Tucked between Europe and North Africa, Malta is often overshadowed by its glossier neighbours. But that’s part of its charm. Compact, sun-drenched, and easygoing, this island quietly delivers the kind of scenery, hospitality, and understated luxury that travellers often chase elsewhere. After a recent visit, one thing is clear: Malta isn’t trying to impress, it doesn’t have to.
A Stay with a View: Best Western Premier Hotel, St. Paul’s Bay
On a calm street in St. Paul’s Bay, the Best Western Premier turned out to be far more stylish than expected. Its interiors lean more boutique than chain, with a clean, modern aesthetic and thoughtful touches throughout. Our room looked straight out to sea, and the rooftop pool, set high above the town, became a daily ritual. Floating under open skies, with the Mediterranean stretching endlessly in every direction, was a highlight.
The hotel’s Dee Spa offered a quiet retreat after a long flight, with dim lighting, expert therapists, and a menu that covers everything from deep tissue to facials. The compact gym next door is bright and efficient, nothing overdone, just well-executed essentials. A swim, a massage, and a slow breakfast overlooking the water – all mirroring the island’s unhurried rhythm.
Sunset and Sushi: Café del Mar
One evening, we headed to Café del Mar, where low jazz notes and a glass of cold wine set the tone for what turned into an unforgettable sunset. As the sky faded from gold to deep violet, a sushi boat arrived that was almost too beautiful to touch. Fresh, balanced, and expertly plated, it was a reminder that even the simplest ingredients can shine with the right care.
Recharging in St. Julian’s: Carisma Spa
St. Julian’s might be better known for nightlife, but Carisma Spa offers a very different kind of escape. We booked the hammam experience – a full-body reset involving steam, exfoliation, and foaming soap clouds on warm marble. It’s hard to explain how calming it is to be scrubbed clean of sunscreen and stress all at once. A Phytomer facial followed, complete with a heating mask that left my skin soft and settled. By the end, I felt like I’d been on the island far longer than I had.
What stood out most about Malta wasn’t just its clear water or peaceful streets, it was the sense of ease. The food is fresh without fuss. The people are warm without being performative. The light lingers late into the evening, soft and honeyed, making time feel stretchier than it is. And while the island doesn’t shout for attention, it rewards the kind of traveller who doesn’t need it to. A great place to sit back and finish the NCC Home Learning travel and tourism course online. Whether you’re floating in a pool above the town, sipping wine by the sea, or letting the sun dry salt on your skin, Malta offers something that’s harder to find these days: calm. Not curated, not overdone. Just quietly excellent.
To find out more visit Best Western Premier Hotel, Café del Mar Malta and Carisma Spa.
Words by Ama Samra
