The Maltese language is the only Semitic language written in the Latin script and the only official Semitic language of the European Union, of which Malta forms part. Originally an Arabic dialect, over the centuries it has picked up words from several other European languages – depending on who ruled Malta and for how long. The Maltese language’s …
Nowhere is the Maltese idiom more beautifully expressed than in the wonder walls of its farmhouses. Dream houses are usually just that: far and away, but if you wander down the winding village roads which usually follow the original field paths, and if you squint and look closely behind the trees and outcrops, you will …
Founded in 1566, Valletta is Malta’s capital city and is one of Europe’s smallest (and southern-most) capital cities, with many buildings having a strong Baroque character. Ever fancied yourself exploring what feels like one huge open-air museum? Valletta might just be the perfect place for you. Built on a peninsula between two natural harbours (Grand Harbour and Marsamxett …
Maltese cuisine is the result of a long relationship between the Islanders and the many civilisations who occupied the Maltese Islands over the centuries. This marriage of tastes has given Malta an eclectic mix of Mediterranean cooking. Although the restaurant scene is a mix of speciality restaurants, there are many eateries that offer or specialise in local …
The 7th Malta International Music Festival will take place in Valletta between 29th April and 10th May, featuring highly acclaimed world-famous musicians. The MIMF 2019 offers a rich and varied programme including solo recitals, chamber concerts and grand orchestral concerts at the Republic Hall of the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta and Robert Samut Hall in Floriana.
Fireworks are a yearlong pastime in Malta, and a major part of local festi – village festivals that celebrate their respective patron saints. Taking place all the year round but particularly so in summer, these festi are always lively and colourful. The colour, of course, is best provided by the fireworks that impeccably light the Maltese skies. 2019 sees …
EU residents staying in Malta temporarily are eligible for free treatment in local government hospitals, health centres and clinics with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). You’ll need to apply for this card in your home country and it’s recommended to carry it with you at all times.
The single currency in circulation in Malta is the Euro. Rough exchange rates (1 Euro): USD 1.12, GBP 0.74 and AUD 1.59 (September 2015). Several banks (HSBC, BOV, APS and BNF Bank being the major ones) are located in the various localities and several ATMs are situated around commercial and tourist areas. Cards accepted are …
Driving in Malta is seen as challenging at best by a lot of people, not least by the Maltese themselves. My aim with this article is to give you some insight to what you can expect to find if you choose to hire a car for your holiday. These are the biggest challenges you can …
The weather in Malta is one of the major reasons why people flock to the Maltese islands throughout the year, with its warm summers, mild winters and 3,000+ hours of sunshine. No matter what kind of weather you’re used to back home, you’re likely to find the weather in Malta pleasant during most times of …