Summer might be drawing to a close, but that doesn’t mean my wanderlust has settled down one bit – instead I find myself daydreaming about one last summer getaway: to Malta. One of the reasons I’m most excited about my recent move to Norway is being able to explore Europe more, and revisit some of my favorite old holiday spots! And so when one of my friends asked me if I wasn’t going to miss all the beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia I shook my head, “Um, haven’t you heard of the Mediterranean?”
And where’s the best place to enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean? Malta of course! A tiny island country smack dab in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta consists of three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino.
From ancient walled cities to relaxing beaches to some of the best dive sites in Europe, these three small islands sort of have it all. I especially love the mixture of relaxation at the beach and cultural sites and activities. You can start off your day exploring the magnificent medieval mansions and palaces of Mdina, also known as “The Silent City” or indulging in fresh seafood at the ancient fishing village of Marsaxlokk, and finish your day relaxing to the backdrop of Malta’s famous sunset at Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. Could any holiday be more perfect?
Of course while Malta boasts an abundance of historic sites and museums as well as beautiful beaches to swim and sunbathe at, one of the country’s biggest draws might just be the diving. Now, I’m not a diver myself, but I think pretty much every one of my diver friends has raved to me about diving in Malta. From diving in the famed Blue Hole to exploring shipwrecks along the shoreline, everyone seems to instantly fall for Malta’s clear blue waters.
But personally I prefer enjoying those waters from the comfort of a boat. Do you want to know my idea of a perfect day? Sailing around the tiny island of Comino, stopping to quietly explore hidden caves and beautiful sea cliffs. And if I want to get closer to the action I’ll just head to Malta’s famous Blue Lagoon. It’s famous for a reason – it’s absolutely beautiful!
Sometimes wanderlust daydreams are dangerous, and I think this might just be one of those times. Dangerous for my pocketbook, that is. I just can’t resist the temptation to make the daydream a reality!
Should I do it? Who wants to join me on a late summer escape to Malta?
Images: Flickr Commons