People of Malta
The Maltese are by and large known for their friendliness and hospitality. English is widely spoken on the islands and many speak Italian as a third language. The Maltese have a strong sense of community and crime rates are among the lowest in the world. Additionally, the islands are home to a growing expat community—a tribute to Malta’s sunny weather and laid-back environment.
Language in Malta
Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. The Maltese language is unique and contains Italian, French, English and Arabic influences. It is the most widely spoken language on the islands, with different villages and localities proudly imparting their own style or dialect. English is also widely used on radio shows, signage, menus and newspapers. If you know a little Italian, you’re also in luck, thanks to Malta’s geographical and cultural proximity with Italy.
Currency in Malta
The official currency of the Maltese Islands is the Euro (€). It replaced the Maltese Lira (Lm) in 2007 when Malta entered the European Union in 2004. There are ATMs and bank branches in most Maltese and Gozitan villages.
Culture and Lifestyle in Malta
Culture in Malta is an important part of life on the island . One can find plenty of events and activities happening all year round, including jazz, opera and rock festivals, dance shows, art exhibitions, plays, museums, and much more. Nightlife centres around dining, wine bars, and nightclubs. In summer the islands come to life with regular village feasts and dazzling fireworks displays.
Maltese Food
One of the most important things about any destination has to be the food – and in Malta you’ll find that people take it very seriously. The Maltese love dining and follow a typical Mediterranean diet that features a lot of olive oil, tomatoes, fresh seafood, and pasta – so bring a healthy appetite. Malta is famous for its wild-thyme honey, strawberries, goat’s cheese, olives, and bigilla—a beloved local bean puree. Pastizzi are probably the most common type of street food on the island. These are inexpensive flaky pastries, usually filled with mushy peas or ricotta cheese. They can be found just about anywhere at the ubiquitous pastizzerias.
FAQs
Present-day Maltese culture is essentially Latin European with the recent British legacy also in evidence. In the early part of its history, Malta was also exposed to Semitic-speaking communities.
What are the values of the Malta airport? ›
Our core values—Service Excellence, Integrity, Sustainability, and Teamwork—are deliberate and purposeful choices that complement our overall strategy. Service Excellence – We want our people to provide excellent service to each and every guest at the airport.
What is daily life like in Malta? ›
Lifestyle. Pros: Malta is a place where relaxation is taken seriously. There's superb weather, friendly people, and a life filled with morning swims, fresh seafood, leisurely explorations of cobblestoned streets, boat trips to hidden coves, and a chance to share the islands' attractions with new Maltese friends.
What are people in Malta known for? ›
People of Malta
The Maltese are by and large known for their friendliness and hospitality. English is widely spoken on the islands and many speak Italian as a third language. The Maltese have a strong sense of community and crime rates are among the lowest in the world.
Are Americans welcome in Malta? ›
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US State Department currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Malta. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circ*mstances in this country.
What is the traditional food in Malta? ›
8 Traditional Maltese Dishes
- Fenek (Rabbit) ...
- Pastizzi. ...
- Bragioli (Stuffed Beef Rolls) ...
- Kapunata (Maltese Ratatouille) ...
- Ħobż Biż-Żejt (Maltese Bread with Toppings) ...
- Ġbejniet (Maltese Cheeselets) ...
- Imqarrun il-Forn (Baked Macaroni) ...
- Timpana (Baked Pasta)
According to Numbeo's Cost of Living Index, Malta currently ranks as a “Moderate” expensive country to live in. Cost of visiting is also moderate compared to other European destinations. In fact, Malta is a relatively cheap destination if compared to countries such as the Nordic countries.
What is the quality of life in Malta? ›
Numbeo, an online database of user-contributed city and country statistics, has ranked Malta in 62nd place in the world and third from last in Europe in its quality of life index. Malta achieved a score of 109.50, with only Russia and Belarus faring worse out of the 36 European countries on the list.
Why is Malta so special? ›
The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere. Valletta built by the proud Knights of St.
What is the etiquette in Malta? ›
Etiquette in Malta
Remove hats and sunglasses upon entry, and have a shawl or sarong on hand to cover shoulders when away from the beach. Locals also have a fairly relaxed approach to time keeping and punctuality, referred to as 'island time'. A handshake is polite when meeting someone for the first time.
For more info, check out the Visit Malta website.
- Malta is not one island – it's an archipelago! ...
- It was once a part of Italy… ...
- It's super old! ...
- It's been an independent country since 1964. ...
- They drive on the left. ...
- It's the unofficial crafts capital of Europe. ...
- There's food and drink entirely unique to Malta.
The Maltese have a mix of European and Middle Eastern ancestry, with the most important contribution being from the early farming societies of Southern Europe. Languages, religion and culture are often adopted by a population because of elite dominance. This is how Malta came to speak a Semitic language.
Are people friendly in Malta? ›
Maltese is a Semitic language written in Latin, sounds a bit like someone talking Arabic in an Italian accent. The Maltese are friendly, typical Mediterranean people, relaxed and non-stressful.
Does Malta have good quality of life? ›
Malta is often considered a favorable destination for expats. It has a Mediterranean climate, English as one of its official languages, and a relatively low crime rate. The country also offers a stable economy, a well-developed healthcare system, and a rich cultural heritage.
