Dive into the heart of Gibraltar, where continents embrace, revealing a tale of geology intertwining with sublime storytelling. Beyond the stoic rock, an uncharted realm hosts the prestigious Gibraltar International Literary Festival, drawing literary enthusiasts globally. During the festival, Gibraltar’s essence intensified, embracing the intimate event. Academic energy permeated the air as wordsmiths craft tales, transforming Gibraltar into a literary universe where writing and nature’s dance produced breathtaking tales, making it an ideal destination for avid readers and festival-goers alike.
Flying with the Wordsmiths: A Literary Journey Above the Clouds
Embarking on my flight alongside esteemed authors was an enchanting precursor to the literary fiesta that awaited in Gibraltar. While I didn’t share the journey with Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, the ex-prime minister Theresa May, or the delightful Dame Mary Berry, who were all part of the festival this year, as they took the flight the following day, my first encounter with one of the renowned authors to speak at the literary festival was Ann Cleeves OBE.
This was when we boarded the coach, which took us all to the same location we were all staying in, The Elliot Hotel. Only towards the end of the festival she told me that a TV show, Shetland, which I love, was made into a series from her book. I truly was in the company of such astute professionals.
The Compact Charms of Gibraltar: A Writer's Playground
The anticipation in the air was palpable as if the very streets were brimming with stories waiting to unfold. With its diminutive size, Gibraltar welcomes visitors to a unique experience where everything is effortlessly within reach. The festival venues this year, each a testament to the rich history of this British Overseas Territory, were conveniently clustered, allowing attendees to weave through literary sessions with seamless grace.
With it being so compact, you could have met one of your favourite authors who stuck around the venue to sign books after giving their talk. You may have even spotted them walking about afterwards, sometimes unlikely when you’re in such a large city like London, for instance, due to its vast size.
Encounters Beyond Prose: A Collection of Characters
This is where I had the pleasure of meeting one of this year’s festival stars. In the midst of literary luminaries, it was the encounter with Yeva Skalietska and her grandmother, Irnya, that etched itself most vividly in my memory.
Yeva was there to discuss her Sunday Times Book of the Year, ‘You Don’t Know What War Is’, as she wrote a diary account of her time during the initial start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and she and her grandmother fleeing.
The book is extraordinary and has made international headlines – a similar style to Anne Frank’s diary.
What’s more remarkable is that I was able to spend time with her and her grandmother, and I couldn’t believe it when she told me her age. “I am 13.” I was dumbfounded. I asked her again, and she said, “I am 13, I promise you. Ask my grandmother.” So I did, and she confirmed it. She showed maturity way beyond her age.
They were both kind to me, even inviting me to the green room to have lunch with them, where I wasn’t allowed to go due to being media. There are always hazy times, depending on where you are, but reading Yeva’s book gave me optimism and inspiration.
Their warmth and genuine interest in fellow festival-goers epitomised the inclusive spirit of Gibraltar’s literary gathering. In these chance encounters, the festival transcended its role as a mere congregation of authors; it became a celebration of shared stories, both written and unwritten.
The multifaceted talents on show
Puneet Bhandal’s presentation on her children’s book added a different hue to the festival. She was someone that I wanted to listen to as I resonated with her due to her cultural and ethnic background. And there is a substantial affluent Indian community within Gibraltar. I got an invite to the Diwali festival the weekend I was there, but unfortunately, I couldn’t go due to time commitments with the Gibraltar Literary Festival.
The vibrant narrative, coupled with Bhandal’s engaging storytelling, highlighted the festival’s commitment to diverse voices even further. When I caught up with Bhandal, she told me that she had a fabulous time engaging with everyone. “It’s a good learning experience; I had a great time – nicer than a regular weekend in London.”
Ann Bryant and, as I mentioned, Ann Cleeves, stalwarts of the literary realm, contributed their own threads to this rich fabric. Bryant acknowledged to me that the hospitality she received was second to none. “It was lovely to have been looked after so well from start until the end.”
