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Today Malta is one of the most Catholic countries in the world; nowhere else are there so many religious holidays or so many churches per square mile. However, what makes Malta so interesting for a language course, is the legacy left behind by the British, who needed the island for its strategic value, well into the 1960s. Just as in all other former colonies, the judicial system and British administration have remained in place. English is an official and cultural language. The education system is very British and Maltese language schools are greatly respected throughout Europe.
The Maltese mentality is basically Mediteranean - a cool mixture of Arabic, Italian, Spanish and British. They drive on the left (like in Britain) and they insist on having a siesta (like in Arabic countries and Spain). Otherwise the Maltese are tolerant and open minded, interested in all cultures. |