My Favorite Things
If I had invented a place that had everything, it would have been Mdina (known at The Silent City). Luckily, I didn't have to do anything but find it.
Look at the curved streets in this fortified city from the Middle Ages. They were built this way to prevent arrows from hitting their mark. I really think they were built this way for me to love and lean on. Do I look fat in this picture?
Cats are everywhere in Malta--just like in Italy and Egypt--and I love them. Some are feral and will not let you near them. Others love to be fed and will let you get in a quick touch in exchange for some tidbit. The very elegant Phoenician Hotel in Valletta even has a hotel cat who sits in front of the main entrance. Most of the Maltese cats are tabby reds or with red tabby markings.
Cafes are plentiful, especially in Sliema and Valletta, and they’re open late. Even through most of the winter you can stay outside—with a big gas fire heater the places provide.
Valletta is my other favorite city in Malta. I love walking around the fortified walls—called the Bastions. The view of the Grand Harbor from the Upper Barracca Gardens has to be one of the most beautiful scenes in the world. I was in Valletta when I first fell in love with Malta itself. There’s also some good shopping, including the one chain shop I like—The Body Shop.
Horseback Riding is as good as it gets in Malta. There are several places, but my favorite is Golden Bay. The horses are in good shape, the scenery is breathtaking, it’s not that expensive (considering what it is in the US), the instruction is good—and the instructor—Mario—is gorgeous.
More to come….
Hi Tyler--thanks for your comment. No, I haven't met any military people who I'm aware of. I'll post your comment on The Forum where you may get some answers--good luck! Ilene
Posted by: Sennuwy (an ancient Egyptian name) | January 21, 2011 at 01:35 AM
great site with lots of wonderful info. Thank you. Have you met any retired military folks over there? I will be retiring in a few years and am beginning to think about retiring to Malta. I just wonder how my military benefits may be affected if I move to Malta? Such as health/dental care,
Posted by: tyler | January 19, 2011 at 01:24 PM
Hi there, Marcus. Thanks so much for your kind comment--Ilene
On Sun, Sep 27, 2009 at 11:21 AM, wrote:
Posted by: Sennuwy (an ancient Egyptian name) | September 27, 2009 at 05:41 AM
i must congratulate you for a great website that surely promotes Malta.
Posted by: Marcus Abela | September 27, 2009 at 05:21 AM