Malta Or Croatia? Destination Comparison Guide Croatia Vs. Malta

This article is all about looking at two remarkable Mediterranean countries: Malta and Croatia. I’m excited to get started!

Being a resident of Croatia for over a decade and having traveled numerous times to the island nation of Malta, I’ll bring my perspective to the table, helping you discover more about these two destinations to help you plan your itinerary.

We’ll be diving into what makes these countries tick. Both are distinctly European countries, shaped by various powers and empires over the centuries.

Croatia was long a trading power that was pulled between the Venetians, Ottomans, and Habsburgs. Its more modern history saw it gain independence from Yugoslavia in 1991.

Likewise, Malta became independent from the British Empire in 1964. It also has a long history: once a stronghold of the Knights of St John, it has a strong Arabic influence. Both countries provide fascinating contrasts, a blend of East and West.

This guide to Croatia vs Malta will take you through must-see destinations, cultural treasures, and historical sights that draw people to both nations. Hopefully, it will help you decide between Croatia or Malta for your next European adventure.

Without further ado, let’s take off on a journey where you’ll find out the unique qualities that make Croatia and Malta so worth visiting!

7 Reasons To Visit Croatia

1. Rijeka

The Croatian city of Rijeka may not be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, but there’s definitely something about this port city. Complete with an industrial heritage, the urban area is the ideal base for island hopping in the Adriatic Sea.

Not to mention, it’s home to a fantastic Carnival celebration every year!

2. Rovinj

If you want to experience a lesser-trodden Croatian gem, Rovinj is the place for you. With its cobblestone lanes, picturesque architecture, and local life, it’s an authentic spot filled with history and culture enough to rival any Mediterranean coastal city.

3. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is stuffed full of cultural treasures. One of the main tourist draws in the country, visitors come from far and wide to see its Old Town and medieval walls. It also helps that Dubrovnik was heavily used as a filming location in HBO’s TV series Game of Thrones.

4. Pula

When it comes to Malta vs Croatia in terms of history, you may think the ancient sites of Malta win out. But the old city of Pula in Croatia gives Malta’s ancient wonders a run for their money. Complete with a Roman amphitheater, not to mention captivating views across the Adriatic Sea, it’s hard to deny Pula’s picturesque pull.

5. Split

Yet more ancient history awaits in Split, another of Croatia’s coastal gems. It’s also a popular destination for Game of Thrones fans, who like to visit Split and its filming locations for the hit series. The 4th-century Dicoletian’s Palace is a major sight here, too.

6. Croatia’s Beaches And Lengthy Coastline

Turquoise seas and unspoiled beaches — the dramatic Dalmatian coast is a big draw in itself for visitors to Croatia. When they’re not seeing the historic sights, tourists flock to the Croatian coastline for blissful, sunny days spent along the shore.

7. Croatian National Parks

Split and Dubrovnik may get all the attention from cruise ships and weekend visitors, but Croatia’s national parks offer vast and varied breathtaking landscapes that you don’t get in Malta.

Whether you’re seeing the turquoise lakes in the sprawling Plitvice Lakes National Park or marveling at the waterfalls in Krka National Park, it’s easy to see why the natural beauty of Croatia makes the country a must-visit destination.

If you’re on the fence about choosing between Malta and Croatia, think about what kind of natural beauty speaks to you. These parks aren’t just sights to see; they’re experiences that stay with you.

This might be a deciding factor in whether you choose Croatia over Malta for your next trip. Croatia’s beautiful national parks, set among limestone karst mountains and forests (not to mention its intriguing coastline), or the more typically Mediterranean landscapes of Malta — it’s up to you!

7 Reasons To Visit Malta

1. Mdina

One of Malta’s top destinations for history buffs has got to be the city of Mdina. But it’s not only for history fans. It’s hard to look at a photo of Mdina and not think “I want to go there!”

It’s a showcase for Malta’s blend of cultures, complete with ancient city walls built under Arabic rule, Baroque churches showing Italian influence, and winding lanes to explore — all surrounded by rolling hills. It’s no wonder that Mdina is on the tentative list to be made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Prehistoric Temples

Malta is way more than just a tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. It may be small, but Malta has a long history that goes back many thousands of years. The UNESCO-recognized Megalithic Temples of Malta is a collection of several ancient temples scattered across the islands.

