It's Christmas Time at the Excelsior Hotel Malta!

Grand Hotel Excelsior Festive Season ELetter

The Grand Hotel Excelsior’s volunteers visit Dar il-Wens residents

Last week a number of volunteers forming part of the Aid the Community Committee of the Grand Hotel Excelsior, took time out of their busy work day to have tea with the residents and carers of Dar il-Wens in Kalkara. Aid the Community is one of the committees set up by the HR Department of the Excelsior Hotel Malta to assist the less fortunate. The group of volunteers was warmly welcomed by all at Dar il-Wens.


The Grand Hotel Excelsior team makes every effort to assist those in need – be it employees or the members of the community.

For more information about the activities and events organized by this Leading Malta Hotel kindly visit the Grand Hotel Excelsior’s website at: http://www.excelsior.com.mt/

Meet the Gingerbread Family at the Grand Hotel Excelsior!

VALLETTA, MALTA, December 2010 - Nothing beats the smell of gingerbread in the air at Christmas time! Bring your kids to the Grand Hotel Excelsior to create some magical memories!

A number of chefs from the Excelsior’s award winning kitchen brigade took time out of their personal schedule to work on this year’s Gingerbread Castle. A large number of hours were put into creating this spectacular 114 kilogram house, which proves to be an attraction year after year.

The Excelsior chefs have prepared something a little more special for you this Christmas. They are not only teasing you with the gorgeous aroma of gingerbread as soon as you walk in to the hotel lobby, but also giving you the chance to taste these hand-made delights. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the cosy sofas of the Harbour View Lounge, sipping on mulled wine and nibbling on Christmas treats, to include mini mince pies, traditional festive fruit cake and ginger bread biscuits for just 2.50 Euro per person. Keeping the little ones in mind, after all Christmas is for kids, the Excelsior Hotel Malta has put together innovative stocking fillers – the Gingerbread family is available to purchase from Harbour View Lounge.

Contact the Grand Hotel Excelsior on 21 25 05 20 or food.beverage@excelsior.com.mt for more information or visit http://www.excelsior.com.mt/. Live the Grand Life this Festive Season.

Your last chance to check out Our Festive Season Menus

Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta - Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner 2010

Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta - Christmas Day Buffet Lunch 2010

Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta - New Years Eve Buffet Dinner Menu 2010

Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta - New Years Day Buffet Lunch Menu 2011

The Excelsior’s Gift to You!

‘The joy of brightening other lives, bearing each others' burdens, easing other's loads and supplanting empty hearts and lives with generous gifts becomes for us the magic of Christmas.’

WC Jones

Need a little help to get you into the Christmas spirit this year? The Grand Hotel Excelsior has got the perfect gift to warm you up on the inside. Meet up with friends and loved ones in the cosy atmosphere of the Harbour View lounge, whilst enjoying harmonious Christmas Carols performed by children and adults from various local institutions. Whether you are catching up over a quick morning coffee or enjoying traditional afternoon tea after a hectic shopping spree in Valletta, this Luxury Malta Hotel will add a little sparkle to your day. Sip on some mulled wine and Christmas treats to add to the festive feeling.

As part of its vast entertainment schedule, the Excelsior Hotel is welcoming a group of children from St. Monica School to sing to a few residents of Casa Arkati home for the elderly, who will be coming in to the hotel for their festive gathering on the 15th December at 10.00hrs. The hotel will part sponsor this event, doing its bit to help the community. Pupils of St. Theresa School will be singing Christmas Carols on the 20th December at 10.00hrs. Performances by members of L’Isle Adam Band Club will also take place on Tuesday 28th and Thursday 30th December from 19.00hrs till 21.30hrs. The Excelsior team is busy finalising its entertainment calendar. Members of the public are warmly welcomed to join in these festivities.

Call the Grand Hotel Excelsior on 21 25 05 20 for more information or visit http://www.excelsior.com.mt/ to view the full calendar of events. Live the Grand Life This Festive Season!

A Delicious Mulled Wine Recipe from the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta for your Christmas Holidays!

Mulled wine has become a holiday tradition. This superior Malta hotel has prepared an easy to do mulled wine recipe for you to enjoy in the comfort of your home. So cuddle up as the weather gets colder and enjoy a mixture of fruit and spices which make a perfect drink for the Festive period.

Delight in Our Mulled Wine Recipe and have a Great Festive Season!

And if you are planning your Christmas Holidays in Malta kindly visit this Luxury Malta Hotel's website at http://www.excelsior.com.mt/

Homemade Cocktail for the Festive Season!

The Grand Hotel Excelsior presents "Bounty Boat", a Special Cocktail for the Festive Season that can be easily done at home.

So for your Christmas Holidays prepare a distinctive cocktail and enjoy it in the company of Your Dear Ones.

The Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta wishes its guests a wonderful Christmas and All the Best for the New Year! We hope to have the honour of serving you in one of our top Malta Bars and Restaurants these coming weeks.

For more information kindly visit the Excelsior Hotel's website: http://www.excelsior.com.mt/

Mix business with pleasure at these exotic banking destinations.

Malta - With 18 licensed offshore banks, the tiny island country of Malta is fast becoming a hub for international finance and leisure alike. The Grand Hotel Excelsior, one of the most luxurious waterfront resorts in the area, is a favorite of Rod Stewart, Kid Rock and the Scissor Sisters and likely to become one of yours as well. Guests can sail their yachts into the private 30-berth marina just steps away from the stunning, 10-story hotel. When you’re not lounging by the pool, dive into the Mediterranean or visit the Casinò di Venezia Malta, located in the magnificent 17th-century Captains’ Palace. After all that, relax at one of the three restaurants or four bars the hotel offers and remind yourself: This is the life. http://www.excelsior.com.mt/

By Irina Grechko and Becky White

To View Article in its original source click here:

http://www.bostoncommon-magazine.com/culture/articles/foreign-affairs

MALTA. Valletta, Grand Hotel Excelsior

View of the Grand Hotel Excelsior's Private Beach & Pool Area: Photo by a Guest

http://bit.ly/ensQjv

Excelsior Hotel’s contribution towards the Malta Community Chest Fund

VALLETTA, MALTA, November 2010 - A fundraising event on the occasion of Halloween was organised by the Sports and Social Committee of the Grand Hotel Excelsior earlier on this month. All proceeds will be donated to the Malta Community Chest Fund during the ever so popular ‘Strina’ programme aired on all local TV stations on Boxing Day.

