Latest news with #MaltaTourismAuthority
Telegraph
16-07-2025
- Politics
- Telegraph
How conservative Malta became Europe's most gay-friendly country
A few years ago, the Archdiocese of Malta published a surprising post on social media. 'It was when Pope Francis came to visit,' recalls Robert Attard, a resident of the Mediterranean island nation. 'They uploaded a video of a trans man with a trans flag proudly saying how he's very happy that the Pope is here. To see that from Malta and the church was very refreshing.' For a period, gay rights activist Attard left Malta to live in London, blaming his home country's lack of acceptance. He's since returned and works as Community and Outreach Officer for a non-governmental organisation, the Malta Gay Rights Movement, offering support to the country's growing LGBT community. But a lot has changed in the last decade. Following a flurry of legislation, staunchly traditional Malta has rebranded itself as a liberal, gay-friendly destination. Last month, it topped the Rainbow Index, which ranks European countries according to their friendliness towards LGBT travellers, for the tenth year running (the UK fell to 22nd place). The organisers of London-born inclusive pop extravaganza Mighty Hoopla have chosen the island for their first overseas event, taking place in September. Dotted with more churches per square mile than supermarkets, Malta seems an unlikely candidate to rival gay-magnet Mykonos. So how has this remarkable change happened? 'A combination of forward-thinking legislation, including equal marriage, gender recognition rights, anti-discrimination protections, and high-profile events like EuroPride 2023 have positioned Malta as a welcoming, safe, and celebratory destination for LGBTQ+ travellers,' says Tolene Van Der Merwe, Director UK & Ireland for Malta Tourism Authority. LGBT rights have certainly accelerated at an unexpected speed. Since 2013, Malta has introduced same-sex civil partnerships, adoption rights for same-sex couples, a ban on conversion therapy practices, and self-determination for legal gender recognition. Attard believes the switch was largely linked to political change. After 25 years of Nationalist rule, the Maltese opted for a Labour government in 2013. 'Civil rights had been on the agenda,' he recalls. Around that time, he says, people also realised the strength of the Catholic Church – a power once entwined with government – was waning. 'Laws brought visibility, and people felt more comfortable with being themselves,' he adds. Another clue to the dramatic turnaround could be down to the size of the population – just under 553,000, around six times smaller than Wales. 'I think being a small island really helps the mentality improve,' insists Attard. Yet conservative attitudes haven't changed entirely. In March this year, a Brazilian man complained that police stopped him from kissing another man during carnival celebrations. Cases of discrimination, particularly toward the trans community, still occur – although Attard stresses there are only a handful of incidents compared to the past. The abortion question Despite being gay-friendly, Malta continues to uphold the EU's most restrictive abortion law, classing it as a criminal act. It presents an uncomfortable dissonance. 'Being Catholic, we're very family-oriented,' explains Attard, reflecting upon the stark contrast in attitudes. 'Accepting your son or daughter as someone who wants to raise a family, whether they're two dads, two mums, somehow that's OK, because it's about raising a family… But abortion is seen as killing a baby. 'However, discussion of the subject is being given space in the media now. And there's also discussion on euthanasia now at the moment.' It seems opinions are becoming increasingly progressive, at a time when other European countries appear to be veering right. The net result, believes Van Der Merwe, will be a boom in tourism. 'Tour operators and local businesses have noticed increased demand for packages, experiences, and stays tailored to the LGBTQ+ market,' she says, 'suggesting that Malta's inclusive stance is driving real tourism growth.' Alba Bustamante, Director of Global Brand Marketing at Meliá Hotels International, which operates four properties in coastal town and nightlife hub St Julian's, believes it's been a two-way process. 'Global tourism has played a vital role in reshaping attitudes, fostering a more open-minded, inclusive environment across the country,' she says. 'Our employees have been trained to provide service based on empathy and respect, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.' For any gay travellers visiting the island, Attard recommends heading to Kaktus bar in resort town Sliema on the north coast, nightclub Michaelangelo in St Julian's or any events held by party organisers Lollipop. But he admits there's a dearth of dedicated queer bars. Whether Malta is set to be Europe's gay travel capital remains to be seen. Oliver James, a keen traveller and member of London's gay community, is yet to be convinced. 'It has potential, but they are still missing some key factors,' he says. 'They need more bougie hotels. I mean, there's not even a Soho House…'
Zawya
03-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar Airways lands again in Malta, continues to expand its network and increase global connectivity
