Malta is quickly becoming a prime real estate destination in Europe – its sunny climate, delicious food, culture and history, beneficial tax regimes and nightlife have attracted plenty of foreign individuals and businesses to seek out Malta as a second home.
Stats
Main islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino
Capital: Valletta
Official languages: Maltese and English
Size: 316sq km and a coastline of 196.8km
Population: 445,246 (2014 estimate)
Currency: Euro (€)
Religion: Roman Catholic
Calling code: +356
History & Culture
With its history dating back 5000 years to some of the world’s oldest freestanding structures, Malta is not short on culture. Influences stemming from the Phoenicians and the Romans, to the Arabs and the Knights of St John have made Malta a melting pot of cultures, and this can be seen in the abundance of architecture and even in the Maltese language.
Before gaining independence in 1964, Malta was under British rule for over 160 years, resulting in English becoming an officially recognised second language, in addition to the mother tongue, Maltese. With English being so widely spoken and understood, it is easy for foreigners to communicate and integrate with the locals. In reality, Maltese hospitality transcends language, with a warm welcome being a common occurrence regardless of the language spoken.
The country’s deeply Roman Catholic background is evident in every part of the country, with 365 churches and chapels scattered throughout the island. Beautiful cathedrals, priceless artwork and ancient cities will satisfy any culture junkie.
Healthcare
The Maltese healthcare system is amongst the best in world. Dubbed the ‘nurse of the Mediterranean’ for its valiant efforts during World War I, the island’s longstanding tradition as a medical hub that dates back hundreds of years.
The Maltese public healthcare system’s world-class medical facilities are available for free to all Maltese residents, as well as foreigners who have moved to Malta. EU nationals who are in possession of a European Healthy Insurance Card (EHIC) are entitled to free healthcare in Malta. Due to an agreement between Malta and the UK and Australian, residents from these two countries visiting Malta for up to one month will receive free healthcare also. Non-EU nationals are required to buy their own travel insurance that covers medical issues.
Entertainment
There really is something to do for everyone. With an abundance of different restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs, one can literally go to a new place every single day. The cuisine is as varied as the venues, so whatever the theme is for the night, there will be somewhere to go.
Being physically active outdoors in Malta is also very easy, with coastlines and country roads to provide the perfect setting for walking, hiking or jogging. Taking advantage of the beautiful seas is a fun way to get the adrenaline pumping. Swimming, sailing, scuba diving, kayaking, jet skiing, water skiing, paragliding, and windsurfing – it is all possible.
The arts scene is rife in Malta, with plenty of performances, concerts, plays, exhibitions and shows being held throughout the year. A number of cinemas are also open until late everyday; so on the off chance of a rainy day there is no need to stay indoors.
Gozo & Comino
Malta’s sister islands of Gozo and Comino complete the archipelago. As the second largest island, Gozo provides a more rural, laid-back way of life that is slower paced than Malta. Just a 20-minute ferry ride away, Gozo is more green and shies away from the comparatively fast paced way of life found in Malta. Gozo is a haven for those who are seeking relaxation and rugged coastlines. Boasting hidden beaches, delicious produce and beautiful properties, Gozo is one of the most underrated spots in the Mediterranean.
Comino is the smallest of the islands and is mainly inhabited by sheep. Comino is in full swing during the summer months, with hundreds of thousands of tourists flocking to the idyllic Blue Lagoon. The best way to make the most of the island is to spend a day or two taking in the sun, swimming, hiking and camping.
