My Just You Story: Gloria's Malta, Mdinas and Miracles

My Just You Story: Gloria's Malta, Mdinas and Miracles

We met Gloria at the Destinations Travel Show in London in January. The Just You team were thrilled to hear that she loves our festive tours so much she's returned to Malta numerous times! Here's what she had to say about her latest trip…

When I was a nurse in London, I worked every Christmas and New Year. When I retired, I decided that December would be a time just for me - and my family encouraged me to head off on my own festive adventures.

I've now enjoyed seven festive breaks, the first being Christmas and New Year in Thailand in 2010. These days, I prefer stays a little closer to home in Europe.

I love going away for both Christmas and New Year. I've now been to Malta three times with Just You.

Not a bit of it! I love the Maltese culture, meeting wonderful new people, and the island's excellent public transport makes it so easy to make the most of my free time there, especially as the bus stop was right outside the hotel.

On my latest trip, I was captivated all over again by the silent city of Mdina. As a fortified city, it's a truly fascinating place. Though it's over 4,000 years old, it carries an air of mystery and timeless beauty that I find utterly enchanting. With its churches, museums, palaces and viewpoints, wandering its winding streets brought a wonderful sense of anticipation, you never quite know what treasure waits around the next corner.

I had a wonderful time in Valletta too. Being a London lady at heart, I've always loved the energy and vibrancy of a great city. It was a perfect opportunity to admire the stunning architecture and browse for souvenirs, and our local guide shared so many brilliant stories and fascinating facts, his passion for his homeland was truly infectious.

If you’re looking for a light bite to eat here, I thoroughly recommend the Maltese quiche at Caffe Cordina, considered one of the oldest cafés in Europe. Not only is the food fantastic but it has a great spot on Republic Square so you can soak up the atmosphere.

Christmas Day itself was wonderfully relaxing, with free time to stroll along the promenade and explore the shops. Simply sitting and watching the waves roll in was a real tonic, certainly not your average Christmas Day!

The hotel was first class; I've been telling all my friends how superb it was. My room was very comfortable, there were several restaurants to choose from, and the buffet was both varied and excellent quality, and there was even champagne served at breakfast. The staff were outstanding too, and it's often those small thoughtful touches that make all the difference, especially at this special time of year.

The entertainment was brilliant as well. On New Year's Eve, during our Gala Dinner, a Scottish band performed Auld Lang Syne and other classics. The hotel had a number of bars and lounges with live entertainment, so after dinner we danced the night away with the biggest smiles!

Our Holiday Director, Brian, was absolutely amazing, kind, professional and so wonderfully organised. I felt completely at ease in his hands. He thought of and took care of everything and even arranged for the hotel to call my room to check I was on my way down to dinner when I was running late.

Before I arrived, the hotel had given everyone hats to wear and the group had picked out a glitzy gold hat for me to wear, because it matched my outfit perfectly. It was such a fun, joyful moment, and just one of many examples of the spirit that makes a Just You tour so special. Everyone genuinely looks out for each other.

The highlight, though, was heading to the top floor of the hotel to watch the fireworks light up Valletta. The vantage point was phenomenal; it felt as though the city was right there in front of us.

The hotel's location overlooking Salina Bay was another real treat and it had direct access to the beach. Being right on the coast meant I could step out for a lovely walk after our celebratory lunches which was the perfect way to round off a wonderful day.

GOOD TO KNOW  

If you've never been to Malta, please do go! Find out for yourself just how magical it is. And if you're thinking about your first festive adventure, my advice would be to think about what you truly want from a holiday. I love history and warm weather, which is why Malta and Northern Cyprus have always felt like such perfect choices for me.

Have a browse through the brochure — something will surely catch your eye, and that's the very best start to any great trip.