Let’s take a look at all the pros and cons of moving to this country.
Pros of moving to Malta
The main arguments for choosing Malta as a place of permanent residence are:
Language
According to the latest statistics, 88% of people in Malta can speak English. It is also one of Malta’s two official languages, and since government services are available in English, the language is one of the easiest parts of life.
Low crime rate
For every 100,000 people, there are about 430 police officers. It is roughly double that of the United States, Japan, Australia, or Canada. There is some concern about offenses involving the possibility of crime against tourists and others in Valletta. In particular, the number of theft cases has increased in recent years. The truth is that almost all European cities have this problem, but the reality is that it is rare.
Climate
Malta has a wonderful climate. The year-round average temperature is around 23 ° C throughout the day. It can rise to 30 ° C in summer, but the ocean breeze cools a little and removes any moisture. In July, you can expect 12 hours of sunshine in general. Winters can be humid (and dark), but even in November, temperatures are generally more comfortable than in other European countries.
Scuba diving opportunities
Malta has some of the best diving in the world. If scuba diving is your hobby (or if you have been thinking about studying), Malta is the place for you. The country has about 100 registered dive sites, and the top 10 lists in Europe usually range from 2 to 4 in Malta.
Other unconditional advantages of living in Malta include:
- a fairly high level of income (at the level of the Czech Republic);
- free beaches;
- low prices for car rental;
- warm and clean Mediterranean Sea;
- authentic culture;
- interesting traditions;
- ample opportunities for new acquaintances;
- prospects to find a job in their specialty;
- developed industry of entertainment and recreation.
Cons of moving
It would seem – to live and rejoice, but people who have lived in Malta for a long time also emphasize the presence of disadvantages.
Buses and roads are not very good
If you live and work in Malta, it can be difficult to avoid rush hour when buses can get crowded. It leads many Maltese to drive their cars. But the problem is that parking is also becoming a problem.
Unfortunately, many Maltese businesses are located in Valletta, an old town with narrow streets. Rush hour can make an even bigger difference in traffic than in big cities, and parking is also very difficult.
The beaches are usually crowded
Yes, Malta is sunny. And the Mediterranean Ocean is fair a brief drive from all parts of the nation. But the rough shores and towering cliffs that made Malta such a solid braced island amid the Center Ages cruel there are not numerous wide sandy shorelines appropriate for laying on a shoreline towel. There are a few great alternatives like Mellieha Cove, but they tend to induce swarm.
Malta is a small country
With a population of up to 500,000 and an area of just 122 square miles, Malta is one of the smallest countries in Europe. But the country has a lot to do, but some ex-pats find it a little claustrophobic.
Other disadvantages of living there also include:
- Public transport is practically undeveloped in Malta;
- The number of bus routes is minimal, and taxi services are too expensive;
- High expectations for the availability of life. It is possible to live decently (eat, have fun, relax, heal) with average spending of 1500 € / person. per month;
- Almost complete absence of forests;
- Expensive coastal property;
- Drunk driving is widespread, and therefore the accident rate on the roads is quite high;
- High level of bureaucracy in all areas.
Conclusion
As with any place in the world, there are several positive and negative points when it comes to moving to Malta, and a lot will depend on who you are, what your interests are, and where you are from.
But in general, Malta is a pleasant and welcoming place for foreigners. Just keep an open mind and try to appreciate the country for what it has to offer, instead of getting carried away with the negativity – which is sometimes so easy.