travel tips and tourist information for Malta

Tourist Information Malta: Essential Travel Tips

Posted on September 30, 2020 | by BELSadmin

Are you looking for tourist information about Malta?

Here are some travel tips you don’t typically find at a tourist office

Anyone travelling to Malta will require some basic tourist information about the Maltese islands, the people and how things work. This is even more important for English students who will be in Malta for longer periods. Some of the most important tourist information – to help you adapt to the local lifestyle – is not necessarily available at a tourist office; however, it will help you relax and enjoy your new environment more fully once the practicalities of accommodation and transport have been sorted out.

When you enroll as an English student at BELS Malta or Gozo, you will have immediate assistance with anything you may need regarding accommodation, transport, maps, events and things to do in Malta. More information is also available at any of the Malta tourist information offices scattered around the island. However, here we highlight what we consider to be some of the most unusual, but important, Malta tourist information that everyone travelling to Malta should know:

1. What to pack

This is a question even traveler has, but not something provided in tourist information offices! If you’re trying to decide what to pack for Malta, do not go overboard with the warm clothes and always pack in a T-shirt, even in January. Your best bet is to leave that heavy jacket at home and pack layers instead, which you can peel off when it’s warmer and put back on as it gets chilly. During the long hot summers, you will only need a light long-sleeved item if you’re by the sea at night. With its mild temperatures and only short bursts of storm and gloom, Malta weather is great – get ready for it!

2. Why you can ditch the dictionary

Don’t you hate it when you travel to a country and you can’t read the menu or ask for directions? You may be learning English to have an extra card to play when language is a barrier. Malta is an easy place to travel, because English is a national language, almost everybody speaks it, and any information is also available in the English language. Full immersion is what you’ll get as an English language student in Malta, and when you’re feeling lazy, you might enjoy chatting to a local in Italian, German, French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian … the Maltese are a skilled lot when it comes to languages!

3. The Maltese language

No, the Maltese are not arguing all the time every time they address each other. The unfamiliar semiotic sounds and tonality of the Maltese language cause it to come across as far from gentle to the unfamiliar ears of a foreigner, but do not be alarmed – you might be surprised when those you thought were arguing will burst into mutual laughter two minutes later.

4. Maltese mannerisms

Visitors from countries which are more conservative in their display of emotions will need to become accustomed to the Maltese way of expression. The Maltese are passionate Mediterranean people in both love and war – they speak loudly, they gesticulate, and they vibrantly express their emotions, which die down as quickly as they flared up – that’s all the norm in this part of the world.

5. Maltese hospitality

As in any country, you are likely to meet a tourist tout or two, or the naughty shopkeeper in tourist areas who will overcharge a foreigner. In general, though, the Maltese are warm-hearted and welcoming and will go out of their way to make you feel at home and help you out of a sticky situation. Considering Malta’s long history of foreign occupation and influence, it is almost surprising that most Maltese enjoy the cosmopolitan and holiday feeling tourists bring to the island. Take time to meet the locals; it is a wonderful way to get to know the heart and soul of the country beyond first impressions. And actually, if you need any more tourist information, just speak to the locals when you’re in Malta and they’ll surely help.

6. Driving on the left

If you are planning to rent a car to see the sights, bear in mind that we are one of the few countries that drive on the left, just like England, Australia and Japan. It may feel a little tricky at times, but the good news is that distances are short and you will get to your destination very quickly – do not get disheartened! The main thing to remember is to turn clockwise around the roundabouts – there is nothing that causes more mayhem on the road than a lost tourist driving around in the wrong direction!

7. What you should know about indicators and hazard lights

Well, this is kind of embarrassing. We all know we should not do it, yet you are bound to see it time and time again, so let’s acknowledge it and move on. Most Maltese people still do not have a clue why cars have indicator lights and don’t use them or use them wrong. They also think that hazard lights are what you do when you stop temporarily in a no-stopping zone while you step out of your car to get what you need from the shop (double yellow lines and double parking included). It’s a shame, and it still happens. You have been warned!

