Islands of activity is one way of describing Malta. Just half the size of London in area, Malta has had an important place in the history of the Mediterranean and the wider world. From the Phoenicians to British rule, nations and tribes have contested control of the island for hundreds of years. In 1964 Malta gained its independence and since then has seen a boom in visitor numbers. Its great weather, rich culture and excellent beaches all appeal to visitors from across the world. The islands is rated as a place for high quality and discerning package holidays, Malta's choice of resorts, low levels of modern development and unique identity attracts a wide mix of visitors.
The Republic of Malta consists of an archipelago with three inhabited islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comino. The coastal geography features many inlets and beaches, so sports like canoeing and sailing as well as fishing are all popular. A good way to get around Malta is to hire a car, while regular passenger ferries link the islands together. No beach is quite like another on Malta and whether it's sailing, windsurfing, diving, canoeing, jet skiing or just swimming and relaxing on the sand, there is something for everyone to do on these islands.
The Maltese have a passion for sailing, and it is one of the most popular leisure and sporting pursuits on the island. With clean winds from any direction, boat charters are a great way to explore the archipelago, while many beaches have smaller sailing boats and dinghies for hire. Discovering the many inlets and rugged coastline from the clear turquoise waters around Malta is an inspiring and tranquil experience by boat, which gives you an otherworldly perspective on the many geological and archaeological sites. It's obvious that the Maltese coast is beautiful, and as such it is popular with other water users, especially kayakers and divers.
Diving is another big hobby in Malta, with a great choice of reef, wall, cave and wreck dives available from diving schools that cater for everyone, from novice divers to seasoned experts. Average summer seawater temperatures of 27 degrees and 15 degrees in the winter, mean diving in Malta can be enjoyed pretty much all year round. Take to the water for another way of seeing the great Maltese coastline. A range of centres offering tours and expeditions can be found all along the coast, and by taking a canoe you'll enjoy a whole new persepctive of the impressive coastline.
One of the islands, Comino is a spectacular and very peaceful spot, with the crystal clear water of the Blue Lagoon an ideal swimming location. With little in the way of trains or buses, a popular and fun way to get around Comino is to cycle.
Across main island of Malta, there is a fantastic range of sandy beaches on offer, and plenty of activities to do while you're there. Ghajn Tuffieha beach is simply stunning; the bay is almost completely unspoiled by development and a great range of water sports activities are based here. There are some stunning views to be had here, especially early in the morning or evening just before the light fades.
Travel and accommodation choices for Malta are abundant. With beaches to suit everyone's taste and style, getting to Malta is easy, with plenty of flights from various airports across the UK. Staying at one of the many villas in Malta is one of the best ways to be near the beach and to live in style on this very charming and friendly island. Travel breaks here are growing in popularity as more people discover this wonderful part of the Mediterranean for the first time.
Since gaining independence in 1964 holidays in Malta have become popular with tourists from other parts of Europe. Mark Bartley's review explains what Malta has to offer and why someone might consider a trip there.
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