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10 Things to know before visiting Malta

Are you thinking of heading to a lesser-visited island than the infamous Malaga or Cyprus? We don’t blame you! These places can often become overrun in the summer tourist months. Instead of having a nice and relaxing beach holiday, you end up being crowded with thousands of other like-minded individuals who want to go somewhere warm. So, where should you go instead? 

We have a perfect idea — Malta! Not only is Malta less crowded than other islands and warm destinations, but you can enjoy numerous cultural attractions, white sand beaches, cool cafes, and fun places to go day or night. 

However, before you pack your bag and buy your flight, there are a few things to keep in mind before your upcoming vacation to stay safe and have the time of your life.

1. The Maltese Probably Understand What You Are Saying

Saint Paul’s Bay – By Xwejnusgozo (montage)Ies (original photos) – Cropped from File:Malta – St. Paul’s Bay – Bay+Triq San Pawl (Xatt il-Pwales) 03 ies.jpg, File:Malta – St. Paul’s Bay – Dawret il-Gzejjer – Dolmen Hotel – Bugibba Temple 03 ies.jpg, File:Malta – St. Paul’s Bay – Dawret il-Gzejjer-Triq Bugibba-Triq il-Knisja – Shipwreck Church 01 ies.jpg, File:Malta – St. Paul’s Bay – Triq San Frangisk-Triq San Giraldu – St. Paul’s Bay Tower 05 ies.jpg, File:Malta – St. Paul’s Bay – Misrah il-Bajja+Triq il-Bajja 01 ies.jpg and File:Malta – St. Paul’s Bay – Triq it-Trunciera – National Aquarium 02 ies.jpg, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=47428696

If you are not happy with something, please do not speak in a loud voice in English so everyone can hear you. Number one, this is just rude, no matter where you are. Number two, the Maltese people probably understand at least a little bit of English— so if you are speaking badly about someone, something, or the situation, they will most likely pick up on your complaints. In general, just be respectful. 

Of course, don’t assume everyone speaks perfect English like you do, either. You are in a different country after all!

2. Go shopping!

Paceville Malta – By UrbanMalta – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30790671

There are tons of shops, vintage stores, cool souvenir shops, and boutique clothing centers in Malta. Make sure you leave plenty of time to go shopping during your vacation, whether you want to pick up a few trinkets to bring your friends back home, or you want to buy a new dress to wear on your holiday. 

3. You can drink the tap water

Malta grilled calamari – By Chattacha – Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4844399

Unlike other countries where you may be nervous about the quality of clean water, you can definitely drink the tap water here. Avoid spending 5 or 10 euros per day on bottled water and simply bring a refillable bottle you can fill in your apartment or AirBnB. 

4. The island is SMALL

Malta Sliema – By Frank Vincentz – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=27954848

Of course, you know the island is small – you can probably drive around it in one day. But keep in mind that everyone knows everyone! So if you are talking about a local you met to your hotel owner, chances are they know each other. Be mindful of what you are saying about other people when discussing the locals, as you may find out they have been best friends since childhood.

Plus, this can help you in many situations. If you need help, everyone has connections around the island they can use to help you if you are in a pickle. 

5. Bring your sneakers

Maltese Landscape – By Frank Vincentz – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=34711267

Don’t just bring flip-flops and high heels during this vacation — you want to bring good and supportive shoes that you can walk in. Malta is an island that is made for walking. Of course, you can cycle or drive to different places on the island, but walking is the best way to really get a feel for how the locals live and see all of the nearby cultural attractions. The last thing I want is to deal with blisters on your holiday! 

6. Check out the other islands, too

Blue Grotto, Malta – By Joonas L. – [1], CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1862486

7. Head here during the winter

Malta Mdina – By Frank Vincentz – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=35802828

Instead of coming to an island during the summertime, when most of Europe is pretty warm, we recommend coming to Malta during the Fall or winter months! Not only will you enjoy milder climates, but you can still go to the beach, go for hikes, and enjoy fewer people!

8. It is affordable

St. Peter’s Basilica as seen from the Knights of Malta keyhole on the Aventine Hill, image by Galen Crout sourced from Unsplash

Along with experiencing fear of tourists, Malta is less expensive. Since it is less visited than other islands that cater to tourists, Malta can keep their prices relatively low for their locals. For example, you can get a great meal and a drink for less than $5 — what a steal! We think this is a great place for remote workers and solo travelers who want to save money and continue to work on their laptops. 

9. You’ll meet a lot of people

Mediterraneo Malta – By Erik1980 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2881079

Although the island is very small, Malta is known as a type of melting pot for people from various countries and cultures. You can expect to meet people from all over the world and with interesting backgrounds, like Sicilian, African, and French.

10. The cuisine is yummy

Picture of a Buddha Bowl as ordered in a restaurant (Lot & De Walvis, Leiden).Author PizzaMan, WIKIMEDIA

Unlike other countries, where you may find the cuisine a little intimidating, Maltese food is a nice melting pot — like its people! You can find pastries, usual breakfast foods, seafood, Italian cuisine, and everything in between.