8. Keep your kit on

Maltese people come in many varieties: some very open minded and some very conservative. So while the cosy beaches and crystal sea offer much to enjoy in swimming, snorkelling, diving, watersports, boating, cruises and fishing, it is best you keep your kit on – skinny dipping is illegal! Remember also that beach wear is for the beach – locals do not appreciate women walking in their bikinis in the street, and men can be fined for driving without a shirt on.

9. Nothing is out to eat you

Visit Australia, and you will suddenly drop to the very bottom of the food chain. In Malta, the land and sea are safe from dangerous creatures. Having said that, there are a few that will sting, bite and hurt you if you get too close for comfort, such as jellyfish and the fireworm, but snakes and spiders are not poisonous. You will not need any special vaccinations either.

10. Leave your boredom at home

If you think that the small island means there is not much to entertain you, scrap that idea. Malta’s 312km² are jam-packed with things to do – al fresco dining, theatre, bars, clubs, archeological sites, historic cities, museums, theme attractions, adventure sports, beach activities, cultural events, and more will captivate your interest and entertain you, whatever your holiday mood. It will serve you to open up with curiosity to the variety of things to do in Malta; allow us to help you have the best learning holiday ever.
For tourist information related to English courses in Malta, write to us at [email protected].

training session about English for presentations

A Complete Guide to Presentations in English

Posted on September 25, 2020 | by Andrea Said

Why should you choose BELS Language schools in Malta?

Travelling alone when you’re 16 and 17 is tricky. You’re too old for fully-supervised teen trips, but too young to travel and book accommodation completely alone. The young-adult programme at our language school in Malta is the perfect balance for people in this situation. It includes airport transfers, English courses, half-board accommodation and an activity package.

Here are 8 reasons to join:

1. It’s safe, active and independent

We’re located in St.Paul’s Bay in the north of Malta, one of the safest areas (of a surprisingly safe island) and can provide host-family accommodation, which is the only legal accommodation option for young-adults travelling alone. Your accommodation will be a short walking-distance from the school, and you’ll have a roommate whose also on the same programme. While you’re asked to respect your host-family and their house rules, the programme is not supervised so you’ll free before and after classes.

Our host-families are licensed by the Malta tourism authority and have worked with us for many years. They’re all within the area of the language school too! Your roommate will be another BELS student of the same gender, and a similar age.

2. Your breakfast and dinner are cooked for you

Your host-family will also prepare breakfast and dinner for you every day. Apart from being extremely convenient (especially breakfast), it’s a chance to try a variety of mouth-watering Maltese dishes. If you have any special dietary requirements or allergies, they will also be catered for – just make sure to tell us in advance.

3. The culture, history, and activities

Malta has rich culture and an array of places to explore, such as visiting inspiring museums, charming piazzas, thousand-year-old Megalithic temples, touring fortified cities and towers. There’s also an underground world to discover, with prehistoric caves and catacombs spread across the island.

The programme also includes 3 afternoon activities and a full-day weekend activity that you can choose with your new BELS friends.

4. Experience the Mediterranean lifestyle and island life

Sunshine, delicious wholesome food, sun-kissed skin and long relaxing days running around beaches. Being an island, you can practice any imaginable water-sport (stand-up paddle, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, diving, boat rides, jet skis, snorkeling) with jaw-dropping backdrops and amazing diving spots. There are plenty of sandy beaches for volley-ball or a friendly soccer match, or simply tanning and enjoying the blue waters. These are all options to choose from when you’re studying with BELS Language schools in Malta.

5. Develop an important life-skill & improving your resume

Being well travelled and being fluent in English are both considered assets on a resume. So, you can enjoy a trip, discover a new culture and advance your career opportunities at the same time. At the end of your course, you’ll receive a certificate of attendance with the course duration, final level of English, and a personalised note from your teacher. If you have more time on your hands, you could even consider studying English during a gap year.

6. Meet new people

When you join a young adult programme like we’re offering, you will make new friends easily. Whether you’re travelling alone or in a group, you’re bound to make new friends from all over the world. Nothing makes us happier than seeing friendships start at our language school in Malta, and continue from different corners of the world.

