Living in Malta
So why do so many foreigners decide to come and live or retire in Malta ?
Firstly, it must be the climate.
The climate in Malta is generally warm. The best ways to describe Malta?s seasons are a long, warm and sunny summer and a short mild winter.
Any Language Barriers ?
Although the official language of Malta is Maltese, English and Italian are widely spoken, with quite a few now learning Spanish as well as German, due to the large number of tourists visiting Malta year on year.
What about Culture & History ?
All over the Islands, you can find evidence of its rich historical past. Temples, catacombs, palaces, cathedrals and forts are some of the visible evidence left by many through the ages including the Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Knights of St. John, the French and the British. The myriad of civilizations that have swept through Malta, along with its geographical position between Africa and Europe and its fantastic natural deep harbours have contributed to Malta?s unique culture.
Is it Safe ?
It is well known that Malta is a remarkably safe country. In an analysis carried out in 2003 using INTERPOL data and the seven offences used to compute the FBI?s index of crime, Malta was compared to both the USA that has a high crime rate and Japan, which conversely has a low crime rate. The combined rate for all index offenses combined was 24.60 for Malta, compared with 1709.88 for Japan and 4123.97 for USA. The low crime-rate coupled with the Mediterranean lifestyle and weather; result in the Maltese having a well earned reputation as a friendly nation.
What are Medical Services Like ?
High Standars of Medical Services, is yet another reason why so many are comfortable with Malta, there are 2 State Hospitals, one which has just opened, having state of the art equipment and boasting to be a leader amongst its European counterparts as well as numerous Specialised Private Clinics and Hospitals. All EU nationals resident in Malta are eligible for free medical treatment from state hospitals and polyclinics, which can be found in most localities. Those on low incomes and with specific chronic illnesses are exempt from payment of prescriptions. Malta also has reciprocal agreements with some countries whereby tourists from those countries are eligible for free emergency medical treatment at the state hospitals.
Is Malta Laid back ?
If you are considering Malta as your home, we cannot but mention the Mediterranean Lifestyle. There has been much documentation and publication about the benefits of the Mediterranean lifestyle. From holiday guides to doctors from chefs to water sports enthusiasts, everyone agrees that the food, climate and lifestyle of Mediterranean countries contributes largely to health, lifestyle and happiness. Malta is no exception. It is blessed with a temperate climate and long, sunny summers. The continuance of traditional farming methods results in healthy, fertile agricultural land and the production of a wide array of local, fresh produce all year round. The waters around Malta teem with fish, such as sea bass, stonefish, bream, red mullet, swordfish, tuna, octopus, kalamari, mussles, etc.
How easy is it to get to Mainland Europe or North Africa ?
Located south of the Island of Sicily, Italy, Malta is just a few hours flying time from most European cities and under an hour to Tunisia and Libya in North Africa. It is serviced by many major and low cost airlines. Additionally, Malta is a popular stop for cruise liners and is accessible from mainland Europe via Ferry/Catamaran.
So why should you consider living in Malta besides the above ? Maybe Advantageous Tax Regulations ?
Malta has double taxation agreements with over 47 countries for both temporary and permanent residents. Foreign residents working in Malta only pay tax on income earned in Malta. Companies also benefit from attractive tax incentives. Malta has an impressive record in attracting foreign investors. Malta can offer:
* Pro-business government policies
* Unusually high productivity levels
* Excellent telecommunications
* One of the best IT rates in the EU
* Strategic location
* Marketing advantages
* Excellent transhipment and distribution capabilities
* Social, economic and political stability
* A highly skilled, multi-lingual work force
* Exceptional business support services
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Places To Stay In Malta |
Buggibba
& its neighbour Qawra are Malta's largest, seaside
resort towns. The coastline stretches from Salina Bay to St Paul's Bay taking
in some of the Islands' best open sea views and a vista over St Paul's Island.
The flat rocks on the shoreline provide places for sun bathing and there are
access points every so often for swimmers. Numerous Bars, Restaurants, &
a Casino may be found in this area. Neighbouring towns are St Pauls Bay &
Xemxija.
