We wish a very happy celebration of Malta’s Independence Day (September 21^st) to all our amazing team members from Malta! You are dearly appreciated in our team and we are very grateful to have you in our multicultural Nobel family.

Last year, on the occasion of Malta’s National Day, we learned about this beautiful country’s history, geography and so much more, but this year we want to actually experience what it’s like to be living in Malta nowadays.

With the help of our lovely Nobel Country Ambassador from Malta – Deborah Mifsud, we are happy to share with you below some interesting aspects of the Maltese culture, food, daily life, travel attractions and more:

• One of the most enduring Maltese myths on the island is that of St. Paul and The Viper. According to the account by St. Luke, as St. Paul was helping to gather firewood, he was bitten by a viper, to the shock of all those present, who expected him to die a painful death from poisoning. Convinced that he was a criminal whom the Gods were determined to punish, the superstitious locals soon changed their mind when it became clear that he had suffered no ill effects; surely, he was a god, who could not be harmed by anything. This played a huge role in converting them to his faith. The legend further states that from that day, all snakes in Malta lost their venom.

• Malta celebrates Carnival in the days leading up to Lent, typically in February or March. It’s a colorful and lively celebration with elaborate costumes, parades, and street parties, especially in Valletta and Nadur (Gozo).

• Another important Maltese celebration is that of Santa Marija (Assumption Day). Celebrated on August 15^th, this feast marks the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It’s a public holiday and is celebrated with processions, church services, and fireworks.

• Bread is a staple in Maltese cuisine, and you’ll often find crusty Maltese bread, known as “hobz Malti”, on the table. It’s typically served with olive oil, tomatoes, capers, and olives as a starter or snack.

• Emma Muscat is one of the most popular singers at the moment in Malta.

• Football and Water polo are the two most popular sports in Malta.

• If you’re curious about the cost of living in Malta, our colleague Deborah shares a few insights. Please note these are rough estimates, and actual costs may differ. Additionally, Malta’s cost of living can be influenced by factors like your lifestyle choices and spending habits.

• Public Transportation Ticket (Single Ride): A single bus ride on the public transportation system in Malta typically costs around €1.50 to €2.00 (approximately $1.75 to $2.35).

• Monthly Rent: Rental costs can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and quality of the property. In popular areas like Valletta or Sliema, monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment can range from €700 to even €1,200 (approximately $820 to $1,405). In other areas, rents may be lower.

• Accommodation or Hotel per Night for Tourists: Hotel prices vary widely based on the type of accommodation, location, and season. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 or more per night for a mid-range hotel. Luxury hotels may cost considerably more.

• Taxi Ride: The cost of a taxi ride depends on the distance traveled, but a short ride within a city may cost around €10 to €15 (approximately $11.75 to $17.60).

• Dining Out: Eating out in restaurants can vary in cost. A mid-range meal for one person may range from €15 to €30 (approximately $17.60 to $35.20), excluding drinks.

• Groceries: Grocery prices have gotten higher after the pandemic, with a weekly grocery bill for one person estimated to be from €70 to €100 (approximately $75.27 to $107.54).

•  Entertainment: Costs for entertainment, such as cinema tickets or admission to museums and attractions, can vary, but they are generally in line with prices in other European countries.

• In terms of the family living situation, it is common practice that once the child finds a partner (or finishes school and starts working) moves out of the family home and finds their own place. Regarding leaving home town, it really does not matter as Malta is a very small country.

• The usual educational trajectory of a person from Malta looks something like this: The average person would start with kindergarten, followed by six years in junior school and five years in senior school. After this, they would have two years in sixth form, and upon finishing these two years they would move to a university to complete a degree. The time spent at university depends on the course and same goes for a potential Master’s degree after.

• Festas are a significant part of Maltese culture. Each town and village in Malta has its own patron saint, and they celebrate their respective festa in grand style. Festas include religious processions, fireworks, music, and street decorations. It’s a time for locals to come together and showcase their community spirit.

