Cooking on Vacation – A tasty challenge between relaxation and creativity

Vacations are wonderful moments in which we can finally unplug from the daily frenzy and dedicate ourselves to ourselves and our beloved people. One of the most common dilemmas in these moments of escape is: what to cook that’s both delicious and exciting? Look no further! We’ve got some amazing ideas for you that will tickle your taste buds and inspire your creativity. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that perfectly balances relaxation and excitement!

The art of the perfect picnic.

Nothing screams “vacation” like a tasty outdoor picnic. Choose a welcoming beach like Ramla Bay, and prepare a basket full of delicacies, such as gourmet sandwiches, colourful salads, delicious cheeses and lots of good fresh seasonal fruit. Don’t forget to bring some board games to make the moment even more special.

The do-it-yourself meal based on local products.

Travelling offers the opportunity to discover the unique flavours and ingredients of a region—experience cooking with fresh, genuine ingredients by preparing a DIY dinner with local delicacies.

If you’re feeling adventurous with your taste buds, try Gozitan cheese. This exquisite cheese is made from sheep’s milk and in Maltese, it is called “Ġbejna”. Ġbejniet are small, round, mini-cheeses and come in an array of flavours, and you can savour them fresh, dried, marinated, and peppered. Our favourite way to elevate the taste of a delicious pasta dish is by adding a delectable combination of :

  • “Ġbejna” Cheese
  • Creamy Ricotta
  • Boiling Starchy Pasta Water
  • Tangy Sun-Dried Tomatoes
  • Locally Sourced Fresh Garlic
  • Flavourful Arugula
  • Crunchy Walnuts

The soft and crumbly texture of the cheese blends perfectly with the rich and smooth ricotta, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavour to the dish. The garlic provides a pungent kick, and the arugula lends a fresh and peppery taste, while the walnuts bring an earthy and nutty crunch to the dish.

This pasta dish can be described in one word – *S a p o r i f i c!

An Aperitif – a moment of pure bliss

Holidays are the perfect time to unwind and enjoy the sunset with an aperitif in hand. Experiment with fresh and colourful cocktails, perhaps with local Bajtra Liqueur (Prickly Pear), Prosecco or a Sparkling Rosé, and a splash of soda. The Bajtra Liqueur is not bitter but not too sweet either. And when mixed with Sparkling Rosé, it creates a light and refreshing drink. It is a perfect alternative to an Aperol spritz for those who prefer something sweeter without too much sugar.

As appetisers, we adore a plate of plump, juicy local olives, paired with the irresistible aroma of coriander-flavoured Maltese sausage accompanied with the rich and creamy taste of broad bean paste (in Maltese we call it “Bigilla”), accompanied by light and crispy traditional Maltese “Galletti”(traditional water biscuits) and with a freshly baked Maltese loaf. One delightful way to enjoy a slice of fresh Maltese bread is by dipping it into a pool of high-quality, fragrant olive oil. As you immerse the bread into the oil, the flavours blend and create a beautiful dance on your taste buds. The warmth of the bread, the richness of the oil, and the aroma of the ingredients all come together to create a truly sensory experience. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to indulge in the pleasure of good food.

Grilling –  an essential activity during the holidays!

If you want to make the most of your stay at one of Abraham’s Gozitan homes, we recommend taking advantage of the BBQ area. There’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and cooking up some delicious steaks and vegetable skewers. We suggest donning your “Holiday Chef” apron and getting creative with your grilling skills. It’s all about getting that perfect char on your favourite meats and veggies. The aroma of sizzling meat and vegetables is sure to tantalize your senses and provide a memorable culinary experience.

The laid-back and easy-going setting of a barbecue is ideal for enjoying a good time with your loved ones while sipping on a glass of wine.

For your convenience, we can deliver your meat and wine directly to your farmhouse. Please give us advance notice of your order to avoid any inconvenience. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get grilling!

Conclusion:

Vacation cooking is a delightful experience that offers more than just a full stomach. It is a chance to connect with your inner self and find peace in the present moment. As you chop your ingredients or stir your pot, you can lose yourself in the motions and forget about any worries or concerns you may have. The aromas and flavours that fill the air can transport you to another world, bringing a sense of joy and contentment. And when you finally sit down to share your meal with your loved ones, you’ll create unforgettable moments filled with laughter, love, and good food.

* Saporific: having the power to produce the sensation of taste

Gift Vouchers

Looking for the perfect gift that will create unforgettable moments?

