The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) is pleased to announce that the award-winning entry "Malta Moved Me: A First-Timer's Tale" in collaboration with Travelzoo has won two Gold awards at the 17th annual Canadian Online Publishing Awards (COPAs). This follows VisitMalta’s previous recognition in North America as in 2025, our islands were featured as one of the nine key global destinations on Travelzoo, whilst winning Gold at the Weekly Magellan Awards in the United States through the “Explore more ___” video branding and advertising campaign.
The Travelzoo feature received the top Gold prize in two distinct categories:
- Best Travel Story and
- Best Photo Journalism.
Effectively Reaching Audiences in North America
Whilst congratulating his team, Mr Carlo Micallef, Chief Executive Officer of the Malta Tourism Authority stated that:
“The success of this collaboration with Travelzoo showcases the positive impact of targeted digital campaigns in strategically important long-haul markets. Through compelling storytelling and strong visual content, we are effectively reaching audiences in North America, reinforcing Malta’s position as a premium destination whilst supporting sustainable growth.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Hon. Ian Borg added that:
“These awards reflect the growing international recognition of Malta’s evolving tourism narrative. Strategic storytelling in key long-haul markets such as the United States and Canada allows us to position the Maltese Islands as an authentic destination, strengthening our global visibility amongst high-value audiences.”
“Magical Cities,” “Young Country, Long History,” “Culinary Marvels,” and “Natural Beauty”
The award-winning piece was produced through a collaboration between VisitMalta’s Digital Marketing Team and Travelzoo and was published across Travelzoo’s platforms, reaching audiences in key long-haul markets with targeted exposure in the United States and Canada.
In the story, Travelzoo’s Senior Travel Editor Gabe Saglie shares his first visit to Malta as an American traveller, spotlighting the destination through themes such as “magical cities,” “young country, long history,” “culinary marvels,” and “natural beauty”. The feature also highlights diverse experiences across the Maltese Islands. In 2025, Saglie conducted three major livestreams from Malta, including coverage linked to the Malta International Fireworks Festival and Birgu by Candlelight
"I Can't Wait to Return in 2026" Expressed Saglie
Looking ahead, Saglie is scheduled to return to the Maltese Islands to cover the Grand Finale of the 25th Year Anniversary Edition of the Malta International Fireworks Festival on 30th April 2026. This year’s edition, which will run from the 18th until the 30th April 2026, also includes a Canadian pyrotechnic team among the pyro-musical competitors.
Adding to this Saglie expressed that, “my first visit to Malta was a testament to the magical effect that this special place can have on any traveller. The cinematic video elements from my friends at Dream Beach Media, and the thoughtfully curated photographs, added emotion and depth. The visitor experience to this dreamy archipelago in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea is powered by rich history, spectacular hospitality, sweeping landscapes, world-class cuisine & amazing people! I've been fortunate to return to Malta several times since, and to have made friends there along the way - I can't wait to return in 2026!"
The Malta Tourism Authority remains committed in strategically delegating high-impact international partnerships whilst producing compelling digital storytelling to strengthen the islands’ positioning within key long-haul markets. Through sustained collaboration and targeted campaigns, the Authority continues to elevate the Maltese Islands’ global visibility as a quality, authentic and sustainable destination.
