MALTA PRESS COVERAGE MAY 2017
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Malta Yellow News Luxury Briefing (Main) 01 May 2017 22 6000 441cm2 0
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Malta Yellow News On the Road (Main) 01 May 2017 4 6913 1063cm2 2306.71
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Malta Yellow News The Phoenix Newspaper (Web) 01 May 2017 N/A 795 21
Malta Tourism Authority welcomes spring Malta Tourism Authority welcomes spring : Malta is already firmly on the map as a must-visit destination for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine and abundance of history and culture. With improvements to inter-island transport, new hotels on the horizon and exciting festivals such as the Isle of MTV and Malta Jazz Festival, the island looks set to become even bigger and better than before. Campbell Gray property Phoenicia Malta has reopened following an extensive â‚Ź15 million refurbishment, confirming its status as one of the most luxurious and sought after hotels on the island. Located in Floriana, just outside the capital of Valletta, all 136 bedrooms and the Grand Ballroom have been upgraded, in addition to a new outdoor infinity pool and re-designed grounds and terraces across the hotel. August 2017 will see the unveiling of the new CafĂŠ Phoenicia, featuring a beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the Bastian Walls, Renzo Piano's City Gate and the Triton's Fountain, whist the health club and spa will open in late 2017. Unattributed[sourcelink]http://thephoenixnewspaper.com/malta-tourism-authority-welcomes-spring [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Red Online (Web) 02 May 2017 N/A 31942 856
15 spots where you can get some early summer sun 15 spots where you can get some early summer sun : Where to get those summer sandals out... Bahamas Inspiration Bahamas By Posted on May 2, 2017 As far as summer holidays go, the Bahamas is up there in one of the places we see photos of and spend most of the year dreaming about. May is the perfect time to go, as the temperatures are high, you'll have avoided spring break (March and April) and the hurricane season, which starts in June. What to do when you're there? Well, the beach of course. Try Castaway Cay, Gold Rock Beach or Pink Sands Beach. Photo by Getty Mallorca, Balearic Islands Inspiration Mallorca, Balearic Islands By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 Ah, Mallorca , the Balearic island that's seriously having its moment (and yes, the Night Manager being filmed there might have had something to do with it....). Although the island does live up to its reputation and it's filled with great restaurants, hotels and bars. There's plenty of beaches to check out and you'll probably find us on Bay Cala des Moro. Photo by Getty Bologna, Italy Inspiration Bologna, Italy By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 Early summer sun does not just have to mean beaches. A potter around an ancient cobbled city in our sandals in the sunshine sounds right up our street too. Cue Bologna in Italy . There's plenty of beautiful shops to pick up souvenirs in, amazing gelato to be eaten and places like the Parco Lunetta Mariotti and Parco di Villa Angeletti to stop off in for a proper Italian picnic. Bliss.
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Malta Yellow News Red Online (Web) 02 May 2017 N/A 31942 856
Photo by Getty Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA Inspiration Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 A bit of a curve ball to add to the list, but we've got our eye on the wholesome beach living of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, after all it has some pretty spectacular seaside towns to offer, not mention some of the best seafood in the world. We'll be heading for Provincetown, Rockport, Nantucket and saving the best for last: Martha's Vineyard. Photo by Getty Cape Verde, Africa Inspiration Cape Verde, Africa By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 First of all, where exactly is Cape Verde? Well, it's a string of beautiful volcanic islands that sits just off the northwest coast of Africa. Think great food that's a whole fusion of cuisines, lush valleys, colourful flora and fauna and some pretty special beaches. Some of the best of its beaches can be found on the island of Sal, so take your book and beach towel down to Praia de Santa Maria. Photo by Getty Costa Rica, South America Inspiration Costa Rica, South America By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 Last May, British Airways launched a new direct route from London to Costa Rica, really opening it up as a destination (in August Thomson got in on the act). There's so much to do in this culturally rich country, from its volcanic hot springs to incredible wildlife watching. Try Playa Conchal, the beaches of the Manuel Antonio National Park or Playa Flamingo. Costa Rica also has some of the best coffee in the world . We're sold.
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Malta Yellow News Red Online (Web) 02 May 2017 N/A 31942 856
Photo by Getty Cyprus Inspiration Cyprus By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 By May the weather in Cyprus is starting to get hot, hot hot and a lovely early summer sun beach holiday is starting to tempt us more and more. As well as some of the best food in the world, there's also plenty of beaches. Check out Makronissos Beach, Coral Bay and Konnos Beach to top up your tan from. Photo by Getty Dodocanese Islands, Greece Inspiration Dodocanese Islands, Greece By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 The Dodecanese Islands in Greece are the stuff dreams are made of, they're absolutely beautiful. Book some time off work, pack your summer sun hat and jet off for a spot of island hopping. For surfing and walking there's Karpathos, for Byzantine museums and culture there's Symi and for out-of-this world beaches there's Arkoi. Photo by Getty Dubai Inspiration Dubai By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 For those who want to be in no doubt that it's going to be hot (and we mean really hot), then Dubai in May is your place, as average temperatures sit at around 38 degrees in the day. With temperatures that high you're going to need to be near the water, so there's the Jumeirah Beach or the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah if you'd prefer the comfort of a luxurious hotel pool... Photo by Getty
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Malta Yellow News Red Online (Web) 02 May 2017 N/A 31942 856
Essouira, Morocco Inspiration Essouira, Morocco By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 Essaouira on Morocco's Atlantic coast is a gem of an early summer sun destination. This stretch of coastline is Morocco's trendiest, former hippy hangout with lots of bohemian influence still to be felt (after all, this is spot Jimi Hendrix used to spend time and is rumoured to have written Castles Made of Sand). Once you've pottered the town and eaten some delicious fish, get out on the waves - Essaouira has some of the best surfing in the country. Photo by Getty French Rivera, South of France Inspiration French Rivera, South of France By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 The thought of getting a chic capsule wardrobe ready and packed for a little mini-break on the French Riviera is something we'll always look forward to. The only tricky part is deciding where to visit, we love Nice, Cannes, Èze and Grasse... we could go on, but we've decided to make for the spectacularly beautiful Lérins Islands this summer. Sitting just off the coast of Cannes, they're an archipelago of just four islands. Just perfect for topping up our tan on. Photo by Getty Lake Como, Italy Inspiration Lake Como, Italy By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 If it's good enough for George Clooney, then it's good enough for us. A romantic early summer sun break to Lake Como suits us right down to the ground. The area is home to some of the most incredible Italian hotels , and pre-summer season, the prices are much lower, meaning a once-in-a-lifetime stay is do-able. Try the Grand Hotel Tremezzo , the Relais Villa Vittoria or the Villa D'Este .
