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Saturday, 02 November 2019 / Published in Travel, Woodend

Mediterranean Island in the Sun

Mediterranean Island in the Sun

FREEDOM TO TRAVEL WITHOUT WORRYING ABOUT SECURITY OR MAINTENANCE WAS A BIG PLUS FOR RETIREES RAY AND ROSEMARY BARNETT WHEN THEY RECENTLY  RETURNED HOME TO GEMLIFE WOODEND OVER-50s LIFESTYLE RESORT AFTER A MONTH-LONG EUROPEAN HOLIDAY IN THE SUNNY, CULTURALLY RICH ARCHIPELAGO OF MALTA.

Located between Sicily and the North African coast, Malta’s three islands are surrounded by the sparkling azure-blue Mediterranean Sea, making it a popular getaway for tourists wanting to enjoy the sun, sea and a relaxed coastal holiday. 3

Malta is a country the Barnetts know well, particularly Rosemary who was born there and, although she left as a child, has kept close ties with family still living there as well as maintaining the language. “I call Malta an island in the sun – I know it like the back of my hand. It’s a great place for families to go. The beaches are beautiful, in summer there are big ‘’festas’’ with lights and fireworks, and it has a lot of history and culture,” said Rosemary.

The Barnett’s fourth trip to Malta, the couple managed to add some new experiences to their itinerary with a visit to the ancient fortified former capital city of Mdina (also known as the Silent City due to its mostly traffic-free cobbled laneways) to tour the famous Baroque-style St Paul’s Cathedral as well as the Mdina Dungeons Museum for a no-holdsbarred look into Medieval  punishment.

Malta’s rich diversity of cultural influences – Italian, Arabic, Spanish, French and British among others – is reflected in its architecture and food. “The food is fantastic. It’s easy to put on weight
there,” said Ray.

“It’s a beautiful place – it’s spotless and green. The time before last, I took 4000 photos!”

The Barnetts recommend visiting the capital Valletta, a World Heritage site well-known for its museums, palaces and grand churches including the opulent St John’s Co-Cathedral, home to a Caravaggio masterpiece. A must-see attraction includes the twice-daily ceremonial ‘saluting battery’, the world’s oldest, overlooking Valetta’s Grand Harbour.

Another attraction is the crystal-clear azure waters of the Blue Lagoon, located on Malta’s third biggest island, Comino.


“It’s beautiful! The water is so blue and clear. It’s a popular and scenic place.”

A visit to Malta’s second-largest island, Gozo, is also recommended. Quieter and less developed, visitors can make their way to the Citadel, an ancient fortified city with spectacular views, museums and churches.

But, according to Rosemary, one of the best things about Malta is the friendliness of its people and the lively, community feel.

“In most villages, there’s a lot of cafes along the beach with music and dancing. It’s so nice to see people of all ages – young and old – getting together socially,” she said.

“Actually, GemLife reminds me of Malta a bit. Everyone knows everyone, people will introduce us to others, people will wave and say hello, or stop their cars to say hello,” she said.

“We’ve been making heaps of friends at GemLife – it’s been great. There’s always someone to talk to and people are friendly.”

The secure, gated community makes it easy to lockup and go, providing peace of mind when away.

“We didn’t worry about our home at all while we were away. We didn’t even think about it,” said Rosemary

Here’s a small selection of the 4000 photos from the Barnetts!

 

 

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Bribie Island

9 Dux Drive
Bribie Island QLD 4507

MAP1800 193 177

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McCabe Avenue
Pimpama Heights QLD 4209

MAP1800 325 229

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Highfields QLD 4352

MAP1800 910 278

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6 Charlston Place
Maroochydore QLD 4558

MAP1800 982 056

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40 Menzies Drive
Pacific Paradise QLD 4564

MAP1800 430 885

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38 Landershute Road
Palmwoods QLD 4555

MAP1800 718 414

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Lennox Head NSW 2478

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Lake Cathie NSW 2445

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Tweed Heads South NSW 2486

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Disclaimer & Important Notice

The information on this website has been carefully compiled but is only intended as a general guide. It may be changed without notice and must not be relied upon. Plans, elevations and images are not to scale. Plans only show approximate dimensions, areas and layouts. All images including those of the exterior and interior style, colours, fittings, finishes, roof lines, landscaping and appearance are for illustrative purposes only. Prospective buyers must satisfy themselves about all these matters and can only rely on specific information, representations and warranties contained in a formal contract. Nothing on this website constitutes an offer to sell nor does it form part of any contract. Prospective buyers should obtain independent advice from their own consultants and legal/financial advisers. GTH Resorts No 8 Unit Trust and its associated entities disclaim all liability for any loss or damage of any nature incurred by any person arising from the use of or reliance on the contents of this folder. All information correct as at September 2018.

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