Hays Travel's Libby Gray waxed lyrical on Malta & Gozo in our latest Agent Insight column.
"I fell in love with Malta during my very first agent fam trip 20 years ago. Assuming that it was a destination for the older generation, I was surprised when I arrived to see how much this beautiful island had to offer. Today, whenever I hear the word ‘Malta’ in the branch, my ears instantly prick up, and I feel eager to share my experience and memories with customers and colleagues alike.
"It seems that my passion for Malta is shared among customers in 2024. Compared to previous years, we have seen a notable increase in enquiries as Malta begins to receive more exposure. Many cruise companies are now including the city of Valetta in their itineraries, which is giving many customers a taste for this beautiful destination and a wish to return for a land-based holiday or to recommend it to their friends and family.
"At 27 miles wide, travelling from one resort to another is easy, making Malta’s many activities and features readily accessible. Valetta alone is full of charm and history, but the magic extends across the islands. Sliema is a great resort, where you can take fabulous boat trips.
"For me, though, I’m always drawn to St Julian’s – it’s the perfect base for exploring, with the audio-visual show ‘The Malta Experience’ chronicling a 7,000-year history. If you’re after something less chilled, St Julian’s Paceville party district is the place to try your hand at activities like salsa dancing – something I now realise is not one of my strengths!
"Overall, I’d say the highlight of any Malta trip is the ferry to Gozo – the safe community feel, thanks to its close to negligible crime rate, is so strong that it’s custom to leave your keys in the door! In a nutshell, Malta is certainly returning to the forefront of the holiday market. It’s anticipated that customer interest will continue to grow as cruise lines introduce more customers to the islands, which will also encourage word-of-mouth recommendations. I’m so glad that more customers are set to learn about Malta, and hopefully fall in love with it like I have."
Libby Gray is the branch manager of Hays Travel's Teesside Park branch.
