Malta is more than just a (very) pretty face. This sun-drenched, culture-rich island in the heart of the Mediterranean between Italy and North Africa is one of the most inclusive countries on Earth, having recently topped the ILGA-Europe Rainbow index for the ninth year running.
This inclusivity comes most vibrantly to life each September when the streets of the UNESCO-listed capital Valletta are the setting for the exuberant revelry of Malta Pride – a week-long affair culminating in a weekend embracing the Pride March, a concert, an After-Pride party, and even a Pride Regatta, when charming local wooden taxi boats are dressed up with unicorns, balloons, and tinsel to do a tour of the spectacular harbour.
Malta Pride began in 2004 with just 100 or so participants – a number that grew to thousands in 2023, when the island played host, for the first time, to EuroPride – a pan-European event hosted each year by a different European city - the event was headlined by the amazing Christina Aguilera.
Malta is just a three-hour flight from the UK but really is another world, with a huge amount to see and do. There are several historic cities to explore, from the current capital Valletta to the ancient capital and ‘Silent City’ of Mdina (especially lovely at night, when it’s lit by lanterns). Also unmissable is the UNESCO-listed ancient Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, a mysterious underground burial chamber, and, on neighbouring Gozo, the enigmatic, UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples – one of the world’s oldest free-standing structures, pre-dating Egypt’s Pyramids.
Private boat tours of the coast of Malta and those of sister islands Gozo and Comino reveal hidden caves and delightful snorkelling spots, as well as offering you the chance to watch the sun set from the deck. The islands also have an array of gorgeous beaches. Malta’s largest sandy beach, Mellieha Bay, is in a peaceful spot in the north of the island, but even more tranquil are remote Għajn Tuffieħa Bay with its reddish-golden sand and St Peter’s natural rock pool in Delimara – superb for secluded swimming and sunbathing.
On Gozo, Ramla il-Ħamra (‘Red Sandy Beach’) has great swimming and snorkelling, plus protected dunes believed to conceal Roman ruins. From Dwejra Bay, you can take boat trips to the Blue Hole and Fungus Rock, while at the bottom of the cliffs at Daħlet Qorrot, a small bay in the north, you can see unique boathouses converted from natural caves and ledges.
To book your Malta holiday, call your Travel Counsellor today.
As we look ahead to 2026, the travel possibilities are endless. From off-the-beaten-track gems to long-standing favourites, the world is yours to explore. If you need a little inspiration or simply want help narrowing down your choices, we’ve listed our top six destinations to visit next year, whether you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes, sun-soaked beaches, or energetic cities.
There are so many great reasons to experience certain destinations in the shoulder seasons – that sweet spot between a region’s peak season and off-season. Think fewer crowds and queues for major attractions, better-value flights and other travel, and a more authentic experience of the destination. We’ve put our heads together to share a few of our favourite places that can be just as good or even better outside of high season.
Lisbon is a city bursting with charm, history, and creativity, making it an excellent destination for families seeking an unforgettable city break. From cobbled streets and panoramic views to sunny parks and cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone in Portugal’s lively capital. And when it comes to picking the perfect base for your family adventure, ME Lisbon is a luxury lifestyle hotel that blends sophisticated comfort with family-friendly facilities. A stay at ME Lisbon ensures that every family member, from toddlers to grandparents, enjoys a warm and welcoming stay.
