Originally published: August 2017
Note: I wrote another article about Malta in 2022, sharing my latest views and feelings about the situation there.
A few years ago I decided to leave my home country and try my luck abroad. This wasn’t a spontaneous decision at all, rather it was the result of many years during which my disillusion and frustration with Malta had been growing and growing until I felt I had to take action or I would fall into a very negative perpetual state of mind.
Of course, I have many friends and dear family back in Malta, but honestly, I don’t miss living there. I make it a point to visit at least once a year and I usually have a good time catching up with friends and spending time with my family, but I don’t feel like I would like to go back and live there.
As you can imagine, several friends and family members ask me why this is so. I’ve finally found some time to really list the reasons for my moving away from Malta and why I don’t feel as comfortable living there as I do in other places.
While this post will be very honest, I’m afraid that some readers will find it too negative or downright offensive. Please keep in mind that is an honest outpouring of my thoughts and feelings and is no way meant to attack anyone or show any lack of appreciation. I did grow up in Malta and received many good things, I was blessed with a great family and a good education and also had lots of great experiences. However, as I grew older I started to feel that this was not the place where I wanted to spend the rest of my life in, and this is an attempt to describe why.
Malta is described in propaganda as being an idyllic “paradise on earth” island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Surely life is incredibly good over there! Not to mention it’s a tax haven!
First of all, Malta is no tax haven if you’re Maltese. There are a few schemes designed to attract business and executives from abroad. These schemes have been widely used and abused, and that’s where the reputation for being a tax haven is coming from. The island is also famous for housing a great number of online gambling companies. These companies came to Malta due to the fiscal and regulatory incentives and they are by and large doing extremely well.
Online gambling is not something that interests me and in general, I don’t like the vibe that they have about them. I’m sure many Maltese will disagree with me on this, but this is my view on the topic. The gambling companies pay very well and usually provide attractive offices and perks to their employees. Due to them, property prices in the Sliema and St Julian’s area have risen to incredible levels (many would agree that it’s bubble stage already). A whole financial services industry has grown to support these companies.
The downside? Apart from the moral doubts of working at these companies or even incentivizing them to move to Malta, I see a lot of dependence on them. If another country were to offer better regulations and tax incentives, it is likely that many of these companies would leave, as they don’t have any significant ties with Malta. They are merely using the country. In the eventuality of them leaving, we will see serious repercussions on property prices and the financial services industry. Whether this situation ever plays out is anyone’s guess, but it’s definitely something that has always bothered me.
Now I don’t mean to turn this into an attack on gambling companies. They do well to seek out the best environment for them to operate so I don’t blame them for anything. I certainly didn’t leave Malta because of this, so let’s explore some other more important reasons for me leaving.
If I were to describe Malta in one word, it would be frustrating. There is no doubt that islands are (were?) blessed with natural beauty, great weather and beautiful sea. I think the small size of the islands is, however, a big problem for people like me. It is clear that you can find idiots in every country, but in bigger countries, you can mostly keep away from them. You can frequent different places, live in different areas, and generally live amongst people that you like. Not so in Malta, every time you step outside of your door you are bound to experience some kind of ignorance, be it illegal construction, irresponsible driving, and unprofessional behavior. There is no deeply ingrained culture of doing things the right way. Rather it’s more of a “whatever, if it barely works then it’s good enough”.
I acknowledge that I have trouble really describing what it is that frustrates me and pains me so much about living in Malta. I also know that most Maltese genuinely love living in Malta, and whenever I have tried to speak out against the way things are done, the usual reaction is to try and shut me up and tell me that things aren’t so bad.
I inevitably realized that there was no way I’m going to change the culture of a country. One of the best pieces of advice was given to me by a Bulgarian builder in Malta. In one of my moments of frustration, the builder, who was fixing some stuff in our office, overheard me complain about things in Malta. He calmly came up to me and told me “my friend, if you don’t like the menu, change the restaurant”. It was a seemingly joking and simple comment, but it rang so true for me that that was the moment that I decided to leave for good, and sure enough, two months later I left.
Living in Malta, at least as a local, involves sustaining yourself (whether you want it or not) on a constant stream of local news. You can’t escape the latest political mess, and the smallest incidence can make front-page news. It is really an environment that discourages you to think big and expand your mental horizons. For many years I found it very stifling and I harbored a lot of internal anxiety, frustration, and anger due to this situation over which I had little control.
Since moving abroad, all these effects instantly disappeared and I finally felt free to be what I really want to be and rapidly increase my knowledge in the areas that interest me, such as investing.
They say that a person is the sum of the other people that are closest to him. In Malta, I always struggled to surround myself with people who would constantly inspire me and drive me to become a better person. Due to the small island mentality, there seems to be a lot of jealousy and people try to keep you in line. You’re best just being an average Joe behaving like everyone else if you want to live a good life there. Do something significantly different than the rest and you’re going to have a very difficult time indeed.
But come on Jean, you might say, what about the lovely “best in the world” weather that Malta is blessed with? Well yes, Malta does indeed have very hot summers and mild wet winters. The problem is that the vast majority of houses have zero insulation and in the winter months you can feel really uncomfortable due to the insane levels of humidity and cold inside. Although I always felt bad during the winters, reality really struck during my first experience of winter in the UK, when I realized that I was much happier in winter there than I had ever been in Malta. Like many other countries, buildings there are well insulated and have good heating, so you can stay in your flip-flops and shorts inside in winter. In Malta, I would be wearing jackets, long johns and a beanie and I’d still be uncomfortably cold.
One other big pain point: the roads. Malta’s road surfaces are among the worst in Europe and are more befitting of a third-world country than a country that presents itself as being a hub of innovation and being on par with its European counterparts. I once tried taking my Brompton bike to Malta to cycle around during our holiday but ended up walking back home after 200 meters. There are way too many potholes, bumps, and uneven road surfaces to be able to ride a bike like that comfortably without damaging it. Not to mention the challenge of staying alive when riding a bike in Malta.
Some of my friends have been severely injured due to irresponsible driving or bad road surfaces, and one of them even died by the roadside after being run over by a youngster driving without a license. I won’t even get started on the Maltese judiciary, but I’ll just mention that after eight years this man has not been sentenced yet. See here and here for more great examples of Maltese incompetency where justice is concerned.
