Low season? Visiting Malta in December has definitely got its pluses.
Wondering why you should visit a Mediterranean island in the middle of winter? We have some definitively good reasons for you to experience Malta in December.
1. It’s less crowded
December is considered low season in Malta. Despite its many other attractions, Malta still has the adage of being mainly a beach and party island destination. That in itself is weird because, along its mere 136.8 kilometre shoreline, it hardly affords the long stretches of beach other destinations have. In Malta, it is a unique collection of intriguing contrasts that fascinates visitors. And with less crowds around, you can enjoy them more fully.
2. The weather is sweet
A big plus is that you can leave the heavy jackets, raincoat and wellies at home. And sunny winter days are much more pleasant than the scorching summer heat! Of course it rains and the wind blows sometimes, but the weather is still milder than where you’re from (probably). Bar the exceptional storm that takes the island by, well, storm, that is. If you happen to witness one, it is certainly a wild experience!
3. It’s greener and more lush
The parched land through a long, hot summer relishes a little rain, drinks it up and the grass springs up. Where once there was brown is now green. Trekkers and photographers will find endless delight in the Mediterranean landscapes, seascapes, sunrises and sunsets. Actually, anybody will.
4. It’s all lit up with blinking lights
All that pretty disappears early - in Malta it’s dark just before 5pm through December. But then, another pretty comes alive as streets come alight with Christmas decorations. From the roads and roundabouts to residential houses; some families take festive home decorations very seriously!
5. It’s cheaper to stay
With a lower demand from the low season, holiday accommodation rates drop to a steal. Except for a seasonal supplement just around Christmas and New Year, hotel rates can drop by as much as 80 per cent. This means you can stay longer and have more money in your pocket to spend on other things. You can even get your very own Gozo farmhouse for a bargain.
6. Greater independence
It’s not only the holiday accommodation that becomes cheaper, but almost every other tourist service. Cheaper car rental and less traffic mean you don’t dread killing yourself the minute you get on a Maltese road and you can discover off-the-beaten track places that are inaccessible by public transportation. Some places feel really remote (unbelievably) and offer incredible beauty, calm and charm. Or simply get lost and enjoy the adventure.
7. There’s lots to do
Not only is there 7,000 years of historic heritage, a tonne of museums, a variety of entertainment and stunning cityscapes, landscapes and seascapes to explore. Christmas time in Malta brings with it a variety of uniquely seasonal events, such as the live nativity scene and various exhibitions and fairs. All that aside, even a simple wander through Malta's villages may feel like an open air museum.
8. Greater spontaneity
And the best bit of it all is that, because there are less people on the island, you can easily find availability for anything. From restaurants to spas, same day booking or no reservation is likely to be fine. You can follow your flow, forget the time and indulge in anything you fancy on a whim.
9. It’s a well-kept secret
Stress-free. Great value for money. Easy access to loads of things that will satisfy your varied interests. These things make Malta and Gozo a totally underestimated destination for all seasons and perhaps the locals’ best kept secret.