By the time this letter is printed I will be out of Malta laden with fantastic memories of four glorious weeks.

The weather has been fantastic, the carnival superb, the religious festa in Valletta memorable and the colours of the countryside laden with rows of pretty yellow flowers is absolutely unforgettable.

I must also remark about the Maltese television stations. I cannot speak Maltese and understand very little but you definitely have very high standards. I simply cannot believe that most of the actors, presenters, singers and other well known faces on the local television only do their jobs as part time or as dilettantes.

I was particularly struck by the different soaps which my hostess insisted on watching. I could just about follow the ones in Maltese but it was so refreshing to find an actual local soap written and played in the English language. I am referring to The Inheritance on a Friday night. It is so Maltese but also so international.

The story is wonderful once you understand who's who and the photography and scenery are beautiful. I am only very sorry that I am not here to follow it but my friend promised to send me the DVDs of the series. Congratulations to everybody who has anything to do with the series because it is very good and very professional.

Reluctantly, I am leaving, hoping to be back pretty soon to your truly lovely island.