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Malta Yellow News Red Online (Web) 02 May 2017 N/A 31942 856
Photo by Getty Malta Inspiration Malta By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 Throughout June, temperatures in Malta get up to around 29 degrees and early on in the season is ideal, as later on temperatures can really get a bit too hot to be comfortable in. Once you're there, we'd recommend taking a boat trip to the islands of Gozo and Comino, sipping cocktails on the Valetta Harbour or Saint Julian's Bay and shopping for souvenirs in the cool walls of the old medina. Photo by Getty Seville, Spain Inspiration Seville, Spain By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 Another gorgeous sunny city break hotspot is Seville , and an early summer break is the perfect time to visit. The weather is good, there aren't too many crowds and you can get some incredibly cheap flights with the budget airlines. Wander the city's ancient streets and lie out with your book in the late afternoon sun in the Maria Luisa Park, it stretches right along the Guadalquivir River. Photo by Getty Taormina, Italy Inspiration Taormina, Italy By Sara D'Souza Posted on May 2, 2017 If you've never been to Sicily , then now is your chance. May is one of the driest months and temperatures are pretty pleasant (sitting around the early/mid twenties marker). For some of the most gorgeous views of the island make the climb up Mount Etna, then reward yourself afterwards with dinner at the lovely Tischi Toschi restaurant in Taormina.
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Malta Yellow News Red Online (Web) 02 May 2017 N/A 31942 856
Photo by Getty While it might be less than tropical in the UK right now, the good news is the sun is shinning somewhere out there, and so we've picked the best spots to head right now for some early summer sun. We've started in Europe with a few of our old favourites, looking first at Italy, where the sun is shining and the summer crowds have yet to descend. We'll be packing our bags and heading for Lake Como, Tuscany or the beautiful Taormina on the east coast of Sicily. Other top places we've added for the same reasons and their fantastic beaches, are Malta, Essaouira, the blissful Dodecanese Islands and the Bay Cala des Moro in Mallorca. And for sunny city breaks, you can't beat Seville . If you're thinking of flying a bit further away, May is the ideal time to visit both Cape Verde and the Bahamas, with temperatures sitting around the mid/high twenties. And if you really fancy the trip of lifetime , then you could aways plan a trip to Costa Rica, early summer there is perfect. Kicking off our pre-summer tan ? Yes, please. 10 of the best beaches in the world to day dream about 15 beach holidays you'll want to book this summer Unattributed[sourcelink]http://www.redonline.co.uk/travel/inspiration/best-places-for-early-summer-sun#provider_moreover [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Wanderlust Travel Magazine (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 69000 1852
Active Europe - 7 adventures in the UK and Europe guaranteed to get your heart racing this summer Active Europe - 7 adventures in the UK and Europe guaranteed to get your heart racing this summer : From whitewater rafting in Slovenia and climbing volcanoes in Turkey to hiking Yorkshire's wild north coast, there are plenty of ways to get active this summer in the UK and Europe... Rafting in Slovenia (Dreamstime) Get active this summer in Kobarid, Slovenia's adventure playground. Set on the banks of the Soca River, this small town is big on adrenalin. Powered by crystal-clear waters from the Julian Alps, you'll experience some of the most exciting whitewater rafting, kayaking and canyoning adventures in Europe. A local team of experts will be on hand to instruct, supervise and ensure that you get to experience the different moods of the river. They'll offer suggestions on other activities close at hand too. There are challenging mountain bike tracks nearby for those who want to stay dry, as well as one of Europe's longest and fastest zip-lines for those looking for an exhilarating airborne thrill. When: 10 Jun, 1, 8, 29 Jul, 5, 12, 19 Aug & 9 Sep 2017 How long: 8 days How much: From £829 (inc. flights) 2: Explore Sweden's spectacular Koster Islands Home to Sweden's first marine national park, the Koster Islands (the most westerly populated islands in the country) are amongst the most beautiful in the Western Archipelago. Car-free and largely comprised of nature reserves, they also offer a unique opportunity to experience island life in its purest form. On this trip, you'll explore the islands by foot and by bicycle, tramping through heather-clad moors, brushwood forests and flower-covered fields. You'll cycle to empty golden beaches where cooking a freshly caught lobster over an open fire will be a memory that will stay with you forever. This is the long, balmy, active summer you've always dreamed of. When: Flexible dates May-Sep 2017 How long: 7 days How much: From £591 (inc. flights) 3: Walk Yorkshire's wild north coast The rugged high cliffs and dramatic coast of North Yorkshire have long captured the imagination. It was here that Bram Stoker was inspired to write Dracula and where ancient fossils are uncovered on a daily basis. While close encounters with vampires cannot be guaranteed, this walking holiday is designed to take you to the very heart of this most dramatic part of northern England. The walk stays close to the coast, traversing heather moors and green valleys and passing pretty coastal villages like Staithes, Robin Hoods Bay, Sandsend and the gothic town of Whitby. Colourful beach huts, antique shops, tearooms, bars and top-notch fish and chips await. A walk from Grosmont to Robin Hoods Bay lets you sample the famous Wainwrights Coast to Coast route. Combining history and diverse scenery, this walk is sure to challenge and intrigue the most enthusiastic walkers. When: 21 May, 9 Jul & 10 Sep 2017 How long: 6 days How much: From £550 (exc. flights) 4: Climb a volcano in Turkey Mount Ararat (Dreamstime) Rising dramatically on Turkey's eastern border with Armenia, the volcanic cones of Mount Ararat dominate the surrounding region. Believed by many to be the final resting place of Noah's ark, the mountain is steeped in legend, and is a challenging and rewarding climb. This 10-day adventure will take you to the very top of Mt. Ararat, as well as other challenging climbs on Nemrut
