Mdina

The tour parties were out en masse as we worked our way up Republic
Street to the bus station. I lost count of the number of identical
looking groups we passed, their language being the only thing that
differentiated one group from the next. The fact that we saw groups
51, 52 and 53 spoke volumes - obviously a big cruise ship was in town.
Lucky they were here and we were off to Mdina...
We started our visit to Mdina with a quick pop into Rabat, its
neighbour from outside the wall, often overlooked by tourists. There's
a lot there, a nice church with a fascinating grotto and various
different catacombs. Throw in the shops and some decent cafes and it's
well worth a look.
Into Mdina and those tour groups are back - but different. These ones
are from the Oriflame conference (which numbers 5000 delegates). That
makes our trip to Fontanella Tea Rooms interesting as they all seem to
be eating there too - I've never seen it so full. It leads to a bit of
frustration amongst the diners too as the time allotted for lunch
seems to be shorter than the wait time for food orders. We're not
bothered, we have all day. That's made a big difference on this
holiday. We have all day. Every day. There's been no hurry or
necessity to get to somewhere else for the entire holiday. It's made
it very relaxing.
The pea pastizzis (slightly curry flavoured) and cakes are up to the
usual standard and make a delicious lunch - and one which gives wife a
bit of a sugar rush!
A quiet stroll around the entire city of Mdina after lunch, our second
circuit of it today, this time without the tour groups who have now
departed (it's 2 o'clock, time they were in Mosta, or wherever is
next) and it really does feel like "the silent city".
A slow bus back to Valletta and then out for dinner. King's Own Band
Club for the second time. This time we don't feel like we stick out so
much as the place is pretty full of people of all ages and
nationalities. Last time it was just us and pensioner ex-pats. The
deep fried ravioli were delicious (one of wifes favourite dishes) and
my Ricardo's Platter (Gozo cheese, olives, tomatoes, mushrooms, butter
beans and ftira in a salad) was divine. House wine was delicious and
well served.
Earlier to bed than usual, and a better night's sleep too, right
through to 9.30!

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