OK, I know many of you have been thinking to yourself, “this blog is great, but does this adventure really count as work?” It’s true, a big part of the experience is exploring places, visiting amazing sites, and of course, with kids in tow, a lot of time is spent finding fun things to do with them.

But leading a study abroad program is challenging and can involve some pretty difficult work. We’ve been blessed with a truly drama-free student group, for which we’re grateful. But still, we haven’t been able to really unplug since arriving in late January. So this week, we treated ourselves to a mini-family getaway in Mellieha, a lovely village in northern Malta, a mere 12 miles away from Sliema but truly a different part of the island.

We stayed at a resort-type hotel, complete with several outdoor pools, an indoor pool with hot tub, and a range of restaurants on site. That was more than enough to make us happy.

But on our second day, we decided to visit the nearby Popeye Village, a restored movie set used for the 1980 Robin Williams film that is now a family attraction. If you’re a fan of that movie, as I am, this is kind of an amazing place. (I’m not sure the rest of the family agrees.) Even so, you get popcorn, a postcard, mini golf, beautiful views of Echo Bay, and live appearances by Popeye, Bluto and Olive Oyl. Come on, what’s not to love?

Sweethaven, with a bit of Echo Bay

Kyle explores Popeye’s room, complete with hammock and the heartbreaking “photo” of “Me Poppa”

Keegan doing putt-putt

Kyle doing putt-putt with two clubs for good measure