Between the years 1530 and 1598, Malta was under the governance of the Roman Catholic Order of St. John. This order, which has been called by many names as a result of the many changes and developments in its history, came into existence all the way back in the 11th century. The original purpose of the Order was to tend to sick pilgrims visiting the holy city of Jerusalem. On February 15th, 1113, the Order was officially named the Hopitallers…
Malta has such a fascinating history. It seems that nearly everybody in Europe either controlled or tried to control this strategic archipelago in the Mediterranean. Part of the fascination of this place is experiencing the numerous influences in the language, the architecture, customs and culture. The story of Malta goes way, way back. Remains of pottery from the stone age indicate that the Sicani, the oldest inhabitants of Sicily made their way to the islands around 5200 BC. By 3500…
This month I am so excited to explore the fascinating island of Malta. The Republic of Malta is actually an archipelago in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea and includes three populated islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino. These islands have a long and intriguing history dating back to around 5,000 BC. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Moors, Knights of St. John, Sicilians, Spanish, French and British, among others (!) have ruled or invaded these small islands. Malta is an island…
Vancouver Island is a dream destination for food and wine lovers. In 2006, Saveur Magazine bestowed the island with the title of ‘new epicurean mecca of the west coast’. There is no short supply of farms and farmer’s markets, fresh seafood, restaurants and culinary schools. The wines produced at the many island wineries have received rave reviews and the slow food movement has gained a strong footing with farm to table meals offered by rural farmhouses to upscale city…
Known as “The Garden City”, as well as the “City of Newly Weds and Nearly Deads” due to it’s parks, gardens, large number of young couples and seniors, Victoria, named after Queen Victoria, has been described as a ‘piece of England’. It is equidistant (60 miles) from the city of Vancouver on the British Columbia mainland and from Seattle in the state of Washington, with regular ferry and air service to and from each city. Victoria is one of…
Whether you arrive by ferry or by plane, Vancouver Island promises an amazing escape for anyone who appreciates the peace and wonder of nature, the leisurely pace of quaint fishing ports or the adventure of hiking, kayaking, skiing, exploring and camping in the mountainous provincial parks. Vancouver Island, known by locals as ‘The Island’ is the very definition of escape for many of us. The Provincial Parks The largest provincial park on the island is Strathcona Provincial Park, established in…