Hotels in Malta

Malta or also known as the Republic of Malta is a Southern European island country and one of the world's smallest and most densely populated countries. It covers approximately 316 kilometres square with a population of about 475,000. Malta is situated around 333 kilometres north of Libya and 80 kilometres from Italy. It consists of an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea and the capital of Malta is Valletta, which is the smallest national capital in the European Union by area at 0.8 kilometres.

The name Malta was originated from the Greek word which is honey. The ancient Greeks called the island Melite meaning "honey-sweet” for Malta's unique production of honey. Another reference stated that Malta comes from the Phoenician word Maleth which defined as a haven or port as Malta has many bays and coves.

According to history, Malta was one of the British colonies in 1815 and acts as route station for ships and headquarters for the British Mediterranean Fleet. Since Malta is strategically located in the centre of Mediterranean, it also played a role as a naval base with most of the foreign influences from Romans, Spanish and British ruled the islands. The influences from other countries also contributed to Malta culture in current time. Besides that, Malta had involved in the Allied War during the Second World War and awarded the George Cross for its bravery.

The Muslim rule was ended by the Normans who conquered the island in 1091. After that, the islands were re-Christianised by 1249. The islands were part of the Kingdom of Sicily until 1530, and later, the Maltese islands were handed to the Order of Knights of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in perpetual lease. The British Parliament had decided and approved to give the Malta Independence Act in 1964, giving Malta independence from the United Kingdom as the State of Malta, with Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and queen. In 1974, Malta became a republic and after that, it became a member state of the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations and joined the European Union in 2004.

This country is comprised of various cities that feature different attractions and landmarks. The largest town in Malta is Birkirkara and among the cities are called Cottonera, Marsaxlokk, Mdina, Mgarr, Rabat, St Julian’s, Sliema and Victoria which is the capital city of Gozo. Cottonera refers to three historic and ancient cities of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Isla (Senglea) and Bormla (Cospicua) and this area are where the Great Siege was fought and won. Besides that, Marsaxlokk is a fishing village located south of the island. For those who love to escape from the big city, Marsaxlokk is more suitable for you. There is a big market held every Sunday selling many types of food, clothes and household essentials. Other than that, Sliema is perfect for shopping lover. There is a shopping area just north of Valletta and this city is also famous among joggers as there is an amazing side walking area. Other than cities, Malta is a popular tourist destination with its warm climate, numerous recreational areas, and architectural and historical monuments, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites which are Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, Valletta,and seven megalithic temples.

As for languages, Maltese is recognised as a national language and the official languages are Maltese and English. Maltese is a Semitic language descended from the Sicilian-Arabic dialect from southern Italy that developed during the Emirate of Sicily. It is the only Semitic language to be officially recognised in the European Union. Sicilian was previously the official and cultural language of Malta from the 12th century and Tuscan dialect of Italian from the 16th century. Besides that, citizens of Malta also use the Italian language to communicate with people.

One of the reasons Malta has become popular among the westerners is the Mediterranean climate. It is a combination of mild winters and hot summers as well as hotter in the inland areas. Rain also occurs mainly in autumn and winter and dry in summer. The average yearly temperature is around 23 °C (73 °F) during the day and 15.5 °C (59.9 °F) at night. January is the coldest month and the temperature ranges from 12 to 18 °C and minimum 6 to 12 °C at night. Valetta has the warmest winters, with average temperatures of around 15 to 16 °C.

Besides that, Maltese cuisine is strongly inspired by Sicilian, English, Spanish, Moroccan and Provençal cuisines. Traditional Maltese food is based on seasons. For instance, there are Lampuki pie (fish pie), Rabbit stew, Bragioli (beef olives) and widow’s soup consisting of sheep and goat’s cheese. These cuisines are mostly served during Lent, Easter and Christmas celebrations.

There are no border controls between countries of European Union (EU) except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania and the United Kingdom, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland and Asian countries.

How To Get There?