A related aspect is the lack of good pavements. Unfortunately, Malta is not a walkable place at all. We grow up getting accustomed to getting out of our houses and into the car to get whisked to wherever we need to be. This leads to people exercising less and the resulting obesity issues. Malta has the highest child obesity rate in Europe, and Maltese adults are the second most obese in Europe. This fact is evident to me whenever I land in Malta and have a look around. I believe the walkability issue is a significant contributor to the problem. Owning a car is almost a necessity and gives you the independence to go wherever you want, while public transport is of average quality and mostly consists of buses and taxes (an underground metro system would be a game changer). Of course, we can all see with our own eyes that traffic has increased exponentially during the past twenty years, to the point that you are now guaranteed to get stuck in a traffic jam every time you go for a drive, at any time except during the night. Given that in general people tend to keep their cars far longer than the European average, we have a lot of pollution from vehicles and that affects everyone’s health.
Moreover, Maltese people in general tend to overeat, with typically huge portions being served in families, while fast food has gained in popularity. The famous mediterranean diet is not really present in Malta, instead people tend to consume large quantities of bread, junk food and pasta. Kids are given sweets abundantly. This is coupled with a sedentary lifestyle and other bad habits like smoking and alcohol consumption, and you get the resulting obesity situation. A visit to the country’s main hospital will also give a clear indication to where all this is leading to, with crowded waiting rooms filled with people who could clearly used a better diet instead of being given more pills.
Back to the lack of paving. In other countries, I got used to walking a lot, but in Malta it’s impossible to run any errands on foot except if you’re going around the corner from your house. Pavements seem to be an afterthought and come in all shapes and sizes. Some are tiled, some have rough surfaces, some are super narrow etc. What this also means is that we have a big problem with accessibility. One of the main highlights of my trips to Malta is spending time with my 93-year-old grandma, and I would love to be able to take her out for a walk while we chat about our lives. Alas, it’s pretty much impossible given the state of the pavements and the very close proximity of cars and trucks belching out fumes.
Lastly, let’s come back to the idyllic island thing one more time. During the past thirty years, there has been way too much indiscriminate development. Many ugly buildings were built and a good part of them were built in areas that were meant to remain in their natural state. The result is an overexploited island where very few green areas remain. As a kid, I used to go out and play soccer with my friends in the fields nearby. This was commonplace wherever you lived in Malta. Nowadays there is no chance that kids would be able to do that.
A Times of Malta showing illustrating over development in Sliema and St. Julian’s.
Everything’s been built up, and as I said, it’s been one huge land rush with developers making big money while they exploited every inch of the island. Of course, this constant development has also brought with it a lot of air and noise pollution, apart from visual eyesores. We are now seeing an increasingly high rate of respiratory diseases, and frequent complaints about noise due to construction. Gozo, the other island, is currently at a very nice balance between nature and man-made buildings, but I’m afraid that the developers will turn their greedy eyes there next.
Over exploitation (umbrella rentals) of one Malta’s iconic spots – Blue Lagoon
How about the famous Smart City? Rather than attracting all the big IT companies and making Malta another silicon valley, as was originally promised, it’s been sitting there mostly empty. Moreover, it seems likely that it will soon be turned into another luxury apartment complex. This land had been given to the Smart City developers on the condition that it will be used for ICT purposes, but it seems that the new fashion is to completely disregard such contracts. Real estate agents are already selling apartments on plan even though it is still technically an IT office center and there are absolutely no building plans in place to turn it into an apartment complex. Something similar happened just last year with the former ITS complex in Pembroke. Such free-for-all practices are very common when it comes to building and development.
It’s not only big developers who are the problem though. Many individuals have also constructed illegally while the authorities have turned a blind eye. There is a whole village of illegal properties in Armier bay, and no political party has done anything to remove them over many years.
Armier bay illegal construction.
To make matters worse, much of the remaining countryside is taken up by hunters who occupy whole swaths of land. Yes, in Malta bird hunting is a very popular pastime, and incredibly just a few years ago a referendum to ban this barbaric practice in spring failed to get a majority backing. Any walk in the countryside is sure to be accompanied by the sounds of guns as the hunters try their best to blast every bird out of the sky.
A protected bird illegally shot down in Malta.
No wonder you will hardly see any birds in Malta. Illegal hunting is a widespread and serious problem, with poachers specifically targeting raptors (birds of prey) and Herons as well as rare migratory birds such as the Greater Flamingo, Black Stork and Eurasian Spoonbill, among others. Moreover, as I mentioned, hunters occupy a lot of public lands and block off access to hikers, mountain bikers and the regular folk who are out to enjoy a bit of countryside.
In line with the selfish nature so prevalent in Malta (a so-called Catholic country), we find the issue of smoking. Smoking was banned in enclosed public places and workplaces in Malta on July 1, 2004, with the implementation of the “Protection of Non-Smokers Health Regulations.” This ban was extended to include bars and restaurants in 2005, and in 2018, Malta introduced a comprehensive smoking ban that prohibited smoking in all public places, including outdoor areas like beaches and parks. The ban also prohibited smoking in private vehicles when children under the age of 18 are present. The implementation of the smoking ban in Malta has been enforced in restaurants and offices, which arguably already had arrangements for smokers before the ban, but it is a miserable failure when it comes to clubs and many bars. If you don’t believe me, go have a look for yourself, pick any club and you will most likely see the bouncers, DJ and other people in management smoking, so it is little wonder that patrons also feel at liberty to smoke. The ban in outdoor areas is another complete joke, again just visit any park and beach and see for yourself. As a health-conscious non-smoker, I find this to be another prime example of the selfishness and short-term thinking of the Maltese.
Sometimes people will challenge me by posing the question: “If Malta is so bad, why do so many foreigners fall in love with Malta and want to live here?”. I think that’s a very interesting question that merits delving into.
First of all, Malta is a very very unique place, for many reasons. It has a rich and varied history having been under the rule of several nations and cultures. Its size and geography is also unique, as is the fact that Maltese people have their own language. I can definitely see how these exotic qualities can be such a strong attraction for foreigners.
