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sunalimerchant · 2 months

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Cultural Fusion: Halal Food with a Maltese Twist

Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary traditions. As a melting pot of cultures due to its strategic location, Malta has absorbed various influences over the centuries, from Mediterranean to Middle Eastern flavors. One of the fascinating developments in the Maltese culinary scene is the fusion of traditional Maltese cuisine with Halal food principles, creating a unique and delectable experience for both locals and tourists. This article explores the exciting blend of Halal food in Malta with a Maltese twist.

Understanding Halal Food

Halal food adheres to Islamic dietary laws as outlined in the Quran. The term "halal" means permissible or lawful. For food to be considered halal, it must meet specific criteria, including the humane treatment of animals, the method of slaughter, and the absence of prohibited ingredients such as alcohol and certain animal fats. Halal food is not just about what is eaten but also about how it is prepared and processed.

Maltese Cuisine: A Culinary Heritage

Maltese cuisine reflects the island’s history and its interactions with different cultures over centuries. Traditional Maltese dishes often feature fresh seafood, rabbit, pork, and a variety of vegetables, legumes, and herbs. Staple foods include ftira (a type of Maltese bread), pastizzi (savory pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas), and imqaret (date-filled pastries).

The Fusion: Halal Food with a Maltese Twist

The fusion of Halal food in Malta with traditional Maltese cuisine has resulted in innovative dishes that respect Islamic dietary laws while showcasing the island’s rich culinary heritage. This fusion caters to the growing Muslim population in Malta and the increasing number of Muslim tourists visiting the island.

Halal Seafood Dishes

Seafood is a significant part of Maltese cuisine, given the island’s proximity to the sea. Traditional dishes such as Aljotta (fish soup) and Lampuki Pie (a pie made with dorado fish) can easily be adapted to meet Halal standards. Restaurants serving Halal food in Malta often ensure that seafood dishes are prepared without alcohol or non-halal ingredients, preserving the authentic flavors while adhering to dietary guidelines.

Halal Rabbit Dishes

Rabbit, known as Fenek in Maltese, is a staple in Maltese cuisine, traditionally prepared as Stuffat tal-Fenek (rabbit stew). This dish can be made Halal by ensuring the rabbit is slaughtered according to Halal practices and substituting any non-halal ingredients. The result is a rich, flavorful stew that retains its traditional Maltese essence while being suitable for Muslim diners.

Halal Pastries and Sweets

Pastizzi, a beloved Maltese snack, can also be enjoyed with a Halal twist. Traditionally made with lard, Halal pastizzi are prepared using vegetable shortening or other permissible fats. Similarly, imqaret, the popular date-filled pastries, are often made with Halal-certified ingredients, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delicious treats.

Finding Halal Food in Malta

With the rising demand for Halal food, numerous restaurants and cafes in Malta now offer Halal options. These establishments range from high-end restaurants to street food vendors, providing a variety of choices for Halal diners. Many restaurants clearly label their Halal offerings, and some even specialize entirely in Halal cuisine.

The Cultural Impact

The fusion of Halal food with Maltese cuisine is not just a culinary trend but also a reflection of Malta’s cultural diversity and openness. This blend promotes cultural understanding and inclusivity, allowing people from different backgrounds to share and enjoy each other's traditions. It also enhances the culinary landscape of Malta, introducing new flavors and cooking techniques that enrich the local food scene.

Conclusion

The fusion of Halal food in Malta with traditional Maltese cuisine represents a delightful intersection of cultures and culinary traditions. This innovative blend caters to the dietary needs of the Muslim community while celebrating Malta’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist, exploring Halal food with a Maltese twist offers a unique gastronomic experience that embodies the spirit of cultural fusion and inclusivity. As Malta continues to embrace its diverse culinary influences, the future of Halal food in Malta looks promising and delicious.

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talesofemptychairs · 1 year

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A Culinary Journey Trips to Malta : Taste the Mediterranean Flavors

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a trip to the enchanting Mediterranean gem, Malta? Join us as we take you on a delectable journey through the flavors, aromas, and culinary traditions of this picturesque island. 🌊🍕🍷

🍅 Deliciously Diverse Cuisine: Malta's rich history and cultural influences have given rise to a cuisine that's as diverse as it is mouthwatering. From hearty stews and freshly caught seafood to aromatic pastries and artisanal cheeses, every bite tells a story of the island's past.

🏰 A Taste of History: As you savor each dish, you're also indulging in history. Don't miss out on trying "Pastizzi," a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas, reminiscent of Malta's British influence. And of course, the iconic "Fenek" (rabbit) dish that reflects the island's rustic past.

🍷 Wine & Dine: Malta's wine scene is an adventure in itself. Discover local vineyards that produce unique Maltese wines, some of which date back centuries. Pair these exquisite wines with traditional dishes for a sensory experience you won't forget.

🍝 Cooking Classes: Dive deeper into the culinary culture by participating in cooking classes. Learn to create Maltese specialties like "Bragioli" (beef olives) or "Kapunata" (Maltese ratatouille) under the guidance of skilled local chefs.

🌴 Seaside Gastronomy: Imagine enjoying freshly grilled fish while the salty breeze from the Mediterranean Sea gently caresses your skin. Malta's coastal dining spots offer a sensory feast, where the views and the food are equally mesmerizing.

🛍️ Local Markets: Wander through bustling markets and witness the vibrant colors of locally sourced produce. Engage with friendly vendors and discover the ingredients that form the heart of Maltese cuisine. Don't forget to pick up some sun-kissed tomatoes and fragrant herbs!

🍰 Sweet Endings: No culinary journey is complete without desserts. Indulge in decadent sweets like "Imqaret" (date-filled pastries) and "Helwa tat-Tork" (sweet sesame candy) that round off your meals in true Maltese style.For more details visit the site https://talesofemptychairs.com/travel-tips-to-malta/

#MaltaCulinaryJourney #MediterraneanTaste #MaltaFoodAdventures #TalesOfEmptyChairs

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natashadelvi · 1 year

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Halal Food Malta

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, the picturesque island of Malta offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. As a crossroads of civilizations, Malta has been influenced by various cultures throughout its history, and this is beautifully reflected in its diverse culinary landscape. One significant aspect of Malta's gastronomy is Halal food, which holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will explore the essence of Halal food in Malta, its significance, and the various delicious options available to those seeking a Halal culinary experience on this enchanting island.

