Sicily tomorrow

Long interesting day

Sailing into Malta is a treat in view of old walls and buildings.

The seas were a little rough until we got near the harbor. We had full day walking down old lanes among ancient buildings with bus rides in-between. The city is Vallarta near the ship. It was in the 50s and the wind could really be full at times. We saw many public buildings and found out about Maltas political structure. Malta is a nation state and it’s role in history has been crucial because of its position as the portal between Africa and Europe.

As I write this I am too tired to recount all the details. I regret that but we have another tour tomorrow in Trapani Sicily.

We went around many cathedrals and churches but didn’t go in. there simply isn’t enough time.

We had lunch at a cozy restaurant in an upper room. We had red and white wine, local dishes: a very hearty vegetable soup, a beef dish that is like meatloaf with peas inside, other veggies and a hearty bread whose crust could break your teeth if you weren’t careful.

Mdina was an adjacent city we visited. It is higher on the island. In many places we were treated to samples of their local liquor; my favorite is the prickly pear.

But the highlight was the Mostra Dome. This incredibly beautiful old church (which is lovingly restored to look almost brand new) is prepared for Holy Week events and so it was even more special. It was bombed inWWII and the bombs didn’t detonate: 3 of them that landed directly into the dome and the church. Now if that isn’t a miracle! There is more to story but for another time.

Ed and I came back at 4:30 but Lisa continued into the town for more sightseeing as we did not leave until 7:30. We returned to our usual table and had many laughs.

Entertainment

Another fantastic production show with the amazing dancers and the two singers.

Trivia

Lisa was keen to do this and we called Sam to join us. Willie and his mom also joined us. I didn’t know it was a musical trivia: theme songs from TV shows in the 70s. We only missed 2 out of 24; one many playing along got all 24 correct. That hardly seems fair.

A special treat

The seas were pretty rough as we left the harbor and the little pilot boat gamely kept trying to get close enough to the ship to get the pilot off our ship and onto the pilot boat. It was a real nail biter and we all cheered when the guy successfully jumped onto the pilot boat and it swung away. They tooted their horn and our ship did as well. It was such fun to watch and makes one especially appreciate the skill of these behind the scenes people who make such trips such a joy for us.