It doesn't necessarily have to be Alaska
or a remote mountain peak:

The holiday destination of Gozo and Malta is constantly adding to its list of advantages, and an exceptional road in Xlendi, Gozo, is one of them...

It doesn’t necessarily have to be Alaska or a remote mountain peak: The holiday destination of Gozo and Malta is constantly adding to its list of advantages, and an exceptional road in Xlendi, Gozo, is one of them…

What advantages must the perfect holiday destination have? And above all, how many of them? Whether large or small families, clubs, couples, or singles… every year, many holidaymakers are faced with deciding where best to spend their precious vacation days.

I conducted a survey among acquaintances residing in Germany, Italy, England, Belgium and apart from Gozo. The outcome was universally consistent: almost everyone demands “excellent weather,” a selection of “active recreational” opportunities, and the prospect of an “enthralling array of excursions and entertainment” while planning a holiday destination to avoid disappointment.

Hondoq Bay - Photo by Nick Bugeja
Hondoq Bay – Photo by Nick Bugeja

Experience feel-good factors on Gozo and Malta: The high number of tourists from all over the world speaks very obviously in favour...

Now, it may be that some people are hoping to find exactly these plus points in Alaska, on a remote mountain peak or wherever… and if so, that’s perfectly fine. As we all know, tastes differ, and “great weather” or “active recreation” can also mean a crisp cold or preferably zero internet connection, depending on individual preference.

Either way, one thing is sure: personal well-being should be the top priority on any holiday. The Mediterranean holiday destination of Malta and Gozo appears to have strong prospects in this area. After a record year in 2019 (with almost 2.8 million tourists), the Republic of Malta (including its sister island of Gozo) expects an even higher number of guests from all over the world to visit the two islands by the end of 2023.

Book, fly, feel good: The quality of your accommodation makes all the difference.

In this blog, I will provide monthly updates on why this is the case and Gozo’s significant role. And I’ll come back to my little survey of friends and acquaintances. “Oh, that’s right, we completely forgot about that, even though it’s so important…” This or something similar was the feedback to my additional question as to whether the quality of the chosen accommodation is also of central importance for the perfect holiday.

Welcome to Triq ir-Rumani in Xlendi on Gozo: the ``Luzzu`` maisonette, for example, awaits you. A beautiful front garden with a large (sunbathing) terrace leads to a fully equipped accommodation with a large eat-in kitchen, bathroom and two cosy bedrooms.
Welcome to Triq ir-Rumani in Xlendi on Gozo: the “Luzzu” maisonette, for example, awaits you. A beautiful front garden with a large (sunbathing) terrace leads to a fully equipped accommodation with a large eat-in kitchen, bathroom and two cosy bedrooms.

Destination Triq ir-Rumani in Xlendi: Four chic apartments, plus two characterful Gozitan maisonettes on offer...

It’s evident that you desire a comfortable getaway during your holiday where you can feel at home immediately and everything is impeccably organised. This is why we all search for guest reviews on the internet.

Seeing how satisfied Simon & Janina Gatt’s holiday guests are gives me great pleasure. Simon, who is from Gozo, and Janina, originally from near Berlin, have poured their passion into the stylish apartments at Villa Marni and the two pretty maisonettes opposite in Triq ir-Rumani. They consistently emphasise that their primary goal is their guests’ satisfaction, as they believe their happiness is only possible when their guests are content. (Note: Triq means “street” in Maltese.)

A second home in Xlendi on Gozo: High praise from Belgium from Felix & Riet...

Strong evidence of this high standard is evident from the example of a pleasant Belgian couple I met some years ago – Felix and Riet.  They have been vacationing in Gozo for over a decade and unfailingly head for Triq ir-Rumani in Xlendi. To move into one of the apartments in the modern and imposing Villa Marni or one of the two maisonettes, “Luzzu” and “Djamant, built in the original Gozitan style. All in all, six very pleasant accommodations – not just for Felix & Riet, of course.

What keeps bringing Felix & Riet back to Xlendi on Gozo and here to Triq ir-Rumani? After spending 14 days there, they recently flew back to Belgium. I reached out to them a few days later with a little survey and two specific questions about Xlendi and Triq ir-Rumani.

