More To Explore in Malta in 2023!

Don Shearer (Travelbiz) caught up with Tolene van der Merwe (Director Malta Tourism Ireland &  UK) at Holiday world last weekend. Ireland continues to go from strength to strength with direct flights from Dublin and Shannon and passenger numbers will exceed pre covid targets for 2023! Tolene had a very clear message for the trade in Ireland.

“Whatever you’re looking for in a holiday, a trip to the Maltese Islands is an unmissable experience for any type of traveller. With so much to see and do, whether you’re a history buff, a night owl, a thrill seeker, or simply a rambler wishing to be amazed by natural splendour, the list of things to do in Malta is endless”.

Just a three and a half hour flight away, you can fly directly to Malta from Dublin or Shannon Airport with Ryanair. You can also book your holiday through a tour operator such as Sunway Travel, Budget Travel and Cassidy Travel along with any Travel agent in Ireland.

With over 7,000 years of history, Malta is the ultimate holiday destination for anyone interested in history. The Islands have three sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list; the City of Valletta, the Megalithic Temples and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. Malta has also been described as ‘Fortress Island’ due to the number of towers, forts, and bastions, dotted around.

Having marvellously mild winters and a fantastically favourable climate, there are countless outdoor activities that can be enjoyed throughout the year in Malta. Whether it’s a ramble through the lush countryside or a bit of outdoor yoga on one of the many splendid beaches, Malta has activities to please everyone.

Malta is also a fantastic location for diving and is consistently voted one of the best diving destinations in the world! You can try shore dives and boat dives to explore Malta’s seabed, which is studded with wrecks of boats, planes, and statues, each providing insight into Malta’s vast and vivid past.

Of course, after such a busy day of site seeing and activities, you’ll need some nourishment. Luckily, you’re in Malta; home to an abundance of outstanding produce, a sea brimming with delicious seafood, and recipes dating back centuries. Food and drink are the very essence of Maltese culture, so it’s not surprising that five restaurants have been awarded a Michelin Star, three restaurants have a Bib Gourmand award and twenty-three restaurants have received the Michelin Plate Award. Whatever type of dining experience you’re craving, from a quick snack to a hearty dig into some awesome local cuisine, there’s always something to sink your teeth into in Malta.

While you’re in Malta, make sure you get the ferry over to Gozo – a quainter alternative to the mainland! Visitors can experience old traditions such as the milking of goats and sheep and watch as this milk is prepared into traditional Gozitan cheese. It is also home to the world’s oldest free-standing temples of Ggantija – a UNESCO world heritage site. Anyone planning on staying overnight on Gozo won’t be short of options with accommodation ranging from 5 star hotels to hostels. Gozo also has a large selection of traditional farmhouses, most of which are equipped with pools and situated in tranquil locations.

Malta is also a great destination for LGBTIQ+ travellers. Malta has been ranked No.1 in ILGA-Europe Rainbow Index since 2016. This year Valletta will host EuroPride 2023 from the 7th – 17th September. Don’t miss your chance to experience the largest gathering of love & diversity Malta has ever seen!

Every year Malta also hosts a lineup of fantastic events, which you won’t want to miss. These include the Malta Carnival (17th – 21st February); the Malta International Fireworks Festival (April); Lost & Found (29th June – 2nd July) and many more.

So, whether you’re a couple planning a short city break or booking your family holiday, there is always more to explore in Malta in 2023.”