Gozo Malta's Smaller Island

Gozo is situated in the Mediterreanean Sea.

It lies of the western tip of Malta.

Gozo and its much smaller sister Island Comino are both Maltese. There are also much smaller, uninhabited Islands.

We visited Gozo for a day whilst holidaying on the Island of Malta. We booked our excursion through the local tourist board trips which were called TIS Tours. A mini van took us to the ferry port, at the northern end of Malta. The van and its driver boarded the large ferry with us and then escorted us around Gozo.

You can book accommodation on Gozo itself and spend your whole vacation there if you wish. There are hotels and guest houses. Some guest houses are converted farmhouses and may be quite luxurious.

Gozo can be reached by sea or by helicopter from the mainland or from Comino.

We loved our day trip to Gozo. At the time we visited Malta was especially hot and humid. Gozo was very warm but less humid. The capital and the port were both quite busy but the rest of the island was fairly tourist free. Yes, there were travellers but not to the same extent as on Malta. Our two week vacation was early one September.

The price of a ferry trip across to Gozo, and transport at both sides of the water, was good value. The van only held about half a dozen or so passengers and was OK. However for those sat at the back it was a bumpy ride.

The ferry passes the tiny island of Comino, with its peaceful, turquoise waters, as it approaches Gozo.

Mgarr is the name of the place where the ferries dock on Gozo. This town has a market, churches, museum, shops and many fine buildings to visit.

Gozo has some nice sandy beaches, one that has red sand. This is in the north of the island of Gozo and is called Ramla Beach. This popular beach is never spoiled with hoards of tourists despite its perfect location. Sandy beaches are unusual around these parts and Malta itself only has a couple of sandy beaches. However Gozo seems to have more than its fair share of glorious stretches of sand.

We visited Marsalforn, which according to our guide is where local Maltese often choose to spend their vacations. Originally a simple fishing village, Marsalforn has developed over the years into one of the most popular seaside resorts on Gozo.

Toward the centre of the Island of Gozo is Victoria, or Rabat, the Island's capital. Here you can really feel as if you have taken a step back in time. With ancient architecture and history around every corner Victoria offers some welcome shade from the heat of the sun whilst you soak up a little history.

IS GOZO FOR ME?

Gozo is much greener than Malta and has a much quieter pace. It all depends what you are seeking from Gozo. If you prefer lively holiday destinations stay on Malta and visit Gozo for a day or a couple of days.

Gozo is perfect for those seeking relaxation, a step back in time, historical sites with some welcome sun and water sports. Remember though Gozo is only a small island and may not suit those that soon become bored.

One thing to bear in mind is that visitors either love of hate Malta and Gozo. Lucky for us we loved the Maltese Islands and plan to return in the future.

GOZO IN GENERAL

CURRENCY- The official currency is the Euro

LANGUAGE- The official language is Maltese but most locals speak English also.

FOOD AND DRINK-It is possible to eat a fairly European diet but traditional Maltese fare is tasty and is more readily available these days.

SHOPPING-There are not as many tourist shops selling dross as there are in some holiday destinations but you can find some gifts to take home.

THINGS TO DO IN GOZO-Visit Malta and or Comino, swim in the clear waters or enjoy a little fishing and or scuba diving.

HOW TO GET TO GOZO