The 8th annual Hosts Global Forum was held in San Antonio, Texas and Hosts Global members together with 70 clients from around the world connected and learnt what’s new, what’s next, and what’s notable in the event industry. This event was held at Hotel Valencia Riverwalk San Antonio between the 7th and 10th of September, 2022.

Hosts Global chose San Antonio as its featured destination because of its vibrant and diverse culture and history. A city of constant transformation, bursting with new attractions, revitalized historic sites, and seasonal events. Hosts Texas took guests on a ride of culture, cuisine, and curated experiences that showed how San Antonio is thriving as a meeting & incentive destination.

Hosts Global thoughtfully and intentionally implemented multiple sustainability efforts for the Hosts Global Forum. Over 1,000 trees were planted and 164,100 kgs of carbon emissions were removed through investments into renewable energy projects. Another interesting, sustainable effort consisted of providing all guests with water bottles that tracked how guests impacted the environment through reuse by scanning a QR code every time they refilled their reusable water bottle. Each scan helped aid funding in developing clean water infrastructure, nutritious food programs, and reforestation projects that help communities in need. Hosts Texas also gave thoughtful consideration to the local sustainability efforts by selecting multiple venues, tours, and experiences that were within walking distance of the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk, the electric barges for transportation, and bikes for a tour of the city.

The education at the Hosts Global Forum focused on how strong partnerships are created through some very interesting guest speakers whilst panel discussions touched on a curated list of industry topics such as attendee engagement, sustainability efforts, hybrid meetings, and contracting.

Hosts Global Forum honour their DMC Members for their outstanding performance in numerous categories. The top Hosts DMCs were selected for all their hardwork, creativity, and dedication.

The award winners were as follows:
Fearless Full Service in Operational Expertise category – e2 Destination & Event Management and Hosts Las Vegas
Made Meaningful category – Empire Force Events
Ferocious Creativity in Event Design & Decor category – Spectra
Hosts Global Member of the Year – COTC

Take in stunning views of the Portomaso Yacht Marina whilst relaxing in your own private hot tub located on the spacious terrace furnished with sunbeds and dining area. The room features a large king-sized Hilton Serenity bed and an elegant bathroom with walk-in shower or bathtub. Watch a movie on the 43-inch LCD TV or catch up with work at the desk with WiFi access.

Special touches include a fully stocked minibar, a welcome amenity, complimentary bathroom amenities and tea and coffee making facilities.

The Terrace Spa Suits will be completed in the coming weeks!

The Phoenicia Malta Ambassador Neville Juan Cardona featured on BBC World News on Monday morning, discussing the late Queen Elizabeth II’s visits to the hotel during her time on the island.

Mr Cardona spoke to BBC reporter Lucy Williamson about the Valletta hotel’s Grand Ballroom, where Prince Philip and the then-Princess Elizabeth “danced away many moons ago”.

He showed Ms Williamson the guestbook from the Queen’s stay at the hotel, featuring a number of photographs, during a time when “her signature simply read, Elizabeth”.

Queen Elizabeth II spent two years living in Malta while Prince Philip served as a Royal Navy Officer, a time that she described as some of “the happiest days” of her life. Just two years later she returned to London and prepared to become Queen, yet Ms Williamson remarked that while she will be remembered as “Britain’s longest-serving monarch, Head of the Commonwealth, and Queen, to Malta, she’s simply Elizabeth”.

Following her death on Thursday, The Phoenicia Malta recalled the Queen’s fondness for Malta, which “has long been known”, also expressing its condolences with The Royal Family and everyone around the world mourning her loss.

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World organisation, The Phoenicia Malta is an iconic 136-bedroom hotel located on Valletta’s doorstep that has “long been regarded as a national treasure”.

Article credits: https://whoswho.mt/en/phoenicia-malta-recalls-queen-elizabeth-ii-s-dances-in-its-grand-ballroom

Due to its position in the center of the Mediterranean, Malta has been a crossroads of exchanges and peoples for millennia, which over time have formed the cultural and identity of the island. Different folk traditions will meet once again in Malta through this event for a mutual cultural exchange and enrichment.

The first two editions of this festival, organised by EuroArt Production and Leon Promotions, were a huge success with the participation of several groups from several European countries, such as Italy, Austria, Spain, Estonia, India, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Turkey, Russia and of course from Malta and Gozo. This year the festival will be held between the 23rd and 25th September. During the 3 days of this International Festival, parades and performances will be held in various locations around the island of Malta.

https://youtu.be/jrrMFJFISl4

Colours of Malta has the pleasure to introduce its newest team member, Julie.

Julie is French but has built a family in Malta over the last 7 years, she also comes with vast experience in all major tourism markets both locally and overseas.

She is vibrant, sociable, dedicated and organised, the perfect skill-set to create your next best event.

Julie will be servicing the French market and looks forward to working on many successful events.

