Malta Archives

November 10, 2023November 21, 2023

2024…Worlds Best Luxury Cruise Lines

Luxury cruise lines are plentiful, and all offer varying degrees of pampering, experiences and exotic voyages to the most unique and glorious destinations. Here are our picks for the brands, one new ( RITZ CARLTON) small and big, but mostly for being consistent across all areas including price, value, food, on board / off board activities and delivering on an unforgettable LUXURY experience.

RITZ CARLTON YACHT – The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers an unprecedented opportunity to be untethered. Here, freedom and flexibility allow immersion in life’s exceptional experiences; exploration of earth’s exquisite and unexpected hideaways; and stirring of passions and curiosities that create new and deepened connections. All of this delivered in an intimate setting with a heightened level of care and attention

Viking Ocean Cruises, With 250 awards to its name, “Luxury” should be its middle name. Currently operating a fleet of state-of-the-art ships that have received numerous accolades, including the second year in a row, Viking was voted the #1 River Line and Ocean Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2023 Readers’ Choice .

Azamara, It’s been said that guests sail with Azamara for the destinations, but come back for the staff and crew. Luxury comes in small packages, And we couldn’t agree more. Whether you’re greeted with a cool towel, a warm smile, or a glass of sparkling wine after a rewarding day spent onshore, their staff and crew are always ready and waiting to welcome you home.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises® consistently delivers unmatched luxury cruises with the very best value for over thirty years. Unrivaled onboard space. Unforgettable shoreside excursions. Incomparable culinary experiences. Exceptional personalized service. Every lavish amenity is included when cruising aboard The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™

Silversea Cruises, small luxury ships, There is something uniquely satisfying about a smaller ship. The intimacy. The friendly camaraderie. The excitement of exploring secluded harbours where others cannot go . The intimate, ultra-luxury ships can sail up narrow waterways into the heart of a city, or tie up right at the pier while others must anchor off shore. And for those who yearn to explore the new and unknown, Silversea’s 4 expedition ships can transport you to the furthermost boundaries of the planet. Travel is the elixir of life at Silversea and every cruise is a voyage of discovery.

Oceania Cruises, their unique itineraries are specifically designed to showcase the most fascinating destinations across the globe. As Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Sirena, Marina, Riviera and Vista are all small and luxurious, each ship can call on the world’s most desirable ports, from historic cities to modern meccas to charming seaside villages nestled along sparkling coastlines.

Seabourn, Cruising on a Seabourn ship is unlike any other form of travel. The experience is luxurious, yet relaxed — elegant, yet casual — sumptuous, yet understated. Our intimate ships visit the most desirable destinations worldwide, sailing to the heart of landmark cities, as well as to hidden gems where larger vessels cannot follow.

October 21, 2023November 28, 2023

The Best Ports for Shopping in the Mediterranean

When you’re exploring new places on a trip, it’s the perfect time to shop till you drop! You’ll be happy to know that destinations in the Mediterranean are full of shopping opportunities. When you take a Mediterranian cruise, you’ll want to check out the best ports for shopping. Here are our favorite Mediterranean ports to get your shopping fix:

Barcelona

When cruising to Barcelona, exploring the port is a must. Begin your journey by having some tapas and sangria, but also be sure to check out the shops! A good place to head for the best shops is La Rambla boulevard. This area is a busy, exciting portion of the city and it’s not far from the cruise port. You’ll be happy to head back with some great souvenirs, and unique boutique finds.

Capri

If you’re cruising on a smaller ship, Capri may be part of your itinerary. You’ll find boutique stores as well as larger, designer brand stores here. If you’re looking to make big purchases and love expensive, designer goods, head to the street known as Via Vittorio Emanuele III street. If you prefer unique items and smaller shops, head to Via le Botteghe street.

Seville

Seville is the perfect place to stop while on your Mediterranean cruise. You’ll be happy to know that it’s full of shopping opportunities. A favorite area to spend time and shop is Barrio Santa Cruz. The oldest part of the city, it has charming views and is full of character. Explore the narrow streets and make your way from shop to shop. Sierpes and Tetuan are also excellent streets to explore if you enjoy shopping.

Malta

Another must-see destination as you make your way throughout the Mediterranean is Malta. This incredible island is gorgeous and full of things to do. As you begin your shopping adventure, head to Republic Street, which is the central shopping hub. Merchants Street is another fun place to stop. The Merchants Street Market is a good place to wander for fashion items. While here, be sure to visit C. Camilleri & Sons, which is the place to go while in Malta for sweets.

And there you have it—these are some of the best ports for shopping in the Mediterranean. Be sure to leave a little extra room in your bag when packing for your cruise so that you can bring home some local delights from your travels.

February 9, 2018

Ponant Announces New Art, Culinary, Culture, History Theme Cruises as Part of “Quintessential Collection”

PONANT, a leader in luxury polar expeditions and the only cruise line carrying the French flag, has announced the “Quintessential Collection,” a series of themed cruises designed to inspire travelers in destinations. Launching May 2019, the sailings include speakers and performances aboard the ship, and excursions ashore that embrace the local culture and theme.

