Make Malta Your Home

Malta reflects this history. Its hardy people have been forged by a long history of invasions, sieges, and rebellions. They are proudly different.

Malta is often cited as the most Catholic country outside the Vatican. And yet, in many ways, Malta is the ultimate multi-cultural society. The Maltese are remarkably tolerant, for example the country is often cited as the freeist country for the LGBT community. Welcoming friendly strangers, and a philosophy of "live and let live" is strongly in their character.

This deeply religious base is evident everywhere. Every saints' day is celebrated with its own fiesta, parade and fireworks. Indeed, it is easy to get the impression that the Island is one long party. This gives a strong sense of community, and every neighbourhood has its own band club where teenagers learn to play instruments. In Gozo's capital Victoria the two rival bands have created their own opera festival with rival productions. Malta is a very musical society. They often also have boat clubs, and the sunny/windy climate means Malta is a favourite destination for yachters and sailing enthusiasts. The Maltese regatta is quite an event, as is the Rolex Yacht Race.

The language, indeed, the local people, are Arabic at base, with strong Italian influences. But thanks to the Royal Navy, and deliberate government policy, just about everyone speaks English which is a huge commercial advantage for the country in today's age. The two official languages are Maltese and English. Maltese is the only Arabic language which uses the Roman alphabet, and it is surprising to hear the Maltese praying to "Allah" in a Christian church.

The food also reflects all of these influences. A lot of Italian pasta and risottos, supplemented by the excellent variety of local fish. Rabbits were bred during a time when beef was scarce and tourist restaurants will push this as the local dish, though this is something of an invention. The local lamb is excellent. Pastry and baked goods are very popular, with a strong Arabic influence such as Mqaret, a fig-based pastry. The hand of British cuisine is found in the cultural crossover pasties, and in the ease of obtaining bacon and eggs. Malta is perhaps the only country in southern Europe where this is possible.

Officialdom reflects the long history of Spanish licensing, superseded by British administration. The legal system is Napoleonic with strong British touches. In the older parts of town, the post boxes are British red pillar boxes. Malta joined the EU in 2004 and has benefited hugely from EU funding which has transformed the Island.

The economy is booming. One of the healthiest property markets in Europe. Fishing and tourism, are equalled by banking and construction. Malta is one of the most attractive tax destinations in Europe, so there is a wealthy expat community who add to the cultural mix.