They would have never have experienced such an environment before, especially if they come from a big city/country where things are much more impersonal. Landing in Malta you tend to feel very welcome as people are very friendly and ready to help out, it feels like everybody treats you like family. This leads to foreigners saying hey, this is an awesome place to live in. Back home I’m just a number and nobody cares about anyone, but here everybody is so involved in each other’s lives, this is something special! I totally see why a foreigner would feel like this. I myself sometimes wish I were a foreigner so I could feel that way. If you don’t speak Maltese there is a better chance of insulating yourself from the daily gossip and mannerisms that end up getting on one’s nerves.
Here’s the thing though. While I acknowledge that some foreigners do move to Malta, love it and enjoy living there for many years, many others try the experience and leave after 3-4 years because they just can’t take the way things are done there. It’s one thing living a life of work-beach-party (Malta is the best place for that) and quite another when you decide to settle down, start dealing with the authorities, buy a house and try to get contractors to deliver quality work, etc etc.
People who are used to not having to struggle to get simple things done will start to get pissed off at how much time they’re spending dealing with seemingly innocuous tasks, and eventually end up leaving the island. Of course, the passage of time also amplifies the feeling of living in a very small place that acts like an echo chamber and innovation is stifled by the local way of life and culture, and that can also lead to one deciding to leave and live in a more open environment.
I guess I’ve written more than I meant to, the reality is that I really struggle to put my feelings into words, and that is why I don’t frequently share my thoughts on the subject. I prefer to focus on the positive things I have in my life rather than acting all pessimistic. My feelings about Malta at the end of the day are genuine sadness for what was once really an idyllic place that has been destroyed over the years. I would love to say that I hope to one day return, but I really can’t see how the culture can change and the harm due to construction undone.
P.S. While in this post I focused on the negative things about Malta that led me to leave, there is, of course, the flip side. There are many great things about Malta, and I do still think that it is a very good place for digital nomads to spend some time in.
2019 Update
It’s been more than two years since I wrote this post, and I’ve interacted with many people about the subject both in the comments section as well as over email exchanges. Unfortunately, not only has the situation in Malta not become any better since I wrote this, but things took a nasty turn for the worse.
The obvious big news item was the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in 2018, followed by several scandals in the political scene. During the last few months of 2019 we’ve seen Malta in the worldwide news for all the wrong reasons, with several top members of the governing party being forced to resign due to their misdeeds and connections to the murder.
As we close off the year, prime minister Joseph Muscat has been named ‘Person of the Year’ for organised crime and corruption by a consortium of investigative journalists.
It was a busy 12 months in the world of organized crime and corruption. But without further ado, here is our 2019 Person of the Year: https://t.co/oDVXs9EZYI#occrpaward #CorruptActor2019
— Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (@OCCRP) December 27, 2019
Dr Muscat joins a list of previous winners of the OCCPR’s yearly prize that includes strongmen such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijan’s Ilhan Aliyev, Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro and the Philippines’ Rodrigo Duterte.
“Under Muscat’s leadership, criminality and corruption have flourished — and in many cases gone unpunished,” the OCCPR said.
The organisation highlighted the way Dr Muscat had acted throughout the investigation into the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
I had intentionally avoided politicising things with my original post, as I don’t consider myself a supporter of a particular party in Malta, but things have really gone to new extremes with the Labour party in government led by Dr Muscat in recent years.
Not only have things become worse in Malta, but the country’s reputation overseas is at an all-time low due to this government’s shenanigans.
What is quite impressive to me is that the Maltese population by and large has been quite passive during this whole debacle. Not to mention that probably around half of the population still doesn’t think that anything irregular has taken place in the past few years, as you can witness if you open any article on local newspapers reporting cases of corruption. The kind of brainwashing on display is at least on par with what you would expect from people in communist countries with no access to outside information. To see people defending the prime minister and his cronies while hurling abuse at any detractors, Maltese or foreign, is just sad.
One would hope that the Maltese will choose better people in leadership, independently of which party they’re from, and avoid further damage to the country. It’s worth keeping in mind that right now, the Maltese economy seems to be doing very well, however I am of the opinion that this boom has not been very organic nor is it built on solid ground.
If we take an honest look at the last 15 years of growth in the Maltese economy, we would find that the big driver has been an artificially favorable tax system designed to attract foreign companies to relocate their business in Malta and thus gain huge tax benefits. That drove an influx of foreigners needed to staff the relocated companies (most of them online gaming companies), which in turn drove up property prices and helped build an impressive financial industry to service these aforementioned companies. If one of these pillars were to be affected by the scandals rocking the political scene, all the pieces will fall like dominoes causing a serious crisis in Malta.
Taking the Decision
Over the years since I’ve written this post, I’ve received many emails from (mostly young) people who identify with my feelings and are struggling with taking the decision.
I want to make it clear that while we live in an era where travel is very easy and affordable, uprooting yourself and moving to another country is still a significant psychological and logistical challenge for most people.
Here’s a copy of an email reply I sent to a person who reached out to ask for advice on how to approach the decision. I hope it can be of help to others in the same stage of their lives.
Every person who decides to leave their home country will have the fears and worries that you mention, that is perfectly normal.I had the same concerns myself when I was in the same situation. What I did was to sit down in a quiet place for an hour or so, take a pen and two sheets of paper. On one list the pros and the other the cons about moving. Take your time and let your heart and mind both outpour onto those two pages. When you’re done, you should have a clearer picture of what you should do. If it’s still not clear, assign a rating of 1-5 or 1-10 next to each point that you list, with 1 being of least importance and 10 being essential for you. Then add the scores up and hopefully one should be significantly higher than the other.Know that you can’t control what you’ll find on the other side, but you owe it to yourself to at least seek a betterment of your situation if that’s what you need to do.I have yet to come across anyone who regretted leaving a negative environment that bothered them (job, country, etc) but I have met plenty of older people who have significant regrets about not taking a chance on a better future when they were younger.
Further Reading
- Bloomberg – Why the EU is furious with Malta – covers problems that I mentioned in the post and other big issues that surfaced in the past year since I’ve written this post.
