Malta, January 2023

 This January, we traded grey skies for island stone and sea spray, setting off on a cold but beautiful adventure to Malta,  a place where history clings to every building and the sea is never far away.

Though the temperatures were cooler than we expected, the crisp air gave our trip a fresh edge,  perfect for exploring. We hired a car, which turned out to be the best decision. It gave us the freedom to travel across the entire main island, discovering hidden coves, hilltop villages, and sweeping coastal views at our own pace.

Among all the places we visited, Mdina easily stole our hearts. Known as the Silent City, there was something magical about wandering through its narrow streets, not quite knowing what we’d find around each bend, a sun-drenched courtyard, a centuries-old door, or a view stretching all the way to the sea. Mdina felt like stepping into another time, and every quiet corner held its own kind of charm. The food in Malta was a pleasant surprise,  simple, rustic, and full of flavour. The standout? A traditional Maltese tuna sandwich, bursting with freshness and served with that unmistakable Mediterranean touch. It was the kind of thing you crave even after you’ve left.

We also made our way to the Blue Grotto, a spot that holds a special place in our hearts. The way the light dances across the water, the cave walls shifting in shades of blue, it was peaceful, powerful, and personal. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing compares to standing there in person.

Our next stop was Marsaxlokk, a charming fishing village known for its postcard-perfect harbour. The colourful boats, traditional luzzus with their painted eyes, bobbed in the calm water, adding bursts of red, yellow, and blue against the softer backdrop of the village. It felt like a painting come to life.

We ended our journey in Valletta, Malta’s capital, where old-world architecture meets a modern, energetic buzz. The city was alive, full of locals and visitors, narrow shopping streets, and historic sites at every turn. We tucked into what might have been the best ragu I’ve ever had in my life, rich and slow-cooked, the kind that makes you pause after every bite.

Despite the January chill, Malta welcomed us with warmth, in its food, its people, and its countless stories waiting to be discovered. From winding alleyways in Mdina to the bright boats of Marsaxlokk, it was a trip filled with quiet moments, bold flavours, and the kind of memories that stay with you long after the suitcase is unpacked.