Work today, fly tomorrow • March 2014
Eight reasons to hang out in Malta
Thanks to a strategic location at the heart of the Mediterranean, with close ties to mainland Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, one of the lowest tax rates in the European Union, and its excellent port infrastructure, Malta has become a busy business hub in recent years. But local writer Jo Caruana encourages you to pencil some downtime into your schedule to enjoy its rich history, rejuvenating spas and rabbit feasts
Capital gains
Malta’s baroque capital Valletta is full of contrasts – from the stunning buildings dating back to the 1600s to the current state-of-the-art Renzo Piano restoration project. Most people stop off for a coffee and a pastry at iconic Caffe Cordina in Republic Square to take it all in, but why not swing by the new kid on the block, the Charles Grech Café and Cocktail Bar?
Travel back in time
History buffs will love Malta’s 7,000-year heritage. Highlights include the UNESCO-protected, prehistoric Hypogeum burial site, although it’s important to book ahead; the Grandmaster’s Palace; and the Wignacourt Museum in Rabat. For a quick overview, get the audiovisual version of proceedings at the Malta Experience.
Raise a glass
Favourite It-crowd wine bars include Trabuxu on Valletta’s Strait Street. The medieval city of Mdina is also inviting for a pre- or post-dinner drink; sommelier Chris Incorvaja at de Mondion will be happy to help you select your preferred vintage. If you want to go local, ask for a bottle by Meridiana, one of the leading Maltese wineries.
Eat rabbit
Head for the sleepy village of Mgarr for a traditional fenkata – or rabbit – feast. Start with spaghetti in a rabbit sauce, followed by rabbit fried in garlic and wine, and accompanied by rabbit stew… if you have room for it.
Wish upon a spa
Malta has built a reputation as a top spa destination in recent years. Book one of the best holistic massages on the island at the Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa. If you’re in need of a boost, ask for Pat Vella’s unique olive oil, eucalyptus and sea salt scrub.
Go slow in Gozo
Hop on the ferry over to the laid-back island of Gozo for the day. Here, you can fill your time with a walk along the rugged coast, picnic on the beach and dinner at one of the many gastronomical hotspots. Don’t miss the chance to scuba dive; Gozo is regularly named one of the top dive destinations in the world.
Party alfresco
The Maltese nightlife scene has developed a bit of a reputation recently, especially the hub of Paceville. Leave the pumping clubs behind and head to an alfresco venue to dance the night away under the stars. Outdoor lounge The Villa targets a chic, upmarket crowd, with lavish events every weekend evening.
Catch some culture
In the run-up to its role as Capital of Culture in 2018, Valletta – and Malta as a whole – has got it skates on, with opera festivals at the historic Manoel Theatre, musicals and ballet at the MCC, and dazzling new work at St James Cavalier. From 20-23 March, catch an original production of Mozart’s opera La Clemenza di Tito at the Manoel.
This article has been tagged Destination, Travel Tips