Adequate facilities

I feel I must comment on my latest incursion to your island. Let me briefly lay out my background. I first arrived in Malta through my career in the RAF and since 1963 made many enjoyable visits to Malta, including honeymooning here in 1970.

This time, however, I brought my new partner, my wife having died some six years ago. My partner is also a great fan of your lovely island. Accompanying us was her disabled son Paul and it is about this aspect I wish to write.

Having previously stayed at the Paradise Bay Hotel, some two years ago, we felt from memory that it would be fairly compatible with our needs. I am very pleased to tell you that this particular hotel has a very forward-looking management team. There is a rolling programme of improvements, and included in these improvements are considerations for the disabled - bathrooms with special showers and interconnecting doors that are wide enough for wheelchair access. Ramps are thoughtfully positioned to give access to both pools, both bars and the downstairs bistro. Therefore, from the entrance hall to the bedrooms some thought and provision has been made for the disabled.

However, to say that it is perfect would be overstating the case. There are still improvements to be made but most of these are the subject of another letter, on transport and assistance for the disabled in Malta.

Therefore, I would commend the very friendly, efficient and helpful staff, the attentive and thoughtful management team and indeed the hotel itself. May I say to anyone with a disabled relative or family member that the Paradise Bay is well worth a visit.