These are the bare essentials you’ll need to see when you go there!

The Blue Lagoon!

Set on the uninhabited island of Comino under the guarding watch of St. Mary’s Tower a fort built by knights of times gone by you’ll find the Blue Lagoon… Comino is Malta’s 3rd largest island and the Lagoon area lies in its north westerly tip. Its crystal clear blue waters are excellent for snorkelling and boat tours of the rest of the island and its famous caves are visible there. If you decide to go on land you should consider venturing around the island a bit. There are some hidden beaches as well as abandoned fortifications to find and explore!

The Blue Lagoon, Comino, Malta by Yulia K

The Megalithic Temples of Malta

Considered to be the oldest freestanding temples in the world the megalithic temples are world heritage sites. They date back to 3600 B.C It is unknown who built the temples or how the massive rocks used in its construction were ever used/ No burial sites where ever found, however the remains of animal used for sacrifices were discovered.

Tarxien temples, Malta by Berthold Werner

Valletta

Valletta was built for defence. It is one massive fortress with towering interlocking bastions over mazes of defences. It too has the honour of being a world heritage site. Inside you will find a cultural hub with intricate churches, theatres, galleries, museums, historic palazzi, piazzas and auberges. Its underground is steeped in history too with many passages, shelters and secret spots, some of which have now become open to the public. Valletta has even got good shopping for the ladies and cafes or bars for the men (P.s try the local beer ‘Cisk’ while you’re at it). If you’re really up for doing things differently then try catch one of the traditional boats coming across the harbour from one of the surrounding towns like Sliema instead of catching the bus but be warned Valletta is set on a hill so it’s a good walk up from the dock!

Valletta, Malta by Briangotts

I found Malta to be a great place to stay.  The island has got something for everyone! I stayed at Hostel Jones. It’s central, inexpensive and run by two easy going locals who’ve decked out with unique art a traditional townhouse into what’s can easily be Malta’s best hostel slash modern gallery that you get to live in too!

About the author: Dieter Bulten is an avid writer/traveller or better still an avid traveller/writer with a passion for History, Beaches and Life

The post Top Three things to see in Malta – the jewel of the Mediterranean appeared first on Europe Explored.

Typical Malta and its islands coastline by Martin Lopatka

Adventure Sports

If your idea of a holiday doesn’t involve being solidly sedentary, take a walk on the wild side, and get some adventure filled adrenaline coursing through your veins. Rock climbing and bouldering are great way to get super fit and super focused, while having fun and meeting new people. The heat of summer will no doubt limit your activity to early morning and late evening, but you can fill the rest of your day with kayaking, water skiing, wind surfing, sailing, and of course, swimming.

Diving

Malta is renowned for its fantastic and diverse dive sites. There is plenty of marine life to see, and wrecks and caves to explore. Dive schools can be found all over the island offering certified courses and beginner dives.

Beach combing

Nothing beats the feeling of sand between your toes, a cool breeze on your neck and the aroma of the sea all around. Malta’s coastline is beautiful and there are many beaches to choose from, each different to the next, and each with its own unique style. Spend your holiday discovering a new place to sunbake every day.

Valletta, Malta by Vicki Burton

Fishing

They say there’s nothing more relaxing than spending the day with a quiet companion; sitting by the water with a fishing rod in one hand and a cool beer in the other. Either hire your own equipment and find a good spot, or go out on a boat fishing trip with a local company.

Village Festa

An evening spent at a village festa is a unique way to get to know the local people and experience the local culture. Every village on Malta and Gozo will celebrate their saint during the summer and there is a festa every weekend, so just ask a local and they’ll tell you which village to visit at any given time. There will be music and dancing; food and drink, colourful characters and possibly a little mayhem. The feast is a family affair so take the kids with you and join in the fun.

Popeye village

Another one to enjoy with children is Popeye village, at Anchor Bay in Malta. Originally the set for the Popeye movie starring Robin Williams, the village is now a small theme park that attracts tourists all year round. It’s great for kids because there are loads of attractions that will keep them entertained, including; animators, puppet shows, an indoor play area, a funfair, a shaded play pool and a swimming pool. Anchor Bay is also a lovely area to go for a swim in the sea and enjoy the scenery.