Members of the organising committee dedicated time out from their normal working hours to decorate the hotel’s Exhibition Hall for this special occasion. The event was well attended by around one hundred and fifty members of staff together with their families and friends. Snacks and drinks were served to guests with the hotel’s compliments.

The Grand Hotel Excelsior team makes every effort to assist those in need – be it employees or the members of the community.



Caption: the Exhibition Hall themed for the event.



Caption: Staff Members dressed up to win the competition for the best costume.



For more information about what’s happening in Malta and at this superior hotel kindly visit this Luxury Malta Hotel’s Website.

Staying at the Grand Hotel Excelsior - Guest's Experience

Many thanks for making our stay at the Grand Hotel Excelsior in Valetta, Malta so special. From our arrival on 2nd June to our departure on 16th June we thoroughly enjoyed every minute, making this one of our best holidays - ever!

We cannot praise the entire hotel staff highly enough for their professionalism and pride and will certainly recommend the Excelsior to everyone we know and hope to re-visit sometime in the future.

I have travelled extensively on business throughout Europe & Scandinavia for many years staying in countless hotels but none come up to the standard of the Excelsior. Once again many thanks to everyone for doing a great job of providing the highest quality service and experience!

Mike I., England

For more information kindly visit: http://www.preferredhotels.com/hotel.aspx?id=62891



GO Malta Music Awards 2010 COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS for This Saturday!

HURRY LIMITED TIME OFFER!

Book you stay with Our Reservations Office for stay dates from now till the 20th December 2010 and receive a FREE Ticket for the GO Malta Music Awards 2010 for this coming Saturday.

In order to be eligible for this offer please mention that you saw the offer on Facebook or Our Blogsite.

Terms and conditions apply.

■ Tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. Limited tickets available.

■ Maximum of 2 complimentary tickets per reservation.

■ Full prepayment on reservations apply.

■ Tickets are to be collected from the hotel from Tuesday 23rd November till Friday 26th November between 9.00hrs andl 17.00hrs.

■ When reserving the room Facebook Promotion or Hotel Blogsite needs to be mentioned.

■ Room rates as quoted by reservations.

■ Offer may be closed any time without notice.

For more information or to place your reservation kindly contact the Grand Hotel Excelsior's Reservations Team on: 21250520.

POLL 4: How Many Antipasti, Salads and Dips do we offer during our Sunday Buffet Lunch? (Please tell us which number you selected in the comments section).

Vote & Get a Chance in Winning a Sunday Lunch for 2 persons including 1 Bottle of Wine and 1 Bottle of Water! Winner will be announced on Monday 29th November 2010.

CLICK HERE: http://poll.fm/f/2gg6p

Please select your preference by ticking the most appropriate button and then indicate your chosen preference in the comments section of the poll in order to be eligible for the draw.

Live the Grand Life this Christmas!

Stay at this Luxury Malta hotel during this Festive Season for your Christmas Holiday in Malta.

Enjoy a fantastic Christmas Break this year at this Luxury Valletta Hotel. Our Christmas Malta Holiday package includes:

■ 3 nights stay in a Deluxe Inland or Deluxe Sea View Room for 2 persons
■ Half Board basis, i.e. including Daily Buffet Breakfast and Daily Buffet Dinner one of which would be the Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner

The Christmas Package price starts from 212.50 Euro per night for two persons in a Deluxe Inland Room.

Offer is valid when booking for stay dates 24th till 27th December (3 nights). Rates are inclusive of tax and availability is subject to change at time of booking. Use of our leisure facilities throughout your stay and complimentary parking for in house guests apply.

BOOK ONLINE to benefit from this offer.

*A 50% Non Refundable Deposit will be withdrawn from the credit card provided at booking stage.

* * * * *

New Year Malta Holiday Package includes:

■ 3 nights stay in a Deluxe Inland or Deluxe Sea View Room for 2 persons
■ Half Board basis, i.e. including Daily Buffet Breakfast and Daily Buffet Dinner one of which would be the New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner

The New Year's Package price starts from 271.70 Euro per night for two persons in a Deluxe Inland Room.

Offer is valid when booking for stay dates 31st December 2010 till the 2nd January 2010 (3 nights). Rates are inclusive of tax and availability is subject to change at time of booking. Use of our leisure facilities throughout your stay and complimentary parking for in house guests apply.

BOOK ONLINE to benefit from this offer.

*A 50% Non Refundable Deposit will be withdrawn from the credit card provided at booking stage.

Should you require further information kindly call our reservations department on +356 2125 0520 or email reservations@excelsior.com.mt.

In Love With His Job - Excelsior Hotel Malta Head Chef

Roger started his career in the kitchen as a commis chef way back in June 1991 in one of the leading four star hotels in Malta at the time. “Over the years I gained experience working in industrial kitchens, restaurants, catering companies and hotels around Malta and overseas. I had the opportunity to show my culinary skills in all sections of the kitchen until l I found my ideal role managing a large brigade of chefs - I am now the Executive Head Chef at the Grand Hotel Excelsior.”

Choosing a career in catering came naturally for Roger. "My family has always been involved in the gastronomy industry in Malta; the kitchen was always part of my life as a family concern. I was attracted to this environment from a young age and over the years spent long hours in industrial kitchens to get the feel of what it would be like to be a chef. Believe it or not I still get excited when entering a large kitchen."

After working his way up the career ladder by gaining hands on experience within this industry, Roger also had the opportunity to enrol in several culinary and management courses – both locally and overseas.

His explains that his experience is mostly in the hotel industry, working on large volume events, which is very different to the restaurant business where you cater for a fixed amount of covers. He points out that the hotel environment is seasonal and it fluctuates accordingly.

