Things That Might Surprise You About Malta
The Mediterranean surprise in the very heart of this sea is Malta, which has amazing surprises within it. Malta is a beautiful island with a great sunny beach, most people think of Malta. But there is much more than that under all the scenic beauty, many things like ancient temples that are older than all the pyramids, underground cities that are a mystery, cultural fusions which are the result of centuries of history. Malta always does not fail to dazzle its visitors. The fact that it is a place where Roman ruins are only a few steps from cafes and art galleries where modern begins. For the traveller who is willing to go beyond the tourist spots, they often find the charming peculiarities and surprises that are exclusive to Malta.
If you have planned to visit this hidden paradise, then the first step is to apply for a Malta Visa. Luckily, the ease of visa services has made it easy to obtain a Malta Visa from Dubai . A great visit can spice up things surprising, whether you are interested in Malta’s ancient architecture, its active festivals or its wonderful coastline. Read on for this is your guide to some of the most surprising and fascinating things you are not likely to know about Malta (and why this small nation should be up at the top of your travel checklist).
Malta is very tiny yet densly packed
The size of this country fits into the major cities’ dimensions. The whole country is about 316 square km. You can drive across the island in less than an hour. Malta is home to more than 500,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Tight as it is, however, with open coastlines and rural areas and historic towns, Malta feels quite spacious.
English Is an Official Language
English is surprising to many as one of Malta’s two officially recognized languages. It is a relic from the British time which ended in 1964. These days, most Maltese speak fluently both Maltese and English, making it an instant choice for English language learners and digital nomads. Most street signs, menus, and government documents are put in English making it very easy for travelers to understand and communicate in Levin Malta.
Malta has some of the oldest temples in the whole world
Before Stonehenge or the Egyptian pyramids, there were the temples of Malta. Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra both lie in a time frame of more than 5,000 years. They still stand today. The monuments are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and had been built by an enigmatic civilization. Expect swimming beaches and sunshine, but deep archaeological roots give Malta an entirely different kind of wonder.
But It Will Rain Most of The Time
With such great sunshine, about 300 days a year, Malta is one of the sunniest in Europe. However, when it rains, it pours! And when it rains, it surely becomes a downpour that causes flooding in city streets due to very bad drainage. Locals adapt well to these extreme sudden changes, but a visitor might find himself in quite a bit of trouble, especially during winter’s November to February.
Driving to The Right
It heads up ‘The Left Side of the Road’ because of its British Colonial legacy; therefore, it is among the very few countries within Europe that drive on the left. For travelers who would normally drive on the right, this could be surprising and indeed challenging. Road-wise, they’re quite narrow, older towns have winding streets, so driving in Malta can feel like an adventure in itself!
Strong Connection to Film Industry
Malta has been a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films and TV shows. From “Gladiator” to “Troy,” “Game of Thrones,” one would witness how ancient architecture and clear waters can create a perfect filming setting. The most famous feature of Mdina was that it acted as King’s Landing in the first season of “Game of Thrones.” So don’t be surprised if you find a movie set during your visit-Malta’s Favorito directors.
Unique Maltese Language
The Maltese language is different from any other in Europe; it is a Semitic language, like Arabic and Hebrew, although it uses the Latin alphabet with a huge number of Italian and English words. Such results in sounds that are both familiar and exotic. It is the only Semitic language that has been made an official language of the EU. It should be an eye-opener for language addicts to hear that Maltese spoken.
Colourful Balconies and Limestone Buildings
As you walk down these coral streets, you’ll notice the charming architecture, especially the traditional wooden balconies painted in bright colors. These “gallariji” are a symbol of Maltese identity. Most buildings are made of local limestone, making the coastlines of Valletta and Mdina glow with warm golden hues. The influence of Arabic, Italian, and British designs adds to the unique charm of the island.
Festivals Are Going On Throughout the Year
Malta loves celebrating; practically every village has its own local feast, or “festa,” honoring the local patron saint with fireworks, food, music, and streets parades. It’s surprising how often these happen, truly almost every weekend in summer! Tourists stumbling upon one will experience Maltese culture and hospitality at its best.
Excellent Public Transport and Ferries
Despite its small size, Malta boasts a surprisingly well-organized public transport system. It is possible to travel to almost any part of the island using buses, at a very low cost. Also, there are ferry facilities connecting Malta with its smaller sister island, Gozo. These are so frequently available and highly scenic, providing another marvellous avenue of exploring the regions beyond the main island. It is not surprising for most travelers to hop from one island to another in one day.
Diving Paradise Malta
Most people, however, come to enjoy time at the beach and do not really know how it is one of the best diving destinations in Europe because of its very warm water, underwater caves, and shipwrecks. It includes, among other sites, the world-famous dive site of the Blue Hole in Gozo and wreck of the Um El Faroud. Also, for most beginners, there is a course for them to take and explore Malta’s rich marine environment.
A Melting Pot of Cultures and Cuisine
Malta has historically been a meeting ground of civilizations: Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, French, and British. It is in its local food – be it rabbit stew, a national dish, or pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with cheese or peas), you’ll taste these influences. The culture is a rich blend of east and west, what often catches one off guard since they expect something purely European.
Conclusion
Not a pretty island with good weather, Malta the place where history is still alive. Where nature meets culture, every corner of the island is told by a her story. There are surprises from finding one of the oldest free standing structures in the world to listening to the locals speak Maltese (a language influenced by Arabic, Italian and English). It is small but rich in experience, which is not common in larger countries. It is perfect for the roaming, learning and excited lover of the unknown.
Before setting off on your travel and your brilliant destination please get your travel papers in order first. Getting a Malta Visa from Dubai is a very simple process if you are in the UAE and will open the door to a whole new world. With your Malta Visa in hand, you can start the watchful search for those interesting hidden gems, experience the warmth of the natives giving you the welcome you will surely find yourself asking for and enjoy the positive surprise that Malta truly is. As such, pack your bags, and be ready for a filled island filled with secrets.
