As is well explained in Malta Uncovered, Sliema was originally a small fishing village, the present-day Sliema is home to thousands of residents. The small fishing village of days gone by was transformed into being the home of British inhabitants during the 19th and early 20th century, looking for a quiet respite, yet being close to the then commercial hub of Valletta. Over the past 50 years or so, the town and the surrounding areas underwent another transformation of commercial development and saw the beautiful stately properties of its past inhabitants replaced by large apartment buildings and modern offices.
Sliema still has a very distinct feel to it. A character found nowhere else and appreciated by locals and travellers alike. Offering various hotels as well as bars and pubs, Sliema can be a good choice for a holiday location for couples and groups travelling together. Neighbouring St. Julian’s, with its nightlife area known as Paceville is a stone’s throw away, while Valletta is nearby as well (and easy to reach with a short ferry trip across Marsamxett Harbour), offering plenty of culture, history and places of interest to appreciate.