Name: Helen and Tom
Bristol | UK
March 2008
Stay: 07 nights

We have just come to the end of a wonderful honeymoon on Gozo and here in Valletta and are loathe to go back.

If you get a chance to go to Gozo at any time, do - we really loved it (Rented a farmhouse in Munxar, just outside of Victoria). We have had a brilliant week here as well, and it was great to be able to cook for ourselves and make this a real home from home.

There is a 100 year old bakery in Valletta (run by an elderly lady who is nearly the same age) down the narrow street on the left, just after the market on Merchants Street. Delicious bread - hot and fresh from the oven from 12.00pm (closes at 07:30pm). Try the bread with local soft cheese (Gozitan gbejniet) or Gozitan honey.

We got up early this Sunday to go to the fish market in Marsaxlokk and it was definitely worth it - amazing fish, vegatables, herbs etc. Plenty of cafes open for breakfast too. We had a great meal at a small Italian restaurant, Il-Horza, at the bottom of St Christopher Street (No.06) Also enjoyed tapas at Legligin (tiny bar on St Lucy Street).

Vittoriosa and Senglea are both definitely worth a visit, especially in the late afternoon when they get the sun, and evening. The old part of Vittoriosa is beautiful - we actually preferred it to Mdina, which we found a bit soulless in comparison. We had a disappointing meal at Il-Forn (Vittoriosa).

If you enjoy art galleries, the St James Cavalier Centre has contemporary exhibitions and the Fine Art Museum has some beautiful watercolours by Edward Lear (in the same room as the Turner). We thought it was worth hiring a car for a couple of days - you can park just up the road by the sea wall (opposite the Fort) for free.

We drove to Dingli cliffs (past Mdina and Rabat) and had a lovely walk over there.
Otherwise, the buses are fine and of course the great thing about Valletta is that you can just wander around.

Thanks to Aldo and Victor - this has been a very memorable place to stay. Ta' gen!
Enjoy your visit!

Name: Mary and John
Yorkshire | UK
March 2008
Stay: 07 nights

We have had a great week here in Malta and have enjoyed every minute. The G-House is a wonderful place - very quirky but so comfortable and very lovely. The location is great - we really enjoyed the neighbourhood - everyone, especially the local shopkeepers are very friendly.

The weather was very kind to us so we walked and walked - you could spend a month in Valletta and not see it all. It is a fascinating city - truly spectacular and we hope to visit again. We did venture out - the weekly bus tickets are excellent and the buses an experience not to be missed. The transport system is so good we just chose a number and went - quite an adventure. As for Valletta at night, it is great - we have had some fabulous meals. The new Waterfront is worth a visit and the D'Office (132, Archbishop Street, Valletta, MALTA) does excellent food. The Manoel Theatre Cafe and Cordina Caffe are well worth a visit but there are so many watering holes you won't be disappointed. The churches are spectacular and St John's Co-Cathedral is shining. We also enjoyed a visit to the Wignacourt Museum in Rabat - not very well publicised but very interesting.

We could go on and on - it's been brilliant and we hope to return. Many thanks to Aldo for arranging it and Victor for his "taxi" service - also his wonderful oranges which we enjoyed. Have a great time.

Name: David and John
London | UK
February 2008
Stay: 12 nights

Thank you Victor and Aldo for ensuring a very enjoyable stay. The G-House really gave us a flavour of history and of traditional living in Valletta. This is a glorious city, so full of gems in Art, Music and Architecture. We really enjoyed the Manoel Theatre and loved the co-Cathedral with its artistic treasures of Mattia Preti and, of course, Caravaggio. We found the Phoenicia Hotel, by the main bus station, very friendly and the food excellent especially the Pegasus Brasserie. We also enjoyed a different kind of experience at Golden Sands at the Raddisson - good spa!

Perhaps our most memorable experience will be the atmosphere of Valletta - very laid-back, friendly and relaxing. One downside is the Tourist Information Bureau at City Gate - staff unfriendly, uncooperative and mostly all inaccurate in information. But don't let that spoil a wonderful stay!

Name: Buster and Carla
Barcelona | Spain
February 2008
Stay: 03 nights

We had an incredible time. Thank you Victor for making us welcome. We rented a car and cruised around the island getting lost on the strangely sign-posted roads. Found the Blue Grotto stupendous for the sunset and fresh fish. We had dinner in Mdina overlooking the surrounding fields.

