The island of Malta is a small independent nation state in the centre of the Mediterranean, just 93 km South of Sicily (Italy) in Southern Europe. Malta is an island nation that consists of three islands: main island Malta, Gozo and Comino.

The country’s official languages are Maltese and English. Malta’s capital city is Valetta, which is centrally located on the island’s North coast and has the island’s largest harbor.

The main island of Malta is the largest and most developed island. Its sister-island of Gozo is idyllic and peaceful and mostly rural, offering breathtaking views and great opportunities for outdoor activities, such has hiking, biking and rock climbing. Comino is the smallest island of the three and is inhabited by only a few people.

The island hosts a hotel renowned for its hospitality and facilities to spend relaxing holidays in Malta and is the location for one of Malta’s most beautiful bays: the Blue Lagoon. For more detailed information please visit the official Malta website: www.visitmalta.com

Climate

Malta’s climate is strongly influenced by the sea and is typical of the Mediterranean. The Islands have a very sunny climate with a daily average of five to six hours sunshine in mid-winter to around 12 hours in summer. Summers are hot, dry and very sunny. Day-time temperatures in summer are often mitigated by cooling sea breezes. Day-time temperatures in July/August average around 31º C, but sea breezes often provide some cooling. The summer season usually lasts from May/June to October, longer than for example Italian summers. With sea temperatures of 24-26 º C, calm seas and hardly ever a drop of rain during the ‘summer months’, swimming offers some cool relaxation and there are plenty of beaches in Malta and Gozo to choose from!

Currency

On 1st January 2008, Malta adopted the euro as its currency. On 1st February 2008, the Euro became the only legal tender currency in Malta and Gozo.

Electricity

The electrical supply is 230 volts +/- 10%. The frequency of the supply is 50 hertz. The three-pin rectangular plug system is used, as in Britain. Adapters are very easy to find.

Health

Malta has an excellent health service. Hospitals are modern and supported by a regional network of health centres. Travellers do not normally require certificates of vaccination or immunisation to enter the Maltese Islands. Visitors from EU member states should make sure that they have a European Health Insurance card. It is advisable that all visitors, irrespective of their nationality, take out a personal medical insurance policy. Malta has reciprocal health agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom. Nationals of these countries, visiting the Islands for no longer than one month, are entitled to free medical and hospital care in both Malta and Gozo. Visitors receiving special medical treatment should bring a medical prescription or a letter of introduction from their family doctor, in case they need to purchase particular medicines.

Visa & entry requirements

It is advisable that you check about visa and entry requirements before making your travel arrangements. For more information visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact an official Malta diplomatic representative near you.

What to wear

Take your best beach and casual wear. In the summer months (June -September), carry some light wollen clothing for the cool evenings. Please show due respect when visiting religious places. Wear appropriate clothing (and remove leather shoes and belts) when entering the premises.