Malta

Types of trips: Relaxation, Historical, Scenic, Exploration, Ocean

Best known for: Maltese Lace, Catacombs, Receiving the George Cross after WWII, Maltese Cross, Beaches

Why Go?: As stepping stone in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta is a fascinating blend of language, culture and food from all over Europe and Africa, and an excellent place to visit to see the effects of travel and history upon a country. 

Fact File

Population: 500,000

Capital: Valletta

Language(s): Maltese, English

Ties to the UK?: Good political history, popular travel destination

Landscape: As an island in the Mediterranean, Malta has many natural bays and harbours and is generally flat with many fields.

Climate/Seasons: Very mild winters with some rain and hot summers with little to no rain. January is the coldest month, with peak heats occurring in August midway through the long April - November summer period.

When to Go: Summer is the nicest time in Malta, but the peak heats should be avoided if you are unused to them!

Reasons to Visit: The stunning blue of the Mediterranean that surrounds Malta is reason enough to travel here, but the fascinating cocktail of historical influences and sites still standing today make this a country well worth taking the trip to - you can sun yourself on the beach after exploring WWII tunnels and ancient burial grounds!

How to Get There: Malta has an international airport that gives good access, but there are also regular boat links with Italy and Tunis!

Places to Go: National War Museum, Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, Ħagar Qim, Skorba Temples

Famous People: Simone De Battista, Kevin Borg, Marc Storace

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Comino, Ghar Dalam, Blue Grotto, Victoria Lines, HMS Maori

History: Position in the Mediterranean involved it in both World Wars, was once occupied by Britain

Architecture: Valletta Waterfront, St Agatha's Tower, St Pauls Catacombs, Rotunda of Mosta

Culture: Heavily influenced by past societies that came through Malta and ruled it before independence - many historical sites, but fresh and modern venues too

Sport: Football, Waterpolo, Rugby, Motorsports

Events: Malta Jazz Festival, Feast Days, Fireworks Festival

Watch Out For: Hot temperatures may affect those more used to colder weather quite severely - be aware of sunburn and sunstroke risks and take precautions. 

Medical Issues: Some vaccinations and boosters may be advised - check here for some info and consult with a doctor