Where is Gozo?
We’d love to keep it a secret but unfortunately that will not pay the bills. Gozo is located 60 miles south of Sicily and forms part of the Maltese archipelago which consists of islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino. Part of the European Union, our currency is the Euro.
Is Gozo a deserted island?
Thankfully it’s not. We have shopping centres, supermarkets, hotels, bars, restaurants, clubs and…plenty of churches!
How do I get to Gozo?
If you are Maltese (as opposed to Gozitan, yes we have a different name, dialect, etc) you are only a short ferry ride away, but you know this already. The rest of the world will need to fly in to Malta International Airport (we only have one airport so don’t worry you will find it) travel to Cirkewwa ferry harbour, take the 25 minute ferry to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo and you will be within a 20 minute car ride to your accommodation.
How long is the journey from the airport to the accommodation?
This usually takes between an hour and a half and two hours including a pleasant 25 minute ferry trip from which you will see some beautiful scenery.
How frequently does the ferry run between the islands?
The ferry schedule changes according to the season. In the peak summer months the ferry runs nearly every 45 minutes. For more information visit gozochannel.com.
Didn’t Gozo have an airport once?
Actually it was a heliport but the helicopter service which you could take from Malta Airport has gone the way of the dodo. Plans are in the pipeline to either reintroduce the service and have small planes land in Gozo. Apparently these things take time to plan and execute so we live in hope.
So what places do you recommend we visit?
We recommend the usual touristy places like the Citadel in Victoria, the Ggantija Temples in Xaghra, Calypso’s Cave, the Xwejni Salt Pans, Dwejra Bay (where the Azure Window used to stand) and so on.
OK seriously, what do YOU recommend?
Ahh, we know what you mean. Gozo’s secrets will only be revealed to those who book a holiday with deReday Gozo Homes.
What are the typical opening hours for shops in Gozo?
Shops are usually open from 9am to 7pm. Grocery stores open earlier than that, usually around 6am and may close for an afternoon siesta and normally re-open at around 4pm. Some of the big supermarkets stay open later than 7pm and are also open on Sunday morning. Most shops are closed or open for only a few hours on public holidays.
What is the time difference in Malta and Gozo?
Malta is in the Central European Time Zone and uses Central European Standard Time (CET) which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1). Like all European states Malta reverts to Summer (Daylight-Saving) Time and local time is shifted forward by 1 hour.
What’s the weather like?
Typically Mediterranean. We have mild winters and hot summers. Many people don’t realise that Malta and Gozo are further south than Tunis but thankfully we are surrounded by sea so there is always a light breeze.
Are there any festas (feasts) in Summer?
Each of Gozo’s villages have their own patron saint whose feast is celebrated one weekend in summer. The feast of St Paul in Munxar towards the end of May kicks off festa season which runs throughout summer. We highly recommend visiting a feast in Gozo, it’s a mixture of religion, fireworks, street revelry and tradition.
What is the electricity voltage in Gozo?
The Maltese Islands use a Voltage of 240 volts – same as the UK. Three-pin British style plugs are used. Visitors from the UK can use their normal 3-pin plug items. Visitors from elsewhere may need an adapter.
ACCOMMODATION
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is usually not earlier than 16:00 and check-out not later than 10:00. We know how eager you are to check in earlier so when possible we can be flexible with these times.
We arrive on a late night/early morning flight, is this a problem?
In case you arrive on a late night or early morning flight, you still would be able to check-in into the accommodation with the use of a key in a key-code box. We ask is to forward us your flight details so we are aware and can plan ahead. We will then provide you with more detailed information.
Can we bring a pet?
We have pets at home so we definitely can relate to this question. However we tend not to accept any type of pets.
Can we stay less than the minimum number of nights?
No. But, if you insist in some cases we may come to an agreement depending on rates, season etc. You have to really insist though!
What does the food pack consist of?
Our standard food pack consists of a selection of locally prepared items. If you would like a larger variety of items available for you at the accommodation upon arrival, please click on the following link for more information: https://gozoholidayhomes.com/welcome-packs/. We require that order are placed at least 1 week prior to your arrival.
Maltese – do we get a food pack?
No. Unless you just spent the whole day travelling, catching flights etc.
Do we get pool towels?
Pool towels are not provided. Bathroom towels are not allowed to be taken off the property or used in the pool/Jacuzzi area.
What days of the week can I start my holiday?
This depends on the accommodation you choose. You can find more details on this on each individual property page.
Are bed linen and towels provided?
We do provide bed linen and towels. Please contact us for more information.
Do we get maid service?
At selected properties we do offer maid service (terms and conditions apply). Please contact us for more information.
Do I need to pay a deposit to confirm a reservation?
Yes and this is usually set at 35% of the rental price. In case your booking dates are less than 8 weeks away full payment on booking is required. Different terms apply in case of discounts offered. Please contact us for more information.
Do I need a travel insurance?
We do recommend it. Peace of mind – you cannot put a price on that.
Can we smoke inside the property?
You are free to smoke on the outside, pool area, garden, terrace etc as we know that you are responsible and will use an ashtray. However, please refrain from smoking inside the property.
Can we invite friends to stay?
We prefer that only the persons on the booking form have access to the property. But if you suddenly discover a long lost friend, let us know and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What if we are not happy with our property on arrival?
We try to provide a really accurate picture of our accommodation and are sure that you will love it. However if there is anything that you are not happy with please let us know immediately.
What if we damage something during the stay?
We accept that a certain amount of wear and tear is inevitable such as the odd smashed glass or broken plate. Those pesky wine glasses can be really delicate, right? If it is something more serious please let us know. As security we keep your card details on record.
Do we have to clean the property before departure?
We do not expect guests to scrub and clean, leave that to us. But it would be greatly appreciated if the kitchen is cleared, rubbish bagged and all dirty dishes cleaned.