Unlikely many stories, darkness and rain are not my thing, Malta, you brighten my life.....

Once upon a time, in a land filled with budget flights and early mornings, there was a cheap and poor traveler. Me, of course! The only thing I could afford for my dream getaway was a €20 return flight, which, as luck would have it, had the least "christian" of flight times: 6 a.m.

The challenge began at 4 a.m., when I dragged myself out of bed, grumbling at the injustice of life. The rain was pouring, and there I was, driving my little car down a dark road, weaving in and out of massive lorries like I was some sort of undercover F1 driver. The road felt like a racetrack, but with far more puddles than I'd prefer. The whole time I kept thinking, "I hope the cops are still asleep." Somehow, after dodging raindrops and big trucks, I made it to the tiny airport near Maastricht in a record 35 minutes. Take that, time!

My grumpy self was slowly starting to brighten as I parked and rushed inside. The airport was small, and the coffee stand was everything I needed in that moment. A double espresso—oh yes, that's the magic elixir. It was like my whole attitude did a 180, and suddenly, I had a smile plastered on my face. The rain outside couldn't touch me anymore.

As I sipped that liquid joy, I realized: I was off to Malta! I had no idea what Malta had in store, but I was ready for it. After all, sometimes the most memorable adventures come from the least ideal beginnings. I leaned back in my seat, relaxed, and imagined myself sipping something even stronger than espresso on a sunny Maltese beach... or, you know, maybe just enjoying more coffee.

Either way, my journey had officially begun, and I was in the best of spirits.

A few bumps, a little rain, and a lot of grumbling, but hey, who could stop me now? Not even a €20 ticket could wipe this smile off my face!

After a 3 hours flight, I finally landed on Malta International Airport, oh boy, its been ages ago and I really miss this place.

The weather just can’t ruin my day, amazing warm and in the sky that yellow thingy welcomed me with sunburn.

Pic: Sliema otw to the fort , with my backpack, yes i travel light.

pic: View from my hotel , St Jilian bay .

Pic : a cute bay in Spinola , St.Jilian.

My cute models , my little fur friends.

Pic: crispy clear warm water , but lots of sharp corals, not ideal to swim.

Ah, St. Julian’s, or as the locals call it, San Ġiljan—it’s the perfect spot to base yourself when you’re in Malta! Nestled right next to Sliema, this seaside gem has everything. Whether you’re craving a nice meal, a bit of shopping, or a wild night out, St. Julian’s has it all. It’s like the heartbeat of the island, buzzing with life!

I was lucky enough to be staying right there, just a short stroll from the gorgeous promenade that connects to Sliema. I spent plenty of time wandering, soaking in the sea breeze, and marveling at the views. And if I wanted to head into the capital, Valletta, it couldn’t have been easier. A quick ferry ride or an affordable bus, and I was there in no time.

Now, here's the real kicker—public transport in Malta is super cheap, and I scored an absolute deal. For just €39, I got a 7-day unlimited bus and ferry pass, which meant I could hop on and off whenever I wanted. But that’s not all! I also got a Captain Morgan cruise to Gozo and Comino Islands (hello, crystal-clear waters), free access to eBikes and eScooters to zip around, and a day on the panoramic hop-on, hop-off bus. It felt like I’d just unlocked a cheat code to Malta! Seriously, €39 was such a steal. I was ready to explore every corner of this beautiful place without breaking the bank.

St. Julian's was the perfect home base for my adventure, and I was already dreaming of all the places I could visit and experiences I could have with my sweet transport pass. Malta, you’re full of surprises!

I just love this view, i feel so happy and content.

A shy sunset.. really feel overwhelme.

Pics above from the amazing promenade on my walk to Sliema.

I really love my walk and the sunset, took a peach mimosa cocktails and chicken pie, i called it a day ....

Valleta

The next day, after a sweet breakfast that had me buzzing with energy, I hopped on a bus to Valletta, ready to dive into the charm of the capital. Oh boy, Valletta never disappoints—it’s just a beautiful, historical maze of narrow streets, grand architecture, and stunning views over the sea. Every corner I turned seemed to bring me face-to-face with something new and awe-inspiring.

But oh, my legs? Well, they were starting to get a bit resentful. You see, Valletta's not exactly flat—it's all hills, cobblestones, and steps that sneak up on you when you least expect it. It was a bit of a workout, but honestly, it was worth every step. From the majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral to the scenic Upper Barracca Gardens, I couldn’t help but marvel at the city’s rich history and beauty.

That being said, I could feel my legs giving me the side-eye, especially after a few hours of wandering and climbing. I kept thinking, "Okay, next stop... somewhere flat, please!" But it didn’t matter. The charm of Valletta kept me going—besides, how could I resist stopping for a gelato or two along the way? 🤭

Eventually, I found a peaceful spot with a view of the harbor to sit and take a breather. My legs might have been hating me, but my heart was full. Valletta, you little gem, I can’t get enough of you!

Pic : Valetta from Sliema ferry.

