Malta is known for its crystal clear waters
There are many reasons to visit magical Malta, the world’s tenth smallest country, home to just 400,000 people.
Firstly, the location. The three islands that make up the country – Malta, Gozo and Comino – are found almost directly in the center of the Mediterranean, 60 miles from Sicily. As such, temperatures are warm almost all year round.
Secondly, there’s Malta famously LGBTI-friendly reputation. Despite being a deeply religious country, (the most popular religion being Roman Catholicism), Malta once again topped this year’s ILGA-Europe ‘Rainbow Index’, which ranks countries by how their laws and policies promote sexual and gender equality.
Malta is a major destination for Jet2holidays, the UK’s second biggest tour operator who provide package holidays from nine UK bases – London Stansted, Birmingham, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle, East Midlands, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Belfast International.
As such, we’ve teamed up with the friendly, customer-focused Which? Travel Brand of the Year for this quick fire guide on what to do and where to stay in the Med’s most stunning archipelago…
Go set-jetting
Season One of Game of Thrones was filmed in many locations across Malta and Gozo. Meanwhile Popeye Village Malta, the set of the live action 1980 film, based on the iconic cartoon sailor, is now a major tourist attraction. This beautiful location is the perfect backdrop for blockbuster films and hit series.
Attend one of Malta’s amazing music festivals
You can catch the likes of Rita Ora and Martin Garrix at the epic Creamfields fest, which celebrates its 20-year birthday this year. It takes place from 14-15 August – the perfect excuse for a summer break! Two more huge annual music festivals in Malta include Annie Mac’s Lost and Found and the Isle of MTV, Sadly these have been and gone for 2018, but Lost and Found returns in May 2019, and Isle of MTV in June.
Get active on the water (and on land)
Last year, Malta was named the second best diving location in the world at the Diver Awards. Furthermore, the temperate, crystal clear waters surrounding the islands are popular for sailing, surfing, swimming, kayaking, paragliding, jet skiing and snorkelling. Meanwhile, on land, Malta’s rocky, scorched terrain is perfect for rock climbing, hiking, cycling, horse-riding and jeep-safaris.
Photo: Pixabay
Go to Malta Pride
Celebrate Malta as a haven for LGBTI people by attending the annual Pride festival on 15 September 2018. The festivities take place in Malta’s historic capital Valletta, which is also this year’s European Capital of Culture.
Immerse yourself in history and culture
Malta is something of an ornate melting pot when it comes to history and culture, owing to the many countries and societies who have ruled the islands through the ages.
Among Malta’s most important historical and cultural sites are Saint John’s Co-Cathedral – a 16th century baroque building dripping with opulence – and the Lascaris War Rooms, a complex maze of underground tunnels dating back to WW2. Both are found in the beautiful city of Valletta.
Jet2holidays offer ABTA and ATOL-protected package holidays including flights, transfers, rep service and a fantastic range of 2-5* hotels.
One such example is this modern, stylish 3*+ in the town of St Julian’s, a 25-minute car ride from Valletta. Many of the chic, comfortable rooms overlook the stunning St Julian’s Bay. The hotel also boasts a sea terrace and pool.
Another hotel with a contemporary and funky vibe is the 3*+ beHotel, also in St. Julian’s. This 278-room stopover is in the heart of Paceville, the town’s buzzing nightlife scene. Alternatively, enjoy a drink in the hotel’s own rooftop bar and pool before getting an early night, and enjoying an in-room spa treatment the next day.
This three star hotel is found in the lively area of St. Julian’s Paceville, known for its entertainment and nightlife. The hotel is also only a five minutes’ walk from St. George’s Bay and the beautiful Golden Mile Beach. Each room is spacious and modern with a private balcony, perfect for relaxing in the sunshine..
Finally to St Paul’s Bay and this gigantic, ultramodern four star hotel. Expect beautiful balcony views among the 484 rooms, including that of St Paul’s Islands. You can look forward to accessing a private beach, six swimming pools, the Myoka Spa, on-site casino, a water sports center and even an accredited diving school!
For more information about Jet2holidays, visit their dedicated page on Malta.
Jet2holidays is a client of Gay Star News.
