It’s been a while since I’ve done a lockdown armchair travel post – and, for most of us, we’re still not going anywhere exciting in a hurry. So M is for Malta, and a lovely sunny week in the summer of 2012 (plus a couple of old snaps from our stay in March 1993). We stayed in the resort that I think is probably the best place to be based in Malta –

St Julian’s Bay. It’s chic, elegant, close to Valletta but also a good springboard to other parts of the island. And considerably more attractive than Bugibba, which is where we stayed in 1993. You can spend hours here just drinking in the scenery.

It’s also an easy walk to Sliema, with its beautiful views overlooking Valletta.

They love a good parade in Malta. When we were there in 1993 it was carnival time, and we watched the arrival of King Carnival (to a very repetitive but upbeat pre-recorded soundtrack).

Meanwhile, in 2012, we were in St Julian’s at the same time when an effigy of the saint is paraded around the town.

To a live band accompaniment, of course.

One of my favourite places in Malta is Mosta, with its incredible Dome Church.

It’s notable for having survived a bomb attack during the Second World War when a bomb fell through the hole at the top of the Dome – but didn’t explode.

That was a lucky break. (Or God was on their side, whichever you prefer).

From Mosta it’s easy to carry on to the beautiful and blustery old capital of Mdina.

The wind really whistles around your wotsits when you’re perched up there, even in full summer.

Lion statues guard against you – or welcome you, depending on how you see yourself – as you wander round this quaint and very narrow old town.

But the views are stunning.

Of course you have to pay a visit to the modern capital, Valletta, with its steep streets.

St John’s Co-Cathedral is a must-see.

The Hospital of St John perches near an attractive outcrop

A harbour cruise is also worthwhile

This is a picture of the so-called Three Cities taken from a harbour cruise in 1993 – very moody

I’d also recommend a trip to Gozo. Full of charming sights.

Here’s stunning Ramla Bay

And lovely Xlendi

We did a boat trip to the Azure Window

It was a stunning sight

Sadly no longer there

The islands are also littered with ancient temples. Here you can see Altar Niches at the Ġgantija Temples

Here’s an interesting thing: Maltese horse races are the “trot” variety!

I could bore you with many more pictures, but that wouldn’t be fair. Here’s just a few quirky parting shots.

Mussels in Smells?

No construction worker would be seen dead without his parasol

So pleased to see Michael Gove has got a proper job

Synchronised drinking?

Who’s captain of this ship?

I’ll leave you with an image of me nicking some chocolate almost thirty years ago.

Let’s hope we can go on holidays safely again soon!