Page 47 - Southern Europe

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Why visit Malta?
Because it's a practical destination ...or more exactly, easy to organize. It speaks English, public transport, despite the fact that grunts are quite effective, distances are short, food not awkward, the local cur- rency is the Euro and you don't need a visa, just a valid passport. In short, it is a classic European country ... with lots of sun, however! Maltese hospitality is especially promoted by the tourist authorities of the island, although tourists may find the Maltese sometimes uncom- fortable (especially the dreaded bus drivers). But, we must qualify: given the ratio of tourists to natives, Maltese behave rather courteously with their invaders and even bus drivers answer questions even if they must hear them asked 10 times a day!
Because Malta is original! Especially for a non-European. We would not say that if we were English. But in the end, it must be recognized that Malta is not very well known to Americans f rom all walks of life. As a result, Malta has an exotic side, more than Sicily nearby or Tunisia: it is this British side that 150 years of membership in the British crown has conferred on this small singular people of the Mediterranean
Because Malta is not too expensive. Of course, it's one of the least cheap sun destinations. But the prices are not similar to those of southern France or the Amalfi Coast.
Malta is a 365-days a year destination. It's in Malta ... so weather is pretty good all the time. In theory, there is no tourist season. It will be best to avoid summer (both busy and very hot) and favor spring or fall. But even winter can be considered for a small Maltese weekend ... Malta and the sea. Contrary to what we may read on some guides a little too enthusiastic, Malta is not a beach destination even if the few accessible on the island are very nice. But the sea is omnipresent and it is possible to enjoy it by making small walks (the ferry to Gozo or the little tour in the Blue Grotto).
Because in Malta ... there is Gozo. Gozo is the second largest city in the Maltese archipelago. Less touristy and wilder; it is the refuge of those who find Malta too densely populated and bysy. In Gozo, we find the spirit of what must have been Malta in the last century.
Because Malta has a great historical heritage ... and varied, on top of it. In Malta you can visit prehistoric temples as well as baroque churches and magnificent palaces. Not to mention that in the case of temples, this heritage is unique and specific!
Why Malta?
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