You can get in touch with Julie on [email protected]

AX The Saint John, a boutique hotel in the heart of Merchants Street, Valletta, is the recipient of Booking.com’s Traveller Review Award 2022 with a score of 9 out of 10!

A Traveller Review Award is won by having an average review score between 8 and 10 with at least three reviews left by Booking.com travellers by 1^st December of the previous year. AX The Saint John managed to obtain a fantastic score, rendering the boutique hotel a recipient of this prestigious award.

Once a former merchant’s residence and shop, the accommodation was reformulated as the successful and hospitable setting that it is today but never losing its rich history. Rooms at AX The Saint John combine luxury, technology and style – ideal for the smart and independent traveller.

1) Laser Tag
Outdoor Laser Tag sees the enjoyment of competing to complete missions (like paintball, but without the injuries!).

Using high tech equipment complete challenges by joining a team of players or visiting with your own team. Action-packed adventure on their battlefield guarantees not only fun and adventure but is also great for team building and improving your strategic skills. Laser Tag takes place in the form of a whole day event so booking is essential. Available for almost all the year, the games can take up to 20 players at a time.

2) Arrow Tag
For modern-day archery, take up a bow and arrow and commence battle (with a foam-tipped arrow of course). Arrow tag will supply all the equipment and the only safety gear you need in the form of goggles or head masks required as this sport is virtually pain-free. Ideal for groups and played in a dedicated field, the games provide plenty of places to take cover and plan your surprise attacks. Again, available all year round, this fast-paced game is probably more enjoyed in the cooler months rather than in the heat of the Maltese summer.

3) Spelunking
An adventurous way to escape Malta’s summer heat is to take part in a spot of spelunking.

Malta offers some spectacular caves to caves to explore ranging from stunning coves to eerie burial chambers and an awful lot in between. Some of the most interesting places to look into across Malta and Gozo are Għar Dalam, Ninu’s Cave, Xerri’s Grotto, The Blue Grotto and Għar Lapsi.

4) Abseiling
With breathtaking locations across Malta and Gozo, abseiling on the island is an extreme sport that can be enjoyed by both novices and the experienced due to the many formations island-wide.

Abseiling tends to take place more in the spring and winter months and mostly takes place in the locations of Ghar Lapsi, Mosta Valley and Dwejra.

5) Mountain Biking
The cragged remote places ideal for off-road biking in Malta are plentiful. The islands have a range of routes allowing you to see some of the best sights of the island along the way. Malta can’t supply the mountains but can certainly provide challenging terrains and trails to be remembered.

The Mġarr hills provide both countryside and sea views in both east and west directions, the coast road has a dedicated cycle lane and accompanying fresh sea breeze. For a lengthy but more leisurely route of approximately 40km, use St. Paul’s Bay as a starting point and head through Qawra, Pembroke and on to Valletta where you can take a rest and relish in the sights and amenities of the capital city. Other routes to look out for are Tarxien outskirts, Xemxija to Għajn Tuffieħa, Mellieħa hills, and the Victoria Lines.

6) Zip Lining
A trip to Valletta could quite possibly be on your ‘to-do’ list, but how about seeing the history of the capital city from a 300-metre zip line? Under the instruction of qualified staff and safely harnessed in, take a stride from the top of the bastions and enjoy adrenaline-filled views of the Great Siege Bell and Grand Harbour as you head towards the sea edge.

Along with a 150-metre zip line at Migra and the 200-metre at Mosta, these experiences are predominantly available in late summer and autumn and spring months.

7) Rock Climbing
Whether you are a novice or well experienced, if climbing takes your fancy, Malta offers some amazing locations. Inland valley crags, sea cliffs and tranquil, off the beaten track sites are spread across the island. With predominantly dry weather during the winter and plenty of shaded opportunities during the summer, climbing opportunities can take place all year round.

8) Archery
Embrace your historical surroundings while visiting the Maltese archipelago and try your hand at a spot of traditional archery. Whether you are after a course or a one-off taster in a group or individually, there are a few places which offer this. Point, draw and shoot your way to a fun-filled experience set in a dedicated archery range.

Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa has been recognised by parent company Marriott International for its customer service delivery through a distinction for its Intent to Recommend score for July 2022.

Marriott International was full of praise towards the Malta-based hotel for the achievement, a sign of a “truly outstanding performance”.  It also thanked Malta Marriott for the service it provides to customers, with a priority on making them feel “safe, secure, and welcomed”.

“Lasting memories are created through great customer service, and we have a team that cares about that as much as you do,” Malta Marriott said.

“We are proud of our associates for their dedication to delivering hospitality and creating experiences that will last a lifetime,” the hotel added.

The hotel launched in January 2020 after an investment of €30 million for extensive refurbishment, and he has since become known for the “joyful experience” it offers its guests every time they visit.

