The Maltese archipelago consists of three inhabited islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino. They lie in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea with Malta 93 km South of Sicily and 230 km north of Africa. The total area of the Islands is 316 square km. And the longest distance on the island of Malta is 27 km.

Climate

Malta is blessed with one of the most agreeable climates in the Mediterranean. The weather is warm even in winter. Between April and September there is virtually non-stop sunshine. The hottest period is mid-July to the end of September, but the nights are tempered by cool breezes from the surrounding sea. The average summer temperature (May-October) is 23C whilst that of winter (November-April) averages 11C.

Language

The official languages are Maltese and English. Almost all the Maltese speak English. Maltese is a Semitic language written in the Roman script comprising a vast element of words of Italian, French and English origin. Italian is also widely spoken.

Electricity

Electricity supply is 240 volts, 50 Hertz. The square-fitting standard three-pin, 13 Amp British plugs and sockets are used.

Time

Malta is on Central European Time (CET), that is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter and two hours from last Sunday in March until last Sunday in October.

Taxi Service

Taxis are fitted with meters and should you wish to know in advance how much a trip would cost, it is best to check with the driver before the journey.

Currency Exchange & Credit Cards

On 1st January 2008 Malta adopted the Euro as its official currency. From this date onwards, the Euro became legal tender in Malta and Gozo. Throughout the month of January, cash transactions can take place in both Maltese Lira and Euro, but after January 31st 2008, businesses will accept only payments in Euro.

For more information, go to www.euro.gov.mt

Medical Care

Malta enjoys a high standard of medical care. The general hospital, St. Luke's is in Guardamangia, but there are government health clinics in various towns.

Persons who are receiving medical treatment and who may need to carry medications into Malta or purchase fresh supplies locally would be well advised to arm themselves with a letter of introduction from their doctor.

Malta has special clinics for diabetic sufferers and pharmacies generally stock a wide variety of diabetic products.

Milk is pasteurised and available daily in cartons. All dairy products are safe for consumption.

Shopping

Shops are usually open between 0900 and 1900 hours. However, in commercial areas frequented by tourists, most shops remain open until approximately 2200 hours. Shops are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. There are open-air markets, one day a week, in most towns and villages. The largest is the Valletta market on Sunday mornings. Major Credit Cards, Travellers Cheques and Eurocheques are accepted at most leading shops and restaurants.

Banks

Usually open 0830. to 1230 hours. Monday through Fridays, and up to 1130 hours on Saturdays. Foreign exchange facilities are available at the Airport on a 24-hour basis, all year round and up to 1600 hours at most banks. Available also are a number of Automated Teller Machines situated in the major commercial and tourist areas.

Water

Tap water is perfectly safe to drink but may taste strong by European standards.

Beach Facilities

There are a number of sandy beaches, especially in the northern part of the island, the best-known being Mellieha Bay, Golden Sands and Armier. In the south, the best sandy beach is Birzebbuga. Ramla Bay in Gozo stands out for its beautiful red sand. Rock bathing is possible at most other beach sites.

Bathing is safe anywhere around the islands as there are no tides. Sea temperatures average 73 degree F (22.7 degree C) in summer. Beach facilities in the high season, between March and October, include bars, restaurants, changing rooms, showers and umbrellas. On some beaches, it is possible to rent speedboats, dinghies, rowboats, water skis, surfboards, etc.

Malta - Gozo Service

The Gozo Channel Company Ltd. operates a Ro Ro service between Cirkewwa Malta and Mgarr Gozo. Journey time is approximately 20 minutes. Also available is a helicopter service operating seven times daily (in winter) between Malta International Airport and Xewkija Heliport, Gozo.

Licencing Hours

Bars, restaurants and cafes are normally open between 0900 and 0100 hrs and beyond. Restaurants are not generally open before 1130 hrs and between 1500 and 1900 hrs.

Beer and Wine

Maltese beer is excellent. Foreign beers are also available, but are more expensive. There are a wide variety of good Maltese wines at very reasonable prices. Well-known foreign wines are also available.

Dress

In summer, very light and informal clothing. In winter, some lightweight dress for the warm, sunny days, together with some warmer clothing for the cooler days and evenings.