They are originally from Belgium but return year after year to holiday in the Triq ir-Rumani: Felix & Riet.
They are originally from Belgium but return year after year to holiday in the Triq ir-Rumani: Felix & Riet.

Here you can read what is essential to Felix & Riet

Why do you regularly return to Gozo as a holiday destination?

Felix & Riet: We have travelled a lot and visited many beautiful places, but the tiny island of ‘GOZO’ has become our second home!

For us, the island has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. It is a place where we can escape from our hectic lives, a place where we can recharge our batteries.

Our favourite seasons are spring and autumn! Spring is the season when the island wakes up, nature is in full bloom, the temperature is nice, and the sun is warm but mild. Autumn is the season when the sea around the island is still warm, and the sun provides a nice temperature. Both seasons allow us to do what we like: swimming, snorkelling, exploring the island, spending time with our friends… and enjoying our stay!

We also like the atmosphere on the island. The people on Gozo are amiable, spontaneous and helpful, and the facilities on the island are excellent.

We love the small villages’ characteristic houses, beautiful churches and famous festivals.

We love the crystal clear waters, the breathtaking views from the cliffs and the romantic sunsets.

We love the tranquil countryside and the ruggedness of the island.

We love GOZO!

And why the TRIQ IR-RUMANI with the Villa Marni and the two maisonettes on the opposite side of the street again and again?

Felix & Riet: We discovered VILLA MARNI many years ago by saying hello to a friendly local. He turned out to be Simon’s father, the owner of Villa Marni. He invited us to visit the villa, and we were so impressed by the architecture of the building and the decoration that we decided to rent one of the beautiful flats.

From that moment on, we became part of the Gatt family. Over the years, staying with Simon and Janina has become like a family: celebrating special occasions, welcoming their children Giacomo and Gemma, constantly feeling welcome, always feeling pampered…

Triq Ir-Rumani is a quiet, friendly street; coming here is like coming home. The neighbours have become special friends and all the moments we have spent together (BBQs, relaxing evenings…) are very special. We look forward to seeing them every year.

We always have a wonderful, relaxing time when we come to Xlendi. Staying in one of the spacious, well-equipped flats – or, as recently happened, in the “Luzzu” and “Djamant” maisonettes, is a real treat!

To be honest, we would like to keep Villa Marni and the two maisonettes as our own ‘hidden place’!-)

Well, I cannot assist Felix & Riet in maintaining their preferred holiday destination as a hidden gem. However, I can understand the wish of my Belgian friends because I live in Triq ir-Rumani with my Italian wife – and I know how beautiful it is here. The location is truly splendid. Even as I write this, the calendar reads well into November’s second half, yet the weather is still sunny and warm, with clear blue skies.

That’s precisely why we went for a walk in Xlendi Bay this morning. You can see how crystal clear the water was in this short video here…

Blue skies, crystal-clear water: Xlendi Bay on a day in the second half of November 2023

Only yesterday, we took advantage of another of Xlendi’s many benefits: we took a spontaneous trip to the neighbouring island of Malta. Here’s what you should be aware of: Xlendi is just a short distance away from the Gozitan ferry harbour in Mġarr, which offers two ferry connections to Malta that run constantly throughout the day and into the evening. The first one is exclusively for passengers and goes to Valletta, Malta’s capital. The second ferry accommodates both cars and passengers and travels to Ċirkewwa, in the north of Malta. For guests on holiday at Villa Marni or in one of the maisonettes, the journey to Malta is always worthwhile.

Arrive at Mġarr, the harbour on Gozo: this is where you get off the ferry, and then your holiday can begin...
Arrive at Mġarr, the harbour on Gozo: this is where you get off the ferry, and then your holiday can begin…

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which predates the Egyptian pyramids, is just one of many excursion destinations in Gozo...

However, visiting Malta does not mean there isn’t plenty to see and do in Gozo all year round.  Another excellent example is the upcoming December 2023 UNESCO conference in Botswana, where a decision will be made regarding the inclusion of the endless, lively, and colourful festivals held in every town and village of Malta and Gozo to the list of “intangible” cultural heritage sites.  Throughout autumn, winter, and spring, and particularly in summer, these festivals on both islands offer a wealth of activity beyond just the festivities, including endless opportunities for dancing, partying,  and listening to music. As a tourist joining the fun, expect to be greeted with an even warmer smile from the Gozitans.

