Lovin Malta asked Sacco whether he could present the necessary permits for the operation and whether he had any ownership claims to the land. However, he insisted that no permits were needed.

The newsroom then set up a meeting with Sacco, with the view of giving him the opportunity to better explain the operations. However, he cancelled the meeting just minutes before, insisting that his lawyers advised him not to.

In a comment on the initial article, Sacco defended the practice insisting that he offers a “unique experience” and that the camper is removed on a weekly basis to re-fill water and charge battery packs. That implies that it is there almost permanently.

He also said that he erected an illegal fence to ensure the safety of families who visit and can be removed in an instant.

Sacco also insisted that despite over 100 bookings, VanCation Malta had always kept the area clean.

However, other commenters who had stayed in the caravan denied this was the case and when they asked Sacco to clean up a dirty mess, he allegedly said “What do you expect me to do? Clean a public place?”

Sacco even boasted while speaking with Lovin Malta that the caravan remains on site, despite ERA’s order. Sources have confirmed this is the case. 

VanCation Malta has been operating since 2021 and has received over 100 bookings despite being in breach of regulations. It is still currently accepting bookings.

The caravan is equipped with all the amenities that a guesthouse would have, including a double bed, two single beds, a bathroom, a shower, an air conditioner, internet, and a BBQ.

A BBQ cannot be used for outdoor cooking in an area of conservation without a permit from the Mellieħa local council – unless they are on private land, which, they aren’t.

Beyond the obvious issues, photos also indicate that a pipe was set up for run-off water from the caravan, which is being directed towards the sea.

Sacco also constructed a fire pit, in an area where setting fires is strictly illegal and punishable by law. Evidence of illegal fires was found on the VanCation Facebook page, showing that fires were being lit in an ecologically sensitive area.

Lovin Malta is still awaiting Sacco’s replies to questions sent over the issue.

Lovin Malta has already contacted the Environment and Resources Authority, which ordered the removal of the caravan.

ERA now plans to take all necessary action required until the caravan is removed.

The Malta Tourism Authority was also informed, given that Sacco was offering touristic lodging. However, it did not respond at the time of publishing.

What do you make of these revelations?