One of the most famous examples is the Tarxien Temples. These form a religious complex of stone structures that date back to 3150 BC.

So when it comes to Croatia versus Malta for ancient history, Malta probably wins this one for its intriguing millennia-old ruins. It’s not just of importance for religious reasons: these prehistoric temples are actually some of the world’s oldest freestanding structures. Incredible!

3. Islands Of Gozo And Comino

Malta is named after the main island of the archipelago, but there are two other smaller islands to explore on a trip here — Gozo and Comino. Surrounded by a glowing turquoise sea and littered with ancient ruins, these two islands allow you to spend days lounging around by the coast, adventuring to relics of the past, and eating luxurious local cuisine.

These two islands might answer the question of choosing a Croatian or Maltan honeymoon. They feel so far-flung and worlds away from the tourist trail, yet are easily reached from the main island.

4. Sliema

The resort town of Sliema, on Malta’s northeastern coast, has a lot going for it. Ornate architecture, a whole host of bars and restaurants, and an easygoing seafront promenade to stroll along. It’s a modern meets historic slice of Mediterranean charm.

5. Malta’s Blend Of Cultures

The location of Malta, almost precisely in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, has made the islands a crossroads of civilizations. A long list of influential empires and other powers have left their mark on this small landmass over the centuries.

After the mysterious Megalithic era, which consisted of people who arrived on the island in the 6th millennium BC, came the Phoenicians. The Phoenicians used the island as a trading post and were followed by the Romans (who used it for the same reason) from 218 BC onwards.

The Arab conquerors didn’t arrive until 870 AD. But they were fairly quickly kicked out by the Normans in 1091. Then came the Sicilian kings, the French, and the British. Each one of these powers has left a lasting mark on Maltese culture.

This blend of cultures can be seen today in everything from its language, architecture, local festivals, and cuisine. It even has British red mailboxes!

6. Valletta

Valletta is the capital city of Malta. It’s small but bursting with rich history, stunning cultural sights, and history galore. Established by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, the walled city may be small, but it’s undeniably picturesque and filled with elegant architecture.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it isn’t easy to overstate the unique charm of this capital city. Compared to Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, it’s a complete gem.

7. Diving In Malta

Malta has been recognized multiple times as one of the best dive sites — not only in Europe but in the world. Its stunning underwater landscapes are made up of interesting caves, colorful reefs, and fantastic shipwrecks to explore. Each dive here offers a memorable experience.

Popular dive sites include the Blue Hole, the Coral Gardens, and the Azure Reef.

Brands We Use And Trust

  

Beaches & Beach Clubs In Croatia Or Malta

Deciding between the sun-soaked shores of Malta and Croatia for your next beach holiday is like picking between two flavors of ice cream – both are good, but it really depends on what tickles your taste buds. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a treat – don’t forget the sunscreen!

So, let’s break it down to help you figure out where to lay your towel.

Beaches In Malta

Great For Families

Want postcard-perfect sandy beaches with family-friendly vibes? Malta’s your go-to.

If you’re packing buckets and spades and have kids in tow, Malta’s beaches are pretty fab. They’ve got a bunch of family-friendly spots with gentle, shallow waters perfect for paddling and sandcastle engineering. Mellieħa Bay, for instance, is a hit with families for its soft sands and easygoing waves.

Malta also offers tranquil spots like Ghajn Tuffieha, where the sunset views are unbeatable.

Beaches In Croatia

Great For Older Kids & Solo Travelers

Craving dramatic coastlines, pebbly coves, and a mix of solitude and socializing? Set your sights on Croatia.

Croatia tends to have more pebbly beaches, like those around Makarska Riviera. Still, they’re stunningly beautiful and have crystal clear waters – great for older kids who fancy a bit of snorkeling.

For the solo travelers or those looking for a serene slice of paradise, Croatia’s vast coastline offers plenty of hidden gems where you can enjoy a quiet read or meditative moments without a volleyball landing on your head. Think secluded coves accessible only by a hike or a boat ride. 

Beach Clubs In Malta

Beach clubs and nightlife are where things get lively. Malta might have the edge here with its vibrant scene, especially around areas like St. Julian’s and Paceville, where beach clubs, bars, and nightlife are bustling with energy.

