MALTA: Malta
“Renowned for its impressive sunshine record, wealth of historical attractions, colourful carnivals, clear blue seas and legendary hospitality, Malta makes for a great Mediterranean escape.”
Malta - its very name evokes enduring images of the George Cross and the Knights of St John. And with over seven millennia of history to its name, it’s easy to see why. From Neolithic remains to fortified walled cities, this small island boasts a colourful and intriguing past and is often described as an open-air museum. Set in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta’s strategic position established it as the prize jewel of many an empire. From the Romans to the Byzantines, from the Arabs to the Normans, all the great powers have fought to preside over Malta and have played a part in moulding the island’s rich and varied cultural heritage.
Up until the 1960’s, the island formed part of the British Empire and today there are plenty of reminders of Malta’s links with the United Kingdom - London-style red telephone boxes can still be seen on street corners and English is widely spoken. History aside, Malta is also known for its breathtaking scenery. The colours are striking – honey-hued stone against the deepest Mediterranean blue. Stroll through fields carpeted with wild orchids, poppies, tulips and anemones towards sleepy, offthe-beaten-track villages, followed by the scent of wild herbs, olives and citrus groves. So, if you’re looking for a destination that offers more than just a suntan, Malta is a great choice.
Bugibba
This large, developed tourist area is made up of a closely-knit string of neighbouring resorts, stretching for 5km along St Paul’s Bay, around Qawra Point and into Salina Bay. Of the group, Bugibba, 15km from Valletta, has developed into the largest resort in the area, with good views of St Paul’s Bay and its islands. Proving its popularity, Bugibba has the liveliest nightlife.
Melliha Town & Bay
People come here for the peace and relaxation, for the water sports and for the option of a little sightseeing. Situated 30km west of Valletta Mellieha Bay has one of Malta’s few sandy beaches. Mellieha Bay's nightlife is a peaceful, quiet affair, usually involving a long dinner and an even longer drink.
Qwara
Qawra is part of a string of resorts, stretching for 5km along St Paul’s Bay, around Qawra Point and into Salina Bay. Qawra is the most recently developed resort and is popular with the locals.
Sliema
If you like a little sightseeing in your holiday combined with good food, Sliema fits the bill. This busy – and still growing – town focuses on The Strand, a broad promenade with views of Valletta 5km away. Sliema’s shops are among the best on the island - look for Maltese lace, fine silverware, pottery, and woollens. When night falls Sliema’s bars and restaurants are relaxed and mellow in mood with a cosmopolitan feel.
St Julian’s
St Julians is all about fun and has become a popular resort with young couples and singles. Added to this are the surrounding towns of Valletta and Sliema which offer something extra from shopping to sight seeing.
Beaches
The waters around Malta are widely regarded to be among the clearest in the Mediterranean. Mellieha Bay has a wonderful sweep of clean, gently shelving sand, which benefits from the shelter of a sunny headland. In other resorts sand is scarce and bathing areas comprise mainly of smooth rocks. Snorkelling and scuba diving can be excellent as the array of fish and coral are simply breathtaking.
Nightlife
Malta is well known for its nightlife, particularly around St Julians, which has plenty to offer in terms of bars, discos and nightclubs. For traditional Maltese entertainment, meanwhile, take in a village festa. These are lively affairs with impressive firework displays and plenty of revelry. Easter sees towns across the island stage spectacular Biblical re-enactments and Malta’s most famous celebration, the Valetta festival, takes place in April. Streets are decorated with banners and flags emblazoned with the Maltese cross and hundreds of local’s parade in period costumes playing tambourines and trumpets to remember the courage of the Knights of Malta.
Shopping
The island brims with artisan shops and stages numerous markets, which sell locally produced goods such as gold and silverware, lace and glass. There is good shopping to be had in Valletta, especially Republic Street and Merchants Street.