We recommend eating at the King's Own Band Club - full of character and you won't leave feeling hungry. Also Tal-Familja in Marsascala - fantastic. Thanks for everything. We really had the Maltese experience.

Name: Becs and Colm
Kent | UK
January 2008
Stay: 03 nights

We nipped over from London for a few days for our first break away from our seven month old boy (who's happy with granny) to this beautiful house. Thanks to Aldo and Victor.

Couple of recommendations:
food - Rubino. Stunning food, using very fresh local ingredients (didn't realise there was so much you can do with a pumpkin!)
Malata. Had a very nice evening meal after a few beers in The Pub which was lively and run by nice people.
Valletta is lovely to walk around, we had the complimentary wine from Aldo whilst looking at the sunset in Barrakka Gardens.
For some late evening activity try the Waterfront for some good food and "banging Euro Pop music!" or even try gatecrashing a conference which are often held at the old Knight's Hospitalier to see the Weather Girls (this is not as unlikely as it sounds). We had a lovely long boozy lunch at Marsaxlokk, very relaxing watching the fishermen paint their boats and mend their nets. I expect it gets busy in Summer though. We went to Mdina as everyone seemed to rave on about it in the guest book. But we found it a little sandblasted, litter free and perfect as if it were built for tourists. No atmosphere and no Maltese life in the streets.
Overall we have had a lovely time and would dearly love to do it all again if only we had more time. Off home to see our little boy. Thanks for a chance to stay in the best place in Malta!

Name: Catherine and Paul
Lancashire | England
December 2007
Stay: 07 nights

Wow, what a wonderful holiday it has been. Valletta house is an amazing place to stay, every credit to Aldo for what he has created for all to enjoy. Valletta itself is also a fantastic city with no shortage of culture and restaurants galore.

Make sure you book tickets for the Manoel Theatre and don't miss a guided tour of Casa Rocca Piccola just 5 minutes from Valletta G-House - it's an amazing place. Buses are great for getting around but ensure you have loose change at all times - often 20c each. For a 15 minute circular tour of the city, hop on the 198 bus at the terminal (15c each) to get your bearings. There's some amazing (can't stop using the word "amazing"!) churches to visit and a trip to Hypogeum is a must, as is the fish market and Carrubia at M'Xlokk.

Restaurants to visit here in Valletta are Legligin tapas on St Lucy Street and Trattoria Palazz on Old Theatre Street - with both of these, appearance can be deceptive from the outside looking in but both were absolutely fantastic. Capistrano was another favourite on Bakery Street with a great chef who brings out the fresh fish and talk you through how he will prepare each of them. We thoroughly enjoyed Fusion 4 last night, with the perfect host to make you feel special and a great terrace to enjoy in the hot weather. If you want a quick snack and a pub type atmosphere, visit Cafe Jubilee and for a sandwich or wrap at Maestro e' Fresco (8 South Street). The Upper Barrakka Gardens are beautiful and give you a fantastic view. A trip to Vittoriosa was lovely to sit at the Marina Waterfront (Grand Harbour) and relax.

The list is endless and we will certainly be back. Thank you to Victor for our transport to and from the airport - a lovely man who was a wonderful welcome to this beautiful place. Many thanks for a truly fabulous time.

ALDO WRITES:

The newly restored Vittoriosa Waterfront as mentioned by Catherine and Paul is currently the hot place to be. With majestic views of Fort St Angelo, the Vittoriosa Waterfront is lined with cafes, unique restaurants and the glamorous Casino di Venezia (in photo). Get there either by water taxi (10 minutes) from Valletta Harbour or by taking a bus from Valletta Gate (15 to 20 minutes)

Name: Anne and John
Minneapolis | USA
November 2007
Stay: 07 nights

A thank you to Aldo for a wonderful start to our honeymoon. We loved the beautiful Valletta G-House with its many thoughtful touches.

In Valletta we very much enjoyed Bar Sicilia (St John's Street) and a mystery local liquer at Caffe Cordina (Republic Street). The owner of the grocery around the corner from the house was very friendly and helpful. For sights in Valletta we particularly liked the temporary exhibit of the "reclining woman" at the National Museum of Archeology (Republic Street).

Outside Valletta some of our favorite sites included:
1. A water taxi to Vittoriosa with a full day of walking and exploring.
2. Sunday market in Marsaxlokk with lunch at La Campanna (wonderful local seafood)

Overall, all the Maltese people we met were warm, friendly and made our trip memorable. We hope to return to Malta soon! We had great weather! So sunny and warm for November.

