Study English in Malta

There are several reasons for international students to follow an English language course in Malta, says Marta Sikora

When I decided to come to Malta for the first time, the main reason was to improve my English in order to pass the Toefl exam. I needed it for my postgraduate Legal studies in the USA. I looked for a school in different English-speaking countries. At the beginning, I was obviously interested in Great Britain but after some time I understood that I do not have enough money for a school there. So a friend of mine told me Malta is cheaper. It was true. My research has shown English schools in Malta to be two or three times cheaper than in England, USA or Australia.

This country is one of the most cost-effective language destinations in the English-speaking world. Students come here from a wide variety of nationalities. In spite of the dilemma that both English and Maltese languages are official languages in this country, I decided to go there. I booked my course at the English Language Academy, and with time it turned out to be a very wise choice.

English is spoken everywhere in Malta. Maltese people speak English fluently. They learn English since childhood and speak at home, at school, university, at work and even cafes and discos. It is an enjoyable place to learn and practise English, I could practise my new English skills during my stay in Malta not only at my language school but also while enjoying various leisure activities, sports and visiting many interesting historical places.

The Maltese archipelago consists of three main islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino. It is situated in the Mediterranean Sea, lying only 90 km to the south of Sicily and 290 km to the north of the African mainland. Malta with its sister islands is surrounded by crystal-clear waters. From the very moment I fell in love with this country. Malta is a beautiful island with a unique character. There are some places such as the fishing villages of Marsaxlokk and Marsascala, that present the more familiar characteristic of a Mediterranean island. Many lovely villages make this island unique and unforgettable.

Although Malta is a very small island its geographical position played an important role in historical events. The legacy of its long and rich history includes prehistoric ruins older than Stonehenge and the Pyramid of Giza. Other sites such as the cart-ruts dug in rocks one of equal age and sites visited by Paul (60 AD) attract many tourists and make it more attractive. There is plenty to see. One of the unique concentration of prehistoric sites is the underground carved temple know as the Hypogeum, which is not only unique to Malta but also in Europe. Malta is a Roman Catholic island and in fact, Malta´s riches are clearly manifested in its numerous, beautiful and original churches and cathedrals.

There are many beaches with very different characteristics such as the sandy beaches of Mellieha as well as other rocky beaches. Due to the climate, this island is a perfect place for sun-lovers. On average, the islands have on average six months of sunshine every year between April and September. The temperature in summer can reach 30 C and the lowest of the year is around 14 C. Furthermore, Malta is one of the top diving destinations in the world because of its excellent crystal-clear waters and perfect sea temperatures. With its natural harbours, cliffs, reefs and bays, it is no surprise that tourists would want to choose this sport to explore some of Malta's hidden secrets. There are many professional diving schools which prepare for an exam to receive a diving license.

Another advantage is the Maltese kitchen. Seafood and fish are Maltese specialties. One of the most popular traditional dishes is rabbit stew. Other dishes include the famous bigilla, octopus stew and baked rice. Personally, I think that Maltese food is worth trying. However, for those who are more conservative there are several continental restaurants.

The locals give Malta a feeling of friendliness which is one of the secrets of the fantastic atmosphere there. Maltese inhabitants are very friendly and at times over-welcoming to foreigners. For that reason, Malta is one of the safest and friendly places in the world.

Malta is indeed a different place because it gives the opportunity to kill two (or four) birds with one stone: learn English, try a new sport, lie on the beach and visit the most important historic sites. The possibilities of spending a wonderful time while learning English on these islands are endless. I think it is a place worth exploring.

This article is dedicated to all the wonderful English Language Academy, Malta, staff and the following students: Fulvio, Joe, Marek, Oxana and Witho.
- Marta Sikora