Ever fantasised about one day completing a Grand Tour of the Mediterranean, sweeping through thousands of years of riveting history, culture, architecture, art, civilisation, and war, but lack the money and time?
Well, head to Malta for a short break instead.
These small islands — an ancient intersection between Europe, Africa and the Middle East — are a potpourri of crossover cultures, identities, and streetscapes, set about sparkling bays, lively squares, medieval forts, and wave-lapped shores.
Be aware that Malta is windy – very windy.
The prevailing northwest wind rarely relents, but it does die down somewhat in summer.
While daytime summer averages rarely exceed 28° Celsius, like elsewhere in Europe, it will be high tourist season.
The island welcomes over 3 million tourists a year – more than 6 times its population.
Direct flights twice a week from Shannon, Dublin and Belfast.
Malta Air fly Shannon-Malta from approx. €119 return. Ryanair flies Dublin-Malta from approx. €151 return.
Malta’s public bus service is very regular, punctual, cost-effective, and easy to negotiate, taking cards or cash.
Ferry from the northern tip of Malta to Gozo - www.gozochannel.com, €4.65 return.
High speed ferry from Valletta to Gozo - www.gozohighspeed.com, €9.50 return (online offer).
The 5-star Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa is located by Balluta beach, within the happening St. Julian’s district (roughly 20 minutes north of Valletta/city centre).
It has spacious, luxurious rooms and superb restaurants, pools and spa facilities.
The views out over the Med are a tonic, while the staff are superb.
Doubles from €211 per night. Visit www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mlamc-malta-marriott-hotel-and-spa/
Sunway Holidays; sunway.ie
Cassidy Travel; cassidytravel.ie
Budget Travel; budgettravel.ie
- Jamie Ball was a guest of Malta Tourism Authority.
- visitmalta.com