Marisa Charlinski

I am planning a trip to Malta and was wondering if anyone has advice on what to see and do there. Also curious about currency, dining and transportation on the islands.
Thank you!
M. Charlinski

George Holt

Malta has quite a lot going for it, not least the freindly, English speaking people. Its quite a compact island with an aging but efficient bus network. There are some beutiful churches on Malta and neighbouring Gozo. Valetta, the capital, is very attractive, at least from the top looking down, not so much fun when you're at the bottom and have to walk back up. There are extensive ramparts all round the town and a war museum right down near the sea. Also visit the cathedral and the armoury. Mosta has rotunda church enlivened by a miracle when a German bomb fell through the roof and failed to explode (not actually an uncommon occurence). M'dina is a peaceful day out and a day trip to Gozo is well worthwhile. Sea conditions permitting you can also take a hydrofoil trip to Sicily. In my experience most of the beaches are stony or downright rocky except in the extreme north west of the island. I've only ever visited in December but I understand it can get very hot in high summer. The currency is Maltese Lira, I don't know the current exchange rate but when I last went a few years back there were roughly 2 UK Pounds to 1 Maltese Lira.

Ed Lima

See my other response in this lounge---the Andar Hotel on Gozo is wonderful!!!! Gozo is very small and quiet--less hectic than Malta--Malta, and we stayed in Valetta, is crowded but there is plenty to do and see---read the history of the Knights Hospitallier before going(Knights of Malta)to understand the history behind the incredible architecture, art collections, religious relics and cathedrals---spend at least 2 days in Valetta visiting the museums, palaces and churches as well as Ft. Elmo where you can view a movie on the bombing of Malta during WWII (King George of England awarded all the people of Malta the Geirge Cross for gallantry-the cross on the Maltese flag) Maltese love Americans-many are here in New York and around the country--they are friendly and very helpful...busing on Malta is ok but can be unreliable-driving a horrible experience-wrong side of the road and the locals drive like maniacs in these polluting rattletraps!! pollution very present and you can witness its effects on the older buildings in Valetta---food primarily Italian---visit Mdina!!!!! on Malta-gorgeous walled city as well as the catacombs and ruins both on Gozo and Malta----also visit the glass blowing factories--all small and the one in Valetta is on an island where they ferry you there by small boat---take a boat tour of the harbors on Malta and stay away from the cliffs in rural areas due to the bird hunters!!!!write if I can be of further assistance and enjoy your trip!!!! ed lima

George Holt

...busing on Malta is ok but can be unreliable-driving a horrible experience-wrong side of the road and the locals drive like
maniacs in these polluting rattletraps!! ... Actually its you Americans who drive on the wrong side of the road There's a saying usefully learnt by anyone contemplating hiring a car in Malta... "The British drive on the left, the French drive on the right and the Maltese drive in the shade!"

joelle

We stayed in Malta four years ago and liked it pretty much. I do agree that the Gozo island is less crowded than the actual Matla island. We found the Ta'Cenc hotel in Gozo to be a great address. The only problem about the island is that there are practically no beaches but the landscapes are wild and wonderful. to easily get to Gozo, you can take the helicopter service from Malta airport or, should you rent a car, go by the regular ferry. By the way, we rented a car and although they drive on the "wrong side" of the road, we did not experience any problem.

Jens

I recommend concentrating on Gozo if you want peace and quiet. My favourite hotel is the Cornucopia. The island is so small that (provided you're in reasonable shape) you can walk all over it, in particular if you stay right in the center. Otherwise bring a bicycle. If you're interested, e-mail me, and I may still be able to dig up some addresses - but it's been 9 years since I visited the islands. Anyway I can recommend more things to see. Have a nice trip

Jens

I recommend concentrating on Gozo if you want peace and quiet. My favourite hotel is the Cornucopia. The island is so small that (provided you're in reasonable shape) you can walk all over it, in particular if you stay right in this hotel which is right in the center. Otherwise bring a bicycle - I did. If you're interested, e-mail me, and I may still be able to dig up some addresses - but it's been 9 years since I visited the islands. Anyway I can recommend more things to see. Have a nice trip

C.R.Rice

I was in Malta this past year...May 97...a real disappoinment...its better in the books...because overdevelopement has ruined the beaches, lack of care leaves most monuments dirty, dusty, littered and just in ruins and regretably this island has no good cuisine...it left a lot to be desired...We planned to stay at the advised " 4 star" Holiday Inn and checked out immediately... the suite had a poor view of the sea ( this was pre-requested) the room smelled of mildew, they were not accomdating...the hotel needs a major facelift ...We were fortunate to find the newest spot called the Westin Hotel Dragonara...freshley built with wonderful views of the sea. Very friendly and accomodating staff. Located within walking distance of any action there is to be found on this dry island. This area is called St. Juliens-Bay of Balluta. We found the only retaurant here where we ate almost every night. The Hotel Dragonara has an attached casino (located out on a rock prominatory) and the Hotel's lobby is active, a baby grand and great for people watching. Driving in Malta was not a problem.
Roads are well marked, left side driving...just keep your peripheral vision on high alert. Gozo is quiet and more pleasant. Go to Malta if you are a war veteran for all of Valleta is a big museum ( in need of a dusting). Malta is one place in my words, that does not rate a return visit.