The Mediterranean islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino certainly pack a mighty punch and will close the final few months of 2018 with an array of festivities to celebrate Valletta being the European Capital of Culture 2018. As the archipelago's exciting year draws to a close, it will go out with a bang with a selection of new flight routes announced for 2019, cultural openings and the hottest hotel news.

NEWS FROM MALTA

Discover the European Capital of Culture 2018 with the new Valletta Trail

The Malta Tourism Authority's latest addition to the series of themed trails showcases the culture and history of the island's capital, widely regarded as one of the world's most concentrated historic areas. Valletta has an abundance of elegant 16th century architecture, museums, restored fortresses and an opera house. Heralded as the European Capital of Culture 2018, there's never been a better time for travellers to explore the ancient streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and discover why Valletta is one of the hottest European city break destinations this year. https://www.maltauk.com/valletta-trail/

New Film Trail is the latest within Malta's map series

The Malta Tourism Authority has launched a Film Trail for tourists to use as a location guide for some of the biggest films shot in the archipelago. Famous for its beautiful coastline, fascinating history and wealth of culture, Malta has long been a favourite location for Hollywood blockbusters and independent films alike. The Mediterranean islands have welcomed hundreds of productions and remain a perennial favourite with film producers, for whom the turquoise lagoons, concealed coves, historic temples and unscathed cliffs make it an ideal filming location. Malta has welcomed big budget blockbusters including Gladiator, Troy, World War Z, The Da Vinci Code and The Spy Who Loved Me as well as the popular Game of Thrones series. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, there's never a bad time to shoot a film in Malta – or to explore the reasons why it's a Hollywood favourite. https://www.maltauk.com/film-trail/

Jet2 extends summer season flight routes due to popular demand

Due to popular demand, Jet2 has announced it is extending the summer season flight timetables from Birmingham, Leeds-Bradford and Manchester, continuing to fly to Malta until mid-November 2018. The airline has confirmed that the same routes will start again in mid-February 2019, with Glasgow Prestwick being added at the beginning of March 2019 to provide a wider variety of options for travellers living in Scotland.

Malta Tourism Authority named 'Best LGBT Destination'

The Maltese Archipelago was awarded 'Best LGBT Destination' at this year's Leading Culture Destinations Awards, which recognises achievements by organisations and cities that have effectively engaged in culture and tourism. The award follows on from Malta retaining for a third consecutive year the top spot on the European Rainbow Index, cementing the island's as one of the most desirable LGBTQ+ holiday destinations.

'Tis the season to be merry, at Corinthia Hotels

This December, Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa and Corinthia Hotel St George's Bay will be transformed into winter wonderlands. Guests can experience the best of the festive spirit with mulled wine, warming and nourishing spa treatments and late check-outs. A range of festive spa packages, Christmas afternoon teas, Christmas carols and cocktail demonstrations are part of a full festive entertainment programme at both hotels through December 2018 and into early January 2019.

Free 'Georgie Kids Club' at Corinthia Hotel St. George's Bay, Malta

The Corinthia Hotel St. George's Bay is offering a free 'Georgie Kids Club' to guests for the forthcoming school holidays, between 20th October – 4th November 2018 and from 22nd December 2018 – 6th January 2019. The kids' club (available for children aged 3-12 years) is open daily and offers a range of activities including crafts, treasure hunts and games. The hotel offers dedicated children's menus and access to watersports, a volleyball court and kids' pool.

NEW FOR 2019

Ryanair announces two new summer routes to Malta

Starting from April 2019, Malta will soon be connected by Ryanair to two new airports in the UK; Cardiff and Exeter. These additional routes are also complemented with a new partnership between Air Malta and Ryanair, which allows Ryanair passengers to book Air Malta flights on www.ryanair.com.

Malta set to become the first plastic-free ocean country in 2019

Recognised by White Flag International, Malta is set to become the world's leading environmental ocean tourism destination by March 2019. The White Flag certification confirms that the beach and surrounding area is free from plastic and non-degradable waste. The work towards the certification is already in process and so far, more than five beaches have been cleared by White Flag International divers and inspectors. The entire project is set for completion on March 12th 2019 after more than 12 months of operations along the coastline with the aim of protecting Malta's marine wildlife and impressive bird population.

