The Island of The George Cross by Douglas Scott

Malta is a small and densely populated island nation. The countrys official languages are English and Maltese and Roman Catholicism is the most practised religion. Malta has been a member state of the European Union since 2004 and it is the smallest EU country both in area and population. Malta is the only nation in the world that has been awarded the George Cross for conspicuous gallantry in World War Two. Queen Elizabeth Second is retained as Queen of Malta. Their national language is Maltese. The official languages are Maltese and English. Italian was an official language until the 1930s.

The narrow streets of their towns and villages are crowded with Baroque palaces and Renaissance cathedrals As the countryside is dotted with the oldest known human structures in the world, the Island have rightly been described as an open air museum

The public bus service on Malta is a good way to get around as buses serve the major tourist areas, are cheap and efficient. The cost of a bus route ranges from E0.35 to E0.58 and the longest bus journey takes about fifty minutes. The Island is not very large, which makes getting around trouble free.

Shop in Vallettas backstreets, and the latest continental fashions in shopping plazas. But more than anything, it is an excuse to stop off at a cafe and people gaze. For a taste of the Mediterranean, choose among the many local deli treats from olives and sun-dried tomatoes to fine wines. Shopping is a cultural on the Island too. You will find plenty of tempting buys to take home.

Theatre is a lively and well represented part of the local cultural scene. The Baroque 18th century National Theatre makes a wonderful venue for the performing arts. The open air Shakespeare performed in the Baroque Gardens of San Anton Palace in July is one of the many theatrical highlights.

The Maltese Islands have also become a hub for the clubbing scene. Internationally renowned DJs appear for guest weekends throughout the year. This scene thrives all year round and is an all week affair in a variety of venues, from large clubs to quieter bars. The main night life clubbing action is in Paceville, on the coast near St. Julians, where the clubs and bars are in abundance.

Band music is one of the most popular traditions on the Island. Every town and village has at least one band club. Band music is taken seriously on the Islands and the highlight of the year for band clubs is the parish fiesta.

Author Resource: Douglas Scott writes for The Car Hire Specialist. and is a free lance writer for The Villa Rental Site

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