The Maltese archipelago, situated almost at the centre of the Mediterranean, includes the islands of Malta, Gozo, Comino, Comminotto and Filfla. It has made it an important strategic base since the earliest days of navigation, and thus has been visited by many cultures. The first significant civilization here flourished in the third millennium BC, leaving behind fascinating megalithic temples. Later the island was occupied by the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians and the Romans.

The Maltese islands have indeed been described as one big open-air museum. It is easy to delve into the islands' mysterious prehistory, retrace the footsteps of St Paul or see where the Knights of St John defended Christendom. Visitors can explore medieval walled citadels and splendid baroque churches and palaces.

However, history alone does not draw the annual summer influx of tourists, who manage to triple the population of Malta. Visitors also come for the beautiful clear blue waters, secluded bays and sandy beaches, and also to glimpse the tranquil traditional villages that still speckle the landscape, celebrating lively fiestas.

Malta's independence from Britain was achieved in 1964, and 40 years on Malta joined the EU in May 2004.

Official Language: Maltese, English

Demonyn: Maltese

Currency: Euro (€) 2Banks (EUR)

Time Zone: CET (UTC + 1)

Summer (DST): CEST (UTC+2)

Internet TLD: .mt 3

Calling Code: +35

VISA FORMALITIES FOR MALTA

All visitors (except members of EEA and Switzerland) must hold return or onward tickets, all documents required for their next destination and sufficient funds for maintenance during the period of their stay. Malta became a member state on 27 December 2007, but passport control will remain at airports for intra-Schengen flights until 29 March 2008. The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands,

Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all.

Americans: United States citizens require a passport, but no visa, for a stay of up to three months.

UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport, but a visa is not required. British passports endorsed British National (Overseas), British Overseas Territories Citizen or British Subject with right of abode in the UKdo not require a visa for stays of up to three months.

Canadians: Canadians require a passport, but no visa, for a stay of up to three months.

Australians: Australian citizens require a passport, but no visa, for a stay of up to three months.

South Africans: South Africans must have a passport and visa.

Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a passport, but a visa is not required.

New Zealanders: New Zealanders require a passport but a visa is not necessary for a stay of up to three months.

TRAVEL ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO IN MALTA:

Enclosed by a large fortification by the Knights of Saint John in the 16th Century, the “Three Cities” of Malta offer a significant historical experience as well as breathtaking views. Glimpse at the source of Malta’s ancient wealth as you tour Cospicua, Vittoriosa and Senglea and understand why these cities were the sources for both conflict and glory for over a millennium. See the famous churches, castles and bastions that dot the scenic harbor. Wander through the narrow alleys of Vittoriosa and view the beautiful “vedette” in Senglea. Take the opportunity to sail by traditional Maltese fishing boat.

Ancient Malta – Mdina and the catacombs

Wander through the streets of the medieval capital of Mdina on this tour of Central Malta. With cars and horns banned, it is no wonder that this town has been dubbed the “Silent City.” Once a military garrison, Mdina now boasts large bastions that elicit the view of the city. Catacombs, quintessential to many Southern European cities, promise an eerie flavor to the afternoon. Enjoy a characteristic lunch and then travel through the Botanic Gardens of San Anton. Finally watch Maltese craftsmen at work in the famous Ta’Qali craft centre. Don’t forget to shop for quaint indigenous products like pieces of pottery or filigree jewelry.

The Blue grotto and Fishing villages of Malta

Come enjoy what Roman Emperors once used as their private bath! Malta’s Blue Grotto promises a breathtaking experience in one of Malta’s distinctive sea caves. Float in a boat through the caves and see how the sunlight hits the grotto in from below to give it its brilliant blue hue. Once acting as passages to old Roman catacombs, the connecting tunnels are unlike any other. View both modern and historic limestone quarries that give Malta its mineral flavor. Then tour the nearby village of Marsaxlokk which was the Turkish landing point during their historic 16th century siege and now remains a quiet fishing town.

Valletta Sightseeing Tour

Known for its turbulent history and unique trading traditions, the city of Valleta in Malta promises a unique well-rounded experience unlike any other. After half an hour in the city, you will understand why the entire city was designated a UNESCO heritage site in 1980. Wander through the beautiful Baroque architecture through sites that were developed and engineered by knights who lived hundreds of years ago. Often described as a “city of palaces,” Valleta promises those as well as scenic gardens and imposing churches. Gaze at St. John’s Cathedral and the nearby Grand Master’s Palace both of which contain unique artifacts from Valleta’s history. Conclude your afternoon with the unique “Malta Experience,” a multi-vision show that will give you a fun and interactive understanding of Malta’s unique history.

Malta Sightseeing Tour

Besides beautiful scenery and a thriving modern culture, Malta boasts a surprising amount of ancient historical ruins. Wander through a traditional Maltese market square. Then snap a photograph by the breathtaking Zurrieq Valley whose steep slopes jut far into the water. Grab the opportunity to take a short boat trip through the illuminating Blue Grotto. Drive through the rolling vineyards of Malta until you meet Marsaxlokk, known for the famous swordfish that is caught there and the idyllic landscape of a quaint Maltese fishing town. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Maltese restaurant and then you’re on your way towards the Tarxien Temples which may have possibly been used for animal sacrifice over four millennia ago. Finally explore the eerie cave of Ghar Dalam which was the home for some of Malta’s first inhabitants.

Gozo Jeep Excursion

Ride through the rocky, yet scenic terrain of Gozo by Jeep. This is certainly not your traditional beach tour of the island adjacent to Malta! Your tour will begin bright and early with a local ferry ride to island of Gozo. Then board our sturdy jeeps and coast through the traditional villages of Mgarr and Qala which host descendants of residents from over 1000 years ago.Whiz through Ramle l’hamra, world famous for its red sands. Understand the military advantage of Gozo by passing the five hundred year old Citadel. Take a swimming break at one of Gozo’s pristine beaches and eat a tasty lunch.

Gozo Excursion

Experience the greenery of Gozo on this historic tour of the island adjacent to Malta. Home of the rich Temples of Ggantija, the oldest free standing structures in the world, Gozo triumphs. Its rolling green hills and ancient buildings make it a terrific getaway from Malta. Take the opportunity to celebrate many of Gozo’s military victories at the Citadel of Victoria. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the stunning Azur Window at Dwerja, an impressive rock formation that continues to endure despite the sea lapping at its base. Finally, shop for some of the beautiful woolen goods for which Gozo is known.

Malta’s climate is strongly influenced by the sea and is typical of the Mediterranean. The Islands have a very sunny climate with a daily average of five to six hours sunshine in mid-winter to more than 12 hours in summer.

Winters are mild, with the occasional short chilly period brought about by the north and north-easterly winds from central Europe.

Summers in Malta are hot, dry and very sunny. Day-time temperatures in summer are often mitigated by cooling sea breezes, but in spring and autumn a very hot wind from Africa occasionally brings unseasonably high temperatures and humidity. This is known as the Sirocco, or, in Maltese, the Xlokk – this wind affects Greece and Italy as well; in Malta the air is generally drier because of the short sea track from the African coast. Annual Malta rainfall is low, averaging 578mm a year, and the length of the dry season in summer is longer than in neighboring Italy. Sea bathing is quite possible well in to the ‘winter’ months, and the peak beach season can last until mid- to late October.