7. Regular and inexpensive flights

As an island in the middle of the Mediterranean, you can find inexpensive, regular and short flights to Malta from most European countries. Many low-cost airlines provide flights to Malta. For the best deals for summer, we suggest booking a few months in advance.

8. We prepare everything for you

Apart from your flights, BELS take care of everything else for you. Bookings can all be made with us directly, and our team members are here to help you with you any questions you may have.

Read what Fanny had to say about her experience in Malta and our language school.

Do you have any questions about visiting Malta with BELS Language schools?

Send them to us at [email protected] or speak to us on livechat – we’re here to help.

Preparing for a job interview in English

How to Prepare for a Job Interview in English

Posted on September 22, 2020 | by Andrea Said

Have an upcoming job interview in English?

Follow our tips to excel

During a job interview you are given a rare opportunity to sell yourself and show your value to the company you aspire to join. In today’s highly competitive market, being skilled in business English is a highly sought-after skill. Therefore, performing well during a job interview in English is essential. While qualifications, skills and experience are significant factors that influence your chances of being hired, a job interview is the ultimate determining factor – and to make a lasting impression, preparation is key.

Here’s how to prepare for the interview in English:

1.Have a flawless English CV

The internet is full of business English online sites with CV templates – use them to build your CV and adapt them to suit your needs. While you can imitate the customs and sentence structure, make sure to personalise it so that it stands out. Nowadays it’s also popular to have info-graphic or poster style CVs, so get creative!

2. Show your personality with a cover letter

A cover letter is an opportunity to add some life to your CV. Everyone knows that a cover letter should describe your education, work experience, ambitions and why you should be considered for the job. But there is more too it than that. In the way you write you can also display personality characteristics and communicate your passion to ensure you get called an interview.

3. Learn how to describe your true self

There is more to you than where you live, your educational and job history and free time activities. Think of all the unique and wonderful things about you that others love. Learn how to communicate them properly in English – it’s equally important to your list of qualifications.

4. Make sure you know the industry terminology in English

Whatever it is low-skill job or top position, knowing the required business language in English is essential. Before the interview do some research, study and practice. You are going to need these terms to do well in the job anyway, so might as well put in the work before and increase your chances of getting the job.

5. Prepare for job interview questions in English

On the internet you can find endless lists of typical job interview questions – both lists that are generic and even more detailed lists for specific industries and roles. Take advantage of that and prepare some original answers that properly express what you want to say in English. Write it down, practice and look for ways to improve it with every attempt. While there are interview questions you cannot predict there are always the classics that feature in every interview.

6. Show your English skills during the job interview

Writing amazing things on a CV is easy, anyone can do it. During the interview you have plenty of opportunities to show off your business English skills, not just write about them. Learn functional language (negotiating, giving opinions, giving additional information, asking for clarification) and find opportunities to use it during the interview.

7. Review with a professional English teacher

When you write your CV and cover letter, it is a good idea to have it reviewed for language and business English accuracy. Take it a step further and have individual lessons to practice for the interview. A private teacher will help you gain the confidence, fluency and accuracy needed to perform well during the real thing.

Book a personalised interview training course with an experienced teacher, contact us to learn more.

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group of people in business meetings in English

A Complete Guide to Business Meetings in English

Posted on September 22, 2020 | by Andrea Said

How to Prepare for Meetings in English

Read tips written by our in-house experts!

Business meetings in English can be tricky for all parties involved, not only the one running the meeting. Each role comes with unique challenges and tests specific sets of language skills. Maintaining proper business etiquette while using a secondary language is added pressure to your performance or ability to keep up with the pace of the meeting.

This guide will give you the confidence needed to not only survive, but to excel during your next business meeting in English.

Running a Business Meeting in English

Feeling confident in the meeting room is a must for anyone working in the business world. As the person running the meeting, you must exert confidence in your mannerisms, follow a strategically mapped out meeting. All while adapting your thinking in English!

Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Be positive and upbeat

Light-hearted jokes and small talk are an important part of meetings in any language. It’s easy to forget this when your focus is on using accurate language to communicate your intentions clearly in a secondary language. When leading a meeting in English, remember you are still human – show your personality and try to be as natural as possible. Researching business networking and small-talk language phrases can go a long way.

