With 300 days of sunshine annually, and a very short flight from most airports in Europe, Malta and especially the neighbouring island of Gozo are top on the bucket list of many travellers keen to experience new destinations and to make new memories once again after such a long wait. Strategically nested between Sicily and the North African coast in the heart of the Mediterranean, the Maltese islands, namely Malta, Gozo and Comino, were the hub of choice for many international traders in history, with business interests in Europe and Africa. As a result, this tiny archipelago is a melting pot of culture, architecture and cuisine. Malta and Gozo are home to UNESCO World Heritage Neolithic temples, which are older than the Pyramids, and beautiful fortified cities where time seems to have stopped.
“The Maltese islands are gearing up to reopen and welcome back international tourism,” says Eike Clausen, General Manager Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, Gozo.“It has been a long and turbulent journey, but with well-thought-out mitigation measures, never resulting in full lockdown, and a vaccine rollout that has made Malta the second-most-vaccinated country in the world, the numbers are now very much in control, and the herd immunity is well on its way.”
Architectural jewel, Ayurveda and refined cuisine
Kempinski prides itself on being the only international luxury brand on the island of Gozo. Set amidst 30,000 sq m of semi-tropical gardens, the hotel features 137 elegant, rustic rooms and suites as well as a range of distinctive cuisines reflecting the various influences from all kinds of settling visitors on the island. Menus feature home-grown organic vegetables, herbs and fruit. Its 1,700 sq m spa includes an authentic Ayurveda Centre – one of the largest in the Mediterranean, offering a vast range of traditional Indian therapies – and Kempinski The Spa, including its Hammam, aluxurious hideaway of wellness. A true five‐star haven, this outstanding hotel offers the highest levels of service, comfort and style for travellers seeking privacy and recreation.
“Gozo also offers luxury,” adds Eike Clausen. “Our hotel is an architectural jewel that represents the perfect blend of the natural beauty of the surroundings and the luxury the Kempinski brand stands for: timeless elegance, high quality, cultural empathy and authentic team members. We are looking forward to a stunning summer season in our hidden Mediterranean gem.”
Nature, sea and green oasis
The eco-island of Gozo is only a short and scenic ferry ride from the main island of Malta. Located in the north of the archipelago, this oasis of relaxation is known for its green and rural surroundings and is blessed with a spectacular coastline home to a great variety of endemic flora and fauna to be discovered whilst hiking, rock climbing or cycling. Another unique way to discover the beauty of this island is at sea, while floating away in the crystal-clear waters and basking in the warmth of the Maltese sun. Just as beautiful and intriguing is the Gozitan underwater world. Caves, wrecks and the most amazing seabed make this tiny island one of the top locations for diving enthusiasts.
Incentive of up to EUR 220 by the Maltese Government
There has never been a better time to discover the island of Gozo and make the most of the incentive for free, independent travellers offered by the Maltese Government. International travellers staying for a minimum of three nights may qualify on a first-come, first-served basis to get up to EUR 220 to spend in the resort while on holiday. More information regarding the governmental monetary credit can be found here.
