Yesterday, we visited the newly re-opened AX Odycy hotel in Qawra, Malta, which was originally the Seashells Resort at Suncrest. It has amazing restaurants, recreational amenities, and accommodations with sea views.

This waterfront hotel in Qawra is located on St. Paul’s Bay and offers views of the Mediterranean. It provides a kids’ area and an outdoor family swimming pool with two slides. Dedicated adult-only areas, over 11 catering establishments, conference facilities, and much more.

As one of Malta’s finest brand-new hotels, we will undoubtedly recommend this to our clients.

We appreciate the Sales team’s hospitality and the wonderful evening spent together.

If you’re planning to visit Fort St Elmo in Valletta, don’t miss the chance to witness the spectacular In Guardia military parade.During the parade, you’ll see re-enactors from the Malta Tourism Authority dressed in period costumes, as they carry out military exercises and demonstrate their pride and skill.

The parade is scheduled to take place at Fort St Elmo in Valletta on several dates throughout 2023, including March 26th, April 23rd, May 7th and 14th, and October 22nd and 29th, November 5th and 12th, and December 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 26th.

The In Guardia Parade is a captivating re-enactment that portrays the inspection of Fort St Elmo and its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St John, who was responsible for the military affairs. This authentic event used to take place regularly inside Malta’s major fortifications.

During the re-enactment, approximately 50 re-enactors dressed in their period uniforms demonstrate their military drills to the Grand Bailiff to showcase their preparedness in case of military threats. The performance lasts for about 40 minutes, and visitors with tickets are entitled to watch the re-enactment and explore the upper part of the fort.

The ftira is a Maltese icon, there’s no question about it.

Not sure what to expect? Well, the traditional Maltese version is the pinnacle of Mediterranean sandwich making, refined to a tee. This notwithstanding the fact that you’ll get something different wherever you go. And, even if they all taste different, they are always delicious.

Ftira is actually a Maltese flat bread. The actual sandwich, loosely described as a tuna roll, will generally include tomato paste, olive oil, tuna and a variety of other Mediterranean ingredients such as olives, capers, sun dried tomatoes, Gozo cheeselets, pickled vegetables and fresh salad. You can also have it with Maltese sausage and egg, of course. Whatever you go for, it is the bread equivalent of heaven.

Substantial yet light to the bite, it can stand alone, as a full meal, or pass off as a quick savoury snack on the go. Here are some ftira institutions you need to know about to curb that emergency ftira fix.

1. Buchman’s Snack Bar – Gżira
Widely accepted as the best ftira on the island, Buchman’s unashamedly boasts about it, with a sign claiming just that outside their front. Why ever not?

2. Duke’s Snack Bar – Msida
Made to include your specific requests (many of the others also do, to be fair), at Duke’s, using the magic phrase b’kollox will get you an impressive sandwich for all the right reasons.

3. Serafino Straws – Sliema
Not often venturing into Malta’s villages due to the multitude of attractions in Malta’s most popular tourist hub? Then, try a true taste of Malta in the heart of cosmopolitan Sliema at Serafino Straws.

4. Olympic Bar (Xufi) – Mosta
Taste your traditional custom-made ftira while soaking up the sunshine with a view of one of Malta’s most popular attractions: the imposing Mosta dome at the classic Xufi.

5. Andrew’s Snack Bar – Birkirkara
Renovated but still traditional, and still a favourite stop for the Maltese worker, Andrew’s upholds its classic ftira reputationa nd remains one of the top.

6. Mgarr Farmer’s Bar – Mġarr
Known for good traditional food in sumptuous portions, the Mgarr Farmer’s Bar, offers a ftira which does its part to live up to the reputation of this place.

7. Sea View Cafe – Mellieħa
One of the best views on the island accompanies one of the best ftiras on the island at the Sea View Cafe – a visit here is a must if you’re visiting the north of the island.

8. Hamrun Kiosk – Hamrun
Try something different which will certainly not disappoint. At Hamrun Kiosk, you can find a ftira which has been transformed into a delicious steak sandwich.

BONUS: Mekren’s Bakery – Gozo
Believe it or not, the Gozitan version of ftira is entirely different. It resembles a pizza of sorts, its bread base covered in thinly sliced potatoes, onions and similar Mediterranean goodies BEFORE it is put in the oven! The only way to go is to try both the Maltese and Gozitan ftira for yourself. Try one of the best Gozitan ftiras available at Mekren’s bakery.