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Malta Yellow News Wanderlust Travel Magazine (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 69000 1852
Lake Crater and Mt. Suphan. Along the way, you'll visit churches on forgotten islands, discover isolated waterfalls and experience the incredible warmth and hospitality of the people of this little-visited region of Turkey. Are you up for the challenge? When: Flexible dates during summer, 2017 How long: 10 days How much: From £1,595 (exc. flights) 5: Get active in Andorra Biking in the Pyrenees (Dreamstime) Wedged between France and Spain, Andorra offers some of the best mountain bike trails in Europe. The historic Iron Route, with its spectacular backdrop of snow-capped peaks and forested slopes, is the most famous, but there are plenty of others as well, each offering an adrenalin-fuelled take on this tiny, but perfectly formed country. Based in the quaint town of Soldeu, set dizzily 1,710 metres above sea level, there are plenty of other activities on hand once you've conquered Andorra's mountains and valleys by bike. Hike up mountains, whitewater raft down rivers and zip-line across the whole lot. Yourinner thrill-seeker will not be disappointed. When: 4, 11, 18 Jun, 2, 9, 16 Jul & 10. 17, 24 Sep 2017 How long: 8 days How much: From £558 (exc. flights) 6: Dive the wrecks and caves of Malta Cavern diving in Malta (Dreamstime) Clear waters and constant warm weather makes Malta one of Europe's best diving destinations. This tour is designed to ensure you experience it all. You'll spend five days diving Malta's wrecks (most of the dive sites can be reached from shore and include a mix of wrecks, reefs and caves) and two days diving around the island of Gozo. You'll have a choice of 25 dive sites here, consisting of cracks, holes, caves and caverns, including the famous Blue Hole. A quirk in the local laws means diving is not allowed on Sundays, giving you the ideal excuse to experience local food and culture as well. The pace of life is slow, the variety of dive sites unmatched. What are you waiting for? When: Summer 2017 How long: 11 days How much: From £895 (exc. flights) 7: Welsh rib boat adventure Conwy estuary. Possibly from a rib boat. (Dreamstime) Roar through the waters of North Wales on a rib boat and experience this spectacular corner of the UK as very few do: with the wind in your hair and your hands tightly clutching the sides of a high powered vessel. The tang of salt on your lips is all but guaranteed. Pulling slowly out of Deganwy harbour on the Conwy estuary, you'll soon hit top speed and open water, startling the odd puffin and dolphin, as Snowdonia quickly comes into view. Ask nicely and you can have a quick go at the controls yourself. Your inner James Bond satisfied, it's back to the Mehalah, a beautifully fitted out yacht that will be your home for the rest of your stay. By the time you've explored the Irish Sea, sailed past the Great Orme and conquered the Menai Strait, the salt water will well and truly be in your veins. Who: Chapters Experience Holidays
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Malta Yellow News Wanderlust Travel Magazine (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 69000 1852
When: 19 May & 14 Jul 2017 How long: 4 days How much: From ÂŁ549 (exc. flights) Main image: Rafting in Slovenia (Dreamstime) Unattributed[sourcelink]http://www.wanderlust.co.uk/planatrip/inspire-me/lists/active-europe-adventures [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Travel Weekly (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 47189 1267
Malta by season Malta by season : Image via Riveria Travel/Getty Images; viewmalta.com/Rene Rossingaud/MTV; Sarah Wright With its diverse offering, Malta warrants attention year-round, writes Laura French. What do you get when you combine 7,000 years of history with world-class diving sites, scenic walking routes, aquamarine lagoons and a packed calendar of parties and cultural festivals? Malta, of course. Throw in year-round sun, welcoming people, pleasant beaches and a warm climate, and you have a family, couple and group-friendly destination that holds appeal at any time of year. From wandering around medieval cities in spring to snorkelling the reefs in summer, diving in autumn to concert-watching in winter, there's plenty for clients to get stuck into. Here's a rundown of where to recommend and when. Winter Picture winter and images of scarves billowing in windy blizzards most likely come to mind. But not in Malta: here, temperatures hover around 15C. "November to May showcases a different Malta," says Andrew Galea, marketing manager for Corinthia Hotels. "Apart from the island being green and full of flowers, the weather is cool enough to discover off-the-beaten-track destinations, from Neolithic cultural sights to nightlife, shopping, music and culture. It's also a good time to try some of the many restaurants showcasing local and international cuisine." Mercury Holidays recommends taking full advantage of these cooler climes to explore the Unesco listed capital Valletta and its 16th-century fort ruins. Here, a labyrinth of narrow streets meets trendy boutiques and cultural sights, including the Fort Saint Elmo, home to the National War Museum; the Grand Master's Palace, once the residence of the Knights of St John; and St John's Co-Cathedral, a baroque masterpiece filled with artworks. And it's in winter that the city really comes to life, with extravagant floats and colourful costumes taking to the streets in February for the annual Carnival. For an alternative spin on the celebration, go to Nadur in Gozo to see locals decked out in masks and costumes. In January, there's the Valletta International Baroque Festival, a two-week extravaganza featuring concerts in historic venues across the city such as the Manoel Theatre and St John's Co-Cathedral. Saga and Kirker Holidays both offer tours to mark the occasion and are worth recommending to an older clientele looking to make the most of the Maltese love of music. Or suggest Go Teatru Unplugged, a weekend-long pop, folk and rock concert that this year takes place from December 27-30. And if clients come a few weeks earlier, they'll find the streets alive with Christmas cheer – think festive markets, candlelit carols and fairytale lights, culminating in the five-day International Christmas Festival, a celebration of all things yuletide which showcases bands from across the world. Unattributed[sourcelink]http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/articles/278412/malta-by-season [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Woman & Home (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 29818 800
