Malta: A hidden gem

When you think of Malta, some things may come to mind: isolation, tranquility, azure waters, islands, Game of Thrones, Popeye and Blue Lagoon. Malta is an archipelago between Sicily and North Africa. It’s a nation known for historic sites related to a succession of rulers, fortresses, megalithic temples. We stayed in an apartment in the capital city of Valetta, centrally located to walk to the center. This walled city was established back in 1500s by the Roman Catholic order of St. John, so it makes sense to have hundreds of churches around the islands. They are huge and on strikingly interesting rows of colorful, lavishly decorated balconies. In Valletta they are known as “saljaturi.” They’re wooden balconies in Valetta and made of stone in Gozo.

Walking the streets of Valletta we started our day early around Lower Barrakka Gardens. Here, there was a magnificent view of the harbor and an evidence of Roman influence. The inner-city streets are full of great stories and buildings to match. In the afternoon, we took a respite from the sun to taste the local delicacies such as rabbit dish and pastizzi pastry.Malta is a popular filming location. The most famous set is the show, Game of Thrones, where several scenes were filmed around the intensely photogenic capital of Valletta. It’s a World Heritage Site with a stunning waterfront in Maltese coastline. We took a local tour of various Game of Thrones locations around Valletta. The next day, we took another tour to see the scenery of where another popular movie was filmed: Popeye. Popeye Village is the remnant of the film and it’s located in a gorgeous bay.On our third day, we took the ferry to the island of Gozo. This island has incredible and magical sunsets, crystal blue waters and rocky cliffs. No trip to Malta is complete without Gozo. Once we got off the ferry, we took a bus to Victoria where the Medieval Citadel with fortified walls is located. A stop in the Blue Lagoon in Comino Island is a must! Blue Lagoon is a shallow body of azure water. Malta, for such a tiny island, is one of those places that has more to offer than you would expect.

Overall, Malta is a hidden gem. While many Europeans may vacation there, it is unknown to a lot of U.S. Citizens. I can definitely see this island nation becoming an up-and-coming travel destination soon. I can't wait to return in May 2025 as LBE Travel & Tours recently opened a group tour program to Malta & Sicily.