Boats at St Julians

At the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, lies the tiny island of Malta. While only a dot on the map, (Malta measures just 316 sq km), it has much to offer. With white sandy beaches, deep blue water and wonderfully old architecture, it is a country seeped in history and culture, bathed in the glorious Mediterranean sun. Of course, I may be biased. Born to a Maltese father and an Irish mother, I was lucky enough to spend my summer holidays on this beautiful island.

You will probably end up staying in one of Malta’s tourist areas, Buggiba or Sliema/St. Julians. These areas are filled with hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and nightlife, just what you’d expect from a summer sun resort. While these areas offer plenty to do, to make the most of your holiday in Malta, you will need to venture outside the resort as well.

Venture down one of Valletta's charming side streets

Remember, Malta is a small country and getting around couldn’t be easier! Buses run regularly from Buggiba and Sliema and are cheap and cheerful. The ride itself is an experience, these buses are museums in their own right!

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a must. It was built by the Knights of St. John, dating back to 1566 and is renowned for its magnificent baroque architecture. The city, built on Mount Sceberras, is surrounded by the sea on three sides and the fortifications offer spectacular views of both Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour.

This is the main centre for shopping in Malta, where you will find big brands along with smaller shops and markets. There are plenty of little cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating, so you can just relax and soak up the atmosphere.

During the summer months, Malta is dry and very hot, so you’ll be glad of the many beaches and swimming spots along the Island’s coast. My favourite beaches are Golden Bay and Armier, which offer soft (but burn your feet hot) sand, sparkling blue water and plenty of facilities to enjoy a day by the sea.

The Blue Lagoon, famous for it's amazing water

Swimming off the rocks is also popular and although they may be hard to find, there are spots such as Peter’s Pool, Delimara which are simply amazing. Jumping from the rocky ledges into the deep pools beneath is exhilarating, but if its not your thing, try snorkelling instead, and watch the colourful fish swim beneath you.

Take a trip across the water to Comino, the smallest of Malta’s two islands (measuring just 3 sq km). With barely any signs of inhabitance, this peaceful spot is like your own personal paradise. Take a swim in the Blue Lagoon, famous for its spectacular water. 

For those of you looking to relive your childhood, Malta has the answer: Popeye Village! The original film set for the 1980 musical production of Popeye, it has become a major tourist attraction. Cheesy, but loads of fun!

The Feasts are well worth a visit!

Malta has remained a very Catholic country, and each year, the patron saint of every parish is celebrated (usually during the summer months). These Feasts, are wonderful events, which mark both religious and cultural tradition. The Churches are lit up like Christmas trees and the streets are lined with lavish decorations and food stalls. Bands play, fireworks explode overhead and it really is one big street party.

Eating out is relatively cheap, with pizza and pasta popular on the menu. You should try some of Malta’s specialties, such as rabbit (honestly it tastes like chicken), just try not to think of little bunnies like I always did when my grandfather cooked it. Fresh Maltese bread is a must, as is my personal favourite, pastizzi. These pastry cakes filled with ricotta cheese (or peas, not so good), are sold at little kiosks all over the place and make a cheap and tasty lunch! 

In the past, Malta was an expensive holiday destination and probably not so popular for the broke student. However, since the introduction of cheap flights (thank you Ryan Air), the cost has come down considerably. Biased or not, Malta is a great spot for nightlife, beaches, history and culture. So if you’re looking for a holiday in the sun, with a little more character than most, Malta is the place for you.

By Lucy Cefai