2. Body language is International

There are no language barriers when it comes to body language. When you are speaking in English, your body language might be different without realising it. Make a conscious effort to look up body language symbolism prior to the meeting, even if you never need to do this in your first language.

3. Learn the required functional language

You may be an expert in business and the industry in your native language, but what about in English? It’s essential to develop your business English skills, functional language and industry terminology for optimal performance during meetings in English.

There are plenty of sites, that have dedicated sections to learn English online. Here’s a list of the essential functional language for business communication:

Introductions and openings
Stating objectives and introducing the agenda
Explaining, clarifying and repeating points
Sharing and asking for opinions
Agreeing and disagreeing with points made
Negotiating and discussing
Summarising, closing and assigning actions.

4. Plan, practice and repeat

Be well prepared to minimise the chance of errors. After you find the business English phrases and language needed, write up a script for the meeting in English. Then it’s time to practice, and if you feel comfortable, record yourself and review for improvements. And repeat the whole process till the script comes more naturally. You also need to remember that it doesn’t need to be flawless – mistakes happen even when using a native language.

5. Pre-empt Potential Questions

The next step is to make a list of questions that participants are likely to ask, as well as issues that they may point out. Write a script of how you would reply in a similar way to above. This will be useful when needing to improvise responses in meetings.

Participating in Business Meeting in English

Even if you’re not in the spotlight, the pressure is felt! Important decisions and plans are made – so understanding what is being said is essential for all participants. Knowing when and how to provide input in also key.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Develop your listening

As a participant in a meeting in English, most of your time will be spent listening and understanding. From a skills perspective, this requires a general high level of English with particular focus on listening skills. A solid range of vocabulary and industry terminology is needed – it is important to be quick with the language. Spend time listening to audiobooks and watching TED talks on the topic of business or your area of work. Casually listening to music and watching episodes will also help.

2. Focus on note-taking skills

One of the passive skills obtained at University is the art of notetaking. Trying to keep up with your lectures and every little thing they say paves the way for business meetings. You can surely do this in your first language, and what about in English? Are you as effective? It’s usually a less developed skill for most second language speakers. Nothing to worry about, just practice! Combine this with the activity above to get the best results.

3. Acquire the necessary functional language

Think of all the functions that are required in a regular business meeting, and make sure you know the appropriate and accurate way to interact in English. Here’s a list of essential business English language for meetings:

Introducing self and background
Agreeing and disagreeing
Giving opinions and explaining reasons
Stating facts and giving reasons
Building an argument
Responding to arguments
Brainstorming and making suggestions
Asking questions and clarifying

For personalised study-plan and courses based on business meetings in English, write to us at [email protected].

10 Powerful Tips to Learn English Fluently

Posted on September 18, 2020 | by Andrea Said

What’s the secret to learning English fluently? Read our tips!

The golden question that all students ask. We’ve asked our in-house experts, and here is their list of ultimate tips to learn English fluently.

1. Have the right attitude

The first and most important to tip to learn English, or any other language. It’s not all about books and papers, having the right attitude and mindset can make all the difference. That means embracing the fact that you are going to make mistakes. Students who aren’t afraid of making mistakes are the most successful at learning English. Unless you try, you can’t improve. Learning a language is a self-development experience as much as an academic one. Look at your errors as a growth experience and a way to better yourself.

2. Get out of your comfort zone

Great things rarely happen in the comfort zone. Be silly with the language and find creative ways to learn. Whether it’s singing in shower or joining a karaoke night, the more methods you try the more success you’ll have.

3. Don’t stress yourself…too much!

Challenging yourself is necessary to learn, but setting unrealistic expectations or goals will just stress you out. Stress hinders progress . If you’re too nervous your performance won’t be as good as when the level of nerves is just right. It’s all about balancing it out. Remember, learning happens when you’re having fun.

4. Find out where you are at the moment

The first step is to find out your current level of English based on the language learning framework. This will allow you to properly assess yourself, and find materials that are suitable for your level. You can use our free online test here.

