Travel agent reveals the best girls’ trip destination – with sunshine, spritzes and a secret island next door
Mother and Daughter Travel Experts Unveil Top Girls’ Getaway Destination
A mother-daughter team of travel agents, with combined experience spanning over four decades, has identified the perfect girls’ trip destination. Their recommendation? Malta, a place that offers the perfect blend of sun, relaxation, and affordability, just a three-hour flight from the UK.
Malta: The Mediterranean’s Sparkling Gem
Known as the ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean,’ Malta shines as a hotspot for women’s trips, boasting golden beaches, rooftop bars, and a vibrant nightlife. Aperol spritzes, a signature cocktail, are accessible for as little as €6 (£5.20) in local bars, making it a budget-friendly paradise.
Malta’s year-round sunshine, averaging over 300 days, and summer temperatures reaching 30°C make it an ideal spot for leisurely beach days, exploring historic sites, and enjoying quality time with loved ones. The duo emphasizes that the warm weather allows travelers to spend hours swimming, sunbathing, and chatting without any need to rush.
“I love it so much I even got married on the tiny Maltese island of Gozo in 2009, and Grace was my bridesmaid!”
Must-See Destinations in Malta
Key attractions include Valletta, the UNESCO-listed capital with golden limestone streets and panoramic harbor views. Mdina, the island’s famed walled city, is perfect for unhurried strolls. For a unique experience, the Blue Grotto—a set of sea caves with dazzling blue water—should be explored by boat.
St Julian’s, a lively hub, offers cocktails, rooftop bars, and a thriving nightlife. For those wanting to venture beyond, the pair recommend a day trip to Gozo, which can be booked through TUI Musement. The island is just 20 minutes from the northern coast of Malta by ferry, offering a tranquil escape with centuries of history.
Gozo: A Hidden Gem for Serene Exploration
“Gozo is Malta’s sleepy sister island and it’s absolutely magical,” Melanie added. “It’s only 20 minutes by ferry from the north of Malta and it feels like stepping into another world. It’s smaller, quieter, and full of history—after more than 50 visits, I still love it every single time.”
Dining Delights
For cuisine, the duo suggests Primitivo Grill in St Julian’s for Mediterranean specialties, or ‘Catch of the Day’ at Calle Bistro, renowned for its fresh seafood. In Gozo, they favor Ta’ Rikardu in the Citadel for homemade Gozitan cheese and local wine.
When it comes to accommodation, they recommend the be.HOTEL, a modern St Julian’s retreat with sea views and a relaxed boutique vibe. Located centrally, it places guests moments away from the island’s top bars and beaches.
Other Stellar Options
Though Malta stands out as their top recommendation, the duo also highlights several other appealing locations for girls’ trips. Puglia offers whitewashed towns and golden beaches, with family-run trattorias perfect for meaningful interactions. Madeira brings volcanic pools and consistent sun for adventurous pairs. Valencia combines cultural sites and beaches without Barcelona’s prices, while Porto is ideal for river sunsets and affordable wine bars.
Grace concluded: “It’s the perfect base for mums and daughters. You can wander to the seafront in minutes, come back for a cocktail, and genuinely unwind together.”
