Why You Would Want to Stay in Malta
Living in Malta is both liberating and an enjoyable experience. With my roots in South Africa; contemplating leaving the land of my birth was not I ever thought that I would consider. With over 30 years experience in the hospitality, training and events field both in corporate, small and self-owned business I tend to be quite fussy.
Our story started with looking for a Plan B, never really wanting to make a move. I came to Malta on an exploratory visit – ‘kicking and screaming’. I had no intention of staying. To my surprise, I fell in love with Malta.
Having also gained insight into other Residency Programmes and procedures and having temporarily lived in other countries myself, I can share my experience on the different aspects of making the choices. Making major decisions for the future including where to live, and how to protect your family and investment. Now even more so the demands are increasing Post-Brexit, USA politics, global pandemic and world turmoil.
Achieving Success on the World Stage
Malta continues to achieve success on the world stage as an attractive destination.
Leaving one’s home country, never mind investing in a foreign land is certainly not an easy decision for anyone to make, one I certainly NEVER considered.
The atmosphere in Malta is peaceful with a secure sense of community, where people comfortably speak English, Maltese and many other languages where all nationalities feel at home. Malta is an independent nation and member of the EU for over 10 years – is true gateway to Europe. The islands are rich in history with a variety of sights and experiences to be had.
Top Reasons to Stay
- 01. Geographic Location
- 02. Rich History
- 03. Community
- 04. Economy
- 05. Transportation
- 06. Politics
- 07. Safety
- 08. Healthcare
- 09. Education
- 10. Work Opportunities
- 11. Communication
- 12. Shopping
- 13. Outdoors
- 14. Tourism
- 15. Films
- 16. Dining
- 17. Activities
Geographic
The Republic of Malta consists of small islands situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.
Around 3 hours flight to major capitals in Europe. On GMT +1 (Summertime GMT +2)
Boasting 300 days of sunshine in a year, Malta offers a pleasant climate all year round.
Community
Malta’s population is 423,000 of which the majority speak English along with the home language, Maltese. Freedom of worship is practiced with the majority of the Catholic faith.
Referred to by many as some of the kindest and nicest people, most Maltese are willing to go out of their way to help you and even more so in the smaller towns and villages. Along with their strong family values, the Maltese are amongst the most cosmopolitan people in the world and have embraced different cultural influences, molding a unique Maltese society.
The people of Malta are peace-loving with a strong sense of hospitality.
History
Malta is a country with one of the oldest histories in the world starting around 5200 B.C. and has had an eventful history, which reads like a ‘who’s who’ of military and economic powers – Early Romans, Byzantine, Normans and the Knights of St John. The 1700s saw rule under the French and the British and then became a Republic in 1974, after strategic participation in the First and Second World Wars.
Historical sites include Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Megalithic Temples. Some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
Founded by the Knights of St Johns Valletta, the capital of Malta, is full of historic wonders and house the famous The Beheading of St John the Baptist painting by Caravaggio. It was also the European Capital of Culture 2018.
Economy
Malta is considered a high-income country and an innovation-driven economy. It is dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing (especially electronics and pharmaceuticals), and tourism. It is worth noting that unemployment in Malta continues to be among the lowest in the EU,
End of 2019 the world saw the pandemic take hold and like other countries the GDP growth declined.
According to estimates from the IMF, the country’s GDP contracted by 7% in 2020; and it should rebound to 4.7% this year and 5.6% in 2022, mostly driven by domestic demand, though much of the outlook remains tied to the evolution of the pandemic and the economic performance of the country’s main trading partners.
Transportation
Malta is globally extremely well connected with major airlines e.g. Lufthansa, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, to mention a few, offering very competitive rates and also by sea via ferries and an increased number of cruise liners and chartered vessels.
There is a variety of affordable transport options available including buses, taxis and ferries. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
Politics
Maltese are voraciously patriarchal and participate passionately in the daily politics of the one-party state. Malta became a full member of the European Union on 1st May 2004 and joined the Schengen zone in 2007. Malta has played a pivotal role in many global affairs.
Malta has played a pivotal role in many global affairs and Malta saw their MEP Roberta Metsola elected as president of the European Parliament.
Safety
Malta is an extremely safe country with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the EU.
Healthcare
Malta has historically been long famed for its quality healthcare services, having the first functional hospital operating as early as the 1300s.There is a range of private and state services renowned and highly rated for service efficiency, staff competence, costs and equipment.
Education
Standards of education are high with options in state and private schools. English is the primary language of instruction and many Maltese are also fluent in other languages. The University of Malta is excellent with many programs aligned with EU/UK standards
Work
Employment opportunities are available through companies licensed and/or recognized by the Malta Financial Services Authority. Individuals may have the opportunity to set up business in Malta and work for his / her own business.
Communication
Malta is rated well in the European Commission’s digital economy and society index, with a high broadband penetration and the latest IT technologies. Postal and courier service is reliable and makes for easy online shopping.
Shopping
There is a good selection of top brand names, locally produced items and also much from neighboring countries. Convenient shopping in high-end shopping malls, or historical areas, waterfront and delightful options in the villages or markets. Fresh fruit and vegetables are readily available at well-stocked supermarkets, or from the many local vendors.
Outdoors
There is a plethora of leisure activities that goes beyond the water meccas of water polo, diving, sailing and boating. Football is one of the favourite sports and Malta is included in many European competitions. Most recently, tennis and rugby are achieving in the global arena. There is a wide variety of fitness programmes, cycling, and a 18-hole golf course, and cricket.
Tourism
Malta is a favoured tourist destination with its warm climate, numerous recreational areas, architectural and historical monuments. There has been a growing number of cruise liners and chartered craft visits to Malta.
Films
Malta is a film-loving society and has been involved in some Oscar winning films. There are several state-of-the-art multiplex cinemas, with the latest releases. FILMED IN MALTA: Game of Thrones Series One, The Count of Monte Cristo, Gladiator, Midnight Express, Popeye, Raise the Titanic, The Spy Who Loved Me, Troy, World War Z
Dining
Al fresco dining at romantic palazzo’s, bustling harbour restaurants or villages provide delightful food experiences whether discovering the Maltese cuisine, wine and beer or International cuisine which is available.