“The advantage is that one is able to explore new systems, trends and tastes accordingly. A challenge I thoroughly enjoyed was creating a buffet set up with a difference at the Grand Hotel Excelsior. Each night is themed, ensuring variety and novelty for our patrons. Together with my team of chefs we have achieved a strong and stable popularity within the local market and have also changed the international traveller’s perception regarding the food available on the Maltese islands. A report in the media recently stated that ‘The Excelsior’s offering is probably going to be up there among the best this winter’. My team and I work hard to ensure a superior offering. The hotel is famous for its magnificent structure and location but is mostly known for its outstanding culinary products.”

Roger professes to love all kinds of food and is always open to explore new flavours and fusion cuisine.

At home, however, he admits to taking a break from the kitchen since it is his wife who does most of the cooking.

"I only cook when we have guests."

When I ask him what he does to relax, he laughs, “Relax!? What is that? My mobile is always on – I am like a doctor on call. You can ask my team – whether on my off day or on holiday, I still know exactly what’s going on! Strictly speaking, in my position I can’t afford not to think about my kitchen.”

Dining Out on Friday: It’s a Grand way to dine

Sunday Buffet Lunch the Grand Way!
The Grand Hotel Excelsior is now in its third year of operation and from the first few months of opening, it was very clear that the culinary offerings were to set a new standard on the Maltese Islands. The ever so popular Sunday Buffet Lunch takes patrons on a culinary journey that is second to none. The lavish spread of food includes a never ending array of antipasti, 88 to be precise, seven live cooking stations to include Sushi, Pasta, Indian, Turkish, Carvery, Berkel and the dessert station. Last but definitely not least, a spectacular spread of 28 different desserts, featuring the all time favourite chocolate fountain with fruits, marshmallows and doughnuts for dipping. The award winning kitchen brigade is exceptionally passionate about the food created and makes a supreme effort to offer unparalleled cuisine using a harmonious collection of fresh, wholesome ingredients to nourish the senses.

Headed by Executive Head Chef Roger Friggieri, the team craves innovation and individuality and has taken this year’s Sunday buffet lunch one step further by creating an additional specialty corner for savoury and sweet items where a different theme will feature each week.

Seeing as Sunday is a family day out, the team has also set up a children’s corner to feature pasta, chicken nuggets, sausages and potato smileys.

This Grand Experience comes at the small price of €33 per adult, half price for children between the ages of six and 11 and free for the under fives.

*     *     *     *     *     * 

Harbour View – 24 Hour Bar

The Grand Hotel Excelsior’s Harbour View Lounge is the only one on this side of the island to offer 24 hour service. Light snacks and beverages can be consumed in the relaxing and warm ambiance while soaking up stunning harbour and sea views.

Chartroom Lounge – Afternoon Tea

In the tradition of true hospitality, the Grand Hotel Excelsior serves Afternoon Tea in the cosy atmosphere of the Chartroom Lounge Bar every day between 3 and 5pm. English scones, freshlybaked cakes and pastries and a special ‘Chocolate Delicacy’ are just some of the delights to discover for the price of €28 to share.

View Link on the Malta Independent Newspaper.

For more information kindly visit the Excelsior Hotel Malta Website.

Sunday Buffet Lunch at one of the Top Luxury Malta Hotels

The Spice Island Restaurant offers a great selection of salads & antipasto for any special diet. The Sunday Buffet also includes platters, dips, freshly sliced parma ham, seafood dishes and a large selection of Hot dishes. Amongst the hot dishes one can find an Indian Section, a Sicilian Section, an Asian Section with live sushi, A Pasta Live Cooking Station, and a Turkish Section. The Dessert Selection varies every week and includes a Chocolate fountain.

Booking for Sunday Lunches is recommended. Kindly call this Top Valletta Hotel on 00356 21250520.

Grand Hotel Excelsior November Poll 2

POLL 2: How many types of Sushi do we offer during Friday’s Asian Theme Night?

Vote & Get a Chance in Winning an Asian Themed Buffet for 2 persons including 1 Bottle of Wine and 1 Bottle of Water! Winner will be announced on Monday 15th November 2010. Please don't forget to advise us what score you gave in the comments section of the poll.

CLICK HERE: http://poll.fm/f/2ez1i

(Please select your preference by ticking the most appropriate button and then indicate your chosen preference in the comments section).

We look forward to receiving more and more answers. LET'S GET A WINNER!!! Winner will be announced on Monday 15th November 2010.

Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence 2010

The award winning Grand Hotel Excelsior thanks its guests for their continuous support!

The Grand Hotel Excelsior, Malta, is a newly reconstructed deluxe 5 star resort situated within the sixteenth century fortifications of Malta’s capital city, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The hotel embodies quality and style and commands the island’s premier waterfront location offering breathtaking sea views of Marsamxett Harbour and Manoel Island. As a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the hotel delivers and exceeds expectations on a level of 5-star service excellence.

Despite having been in operation for just under three years, the hotel is known to be home to international pop stars, Royalty and winning various awards, among which this year’s Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. The message from Ms. Christine Petersen, President, TripAdvisor for Business reads ‘We think a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor is something you can be proud of and we hope you do too. So by placing this 2010 Certificate of Excellence where your guests can see it, you’ll be displaying one of the most powerful recommendations – the endorsement of other guests.’

TripAdvisor.com is a travel guide and research website that assists the public at large in gathering travel information, posting first hand experiences and engaging in interactive travel forums. This website has taken the world by storm and is a consumer generated media tool which contributes towards the reputation of a business.

The management of the Grand Hotel Excelsior would like to thank its loyal guests for taking time to post positive reviews on this site and looks forward to welcoming new and repeat clients who are looking to experience the epitome of luxury.

For more information about what's happening at the Grand Hotel Excelsior and Things to Do in Malta during your holiday kindly visit the website of this Luxury Malta Hotel.



Grand Hotel Excelsior November Poll 1

POLL 1:
How Many Live Cooking Stations do we have in our Sunday Buffet Lunch?

Leave Your Vote in order to Get a Chance in Winning a Sunday Lunch for two at the Grand Hotel Excelsior including 1 Bottle of Wine & 1 Bottle of Water!

