Malta

My cousin (a visitor on many occasions) said that Malta was like 'marmite' ! This was him referring not to any old taste but on his feelings that "Malta, you either love it, or hate it!"
At first all you see are the breeze block walls and half finished buildings. You steer clear of the crazy driving, you feel the potholed roads rattling beneath you as you drive past the dry rather monotone landscape.
Then you start to see through the uniform colours and relax into a diet of constant sunshine, clear waters, scenic bars and wide bays. Slowly you catch your breath and all's well with the world.

Santa Maria Estate, Mellieha.
The pool at the house where we were staying was just perfect.

Pace yourself on cheap drinks and reasonable food with plenty of interesting places to visit never far away. We had a lovely holiday.

We also celebrated the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in glorious sunshine, while watching the rainy River Thames pageant on the TV. A British Tea party in our home from home in Malta.

"Cucumber sandwich anyone"

We can recommend the day trip to Gozo (Marsalforn, Cliffs at San Lawrenz). The boat trip round Valletta harbour with Luzzu Cruises. officialluzzucruises.com  And the beach at Golden Bay. Though turn left, not right as the beach at Ghajn Tuffieha is much nicer. See below.