Travel agent reveals the best girls’ trip destination featuring sunshine, spritzes and a secret island next door

A mother-daughter team of travel professionals, Melanie and Grace Landricombe, has shared their top recommendation for a girls’ getaway. With combined experience spanning over 40 years in the travel industry, they highlight Malta as the ultimate destination for female travelers.

Malta is praised for its vibrant atmosphere, affordable options, and proximity to the UK, requiring just a three-hour flight. The duo describes the island as the ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean,’ emphasizing its appeal for leisurely trips. Their top picks include sunny beaches, rooftop bars, and lively nightlife, all accessible with a casual budget of €6 for Aperol spritzes.

“Malta has everything from sunshine and food to culture and brilliant value. You can relax on beaches like Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay, explore historic cities such as Valletta and Mdina, or spend long evenings eating fresh seafood in St Julian’s,” Melanie said. “I even got married on the tiny Maltese island of Gozo in 2009, and Grace was my bridesmaid!”

Why Malta Stands Out

With more than 300 days of sunshine annually and summer temperatures hitting 30°C, Malta offers ideal conditions for beach days, sightseeing, and quality time with friends. Melanie notes that the warm weather allows for leisurely hours of swimming, sunbathing, and catching up without rushing.

Gozo’s Hidden Gems

For those seeking a quieter escape, the nearby island of Gozo is a must-visit. Melanie describes it as Malta’s ‘sleepy sister island,’ a place that feels like stepping into a different world. The 20-minute ferry ride from the northern coast of Malta leads to a destination rich in history and charm.

Their Gozo recommendations include Ramla Bay, known for its striking red-golden sand and crystal-clear waters, and Victoria’s Citadel, a hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of the island. Other highlights are the Ta’ Pinu Shrine and Rotunda, two breathtaking churches, as well as Comino, the small island between Malta and Gozo with its tropical turquoise lagoon.

Stylish Stays on a Budget

To complement the adventure, the duo suggests the be.HOTEL in St Julian’s. This modern retreat features sea views and a relaxed boutique vibe, located just moments from the island’s top bars and beaches. Grace remarked, “It’s the perfect base for mums and daughters. You can wander to the seafront in minutes, come back for a cocktail, and genuinely unwind together.”

Alternative Destinations

While Malta tops their list, the pair also recommend other locations for girls’ trips. Puglia offers whitewashed towns and family-run trattorias, perfect for meaningful time together. Madeira entices with volcanic pools and consistent sun, ideal for adventurous pairs. Valencia blends cultural richness with golden shores at a lower cost than Barcelona, while Porto delights with river sunsets, vintage trams, and budget-friendly wine bars.