A mix of Britain comforts and Mediterranean flair, Malta is a modern country that has welcomed visitors for centuries. This article covers essential information to help make your visit a success, including language, health, safety, language, opening hours, drinking water and exchanging currency.
Malta is part of the European Union and the Schengen zone. As of 2017, British passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Malta and can stay as long as they wish.
Malta has two official languages: English and Maltese. Most of the population can speak both, with the road and business signs being in English.
The country is well connected and almost every hotel now offers free Wi-Fi. Most now extend the free Wi-Fi to all the guest rooms as well as the communal areas. The internet is fast but not quite at the same speed found in UK cities.
Malta’s currency is the Euro. Banks are easy to find and almost all can exchange your pounds. British cards with Visa and Mastercard can be used in most ATMs to withdraw cash in Euros. Although the majority of tourist establishments accept debit cards, most local shops and many restaurants do not.
Malta runs to its own time and most places will close for two hours in the early afternoon, including banks and shops. Typical opening hours are from 9am until 1:30pm, then from 3 or 4pm until 7 to 8pm. Most places in St Julian’s and Sliema open longer. Restaurants stay open late into the evenings although those in Valletta and the smaller villages only open for lunch.
According to the statistics, Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe. Crime against tourists is extremely rare although you should exercise common sense when in busy areas like Paceville and Bugibba.
You’re never far from a hospital or clinic as the island is relatively small. Every town has a pharmacy and it’s worth bringing a copy of any prescriptions as this will make it easier to obtain medicines you need. Remember to always travel with adequate travel insurance.
Malta’s tap water is safe to drink although many visitors don’t like how it tastes. Remember to drink enough water given the sun and heat.
Malta is on Central European Time, one hour ahead of the UK.
They drive on the left in Malta, which makes it easier for British visitors renting a vehicle. A UK driving license is acceptable for renting a vehicle and driving.
