We departed early on the Monday morning for Heathrow and were in the air by lunchtime. As we came in to land we were treated with a beautiful view of the island we would be touring for the week. After a long day travelling, everyone was very glad to finally arrive at our lovely hotel and get some well earned rest.
On the second day we met our wonderful tour guide and expert on all things Malta for the week, Daniela, who took us first on a guided walk of the city of Valletta, the capital of Malta. We spent the afternoon rehearsing for our evening concert where we met both the Archbishop of Malta and the Mayor of Valletta. We were lucky enough to watch the priests process a vestige of Mary while flowers rained down from the dome of the church.
On Wednesday we took the ferry from Malta to the northern island of Gozo, where we would be performing in our second concert. While on the island we took an exciting boat trip through a narrow cave out into the sea around the island where we were shown the steep cliffs of Gozo and the coral that grows in the caves. Later we arrived in Victoria, and climbed to the highest point in the city, the ancient citadel. From the walls you can see the whole of Gozo and many pictures were taken. The evening concert was a huge success, despite the heat, with passers by peering in the doors at the back at the church to listen in. After a hurried rush to make the ferry we made it back to Malta for the night.
On Thursday we met our guide Daniela again and travelled to Mdina, another picturesque city for another guided tour and some excellent ice cream. In the afternoon we had more rehearsals and then travelled again to Valetta. We found our venue for the evening to be the most beautiful church yet. A great final concert rounded off our singing success and our final full day in Malta.
Our last day began with another coach to the capital, Valletta. In Valletta we had plenty of free time to further explore the city, eat some tasty food, and buy souvenirs for family. Finally we had one last coach ride to the airport to end our time in Malta. Our flight landed back at Heathrow early evening before arriving back at school late evening.
Many thanks to all teachers involved in the trip and a special thank you to Mrs Steensma and Mrs George for organising it all.
Bertie M and Henry G, Year 13
