MALTA


At dusk you’ll feel that a renaissance is in the offing, centring around the party strip of Straight Street


developments in the capital, Valletta, a Unesco World Heritage Site. This 16th-century city has received a supreme vote of confidence after being awarded the title of 2018 European Capital of Culture.


M Originally used as headquarters for


Roman Catholic nobility the Knights of Malta, Valletta is often referred to as ‘the city built by gentlemen for gentlemen’. One can see why: for the past few decades it has mostly attracted visitors by day thanks to its architectural splendour, Grand Harbour and magnificent St John’s Co-Cathedral, which houses two original works by renowned 16th-century artist Caravaggio. Valletta’s nightlife is a different story; once it had a thriving evening scene, but in recent decades this has shifted to the nearby towns of St Julians and Sliema. This situation is changing, however, thanks to Valletta’s recent cultural award. Now if you walk around the city centre at


uch of Malta’s recent five-star facelift is taking place in response to exciting


dusk, you’ll feel that a renaissance is in the offing, centring around the party strip of Straight Street. It was known as ‘the gut’ to US and British sailors who frequented its queer cabarets and early-hours bars until the 1970s, but local businessmen and women are now receiving financial incentives to set up here and Straight Street looks set to hum with social activity once again.


One excellent accommodation choice


in Valletta is The Phoenicia, a much-loved grand hotel reopening this summer. The hotel, which also offers civil ceremonies, has refurbished 136 rooms (some with sea views) and its Grand Ballroom, while the classic facade has also been restored. Later this year The Phoenicia will also open a health club and spa and outdoor infinity pool overlooking the harbour. Spread along the coast between Ricasoli Point and Valletta’s Grand Harbour is ‘Smart City’, said to be where the Algarve meets Vegas – an area housing office and residential space but in the midst of redevelopment that will create three high-end hotels, a private clinic and


TOP: St John’s Cathedral


CENTRE: The Xara Palace Hotel BOTTOM: Mdina Gate


OPPOSITE: Valletta at night


aspire june 2016 — 73


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