Article credits: https://www.guidememalta.com/en/8-of-the-best-places-to-get-a-traditional-maltese-ftira-biz-zejt

2023 is the year of the big travel revival. The Mediterranean Archipelago, comprised of Malta, Gozo and Comino, packs a punch in the number of experiences travellers can have and is brimming with reasons why. From a Michelin gastronomy scene to 300 days of sunshine, culture and heritage dating back 7,000 years and sporting activities galore, Malta has rounded up 16 reasons why the destination should be on every travel bucket list in 2023.

1.  Not Just One but Three Michelin Star Restaurants to Experience

The pandemic has led to travellers being unable to sample and taste the delights of Malta’s three Michelin star restaurants – Noni, Under Grain and De Mondion. In February 2020, these three outstanding restaurants were the first in the Archipelago’s history to be awarded Michelin star status, cementing Malta’s place on the world’s gastronomy scene. For travellers who love fine dining, 2023 will be the ideal time to visit as Malta will finally have its time in the spotlight to celebrate the achievements of its outstanding chefs. Michelin will return to the Archipelago in 2023 to announce whether more restaurants are going to be awarded a coveted star.

2. A Vegan and Vegetarian Holiday Dream

When travellers visit Malta there are a wide variety of restaurants, dishes and chefs that focus on serving the very best of vegan and vegetarian cuisine. From a tailored Gozo Picnic experience to vegan pasta and desserts at Pash & Jimmy’s Café, or Valletta’s healthy café – No. 43 – an eclectic hangout at Gugar where you will find a library and art gallery for emerging artists alongside delicious snacks – the Maltese islands demonstrate vegan and vegetarian food never has to lack creativity or flavour.

3. A Revival of Traditional Farming

Young Maltese farmers are reinventing Malta’s farm to table concept by reviving old techniques, traditional vegetables, and the repopulation of the native black bee. Blending the old ways with modern methods, a group of upcoming farmers are working with local restaurants to place Maltese ingredients back on the menu. From Jorge the amateur beekeeper to a neighbourhood shop concept, The Veg Box, started by Emanuela and Lucas, and community-supported farming launched by Cane and Cassandra just a year ago, diners can today taste home-grown ingredients at the island’s three Michelin star restaurants of Noni, De Mondion and Undergrain, as well as Verbena, Townhouse No.3 Bahia, Madiliena Lodge, Briju, to name but just a few.

4. New Wine Trail – Bring A Spare Suitcase Because You Cannot Buy Maltese Wine in the UK

The newly released Wine Trail, created to inspire wine enthusiasts, maps out the ultimate wine tasting break, highlighting where you can find all of Malta and Gozo’s vineyards. The newest vineyard to open is Ta’Betta, a family-run business offering tours and private wine tastings starting from €75 per person.

Visit https://www.tabetta.com/ or https://www.maltauk.com/winery-trail/ for more information.

5. Have A Multi-Generational or Intimate Group Trip

The travel trends for 2023 all point towards the rise in multi-generational trips as families and friends are looking to come together to make up for the time missed in 2020. Malta has a wide variety of villa and apartment options from farmhouses in Gozo to city-centre living in Valletta. Here are a few of the providers that sell villas in the Archipelago: James Villas, Tui Villas, and Oliver’s Travels.  

6. Marsaxlokk’s Tal-Maghluq Area to Be Regenerated In €5 Million Project

The Marsaxlokk area is a big draw for tourists, with over 1.2 million visiting the quaint fishing village in 2019. The project, overseen by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation, aims to improve both the infrastructure and aesthetic of the area. From new pedestrian areas to improvements in Marsaxlokk Square and modern facilities along the harbour’s edge, travellers will be able to wander the beautified streets of the fishing village by the end of 2023.

7. Stay in A Maltese Aristocrat Family Home, Museum and Now B&B

Valletta is brimming with beautiful boutique hotels housed in restored palazzos. The latest is Casa Rocca Piccola Valletta’s most beautiful family-owned living museums and now an exclusive B&B. The 16^th Century palace recently opened its doors to the public, allowing visitors to explore the stunning interiors, spread across 50 rooms, learn about the unique customs and traditions of Maltese nobility, plus spend the night in one of the palace’s spectacular bedrooms on a B&B basis.