Understanding Halal Food

Halal is an Arabic word that translates to "permissible" in English. In the context of food, Halal refers to dietary guidelines and practices followed by Muslims in accordance with Islamic principles. Halal food is prepared, cooked, and consumed following specific rules that adhere to Islamic dietary laws. These rules include the humane and Halal slaughter of animals, the prohibition of certain ingredients (such as pork and its by-products), and the use of utensils that are not contaminated by non-Halal substances.

Halal Cuisine in Malta: A Fusion of Cultures

Malta's long history as a trading hub and a melting pot of cultures has significantly influenced its culinary scene. The Arab and North African influence, in particular, has left an indelible mark on Maltese gastronomy, introducing the concept of Halal food to the island. As a result, Maltese cuisine features a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, creating a culinary fusion that caters to a diverse population.

Halal Ingredients and Dishes

Halal food in Malta revolves around a variety of Halal meats, such as lamb, chicken, and seafood. These meats are expertly prepared with aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in mouthwatering dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Traditional Maltese dishes like "Stuffat tal-Fenek" (rabbit stew) and "Lampuki Pie" (fish pie) are often prepared in Halal-friendly versions, ensuring that Muslim residents and visitors can enjoy these beloved delicacies.

Halal Street Food: A Culinary Adventure

One of the best ways to experience the flavors of Halal food in Malta is through its vibrant street food culture. Street vendors across the island offer a variety of delectable Halal snacks that are perfect for a quick bite on the go. From the beloved "Pastizzi" (flaky pastries filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas) to mouthwatering "Imqaret" (date-filled fritters), Halal street food in Malta provides a delightful culinary adventure for food enthusiasts.

Halal Restaurants and Dining Experiences

For those seeking a more formal dining experience, Malta boasts a growing number of restaurants that offer Halal options on their menus. From traditional Maltese eateries to international cuisine restaurants, Halal-conscious individuals can find a wide array of dishes to suit their preferences. Many of these restaurants proudly display their Halal certification, providing reassurance to Muslim diners.

Halal Tourism in Malta

As Malta becomes an increasingly popular tourist destination, the island has embraced Halal tourism to cater to the needs of Muslim travelers. Halal-friendly hotels, resorts, and tour operators now offer specialized services and facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for Muslim visitors. Halal-certified dining options, prayer facilities, and cultural experiences are among the offerings that have made Malta an attractive destination for Muslim travelers.

Conclusion

Halal food in Malta is not just about meeting dietary requirements; it is a celebration of cultural diversity and culinary fusion. The Arab and North African influence has added a unique dimension to Maltese gastronomy, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and traditions that cater to a diverse population. Whether it's enjoying Halal-certified traditional Maltese dishes or savoring delightful Halal street food, the culinary experiences in Malta are a testament to the island's spirit of inclusivity and openness to embracing different cultures. For Muslim residents and visitors, Malta offers a warm and welcoming Halal culinary journey that showcases the island's rich history, culture, and love for good food.

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nogarlicnoonions · 5 years

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#Imqaret is a #traditional #Maltese #sweet made with #pastry and a filling of #dates. The word imqaret in Maltese, is the plural of #maqrut and it signifies the diamond shape of the sweets – even though in many cases they are sold in a rectangular shape. #maltesefood #traditionalpastry (at Malta) https://www.instagram.com/p/BvoR0q6h76f/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=oqp82730o7kw

#imqaret #traditional #maltese #sweet #pastry #dates #maqrut #maltesefood #traditionalpastry

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qqueenofhades · 4 years

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If anyone is an enabling mood..HI, I AM ALWAYS IN AN ENABLING MOOD, YOU WANT ENABLING? HERE IT IS. I have soft loving enabling tho cos I don't like being mean it makes me sad.

As we all expected, I am very, very easy to enable. Credit to @voidxces for the beautiful and inspiring edit. Mildly smutty bits, hence the full story is below the cut.

Valletta, Malta

December 15, 1999

The customs line at Malta International Airport is long, maddeningly slow-moving, and the one guard stamping passports looks to be about ninety, as Joe shifts from foot to foot and tries to remind himself that they have nothing but time. (Unless, of course, the Y2K nuts are all correct and they’re two short weeks from the end of life as we know it, but if nothing else, living for almost a thousand years means that he has seen countless doomsday prophecies come and go without so much as a whimper.) It was a crappy flight from Paris – overbooked, understaffed, the inevitable screaming child two rows behind them and now determined to keep up the racket in the passport queue – and Joe’s trying not to look as stressed as he feels. This is their getaway for the holidays and the new year, the turn of the millennium, a huge and significant milestone for any number of reasons, and he’ll feel better once they’re out of here. Nobody’s at their best in the cattle corrals and the fluorescent lights of border control, another reminder of how much things have changed over all the years they’ve been coming to Malta. The first time they were here in 1501, all they had to do was sail up, get off the boat, and pay a bribe to the port official. Joe votes they try that now.

The line shuffles forward another inch, the child behind them screams even louder, and as Joe is silently reciting the Bismillah and reminding himself that the Almighty values patience, Nicky turns around. He sizes up the mother – tired-looking, hungry-eyed, apologetically trying to corral the fussy baby and a toddler of about three or four – and smiles gently. “Hello,” he says in English, then glances at her passport and sees that she’s Italian. “Buona sera, signora,” he goes on, not missing a beat. “Hai bisogna di aiuto con qualcosa?”

The tired mother starts, her eyes welling with tears. Joe’s willing to bet that nobody has offered to help her for this entire trip, and has to smile softly to himself that of course Nicky has swooped out of the Maltese night like, well, a knight, her countryman in a time of crisis, to do exactly that. Joe is already feeling better just to watch Nicky be Nicky, as his lover takes hold of the baby, joggles him on his hip and tells him that he’s a handsome fellow and to stop screaming and to give his mama a break, as the mother tends to her toddler, gets herself sorted out, and thanks Nicky profusely in what sounds like Calabrian. Joe’s mostly able to pick out the specific regional accents, and he guesses that this woman is a migrant, one of the workers who travel around Europe in the growing season to pick fruit and vegetables in hot fields under hard bosses who only pay in cash and owe a cut to the Mafia. He takes out his wallet and quietly offers her all the Maltese lira they changed for back in France, and she shakes her head and tries to refuse. He insists – she looks somewhat surprised that he speaks Italian too, but not unduly – and while she won’t take it all, they manage to give her back her baby, some money, and reach the front of the line without actually noticing the rest of the wait. Joe hands over a French passport that reads Joseph Jones. Nicky hands over Nicholas Smith. The guard looks at them, asks a few questions in his quavering old-man voice, stamps the visa pages, and once more, they’re in.