Qatar Airways resumes operations today in Malta with four non-stop flights a week between Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Malta International Airport (MLA). The latest addition to the airline's network in Europe affirms its commitment to maintaining global connectivity. Malta is home to Valletta, its capital city declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Mdina, its old capital with more than 4,000 years of history. With 300 days of sun, the country invites travellers to explore its sun-drenched coasts, rich history, and cultural experiences. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: 'Qatar Airways remains at the forefront of supporting global connectivity with its resumption of operations in Malta. As the only airline in the Middle East with non-stop services to and from Malta, we deliver convenient travel experiences to our passengers who seek to enjoy the vibrant nature of Malta and its landscape. We welcome global travellers to travel seamlessly and conveniently with the World's Best Airline, through its home and hub, the award-winning Hamad International Airport.' Malta International Airport CEO, Mr. Alan Borg, said: 'The return of Qatar Airways as one of our airline partners is a welcome addition to our schedule, contributing to our efforts to expand our connectivity. A testament to our industry's resilience, we remain committed to facilitating the airline in increasing its operational growth in the region.' Malta Tourism Authority CEO, Mr. Carlo Micallef, said: 'We welcome the resumption of the Qatar Airways direct service between Doha and Malta. Qatar Airways' return signifies a strong recognition of Malta's tourism potential. The new schedule will strengthen Malta's connectivity with a variety of attractive and lucrative tourism source markets, and the Malta Tourism Authority remains fully committed to working in partnership with the airline to maximise business opportunities for Malta whilst ensuring the route's sustained long-term success.' Qatar Airways, a benchmark for excellence in the industry, continues to fly passengers from global markets to its European network of nearly 50 destinations through the world-class Hamad International Airport. Qatar Airways flight to Malta (MLA) Departing every Wednesday and Friday: Doha (DOH) to Malta (MLA) – Flight QR381: Departure 02:05; Arrival 06:45 Malta (MLA) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR382: Departure 10:15; Arrival 16:20 Departing every Monday and Saturday: Doha (DOH) to Malta (MLA) – Flight QR383: Departure 08:45; Arrival 13:25 Malta (MLA) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR384: Departure 17:05; Arrival 23:10 © Gulf Times Newspaper 2022 Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Hospitality Net
05-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
ITB Asia 2025 Unveils Top Exhibitors and Elite Buyer Networking
Now in its 18th year, ITB Asia will return to Marina Bay Sands from 15 to 17 October 2025, alongside MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia. Asia's premier travel event is already attracting unprecedented exhibition demand from National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) and Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) such as Singapore Tourism Board, Visit Finland, Malta Tourism Authority, Sabah Tourism Board, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Seoul Tourism Organisation, Visit Berlin, Sarawak Tourism Board, and more. Exclusive Buyer Elite Programme offers priority one-to-one meetings and unique branding opportunities. Media accreditation is now live, media may pre-register by 13 October to guarantee all-access pass. A rich selection of national tourist boards will also be in attendance. Delegations from the Czech Tourism Board, Lithuania Travel, Malta Tourism Authority, Philippines Tourism Promotions Board, Singapore Tourism Board, Taiwan Tourism Administration, Tonga Tourism Authority, Tourism Association of Sarajevo Canton, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tourism Seychelles, Visit Estonia, Visit Finland, Visit Iceland and Visit Norway will share insights into their latest marketing initiatives and travel incentives. Regional tourist boards, including Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Department, Pattaya Variety, Penang Tourism Board, Phuket Tourist Association, Sabah Tourism Board, Sarawak Tourism Board, Seoul Tourism Board, Visit Almaty, Visit Rovaniemi and visitBerlin, will demonstrate how they are driving growth in their respective markets. Meanwhile, Travel Tech Asia will host a world-class lineup of technology providers. Korea Tourism Startup Center, Juniper Travel Technoloy, Go Global Travel, Rakuten Travel Xchange, Wego, DerbySoft, RateHawk, Worldline, Flywire, RESTEL S.A., SiteMinder and SUNRATE will unveil innovations in booking platforms, payments and guest-experience management that are set to revolutionise the travel ecosystem. The Buyer Elite Partner Programme continues to be a cornerstone of ITB Asia's value proposition. In partnership with associations and agencies such as Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies (ASITA), ASTINDO, BWH Hotels, Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA), Enterprising Travel Agent's Association (ETAA), EVINTRA, IME Consulting, Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), Network of Indian MICE Agents (NIMA), Outbound and Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), United Travel Agencies and Operators Association (UTAOA), Vietnam Society of Travel Agents (VISTA) and Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA), ITB Asia will deliver a hand-picked cadre of MICE, Leisure and Corporate buyers. Partners can recommend both existing clients and new prospects - ensuring high-quality, pre-arranged meetings that translate into real business outcomes. Exhibition space is filling fast. Companies eager to secure a presence at ITB Asia 2025 should register now at Trade visitors can take advantage of our Early Bird rate, available until 12 September 2025, by registering at Media registration now open Media professionals are invited to apply for accreditation now via The online pre-registration link closes on 13 October 2025 at 12:00 pm GMT +8, and