Also, it’s hard to get lost in Malta as all you need to do is ask – most people are friendly and speak English.

Believe it or not Malta did have a train line which opened in 1883, and after a brief time was closed in 1931 after buses had been introduced and became the favoured mode of transport. The railway tunnel proved to be of great value as an air-raid shelter during the siege of Malta (1940-1942), when the fight for control of this strategically important island—then a British colony—pitted the air forces and navies of Italy and Germany against the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy.  

The popular bus service – whilst it receives much local criticism, is heralded by those who’ve never had the privilege of public transport. The routes link most localities in Malta and neighbouring Gozo island.  I have found that taking a bus is a great way to mingle with the locals while taking in the fascinating sights and sounds of this cosmopolitan country. There is an express bus route as well with fewer stops, which gets you to and from the airport, hospital and university in the best possible time.

Buses are air-conditioned and designed to allow ease of access and seating for people with mobility impairments and the elderly. The main bus terminus which has undergone an upgrade is based in the capital city, Valetta.  The system works on a colour coded route system; free maps, and online and phone apps make it easy to plan your route. The Tal-Linja bus card (similar to the UK Oyster card) makes it easy not to pay and get the best rate.

There’s a large variety of cars available, in fact too many cars on the island. From big brand names to collector’s items; sports, SUVs, bakkies and still some horse drawn carts, and electric cars are being introduced.

Malta’s waterways are very popular with cruise liners, and getting around by ferry is a popular way of travelling between Malta and Gozo island, between Sliema and the capital city Valletta. And, if you’d like to pop over to Sicily or other neighbouring islands, there’s regular schedule for many.

Don’t worry about getting lost; there’s a saying in Malta that if you don’t’ know where you’re going or have been, a local will know!

Malta is fast becoming the location of choice for many savvy investors, or for those simply wanting a safe haven to call home, alternative passports, residency or a Plan B. Having personally researched the alternatives I’m often asked ‘why choose Malta?’ rather than other obvious contenders. My simple response: ‘Malta is tops on safety, language, location, economy, accessibility and lifestyle’.

Cyprus still has an unresolved border issue 44 years after the 1974 Turkish-Greek War. Now with Erdogan, Turkey’s all-powerful president, what are the prospects of a resolution?

In Portugal and Spain less than 35% of the population speak English whilst in Malta 95% of the population speak English.

Mauritius and Seychelles are expensive and not in Europe, so there is no Schengen visa.

From my desk, I have a unique view of sailing and commercial vessels, tour boats and those of the ultra-rich; as well as aircraft activities, shopping, eateries, students and everyday people. On my daily walks with my elderly Labrador – we will inevitably get into in-depth conversations with the old, young, local, international, business owners, cleaners, families and travelers. It’s no surprise therefore to meet—in a day—people from northern European, Britain, America, India, China, the Middle East, Russia, Australia and, on one day, also a South African family all the way from Warmbaths.

When speaking to these people the consensus is that they are attracted to Malta for it’s safe environment, wonderful lifestyle, healthy economy, political stability and the added advantage of its convenient geographical location, which allows for easy daily travel connections. Medical and Education facilities are world class, and there are no council taxes.

There’s a large expat community who agree that settling in to Malta is easy.  Joining a club, gym, cultural group, volunteering, participating in hobbies, participating in sporting; it all makes for a great fun community. Rest assured that whether you’re a Manchester United or Arsenal fan, rugby, cricket, tennis, or snooker, there’s no doubt you’ll find someone to engage in conversation.

“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” – Jimmy Dean.

World disruption has many of us grappling with the uncertainties of the future and looked for personal and economic security. On the lips of many people are the concerns of political and financial volatility, family and investment security as well as global mobility and residency options. Malta is proving to be a great solution for many folks in the same boat.

You don’t have to leave lock stock and barrel!

Whether it’s Brexit, Trump, the Zupta shenanigans, economic downgrades, residency uncertainties or currency fluctuations – requires SMART Solutions for freedom of mobility, financial diversification and a secure environment. I am sure that you too must find these situations both gut-wrenching and disturbing and the thought of a possible ‘Plan B’ must leap to mind.

Besides that anybody can own property in Malta without onerous requirements, Malta has an option of sought after investment schemes which will enable residency visa, Schengen visa and a passport options enabling easier mobility.

It is simple to secure and diversify your investment portfolio in Malta.

South Africans are spreading their wings when considering investment opportunities and relocation options, and Malta is proving to be a popular choice.

In a survey conducted amongst 600 South Africans now living in Malta, some reasons given for choosing this Mediterranean island include:

–        Great weather—sunshine almost all the year round

–        Safe haven—minimal violent crime

–        Easier access to Europe for traveling

–        Superior education for children

–        Abundant potential for career growth

–        Superb health services

–        Easy life, friendly English-speaking people, relatively cheap

Malta’s smart taxation solutions for business or personal purposes is made easier by its double taxation agreements with many countries.  A variety of non-onerous Maltese residency programmes is also available which, amongst other benefits, includes access to a Schengen visa.

