About Malta
Location The Maltese Islands consist of Malta, Gozo and Comino and are situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea some 93 km from Sicily and 290 km from North Africa. Malta, the largest of the islands has an area of 246 sq.km(95 sq. ml.), Gozo 67 sq.km (26 sq. ml.), and Comino of 3 sq.km.(1 sq. ml.) Area of the Maltese Islands 316 sq.km. Malta has no mountains or rivers. A series of low hills with terraced fields on the slopes characterise the Island.The coastline of Malta is well indented, thus providing numerous harbours, bays, creeks, sandy beaches and rocky coves. The length of the shoreline round Malta is 136 km, and 43km round Gozo.
The total population is around 404,000.
Climate The climate is generally warm and sunny with short mild winters and dry hot summer. The average rainfall is 558.2 mm (22 ins). Rain rarely, if ever, falls during the summer months. The temperature averages 14C (57F) in winter, November - April, and 32C (90F) in summer May - October. The sun shines for an average of 6.5 hours daily in winter and 11 hours in summer. The average sea temperature in summer is 26C. The hottest period is from mid July till mid September. Malta is on Central European Time (CET), one hour ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time ) in winter and two hours in summer (end March till end Oct.).
Language The National language is Maltese however both Maltese and English are the official languages. The Maltese are predominately Roman Catholic although freedom of worship is guaranteed by the Constitution.
Tourism The tourist sector is one of the most important sectors of the Maltese economy. Malta's natural beauty, peaceful and safe way of life, high standard of living, mild climate, political stability and warm hospitality have turned Malta into a favorite destination. http://www.visitmalta.com
No rates or council taxes are charged in Malta.
Health Malta enjoys a well-earned reputation for its health standards. Medical facilities include two general hospitals , two private hospitals, regional health centers and a number of small private clinics all of which are highly equipped. EU citizens, resident in Malta, are entitled to Free Public Health care services in accordance with entitlements, as determined from time to time by the Ministry of Health. Applicant must be in possession of the appropriate E form signifying their entitlement to health care under the Social Security registration in their country of origin.
Education Malta has free state schools and optional private education. Both state and private schools have a closely aligned curriculum to the British system with students sitting for O and A level examinations to qualify for entrance into the Malta University and Universities overseas.
Proximity to Other Countries (Flying Times) Malta - London 3.05hrs Malta - Amsterdam 3.05hrs Malta - Frankfurt 2.35hrs Malta - Paris 2.35hrs Malta - Rome 1.15hrs Malta - Cairo 2.25hrs The national airline, Airmalta, operates regular flights to and from all major airports in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and the Gulf States. Other international carriers including low cost carriers operate regular scheduled flights to and from Malta. There is a regular ferry service, which carries passengers and cars between Malta & Gozo, a seaplane crossing,(as well as a helicopter service from Malta International Airport), the ferry crossing takes about 30 minutes
Scuba diving, yachting and sailing in our crystal clear waters together with paragliding, windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing are all enjoyed by locals and tourists. Sailing regattas are held regularly between April and November, including the Comino Regatta in June, the Malta-Sycracuse race for keelboats in July , the Rimini-Malta-Rimini Yacht race in August and the Middle Sea Race in October. Good facilities for boat rentals and yacht charters exist throughout the Islands. Schools offer lessons for the active while harbour cruises are ideal for those who prefer to relax on board. The Marsa Sports Club, the principle sports club on the island offering an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, football, rugby, cricket, horse racing track, polo grounds ,athletic track, a fitness center with gym and sauna and, in season, a swimming pool.
The Maltese Islands clear blue Mediterranean sea is ideal for scuba diving and is highly accessible by relatively every area of the Islands. All three islands offer excellent diving experiences with reefs, caves and wrecks to make the dive one of the most interesting ones in the Mediterranean. The calmness of the sea makes for excellent visibility and the wildlife danger risk is extremely low, creating an ultimate location for first time divers and beginners. For the more experienced divers, there are various sites that include archaeological
Entertainment: Typical of the Mediterranean lifestyle, the Islanders’ approach to life is to enjoy and celebrate it as much as possible. Nightlife on the Islands is always bustling, there are always scores of clubs to visit, wine bars and first-rate restaurants to try The Islands have an effervescent calendar of cultural events to see, such as the village festa,Summer Malta Arts Festival, the Valletta Baroque Festival, the Opera Festival, the Choir Festival and the International Jazz Festival held in July.
The main nightlife clubbing action is in Paceville, on the coast near St. Julians, where the clubs and bars are in abundance.
Casino Malta has several casinos. Choose from an elegant colonial-style villa, an ultra modern hotel complex, or a restored 17th century, harbour-side palace. All provide great entertainment whether you're new to the tables or have tried your luck before.
Wellness & Spa The Maltese Islands are an ideal destination if you're looking for some exercise or just wish to revive and relax. The warm climate, clear Mediterranean light and fresh sea air alone help increase energy levels. It is the aim of some forty health and spa outlets to focus on your overall wellbeing. Most of these outlets are in constant upgrade, with state of the art equipment and highly qualified staff, making it easy to enjoy the best treatments and products.