Name: Stephen and Joey
Germany
November 2007
Stay: 07 nights

Apart from some windy, chilly and even rainy days, we had a wonderful honeymoon at this unique and lovely place.

Some things we really enjoyed:
1. Mdina. A beautiful spot to explore. Try to visit in the evening as well, you'll love the illumination of the yellow-stoned buildings.
2. Casa Rocca Piccola, The Manoel Theatre, also the archeological Museum and the Neolithic Temple of Tarxien are worth a visit.
3. For some really awesome views of the city we recommend one of the harbour cruises starting from Sliema harbour.

Where to go for dinner:
1. Ambrosia (Archbishop Street): Local cuisine on a high level in a quite and cosy atmosphere, worth the price. Reservation recommended.
2. La Crianza (Archbishop Street): Delicious Italian food, big portions at a very reasonable price, open on Sundays.
3. The Blue Room (Republic Street) has good Chinese food but at quite a high price.

Don't miss a taste of the chocolate-pear-cake at the San Gwann Kantina.
Thanks for days we really enjoyed!

ALDO WRITES:

Hate to tell you Stephen and Joey but you just about missed some of the sunniest days of November! :(

Name: Lynda and Brian
Lancashire | UK
August 2007
Stay: 07 nights

What a splendid and special place this is! Aldo - you have done a superb job in keeping the character of this historic building whilst making it an inviting place for your guests to stay. We have found the recommendations in this guestbook very helpful and have sampled the menus at Jubilee Cafe, Crianza, Tony's Sicilia Bar and Malata - all have been very good (the local Maltese wines are excellent!)

Other things to do in Valletta:
See the sun go down in Hastings Gardens, have a coffee (inside) at the Cafe Cordina, try a date slice from the kiosk at the bus station, see a performance at the Manoel Theatre, take the ferry to Sliema (but come straight back again!!)
Also worth visiting - Vittoriosa - the other side of the Grand Harbour, and Marsaxlokk where you should try Lampuki (local fish) whilst in season. Thanks to Victor and Aldo for a wonderful holiday. We will be back soon, we hope.

PS. Lynda also made two Maltese meals, taken from Pippa's book - brilliant! Aldo, loved the photographic repros in the house.

Name: Ollie and Melissa
London | UK
August 2007
Stay: 07 nights

Very pleasant week here in the G-House.

The highlights:
Trip tot the Blue Grotto - great swimming and snorkelling, in our opinion better than the hyped Blue Lagoon on Comino.

Great eating in Valletta. We visited a number of places. These stood out:
1. Malata: Nice courtyard eats to jazzy vibes.
2. Gianni: Nice Italian overlooking the bay.
3. Phoenix (Meridien Hotel) Awesome views. Great fairytale dining experience if your budget stretches.

Tips:
We found the little bar on the left hand side of the street running up to Republic sells cheaper wine and beer than the supermarket.
If planning to visit Gozo, for LM12 you can go by seaplane - great fun and drops you at the end of the street! It takes 9 mins from Gozo! The views are simply stunning.
Avoid staying on Comino. We spent a night there, overpriced tat, full of people lying by the poolwith no interest in Malta beyond a sun tan. Blue lagoon - heavy litter and packed.
Sliema/St Julians in our opinion wasn't great - burger stands and McDonalds.
In short, you are in the best place. Explore the back streets of Valletta - there are loads of hidden bars and restaurants - all very good.
Have a good time!

ALDO WRITES:

Flights leave from Valletta Sea Passenger Terminal (10 minutes walk from Valletta G-House) three times a day. More information on www.harbourairmalta.com

Name: Melissa Cook
London | UK
August 2007
Stay: 07 nights

What an amazing experience, the Valletta G-House lived up to all expectations and more. This is the only way to get a real feel for Valletta.

Name: Ed and Christine Chang
Quebec | Canada
July 2007
Stay: 08 nights

When thinking of spending time with the one you love, you can't go past the Valletta G-House. My wife and I have just returned from spending one glorious week at the G-House, exploring the treasures of Valletta and the surrounds. The house complements the city and the modern traveller to a tee. We really couldn't have asked for more. Thanks to Aldo and Victor for wanting us to go back to Malta again!

