Malta where an abundant history blends with modern lifestyle

Set in the centre of the sun soaked Mediterranean and only 17 miles by 9 you are never far from the beach or the crystal clear waters surrounding this former British Colony.  English is spoken almost everywhere and the welcome and hospitality to visitors is warm and genuine.

Malta is the largest island of the three islands in the archipelago and the cultural, commercial and administrative centre. Gozo is the second largest island and is more rural, characterised by fishing, tourism, crafts and agriculture while Comino is largely uninhabited.

With an average 10 hours of sunshine a day in the summer (and six in the winter) and with its historical links to the UK it is a popular destination year round. The good range of sandy and rocky beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history mean that it appeals to all age groups.  Traditionally in the past many thought it only suitable for the more mature in years, but today with modern hotels and a range of activities Malta is attracting families and friends of all age groups.

There is a great deal to see and do some of which we list on our “What to do page” above plus we will as always supply you with a travel guide before you go and our local representative is an excellent source of information and assistance.

Malta has been occupied by many nationalities during its long history and the influences of these are evident everywhere from the architecture, the traditions through to the cuisine, though much of the dining is also influenced by the islands proximity to Sicily. All of this gives Malta an interesting and eclectic atmosphere.

As part of the EEC Malta now uses the Euro for its currency, and electrical plugs are the same as in the UK, oh yes, and they drive on the left!

Our hotels are located in the following areas:

St Julian’s

This former fishing village is now one of the main resorts on the island offering a huge range of restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs and is pretty vibrant at night, popular with the younger visitor but for those no longer wishing to dance the night away there is also a large casino on the peninsular and one is cocooned within your hotel if the nightclubs don’ appeal.  During the day the pretty boats in the bay still remind one of its former fishing village life but also the modern shopping mall and large cinema, which shows all the latest release, have bought it right up to date. The shoreline is part of the St George’s Bay and views out to sea from the hotels are lovely.

St George’s Bay

Is the coastal area that includes St Julian’s and Paceville.  Our hotel here is separated from the hustle and bustle of the main resort by a small but charming, recently restored,  beach.  It is the only beach within walking distance and is therefore very popular.  If the busier resort doesn’t appeal then the hotel does have many facilities in house but also has a courtesy bus that will take you to other locations on the island including Valletta and the golf course.

San Anton

This is not a resort it is a quiet residential area and will appeal to those looking for a good central location on the island and for a place to relax and unwind. Near our hotel here are the Presidential Palace and San Anton Gardens.  This hotel also has courtesy transport to Valletta and the Golf course.

Valletta

The islands capital, is a  Unesco World Heritage site,  its long history and fortifications make it a fascinating place to visit.  The narrow quaint street with charming wooden balconies and its sunny squares with open air cafes encourage one to linger.  But there is so much to see and do here public gardens, the fabulous views of the Grand Harbour, the museums, churches, shops and art galleries make it a must for every visitor to the island.  Don’t forget the market near to our selected hotel here, it is held on Sunday mornings and includes local crafts.

Sliema is situated near St. Julian’s and is worth a visit and a walk on along the promenade, the town has some very good cafes, restaurants and shops.

Things to see and do

Much of the attraction of Malta is its historic heritage and to introduce you to this we give each of our guests complimentary entry to the Malta Experience a 45 minute audio visual show that illustrates the history of the Maltese islands, it is brilliantly done and well worth seeing. As it is at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta you could combine it with a tour of the city or viewing the Fortifications.

As well as historical places here are many cultural things to see and do, plus art galleries, natural sites to visit, archeological sites, interesting towns and villages, theatre and much more.  We detail more on our What to do and What’s on pages above.

There are a good selection of beaches and we list some on our What to do page.

Events in Malta

As well as giving you a What’s on in Malta guide when you arrive we do show some of the many events on our What’s on page above.  Malta is a very Catholic country and therefore there are many Festas celebrated across the year and festivities such as Christmas and Easter are particularly important to the locals and a great time of merriment. There are also other festivals steeped in folklore, whatever the celebration visitors are made welcome and these festivities give a great insight into the Maltese culture.

As well as local entertainers Malta attracts an interesting mix of international stars, recent performers on the island were; the renowned conductor and nephew of world class tenor José Carreras, David Giménez Carreras, who conducted his uncle's concert at St George's Square, Valletta, Enrique Iglesias kicked of the Isle of MTV’s summer festival and Sting had a concert here in June.  Up coming events will be updated on our What’s on? page.

Getting around

The island is not large which makes getting around relatively easy.
Public buses serve practically everywhere and are cheap and efficient and a fun way to see the island.
Taxis can pick up anywhere except from bus stops.
Car hire is the most common way to independently explore the island and they do drive on the left! 
Renting scooters or mountain bikes is possible but be selective about where you use them as not all roads are two wheel friendly.

Things to buy: Lace, embroidery, glassware and pottery silver filigree work, hand knitted woolens and antiques.

Prestige Plus in Malta
"Malta Experience" an audiovisual show of the islands history
What's on in Malta guide
Travel guide to Malta
Private taxi transfers
The services and support of our excellent local representative