Thought on Malta

Although we posted some photos on Instagram and Facebook, didn't really say much about Malta.  Check it the Facebook posts, if you have access. 

After Egypt, it was a very easy place to visit.  Given that it was under English control for so many years, things were rather efficient and in decent shape.  A fellow partner who had spent a large chunk of his sabbatical on Malta had noted that he felt a certain 1st world veneer over a 3rd world base.  Coming from Egypt, we didn't really get that sense.  

What was so amazing about Malta is the depth of history.  The Neolithic temples were extensive and of incredible creative, complex and unique. Clearly a financially stable and rich society dating a good 1000 years before the first pyramids.  At some point it seemed to terminate and became repopulated again.

Malta's history of the Knights of Saint John, who came to Malta after withdrawing from Rhodes, is also a rich vein of history to explore.  The main cathedral is quite amazing.  It is not as huge as some we have seen, but the resources put into the facility is amazing.  The Knights had groups from the Crusades from the various places in Europe and each group, such as those from Provence, were given an area of the cathedral to decorate.  The Knights were basically pirates with respect to the Ottomans and other Muslim groups and amazed amazing wealth.  One is always amazed with what can be created when a bunch of men with extreme wealth start competing with each other.  Similar thing occurred with rich men during the Renaissance with gardens in Italy.  Tivoli Garden was one of such gardens.

In addition, there is the history of World War II and the role that Malta played.  It was bombed more heavily that any other place.  Nice nautical museum, as well.

Food on Malta was hard to find.  (Good food that is.). Seems a bit of the English influence.  The Italian influence was from Sicily and Southern Italy, so there is lots of heavy tomato sauces in everything.

Our last dinner in Malta was at a wonderful restaurant.  Too bad we didn't find it earlier.  I had an amazing rabbit in the style of Malta.  I was sucking the bones (learned from my Dad and sister).  The waiter commented:  "Finally a tourist that eats like a Maltan."

We ended up renting a car for two days in Malta to hit the sites outside of the main city.  Was a great way to see the islands.  Surprisingly small.  Was a kick getting used to a stick shift while driving on the left side of the road (English influence).

Being in Malta during Carnival was a kick.  Amazing how everyone was out night after night.  Lots of parades, floats, kids dressed up.  A real bonus.

Overall, a great rest and transition to Morocco.