Escape the big freeze - head south to the Maltese islands

2010 in the UK has started with the ‘big freeze’, however not all of Europe is experiencing the same wintry conditions.

Just three hours from the UK, nestled 290km north of Africa, Malta’s Mediterranean islands have been blessed with lovely weather this month, with warm temperatures ranging between 15-25 degrees Celsius. And to get you there for less, Air Malta is currently offering the opportunity to ‘migrate south’ from just £79 return including taxes and charges.

Malta and its sister islands Gozo and Comino have continued to win more short break visitors than ever before especially during the winter months when visitors to the islands can discover a host of diverse attractions, beyond the sun and sea. With quick landing, passport control and luggage collection times, you can be relaxing at your hotel within an hour of landing.

Malta’s strategic position midway between Europe and Africa made it a key possession for the many different conquering nations that ruled it throughout its 7000 years of history: from Neolithic man to the Ancient Romans, the Byzantines, the Moors, the Normans, the Knights of St John, the French and the British, all of whom have left a wealth of architectural and cultural treasures.

Take a trip to the Baroque city of Valletta or catch the ferry or helicopter to the island of Gozo, mythical home of Calypso, and wander round the amazing Neolithic temple of Ggantija. Lunch by the sea on freshly caught Mediterranean fish and crisp white wine from the terraced vineyards that decorate the Maltese countryside. Take a wine tasting tour and discover the true flavour of the Mediterranean in its rich, melodic wines.

For those seeking adventure and an adrenaline rush, an early morning dive in the crystal clear waters of the Med checking out old war ships might be the thing to set your pulse racing. Alternatively test your endurance rock climbing high above the deep blue sea on the majestic Dingli Cliffs; hop on a bike to explore Gozo, or wind down with a leisurely round of golf.

Evenings are fun filled: start with a typical Mediterranean fish dinner and continue with a buzzing night in one of Malta’s many sophisticated nightlife venues. There’s lots of choice too - pick from one of the hundreds of restaurants and cafes serving a wide range of local and international cuisine, and enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife, with its myriad pubs, wine bars, jazz clubs, discos, nightclubs and casinos offering entertainment for all ages.

A number of memorable events are organised throughout the year with forthcoming highlights including Paul Van Dyke’s World Tour on 6th February, the colourful Malta carnival between 12th and 16th February and the BOV Opera Festival between 17th and 24th March.

Air Malta offers double daily flights from London Heathrow and Gatwick, a daily service from Manchester and two flights a week from Birmingham. Book by 31 January and fly on selected Gatwick departures from just £79 return including taxes and charges between now and 13 July.

In Malta you’ll find sunshine and socialising, history and culture plus delicious Mediterranean food and a vibrant nightlife that takes you from dusk till dawn – but definitely no snow!

For more information as well as flight, hotel and car hire bookings visit airmalta.com.