The Phoenicia Malta

We first stayed at the Phoenicia before the refurbishment, nine years ago. Even then we were 'blown away' with the exceptional service levels, and we promised to return some day. This year we stayed over the easter period, meeting other members of my family who had travelled over from Ireland. From check in to check out, the service was fantastic, with every staff member we encountered checking whether we were enjoying ourselves. The pool area has been completely transferred. The garden areas are immaculate, and the heated pool was fantastic for a dip, even though the weather was mixed. The rooms are tastefully furnished and the beds are super comfortable. We stayed in a balcony room at the front side corner of the hotel overlooking Valleta and the fountain. It was lovely sitting having a cup of tea in the mornings and watching the city comning to life! We only ate breakfast at the hotel. Again the service levels were of a very high standard, not too intrusive but just right ! One of the staff members even produced a soft toy for my nephew, on our third day. The breakfast spread - cold and hot options , all high quality products. We had a few drinks in the bar area- total relaxation! Valetta is a beautiful city which has been transformed. There are so many amazing places to eat. We will return to the Phoenicia, just hoping in less than 8 years time

This hotel is very comfortable, has excellent staff and many good amenities. The things I likes were - the excellent selection at breakfast and being able to sit outside on the restaurant's veranda, the comfortable room, cleanliness, towel change, free mini bar with fruit juice, beer, coca cola and water, fruit in the room, chocolates brought each day, the fabulous pool and its views, the location, the very helpful and polite staff. On the downside were - the lift which was very small and had a mind of ts own, often going past your floor even though you have called for it; the very narrow selection of menu items in the main restaurant for dinner and the fact that none of these would suit those who like established and normal menus - there was much better choice in town so we did not eat at the restaurant even though we wanted to. There would have been five stars otherwise.

We decided to take a 10 hour tour of Malta, visiting the sites of Mdina and Gozo. The Phoenicia hotel recommended their best guide, Joseph. And what a guide he was! Friendly, knowledgeable, articulate and perfect English speaker. The day went so quickly - we ate at the best fish restaurant in Gozo, swam in Ramla bay and consumed the best ice cream at Xlendi Bay. If you are ever in Malta, contact the amazing Joseph on +356 9956 8415 - you will love him!