Look no further! Our unique and exciting accommodation options make for the perfect gift experience for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a token of appreciation.

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Breakfast with a Private Chef

Can you picture this? ” You just woke up to the smell of perpetually strong coffee and the sight of a table full of food, all prepared with the freshest ingredients by your chef “

A selection of scrumptious breakfast packages has been carefully created to satisfy all our guests’ tastebuds to ensure that their first meal of the day is nothing short of perfect!

Our chef uses only the highest quality ingredients to prepare your dishes with expertise and exactness.

We take pride in our exclusive service and attention to detail. So you can sit back and relax while our expert chef prepares the hearty breakfast of your choice. It will surely leave you and your people feeling happy and satisfied.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive experience while staying in one of Abraham’s Holiday Rentals.

Contact us today to book your private chef service and create memories with your loved ones.

Mobile: +356 7979 8362  |  E-mail: [email protected]

VACATION HOME VS HOTEL: WHY A PRIVATE HOUSE IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY

5 reasons to choose a vacation home

No matter what type of vacation you are planning, likely one of the first thoughts that pops into your mind is where you are going to sleep. While hotels promptly come to mind first for most people, there are more than a few reasons why vacation homes are a choice worth going for.

1. All the conveniences of home.

Vacation homes are just Homes. They usually include all the things you would expect to find at home. Full-sized appliances. Dishes. Laundry facilities. These amenities can make your stay much more convenient – especially if you are travelling in a large group or for an extended period.

2. “Run of House.”

When you stay in a hotel, you have no choice but to follow its schedule for meals, housekeeping, fitness facilities, etc. Not so in a vacation home. You can get out of bed when you like. Swim or eat when it suits you.

3. Privacy.

For people who like having their own space, most probably would withstand staff coming and going, thin walls, elevators, and crowded pools…. These just don’t apply in certain vacation homes.

4. More guests for less money.

When travelling with a group or family, allocating everyone into one hotel room can be difficult or unacceptable. Even if possible, it will likely be cramped, and the added stress can negatively impact your vacation. Between the expense of having to book more rooms to accommodate everyone and of eating out, you can blow most of your budget before you even get started.

5. Fido is welcome too.

While there are hotels that will accommodate your four-legged family member, it can be a drudge to find one. Furthermore, you’ll probably be given a room in the less pleasing part of the building. On average, a vacation home gives you and your furry friend more space to stretch out, unwind, and enjoy.

Are you ready for your next vacation? Search your private accommodation at https://www.abrahamgozofarmhouses.com/gozo-holiday-accommodation/ To book your holiday or need help in planning out your next holiday on the island of Gozo, contact us today.

When It’s Raining On Holiday

It is objectionable when it rains on a vacation. When booking a trip, the majority of us spend so much time programming activities or finding the best beaches. However, if it rains during the week you are on holiday it doesn’t have to stop you from having a great time.

The whole point of a vacation is to unwind and take it easy. And there are numerous ways to do that even if it’s pouring rain outside. In fact, finding these alternate rainy-day ventures will substantially slow things down.

It is forecasted to rain next Sunday so we thought of sharing our top ten preferred things to do when the weather is gloomy:

  1. Send some post cards. From experience, finding postcards, writing postcards, remembering addresses, finding stamps and locating a post-box is easily half a day’s work.
  2. Ignore the rain and go for a hike. Just put on a lightweight windbreaker and continue with your already planned out itinerary. And think how rewarding the hot shower will be when you peel off your wet clothes.
  3. Find a great restaurant and savour a long, easy-going meal. Rain is a great excuse to stick-around your favourite restaurant trying different appetizers paired with a satin-smooth bottle of wine. (Always drink responsibly though!)
  4. Spa: A massage or facial is exceptional anytime, but for some reason you might feel slightly remorseful getting treatments when it’s amazing outside. If it’s gloomy outside, it’s the perfect reason to get a little pampering.
  5. Find a local charity to donate to. Do some research – what local causes could you contribute to? Find a local cause and donate some of the money you’re not spending because you’re inside escaping the rain. (You will get some good travel karma, promise!)
  6. Lie in. Remember all those times you were at home, when the alarm went off at the crack-of-dawn, then you heard the rain and wanted to roll over and go back to sleep? Now’s your chance.
  7. Do some yoga. If you’re a yogi, this will already be on your list. If you’re not, when was the last time you really stretched your limbs? Book yourself a local class or use a class on an app. 
  8. Journal. Another rainy day activity that is adequate for your health. From promoting mindfulness and inspiring creativity, a little bit of writing every day has massive benefits.
  9. Do some puzzles. Exercise your brain with some puzzles – crosswords, sudoku, maths challenges, give your brain something to chew on and get a bit shrewd in the process.
  10. Write some reviews. Share your experience online and you will be helping other visitors make a good decision.

