Splashes of carnival colour set to dazzle Malta and Gozo in February

Carnival is one of the most highly-anticipated and oldest annual festivals that takes place across Malta and Gozo, bringing with it boundless high-spiritedness, food and colours that anticipate the warmth of Spring ahead.

Valletta in Malta and Nadur in Gozo play host to the largest of Carnival's celebrations, with each city interpreting the festival in its own unique way. Over 4 days in Valletta, the streets fill with parades, marching bands and costumed dancers, culminating in a spectacular float parade that brings out the largest of crowds. In Nadur, Carnival takes on more of a macabre yet quirky mood, as sunset invites a multitude of masked and hooded creatures to throng the streets of the town.

This year, Carnival is set to take place between 24 - 27 February. With the isle's mild, late winter temperatures, it's the perfect time to book yourself into one of Locanda La Gelsomina's suites to remain close to the action yet far from the maddening crowds. Take advantage of our latest promotions that shall be running throughout this period by visiting our Packages + Deals page.

Palazzo Falson steps into the magical world of snuff boxes

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is one of Mdina's oldest buildings (its roots may be traced back to the 13th century), and one of our favourite little corners of the historical hamlet. You can therefore imagine our sheer delight when it recently unveiled its latest exhibition, which shines a spotlight on the history and magical world of snuff boxes.

Featuring an array of 200 boxes sourced from private, museum and ecclesiastical collections on the isle, the exhibition takes visitors on an insightful historical journey that saw this little accessory rise from being a simple snuff container to an elaborate expression of 16th century, upper-class wealth. 

Silver, enamel, ivory, glass and gold have been masterfully transformed into exquisite pieces of miniature art, and this eye-opening exhibition is certain to thrill history and culture buffs alike.

Until 26 February 2017. Free entrance. For further details, visit http://www.palazzofalson.com/. 

National Geographic picks Malta as one of its Best Trips for 2017

As travellers look to the new year ahead with calendars at hand and start planning adventures to new places of exploration, National Geographic has compiled its list of Best Trips for 2017 brimming with travel inspiration. The tiny island nation of Malta has topped its list as one of the Culture destinations to head to in 2017, and with its rich historical heritage, clear Mediterranean waters and warm Maltese smiles, it comes as no surprise.

With its mild temperatures throughout the year and an annual calendar packed with events that include Carnival in February, traditional village festas throughout summer, and musical festivals that range from the Valletta International Baroque Festival (January) to the Isle of MTV mega-concert (June), this little rock is bursting with offerings for all tastes and preferences.

Book your flights, settle into one of Locanda La Gelsomina's tranquil suites, and set off on Maltese adventures that are sure to delight and astound.

Valletta International Baroque Festival set to take center stage in January 2017

As Malta prepares to take over the EU Presidency in 2017, Valletta is set to play host to the 4th edition of the International Baroque Festival next January.

Highlighting the authentic baroque spirit of the isle's capital, the festival shall run across two weeks between 12 and 28 January in differing locations across town, including in Europe's third-oldest running theatre Manoel Theatre and the majestic National Library.

Since its inception, the festival has attracted the likes of Mahan Esfahani, Philippe Herreweghe, Jordi Savall, Iestyn Davies and Christophe Rousset. The local Valletta International Baroque Ensemble (VIBE) shall also be performing in a historically-sensitive manner archived ‘Maltese’ music, which was composed by resident and Italian masters for the Order of St John and the Church.

On the doorstep of Valletta and just a 5-minute sail across the Grand Harbour from Birgu, boutique hotel Locanda La Gelsomina is the ideal base from which to savour the festival's musical highlights and the perfect haven to retreat to for some quiet reflection afterwards.

For further details and programme, visit the official Valletta International Baroque Festival website.