CLICK HERE: http://apps.facebook.com/polldaddy-polls/?view=poll&id=4017911&ref=mf

(Please select your preference by ticking the most appropriate button and then indicate your chosen preference in the comments section).

We look forward to receiving more and more answers. LET'S GET A WINNER!!! Winner will be announced on Monday 8th November 2010.

Middle Sea Race at the Grand Harbour, Valletta

The Middle Sea Race now taking place at the Grand Harbour in Valletta close to the hotel: Click Here to View More Info.

Spectacular Start to Middle Sea Race Video 

The Treasures of Valletta - Malta's Capital

Explore the wealth of attractions and historical interest behind Valletta's mighty city walls!

"We stayed in the aptly-named Grand Hotel Excelsior (Great Siege Road, Floriana, FRN1810) with wonderful views over Marsamxetto Harbour and a short walk uphill to City Gate or an easier stroll downhill to enter the walled city at St Andrew's Bastion."

Stephen Stafford, A Travel Enthusiast.

 View the Full Article:
http://www.simonseeks.com/travel-guides/treasures-valletta-%E2%80%93-malta%E2%80%99s-capital__170291



Sunday Buffet Lunch at the Excelsior Hotel Malta

Feast your senses on the Grand Hotel Excelsior's Sunday Buffet Lunch.

Live the Grand Life every Sunday. Our award winning chefs use a harmonious collection of fresh, wholesome ingredients to nourish the senses.

A medley of colours, tastes, textures and flavours are blended together to produce luscious dishes from all corners of the globe.Complemented by stunning Harbour views to complete the whole experience, we are sure you will find there is no better end to your week.

For bookings and information call 21250520, visit this Luxury Hotel Malta Website or email info@excelsior.com.mt

Discover The Wonders Of The Capital At This Malta Luxury Hotel.

Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta...

Located just 5 minutes from the city center, with direct access to the main points of interest, this Luxury Malta Hotel welcomes you to classical elegance and unparalleled service.

Embraced by the bastion walls of the UNESCO World Heritage City of Valletta, Grand Hotel Excelsior blends contemporary vision with the rich history of Marsamxett Harbor. Surrounded by the exquisite beauty of the Valletta waterfront, this seaside Malta hotel offers a private 30-berth marina, large indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fully equipped gym, and a health and beauty centre. Witness the sailboats gently silhouetted by the sun in the private marina. Sip a cocktail by the pool. Delight in all this quintessential Malta luxury travel destination has to offer – located in the heart of the capital city.

An excellent address!

For more information kindly visit: http://www.iprefer.com/iprefer/hotels/index.aspx?id=62891

Premiere Amateur Boxing at its best

Boxing in Malta

In September the Grand Hotel Excelsior was host to the premiere Amateur Boxing Event of 2010, being organized by I & J Fitness Team of Mosta, in conjunction with the Malta Boxing Federation. A team of English boxers and officials, most of them from Crawley Amateur Boxing Club, visited our shores to participate in this event. They boxed a selection of local boys from the Mosta Club, St Julian’s Amateur Boxing Club and Dione Boxing Club of Cospicua.

For more information kindly visit: http://www.sportinmalta.com/premiere-amateur-boxing-at-its-best/

Air Malta and Grand Hotel Excelsior winners!

Fulham FC are pleased to announce that the winners of our recent Air Malta competition are Claire Hall and David Edward. They will be jetting off to the Mediterranean courtesy of Air Malta and staying in the exclusive Grand Hotel Excelsior in Malta. After pre-ordering their brand new 2010/11 Away Kit, Claire and David were automatically entered into the competition to win this fantastic break!

Ideal Malta Breaks

Malta, thanks to a strong British heritage, is a nation of football enthusiasts and an excellent short-break destination to catch some Mediterranean sun, without missing out on any fixtures. Offering double daily flights from Gatwick and Heathrow, a daily service from Manchester and twice-weekly flights from Birmingham, hot, sunny weather is just a short three-hour flight away.

CELEBRATE IN GRAND STYLE THIS FESTIVE SEASON!

'Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly Merry Christmas.'                                                                   Peg Bracken.

Check Out Our Festive Season Programme 2010 - 2011:

• Festive Season Staff Party Menus >>
• Christmas Menus & Packages >>
• New Year Menus & Packages >>
• Xmas Mulled Wine Station >>

For more information kindly visit the Excelsior Hotel Malta Website or call us on 00356 21250520.

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Afternoon Tea the Grand Way!

In the tradition of true hospitality, the Grand Hotel Excelsior introduces Afternoon Tea in the cosy atmosphere of the Chartroom Lounge Bar. Afternoon Tea will be served every day between 15.00hrs and 17.00hrs.

A selection of teas, finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with jam and clotted cream, a range of delicate pastries and a special 'Chocolate Delicacy' combine to make for a luscious experience.

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion with your loved ones, or just want to treat yourself to an afternoon of pure bliss, call us now on 21 250 520 or email us on info@excelsior.com.mt for more information and bookings.

Yammie Chocolate at the Grand Hotel Excelsior

Finest Belgian chocolate and Our Pastry Chefs' experience will result in one of the best cakes ‘Excelsior Style’!

If you are in the mood for a Chocolate Cake Celebration, are in love with Chocolate or would like to fall in love with Chocolate, order your

CHOCOLATE DELICACY CAKE

from the Grand Hotel Excelsior.

Our Pastry Chefs will use the finest Belgian chocolate and their experience to prepare one of the best cakes ‘Excelsior Style’, which I am sure you and your guests will enjoy.

Click Here for More Information.

*The Chocolate Delicacy Cake can be ordered from any food & beverage outlet at the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta.

For more information kindly contact us on: 21250520 or send us an email on: info@excelsior.com.mt.

Massage Guru to manage the Le Grand Spa at the Excelsior Hotel Malta

Wednesday 4th August 2010, Malta – Maharlika Massage is a world-renowned massage technique that has been developed by Mr. Victor Quemuel in over 20 years of global study. This study of therapeutic and relaxation massages has been developed as a method of treating pain, muscle and the re-alignment of body meridian zones to bring about a balance and a body revival, inducing relaxation in what Mr. Quemuel calls ‘a journey to the senses’.