Marsascala,
is still renowned as fishing village & its excellent fish restaurants. The
Maltese refer to Marsascala as "Wied Il-Ghajn". In the summer months,
Marsascala is full of activity, with the various bars & restaurants usually
chock a block for lunch and dinner. The long U-shaped coastline and beach, its
rocky promontories and its multicoloured fishing vessels give the town a typical
Maltese character. Neighbouring towns are Marsaxlokk, Zabbar & Zejtun.
Mdina
is the old capital city of Malta situated in the centre of the island. Known
locally as the "Silent City". Mdina commands a breathtaking and magnificent
view of the Island & although it is fully inhabited with no more than a
couple of hundred residents, silence remains the name of the game. Mdina brings
a calming atmosphere as you walk along its narrow streets & ways, passing
by some of the best Norman & Baroque architecture on the island. Neighbouring
towns are Rabat & Dingli.
Mellieha,
is one of Malta's most picturesque tourist destinations. The town centre is
perched on a hill overlooking Mellieha Bay. Fine hotels, restaurants, shops
and a majestic baroque church (built in late 19th century) may be fouund in
Mellieha. Mellieha is also home to Malta's longest stretch of sandy beach, better
known to the Maltese as "Ghadira". Neigbouring Towns are Xemxija and
Cirkewwa.
Sliema
or "Tas-Sliema" in Maltese, is located on the North East coast of
the Island. A major commercial & residential area, with a number of lidos,
waterpolo clubs, bars & restaurants lined up on the coast. Sliema is also
home to a lovely promenade which connects to its neighbouring towns on either
side - St Julians & Gzira. Numerous hotels may be found on this coastline.
St Julians
or "San Giljan" in Maltese, is home to Spinola Bay, one of the prettiest
bays in Malta. St Julians is a stone throw away from Paceville which is the
entertainment capital of the Islands offering both tourists and locals a wide
array of Discos, Bars , Restaurants, a Casino and some excellent Hotels. Many
now consider Paceville and St Julians as one. Neighbouring Towns are Sliema
& St Andrews.
St Paul's
Bay or "San Pawl il Bahar" in Maltese, is well known for
the number of fish restaurants & an excellent fish shop where one can buy
fresh catch of the day. Just off St Paul's Bay are St Paul's Islands where St
Paul was shipwrecked in AD60. Close by to the Islands there is an underwater
statue of Christ Our Lord which is often visited by diving enthusiasts. Neighbouring
Towns are Bugibba & Xemxija.
Valletta
is the Capital City of Malta and is often referred to by the Maltese as "Il-Belt"
meaning "The City". Valletta is surrounded by Majestic Bastions &
is full of Magnificent Buildings, Palaces, Catherdrals, Churches, Museums &
the Teathre. Cafes, Wine Bars & Restaurants are aslo abundant. Do not miss
the "City Built By Gentelemen for Gentelemen." Neighbouring Towns
are Floriana, Msida & Ta' Xbiex.
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Popular Places To Stay In Gozo |
Mgarr
pronounced "hymn - jar" is home to Gozo's Ferry Terminal and stretches
upwards to the top of the Mgarr Harbour. Mgarr enjoys panoramic views of Malta
and Comino across the Gozo channel. The to and fro of the fishing boats and
the incomparable vistas add a unique touch to this lovely town. Mgarr is also
very popular for its hub of fish restaurants situated close to the waters edge.
Nadur
is perched on the eastermost hill of Gozo with its baroque Parish Church dominating
the skyline. The church is dedicated to St Peter & St Paul. The village
enjoys a sizeable village square, and just off it one will find a number of
restaurants and shops. With its beautiful countryside Nadur offers some of the
best country walk-routes on the island. Nadur is also home to one of Malta and
Gozo's most entertaining Carnival displays, which shouldn't be missed if you
are around at this time.
San Lawrenz
is a village situated in the west of the island of Gozo. The village is built
upon a flat surface surrounded by three hills - Ta' Ghammar, Ta' Gelmus and
Ta' Dbiegi. The latter is 195 metres above sea level and boasts the highest
point in Gozo. San Lawrenz also has within its territory the beautiful Dwejra
Bay which is renowned for its unique ecological aspects, not only recognised
by all Gozitans and locals but also internationally.