Beach Clubs In Croatia

Croatia isn’t far behind Malta, though, with Hvar and Pag Island serving up a mix of laid-back beach bars and full-on party vibes to suit all moods.

For beach-related costs like rentals and tours, prices are pretty comparable, so it won’t make a massive difference to your wallet.

Budget Needed For Malta Vs. Croatia

Let’s face it. Working out your next trip usually comes down to your travel budget. If you’re watching your wallet, the decision of Croatia vs Malta might be more about which one is cheaper for you to travel to. So, with that in mind…

Let’s take a look at the money side of things.

Whether you’re really looking forward to seeing some fantastic history, want to delight in the delicious local cuisine, or want to sun yourself on the beach, knowing how much to budget is going to help you decide how to choose between Croatia or Malta.

In terms of budget, it’s good to know both countries have a lot to offer. It’s also good to know that the general cost of living comparison statistics reveal that Malta is around 15% more expensive overall.

Croatia

Let’s kick things off by taking a look at Croatia.

You might already have heard that Croatia, compared to similar European nations, is a reasonably affordable destination. There are plenty of places to eat budget-friendly Croatian cuisine, affordable accommodation options, and low-cost transport.

Overall, it’s a good choice for value for money in terms of travel, but it has been getting more expensive in recent years, particularly since the nation moved over to the Euro at the start of 2023.

Malta

Malta may not be the first place you think of when it comes to cheap travel, but don’t overlook it. Yes, it’s true that you could spend a whole heap of cash on a luxury holiday to Malta, but in reality, you really don’t need to.

Croatia does come out as slightly cheaper overall when compared to Malta, but you can travel to Malta on a budget. There are plenty of ways to make a trip here more affordable, like traveling during the shoulder season, for example.

Transportation In Malta Or Croatia

Here are some helpful travel tips and insider information to help you plan how to get around these two European countries. Learning more about both nations’ transport networks will help you choose between Croatia and Malta, especially if you want to travel between cities and tourist attractions while on vacation.

Driving

Renting a car in Malta is a good idea for travelers who want to see a more local side of life across the islands. The public transport system doesn’t serve a lot of the smaller towns and little villages, and a whole swathe of beaches are unreachable without a car.

The only downside is that the traffic in Malta can be really bad. The problem of congestion is most felt in the larger urban areas such as Valletta and its nearby towns. Not only that, but parking can be an absolute nightmare, too.

There’s also the headache of having to navigate the old, narrow lanes, which are made even more difficult for many travelers as they drive on the left in Malta.

The upside is that renting a car in Malta is cheap. In fact, Maltese car rental prices are some of the cheapest in the whole of Europe!

So, overall, hiring a car seems like a really enticing way to get around. Just make sure to book in advance during the peak travel season.

Driving in Croatia, compared to Malta, is a different experience altogether. For one thing, Croatia is a much bigger place, so having your own vehicle can mean seeing so much more of what the country has to offer.

Hiring a car is affordable, but in the peak of the summer, it’s best to try and get a good deal by booking in advance. The only real thing to take into consideration is the fact that all of the highways and some other main roads are toll roads.

If you’re on a budget, the cost of tolls is going to be something that might make you rethink driving. There’s also an excellent public transportation network which covers most of the country and, if you’re in a city, you definitely don’t need to hire a car.

Buses

Croatia is connected by an excellent bus network, which makes getting from place to place straightforward. The long-distance buses vary in price as there are several different companies to choose from. You can book in advance and get a better deal on a ticket, which is always a good idea.

Malta’s iconic buses, on the other hand, are not quite as efficient. As it’s a much smaller place, there’s not much need for long-distance buses. Buses will take you to the most popular tourist sites like beaches and tourist towns, but you can’t rely on them to see all of the islands.

Croatian Ferries

Croatia is also the perfect place to get around by boat. The country’s many ferry connections are well fun, clean and run on time. The only real downside is that they can get really busy in the summer months.

Taking the car ferry is really convenient for those of you who want to see the sights in your own vehicle. Make sure to turn up at least an hour early so you don’t have to contend with any last-minute delays. Expect long queues and ferries that fill up quickly.

