'Harassment' of tourists

Having spent several holidays in Malta during the period 1985-1999 and now being retired we had wanted to make Malta a regular holiday destination. When we visited the island for three weeks in April we hoped it would be the first of many return visits but sadly it will be our last!

Although we enjoyed excellent service at our hotel and again encountered generosity and hospitality from many people, it is the so-called timeshare louts who will deter us from visiting again.

In attempting to walk around St Paul's Bay we were accosted no less than 16 times over a period of just three hours which is nothing short of harassment. During our total stay we were stopped over 60 times by people offering various "services" all of which were associated with timeshare or holiday clubs. Had this occurred in the UK we would certainly have reported the matter to the police especially as two of those who stopped us were abusive and threatening.

From talking to other holidaymakers they too were angry that their holidays were blighted in this way and unless the authorities are able to regulate this trade aspect the more discerning tourist will not be making Malta their future holiday destination.