The Maltese Islands offer an exhilarating contrast of colours: the azure of the Mediterranean and the mellow honey-coloured limestone which characterises the architecture and clear skies. The Islands are a feast for the senses. 

Everywhere you go, a unique historic sights awaits. Temples, palaces, cathedrals and forts provide a living history you can almost touch. Sound plays an important part in the life of the islands. The mix of fireworks and village band marches transforms a summer night into a special memory. The advantage of a stay on the Maltese Islands is that you can experience several holidays in one.

Practical Information About Malta

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.

Banks: Usually open from 0830 hrs to 1230 hrs from Monday to Friday, and up to 1130 hrs on a Saturday. Foreign exchange facilities are available at the Airport on a 24-hour basis, all year round and facilities are also available at the banks. Available also are a number of Automated Teller Machines situated in the major commercial and tourist areas. 

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. 

Beer & 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. 

Currency: Malta's currency is the Euro that is divided into 100 cents. Internationally recognised travellers cheques and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and shopping establishment in Malta.

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. 

Discos: There are a number of lively discos, particularly in St. Paul's Bay, Sliema, Paceville and St. George's areas. Several open-air discos operate only in summer.

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.

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

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.

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.

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. 

Medical Care: Malta enjoys a high standard of medical care. The general hospital isMater Dei, 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.

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 Marsaxlokk market on Sunday mornings. Major Credit Cards, Travellers Cheques and Eurocheques are accepted at most leading shops and restaurants. 

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.

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. 

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