I learned from the first time visiting the Valletta area in Malta, that for the days set aside for horizontally relaxing in the sun, I would need a hotel with a decent pool area. Otherwise I would have to stretch out on the cliffs by the sea. A rock-hard experience, which I found far from tempting. After a lot of searching, I settled on Plaza Regency Hotel in Sliema. There are not many reasonably priced hotels with a pool, backpacker hostels excluded (just wasn’t in the mood). This place is on the opposite side of the part of Sliema facing Valletta, so out of the most busy zone. There are however a few restaurants and cafes right on the doorstep, but honestly, nothing extraordinary looking. Balluta Bay (St. Julian’s) is just around the corner, but didn’t look like much either. I’d vote for having dinner before getting back. Same goes for groceries. A kiosk and small grocery store only in close proximity. Bus stop is more or less right outside, and with short distances between the different villages, you can easily reach other options. Best thing about the location is that it is on the Tower Road promenade. Bustling during the day, nice and quiet in the evening. Best about the hotel is the roof-top pool area. Divided in two parts, with a bridge connecting the buildings. Pool with sun beds. Sun deck with bar. And great views! What else? Breakfast is average, room good, service level of staff varies.
There are several public bus lines that go to the airport. I arrived late and departed early, so taxi was the most convenient. Used the hotel airport transfer when leaving, and it turned out to be Bolt…
PS! First time I visited Malta, I stayed at an uber-budget hotel. Had a great pool area still. You can read a short note on it at the end of the post.
More on Sliema and Malta Island.
Website: plazahotelsmalta.com/#plaza-regency
The Windsor (windsorhotelmalta.com)
I really didn’t expect this hotel to still be in business, after so many years. From the photos on their website, it looks to be renovated, but from the reviews on Tripadvisor, it still sounds very basic. The pool area was nice, so I was seriously considering staying there again, but decided to fork up a bit more money, and get a much nicer room. I liked the location though. On a quiet back street, just behind Tower Road and the promenade. However, nothing else around 🙂