Popeye village, Malta by njaminjami

Live Music Events

The Malta Jazz festival takes place in July and draws high profile musicians from around the world. The backdrop for the event is the Valletta waterfront and Grand Harbour; the event is spread over three days and the experience is priceless. If Jazz is not your thing, the Isle of MTV is in late June; it rocks a massive crowd, and draws big names from the world of pop music, and it doesn’t disappoint.

The Malta Experience and The Mdina Experience

Sometimes in summer, the best thing to do is get out of the sun. Spending a little time getting lost in Malta’s spellbinding history is highly rewarding and will give you a much better understanding of the hearts of the Maltese people. Whether you’re visiting Valletta or Mdina, be sure to take the time to sit back and watch Malta’s story unfold before you.

Mdina, Malta by Brian Brake

Amanda Webb enjoys writing about Malta. Malta offers a variety to tourists where they can stay in one of the luxury four star hotels renowned for their peaceful location in Bugibba.

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The Commission was first established in 1952 with the purpose of helping emigrants leaving the country during the post-World War 2 era. All preparations and departures were carefully documented and kept on file. Now, these documents have been made available at the Commission’s library and digital archives. The idea for this historic presentation was first conceived in 2000, and following approval from the Convention of Leaders of Associations of Maltese Abroad and of Maltese Origin, it was finally inaugurated on December 4th 2012. The project is sponsored by the Vodafone Malta Foundation and APS Bank.

Valletta at night, Malta by Joshua Zader

Malta’s Migration Phenomenon

Emigration has played a significant role in the history of Malta; the process served as a safety measure against a population explosion on the small Mediterranean island following World War 2, and it’s been revealed that between 1948 and 1967, a stunning 30% of the nation’s population emigrated. According to the Emigration Commission’s history, approximately 28% of people who left Malta went to Australia, 10.5% went to the United Kingdom and 6.5% moved to Canada. The United States was also a popular destination. Through the assisted passage scheme provided by the Emigration Commission, these immigrants received help with the costs of their journey, and many were taught to speak and read English. Emigration rates dropped again in the 1970’s.

History and Heritage

The aim of this newly inaugurated museum is to preserve this part of Maltese history, showing a record of how the emigration phenomenon developed, and what Maltese emigrants contributed to their newly adopted countries. It is also hoped that Maltese communities around the world will come to understand this part of their history and culture a bit better, and that their sense of connection to their Maltese roots will grow.

Hagar Qim Neolithic Temple; Qendri, Malta by John Haslam

Modern-Day Malta

Today, Malta’s population density is one of the highest in the EU, standing at 1.282 per square kilometre. Local Maltese people make up the majority of the population, with the most prevalent minority group being British people who have retired to the sunny island nation.

Crowds of students, school groups and researchers will be visiting the Emigration Commission’s archives in the coming months; this close look at Malta’s history should also prove fascinating to those residents who immigrated to Malta from countries around the world.

Nicky Warner is a London-based blogger who occasionally travels to Malta; these journeys have taught her a great deal about Malta companies and a keen interest in the history of Malta.

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Creative Commons photo by Matt Kieffer

Divers who have gone to Malta rate the island’s diving spots for its dense population of ship wrecks rather than its critter life. Boasting superb visibility and interesting entrance points, wreck diving in Malta is more suited to experienced aquanauts rather than beginners, and can be quite challenging depending on your fitness level.

Top 3 Deep Wreck Diving Spots in Malta

1. Qawra Point

Resident to more than one ship wreck, diving at Qawra Point is mandatory if you’re interested in seeing submarines and battleships from the early 1900s. The HMS Stubborn P238 is a wreck that has received a particularly high rating for her magnificent condition. Built in 1942 by Cammell Laird of Birkenhead, this 66 metre long s-class battle submarine carried a crew of 44 men back in the day and was armed to the teeth with an impressive 13 torpedoes. Lying just 4km off Qawra Point at a maximum depth of 56 metres, the HMS Stubborn is the titanic of the Mediterranean and well-regarded as the best wreck diving opportunity the island has to offer.

