The Suite Life April_globetrotting Aug-07.R5-1/REV 2/20/20 3:43 PM Page 22
thesuitelife INTERCONTINENTAL MALTA
Club InterContinental Lounge ith UNESCO World Heritage Sites, temples older than Egypt’s ancient pyramids, and a fascinating multi-cultural history, Malta may just be one of the most appealing locations for people who appreciate art, history, natural wonders, and international cuisine. Add to this the fact the Malta legalized samesex marriage in 2017, and you can imagine how excited my husband and I we were to visit this fascinating island nation. The InterContinental Malta (St. George’s Bay, St. Julian’s. Tel: +356-21-377-600. www.malta.intercontinental.com), located in St. Julian’s, just five miles from the capital city of Valletta, became our home away from home for several days. The hotel, and the location, was ideal for us. With a shopping mall right down the street, numerous restaurants, an onsite casino, and the gay club and lounge
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Michelangelo right around the corner, we had the best vantage point for enjoying all the pleasures and attractions of Malta. As frequent travelers, we know the importance of having accommodations that enable us to both work and relax. We booked a Highline Suite with a huge outdoor terrace and views of the Mediterranean Sea. The space felt more like an apartment than a hotel room, and we had to pinch ourselves to make sure we weren’t dreaming. As part of our stay, we had access to the Club InterContinental Lounge that includes private check-in, a dedicated reception desk, a sumptuous breakfast, all day refreshments, afternoon tea, and predinner drinks and hors d oeuvres. Guests staying in the suites also have private access to the stunning rooftop pool, bar, and restaurant. Obviously, we were in no hurry to leave the hotel. As this was our first time in Malta, we
wanted to experience as much as possible while we were there. Visit Malta (www.visitmalta.com) had arranged for a guide, Vince Debono (Email: vincedebonoguide@gmail. com) to show us some of the major highlights of the Maltese islands and its rich cultural heritage. Vince was born and raised in Malta, so his knowledge and experience gave us a special insight into present day life and an appreciation for the history, architecture, and art for which this country is well-known. With so much to see and do in Malta, we highly recommend hiring a guide to take you to all the places on your must see list. This will save you an enormous amount of time, and it is a wonderful opportunity to experience the islands through the eyes of someone who knows first-hand all the wonderful attractions, hidden gems, and unique culinary offerings. For LGBTQ visitors, Allied Rainbow Communities (www.gaymalta.com), the organizers
Photos: InterContinental Malta
by Robert Adams