Malta forms part of an archipelago, situated in the middle of the Mediterranean sea, consisting of six islands; Malta, Gozo, Comino, Cominotto, St. Paul’s Island and Filfla, of which only Malta, Gozo and Comino are inhabited. The total area of the Maltese Islands is 316 square kilometres, with a population of approximately 375,000 inhabitants. The national language is Maltese, but English is an official language and Italian is widely spoken. The national currency is the Euro.

Malta enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate, where the normal temperature during the warm, dry summer season is 25 degrees Celsius, and the average temperature for the mild winter is 12 degrees Celsius.

The coastline is indented with many sandy beaches and rocky inlets, ideal for bathing. The clean sea which surrounds the Islands is adequately warm for swimming most of the year, however, the traditional swimming season for locals is usually from the beginning of July to the end of September.

Malta is a democratic Republic, and a neutral non-aligned country, which enjoys successful relations with other nations. Malta is also a member of various international organisations, among which are the United Nations and the Council of Europe, and currently its position as a future member of the European Union is being assessed.

Financial, professional, health and specialised services abound and are regulated by the strictest international standards. A sound infrastructure serves the country well, and the international airport services flights to most major airports in Europe, as well as some non-European destinations.

The climate, sea and geographical location, together with ample berthing facilities, make the Maltese Islands an attraction to yachting people from all over Europe as well as South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

In the field of education Malta has a multi-faculty university and a large number of schools, from kindergartens to colleges. The standard of education is high, attracting a number of foreign students, the majority of which originate from English speaking countries.

Malta’s combination of sun, sea, an awesome history, an artistic heritage and tax benefits contributes to its popularity with foreigners as a regular destination, perfect for a holiday residence and corporate outpost. The Maltese Islands are also praised for their tranquillity and safety, and although very small, this nation-state offers most of the advantages and facilities enjoyed by larger countries, making it an ideal second home.