Missed our Malta event? Catch up on a full recording of the events, get your questions answered and learn more about the exclusive Trailfinders offers for your next holiday to Malta...
With talks on the history of Maltese gin, an insight into the traditional gastronomy, and an exploration of Malta’s UNESCO-listed sites, our virtual Malta event was as much educational as it was inspirational, and it certainly left many of us with a desire to visit as soon as we can. If you couldn’t be there live, then here is your chance to catch up on the full recording of the event and find the answers to your questions.
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Find out more about Trailfinders' Gastronomic Delights of Malta tour here.
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The Malta Maritime Museum experiences discussed in Liam's talks will start to be available from the end of the year, but Taste History operates across various Heritage Malta sites so there's plenty to enjoy if you visit sooner. Fort St. Angelo is one of the oldest forts on the island, with sweeping views of the Grand Harbour and larger groups can enjoy the food that was eaten there by Nelson himself and the Knights of St John. To learn more about the Taste History initiative, look up Taste History Malta on Facebook.
Mellieha Sanctuary (Visit Malta)
When is the best time to go to Malta to avoid the crowds?
Travel habits may change due to Covid, but May, October and November are great months to visit as the Islands are less busy, you can still enjoy the mild Mediterranean weather and the sea is still warm from the summer sun. Malta also hosts events year round, like the Mdina Grand Prix, Rolex Middle Sea Race which happen every autumn. What is the best way to get around Malta?
What is the best way to get around Malta?
Malta is compact and it's easy to explore all the main sites on public transport; I recommend Malta's public transport but hiring a car will allow you to access some of the more remote bays. A week-long unlimited pass for public transport is €21/ adult €15/child and the Gozo ferry takes 25minutes, runs every 45minutes and costs €4.95 return. Local car hire is also very affordable.
Are there many accommodation options in Valletta?
Yes, a lot of town houses and restored palazzos are now boutique hotels, each steeped in history. Valletta is a compact city, so wherever you stay within the walls of the capital, you'll be close to all the sites. There are a couple of larger hotels directly outside the city walls, plus more boutique hotels across the Grand Harbour, in the Three Cities.
How is the road cycling in Malta? Is there a lot of traffic?
As with all countries, roads around the main throughways can get busy but there are cycling trails that take in roads and coastal paths. Gozo is the quieter, more rural island.
Is there information available on hiking trails?
Trailfinders offer a 'Walking in Gozo’ holiday. You can find out more about it here. You can also find further walking inspiration on the Visit Malta website.
A street in the Three Cities (Visit Malta)
What books would you recommend to learn more about the history of Malta?
For those interested in the Second World War, James Holland's book 'Fortress Malta' covers how Malta became the most bombed place on Earth. If you'd like to see more of Malta's scenery, Gladiator, Troy and The Count of Monte Cristo are just a few of the film's shot on the Islands.
What is Malta like for people with mobility issues?
Most tourist sites are fully accessible, but it's best to check their website or call in advance to confirm. We have 32 museums and Heritage sites on the island: 30 of them are fully accessible and two are partly accessible. Though Valletta and the Three Cities have a few steep hills, most of the resort promenades are flat and public transport in Malta is also fully accessible
What is the water temperature? Would you wear a dry suit or wet suit?
The water temp ranges from 12°C in February to 26°C in August. I've always dived in wetsuits.
Does Malta cater to special diets?
Vegetarian, vegan and coeliac diets are widely catered to across the islands; and some completely vegan cafes have started opening across Malta over the last few years.
How far does your spending money go in Malta?
The Maltese islands are very competitively priced; whatever your budget, you'll have plenty of food, drink and accommodation options.
Mdina (Visit Malta)
It looks so interesting. I haven't been to Malta before but am now very keen to visit!
Looks like fantastic culture and history.
Looking forward to visiting. It’s top of our list.
What an amazing place! Why haven't I been before now!
Adore Valletta, one of my most favourite cities.
That really has whet our appetite for Malta.
Very informative and interesting. Thank you all.
Really enjoyed everyone's presentations, hope to be able to visit soon.
Really enjoyed all the presentations. I've been to Malta twice and can 100% recommend it - I can see there's so much more to see and can't wait to go back!
I absolutely cannot wait to go back, but for longer next time. We stayed five days in Malta and two in Gozo, but there's so much more I want to explore.
This has been one of the most interesting webinars I've watched this year. A huge thank you to you all.
Wanderlust's founding editor Lyn Hughes warmly welcomed us to the event
We were joined by Malta experts
Liam Gauci unearthed the secrets of Malta's culinary past
Jack Organ from Trailfinders inspired us with some great holiday ideas for Malta
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