Isolated in the middle of a remarkably clear and unpolluted expanse of blue Mediterranean Sea, some 60 miles due south of Sicily, the Maltese archipelago consists of three inhabited islands- Malta, Gozo and (in summer) Comino - and a number of minuscule uninhabited rocks. Malta is the largest island (but still not much bigger than England's Isle of Wright), Gozo is only half its size and Comino is smaller again.

Like all islands subject to the vagaries of modern tourism, Malta throws up sharp contrasts which are made all the more striking because of the island's tiny size. Ancient temples - some of the oldest structures on earth - and the massive fortifications and palazzi of the Knights of St. John all rub shoulders with the increasing sprawl of modern Malta and its tourist infrastructure. Considerable wealth mingles with a simple hardworking rural lifestyle. The unspoiled countryside is threatened and the Maltese themselves are moving to Gozo to get back to the pleasures of a simpler, greener way of life. Nowadays, however, Gozo is under pressure too as it gears itself up, albeit on a small scale, to offering visitors the type of facilities that they have come to expect from other Mediterranean resorts.

Having said this, life is as hectic or as leisurely, as sophisticated or as rustic as you want it to be. The recent trend for staying in Gozo's renovated and highly desirable farmhouses is a point in case. Visitors come for the simple life - with air-conditioning and a large outdoor pool!

The Insight FlexiMap of Malta is a great travel addition. Here is an innovative laminated folding map that marries durability and convenience with accuracy, utility, and readability.

Produced with state-of-the-art technology, FlexiMaps feature detailed city street and road maps clearly marked with all the sites and services of particular interest to travelers.

Text and photographs offer a wealth of valuable tourist information including "10 sights you shouldn't miss," plus information on transportation, visas, currency, important telephone numbers, emergency services, and more.

Price: $7.95