.