How To Be Happy in Malta
Malta is a very small island and often expats move here for the sun then begin to struggle when they can't adjust to small island life. It's something I hear time and time again from people leaving the island. And that's OK, Malta isn't for everyone. But here are my tips on making the most of your time here and maybe helping you to fall back in love with the island you call home.
My Tips on Being Happy Living in Malta
If you're generally a happy person but find yourself bored, lonely or frustrated with life in Malta, there are ways to make life better. Malta is a bit of a 'love it or hate it' island so you do sometimes need to work to make sure your love remains strong.
1. See The Things That Malta Has to Offer
Expats have a huge tendency to never move out of Sliema or St Julians. Yes, it's a small island but there is so much more to see than these concrete jungles. The busses will get you anywhere you need to go, or if they stress you out then go nuts and get a taxi, but see the island!
- Go to the fishing market in Marsaxlokk, where you'll find the freshest fish you've ever seen and hoards of fresh, juicy fruit and veg for a fraction of the price you'll find at the supermarket.
- Go to some of the many sandy beaches. Take a towel, your swimwear, a good book or your favourite playlist and chill out by yourself. Or grab some friends and some Cisks and enjoy the sunshine in style. The scenery at most of these beaches is beautiful, especially the more secluded ones. Ghajn Tuffieha is easy to get to and surrounded by cliffs and greenery.
- Go to Mdina, Malta's old capital. It's quiet, the pace is slow, but it's beautifully traditional, with stunning views of the island (as it's located up so high) and the best cake you'll ever try at Fontanella Tea Garden.
- Go hiking or take a nature ramble. Malta is filled with nature and greenery that's perfect for hardcore hikers or those of you who just want a nice, colourful stroll in the countryside.
- Wander around Valletta. Get lost. Twist and turn down the narrow side streets and you'll find cute little cafes and shops you'd never have known about before.
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- Visit the Smart City, something totally different to the rest of Malta. You might actually feel like you're in the middle of a big city again!
There is so much more that you can do here, you just have to leave your comfort zone and go and see it. This stuff wont come to you, so get off your ass and enjoy the beautiful things in Malta.
2. Read Blogs!
Lifestyle bloggers, like myself, tend to focus on the good things. Of course Malta drives me nuts sometimes but I don't want to bring you all down ranting about the struggles in getting shit fixed, or how annoying the banks can be. This blog is filled with things I love about Malta, fun places to go and things to do. Read blogs, see what other people are loving about Malta and how they're being happy living in Malta.
3. Chill.
Yes, the busses are a nightmare, especially in summer when they ram them chock full, the aircon doesn't work, they don't run on a timetable and 5 busses can go past and be too full. But if you know it's going to happen, there's no point getting upset. Take a taxi when you can, or just give yourself some extra time when taking the bus. I rarely get on a bus when I can see it's already packed full, even if the driver is willing to let me on. I'd rather wait a little until a quieter one comes along.
Take a deep breath and just accept that this place is a little crazy sometimes. If you need someone to come and repair something, you know they wont come out quickly and they'll probably miss, or be late for the first appointment. It sucks, I know, but it happens. Expect it and you'll find yourself less stress and actually pleasantly surprised when things go well.
4. Make Friends
Life is better with friends but if you moved here alone I know it can be hard to get to know people. There are loads of expat forums and groups online, most of which arrange regular meet ups for drinks, beaches and days out. Everyone is there because they want to have a good time and meet people so take advantage of that!
5. Become a VIP
There are so many cool events happening in Malta, but you have to know about them. Events by Martin is a company run by two Swedes, Martin and Pierre who know how to give their customers the VIP experience. They run loads of events all year round on the island, so keep up to date with their facebook page to see what's going on and how you can get involved! You'll meet new people, all of whom are just there for a good time, you'll see some new places and venues and even if you only go to one event, it'll no doubt be a night you'll always remember.
6. Get a Better Job
If work is getting you down, it's so hard to be happy in other aspects of your life. So much of our time is spent at work that it's incredibly important that we enjoy what we're doing. If you're not happy at work, it's pretty simple; get a better job. I do know it's easier said than done, but do the research. Update your CV and don't be afraid to focus on the things you're good at. You can talk yourself up without being braggy.