By Plane

Visitors from around the world can take flights to Malta and land at Malta International Airport where it serves as an airport for the Maltese islands. Malta's airlines, Air Malta, has regular connections to many European, North African and Middle Eastern countries. Besides that, there is Ryanair that flies from Liverpool, Manchester, Dublin, Stockholm, Venice and many other airport around Europe. In addition, Easyjet, Jet2, Thomas Cook and Wizzair airlines also fly to Malta from many states around the United Kingdom, Italy and other countries in Europe. Tourists from Asia countries also can reach this country by transit at one of the countries like London and continue the journey to Malta.

By Ferry

Malta has three large harbours on its main island which are The Grand, Marsamxett and Marsaxlokk harbours. These harbours connect Malta to several places in other countries such as Italy. The Grand Harbour has been a harbour since Roman times and situated at the eastern side of Valletta. Besides that, Marsamxett Harbour is located on the western side of Valletta and accommodates a number of yacht marinas whereas Marsaxlokk Harbour or Malta Freeport is primary cargo terminal of the island and nestled on the southern side of Malta. This type of transportation is less popular compared to the plane as it is more convenient and cheaper.

What To Do There?

Gozo Beach

If you are into recreational activities and nature, you will enjoy hiking in the countryside of Malta. This activity will give you a memorable experience in the forest of rural areas of Malta and along the coast of Gozo.

Tennis Courts in Malta

Tennis is a popular activity in Malta and Gozo. Malta has a warm climate all the year around and that is why tennis is the perfect sport to enjoy. There are numerous tennis courts open to beginners and seasoned players and the courts are also open to spectators to watch professional games.

Valletta City

Local and international can experience a 90-minute free walking tour around the beautiful capital city of Valletta. This tour is available daily and tourists can gain knowledge of history and information on main attractions and landmarks in Malta.

Malta Arts Festival

Malta is also popular for various festival events. The festival events are held in various venues in and around Valletta. For instance, Ghanafest is Malta Mediterranean Folk Music Festival is a 3-day event of Mediterranean folk music, including Maltese folksongs (Għana) and it hosts a series of workshops on traditional instruments and a special programme for children. This festival is usually held in June.

Besides that, Malta Jazz and Malta Arts are festivals held in July. The Malta Jazz Festival has become a hub for the exchange of musical experience between local and international singers whereas Malta Arts Festival is a showcase of diverse top quality theatre, music and dance performances which include collaborations between Maltese and foreign artists.

Where To Stay?

Hotel Argento

Situated in the residential area of Spinola Bay, Hotel Argento offers top-class accommodation at Malta. It is only 20 minutes away from Malta International Airport and nearby famous attractions. Every guestroom in this 4- star hotel is equipped with comfortable amenities such as flat- screen television, minibar and private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Besides that, this hotel also provides buffet-style continental breakfast and also nearby restaurants serving local and international cuisines. In addition, there is also free WiFi access throughout the hotel, a 24-hour reception desk and daily housekeeping and laundry services.

Qawra Palace Hotel

Qawra Palace Hotel is also a 4- star hotel strategically located nearby the bus stop and popular landmarks in the city. This hotel offers well-appointed guest rooms with impeccable amenities like minibar, mini fridge and wardrobe as well as overlooking the amazing view of the city. Besides that, there are indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a mini golf course, tennis court and games room for guests to enjoy recreational activities. As for dining option, there are restaurants at the Qawra Palace hotel serving a breakfast buffet and local and international cuisines for both lunch and dinner.

The Saint John Boutique Hotel

Located approximately 15 minutes away from Malta International Airport, The Saint John Boutique Hotel is the perfect choice for travellers to enjoy the sight and sounds of Malta. Every guestroom is modernly designed with essential amenities such as coffee machine, mini fridge and air conditioner. The en-suite bathroom is also equipped with a hairdryer, a bathrobe, slippers and free toiletries. As for dining options, there is a wide selection of food and beverages for breakfast like cereal, fruits, omelette, fruit juice and many more. Guests also can enjoy a beer or cocktail at the hotel's bar. For comfort and convenience of guests, there are amazing facilities and services provided in this hotel. Among them are a 24-hour reception desk, luggage storage and business centre.