5. Create a plan to get to your desired level

Once you know where you are and where you want to be, start setting goals to get you there. Goal setting and habit tracking is a sure-fast to make progress. And when you set your goals, remember to make them S.M.A.R.T ones (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound).

6. Focus on all language skills and areas

An essential tip to learn English. From our experience, this is one of the things students rarely unless they’ve attending an English course.

The four main language skills are reading, writing, listening and speaking. You can find various guides online that focus on each specific skill. The areas of language refer to grammar, vocabulary, phonology and discourse. These all need to developed in terms of accuracy and fluency. Give them equal importance as they are all essential support one another.

7. Practice, practice and practice!

It can never be enough. When it comes to practice, you need to have a variety of controlled practice (like gap-fill exercises, multiple choice activities, repetition drills, matching exercises) and free practice exercises where you use the English in natural and real contexts.

8. Don’t rely on the books too much

Hitting the books is just one way to learn a language. Watch movies, read newspapers, change your phone settings to English and find ways to make it a part of your daily routine. Yes, learning can be fun and watching movies can be productive.

9. Live the language

Immersive yourself in English and everything that is English, or American. Learn about the culture, try English dishes and drink English beers. Make friends with natives, join expat events. And even better? Travel to English speaking countries.

10. Experience an English school, trust your teachers

The ultimate tip to learn English – they know best. Be open to a different methods of learning that vary from your traditional classroom. This might be your first, or second time learning English, but it’s the millionth time your school has helped others in your situation. At times you might feel frustrated, feel that you’re in the wrong level, or that you’re not learning English quickly enough, but have a little faith. After all, your school is an accredited centre with many success stories, and your teachers are experts in what they do.

Are you curious about learning English in Malta with BELS? Write to us and we’ll answer all your questions.

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leisure and adventure sports to do in Malta

10 Exciting Adventure Sports to try in Malta

Posted on September 18, 2020 | by Andrea Said

Try these adventure sports in Malta

Add some Excitement to your trip!

There’s a lot to choose from! Here are the top 10 extreme sport activities in Malta:

1. Rock Climbing

Climbing in Malta is a memorable experience, with thousands of bolted routes located in some of the most picturesque valleys and sea view cliff sides you can imagine. When most climbers in northern countries are forced indoors due to weather conditions, Malta’s fine weather allows for outdoor climbing all the year round. South facing crags are ideal to bask in the sunshine during the winter, while north facing crags allow for shade during the hot summer.

2. Abseiling

Most of the crags used for climbing also have top access for top rope climbing, which are also ideal for abseiling. There are several beautiful locations for abseiling in Malta, which are suited for beginners and children as well as the most experienced.

3. Deep Water Soloing

Deep water soloing is a form of rock climbing on sea cliffs, which make up 60% of Malta’s coast. It relies on the presence of water at the base of a climb to cushion against falls, and a certain confidence about how to fall in water and climb without a harness is essential. DWS is the preferred climbing option for many climbers during the hot season – there is nothing more refreshing than dropping straight into the sea after a hard climb!

4. Bouldering & Coasteering

Too scared of heights to climb or DWS? Then do it sideways! Bouldering requires no equipment but your climbing shoes and bare hands. Coasteering involves climbing and bouldering along the coast until one can go no further, jumping into the sea, and swimming to the next suitable climbing point – a truly exhilarating way to explore the dramatic Maltese coastline.

5. Kayaking

A wonderful way to explore cliffs, caves, arches and bays is with a kayak. Toned down compared to coasteering, but adventurous nonetheless … and you can go much further than you could on your own steam. A little practice and you’ve already mastered the hand paddles, and that’s all you need to focus on. Kayaks come in singles and doubles for a solo or shared experience, and allows space to store goodies so you could make a day of it.

6. Diving

Diving is a huge sport in Malta. Boat dives and underwater caving are popular ways to experience the best of the sea. The fantastic limestone cliffs continue down to a depth of up to 100 metres into the water, with several caves and tunnels to tickle the curiosity of divers. Boat dives to inaccessible stretches of coast, reefs and wrecks reveal a wonderful abundance of marine life, such as seahorses, eagle rays and even blue sharks. Gozo, in particular, is a world-renowned diving destination, and free diving is becoming increasingly popular locally.

7. Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is one of the most accessible adventure activities to enjoy and an excellent way of discovering what the islands themselves have to offer. Winding country roads will take you through picturesque valleys and along cliffs with stunning views, past prehistoric temples and other places of interest. Mountain biking as a sport in Malta is best done from October to May, when the weather is cooler and the islands are lush. In the hot months of summer, you could always stop for a refreshing swim along the way!

8. Hiking

Hiking gives you access to all those wonderful places where no roads even venture. While a number of recommended walking trails are laid out to help the visitor make the most of a hiking experience, there is no limit to where and how far you can venture.

9. Quad-bikes and Segeways

Quad-bikes or four-wheelers go hand in hand with the island life. This can be done for sport in Malta, as a way to discover paths off the beaten track, or just a means of transport. There are many rental places set up with quads. You can rent one of your own or join an organised tour.

Segways are for those who want some adventure, but not too much! Segways are the nifty way to cover a lot of ground with the least effort. Explore the same as you would while cycling but with the comfort and speed of this stand-up two-wheeler. Take one of several fun sightseeing segway tours; you can even pimp it up with other adventure activities, such as horse-riding, archery, go-carting, jet-skiing, anything really!

10. 4×4 Jeep Safari

Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Grab your team and your gear and get ready to explore rural Malta and Gozo in a 4×4 Jeep. You have a driver, but you ultimately drive your journey. Explore several kilometres of coast and countryside in comfort and with little effort – save it to enjoy a swim or take a walk at the areas you opt to stop.

Looking for more activities and sport in Malta? Have a look at our article about diving in Malta and top suggestions for waters sports in Malta.

free time while studying english abroad with BELS Malta

12 Brilliant Reasons to Study English Abroad in Malta

Posted on September 18, 2020 | by Andrea Said

Why do people Study English Abroad?

There are endless reasons to study English abroad. For starters, if you live in a non-English speaking country, it’s difficult to maintain or improve your level of English. Languages are alive and that means they need to be used.

And even if you do speak English in your country, you’re constantly shifting between your first language and English. Switching between languages hinders the learning process since you keep on thinking in your first language.

When studying English in an English speaking country, you’ll get a fully immersive experience that will boost your fluency. And you won’t only be practicing with other second language speakers of English.

So you’ve decided to study English abroad and now you’re faced with countless destinations to choose from. Why choose Malta?

Malta known as being a global destination to study English abroad. Here’s why:

1. You get two for the price of one

Learning holidays are becoming more popular in this age of easy access to knowledge and skills, because they are clever ways to have fun. Malta is not only interesting and a lot of fun, it is one of the top destinations for learning English worldwide. Learning English in Malta is an all-round solution to make the most of your free time while improving your skills.

2. You open to new experiences and cultures

Being in Malta is a cultural adventure. The little islands are a melting-pot of cultures – in Malta traces of Greeks, Normans, Arabs, the French and the Spanish come together with a British influence and a Mediterranean lifestyle. The locals are welcoming, and love telling their stories to anyone who’ll listen. Then there’s the food, nature, warm climate and the diversity of sports that comes with it.

3. The people are the nicest

An added bonus for travelers who like to discover the culture and connecting with locals. Maltese are family people, and most of them are willing to welcome anyone as their own. That opens you up to hard-to-reach beautiful locations, plenty of mouth-watering home-made food, and gives you a window into the local history and traditions. You’ll get a better rendition of the Maltese story than any museum can offer. One way to meet and mingle with locals is to look for host-family accommodation, dine at local restaurants, and shop locally.

4. Everyone speaks English

Learning English feels is effortless when you’re studying abroad in an English-speaking country, making memories with new international friends. Apart from the tourists and students, with the ever-increasing number of expats the population is very diverse too. There is a huge British and European expat community in Malta so naturally, English is spoken almost everywhere. The locals mostly speak flawless English as well, with the exception of some elders in more rural areas. That’s where the small island charm comes in.