Name: Paul and Jo
Oxford | UK
May 2007
Stay: 07 nights

We had a lovely time in Valletta G-House. We had been rather impressed by the pictures of the house on the web, but the real house is even better! We were curious to know if the stern woman pictured in the frame in the kitchen is an ancestor of the family or is related to the house history in any way.

We must thank Victor for his great patience and for coming to pick us up from the airport at such an ungodly hour in the morning. He was a fountain of information and our drive to and from the airport were very instructive. The cookery books in the kitchen and the books in the library came in very helpful during our stay. We have left part of our soul in the G-House and hope to reclaim it some time soon. Thank you very much again for sharing your wonderful house with us.

Name: David & Rosemary
Essex | UK
November 2006
Stay: 10 nights

We would like to thank Aldo for the pleasure of staying at the "G" house, we had a really great time. From the moment Victor, met us at the Airport, we knew we had made the right decision to visit Malta again. (We visited Malta 6 years ago). The welcome pack at the house was extremely helpful, and the house was very well presented. We found the house very atmospheric, the combination of a 16th century building with 21st century amenities.

It was our 10th wedding anniversary on the 4th November, so it was a very special occasion for us. We went to the Mediterraneo Park and swam with the Dolphins, if you have never done it, we thoroughly recommend it. We also visited the Hypogeum,(book up before you leave for Malta) absolutely incredible the way the people all those years ago constructed the chambers.

The Maltese people were very friendly. It was interesting to watch the local people going about there daily chores. The local shops, and the shopkeepers were very friendly and helpful. Getting about by bus was no problem at all.

The information in the house was very useful as were the comments in the guest book. We hope to return in the not too distant future. Friends we showed photos to said they would like to visit Malta & stay in the house.

Once again, many thanks, Aldo.

Name: Darran and Helen
Staffs | UK
October 2006
Stay: 07 nights

We have had a marvellous week here at the G-House - our first visit to Malta. A dramatic thunderstorm led to a power cut. Victor had very kindly provided some portable lights and a little gas stove which were very useful! The local electricity board still seem to be doing some work. The house has been perfect for us and a wonderfully sympathetic update to a 16th C. house.

A few tips:

The Lonely Planet guide (in the bedroom) is great - take it around with you.
UK visitors - there is an HSBC 24hr cashpoint just up Republic St (turn right and then immediate left up the hill)

There are a couple of grocers' shops just at the bottom of the street that are very friendly and well stocked. Everyone speaks English and often Italian and some German as well.

Cafe's and Restaurants - Cafe Jubilee is very nice, friendly and cheap - nice pasta! Cafe' Cordina (on Republic Street) does lovely ice-cream. The Blue Room (near the Palace, as you walk up on the left) is a fantastic Chinese restaurant - do try it for a change from Italian food!

Must sees - Mdina. It is fabulous - take the bus from Valletta City Gate. While you are there, if you like ancient history, visit the Domus Romana on the outskirts of Mdina on the way to Rabat. Also the Catacombs (in Rabat) are definitely worth the trip - take a torch and forget the audio guide (it's rubbish)
Try and visit the Temples at Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, and check out the Museum of Archeology in Valletta.

The Tarxien Neolithic Temples just off Old Temples Street are also good.
The Hypogeum - if you've not booked before, forget it, you've no chance of a ticket, but check at the Museum of Archeology in Republic Street, Valletta in case they've had a cancellation.

Shopping - for lace and Gozo glass go to Gozo - it's cheaper and better quality lace. For Mdina and Phoenicia Glass, the craft centre near the City Gate has a wide selection but it's worth shopping around. For filigree, again shop around, but up Republic Street you will find Ardnael Filigree - you can watch him make it there. Stamps and coins - there is a dealer (Said) off Republic Street on Triq San Zakkarija. Don't bother with the Sunday market in St James' Ditch - unless you need pirate DVDs, washing-up bowls, new underwear or fabric!

Final tip - avoid the taxi drivers and don't believe a word they tell you. Use the buses - they are cheap, frequent, go nearly everywhere and can be a bit of an experience!
One more thing - visit Mosta Dome and see the bomb!

All the best

Name: Jane and Mike
Cornwalll | UK
September 2006
Stay: 07 nights

We have really enjoyed our week in Malta staying in Valletta G-House. A delightful comfortable house and very conveniently placed for exploring the city on foot. Our first stay in Malta, the house has enabled us to enjoy life around us and suited us far better than a conventional hotel.