Most massages, Mr. Quemuel states, do not disengage the mind from the body. The main feature of Maharlika Massage is to disengage from the outside world with a relaxing and sensual touch. Most spas target the body while Maharlika focuses on the head with mental relaxation taking precedence. By focusing on the mind in deep relaxation, Maharlika therapists can more effectively manipulate the whole body using elements of energy balancing and Reiki healing. This requires a deftness of touch and technique, blending different massaging techniques that are brought together in one 70-minute session. As part of his treatment, Mr. Quemuel practices the Maharlika Thread Peeling Facial. This is a unique treatment that rejuvenates tired skin and reduces premature ageing. Cotton thread is used to remove impurities, cleanse the skin and encourage collagen re-synthesis.

Victor Quemuel, the Maharlika Massage Guru and new Le Grand Spa Manager at the Excelsior.

In his global search for the healing power of massage, Victor Quemuel has travelled the world to find a holistic, natural approach based on Oriental treatments like Thai, Chinese, Shiatsu, Hilot-Philippine Massage, Lomi-Lomi (Hawaiian), Javanese, Swedish and Aromatherapy massage techniques merged into one consummate holistic journey to the senses. In fact, the Daily Mail described his massage technique as the ‘Mother of all Massages’. His Six Senses Spa tour will take Mr. Quemuel to the East (Thailand, Macau, Vietnam); to the Middle East (Oman, Qatar, Egypt and Dubai) and finally home to the Maldives.

As Excelsior’s new Le Grand Spa Manager, Mr. Victor Quemuel stated: “The key for us at the Excelsior is to re-focus on the treatments we give. The core of spa experience is the touch, not the beauty of the spa. The issue for us, as Malta’s leading spa, is to upgrade and differ the quality of treatments we offer and to focus on what will become a healthy holiday for the international traveller. It is my wish that Le Grand Spa becomes the best in Malta and in Europe, and possibly worldwide.”

Kate Moss, Liz Hurley, Tina Arena, Kirsty Young, Fearn Cotton, Laura Bailey, Natasha Kaplinsky, Matt Lucas, Donna Karan, Bollywood superstar Shilpa Shetty and Paula Abdul have all experienced the expert touch of the Maharlika Guru. In fact, they fly to wherever he is giving treatment to receive his special masseur’s touch. His personal appearance at the Grand Hotel Excelsior will be to initiate and educate Excelsior therapists into giving this special massage discipline with the avowed first rule of a customer: “Their body is your temple.”

For additional information kindly contact Victor Quemuel on victor.quemuel@excelsior.com.mt or email info@excelsior.com.mt. 

Le Grand Spa - A Superior Luxury Malta Spa

Time for Relaxation... Le Grand Spa








For more information kindly contact Le Grand Spa Malta on spa@excelsior.com.mt or by phone on 00356 23192115.

Faithless Band stay at the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta

Faithless with Ludwig Farrugia, the Resident Manager at the Grand Hotel Excelsior

Tuesday 10th August 2010 - Faithless, the British electronica band, chose to stay at the Grand Hotel Excelsior during their stay in Malta for their concert at the Gianpula fields on 7th August. This event was part of their European tour taking the band to numerous music venues this summer, including the biggest of open air festivals: Glastonbury, the T festival on the Park, Oxegen music and Global gathering. The group has sold over 12 million records worldwide and is best known for their dance songs: ‘Insomnia’, ‘God Is a DJ’ and ‘We Come 1’. The band has recorded several albums offering a wide variety and blend of musical styles to a cross section of pop and rock fans.

For more information about Things to do in Malta during your holiday kindly contact our concierge department on 00356 2125 0520 or email concierge@excelsior.com.mt.

AKON Live in Malta

World famous R&B singer Akon entertained thousands of fans at a concert at the National Park in Ta' Qali last night.

He belted out some of his best known numbers before the enthusiastic crowd after having earlier generated good publicity for Malta when he posted a picture of his view of Malta from the Excelsior Hotel on facebook - drawing hundreds of comments.

The singer also enjoyed a day at the Blue Lagoon in Comino.

Click Here to View Review on the Times of Malta

For more information about Malta Events kindly contact the Grand Hotel Excelsior on reservations@excelsior.com.mt or 00356 21250520.

FREE ELTON JOHN TICKET PER PERSON BOOKED

The concert will see the return of one of the music icons of the last 40 years. Elton John will be performing live in concert on the 26th September at the Granaries (Fosos) in Floriana, together with Ray Copper. The British singer has sold more than 250 million albums, and produced classic songs like Daniel, Your Song and Candle in the Wind. This is the second concert in Malta for Elton John. His previous solo concert in Malta was in 2003.

Whilst staying at the Grand Hotel Excelsior you will be within walking distance to the concert as the venue is only a few meters away from The Granaries, the venue for Elton John live concert in Malta.

AND for this Special Occasion the Excelsior Hotel Malta is offering a FREE ELTON JOHN Concert Ticket per adult booked over the 26th September when staying a minimum of 3 nights on Bed and Breakfast Basis. Offer includes Free Parking, Use of Gym, Pools and Jacuzzi.

Offer is subject to availability so CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW or Check Availability through the main Book Now Button on the website with stays over the 26th September for 3 nights and over and avail yourself of this Special offer in order not to be disappointed.

* Offer is only available when booking through our website.

A Luxury Valletta Malta Hotel for your Malta Holiday

Welcome to the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta - Live the Grand Life!

From entering this central Valletta Hotel you will immediately notice the luxury and elegance ambience. You can enjoy the magnificent harbour and sea views from the hotel's lobby or from the comfort of your room. You will find a great selection of top Malta Accommodation options to choose from. Summer is the best time to enjoy the resort's facilities including the outdoor pool, private sandy beach, Tiki Bar & Grill and the Hotel's private Marina where yachts dock. For more information kindly visit: http://www.excelsior.com.mt/

Rock legend, Rod Stewart chooses the Grand Hotel Excelsior for his Malta Concert

Rod Stewart with Mr Norbert Grixti, General Manager of the Grand Hotel Excelsior

Tuesday 28th July 2010, Malta – With a résumé that reads Rock legend, singer, songwriter, musician, his list of achievements is endless. Selling over 130 million records worldwide, Rod Stewart, the 65-year old rock star with the inimitable raspy voice, is considered to be one of the best-selling British singers of all time. The star has had numerous solo hit singles, mostly in the UK, where he achieved 6 consecutive number one albums and 62 hit singles. The Grand Hotel Excelsior, a superior Luxury Malta Hotel, was delighted to host such a performer, during his stay in Malta for his concert performance at the Granaries on 3rd August where he sang some of his classic rock hits like Do Ya Think I'm Sexy, Tonight's the Night, and You’re in my Heart.