Outside, Joe and Nicky collect their bags, help the woman to the taxi rank and make sure she’s on her way to wherever she’s staying, then go out to catch the bus. Valletta sparkles in the distance as they draw closer, this magnificent collection of fortresses and gardens and churches, domes and spires, palaces and piazzas, museums and terraces, city walls and citadels, Benjamin Disraeli’s city of palaces for gentlemen. The place was largely built by the Knights Hospitaller after their exile from Rhodes and the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, and Joe and Nicky have watched it transform over the centuries, but it has still managed to retain that unique spark of what they love about it. It is familiar, comforting, lovely. If the world is going to end, no better place to be than here.

The bus stops in downtown, they thank the driver in fluent Maltese, and get off, hauling their bags and suitcases. The December evening is cool and misty, fog floating over the cobblestones like elegant wraiths, the streetlamps casting pools of golden glow that look like doorways to another world. They walk casually hand in hand to a corner store that is about to shut up shop for the evening, buy a quick dinner, and then continue up the street. Somewhat appropriately, they are staying in a rented house near St Sebastian’s Bastion, Is-Sur ta' San Bastjan, on the northeastern tip of the Valletta peninsula near Fort Saint Elmo. They know the elderly owner well, who has left the key in the postbox for them, and they unlock the door, ascend the narrow, creaky stairs to the top-floor garret, and find that a small Christmas tree and a plate of imqaret have been left to welcome them. The windows open out over the city wall and the dark, glittering ocean. It is quiet, at last. Just the two of them.

“Finally,” Joe says. He picks up Nicky’s bags when he puts them down, and carries them into the dark bedroom, switching on the lights. They set down their convenience-store repast and eat, affectionately nudging each other’s knees under the too-small table. They’ll do more shopping tomorrow; they will be here at least until January (assuming, of course, no apocalypse). Joe smiles at Nicky, happy to be here, happy to be with him, happy to be sharing this small and unremarkable meal with a soft rain pattering on the steep slanted roof. When they’ve finished and tidied up, Joe murmurs, “Not too tired, are you?”

Nicky answers with a devilish quirk of his eyebrow, as if to say that of course neither of them were actually planning to go to sleep without celebrating their return appropriately. He wraps his arms around Joe’s waist, and they waltz into the bedroom, kicking the door shut behind them and drawing the curtains, sinking down on the amply-sized bed and undressing each other with slow and leisurely care. Even after a thousand, a hundred thousand times, it never fails to thrill. Their mouths meet in the dimness, their hands trace the well-loved lines of the other’s body, the faint scars and lines that never go away even through all the regenerations, the secret places, the curve of lips, the plane of shoulders and spines, the tensed tightness low on stomachs, the bend of a knee or the bone of an ankle. Joe pushes Nicky down beneath him, and Nicky arches his back, wrapping his legs around Joe’s waist. In quiet and tender and timeless communion, they find their way back home again, in each other and with each other, in touches and kisses and slow thrusts turning faster, and finally, sated, they sleep.

They wake in the morning with slants of winter sunlight filling the room, the high white ceilings, the gauzy curtains fluttering in the constant draft that they’ve never found, the way they’ve woken up in this room since they first met the owner in 1973, and which makes Joe think poignantly, as he always does for just an instant, of their lost home in Constantinople. They get up and dress, then leave the house in search of breakfast. The stone of the streets is pink and amber and gold and fawn, and the light has that particular early-morning quality where it seems to shine through sheets of bleached linen. The city is already awake and bustling, and Joe and Nicky make their way to their favorite café. They can sit overlooking the water and eat as much pastry and drink as much coffee as they like, and they make a good several hours of it. The sun comes up over the street, the palm trees rustle in the breeze, and a few tourists wander by with fancy Nikons around their necks, looking lost. One asks in English if they know where the Grandmaster’s Palace is, and Nicky is happy to point them in the right direction.

“You know,” he says, when they have finally finished breakfast and are wandering happily through the baroque streets, hands and shoulders brushing, “it’s 1999. This is our nine-hundredth anniversary, strictly speaking.”

Joe raises an eyebrow at him. “More like our eight hundredth,” he says playfully. “If we’re going from when we actually figured anything out.”

Nicky shrugs, grinning sheepishly, even as both of them fall contemplatively silent. 1099 is a long, long time ago by anybody’s measure. Joe thinks of himself, kneeling in prayer in the Tower of David, the dread whispers that the Franks were coming, the way he can remember parts and pieces and that first death bright as flame, but the rest of it has faded into the soft greyness of endlessly passing time. They did go to Jerusalem earlier this year, in July, since it seemed like the thing to do; there were a lot of First Crusade remembrances going on, some of which they wanted to be associated with and some of which they didn’t. There was a tweed-jacketed history professor who was deeply appreciative of the detailed account that Nicky was able to give on the breach of Jerusalem’s walls (he asked if he had published any articles on the subject, Nicky said hastily that he was just an enthusiastic amateur), and then there were some whackjobs who were trying to inflame religious tensions, as usual, and basically acting like it was a good thing that the heretics got what was coming to them. Lots of Americans with placards. Lots of Israeli secret service and bearded guys who were probably covert Hezbollah. Lots of people who all think they know exactly what the crusade’s legacy means, and which Joe and Nicky couldn’t help but regard warily. Everything seems twisted up these days, poised on the brink. That guy named bin Laden whose pals tried to bomb the World Trade Center in 1993, he’s been talking as usual. Death to the Western crusaders. So on and so forth. Thus far, nobody’s really listening outside the Middle East, but when you’ve seen this so many times, it’s harder to ignore.

Joe shakes himself, not wanting to think about this on their long-awaited getaway. They’ve been in Kosovo on and off this year, even if the last thing any of them really wanted was to go back into the Yugoslavian wars, and Andy and Booker are off to enjoy the last few weeks of the twentieth century elsewhere. Someone like Andy, the turn of a millennium is old hat, but even for as long as they’ve lived, this is Joe and Nicky’s first new set of a thousand years. The Year Two Thousand. Sounds appropriately science-fictiony. How, Joe thinks. How on earth did Yusuf al-Kaysani from Cairo end up here.