12 of the best places to travel alone 12 of the best places to travel alone : Print 1. Iceland Best for: Natural wonders Hewn from millennia of volcanic eruptions, Iceland's landscape truly is one-of-a-kind. Here you can walk inside ancient glaciers, watch the Northern Lights from a hot tub, and even venture inside the crater of a volcano - long extinct, of course. Icelandic hospitality is warm and all-encompassing - and solo travellers are welcomed with open arms. There are plenty of day trips to explore the geysirs and waterfalls of the ‘Golden Circle' and beyond, and car hire is easy to arrange if you fancy exploring alone. Safety concerns? Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates. Its main roads are well-maintained, though dangerous extreme weather. Locals are generally very friendly, and happy to help solo travellers. 2. Dubai, UAE Best for: A taste of the Middle East While Dubai is famed for its shopping malls and beaches (both of which you should definitely explore), it also offers a safe, bite-sized introduction to the Middle East - perfect if you're looking for something a little more exotic from your holidays. Shutterstock Head to Bur Dubai to ride a traditional abra boat across the Creek to the gold and spice souks - where you can haggle for jewellery while the scent of frankincense dances on the breeze. Sand dune safaris, desert barbecues and henna painting are also easy to book through your hotel or tour operator. Safety concerns? Dubai is very safe for solo females, though you should take the usual city precautions. Note that when visiting religious sites, you should cover your head, legs and shoulders, though normal clothing is fine elsewhere. 3. Granada, Spain Best for: Culture and architecture With its voluptuous archways and exquisite mosaics, the Alhambra Palace looks like it's been lifted from the pages of Arabian Nights - and you simply must explore it if you're visiting Granada. The fortress was built in the 13th century, by Moorish conquerors from North Africa, and remains one of the country's most spectacular buildings. Shutterstock It's easy to get around Granada, and there's more than enough sightseeing to fill an action-packed few days. Try a flamenco dance class, shop for Moroccan treasures in Alcaiceria, and feast on unforgettable tapas in the centre of town. If you love culture and food, this is one of Spain's best places to travel alone. Safety concerns? Exercise the usual caution that you would in cities, especially at night, and be wary of pick-pockets. 4. New York City, USA Best for: A bucket list city break The Big Apple is surprisingly solo-friendly. If you've always wanted to visit, now's the time: thanks to the likes of Norwegian Air and Wow Airlines, it's never been cheaper to fly from the UK. Attractions and restaurants are geared up for single guests - and with no +1 it's much easier to bag a seat at that sell-out Broadway show. Shutterstock NYC is easy to navigate on foot, and the Subway system is generally very safe. As with any city, locals can seem a little standoffish, but with such a huge range of tourists from all over the world it's easy to strike up conversations with other holidaymakers. Safety concerns? NYC is a big city, with a few no-go areas after dark. Keep your wits about you, and exercise
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Malta Yellow News Woman & Home (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 29818 800
usual precautions. 5. Azores Best for: Whale watching and hiking Thanks to its far-flung location, this Portuguese archipelago (which is actually a long way from the mainland, in the North Atlantic Ocean) is easy to overlook - but has lots of adventures up its sleeve. It's one of the best places in the world for spotting whales and dolphins, which swim through the waters year-round, migrating and feeding on the fish-rich waters. Shutterstock The volcanic landscape is lush and mountainous, with lots of hiking and biking trails for all abilities. The local welcome is warm, and the islands are virtually crime-free - perfect for solo travellers. Safety concerns? Falling in love with the islands and never wanting to come home... 6. Rajasthan, India Best for: Colour and chaos You might think that India is too daunting to visit alone, but that doesn't have to be the case. It's a very popular destination for escorted group tours which are perfect for solo travellers - we're even running our own exclusive Marigold Hotel-themed trip! - so you can explore the country's best bits in the company of a great guide, as well as a whole new group of friends. Shutterstock Rajasthan is the country's most colourful state - bedecked with ornate temples, royal palaces converted into lavish hotels, and of course the Taj Mahal itself. Safety concerns? ‘Delhi belly' and crime are the main concerns, but travelling with an expert guide - and staying in high-quality hotels - will lessen the risk. Take heed of your tour operator's advice. 7. Stockholm, Sweden Best for: Culture and island hopping For the solo traveller who wants to fill their days with museums and galleries, Stockholm has an embarrassment of riches. You can browse contemporary photography in Fotografiska, modern art in Moderna Museet, regal relics at the Royal Palace... and ABBA memorabilia at the Swedish Music Hall of Fame. Shutterstock Just 20 minutes outside the city, the Stockholm Archipelago awaits: over 30,000 wild and wonderful islands, ripe for exploring on easy day trips or island hopping tours. The islands are dotted with small, friendly villages, where the welcome is always warm. Safety concerns? Follow common sense in the city, and use a guide if you want more far-flung adventures in the archipelago. 8. Malta Best for: Easy beach hopping Sure, you could fly and flop on a gorgeous Maltese beach, but which one to choose? Malta and Gozo are blessed with countless pristine sandy coves, each more idyllic than the last - so you should do some exploring while you're here. The islands are small in size, and have a good network of buses, so even for the solo traveller it's a cinch to find that perfect bay. Shutterstock So where to start? Make a beeline for Golden Bay (which lives up to its name), Mellieha (Malta's longest sandy beach), and paradise Bay in the north. Grab a map and start exploring - and if you ask nicely enough, locals might even let you in on their favourites... Safety concerns? Crime rates are low (even for petty theft), and most Maltese beaches have lifeguards. 9. Amalfi Coast, Italy