Among the offerings are:

Green and Gentle Lands: Exploring Gardens and Historic Sites, May 14-22, 2019: Guest speaker, Holly Shimizu, retired Executive Director of the United States Botanic Garden and internationally recognized horticulturist for more than four decades will lead discussions onboard while sailing to the British Isles, Belgium, and Norway. Guests will enjoy special access at Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to more than 40,000 plants; Chelsea Physic Garden, London’s oldest botanical garden founded in 1621; and the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, for a gala luncheon hosted by the grounds’ director.

Sicilian Food and Wine Experience (pictured above), June 28-July 6, 2019: Embark on a circumnavigation of Sicily joined by guest lecturer, Mary Taylor Simeti, travel and food writer for The New York Times and the Financial Times, who has lived in the region for more than five decades. Meander through the outdoor markets and enjoy the street food of Palmero, famous for its specialties including focaccia; and see ancient Greek Temples from 3600-2500 BC. Guests will enjoy dishes paired with wines carefully chosen by Wine Spectator – all under the guidance of local wine ambassador and educator, Marco Scapagnini.

Treasures of the Mediterranean World: A Family Learning Adventure, July 15-22, 2019: While traveling from Rome to Athens, Kathleen M. Lynch, Professor of Classics at the University of Cincinnati and Greek archaeology/mythology expert; and Jason Weiser, host of “Myths & Legends” podcast will lead discussions designed for all generations about the region’s history, literature and culture. Flexible cabins are available to accommodate families, and activities including photo workshops and a mock Olympics competition on the original grounds are also on offer as part of the Young Explorers children’s program.

A Musical Odyssey in the Mediterranean, September 18-27, 2019: Explore Greece’s landmark sites along the Aegean, Ionian, and Tyrrhenian Seas. Visit Delphi, an archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage Site; and see the third-century Ancient Theater in Taormina aboard the new Le Bougainville. Michael Parloff, former principal flutist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra for more than 30 years will lead a series of private recitals from world-class musicians, including flutist Jasmine Choi, cellist Nicholas Canellakis, and pianist and composer, Michael Brown.

World War II History – From Hong Kong to Japan’s Inland Sea, September 27-October 10, 2019: Follow in the footsteps of American General Douglas MacArthur, who sailed from China to Japan to accept the Japanese surrender at the conclusion of the war. Walk along Okinawa’s beaches; hike the snow-capped Mount Fuji; and see the “floating” torii gate as part of the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima. James Bradley, expert World War II historian and son of John Bradley, who raised the flag on Iwo Jima, will lead discussions onboard.

World Affairs Cruise – Origins of Greek Civilizations, October 9-18. 2019: Travel into the heart of the ancient Greek world with ports of call in Athens, to roam the ruins of the Acropolis and Parthenon; and Crete, home to the earliest recorded civilization in Europe. The voyage will be accompanied by Fareed Zakaria, CNN host and Washington Post columnist; Michael V. Hayden, retired US Air Force general and former Director of the CIA; and Daniel Mendelsohn, internationally best-selling author and columnist for Harper’s.

PONANT, www.ponant.com

January 9, 2018March 28, 2019

Cruise to Malta in 2018, Experience Valletta, European Capital of Culture

The Valletta 2018 Cultural Program kicks off on the 20th of January 2018: a collection of over 140 projects and 400 events taking place throughout the European Capital of Culture year. Valletta 2018 has invested strongly in a program that sees the involvement of around 1000 local and international artists, curators, artist collectives, performers, workshop leaders, writers, designers, choirs and film-makers. While a number of international artists are collaborating with locals throughout the 2018 program, Maltese artists are travelling to twin European Capital of Culture Leeuwarden in the Netherlands as well as other cities in Cyprus, Japan, Poland and Greece.

The 2018 program is based on a direct investment of €10 million in the cultural sector. At the center of the 2018 program are several infrastructure projects designed to evolve and expand well beyond 2018. Among these are MUŻA, the Valletta Design Cluster, Is-Suq tal-Belt and Strait Street.

Malta’s majestic Grand Harbour is one of the most spectacular ports in the world. A wide stretch of water separating the capital city of Valletta from the historic towns of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, the harbour has been a hive of activity for over two thousand years. With its imposing fortifications and vast panorama, Grand Harbour is Malta’s principal maritime gateway and a popular port-of-call for ships that are cruising the Med. The Grand Harbour makes for one of the most dramatic port calls in Europe.

There are several excellent cruise lines that feature itineraries to Malta including:

Azamara Club Cruises with a 10 Night Classic Grand Prix & Med Voyage departing May 5, 2018 from $3,399 and 10 Night Islands of the Western Med departing June 6, 2018 from $4,099.

Celebrity Cruises is offering several sailings to Malta including a 10 night Italy & Greek Islands Cruise from $2,349 ppdo with departures April 27, September 21, and October 12, 2018.

Crystal Cruises offers a 7 Day Ionian Impressions sailing May 4, 2018 from $2,570.

Seabourn offers a 21 day Mediterranean Magic & Malta sailing July 28, 2018 from $9,499 ppdo.

Tauck is offering four 11 day Treasures of the Mediterranean Southbound sailings from $7,690 on June 5, August 7, September 4, and October 2, 2018.

Malta Tourism Authority, www.visitmalta.com