Malta: Overview
The mythical and romantic Republic of Malta is one of the EU members. Formed by an archipelago strategically located in the Mediterranean Sea between north Libya south Italy it was disputed by many powers. Calypso Cave, the medieval dungeons, the megaliths, the cobbled streets, the Baroque castles and the Norman cathedrals give an unique atmosphere of nostalgy, legend and mystery to the island.
Climate
The Maltaese climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and wet winters. During November and March foggy days are frequent. The rainy season goes from October to April. In spring and autumn blows the xlokk, a hot wind. The best moment for a visit to Malta is February-June, between the rainy season and the suffocating summer. Besides the good climate hotel rooms are half price during this time of the year. September and October are also good months for visiting Malta. High season period is from end of June to August.
Important information
There are different entry requirements for visiting Malta. Citizens from the EU need only a valid passport or an identity card. Spanish American travellers (except Argentineans, Uruguayans and Chilean) need a visa and a valid passport and they are allowed to stay for three months.
Since January 2008 the official currency is euro. Foreign currencies can be easily converted to euros in any bank, official exchanging offices, or ATMs, plentiful in tourist areas. Banks are open mornings Monday-Saturdays. Many hotels, stores and restaurants accept foreign currencies; the most extended credit cards (American Express, Diners Club, Visa, Carte Blanche and MasterCard) are also accepted.
As service is not included in hotels bills a 10% tip is expected. Taxi drivers also expect to be tipped.
There are no particularly health risks for those who visit Malta; water and food are safe. Although there is a sanitary agreement with British citizens holding a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), it is recommended that travellers hire a comprehensive health insurance in case they had to be evacuated to receive medical treatment. Anyone travelling from yellow fever infected areas will have to present a vaccination certificate as an entry requirement.
Although Malta is considered a safe country for tourists, you should be careful with robberies from parked cars, pickpockets and chaotic traffic.
As for customs, wearing bathing clothes outside beaches or swimming pools is not appropriate and you must dress conservatively, especially in churches.
Where to go
Valletta is a walled city from the 16th century that was home of St. Johns’ Knights Order and is nowadays capital of Malta. Thanks to its streets traced thinking of making the marine breeze circulation possible you can make a city tour by foot in a few hours without suffering the Mediterranean sun. You can start your journey in the city door, located southeast, and from there walk the squares surrounded by palaces and cathedrals; the most standing palace is Auberge de Castille. You can also see many beautiful, among them are Upper Barraka, that have a breathtaking view of the Great Port and Cottonera. Other interesting places are St. John’s Co-cathedral and its Museum, San Telmo fortress and Grand Masters’ Palace.
Near Qrendi and to 15 km from Valletta is Hagar Qim, one of the megalithic temples of Malta built in the 3800 B.C. The monument is decorated with diverse cravings made with silex and obsidian tools, sacrificial altars and oracle chambers and it is one Malta’s best places.
Gozo has a unique charm that distinguishes it from the other islands. Its attractive countryside, calm rhythm of life and few tourists makes it a pleasant destination to enjoy some relaxing days visiting prehistoric temples and seeing medieval architecture. Victoria, the commercial centre of the island, offers a relaxed atmosphere of the 12th century; the Citadel is the perfect place to enjoy an incredible view of the surroundings and the Norman House has an interesting museum dedicated to traditional objects. Besides this other attractive options is the Calypso Cave, one of the stops in Ulysses journey to Ithaca; Ggantija temples and the caves of Alabaster in Xaghra.
Medina, 15 km from the capital, is a city of Norman and Baroque buildings rising by the side of three thousand years-paved streets. The best conserved building is the Norman-medieval Palazzo Falzon built in 1495. You can also visit one another the Sicilian-Norman cathedral and its museum in the attractive main piazza. Another good place is the Museum of Roman Antiques in Rabat (suburb) neighbourhood.
Festivals
Here are some of the main festivities of Malta. St. Paul’s Shipwreck Celebration on February 10 commemorates the apostil’s arrival to Maltaese coasts in 60 A.C. On the third week of that month carnival begins and it is celebrated with terrifying masks, beautiful floats, dance competitions and parties in Florien and the capital. This country is mainly Catholic, so Holly Week is one of the most important festivities. On Holly Friday many populations organize processions of Christ images and make representations of the Last Dinner. San Publio Party celebrated in Floriana marks the beginning of a six-month party season when each town honours it patron saint. The most important of these parties are Mnjara (Party of St. Peter and St. Paul), (June 28 and 29) and Christmas Eve.
