Malta

Our time in Sicily came to an end on Friday, the 30th. We have very fond thoughts of Palermo, Pozzallo and the various places we visited over the two weeks. Sheelagh came up with the brilliant idea of returning to spend September or October on one of the small islands off the coast. That may just happen.

We had no trouble huffing our stuff down to the ferry terminal in lots of time to get our tickets and have a tea and an Americano to go with our chocolate pastry. Being naturally anxious to get moving, I must admit that I pushed Shush to go to the waiting area where we found no seats and she did grouse a bit having to stand around and wait to be let on.

The ferry duly arrived. She is an impressive catamaran with a surprisingly large number of cars trucks and foot passengers getting off. We climbed up the stairs and boarded for the 90 minute crossing. It was a bit bumpy and it rained, but Shush sat outside with the smokers and had no problem holding down her chocolate pastry.

Drawing into the harbour in Valletta is like stepping back in history. It looks like the pictures you see in your Bible. There was a large yacht to spoil the picture, but it is picturesque. We went out in search of a bus, but were surrounded by taxi drivers and with the ominous skies and the heavy bags we decided to pay the bill and take a cab to the ferry on the other end of Malta.

By the time we got to Cirkewwa and the the ferry to Gozo, the sun was shining brightly. The sea was very blue but choppy as we crossed. Here we were met by Joey, the cab driver who, "Would welcome us to drive us anywhere we dreamt of going. I love you madam!"

We parted with another 10 Euros and got a ride to our door. Kathy Graham has wisely said, "There is no problem that can't be solved by throwing enough money at it."  After a bit of a kerfuffle over the key, we were welcomed in and given a tour by Cathy, who looks after the place for the owner. It is a golden stone house that is joined up with those on each side. It is very attractive with a pool and from the upper floors we can see the sea.

 Our first night was comfortable. We are looking forward to a pleasant month here.