Showing posts with label Malta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Malta. Show all posts

Monday, 5 May 2008

Gozo - The Isle of Calypso

In the past there has been a helicopter service between Malta and Gozo, and a bridge has been mooted and construction was even under way until the strength of the protests (from Gozitans) became so strong that the project was abandoned. Nowadays the ferry is the main route between Malta and it's smaller greener sister island Gozo.

Gozo earns it's nickname 'Isle of Calypso' since it is considered by many to be the geographical location of 'Ogygia' the mythological island controlled by the nymph Calypso from Homer's Odyssey. In the myth, Odysseus was detained on Ogygia as as a prisoner by Calypso for seven years.
The island itself boasts many interesting sights and an interesting contrast to the hustle and bustle of it's neighbour Malta.

The capital city of Victoria (Rabat) is well worth a visit for it's architecture and views of the surrounding countryside, not to be confused with Malta's own 'Rabat' (the word means 'fortress' hence both towns are similar in that they are walled).

Gozo's main claim to fame lies in the Ggantija temples which are believed to be not only the oldest religious structures, but actually the world's oldest free-standing structures, even pre-dating Stonehenge and the pyramids. Sadly I have not (yet) visited this site so I do not (yet) have any pictures to share with you...

Stumble Upon Toolbar

Tuesday, 8 April 2008

Malta

Malta is one of those places that you might love or hate, personally I love it. I can forgive the rocky, dry scenery (it's greener on Gozo...) because of the many positives that the Island offers.
The Maltese are incredibly friendly (especially towards the British), and love to try out their language skills - most Maltese of the more recent generations seem to be able to speak several languages to a very competent level in my experience.
The Island is small, and you can easily see all the sights in a relatively short time, but Malta for me is a place to relax and reflect with family or friends.The rocky terrain and local architecture make an interesting backdrop to your Maltese holiday where you will be treated to great hospitality and some great food. Malta is located between Italy and North Africa, and the clash of these two cultures is evident in the language and the food. Driving has always been a challenge is Malta and only drivers who are up for the challenge should attempt it.... Car hire is cheap and plentiful, as are dinks, dents and prangs...

In general, I think most people will find something they love about Malta (I liked it enough to get married there). Be warned though.. Malta used to very low crime statistics, this is becoming less so as criminal migrants looking for a route into Europe have been known to target tourists and their hire cars.
Sea-food is naturally very good on Malta and it's sister island Gozo, rabbit stew is also a local specialty - don't be surprised to find the skull left in the dish just to prove that you are actually eating rabbit!!

Stumble Upon Toolbar
Powered by WebRing.