malta — dana jo

Vibes

Malta was such a beautiful surprise. In all honesty, I did not know much about the country before we went, but by the end of our 2018 Europe trip, it might have been one of my favorite spots for it’s incredible architecture, clear blue waters, vibrant colored doors, and beautiful blend of Mediterranean culture.

Accommodations

During the high summer seasons, tourists from all over the world flock to Malta and stay on the harbors of St. Julians. I was not overly impressed with our accommodation in Malta, but got the job done!

Inhawi Hostel | Jen and I were traveling light at the start of the trip, so we decided to stay at a hostel. I probably wouldn’t come back here again unless we were in a private dorm, but it was a super fun social hostel, clean, and in a great central location.
Intercontinental Malta | My cousin and his partner stayed at the Intercontinental Malta. This hotel has a beautiful sweeping roof-top views of the city, situated right next to the nightclub area of Malta.

Transit

Cabs | If you’re getting in late, do not worry. There is a taxi line right as you’re exiting the airport where airport employees help ensure you get to your destination.
Car | By far, the best way to get around Malta is renting a car. The island is 122 miles, so it’s feasible to see in a few days by car. However, for those traveling on a budget, buses are definitely available.

Food & Drink

Due to its geographical location, Malta had a fusion of British, Italian, and African influence with its architecture, as well as it’s food. The food culture was a strong demonstration of the country’s history.

Local fisherman target fish such as Tuna, Swordfish, Sailfish, and Amberjack of the coast of Malta. See locally caught fish dishes (left), which Jen and I had for lunch to escape the heat in Valleta .

Activities

St. Jullian's | St. Jullian's is the main town where tourists stay in central Malta. There are a number restaurants, cafes, and nightclubs available for the thousands of summer tourists that flood the town each year.

Town of Valletta | Take the ferry over from Sliema and walk around the cobblestone roads of Valletta. Meander through the town to find a cook cathedral, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and an old fort, Fort-Saint Elmo. You could probably spend all afternoon wandering this town - it’s beautiful.
Town of Mdina | The fortified city in Malta, Mdina, was built in 1724. You may know it best for being King’s Landing in Season 1 of Game of Thrones. Don’t miss checking out Mdina Gate and Mesquita Square. There are a number of cute cafes and tea shops within Mdina; we did not have much time to check them out, but I’d recommend allowing yourself a bit more time to enjoy the town.

Town of Birgu | Another fortified city on the south end of the island. Walk along the water to see waterfront archways, incredible boats, and clear blue waters. Across the way you can also see Fort St. Angelos which was also used as a setting for Game of Thrones (the Red Keep’s Prisons and Underground Chambers)

Popeye Village | A film set for the 1980 film Popeye, converted into a tourist attraction, or mini “fun park” and seaside resort.
Salinas Bay Salt Pans | Really cool pitstop if you’re out by Salinas, check out the salt pans where salt is harvested when water is evaporated by the sun.
St. Peter’s Pool | Gorgeous, rocky natural swimming pool with crystal clear blue waters, and great cliff jumping. It’s a great spot for sunbathing, and swimming. It’s harder to get to if you don’t have a car, but well worth the trek for an afternoon swim sesh.
Gnejna Bay Beach | A great spot to post up and watch the sunset!!! Super family friendly, sandy areas to lay out on, and calm waters with rocky bottoms to wade and swim.

A few other spots we didn’t make it to, but I’d love to go back and check out…

Blue Lagoon, the Gozo Island, Blue Grotto, Għadira Bay, and Armier Bay Beach