There are the usual attractions of the Maltese Islands: a walk through Valletta, a visit to a megalithic temple, a swim at the Blue Lagoon, a meal al fresco by the sea, a trip to Gozo... and then there are the unusual activity firsts that create a memory you'll carry all your life. Like flying a plane, for example. You can do that in Malta. And other cool things too. Here are our favourite six unusual activities that you can try in Malta.

1. Pole dancing

Pole Fitness or Pole Dancing in Malta is a relatively recent addition to the myriad activities available here. Combining dance and acrobatics centered on a vertical pole, the days of association purely with gentleman's clubs is gone. This performance art has gained popularity as a mainstream form of fitness that increases muscular endurance and coordination as well as sensuality. Try it, it's really good fun!

2. Deep water soloing

When Malta is referred to by locals as 'the rock', you can imagine what a heaven it is for rock climbers, abseilers, zip liners and so on. One rock sport you can try that you may not have heard of and requires no gear but lots of willpower is deep water soloing. Climb the coastal rocks and drop neatly into the water when you can go no further. Try it safely by contacting the Malta Rock Climbing Club.

3. Playing with fire

Get in touch with the fire element this time. Or simply have a go at juggling any instrument from a variety of staffs, pois, balls and other juggling toys. You may just find a new passion to take back home. Place a post on Juggling Malta to find people to play with, they'll usually be happy to let you use their toys.  

4. Flyboarding

Now here's a cool water sport that takes to the air! Just think of what you could do with a water jet pack that hydro propels you into the air so that you are essentially flying over water jets! Rent this cool gadget at Fly Board Malta, complete with instruction.

5. Trial flight

Taste flying a plane immediately with a trial flight. After safety induction and basic instruction, you are already piloting a real plane reassured by dual controls and continued instruction. Into the air, get a feel for the horizon, nudge the joystick and see places like the Grand Harbour, Mdina and Gozo from a bird’s eye view. You get to fly the sleek DA20 or 40 for one hour with Diamond Aviation.

6. Quad Bike Tours

Although road bound, quad bike tours in Malta and Gozo are a unique way to explore the Maltese Islands, provided you have a licence and are over 25. Check in with the Malta Quad Bike Association to find out how to set out exploring on these cool four wheels. 

Which of these unusual activities in Malta will you be trying first? Let us know in the comments below!