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For additional information, kindly contact the Grand Hotel Excelsior on 00356 2125 0520 or email us on info@excelsior.com.mt.

Excelsior Hotel Malta hosts VIPs

Excelsior hosts VIPs

During their stay in Malta for the July 29 concert on the Granaries, tenor Joseph Calleja and popular singers Dionne Warwick and Riccardo Cocciante stayed at the five-star Grand Hotel Excelsior, Floriana. Warwick is seen here with Norbert Grixti, Excelsior general manager.

Excelsior Grand Hotel Malta - The Official Hotel for the Rod Stewart Live in Malta

A Great Malta Event this summer.

Rod Stewart was given a warm thank you for his visit to Malta and to the Grand Hotel Excelsior by the management and staff at this Luxury Malta hotel. Backpipes played whilst Rod Stewart was admiring the nice farewell gesture by the hotel. For more information about Malta Events kindly visit: http://www.excelsior.com.mt/

Joseph Calleja, Dionne Warwick and Riccardo Cocciante choose the Excelsior Hotel in Malta

Dionne Warwick with Grand Hotel Excelsior General Manager, Mr Norbert Grixti

Monday 2nd August 2010, Valletta Malta - Joseph Calleja, Dionne Warwick and Riccardo Cocciante may have had their concert postponed by gale force winds but this did not stop them enjoying all that the Grand Hotel Excelsior had to offer.

They stayed just a stone’s throw away from this year’s biggest musical event, at a leading 5 star Malta hotel, for the summer concert that was held on the 29th July, at the Granaries in Floriana.

Tenor Joseph Calleja, who is equally comfortable with both classical and lighter pop music, was joined on stage by popular Italian singer, Riccardo Cocciante and Dionne Warwick. Cocciante won the 1991 edition of the Festival di San Remo with his song, ‘Se Stiamo Insieme’, and Dionne Warwick whose hits include ‘Heartbreaker’ and ‘Walk On By’ has been confirmed as one of the most popular and successful singers of the last five decades. Joseph Calleja said, “Both Riccardo’s and Dionne’s participation will add an extra dimension to this concert and I have full faith this year’s event will be just as memorable and unique for the audience as last year.” The concert also included the participation of a 500-strong children’s choir and the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by celebrated Paul Bateman.

For additional information on Malta Events kindly contact the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta on 00356 2125 0520 or by email on: info@excelsior.com.mt

Prestige French yachts berth at Excelsior Hotel Malta Marina

Thursday 29th July 2010, Malta – The crews of the Sur La Route De Malte yacht race have reached the 10th leg of their journey in eponymous Malta, berthing their yachts at the marina of the Grand Hotel Excelsior from 22nd July to 26th July. The Excelsior Marina berthing represents the southern-most tip of their 30-day marine safari. This is the second year running that the race yachts have been berthed in the private marina of the Excelsior. This superior Valletta Hotel hosted a special prize-giving ceremony followed by a cocktail party and dinner to welcome the crews and organizers of this prestigious yachting event.

The ‘Sur La Route’ yacht race includes 26 sailing boats of 10 - 15 meters in length, left Le Lavandou on 6th July to reach Malta on Saturday 18th July. There are 15 planned stopovers up and down the Tyrrhenian Sea where participants call in at ports in Corsica, Italy, Sicily, Malta and Sardinia, starting and returning to Le Lavandou, the home port on the south coast of France. This is the 5th consecutive year that this race has been held. During the week preceding the departure of the yacht race, the streets, the harbour and travel agencies of this French holiday port were decorated with posters announcing the event. Two presentations of Malta as a tourist destination were given to the general public and to the yachtsmen and women participating in the race. On the eve of the departure a dinner was given to the yachtsmen in Lavandou harbour. The race participants visited Malta & Gozo on two excursions during their time in Malta - one full day in Gozo and a half-day guided tour to Mdina and the Three Cities. An official delegation of the town of Le Lavandou flew to Malta for this occasion. It was consisted of Mr Claude Maupeu, Deputy Mayor and Mr. Sylvain Abonnen, Director of Events of Le Lavandou.

For additional information, kindly contact the Excelsior Grand Hotel Malta on 00356 2125 0520 or by email on: info@excelsior.com.mt  

FREE FAITHLESS CONCERT TICKET PER PERSON BOOKED

FAITHLESS LIVE IN MALTA

The Mega Malta Event will take place at Gianpula fields and Gianpula club, Malta’s largest open air venue on Saturday 7th August 2010.

The Faithless British electronic band consisting of Maxi Jazz, Sister Bliss and Rollo formed in 1995 have recorded several albums reaching sales of 12 million records worldwide. The event is part of their European tour this summer taking the band to numerous European music open air venues . The three person band consists of Jazz who acts as a vocalist in mostly rap format, Bliss constructs most of the music herself electronically, while Rollo heads and produces the band.

A FREE Faithless Concert Ticket per person booked at the Grand Hotel Excelsior!!

Benefit from A FREE FAITHLESS Concert Ticket per person booked over the 7th August when staying a minimum of 3 nights on Bed and Breakfast Basis. Offer includes Free Parking, Use of Gym, Pools and Jacuzzi.

Limited Time Offer, so Book Now or Check Availability through the main Book Now Button on the website with stay over the 7th August for 3 nights and over, and avail yourself of this Special offer in order not to be disappointed.

* Offer is only available when booking through our website.

FREE AKON Concert Ticket per person booked!!

