LISA GRAHAM, ex-Manager of RE/MAX Property Centre, Victoria, Gozo, gives RE/MAX Customers a personal insight on moving to GOZO from a foreigner’s perspective

Lisa Graham, from England, was until recently the Manager of RE/MAX Property Centre, located in Victoria, Gozo. She managed a hard working and capable group of associates in their 450-year old converted office on Independence Avenue, a stones’ throw away from the famous Citadel. Here she shares her insight on living in Gozo and the property market.

"Malta’s sister island Gozo, is beautiful. Moving to Gozo was the best decision I ever made and I wish I had done it many years before, having lived in Malta prior to my move. Not that I regret living in Malta, however Gozo is a wonderful place to live for many reasons. I have helped many clients relocate to Gozo in particular, just for a holiday or to eventually buy a property here, for a holiday retreat or to settle for good.

"Gozo is probably one of the best kept secrets in the world. Tell a friend you have been to Gozo and most probably they will not have a clue as to where it is in the world. Yet, when you come here, you will realise that Gozo has everything you could ever want. It’s only a three-hour flight from London and a short but absolutely wonderful trip on the helicopter straight to Gozo, or a taxi ride to the ferry and a 20 minute crossing by sea with the ferry. The ferries are state of the art and whilst crossing you will see some of the most beautiful landscapes, including the clear blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, the rugged hills that have sculptured over time, and the incredible skylines. Gozo definitely has a charm of its own and once you set foot at Mgarr Harbour and experience Gozo, your heart will lift and your life will change forever.

"The choice of properties in Gozo is as diverse as the amenities that are available. This is no third world country but it is a thriving island, built on tradition and with a slower pace of life. Farming and fishing are the main industries here and the sense of pride in the fact that local traditions are passed on from generation to generation is clearly evident.

"The vast choice of properties start from super luxury penthouses overlooking the channel, to quaint houses of character built over 300 years ago, farmhouses with or without swimming pools, villas with or without swimming pools, and cosy little apartments. The social life revolves a lot around the sea and the outdoor life especially boating. There are also some of the best diving sites in the world around Gozo. You can have a barbecue on a lazy Sunday afternoon, soak up the sun, and drink the excellent local wine...never having to worry if it will rain and spoil your fun! Enjoy the theatre, cinema, and sample the many fantastic restaurants, serving seafood caught that morning, or have a drink at one of the quaint little bars where you can mix with the local people and become one of their friends...for life. I could go on forever, as I am passionate about the island and the way of life.”

Lisa Graham - Ex-Manager, RE/MAX Property Centre