The Diplomat Hotel, rather dated, is situated between St Julian's and Sliema bay. Locally rated 4 star is by British and German standards no more than a three star. Almost all rooms face a narrow dark side street leading off the promenade. An upgrade, well worth the small cost, offering views along the promenade and across the bay. Rooms need renovation, air conditioning turned off. Pillows consist of stiff foam and are very uncomfortable.
Restaurant is just acceptable. They have a habit of running out of things, no sugar for breakfast. Breakfast has a good choice, but the cooked food was never warm, at best tepid. Buffet dinner, again, seldom hot. A pleasant coffee shop/bar serving light snakes is located facing the promenade. No evening entertainment. A small library and bar, first floor (19:00-23:00) . Bar seldom open. There is a rooftop pool on the 8th floor. Gym and Sauna, keys from reception. Staff are very helpful going out of their way to please. I visited with a group therefor have no idea of the room rate. I suspect you get what you pay for. A good functional hotel, but don't expect luxury.
Busy main road running between hotel and promenade. Local buses (12&13) run every fifteen minutes into Valletta. Buses do get very crowded. The promenade walk takes about 40 minutes one way, and very rewarding.
Peter m.