on-site accreditation will not be offered. All media applications are subject to approval by the ITB Asia press team. For further information on ITB Asia 2025, please visit or contact [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming you to Singapore this October. About ITB Asia ITB Asia, Asia's leading travel trade show, is organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. The annual B2B trade show and convention will feature hundreds of exhibiting companies from the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East, covering not only the leisure market, but also MICE and corporate travel. Exhibitors from every sector of the industry, including destinations, airlines and airports, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions, inbound tour operators, inbound DMCs, cruise lines, spas, venues, other meeting facilities, and travel technology companies are expected to attend. ITB Asia is the premier meeting place for the travel trade industry to forge new partnerships and strengthen existing business relationships with the most important players in the region. About ITB Global Brand Family For more than 50 years the name ITB has stood worldwide for the travel industry knowledge 365 days a year, networking and trendsetting events - in a virtual, in-person, or hybrid format alike. As the travel industry resurges, the ITB brand family is among the first to come back to offering on-site in-person events. ITB Asia will be held in Singapore from 15 to 17 October 2025, covering the broader regional market. ITB China, the premier marketplace for China's travel industry, is scheduled for 27 to 29 May 2025, in Shanghai. ITB India will take place in Mumbai from September 2 to 4, 2025. ITB Berlin, the world's leading B2B trade show for the travel industry, will take place in Berlin from March 3 to 5, 2026. The inaugural ITB Americas will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico, from 10 to 12 November 2026, covering the American market.
Tourism Breaking News
27-03-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Malta Tourism Authority wins ‘Most Innovative Luxury Travel Experience Campaign' at the Arabian Travel Awards 2024
Post Views: 103 Malta Tourism Authority won the title of the 'Most Innovative Luxury Travel Experience Campaign' at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. 'The Arabian Travel Awards held special significance, recognising the achievements of our clients. The event's organisation and entertainment were of top-notch quality! Congrats to ATA team. Securing an Arabian Travel Award 2023 is a significant emotional milestone.'- Glenn Johnston Vice President ME and Global Affairs – Representative of Malta Tourism Authority
Tourism Breaking News
10-03-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Emirates and Malta Tourism Authority forge strategic partnership to enhance inbound tourism
Post Views: 56 Emirates signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malta Tourism Authority to bolster inbound tourism through collaborative marketing efforts. The MoU was signed by Thierry Aucoc, Emirates' Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations (West) Europe and Americas and Carlo Micallef, Chief Executive Officer, Malta Tourism Authority, during ITB Berlin, Germany's premier travel trade exhibition. The signing ceremony was also attended by senior executives from both organizations. Under this strategic alliance, Emirates will leverage its expansive global network to promote Malta as a premier leisure destination. Key initiatives will include organizing media familiarisation trips from key target markets to showcase Malta's unique appeal as a Mediterranean gateway. The two entities will further explore joint advertising campaigns and collaborations with tour operators and travel agents to develop compelling promotional packages. Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said: 'Malta has been a key destination in our European network for over two decades, and we've witnessed its growing popularity as a sought-after leisure gateway over the years. This agreement reaffirms our commitment to supporting Malta's tourism industry by leveraging our global reach to further boost inbound travel. Our daily service, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER—the largest scheduled passenger aircraft serving the destination—ensures that travellers enjoy our award-winning products and services, while local businesses benefit from the significant cargo capacity we offer on the route.' Malta's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Hon. Ian Borg said: 'This agreement will continue strengthening the long-standing collaboration between Malta and Emirates, while helping us reach out to more travellers, as we spread the word about the Maltese Islands' unique attractions and experiences. By joining forces with international airlines and other key industry players, we are maximising our resources to constantly optimise our product development and promotion efforts and meet the ever-changing requirements of our diverse markets across the world, towards a more sustainable future for tourism in Malta and Gozo.' 'This strategic partnership with Emirates represents a pivotal step in our mission to elevate Malta's position as a premier destination for quality tourism. By harnessing Emirates' extensive global reach and industry expertise, we aim to attract discerning travellers seeking authentic and high-value experiences. This collaboration aligns with our long-term vision for sustainable tourism growth, ensuring that Malta continues to thrive as a distinguished Mediterranean destination known for its rich heritage, natural beauty, and exceptional hospitality' commented the CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority Carlo Micallef.
