Embracing October Peace at Mellieha Bay, Malta

Greetings from the enchanting Mellieha Bay in northern Malta! As we carve out a bit of time during this October half term for a family holiday, my first impressions are nothing short of splendid. If you fancy a quiet yet beautiful escape, stay tuned for more insights on this idyllic getaway.

After 1610 consecutive days of run vlogging for my mission of saving children's lives by attempting the ultimate ultra marathon barefoot style, taking my show on the road to a picturesque locale like Mellieha Bay has been an invigorating experience. With the UK temperatures plummeting to single digits, the mild 24 degrees Celsius here is a welcome respite. Swapping out the layers for my old running vest feels like a brief but cherished embrace of summer.

The coastline run in Mellieha Bay is extraordinary. The scenery, with its unspoiled beach and tranquil waters, leaves me in awe. It's easy to imagine the place bustling with tourists during the summer, but during October half term, it retains its charm without the crowds. As I pan around, the sheer beauty paired with the relative calm makes this one of my favourite places to run.

With fewer tourists around, not only does one get to enjoy the peacefulness of the place, but one also absorbs the local culture and environment more genuinely. This is one of the many reasons my family and I tend to look forward to our October half term holidays. In contrast to the often overwhelming hustle and bustle of summer tourist spots, this time of year brings a slower, more relaxed pace that allows for true appreciation of the location.

For this particular run, the terrain here in Mellieha Bay presented quite a challenge compared to the Fens back in the UK. The significant incline, especially towards the end of my run, was tough. The first kilometer, which was a downhill sprint towards the coastline, was a reminder of the elevation I'd have to gain on the journey back. An estimated 80 meters over the last kilometer is no small climb, but the rewards—views that are great for the mind, body, and soul—far outweigh the temporary discomfort.

My first run since arriving took it slow and steady, partly due to nursing a slight knee injury. Yet, with the warm weather training, I’m optimistic as long as I pace myself properly. Warm climates and beautiful landscapes are perfect companions to my daily run, contributing positively to my recovery and overall experience.

In summary, October half term holidays are not just a treat but a necessity. If you have a young family and are yet to explore holidaying during this quieter period, consider giving it a try. Destinations, which are typically swamped with tourists in the summer, unveil their true colours and character when the crowds disperse. Mellieha Bay is a prime example—peaceful, stunning, and infinitely more enjoyable in the off-season.

My wife and I often find that these quieter breaks allow us to truly connect with and appreciate the places we visit. The pace is leisurely, the environment inviting, and it's easier to feel immersed in the local culture.

As always, I'm here to answer any questions or comments you might have, so drop me a line anytime. If you believe in my mission to save children's lives through my run vlogging journey, please consider subscribing, sharing, liking, and commenting. The more people we reach, the more lives we can impact.

Stay positive, stay happy, and I'll see you again tomorrow!

Kevin Brittain