We felt no need to hire a car, enjoying trips out on buses to Mdina, a delightful, quiet and unique city, and Marsaxlokk to savour the fresh fish and wander the markets.
Hot sun blessed our week and we were grateful for the fans and humidifiers in the house.

Sadly the week has passed very quickly and we had no time left to explore the beaches mentioned by others but we did do the Luzzi* harbour cruise which was excellent.

Tips from our experiences:
1. Read other people's comments in the guest book and also the green book† of Aldo's comments. All valid and useful.
2. A trip to Mdina is special as indeed is the selection of home-made cakes and gateaux at Fontanella's Tea Garden, sitting overlooking the view.
3. We would add D'Agostino's on Republic Street to the list of good restaurants already mentioned.
4. Small new cafe Ta' Lukkardu next to above with red doors. We found the staff very friendly and the coffee good. It is relatively new.
5. Avoid Eddie's cafeteria as the fish was not as fresh as it should have been and was overcooked.

Thank you Aldo for sharing your very special Maltese house. We've enjoyed it.

ALDO WRITES:

* I did try to look up this company that Mike and Jane mentioned on the internet but could not find any reference to it. There are nonetheless various companies that do harbour cruises in Malta. Visit Vittoriosa by bus and then have the Maltese version of the gondola, the so called Dghajsa bring you back in style across the spectacular Grand Harbour to Valletta, and drop you off just by Victoria gate for just Lm1.50 (Stg2.35/€3.50).

The following are ones I found just looking through the internet:
www.city-discovery.com
www.captainmorgan.com.mt
www.maltesewatertaxis.com

† The green book referred to is a file in the Valletta G-House bedroom with practical information and instructions for the house as well as information about Valletta.

Name: Jane and Denton
New Zealand
September 2006
Stay: 07 nights

Our week in Malta has been a wonderful experience, totally different to what we had expected, fun all the way.

We spent most of our days wandering around Valletta, doing all the touristy shows (we are tourists after all!) and caught the yellow buses to see more of Malta. We must have looked so obvious, craning our necks looking up at the old buildings - our homeland NZ was only settled in the early 1800s so needless to say that the history of Malta fascinated us.

Favourite things:

1. Looking at the 'Gallerijas', wow, they are gorgeous, and also watching the world from our very own G-House.

2. Food - Maltese and other. Cordina Cafe had the best ravioli ever, simple and delicious. Such a wonderful variety and good value, even at the $NZ exchange rate. 'Pastizzi'!!

3. Hypogeum - What a mystery

4. Best of all was just experiencing Maltese everyday life right outside our door. Valletta is NOT quiet - we loved the people calling out to the floors above from the street below - "Ma-riss-A!!" - a whole new world for us.

5. We bought bread from the baker's van and watched as neighbours hauled up theirs in a basket on a rope, from five storeys. Amazing. Kids playing and laughing, lovely singing, all very picturesque.

Aldo has made a unique job of Valletta G-House. Well done in the good taste stakes. Thanks for sharing your Malta home with us.

Name: Ilene and Ricky
Boston & Frankfurt
August 2006
Stay: 16 nights

After having been in Malta several times before, this was a great experience to stay in Valletta House - our best time so far.

Our special tips would be:

1) Horse riding at Golden Bay - a great 2 hour guided ride from the stables at Golden Bay to Popeye Village along the cliffs overlooking the sea and back. Either from 10-12 am or 5-7 pm. Call a few days in advance to book. The ride is suitable from beginners to advanced and the horses are really well-kept and looked after.

2) For good food and even dancing visit the various new restaurants at the Valletta Waterfront. They are open until midnight or even longer. There you will also find the best stocked book and newspaper shop in Valletta.

3) Take a walk through Hastings Garden (above Valletta Gate overlooking Marsamxett harbour) especially at sunset or later and enjoy the fantastic view.

ALDO WRITES:

Ilene and Ricky are referring to Golden Bay Horse Riding and they are open seven days a week from 8 am to 8 pm. Their phone number is (+356) 2157 3360.

Valletta Waterfront (see picture above) is within walking distance from Valletta G-House. Just walk up North Street and turn right by the Mediterranean Conference Centre and follow the road by the Grand Harbour. It will take you all of 15 minutes or less.

