If you've tried Greece and Italy, you might want to consider Malta!
7,000 years of human activity can be traced by history lovers. Explore the 16th-century, St John's Cathedral and Casa Rocca Piccola, a grand palazzo and explore fascinating cultural museums and palaces. There is so much more to Malta though. Marvel at abundant natural wonders; from the Blue Grotto caverns to the Blue Lagoon on the tiny island of Comino, there are hilltop villages and chic fishing harbours just waiting to be visited. Comino is a great place to stop by for some quiet time. This tiny island has no cars or built-up areas and is a haven for snorkelers, walkers and photographers. Why not stop for a seafood platter or try some local dishes with a mix of Middle Eastern and Sicilian flavours on your holiday to Malta? For lovers of Game of Thrones, Mdina Gate in the old Capital is the very gate is the very gate to Kings Landing!
Holidays to Malta are ideally suited to couples and families alike. Just a 3 hour flight from the UK. Something not many consider is a holiday at the waters edge on the less trod island of Gozo? The capital city, Valetta hosts many 5* hotels, perfect for a city break. Or, clamour for glamour in St George's Bay, at a resort with cascading pools and a private lido? The coastline is perfect for enjoying relaxing days in the Maltese sun. Rugged, with a good mix of rocky coves and sandy shores. Head to Bugibba or Qawra which have lovely flat rocks for sunbathing, or Mellieha Bay for its gorgeous, long stretch of sandy beach.
The diving and snorkelling in Malta is excellent and Sport Diver Magazine has named Malta as the third best diving destination behind the Maldives and Egypt! Malta is a foodies paradise. Being an island surrounded by many countries, Malta's food is a fusion of European and Middle Eastern influences. The traditional fare is rustic and based on seasonality. Why not try Pastizza a traditional snack of flaky pastry filled either with ricotta cheese or mushy peas? Available in bars and street kiosks. Bragioli is a thin slice of beef wrapped around breadcrumbs, chopped bacon, egg and parsley before being braised in red wine. The favourite dish in Malta, however, is Fenek which is rabbit cooked in garlic and wine. The local cheese is called Gbejniet. Made from unpasteurised sheep or goat's milk, it is hard and white and is often served in seasoned olive oil.
Local crafts produce excellent souvenirs; look out for lacework, glassware, silver and gold items. In the main resorts' market stalls and shops you will find a wide variety of suitable mementoes to pop in your suitcase, too.
Holidays to Malta are as relaxing or as vibrant as you want them to be. The club scene has grown over the last few years with the main action located in Paceville in the coast near St. Julians. But if you'd much prefer to relax over a few drinks and watch the world go by there are a multitude of cafes and bars perfectly placed for quiet and tranquil evenings.