Playing model at the church entrance

Pic : museum piazza san publiju

Ah, Valletta, the Fortress City, the jewel of Malta! As the capital, it’s everything you could imagine and more. Walking through its bastions, forts, and grand Baroque-style cathedral feels like stepping into the pages of history. It’s often called the “European Art City,” and honestly, it lives up to its name. Everywhere you look, you’re surrounded by some of Europe’s finest artworks, churches, and palaces—it’s like wandering through an outdoor museum, but a living, breathing one.

The narrow side streets are where the magic happens. You’ll find yourself stumbling upon hidden gems—charming restaurants, quirky little shops, antique stores, and cozy bars tucked into every corner. You really have to explore on foot to soak it all in. And sure, your legs might protest a little with all the hills, but trust me, it’s worth every step (even when your feet are giving you the silent treatment).

One of the highlights of Valletta is the Upper Barracca Gardens. Not only do you get to rest your feet with a gorgeous view, but you can also catch a glimpse of the Saluting Battery. And don’t miss the lift that takes you down to sea level—it’s so fun to watch the harbor unfold below you. The cannon firing ceremony is a total must-see. Definitely worth the wait!

When in Valletta, you can't miss the giant domed churches, but none are more impressive than St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The baroque interior is breathtaking, filled with intricate details and history. It’s like stepping into a different world—one that’s been standing for centuries.

And of course, you’ve got to check out the Barracca Gardens for a peaceful escape, wander through the backstreets where you’ll find colorful houses, and hop on a boat to the Three Cities (which is conveniently included in your 7-day pass). The boats are like little time machines, taking you across the water to explore even more of Malta’s hidden treasures.

Oh, and don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll to Victoria Gate and St. Elmo Fort. Malta is full of surprises, even in the smallest moments—like grabbing a €1.50 coffee and indulging in a slice of Malta’s coconut cake. It's the little things that make the experience unforgettable.

Valletta’s a city that invites you to slow down, look around, and let the history and beauty sink in, one step at a time—well, maybe not the hills part, but you get what I mean!

pic: beautiful frame , Barraka garden

pic, St John church.

Pic: hilly backstreet Valetta

pic: the left over pilar

pic : Colorfull buildings

Pic : Floriana entrance

Pic; Valetta old town

Pic : Valetta backstreet

Pic: cappuccino and Maltese coconut cake

Pic Ancient left over

Mdina, the Silent City, is like stepping into a time capsule—an enchanting place frozen in history. It was once the capital of Malta, and even though the capital moved to Valletta centuries ago, Mdina still carries a certain mystique, earning its nickname from its quiet, almost eerie atmosphere. It's as if the city itself is holding onto its secrets, whispering tales of its past through the winding, cobbled streets.

Walking through Mdina is like being transported to another era. The streets are narrow and winding, and you won’t find any of the usual shops—just charming little tourist gift shops, quaint cafés, and restaurants that cater to those of us keen on soaking up the history of the place. But even in these tourist spots, Mdina retains a sense of tranquility and timelessness that makes it feel like it’s been untouched by the bustle of modern life.

The limestone buildings, golden in the sunlight, give the city a warm, inviting glow, while the colorful doors add a touch of whimsy to the otherwise stoic architecture. Mdina's beauty is in its simplicity and its understated charm. It’s a place that feels alive with the stories of centuries past—stories that echo in the silence of its streets. There’s a strong religious presence too, with churches and chapels nestled throughout, each with its own piece of history to tell.

As you wander, don’t forget to explore those hidden corners. There’s always something new around every bend—whether it’s a tiny courtyard, a secret passage, or a quiet café where you can stop and reflect on the city’s rich past. Mdina is a place where history and legend intertwine, and it’s impossible not to feel a sense of wonder as you wander through its peaceful, ancient streets.

It’s not just a city—it’s a storybook, waiting for you to turn the next page.

Pic: the entrance of Mdina walled city

Pic: on the narrow street in Mdina

Pic: inside the walled city so quiet.

The ancient water fountain in Mdina

One of the amazing narrow street

View from the top of Mdina wallet city.

Inside one of hundreds churches.

lunch Maltese platter, sausage, pork chops, rabbit , and chicken from the barby and yes with Maltese beer, really taste and filling.

Cute lil resto in Mdina

Inside St. Pauls church, Mdina

The catacombs inside St. Pauls church.

I was absolutely in awe as I walked through the enchanting streets of Mdina, feeling so incredibly blessed to be fortunate enough to experience this beautiful and amazing little town. It’s the kind of place where you can't help but pinch yourself, thinking, "Wow, I’m really here!" And the people? Oh, they were just as warm and welcoming as the sun shining above. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone spoke perfect English with a smile. It felt like I was being embraced by the whole town.

Not only were the people kind, but everything in Malta just seemed so accessible—from the incredibly affordable food that tasted like heaven (seriously, everything I tried was so flavorful) to the cheap and reliable public transport. The buses were quite an experience of their own, though. The drivers have their own unique style—let’s just say, you better be ready for a bit of an adventure. Once you step on, say a little prayer for your life as they take you on what feels like a race through the island. It's all part of the fun, though, right?

