Once in a while the present can hit you right in the chest and you recognize instantly how amazing this very moment is. This week in Malta has been exactly like that.

On Land

The country of Malta is actually three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. I skip over the main island of Malta and head straight to Gozo, the smaller and more laidback option. Gozo is known for being the location of many films and TV shows: Parts of Troy, Game of Thrones, and Brad and Angelina’s new movie By The Sea were all filmed here. There’s a very distinctive landscape with rocky limestone cliffs, which are reflected in the scenery under the water as well. It’s evident the cities here were built long ago because the streets are impossibly small and difficult to navigate. Vehicles constantly have to pull over to allow oncoming traffic to pass and I’m still in awe that busses can fit around even the tiniest street corners. Not to mention all the roads look the same and curve in confusing directions. One night I spend a full hour walking in circles trying to navigate the 1km from the town square back to the guesthouse. Quite an adventure!

Though the island is small, the busses run so infrequently that I learn it’s actually better to walk the 2.5km to the dive shop in the morning than to try to navigate the bus schedule.

View of my daily morning commute — not too bad!

Marsalforn, where my dive shop is located

Actually one of the larger sized roads in Gozo

Yes, this is a two-way street and yes, busses drive through here

Under Water

There’s lots to explore on the island, but my sole intention is diving so I spend five of the six days here underwater – exactly where I’m happiest! It’s my first time diving in Europe and it’s very different than anywhere else I’ve been so far. Continue reading →