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<p>Malta is a beautiful Island nation between Sicily and the North African Coast. It is the world's 10th smallest country and is currently the smallest country in the European Union. It is a nation that has been conquered many times, thanks to its strategic position in the Mediterranean. Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Argonese, Knights of St. John, French and most recently, the British, all took turns conquering this tiny island nation. It became a British colony in 1813 and after independence in 1974, joined the EU in 2004. </p>
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<p>This is a country with a rich history. Each culture that conquered it left their  mark, and the Maltese people are a diverse mix. <strong>They do not stick to one architectural style, food or language. </strong>The official languages are Maltese and English, however you will hear Italian and even some French being spoken in the streets. There is a nice mix of British, Italian and Arab influences here, and its clear in the diversity of food and the different types of buildings. However, it still feels very classically European. Malta's identity is in its <strong>multiculturalism</strong>, and this is a favourite spot to visit for Europeans. </p>
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<p>Malta is divided into different city districts. The main areas to visit are Valletta and Sliema. <strong>Valletta</strong> is the capital, and very historical. It is a walled city, surrounded by high wall rising from the sea. There are no beaches in Valletta, just a series of beautiful lookouts from atop the fortress walls. The city itself is built on a large hill, and the <strong>streets are narrow and steep</strong>. A large church sits at the top of the hill, and is a famous landmark for this beautiful city. The buildings are made of <strong>limestone</strong>, giving the whole city a beautiful, honey cream color. Valletta does not feel overwhelmingly busy, however does have a <strong>lively vibe</strong>. There are a number of great restaurants with outdoor seating on the street, or tables in the square. <strong>Food ranges from Maltese to Italian to Asian and Middle Eastern</strong>. Most ethnic cuisines are represented here, and I found that a nice change from other places in Europe. There is also a great Happy Hour culture here, and drinking mid-day is encouraged. For those who like to party, one of the main streets becomes an open air nightclub on the weekends, with all bars opening their doors and allowing people to drink in the street, and walk from bar to bar. Its a great scene if you're looking for something lively!</p>
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<p><strong>Sliema </strong>is just across the water from Valletta and a quick public ferry ride. It is the newer city in Malta </p>
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<p>I was originally attracted to Malta because of the weather. With <strong>little rain and lots of sunshine</strong>, this is the perfect place to visit off season. Temperatures range from 16 degrees Celsius in January to 31 degrees Celsius in August. So...its never really gets very cold. It does get windy, however storms typically pass by fairly quickly, so just find a cafe to rest at and wait for the storm to pass. </p>
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