Malta Tourism: Summer has arrived!

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Written by Linda Hohnholz

Summer has well and truly arrived in the Maltese archipelago, with new hotels, highly-regarded accolades, and some stunning new Beautiful Destinations imagery to share. Here is the latest news from the Malta Tourism Authority:

SAME-SEX UNIONS

Malta became the 15th EU state to introduce same-sex marriage through the new marriage equality act on Wednesday, July 12. Lawmakers gave near-unanimous approval to the bill, three years after passing a law permitting civil partnerships.

ACCOLADES

Malta retains top spot on Europe Rainbow Index
ILGA-Europe announced that Malta has been ranked the number one travel destination on the Europe Rainbow Index 2017 for the second year running. Out of a total of 49 European countries, Malta has been awarded an impressive 88% with regard to laws and policies impacting the lives of LGBTQ people. Malta’s winning margin has increased to an impressive 10% in 2017; last year Belgium was second with 82% and second place now goes to Norway with 78%. The UK followed in third place with Belgium coming in at fourth.

malta2 | eTurboNews | eTN

Malta prioritizes travel and tourism more than any other destination
The World Economic Forum published its Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017 in April 2017 revealing Malta as the number one destination for government at prioritizing of travel and tourism. Produced every two years, the report details the competitiveness of travel and tourism in 136 countries and measures “the set of factors and policies that enable the sustainable development of the travel and tourism sector, which in turn, contributes to the development and competitiveness of a country.” Overall Malta performed 36th, an increase of four places since 2015.

12 Blue Flag beaches in Malta
Two more Maltese beaches have received the coveted Blue Flag status resulting in the archipelago proudly boasting an impressive 12 Blue Flag beaches across its shores. Hondoq ir-Rummien and Marsalforn Bay in Gozo have been added to the list in 2017. Totaling nine in Malta and 3 in Gozo, the beaches are recognized by the Foundation for Environmental Education for commitment to both people and the environment. Visitors to Malta can soak up the sun from the sandy bays or clear blue sea knowing they’re relaxing on some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean.

malta4jjj | eTurboNews | eTN

Malta – Europe’s second most incredible and undiscovered holiday destination
Mastercard has recently unveiled its top hidden treasures, announcing Mdina and Zebbug in Malta as the second most incredible, undiscovered and affordable destinations in Europe. Ranked according to beauty, crowdedness, cost of stay, convenience and card payment acceptance across 44 countries, the survey had Malta in second place just behind Asturias and Covadonga convent in Spain.

HOTEL NEWS

The Vincent – opening September 2017
The Vincent is a stylish new boutique hotel located in Valletta, a stone’s throw away from the National War Museum, Malta Experience and the capital’s waterfront. Each of the nine rooms has been designed with splashes of color against antique furniture, creating a bright and comfortable space. The chic property will be an ideal spot for visitors seeking a well-located getaway in Malta’s bustling capital city.

Saint John Valletta – opening in September 2017
Located in the heart of Valletta, the Saint John is a new boutique hotel where history, style and technology collide in perfect harmony. Bringing contemporary style and luxury to a historic 17th century building, the 21-room hotel will offer a retro, industrial vibe with a focus on natural materials and exposed brick. The Saint John will be equipped with the latest technology and allows guests to control everything with ease from their smart phone, including check-in, room access and hotel services.

Westin Dragonara – extension approved
Malta’s Planning Authority Board has approved plans to extend the Westin Dragonara. Three new floors will be constructed, adding 33 suites and 21 standard rooms. A new spa will also be created and new garden areas developed.

malta3 | eTurboNews | eTN

NEW FLIGHT ROUTES

EasyJet adds new flight route from Southend to Malta
EasyJet has announced it will operate a new flight route to Malta from London Southend Airport. Starting on October 29, 2017, it will operate twice a week year-round, with special one-way fares. Glyn Jones, chief executive at London Southend Airport, said, “I am sure Malta will prove to be yet another hugely-popular destination to passengers from Essex and the South East.”

EasyJet increases Manchester capacity
The airline is also adding an extra Malta flight to its Manchester schedule, taking its winter service to 4 times weekly and its summer 2018 service to daily.

Two new launches from Belfast
Ryanair is due to start flying from Belfast to Malta on October 30, a route which will be twice-weekly through the winter. Jet2.com is also set to introduce a weekly flight from Belfast to Malta from April 5, 2018.

malta5 | eTurboNews | eTN

NEW FESTIVAL

Festa – Malta’s newest LGBTQ festival
Already a popular destination with LGBTQ travelers, there’s now another reason to visit Malta with Festa, a new festival to hit the Mediterranean. During July 21st – 23rd 2017, Festa will see the island transformed into a fabulous party where everyone is invited to join in the fun. Top DJs from across the world will perform in some of Malta’s best clubbing venues, including Tigullio in San Giljan and Gianpula Village in Żebbuġ. Created by S2S Events, BeatBears and Lollipop, attendees can expect good music, a friendly atmosphere and great vibes all round.

ISLAND LIFE

Beautiful Destinations in Malta
Beautiful Destinations recently touched down in Malta to capture the spirit of the islands through a collection of striking social-first images and videos. Since 2012, Beautiful Destinations has built the largest travel community on social media with 13.5 million followers on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat in 180 countries. Together with Malta, the team has curated content that showcases the very beauty of the destination through its people, activities and experiences. The Malta Tourist Authority’s UK & Ireland office is the first UK tourist board to partner with Beautiful Destinations.

malta6 | eTurboNews | eTN

DATES FOR THE DIARY – Festivals and Events

JULY

Farsons Beer Festival: July 28 – August 6, 2017
The 37th edition of the Farsons Beer Festival in Ta’ Qali brings together the best local music, beer and entertainment for one of Malta’s hottest summer festivals. Visitors can choose from a wide selection of over 50 award-winning beers, from local brew Cisk with a ginger and lime twist to American favorite Budweiser. Over 70 artists and performances are showcased across three stages in the craft village.

Unite with Tomorrowland – July 29, 2017
An event held in a setting inspired by Tomorrowland (a customized UNITE stage, decoration and special effects) combined with a massive well-curated line-up of local and international artists. A live connection with the Tomorrowland Mainstage in Belgium and live streaming to other countries builds bridges between Belgium, Malta and the rest of the world. It’s more than just a live stream, it’s a unique show that allows you to escape reality.

malta7 | eTurboNews | eTN

SEPTEMBER

Malta Pride: September 2-10, 2017
The annual Malta Pride is a week-long event that sees thousands descend of the island for parties, live music and the spectacular Pride march. Each year the festival takes on a different theme – this year Malta Pride will celebrate Malta at the top of the European Rainbow Index 2017, the Marriage Equality Act, the need to raise more awareness, improve and tackle LGBTQ health-related issues and to celebrate diversity within Maltese society.

Glitch Festival: September 7-8, 2017
After last year’s ground-shaking successful debut, Glitch Festival returns for its second edition. It takes place at Gianpula fields, framed against the skyline of Malta’s fortified city, Mdina. Electronic music enthusiasts will be able to dance through the night to a playlist of house and disco, followed by techno, acid and electro.

Images: @BeautifulDestinations

About the author

Avatar of Linda Hohnholz

Linda Hohnholz

Editor in chief for eTurboNews based in the eTN HQ.

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