Windsor Hotel

The Windsor is a mid-size mid-range hotel currently in the midst of much-needed renovations. So far, one-third of the rooms and some common spaces have been updated, and a mix of old and new can be seen throughout. The management expects to complete full renovations by early 2017. The lobby is sunny but basic, with a few simple lilac couches, tan floors, and a wooden front desk. Four black retro-style chairs, and large abstract paintings in red and yellow hues add some style, but low ceilings make it feel a little claustrophobic. Located at the back of the lobby, the lounge has a more contemporary and cozy feel, with minimalist black-and-white decor, parquet floors, and a heavy wooden bar. One of the nicest parts of the hotel is the rooftop area, complete with indoor and outdoor pools, and a small deck with expansive city views.

The Windsor is located a block from Sliema's Tower Road, a seaside promenade lined with restaurants, bars and shops. The nearest sandy beach is a 20-minute bus ride away, but large rock platforms offer direct access to the clear Mediterranean waters just down the street from the hotel. Lively St. Julian’s, and Spinola and Balluta bays -- all popular dining and nightlife areas -- are within a 10- to 20-minute walk along the coast. Paceville, known as the nightlife capital of Malta, is a 15-minute bus ride away. This location is also convenient for those looking to explore the island by public transport, as there is a bus stop three minutes from the hotel with service to Valletta, the airport, and other regions. The main ferry terminal where boats to Valletta dock is a 15-minute walk away. The hotel is a 25-minute drive from the airport. 

The hotel has 92 rooms, including non-renovated Standard units, and renovated Superior Rooms. Most are smallish but sunny, and many have a balcony with either street or side sea views, but quality and style vary greatly between room types. Standard Rooms have dated decor with 80s-style purple comforters, worn wooden furniture, tiled floors, and tiny wall lamps. Standard in-room amenities are also basic, and include small old tube TVs, central air-conditioning, phones, and mini-fridges. Superior Rooms were renovated in 2015 or 2016, and feature a more contemporary style, with darker wooden furniture, purple and mustard accents, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles. Free Wi-Fi is available in Superior Rooms, but there is a fee for Internet access in Standard units. Bathrooms are basic in both room types, with shower/tub combos and  just a couple of soap bars, but bathrooms in Standard units are in need of urgent renovations.

The rooftop area features a lovely outdoor pool with a narrow deck and loungers, and an small indoor pool with a tiny whirlpool and a sauna. The outdoor deck is a relaxing spot for a quiet morning in the sun, but bar service is not available. An average English and continental breakfast is served daily at Corner Restaurant, including several types of breads, jams, eggs, bacon, cheese, meats, coffee, and juice. Dinner is also served here, but food gets poor reviews. Snacks, coffee and drinks are available throughout the day at the lobby lounge, which has a laid-back vibe and contemporary decor. There is an additional lounge one level below the lobby, complete with a pool table, books, and lots of couches and tables. This space can also be rented for meetings and events. Free but spotty Wi-Fi is available in the lobby, the lobby lounge, and in Superior Rooms.