Malta

Where?

Malta, a small southern European island 80KM south of
Italy.

Why now?

A less obvious choice than popular European sun destinations
such as Italy and Spain, Malta is
somewhat similar to Croatia
a decade or so ago, in that it hasn’t yet been ‘discovered’ as the
place to be this summer. As such, prices remain low and you’re
unlikely to bump into your neighbours from back home… Though not
for long. An idyllic snapshot of Europe’s past with plenty of
Mediterranean influences, wander through 4000 years of history in
the charming former capital, Mdina (also known as the ‘Silent
City’, while the modern-day capital is Valletta) before cooling off
in azure-blue lagoons and seeking shade in a rocky cove.

When to go?

To avoid peak tourist season, visit in spring for warm days and
cooler nights – the island is green at this time before the dry
summer months kick in. If you’re in search of full-on sun, head to
the north of the island between May and August for sandy beaches
and warm, clear waters. Malta also has a surprisingly good
nightlife scene, with a roster of international DJ talent flying in
throughout summer to keep you entertained into the early hours.

Who to take with you?

Rally your gang – they’ll thank you for taking them somewhere a
little different from your usual
Greek islands escapade.

Most likely to bump into?

With a population of just under 450,000, Malta is one of the
world’s smallest and most densely populated countries – if you’re
in one of the charming villages in the west, you’re likely to see
the same local faces. Many Maltese are proud of being able to speak
fluent English so getting by in every quarter is pretty easy –
though it never goes amiss to learn a few phrases.

Don’t miss

With 25KM of coastline, it would be rude not to go beach
hopping. Our favourites include Gnejna Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa,
while St Peter’s Pool is the one if you’re looking for something a
little off the beaten path. Take the 25-minute ferry to Gozo, a
less developed island which has been ruled by the Phoenicians,
Romans, Arabs, Sicilians, French and British, to name a few. Visit
the Neolithic ruins of the Ġgantija Temple, go for a swim at Ramla
l-Hamla – the largest, unspoilt beach on the north coast of the
island – before a lunch of fresh fish in the village of Marsalforn.
It’s also a scuba-diving paradise.

How to get there

Just a few hours’ flight from most mainland European cities, Air
Malta operates between most major airports in Europe, North Africa
and the Middle East. The only airport is Malta International, which
serves all of the Maltese Islands and is located between Luqa and
Gudja. If you’re travelling by sea – either on a cruise liner or
taking a ferry – the most popular route comes in from Pozzallo,

Sicily.