Mdina - My childhood home was a 15-minute walk from the lovely old city of Mdina. Most people in Europe know Malta. After all, it’s a popular holiday destination boasting 7 000 years of history. But when I travel to the US and tell people where I’m from, they sometimes say: “Is that Malta, Ohio?” There is a Malta in Ohio, by the way, but it’s not as good as my one.
Unfortunately, I had to leave the island as a young man because it is not possible to sustain a professional operatic career in Malta, even though we have one of the oldest opera theatres in the world.
Built in 1728, it is an absolute jewel.
Malta was bombed heavily during World War ll, and so many arts venues inevitably suffered.
I am very proud to say that I am helping with a renaissance because my popularity has re-awakened many islanders’ interest in opera.
My favourite parts of Malta? Well, the capital Valletta is a gem. As Benjamin Disraeli once said, it is a city for gentlemen, built by gentlemen.
I love the west coast of Malta, which is incredible. The north is also beautiful, and then, of course, there is the nearby island of Gozo. I try to go as often as possible.
In fact, I have been there for more than two weeks over the summer before I head for London next month for some concerts.
You never know who you will bump into in Gozo. Not so long ago, I drove past Billy Connolly as he was carrying shopping bags.
At first I was not sure it was him, so I reversed the car, wound down my window and said: “Are you Billy Connolly?” He replied: “Are you the tenor?”
Perhaps I should not have been quite so surprised to see Billy – quite a few celebrities either own or rent property in Gozo.
I am a cultural ambassador for my country and I know it is my job to promote Malta, but I really believe it is a wonderful place.
My advice to visitors is to wander off the beaten track and try to meet the Maltese people – they will be delighted to tell you the best places to visit.
Everybody speaks English – it is an official language.
Just tell them Joseph Calleja sent you! – Daily Mail
Malta Direct (www.maltadirect.com) offers a range of breaks to the island. For information about holidays in Malta, go to www.visitmalta.com