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Malta is a peaceful Mediterranean Island where its inhabitants enjoy yearlong sunshine and a relaxed lifestyle. When visiting such a country you will naturally be on the lookout for the best places to visit so you’ll make the most out of your stay. When seeking for such places, you should ask yourself the following question; ‘Where do the locals themselves go if they want to relax?’ The answer in Malta’s case is its sister island Gozo.
Although a third of Malta’s size, Gozo’s inhabitants account for less than a twelfth of the Maltese Islands’ total population.
Famous for its scenic hill-strewn landscape, Gozo is far more rural and less built-up than the larger island. The lifestyle is even more laid back and visitors cannot help but feel lulled by Gozo’s peaceful atmosphere. In fact, it is not uncommon for holidaymakers to fall in love with Gozo to such an extent that they would eventually purchase a residence there. Scottish comedian Billy Connolly counts himself among these people.
One of the first to succumb to Gozo’s charms was reputed to be Odysseus from Homer’s mythological poem The Odyssey. Gozo is thought to be modern-day Ogygia where Odysseus met the nymph Calypso and stayed with her for seven years. In fact, Gozo is also known as the Isle of Calypso and Calypso’s Cave is found to the north of the island.
Other popular attractions in Gozo include the 15th Century Citadel in the island’s capital Victoria, the breathtaking Azure Window, the natural phenomenon that is the Inland Sea, and the Megalithic Temples of Ġgantija dating back to 4000BCE. The beaches and bays around the island also make for some of the Maltese archipelago’s finest swimming spots.
To reach Gozo you will need to take the Gozo Ferry from Ċirkewwa harbour at the north end of Malta. The crossing typically takes around twenty minutes. The island may also be reached by helicopter, seaplane, or private boat.
On certain times of the year, such as Carnival weekend or the Santa Maria holiday on the 15th August, Gozo would be swarmed by thousands of Maltese partygoers who habitually flock to Gozo during these times. People looking for a memorable party experience should simply follow the locals to Gozo.
To check out ferry times visit www.gozochannel.com
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