So, that’s our list of 10 things to do when it’s raining on holiday. With any luck, the rain has already cleared by the time you get to the end of this list.

Do you want more tips? If you have not subscribed to our newsletter yet, do subscribe. It is well worth your time! https://www.abrahamgozofarmhouses.com/#modal

LEARNING THE LANGUAGE

The Maltese and Gozitan people are very friendly and will appreciate any efforts to speak a few words of the local language.

The official languages are Maltese and English. Maltese is a language of Semitic origin written in the Latin script. Over the centuries, it has incorporated many words derived from English, Italian, and also French. Italian and English are widely spoken. People working in the tourism industry, including food and beverage servers, speak English.

Here are some basic words and expressions to help you along:

  • Yes: Iva
  • No: Le
  • Please: Jekk jogħġbok
  • Thank You: Grazzi
  • Good morning: Bonġu
  • Good evening: Bonswa
  • How are you?: Kif inti?
  • Good / Very well: Male say: Tajjeb grazzi Female say: Tajba grazzi
  • Do you speak English?: Titkellem bl-Ingliż?

More basic words and expressions are listed on our “Information File” which is placed in all of Abraham’s Farmhouses for all our guests, and also on our social media pages:

Gozo Hills Are Alive with Hikers – Hiking in Gozo

Truly ideal as a nature-lovers paradise, Gozo tempts visitors for an escape into the tranquillity and picturesque scenery it offers. Despite its small size, the island boasts beautiful countryside, best seen from atop one of Gozo’s many hills. So, if you’re visiting Gozo to explore, pull on your hiking boots and prepare to enjoy some stunning views from Gozo’s highest peaks.

Seeing how the favourable Mediterranean weather offers near day-to-day sunshine across the year, there is no bad time to set off on a hiking adventure. That said, make sure you’ve got plenty of sunscreen to slap on to protect your skin, as the UV rays can be deceptively strong, even in winter.

The best way to really get the most out of your trip is to cover the span of the island over a few days, as you can easily spend a morning and afternoon exploring one area with frequent breaks to take in the scenery. Plus, if you’re not keen on trekking on your own, plenty of tours are available to take you off the beaten track.

Here are our top three picks for hiking in Gozo:

Ta’ Dbiegi Hill

Reaching a height of 190 meters, this hill near the village of San Lawrenz promises amazing country views of the whole island, so you should try to plan your hike on a clear day to get the best visibility possible. Being so close to town, this is a great space to explore!

The Cliffs Overlooking Ramla Bay  

It’s hardly surprising that this gorgeous bay, with its richly-coloured sand, is a sight to behold from afar as much as it is up close. Luscious green-topped cliffs envelop this beautiful beach, where you can get a bird’s eye view of the deep blue waves bubbling towards the copper-coloured sand.

Dwejra

The area surrounding Dwejra holds some of Malta and Gozo’s most iconic sights. Hikers can explore the landscape of Dwejra freely, and should expect to find some surprises along the way – the rocks by the sea hold several fossilised layers within them dating back hundreds of years. They make an exciting addition to any Gozo hike!

On the other hand, if you prefer cycling to hiking, nothing stops you from enjoying the same routes from a mountain bike.  Gozo is an island of hills and valleys, so be prepared for a series of slopes and looping and winding routes. For more information about Cycling in Gozo check out this article here. All in all, you will enjoy cycling because most of the time you will be in the open countryside or passing through quiet and sleepy villages.

Abraham’s Farmhouses tucked away in the village of Xagħra are a perfect accommodation solution. The rustic charms of the farmhouses and the luxurious services provided are a good base to return to after hiking or cycling expeditions.  We can guarantee an experience, which you will want to repeat. Have a look at the various traditional farmhouses we have to offer. Book your stay with us today or email us for more information.

Cycling in Gozo

A treat for the senses, Gozo and all its surroundings are a delight to take in, with its picturesque views, the experience of the bustling village square, and the refreshing smell of the sea. When roaming around and discovering a beautiful place like Gozo, who would want sit cooped up in a car, unable to fully take in all the character that the island has to offer?

As of late, cycling tourism has taken off like crazy in Gozo and numerous routes have been planned out to help cyclists – novices and pros alike – to really get the best of what Gozo has to offer.