5. The whole island is your classroom

When you’re in Malta, learning English happens naturally. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to speak English outside of the classroom environment. In a school you can develop your level of English in a formal setting and focus on your fluency and accuracy skills. After class you can try out the new skills and language learnt as you go about your day. Nothing beats an immersive experience when it comes to language learning.

6. Studying English abroad improves your prospects

English is essential skill in today’s world. The skills you learn during study-trips in Malta help you communicate better in English, both in a social and educational context. You can spend time exploring a top destination while also improving life and work relationships and prospects. It’s an excellent addition to your CV, both due to adding language skills and having experienced living abroad.

7. The sea is amazing, and never far

Malta and Gozo are surrounded by the clearest blue sea you can imagine. This makes way for enjoying all kinds of activities: swimming, snorkelling, diving, watersports, boating, cruises and fishing are just a few. The all-year-round mild weather means the beach and the sea can be enjoyed no matter the season. With its great visibility, mild temperatures, sea life, underwater caves, and diving wrecks, the sea in Malta is definitely one of its top attractions. The marvellous coast, with its cliffs, coastal caves and beach coves, also offers opportunities for deep water soloing, trekking or relaxation.

8. The weather is sweet

Maltese weather is always fine. It may get a little windy and wild from time to time, but bursts of thunder and rain are brief and you can be sure to soon welcome the sunshine. The generally good weather means you are unlikely to miss out on the fun during your learning holiday due to bad weather. So you can enjoy more of what Malta and Gozo have to offer. Who said that you must choose a place to study English based only on the ins and outs of learning the language? There are many extra benefits to enjoy if you choose to study English in Malta.

9. There’s a lot to enjoy, day and night

If Al Fresco dining and open-air theatre is your thing, you will find it here. If it is bars, clubs, gigs and music festivals you like, you will find them here. If you believe that night-time is for sleeping, and prefer daytime activities, you will find plenty to see and do: archaeological sites, historic cities, museums, theme attractions, adventure sports, beach activities, cultural events, and more. Whatever your holiday mood, you can enjoy a variety of things to do in Malta – you will never be short of entertainment.

10. Prehistory lives on to the present day

English is just one of the few things you can learn in Malta. Malta and Gozo have 7,000 years of history to discover. From Neolithic Temples to Medieval cities to WWII, Malta’s story is rich and varied. Even if history has never fascinated you, the history of Malta is so unique and fantastic that you may just find yourself immersed in a wonderful exploration of the history of mankind in the Mediterranean region.

For example, the Neolithic temple of Mnajdra is one of the world’s oldest freestanding structures, older than the Pyramids and Stonehenge, and has phenomenal astronomical alignment which makes it an accurate calendar of the Equinoxes and Solstices since 5,500 years ago to this very day. Isn’t that marvellous?

Furthermore, Malta’s location has made it attractive to many for various reasons since time immemorial, and you may enjoy the stories related to sea trade, piracy, human trafficking and strategic war plans. We’re glad it is only fun-loving tourists who wish to admire and enjoy the islands that make it to our shores these days.

11. The distances are short

Whatever you choose to do, whichever activities you fancy and wherever you choose to go, you will never have far to travel. That is rather handy when you go to class in the mornings and have limited hours of day-time left to enjoy what you will. When you study English abroad in Malta, you will spend less time travelling and more time having fun. In addition, you can tally back and forth to your accommodation several times a day quite easily. It’s practical and you get the most comfort and enjoyment out of your available time.

12. There are endless certified English schools to study with

Since Malta is an ex-British colony, it’s a prestigious destination for study English abroad programmes. People of all ages, from all over the world come to study English in Malta, all year round. The standards of English language schools in Malta are high because there several organisations that regularly monitor language schools.

Would you like to learn more? Get personalised advice and quotations from our team.

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8 Things to know about Diving in Malta and Gozo

Posted on September 18, 2020 | by Andrea Said

Planning a diving trip in Malta?

Malta is a well-known destination amongst anyone who’s interested in diving, or learning English. The island has a number of quality diving schools spread across the island, and the same can be said for English schools. So if you’re looking to learn English and try diving, you can do both in a trip to Malta.

