−The islands are only 27km long and 14.5km wide.
−The islands cover a total area of 316km².
−It shouldn’t take you more than 40 minutes to drive across the whole island. (Traffic can be a problem between 7:30 am – 9:00 am and 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
What is the Weather Like in Malta?
−During the summer months the islands can get very hot. Highs of 35°C are not uncommon during July and August and can last for several weeks.
−Winters can be cold (mostly due to strong winds and humidity), but these are short-lived. Snow is virtually unheard of on the islands. Lows of approximately 8°C do occur in December and January.
−We don’t really have spring or autumn, we’re bi-seasonal. However the islands do get approximately 300 days of sunshine annually.
What Currency Do We Use In Malta?
Malta joined the European Union in 2004 and adopted the Euro in 2008 before which it used to have its own currency known as the Maltese Lira.
How Many Islands Are There?
− The Maltese archipelago consists of approximately 20 islands though on the three main ones are inhabited.
− Malta (~400,000 people)
− Gozo (~35,000 people)
− Comino(~4 people officially live there but thousands of tourists visit daily).
− There also are smaller rock islands like St. Paul’s Islands , Cominetto, Fungus Rock and Filfla
What Languages Do the Maltese Speak?
−Maltese which is our national and official language as well as English our second official language.
−Most people also learn a third or fourth language at school, (most commonly Italian, which most people over 35 can speak with decent fluency).
What Does Maltese Sound Like?
−Maltese has a heavy Semetic (Arabic) influence and we share a lot of our vocabulary with the Arabic language; so much so that for the most part, Arabs and Lebanese can understand us. We have difficulty understanding them due to the speed with which they speak.
−But its claim to fame is that Maltese is written with Latin letters. We also have Italian, English and French words thrown into the mix.
−Italian – Grazie = Grazzi
−English – Cake, Football, = Kejk , Futball
−French – Bonjour = Bongu
Where Should I Stay When Visiting the Island on Holiday?
-There’s no real answer to this, but no matter where you stay, you’re never really that far from anything.
-If you’re looking for entertainment: St. Julian’s is where the main nightlife scene is at. All the restaurants, bars, and the large 5 star international branded hotels are located in this area.
-If you’re looking to swim: Your options are numerous. St. Julian’s, Sliema, Mellieha, Xlendi (Gozo), Marsalforn (Gozo) are all excellent choices.
-If you’re here for a cultural visit: Valletta is the place to be. Enjoy walking through the historic city (and Europe’s Culture Capital for 2018) with easy access to public transport to basically anywhere on the island.
What is the Food Like?
−The Maltese are passionate about their food, with several food festivals organised throughout the year. Maltese food has been described as rustic, full of flavour and colour, with influences from both Europe and North Africa. However, its adaptations using ingredients that are easily available locally is what makes Maltese food truly unique.
−The most popular fast-food is the famous pastizz which is layers of special, buttery, pastry stuffed with ricotta or a pea-mush. These are delicious, and probably more fattening than they should be. Trust us on this one, they’re divine especially with a cup of tea.
−Rabbit stew is the national dish, though baked pasta, beef olives and snails are ever popular. Also, there’s no better place for fish than Marsaxlokk.
Is Malta Safe?
−Malta is comparatively a very safe place to live, it is extremely unusual to see an major crimes on the islands.
−Do keep in mind that ‘petty’ crimes like pick-pocketing do occur particularly in places like Paceville. That being said, there are no ‘dangerous’ neighbourhoods, and more serious crimes like murder are a very rare occurrence, usually reserved for internal disputes.
Are the People Very Religious?
−Approximately 90% of the population are Roman Catholics and many are particularly devout.
−There are approximately 365 churches and chapels spread across the islands. It is commonly said that there is one for every day of the year.
−However the Maltese highly tolerant and extend some of the most liberal LGBT rights across the globe.
What’s the History of the Place?
−Malta’s history is extensive, and it’s rather difficult cover it all in just one page.
−Malta has temples which are over 3500 years old. Older than Stonehenge in the United Kingdom and the Pyramids in Egypt.
−There are Roman Villas and Phoenician remains.
−Most of our fortified cities were built over 500 years ago and are still inhabited today.
−Malta has been ruled by just shy of 15 empires.
How Can I Get Around?
−As a country, we are obsessed with our cars. You’d think on such a small island, everything would run smoothly with public transport, unfortunately that’s not so.
−Driving in Malta, especially if you are new to the islands, can be daunting. For some, it’s fun; for others, it’s sheer hell. In Malta all traffic drives on the left hand side of the road as in the U.K..
−It’s good to keep in mind that at times traffic can get pretty hectic, and buses can be notoriously unpredictable with their schedules.
What Good Quality Souvenirs or Artefacts Could I Pick In Malta?
−The Maltese are renowned for their:
−Traditional lace
−Silver filigree
−Mdina Glass
−Ceramic and pottery
−The islands also produce lovely liquors and digestives from lemons, prickly pears and pomegranates.
−Local wines and beers have received numerous international awards for their quality.
What are the Everyday Life Costs?
−To give you a rough idea of what it’s like here are a list of common prices that you can compare with what you’re used to:
−A 3 course dinner at a Fine Dining/Michelin Star Restaurant €68 – €85
−A pizza from most restaurants will cost between €8 – €14
−A good plate of pasta will set you back €9 – €15
−A McDonald’s meal costs around €7
−A cappuccino from a cafe will cost between €1.20 – €1.50
−Unless you invest in a bus pass, a one-way journey on public transport will set you back €2, whilst a cab from the airport to most places is €20 – €25.
−The ferry ride to Gozo is €5 for passengers and €15 for anyone going up with their car.
−Calling ahead and booking services like eCabs might be a more reliable bet than the white cabs.
−Some museums have free entrance, but the rest will cost €5 – €15, with discounts for students and the elderly.
Electricity and Voltage?
– The electrical supply is 230 volts.
– The frequency is 50 hertz.
– The three-pin rectangular plug (type G) system is used, as in the United Kingdom.
– Adapters are very easy to find in all hotels and shops.
What are the Commodities and Infrastructure Like?
−Yes we have good strong WiFi, and 4G, Netflix, Spotify basically – the works.
−If it’s a ‘modern’ commodity, and as long as it’s not Starbucks, just assume we have it.
What Famous Movies Were Filmed Here?
−To date the islands have welcomed over 350 productions of one scale or another and whether portraying themselves or disguised as a far off or fantastic destinations, including.
−Troy,
−The Da Vinci Code
−U-571
−Gladiator
−Munich
−The Count of Monte Cristo
−Captain Philips
−By the Sea
−13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi
−Assassin’s Creed
−Midnight Express
−Game of Thrones
