If you are interested in learning English in Malta, we have put together a country summary of what you can expect when you study at an English language school:
People
Malta has a unique and eclectic culture due to its geographical location. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, the Maltese people are thought to have originally come from the Middle East and Latin Europe. Over centuries, Malta experienced a large influx of immigrants from its neighboring countries in North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Then, in the 18th and 19th century, Malta became part of the British Empire and took on many of their traditions and culture. If you decide to learn English in Malta, you will notice a mixture of these cultures in everyday life.
Currently, Malta has a population of over 406 thousand people which has grown largely in part due to continued immigration. Malta has recently become a retiree paradise, especially with individuals from Belgium and Luxemburg. The majority of the population, 98% in 2010, is Roman Catholic. Religion plays a large role in the community where it is the official state religion as deemed in the Constitution.
Languages
The official languages are Maltese and English:
- Maltese is widely spoken throughout the country by almost all residents. Maltese is considered a Semitic language with influences from Arabic, Italian, French, and Sicilian. Spoken with regional dialects, Maltese is the only official Semitic language in the European Union. This language is based on the 30 letter Latin alphabet although there are a few letters specific to Maltese.
- English is also spoken throughout the country and is considered the official administrative language. It is estimated that about 80% of the population speaks English due largely in part to its British acquisition back in 1814 when the country became part of the Empire. Even with Malta’s official independence in 1964, you can still find a large English speaking community today.
As an aside, before Malta was part of Britain, the official language was Italian. There is a large Italian speaking population in Malta that makes up approximately 66% of the population.
Overall, because the majority of population speaks English, you will have the opportunity to use your English at school in Malta or in everyday situations.
The Landscape
Capital City
Valletta
Climate
No matter which of the English schools in Malta you enroll in, you will more than likely experience a climate that is Mediterranean year round. Malta is also well known for its mild winters and hot summers, bringing visitors to Malta throughout the year. The peak of winter is January where temperatures can be as cold as 54 to 68 F (12 to 20 C) during the day and 45 to 59 F (7 to 15 C) at night. Although Malta does not receive snow, the country does have a rainy season in the winter. The summer is generally dry and ranges from May until October, with the hottest month of the year peaking in August. During this time, the temperature range from 82 to 93 F (28 to 34 C) during the day and 66 to 75 F (19 to 24 C) at night. You will find that Malta stays green year round and is known for being sunny. During the summer, there is approximately 12 hours of sunshine and during the winter months it can be as little as 5 hours.
Terrain
Malta is an island with 167 km of coast line – most of which are made up of pristine beaches. Inland, the terrain is flat and rocky, with plains and coastline cliffs. Most of the country is highly urbanized with about 94% of the population living in an urban environment.
Things to do
Malta and its two neighboring islands, Gozo and Comino, make Malta a perfect relaxing destination outside of the classroom. With over 7000 years of history, it is amazing the things you will be able to do on your free time outside of your school in Malta. Not only will you be able to learn English in Malta and practice in class, but you will be able to use your language skills as you explore the streets filled with Renaissance cathedrals, Baroque palaces, Hypogeum ruins, medieval dungeons, and megaliths. Moreover, you will be able to enjoy the beaches, explore caves, and meander through the old city.
Financial considerations
Currency:
Euro
Tips:
Tipping is expected in Malta if service is not included in the bill. It is usual to offer 10-15% in restaurants and about 10% to taxi drivers.
General Expenses: As of 2011
| Loaf of bread | € 0.73 |
|---|---|
| Eggs (12) | € 3.35 |
| Sugar 1Kg | € 0.74 |
| Coffee | € 2.20 |
| Cereal | € 2.54 |
| Pasta 500g | € 0.91 |
| Pizza | € 2.90 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | € 1.40 |
| Fresh milk (1 gallon) | € 0.72 |
| Bottle of Wine | € 4.50 |
| Laundry Detergent (1Kilo) | € 3.48 |
|---|---|
| Bus Fare | € 0.30 – € 1.16 |
| Toilet Paper | € 2.89 |
| Taxi one way (within 5k of city center) | € 25.00 |
| Main course dessert and drink | € 12.90 |
| Fast food | € 5.10 |
| Beer | € 2.50 |
| Vodka + Mixer etc. | € 2.10 |
| Soft drink | € 1.50 |
Getting around
Transportation
This country has taxis and buses to help you navigate around the island while studying at an English school in Malta. Because of the frequency and reliability, most individuals insist that a rental car is unnecessary. Buses are the main form of public transportation and go pretty much anywhere on the Island. Buses can be identified with the yellow and orange colors and the route number on the front. The main bus terminal is in the capital city, Valletta. There are also ferries and sea planes that you can take if you plan to go between islands if you are interested in exploring the surrounding areas. Citicabs can also be found throughout the streets, which can be identified with the CT Cab marking on the side of the cab. You can either call or hail a cab. And the eco-friendly reason to do this? These cabs are all electric vehicles!
Safety
Malta has a low rate of violent crime however it is always a good idea to be cautious as you would in any other city. You will want to keep an eye on your valuables when you are out in the Paceville nightclub area. While theft can be an issue, it is typically centered on unattended personal property and car stereos from vehicles.
National Holidays
- March 31 – Freedom Day (Jum il-Helsien) – In 1979, this date commemorates the anniversary of the withdrawal of British troops from Malta.
- June 7 – Sette Giugno – In 1919, this marked an important day of remembrance where the Maltese population revolted against the British to seek representation in government. During these riots, four people died when bullets were fired on protesters.
- September 8 – Victory Day (Jum il-Vitorja) – This national holiday
commemorates three events.
- Italy’s surrender in World War II to the British in 1943
- Malta successfully rebelled against French troops in 1800
- Even further back in history, in 1565, the Great Siege was carried out by the Knights of St. John against the Turks
- September 21 – Independence Day
- December 13 – Republic Day(Jum ir-Repubblika) – In 1974, Malta’s constitution was revised from a British colony into a republic. The Head of State then became the President of Malta.
Arrival/Departure
There is only one international airport in all of Malta – Malta International Airport. It is located 10 kms from Valletta, the capital city. Airmalta is the national airline primarily transporting customers to and from the Island, however there are other airlines that also fly into this airport. Upon arrival, you should be able to hop right on the public bus or have your English school in Malta pick you up and drive you to your homestay. If you are looking to arrive in style, some visitors even take cruise ships that sail to Malta if you are looking for an alternative to flying.
Visa
Malta is part of the European Union allowing any EU citizen to come to Malta without any visa or entry requirements. The Schengen Agreement allows Schengen-member states and US citizens to enter Malta for 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. There are, however, more than 100 countries that require entry clearance before they travel to Malta. If you will need to secure a visa to learn English in Malta, be aware that the usual fee is approximately 60 euros and requires a minimum of 15 days processing time.
Start your adventure by finding ESL Programs in Malta!
