9 Lessons from Being Homeless and Alone in Malta

In January 2020 I walked around Malta for a week. These are the lessons I learnt from that adventure.

1. Sleep is rough.

I didn't plan any of my nights on this trip. I'd simply walk until I found a place to sleep. This often was on park benches, in the courtyard of monasteries, or under the slide of a small kids playground. The floor was hard, the weather cold. The first few nights outside were the worst nights I've ever had. On average I slept for 3 hours per night.

2. You have complete freedom.

No one ever told me what to do. I was the master of my own fate. I chose to go wherever, whenever, and no one could stop me. I had pure liberty.

3. People are kind.

On my second night, I met a man called Paul. He owned a shop in the village of Nadur on Gozo island. As I was buying food there, he asked me what I was doing, and where I was sleeping tonight. I didn't know where I was sleeping, so I asked him if he recommended anything. He gave me the keys to an apartment he owned, but didn't live in. Later in the trip after a rough night, a lady came out her house one morning and gave me a ridiculous amount of food, a new blanket and best of all: some wetwipes!

4. You will smell.

With only the sea to wash myself in, I began to stink rapidly.

5. You become a philosopher.

I had so much time to myself that I would begin to think of deep, interesting topics such as the meaning of life, the way to conduct oneself in the world, and issues such as morality, aesthetics, religion, and psychology.

6. Beauty is intensified.

That view becomes so much better when it is only you who saw it. Also, the added slog of walking everywhere to find those bronze age ruins, the stunning cliffs over the sea, or the picturesque Mediterranean beach made me appreciate is so much more.

7. You realise how little you need.

I lived out of a 10L backpack for a week, there really isn't much you need in life. A blanket, map, compass and enough food for the day suited me perfect. Maybe next time I'll bring an extra pair of socks.

8. Your bed becomes comfier.

Literally and figuratively. A mattress is an absolute blessing on a cold night. So is your morning tea, or even just a roof to be under. I appreciate these things much more now.

9. You'll miss it.

Don't need to elaborate much on this. Simply amazing trip and I can't wait to continue Walking the Mediterranean.