A great way to avoid overtourism (perceived congestion or overcrowding from an excess of tourists, resulting in conflicts with locals.) is to travel during the off-season. The crowds are almost non-existent, there is more availability when it comes to flights and accommodations and great prices can be found too. Now if you are not looking for a beach destination, but want somewhere to go that has an incredible history, fascinating culture and delicious food then look no further than Malta just south of Sicily! Here are five reasons to consider travelling to Malta this January:
1. Climate: The temperature during the month of January can be between 10 and 16 Degrees Celsius. There can be a northernly wind that can bring a chill so, be sure to bring warm clothing and rain gear in case it rains. Otherwise, this is the perfect temperature to be strolling through the cities, ruins and cafés.
2. Valletta Baroque Festival – January 10 – 25, 2020: This will be it’s 8th year celebrating fabulous artists, both from Malta and abroad, performing wonderful music from Monteverdi to Bach & beyond. There are 31 concerts performed in 16 magnificent historical venues around the city. Truly not an experience to be missed.
3. History: Malta and its sister islands Gozo and Comino have architectural heritage that spans 7,000 years. With three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more monuments per square kilometer than any other country this makes Malta a unique cultural and historical attraction. There are the megalithic temples (which is an age-old enigma), over 300 churches including St. John’s Cathedral that houses famous paintings by Caravaggio and the medieval walled city of Mdina (well known today because of its appearance in the Game of Thrones). Trust me the history on these islands with blow your mind.
4. Food: Malta has an eclectic mix of Mediterranean cooking because of the many civilizations who occupied the Maltese Islands over the centuries. So, what are some of the popular food items or dishes in this country? Well there is their Maltese bread, pastizz (pastry stuffed with ricotta or mushy peas) and fish. The fish dishes on this island are amazing and so fresh as you can imagine. No visit to Malta is complete without stopping by the Marsaxlokk Fish Market.
5. People: Maltese are such wonderful and warm people. Going in the off-season makes it even easier to mingle with the locals, learn about their culture, discover their secret food spots and do all of this over a cup of Maltese coffee (a blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, infused with roasted chicory, ground cloves and ground aniseed).
There is still so much more to share about Malta, but honestly you just have to experience it for yourself.
Have any questions or wish to begin planning your experience to Malta? I am happy to help!
Follow me on
Facebook @eleanordathvisiontravel
Instagram @eleanordathvisiontravel