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Bugibba/Qawra/St. Paul's Bay What's it really like ? Transfer time: Approx 40 minutes Location: St. Paul's Bay is the name given to this particular stretch of coastline. Bugibba: An old-fashioned resort which is now beginning to look rather decrepit. Things are improving in places with lots of cash being spent restoring and renovating some of the more run-down areas but that means building work could be in progress. It needs it, however. Bugibba in particular suffers from a cramped feeling with bland concrete buildings rammed around the bay. It may well be friendly, but it isn't pretty. The contrast between Malta's beautiful ancient architecture and the ugly shoebox apartments is the island's main flaw. Qawra: More modern and quieter than its neighbour, although still densely populated around the centre. Money has been spent here, too on improvements to the promenade which links up with Bugibba within walking distance. Qawra is still a developing resort which means there is building work going on and it seems to be spreading further inland to meet up with the back streets of Bugibba. Many visitors to the St Paul's Bay area notice a strange whiff in the air when the wind blows from the west. It comes from the salt-pans in the neighbouring bay. Beaches: No sandy beaches. Qawra has a narrow pebbly stretch; Bugibba's rocky seafront provides bathing in natural lidos. Watersports all along the coast with opportunities for snorkelling and diving. Good amenities along the promenade including shops and bars. NOTE: Watch for public warning signposts erected where swimming is not recommended and take heed of them. Days out: Boat trips and water sports. Valletta's cathedrals, palaces and museums draw visitors from around the island. Further inland there are villages and the Mdina (pron: Im Deena) - an ancient walled city and former capital. Cruises to Gozo and the Blue Grotto. Shops are spread around the resorts with the main concentration in Bugibba. To fully enjoy the sites around the island we recommend hiring a car. Nights out: Clubs and 'live' music bars compete with British-style pubs, some of which are quite authentic. Restaurants to suit mass tourist trade, more traditional menus can be found near the old fishing village in Bugibba. Bucket and Spade Brigade: Not the best resort for children due to lack of beach and attractions. Rock pools are interesting to explore but care should be taken of little ones around the coast where the sea can be rough. |