- Only in Malta – Facebook group showcasing daily unbelievable occurrences in Malta
- Malta New Reality – More shenanigans in Malta
- The Shift – Daily updates on scandals and corruption in Malta
- 70% of Malta’s young people wish to leave.
Glad you managed to get away from an island which i loved and now call hellhole.
Thanks for your comment.
Thank you Jean for this post. Really! I’m foreign (living in Malta for the past 5 years), which means that for health and safety reasons, I have to keep my honest opinion for myself….
For me one more very important issue is the attitudes in Malta. It’s more than once that I have experienced a bad or fairly bad service in Malta, taking from restaurants to hair dressers and small or bigger shops. Even worse, in most occasions, people I’m being served by, think they are doing an amazing job.
Once I was also told (by a Maltese!!!) that Maltese people do not expect anything better here (meaning a better way of serving customers) even to the extend of mentioning their education or the size of Malta, which is totally irrelevant. They treat people as if they are stupid and ignorant. How sad! Checking your watch if it’s soon closing time, rolling your eyes because a customer “disturbs” your peace and quietness, is just not (or should not be) acceptable.
Poor attitudes and service can happen (as everywhere in the world) but this should not be the norm. Unfortunately though, most Maltese accept this situation and “attack” you when you would like to point a word for improvement. As long as I live in Malta, I consider it my country too. I have my house here, my job, my husband, my friends… I want to see Malta improving. …But unfortunately for most I’m another “bloody stupid foreigner who wants to tell us who we run OUR country”….
I think your comment “which means that for health and safety reasons, I have to keep my honest opinion for myself….” says an awful lot about Malta. It’s not what you know, but who you know….and this is what is destroying the countryside, the towns and the iconic nature of Malta , all for profit.
Hi Mar, thanks for commenting and I’m sorry you had to go through those experiences. Foreigners in Malta can really help by bringing in fresh ideas and ways of doing things. However, a willingness to change and improve must be in place first.
I have just found your blog, sorry! I am a Brit, who has lived in Toronto and now in Malta for the past 9 years.
I totally agree with comments, and looking at moving back to the UK soon. (just got to decide where to go)
Since Brexit, I have been pushed, spat at and told the normal to get back to the UK. This to the extent I limit going out. I feel sad as I have 2 businesses here in Malta that I will take with me and employ 30 Maltese staff.
Sorry to hear that Sue. I am curious to know why Brexit would have triggered such behavior though. I was not aware of such Brexit-related aggression in Malta.
Hi Jean, Re: Brexit. Unfortunatly someone high up in the government made a statement. I do think he was trying to joke and said once the result was out “Britain is now our enemy”. Then some had been informed that Malta is going to be worse off now as funds won’t be coming in from the EU. Which is true.. I understand that Malta has gained greatly from the EU funding. I then went to a meeting with regards IT project funding 3-4 weeks after the vote. Someone put the partnership applications that involved British companies at the bottom. I asked why as they haven’t left yet and are still paying in and that isn’t right. Response was they can do what they wish. I told them I wouldn’t be involved and walked out of the room. Perhaps I should have tried to change from within, but I could see the faces of the people in the meeting. Not friendly. In a restaurant I was told that if I can’t speak Maltese enough to understand the menu then get out. I asked someone directions and he spat at me. In the shops I was talking with a couple who happened to be German, they asked me where an item was in the shop. As I was directing them I was pushed from behind into the couple, and the poor German guy fell back. He asked the woman why she had pushed me and she told him, typical English woman. I thought it would get better but unforunatly it hasn’t. Even talking with another English couple that have children and own a business are selling up and going. What a shame, I loved Malta. Sue
Wow, I’m sorry to hear about these incidents Sue.
I don’t want to give the impression that all are like this as they aren’t! I have some great Maltese friends whom I will miss. Although one of those is now ready to move out of Malta with her husband and children. What really got me about the meeting with the funding was you are meant to have 3 partners to put in for it. The ones that put the British companies at the bottom was the university. What are they teaching? I will always have some really warm thoughts about Malta. It has given me a lot.
I’m almost sad to say I agree with you on damn near everything Jean. Still sticking it out here for now, but every day that passes, every horrific ‘planning’ ruling allowed onto virgin land, every new scandal of impropriety, corruption, or general incompetence, and I start thinking, “Hmm, maybe it’s time I move Systemato, my girlfriend, and my dog to some faraway farm in Spain somewhere.”
Thanks for commenting Mark. With the flexibility that your job affords, I would definitely recommend trying out another place, there’s not much to lose really.
Mark, we have a great place in France perfect for you, your girlfriend and of course the dogs.
From my side, there are aspects of Malta that I really enjoy, but I really hate the way they design and build… No planning, often no style and certainly not suitable for the climate. The list could go on and on, but I will refrain from my rant, as being someone who cares about the future is twice as bad as being a foreigner here.
Dear Jean, I have read your article with great interest. I share so many of your feelings, and I must say that for a long time I have felt and still feel, as a foreigner in my home country. I have been living abroad since 2001, and I visit often. I must say that with every visit, I feel saddened, because I feel that the things which made me choose to leave are on the increase. Ugly and wreckless contruction, increasing traffic and “whatever” attitude which you so very well described are amongst some of the factors which made me leave and which make it very hard for me to imagine to ever come back in the near future. What saddens me in particular is the destruction of the environment which would have so much potential. Some years ago I paid a visit to the Greek islands – what a shocking difference! The blend of beautiful buildings in the environment made me think to myself “so that’s how it should be!”. I will not even begin to write about the possibility or professional advancement outside some of the areas that you mentioned. I too am grateful for all that Malta has given me and for this reason it is not possible for me not to feel saddened by seeing what direction it is going in.
Amazing how you compare Malta to the Greek Islands. Take Santorini for example. Winter population of 2000. Solely dependent on tourism. No industry. Part of Greece. Malta, 436,000 year round population plus 2.2 million tourists. Ha sto support population through various industries. No comparison. Others compare us to UK, USA and Australia. Great comparison!!!
I hear you Edward, sad indeed.
Excellent article, to the point and very honest.