As a South African living in Malta I can show you the ropes with investigating the options, understanding Malta, the places, the prices, the people, the process, the procedures from leaving South Africa to putting your ‘roots’ down in Malta.. I’ve done it myself – view the Video!

Merle Whale

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6aPE3aWRwU&feature=youtu.be

Have a quick look at some of the fast facts that make Malta one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets that offers attractive residency, investments, property and retirement options.

Malta hosts an industrious and successful island nation, enjoying a great lifestyle with a lot going for it:

–        a vibrant financial services sector

–        banking services ranked amongst the best in the world

–        its exceptional health care system is recognised as one of the best in all of Europe

–        excellent internet connectivity and communications technology

–        a well-oiled efficient infrastructure

–        buoyant property investment opportunities with a large number of apartments, houses and villas at reasonable prices

–        excellent standard of education with a world class university

–        quality shopping, fine dining, great entertainment, scenic beauty, intriguing architecture and fascinating historical sites to explore

–        Malta is a prime diving location, world renowned for its different diving experiences; it also offers a variety of other popular sporting and outdoor activities

–        Its wonderfully warm weather – almost all the year round – attracts sun-worshippers to its many pristine sandy beaches

Find out first-hand how you can benefit from Malta’s attractive residency, investments, property and retirement options.

Anyone can own property in Malta. Favourable taxation. No council rates or inheritance taxes. 5% death duty. Double taxation agreements. Invest in hard currency. Robust business sectors; financial, aviation, boating, company structuring, foundations, igaming, tourism.

BOOK HERE

Bookings essential and on a first-come, first-serve basis. No charge for attendance.

SEMINARS

Attend one (30 min) seminar session

Johannesburg | Tues 01 Aug
Protea Hotel Wanderers
Session 1 | 13:00-13:30 or Session 2 | 18:00-18:30

Cape Town | Thurs 03 Aug
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
Session 1 | 13:00-13:30 or Session 2 | 18:00-18:30

ONE-ON-ONE-MEETINGS

20 minutes appointment.
Johannesburg 27, 28, 29 July
Cape Town 03 & 04 August

THEMONEYEXPO

Come and say hello at the Expo. The Pavillion, Sandton Convention Centre. Stand H08

28th Friday & 29th Saturday (09:00-16:00)

Could Malta be for you, or someone you know?
Whether for Residency, Investment, Leisure, Portfolio Diversification, Plan B, or a Nest Egg – I’m offering you a Smart One-stop Solution.

Find out first-hand how you can benefit from Malta’s attractive residency, investments, property and retirement options.

Malta offers an enviable lifestyle with some of the best residency schemes and citizenship by investment programmes’ in Europe. Merle Whale is a South African who has made Malta home and can assist in helping you with investigating the options, understanding Malta, the places, the prices, the people, the process, the procedures from leaving South Africa to putting your ‘roots’ down in Malta.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBJ9SonLbfk&feature=youtu.be

It is simple to secure and diversify your investment portfolio in Malta. 
Malta offers one of the best residency schemes in Europe.
EU & Non EU citizens are taking up residency.
The property market is experiencing unprecedented growth with these investments offering diversification, capital growth and healthy returns of 5% in the buy-to-let market with low taxation of 15% .
Even better, there are no rates & council taxes.

Anyone can own property in Malta irrespective of residency.
Malta’s robust economy is driven by the financial, tourism, aviation, boating and gaming sectors attracted by favourable taxation. Malta is one of the smallest independent states and member of the EU & Schengen area.
Maltese citizenship/ residency offers the benefits of mobility. Applications must be processed by authorized agents & subject to relevant conditions.

Let me show you the way …..
I am a South African living in Malta and have been here for 7 years ago with my British partner. I can share our first-hand experiences in purchasing/renting a home, applying for citizenship, residency, visa and permits, and also introduce you a community of helpful and friendly people.
I look forward to hearing from you on merlewhale@gmail.com
Why Malta? Malta is a beautiful, politically stable, a treasure surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. There is easy access to many countries with almost 50 flights a day from/to the island. It is a safe environment with a comfortable climate year around. Most of the people are English speaking and very friendly. Medical and education facilities are world-class. There is great shopping with most of the European brands as well as a variety of fresh foods. Entertainment is a mix of outdoors, cultural, and of course many eating out options.
Malta, the smallest EU state, has a joie de vivre that permeates life on the islands.

Contact me for assistance: Merle Whale – malta@maltalifestyle.com
South Africa mobile +2782 57 44 661 or
Whatsapp +27825744661