8. Explore Malta’s Golden Age from Three Cities to Valletta And Fort St. Angelo

History buffs can explore the legacy of the Knights of St John throughout Malta. The Knights 250-year rule began in the Three Cities and Fort St Angelo, before they built the fortified city of Valletta after the Great Siege of 1565. Visitors to the islands can learn about the valiant battles that took place, explore the architectural feats including Baroque palaces and churches the Knights built throughout their reign, as well as an abundance of rich cultural gems including artistic masterpieces and sculptures.

9. Three Cities – The Alternative City Break

Whether you are wanting a solo city break, a trip with friends or a romantic getaway, Malta’s Three Cities, made up of Birgu, Senglea and Bormla, have something for everyone. Located across Malta’s Grand Harbour, the three fortified cities offer a wealth of history and culture, and an insight into authentic Maltese life. Undergoing something of a renaissance, the Three Cities pose a fantastic alternative city break to Valletta, Malta’s capital city and former European Capital of Culture, and are arguably the epicentre of Maltese history. Enjoying Malta’s year-round sun, visitors can wander along the beautiful streets, soaking up the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere and exploring the many churches, cafes, and piazzas. A recommended place to stay is the boutique Cugo Gran Malta, with prices starting from €144 per room per night.

10. See Why Malta Tops IGLTA’s Rainbow Index – Named Host of EuroPride 2023

Malta will host EuroPride in 2023, which is Europe’s biggest gay pride event. The Archipelago has retained the number one place on the IGLA- Europe Rainbow Index for five years running. Malta blends traditional and historical culture with a contemporary and welcoming mindset which is celebrated in style each September during Malta Pride. Malta is proud of its inclusivity with parliament approving in 2015 the Gender Identity Act, legalised same-sex marriage in 2017 and introduced gender-neutral passports in 2018.

11. Have an Overseas Wedding

Malta boasts 365 churches, making it the ideal destination for a religious wedding, as the stunning baroque architecture provides a beautiful setting for the special day. Those opting for a non-religious wedding have an expansive choice of beautiful hotels, rustic farmhouses, beaches, or historical sites to choose from. Celebrate in true Maltese fashion with a large reception for guests, and couples can sail away into the sunset on a traditional Dgħajsa boat in Valletta’s Grand Harbour.

12. A New Route from Wizz Air

Wizz Air announced a new base earlier this year at Gatwick Airport, with a new route to Malta. Travellers can also take advantage of the budget airline’s Flex service as an add-on to their fare, which will allow flights to be cancelled up to three hours before departure, with 100 per cent of the fare immediately reimbursed in airline credit. For more information visit: https://wizzair.com/en-gb/flights/malta

13. Europe’s Best Diving Destination

Repeatedly voted Europe’s number one diving destination and the second-best diving site in the world, Malta has placed 12 additional historical wreck sites on its diving map. Providing a clear blue sea which boasts an abundance of reefs, stunning caverns and caves, trails around the Archipelago are designed for both beginner and advanced divers, making it an absolute must for divers worldwide. Diving enthusiasts can arrange to visit wreck sites by appointment with The Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit (UCHU), exploring incredible locations that range from a 2,700-year-old Phoenician shipwreck to WWI battleships and dozens of aircraft crash sites. For more information on booking a diving trip to Malta visit PADI Travel.

14. Cycle Around Malta

Cycling along the craggy edge of Malta West coast offers visitors the opportunity to experience the sites of the picturesque Blue Grotto and stunning Dingli Cliffs, Malta’s highest point, before admiring the majesty of the rich baroque architecture built by the Order of the Knights of St. John. Cyclists can also explore Gozo, stopping to take in the island’s stunning 360-degree views from the top of the Citadel fortification in Victoria before visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples – the oldest free-standing temples in the world. For more information on renting bikes in Malta visit: Be Green Malta.

15. MC Adventures in Malta

Adrenaline junkies can have their fix of adventure in Malta with MC Adventures, Malta’s leading extreme sports provider. The Maltese islands are an adventure lover’s playground, offering an expansive range of extreme activities including abseiling, freefalling and ziplining to name but a few.  For the ultimate adrenaline-packed holiday, visit: https://mcadventure.com.mt/your-first-step-to-a-great-adventure.html

16. Watersport Experiences – Sailing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding

For those wanting to explore the waters, but are not ready for the full diving experience, Malta offers year-round warm waters and excellent visibility for snorkelling at the Blue Lagoon. Visitors wanting to swim further out to sea can charter a sailing boat and take in the breath-taking views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea before taking a dip. For a tranquil morning or afternoon on the water, visitors can go kayaking and paddle boarding to explore the coastline of the Archipelago which boasts varied topography, natural beauty and calm waters. Adrenaline junkies can also try flyboarding off Malta’s shores. Those who are brave enough to tackle the sport are lifted into the air over the water as they try to hold their balance to walk on water quite literally.