Thanks Vinny, it was a hard thing to be completely honest with myself and write down the real feelings that made me leave an island that I love.
Spot on and we’ll written. I agree and relate 100%. Did the same thing 5 years ago and moved to Asia now living in Bangkok and I have no intention of going back.
Thanks Martin, I spent some time living in Asia, mostly in Thailand, it’s a beautiful place. Glad you found your ideal place to live.
What i think about my birthplace is perfectly summoned up in one article. I do agree Malta was once an idyllic place, however its been long destroyed due to the lack of planning,discipline, greedy contractors and politicians . We have ‘authorities’ just for the sake of having them. Maltese are forever doomed in believing false statistics saying Malta is one of the most beautiful and the ‘ideal’ country(rock) to live in. An island scarred with grey concrete buildings, no open spaces, no parks, no pathways, no culture, no love for the arts in general etc etc No use in complaining, if I had the means I would have left a long time ago. For the years coming I will make it my goal to do so.
Thanks for your comment Jessica. Good point with regard to false statistics and surveys. I find them ridiculous and harmful. Instead of banding together to bring positive change, most Maltese prefer to refer to a doubtful survey saying they are the happiest in the world and bask in the glory. Of course, they are quick to forget real statistics like those pointing out that the obesity rate in Malta is the highest in Europe.
I agree 100 per cent in all that you said. I am very happy living in Uk. Since 1967. Yes I go back every year to visit family and that is it.
Hi Jean…great points you raise, a lot of what you wrote is so true and may encourage me to write some of my experiences. Jealousy and lack of respect is a big issue and coupled up with the phenomen of crowding it becomes something else! I left 14 years ago now and a core experience for me was the realisation that I would have to speak to an influential being to obtain career opportunities, my degrees and work experience was meaningless. I was not wanting to do this…so I left. Abroad I have always got the professional respect I deserve based on the hard work I’ve done and not depending on a contact. I seek to support young people in the same way and that is what I like about living in the UK.
Agreed Louise, many things revolve around personal recommendations and knowing the right people. That’s unfortunate as people with talent but no political leanings or important connections don’t get the chance to help bring change to the country.
It’s hard to disagree with any of your points but I wanted to share this particular experience. When we came to Malta 11 years ago, my husband was, at that time, one of the most experienced environmental experts in Europe. He had been the Health, Safety and Environmental Director responsible for those functions in an international company of 93,000 people. He then became the CEO of a UK Government body disseminating experience in the remediation of contaminated land and groundwater. In addition, he had drafted legislation for the EU and guidelines for the Offshore Oil industry and a major gas utility.
On arrival in Malta, he offered his expertise to the Government at no cost. And guess what! Thank you but no thank you.
I’m afraid concern for the environment is only given lip service by the local authorities.
Malta is no tax haven anymore than London, Dublin, Cyprus, Amsterdam or Belgium are, otherwise its spot one, Jean – my thoughts exactly.
Thanks for your comments Ray, agreed re tax havens.
I am sure you will be followed by many, soon.
Well said. Please allow me to add one more gripe to the list…. apart from the “experiencing some kind of ignorance”, you are also very likely to bump into some self-proclaimed expert, whose credentials are usually limited to having read a couple of wikipedia entries, at best. And the worst part is? The majority of the population will gladly follow his/her advice if he shouts loud enough or sings through the right channels. So much for professionalism….
Thanks for your comment Liana, that’s another common one.
I have been living in Malta for the past 19 years and I have also become frustrated with all the things you have mentioned. I never thought I would leave Malta, I can’t even think of where I would go, but I don’t know how much longer I can stay sane here. The number one thing that bothers me is that without fail, every time I leave my home I am guaranteed to bump into someone doing something stupid, illegal, or selfish and it’s getting harder and harder to deal with.
Great article, very honest.
Hi Char, thanks for commenting. For those who are sensitive enough to what’s happening around them, it can truly be very tough to see and experience stupid/illegal/selfish behavior on a daily basis.
While I have not yet been to Malta, and I still feel I should fix that, I appreciate how you shed light on the potential shadows of living on a “paradise” sort of remote island.
It’s easy, maybe in particular for us “continental” people, to dream up a way of life that in reality just doesn’t exist.
Aside from enjoying a very well written piece, your post helped me putting my own ideas about moving to some remote place “some day” into perspective with first-hand experience of a local who’s been there.
Feeling lost in paradise must be truly frustrating. I’m glad to see you do well for yourself. 🙂
Paradise doesn’t exist anymore…..however it did in the past!
When I arrived some 26 years ago, I thought that I had found it:
Life was easy going, the Maltese extremely helpful and caring – whether they knew you or not. I raised my children, always pointing out with pride how safe Malta was and how caring the Maltese are. I admired their life style of being happy and enjoying their life with very little. They were happy with a fresh hobza, a can of tuna, some fresh tomatoes and a bottle of wine, having a party with family members and friends at the beaches.
However, unfortunately I feel that things have changed tremendously and – when reading Jean’s thoughts – I couldn’t agree more.
To me it seems that greed, competition, ignorance, a dangerously increasing racism and a general bully behaviour finally made it to the Maltese shores, took over and are about to destroy almost everything I used to love about the Maltese Islands.
I was in tears when I read in the news that some culprits destroyed a large part of Mnajdra temples. I was shocked when the front door of a friend of mine, who publicly asked for some understanding for the boat people, was purposely set on fire with tires and petrol. I was ashamed when friends of mine visited Malta by cruise liner and asked me about all the garbage that is lying around everywhere in Valletta because the city is lacking public dustbins, I was speechless when the results of the last referendum about hunting were published, frustrated to read that some company yet again is disposing waste into the sea…let me stop here, as the list has become too long!
As and when you dare to have an opinion and open your mouth you will surely get the usual “Go back to your country, if you don’t like it here – you f..ing foreigner – we didn’t ask you to come!” comment in return at one point in time or another.
Well, this is what I am about to do: I am going back to my country!
I will cherish at least two decades of wonderful years in Malta in my memory and will surely miss my friends, the sun and the sea.