Overall, whether you’re driving through the captivating Croatian countryside or hopping on a bus in Malta, both destinations have their ups and downs when it comes to transport. With a bit of planning and using these tips, you should be able to get around without too much trouble at all.

Getting Around Malta & Croatia (Quick Guides)

Traveling around both Malta and Croatia is part of the fun! Here is a guide to help you navigate both countries…

Transportation In Malta

Transport in Malta is not always the best, being quite a small collection of islands. You will have to rely on a combination of buses, ferries, and rental cars to get from A to B.

1. Trains: Though Malta did have a train network that opened in the late 19th century, it closed in 1931, and nothing has appeared since in the way of railway travel.
2. Buses: Run by Malta Public Transport, there is a selection of bus routes that run around Malta and Gozo. Most of these yellow buses start at Valletta Bus Station and run a regular service a few times each hour.
3. Car Rentals: If you like the idea of traveling at your own pace entirely, a car rental is for you. Renting a small car in Malta is cheap, and there are various local companies offering car hire.
4. Ferries: Getting between Malta, Gozo, and Comino wouldn’t be possible without the ferries. There are even harbor ferries that run between coastal destinations from Valletta.
5. Within Cities: It’s best to explore Malta on foot or via buses. There are also bike-share services and taxis to help you get around.

Transportation In Croatia

With a long coastline and lush countryside, not to mention all those islands, Croatia can be beautiful to travel around. Here are a few ways you can get around this Adriatic gem.

1. Buses: Numerous bus companies operate services in Croatia. These are low-cost and reliable, and you can book online in advance.
2. Trains: Slower than bus travel but still very affordable, trains can be helpful in getting around to major cities. The train network isn’t that extensive, however.
3. Car Rentals: Car rental offers much more flexibility in terms of where you can travel to in Croatia. But don’t forget you have to pay tolls and factor in the cost of gas and parking into the equation.
4. Ferries: Ferries are a must if you’re touring around Croatia’s coastline. These vary depending on the season but are comfortable and reliable.
5. Within Cities: Taxis and buses make up most urban public transport in Croatian cities, but Zagreb has its own tram network, not to mention a funicular railway.

Accommodation In Croatia Or Malta

Figuring out your options when it comes to accommodation in Malta and Croatia can be fun, with both boasting some wonderful places to stay. Let’s dig down into options in both countries so you can figure out whether Malta or Croatia is better when it comes to accommodation.

Malta: Affordable Luxury & Low-Cost Accommodation

Malta has long been known as a resort getaway and a haven for relatively affordable luxury travel. With this in mind, there are some sleek options for many types of travelers in the island nation.

1. Luxury Hotels: Malta has an exciting collection of luxury hotels. Often located inside historic buildings, these polished boutique stays provide high-end accommodation from upwards of €100 per night.
2. Mid-range Hotels: This is the main form of accommodation in Malta. It’s possible to find a clean and comfortable hotel in a good location for around €70 per night.
3. Budget Options: Malta has hostels and a few B&B-type accommodations where you can expect to pay upwards of €20 per night and €30 for a private room.
4. Vacation Rentals: Things like Airbnb and Vrbos are great ways to save money when you’re traveling in Malta. Often, coming with kitchens, you’ll be able to keep costs low by cooking your own meals and having that valuable feeling of living like a local.

Croatia: From Coastal Retreats To Affordable City Stays

There is a whole lot of accommodation to choose between in Croatia. There’s something for every budget and every preference in this Adriatic nation. Let’s find out more.

1. Coastal Resorts: There are plenty of resorts strung out along the coast of Croatia. These are great places to stay if you’re traveling with children or feel like not lifting a finger during a tour trip, which can be worth the extra cost. Prices are around €100-250 per night.
2. City Hotels: A perfect place to stay if you want an excellent location for exploring, Croatia’s towns and cities boast a wide variety of smart city hotels. Expect to pay between €50-€150 per night for a city hotel in Zagreb or Split.
3. Hostels and Guesthouses: There are plenty of low-cost guesthouses and hostels in Croatia that make traveling on a shoestring budget fairly easy. A dorm room can cost between €20 and €40.
4. Private Rentals: This is also a popular accommodation option in Croatia. If you want freedom, the feeling of staying in a home away from home, this is the choice for you.

