Valletta’s skies lit up last night with a stunning display to close the International Fireworks Festival in style.

In an exciting first, Malta became the first European country to launch fireworks using drones, according to the Civil Aviation Directorate at Transport Malta.

Footage sent to Lovin Malta captured the breathtaking spectacle over the Grand Harbour.

“Pyroemotions” the pyrotechnics company responsible for organizing this type of show in Europe is registered in Malta and a few months ago delivered similar shows in Aosta, Italy; Burgio in Sicily; with others expected soon in Italy and Montenegro.

The Transport Authority thanks the Malta Police Force, the Civil Protection Department, the Malta Pyrotechnics Association, and all other concerned entities for their full collaboration in making it possible for this drone show to take place in our country for the first time.

The Civil Aviation Directorate within Transport Malta, as a full member of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), has been collaborating with the Agency to introduce new concepts— first for drone swarms, and now for drone swarms equipped with pyrotechnics.

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As our incredible week drew to a close, we couldn’t be more thrilled to share some of the standout moments that made this event truly unforgettable. From breathtaking venues to rich cultural experiences, this was a celebration of Malta at its finest.

We kicked off the week in grand style with an awe-inspiring conference setup at the Eden Arena. A massive 30-meter LED screen that created a powerful visual impact and set the tone for what was to come.

The evenings were equally memorable, each one embracing Malta’s unique heritage. One night began with a welcome drink at the historic Saluting Battery, followed by a lively Maltese band that led guests on a scenic walk to the Sacra Infermeria. There, local vendors and musicians brought the venue to life, offering guests an authentic taste of Maltese culture.

Of course, no visit to Malta would be complete without experiencing the magic of Mdina. Guests enjoyed a welcome drink on the bastions, soaking in panoramic views before being surprised by a fleet of vintage buses awaiting them outside the city walls. The journey ended with a beautiful dinner at Xara Lodge, where talented musicians created a warm and enchanting atmosphere.

To top it all off, our final evening was nothing short of spectacular. Despite the early spring chill, we transformed Fort Manoel into a dazzling venue with a stunning crystal tent. Guests were greeted by the Inguardia re-enactment group and welcomed by a speech from the Grand Master himself. The night unfolded with a delicious dinner and a powerful performance by a brass band.

This event was a true testament to what can be achieved through teamwork, passion, and dedication. A heartfelt thank you to all the incredible suppliers, crew members, and partners who helped turn this vision into a reality.

Let’s start planning the next one

On Wednesday, March 19th, Malta celebrates the feast of St. Joseph, a public holiday marked by vibrant festivities in Rabat, a suburb of Mdina. This cherished event brings together locals and visitors alike to partake in religious processions, traditional food, and spectacular fireworks displays.

The village of Rabat is transformed with colourful decorations, including large flags and festoons, creating a festive atmosphere. One of the highlights of the celebration is the life-size statue of St. Joseph, which is paraded through the village streets. Accompanying this grand procession are marching bands and lively gatherings, adding to the joyous mood of the occasion.

A key aspect of the feast is its rich culinary tradition. Numerous stands line the streets, offering a variety of local delicacies that are deeply rooted in Maltese culture. Among the most popular treats are Żeppoli and Sfineg tal-Inċova—both beloved for their unique flavors and historical significance.

Żeppoli are made from choux pastry, shaped into small balls, and traditionally deep-fried, though modern variations often involve baking. Once cooled, they are cut open and filled with a sweet ricotta mixture, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and creamy filling.

On the savoury side, ‘Sfineg tal-Inċova’ are crispy, golden-fried dough balls with a surprising twist—a salty anchovy hidden inside. This combination of flavors makes them a favorite among those who appreciate a balance of crunchy and savory elements.

The feast of St. Joseph in Rabat is not only a religious observance but also a celebration of Maltese heritage, bringing together music, tradition, and gastronomy in a vibrant display of community spirit. Whether attending for the cultural experience or indulging in traditional treats, visitors are sure to be immersed in the lively and heartfelt celebrations that define this special day.

