It would not be a stop in Malta without a trip to Gozo – at least not for me. I have been to Malta and the neighboring Maltese Island of Gozo several times. With each visit, I promised to return to the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz someday.
The Gozo Kempinski folks were happy to accommodate when the opportunity (and airline ticket price) presented itself this past December. I was also thrilled my trip would let me share that Gozo’s Kempinski was taking on a huge renovation ready for its summer guests. So, armed with that information, I went to one of my favorite destinations in the world.
I arrived in Malta’s capital, Valletta, late in the evening and spent my first night at the luxurious Phoenician Malta . My only regret is that I was there for only one short night. Since it was the December holiday season, just outside the hotel was a carnival with local food booths and amusement park rides.
I rode the Ferris wheel to see Malta from a bird’s-eye view. It was charming, just as I remembered. The Phoenician Malta is surrounded by pristine landscaped gardens and is located in the capital of Valletta, near the city’s 16th-century bastions.
The property has welcomed guests for 75 years and is a five-star stop. Think of a warm and welcoming staff, and beautifully designed rooms and suites with original features as well as a modern touch, all with the help of Peter Young. There are also bar and restaurant choices.
I recommend you stop in at the well-appointed Contessa for d.