Services in Malta

Overview

When travelling to a foreign country one may find himself lost! This is why we would like you to have an insight of some general information about Malta in this section. One point to keep in mind is that, the Maltese are world-famous for their hospitality and warm welcome, so you will not have much to worry about.

Health

Medical care in Malta is available through both public and private hospitals and the quality of medical care in Malta is excellent. However we suggest that before you travel to the Maltese Islands, you take all the necessary measures ensuring all travellers are in good health and fit to Travel. Of course these are only recommendations and we suggest you consult your doctor for specific information related to your needs and your medical history, before you travel.

Currencies

Malta adopted the euro as its currency since 1st January 2008.

Exchange bureaus at Malta International Airport are open 24 hours a day.   Banks, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and exchange bureaus can be found all over the Islands where International bankcards are accepted and foreign currency can be easily exchanged. The majority of hotels, larger shops and restaurants also accept payment in the main international currencies.  Conversion charges may be applied where outlets opt to accept payment in currencies other than the euro.

Currency: The local currency is EURO since 1st of January 2008. Visa and MasterCard Credit Cards are accepted in most places.  The best rates of exchange are obtained at the banks.

Banks: Banks are open from:

Monday - Thursday: 0830 - 1200hrs
Friday: 0830 - 1600hrs
Saturday: 0830 - 1230hrs
Timings may differ depending on the bank – Please check at the bank in Malta.

Buses: The Maltese buses are orange in colour and a trip may cost between 30 cents and 80 cents.  One can easily see the numbers on the left hand side of the driver on the front window. Bus tickets may be bought beforehand from ticket booths at the bus terminus.

Water: Tap water may be used for brushing teeth etc. However, one recommends Mineral Water for drinking.

Electricity: 240volts, 50 Hz. 220V hairdryers, razors etc. can be used freely.  An adaptor with three pins can be obtained from the Hotel Reception or from souvenir shops.

Shops: Shops are generally open from Monday to Saturday from 0900 – 1300hrs and 1600 – 1900hrs and closed on a Sunday. In the touristic areas most shops remain open longer and are also open on a Sunday, and some public holidays.

Museums:  Open Monday – Sunday: 0830 -1700hrs, Closed on 24, 25 & 31 December, 1st January, and Good Friday.  As reference only as times may differ depending on the Museum.

Pharmacies: Opening hours are the same as shops from Monday to Saturday.  On Sunday a selected number of pharmacies are open form 0900 - 1200hrs.

Post:  Open:  Monday – Saturday: 0745 – 1230hrs (official timings however may vary)
We suggest that stamps are bought together with the postcards.  The post boxes are red in colour.

Taxis:  In Malta we have two types of taxis:  The white taxis are privately owned and are known to quite expensive so it is best to arrange a price with the driver prior to the transfer.  The black taxis belong to garages and are only on demand. For reliable arrival & departure transfers please make use of our online transfer facility.
    
Telephone:  Mobile phones work seamlessly so one may simply use their mobile phone to make calls; however, international roaming rates apply (check with your provider). Pay phones are also available in various locations.

Emergency: 112  Ambulance / Fire / Police
The Islands general hospital is Mater Dei Hospital situated in Birkirkara, Tel: (+356) 2545 0000

Malta Day By Day click the link below

http://issuu.com/chrisgrima/docs/july2012/3