Medehamstede Explorer Scouts
Peterborough, England
Visit to Gozo – Malta 29th July to 8th August 2010

For some of the Unit this was their third visit to the Victoria Scout Group HQ but for most it was their first time on Gozo. As always we received a very warm welcome from the members of the Group whose constant help and support throughout our stay was very much appreciated. 

The aim of our visit was to provide our young people with a programme of visits and activities on both Gozo and Malta in order to experience the culture and history of these unique islands, make friends and to have fun along the way. 

There were trips to the Citadel in Victoria with its wonderful views over Gozo and to the Ggantija Temples in Xaghra. At Ninu’s cave we were given an insight into a traditional Gozo home as well as the story of how the cave was found underneath the house. A visit to the Ta’Kola Windmill in Xaghra revealed a link to our home town; installed in the windmill was a Perkins diesel engine that was made in Peterborough! At the Qala Festa we enjoyed the sights and sounds of this unique event; the fireworks were well worth waiting for. On our visit to Malta we experienced the unique history and architecture of Mdina with its excellent views over the island, as well as sights and history of Valletta and the marvelous view of Grand Harbour from the Upper Barracca gardens. 

We also found time for the beach on both Gozo and Malta with visits to Xlendi, Ramla, Mellieha and Golden Bay. A full day at Hondoq Bay gave everyone the opportunity to try their hand at Scuba diving. For most, this was their first dive and proved a great success and may have encouraged some members to go for their open water diving qualification. Our boat trip around Comino included a stop at the Blue Lagoon for an afternoon of swimming and snorkeling and proved to be an enjoyable day for everyone. 

One of the highlights of our trip was the time spent at camp with the Victoria Scout Group who were on their summer camp at Dwejra. This was an excellent opportunity for the Unit members to spend time with the Gozo Scouts and Venture Scouts as well as to experience camping in conditions not found at home. Kayaking on the Inland Sea, swimming, helping at the Groups fund raising BBQ, trying to beat VSL George at the ‘water melon’ race, having a go on the aerial runway, actively participating in the Camp fire and generally experiencing camp life on Gozo was all crammed into our short stay at Dwejra.