Had a wonderful morning at Ta’ Xmun Olive Grove! 🌞 Charles gave us an insightful tour of the grove, sharing fascinating details about the olive oil production process. We wrapped up the experience with a delicious olive oil tasting and local treats, all while sipping on a refreshing glass of white wine. 🍷🫒 #OliveOil #LocalDelights #TaXmun #Malta #FoodieExperience

Over the weekend of December 7–8, the public had the opportunity to visit the newly inaugurated Malta International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS) in Floriana. Entry was free, allowing visitors to explore the exhibition by Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos.

During a visit to the Open Weekend, Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici expressed satisfaction with the strong public turnout. He described MICAS as a landmark cultural project, integrating Malta’s historic fortifications with a mission to showcase world-class contemporary art. “The inauguration of MICAS marks a historic milestone, establishing Malta as a key hub for contemporary art and international cultural dialogue,” said Minister Bonnici.

credit: Malta daily

New Hotel welcoming it’s first guests on the 1st of November 2024

Last week we got out of the office and spent a few hours visiting the ME hotel, forming part of the Mercury towers by Zaha Hadid architects. It was a very interesting show round I would say a different and new experience when it comes to hotels on the Island.

The Me offers a maximum of luxury and comfort situated in the bustling town of St. Julian’s. It has 113 rooms, 27 suites and 35 residences, meeting space is also available with natural day light, the plenary will take a maximum of 240 pax.

The Valletta Cruise Port recently welcomed “Ilma,” a new cruise liner from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. This luxurious vessel boasts the highest space-to-guest ratio in its class, featuring 224 suites, each with a private terrace. Additionally, “Ilma” offers two new upper suite categories, each measuring over 1,000 square feet.

Later this summer and autumn, “Ilma” will explore various destinations, including the Amalfi Coast, Greek Isles, Monte Carlo, Rome, and Barcelona.

Next on “Ilma’s” itinerary is a one-way cruise from Monte Carlo to Rome, departing from Monte Carlo Port on the 2nd of September and lasting 7 days.

credits : Malta today

The best thing about Malta is its rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient temples and medieval architecture to stunning coastlines and crystal-clear waters, Malta offers a unique experience that combines historical intrigue with breathtaking scenery. The warm, welcoming local culture and delicious Mediterranean cuisine make it a top travel destination

We Can’t get enough of Ta’ Betta Wine Estate this week! 

Every corner is idyllic, and wherever you sit, you’re surrounded by stunning views. Sipping formidable wines, enjoying lunch, wine tasting, or relaxing in the greenery—every moment here is a treat. Cheers to unforgettable experiences

AX ODYCY Hotel, located in the coastal town of Qawra, is delighted to announce its prestigious win at the 2023 MASP Awards, organised by the Planning Authority. The 4-star destination concept has been awarded the Interior Architecture Award for Hospitality and Tourism Projects, a testament to its commitment to excellence in hospitality design.

The MASP Awards recognize excellence in the realm of architecture and design, celebrating innovation, creativity, and ingenuity. AX ODYCY Hotel stood out among a competitive field of contenders, impressing the esteemed jury with its outstanding interior architecture that seamlessly blends heritage with modernity to create a unique and immersive guest experience.

This project would not have been possible without BOX CONCEPT STUDIOS, together with designers Simon Abela and Sara Brincat who brought the AX Group’s vision to life. Box Concept Studio, renowned for its innovative approach to design, played a pivotal role in reimagining the interior spaces of AX ODYCY Hotel. With a keen understanding of the hotel’s heritage and the evolving needs of modern travellers, Box Concept Studio crafted a visionary design that preserves the hotel’s landmark identity while introducing contemporary elements that enhance the guest experience. With their creative flair and attention to detail, the various spaces within AX ODYCY Hotel are now offering guests tailored experiences.