“Looking forward to going back”
From the moment that Kasia, the receptionist, welcomed us, to the time that Innocent, the concierge, got us onto our transfer bus to leave we had a lovely relaxing time at this splendid hotel. The rooms were large, comfortable and clean. We were lucky to have a sea view over Balluta Bay. One of our couples had 3 balconies which they never stopped talking about!!! The breakfasts were excellent with all manner of food for the variety of guests. That doesn't mean that everything was perfect. We had a couple of unfortunate errors about charging in the Ku de ta lounge and once were served a very cold pizza all of which was disappointing for such a quality hotel but at least the money issues were rectified quickly once accepted. The Spa was luxurious. One of our party loved her reflexology session. We even used the rooftop pool on one of the warmer days.
All in all this is an excellent hotel serviced by very professional and attentive staff. We will definitely be back.
Area recommendations
We spent several days in Valletta. We could have spent more. As a World Heritage City it has loads of interesting places to visit. Get the No 12 or 13 bus from opposite the Church at Balluta Bay and when you have arrived at the City Gate just wander down Republic Street and sit out in one of the cafes in the main squares and watch the world go by.
On the 11th some of us watched the Armistice commemoration at the Saluting Battery which was very moving. The same area gives wonderful panoramic views over the Grand Harbour which is a sight to behold.
I would recommend one of the hop on hop off bus tours. The North Route (blue) took us to among other places the craft village, the aviation museum, the old capital Mdina and Buggiba, the home of an amazing classic car collection. The price included a free ferry trip round the harbours which was taken the next day.
At night time we stayed close to the hotel as there were plenty of good restaurants close by.
When to go
We went in November and I think we were lucky with the weather. The week before we were told was wet and windy and quite cool. We had one large thunderstorm while there but we were able to watch it from the comfort of our hotel lounge. On the last day we had to shelter with our meals outside under the umbrellas of a cafe as the heavens opened.
Getting around
The Malta bus system is in a bit of disarray. All the routes and route numbers seem to have changed and the bus company is struggling to provide a good service. The Valletta buses were very crowded and the roads were very congested. Having said that the prices were very reasonable at 2.60 euros for a day ticket giving unlimited journeys. I would recommend the hop on hop off bus for any other destination such as Mdina or Rabat rather than one of the scheduled buses.
What to pack
A raincoat! You would be very lucky to escape rain at this time of the year.
Must see
I would recommend 2 very different must see places. One is the Casa Rocca Piccola at 74 Republic Street in Valletta. We were lucky to get a hugely interesting tour of this house by the charming Marchioness de Piro herself and would have no hesitation to go back again as there was so much to see and take in. The Car museum is a must for petrol heads and lovers of classic cars. It is a real hidden gem housing over 70 classic cars lovingly restored and displayed on 2 floors of what on the outside looks like a nondescript office building. The museum is not on the hop on bus route and it is not well signposted but just ask the driver and he will let you off at the nearest point and give you directions.
Dining
There are a number of excellent restaurants close to the Meridian. I would highlight U Bistrot and Peperoncino. U Bistrot is a small restaurant on the roadside right in front of the hotel. You could not fault the quality of the food and the enthusiasm of the chef. All the staff were very friendly, and made us feel very welcome. Peperoncino is at the bottom of the road to the rear of the hotel. The service here was again very friendly and very professional and the quality of the food fantastic. I'm still talking about the seared duck's liver I had for starters. Beware the large portions!
Other
I would just like to add that we found the Maltese people to be very friendly and helpful and made our visit all the more pleasant for that..
