Sliema holidays

With influences from the many civilizations that have occupied the island over the centuries, your taste buds are in for a treat. Enjoy the perfect blend of Italian and Arabic flavours within Mediterranean cooking. Meat lovers can indulge in authentic rabbit stew which is fried before being bathed in garlic and white wine. As for fresh bait, lampuka is the island’s go-to fish and is often served in a pie – ll Malti is one of the best restaurants in the resort to sample this iconic dish. Although local fare is highly recommended, fussy eaters will be relieved to know there’s a selection of steak houses including Wigi’s Kitchen and the Black Sheep has classic pub grub covered – TripAdvisor users rave about the gourmet burgers and fully loaded fries. Wash it down with a Maltese vintage wine including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc which has won several awards in Italy and France.

The beach in Sliema may be of a rocky nature, but there’s still five kilometres of pebbled shore to play with. Teeming with sunloungers and watersports, the action is non-stop. Families may opt to check out the lidos on Tower Road where several pools offer shallow, calm waters. However, the coastline here is mostly renowned for its ferry rides and diving sites. The most famous boat trip takes you past Valletta’s Grand Harbour entrance. Other popular excursions include Dingli Cliffs and the Blue Lagoon where you can grab your tank and flippers for a deep-sea adventure into its caves. Sunset voyages are also available and party sailings come equipped with a live DJ for added excitement.

You don’t have to venture into the capital for century-old landmarks and a jam-packed activity programme. Sliema itself has its own set of draws including the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, which is one of the oldest religious buildings. Then, there’s the Stella Maris Church which is nestled among its Art Deco streets – history is aplenty. And when you’re not captivated by its relics, its upmarket boutiques and fine dining restaurants are just as enchanting.

Splash & Fun Waterpark: Away from its high-end waterfront there’s a water adventure calling your name. Built with the entire family in mind, relax by several colossal swimming pools, zoom down multi-racers and lounge along the lazy river. Kids can head to Dinosaur Park & Splash Land where shoots and cannons spray fountains of water and there’s a mini collection of slides for tiny swimmers. Teens or adrenaline-junkies can tackle its bigger numbers that spiral out of control and plunge into darkness. When you start feeling peckish, rest assured that there’s a number of snack shacks to cure those hunger pains.

Visit Valletta: With easy access to the city and views directly from the shoreside of your resort, it’s hard to resist a boat trip over to this timeless capital. With a return ticket costing as little as three euros, you can take full advantage of St. John’s Cathedral, Grand Master’s Palace and the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Walk along the walled town with a history dating back to the 15th century and a UNESCO status before admiring its archaeological delights.