In 1960, four years before it gained independence, the island of Malta was distinguished for its prime spot in the Mediterannean. Ninety minutes from Sicily by ferry or five hours from Tunis by plane, the country's islands were featured among the European resorts in the itineraries of the British Overseas Airways Corporation. Fifty years later, the islands remain a well-kept secret.
Last month, the country's flag carrier, Air Malta, released "The Malta Guide," with a virtual destination guide, recommendations, video diaries, travel advice and "Best of Malta" lists, including the Best Beaches and Top 10 Things to Eat. Top Historic Sites included the narrow walled city of Mdina, the "silent city," and the Hagar Qim and Mnajddra Temples dating back to between 3600-3200 BC and 3100-2500 BC, 1,000 years before the Egyptian Pyramids. This summer MSC Cruises featured Malta in its 18-night dance cruise to Rio de Janeiro, and this fall Crystal Cruises' featured Malta on its new 11-day voyage from Rome aboard Crystal Serenity.
As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, we're taking a look at what was happening in the industry in the past and asking agents to share their thoughts on what has changed in the industry in the present. Please share your thoughts by posting a comment below, writing us at our Facebook page, sending a tweet to our Twitter page or by engaging in a discussion in real time at AgentNation (the only social community online for all kinds of travel agents, which certainly wasn't around 80 years ago). We want to hear from you.
And while you're here, learn more about how we're celebrating eight decades of covering the travel industry for travel professionals.