South Route, Malta (March 2020)

We took the South Route first of the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. The double-decker bus was fairly empty because of the slow season compounded by the reduced tourists due to COVID-19. It departed Sliema Ferries to Valleta, the capital city of Malta. Apparently, there are a lot of historic sites and landmarks in this city, but we did not spend time in the city.

We passe by Fort St Elmo and National War Museum. This site was heavily attacked by the Ottomans during the Great Siege in 1565, but endured for 28 days to buy time until it fell down eventually to the Turks.

We passed through a town called Vittoriosa Yacht Marina. It was packed with boats and yachts. The scenery was so tranquil and beautiful

Outside the cities and towns were pretty much open spaces where people were growing fruits or vegetables.

We got off the bus at the Marsaxlokk Fishing Village. As we entered the village, we could sense its beauty at first glance.  Colorful boats were well harmonized with blue sky, blue water, and white clouds. What a beautiful site!

A few fishermen who were working on their fishing nets looked so peaceful.

Tens of street vendors displayed products and souvenirs under the tents.

We sat down and tried Mulled Wine, which was warmed red wine with a cinnamon stick and a slice of orange. With the view, it was just right.

We passed by the Limestone Heritage Park.

We also passed through Blue Grotto and Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum, which sounded attractive, but had to pass due to time constraints.

We ended the South Route tour with this beautiful view of the church at the Sliema Ferries stop. - Jeffrey