"Not all those who wander are lost" - J.R.R. Tolkien
At times like these, when we can’t really go anywhere else, we need to figure out how to make the most of what surrounds us. Lucky for us, however, Malta and Gozo are replete with gems (away from all the unpleasant modern buildings and pollution). Some gems are even unvisited, and dare I say, unknown to those living only a stone’s throw away…
So, today I invite you to grab a map and a backpack (we are not going to be backpacking across Western Europe though, tell Joey from 'Friends' that’s not safe these days), and to start discovering new Maltese and Gozitan places, learning about the stories behind them, and trying out new activities. That way, you will be having what is close to a relaxing, yet cultural holiday.
1. Visit Ċittadella
When I say visit, I mean really and thoroughly visit it. Most Gozitans have been to Ċittadella at some point or other, but do they really know it and its history well enough? No, and that’s a true shame. This summer, you have a golden opportunity to act like a tourist and discover its every nook and cranny. This will in turn help you truly comprehend its significance for us Gozitans. As is proven by the image above, Ċittadella is very aesthetically beautiful by day, but it is also equally so by night.
2. Visit Valletta & Mdina
Ċittadella is undoubtedly not the only cultural and historical landmark in our islands. Visit Valletta and Mdina as a domestic tourist and it could in fact be a very enriching experience. You have to however put on an enquiring and critical lens, and not just visit Valletta to shop or for a coffee break. These are of course still things you can do as a tourist, but both Valletta and Mdina offer much more. They provide a unique snapshot of our history and what makes us Maltese. And also, don’t be afraid to get lost. Often, getting lost leads you to discover something beautiful, be it about the place in question, or about yourself. I repeat - not all who wander are lost.
3. Go canoeing/kayaking (or perhaps even diving and jet-skiing)
Contact a canoe and kayak tour agency, and get ready to work it (or them - because your arms are going to do all the work). At this point, most of us have enjoyed our Maltese beaches to the full by regularly going swimming. However, a true tourist not only swims in the sea, but tries out canoeing or kayaking and perhaps even diving and jet skiing. What amazing touristic days these activities would make.
4. Rent Quad Bikes
Renting quad bikes gives you the opportunity to take a scenic tour around Malta or Gozo. Now you can totally do this on a sightseeing bus, but that doesn’t sound as fun, does it? Nope, doing this activity whilst laughing with your group of friends sounds like an experience you will never forget.
5. Have a ‘ftira’ at L-Għar tal-Mixta
Something true tourists are undoubtedly bound to do is delight in the country’s typical food. So grab a ftira or some pastizzi and go up to L-Għar tal-Mixta – a cave overseeing Ramla Bay. After a whole day of touristic activities, this would be the cherry on the cake. The view from here is spectacular, making you feel as fulfilled as a true tourist would be.
Now there are A LOT of other activities one can do to act like a tourist in Malta/Gozo, but to name them all would be impossible. So, I will leave it to you to plan a day, or weekend, or even a week, that is dedicated to delighting in the beauty our home islands offer. Whichever activities you choose, do not forget to tag us at @writingsondwall!
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