Roving Reader and Wexas agent Simon Clifford had his views of Malta changed on a Belleair Holidays fam

One of the great things about being a travel agent is getting to go to those places you might not spend your hard earned cash visiting.  For me, Malta was one such place. But Belleair gave me the chance to visit – and what I found really surprised me. Malta has far more to offer than Mediterranean sunshine. It is steeped in history, dating back as far as 3600BC, but has the traditional feel of the Mediterranean mixed in with the modern.

And for clients who like the home away from home feel, there are all the signs that this was once a small corner of the British empire: they drive on the same side of the road, use three-pin plugs and the red phone box still stands proud. They even call their children Kevin, Sharon and Kelly!

My trip around Malta took me to several towns and resorts, all rather different from one another. All are easily accessible in the island’s famous old buses, and no ride costs more than two euros. It’s just as easy to hire a car, but the roads are rather bumpy.

Valletta is the island’s capital and by far the smallest I’ve ever been to: not much more than a few streets encased in magnificent white walls overlooking the beautiful Grand Harbour.

St Julian’s and Sliema are a stark contrast to Valletta on the other side of the harbour.  These two villages have merged into one over the years and are now home to the larger chain hotels, as well as the majority of the nightlife – something I hadn’t thought Malta had much of. How wrong I was!

Mdina is the medieval walled old capital of Malta, located in the centre of the island. Mdina is commonly know as the Silent City, due to the distinct lack of traffic (only residents’ cars are allowed), and the effect of the narrow stone streets, which muffle the sound. I’ve never been anywhere so small that has such a feel of grandeur.

Gozo, Malta’s second island, is a 40-minute ferry ride away. It is considerably more rural, with a far slower pace of life. A highlight is the main town, Victoria, with its walled citadel. I would recommend Gozo only for clients looking for total peace, or combine it as a twin centre holiday with the main island.

Malta hotels: a brief guide

Grand Hotel Excelsior: Sandwiched between the Grand Harbour and Valletta; may be a bit large for some tastes

Hotel Phoenicia: This property is the “grand hotel” of Malta; located just outside Valletta,

it is undergoing a floor-by-floor refit

Fortina Spa: This Sliema property boasts extensive spa facilities

Suncrest Hotel: This is a great three-star option for those with families; located at Qawra up the coast from Valletta

Ta Cenc: On Gozo, this is an ideal base for those wanting peace and quiet

www.belleair.co.uk