Malta's warts

Frank Salt was quite right to suggest that visitors either love Malta or hate it, but I would like to add to Mr Salt's comments as follows:

Most of the Brits that I talk to stay at Bugibba or Qawra - and their perception of Malta (good or bad) is coloured by their experiences there. The activities of the timeshare reps do nothing positive to enhance their experience. I have had some quite unpleasant experiences with such people, just visiting there briefly.

The buses are a great attraction, but the behaviour of many (not all) of the drivers detracts from the experience by over charging visitors and bad driving habits - mobile phones, chatting to friends, driving off or stopping too sharply.

Some returning visitors feel that the island has been over-developed and has lost some of its unique charm. They feel that the island is one continuous building site.

The people of Malta are without doubt, however, the island's greatest asset, together with the climate. As Mr Salt said, Malta certainly needs to be promoted much better. Potential visitors need to know that it exists. I attend property shows in the UK. I have to begin by reminding people that Malta exists. That is not really my job, but that of the MTA.

The airport is the start and end of most visits. That could be used more to promote local art and culture as Dublin does.

Sydney has a wonderful craft market with real locally-made items including paintings and sculptures at reasonable prices. Sliema would be a great location for a similar market.

Diving and water sports need to be promoted more actively and there need to be more facilities for children.

As an observer, I feel that too much time and effort seems to be spent by politicians and others blaming each other. This does not help the image of the island - nor in addressing the issues. They need to pull together for the benefit of all who live and make their living on the island.