That, however, is only incidental to his enjoyment of the rest of the day. They walk on the city walls, they go up to the Grand Harbor and take in the sea view, then to the Barrakka Gardens. Nicky gazes pensively on the monument of remembrance and out over the glittering blue water, as Joe sits down on a bench and watches him. He has always simply enjoyed looking at Nicky, watching him breathe, watching him be, watching the way he leans on the railing and shields his eyes against the sun with the casual, unconsciousness elegance that permeates everything he does. Whether the name is Yusuf al-Kaysani or Joseph Jones or anything else, it doesn’t matter. Even among all the change and clutter of the modern world, this adoration, this soul-deep delight, is the one thing that remains constant.

That is how the next several days pass. Joe and Nicky visit their usual old haunts in Valletta, eat well, make love, and catch up with the apartment’s owner, Ġużepp, who is now in his eighties, has known them for over twenty-five years, and never seen them age a day. He has never asked why. His wife died a long time ago and they never had children, and perhaps he sees them as sons, as a strange but poignant blessing for a lonely old man, two people who clearly love this place as much as he does. He asked them once when they first came here, and Joe wondered if they should just tell him that it was the sixteenth century. Somehow it seems as if Ġużepp might not be surprised.

A few days before Christmas, a storm blows in from the Atlantic just as dust blows in from North Africa, and the world turns silver and ocher and rust and wet, the windows sparkling as if stained in silver nitrate and the streets and domes and splendid churches of Valletta painted in watercolor impressionism on the blurry glass, anything or anyone outside the bedroom barely seeming to exist. Joe and Nicky spend the time productively, which is to say they have so much sex that they can barely walk. They twist into each other, explore and challenge and unstring and repair each other, touch and caress, kiss and lick and suck and mark their territory all over again, leaving no inch of flesh unexplored and no sinful act undone. “You know,” Nicky murmurs, eyes closed, smiling, sweat beading on his brow, hand stroking up the line of Joe’s spine as Joe nips at his neck. “We really are a pair of heretics, aren’t we.”

“Speak for yourself, Nicolò.” Joe leans down to steal another kiss from his lover’s bruised, teeth-marked lips. “Heretics according to who?”

Nicky hums, as if to say he is happy to get into a theological argument at a later date, but can’t be arsed to do so right now. Joe slides down next to him, sliding his hand across Nicky’s chest and stomach, curling lower, as Nicky whines and reflexively tries to pull back. “You’re going to be the death of me.”

Joe laughs, as he always does, pressing a kiss into Nicky’s shoulder and thinking – as he also always does – Allah and all His angels forbid. He has always secretly, shamefully prayed that if that terrible moment came, if one of them lost their immortality first, that it be him. He knows this condemns Nicky to live on without him, but he cannot face the prospect of doing it himself. Dying for good, even after this long, somehow seems easier. At least he’s done that before, often. Living without the other half of his soul, not so much.

The rain clears on Christmas Day, the light is fragile and golden and perfect as heaven, and they call Andy and Booker (Andy’s somewhere in Argentina, Booker is on a beach in Thailand) and wish each other happy holidays. Nicky mixes up a feast, Joe helps (if by that you mean stirring the occasional pot and taking full advantage of Nicky’s “Kiss the Cook” apron) and they open their door and visit with the neighbors who drop in to bring more pastries and Christmas wishes. Ġużepp turns up, they invite him to stay for supper so he won’t be alone, and after the token protests, he agrees. As he is insisting on doing the washing-up, he asks, “How long have you two known each other?”

Joe and Nicky glance at each other. They’re fairly sure that Ġużepp knows they’re a couple, even if they haven’t said so openly, just in case an old Maltese Roman Catholic would prefer to know it implicitly but not have it confirmed. Finally Nicky says, “A very long time.”

“I thought so, somehow.” The old man reaches for a dish towel. “You seem that way. Have you been happy here? All the times you’ve been to Malta, to my house?”

“We’ve been very happy,” Joe assures him. “This place has been special for – for many years. I am Arabic, Nicky is Italian, it is like it was made just for us.”

Ġużepp smiles. “Your families?” he asks. “They are happy with it?”

Joe thinks of his mother, far off and so very long ago, and how Maryam al-Katibi always wanted him to be a better man. How he forgot about time and its passing, and never saw her again after he left. It remains one of the greatest regrets of his life that she never met Nicolò, as he thinks that they would have liked each other very much. But as far as their family goes now –

“Yes,” he says, thinking of Andy and Booker. “Yes, they are.”

“I am glad,” Ġużepp says stoutly. “It is good for a man not to be alone.”

(It is, and both Joe and Nicky have clung to that, and they don’t know now that this is the last time they will see Ġużepp, as he will die before they return here in 2004 when Malta becomes a member of the EU, but on this sweet, poignant night, as time speeds on its passing, as they both reflect on all those many years, and God said that it was good.)

The last week of 1999 and the twentieth century and the second millennium count down to its inevitable end. There aren’t exactly prophets in sandwich boards shrieking on the streets about the end times, though it’s undeniable that there’s a sharp-edged anxiety as Y2K draws closer. On December 31, Joe and Nicky sit on the beach at the famous Blue Lagoon, watching the sun go down over the island of Comino, holding hands. At last Nicky says – half joking, but only half – “If the world does end tonight, I want you to know that you are still the best thing that ever happened to me. Except for that pastry the other day. That was really very divine.”

Joe laughs, takes his hand to his lips and kisses it. “Always, my heart,” he says. “Always.”

The world gets softer and darker, and lights come on over the bay and the archipelago and the boats bobbing at anchor, and Joe thinks that it must be the year 2000 somewhere else, and everything still seems to be fine. He wasn’t really worried, but he knows that fear that the next year might bring with it something too terrible to be gotten around, and that if you could just cling to this moment now when things are all right, they might stay that way forever. Finally he and Nicky get the water taxi back to Valletta, and it’s getting closer and closer to midnight, and they sit down on a bench and count down with the rest of this sliver of the world, all the way into the next stage of forever.

