I cannot believe I have already been here for almost a month. It takes a lot of time to adjust to all of the new things, but now that I have resigned my position as tourist to take on the role of a resident here I am able to better enjoy the life on this unique island. Everyone who knows me recognizes that I am probably the second most impatient person in the world (second to my father). It has been very trying for me to linger in disorganized line ups, or wait prolonged periods of time for other simple services, but now I am finally accustomed to it. I did hope that travelling abroad would help me become a better person, and I can assure you, I am definitely a much more patient person now than I ever was before! My heart rate and blood pressure have certainly lowered significantly, because the way of life here is much more relaxed than the bustling pace of Toronto.
Because of my dark features, I am often mistaken as being Maltese. Several people have attempted to speak to me in Maltese, it is quite funny!
I am surprised, however, at how urban Malta is. Before I arrived I was under the impression that I was going to be living on a tranquil island, and while the services may be relaxed, the island of Malta remains very urban. Most individuals who can drive own cars (even though the island is so tiny). Vast amounts of garbage accumulate on the streets. Everyone has a cell phone (or two!). The metropolitan island of Malta holds a very high population density, and therefore personal space remains limited, especially on the streets, in stores, in clubs and on the bus. Burger King, McDonald�s and Pizza Hut are food options; however, for the price of a Burger King Combo you can get a delicious fresh pasta or pizza at a local restaurant. Quieter places do exist close to the shore lines, including several beaches that I have had time to make use of!
I take pleasure in the little differences that exist here. For example, soft drinks all come in bottles, and I do find that a cold Coca-Cola tastes significantly better chilled in a glass bottle than in an aluminium can! The food in the grocery store has a lot less preservatives, and while it is frustrating that my food perishes quickly, I am sure it is a much healthier way of eating. I always buy my bread fresh from a bakery close to the residence. The men here are much more chivalrous, which is a breath of fresh air! I also enjoy that all businesses close on Sundays; this allows everyone to unwind before the start of a new week. Last Sunday I had the chance to go to my first movie in Malta. The cinema appeared to be normal, yet, halfway through the movie there was an intermission! I found this difference extremely amusing. Everyone cleared out for five minutes to get snacks, use the washroom or get their nicotine fix.
Other differences, however, have been a bit confusing. At Western the professors seem to spoil the students by handing out the course syllabus in class. Here in Malta you must figure out everything for yourself. There are various copy shops around the university and you must find out which copy shop has your course syllabus, and than proceed to find it there and pay for it. The same policy exists for course handouts.
Unfortunately, the food here tastes delicious and the wine is inexpensive! Although, you must be careful, as some of the local wines (particularly San Paolo, which costs $2 Canadian in the Supermarket) can cause pretty powerful headaches!
Last weekend I had the opportunity to go on my first dives on Malta. I went on three dives around the island of Comino (the smallest inhabited island part of Malta). The dive sights were Lantern Point, Crystal Lagoon, and Santa Maria Caves. The dives were very peaceful, with great visibility I felt fortunate to have the chance to dive. I hope to further my diving certifications while I am living here surrounded by the sea!
I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to study in Malta, and learn my own country better, by experiencing life in a very different way. It is easy to make new friends, and I am lucky to have met a couple quality people to share this experience with.
