You’ve always dreamed of a longer trip to somewhere where the sun never ceases shining. Now is the time to plan.
Malta, placed between Sicily, Libya and Malta like a rock, conjures up images of ancient buildings, sparkling waters, delicious pastries, and toe-tapping local fiestas. All of this is available. But, what should you know about moving to Malta? and where to stay in malta? These are 10 important things to remember.
English is good
English is used for signs, government forms, advertising and other written daily interactions. If yours is good, you will be fine. This is unless you plan to stay in Malta for the long term. The locals will appreciate your efforts to learn Maltese, a mixture of Siculoarabic and English, French, or Italian.
Sun abounds
Malta offers more than 300 days of sunshine per year. It would help if you kept your eyes open while you were there. Use sunblock generously and wear a broad-brimmed cap. The island’s summers can be hot and humid with cold, humid winters. Your apartment won’t be heated or insulated so that the winter chill can bite at night. Pack a windproof jacket and warm clothes for your beach walks indoors.
Neighbourhoods
Thanks to the many new housing developments, apartments are easy to find in Malta. Although rental prices in Malta are lower than in other European destinations, many neighbourhoods like Sliema and St. Julian’s attract ex-pats.
Transport public
Malta’s population is small and heavily dependent on public transport. In recent years, the island’s fleet was upgraded, and it still offers services to take you to all places you wish to visit, even to the smallest villages. They are not always on time or very fast. As your bus whirls through twisting roads, take in the sights and stop at every opportunity.
Driving
Surprisingly, there are lots of cars in Malta. If you decide to venture out on the roads, keep your eyes peeled. It’s an extreme sport in Malta. It is not easy for drivers to signal or give way, and there are often traffic jams between towns. Your foreign driver’s licence will be valid for up to one year.
Take in the buzz
Malta is a sensory overload. It is home to approximately 450,000 people, a 22-times smaller area than Ireland. This gives it lively and energetic energy. This lively atmosphere can be heard in many ways: church bells, local chatter and stories, vendors and the like.
Red tape
Unsurprisingly, tourism and hospitality are big industries. Entry-level jobs are plentiful. To obtain your social security number and residence card and open a bank account, you must sign a contract. Opening an account is not as easy as you might think.
Healthcare
The UK’s NHS inspired the free, public healthcare system in Malta. Working ex-pats can apply once they have a residence card and a social security number. Private healthcare is usually cheaper and will reduce the time spent waiting in line at the clinic.
Secure
It is important to keep your belongings safe in public places, especially in tourist areas. This archipelago nation has a low violent crime rate and a friendly environment.
Laidback
The island lifestyle means that the locals have a different time system and don’t need to be tied down by any “schedule”. Although it may seem confusing at first, you should let go of control and follow the local path.