When it becomes plain that the world has not ended, nor indeed does it seem likely to do so, everywhere seems to let out its breath at once. Huge and glorious fireworks thunder in the dark sky over the city, in riots of color and noise and sound, and Joe and Nicky can hear cheering and toasting from what seems like every house in the city. They kiss and then kiss again for good measure, swept along on a tide of jolly and relieved and mildly (or well, considerably) inebriated strangers, an impromptu street party that both of them feel down to their nine-hundred-and-fifty-year-old sinews, the sort of magic that still catches them dead to rights even after so long in this beautiful, stupid, dangerous, exasperating, maddening, heartbreaking, filthy, glorious, transcendent, irreplaceable world. They throw their arms around each other’s necks and gaze deeply into the other’s eyes, as even all the gaiety and festivity and bacchanal falls into nothing, passing over them like waves. “I love you,” Joe says, as he has said it so many times in all the languages he knows. “Ti amo.”

Nicky smiles that smile that makes the world shine, and spins Joe lightly on the spot, and the next thousand years seem, just then, like the greatest blessing that any man has ever had. “I know.”

#the old guard #the old guard fanfiction #joe x nicky #kaysanova #that time in malta #coffeemakesmeahappybean #ask

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ivyhendricks · 4 years

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sharing is caring: sharing street food

“Você precisa experimentar isso aqui!“ exclamou animada, logo que deu a primeira mordida no imqaret especial da feira mais tradicional da cidade, esticando o pacote para a amiga enquanto sentava ao seu lado na mesinha. “Hm, o que você tem ai?” indagou, já pegando a bebida que Daisy havia comprado antes que pudesse escutar a resposta.

#ask #daisylafrant

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kappavision · 2 years

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The best traditional Maltese sweet ever? IMQARET Eat like a local and experience the ‘dolce vita’ in Malta. And what better way to start off than with these inviting pair of date-filled ‘imqaret’ pastries enjoyed next to the church of Our Lady of Loreto in Gudja. REMEMBER THE LEGENDARY VALLETTA DATES KIOSK? Back in the day it was a must to grab a couple of imqaret every time we went to Valletta. The famous kiosk besides the Triton Fountain Bus Terminus was legendary. Who can forget that intense, sweet scent of the deep-fried, spicey date paste pushing through the burnt kerosene-mixed-with-diesel-fried-chips-oil-and-God-knows-what-else coming out of the old buses when going to Valletta? A MUST-TRY TRADITIONAL SWEET When you visit Malta for a holiday, you must try a few of these fried goodies. We guarantee it will be one of the most delicious choices you will have ever made! HEALTHY TIP TO DROP THE FAT You can also find a healthier, very low fat oven-baked version of imqaret these days, although nothing beats the fried ones for taste. Alternatively, you can buy them frozen and pop them in the oven at home. Cuts out most of the guilty after-thoughts… ABOUT IMQARET Imqaret are one of the traditional remnants of the Arab world that was left behind in Malta. Cut in fine rectangular shapes, this is a delightful recipe consisting of date filled pastries. The dish name itself is the plural of ‘maqrut’ - a word which derives from the Arabic word meaning 'diamond'. If you’re lucky enough to have tried this recipe in Malta, you know that you can find it almost everywhere in restaurants, cafés, and even in the kitchens of the Maltese. Street stalls selling imqaret are also a staple of every Maltese festa. These goodies are especially appetizing during the Christmas season, along with a nice cup of tea. Or you could try thing with vanilla ice cream and salted caramel during the hotter months with a cold bottle of Kinnie! (at Gudja) https://www.instagram.com/p/CiuD0pwIK3o/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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areistotle · 7 years

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i've been working on expanding my recipe repertoire for the past few months, are there any vegan/veganizable traditional maltese dishes that i should attempt to learn how to make?

YES YES YES!!! here we go 🇲🇹

vegan recipes ✨

maltese cooked apples (my family makes this for me and i love it!)

broad beans with garlic

bigilla (usually served with a side of galletti which makes it sooo good, but it’s lovely on bread too!)

maltese roast potatoes

minestra (a vegetable soup, amazing too!!!)

arjoli

pastizzi (aren’t really vegan but their pastry is and you can fill them with whatever you like, you can stick to the normal peas but also opt for lentils/beans etc!)

cashew cheese which is a lot like our ġbejna

ħobż biż-żejt (vegan ġbejna goes great with this!)

check out mouthwatering vegan tv (she’s part-maltese i believe and makes great recipes that mimic maltese faves like ricotta!)

veganisable recipes ✨

stuffed olives (veganise by not adding the tuna/anchovies)

white beans with garlic and parsley (omit the beef broth or substitute with veggie broth!)

kusksu + soppa tal-armla (omit eggs/cheese/chicken broth or substitute)

imqarrun il-forn + ross il-forn (substitute beef for TVP or vegan mince, eggs with egg replacer or one of these [perhaps not the banana/applesauce but any other will do])

sfineċ (substitute anchovies and use vegetables)

maltese pumpkin pie (remove fish + substitute egg for brushing with a plant milk of your choice)

stuffed artichokes/peppers/marrows (stuff with TVP/vegan mince instead of meat, no need for egg or cheese, but cashew parmesan is a good idea)

froġa tat-tarja (a fave, my gran used to make this for me. replace eggs with an egg replacement/oil)

sweets ✨

kwareżimal (use agave syrup instead of honey + vegetable margarine w/o vitamin D)

qagħaq tal-ħmira (use vegetable margarine again)

imqaret (these taste amazing, substitute eggs with egg replacement/bananas/applesauce or use vegan pastry)

pudina tal-ħobż (egg replacement again + substitute milk with plant milk)

torta tat-tamal (use vegan pastry!)

vegan figolli!!!

ħelwa tat-tork (basically halva, but maltese)

that’s all i have (i think)! feel free to ask any more questions you’d like to, i’d love to help with maltese cooking 💘

#answered #crashingthrutheclouds #malteseboy #got anymore suggestions? <3 #vegan

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gwendolynlerman · 6 years

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Discovering the world

Malta 🇲🇹

Basic facts

Official name: Republic of Malta/Repubblika ta’ Malta (English/Maltese)

Capital city: Valletta

Population: 563,443 (2023)

Demonym: Maltese

Type of government: unitary parliamentary republic

Head of state: Myriam Spiteri Debono (President)

Head of government: Robert Abela (Prime Minister)

Gross domestic product (purchasing power parity): $36.87 billion (2024)

Gini coefficient of wealth inequality: 28% (low) (2019)

Human Development Index: 0.915 (very high) (2022)

Currency: euro (EUR)

Fun fact: There are 359 churches, almost one for each day of the year.

