Valletta| The perfect romantic destination for LGBT couples

Sadly, still in the 21^st century, finding somewhere to stay on holiday can cause anxiety for LGBT couples, particularly when visiting a foreign country for the first time. Finding somewhere that is accepting of modern relationships is really important to having an enjoyable stay, particularly when it’s a romantic getaway or even a holiday. Not all of us want to go to a “specialist” resort either, as these can often be a little over the top. Unfortunately, there are still news stories of couples being discriminated against at some standard hotels especially in countries that are particularly religious. But in Valletta, this isn’t the case, and in fact Malta is a very gay friendly holiday destination all year round.

Maltese Equality Laws

Malta President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca signed the Marriage Equality Bill in parliament in August 2017, to ensure all couples are treated equally and have freedom to celebrate their relationships. For this reason, Malta is becoming a very popular destination for civil ceremonies and same-sex honeymoons. The bill was passed shortly before Malta Pride Week, one of many global celebrations of equality for the LGBT community. In 2017 Malta Pride attracted over 2,500 participants in a colourful procession through the streets, open air parties, performances and rainbow coloured celebrations. The event was sponsored by an impressive list of brands; Coca-Cola, Smirnoff, Air Malta and Vodafone. The main activities for Malta Pride 17 took place in St George’s Square, Valletta, just a short distance from Casa Ellul.

A romantic place to stay in Valletta

Casa Ellul is always popular with gay couples during Pride week for so many reasons. Of course, the location is very central, close to all the action, and we have a 24 hour reception desk so no matter what time you celebrate to, we’re on hand if needed. Our luxury boutique hotel is very intimate and discreet, with only 8 suites, 2 of which each have a warm rooftop jacuzzi perfect for romantic evenings enjoying the views over the beautiful and peaceful city of Valletta. This is why we’ve been listed in the Telegraph’s Best Valletta Hotels, and won an award for embracing romance. So, it’s not just during Pride Week that we fuel the fires of love, but all year round!

Gay friendly days and nights out in Valletta

Close by to Casa Ellul there are plenty of gay friendly clubs and bars, depending how much of a social scene you’re looking for. Monaliza The Art of Diversity  – a cocktail lounge on Great Seige Road hosts weekly club nights and is popular with the LGBT community.  Interestingly, 5% of their gratuities go to local good causes. Also, Morpheus Bar is another popular spot, small but always packed.  AXM Club on St Georges Road in St Julians is home to gay nights galore to soak in the Valletta party scene, and Q-Bar and Restaurant at the Waterfront is a great all-day hang-out for food with friends leading to cocktails in the evening. For romantic day trips, visit the Three Cities in Malta and take a gondola ride, a starlit night-time cruise around the 2 harbours, or an excursion to the Blue Lagoon for stunning clear-blue waters.

It’s no wonder Malta reached first place on the ILGA Rainbow Europe Index in 2016, and Casa Ellul are proud to welcome all couples to Valletta.