However, I am looking forward to birds singing in the trees, the smell of fresh mewed lawn, long walks or riding my bike in forests and the country side, appointments that are being kept, same prices – no matter what nationality you are, a healthy competition, better choices of vocational training for my children, a huge choice of cultural and musical events, historical buildings that are being constantly restored to its original glory, for future generations to enjoy and yes Jean, I am looking forward to a proper central heating system in winter – you bet I do!
So, thank you Jean for your honest words – they were a blessing – and wishing you the best of luck in the UK.
Hi Carola, you brought back some great memories from when I was a young kid. Beach days, tuna, tomatoes, truly I can’t complain about growing up in Malta.
Things did really change though as you rightly describe. To make matters worse Malta has become more crowded, with more traffic, more ugly buildings and less greenery. No doubt this has amplified the negative things that were already in place.
May I ask where you are from? That description is very enticing!
P.S. I don’t live in the UK.
I am from Germany
Thanks Carola, best of luck with the move!
Liebe Carola… I lived in Malta for 28 years..tried Germany (for one year).. was not for me..so I chose to go..as far as Australia.. I love the Sunshine and Blue Sea the Mountains the Bush Forests Birds the Vastness and versatility ..you name it..That is why I been here for the past 42 years never to be back to Malta or Northern Europe for that matter.
Tschuss
Raymond
Thanks for your comment Caspar, and I’m glad my post provided some perspective.
You should definitely visit Malta, I’m sure you would have a great time there. Hit me up whenever you make plans and I’ll be happy to share a few tips 🙂
Unfortunately true. Well written
Thanks for commenting Keith.
I totally agree with what you are saying and I do not feel the need to live in Malta as well. I have heard so many people mentioning the usual things that should attract one to Malta that frankly they do not compensate for the lack of avenues or the immaturity present in the country. I think that from an artistic point of view Malta is very slowly emerging however as you very well mention, the stifling environment, the lack of professionalism and the political influences kill a lot of what is good or that which can improve.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Karina, appreciate that.
Could not agree more than this. It is becoming an ungovernable country due to the laissez-faire attitude which permeates this country. Things which are illegal are being turned legal. I am no fan of politicians (on either side) but it is getting thoroughly worse. Environmentally it is now a nightmare as more and more concrete is poured into the little countryside which is left and garbage accumulates in the rural areas dumped by people who are too ignorant or who don’t care. Any criticism is usually met with “why don’t you leave?” Seriously considering it too!
Agreed Ray, thanks for sharing your thoughts. It’s hard to criticise constructively without being attacked and invited to leave if you don’t like it.
Spot on Jean. I couldn’t agree anymore. The sad truth is that things won’t change, they’ll just get worse because the problem is coming from the authorities.
As long as the authorities keep their everything goes attitude, the generic public will follow. To give you another example of how much we don’t care about one another, when I used to jog in the “Maltese countryside”, drivers preferred to squeeze me against the wall (and sometimes being hit by a mirror, fell and almost run over) rather then slowing down for two seconds to let the oncoming car pass. And this is not a one off case, this used to happen a handful of times every morning. And what frustrates me most is when you tell the “typical Maltese” about this, instead of understanding you get the typical “u ija” how pessimistic, don’t go running.
So Malta might have the sun and the beaches, but you have to pay the expensive price of dealing with all those negatives to enjoy them, if you can get to enjoy them.
So yes, as much as I miss my family and friends, I’m much better off abroad and visiting Malta once a year, as a holiday destination. I’m much better off meeting people who are doing things in a different and most times better than me and challenging myself, and focus on what I do than having to deal with all of that.
My 2c.
Thanks for your comments Robert, I really appreciate that. We first met when you were still living in Malta, and it’s been interesting following your own journey. You not only left Malta but also left a stable job and had the courage to start off from scratch in building your own business while also having two beautiful kids. Huge respect mate.
As a cyclist myself, I can share your frustration about driving practices. I have had similar experiences while out on my bike. When my then-girlfriend and future wife moved to Malta she got her bicycle with her, but only used it once before swearing not to ever threaten her life like that again. Sometimes it takes a foreigner to open our eyes about how abnormal things that we consider routine really are.
With regard to your last point, I’m in full agreement. It’s hard to challenge people and get challenged yourself when living in a small island unfortunately. It’s much easier done in big cities abroad. I’m sure it also has something to do with the culture itself rather than just the size of the island.
Thanks mate 🙂 yes once you start travelling you start realising that what’s normal and “acceptable” in Malta is grudged upon abroad.
P.S. my wife banned me from cycling or jogging when in Malta. Had my fair share of accidents but was lucky. Not tempted to try my luck anymore.
👌👏 great article Jean! Well done for your blog I love reading your articles! Love this part in your post “to experience some kind of ignorance” usually as soon as I land! Once I heard a taxi driver commenting about me to his colleague that I could be charged more since I looked like a foreigner. Of course I was understanding everything in Maltese!
hehe indeed. I always say… “if I want to remind myself why I decided to move away, I just need to go back for 1 week”. Joking aside, it is indeed a different way of living. Whether it’s for us or not, it depends on the personality.
Thanks Annalise! That is indeed hilarious.
I live in Malta and to be honest my mouth droped while reading your article cause there’s so much truth,something that we have to read about to realise…..guess the young generation need to shake and wake up before it’s too late!
Glad to hear the article rang true, it would be great if the young generation manages to turn the tide around, but there needs to be the right environment for that to happen.
As a Maltese expat myself, I can relate to most of the points you make. However, something I learnt in the past 4 years I have been out of the country is that people still living in Malta are quite touchy when somebody now living abroad comments on their lifestyle. It is OK for a fellow citizen to comment, but it’s not OK for somebody who left to pass judgement. So, when in Malta, I try to dial down the criticism as much as possible, even though it’s not easy to do.
Before commenting on the specifics of your article in a separate post, I will try and give you a different perspective on how to look at things. We have lived in Malta for 20 years+. We know all the little things there is to know about our country. Since our childhood was spent in Malta, we have Malta in our bones.
To make a fair comparison, you need to live an equivalent number of years in one specific area of one specific country. OK, granted, there are some things that are immediately evident … but some other aspects are not so evident. Of course, this also applies for foreigners coming to live in Malta. Same reasoning.
