Minister Owen Bonnici Visits Set Of British Production ‘The Travel Writer’ In Birgu

Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici, together with Film Commissioner Johann Grech, recently visited the set of the British production The Travel Writer in Birgu, where filming is currently taking place.

During the visit, Minister Bonnici highlighted the importance of Malta’s cash rebate programme in strengthening the country’s film industry.

He explained that the scheme has become a key pillar in attracting high-quality international productions to Malta. According to the Minister, these productions not only reinforce Malta’s reputation as a competitive destination for international filmmaking, but also create new employment and investment opportunities for Maltese professionals working within the sector.

Minister Bonnici added that the continued success of the programme shows how a clear cultural and economic vision can deliver tangible results for Malta’s creative economy.

He noted that the presence of international productions contributes directly to the development of skills, infrastructure and long-term opportunities for local talent.

Film Commissioner Johann Grech also emphasised the broader impact of projects such as The Travel Writer. In addition to direct investment in the economy, he explained that such productions help Maltese crews develop new skills while increasing Malta’s international visibility as a filming location.

Grech stressed that the Malta Film Commission remains focused on building a sustainable industry that provides quality jobs and long-term careers for Maltese and Gozitan professionals.

The British film, which has an approximate running time of 100 minutes, began production in Malta in mid-February and is scheduled to film in the country for 25 days.

Directed by renowned filmmaker Heidi Ewing, The Travel Writer follows the story of Sam Nicholson, a travel writer who retires to a quiet and remote Sicilian village in 1985. His search for a peaceful life soon turns into an unexpected journey involving mystery, hidden networks of power and romance.

As Malta is doubling for 1980s Sicily, filming is taking place in several traditional Maltese locations including Manikata, Ħaż-Żebbuġ, Ħad-Dingli, Rabat and Żurrieq. The Travel Writer is one of eight productions currently filming in Malta, employing a large crew, the majority of whom are Maltese and Gozitan.

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