A flight to Malta takes around three to four hours from UK airports, though you might be confused when you alight in Malta and find the distinctive red of British post boxes and phone boxes, plus everyone speaking English.
The design icons of Britain come courtesy of a period of British rule, as does the prevalence of English-speaking locals. In Malta, you'll also find the laid-back charm of Italy, Arabic place names, and plenty of Mediterranean flavour, from the architecture and the food to the welcome offered by the Maltese.
Add in the sun, sea and sand and you've got the recipe for a perfect holiday.
The country of Malta is made up of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino. Flights for all destinations arrive at Malta International Airport (MLA, also known as Luqa by locals). It's no more than an hour to anywhere on the main island.
Valletta is the nation's capital and can be reached from the airport in 20 minutes. It is the place to wander around learning about the history of Malta, from the interesting building on every street corner, to the War Rooms and National War Museum, where you'll find the George Cross and very moving memories of war.
Tales of the Knights of St John (AKA Knights of Malta) reverberate around the walled city, especially in Fort St Elmo and St John's Co-Cathedral. Tourists also flock to the harbour in Valletta, where modern restaurants and bars compete for trade with the more traditional outlets up in the older part of the city.
The tourist resorts on Malta, dedicated to the pursuits of eating, drinking, swimming and achieving the perfect tan, are mostly found north of Valletta and range from upmarket Sliema and neighbouring St Julian's, to St Paul's, Qawra, Bugibba and Mellieha Bay, which boasts Malta's biggest beach.
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