EYEWITNESS MALTA
malta top 10
Laura Gelder highlights 10 things every agent should consider doing if they plan to attend this October’s ABTA Convention in Malta
ABTA’s Travel Convention will be held on the Mediterranean isle of Malta this October (18-20). Hoping to demolish the myth of Malta as only for geriatrics, the three-day conference will be staged in the lively resort of St Julian’s, in the waterfront Hilton Malta’s conference centre. When delegates aren’t listening to news
reader Huw Edwards introduce speakers like Lee Johnson (brother of Boris), who will talk about sustainability, and the controversial ceo of British Airways, Willie Walsh, or sitting in on the cruise and marketing forums, they’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the destination.
setting for the 2004 film T roy starring Brad
Pitt. At noon each day, cannons are fired from below and the sound resonates across the island.
Jump in a jeep in Gozo As soon as you arrive in Gozo you pick up a very different vibe to its bigger sister, and hiring a jeep is the best way to soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Take in the fresh sea air and fragrant countryside as you bump along rough tracks and glimpse cornflower-blue bays and sleepy Mediterranean villages. Schedule a stop at one of Gozo’s beaches, or head to Popeye Village. Originally a film set for the 1980 flick starring Robin Williams, it’s now a children’s adventure park.
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Mull over Malta’s past in Mdina
The ‘silent city’ is a labyrinthine muddle of medieval and baroque architecture. Visit the Carmelite Priory Museum and see the monks’ modest living quarters and compare to the rich tapestries and glittering gold adorning the neighbouring 17th century church. Take a break in the rooftop Fontanella Tea Garden and enjoy a slice of cake with sweeping views. Then explore Palazzo Falson. The medieval building with bougainvillea-covered walls used to be home to collector Olof Frederick Gollcher but is now a museum with a treasure trove of art and curios.
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Salute the Grand Harbour Head to Valletta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens for a breathtaking view of Malta’s vast Grand Harbour. Look across to Fort Riscoli, which guards the entrance – It was used as the
Ducking and diving Malta has won plenty of praise for
its scuba diving, based on its crystal-clear waters, sunken vessels and stunning rock formations. Make sure you try Gozo’s famous Blue Hole. It’s a tough, hot hike, as you carry your tank over the rocks towards the famous stone arch called the Azure Window. But once you slip into the delicious cool of the natural pool, a deep- blue world reveals golden cup coral, swim- throughs and caves. St. Andrew’s Divers Cove, based in Xlendi Bay, can arrange boat and shore dives, lessons and even accommodation. (
www.gozodive.com)
Azure window
the town will love Paceville, a concentrated strip of nightlife, which buzzes with music and energy until the early hours. Bedouin Bar is part of the Westin Dragonera. Situated on the waterfront, its easy vibe is aided by flickering candles, white-cotton lounge beds and chilled cocktails.
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Get a birds-eye view from a seaplane Take off from the smooth waters of the Grand Harbour in a seaplane. It’s the only way to appreciate the multiple blue hues of the islands’ waters and the dramatic coastlines, which change from sandy islets to sheer cliffs. It’s worth knowing that you can book the seaplane as a glamorous transfer alternative to the ferry for clients going to Gozo – but check the baggage limit! (
www.harbour-air.com)
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Cross over to the Three Cities
Opposite Valletta are the historic fortified towns referred to as the three cities. Older than Valletta, they were the first home of the Knights of Malta when they arrived in 1530. Grab a traditional Maltese dghajsa boat – not dissimilar from a gondola – and make your way from Valletta’s waterfront to the distinctly Venetian Birgu. Take some lunch on the waterfront or explore the Maritime Museum, Bishop’s Palace or Safe Haven Gardens for a view back across.
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Tune into Malta’s nightlife in St. Julian’s Start off with some dinner al fresco overlooking the twinkling lights of Spinola Bay, before moving onto the bars and clubs. Those wanting a raucous night on
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Escape to Comino Often passed by on the way
to Gozo, this craggy castaway isle is well worth a day trip for its fantastic snorkelling, wildlife and adventure
BELLEAIR HOLIDAYS
LAURA GELDER
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