The food on Malta is a fusion of complimentary styles and fine flavours. Whilst the idea of fusion food might appear to be a modern idea it is, in fact, the basis of traditional Maltese cooking. Ever since the conflicts fought on Malta between Christian and Islamic forces in the mid 1500s, the primarily Mediterranean diet adopted some elements of Moorish cuisine, creating a unique combination of Southern Italian dishes with Turkish influences. In recent years, the British have contributed to influencing Maltese culinery directions. During Malta's spell as a British colony, numerous English and Scottish foods were adopted by the island's native population. Holidays in Malta are a great way to taste the result of these various influences in cooking first hand, allowing you to enjoy usual dishes such as Kusksu soup and Ftira. Malta also offers a number of drinks unique to the island, including Imbuljuta, a homemade drink that comes from sweetened chestnuts cooked with cocoa, tangerine zest and cloves.
Traditional Maltese ingredients include the usual Mediterranean staples such as olives, tomatoes and fish, as well as local sea food. National cuisine is still popular in homes throughout the country, and there are countless restaurants and cafes serving their own versions of traditional Maltese foods all across the island. Malta also has plenty to keep you busy between meals too, with fantastic historical buildings, great diving spots and stunning beaches.
Malta villas offer you the chance to experience the nation's cuisine first hand. Walk along Valletta's Waterfront, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes that line the main street and spend a lazy afternoon at one of the local markets discovering the variety of local produce that you might like to try. Villas in Malta provide guests with a unique opportunity to try out new flavour combinations in your own personal kitchen, whilst the luxurious Mediterranean décor makes them just nice places to spend time in. As food is central to the local way of life, Malta villas have well equipped kitchens with both traditional and modern equipment.
No trip to Malta should finish with a visit to Gozo - home to the oldest free-standing structures in the world that date back to before the pyramids at Giza. Less geared for the tourist trade, Gozo represents some of Malta's most authentic flavours and impressive sights. This little island is a must-see attraction if you're really want to see the best of traditional Malta.
Unless you live in Sicily or mainland Italy, travelling to Malta is likely to involve flying. The main airport is handily placed close to the capital Valletta. Malta holidays are ideal for those interested in rediscovering traditional Mediterranean food and some of the world's oldest recipes. Both Malta and Gozo offer fantastic historical sites as well as world-class diving opportunities, luxurious new developments and talented local artisans. Getting there is easy, and numerous airlines run regular flights to and from the island's international airport. There are also numerous ports which are suitable for a range of vessels - from cruise liners to private yachts.
