Malta has spent a long time on my bucket list and I’m thrilled to say that it has lived up to every expectation (and has now moved to the “Must Visit Again” list). This minuscule country is in fact a series of islands that seamlessly blend European culture, Mediterranean food, and an unbelievable historical and archaeological footprint. And let’s not forget all that sunshine, over 300 days per year!
Strolling through Malta’s beautiful 17th century capital city, I wasn’t surprised that it placed in the top 5 Best European Destinations for 2015. The diminutive UNESCO world heritage site offers everything a tourist can desire and more. I felt like I stepped back in time strolling through the narrow, undulating streets lined with tall honey-coloured buildings which provided cool shade on the hottest of days. The colourful balconies dotting the facades provided perfect camera fodder for some gallery-worthy vacation photos.
Established in 1837 and brought to Valletta in 1944, Caffe Cordina is a daily must stop for locals and tourists alike. Whether you gather under the umbrellas on Victoria Square or slip into its baroque tea room, it is a place to relax and savour what life in Malta has to offer. Valletta is a canvas, painting itself with a brush of both modern and timeless design. Decreed by it’s founder to be “a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen”, it is truly a place to work and play. A treasure trove of secrets are hidden in plain sight waiting to be discovered. Stepping through the doors of the stunning St. John’s Co-cathedral or the Grandmaster’s Palace, I was dazzled by the quantity of riches both monetary and historical that are hidden behind the walls.I found pleasure around every corner, and in every nook and cranny. And the food was only the beginning….And no day in Malta was complete without a generous dose of gelato. Afterall, there had to be a reward for all that walking!
Stay tuned for Part 2!