Valletta & the boutique hotel concept

Abstract

Cultural tourism is not a new concept. This type of tourism was born in the i6th Century through the 'Grand Tour'. Scholars and upper class citizens travelled around Europe in order to enhance their knowledge about the diverse cultures that prevailed in different countries. Cultural diversification and different traditions intrigued these travellers and still fascinate tourists nowadays. Valletta, a UNESCO world heritage site, has a lot to offer to the cultural tourist. Yet, some of its historic buildings lie vacant or misused. Since the early i96os Malta was advertised as a sun-sea destination, and the authorities gave hardly any attention to the conservation of historic buildings. Over the past few years the situation has changed considerably and many conservation projects have been undertaken by the public sector. Developers should be encouraged to follow this example and invest in Malta's historic heritage especially in Valletta. One good possibility for the Maltese developers lies in the conversion of historic buildings into up-market boutique hotels of different types. Without spoiling the unique character of historic buildings, these could be converted into small hotels. In this way, historic centres like Valletta will be saved and tourists will be able to appreciate the Maltese architectural heritage and actually live in it. It is not so easy for entrepreneurs to invest in such projects as the preservation and conservation of this heritage imply a substantial financial commitment. Boutique hotels or small scale accommodation can offer the possibility of undertaking conservation projects within a commercial framework and this would greatly encourage the private sector to invest in the regeneration of Valletta.