Xlendi: A Serene Seaside Escape in Malta

• HelloBongu
  [Bon-goo]
• GoodbyeSaħħa
  [Sa-ha]
• YesIva
  [Ee-va]
• NoLe
  [Le]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [Yekk yoj-bok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [Grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorryJekk jogħġbok
  [Yekk yoj-bok]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [Kif int?]
• Fine. And you?Ħaj
  [Hay]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [Tit-kel-lem bl-Ing-liz]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [Ma neef-heems]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara il-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [Nis-tee-ek in-ara il-meh-noo, yekk yoj-bok]
• I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [Ma nee-ek-olsh la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [Sa-ha!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [Nis-tee-ek in-hal-las, yekk yoj-bok]

• Help!Għajnuna!
  [Aye-noo-na]
• Go away!Mur!
  [Moor]
• Call the Police!Ibgħat il-Pulizija!
  [Ib-ghat il-Po-li-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ibgħat tabib!
  [Ib-ghat ta-beeb]
• I'm lostInkejt
  [In-ket]
• I'm illNixtieq tabib
  [Nis-tee-ek ta-beeb]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [Nis-tee-ek in-is-tree]
• I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [Kwed na-ra bis]
• How much is it?Kemm huwa?
  [Kemm hoo-wa]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq għali
  [Dan hoo-wa wees-ga gha-li]
• 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 waħda
  [Hoo-wa wad-da]
• Half past (10)Nofs għaxar
  [Nofs ra-shar]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [Fil-od-oo]
• AfternoonWaraba'
  [Wa-ra-ba]
• EveningFilgħaxija
  [Fil-ash-ee-ya]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [Il-bi-ra]
• TodayIllum
  [Ee-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
  [A-da]
• 1Wieħed
  [Wee-hed]
• 2Tnejn
  [Tnejn]
• 3Tlieta
  [Tlee-ta]
• 4Erba'
  [Er-ba]
• 5Ħamsa
  [Ham-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [Sit-ta]
• 7Seba'
  [Seb-a]
• 8Tmienja
  [Tmee-en-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [Dis-a]
• 10Għaxra
  [A-shra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [Feyn hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [Shin-hoo l-in-direetzz]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turi (fuq il-mappa)?
  [Tis-ta too-ree (fuq il-map-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta jasal in-niesa tiegħu?
  [Me-ta ya-sal in-nye-sa tee-ew]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [Bil-yet (gal ....)]

Xlendi, located on the southwestern coast of the island of Gozo in Malta, has been inhabited since antiquity. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was settled by the Phoenicians, who established it as a modest but strategically important port. The remains of ancient structures and pottery shards provide a glimpse into life during this early period.

When the Roman Empire expanded its reach to Malta, Xlendi became part of the Roman province of Sicily. The Romans developed the area further, constructing villas and utilizing the bay for maritime activities. Roman artifacts, including coins and amphorae, have been discovered in the vicinity, indicating the area's integration into the broader Roman trade network.

During the medieval period, Xlendi was a quiet fishing village under the control of various powers, including the Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans. Each of these cultures left their mark on the local architecture, agricultural practices, and maritime traditions. The period saw the construction of small chapels and the cultivation of terraced fields.

In the 16th century, the Knights of St. John took control of Malta and fortified various strategic points, including Xlendi. The Knights built a watchtower, known as Xlendi Tower, in 1650 to protect the coast against pirate attacks. This tower still stands today and serves as a historical monument open to visitors.

Malta became a British colony in 1814, and Xlendi saw some development under British rule. While Xlendi remained primarily a fishing village, the British introduced new infrastructural improvements, including better roads and communication links, which gradually opened up the area to more visitors.

In the 20th century, Xlendi transformed from a quaint fishing village into a popular tourist destination. The natural beauty of Xlendi Bay, coupled with its rich history, attracted both local and international visitors. Modern amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and diving centers were established to cater to the growing influx of tourists, making Xlendi a vibrant hub of activity.

Despite modern developments, Xlendi has managed to retain much of its cultural heritage. Traditional festas, or village feasts, are celebrated with great enthusiasm, featuring fireworks, music, and processions. Local cuisine, deeply rooted in Mediterranean flavors, continues to be a significant aspect of life in Xlendi, with seafood playing a central role.

Xlendi is located on the southwestern coast of Gozo, Malta's sister island. The nearest airport is Malta International Airport in Luqa. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal, where you can catch a ferry to Gozo. The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes. Once in Gozo, you can reach Xlendi by bus or taxi, with the journey taking approximately 15-20 minutes.

Xlendi is a small village, and most attractions are within walking distance. Public buses are available and connect Xlendi to other parts of Gozo, including the capital, Victoria (Rabat). Taxis are readily available, and car rentals can be arranged for those who prefer to explore the island at their own pace. Bicycles and scooters are also popular options for getting around.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Xlendi and nearby Victoria, ensuring easy access to cash when needed.

Xlendi is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Xlendi, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Xlendi has a small local clinic, but for more serious medical issues, you may need to visit the Gozo General Hospital in Victoria. Pharmacies are available in Victoria for over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but be respectful by avoiding overly revealing clothing, especially in churches. Religion: Do respect local customs, and when visiting religious sites, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Bonġu' (Good morning in Maltese). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as fresh seafood, and be open to trying local wines. Don't be offended if locals invite you to share a meal; it’s a sign of hospitality.

To experience Xlendi like a local, take a leisurely walk along the coastal path to enjoy the stunning views of the bay. Visit the local restaurants for fresh seafood and traditional Maltese dishes. Engage with the friendly locals who are often willing to share stories about the village's history and culture. For a unique experience, rent a kayak or take a boat tour to explore the nearby caves and hidden coves.