My Mediterranean trip in November 2009

I have visited/revisited many places during my Mediterranean trip and here are some of the highlights:

Sicily

We hired a driver to chauffeur us around Palermo, the capital of Sicily. The driver was unexpectedly nice and helpful. People always perceive Sicily as Italy’s dark horse, cursed by an unfair stereotype. I must say this perception disappeared immediately after we encountered the friendly locals there.

Palermo is a bit chaotic and dusty, yet intriguing, due to the many different cultures and domination that invaded the place. It has a large architectural heritage and is notable for its many Norman Buildings: The Cathedral of Palermo and San Cataldo with its famous three red, bulge domes.

Malta

Another place that I really like is Valetta. Valetta is a tiny fortified city and also a world heritage site. The city is surrounded by two harbours; one of them is the Grand Harbour. We caught the most stunning view of the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Also, as we walked down Republic Street (the main street in Valetta), we saw mellow honey-coloured limestone architecture everywhere. Very Baroque style!!

Needless to say, we stopped by a few must go places, including the Co-Cathedral of St John and the Palace. The interior of the cathedral is ornate with intricate carved stone walls. It has the only largest painting depicting The Beheading of St. John the Baptist by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. I was so impressed and awestruck by this fabulous oil canvas painting, which looks so real! Incredible!

There are lots of alfresco style restaurants at the Main Square, next to the Palace. We really enjoyed watching the hive of activity whilst dining at the Main Square.