About Gzira and Malta
Close your eyes and imagine a place with glorious sunshine, crystal clear waters and beautiful landscapes. A place in which you can take a leisurely walk, explore medieval cities or simply party the night away. Now open your eyes and look around -you’re there! All this on the tiny Jewel of the Mediterranean -Malta. Whether you wish to experience a rich history of over 7000 years, or simply party the night away in some of Europe’s best night spots, Malta has everything you can imagine.
The Maltese islands are the 'open air museum of the Mediterranean', offering 7,000 years or more of history to explore with numerous cultural, historical and megalithic sites unique in the world. The islands boast prehistoric ruins older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Egypt, and are steeped in the legacy of the medieval order of the Knights of St John, who used the island as their stronghold for defending Christendom.
Malta will surprise you with the most exciting and enjoyable entertainment on an international scale. Such a small island, but brimming with diversified cultural and artistic experiences. From the renowned ornate Manoel Theatre hosting opera and symphony performances; San Anton Gardens where Shakespeare comes to life; the historical St. James Cavalier Theatre of modern artist expression; Fort St. Angelo as a backdrop for frequent international musical events; the Mediterranean Jazz Festival held yearly beside the ancient Bastions of the Capital City of Valletta; the floating Opera Stage in the Portomaso Yacht Marina and the “Il-Fosos” amphitheatre in Floriana.
The spirit of Malta’s famous nightlife is centered in Paceville, however, many other places are rapidly gaining popularity, only a couple of kilometres from Sliema. In Paceville you will find plenty of bars, cafes, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, taxi services and so much more.
Geography and Culture
Malta is a small independent nation state in the centre of the Mediterranean sea, just below Sicily in Southern Europe. The Maltese Archipelago consists of 3 main islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino.
Malta has no mountains or rivers, but a series of low hills and terraced fields that grow an abundance of vegetables.
For its size, Malta is a real treasure trove of culture and heritage. Its awe inspiring fortifications as well as its majestic palaces and churches, all contribute to make Malta a nation of rich and pleasant surprises. The coastline is surrounded with harbours, creeks, sandy beaches and rocky coves.
The country’s official languages are Maltese, which is a Semitic language, and English. The traditions of Malta are a reflection of various cultures that have come into contact with the Maltese islands throughout the centuries, including neighbouring Mediterranean Countries and other civilisations that ruled Malta for long periods prior to its independence in 1964.
Climate
Malta has a typically Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. In summer temperatures can reach up to 84 degrees fahrenheit (30 degrees celcius) but the heat tends to be tempered by sea breezes. In spring and autumn, a hot wind known as Ix-Xlokk brings high temperatures and humidity. The little rainfall that Malta has usually occurs during autumn and winter. However, Malta never gets any frost or snow.
Sliema
Considered to be one of the main commercial hubs on the island, Sliema is a kaleidoscope of lovely shops, attractive restaurants and cafes and a location which is second to none.
Built along the island’s coast, it houses several of Malta’s most recently built hotels. Sliema comes from the word ‘sliem’ which means peace. It was once a fishing town. However, during the early 20th century, this town began to grow rapidly and soon became a summer resort for wealthy Valletta residents.
Beaches
The islands of Malta and Gozo have a number of beaches which are perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling and swimming. The most popular tend to be sandy beaches, but there are also rocky beaches which may sometimes be even better. Beaches in Malta can become pretty busy in summer, especially at the weekends. If you are looking for a more private beach, you may need to do a little exploring.
Ghadira Bay
Located in Mellieha, Ghadira Bay is the biggest stretch of sand on the Maltese islands. Although Malta and Gozo do not have the large beaches other countries have, they are very picturesque and the water is as beautiful and as clear as any found in the Carribean. ‘Ghadira’, which means lake in Maltese, has fine golden sand. It’s a great beach for games, such as water polo, as the sea is quite shallow and one has to walk quite a bit away from the beach before reaching any depth. This is the most popular beach in Malta, so expect to find large crowds in the height of summer. The beach is usually dotted with colourful umbrellas. Lidos are located along the beach and you may rent umbrellas and beach chairs at reasonable prices. On presentation of your student card you will receive discounts at the ‘Costa Del Sol Lido’.
Armier Bay
Armier Bay is situated in the locality of Mellieha. It consists of two beaches, the largest known as Armier and the other as Little Armier. The sea water in this bay is crystal blue, just like the sea at the Blue Lagoon in Comino, which is situated just opposite. Armier Bay is the perfect place for a Beach BBQ. Watch the sunset over the island of Gozo whilst you take a refreshing evening dip in the sea or party on the beach to top tunes, whilst taking advantage of the free bar. Ask at the Leisure Desk for more information.
Gnejna Beach
Gnejna is a very pretty bay in the Western part of Malta near the town of Mgarr. The shallow waters and sandy beach make it perfect for sunbathing. Probably the biggest benefit of Gnejna is that it’s usually mostly locals who bathe there. If you are looking for a quiet beach this is probably one of the best locations.
Paradise Bay
Paradise Bay is well secluded and is set in a natural cove. It is located in the northern part of Malta close to Cirkewwa. This beach is excellent for snorkelling and is popular with a younger crowd as there are often parties at the weekends. Despite being relatively isolated, there are plenty of facilities available.
Ghajn Tuffieha
Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, located just East of Golden Bay, is one of three bays carved out of the cliffs. There are no paved roads that can take you down to the beach from the cliffs and it is only accessible on foot by steep steps. As a result, the beach does not get crowded. It is a pretty beach and well worth the effort!
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Swimming
The Maltese coastal waters are generally clean and safe for swimming as there are no tides. Some bays are exposed to north and north-easterly winds which do produce some strong undercurrents at times.
Useful Tip: Malta's beaches and seas are safe, however if you are new to the Maltese Islands, swim where the Maltese do.
Sun bathing
The Maltese Archipelago lies virtually at the centre of the Mediterranean and has a latitude more southerly than that of northern Tunisia. You are therefore advised to take precautions to ensure you avoid over exposure to the sun. Even in winter it is advisable to wear a suitable factor sunscreen for your skin type. This is important if you are out walking, or taking part in water sports. A sun hat is a must. Children and especially babies need extra protection from the sun. If you are sunbathing, it is advisable to avoid the strongest sunlight between the hours of 11am and 3pm in peak summer months.
Do not wear only bathing suits in public areas away from the beach. Beachwear is for beaches only.
