Gozo: Malta's Tranquil Gem

• HelloMerħba
  [mer-hba]
• GoodbyeĊaw
  [chaw]
• YesIva
  [ee-va]
• NoLe
  [leh]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yekk yogh-bok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzani
  [skoo-za-nee]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [keef int]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo int]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [tit-kel-lem bl-ingliz]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [ma neef-heemsh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [nisht-yek in-ara l-meh-noo, yekk yogh-bok]
• I don't eat meatMa nixtieqx inaħżar it-tiġieġ
  [ma nisht-yekh inah-zhar it-teeyej]
• Cheers!Seħħ
  [sehh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nisht-yek in-hal-las, yekk yogh-bok]

• Help!Għajni!
  [ai-nee]
• Go away!Mur!
  [mur]
• Call the Police!Ibqghu l-Pulizija!
  [ib-ghu l-poo-lee-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ibqghu tabib!
  [ib-ghu ta-beeb]
• I'm lostInkejt
  [ink-eet]
• I'm illNixtieq tabib
  [nisht-yek ta-beeb]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [nisht-yek ini-stree]
• I'm just lookingQed inħares biss
  [kwehd in-ha-res bis]
• How much is it?Kemm huwa?
  [kem hoo-wa]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq sħiħ
  [dan hoo-wa weesq shee]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' tnaqqas il-prezz?
  [tis-ta tnaq-kas il-prez]

• What time is it?X'ħin huwa?
  [shin hoo-wa]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [hoo-wa l-ew-wel see-eha]
• Half past (10)Nofs il-għaxra
  [noffs il-aakra]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-gho-doo]
• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [wa-ra-nofs-in-har]
• EveningWarax
  [wa-rash]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-bier-ah]
• TodayIllum
  [il-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
  [aada]
• 1Waħda
  [wah-da]
• 2Tnejn
  [tnejn]
• 3Tlieta
  [tlee-ta]
• 4Erba'
  [er-ba]
• 5Ħamsa
  [hamsa]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Sebba'
  [seb-ba]
• 8Tmintax
  [tmin-tax]
• 9Disgħa
  [dis-gha]
• 10Għaxra
  [aakra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [fayne hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shin-hoo l-indi-reetz]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turiini (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tis-ta tu-ree-nee fooq il-map-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta huwa l-isbaħ li jmiss?
  [me-ta hoo-wa l-is-ba li y-miss]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet (al ....)]

Gozo's history dates back to the Neolithic period, around 3600-3200 BC. The Ġgantija Temples, located in Xagħra, are among the world's oldest free-standing structures. These megalithic temples are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are believed to be dedicated to a fertility deity. The Ġgantija complex consists of two temples constructed with massive limestone blocks, showcasing the advanced architectural skills of its builders.

During the first millennium BC, the Phoenicians established trade routes through the Mediterranean, and Gozo became a crucial stopover. Evidence of Phoenician presence includes various artifacts and the construction of temples. Later, the island fell under Roman rule in 218 BC. The Romans called Gozo 'Gaulos' and developed it further, leaving behind numerous relics such as the Roman baths and villas, particularly in the locality of Ramla Bay.

In the early medieval period, Gozo experienced a series of conquests. The Arabs conquered the Maltese islands in 870 AD, introducing advanced agricultural techniques and new language influences. In 1091, the Normans led by Count Roger I of Sicily captured Gozo, marking the beginning of Christian rule. The medieval period saw the construction of fortified structures, including the Cittadella in Victoria, which served as a refuge from pirate attacks.

The Order of the Knights of St. John (1530-1798) played a significant role in shaping Gozo's history. They fortified the island to protect it from Ottoman invasions and established a network of coastal watchtowers. The Knights improved the Cittadella, turning it into a formidable fortress. Their influence extended to the cultural and architectural landscape, as seen in the baroque churches and palaces that dot the island.

In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte's forces captured Malta, including Gozo. However, the French occupation was short-lived due to local resistance and British intervention. By 1800, Gozo came under British rule, which lasted until Malta's independence in 1964. The British era brought about significant infrastructural developments, including the introduction of modern education systems, medical facilities, and the construction of roads and harbors.

World War II left a profound impact on Gozo. Although the island was less targeted than the main island of Malta, it still suffered from air raids and food shortages. The local population displayed remarkable resilience, contributing to the war effort through agriculture and support for the Allied forces. The war years are remembered for the community's solidarity and the strategic importance of Malta in the Mediterranean theater.

Today, Gozo is a vibrant blend of historical heritage and modern amenities. The island has preserved its traditional crafts, including lace-making and agriculture, while also embracing tourism and technological advancements. Modern Gozo boasts a rich cultural calendar, with festivals celebrating everything from religious feasts to contemporary arts. The island's scenic beauty, coupled with its historical sites, makes it a unique destination for travelers.

Gozo, Malta's sister island, is accessible by ferry from the main island of Malta. The ferry departs from Ċirkewwa on Malta and arrives at Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Regular ferry services operate daily, and tickets can be purchased at the terminal or online. For those arriving by air, Malta International Airport (MLA) in Luqa is the nearest airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or car rental to Ċirkewwa ferry terminal.

Gozo is small and easy to navigate. Public buses are available and connect all major towns and attractions. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Renting a car or scooter offers the most flexibility for exploring the island. Bicycles are another popular option, especially for those who enjoy a more active way of seeing the sights. Walking is feasible within towns and to nearby attractions.

The official currency in Malta, including Gozo, is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are readily available in most towns and villages.

Gozo is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, but standard travel precautions should still be observed. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when walking alone at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects to police, fire, and medical services. The main hospital, Gozo General Hospital, is located in Victoria and offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a simple 'hello.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like rabbit stew and cheeselets. Don't refuse food offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Gozo like a local, visit the local markets such as It-Tokk in Victoria where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Gozitan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Ġgantija Temples, which are older than the pyramids of Egypt. For a unique experience, attend a local festa, where you can enjoy fireworks, music, and traditional food.

The best time to visit Gozo is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the island is less crowded. Summer (July to August) can be hot and busy, especially with locals and tourists flocking to the beaches. Winter (December to February) is mild, but some attractions may have reduced hours.

The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English. English is widely spoken and understood, making it easy for tourists to communicate. Learning a few basic phrases in Maltese, such as 'Bonġu' (Good morning) and 'Grazzi' (Thank you), can be appreciated by the locals.