MALTA SPAS
by Deborah Ratcliff
Malta and her sibling Gozo are islands in the Mediterranean Sea roughly 80 miles from the Sicilian coast. For centuries invaders - Romans, Arabs, French and British, for instance - have coloured her culture and heritage leaving their indelible mark on this tiny island nation.
On parched land, ancient stones stand silent, guarding the secrets of a history dating back over 7,000 years. Wonderful Renaissance cathedrals and stunning Baroque palaces vie with the majesty of the Bastions surrounding Valletta and the Three Cities built by the Knights of St. John, to keep out the Arab invaders. Small fishing harbours, soaring cliffs, fields ablaze with poppies after the winter rains (though scorched in the heat of summer) make Malta a truly delightful destination.
On the spa scene - there are number of resort and hotel facilities and as Medical Tourism become an increasingly important part of the Maltese tourism economy, some hotels now offer surgery and wellness/holistic recovery packages. Here's a look at four resort spas.
The Spa at Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, Gozo, Malta
The Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz lies on the magical island of Gozo – a short ferry ride or seaplane flight away from the main island of Malta. Designed in the style of a traditional Maltese Hunting Lodge the hotel is quietly elegant with the mellow tones of the sandstone adding a touch of rusticity. Nestling in delightful grounds the resort exudes the magic of the Mediterranean. The Kempinski has both a Marine Care and an authentic Ayurvedic center. Try a luxurious Ligne St. Barth treatment, indulge in Vichy treatments or relax in the Ayurvedic centre. The highly trained team, led by a fully qualified doctor from Kerala in Southern India, can unwind the most stressed of bodies using the 5000 year-old science of Ayurveda. Try rejuvenation therapy, massage, panchakarma, or a weight-loss program. Facilities include a heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, hydrotherapy pool and two steam baths.
Hotel guest rooms are spacious and stylishly appointed and each has lovely valley, garden or pools views from a balcony or terrace. The hotel has a relaxed atmosphere, spacious public terraces and dining options where care is taken to prepare foods with fresh local produce.
For more info
Riviera Resort & Spa, Marfa Bay, Malta
Nestling on the shores overlooking the islands of Comino and Gozo, the Riviera Resort & Spa houses a relaxed and informal spa called Elysium. Thalasso and ayurvedic treatments are included on the spa menu. There’s a superb ‘romantic’ indoor swimming pool and hydrotherapy pool with Jacuzzi.
The bedrooms are uncomplicated in keeping with the informal air in the hotel, some with superb views of the islands of Gozo and Comino. Dining reflects the Mediterranean with fresh local fish heavily featured on the menu. The hotel has its own small beach and outside terrace pool with bars. Excursions can be arranged to visit the magic of Malta!
For more info
Dolmen Resort Hotel, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay, Malta
Small, intimate and inviting, the Myo Ka Spa at the Dolmen is a haven for relaxation offering guests over 60 different treatments. The delightful indoor pool and Jacuzzi are perfect for escaping from the fierce midday heat.
Nestled around the inspiring Neolithic Dolmen Temple, a reminder of Malta’s ancient past, the resort offers guests five swimming pools plus direct sea access from its private beach, a casino, night club, bars, water sports, a choice of restaurants. The resort is active and there always seems to be a buzz in the air with guests learning to dive, play tennis or working out in the gym.
For more info
Le Meridien Hotel & Spa, St. Julians, Malta
Situated in the grounds of a beautiful 19th century Maltese Villa overlooking the picturesque Balluta Bay, the stylish hotel is perfectly positioned for guests to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the vibrant nightlife of St. Julians, and close to the shops in Silema.
Lotus Spa Myo Ka brings hints of the mysterious East to Malta. Balinese carvings, exotic teak furniture and flickering candle light create a relaxing and soothing atmosphere. The magnificent indoor swimming pool flanked by massive white pillars is the ideal place to do ‘Watsu’ an anti stress physio-orientated water therapy. The Myo Ka back massage or a Lotus herb body scrub using traditional Asian ingredients of tamarind, honey, yogurt and oatmeal to restore natures balance are two of the signature treatments. Amenities includes a gym, Jacuzzi and a sauna.
For more info
For vacation planning:
www.visitmalta.com
www.airmalta.com
Fast Facts on Malta:
• Maltese is the official language but English is also almost universally used – you often will hear a conversation frequently changing from Maltese to English .
• Malta joined the Eurozone in January 2008.
• Winters are mild and summers can get up to the late 30s.
• Food is international – Mexican/Thai/Japanese etc. Local food has a decided Mediterranean air with wonderful fresh fish. The local specialty is rabbit – Feneck – try it in an aromatic red wine casserole.
• Local water is safe to drink but tastes of chemicals as the majority of the water comes from a desalination plant.
• Driving is on the left. Car hire is quick and simple to arrange. Care must be taken when driving as many roads are not of the highest standard and drivers are erratic.
• Buy Maltese lace, hand blown glass and local wine.
• Take a guided tour around the Islands to see its incredible history.
• Electricity is 240 volts. 3 pin rectangular plug system is used. 2 pin sockets available in the rooms.
