We have just returned from beautiful Malta where we spent a wonderful 4-day mini-vacation. Although we were a little weary about the accommodation, we are happy we chose an apartment instead of a hotel, as it proved much more efficient and budget friendly. George's apartment turned out to be the perfect place! Even though it's quite small, it can easily fit 2 to 4 persons; it is well equipped with everything you might need to make your vacation go smoothly (we even had a washing machine, a hair drier and iron! ). And, in all honesty, it looks much better than in the pictures!
The best thing about it, however, is that it is off the beaten tourist path, which gives you a feeling of real Malta. It was great walking on the promenade, having dinner at restaurants by the bay (all within a 5 minute walk from the apartment) and mingle with the locals in a laid back relaxing atmosphere. Quite the opposite of jostling and bustling Sliema or St. Julian... Also, the apartment is a 3 minute walk to the 124 bus station (taking you to Birgu / Vittoriosa) and a 5 minute walk to/from the Marsaskala Bus Terminal where you have buses for several destinations, including Valletta (bus 91, 92, 93). It takes you about 30 - 35 minutes to get to Valletta, a little longer than we hoped, but manageable. It is also close to several mini-markets.
Nevertheless, the "piece de resistence" remains the two front and back terraces. The one by the living room offers unobstructed views of the Marsaskala Bay and the open sea in the distance (I so enjoyed having my cup of coffee here watching the sun rise early in the morning!), whereas the one in the front opens to the country side which is picturesque in its own unique way. So, we sort of had 2-in-1! :)
As for George, he was a great host! He came and picked us up from the airport and also gave us a ride back on departure (all free of charge, unlike some hotels we had checked...) He had the apartment ready and even supplied it with juice, water and coffee to last for the first day and provided a whole bunch of booklets and leaflets with maps, tips and info about Malta. Thank you, George, for everything!
All in all, we had a great stay in Marsaskala. If we make it to Malta again, we hope George's apartment is available, as this will be our first choice!
Raluca & Cristian Dranca
October 2013