A Few Tips For Your Stay

• Book in Advance: Always book as early as possible — especially in high season. That way, you’ll be more likely to avoid last-minute price hikes and avoid being disappointed when a hotel you want to stay at gets fully booked before you’re able to reserve your spot.
• Location Matters: To save money, consider staying outside the major tourist hotspots. Staying a bus ride away from the city center, or in lesser-known areas, often means cheaper accommodation, as well as a chance to experience a more authentic side to the destination.

In short, both Malta and Croatia have a lot going on in terms of accommodation. There’s something for everyone here, whether you feel like traveling in luxury or you’re touring on a shoestring budget.

Food In Croatia Vs Malta

Unlike Italy, Greece and other Mediterranean nations, neither Croatia nor Malta are known internationally for their cuisines. But that doesn’t mean the culinary offerings in both countries aren’t exciting or delicious — they are! Here’s a guide to the gastronomic delights you can find in Malta and Croatia.

Malta: A Showcase Of Different Cultures In Every Bite

Maltese cuisine is a world unto its own. You’ll encounter Italian influences and touches of French, Spanish, and even British cooking in its food.

• Gozitan Ftira: This is Malta’s answer to the Italian pizza. Popular on the island of Gozo, it is made using traditional ftira bread, which is cooked in an oven with various toppings. Anchovies, tomatoes, and even thinly sliced potatoes are usual choices.
• Pastries: There are several different kinds of pastries, both sweet and savory, for you to enjoy in Malta. There’s qassatat, made using shortcrust pastry, which are small and often filled with peas or ricotta, or the larger pastizzi, to name just two.
• Kapunata: Kapunata is kind of like the French ratatouille, but this hearty tomato-based stew is based on the Sicilian caponata. It’s often served with fresh basil on top for extra deliciousness.

Maltese cuisine is an interesting mix of just about everything good the Mediterranean has to offer, so it is worth your time if you want to try some unique dishes.

Croatia: An Adriatic Feast

Croatian cuisine may not be world-famous, but with roots in Slavic traditional cooking and Italian cuisine alike, it’s a bit of a hidden gem for foodies.

• Seafood: Being a coastal nation, Croatia has plenty of seafood on offer along its long coastline. Expect freshly grilled fish, delicious oysters, and even octopus salad.
• Meat Dishes: Head inland for a decidedly different palate than the coastal fare on offer. Dishes here are flavored with traditional herbs and feel hearty and homey.
• Truffles and Olive Oil: In the north, the Istrian peninsula is a must for anybody who likes olive oil or truffles — the region is famed for this produce.
• Wine: Wine lovers shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to sample some of Croatia’s regional wines. If you like a refreshing, crisp white, try out Malvazija. But if you’re more of a red drinker, seek out a glass or two or Plavac Mali.

Foodies might prefer to go to Croatia. With its wide variety of regional cuisines, there are a lot of different specialties to try out. In essence, because Croatia is a larger country, there’s just more diversity when it comes to food.

---

Weather In Malta Vs. Croatia

Working out when is the best time for you to visit Malta or Croatia is key. While both have a Mediterranean climate, the subtle differences between the two will help you decide which one is best for you.

Here’s a brief guide on the climate of both Malta and Croatia so you can figure out the best time of year for your trip.

Malta: Warm Seas And Sunny Beaches

Malta is known for its sunny weather and warm sea temperatures — some of the highest in Europe!

• Spring (April to June): Malta is certainly a warm place to visit in spring. The temperature this time is mild, with only a small amount of rainfall. It feels like a comfortable time of year to explore historic sites and wander around old towns.
• Summer (July to August): Like other Mediterranean countries, Malta also has hot summers. Expect long, warm days with high temperatures and barely any rain. Perfect for days spent lounging around on the beach!
• Autumn (September to October): Autumn is sunnier in Malta compared with other northerly European destinations. Temperatures are typically mild, there’s minimal rainfall, and the seas are warm after a long, hot summer.
• Winter (November to March): Malta is the place to go in Europe for winter sun. The coldest months of the year are January and February, but it’s still relatively mild, with chilly nights and sunny days. There hasn’t been snow in Malta since 1962!

Croatia: Sparkling Seas And Warm Evenings

With its Mediterranean climate, Croatia enjoys hot summers and mild winters.

