GRWM: DLT MALTA
Hey, travel besties! Get ready with me (GRWM) for a festival in Malta! I’m no stranger to festivals or vibes! Whether it’s Afrofuture in Ghana, Afronation in Detroit or Coachella in California, I’ve had my fair share of festival experiences. I love the ability to travel to a new destination, meet people from all over, see most of my favorite and new acts in one setting, the food and brand activations and the overall atmosphere. This year, from June 5-9th, I’m taking my talents to DLT MALTA, a music and party festival hosted by the UK based company, Days Like ThIs (DLT). DLT curates events all over the world but their festival in Malta seems to be one of their most successful event, thrown annually, and likely to always sell out. The festival combines my favorite elements of a festival: music, scenic views, international guests and unique party experiences, all in one, and I can’t lie, I’m gaaaassed! This will be my 1st time going. Not totally sure what I’m getting myself into, but I’m ready to bring you all along this ride with me. Think of this blog as a pre-trip summary for festival advice from packing tips to suggestions on what to do in and around Malta. DLT Malta, here I come!
Solo trippin at Afronation DETROIT! Proof that I am a festival girlie!
MALTA
Explore
Don’t forget, you’re in Malta and there’s a lot outside of the festival that you can potentially do/see.
Malta is a gem, filled with immense history and mesmerizing beaches. Valletta, the capital city, is actually a UNESCO world heritage site because of its amazing architecture and location.
I’m a foodie when I travel, so restaurants are high on my list when it comes to exploring.
Check out Malta recommendations here:
The Group Chat
Every trip needs a group chat! Join the Cool Kids in Malta chat, the only group chat you’ll need for DLT Malta. There’s people from all over the world in there! Don’t be shy, join and introduce yourself!
It’s so crucial to be in-the-know of where people are at and what’s going on during festivals! I would also suggest following DLT on different platforms, in case they drop some real time information.
Transportation
DLT coach bus (MUST pre-book) looks like the best option.
Uber
Private driver
Things to Pack
Women, a portable fan, fully charged. Men, bring a sweat towel. I don’t make the rules.
Sunscreen. For me, I like to reapply with a stick sunscreen, one that’s designed to go over makeup. If you want to the link, comment below!
Fits on fits in fits. Check the weather, believe the weather. I don’t know if it’s just me and my delusion, that likes to pack for the weather I want vs. the actual weather on the weather app for the destination. Don’t be like me.
Also, you know you only have 30 minutes to put in those last minute order!? Get to it!
Comfortable shoes. Just do it. You’ll always be grateful.
Everything bag. Micro bags are cute, but please make sure your bag can at least hold your phone and zip. You don’t want to be yelling “police! pick pocketer!”
Know the event policies on what you can and can’t bring inside the festival. You’d be surprised how many festivals don’t allow digital camera.
Medication. This is not medical advice. Acetaminophen/Paracetamol or Ibuprofen for headaches and pain, Imodium for diarrhea, prescription meds.
Portable charger, duh.
Travel size perfume/cologne. You don’t want to pull up on someone smelling like air or worse.
Event protocol
Know the times for the acts and get to the grounds early for them. Trust me, I’ve missed acts because I tried to show up on time and either got stuck in the security line and then lost inside trying to find which stage they’re performing at.
Specifically at DLT, 3 of the nights have different artists performing from Asake, Shallipoppi and Mariah the Scientist.
Festival add-ons: Bottomless Brunch & Boat parties with Jerk x Jollof. Whichever you signed up for, be there on time, or you might just miss out or get left.
Music
From the lineup, DLT has something for everyone from R&B to Afrobeats to Amapiano to Hip Hop. I love them all, and will likely find myself boppin around.
Festival Etiquette
Hydrate, eat, rest, REPEAT!
It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Do not be that person, who gets caught being sloppy, either being too tired, too drink or too whatever.
Have a friend pack. I know, it sounds elementary but if you came with friends, make sure you leave with friends or at least know where everyone is heading to afterwards. Share your location! Now is not the time to be secretive.
Know the exits and know the rest rooms. Know the medic tent. Self explanatory.
