The first trip of the year is always exciting, and although it’s mid march this holiday was long overdue considering my last holiday was in July.
I’ve wanted to visit Malta for a while now, originally thought about going to Annie Mac’s Lost and Found festival in April, but decided it would be nice to explore a country my own way. Although I was frequently asked the question ‘what are you going to do there‘ and my answer changed every time.
Firstly, I just wanted a holiday; a break was needed and I felt like escaping and exploring a new country, to take in the views, and felt like Malta was the perfect place to do so. Like Barcelona, I booked this trip a couple of months before with my friend, as we both wanted escape London and have some time to relax in another country.
I stayed at Seashells Resort Suncrest in Qawra, and believe me when I say this hotel is stunnnnnnning. The journey to our hotel seemed to take forever (1.5 – 2hours at least), as we booked an airport shuttle from Malta’s Luqa Airport direct to our hotel with Malta Transfers online for 20 euros return each, which was probably the best price I found.
Our hotel was located directly opposite the sea and you could literally hear the sound of the waves every morning and each night. The pictures are enough to make you book but I loved how the hotel staff were so friendly, welcoming and helpful at all hours of the day with my random questions. At one point, I left my hotel room to have a random conversation with the lovely Silvia (I think/hope that is her name) just to learn more about the Maltese culture and things to do. She would listen to me babble on about my plans for the 5 days I was there and give us tips and suggestions of what to do.
Like most of my trips I always create an itinerary but it’s always worthwhile to allow some room for flexibility as things may change. On our first full day we did a boat excursions where we visited the Blue Lagoon, an area where you can explore caves and snorkel (weather permitting/if you travel in season) and local islands Comino and Gozo all for 25 euros including hotel transfers. If you are travelling in summer I would recommend the package which allows you to have all inclusive (food and drink) for around 17 euros, while visiting Blue Lagoon/Comino but decide what is best for you.
Passing by the Crystal Lagoon
Personally I think 5 days was enough for me. The temperature was at 17/18 degrees max but I knew this would be the case and wasn’t looking for a sun and sandy beach holiday. Malta is a small island so despite where you stay you can travel around easily to other towns to get the best. There were moments were it felt like time was stand still – but in a good way as it allowed time to relax and take in all of the surroundings. There was no rushing around and everything was peaceful and relaxing.
If you are looking to visit a bars/clubs then you will need to venture out into St. Julian’s which was a bus ride away taking around 20-25 minutes. The transport in Malta is fairly good and all bus journeys are 1.50 euros, with night buses running on Fridays and Saturdays. A bus stop was situated right outside our hotel so this was perfect, and as I was there form Sun – Thurs we took a taxi from St. Julian’s back to our hotel in Qawra for 20 euros. The only major/super club is Havana so non-smokers be aware as you can smoke inside bars and clubs in Malta which sadly left me stinking of cigarette smoke. Although these are all free entry the music is a mixture of Top 40 chart music and obviously some Maltese/Spanish music which is still really fun to dance to even if you don’t know the words.
Whether you plan to come in the summer or not. Malta is an island that can be enjoyed for everyone of all ages. If you fancy a solo trip, then this could be a great place to visit. Maltese people are definitely by far one of the most friendliest and welcoming people I have come across which is always comforting. (Plus they drive on the left side of the road which is always nice to have a sense of familiarity when you’re away for us Brits).
Add to your bucket list if you fancy and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed with the incredible views all across the island.
Top things to do:
1. Take a boat ride to Gozo/Comino/Blue Lagoon
2. Visit Ghadira Bay and Golden Bay beach
3. Party in St Julian’s
4. Explore Mdina at night
5. Popeye Village
Malta is definitely a great escape holiday for one of several reasons. If you have been or are thinking to go message me below or drop me an email.
all prices and excursions were available and accurate at the time