**Guest post**

A rich history, splendid scenery and a fascinating culture make the little island of Malta a big hit with holidaymakers.

Whether you’re a history buff going to explore ancient sights and interesting artefacts or a sun worshiper wanting to bask by day and hit the town by night, Malta is exceptional at both ends of the scale. Thomas Cook holidays to Malta offer all types of holidaymaker a great deal on a range of holiday packages from self-catering to all-inclusive options.

Over the ages many empires have made their mark on Malta, from the Greeks to the Romans and as a result the place is teeming with ancient ruins, palaces, cathedrals and fortresses. The capital city, Valletta, has plenty on offer with striking architecture around every corner. St John’s Co-Cathedral, Fort St Elmo, the War Rooms and the National War Museum, where the George Cross lies, awarded to the nation for its wartime bravery, are all must-see sights.

Mellieha Bay, set on the island’s north coast is a laid back kind of place and makes a great base for Malta holidays. The old town is perched up on a hill and has traditional shops and restaurants. Down on the sea front, the sheltered bay is a sandy one unlike many on the island which are mostly shingle, this 800 metre stretch is the longest on the island. 30 minutes away is the medieval city of Mdina ‘the silent city’, perched on a hill in the centre of the island, where narrow winding streets take you to preserved ruins, churches and monasteries. The absence of cars gives this historic place a tranquil, mysterious ambience.

If you want to expand your Malta holidays to see more of the archipelago, just off the coast of Malta you’ll find the two isles of Gozo and Comico, where life takes on a slower pace. The breath-taking coastline and beautiful sandy beaches make them a must-do trip, and you’ll find boats running regularly to and from Malta.

For active types there are many water sports to try and scuba divers will be amazed at the abundance of colourful marine life and corals to be discovered in Malta’s underwater paradise.

Malta really is a magical place, this tiny island packs in a whole lot of sights and with so much to see and do, you’ll want to return again and again to see more!

**All photos are by Luis Corderio**