Malta tailor made holiday

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

This Malta itinerary prioritizes carbon reduction in multiple areas. Internal transport during the trip is primarily by shared local coach and ferry, lowering the per-person carbon footprint compared to private cars or taxis. The day trip to Gozo utilizes the public Gozo Ferry, an efficient alternative to flying between islands, and coaches are used for group excursions throughout the itinerary. Human-powered activities, such as walking tours in Mdina, Valletta, and the Three Cities, form a key part of the experience on at least four different days. Customers are encouraged to enjoy vegetarian meals, and plant-based dining options are commonly available in Maltese restaurants. Many local hotels now use energy-efficient lighting and implement policies to reduce single-use plastics and water usage. We advise travelers to choose direct flights and to pack light, further reducing carbon emissions. Local food is featured throughout, especially during the wine estate visit, promoting low-mileage and seasonal ingredients in meals.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

Throughout this journey, travelers visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites and natural landmarks that rely on entrance fees and tourism for their conservation—including Valletta’s Old City, the Ggantija Temples on Gozo, Hagar Qim temples, and the Ghar Dalam Caves. The itinerary includes destinations such as the Dingli Cliffs, Xlendi Bay, and the Blue Grotto, protected natural environments benefiting from visitor awareness and sustainable tourism practices. Many accommodations and venues participating in the program regularly update their policies to minimize plastic waste, reduce water consumption, and enhance recycling. San Anton Botanical Gardens and certain rural accommodation partners actively support local biodiversity by maintaining green spaces and planting pollinator-friendly plants. Expert local guides, knowledgeable in Malta’s natural heritage, share insight about endemic species and conservation issues. Travelers are also provided with guidelines on minimizing disturbance to wildlife and respecting marine environments—especially important on optional boat trips and at coastal sites.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

The trip strongly supports the local economy by engaging locally owned accommodations and using local Maltese guides throughout the tours. Over 85% of the hotels and guesthouses in the program are managed by Maltese families or local partnerships, with rural home stays providing immersive village experiences. The itinerary features a visit to a local wine estate at Ta’ Qali, encouraging direct spending within the community, and provides opportunities to explore local craft markets—particularly in Marsaxlokk and during the Gozo day excursion. Meals not included in the itinerary allow travelers to support small independent eateries and village restaurants, further spreading economic benefits among a wider network of local businesses.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

Our Maltese operating partners employ more than 90% local staff, including guides, drivers, and hospitality workers—many drawn from the communities visited on the trip. Income-generating opportunities are provided for women and underrepresented groups through partnerships with artisanal cooperatives and local female-led accommodation businesses. All staff and affiliates are compensated at or above Malta’s minimum wage, and suppliers are encouraged to follow fair labor practices. We are committed to diversity and inclusivity; all trips are LGBTQ+ friendly, and partners are selected based on non-discriminatory policies. While the trip features walking and some historic sites with limited accessibility, customized arrangements can be made for guests with mobility challenges if notified in advance. Our information materials also highlight respectful engagement with Malta’s diverse island cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding and representation.