Nestled in the heart of Gozo, Maria Rosa Suites is more than just a place to stay – it is an experience deeply intertwined with the island’s soul. For Donald and his wife Sandra, your hosts at Maria Rosa Suites, opening the doors of their beautiful bed and breakfast to travellers is not just about offering a bed but about inviting them into their way of living, eating, and exploring. This story begins with roots firmly set in local traditions, nurtured over generations, and flourishes in their love for sharing the essence of Gozo with visitors from around the world.
A Childhood Built on Warmth and Hospitality
This cherished moment of Donald’s late Grandma Rita serving his mother and uncles reflects the family’s deep-rooted traditions. Today, as the host of Maria Rosa Suites, Donald continues the warmth and hospitality passed down through the generations. Photo from ‘Paul is a Maltese’ by Charles de Jaeger, c. 1964.
As Charles de Jaeger beautifully captures in Paul is a Maltese Boy, Maltese life is vibrant, family-centric, and deeply hospitable. For Donald, this way of life was ingrained from the very start. Growing up surrounded by the aroma of home-cooked meals and the chatter of a large, loving family, Donald developed a natural talent for hosting.
These early experiences weren’t just routine – they were foundational. Meals at his grandparents’ table, laden with fresh produce harvested from their fields, left an indelible mark. Donald’s childhood was not just about enjoying food but understanding its origins and the joy of sharing it with others. This tradition of warmth and hospitality is now at the heart of Maria Rosa Suites, where breakfast is a moment of connection. Inspired by his grandparents’ seasonal approach to cooking, Donald brings fresh, local produce to the table every morning, ensuring no two breakfasts are the same. These meals are an extension of his family’s ethos, turning a simple start to the day into an authentic Gozo experience.
The World Beckoned, But Gozo Always Called Him Home
Though rooted in Gozo, Donald spent time in the bustling energy of New York City. Yet, even as he immersed himself in a different way of life, Gozo’s simplicity and charm never left him. The land, the food, the community – these were not just memories; they were a pull, a reminder of everything he loved about his island.
His professional experience in the hospitality industry further shaped his vision. Working with a leading local accommodation provider, Donald learned how to create unforgettable guest experiences, from the moment a booking is made to the last farewell. These lessons, combined with his deeply ingrained values, laid the foundation for Maria Rosa Suites.
From Ruins to a Home with Heart
In 2018, Donald and his family took a leap of faith. He purchased a historic house in St. Mary Street, known locally as Il-Mandragg – Victoria’s oldest and most authentic neighbourhood. A year later, he acquired the neighbouring property, envisioning a unique guesthouse that would embody Gozo’s rich history and warm spirit.
The journey was not without challenges. By 2020, as the world grappled with a pandemic, Donald, his wife Sandra, and their team of workers tackled the daunting task of restoring the centuries-old houses. With collapsed roofs and weathered walls, some of the houses’ structures required rebuilding. But rather than erasing the past, Donald and Sandra preserved it. Using reclaimed stones and beams, he ensured the renovation honoured the property’s original Maltese architectural features while incorporating calming colours and functional designs to create a serene escape for guests.
Sharing Gozo, One Guest at a Time
The family behind Maria Rosa Suites; Donald, Adriana, Sandra and Luna.
In its first year, Maria Rosa Suites welcomed guests from 48 countries, some as far away as Japan and China. Each guest brought a new story, but many left with a deeper understanding of Gozo’s. Donald and Sandra take great pride in offering more than accommodation; they offer a doorway into Gozo’s culture and traditions.
Whether it’s recommending a hidden trail, suggesting a local festival, or arranging a bike rental, both Donald and Sandra are always eager to share his knowledge of the island’s best-kept secrets. It’s a passion rooted in memories of Donald’s late grandmother Rita, who showered him with love and showed him the joy of hosting. At Maria Rosa Suites, Donald and Sandra extends that same care and attention to every guest, ensuring their stay is as warm and memorable as the island itself. Their daughter Adriana is also getting more involved in the running of Maria Rosa Bed and Breakfast.
Enjoy a Stay at Maria Rosa Suites
-
- Our hearty breakfast, served daily to delight our guests.
-
- Our beautiful outdoor space, perfect for enjoying your breakfast or simply relaxing in a peaceful moment.
-
- One of the suites inside Maria Rosa B&B
-
- The entrance to Suite 103.
Maria Rosa Suites offers eight beautifully designed rooms, each equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. From double or twin rooms with balconies to deluxe rooms featuring Maltese balconies and spacious bathrooms, every room is tailored to meet the needs of both leisure and business travellers. Each room includes air conditioning, walk-in showers, a TV for entertainment, and a daily hearty breakfast, which can be enjoyed in our indoor area or beautiful outdoor space.
A Reflection of Gozo
Maria Rosa Suites is more than a guesthouse. It’s a celebration of Gozo – its landscapes, its people, its traditions. By staying here, you become part of a story that stretches back generations, rooted in love, hard work, and a passion for sharing.
If you’re looking for the best trail, a charming restaurant, or a quiet place to watch the sunset, just ask Donald. He’ll treat you with the same kindness and care he was shown many moons ago at his grandmother’s table, where the love of hosting first took root. At Maria Rosa Suites, you’re not just a guest – you’re part of the family.
