Under The Maltese Sun

The editors of itinari believe that the underrated country Malta should be on your list of top ten travel destinations in 2018. Here are the reasons why:

If you are a culture lover, you must not miss the capital of Malta called Va[lletta](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/valletta-an-elegant-and-cultured-capital-13wj). In 2018, Valletta will be one of the European Capitals of Culture. Do not forget to attend some of the unique cultural activities to enhance your experience of Malta. The small capital itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Famous sights include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, Teatru Manoel, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the National Museum of Archaeology.

In addition to Va[lletta](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/valletta-an-elegant-and-cultured-capital-13wj), I would highly recommend visiting Mdina in the Western District of Malta. Mdina was the former capital of the country from antiquity to the medieval period. The city is full of history and fascinating architecture, making it the perfect destination for history geeks. Plus, the city is quite romantic at nighttime under the sparkling light of the Moon.

Apart from the culture and the history, the unspoiled nature of Malta is also worth admiring. If you love the color blue, a visit to the Blue Grotto in Malta will feast your eyes on some of the most beautiful shades of this color. Although it is not incredibly breathtaking and may not be as spectacular as the Blue Grotto of Capri in Italy, it is still a fun trip to do while in Malta, especially for families.

Our editor Joe Thorpe, who is also a big fan of Malta, refers to the country as one of his ultimate winter-sun destinations. According to him, activities you can do under the winter sun of Malta are beach hopping and diving. The popular beaches are the Blue Lagoon spot and the Golden Bay beach. Joe also said that M[alta was one of the best diving spots in Europe.](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/craving-some-winter-sun-re27)

The Maltese cuisine is influenced by the British one, but with *a twist of Sicilian flavors*. Most of the food I tried in Malta were tasty. Those included pastizzi (the traditional pastries filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas) and the rabbit stew. You can find pastizzi at the English style tea garden Fontanella in Mdina and the rabbit stew at the Maltese restaurant called Ta' Kris in Sliema. Also, do not forget to try traditional sweet delicacies such as honey rings.

Finally, before embarking on an adventure in Malta, read my post on Top[ Things To Know Before Traveling To Malta.](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/top-things-to-know-before-traveling-to-malta-45f1ccd8389) There you will find some useful tips and my insights into the lifestyle of this underrated country.