Name: Dr and Mrs Nicholls
Essex | UK
April 2006
Stay: 6 nights

When planning this holiday we set a few requirements:

i) We wanted to return to Malta - it is 30 years ago next week that we came here for our honeymoon.
ii) We wanted somewhere "different" to stay - not the usual hotel or "timeshare" type apartment
iii) We saw the Valletta G-House as a prize in a magazine in the UK. We did not win the competition but looked up the address online and found the we could book it anyway - so we did.

The description on the internet is accurate - it is different from the run-of-the-mill holiday accommodation - and suited our purposes admirably...

Thanks for the basket of goodies - very useful in the first days with shops shut. And thanks for letting us use your lovely little G-House."

Name: Ruth & Ken
Oregon | USA
April 2006
Stay: 10 nights

Victor provided a warm welcome for us at the airport, despite the late hour, and showed us how to settle into a 16th century apartment with 21st century mod. cons. The welcome basket of good bread, fruit and other goodies was much appreciated.

...Seeing the technical problems of a 16th Century stone house being aided by fans etc. gives one an appreciation of the evolution of building technology and codes.

...We enjoyed our stay immensely and were quite comfortable. The bouquet of lilies lasted our stay!

Name: Marelle & Graham
Kent | United Kingdom
February 2006
Stay: 6 nights

We had a wonderful time in Malta. Plenty to see and do, despite being a bit cool weather wise. Kept busy by walking around beautiful Valletta town. Also did a really nice coastal walk. Evenings were spent at the theatre, and various restuarants sampling tasty seafood. Found some really nice wine bars - one with Jazz evenings. Took the ferry to Gozo and spent a day wandering the island.

Valletta house is a unique experience. Wonderfully decorated with everything that we could need. We enjoyed buying fresh food at the market and spending the evening cooking tasty meals washed down with some good wine.

Great holiday.

Name: Laurence and Karen
Vancouver | Canada
November 2005
Stay: 07 nights

G-House is a wonderful place to stay, like being in a castle. It's well situated but the streets are quite a workout. As Lord Byron wrote when he lived in Old Bakery Street "...Adieu, ye cursed streets of stairs! (How surely he who mounts you swears)" - Valletta is a great city for walking with delightful street scenes everywhere. Beautiful views from Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Recommendations:
1. Use the bus system. It's cheap and efficient if somewhat bumpy.
2. Visit Marsaxlokk and have lunch on the promenade.
3. If you are interested in pre-history, visit the Museum of Archaeology first before venturing out to the sights.
4. Book as soon as you can for the Hypogeum. only 70 visitors per day are permitted.
5. Take a cruise from Sliema around the Harbour
6. Dinner at Malata is a treat as is lunch at Cafe Cordina.

Thanks for a great experience.

Name: John and Victoria
Borders 0f Scotland
November 2005
Stay: 07 nights

We had a delightful stay and had a very relaxing week in Valletta. We were lucky enough to obtain the last two tickets to the Hypogeum for the week and negotiated the bus and streets of Paola in the drizzly rain.

It was fairly busy, coinciding with CHOGM - we saw a considerable proportion of the Maltese Police Force, all their helicopters and we were very lucky to have been invited unto the roof of an Auberge (one of the originals and now an Italian/Maltese wine bar and restaurant - and civil service sports club) to watch the arrival procession of the Queen and CHOGN Heads of State.

Great curry in the Ranier Cafe (Half way up pedestrian part of Republic Street on left). L'Ambrosia is also a must for fish (& rice pudding!) - It is next door to "The Pub"; Oliver Reed's last watering hole.

Found the most imaginative filligree in Maurice Borg's workshop (on right up hill in Republic Street)

Thanks to Aldo and Victor for a wonderful opportunity and making us feel so at home.
Hints and Tips - as before the covered market building in the square off Merchant Street market is excellent for food - the delicatessen does fabulous chile olives.

Name: Amy and Guy
Brighton | UK
October 2005
Stay: 07 nights

Anyone lucky enough to find Valletta G-House will know already that it is the most amazing place to stay, as soon as they walk in the door! The decor is sublime, "medieval palace" sitting comfortably side-by-side with gorgeous modern fittings and fixtures. One of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed in.