So many concerts and parties this Summer!!! The world's international Minister, Senegalese R&B hit maker will be pumping the island with his music. He will be performing in a live concert at Ta' Qali on Saturday 14th August 2010.

The Grand Hotel Excelsior is giving out A FREE AKON Concert Ticket per person booked over the 14th August when staying a minimum of 3 nights on Bed and Breakfast Basis.* Offer includes Free Parking, Use of Gym, Pools and Jacuzzi.

Offer is subject to availability so Book Now or Check Availability through the main Book Now Button on the Grand Hotel Excelsior Website with stay over the 14th August for 3 nights and over and avail yourself of this Special offer in order not to be disappointed.

* Offer is only available when booking through our website.

For more information kindly check: http://bit.ly/cA8FC8

ROD STEWART LIVE IN MALTA - FREE CONCERT TICKETS DURING YOUR STAY!!

GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR MALTA - THE OFFICIAL HOTEL FOR THE ROD STEWART CONCERT IN MALTA

Legendary singer Rod Stewart will be performing in a live concert at the Fosos (Granaries), Floriana on Tuesday 3rd August 2010.

One of the most successful performers of all time with an estimated 250 million in album and single sales and with sold-out concerts across the globe, Rod’s first-ever concert in Malta is expected to be the biggest pop and rock outdoor gig this summer. His last five studio albums have held the top spots in the Billboard charts, including his last release, 2006's Still The Same…Great Rock Classics of Our Time, which entered the charts at Number One.

The British songwriter, famed for his distinctive raspy voice, is expected to belt out some of his biggest hits like ‘Do Ya Think I‘m Sexy‘,‘Sailing‘, ‘Hot Legs‘,‘First Cut Is The Deepest‘,‘Maggie May‘,‘Have I told You Lately‘, ‘Forever Young‘,‘Some Guys Have All the Luck‘ and many, many more.

Rod Stewart continues to attract audiences of all ages. The release of his latest album, SOULBOOK, a collection of classic Sixties/Seventies-era soul favorites, all newly recorded by the quintessential “blue eyed soul” singer, continues to define his status as a superstar of our generation.

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SPECIAL LIMITED TIME OFFER - ROD STEWART IN MALTA

FREE ROD STEWART CONCERT TICKET per person booked over the 3rd August 2010 with a minimum of 2 nights booked. CHECK AVAILABILITY & BOOK NOW through our website. Offer is only applicable on specific room types and subject to availability at time of booking.

For more information kindly contact us on reservations@excelsior.com.mt

MTV stars, Scissor Sisters and Kid Rock choose the Excelsior

Excelsior General Manager, Norbert Grixti sharing a moment with the Scissor Sisters.

Tuesday 6th July 2010, Malta - For the third year running, the international rock stars of the MTV Malta concert have chosen the Grand Hotel Excelsior. The Scissor Sisters, David Guetta, Kid Rock and Kelis all chose to stay at the Excelsior for their star appearances at the latest Isle of MTV Malta Special 2010. This free open-air concert was held at the Granaries in Floriana on 30 June where an estimated 50,000 fans attended to hear four steaming hours of pop and rock, and an exclusive opportunity to see some of the world’s best new and established artists.

Excelsior General Manager, Norbert Grixti with Kid Rock

For additional information kindly contact the Grand Hotel Excelsior on 00356 2125 0520 or email info@excelsior.com.mt

The Making of Malta - Excellent Malta Holidays

Day 1 - More to Malta

The tiny island of Malta, adrift in the Mediterranean like a stepping stone between Italy and Africa, has been forced to endure many injustices in its 7,000-year history - a five-month siege by Ottoman Turks, irreparable looting by Napoleon’s garrisons and 154 days of Luftwaffe bombing to name but a few. Yet, in its own way, the current affront to Malta causes equal indignation.

I am talking, of course, of the island’s reputation as a mere bucket-and-spade, fly-and-flop package destination, with little more to offer than jam-packed dive sites and beaches crowded with leathery pensioners.

It is time to explode this myth and send it scurrying for cover like the returning French football team.

Malta is in fact the perfect destination for anyone with a penchant for history, culture, stand-and-stare architecture, gin-clear water and meals that revolve around the fishermen’s catch. And if you want that wrapped in a fabulous climate then you’ll find that too - April to October sees little but sunshine, usually tempered by a cooling sea breeze.

Better still, it’s just a three-hour flight from the UK. Easyjet, Ryanair and BMI Baby all fly the route, though the national flag carrier, Air Malta, offers the more civilised flight times, operating out of Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester and, in summer, Glasgow.

Transfers? Hardly an issue. The only airport is less than 45 minutes’ drive from anywhere on the island, and is just 8 km from Valletta, Malta’s Lilliputian capital (at barely a kilometre long and only 600 m wide, it may well be Europe’s smallest).

Perhaps to prove that Malta can cater as well for the discerning traveller as it can for the mass market, my friend and I choose to stay at the Grand Hotel Excelsior, Valletta’s most luxurious hotel, with an enviable position on the Marsamxett Harbour waterfront.

The lobby sets a tone of classical-inspired elegance, with a wide central staircase, freestanding statues and the smart Harbour View bar. But it’s not until you stop to take in said view that you realise you’re already on the sixth floor, with the bulk of the hotel’s far-reaching facilities focussed on the waterfront below you.

Serried ranks of sea-front rooms boast spacious balconies with magnificent views of the passing yachts and the honey-coloured buildings of Manoel Island. In fact, barely anywhere in the hotel is the water out of sight. From the moment you wake for breakfast at the glass-fronted Spice Island Restaurant (the smoked swordfish is a treat) to watching the sunset - cocktail in hand - by the freeform pool or on the small private beach, it’s almost impossible not to gaze out to sea.

Then again, such marvellous panoramas had a great deal to do with Valletta being built in the first place, though its orchestrators were thinking more about defence than impressing hotel guests.

In 1530, Malta was given to the spiritual and military order, the Knights of St John, whose origins trace back to the Christian Crusades of the 11th and 12th centuries. The Knights, however, almost lost the island to the Turks in the Great Siege of 1565 and, fearing further reprisals, set about building a new city in a more defensible position on the Sceberras Peninsula.

