April &
Easter Tradition
In Malta
Traveling to Malta during Easter is akin to traveling back in time to the year 30AD. With deeply religious Roman Catholic roots, this period is viewed with great solemnity by the Maltese due to the passion, death and resurrection of Christ. The religious importance of Holy Week is demonstrated by the sheer amount of processions and bible story re-enactments that take place in the open air, in towns and villages all over the island, which are set in the most picture-perfect locations. Be sure to immerse yourself into this traditional experience by joining the throngs for some incredible picture snapping opportunities.
This is also an especially great time to visit if you’re a foodie, as you can seek out Easter delights which only make an appearance annually for this occasion. Graze on Easter street food such as anchovy ‘sfinech’ fritters, sample a Kwareżimal – a soft, chewy, almond and orange blossom Lenten treat, and make sure to get your hands on everyone’s favorite; Figolli – a large, double layered biscuit that’s filled with a pure almond paste, stamped-out in springtime animal shapes such as a lamb or rabbit, then coated in fancy coloured icing.
What's on
Good Friday Religious Processions
Although the eagerly awaited Good Friday street processions are somber in sentiment, there is a clear contrast: the islanders simply don’t do half measures where there’s a pagent to be held and an opportunity to dress up. Watch King Herod traverse through a village piazza in his royal robes, while Pontius Pilate paves the way in a gleaming golden chariot, as his Roman entourage strut behind him on horseback.
The Seven Churches visitation on Maundy Thursday is a pious Lenten tradition which should be an easy task too, considering there are 365 churches on an islands that’s 95 square miles.
Hotel of the Month
Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux
Set within the fortified bastion walls of Mdina – Malta’s first capital city spanning from antiquity through to the Middle Ages, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more impressive place to rest your head while vacationing in Malta.
The 5 Star Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux is finer than fine, with each of its lofty 17 suites and rooms individually graced with an array of highly desirable pieces of art and antique furniture. It is the one and only hotel within The Silent City of Mdina and as it’s a revived 17th century palace, it doesn’t take much imagination to conjure up a glimpse of how Maltese nobility lived in the Medieval period.
With nobility in mind, saunter up in your glad rags to the panoramic terrace for a tipple, then dine at their Michelin Star in-house restaurant, Malta’s most refined: De Mondion.
Location of the Month
Casa Rocca Piccola
Casa Rocca Piccola is not just a museum; it’s the most intimate, living-museum on the island. It is a 16th century Palazzo in the capital city of Valletta, belonging to the 9th Marquis De Piro and his family – which is their much loved home.
The marquis has thrown open the doors of his stately dwelling and offers visitors a guided walk through the various rooms, where he presents the family heirlooms and an outstanding variety of collections in a sumptuous but approachable manner, which is an essential part of the charm. Be prepared for an intriguing subterranean surprise as part of the tour.
Restaurant of the Month
Tartarun
A stones throw away from Malta’s largest and most famous fresh fish market, you’ll find a rustic, wood-clad decor restaurant, offset from the chaos outside. One foot through the door and the epic 80’s style bar simply screams ‘aperitivo’.
Once you’ve sufficiently wet your whistle and proceed to the dining room to whet your appetite, you’ll be utterly torn between the delectable fish offerings of the day, each once beautifully presented and expertly prepared by the team of passionate chefs. If you love seafood you’re highly likely to return to Tartarun restaurant.
VIP Packages
- Concierge Assistance
- Executive Airport Services and Transfers
- 3 Nights Accommodation at Marriott Malta
- 2 Full Days of Private Touring
- Chauffeur Driven Luxury Vehicles
- Professional and Licensed Guides