We both adore Valletta, the city is so pretty, with some great little cafe/bars - namely Café Jubilee (great at any time of the day, cheap, friendly and open late), the Castille Wine Vaults (try the cheese or meat platters) which has a massive wine list. We chose to go local though and on different occasions tried the red, white and rosé Delicata wines - surprisingly good! For eating, Malata is fabulous (we went there when we arrived which was quite late, 10pm-ish, a very romantic start to our holiday), again Café Jubilee, and also Ron's Restaurant at Marsaxlokk - a great lunch deal for LM3.50 with starter, delicious fish of the day, dessert and a glass of wine.

Manoel Theatre and the art house cinema (St James Cavalier Centre) are both great for an evening out.

Don't bother going to Sliema or even St Julians. With fantastic, beautiful cities such as Mdina, Vittoriosa and of course Valletta; unless you have too much time on your hands you may be sorely disappointed you wasted your time!

Golden Bay beach is nice but the neighbouring bay is better (but no facilities) - very pretty and unspoilt.

The hills of Valletta and the stairs in Valletta G-House ensured that all the meals we ate were swiftly burnt off.

Just one suggestion - a chopping board for the kitchen would be good.

Sorry to be leaving tomorrow but we are off to Gozo for 4 nights - going by helicopter! - so there are more adventures on the way.

Many thanks for making our stay in Malta perfect.

P.S. Try pancakes + hot choc @ 282 Coffee Garden, and the bruschetta @ Caffé Cordina!!

ALDO WRITES: It is great to see how many good restaurants are opening up in the city. Keep on sharing your experiences of Valletta with us so future guests are in a better position to enjoy Valletta to its full potential. You must have missed the chopping board - it's in the kitchen cupboard.

Name: Matthew and Vanda
Wicklow | Ireland
October 2005
Stay: 07 nights

We've had a fantastic honeymoon, with a week in Gozo and a week in Malta itself. The G-House is a lovely old house, though the bathroom requires full concentration at all times (though I am over 6" tall as is my wife, and neither of us hit our heads). Amazing bedroom and we loved it. Few tips for Gozo and Valletta:

1. Rent a car on Gozo. Nightingale Rent-a-car will give you an old banger for less than £20 per day. The roads are so bad that new cars turn into old cars fast. Best way to see the island.

2. Two great places to eat out on Gozo are in Mgarr, where the ferry goes. Ta' Pawlu and Sammy's Fish Restaurant. Count how many cats you get around your table at Ta' Pawlu (we got seven). They are very patient though.

3. Calypso's cave is just a hole in the ground, but there is a good view of Ramla Bay for photos.

4. If you have a BQ, you can get very fresh fish on Gozo on the road between Victoria and Ghajnsielem at a shop (name escapes me, has sign in shape of sword-fish and is on main road), it's ridiculously cheap!

5. In Valletta, I couldn't manage cheese or pea pastizzi for breakfast but there is a 'bun' shop nearby. Up Republic St. and left on St. Nicholas St. It's on Market St., on the right. Borg Bakery has no sign but has nice bread.

6. Unless you booked the Hypogeum before you arrived you'll have little chance - it was booked until mid November when we tried.

7. Pudina (a cake) is very like Christmas Pudding. Hard to eat it when it's 25º... (though Cafe Cordina have it)

8. We loved the Castille Wine Vaults. Wednesday night is good, as they have live music. Labyrinth is nice, though it never really fills up. For dinner treat yourself at Rubino. Very friendly, great food and service and lovely atmosphere. No menu (though you can choose from about six dishes/options) and no price list, which is quaint!

9. The Hot date cakes near the city gates bus terminus are yum!

10. The tour of the harbours from Sliema are well worth a go, though go in the late afternoon when the light is nice. Sit at the front, if you can do.

ALDO WRITES: We are getting more requests for honeymoons at Valletta G-House. It makes a great romantic stay. Perhaps it is our new listing on thelittledomain.com that is seducing lovers to the sumptious G-House. For all you lovers out there, we have some Valentine's day offers.

A 16th century house can sometimes have certain quirks such as relatively low doors in the bathroom, but it makes for a more character filled space. Do mind your head though!

Name: Andrew McDonnell
Dublin | Ireland
September 2005
Stay: 07 nights

Valletta G-House is a unique and exciting experience. To have the opportunity to live in a 16th Century house in the middle of a city whose streets and walls ooze history is an experience, which seldom presents itself. The house is comfortable, well appointed, and attains the highest artistic standards. Good taste and style are all embracing, but do not detract from the timelessness of the setting. The blend is perfect.