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Malta Yellow News Woman & Home (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 29818 800
Best for: Cultured types When we startingputting together our new tour of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast with Apprentice star and historian Dr Margaret Mountford, we knew it would be popular - but we didn't realise it would be so overwhelmingly popular with solo travellers! Everybody booked to go on the tour so far is travelling on their own - so you know you'll be in great company. Shutterstock Amazingly preserved, Pompeii and the many Roman remains that surround it are waiting for you to unlock their secrets. And with several sites recently reopened after years of delicate conservation, there has never been a better time to visit. Safety concerns? If you're travelling on our escorted holiday, you'll travel with an expert guide who knows the Amalfi Coast inside-out. 10. Guernsey, Channel Islands Best for: A foodie weekend This little island is big on food - in fact, it prides itself on being virtually self-sufficient. With its sunny microclimate and rich soils (from all that fresh sea air), Guernsey's chefs have some of the British Isles'finest ingredients at their fingertips - and the locally-caught fish and lobster are superb. Shutterstock Eat your way around the island on a foodie weekend, or coincide your visit with the top-notch Guernsey Food Festival. You'll find everything from foraging workshops to surf lessons and sea kayaking, too - and solo travellers are welcomed and well catered for. Safety concerns? The Channel Islands are super-safe, though laden with delicious cheeses and Guernsey cream. You have been warned. 11. Helsinki, Finland Best for: Off the beaten track The friendly, walkable Finnish capital is perfect for solo city breakers who want to venture beyond Europe's main hotspots. You might not know much about Helsinki, but that's all part of its charm: it's free of tourist crowds, and its main sights (Lutheran Cathedral, Olympic Tower observation deck and Sibelius Monument) can easily fill a day. Shutterstock Don't leave without experiencing a genuine wood-heated Finnish sauna (Kotiharjun Sauna is the city's most authentic), or taking a quick trip out to Suomenlinna Island (20 minutes by ferry). Suomenlinna is home to a huge Unesco-listed fortress which dates back to the 1700s, and has magnificent views of Helsinki. Safety concerns? Helsinki is mostly very safe, though be cautious around Central train station after dark. 12. Singapore Best for: Easy, exotic city break Singapore is perfect for solo female travellers: you can explore its sights and streets without fear of catcalls or bag snatching, thanks to its tough stance on crime. Hit the shops on Orchard Road (Asia's most famous shopping drag), sip a Singapore Sling in the Raffles Hotel (where the cocktail was first conceived), and take a lofty walk among the ‘supertrees' of the Gardens By The Bay - the city's futuristic green space. Shutterstock Thanks to Singapore's thriving expat population, you can experience multiple cultures in just one day. Explore Chinatown's markets, discover street food and spice shops in Little India, and tour Asia on a plate in one of the city's famous international food halls - where you can feast on authentic dishes for just a few dollars. Safety concerns? Singapore has one of the world's lowest crime rates. It is very safe for solo women, even at night.
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Malta Yellow News Woman & Home (Web) 03 May 2017 N/A 29818 800
Unattributed[sourcelink]http://www.womanandhome.com/travel/541972/best-places-to-travel-alone [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Travel Weekly (Main) 04 May 2017 62 14514 1615cm2 14664.2
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Malta Yellow News Travel Weekly (Main) 04 May 2017 62 14514 1615cm2 14664.2
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Malta Yellow News The Mail on Sunday. (Supplement3) 07 May 2017 15 1257984 382cm2 22094.88
TRAVEL SPECIAL
Valletta's beenchosen asEurope's Capital of Culture, saysPeterPhillips, andthatmeans.
MALTA'S EMAGICAL Malta
is booming as a holidayand carnivals. Next year's programme destination. The begins on January 20 and as part of Mediterranean island 50 the opening festivities, a series of miles south of Italy and shows will be staged in Valletta's 170 miles east of Tunisia squares - the Triton Fountain, welcomed nearly two millionCastille Square, St John's tourists last year, a Square and St George's ten per cent increase on Square - using them 2015 and an increase of half a million as the backdrop for performances from in four years. Boosted by the growing number of the likes of acrobatics cruise ships visiting the island and company La Fura its increasing importance as a destination Dels Baus and digital for no-frills airlines, including projections. easyjet and Ryanair, Malta is expecting According to Valletta another record year for tourism. 2018's Jason Micallef: Malta's capital Valletta - the smallest 'The European Capital national capital in the European Union of Culture festivities will - is next year's European Capital of take on the spirit of an islandwide Culture, presenting it with an opportunity fiesta, an event where people and families meet, and which serves to showcase its eclectic history and heritage. Ahead of this, Malta has to infuse localities with warmth, life and launched a preview of the Capital of colour, while bringing the community Culture programme highlighting a collection together.' of artistic, cultural and community The Valletta 2018Cultural Programme projects as well as festivals is filled with innovative participatory
