Beautiful European city getting ‘out of hand’ as tourists swarm island paradise

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Valletta, the picturesque capital city of Malta, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in tourist numbers, cementing its position as one of Europe’s most sought-after travel destinations.

The historic city, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, has witnessed a remarkable influx of visitors from around the globe, contributing to its growing popularity on the global tourism map. However, local residents are worried that this growth in popularity could lead to an influx of rowdy tourists visiting the city.

This surge in visitors to Valetta can be attributed to a variety of factors, including enhanced marketing efforts, improved infrastructure, and a growing reputation as a must-see destination.

One of the key drivers behind Valletta’s tourism boom is its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while offering modern amenities. The city’s well-preserved Baroque architecture, cobbled streets, and historic sites, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace, have been magnets for history enthusiasts and culture lovers.

Simultaneously, the establishment of contemporary art galleries, boutique hotels, and trendy cafes has appealed to younger, more cosmopolitan travellers.

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Valletta’s picturesque waterfront, which has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, has also played a pivotal role in attracting visitors. The city’s strategic location along the Mediterranean Sea offers stunning views and is home to a bustling harbour.

Local businesses have thrived as a result of the tourism influx, with restaurants, souvenir shops, and guided tour services witnessing a surge in demand. The economic boost has not only revitalised the local economy but also spurred investment in the city’s infrastructure.

But locals are worried the unexpected number of tourists will turn Valletta into the latest destination in Europe for rowdy holidaymakers.

Last year saw the enactment of a fresh regulation allowing music to play outdoors in Valletta until 1am. This move was made despite objections and concerns raised by residents, who worried that this alteration might lead to the conversion of the UNESCO World Heritage site into a centre of entertainment.

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Valletta’s Deputy Mayor Ray Azzopardi told Times Malta: “The situation in Valletta is out-of-hand, residents are tired, and I understand, as I am one of them.

“Residents are not annoyed by the music, but by the noise. I have had residents tell me that there are certain establishments not cooperating with residents. Something has to be done.”

Jaume Ros, founder of travel site New.to, told Express.co.uk: “I get it. Malta, with its azure seas, labyrinthine lanes, and a history that feels like flipping through an ancient, worn-out book, has an undeniable allure. But I’ve seen and felt the locals’ concerns too. The charming narrow streets of Valletta, which I once strolled down feeling the echoes of knights and sailors, might just become another tourist circus. And that’s a hard pill to swallow.

“Now, the naysayers would argue, ‘Isn’t tourism a boon? More visitors mean a bustling economy, right?’ Sure, in theory. But it’s like pouring water into a cup; initially, it’s quenching a thirst, but soon, it’s spilling everywhere, creating a mess. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned from my jaunts, it’s that not all destinations are equipped to deal with the deluge.

“It’s not just about physical space. It’s about the cultural texture, the daily rhythms, and the spirit of the place. Social media’s relentless spotlighting of ‘Insta-perfect’ locales has inadvertently made some of these places victims of their own beauty. A double-edged sword, I’d say. It’s not just the environment at stake; it’s the very essence, the soul of these places, that gets diluted. And once gone, it’s tough to reclaim.

“But hey, it’s not all doom and gloom. There are places bucking the trend, innovating, and finding ways to coexist. Think of entrance fees that go directly into preserving the locale or spotlighting off-beat paths to distribute the footfall. Better yet, how about promoting off-season travel? Malta in the autumn has a charm few have experienced. I remember sipping on a local brew, watching the sunset over the Grand Harbour without the usual clamour of summer. Priceless!”

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