Qawra: The Gem of Malta's Northern Coast

• HelloBongu
  [Bon-goo]
• GoodbyeĊaw
  [Chow]
• YesIva
  [Ee-va]
• NoLe
  [Lay]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok/Grazzi
  [Yekk yoj-bok/Gra-zzi]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [Gra-zzi]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzani/Sorry
  [Skoo-za-nee/Sorry]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [Kif int?]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [Tai-yeb. Oo int?]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [Tit-kel-lem bl-Ing-liz]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [Ma nee-feemsh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [Nis-tyek in-ara l-men-oo, yekk yoj-bok]
• I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [Ma nee-e-kolsh la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [Sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [Nis-tyek in-hal-las, yekk yoj-bok]

• Help!Għajnuna!
  [Aiy-noo-na]
• Go away!Mur lejn il-quċċata!
  [Mur layn il-quch-cha-ta]
• Call the Police!Ċempel il-Pulizija!
  [Chem-pel il-Pu-lee-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ċempel tabib!
  [Chem-pel ta-beeb]
• I'm lostNinsab miegħi
  [Nin-sab mye-ee]
• I'm illNixtieq l-ħieles
  [Nis-tyek l-heel-esh]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [Nis-tyek in-is-tree]
• I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [Ked na-ra biss]
• How much is it?Kemm huwa?
  [Kem hoo-wa]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq sħiħ
  [Dan hoo-wa wees-shi]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' tniżżel il-prezz?
  [Tis-ta tni-zzel 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-ya]
• Half past (10)Noqro tas-sittax
  [Nok-ro tas-sit-tash]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [Fil-godoo]
• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [Wa-ra-no-sin-har]
• EveningFilgħaxija
  [Fil-ga-hee-ya]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [Il-bier-ah]
• TodayIllum
  [Il-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
  [A-da]
• 1Wieħed
  [Wee-hed]
• 2Tnejn
  [Tneyn]
• 3Tlieta
  [Tlee-ta]
• 4Erba'
  [Er-ba]
• 5Ħamsa
  [Hamsa]
• 6Sitta
  [Sit-ta]
• 7Sebgħa
  [Seb-ya]
• 8Tmienja
  [Tmee-en-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [Dis-ya]
• 10Għaxra
  [A-ha-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [Feyn hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [Shin-hoo l-in-di-rizz]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turi nibqa'?
  [Tis-ta tu-ree nib-qa]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta jasal il-ġej?
  [Me-ta ya-sal il-jay]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [Bil-yet (al ....)]

Qawra, along with its neighboring localities, has a history that dates back to prehistoric times. Archaeological findings in the area suggest that early inhabitants lived here as far back as 5000 BC. These early settlers were likely part of the broader Neolithic culture that thrived in Malta, leaving behind tools and pottery fragments that provide a glimpse into their daily lives.

During the Roman era, Malta became an important hub for trade and military strategy. Qawra, situated along the coast, benefitted from this increased activity. While no major Roman structures have been discovered in Qawra itself, the influence of Roman engineering and architecture can be seen in the nearby areas, hinting at the interconnected nature of ancient Maltese communities.

The arrival of the Knights of St. John in the 16th century marked a significant period in Qawra’s history. The Knights were instrumental in fortifying the Maltese islands against potential invasions. They constructed a series of watchtowers along the coast, with the Qawra Tower being one of them. Built in 1638, this coastal defense tower served as a lookout point and a line of communication between other towers, playing a vital role in Malta's defense strategy.

In the 19th century, Malta became a British colony, which led to significant changes in the island's infrastructure and administration. Qawra saw gradual development during this period as the British expanded their presence across Malta. The establishment of military installations and the improvement of transportation networks during this era laid the groundwork for Qawra's modern development.

Post-independence in 1964, Qawra began to transform into the bustling tourist destination it is today. The 1970s and 1980s saw a surge in the construction of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities to cater to the growing number of tourists flocking to the area. This period of rapid development reshaped Qawra, turning it into a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors.

Qawra is not just about its historical monuments; it is also rich in cultural experiences. The Malta National Aquarium, located in Qawra, is a testament to the area's commitment to marine conservation and education. Additionally, the local festivals and events, such as traditional Maltese feasts, offer a deep dive into the local culture and traditions, providing a lively atmosphere that celebrates Qawra’s heritage.

Qawra is located in the northern part of Malta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), situated approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public transportation to reach Qawra. Buses operated by Malta Public Transport provide regular services from the airport to Qawra, with the journey typically taking around 45 minutes to an hour.

Qawra is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the area. Buses are the most common form of public transport, with routes connecting Qawra to other parts of Malta, including Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian's. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. Renting a car can be a convenient option for those looking to explore at their own pace, but be aware that parking can sometimes be challenging in busy areas.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Qawra. It is recommended to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Qawra is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Qawra is equipped with medical facilities, including clinics and pharmacies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications and advice.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and casual clothing, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing outfits. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and religious traditions. Cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket upon boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'hello' or 'bonġu' (good morning in Maltese). A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like pastizzi and rabbit stew. Don't tip excessively, as a small gratuity is usually sufficient.

To experience Qawra like a local, visit the local markets and try traditional Maltese foods. Engage with residents, who are often friendly and eager to share their knowledge about the area's history and culture. Explore the Qawra promenade for a leisurely walk with views of St. Paul's Bay. Don't miss the Malta National Aquarium, which offers a fascinating insight into the local marine life.