2. Gozo

The Karwela at Gozo is a relatively easy wreck to reach from the shore. First built in 1957, she served in Malta as a passenger ferry for most of her life before she sank for unknown reasons. Highlights of this wreck diving location includes a variety of entrance points into the actual ship, as well as the infamous Volkswagen Beetle sitting on the Karwela’s deck – a landmark that arrived subsequent to the ship’s sinking, no doubt a prank performed by mischievous locals.

3. Xorb l—Ghagin

A wreck diving spot that is only accessible by boat, divers are recommended to go with a reputable scuba instructor for the chance to explore the Blenhein Bomber, a fantastic World War II aircraft that lies beneath Xorb l-Ghagin’s surface. Making for an absolutely stunning dive, the Blenheim Bomber arrival on the ocean floor is as fascinating as the dive itself. Sent out on a bombing raid in 1941, the aircraft was attacked by the enemy and aborted by its pilot before plummeting to the bottom of the sea where it still sits to this day. A dive that is reserved for experienced divers only, this underwater piece of WWI memorabilia is as thrilling as they come and well worth the effort to see.

Ship wreck diving in Malta is a sport that has evolved since the 1980s. A tourist attraction that ranges from novice scuba courses to experienced dive spots, the Maltese archipelago is littered with historical landmarks that welcome brave travellers into their murky caverns. A year-round activity, wreck diving in Malta presents an open ended invitation to holiday-makers looking to plan their next vacation.

Bella Gray is a lifestyle blogger who highly recommends Malta holidays. A travel guide for tourists looking to go abroad, Gray is the perfect go-to-gal for all your holiday advice and travelling solutions.

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If you are coming to Malta to enjoy some time on the beach, one of the most important things that you are going to have to consider is accommodation. Hotel accommodation by the beach in Malta can be very expensive, so a great alternative would be to choose a self catering holiday apartment.

Kite Surfing at Ghajn Tuffieha, Malta by Windsor Garage

Not only do these tend to be more affordable, but they can offer you a great deal more flexibility for your holiday. For example, if you are travelling with your family, an apartment is going to allow you to all stay in one place without you having to pay for multiple hotel rooms.

When it comes to accommodation, Malta has no short supply. However, it is a very popular destination, so you should make sure that you book well in advance. Once you have found somewhere to stay, booking an affordable flight is also very possible as Malta is well served by budget airlines. This makes flights to Malta easily available from most European capitals.

Enjoying a holiday by the sea is a wonderful experience, and Malta is certainly one of the best options if you are just looking for a relaxing place to come and get away from it all. That said, Malta is not going to disappoint when it comes to other options either. If you have chosen self catering apartments in Malta rather than a hotel, you are going to need to think about food. This is something that is easy to do because Malta has so many fantastic restaurants.

Whether you are looking for local cuisine, or international favourites, you are sure to be able to find it in Malta. In addition, you will find plenty of supermarkets, so you can take some food back to your apartment and cook for yourself.

Saint Peter’s Pool, Malta by Marco Chiesa

If you grow tired of just relaxing on the beach, another great activity you can do is take a boat out and explore some of the attractions that are located close to the island. Boats operate regularly from the shore and you will be able to find one that will take you to whatever you want to see. Alternatively, simply taking a relaxing walk along the beach can be a wonderful way to pass some time with a loved one.

In the evenings, you will find that there are plenty of active places to get a drink along the beach. As the evening draws on, you will also find lots of nightclub opportunities on the island, if that’s what you fancy. For whatever reason you come to Malta, you’re going to find a fascinating island that enjoys wonderful weather and has a huge amount of culture, not to mention fantastic beaches.

Written by Leila El-Dean on behalf of UniqueHolidayMalta.com, specialists in Malta Holiday Rentals.

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Carnival in Malta by KNOW MALTA by Peter Grima

Entertainment In Malta; Your Guide

1. Veccja Jazz Sessions

Every Thursday evening during August and into November, the stunning wine bar, Veccja comes alive with the sultry sounds of jazz. This characteristic and stylish wine bar is situated in St. Paul’s Bay and not only boasts an extensive array of wines to be sampled, which are perfectly paired with delicious food and snacks, but is also home to the a talented jazz band. If looking for some music for the soul, wine for the palate and food for the senses, the get yourself down to Vacceja Jazz Sessions for some true Malta entertainment.

