The island of Gozo is only a 20-25 minute ferry crossing. You dont pay to enter the island, but a small ferry charge is required to leave. This cost us 5Lms - approx £8.00.
My husband had visited the Island prior due to work, when he returned all he did was rave about this small island, with its vintage lorries and buses, which if shipped back to England would be restored and put on show.
We therefore flew to Malta in September 2001 and crossed to Gozo where we sent 12 wonderful days of sunshine. We all enjoyed the stay that much that we flew out again in December 2002 and stayed till the new year. There winter is mild, but slightly windy, more like a warm May Day where you cant make up your mind if you should actually wear your jumper or not. Of course the locals stare at you in disbelief when you and the children are running around in T-shirts and swimming in the Sea on 4th January 2003.
It is hard to believe how so many houses are compacted into tiny villages, with small roads that resemble a rabbit warrens. But it is impossible to get lost, as all roads finally lead to the capital "Victoria". This quaint capital has endless little stores down tiny little side streets which reminded me of small cotswold or fishing villages, filled many an inquisative amount of hand made items and produce.
The Citadel, with its beautiful painted ceilings and magnificent paintings is always open. The tiny Movie Theatre, that stops have way through the film, so that you can get more food or visit the bathroom. For 2 adults and 3 children it cost less than 10Lms - around £14.00.
Dont visit this island if you are an impatient person. During the summer, they drive on the shady side of the road, and you will always end up sitting behind a horse, a motor vehicle which resembles a lawn mower with trailer or simple because if the see someone they know, they will simple stop in the middle of the road.
The Azure Window and the inland sea are remarkable and the photos you will take will always bring back good memories. I recommend the safe bays and inlets for swimming and snorkling and even for small children.
The food is very good all round and you would have no problem in feeding a finiky child. I can highly recommend "Tasty Options" on the front at Marlesform, the food is of a high standard, the owners are so friendly, like visiting family. The island even has a McDonalds and Chinese etc.
The best bakery in the world is on this island. Near Nadurthe still bake using the old fashioned kilns and the bread is so good you will have to return day after day (Especially in the morning when the bread is hot!!) Their cheese and tomatoes pizzas are so morish that you just cant beleive it when its all eaten.
We love this island so much, that we plan to return again this August. The locals remember us and my children have made friends and write regularly to their new penpals.
But dont go their expecting modern, they are very laid back within their lifestyles, for example in 2 trips I have made, they are still constructing the same walls and buildings and if it gets too hot, the might just decide to go home and shut shop till it gets cooler.
And be prepared for the power cuts during the evening. For some reason the Maltese Government see fit to turn off segments of the island periodically, in order to save money??? So be prepared and if you rent a propery, take candles!
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Just to let you know that payment on Ferry Crossing now is done in Malta side because refurshbishment is being done in Gozo. 'Tasty Options' was nice but now Maria & Carlos are there no more. They are back in the UK and the future of 'T.O.' is still to be created. I live on Gozo and I like to read reviews like Snoozy's. Take care
lovechantelle 13.10.2005 12:59
i found parts of you r review really helpful, as i'm going in november to stay with a friend!
royray 09.01.2003 23:33
It sounds really lovely,very nice op,take care,pat.
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Advantages: A quiet and restful island with plenty to do and see that takes you back at least 30 years. Disadvantages: You may just go to sleep from the quiet.
Scorpio2 23.07.2001 ·
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Review of Maltese Islands
Advantages: A quiet and restful island with plenty to do and see that takes you back at least 30 years. Disadvantages: You may just go to sleep from the quiet.
Scorpio2 23.07.2001 ·
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Review of Maltese Islands
Advantages: Airconditioned hotel with all the comforts of home. Balcony overlooking a wonderful marina. All facilities within easy reach. Disadvantages: I found no disadvantages in our stay.
Scorpio2 26.06.2001 ·
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Review of Best Western Hotels
Advantages: Plenty to see and do for everybody. Historic and Ancient. Some nice beaches, some rocky coves. Wonderful for snorkeling, water clear blue. Disadvantages: Poor roads, ancient but quaint bus system (Cheap and regular).
Scorpio2 26.06.2001 ·
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Review of General: Malta
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