• You’ll notice colorful and ornate enclosed balconies, known as “gallariji”, on many buildings in Malta. These balconies are not just for aesthetic purposes; they also serve practical functions, such as providing shade and privacy. They are a distinctive architectural feature of Maltese homes.

• If you’re planning a trip to Malta, our Country Ambassador Deborah suggests this 5-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Valletta Arrival
• Arrive in Valletta, check into your accommodation.
• Explore Valletta’s historic center, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral.
• Enjoy dinner at a local Valletta restaurant.

• Day 2: Valletta and Three Cities
• Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views.
• Take a ferry to the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua).
• Explore the charming streets, forts, and waterfront, then have lunch.

• Day 3: Mdina and Rabat
• Explore the ancient walled city of Mdina, including St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• Lunch in a local restaurant in Mdina.
• Visit Rabat, including St. Paul’s Catacombs and Domus Romana.

• Day 4: Gozo Day Trip
• Take a ferry to Gozo and explore Victoria (Rabat).
• Visit one of the stunning beaches and the Inland Sea in Dwejra.
• Enjoy lunch with traditional Gozitan dishes and return to Malta in the evening.

• Day 5: Blue Grotto and Beach Day
• Visit the Blue Grotto for a boat tour (weather permitting).
• Explore the Dingli Cliffs for stunning views.
• Spend the afternoon at one of Malta’s beautiful beaches, relaxing and enjoying the sea.

• While it’s not exactly hidden, Popeye Village is often overlooked by tourists. Originally built as a movie set for the 1980 musical “Popeye”, it’s now a quirky and charming village with colorful wooden houses. Visitors can explore the village, enjoy boat rides, and meet Popeye and his friends.

• Ghar Lapsi is a picturesque natural swimming pool located near Zurrieq. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The nearby cliffs offer great views, and there’s a small local eatery where you can try fresh seafood.

• Deborah recommends looking up St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Malta on Google Maps using the coordinates Latitude: 35.8984° N and Longitude: 14.5145° E.

• Malta has a unique and indigenous plant known as the Maltese Rock Centaury (Centaurea kotschyi), which is often associated with the islands. This plant is a rare and protected species that grows in rocky areas and cliffs in Malta and its sister island, Gozo. It’s known for its vibrant purple flowers and its ability to thrive in the harsh Mediterranean climate.

• Malta’s national animal is a Pharaoh Hound, “Kelb tal-Fenek” in Maltese. Historically, Pharaoh Hounds were used for hunting rabbits and other small game in Malta, hence it translates as “rabbit dog”. They are known for their hunting skills, friendly temperament, and distinctive appearance, making them a symbol of Maltese pride and culture.

• Malta also has a national bird, the Blue Rock Thrush, known in Maltese as il-Merill. Males have striking blue plumage, while females are brown with streaks and both have a white throat patch. They inhabit rocky areas, cliffs, and urban environments, feeding on insects, invertebrates, and fruits. They build nests in crevices and are known for their melodious song. While not globally threatened, they face habitat loss.

• Located in the heart of Malta, Ta’ Qali Crafts Village is a hub for local artisans and craftsmen. Here, you can find a wide range of handcrafted items, including ceramics, glassware, filigree jewelry, and traditional Maltese lace. It’s an ideal place to explore and purchase authentic Maltese crafts directly from the artisans.

• If you’re interested in local produce, don’t miss the Marsaxlokk Fish Market. This traditional fish market takes place every Sunday morning in the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk.

• A special word used by locals is “Mela!”. It can mean “okay”, “of course”, “well, then”, but also to indicate something obvious.

• Check out some other expressions that only make sense in the Maltese language:

• Example 1:

Maltese: Affarijiet li jiġru

English Translation: Things that run

Meaning: These things happen

• Example 2:

Maltese: Ħass ħażin

English Translation: Bad lettuce

Meaning: Someone fainted