The Phoenicia Malta

The Hotel Phoenicia -- the oldest luxury hotel in Malta -- is a celebrity-worthy oasis with a long history. It was bombed during World War II and has hosted everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Helen Mirren, who played the Queen on stage. The Phoenicia has a 1920s Art Deco vibe throughout, from the striking wrought-iron garden gates shaped like peacocks to the lobby’s high ceilings, elaborate millwork, velvety vintage-style furniture, and grand piano. There is no piped-in muzak here; pianists play live throughout the day. The lobby is vast and circular, with plenty of Maltese limestone, marble, ironwork, sunlight, and tropical plants. The Phoenicia embraces its history, and there is even a book available detailing the construction and evolution of the building and grounds. Artwork includes permanent exhibition of the world’s largest private collection of Edward Caruana Dingli paintings, mostly vivid portraits of the life and people of Malta. Privacy is also a key selling point, and there are lots of gardens for wandering in along with a pool overlooking the harbor.  

The Hotel Phoenicia is located at the entrance to Malta’s capital city -- Valletta -- just outside the ancient city walls. The area is busy, but the hotel’s huge gardens isolate guests from the noise and crowds. The city’s financial center and high-end shopping district are within walking distance, and the bus station and taxi stand are right next door, which means guests don’t need cars to see the area sites. Parking is free, however. The ferry to Sliema is a short walk from the entrance, and there is a golf course within a 10-minute drive. The airport is a 25-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms at the Hotel Phoenicia are elegant and spacious, although not as luxurious as the grounds and common areas. The decor is simple and classic, with Maltese tile floors, modern furniture -- much of it high-end wicker by Lloyd Loom  --  and soothing earth tones. The walls feature ocean-themed prints and vintage black-and-white photographs of Malta. Amenities include air-conditioning, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms have harbor views and/or balconies, with larger terraces on lower floors. Bathrooms are tiled in white, and the sinks and fixtures have a 1920s feel. 

Executive Rooms offer extras for business travelers, including large work surfaces and free shoeshines. Suites are huge and more modern than the rooms, with stylish walk-in shower stalls, but no tubs. Classic Plus Rooms are more contemporary and stylish than the traditional Classic Rooms, which start at 20 square meters (215 square feet). Smoking and non-smoking rooms are available.

The Hotel Phoenicia features three restaurants. The Phoenix serves modern French cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients in a stunning dining room with panoramic harbor views that are especially beautiful in the evenings. During the summer months, guests have the option to eat on the terrace. One night per week, the Phoenix offers a popular Taste of Malta buffet with local dishes and wines and live music. The Pegasus Brasserie is a more casual -- but still sophisticated -- bistro with a handsome dining room hung with modern art. The Palm Court Lounge is a great spot for business meetings over breakfast or lunch, or afternoon tea. In the evenings, the Palm Court serves cocktails to the accompaniment of live piano or guitar music, and -- occasionally -- Argentine tango. The Club Bar takes its inspiration from colonial Malta, with historical photographs on the walls.

The Pool Deck is built into the 16th-century bastions that make up the city walls. The pool itself is large and ringed with lounge chairs and has plenty of space for taking in views of the harbor and skyline, but will be temporarily closed for renovations as of November 2015. There is also an adjacent hot tub. Kids (and parents) can play miniature golf in the gardens (though the course is looking a little worse for wear). There is a jewelry store in the lobby for gifts for oneself or friends and family back home. The Phoenicia also has a small fitness room with cardio machines and free weights and there's a free shuttle to a nearby beach.