Malta

The Maltese Islands, consisting of Malta, Gozo and Comino, cover an area of about 320 square kilometres and have a population of around 400,000. The islands are located in the centre of the Mediterranean, just south of Sicily and enjoy mild temperatures ranging from 12o Celcius in winter to an average of about 26o in summer.

Malta has a rich European historic and cultural heritage. This is reflected in its Catholic religion dating from the time of St.Paul, its architecture, and in all major aspects of business, government and social activities. The British and italian influences are partcularly strong, given the island's close proximity to Italy and the fact that Malta formed part of the British Empire from 1801 to 1964. Malta today is an independent Republic within the Commonwealth and became a full memeber of the EU on 1st May 2004. As from January 1st  the unit of local currency is the Euro.

English is, with Maltese, an official language and is spoken by practically everyone. Laws are published in Maltese and English and busniess correspondence is usually conducted in English.

More than 1 million tourists visit Malta every year. Summer is the peak season, when the sea is the main attraction. Longer stays in Malta property will enable the visitor to enjoy the mild winter and the hospitality of the Maltese, and to experience a leisurely way of life with its colourful folklore and moderate cost of living.

Owning and maintaining immovable property in Malta is not particularly expensive by European standards. A number of reputable estate agents will readily provide detailed information and professional assistance in this regard.