Travel agent reveals the best girls’ trip destination – with sunshine, spritzes and a secret island next door
Top Girls’ Getaway Destination Revealed by Travel Agent Duo
A mother-daughter team of travel specialists, with combined experience spanning four decades, has unveiled their favorite destination for a girls’ trip. Their recommendation? Malta, a sun-soaked haven that offers a perfect blend of affordability, culture, and charm—just a three-hour flight from the UK.
The ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean’
Melanie and Grace Landricombe, who work side by side at TUI’s Crayford Superstore, highlight Malta as the ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean.’ The island is celebrated for its golden shores, rooftop bars, and a lively nightlife, all accessible at budget-friendly prices. Aperol spritzes, for instance, can be enjoyed for as low as €6 (£5.20).
“Malta has everything from sunshine and food to culture and brilliant value,” Melanie shared. “You can relax on beaches like Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay, explore historic cities such as Valletta and Mdina, or spend long evenings eating fresh seafood in St Julian’s. I even got married on Gozo in 2009, with Grace as my bridesmaid!”
Malta’s Appeal for Uninterrupted Time
With over 300 days of sunshine each year and summer temperatures reaching 30°C, Malta is ideal for leisurely beach days, sightseeing, and quality time with loved ones. Melanie emphasized the island’s perfect setting for slow, relaxed experiences: “The warm weather means you can spend hours swimming, sunbathing, and chatting without any need to rush.”
Must-See Spots in Malta
The duo’s top recommendations in Malta include Valletta, the UNESCO-recognized capital featuring golden limestone streets and panoramic harbor views. Mdina, the island’s famed walled city, is best experienced with unhurried walks through its historic alleys. For a unique adventure, Blue Grotto—a cluster of sea caves with striking blue water—should be explored by boat.
St Julian’s, known for its vibrant nightlife and stylish cocktail scene, is another highlight. The area’s rooftop bars and bars provide an ideal backdrop for socializing. For those eager to venture beyond, a day trip to Gozo, Malta’s quieter neighbor, is a must. This can be arranged through TUI Musement, offering a ferry ride that takes just 20 minutes from the north of Malta.
“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 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.”
Gozo’s Hidden Gems
On Gozo, the duo suggests exploring Ramla Bay, where red-golden sands and crystal-clear waters create a stunning natural setting. Victoria’s Citadel, an ancient hilltop fort, offers breathtaking views of the entire island. Don’t miss the Ta’ Pinu Shrine and the Rotunda, two of Gozo’s most awe-inspiring churches. Comino, the tiny island nestled between Malta and Gozo, is also a highlight, with its turquoise waters that evoke a tropical vibe.
Where to Dine and Stay
For food, the duo recommends Primitivo Grill in St Julian’s for Mediterranean classics, or ‘Catch of the Day’ at Calle Bistro, renowned for its fresh seafood. In Gozo, Ta’ Rikardu in the Citadel is a favorite for homemade Gozitan cheese and local wine.
When it comes to accommodation, the pair suggest the be.HOTEL in St Julian’s. This modern hideaway boasts sea views and a relaxed boutique atmosphere, placing guests moments away from the island’s top bars and beaches. Grace noted: “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.”
While Malta is their top choice, the duo also shared other favorites. Puglia, with its whitewashed towns and golden beaches, offers a similar vibe to Malta at a lower cost. Madeira, for adventurous pairs, promises volcanic pools and consistent sun. Valencia combines cultural richness with coastal beauty at a price that rivals Barcelona. Lastly, Porto is ideal for river sunsets, old trams, and great-value wine bars.