Similar to other hotels, Malta Marriott was forced to halt its operations during the COVID-19 pandemic due to lockdown restrictions just a few months after its launch, before it reopened at the start of September of that same year.

Article credits: https://whoswho.mt/en/malta-marriott-hotel-spa-recognised-for-excellence-in-service-delivery-by-marriott-international

The 2022 edition of this much loved annual appointment will be held on 2 September at Pjazza Teatru Rjal featuring our very own Malta Concert Orchestra with the participation of leading local singers. Undoubtedly one of the most successful productions by the Malta Concert Orchestra for the past four years has been our annual appointment of Italian music. This year’s edition promises to be no less exciting with some of Italy’s most favourite songs performed by Alex Schembri, Neville Refalo, Claudia Faniello, Angela Tirchett and Ritienne Azzopardi under the direction of Maestro Joe Brown.

1) Scuba Diving
If there’s one water sport that Malta is really known for worldwide, it’s scuba diving. Malta continuously gets top ratings from divers looking to explore some of the most beautiful underwater locations in the Mediterranean.

Dive sites are numerous and suit several tastes. With Malta playing a pivotal role during WW2, means that the Mediterranean waters surrounding the island offer wrecks in the forms of both ships and aircraft in remarkable condition.

Caverns offer a close-up glimpse of sea life and underwater nature, while rock formations provide caves and tunnels all at varying depths. Discover a new world from just a few metres down and experience a different side to Malta which is out of this world.

2) Snorkelling
The best time for snorkelling around the islands of Malta is between May and August when sea temperatures are at their best, outside of these months you will probably find a wetsuit is required.

From a mild 19C in May rising to 27C in August, the waters are not only warm but crystal clear and make for perfect underwater sightseeing. Although beautiful, the sandy beaches across the island can become overcrowded during peak season, so if snorkelling is your main priority, head for the rocky beaches such as Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, Coral Lagoon, Għar Lapsi and Fomm ir-Riħ to experience an abundance of sea life and natural formations.

Very basic snorkelling equipment can be bought from most souvenir shops but hiring equipment is also possible from dive centres.

3) Jet Skiing
Did you know you can take a jet ski safari to explore the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean not only in Malta but also in the sister islands of Gozo and Comino?

Visiting both historical and geographical places of interest. With sunset safaris, round Malta safaris and the west coast, to name a few, you can visit caves and caverns only accessible by sea. Fully led by a group instructor adventurous explorers won’t be disappointed.

4) Kayaking
For one of the best kayaking experiences, head to Malta’s sister island of Gozo. Kayak Gozo was set up by a couple who after travelling the world, set up shop in Gozo and put their hearts and souls into launching their ever-popular business.

With everything you need available, their guided tours suit all tastes and levels ranging from novices to the experienced.

5) Inflatable Rides
For those looking for fun that will have you laughing so much, holding on will be a challenge, try out a banana boat ride or inflatable sofa ride. The most popular sandy beaches offer these exhilerating rides.

6) Boat Trips
Not surprisingly, boat trips across Malta are plentiful. Hire a boat for private use or join in on a cruise, the choice is yours.

If you are more for an organised trip with set locations, selected departure points and times, cruises are the best choice, but for more intimacy and no set agenda, hiring different sized self-drive boats to cater for your needs is just as accessible.

7) Windsurfing
If you don’t know how to windsurf already, there are water sports companies in Malta offering to teach complete beginners to be sufficient at windsurfing in as little time as a weekend. Wind surfs are available for rental and if a weekend of learning doesn’t take your fancy, taster sessions can be booked too.
Described as one of the most idyllic water sports locations on the island, Mellieħa Bay, has plenty to offer.

8) Flyboarding, hoverboarding and Jet Packs
Compared to learning how to walk, learning to flyboard and hoverboard at sea can be mastered in as little as ten minutes.

Lately becoming a sport in its own right, flyboarding gives the excitement of being propelled through the air at a rate of knots while having control of the heights you reach once you are fully self-learned which can take as little as an hour. Straighten your legs, lock your knees and enjoy the ride.

Prefer power strapped to your back? Go for the jet pack option and enjoy the experience, also with friends (through group bookings).

9) Parasailing
Taking to the skies is the most thrilling way to get a birds’ eye view of the island of Malta. Parasailing offers a memorable experience with the least effort. You’ll head out onto the water in a boat then, when the time is right, soar into the air at around 200 meters height. A hassle-free boat pickup from several locations in Sliema, St Julians and Valletta can be easily booked.

10) Waterskiing and Wakeboarding
Ideal for people who enjoy water sports and an adrenalin rush, wakeboarding and waterskiing are an absolute must! Wakeboarding involves riding a board, or wakeboard, over the surface of the water whilst being pulled along by a power boat.

The more familiar sport of waterskiing still involves water and a power boat, but uses the traditional skis instead of a board.