Etymology

The country’s name comes from the ancient Greek Melítē, which means “place of honey”, through the Latin Melita, Arabic Māliṭā, and Italian and Maltese Malta.

Geography

Malta is located in Southern Europe, between Italy, Tunisia, and Libya, and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea.

The islands have a hot-summer Mediterranean climate. Temperatures range from 9 °C (48.2 °F) in winter to 31 °C (87.8 °F) in summer. The average annual temperature is 19.2 °C (66.5 °F).

The country is divided into six regions (reġjuni). The largest cities in Malta are Saint Paul’s Bay/San Pawl il-Baħar, Birkirkara, Sliema, Mosta, and Qormi.

History

5900-5500 BCE: Cardium Pottery Culture

700-218 BCE: Phoenicia

218-535 CE: Roman Empire

535-870: Byzantine Empire

870-1091: Abbasid Caliphate

1091: Norman invasion

1091-1130: County of Sicily

1130-1442: Kingdom of Sicily

1442-1479: Crown of Aragon

1479-1530: Spanish Empire

1530-1798: Hospitaller Malta

1565: Great Siege of Malta

1798-1800: French occupation

1800-1813: British Protectorate of Malta

1813-1964: Crown Colony of Malta

1964-1974: State of Malta

1974-present: Republic of Malta

Economy

Malta mainly imports from Russia, Italy, and the United Kingdom and exports to Germany, France, and Italy. Its top exports are food preparations, electronic integrated circuits, and malt extract.

Tourism accounts for 15% of the GDP. Services represent 87.2% of the GDP, followed by industry (11.4%) and agriculture (1.4%).

Malta is a member of the Commonwealth, the Council of Europe, the European Union, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and the Union for the Mediterranean.

Demographics

89.1% of the population identifies as Caucasian, and 5.2% are Asians. The state religion is Christianity, practiced by 88.5% of the population, 82.6% of which is Catholic.

It has a positive net migration rate and a fertility rate of 1.5 children per woman. 95% of the population lives in urban areas. Life expectancy is 79 years and the median age is 40.2 years. The literacy rate is 93%.

Languages

The official languages of the country are English, spoken by 88% of the population, and Maltese, spoken by 98%. Italian is spoken by two-thirds of the population.

Culture

Maltese people are the most generous in the world, with 83% donating to charity. Lace making and filigree work are traditional forms of art.

Men traditionally wear a shirt (qmis), loose trousers (qalziet), a scarf over one shoulder (ħorġa), and a hanging hat (milsa). Women wear a long-sleeved white blouse (qmis), a vest (sidrija), a skirt (dublett), an apron (geżwira), and a white headscarf (maktur).

Architecture

Traditional houses in Malta are made of stone and have flat roofs, colorful wooden balconies, and wrought-iron railings.

Cuisine

The Maltese diet is based on dairy products, fish, meat, pasta, and vegetables. Typical dishes include imqaret (deep-fried diamond-shaped pastries filled with dates), imqarrun (a casserole made of macaroni, Bolognese sauce, and egg), kawlata (cabbage and pork soup), pastizzi (savory pastries filled with curried peas or ricotta), and stuffat tal-fenek (a stew of peas, potatoes, rabbit, and wine).

Holidays and festivals

Like other Christian countries, Malta celebrates Saint Joseph, Good Friday, Saint Peter and Saint Paul, Assumption Day, Immaculate Conception, and Christmas Day. It also commemorates New Year’s Day and Labor Day.

Specific Maltese holidays include Saint Paul’s Shipwreck on February 10, Freedom Day on March 31, Sette Giugno on June 7, Victory Day on September 8, Independence Day on September 21, and Republic Day on December 13.

Sette Giugno

Other celebrations include the Isle of MTV, a music festival with a wide array of genres; Notte Bianca, which includes dance, music, and theater across seven routes, and the Valletta Baroque Festival, held in historic venues.

Valletta Baroque Festival

Landmarks

There are three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: City of Valletta, Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, and Megalithic Temples of Malta.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

Other landmarks include the Blue Lagoon, the Citadel of Victoria, the Inland Sea, the Rotunda of Mosta, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Blue Lagoon

Famous people

Clare Azzopardi - writer

David Millar - cyclist

Debbie Caruana Dingli - painter

Francesca Vincenti - windsurfer

Joe Sacco - cartoonist and journalist

Jonathan Brincat - chef

Joseph Calleia - actor

Joseph Calleja - singer

Ira Losco - singer

Marama Corlett - actress

Clare Azzopardi

You can find out more about life in Malta in this post and this video.

#discoveringtheworld #langblr #english #maltese

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malteseboy · 8 years

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At the Valletta bus terminus, there is a man selling the imqaret who speaks a language that sounds slavic. I don't know if it's Bulgarian or Serbian, but I wanted to let you know and also because I'm very curious on what was his language.

oh yeah I think I know which one you’re referring to.

I believe they are Polish because they have like 3 posters with “POLISH SAUSAGE” on them 😂

#la-vallett1 #answered

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elvenbones · 5 years

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Food log tiiiiiime

My resolution from yesterday lasted an entire day. Sweet. Ate a bunch of shit. See below:

Breakfast:

Black tea with skimmed milk

Lunch:

Wrap with lettuce, tomato, hummus, broccoli, feta cheese

Müller strawberry yoghurt

Snacks:

Piece of foccacia with jalapeno dip, a sachet of toffee protein bites, a piece of imqaret (Maltese date sweet)

Exercise:

15 minutes treadmill

35 minutes stationary bike

Intake: 1,459 cals

Burned: 761 cals

Net cals: 682 (....i think. Too lazy to use a calculator)

No dinner, because my coworkers went out for drinks and food, and I first panicked about fitting pizza and drinks into my calorie budget, then got anxiety about being the first one to order food, and finally decided to never eat again and just be miserable for the night

Fun stuff

#kieran's diet adventures

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historyharpy · 6 years

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Ottini: Traditional Maltese Biscuits

Being Maltese, born and bred, when you move away from your home country, there’s many or be it at times few things that you miss. For me personally, mostly it is the food. Oh the food. Imqaret, Qaghaq ta’ l-Ghasel (Maltese honey rings), Pastizzi, Timpana, Fenek moqli (fried rabbit), Qassatat and the Maltese biscuits that I will be covering today, just to name a few.

