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9 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 8 NOVEMBER 2024 CULTURE Exploring Gozo without a car GOZO is a must-visit destina- tion for anyone seeking a qui- eter, more scenic side of life on the islands. Well known for its charming villages, stunning beaches, and history spanning thousands of years, Gozo offers a memorable experience even for a short visit. And the best part? You don't need a car to explore it! Here's how to make the most of a car- free day trip to Gozo, along with some top tips on why stay- ing overnight might be worth it. Getting to Gozo from Malta Start your journey with the Gozo Channel Ferry, which de- parts frequently from Ċirkew- wa in northern Malta. This fer- ry, accommodating both foot passengers and vehicles, is a scenic 25-minute ride across the Mediterranean, where you can relax and take in the views of Malta's coastline. There's no need to book tick- ets in advance. You'll arrive in the port town of Mġarr, where you can begin exploring Gozo immediately. For tourists in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian's, public buses run directly to the ferry terminal in Ċirkewwa, taking around 60-90 minutes, de- pending on your location. Alternatively, for a faster jour- ney, consider a fast ferry from Valletta's Grand Harbour di- rectly to Mġarr, available sea- sonally and offering a direct connection from Malta's capital to Gozo in about 45 minutes. Exploring Gozo with Public Transport Once in Mġarr, Gozo's pub- lic bus system makes it easy to get around. Buses run regularly across the island, with routes connecting the port to all ma- jor attractions. For example, Route 301 takes you to Victo- ria, Gozo's quaint capital city, in just 15 minutes, and from there, you can catch buses to other highlights like Dwejra Bay, Xlendi, and Ramla Beach. For a day trip, start your jour- ney in Victoria, where you'll find the medieval Citadel, a fortified city with panoram- ic views over Gozo. Visit the Gozo Cathedral, museums, and quaint local shops within the Citadel's walls. Afterward, head to Dwejra Bay to see the iconic Inland Sea and the Blue Hole, both excel- lent spots for swimming and snorkeling. Alternatively, take Route 306 from Victoria to the super pret- ty seaside village of Xlendi. Re- nowned for its crystal-clear wa- ters and dramatic cliffs, Xlendi is the ideal place to unwind or enjoy a traditional lunch at a local seafood restaurant. For beach lovers, Route 322 passes through Marsalforn, a popular resort town with plen- ty of cafes and restaurants to while away an afternoon. Consider staying overnight While Gozo is easy to explore in a day, staying overnight can add an extra layer to your trip. By the evening, most day-trip- pers have left, allowing you to experience a quieter side of the island. An overnight stay will ena- ble you to experience Gozo's beautiful sunsets, enjoy star- gazing on its remote beaches, and perhaps even discover the island's nightlife at one of the traditional Gozitan bars. Staying in Gozo also lets you go further and explore more of its history, such as Ġganti- ja, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with temples older than the pyramids, or the Ta' Ċenċ cliffs, which offer breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. You will also find many unique options when it comes to accommodation, from charming guesthouses to lux- urious farmhouses with pools, allowing you to experience Gozitan hospitality at its finest. Some final tips Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, and keep in mind that Gozo's compact size makes it easy to explore even within a short timeframe. With regular ferry and bus options, you'll be able to see the best of Gozo at your own pace. You can also check out the apps for Uber and Bolt taxi services. Whether you stay for a day or a night, Gozo promises a real- ly wonderful adventure that's easily accessible from Malta. So, pack your bags, hop on the ferry, and prepare to explore one of the Mediterranean's most scenic islands.