Malta is a tiny slice of Mediterranean paradise that doesn't receive nearly as much attention as it deserves. Until now, that is. Next year, Malta is set to be the European Capital of Culture in 2018 which inevitably will put it on the map and draw swarms of visitors to its shores.
I went this year and am giving you the 6 reasons to visit Malta before it gets famous, because let's face it - everyone wants to be an explorer, not a tourist.
1. You'll be surrounded by beautiful nature
I'm talking clear waters, pink and purple flowers, green fields, giant moon in the night sky. I'm starting to sound like a travel brochure here, but that's completely deserved.
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Strolling around Upper Barrakka Gardens on my first night in Malta, I was blown away by this ridiculous view. It was too pretty to be real. #Nofilter
Malta's beauty is v casual. One minute you're walking around Valletta's cobblestone streets and the next, you stumble upon a medieval cathedral full of original Caravaggio works, which unfortunately you aren't allowed to photograph, so you'll just have to admire in person. Too bad for the Insta.
If you head towards St. Julian's Bay, you'll find a whole strip starting at Sliema up to San Giljan where you can jog by the sea as fisherman boats calmly float on the clear surface. That's the definition of relaxation.
I stayed at one of Jules Suites private apartments (and wasn't even mad when I missed my flight home because I got to stay another night). The best way to see a new location if you ask me, is to live like a local. Preparing your own meals with local ingredients (besides rabbit, leave that to the experts) and having an office space is essential, which is why I loved Jules. I got a private balcony as well, so I could wake up early and do yoga.
If you're really outdoorsy, go up to Gozo, a smaller island which has a Santorini-type beauty but without the hefty price tag and busses of tourists. You can sunbathe, swim and eat your heart out on Gozo without a care in the world.
2. Friendly locals and a diverse cultural mix of expats will welcome you
The Maltese are used to visitors and they make sure everyone has a good time.
I was lucky enough to link up with an important figure in local tourism, who was born and raised on the island and had a recommendation for anything I could ask, from restaurants to hotels, clubs and hidden gems like a random pop up gallery in a quiet corner of Valletta.
English is one of the two official languages on the island (the other being Maltese), so you'll have no trouble communicating.
The interesting thing about Malta is that you'll hear all sorts of languages spoken around you - French, Finnish, Swedish, Spanish, Russian and even Bulgarian. The island has drawn lots of expats from all over Europe along with Asia and the Americas, so you're guaranteed to meet at least one interesting person a day.
3. Local food will surprise you
Before going to Malta, I assumed that since it's an island, the local delicacy would be some sort of sea food. I was wrong. The most favored dish is actually rabbit. Yup, the fuzzy, tender kind. Everyone from locals to travel publications recommends Gululu at San Giljan as the best place to have a well-prepared rabbit, and I've got to agree with them.
Although Malta is hanging out by itself in the middle of the Mediterranean, you can still find your hipster juices and raw food. There's also sushi, Chinese, Italian, burgers and pizza for your late night cravings.
Another local delicacies are pastizzi, fluffy pastries you can buy for coins on every corner. Try a few and live it up, that's what travel is for.
4. Valletta will take you back in time
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Known as the city where Assasin's Creed and Troy were filmed, Valletta is full of history soaked in its narrow cobblestone streets.
The main square is a vibrant area surrounded by small cafes that serve a mean brunch and shops you can treat yo'self at. The city is easy to navigate and you can simply walk around, eliminating the hassle of renting a car.
If you want to go explore other parts of the island, you can easily hop on a bus for a little less than $2. Tip: don't throw away your ticket. It's valid for a few hours, so you can use it twice.
Tourism is definitely present in Valletta but unlike other European capitals, has not taken over daily life. The city boasts some luxurious properties like Palazzo Prince D'Orange where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the skyline and relax by the water.
Hollywood celebs like Emily Blunt stay here on holidays, and I can see why. Just look at this place...
5. You can dive your heart out
Lots of people visit Malta to enjoy its clean waters and diving spots. You can go on diving tours in many places, from urban Slima to calm Gozo. It's cheap and fun, so grab your swimsuit.
6. The party scene is very chill
And there's something for everyone. Hop on bus #14 from Valletta to Ross and pick your spot. From clubs like Shadow Lounge bumping the latest hits to tiny karaoke pubs like The Scottsman and Cork, there's something for everyone.
Drinks are not expensive and clubs are open late. Getting back to your place to Netflix & chill is easy too, just order a cab on your phone and you're good.
If you're still not convinced, check out this video of Malta. Bon voyage!
