Malta 2023: Day 1 – Valletta & Ghadira (Malta)

We arrived at Valletta Malta at sunrise like a ship scene in an episode of Game of Thrones, just wow.

Our initial impression of this place was just wow. Just looking around we instantly felt we needed at least 3 days here instead of one. While we arrived early we wont be able to get off the ship till 11 or so for all the “bureaucratics” to take place but we are eager to get going. We are doing the beach here but that is a 40 minute bus ride away.

We arrived at Ghadira and plunged right into the perfectly temperatured water.

The time flew by and we needed to head back and on the way we saw some magnificent sites!

There are plenty of things to see and do in Malta and we barely scratched the surface. There are some downsides though, the traffic is bad and the overall infrastructure needs improvement. At the beach there were no places that we could find to wash off the sand. The food at the beach was mediocre and there were people peddling goods on the beach right at our beach chairs, very annoying.

While we were at the beach, Alpha Team and the 10th fleet headed elsewhere parts unknown…

It goes without saying that the first thing we do when we board the ship is hit the showers. It is too hot and everyone is sweating profusely. Next summer we will likely do a Norway Fjord or Scandinavian cruise but not on Norwegian…

We will be off to Italy soon…but here is the view from Alpha team

Today, I had an enchanting experience exploring Medina, the City of Knights. The limestone streets whispered tales of valor as she wandered through the historic pathways. The beautiful blue sky above added a touch of tranquility, creating a picturesque setting that connected the past with the present. Medina’s timeless charm left her in awe, immersing her in a journey where history meets the heavens.
Following that, she found herself in the breathtaking city of Valletta. There, she stepped into one of the most stunning co-Cathedrals she had ever laid her eyes on, St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The tour left her captivated by the grandeur of the historical setting.

As the noon sun blazed down, I sought refuge at a charming café outside St. John’s Co-Cathedral, facing a pivotal decision. The historical ambiance and a delectable brownie provided solace and contemplation. Lost in her thoughts, she savored each bite, finding comfort in the bustling city. The weight of the moment lingered, and the world awaited the outcome of her journey under the unyielding gaze of the sun.