The powder blue sky over an azure sea, glinting like a million diamonds in the Mediterranean sun can make the sourest of hearts out-sing the Angels. The wind factor drops the temperature down in spring, and can make it feel quite chilly at times. However, the briny air relaxes and invigorates you.
With Malta’s fortifications a sandy yellow, the vistas are just gob smacking. Natural phenomena like the Azure Window and the Blue Lagoon make you appreciate Mother Nature’s handiwork all the more.
As much of Malta is hilly and fortresses were hewn directly into the rock, there are many stairs and walkways up and down – some of these are steep and will leave you panting. The narrow alleyways between buildings are lovely and together with 16th to 18th century balconies and wooden shutters make for many picturesque photo opportunities.
Inland, The Maltese are unabashedly proud of their agricultural heritage, as the many fields and vineyards showcase why the sun is necessary for good food. Due to the strong winds, the cactus was imported from Mexico for use as icebreakers. The Maltese have learnt to use the cacti in a variety of ways including making lace, eating the prickly pears or turning them into jam, and landscaping.
The surrounding sea is bountiful and the locals catch a type of fish called “lampuki”. Their boats are painted in bright colours of blue, yellow and red. Interestingly, the Phoenicians introduced a custom which they took from ancient Egypt – putting the all-seeing Eye on the front of their boats to protect them from any misfortune at sea. This custom continues unabated today.