Over the last few decades, the stunning Mediterranean gem that is the island of Malta, has become a sought after destination for both holidaymakers and expatriates alike. Known for its rich history, sunny climate, and various economic opportunities, the island offers the perfect blend of both work and leisure. But what exactly makes Malta travelling to and living in Malta such an attractive thing to do? In this article we will look at several contributing reasons.
1. All Year-Round Sunshine and Warm Climate
One of the biggest things that draws people to Malta is its warmer climate. In fact, the island benefits from over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, spread over more than 300 days a year. This gives visitors and residents alike the opportunity to enjoy warm temperatures almost all year round. Even in winter, temperatures rarely drop below 9Ā°C, making it an ideal escape from colder climates.
2. A Lot of Breathtaking Scenery and Beaches
Malta boasts some of the most stunning coastal views in Europe. Starting with its crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches like Golden Bay and Blue Lagoon, itās no surprise that tourists are very interested in the islands for their seaside holiday. In the meantime, its scenic beauty also makes it a desirable place for many to settle down.
3. A Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage
For such a small island, Malta has a wonderful cultural and historic heritage. From the ancient temples of ĦaĔar Qim to the medieval streets of Mdina, Malta has a lot of history to be explored. Malta also has several UNESCO-listed sites, including its capital city Valletta. Here you will find a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, museums, and charming streets perfect for exploration.
4. English is one of Maltaās Official Languages
For many expats and holiday goers, language barriers are a concern when moving abroad or travelling. Malta makes communication easy, since English is one of the two official languages of the islands. The other being Maltese. Whether you’re looking for a job, starting a business, or simply navigating daily life, you can rest assured that you are able to communicate freely and easily in English.
5. Thriving Job Market and Economy
Malta’s growing economy is another reason people choose to relocate. Key industries such as finance, technology, iGaming, and tourism offer a lot of job opportunities. The island also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, and provides a very stable and promising work environment.
6. Affordable and High-Quality Healthcare
Malta has a strong healthcare system, and many times expats and EU nationals can access free or at very affordable rates. Apart from one main hospital and several local government clinics, Malta also has a number of private clinics that one can make use of in case of need.
7. Easy Access to Europe
Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta offers a lot of flight connections to several major cities around Europe. Whether you’re going to travel for work or for leisure, destinations like Rome, London, and Paris are just a couple of hours away.
8. Safe and Welcoming Community
Malta is considered one of the safest countries in Europe. In fact it has a very low crime rate and a friendly, multicultural community. Furthermore, the local population is also very known for its hospitality, making newcomers and visitors feel welcome almost instantly.
9. A Growing Expat Community
It is good to note that whether you’re a solo traveler, digital nomad, or moving to Malta with family, the island has a thriving expat community. There are several social groups, networking events, and meet-ups that make it easy to connect with like-minded people.
10. Real Estate and Living Options
In Malta you will find several modern apartments to charming townhouses for short-term and long-term rent, depending on the length of your stay. These are spread all around the islands and the cost of lease tends to vary when comparing the more popular locations such as Valletta, Sliema, and St Julianās, when compared to other locations like Birkirkara, Qormi and Ħal Għaxaq to name a few.
11. A Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment
If you are someone that enjoys a lively social scene, Malta surely does not disappoint. The island offers everything from rooftop bars and beach clubs to music festivals and cultural events throughout the year. A lot of these events tend to be free for all to attend!
12. Quality Education for Families
A lot of families with children that move to Malta, do so with peace of mind knowing that the island offers quality education. In fact, in Malta you can choose between public, private, and international schools. These cater to different educational needs, ensuring a smooth transition for families. Education is also free in Malta, for locals as well as EU Nationals.
13. Culinary Delights, Local Cuisine and International Tastes
If you are a food lover, you will definitely appreciate Maltaās unique blend of local, Mediterranean and international flavours. You will find fresh seafood dishes to traditional street food like pastizzi, baked pasta and pan fried rabbit. Rest assured that the island offers a rich culinary experience. Nowadays, Malta also hosts a variety of restaurants with international tastes starting from Asian fusions, Indian cuisines, and African dishes amongst others.
14. A Laid-Back Mediterranean Lifestyle
Ultimately, one of the main reasons people love Malta is the relaxed and stress-free way of life. This comes out in particular during the warmer months. The combination of sunshine, beautiful surroundings, and friendly people makes every day feel like a holiday.
So what is the verdict?
Whether you’re planning a short visit or considering a permanent move, Malta offers something for everyone. With its rich culture, economic advantages, and great quality of life, it’s no wonder so many people are choosing to call this Mediterranean paradise their home.
