The Archipelago of Malta consists of Malta, Gozo, Comino and two small uninhabited islands, and is situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Malta is 93km away from Sicily and 290km from North Africa.

Physical Features

Malta has an area of 246 sq.km and is made up of a low plateau which descends gradually to the plain in the south-eastern part of the Island.  Gozo, Malta's sister island (67 sq.km), lies just 6.4km to the north-west. The longest distance across Malta is 27km, and the widest is 14km. The corresponding figures for Gozo are14km and 7km respectively. Malta has no mountains - a series of terraced fields on the slopes characterizes the Islands. Malta's coastline is well indented with natural harbours, sandy beaches and flat rock coves.

The People

Throughout Malta's long and chequered history, Malta's people came into contact with the many nations that dominated the Mediterranean. These relationships with people of so many different cultures made the Maltese amongst the most cosmopolitan people in the world.  The people of Malta have developed and maintained characteristics which distinguish them as a peace-loving nation with a strong sense of hospitality. Another characteristic is their joviality which springs mainly from the agreeable, warm climate with sunshine throughout the year.  For the same reason, the Maltese enjoy very high standards of health. The national language is the Maltese language, however, both Maltese and English are official languages. Freedom of worship is guaranteed by the Constitution. Whilst the great majority of Maltese profess the Catholic Faith, other religious denominations have their place of worship in Malta.

Population

The Maltese population stood at 372,130(Malta 344,370, Gozo and Comino 27,760) on 31st December 1995. The total population density registered no marked variations in recent years and in 1995 stood at 1194 per sq.km.  At 12.4 per thousand, the birth rate is one of the lowest in Europe.  The death rate, which for the last few years has been stable, stood at 7.3 per thousand in 1995.

Tourism

Malta's natural scenic wealth, high standards of health, a most agreeable climate, political stability and the friendliness of its people have turned it into an all year round holiday destination. The tourist sector is one of the most important sectors of the Maltese economy. Last year approximately 1,053,788 tourists visited Malta. The British market is Malta's main source of supply with just less than half that figure visiting the Islands.

Cost of Living

As compared to other countries, Malta is considered as a country having one of the lowest costs of living in Europe.  Foodstuffs, clothing and furniture are very reasonably priced.  Services like water, electricity, telephone and gas are also very reasonable. No rates are charged in Malta.

The Climate

The climate is warm and healthy with mild, moist winters and dry, hot summers.  Frost and snow are unknown. Rain falls only for very short periods, averaging 580mm in a whole year. Temperatures for the November - April average 14°C , and 23C for the May - October period. Average daily sunshine hours for winter are 6.5 hours, and for summer 10.5 hours. The hottest period is from mid-July to mid-September.  Malta's perennial sunshine and unpolluted sea make it a holiday destination to which tourists like to return year after year.

Schools

Malta has a free state school system with optional private education.  Both day and boarding facilities exist and school fees are less than those in the UK. Lessons in private schools are taught in English, and the curriculum is very closely aligned to the British system with students sitting for 'O' and 'A' level examinations to qualify for entrance into the Malta University and British Universities.

Why Malta?

   -   English-speaking

   -   Very friendly

   -   Relatively crime-free and safe to live in

   -   No religious or racial problems

   -   Politically stable

   -   Excellent hospital and medical services

   -   Abounding with history and cultural life

   -   Excellent social life

   -   Beautiful all-round weather

   -   Low cost of living and very reasonably priced, good property

   -   Easy to get help and services

   -   New, excellent residency conditions with very low taxation

   -   Surrounded by crystal clear seas

   -   Many opportunities for all kinds of sports

   -   Excellent schooling to above UK standards in English-speaking schools.