2. G7 Fridays at Gianpula

If you are in the mood to dance the night away to smooth beats under the warm Malta sky, then this glamorous entertainment option is for you. Gianpula is the largest and most popular open air club in Malta and a top dance venue which hosts many events. Many an entertainment guide will agree that if looking for a great night out, Gianpula is the place to go. All through summer they host G7 Friday’s at the club, where top international and local DJ’s spin the decks. Mingle and dance the night away under the stars at Gianpula.

3. Eden Summer Club, Entertainment for the kiddies in Malta

There is a ton of entertainment in Malta for the adults but what about the kids? Eden summer club is the perfect place to let your children have some fun. They have plenty of entertainment and activities for kids to enjoy while on holiday in Malta. Older Kids can enjoy drama, arts and crafts while younger children will be involved in storytelling, crafts, dance and acting while the older ones work to prepare their own props and costumes for the themed play they perform in front of their parents at the end of every month.

Jemma Scott is a travel freelance writer that looks at different destinations around the world and all they offer. Her inspiration for this article came from her Malta holidays and the entertainment of the island.

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Hagar Qim, Neolithic Temple; Malta by John Haslam

The Four Malta Museums

The four Malta museums opening their doors throughout Valletta and Gozo include the Folklore Museum, the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, the Gozo Nature Museum and the Old Prison. With such a wide variety to suit any taste, mood or goal, there is no excuse not to take a trip out and see the sights and soak in a bit of cultural history. The museums themselves contain many key exhibitions that many will not experience in a lifetime and Heritage Malta has taken the opportunity to offer massively discounted memberships to the visiting public. The memberships entitle visitors to a host of benefits such as discounted visits, newsletters and events specifically hosted for card holders.

Ancient Pre-History

Not many people realise how many years of history is contained upon the island of Malta; museums feature art from centuries ago while megalithic structures dated to pre-history scatter the country. More than a few World Heritage Sites are situated on the island and the four museums that are opening their doors for free are a great start on a journey of discovery. While the island if teeming with underground tunnels and megalithic structures, only speculation can be made about what their purposes were in ancient times and this mystery is part of the appeal to visitors.

Diverse Cultural Background

The history of Malta is contained within their museums with ancient Phoenicians, Biblical figures, knights of the Crusade and even more contemporary World War history all telling an overall tale of the cultural history of the island nation. Mediterranean does translate into Middle Earth and with Malta at the centre of that, it’s no small wonder that so many important cultural and historical features exist there. A Malta museum is a gateway into millennia of history and the open doors of Heritage Malta’s museums begin that journey for many visitors.

Eugene Calvini is a writer addicted to Malta holidays for rest and relaxation; he enjoys sharing the many aspects of Malta so that others may share his experiences.

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Blue Lagoon, Comino, Malta by Simon

A Short History of Comino

The name Comino derives from the cumin seed, which was once prolific on the small island. Most notably, from today’s age to centuries ago, Malta has always been best known for its isolation and tranquillity. For prolonged sections of its history, Comino has either been sparsely populated, privately owned or been completely vacant. During the Roman Times, it was mostly inhabited by farmers, but in the Middle Ages and with the rise in sea faring vessels, Comino became a popular hideout for pirates and looters. This was due to Comino’s rugged coastline, which ran jagged with sheer limestone cliffs, providing the ideal coverage for rouge ships. Comino’s many caves and coves were also used by pirates to ambush unsuspecting ships sailing between the islands of Malta and Gozo.

Comino’s early history is also linked to knights. It was used as the hunting ground for the Knights of Malta and in the 16th and 17th century, it became a place of exile for wayward knights, who were given the tedious task of guarding St. Mary’s tower. The tower was built in the 15th century to help spot invasions and to also deter pirates from hiding on the island.