The older I got, the more I…

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alexander40wong · 7 years

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21 Things To Do On The Islands Of Malta

Malta sits between Sicily and the North African coast.

It’s actually an archipelago of three islands. Most of the population lives on Malta, while the second largest, Gozo, is known for its beaches and scenery. Comino, the smallest island, is just 3.5 square kilometres. There’s no cars and only one hotel, which means it’s quiet and unspoiled. Malta’s got about 7000 years’ worth of history under its belt, good weather, and beaches. That means it’s an excellent place for a lazy holiday, or a cultural city break.

To make sure you don’t miss out on the country’s best sights, sounds and flavours, here’s our guide to the best things to do in Malta.

1. Stroll through the beautiful capital city

Malta’s capital city is Valletta. It’s very small, covering less than a square kilometre. Which makes it very easy to explore on foot.

Valletta’s streets are distinctive. They’re filled with historic buildings, baroque-era architecture and houses with colourful balconies. You don’t even have to walk around Valletta to take it all in. You’ll get a great view of the city and its harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

There are several fascinating museums around Valletta. The best place to go to find out about the country’s history is the National Museum of Archeology. The museum’s collection includes items dating back to 5000 BC, and is housed within one of the city’s most beautiful historic houses.

2. Set sail for the Three Cities

A regular ferry service to three equally historic cities operates from Valletta’s harbour.

Birgu (also known as Vittoriosa), Senglea and Conspicua are collectively known as the Three Cities, and were founded in the Middle Ages. But their origins go back much further than that. They’ve been the main entry point to Malta since the days of the ancient Greeks.

Even less modernised than Valletta, if you wander through these cities’ streets you’ll experience a more traditional way of life. Especially during the lively festivals that take place throughout the year.

3. Explore historic forts

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Fort St Elmo overlooks Valletta’s harbour. It played a major role in defending Valletta during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, and again in the Second World War. These days, they stage military reenactments in the grounds, and the National War Museum is housed here.

However, you’ll also find historic fortifications all around the Maltese islands. In the 17th century, a series of lookout towers were built all around the country’s coastline. Although some were demolished over the centuries, many of them are still standing. Some are even accessible to the public.

4. Hit the beach

Being in the Mediterranean, April to October is the best time to go if you’re visiting for the beaches. All three of the islands have some truly spectacular beaches, and the water’s particularly clean for swimming in.

On the main island, the most popular beaches include Għajn Tuffieħa and Golden Bay – both found on the north-west coast. Gozo’s beaches are popular with divers and sailors. The island’s Ramla L-Hamra beach is particularly worth a visit, to see its red sands.

5. Get out and admire the scenery

If you’re not bothered about sunbathing, Gozo is particularly good for nature walks. Head there during the winter months when it’s still warm, but the peak tourist season is over. You’ll have the islands’ countryside to yourself.

Back on Malta, there are several horse riding schools and stables. However, some of the very best routes are along the island’s north coast.

That said, all three islands have excellent climbing and abseiling spots. More than 1300 of them, to be precise. Both Malta and Gozo have rock climbing clubs and adventure tour operators who can help you arrange a trip.

6. Swim at the blue lagoon

Just off the coast of Comino, the extremely photogenic Blue Lagoon is the country’s most popular spots. It’s on the route between Malta and Gozo, so sailing boats from both islands regularly stop in the lagoon’s shimmering turquoise waters. There’s not much of a beach around the area, so the sands can get very busy. Avoid the crowds by going either early morning or late afternoon.

7. Explore the blue grotto

Another one of Malta’s most beautiful natural sights is the Blue Grotto. It’s a series of sea caverns on south coast of the main island – great if you’re sailing or scuba diving.

The best time to visit the Grotto is during the morning – up until about 1pm – as that’s when the waters are at their most brilliantly blue. The vibrant blue colour is caused by sunlight shining through the caves at the right angle to illuminate the phosphorescent marine life under the water.

8. See the silent city of Mdina

Mdina is a perfectly preserved walled city found on a hilltop in the north of the main island. Very few cars are allowed there, which has earnt it the nickname of “the Silent City”.

Up until the mid-16th century, Mdina was the country’s capital, and home to many of the Mediterranean’s most wealthy people. After the capital was moved to Birgu (and then Valletta), Mdina went into decline. It’s remained largely unchanged since its heyday, so there are some fascinating historic houses and palaces to explore.

Just outside the city walls, you’ll find the remains of a Roman villa. Not much survives of the house itself, but there are some beautiful, and largely still intact mosaics which are well worth seeing.

9. Explore Malta’s beautiful churches

Churches are found all around the islands. There are more than 360 of them in total – that’s more than one every square kilometre.

There are two particularly famous churches: the domed Rotunda of Mosta, found in the north-west of the main island, was inspired by Rome’s Pantheon. And Valletta’s St John’s Co-Cathedral,which is often named as one of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in Europe. It dates back to the 1570s, and was founded by the Knights of St John. The cathedral’s impressive art collection includes famous works by Caravaggio and Peter Paul Rubens.

Many of the churches celebrate feast days, dedicated to their own patron saint. So you might even stumble across a traditional festival or two.

10. Head underground

Some of Malta’s most fascinating landmarks are hidden deep underground.

The town of Rabat is famous for the St Paul’s and St Agatha’s Catacombs. Dating back to the days of the Roman Empire, they’re among the oldest Christian landmarks in the country. Despite being more than a thousand years old, you can still see some impressive murals in the catacombs.

The Lascaris War Rooms in Valletta were originally built as slave quarters in the 16th century. Then the network of tunnels were turned into a base for the allied forces during the Second World War.

11. See temples older than the Pyramids

Ġgantija temple complex on Gozo, which was built around 3600 BC. That’s older than both Stonehenge and Egypt’s Pyramids.

On the main island, the Ħaġar Qim temples are almost as old. And the island is also home to the Tarxien Temples complex. Dating back to around 3150 BC, the ruins feature some incredibly detailed carvings.

