In the middle of the Mediterranean Sea we find the island of Malta: full of charming corners, beaches with crystal clear water and historic streets.

If these three features make you feel like packing to live an unforgettable experience, keep reading!

This archipelago is formed by Malta, Gozo and Comino. It is a great place to escape for a while to learn English and live in a unique place, not only for its nature, but also for its warm climate throughout the year, for its people and for its multicultural atmosphere.

Are you ready?

The pros and cons

Advantages of living in Malta:

  • It is a multicultural place: people from all over the world choose Malta to learn English, so you will get used to speak with people from different nationalities.
  • Getting the visa is very easy
  • You will enjoy good weather almost all year long!
  • Forget about wasting time on transportation. It is a small island, so you will be able to move around easily.
  • You have many activities to enjoy: diving, snorkeling, cycling, kayaking … And also excursions to the two nearby islands!
  • Due to its location, you will have the opportunity to travel around Europe. Make a list of your favorite destinations!
  • You will be able to work while you study.
  • As a student you will have discounts in many places, take advantage of it!
  • It is a very safe country

Some small – very small – disadvantages of Malta:

  • It is a small island, so if you come from a big city, you may notice a big change.
  • Although the rents are not very expensive, you must take into account that the wages are also not high.
  • There is high humidity in summer.

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Where it is located

Prepare the zoom to look for this small island located in the Mediterranean Sea, surrounded by Italy in the north and Libya in the south.
It has an area of 316km² and its capital is called
La Valletta

malta agua

Climate

One of the advantages of Malta is its Mediterranean climate which allows us to visit it at any time of the year.

To give you an idea, during winter (from December to February) it has minimum temperatures of 10ºC and maximum temperatures of 17ºC.

In spring and autumn you will enjoy a very pleasant climate for walking, visiting hidden corners and even taking a quick dip! 

In summer the temperatures are higher, with maximum temperatures of 32ºC in August.

Sunny days will be with you during – almost – 365 days of the year. It feels good, doesn’t it?

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How to move around

As it was mentioned before, Malta is a small island, so it does not have many means of transport, but enough to do it easily.

The main public transportation is the bus, you can take it both day and night. The main stations are in La Valletta or Sliema, which have connections with the whole island.

But what if you feel like visiting Gozo or Comino? Don’t worry! It’s easy too. There are ferries which take you from the north of Malta, specifically the port of Cirkewwa, which leave every 45 minutes and stop on both islands. It’s a good plan to spend a nice day!

Finally, you can also get around by cab, bicycle or… if you are more adventurous, rent a motorbike!

 

Best areas to live

As we have already mentioned, Malta is a small island, so it will be easy to move around. Here there is a list of the places where you can live, depending on your preferences:

  • Saints Julians: it is the best known and most popular area for tourists because of its facilities: transport, accommodation, plenty of bars and restaurants, leisure activities and its proximity to the beach. That is why many schools have decided to settle here and it is the choice of many students.

It is an area with a good atmosphere! Of course, if you do not like the noise, avoid Paceville and choose Portomaso or Spinola Bay. 

  • Sliema: very close to Saints Julians, we find this modern area, also very active. It does not have the best beaches, but it is a good location to move both to the capital or to other cities.

Accommodation is in great demand!

  • Msida: here we find the headquarters of the University of Malta and many other schools, so the student atmosphere is very cool. It is an inland area and quieter than the previous ones, but it is well connected to nearby cities like La Valletta, Birkirkara and Sliema.
  • Gzira: it is located near Msida and is well connected to the main areas. Rents are cheaper and here you will find bars, restaurants, a promenade… and Manoel Island!

Malta

 

Mistakes to avoid before landing in Malta

  • Not trying hard enough to find a job: it is true that Malta is not a very expensive destination, but the sooner you start looking for a job, the sooner you will find one.
  • Hang out with people who speak your language: you will be there to improve your english skills, so take advantage of the opportunity to be surrounded by people of different nationalities! You will notice an incredible improvement.
  • Look around when crossing: remember that in Malta they drive on the left, so be careful and don’t get lost… We don’t want frights!

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What to visit

Here are some of the places you can visit in this wonderful Mediterranean archipelago:

  • La Valetta: as you may already know, it is the capital of Malta, it belongs to UNESCO since 1980, so it is full of history. You will be surprised while walking around the walled city. You can visit: The National Archaeological Museum, Hastings Gardens or the Grand Master’s Palace.
  • Blue Grotto: this route of sea caves and cliffs has been the scene of famous movies. It is a marvel of nature, with crystal clear waters and full of corals.
  • The Barrakka elevator: if you are one of those who enjoy a good view, you will love going up to this viewpoint.
  • Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs: these cliffs located on the island of Gozo, are a perfect place to enjoy the sunset.
  • Maonel Island: this small islet next to Gzira, will allow you to practice scuba diving or snorkeling, very cool activities that you can’t miss while living here.
  • The city of Rabat: another city full of history. The Romans settled here for a while and now their catacombs, Roman villas and monasteries are preserved.
  • Popeye’s villa: an emblematic place where the film to which it gives its name was filmed

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