Malta
The Republic of Malta is an island country located in the Mediterranean Sea, known as the heart of the Mediterranean.
With a coastline of over 190 kilometers, Malta boasts numerous natural harbors and a subtropical Mediterranean climate with an average annual temperature of 19.7℃, the highest temperature of 40℃, and the lowest temperature of 5℃.
The average annual rainfall is 560 mm. The country consists of five islands, with Malta being the largest at 245.73 square kilometers and Gozo being the second largest at 67.08 square kilometers.
There are 67 local municipal councils in the country, 53 in Malta and 14 in Gozo, with Valletta as the capital. As of 2021, Malta has a population of 516,000.
Tourism is a major contributor to Malta's economy, providing a significant source of foreign exchange. However, the industry also faces structural challenges such as pricing and quality.
Tourism experienced significant growth in 2007 due to government incentives but experienced a decline during the international financial and economic crisis in 2008.
In 2010, the number of tourists visiting Malta increased by 13% year-on-year, reaching 1.33 million. By 2017, the number of tourists had risen to 1.98 million, with the UK, Italy, Germany, France, and other EU countries being the main sources of tourists.
Compared to most Western countries, the cost of daily living in Malta is relatively low. The Maltese summer is perfect for those who enjoy the sunshine, with the best time to visit from June to October. Additionally, all forms, street signs, restaurant menus, and other important information used by the Maltese government are in English.
Comino Island is one of Malta's three main islands, with an area of 3 square kilometers and a population of over 2,000. The island features Fort St. John, with its ancient tower (built in 1618) that attracts visitors, as well as honey and grape production and sheep raising. Comino is now a nature reserve, featuring only one hotel and no cars, shopping malls, or other modern distractions.
The island's geography, with its sandy beaches, boulders, and clear surrounding waters, makes it perfect for water sports, particularly diving.
Malta is also home to a vibrant music and arts scene, with a number of annual festivals and events taking place throughout the year.
The Malta International Arts Festival, which takes place in Valletta, showcases a variety of performances including theater, dance, and music. The Malta Jazz Festival, held in July, attracts a number of international jazz musicians and performers.
Malta also offers a variety of outdoor activities for those looking for adventure. The island's clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with a number of shipwrecks and underwater caves to explore.
Malta is also home to a number of hiking and cycling trails, offering stunning views of the island's rugged coastline and countryside.
In summary, Malta offers a combination of history, culture, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore a unique Mediterranean island.
Its rich heritage, vibrant arts, and music scene, and diverse outdoor activities make it an excellent destination for both tourists and visitors alike.