The political and food talks were packed, and there was a buzz in the air for ex-prime minister Lady Theresa May and, of course, the legendary Dame Mary Berry. The people of Gibraltar were excited to see them, with many who had flown over from other parts of Europe. Like Stefan, who lives in Germany, told me, “Getting the chance to see an ex-prime minister talk here in Gibraltar is just a great feeling.”
The cost of all the talks was moderately priced, lasting 1 hour per session, which meant you got value for money. You can grab food between the talks, or as everything is so close to one another, you can go to a landmark destination and make it back for the next talk. That’s the real advantage of the festival being held in Gibraltar.
From Words to Heights: The Literary Summit at the Top of the Rock
Once you get a chance to explore, the most prominent attraction is the vista from the Top of the Rock, a vantage point offering unparalleled views of Gibraltar, a poetic metaphor for the literary heights scaled during the festival.
As I gazed upon the sprawling landscape, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean intersection mirrored the convergence of minds at the festival. Nature and literature intertwined, creating an awe-inspiring tableau.
The adjacent nature reserve, a sanctuary for the Barbary macaques or Barbary apes, presented a delightful detour. Seeing their antics mirroring the festival’s lively discussions added enchantment to an already charming landscape.
You can walk up to the top or take the cable car, which costs nearly £20 to do so, which will save you time during the festival.
Royalty, Prime Ministers, and Culinary Encounters: A Gala of Personalities
What topped my journey to Gibraltar was I had the pleasure and privilege of attending and meeting Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as I was a guest. The Princess Royal was in Gibraltar as she is Patron of the Gibraltar International Literary Festival. On the occasion of her visit, The Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, hosted a dinner at The Sunborn Hotel – and there was a buzz amongst the community.
During the dinner, I was fortunate enough to speak to Her Royal Highness – she even cracked a couple of jokes my way regarding my travel lifestyle. Surreal and regal, the evening unfolded amidst royal protocols and discussions that wove tales as captivating as any penned by the attending authors – a nod to etiquette, a sip of fine wine, and a shared passion for literature bridged gaps, revealing the humanity beneath the titles.
The breakfast room the following day, an unexpected stage for encounters with political luminaries and literary icons, held its own charm. Lady Theresa May recognised me from the previous night’s festivities and extended a friendly inquiry about my evening’s enjoyment. I spoke to Lady May for around 10 minutes and talked to her about many different topics, including the Eurovision Song Contest. Lady Mary Peters, a figure of strength and grace, shared the space, creating an atmosphere where breakfast became not just a meal but a chance to commune with legends.
In Closing: Gibraltar, A Literary Utopia
In the glamorous realm of literary gatherings, Gibraltar emerged as a shining gem, a nexus where nature, history, and the written word harmonised to craft an unparalleled experience. The festival’s intimate venues, shared flights with revered authors, and serendipitous encounters with both royalty and literary luminaries transformed every moment into a cherished time in Gibraltar.
As I bid farewell to this literary utopia, the lingering echoes of profound conversations, the panoramic vistas from the Top of the Rock, and the enduring warmth of newfound connections, they will all be etched as an indelible mark on the canvas of my literary soul.
With its compact charm and vibrant literary spirit, Gibraltar proved to be a destination and a celebration of stories, each thread contributing to the unique allure that makes the Gibraltar International Literary Festival an experience like no other.
Head to the Gibraltar International Literary Festival website and sign up for the newsletter to stay updated regarding next year’s festival.
If you are looking for other cultural destinations, visit our website’s Art and Culture page.
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Shebs Alom
Shebs is a Broadcaster, writer and Podcaster. He is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers. He’s hosted a breakfast called Rise & Shine on the only dedicated travel radio station in Africa, Gallivant Radio. Shebs also hosts a travel podcast, Take a Wander With Shebs, which can be seen on his YouTube channel and heard on all major podcasting platforms. Shebs is also the Editor & Commercial Officer for Voyagers Voice. He also runs Shebs The Wanderer Ltd.