Malta Hostel: Metropole Budget Hostel - About Malta

The Maltese Islands are found in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, 60 miles south of Sicily, and are composed of Malta, the largest Island, Gozo, Comino, Filfla and Cominotto. The Republic of Malta - in Maltese "Repubblika ta' Malta", is a southern European country and EU member state. It has a population of just over 400,000.

Once part of the Roman Empire, it was seized and controlled by many factions over the centuries, including Napolean. Malta's valuable military position was coveted by many, and in 1814, it became a British colony. The British control ended in 1964, as Malta gained its independence.

The republic's capital city is Valletta, but this is not a large city. The largest town in Malta is Birkirkara. Malta has two official languages, Maltese and English.

With sparse areas of fertile land, its shipping and port facilities are economically important, but it is tourism that provides th emajor financial impact.

Public transport in the Maltese Islands is reliable and relatively inexpensive. The main bus terminus in Malta is found outside City Gate in the Capital City of Valletta. For those spending vacations in Malta, the bus service begins at around 5.30am and ends at 10.00pm on weekdays and 11.00pm on weekends. In Gozo, buses are less frequent. Taxis may be found in most towns and villages, as well as at the airport, harbours and hotels.
   
Cars or motorbikes may be hired at attractive rates. The minimum age for renting a vehicle is 21 and a valid driving license is to be presented. In Malta, cars drive on the left.

Areas such as Paceville, St. Julian's, Bugibba and Marsascala are very popular at night especially during the weekends. The best ways to reach these areas at night are by car or taxi.

The local currency is the Euro.