curated by Maren Richter; Altofest Malta - a Maltese edition of the Naples arts festival; and Malta Calls, a set by international DJ Per QX. Malta Tourist Office's Peter Vella is looking forward to the programme. events, performances and 'The whole of Valletta is a Unesco projects, the likes of which World Heritage site... the city needs have never been seen in Malta before, to be discovered and Valletta 2018 is said Mr Micallef. 'It is a great opportunity an amazing opportunity to make the for people to come together and UK aware of its beauty,' he says. • participate in arts and culture.' The programme also includes Valletta Mercury Holidays (mercuiyholidays. 2018's multi-site visual arts exhibition co.uk) specialises in holidays to Malta. HISTORIC: Valletta harbour and La Fura Dels Baus acrobats, left, who will be performing next year
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Malta Yellow News Warwick Courier (Web) 09 May 2017 N/A 3531 95
Travel: Malta joins the great Mediterranean menu Travel: Malta joins the great Mediterranean menu : The light is dandelion yellow, I am trussed up in a net veil, and a fierce buzzing is coming from a frame covered in the busy bodies of hundreds of armoured honey bees. "You have to do it their way, not your way," explains Maltese beekeeper Arnold fondly, on the making of honey. With 66 years of experience and 180 bee colonies in his care, the man's an authority, and jars of his sweet stuff are sold all over the island. Flavoured seasonally by the flowers his bees feast on - from orange blossom to white thistle and borage - it's honey worth travelling for, especially when you consider it only takes three hours to fly to Malta from London. Traditionally, people visited Malta for the almost year-round sunshine, but I'm spending a long weekend exploring the archipelago as a gourmet short-break destination. It's so bountiful that, even on the 20-minute drive from the airport to the capital, Valetta - European City of Culture 2018 - it's hard to miss huge clumps of prickly pear cacti. The wide flat paddles of it sprout rampantly across the island, serving as spiny windbreaks, and its tongue-pink fruits provide roadside pick-your-own come autumn. Historically Malta has been endlessly fought over, and the impact is still being felt. Take their olives: During Roman times, Malta's indigenous olive trees sprawled across the entire rocky landmass, until later colonisers, including the British during the 1800s, foolishly decided to rip them up to make way for cotton fields and sheep farming. But in the last few years, Maltese olive oil's experienced a renaissance. The family-run San Niklaw Estate Malta, near Malta's Popeye Village, produces both wine and olive oil. Founder John, who started the business in 2006 with his brother, says that what makes Maltese olive oil so special is how "it's very peppery" while its main rival, Sicily's, in his opinion, tastes like "motor oil". The vineyard produces four wines each season - which you can try on bespoke wine-tasting courses (enquire at info@sanniklaw.com) - two red, two white (priced 25-30 euros a bottle), of which the Despatch (Sangiovese) is a dark, and fruity ruby red and the Neptunus (Vermentino), a white that's golden in colour and zingy on the tongue. Family, pride and community are intrinsically bound in Maltese food culture, so much so, John isn't abashed to admit: "At restaurants, I always order my own wine, and seeing someone ordering it at the next table? I can't describe what it means to me." Valletta itself is tiny with a population of just 7,000. During siesta it's so still and hushed, no one will witness you eating a late lunch of lamb crusted in pistachio at Panorama. Inside, the restaurant is cool and dark, all matte greys and sparkling glass, but the meat is perfectly pink (as it
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Malta Yellow News Warwick Courier (Web) 09 May 2017 N/A 3531 95
should be for 28 euros) and the view of the Grand Harbour from the wide al fresco dining balcony begs for a dazzling sunset dinner. You are never far from the sea here. It's all you can smell at Marsaxlokk in the south-east of the island, a fishing village that on Sunday mornings (arrive before 9am for the best produce), is all a-bustle with fishermen's wives selling soft-bellied baby sharks, the still-slithering, hulking bodies of eels and one-euro salmon heads that are used in aljotta, a traditional Maltese fish soup. You can't move for pastries and homegrown veg, either. Between closely packed stands, an elderly woman sells knobbly hand-picked capers from an antique wicker pram. Later, after catching the ferry from Malta's northern point, Cirkewwa harbour, to Gozo island, 25 minutes away, I meet Philip, chef patron of traditional Gozo restaurant, Ta' Philip. He rubs a handful of the salty, alligator-green buds between his fingers as he explains that, however biased, he's never tasted a caper better than a Maltese caper. Malta's most treasured dish is arguably rabbit, and the smell of the restaurant's signature version thwacks you around the nostrils so powerfully, you want to find the bubbling pan of it and down the lot. Tradition and canny cooking is in the bones of this place. Leftover vegetables and peelings go straight to the chickens, while gaps in the oven are plugged with aubergines and onions - skins on - until they come out soft and charred, needing just a glug of olive oil. There are certain rules too, like don't mess with the basics - particularly the Maltese equivalent of the Italian soffritto (the foundation for most soups and stews). "It's the base," explains Philip. "You don't live without onion and garlic! People that ask to leave it out? You joking?!" That's not to say there isn't culinary debate here. While preparing artichokes fresh from the market, slicing a serrated knife through the yellowing stalks, I listen in as Philip bickers happily over what constitutes a decent amount of olive oil (he gets through slick, shimmering buckets of the stuff). His portion sizes are extremely generous. We drink sharp, bright wine from his family vineyard and sink bowlfuls of fresh artichoke pasta, and a rich sausage and cauliflower stew dotted with gbejniet, the white Gozo cheese. The cheese is light and creamy, wobbling like a good panna cotta. At nearby Rikardu's farm, gbejniet is made by hand milking 200-odd sheep and goats each morning. It sounds idyllic, and the location is - the farm is a patchwork of lush vineyards, gnarled lemon trees and jabbering, leaping goats.
