Welcome to Malta 😊
Hey there! Have you ever heard of Malta? It's a small island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy. Despite its small size, it's packed with tons of amazing things to see and do!
First off, let's talk about the beaches. Malta is known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, making it the perfect destination for water lovers. You can swim, snorkel, go on a boat ride, or even scuba dive and explore the underwater world of Malta.
But there's more to Malta than just beaches! As an island steeped in history, there are plenty of ancient ruins, museums, and other landmarks to explore. Some must-see spots include the ancient city of Mdina, the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum underground temple, and the medieval town of Valletta.
And don't forget the food! Maltese cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and North African influences, with dishes like rabbit stew, pastizzi (a savory pastry), and ftira (a type of flatbread) that will satisfy any foodie's cravings.
Overall, Malta is the perfect destination for those who love history, culture, and stunning scenery. Don't miss out on this amazing island nation – book your trip to Malta today!
Quick Facts About Malta
- Currency: Euro
- Population: 514564
- Languages: Maltese, English
- Capital: Valletta
Money and Finances
The currency used in Malta is the Euro. Denominations of Euro coins are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 Euros. Denominations of Euro notes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros.
ATM Network
ATMs are plentiful in Malta and can be found in most towns and cities, as well as in many tourist areas. Many of the major banks in Malta have their own ATMs, and international ATM networks such as Visa and Mastercard are also widely accepted.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are generally widely accepted in Malta, especially in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants and shops. Visa, Mastercard and AMEX are all commonly accepted, although it is always a good idea to check beforehand, especially in smaller establishments or outside of tourist areas.
Internet and Phones
Malta has a reliable internet infrastructure with an average download speed of 42Mbps and upload speed of 21Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
Malta has several telco companies including Vodafone, GO, and Melita. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around EUR 20 per month. There may be some sim compatibility issues for visitors using non-European mobile phones.
Dialling to Malta
To call Malta from another country, dial +356 followed by the local number. When dialling within Malta, use the area code of 21 or 27 for landlines, and the prefix of 77 or 79 for mobile phones.
Transport Around Malta
Air Travel
Malta International Airport is the main airport in Malta, located in the south of the island. It serves as a hub for Air Malta, and many major airlines also operate flights to and from here.
Train Travel
There is currently no inter-city train network in Malta, however, there are local trains that operate within the major cities. A popular local train is the Valletta Ferry, which connects the capital city of Valletta to Sliema and other coastal towns.
Metro / Local Trains
There is no metro system in Malta.
Buses
Buses are the main form of public transportation in Malta, and there is an extensive bus network that covers most of the island. A single ride ticket costs around €1.50 and journey times can vary depending on the destination.
Rideshare
In Malta, rideshare companies such as Bolt and Cool are popular. Prices vary depending on the distance and demand, but on average, a ride within the city limits should cost around €5-€10.
Driving by Car
Driving in Malta is relatively easy, although some roads can be narrow and winding. The speed limit is 80 km/h on most major roads and 50 km/h in urban areas. Malta drives on the left-hand side of the road, opposite to the United States and most European countries.
Local Customs
In Malta, it is common to leave a small tip (around 10%) for good service. Locals greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks. When speaking with strangers, it is common to use formal titles. Men and women generally address each other by their first names, but older generations may prefer titles or surnames. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly when visiting religious or conservative areas.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
The health system in Malta is public and funded by taxes, with universal coverage. Visitors from the EU can also use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Prices for a visit to a doctor can range from 20-50 euros, depending on the clinic and treatment needed.
COVID Situation
Malta has implemented strict measures to handle the COVID-19 pandemic, including a mandatory quarantine for visitors coming from high-risk countries and mandatory masks in indoor public spaces. As of August 2021, there have been around 34,000 cases and 432 deaths in the country.
Common Health Risks
While Malta is generally considered safe for travelers, there are still some common health risks to be aware of. These include exposure to the sun, which can lead to sunburn and heat exhaustion, as well as the risk of foodborne illnesses from unsafe food and water. Travelers should also be aware of the potential for mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile virus and dengue fever.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Malta, the legal age for acquiring and consuming alcohol is 17 years. Public consumption of alcohol is not allowed between 11pm and 6am. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Recreational Drugs
The use, possession, and trafficking of drugs are illegal in Malta. The penalties can be severe and can lead to imprisonment.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Premarital relationships are legal and widely accepted in Malta. However, it is important to note that divorce was only legalized in Malta in 2011 and is still not widely accepted within the country's traditional Catholic society.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Malta is known for being one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in Europe. In 2017, the country legalized same-sex marriage and also provides legal protections for LGBTQ individuals.
Firearms / Guns
The use and possession of firearms in Malta are regulated by the Arms Act. The law requires a license to own or possess a gun and any unauthorized possession of firearms can result in prosecution.
Regions in Malta
There are many wonderful regions to visit in Malta, browse through each to see what to visit.
1 Popular Travel Destination in Malta