It’s all about the atmosphere: At the festivals in Gozo and Malta, there is a lot of partying – and not just occasionally, but all year round.

And while we’re discussing the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malta’s capital city of Valletta and the impressive Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, one of the world’s most amazing prehistoric caves, have both received this prestigious recognition. The same distinction is also held by the Ġgantija temple complex, near the village of Xagħra on Gozo, which was built long before the birth of Christ – a destination that predates the pyramids of Egypt and which I wrote about in one of my blogs. Read more here

Christmas is approaching on Gozo, and there are

plenty of festivals and cultural events available, even during the winter. You don’t need to worry about a lack of festive activities, as plenty is on offer, especially during Christmas. The December blog will provide you with numerous hints and tips, although it may not be helpful for your Christmas holiday in Gozo in this 2023, but who knows …

Every year again: Christmas, the queen of all holidays - everywhere, like here in Gozo's capital, Victoria, everything is decorated with great anticipation. You'll see more about this in the upcoming December blog...
Every year again: Christmas, the queen of all holidays – everywhere, like here in Gozo’s capital, Victoria, everything is decorated with great anticipation. You’ll see more about this in the upcoming December blog…
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Apartments & Maisonettes

apartment

Mare

Mare is a spacious and luxurious one-bedroom unit, boasting a sleek and contemporary design. Located on a single floor, it features an open-plan layout that seamlessly merges the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. The large sliding windows flood the interior with natural light and fresh air, enhancing the bright and airy ambiance. The space is elegantly furnished with a modern oversized couch. A private balcony with rattan seating offers a tranquil view of the expansive communal pool and deck area, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

2 Guests
1Bedroom
More about apartment - Mare
apartment

Selene

Selene is a spacious and luxurious one-bedroom unit, showcasing a sleek and modern design. Located on a single floor, it features an open-plan layout that seamlessly blends the kitchen, living, and dining areas. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors allow abundant natural light and fresh air to flow through, creating a bright and airy ambiance. The private balcony, furnished with rattan chairs, offers a stunning view of the large communal pool and deck area, making it the perfect retreat to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.

2 Guests
1Bedroom
More about apartment - Selene
apartment

Aroma

Aroma is a luxurious and airy one-bedroom unit designed with modern elegance. With the addition of a sofa bed, it can comfortably accommodate up to four guests. The single-floor unit features an open-plan layout connecting the kitchen, living, and dining areas. Sliding doors and windows fill the space with natural light and fresh air, enhancing the open, breezy atmosphere. The unit provides direct access to the communal pool and deck area, perfect for relaxation.

4 Guests
1Bedroom
1Sofa Bed
More about apartment - Aroma
apartment

Sol

Sol is a bright, airy one-bedroom unit that offers modern luxury and can accommodate up to four guests with the addition of a sofa bed. The single-floor unit features an open-plan design, seamlessly connecting the kitchen, living, and dining areas. Sliding windows allow for abundant natural light and ventilation, creating an inviting atmosphere. The unit provides direct access to the large communal pool and deck area, perfect for relaxation and unwinding.

4 Guests
1Bedroom
1Sofa Bed
More about apartment - Sol
maisonette

Skuna

Introducing Skuna, a charming maisonette inspired by traditional Maltese sailing vessels. This single-floor retreat offers modern comforts, including a fully equipped kitchen, cosy bedrooms, and a luxurious bathroom. With air conditioning for year-round comfort and an expansive sun terrace for relaxation, Skuna provides the perfect blend of style and comfort. Just an easy eight-minute walk from Xlendi’s seaside attractions, this maisonette offers an idyllic Mediterranean escape.

4 Guests
2Bedrooms
More about maisonette - Skuna
maisonette

Brillanti

Welcome to Brillanti, a charming maisonette within Villa Marni, named after the Maltese word for "Brilliant." Inspired by the timeless song "Inti Djamant," this cosy retreat features separate living and kitchen areas, two comfortable bedrooms, and a welcoming outdoor terrace. Ideal for discovering Xlendi’s coastal charm, Brillanti offers the perfect balance of tradition and modern comfort for a memorable Mediterranean escape.

4 Guests
2Bedrooms
More about maisonette - Brillanti

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