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Malta Yellow News Warwick Courier (Web) 09 May 2017 N/A 3531 95
However, I quickly learn that milking is not enchantingly rural; it's tough and uncomfortable. I can't get a proper grip on the goat's velveteen udders and fail to get more than an egg cup's worth of milk, and it's certainly not the bemused animal's fault. Rikardu sells his cheese from his farm and his restaurant, Ta' Rikardu, either fresh, topped with Gozo salt; in homemade ravioli; or dried and marinated in white wine and black pepper (most popular with the Maltese), or chilli and dried tomato. The week-long drying process also sounds bucolic - they haul crates of the cheese onto the roof and rely on a north wind to air-dry it. There is much that seems romantically pastoral about Malta's food scene, but the rubbly charm and high levels of deliciousness often belies the work involved. Travel along Gozo's northern coastline for instance, and you're met by an otherworldly, stark blue and desert-yellow Star Wars-like landscape. The Qbajjar salt pans are a criss-crossed network of oblong salt fields at the mercy of the Mediterranean Sea that have been manned by the Cini family for five generations; they require constant upkeep. It will be Josephine Cini's elderly parents' 49th summer laboriously collecting and selling their crystalline Gozo salt here this year. She explains: "The salt preserves their love." So, perhaps it is a little bit romantic after all. TRAVEL FACTS Ella Walker from the Press Association was guest of the Maltese tourist board. For more information about the Maltese archipelago, visit www.visitmalta.com Flights to Malta from London Gatwick start from ÂŁ132 return with British Airways (www.britishairways.com). Rooms at the Radisson Blu Malta St Julian's in Valletta (www.radissonblu.com/en/stjuliansresort-malta) start from ÂŁ85 per room per night. To visit Arnold and his bees, contact the tourist board.
Unattributed[sourcelink]http://www.warwickcourier.co.uk/lifestyle/travel/travel-malta-joins-the-great-mediterranean-menu-1-79 [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Mail Online UK (Web) 11 May 2017 N/A 2009108 0
Malta's going to be magical: A sneak peek of the Capital of Culture programme as Valletta gears up for its year of glory Malta's going to be magical: A sneak peek of the Capital of Culture programme as Valletta gears up for its year of glory : | Malta is booming as a holiday destination. The Mediterranean island 50 miles south of Italy and 170 miles east of Tunisia welcomed nearly two million tourists last year, a ten per cent increase on 2015 and an increase of half a million in four years. Boosted by the growing number of cruise ships visiting the island and its increasing importance as a destination for no-frills airlines, including easyJet and Ryanair, Malta is expecting another record year for tourism. Malta's capital Valletta - the smallest national capital in the European Union - is next year's European Capital of Culture, presenting it with an opportunity to showcase its eclectic history and heritage. Ahead of this, Malta has launched a preview of the Capital of Culture programme highlighting a collection of artistic, cultural and community projects as well as festivals and carnivals. Next year's programme begins on January 20 and as part of the opening festivities, a series of shows will be staged in Valletta's squares - the Triton Fountain, Castille Square, St John's Square and St George's Square using them as the backdrop for performances from the likes of acrobatics company La Fura Dels Baus and digital projections. According to Valletta 2018's Jason Micallef: ‘The European Capital of Culture festivities will take on the spirit of an island-wide fiesta, an event where people and families meet, and which serves to infuse localities with warmth, life and colour, while bringing the community together.' The Valletta 2018 Cultural Programme is filled with innovative participatory events, performances and projects, the likes of which have never been seen in Malta before, said Mr Micallef. ‘It is a great opportunity for people to come together and participate in arts and culture.' The programme also includes Valletta 2018's multi-site visual arts exhibition curated by Maren Richter; Altofest Malta - a Maltese edition of the Naples arts festival; and Malta Calls, a set by international DJ Per QX. Malta Tourist Office's Peter Vella is looking forward to the programme. ‘The whole of Valletta is a Unesco World Heritage site… the city needs to be discovered and Valletta 2018 is an amazing opportunity to make the UK aware of its beauty,' he says. Mercury Holidays ( mercuryholidays.co.uk ) specialises in holidays to Malta.
Unattributed[sourcelink]http://www.mailonsunday.co.uk/travel/article-4480080/A-sneak-peek-Capital-Culture-programme-201 [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Mallory On Travel (Blog) 16 May 2017 N/A 5563 149
In at The Deep End, Diving Malta In at The Deep End, Diving Malta : "Hey honey, how would you like to go diving in Malta?" came the shout from the office here at Mallory Towers. " Diving Malta? Yes, love to, but it's ages since I was underwater." Was my initial reply. However, it sounded tempting, prompting me to continue, "What's the dive specifics? I could arrange a refresher." Several emails, some research and quick, last-minute organising I was clutching return flight tickets. Diving Malta Slightly over a week later and I'm bobbing about on the surface at Xlendi, on Gozo, all kitted up and ready to get wet. They say it's like riding a bike, coming back quite easily. It comes back far easier when the previous week has been spent poring over old dive manuals! The homework paid off and it turned into a pleasant potter around the bay, while completing drills with Denis, our guide from Atlantis Dive Centre. Mask on, mask off, mask on and cleared. Regulator out and in and cleared. Weight check and we are all good to go. Our first dive was rather spectacular, The Blue Hole ; the famous Azure Window, one of Gozo (and Malta's) most famous landmarks has recently collapsed into the sea! This is a disaster in terms of losing an iconic landmark, however, ironically, it's made for a fabulous dive. It won't last long though, so I count myself extremely fortunate to see it in all its glory. The dive is challenging if only because of the entry. Lugging over four stones of equipment across rocks, tends to cause profuse sweating, especially in 5mm thick wetsuits. It's not my idea of a pleasant start to a dive but, adds some authenticity and if you want to make this spectacular dive, the effort cannot be avoided. It is worth every step. Exploring another Mediterranean island: Corsica – Much More Than the GR20 Making the descent, the beautiful arch comes fully into view as you swim into the blue. It's an impressive start to the dive, the bright blue shining through the arch makes light work of the depth, while you sink deeper and out into what is currently, uncharted territory. The collapse of the Azure Window has changed the underwater landscape in a dramatic fashion. Huge slabs of white limestone now form the scenery down here. Sea life hasn't begun to make its home here yet. A World Underwater It is stark, bright and utterly out of synch with the rest of the underwater landscape, slabs of limestone rear up from the seabed, bigger than my house! The edges appear sharp, it will take time and the constant work of the ocean to round off the jagged edges. Slab after slab comes into view, I have no idea of the tonnage of rock that came down but it's made a spectacular landscape, at least until Mother Nature does her work and claims it is as her own. Unattributed[sourcelink]http://malloryontravel.com/2017/05/cool-places/europe/malta/diving-malta-gozo/ [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Woman & Home (Web) 18 May 2017 N/A 29818 800