To make the most of your cycling adventure, we suggest travelling to Gozo between the months of October and May when the weather is more favourable for outdoor activities. Several travel companies on the island offer guided bike tours – but if you prefer to go at it alone, here are three of Gozo’s best cycling routes.
The Scenic Route

If the sea holds a special place in your heart, then you’ve come to the right place. Starting from Mgarr, cyclists can take in stunning views of Comino on their way to Qala, from there to Marsalforn to learn about the specifics of Gozitan history at the Qbajjar salt pans, and finally, once you’ve covered most of the coast, you’ll be rewarded with the magnificent view in Dwejra.

The Historical Route

This route will take you on a live history lesson across Gozo – roam through the pristine streets of the fortified city of the Citadel in Victoria, and visit the national museums that hold centuries of history within. Along your way into Xaghra, you’ll be able to marvel at the Neolithic Ggantija Temples and the Ta’ Kola Windmill, just before heading down to Calypso’s Cave. This route gives you an introduction to a variety of national treasures that are a sight to behold.

The Easy Route

Cycling in Gozo can be tricky – some roads are not ideal for cyclists and what with traffic at peak hours, some routes are best avoided. For a relaxing journey, it’s best to stick to village streets where the plain is often flat and smooth. We recommend visiting the villages of Nadur, Marsalforn and Zebbug, as this provides a fantastic way of seeing the locals in action and getting to know the ins and outs of Gozitan life.

Renting A Bicycle

Unless you have your own trusty bike on hand, there are a couple of great bicycle rental places available to help you get the wheels of your dreams while you’re in Gozo. Rates are usually reasonable and include a helmet and a lock, ensuring that you won’t have to worry about a single thing as you make your way!

Get Married in Gozo – Intimate Wedding Destinations

Gozo is a dream location for weddings, especially if you want something intimate and unique – it promises the ultimate island nuptials.

Imagine this: you arrive by private yacht with your wedding party, and dock in the pretty bay of Mgarr ix-Xini (a spot made world-famous by the recent film By The Sea, starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie). Next, you take a classic car up along the winding coast, stopping for snaps in the open countryside and with views of the sea, before arriving at the pretty chapel of your choice for a ceremony that’s steeped in history. Finally, you arrive for the reception of your dreams – perhaps a sit-down dinner in an award-winning restaurant, or in a winery with stunning opens vistas and an intriguing menu of fresh, local produce. This really is the recipe for the ultimate Mediterranean island wedding.

And, when you tie the knot in Gozo, none of this is far from reality. As a tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean, Gozo is a truly unique location – one boasting a history that spans 7,000 years, as well as a cosmopolitan atmosphere that makes it as exciting as it is beguiling.

There are so many incredible destinations where you could hold your wedding in Gozo. To start with, there are many hotels and restaurants with venues that are perfectly geared up for ceremonies (whatever the size), followed by receptions.

Of course you may want something completely different, and this is where Gozo really comes into its own. Every nook and cranny could be transformed into a magical location with some creativity – and a wedding planner will be able to guide you. So, from a ceremony aboard a yacht, on a beach or on the Citadel bastions, to a reception in one of the iconic museums or in a picturesque town piazza, the options are endless.

Plus, when you’re planning an intimate wedding in Gozo, one of the most fun aspects is choosing your accommodation. We recommend considering a traditional farmhouse – Gozo’s answer to a chalet in the Alps, or a cottage in the Scottish Highlands. These authentic dwellings can also be chosen based on the needs of your wedding – some sleep 12 guests or more with their own swimming pools, while others are more intimate and focus on having incredible views that would look stunning in your wedding photography. A farmhouse provides the perfect place to get ready on your big day with your bridal party, and is also a lovely, homely location for you to leave from as you head to your ceremony. Plus, what could be more fun than sharing a house with your friends and family before embarking on the biggest adventure of your life?

At Abraham’s Farmhouses, we can sort out your accommodation needs and our staff will guide you about other service providers that you might need to organise your dream wedding. Have a look at one of the traditional farmhouse accommodations that we have to offer.  The private complex, Il Vigneto Court is the perfect retreat for those seeking privacy but within easy reach of the cultural delights Gozo has to offer. With beautiful Mediterranean architecture the complex offers a high standard of luxury complete with private pools. If you wish you can book the whole complex in order to have all your dearest and nearest in one location. For availability or special bookings you can contact us today or click here to make a direct booking.

 

 

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