Broadway’s longest-running American musical, Chicago is a dazzling and satirical look at fame, justice, and the media machine. Set in 1920s Chicago and based on real-life murders and trials, Chicago follows Roxie Hart, a wannabe vaudevillian star who murders her lover and is arrested, despite her attempts to convince her pushover husband, Amos, to lie for her. In the Cook County Jail, Roxie meets her hero, the famed double-murderess and nightclub performer Velma Kelly. When both acquire the same lawyer, the greedy and lustful superstar, Billy Flynn, tensions come to a head as they vie for the spotlight – though instead of onstage, they’re mugging for the flashbulb of the newspaper reporters. With catchy, sexy music and timeless lyrics by John Kander and Fred Ebb, and a funny, intelligent, and utterly engaging book by Kander and Bob Fosse, Chicago is a musical spectacular that is as addictive as gossip rags and as unforgettable as any trial of the century.

CHICAGO will be performed on just three nights in July 2023, in the lush 5-star setting of The Hilton, Malta.

Colours of Malta, Malta’s leading DMC, proudly announces its partnership as the official sponsor of the Malta Triathlon national athletes’ cycle wear.

As part of this sponsorship, Colours of Malta will provide top-quality athletic gear for the National athletes, ensuring that they are equipped with the best-in-class apparel for optimal performance. The partnership will be showcased during the prestigious Lovadino Youth Triathlon Championships in Italy, Triathlon Championships in Banyoles Spain, and the Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago, along with several other esteemed international triathlon events.

The collaboration not only supports the athletes but also reinforces Colours of Malta’s commitment to promoting the growth of sports amongst youth athletes.

St Julian’s has been a hub for construction and staggering development in recent years, with residential blocks, hotels, catering establishments and retail stores now dominating its landscape.

However, a deep dive into the seaside town’s past shows that away from recent developments, St Julian’s has a  rich history, perfectly characterised by the iconic Balluta Buildings.

Located in the area overlooking Balluta Bay, Balluta Buildings is an apartment block that was built in 1928 in the Art Nouveau style for the Marquis John Scicluna. Constructed to the designs of Maltese Architect Giuseppe Psaila, it is one of the finest, and last remaining examples of the architectural style in the Maltese Islands.

While Mr Psaila had worked on various other buildings in the Art Nouveau style, including a townhouse on Dingli Street, Sliema, which now belongs to Lombard Bank, Balluta Buildings is considered by many to be his greatest, and one of Malta’s most iconic buildings.

The block used to house some of Europe’s most beautiful and captivating apartments at the time, with high ceilings, spacious living areas, Maltese tiles, and also stunning sea views.

Comprised of three vertical structures each containing arched openings at the centre, together with rows of double windows on either side, the block’s façade is truly indicative of the elegance that characterised the wealthier communities of the early 20th century.

When first built, most of the apartments were occupied by Marquis Scicluna’s associates, with some of the tenants’ heirs still occupying the apartments to this day. At the block’s street level, there are some cafés and restaurants, including recently-opened L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele Malta.

Balluta Buildings has undergone renovation over recent years, with various sections of its façade and interior requiring restoration.

Classed as a Grade 1 monument, meaning it is of particular national, architectural and historical importance, and listed on the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands, Balluta Buildings truly stands out as an architectural gem amongst St Julian’s mountains of concrete.

Article credits: https://whoswho.mt/en/balluta-buildings-one-of-malta-s-last-few-exhibits-of-art-nouveau-architecture

Perched atop the 5-star Rosselli AX Privilege boutique hotel on Merchants Street, Valletta, the newly launched Over Grain is set to redefine the rooftop dining experience in the capital with its innovative seafood concept. Boasting sweeping views over Valletta, this open-air lounge offers a stylish atmosphere that combines golden sunsets, relaxing lounge music and delectable cuisine, bringing a fresh perspective to seafood dining, where every dish is a sensation for the senses.

