Across Southern Europe, discontent is growing as local residents speak out against what they see as excessive tourism. From Barcelona to Dubrovnik, protest slogans like “Your vacation, my misery” and “The city for locals, not for visitors” reflect rising tensions. Soaring rents, the spread of short-term rentals, and the transformation of historic neighborhoods into tourist enclaves are slowly pushing out long-time residents.

In many cities, Airbnb-style rentals are replacing homes. Traditional mailboxes give way to key safes. Local shops disappear, replaced by souvenir stores and fast-service eateries aimed at visitors. Rents spike, communities fade.

In port cities, the rise in cruise ship tourism makes things worse: thousands of tourists disembark for just a few hours, clogging streets and adding little to the local economy. The result? More noise, pollution, and wear on heritage sites, with minimal long-term benefit to locals.

Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a prime example of this shift. Its lively terraces and cultural events draw in thousands, but many locals feel pushed aside. Once a lived-in city, it now resembles an open-air museum, where mass tourism has eroded everyday life.

As streets fill with visitors, authenticity fades. The city’s charm gives way to overcrowding, noise, and a rising cost of living, forcing residents into the margins.

In contrast, Senglea, one of Malta’s Three Cities, offers a genuine and peaceful alternative — a model of slow tourism that puts people and place first. Nestled just across the Grand Harbour, Senglea invites visitors to take their time, to walk its narrow alleys, admire colorful balconies, sacred statues, and lush flowerpots, and engage with the local way of life.

Here, tourism is less extractive and more immersive. Guests support local cafés, walk or bike the city, and discover Malta’s rich history without overwhelming its rhythm. The Gardens of Safe Haven offer a quiet panoramic view of the harbor — a world away from Valletta’s crowded viewpoints.

• Human Connection: The slower pace of Senglea encourages conversations with locals, fostering genuine cultural exchange.
• Sustainable Exploration: The city promotes soft mobility — walking tours, bike paths, electric carts — reducing environmental impact.
• Preserved Identity: Senglea still feels like a neighborhood, not a theme park. Its identity remains intact, rooted in history and daily life.

While Valletta struggles with saturation, Senglea thrives on subtlety. It offers a quieter, more thoughtful travel experience — where the emphasis is on respect, slowness, and authenticity.

Choosing Senglea means choosing a different way to travel. One that helps preserve Malta’s soul, supports the local economy, and invites travelers to go beyond the postcard — into the heart of a living, breathing community.