Living in Malta as a digital nomad
With various attractions, Malta is a perfect destination for digital nomads. You can relish excellent weather, indulge in outdoor activities and enjoy convenient and reasonably priced transportation. However, compared to other popular digital nomad destinations, Malta is relatively expensive, implying that one should be prepared to pay American rates while living in the country.
Throughout the year, Malta boasts sunny weather with temperatures averaging 20°C during the winter months. This idyllic climate offers the perfect setting for a variety of land and water-based leisure activities. Those who prefer land activities can explore the beaches, palaces, museums, churches, and other historical landmarks. Water enthusiasts can revel in the opportunity to snorkel, dive, or surf. Additionally, there are a plethora of eateries, ranging from restaurants to bistros and cafes, serving scrumptious cuisine that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
There are various transportation options available in Malta that cater to both those who prefer to share a ride and those who prefer to travel alone. These options include a fleet of buses, taxi services like Bolt and Ryde, as well as electric car-sharing with GoTo and electric scooter sharing.
Attractions and best places to visit
Don’t let work consume your entire trip to Malta as a digital nomad. Be sure to visit these incredible sites in Malta to balance work and play.
The town of Mdina, situated on a hilltop during the medieval period, has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mdina is an acknowledged UNESCO World Heritage site, distinguished for its primary entrance, streets that prohibit cars, and structures constructed of sandstone. It is recommended that you tour St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Palazzo Vilhena, which functions as the National Museum of Natural History, and the Palazzo Falcon Historic House Museum.
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Being included in the UNESCO World Heritage site list is attributed to its impressive archaeological significance. This burial ground, featuring three-tiered chambers made of limestone, served as a site for interment and oracle consultation. Among the various relics unearthed at this location, The Sleeping Lady and stone bird statues are on display at the National Museum of Archeology, located in Valletta.
The Tarxien Temples from the prehistoric era.
The Tarxien Temples, known for their captivating spiral structures, are a UNESCO heritage site featuring four megalithic structures that were utilized for animal sacrifice as evidenced by the presence of animal bones, killing tools, and altars.
The Island of Comino is home to the Blue Lagoon.
The beach provides an opportunity to swim or lay in the sun on white sandy shores with crystal clear water. The central area of the lagoon is blocked off to boats, meaning you can engage in your chosen activities without worrying about any disturbances from boats. For a more leisurely trip to the beach, chairs and umbrellas are available for hire.
The Blue Grotto, a sea cave on the coast of the island of Capri in Italy, retains its original name due to the blue reflection of sunlight on the water inside the cave.
Sea nymphs were said to inhabit the tranquil blue waters, captivating sailors. Out of the six caves accessible by traditional fishing boats called luzzus, the biggest one is the Blue Grotto. Its water is cobalt-colored and produces a shining blue glow.
Digital Nomad Hotspots
Valletta offers an abundance of cultural events and was bestowed the esteemed title of European Capital of Culture due to its vibrant cultural scene. It is well-known for its plethora of historical landmarks, including 28 churches, inns belonging to the Knights of St. John, fortresses, and national museums. For breathtaking views, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer a stunning vantage point overlooking the Three Cities, the Grand Harbour, and Fort St. Angelo. Several hotels are situated both within and just beyond the city walls.
Due to its wide variety of shopping opportunities, upscale and casual dining establishments, and lavish, top-of-the-line hotels, Sliema is considered the commercial hub of Malta. If you’re planning on relocating to this city, it’s important to note that its lodging options are typically geared towards individuals with a moderate to high budget. Despite this, Sliema is a preferred destination among digital nomads as it boasts excellent internet speed and a reputation for being very safe.
San Gwann boasts cheaper accommodation options and offers exciting historical and cultural landmarks to explore. During your trip to San Gwann, you’ll encounter the cart ruts, which served as transportation for the agricultural communities that farmed the region. Additionally, you’ll discover several chapels scattered throughout, with the most renowned being the cave chapel of San Leonardo, now called the Chapel of Annunciation. Other chapels are devoted to St. Philip and St. James.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Malta can be considered quite high, but it is relatively comparable to most Western European countries. To live comfortably, you should be prepared to spend at least $3000 per month, regardless of the area you reside in on the island. While the digital nomad centers of Sliema and St. Julian are slightly more expensive, there are more economical options in places such as San Gwann. Generally, the closer you reside to the center, the higher the cost. However, public transportation is relatively low-cost in Malta, with a 30-day bus pass costing only around $28.
Digital Nomad Essentials
The internet holds great significance for digital nomads, and Malta provides both broadband and mobile internet, with the possibility of 5G connectivity if required. Epic, Melita, and GO are among the various service providers available to choose from.
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