At Over Grain, seafood takes centre stage, reinventing classic staples and challenging culinary expectations. Led by the Michelin-awarded kitchen brigade behind Under Grain, Executive Chef Victor Borg crafts a menu of small plates, platters and mains that showcase succulent oysters, mouth-watering shellfish and delicately prepared caviar. The surprising star of the menu is the lobster burger, a unique twist on a beloved classic. This unexpected combination breaks stereotypes, offering a sophisticated take on the burger tradition.

Over Grain has also established itself as a premier cocktail bar, earning a reputation as one of the finest in the capital. Indulge in a handpicked collection of premium wines and champagnes, expertly curated to complement the bold and fresh flavours of the seafood-focused menu. In addition, the bar offers a range of cocktails. Sip on exquisite liquid refreshments while enjoying a playlist of chill-out music that sets the mood for an evening of relaxation and indulgence.

The rooftop setting in the heart of Merchants Street provides an enchanting backdrop, adding a touch of magic to the dining experience. As the sun sets over Valletta, patrons can bask in the panoramic views. From this vantage point, it’s easy to spot the graceful cupola of the nearby Church of the Jesuits, rooftops of historic townhouses and palazzos that have graced Valletta for centuries and take in the harbour that stretches towards the sea. This rooftop ambience sets the stage for a serene atmosphere, making it the perfect choice for romantic evenings or celebratory gatherings.

As part of the Grain Restaurants family, Over Grain upholds a reputation for exceptional service and attention to detail. The knowledgeable staff ensures that every guest is treated to a memorable time, from the moment they step through the door until the last bite or sip. The inviting and sophisticated ambience, coupled with live music on Thursdays and Saturdays, elevates the overall atmosphere, creating an unrivalled dining destination in Valletta.

Over Grain opens its doors from Wednesday to Saturday, welcoming guests from 7.30 pm until 12.30 am. Guests have the freedom to choose between a complete dining experience or drinks at the bar. Food orders can be placed until 10.00 pm on Wednesday and Thursday, and until 10.30 pm on Friday and Saturday, ensuring ample time to savour the culinary delights over sensational views.

Article credits: https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/gourmet/restaurants/123915/over_grain_seafood_sensations_with_a_view_at_vallettas_new_rooftop_lounge

The first trailer for the Ridley Scott’s film about Napoleon Bonaparte starring Joaquin Phoenix has just been released.

The film, an Apple Studios production, was shot in locations in Attard, Senglea, Mellieha, Siggiewi, Mdina, Valletta, Fort Ricasoli as well as the Malta Film Studios.

Ridley Scott is returning to Malta for the third time, after shooting White Squall in 1996 and Gladiator in 2000.

Scott also serves as a producer along with Mark Huffam and Kevin J. Walsh; co-producers Winston Azzopardi, Raymond Kirk and Janine Modder and executive producer Aidan Elliott.

The film will take a personal look at the origins of this history giant and his climb to power, through the view of his love, Josephine. It will be also portraying Napoleon’s most famous battle, as well as his relentless ambition and astounding strategic mind.

Napoleon also serves as a reunion for Phoenix and Scott who previously worked together on the historical epic Gladiator.

The film will be released later this year.

Sources close to the Flm Commission said parts of the set have been retained for touristic purposes.

Article credits: https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/arts/film/123869/watch_first_trailer_for_ridley_scotts_napoleon_film_released

Malta International Airport plc (MIA) recorded a positive first half of 2023, registering 3.4 million passenger movements during the six months.

This meant that the airport’s traffic volumes during the period exceeded those of the first half of 2019 (3.2 million) by 5.6 per cent. This year’s figure also represents a sharp 48 per cent increase from the one recorded in the opening six months of 2022 (2.3 million).

In June 2023 alone, the airport saw 754,258 passenger movements, representing a substantial increase of 4.5 per cent over passenger traffic handled in the same month in 2019. June also became the third consecutive month during which the 700,000-passenger mark was reached.

The peak was reached on 29th June, as 30,419 departing and arriving passengers took advantage of the four-day bridge weekend due to the Mnarja feast, which also coincided with the end of the academic year for various educational institutions in Malta.

Seat capacity surpassed 2019 volumes by 1.8 per cent, standing at 873,580 seats, while load factor also showed a marked improvement, increasing from 84.1 per cent in June 2019 to 86.3 per cent last month.

MIA top five markets remained largely consistent with the previous year, as Italy retained top spot of the market leaderboard for June with a market share of 24.5 per cent. It was followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Spain.

Article credits: https://whoswho.mt/en/malta-international-airport-s-traffic-up-to-3-4-million-in-first-half-of-2023