But here’s the best part—Malta feels so safe. You can walk around without a care in the world, and that added sense of comfort really lets you relax and soak up the surroundings.

Speaking of relaxing, I decided to dive into the evening activities with a little bit of fun. I hit up one of the bars with happy hour going strong, where you could get two cocktails for the price of one—€9 for both! That’s what I call a steal.

The cocktails were delicious, and the vibe was perfect—just what I needed after a day of exploring. A little happy hour magic, Malta-style! By the time the evening was winding down, I was feeling like a true local, living the good life. What a perfect end to another amazing day in this paradise!

Birgu.

Ah, Birgu, or as it’s also known, Città Vittoriosa—this fairy tale of a little harbor city had me in complete awe! It’s one of those places where you feel like you've stepped straight into a storybook, with its charming, winding streets and stunning maritime history. I’ve read about it, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. Birgu's origins date back to medieval times, and you can feel that deep sense of history as you walk through it.

It was a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon when I decided to pay it a visit, and let’s be real, after walking endless kilometers over the past couple of days, I deserved a break for my poor feet. So, I did what any self-respecting traveler would do—I hopped on the panoramic hop-on, hop-off bus. C’mon, I’m not getting any younger, and the legs were starting to protest a little.

Birgu is one of the three ancient cities, located on the other side of the harbor, and it's just as picturesque as you can imagine. I soaked in the street scenes, the beauty of the harbor, and the historic buildings that have witnessed centuries of history. One of the highlights for me was the Maritime Museum—wow, what a place! But let me tell you, the climb up to it nearly gave me a heart attack. The narrow streets and the incline were a bit much for my legs, and I may have questioned my life choices for a split second. But hey, I had four slices of toast with pistachio paste for breakfast that morning—thankfully, my carbs kicked in just in time to power me through that climb!

Birgu has so much to offer—it’s like a treasure trove of history, architecture, and hidden gems. However, I was on a bit of a time crunch because there was another adventure waiting for me in a nearby town: the Sunday market. A 30-minute ride away, I couldn’t miss it, so I had to say goodbye to Birgu’s enchanting streets a bit sooner than I wanted to.

But let me tell you, if you’re ever in Malta, you have to visit Birgu on a sunny Sunday arvo. It’s the perfect way to soak up some history, enjoy the views, and maybe, just maybe, give your feet a little rest.

The gate to the museu, Birgu.

The harbor, Birgu.

Feel fancy and day dreamed to own one of the yacht.

Marsaxlokk Open Market,

Sweating and starving after a day of adventures, I hopped onto the bus to Marsaxlokk Open Market, the one place everyone told me I had to visit. And let me tell you, they weren’t wrong—this market is one of the most popular in Malta, and it's easy to see why. It draws both locals and tourists in droves, all here for the same reason: to buy fresh fish and seafood caught that very morning.

The market is a feast for the senses, with rows of colorful stalls displaying an incredible variety of Mediterranean fish and seafood. The prices are actually cheaper than what you’d find in the shops, so it's a bargain for those looking to grab the freshest catch of the day. Originally just a fish market, it has evolved over the years and now also features local honey, fruit jams, wine, fresh vegetables, and even souvenirs and clothes. The mix of sights, smells, and sounds made it feel like a perfect snapshot of everyday Maltese life.

But let's be real—after all the walking and sweating, I was hungry enough to eat a whole horse (figuratively, of course). So, I didn’t waste any time in the market—straight to one of the many restaurants lining the waterfront I went. The seafood here? Fresh as fresh can be. I knew exactly what I wanted: Spaghetti alla Tutti di Mare as a starter (oh, the mussels, the squid, the shrimp—it was seafood heaven), followed by fish filets straight from the grill for my main.

And because I was in Malta, I couldn’t miss out on trying Kinnie—this Maltese fizzy drink that has a distinct, almost quinine-like taste. It’s definitely an acquired taste, but somehow it felt like the perfect drink to wash down my seafood feast.

By the time I finished, I was completely stuffed—and happy as can be. Marsaxlokk, you’ve earned a special place in my heart. Whether it’s the vibrant market, the incredible seafood, or just the relaxed, seaside atmosphere, it was one of those days I’ll remember forever.

The most beautiful starter i have ever had, so tasty and fresh.

Above are my view whilst having my tasty lunch , so blessed and fortunate.

Another statue of church in Marsaxlokk

Fed and content, i hopped on the bus again and wanted to go to Blue Grotto, but half way i changed my mind as I stated to feel really tired and cold, been a long day and felt like under the weather, but the view otw back to Sliema were worth it.

On the way back to my accommodation, i made an ice cream stop, i need a portion of homemade Italians pistachio ice cream and pack my bag for my flight back tomorrow.

Before hit the road the next morning i took my last toast with pistachio pasta spread and coffee ....

It has been an awesome couple of days, a nice retreat for my soul, a time out and recharge my battery, Lowland i am ready for the next storm , bring it on ....

02,2020, next trip Lisbon, Portugal.