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6 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 23 AUGUST 2024 PEOPLE IN the ever-evolving landscape of Gozo's tourism industry, the allure of the island is as much about its serene landscapes and rich history as it is about the warmth and authenticity of its family-run bed and breakfasts. These small establishments, each steeped in its own unique charm and history, are the beating heart of Gozo's hos- pitality sector. Yet, beneath the surface of their welcoming façades lies a challenging reali- ty faced by the passionate indi- viduals who run them. Take, for instance, *The Lyndee House* in Nadur, a 300-year-old house of charac- ter that offers visitors a truly unique experience. Managed with care and ded- ication by Jackie Smith, *The Lyndee House* is more than just a place to stay—it's a jour- ney back in time. Each room is thoughtfully decorated with antique fur- nishings and original wooden beams, creating an atmosphere that transports guests to a by- gone era. Guests are invited to start their day with a gourmet breakfast prepared from lo- cally sourced ingredients, fol- lowed by a stroll through the scenic countryside or a peace- ful moment on the roof ter- race, soaking in the tranquil surroundings. Jackie's extensive experience in the hospitality industry and her philosophy of "Service with a Smile" are evident in every aspect of *The Lyndee House*. Her attention to detail and personal touch have earned the B&B a stellar 9.9 rating on Booking.com, making it a fa- vourite among those seeking a quiet, historical retreat on the island. However, this dedication comes with its challenges, as Jackie often has to navigate the pressures of managing book- ings and ensuring every guest leaves with a memorable expe- rience, sometimes even under difficult circumstances. The peak season during the Santa Maria holiday period in August, for instance, sees a surge in demand for rooms, pushing small B&Bs like The Lyndee House to their limits as they strive to accommo- date the influx of visitors while maintaining their high stand- ards of service. Similarly, in the village of Gharb, another small estab- lishment, *Ta' Pinu Guest House*, stands as a testament to Gozo's enduring charm. This 500-year-old guest house, managed single-hand- edly by Elena Marariu, offers guests a unique slice of history with its seven distinct rooms and an indoor swimming pool ingeniously carved from a con- verted well. Located just a stone's throw from the iconic Ta' Pinu Church, the guest house at- tracts visitors from around the world, drawn by its historical allure and proximity to one of the island's most sacred sites. Among Elena's guests was Rina Camilleri, who stayed at *Ta' Pinu Guest House* in No- vember 2023 and spoke highly of her experience. Rina praised the authenticity of the setting, the warmth of the hospitality, and the deep connection to Gozo's rich history that the guest house offers. Gozitan hospitality: small B&Bs in Gozo's On this generally tranquil island of Gozo, where history and hospitality intertwine, two exceptional women are redefining the bed and breakfast experience. Jackie Smith and Elena Marariu, both seasoned professionals in their respective fields, have brought their wealth of expertise to the island, creating havens of comfort and charm for their guests. Jackie, an Englishwoman with a deep-rooted passion for customer service, has made Gozo her home for the past five years. Her extensive experience in the service industry, including her own training initiative "Service with a Smile," has made The Lyndee House in Nadur a cherished destination for travelers seeking warmth and personalized care. Elena Marariu, originally from Romania, has spent much of her life in Italy, where she owned and operated her own restaurant. With a passion for culinary excellence, Elena honed her craft before moving to England to work under the guidance of Mark Sargeant, one of Gordon Ramsay's protégés. Her journey eventually led her to Gozo nearly five years ago, where she now manages Ta' Pinu Guest House in Gharb. Here, she combines her love of cooking with her dedication to hospitality, offering guests not just a place to stay, but a genuine taste of Gozitan culture. Together, these two women have created more than just places to rest—they've crafted experiences that ref lect the heart and soul of Gozo, blending their unique skills to provide unparalleled service and unforgettable memories. BY ANTHONY REED