• Spring (April to June): Spring is a great time to visit Croatia. The coastal areas get warmer, but this is the time of year to visit its national parks, which are completely stunning at this time of year. It’s also a good time of year to visit before the busy tourist season ahead.
• Summer (July to August): Summer days in Croatia are blissful. Think glistening, turquoise seas, gleaming beaches, and long lunches — and lively nights. It’s hot, but if you don’t mind that (or the crowds who gather at its beaches and historic towns this time of year), then you will love it.
• Autumn (September to October): Autumn in Croatia is still relatively warm, and the sea remains pleasant for swimming after the long, hot summer. The crowds are nowhere near as thick as they were in summer, and the weather is bearable for exploring outdoors.
• Winter (November to March): Croatia might be known as a summer destination, but it’s still fun to visit in winter. This time of year is relatively quiet and definitely cooler than other times of year, with a fair amount of rainfall. Coastal areas all but shut down, but it’s an excellent time to see a different side of the country.

For me, the shoulder seasons in both Malta and Croatia (spring and autumn) are good for two reasons: There are fewer crowds, and it’s not super hot anymore.

But if you like the heat or you want to mingle with the crowds, then you’ll love summer. Or maybe you’d prefer to budget and see the countries free of tourists, in which case winter is probably right for you.

Pick what feels right, and you’re bound to have a fantastic time weather-wise!

Safety In Croatia Vs Malta

When it comes to choosing between Malta or Croatia, safety may be a factor that you want to consider.

Both Malta and Croatia are safe destinations for travelers, but there are a few things that you should know to make sure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.

Safety In Malta

• General Safety: Malta is undoubtedly a safe country. However, you should be aware that pickpockets do operate in popular tourist destinations around Malta. Keep your belongings close to you and try not to carry around anything too valuable on show.
• Healthcare: Malta’s healthcare is of a good standard. There are many pharmacies where you can get medical advice, and there are English-speaking doctors that offer high-quality medical care. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers the cost of any treatment you may need, however.
• Emergency Contacts: The emergency contact in Malta is 112. It’s free to dial. It will connect you to the police, fire service, and ambulances.

Safety In Croatia

• General Safety: Croatia is relatively safe. That said, you should be aware of your surroundings in nightlife areas and tourist hotspots as pickpockets are not an uncommon nuisance.
• Healthcare: There’s a good standard of medical care available in Croatia. Whether you’re in a city or even on an island like Hvar, you can find pharmacies and healthcare facilities with English-speaking staff.
• Emergency Contacts: 112 is also the emergency contact number in Croatia, and it’s also free to dial.

Visiting Both – Transport From Croatia To Malta

If you’ve decided already, then that’s great! But if you still can’t decide, and you’ve got the budget, you could always visit both and travel from one to the other!

They’re both European countries, so the journey is doable and won’t take hours and hours on end.

Getting from Malta to Croatia (or vice versa) is simple. Here’s what you need to know:

Flights

When you’re working out how to get from Croatia to Malta, your best option is to take a flight. There are over 400 flights per week between Malta’s Valletta Airport and Zagreb Airport, with 11 airlines flying the route. It takes just 3 hours and 24 minutes.

Wrap-Up On How To Choose Between Malta & Croatia

Malta and Croatia offer incredible travel experiences, and the truth is you can’t go wrong with either.

There are similarities and differences between the two nations. One similarity is that they both have gorgeous coastlines where coves, beaches, and turquoise seas await travelers who love to spend their vacations along the shoreline.

But if you’re looking for somewhere for adventure, where you can hop on a day trip to various tiny islands and feel like a true explorer, then Croatia may be the one for you.

When it comes to late-night entertainment, there is no contender for the nightlife in Croatia vs Malta — Croatia knows how to party! But that doesn’t mean Malta doesn’t have its own party scene; look at Paceville.

For history fans, while Croatia is rich in Venetian wonders and some Roman relics, I would say Malta over Croatia for the sheer wonder of its ancient sites. You don’t get much older than those megalithic temples!

Both countries are worth visiting. It all comes down to your budget and your personal taste.

Whichever country you choose, they both have historical and cultural treasures and offer you an amazing adventure — Croatia and Malta await!