This past week was our group’s spring break, and everyone had the freedom to spend the week as they chose. Most of us, go figure, decided to travel! Everything just seems so “close” when you’re already on the other side of the Atlantic… Some traveled in groups, some took the solo route, and some students’ families even came to visit for the week. Whether choosing to hit a variety of major cities in a matter of days or picking one or two places to relax for the entire week, everyone seemed to have a blast and came home with countless stories. Weeks ago while planning my break, I knew that above all I wanted to spend my week in a sunny and warm place with ample opportunities to explore outdoors. For, although there are plenty of hiking spots and outdoor activities in Oviedo, it isn’t always sunny and 60’s…
While perusing my options, I remembered advice I had received from a friend who studied abroad in France last spring. What she had recommended to me was something she said in passing, but I vaguely remembered some descriptions of a magical island with rolling fields, ancient ruins, and wonderful locals. Was I making this up? I decided to text her and see what she had been talking about. Her response was: “Omg! Malta!!!”
She was ecstatic about the prospect of me going, and offered tons of tips on the best spots to see and where to book an Airbnb. When there are so many travel destinations to choose from, it really can be helpful to narrow things down by talking with friends who have traveled before!
I began seriously researching this destination, and was astounded to find that the flights to the island (thanks, Ryanair!), Airbnbs prices, and general costs of living were all incredibly affordable. So, I booked my flights and decided to go for it.
Many people haven’t heard of Malta- it’s one of the smallest countries in the world, just south of Italy. The main Island is only 316 square kilometers (I’ve gotten used to the metric system over here…), and there is also a smaller island called Gozo that is 67 square kilometers. I chose to stay in Gozo, where I could avoid the tourist scene and stick to personal adventuring and meeting locals.
For my agenda of sun, relaxation, and exploration of a beautiful new place, the week couldn’t have been more perfect! I was joined by a friend from the U.S., and we did a lot of exploring without any previous research. Our week consisted of stumbling upon ancient historic sites, old churches, and beautiful scenery. This has always been my favorite way to explore a new place: dropping the map and simply discovering as you go. This brought us to have a personal tour in a beautiful old church by two local friars, eat delicious pistachio crusted sea bass and homemade apple tart, and discover a breathtakingly beautiful hiking trail that winds along the sea. The whimsy of the country and friendliness of the locals never ceased to amaze me!
All in all, it was an amazing week where I managed both to discover a new place and allow myself some time to relax and just be present. It almost didn’t feel real to be away from Oviedo for so long, and by the end, I found myself getting excited to return to my friends and host mom. I guess I really am beginning to think of Oviedo as a home base! I was also itching to get back to practicing my Spanish, since most people in Malta can speak English along with their native Maltese language.