Second more general point, it depends on what the individual is looking for in life. Malta has its strong points in certain areas, while other countries might have strong points in other areas. It’s a matter of perspective. I have friends that would never move out of the country, even though they acknowledge most of the specific points you mentioned.
Last point, whether we like it or not, we will always be bound to Malta, and the more the years pass, there will always be a part of us that will have the temptation to go back home… ‘The Calling’ if you will.
Some comments on the specifics of your article:
– Malta is indeed a tax haven, and I am not talking about company taxation. I am referring to the amount of taxes the common man-in-the-street pays. No property tax, no waste collection tax, incredibly low income tax, incredibly low inheritance tax, incredibly low government/local council services fees. And I will not even go into the social services such as free healthcare (that we take for granted), free education up to tertiary level, free childcare, etc etc
An upper-middle-class couple with 2-3 kids can EASILY save upwards of €1 million euros throughout their lifetime then if they lived in some other European countries. Granted, salaries might be different, but I can assure you that Maltese are still better off.
No big comments on hunting. One small comment on construction. The problem with Maltese construction is the ugliness of the buildings we build. I am all in favour of progress and development, but Maltese apparently do not know the meaning of squares, plazas, public spaces, fountains, and parks. Spatial planning is the problem, not construction per se.
The roads … well … it’s difficult to start from scratch. I must say that the main arterial roads in Malta are quite OK now. The problem lies with the internal roads in the towns and villages. Yes, but the solution is to destroy them all and build them all again. Which apparently seems to be the plan … an ambitious one if you ask me. But on this one (I think) we are moving in the right direction.
… and please… get rid of those unsightly electricity/Go/Melita/Vodafone wires on our facades.
Totally agree. I too had the calling after 20 years in the UK. With all the valid points that Jean raised, I have no regrets or wish to leave Malta again.
Thanks for your well thought out comments Christian. With regard to the financial aspect, I have also found that living abroad really makes you think on a bigger scale and that can help you make much more money than back in Malta. What you say about various taxes like wealth and property tax being non-existent in Malta is true, but I still think that an ambitious and hard working person will probably become wealthier abroad due to the better opportunities and bigger thinking.
Outside Malta, there are certainly more opportunities for ambitious and hard-working people. I don’t know if this always equates to being better off in the long run. for some people, definitely yes. for others … I don’t know.
Free healthcare doesn’t mean good and efficient. A friend in May 2018 booked a gastroscopy at the Mater Day and the first free date was March 2020, so it is free but you can die waiting.
From the other hand a great things is the new free school bus service to decrease the traffic.
All countries have theirs pros and co but, I never saw a population treats so bad the biggest income source for Malta are: expatriates, foreigners companies and tourists, whom can decide to move in another place in a second since they are not Maltase.
I have many things to write, nice and bad, about Malta, but I had too many people told me to go home so I decided to stay here if the balance between “good” and “bad” is on “good’ and to go to another place when the balance will be on “bad”.
🙂
Well written Jean. Hit the nail on the head on several issues. While the current “bullish” economic outlook is allowing some degree of social mobility, I highly doubt this is sustainable. Especially due to the fact this is fuelled by construction of everything everywhere. Will adds to the “frustration”, long-term I’m afraid.
Thanks Josvic. The construction boom will come to an inevitable end due to lack of space, unless things switch heavily to Gozo, which would be an even bigger shame.
Dear Jean,
I would like to thank you for the letter you wrote about leaving Malta. You have no idea what a relief it is to know that i am not the only person in Malta that feels the exact same way as you do. I’m in the catering industry and work as a chef and 3 years ago i decided to work in the UK with my wife and ended up as a Head Chef for one of Jamie Oliver’s restaurants in Scotland then as Head Chef/Relief Chef for Las Iguanas. We had to return back to Malta due to the birth of my son as my wife and I decided it would be best for our son to have his family to grow up with. Having been here for 3 months now i can’t believe how far away we are to be at the same level as in the Uk, be it customer service, general up keeping of roads buildings, health and safety, road rules, health care from GP’s and Hospitals, free local council support and much more. As you mentioned there is a high level of “ignorance” all around the island that i can’t escape from. From the moment i leave our house, on the bus, walking to work, at work, going shopping to Smart, driving in the car witnessing all sorts of illegal moves on the road and dining in any restaurant i cannot but help compare to the uk and thinking how on earth as a country do we thrive with the immature, irresponsible, unprofessional mentality the general Maltese population suffers from. Sometimes i feel like my brain cells are slowly dying from the childish and ignorant conversations i hear from people. Oh how i miss having an intelligent conversation with an open minded person like i used to in the UK. Im sorry that this sounds as a rant but i feel that you understand what i am currently feeling as i made a big mistake in voicing my opinion and thoughts at my current work place and nearly ended up losing my job as i was “unpatriotic ” and a very negative influence on the Maltese . Also other people said that i should leave and never come back again. That’s great , instead of listening to different views and opinions to improve, just get rid of people who Malta would benefit from. Once again thank you for the letter you wrote, it has restored back some sanity in my life as i am slowly losing it back here on the rock. James Rizzo
You are amazing . Your comment was also amazing. I hope you’ve found direction since writing this, sounds like your a gold fish swimming in a bowl WAY too small for you!!!
And I am sorry ?? But you worked as a Michelin star chef ? And you are back in Malta ? You poor man, my heart hurts for you. The level of pain your confidence is feeling must be painful. I was simply a barber charging 50$ in Toronto and moved to Malta to live the “ dream” for two years, I’m further in debt then I’ve ever been. Trying to survive on 10€ haircuts from ungrateful pricks who won’t even tip 1 € !!!! I used to cut the assistant GM for the Toronto maple leafs hair and the GM for the Toronto raptors hair!! Who all gratefully tipped 20$ all day long!
I thought that hurt..was a kick in the Balls… but I am happy to see others have felt my similar pain. I’ve since moved back to the wonderful land of Canada where people are kind and say thank you and hold the doors and don’t stare at you like your an alien or nearly run you down while you walking !! One time on my first outing walking to work in sliema I almost got smashed at a bleeding cross walk and I shouted are you trying to kill someone and you want to know what this dirty prick said ? Ya you!!!! As if!! Go burn in hell where you came from!! Only a demon would talk like that! Despicable !