The result was Valletta, named after Jean Parisot de la Valette, the Grand Master of the Knights and the hero of the siege. Surrounded on three sides by the sea, Valletta was bestowed with churches, palaces, uildings tall enough to offer shade from the sun and straight streets to allow the cooling sea breezes to circulate. A great ditch was cut across the peninsula to protect the landward approach and massive walls and bastions were raised around the city’s perimeter. It remains a masterpiece of architecture and town planning, described by UNESCO as "one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world".

Among its streets, as I discover to my delight, are a number of great restaurants, cafes and wine bars. We begin with a glass of merlot at Trabuxu, a cosy spot decorated with oak barrels, musical instruments and black and white photos, before sitting down to eat in the private courtyard of Fusion Four, set into the 400-year-old bastion walls. Few restaurants exude as much charm and character; fewer back it up with either such warm-hearted service (the owner gave us a private tour of the restaurant’s museum as she filled us in on the island’s history) or such mouth-watering food: freshly caught sea bass and tender pork fillet, wrapped in pancetta and served on a bed of stewed apples.

Day 2 ­- Medieval Marvels

Valletta in daylight and my first impressions are of limestone façades fronting six- or seven-storey buildings. At street level, shopfront signs reveal Arabic and Italian influences ­- Maltese is close to colloquial Arabic and Sicily is just 90 minutes away by ferry - and on almost ever corner are the chiselled features of Catholic iconography. The Maltese claim to be one of the oldest Christian peoples in the world, having been converted by St Paul after his shipwreck on Malta in AD 60, and 98% of the island’s population remains Roman Catholic.

Fitting then that our first port of call is St John’s Co-Cathedral, the most impressive of Malta’s 359 Catholic churches. The façade may be plain, austere even, yet the interior is a celebration of Maltese baroque. The nave is long and low, with every wall, pillar and rib encrusted with ornamentation, including Maltese crosses and the arms of the Order. The floor is a patchwork of colourful marble tombs and the striking barrelled vault is divided into seven vast panels, each depicting a scene from the life of St John the Baptist.

But the headlines are held for what lies in the oratory: two original works by revolutionary painter, Caravaggio. His spine-tingling masterpiece, The Beheading of St John the Baptist, dominates the far wall (note the artist’s signature in the blood seeping from St John’s severed head), while opposite is his equally evocative work, St Jerome.

Outside, in the sunshine of Republic Square, waitresses ferry frothy cappuccinos while an enthroned statue of Queen Victoria looks on impassively. We don’t stop, however, preferring instead to take our refreshments at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, overlooking the British canons that top the bastion walls and the shimmering Grand Harbour beyond.

Once fortified, we board a yellow local bus for the short trip to Mdina. In medieval times, Mdina (from the Arabic for ’walled city’) was the favoured residence of the Maltese nobility and the seat of the governing council. But when the sea-faring Knights of St John made the Grand Harbour their base of operations, Mdina sank into the background.

This surely was its saving grace, as few old cities remain so gloriously unspoilt. This is historic Malta at its most photogenic: quiet streets and hidden lanes untouched by modern branding, wall-clinging bougainvillea and beautifully preserved palazzi (some, like Palazzo Falson, have been opened as museums, offering a rare glimpse behind aristocratic walls).

We eat lunch at the Fontanella Tea Gardens, perched on top of the bastion walls, looking out across the vineyards and dusty fields towards the ocean beyond. A pause between courses to wander the quiet streets, then dessert at Xara Palace, once a 17th century palazzo, now one of Malta’s most elegant small hotels.

Our trio of old cities concludes after dark with Vittoriosa, which faces Valletta from across the Grand Harbour. It was on this finger of land that the Knights of St John withheld the Turkish onslaught of 1565. Today, its regenerated waterfront sports open-air restaurants, a marina-cum-superyacht-parking-lot and even a casino. Yet despite the obvious flaunting of wealth, Vittoriosa remains quiet and picturesque. By day - I am told - its flower-bedecked alleys make for excellent aimless wanderings, while at night, the views of floodlit Valletta make a wonderful backdrop to the freshest of fish suppers.

Day 3 - Megalithic Magic

If seeing its walled cities had given me a sense of Malta’s last 500 years of history, I was about to be transported a lot further back in time. The temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra in south-east Malta were first thought to be copies of the Mycenaean temple style, yet carbon dating has since shown them to be a full millennium older.

Staggeringly, Malta’s megalithic temples are the oldest surviving free-standing structures in the world, built between 3600 and 2500 BC, more than 1,000 years before Giza’s Great Pyramid or Avebury’s Stonehenge. Hagar Qim and Mnajdra are among the best preserved and most evocative.

Tent-like structures have been erected above them to protect them from the elements and a shiny new visitors centre opened earlier this year. Walking through the monumental doorways into rounded rooms built of limestone blocks weighing up to 20 tons, erected by people who had neither metal tools nor even a written language, soon began to make my head spin.

What was needed was a walk to let history sink in. Leaving the temples, we take a coastal track towards Ghar Lapsi, where a cove in the limestone cliffs has been converted into a natural lido, with stone steps and iron ladders giving access to the limpid blue waters (such a pity about the blaring House music emanating from the waterfront restaurant).

Malta’s coastline is spectacular to behold, with layers of rock, millions of years old, forming vertical sea cliffs pocked with caves, reefs and vast limestone arches like the popular Blue Grotto. From June to October the average sea temperature is above 20°C and the water is an inviting turquoise blue.

Back by the pool at the Grand Hotel Excelsior, watching fireworks mark the start of another of Malta’s festas (a series of feast days that runs almost without stopping from June to September), I take stock of where I am. In front lies a harbour that’s played host to crusading knights and an Ottoman armada. Behind tower the walls of Europe’s first planned city. Scattered around me are contented guests and smiling staff - service alone at the Grand Hotel Excelsior is good enough to earn it its 5-star rating. I’ve found history and culture, swum in crystal-clear water and eaten like a king. But something is missing. Oh yes ... the buckets and spades and the package parades.

Writer: Pete Mathers

http://www.wexas.com/Malta/holidays/

12 July 2010