Valletta is wonderful. Its streets are vibrant, historic and atmospheric. The views of the harbour are stunning. The climate is warm and sunny (most of the year).

The Maltese people are friendly, efficient, helpful and attractive. There is never a sense of people trying to rip you off. The Maltese Lira has a fixed exchange rate of LM1 = €2.50 and prices compare favourably with Northern Europe.

Malta's Neolithic monument "The Hypogeum" is a site of world importance. Book to visit on the Internet before departure, as there is a waiting list of approx 14 days for places.

If you have a sense of history and style then Valletta's G-House is for you.

Go and enjoy it to the full. It is all waiting for you. Oh and do bring the love of your life with you.

Romance, History and style. What more do you want?

Name: Jane and Michael Norris
Hereford | UK
September 2005
Stay: 15 nights

We have had a wonderful holiday. The location of the G-House has enabled us to "do" Valletta in its entirety and get out and about to explore other parts of the island.

We have travelled everywhere by public transport or on foot. The bus service is cheap and efficient if not wildly comfortable! Just be wary of the drivers' tendency to short change you if you don't tender the exact fare - this happened to us too many times for it to have been a chance occurrence.

For food, local shops, especially those recommended by Aldo in the big green book, are very helpful. There is a baker who produces local crusty bread around the corner from the grocers (ask the grocers for details). The baker is open overnight and until 10.30am!!

The market in Merchant Street (ie the covered food market) is good for fish, meat, fruit and vegetables. one of the butchers gave me useful cooking tips for the cuts I bought.

There is also a fruit and vegetable merchant open until 7ish in the evening in a traffic free street running between the police station and the south door of St John's Co-Cathedral. A lot of locals seem to shop here.

UK newspapers arrive at 6pm the same day (Mon-Sat) and 8am on Sundays. the kiosk Aldo describes at the top of merchant Street is the best. He doesn't always display all he has in stock so ask.

Eating out, we enjoyed meals at The Blue Room (Chinese), Inspirations (at St James Art Centre) both for evening meals and indulgent snacks and Malata. If you go to the latter, try to go on a "live music" night.

We wanted to visit the Hypogeum but even though it was one of the first things we tried to book, we failed to secure a visit because it was booked up until after we left for the UK.

The best way to see the Manoel Theatre is to go to a concert. We enjoyed a terrific one on our last evening here.

Beware the slippery pavements. My feet shot from underneath me twice. On each occasion I was overwhelmed with kindness from passer-by's but fortunately all that was damaged was my dignity!

Bin men collect rubbish put on the corner of the street twice daily. Maltes wine bottles, when empty, carry a small return deposit (LM0.60). Wembley Stores by the City Gate came into their own in this respect.

Name: Richard and Filipe
London | UK
April 2005
Stay: 7 nights

We had an amazing stay. Loved the food and wine and followed the rule of buy local and it worked. Maltese tomatoes are amazing. If you like fish - you will be in paradise.

Name: Andrea and Harald
Cologne | Germany
July 2005
Stay: 14 nights

We had a great stay here in G-House and saw quite a lot from Malta and Gozo in our two-weeks-trip. Valletta and this place are an amazing base for exploring the islands!
Aldo and Victor were really great, ready to help for everything and full of very kind surprises.

Name: Bernadette Flynn
Brisbane | Australia
June 2005
Stay: 8 nights

Had a lovely stay at G house in Valletta surrounded by beautiful drapes and furniture. Enjoyed the ambient lighting, photographic collages, the fresh flowers and welcome food basket. The bedroom was a delight with local music, excellent mattress, cushions and quality sheets.

Name: Tim & Chris Hudson
Monmouth | United Kingdom
June 2005

Valletta is magnificent as it is but there is so much potential for careful development to realise it's full potential. I can't help thinking the G House is the start of something big.
 
Anyway, we will be spreading the word and hope to get back again soon. 

Many thanks again.

Name: Marie Shelley
Manchester | United Kingdom

We came across Valletta G-House quite by chance on the web but had been to Malta twice before. in one of our previous short stays we made the mistake of staying in the soulless Bugibba - a nightmare of concrete to be kept at a distance.

In our previous visits we had discovered the heritage capital and had wished to find accomodation there. Valletta G-House is not only convenient for its location but also stylistically lives up to the glory of the city of the Knights. We would like to thank you and Victor for the difference your town house made to our stay.

PS. Loved the big artworks on the walls!

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