Scuba-diving down into underwater caves meets temples and towers rising up over quiet villages

Hello! Welcome to the intriguing country of Malta. Take the language, for example, reflecting cultural influences it’s a blend of British, Italian and Arabic tongues. So, Hello is Hello, but Good Morning is Bonġu! This collection of rocks in the southern Med has been invaded by almost everyone, and the residents have gotten on with things. Now, the islands are a paradise for scuba divers, and its capital city, Valletta was European City of Culture in 2018. The city consists of Italianate palazos, and palatial hotels, so if it’s luxury you’re looking for you’ll be in luck. Inland, if we can say ‘inland’ about a main island that is only 27kms across, you’ll still find locals living something of a peasant lifestyle. And cart horses move slow, in case you’re wondering… many tourists choose to stick to main roads, or simply to chill out on Maltese beaches all hours the sun is up. If you want to be confused by the markers of former British and Arab rule, soak all day in natural pools and eat rabbit ragu when you’re done, VISIT MALTA!