King Juan Carlos I of Spain praised the hospitality and service at the Excelsior during his stay in Malta. Given the level of service that a European monarch is accustomed to, this is an insight into the quality of the Grand Hotel Excelsior’s hospitality. Before he left for the next leg of his journey, he praised the hotel by taking time to write in the Excelsior guest book: “Thank you very much for all the attention and grand service.”

His Majesty arrived in Malta last month for a one-day State visit that started with a formal welcome ceremony at the airport. King Juan Carlos I was given a national salute by the Guard of Honour before being driven to the Grand Hotel Excelsior where he stayed during his visit. He was welcomed by the Excelsior’s general manager, Norbert Grixti. In the Grand Ballroom, the King addressed the Spanish community living in Malta. There, the Spanish Foreign Affairs Minister presented medals of honour to President Emeritus, Dr Guido de Marco and former Foreign Affairs Minister and Member of Parliament Dr Michael Frendo. The following morning His Majesty held a formal meeting at the Excelsior with Opposition Leader, Joseph Muscat. The King also found time to pose for a group photograph with members of staff.