8 European Islands You Must Visit 8 European Islands You Must Visit : Print 1. Corfu This is one of the best islands in Europe for nature lovers. From the lush forests that hug its mountainous centre, to the golden sands and inky blue coves at its base, Corfu is the most colourful of all the Greek islands - with a vibrant local culture to boot. Spend your days beach hopping, feasting on traditional Greek food, and discovering ancient treasures in the Achilleion - a palace that dates back to the 1800s. While you're here: Corfu was where Gerald Durrell, the famous naturalist, grew up - so make sure you visit some of the wild and wonderful places that inspired his incredible life's work. Our Durrells Tour of Corfu includes all of Gerry's childhood haunts plus island hopping and free spa treatments, and is guided by his wife - author and famous Lee Durrell. See the details 2. Ibiza Forget the Ibiza you think you know: there's a whole other side to this party-loving Spanish island that's natural and wild... and like nothing you've ever encountered in Europe. Its sandy coves look like they've been plucked from the Caribbean, with crystalline waters to boot. Wild walking trails take you through wild herb-scented forests, with white-washed villages and secluded seafood restaurants providing the perfect sundowner spots. While you're here: Take a boat trip over to Formentera, a Spanish island that's just as picturesque. Here you can snorkel in bath-temperature waters with shoals of colourful fish, or sip cocktails while millionaires' yachts bob in the harbour. Read more: 8 trips every woman should take in her 30s 3. Santorini This sun-drenched island in the Cyclades is iconic for its cascades of white-washed houses and lapis lazuli-coloured waters - but it's even more impressive in the flesh. This is a slice of traditional Greece - where the food is fine, the vineyards are bounteous, and the welcome is always warm. While you're here: Santorini is a key port of call for cruise ships, but its bay are best experienced from a sailing ship or small boat. Finish with a seafood supper, and a nightcap on a clifftop taverna. 4. Hvar Croatia is having a moment: last year, it welcomed a record-breaking number of visitors, but thankfully it hasn't become too overrun with resorts and tourist rat-runs... yet. Make a beeline for heavenly Hvar, one of Croatia's many Adriatic islands, which boasts beautiful bays and a charming town, as well as a historic centre that dates back to the 13th century. While you're here: You're a short boat trips from the Pakleni Islands, a string of emerald isles encircled by picture-perfect sandy beaches. You owe them a day trip - at least. Read more: Is this the most beautiful city in Europe? (We think so) 5. Sardinia Step away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland to discover Sardinia - a peaceful isle with 2,000km of coastline, secluded gin-clear coves, and charming trattorias serving up just-caught seafood and all the pasta you could possibly wish for. The Costa Smerelda is the island's tiny strip of millionaire's villas and glitzy bars, whereas the rest of the island is low-key and very local. While you're here: Don't miss the village of Chia, on the south coast, and its string of beautiful sandy bays. You're less than an hour's drive from Cagliari, but the vibe here is far-flung and natural. Bring a picnic. 6. Lanzarote With its volcanic landscapes and rugged coastline, this Canary Isle is a really wild child - but its untamed beauty makes it all-the-more charming. Thanks to its southerly location (on a par with North Africa), and breezes which blow straight from the Sahara Desert, Lanzarote remains mild well into the autumn and winter months - making its a great winter sun getaway.
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Malta Yellow News Woman & Home (Web) 18 May 2017 N/A 29818 800
While you're here: Visit Timanfaya National Park, home of the Islote de Hilario volcano - a great beast of a mountain surrounded by landscapes which look like the surface of the moon. At the volcano's summit, there's a restaurant where meat and fish are grilled using its natural heat: a dinner to remember, for sure. Read more: 8 alternative ideas for a girls' weekend away 7. Madeira Most people know Madeira as a fly-and-flop destination, but the Portuguese island has much more up its sleeve. Take a ride on one of its white-knuckle cable cars (with amazing views of the mountains and coast), go whale and dolphin watching, or walk the spectacular levadas (waterways) that criss-cross the island. All that adventure will make your sunlounger all the more rewarding. While you're here: Madeira is famous for its incredible flowers, nurtured by the tropical climate and fertile soils which is why we designed a holiday with celebrity gardener Joe Swift (presenter of Gardeners'World and RHS Chelsea Flower Show) which visits all of the island's most gorgeous gardens plus lots more of its beautiful attractions too... See the details Read more: 9 incredible gardens that have to be seen to be believed Read more: 7 great European cities within 2 hours of the UK 8. Malta The fortress city of Valletta (below) looks defiantly out to sea, a tiny peninsula protecting the island from invasion - though now that threat has passed, the effect is simply impressive rather than imposing. Malta is small and easy to navigate (by car or by bus), so you can fill your days discovering secluded beaches, little villages, and the numerous ancient palaces and temples which are scattered all over the island. The perfect recipe for a fortnight's relaxation. While you're here: Malta has some of the finest diving and snorkelling spots in Europe - and while they don't rival the colour and variety found in Caribbean waters, they're certainly worth a look. Local favourites include Gnejna Bay and Ghar Lapsi for snorkelling. Unattributed[sourcelink]http://www.womanandhome.com/travel/542079/best-islands-in-europe [/sourcelink]
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Malta Yellow News Travel Trade Gazette (Main) 25 May 2017 64 17154 532cm2 5793.48
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Malta Yellow News Travel Trade Gazette (Main) 25 May 2017 60 17154 461cm2 5020.29
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Malta Yellow News Travel Trade Gazette (Main) 25 May 2017 60 17154 461cm2 5020.29
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