Comino Caves, Malta by Simon

Tourist Attractions

Malta only has a handful of permanent residents and the majority of people on the island are just temporary visitors, who stay over at one of the Comino hotels. Large sections of the island are cornered off as a bird sanctuary and nature reserve, making Comino a haven for wildlife. Because of its tranquillity and crystal clear waters, Comino is an excellent diving spot, although some of the waters are restricted. The most popular attraction is the Blue Lagoon, a postcard bay that boasts crystal clear waters and a stretch of smooth, white sand. It’s visited by tourists on a daily basis and is popular with swimmers, snorkelers and divers. Because of its spectacular beauty, Comino has appeared in many films, notably Troy and The Count of Monte Cristo.

Penny Munroe is an avid writer in travel news and tips. Articles include travelling safety tips to outlining the beautiful holidays Malta offer.

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St Johns Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Malta

St Johns Co-Cathedral, Valletta

The first destination you’ll want to beeline for out of a Malta hotel is St Johns Co-Cathedral, an ancient wonder over 500 years old. The history of Malta and Catholicism in Europe is intrinsically linked to Valetta with St Johns Co-Cathedral marking one of the most important destinations or piece of property in Malta’s rich history. It was the noblemen of Europe charged with defending their faith against invading forces that led to Malta being a strategic centre in the Mediterranean and after the Great Siege of 1565, Valetta was established, fortified and made a holy place. A mere 12 years later St Johns Co-Cathedral was completed as a destination; no doubt the perfect Malta weather aided this rapid completion. Today St Johns Co-Cathedral acts as a cultural centre for Valetta with many traditional events taking place here which makes it a must-see site in Malta.

The Grandmaster’s Palace, Valletta

The most important modern spot in Valetta also happens to be one of the most important in its history. Travel to this Malta destination if you want to experience the definition of opulence in architecture, because The Grandmaster’s Palace fits many roles. As a tourist destination there is more than enough to awe at, as is houses the House of Representatives and the Office of the President of Malta it is the most important governmental structure in Malta and as a historical building it was once simply the home of Eustachio del Monte built in 1571. Antique weapons and halls of empty knights line the corridors and it’s not uncommon to see a chandelier more elegant and opulent than the last. The Grandmaster’s Palace is amazing to behold and should be a priority to visit in Malta.

It’s clear from these two very good examples, that Malta is more than enough to sate the curiosity of the historic enthusiast. Malta destinations are among the most important in existence with numerous World Heritage Sites dotting the island; it truly is a place of unique importance.

Eugene Calvini has been on enough Malta holidays to know the island is a special tourist spot and enjoys exposing the best the country has to offer.

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Yacht Marina; Dockyard Creek, Grand Harbour, Malta by John Haslam

Snorkelling

For the ideal activity holiday in Europe look no further than the gorgeous Maltese islands for great snorkelling throughout the year. Calm, sparkling waters of crystal clarity are major draw cards for snorkelling enthusiasts. Furthermore, rocky coasts turn into magical underwater caves and taverns, allowing for hours of exploration. It’s an ideal family activity holiday destination for snorkelling as well as other water activities, as tides around the island are nearly non-existent, making it safe for swimmers of all ages. Top snorkelling sites include Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Fomm ir-Rih, Wied il ħain and Ghar Lapsi. Lastly, you can enjoy burning 230 calories per hour of snorkelling.

Kayaking

The Malta beach activity holidays also comprise of kayaking. The conditions that make Malta ideal for snorkelling suit kayaking too, especially the lack of strong tides. Suited for an activity holiday for singles or couples, old and young, kayaking is an excellent way to admire the beauty of the Maltese island’s shoreline. It also provides unlimited access to unspoilt beaches, and provides access to great snorkelling spots. Whilst admiring the azure Mediterranean ocean you can burn around 400 calories in one hour.

Cycling

The smaller island of Gozo offers a great itinerary for an adventure activity holiday. The pace is relaxed and tranquil, making it ideal for exploration by bicycle. Whether you prefer hard peddling or gentle cycling, the mountains and plains accommodate for any preferences. It’s a great way to get off the beaten track and explore scenic coastal paths, secluded bays, lush valleys, baroque churches, country hotels and colourful fishing villages. Gentle cycling can burn up to 600 calories an hour.

Dave Tucker is a keen writer and traveller, aiming to inspire others to explore all corners of the globe – why not book your Malta flights today for an unforgettable, action-packed holiday?

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