I decided to take a group trip to the islands of Malta April 15-18...which is otherwise known as SPRING BREAK 20-11...MALTA! :) As yet another family holiday was approaching without my family nearby, it was a last minute decision to go on this trip, and how happy I was that I went! I always get homesick around holidays especially, so this was a great distraction from the jealousy of my whole family being together without me.
The Erasmus group from the University of Palermo organized a group trip to Malta. This amazing place is a unique group of islands that is it's own country off of the South Eastern coast of Sicily. It used to be controlled by the UK, but now it is one of the world's smallest and most densely populated countries. I was very excited to go because I have heard that Malta is a really fun island to go to.
Turned out to be true! I was also nervous because I only knew a few people in the group going, but it was a great opportunity to meet new people my age living in Palermo.
We had to take a 2 hour bus ride to the Trapani airport near Palermo. There was about 30 of us total. Just from the bus ride I immediately knew it was going to be a fun trip and we had a great group of people to travel with. I had roomates planned (one was the girl on the right, Chiara) and was ready to get the party started! We arrived in Saint Julien, a part of the mainland of Malta, and found our rooms to get ready to go out together. The first night was amazing and everyone in our group had the same intention of just having fun, no drama, and to have a great time! The unique part of going out in Malta is that they have a GREAT deal for drinks...they calls them "Trays." 
Now, first of all, since the island used to be controlled by the UK, the main language is English (also Maltese, but everyone knows English). It was great because for once, BRITTANY was the native speaker and everyone came to me to order things and translate for THEM! haha 
it was just a great roll-reversal for a weekend...I loved it :) Anyways, the trays were a paddle-like tray with places for 12 shots- each cost 10euros! So of course, we took advantage of the specialties of the island..you have to experience the culture and traditions! ;) Everyone shared trays and sampled the different shots they offered. That got us all on the right foot for a great night! haha I swear though, the shots were somehow watered down because you could have a lot more of those shots than regular shots and feel less of the response normal shots give. Except tequila- that was the real deal. :) So to say the least, the first night was a success of clubs, dancing, trays, getting to know the group, and fun!
In the next days we visited the capital of Malta, Valletta, and visited a beautiful island off of the mainland called the Blue Lagoon, and another city, Mdina, as well as all over Saint Julien. They were all so beautiful but my favorite was the Blue Lagoon. The sea was just breathtaking and the weather was gorgeous for us on an April day. 
I didn't even wear my swimsuit because I didn't think it would be warm enough...but I was wrong! I got my first sunburn of the year, along with about 99% of the rest of the group. We couldn't bring suncream on the airplane because of the liquid limitations, so none of us had any. Only a few were smart enough to ask an older lady to use some of her sunscreen. haha The other cities were full of historical buildings and beautiful churches.Overall, the "Malta Experience"
was great. I had a great time meeting some new, fun people. The island was gorgeous and the nightlife was so fun!
