Abroad for beginners

Magic Malta is 'abroad for beginners', writes David Firth for Surrey Online:

We roared through crowded, sundrenched streets,with only a blast of hot air through an open window for respite. Welcome to public transport Malta style. Forget air-conditioned hire cars.A 1960s Leyland Tiger bus is the way to travel to sample the sights and sounds of this Mediterranean island..

I was once told Malta is "abroad for beginners" - because English is one of this tiny country's two official languages. But that's an advantage,and catching the bus offers a chance to chat with locals and discover the island's old-world charm. The Maltese tell you their country is one of the most densely-populated places in the world, and on the east side it's crowded and colourful..

As the sun rose in the sky,the July heat became unbearable - so we beat a hasty retreat. We crossed the city to Floriana, which is home to the Argotti Botanical Gardens.The gardens feature huge cacti and succulent plants,and give panoramic views of Valletta's suburban districts.The sea, however,offers a cooler alternative,and two of Malta's "natural wonders" make a great play of its beauty - The Blue Grotto and the Blue Lagoon...