There are few places that blend history, sunshine, and Mediterranean charm quite like Malta and thanks to Aer Lingus, Visit Malta, and AX Hotels, I recently had the pleasure of experiencing it all in a whirlwind two-day escape. My first time visiting Malta but definitely not my last.
Joining me on this perfectly curated trip were Mary St John from Best4Travel, Grace Porter from Travel Department, Barbara Clarke from Tully’s Travel, Beate Bedrite from Centre Travel, Dara McBride from Shandon Travel, Derenea Murphy from Stein Travel, Bronagh Glespen from Strand Travel, and John Green from JG Collection, a group as enthusiastic about travel as they were about the island’s irresistible allure.
Our journey began with an Aer Lingus flight from Dublin, which set the tone for the entire trip: smooth, stylish, and effortlessly comfortable. With plenty of legroom and attentive service, I quickly settled in, headphones on and Netflix queued up. Just under four hours later, we touched down in Malta’s golden light, refreshed and ready to explore.
A short 30-minute drive brought us to our home for the trip, the stunning AX Palace Hotel in Sliema. This five-star, modern boutique property embodies sophistication with a distinctly Maltese flair. Sleek marble interiors, chic design details, and warm, attentive staff make every arrival feel special. My room: number 450, was a sanctuary of calm: spacious, elegantly decorated, and opening out onto a gorgeous balcony that offered sweeping views of the city’s terracotta rooftops and the distant shimmer of the Mediterranean.
The Palace’s location is unbeatable, just a five-minute stroll to the Sliema promenade, where you can wander along the seafront all the way to the lively bars and restaurants of St Julian’s. It’s the perfect balance of urban energy and seaside serenity.
After checking in, I couldn’t resist exploring the hotel’s spa and rooftop infinity pool. The spa is a tranquil retreat offering a range of treatments, while the infinity pool, set against a breathtaking cityscape, is the ultimate spot for unwinding. I treated myself to a cocktail from the rooftop bar and watched as the skyline glowed gold under the Maltese sunset, a scene that felt almost cinematic.
After a restful sleep in what has to be the largest bed I have ever slept in, I made my way down to breakfast, which was an incredible buffet of everything you could want. I then finished breakfast with my coffee on the terrace in the sunshine while I waited for my tour bus, excitedly anticipating what the day ahead would bring as I prepared to discover Malta.
Courtesy of Aer Lingus, Visit Malta, and AX Hotels.
