The Maltese archipelago is situated in the middle of the Mediterranean, with the largest inhabited island, Malta, lying 93km (58 miles) south of Sicily and 290km (180 miles) from North Africa. Gozo and Comino are the only other inhabited islands. The landscape of all three is characterised by low hills with terraced fields. Malta has no mountains or rivers. Its coastline is indented with harbours, bays, creeks, sandy beaches and rocky coves.

The official languages are Maltese and English. Maltese is a language of Semitic origin written in the Latin script. Over the centuries, it has incorporated many words derived from English, Italian and French.

Electricity is 240 volts AC, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plug are in use.

Jan 1 New Year's Day.
Feb 10 St Paul's Shipwreck.
Mar 19 St Joseph's Day.
Mar 31 Freedom Day.
March / April (date changes) Good Friday.
May 1 St Joseph the Worker.
Jun 7 Sette Giugno (Commemoration of 1919 Riot).
Jun 29 Feast of St Peter and St Paul.
Aug 15 Assumption.
Sep 8 Feast of Our Lady of Victories.
Sep 21 Independence Day.
Dec 8 Immaculate Conception.
Dec 13 Republic Day.
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Road: Driving is on the left. Speed limit is 64kph (40mph) on highways and 40kph (25mph) in residential areas.

Bus: Local services operate from Luqa, Valletta, Sa Maison and Victoria (Gozo) to all towns.

Taxi: Identifiable by their all-white livery. Although taxis are under meter charge at government-controlled prices, it is best to agree prices before departure.

Car Hire: A number of car hire firms offer self-drive cars. Both Hertz and Avis have desks at the airport. Rates on Malta are among the cheapest in Europe.

A valid international driving license required.

Getting to Gozo by Sea: A passenger car ferry operates several times daily between Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr in Gozo with connections to Comino. Crossing time is about 30 minutes. Services to Comino operates from mid-March to mid-November. For further information, contact the Gozo Channel Company.