The best preserved of these ancient monuments is the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. Although almost as old as Ġgantija, this underground burial complex has been protected from the elements, and was only rediscovered in the early 20th century. It’s worth booking in advance for a tour, as visitor numbers are strictly limited for conservation reasons.

12. Treat yourself to a pastizzi

Being so close to Sicily, there’s a definite Italian influence to Maltese cuisine. You’ll find pasta, pizza and other Italian classics in many of Malta’s restaurants (and in generous Italian-sized portions too).

Malta’s own national dish is stuffat tal-fenek, a rabbit stew. But if you only try one traditional Maltese dish during your trip, make it a Pastizzi. They’re easy to find. There are specialist “pastizzerias” in every town, and they’re also sold in bars and by street vendors. The small pastries are traditionally filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas. If you have more of a sweet tooth, try an Imqaret, which is a similar snack, but with a date-flavoured filling.

13. Discover a new favourite wine

Malta’s big on grape-growing. But you won’t find many bottles of Maltese wine in your local supermarket.

Being so close to Italy, traditionally the Maltese just imported most of their wine. However, in recent years, a wine-making industry has started to emerge. Malta has a couple of its own unique varieties of wine. Girgentina and Gellewza grapes have been grown on the island since ancient times, and they create light, fruity-tasting wines.

14. Eat some very fresh seafood

You won’t go short on seafood on Malta. National favourites include lampuki (also known as dolphin fish or mahi mahi), which is often served in a pie. The best place to try Malta’s freshest seafood is in the village of Masaxlokk. Found on the main island’s south-east coast, the picturesque village hosts the country’s biggest fish market every Sunday.

15. Come face-to-face with colourful sealife

If you prefer to see fish in its natural habitat, good news – there are loads of fantastic diving spots in Malta.

Many Maltese seaside towns have their own diving schools. The country’s calm and clear waters are also generally very good for first-time divers. Close to the Blue Grotto, Ghar Lapsi is good for divers and snorkelers of all abilities.

More experienced divers can explore shipwrecks, including the Um El Faroud near Ħaġar Qim, and HMS Maori, which is just outside Valletta’s harbour.

16. Join the party at a festival

Malta has a packed festival calendar. The Malta International Fireworks Festival marks the country joining the EU, and happens in late April each year, in Valletta’s harbour and villages around the country.

In late June to early July, the Malta International Arts Festival brings concerts, theatre, film screenings and art exhibitions and performances to venues all around Valletta. And the Notte Bianca does the same for one night each October.

Malta’s most popular music festival is the Isle of MTV – a massive (and free) open-air concert, which takes place each June. There’s more music at Lost and Found around the start of May.

Valletta has also been named European Capital of Culture for 2018. There’ll be all sorts of events taking place around the city throughout the year.

17. Experience the local music scene

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Malta’s own music scene is equally lively.

The best place to experience traditional Maltese folk music is at Għanafest in Valletta each June. It’s a the three-day festival featuring some of the best performers of the country’s own style of traditional folk singing, Għana.

Music is at the heart of many Maltese communities, with band clubs being an important source of local pride. Band clubs perform at local festivals, but also play a major part in a town or village’s day-to-day life. In towns with more than one club, a friendly football team-style rivalry takes place between them. At local festivals you can expect to see a band’s supporters wearing their club’s colours.

18. Go clubbing in Paceville

Paceville is Malta’s entertainment district, just outside the resort town of St Julians. This is where you’ll find superclubs, restaurants and rock and salsa bars.

During the summer months, much of the nightlife action shifts to open-air clubs, which are found in towns around the main island. One of the most popular is the Bedouin Bar – a chill-out club which overlooks the sea in St Julians. Many of the area’s luxury hotels also have rooftop bars.

Malta also has a vibrant gay scene. It was named one of the best places in Europe for LGBTIQ rights. Paceville has several gay-friendly clubs and bars, and Valletta’s Pride Week takes place in early September.

19. Catch a show in one of the world’s oldest theatres

Valletta has one of the oldest working theatres in Europe. Opened back in 1732, the Manoel Theatre‘s auditorium has kept many of its original features. The venue regularly stages plays in English, including a traditional pantomime each winter. It’s also particularly popular with international opera and dance companies.

20. See stunning modern architecture

Valletta’s other major theatre is the open-air Pjazza Teatru Rjal. It’s one of several buildings in the city designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, the man behind London’s Shard. Piano also designed Valletta’s Parliament House and City Gate, which have quickly become local landmarks.

This modern theatre replaces the old Opera House, and is built on the foundations which were all that were left of the original building. Its mix of tradition and innovation (not to mention the beautiful surrounding views) make it a memorable place to see a show.

21. Visit a film set

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Hit movies that have been filmed on the islands include Gladiator, The Da Vinci Code and The Spy Who Loved Me. Game of Thrones also shot much of its first season in Mdina.

However, a notorious flop has had probably the most lasting impact on the country. The Sweethaven village set from the 1980 Robin Williams-starring Popeye was left intact after filming finished. And it’s now been turned into one of Malta’s most popular family attractions. Tucked into cliffside on the island’s west coast, the Popeye Village park offers some picturesque views, as well as theme park-style live shows.

Essential information

Getting there

Flights from London to Malta take just over 3 hours. For the latest deals, take a look at our flights to Malta.

Getting around

A bus service operates on Malta and Gozo. Malta Public Transport sell a selection of passes for bus travel (and some ferry services).

Gozo Channel operate a ferry service between Malta and Gozo. A ferry service between Malta and Comino is operated by the Comino Ferries Co-Op.

When to go

Malta has a Mediterranean climate, which means the country enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year.

Summers are generally hot, with temperatures peaking at 30 degrees in July. However, many locals take their holidays during mid-August, which means that smaller bars and restaurants may be closed, and the beaches a bit more busy than usual.

Winters are mild, with an average temperature of around 15 degrees. It might be a bit too chilly for sunbathing though.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, and hit the beach, the best time to visit Malta is either late Spring (May) or early Autumn (September).

Tempted to experience Malta for yourself? Check out our Malta holiday deals.

Or do you have some tips for other things to do in Malta? Please share your recommendations in the comments.

The post 21 Things To Do On The Islands Of Malta appeared first on lastminute.com Blog.

from lastminute.com Blog http://www.lastminute.com/blog/things-to-do-in-malta/

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