DATES FOR THE DIARY

Festivals and Events

OCTOBER

Heritage Malta – 3rd – 4th October 2018

Heritage Malta will bring to life the history of Maltese cuisine at an exclusive dinner at the Malta Maritime Museum in Birgu. Inspired by a watercolour painting by Charles Frederick de Brocktorff, depicting the oldest known image of pasta being eaten in Valletta, Heritage Malta retraced the flavours of three historic pasta dishes to serve at the special dinner for guest to re-live the Brocktorff's painting. The interactive event will commence from 19.30pm on 3rd and 4th October, with historians providing further insight and narrative into the history of Malta cuisine.

Notte Bianca – 5th – 8th October 2018

Visitors can experience Valletta's culture come alive for this immersive festival that takes place over just one evening. With over 90 events including live music, dance, theatre, visual arts, literary events, and digital arts; all art forms are celebrated at Notte Bianca. Many cafes and restaurants throughout Valletta extend their hours to accommodate the festival-goers as the entire city is lit up in a spectacular celebration that is open to the public and free of charge. This year is set to be better than ever in celebration of Valletta's status as the 2018 European Capital of Culture. 

Birgufest – 12th – 14th October 2018

For one weekend in October the ancient streets of Birgu are lined with candles for Birgufest; transforming the picturesque city into a sparkling celebration. The festival celebrates the history and architectural beauty of Birgu and will include live local music, Maltese delicacies, and a host of entertainment. When the sun sets, all evidence of modernity fades away as street lights are turned off, candles are lit, and historical re-enactments are performed throughout the city.

NOVEMBER

Three Palaces Festival - 2nd – 11th November 2018

The Three Palaces Festival is an annual week-long music and arts festival, featuring performances set in historically important and magnificent buildings. The 6th edition of the festival, held at The National Museum of Archaeology and Malta Maritime Museum, will once again see the participation of artists of exceptional talent from around the world. The philosophy of the festival is that everyone should have the right access to heritage sites and art, as well as the right to participate in the expression of music.

ZiguZaig Arts Festival for Children and Young People - 9th – 18th November 2018

Youngsters take centre stage at the dynamic and accessible ZiguZajg Arts Festival, boasting more than 150 performances and workshops by critically acclaimed companies. Attracting over 13,000 visitors every year, the 2018 edition will be extra special with additional events taking place throughout Malta and Gozo in celebration of the island's European Capital of Culture 2018 status.

City of Humanity – 14th – 15th November 2018

City of Humanity is a brand-new opera cycle of three interrelated performances, with the first to be premiered on 14th November 2018. The artistic concept will widen the local opera audience through the integration of local artists, through the use of Maltese language and the intertwining of Maltese history throughout the operatic storyline.

DECEMBER

Valletta 2018 Closing Spectacle - 15th December

Valletta 2018's Closing Spectacle is set to take place in St. Georges Square and will focus on community life and culture whilst celebrating the year-long programme of incredible events, initiatives and activities held in honour of the Capital's title of 2018 European Capital of Culture. Guests can expect a spectacular line-up of live shows, music and a few unexpected touches too.

ENDS

For more information or images please contact Amy Skelding, Lauren Williams, Emily Olsen or Jessica Connan at malta@finnpartners.com or 020 7326 9880.

Notes to Editors

About Malta

Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean. Comprising three main islands – Malta, Comino and Gozo – Malta is known for its history, culture and temples dating back over 7,000 years. In addition to its fortresses, megalithic temples and burial chambers, Malta is blessed with nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine every year. Capital city Valletta has been named European Capital of Culture 2018, which will see a huge programme of cultural events rolled out. Malta is part of the EU and 100% English speaking. The archipelago is famous for its diving, which attracts aficionados from around the world, whilst the nightlife and music festival scene attract a younger demographic of traveller. Malta is a short three and a quarter hour flight from the UK, with daily departures from all major airports across the country. www.maltauk.com