“If I were to describe Malta in one word, it would be frustrating” 👏
I love Malta, which is precisely why I can’t stand the current situation you described, along with the decline of the institutions that are supposed to be looking out for us.
Agreed, it’s sad that the people who really love the Maltese islands are ignored or silenced, while the ones who only care about personal gain are allowed to run rampage and exploit whatever they can.
Excellent comment Jean
Absolutely! I love my country so very much but seeing what’s happening and the general attitude, I’m hating living here even more every day.
That’s my feeling exactky. Seeing the country I love, deteriorating in every aspect of life, makes me too sad – and frustrated cos I cannot do anything
Thanks for sharing your feelings Myriam. It is very frustrating indeed.
I am one of the foreigners who left. I totally agree.
Thanks for sharing your comment as an expat Marcos, hope things are great in Spain.
Spain is by far a much much better place… An ideal place for the likes of us. Yet I am quite happy where I am.
Very much in agreement that Malta continues to be exploited by the many, not only the few. Growing up in Malta shows you a different side to the island than what is portrayed to the world.
It is beautiful in many areas, it is an awesome place to visit, great for partying and relaxing if you choose the right places to go, and the history is amazing.
But one cannot mistake local pride for arrogance. There is too much bullying going on all over the place – one would rather do what is considered wrong and sort out the illegalities/problems after, than spend more time (and maybe money) to do things the right way.
Thanks for your comment Mark. The issue of pride/arrogance is a good point. Yes, Malta has a very colourful and interesting history, but let’s not forget that the generations of today are creating what will be tomorrow’s history. What kind of history will our descendants be recounting? Will they be proud of what we are doing now to our country?
I share so many of your thoughts, I feel like I could have wrote this…
I am currently trying my luck with my gf in Taiwan. Doing Masters here and hopefully find a job here some time next year… if not, well… I might have to do what I don’t wish to do and go back… as it’s very difficult finding a job here at the moment…
I’m surprised you didn’t write about how people tell you to get the hell out of the country whenever you criticize it… they don’t only say this to foreigners/tourists who are a major part of the Maltese economy but to their own Maltese brethren… sad…
Wish you luck wherever you are…
Thanks Julian, wish you the best of luck in Taiwan, it sounds like an awesome experience. I’m not sure what area of work you’re in, but keep in mind that a lot of work can now be done online, giving you total freedom to choose your location.
With regard to your second point, this is also very true. One of the biggest problems is that internal criticism is strongly censored and people who genuinely love their country and want to bring improvements to it keep getting silenced until they either shut up or leave and become successful elsewhere.
Once when I commented on the local politics (I don’t live in Malta) when visiting the island, I was BLUNTLY asked, ‘How do you know?’ With the same tone, but with a smile on my face, I replied, ‘The newspapers are not published just for you. I do happen to read.’ and walked away! They also say, ‘Ah you that live abroad, everything is nice and rosy there and here everything is bad and ugly.’ Excuse me! Well at least they admit! 🙂 Good day!
That’s a very common comment unfortunately, and Maltese who go and live abroad and dare to criticise when they are back are given nasty looks and comments.
Hahaha.. they could not get under my skin, firstly .. most of them are like sheep and speak in the same way they are brainwashed by their leaders .. so they are bound within certain parameters not logic. Secondly I do not carry a foreign accent , even though I been away for the past 42 years .. not only so, I speak OLD, Maltese not bastardised with the English language.. and the ones taking me on think I liove there. I was told many times to house the refugees in my home..I smile and say that I already have refugees living in my home!!!
Agreed.
Jean we miss you. But I agree with almost everything you said.
Thanks mate, I definitely miss my friends in Malta too. Extra paragraphs removed, thanks for pointing that out.
I can sympathise Jean. I’ve been here over 11 years now, and while I enjoy my life and Malta has been good to me overall, I am making plans to be elsewhere within 2 to 3 years. The hunters, developers and fish farmers have spoilt a lot of what Malta has to offer.
Thanks for your comments Andy, good to have the point of view of an expat too.
Totally agree…. hopefully will manage to do that step soon.
Thanks for commenting Andy, good luck with making your move.
Good luck Andy! I totally agree with the article, from my perspective is also 100% true.
My ADVISE.. is don’t go to the UK..it is also a Horrible Place.. I elft Malta for more than just the same reasons as Jean Galea..At that time we were not in the EU with the Liberty of leaving and coming and travelling anytime..there was a lot of Red Tape. I felt like a Sparrow in a cage!! So I left 42 YEARS AGO!!! The last time I been there was 2013 NEVER to return..Plenty much more beautiful Places to discover in Australia and Asia. The Racism in Malta today iks also another factor..And the Scenery now looks Horrible..it Hurts when I see the Destruction of once a beautiful island.
UK isn’t a ‘horrible place’ to all; I love the weather, history, humour, culture, natural eccentricity, music, Pubs, food & cups’ve Tea, the lack of venomous spiders / wildlife, volcanoes, typhoons, tornadoes, earthquakes & wars. I can travel affordably without a car to 100s of unique places – villages or cities, caves or castles or Churches. A variety of coastline – cliffs, dunes, deserted stretches of shore, picturesque coves. UK’s blessed to have the NHS & welfare state that’s survived neo-libs trying to dismantle it & beautiful older buildings that’ve survived ‘developers’ vandalising our towns – But some places are overcrowded; maybe you’re right not to encourage people to go there..
I wouldn’t encourage anyone to go anywhere in particular. Everyone has their own requirements. The one thing I recommend is traveling as much as possible and opening your mind to new cultures. Once you’ve traveled a lot you can easily find the place you like best and settle there.
Just the title is enough 😃 👏🏼
Jean you are 100% right in everyway possible. I was born in Malta. I left Malta in the late 80’s when things really went down hill.
I returned for a couple of years. Then left. This was done several times over. Been back 11 years. Not a day passes without regretting my return.
Your article is absolutely spot on! It’s an uphill battle everyday. I have become such a negative person.
Planning on the final move, really well done for taking the big step forward.