The Republic of Malta is an island nation in the central Mediterranean Sea, located about 93 kilometres south of Sicily, or almost 300 kilometres northeast of Tunisia. With just over 300 square kilometres, Malta is one of the tiniest nations of Europe, yet its location has made it important historically and popular with tourists for centuries.

One of the earliest visitors to Malta is arguably St. Paul, who shipwrecked on an island that many scholars identify today as Malta. St. Paul didn't come for Malta's beautiful beaches, however; Paul ministered to the people of Malta, making it one of the earliest Christian nations in Europe.

What to See in Malta

Malta has long been popular with tourists; if anything, Malta suffers from over-development resulting from its tourism. You'll find plenty of world-class hotels in Malta, and no part of Malta is far from the beach, including sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing and swimming, or rocky beaches better suited for a romantic walk or a bit of quietude.

Other things to see in Malta:

<ul><li><b>A rich culture and history:</b> Inhabited for over 7,000 years, Malta is a great place to learn about the history of Europe and even the world. From Stone Age temples to modern-day opera houses, Malta has a rich blend of architecture and monuments derived from the cultures of its many conquerors over the centuries. The arts are also alive and well in Malta; the nation is rife with art museums, theatres, open-air concert venues, and more.
<li><b>Above and below the water:</b> Surrounded by clear, blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is very popular with beach-goers and scuba divers. For scuba divers, the clarity of the water makes for excellent visibility and safety. More experienced divers will enjoy the many shipwrecks around Malta, dating from the Roman era to World War II.
<li><b>Nightlife activities:</b> Don't let the serenity, the rich history, or the proliferation of high culture fool you: Malta also has plenty of clubs, bars, and visits from world-renowned DJs. Most of Malta's nightclubs and dance halls are located in Paceville.
<li><b>Spas and medical tourism:</b> In more recent years, Malta has added wellness and medical tourism to its vast array of attractions. Whether you are looking for a high-class spa near the warm waters of the Mediterranean, or complex surgical procedures, you can find good quality care in Malta. Several Maltese hospitals are working towards UK-sourced medical accreditation.
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British Expatriates in Malta

After the native Maltese population, the largest minority group in Malta are British retirees. It's helpful for British expatriates and tourists alike that English is one of the nation's two official languages; 88% of the population speaks English, with another 66% speaking Italian and 17% speaking French, making it one of the most multi-lingual nations in the European Union. For Brits, it's not unusual to fall in love with Malta after a holiday or two. With an agreeable climate, friendly people, lower cost of living, and few language barriers, it's not surprising that many Brits choose to retire to the Maltese islands.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing holiday or a place you might retire to, a visit to Malta is well worth it. With a slower, more relaxed pace of life, Malta is a great place to get away from it all and soak up the sun.