Diving in Malta and Gozo is most certainly one of the highlights – the islands are well-established on the the global diving map, and for good reason.

Here are 8 thing you need to know about diving in Malta.

1. Malta is an award winning diving destination

Over the years Malta has been named the best diving destination in the Mediterranean by various organisations across the world. There’s the two won in 2014, another in 2017, and once again in 2018 to name a few. There’s so many we lost count!

2. There are options for every level

Whether you are a seasoned diver or diving for the first time, you are in for a treat – there is a fantastic new world to explore beneath the surface of these warm, clear waters. Diving in Malta and Gozo offers any diver just about everything he or she could hope for – there are over seventy dive sites around the island, offering different dives for all levels of experience. Deep water diving, night dives and free diving are also veritable options.

3. There’s plenty to discover

Discover the local marine life and let yourself be amazed by some rather unique geological features as you explore underwater caves, tunnels, arches, natural reefs and pools. Investigate an unusual heritage from World War II consisting of historic wrecks, from submarines to destroyers and bombers, as well as some passenger ferries and patrol boats. Probably the most renowned natural dive site is the Inland Sea and Blue Hole at Dwejra, Gozo, while the Um El Faroud, in the south of Malta, is probably the most famous wreck dive.

4. Diving conditions are fantastic

Malta is blessed with some of the most amazing sea! The Mediterranean here comes in different shades of crystal blue and green, always clean and clear with great visibility. The sea is generally calm and relatively warm. Few diving destinations offer such great diving conditions all the year round.

5. The sea is safe

It may not be much, but it’s comforting to know that there is nothing out there that might eat or kill you! Malta’s sea creatures and plants are mostly harmless, and you will be instructed regarding the ones to steer clear of in case they could harm you. Sea conditions are rarely hazardous, in which case local dive instructors know not to put you at risk.

6. There is a high standard of diving safety in Malta

Most diving centres in Malta offer a high level of competency and professionalism while knowing how to make your diving experience fun and memorable. Before descending on a dive, you will be required to provide a medical certificate. Adequate training is given to first time divers, while seasoned divers wishing to dive unaccompanied will require a buddy and the appropriate PADI Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. A hyperbaric chamber is readily available in case something does go wrong.

7. It’s affordable

Diving in Malta is very affordable compared to what you could expect to pay in other countries, so you benefit from excellent value for money.

8. It’s easy to combine English courses with diving in Malta

If you are planning to dive while learning English in Malta, you may choose to stay in either Malta or Gozo. BELS has English language schools on both islands and you may even opt to spend a week in each, while continuing your English course, to make it easier to discover the diving sites on both islands. In any case, the two islands are separated only by a thirty-minute ferry ride.

Planning a diving trip to Malta? Learn about combining your diving experience with English courses.

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Are you looking for tourist information about Malta?

Here are some travel tips you don’t typically find at a tourist office

1. What to pack

2. Why you can ditch the dictionary

3. The Maltese language

4. Maltese mannerisms

5. Maltese hospitality

6. Driving on the left

7. What you should know about indicators and hazard lights

8. Keep your kit on

9. Nothing is out to eat you

10. Leave your boredom at home

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Top Tips for Successful Presentations in English

1. Show your enthusiasm and relate to the audience

2. Watch TED talks in your area of expertise

3. Familiarise yourself with technical words

4. Acquire the functional language (English for presentations)

Handling the first few minutes

Organising what you want to say

Maintaining interest

Dealing with problems and questions

Summarising and Concluding

5. Write a script, find an audience

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Why should you choose BELS Language schools in Malta?

1. It’s safe, active and independent

2. Your breakfast and dinner are cooked for you

3. The culture, history, and activities

4. Experience the Mediterranean lifestyle and island life

5. Develop an important life-skill & improving your resume

6. Meet new people

7. Regular and inexpensive flights

8. We prepare everything for you

Do you have any questions about visiting Malta with BELS Language schools?

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Have an upcoming job interview in English?

Follow our tips to excel

Here’s how to prepare for the interview in English:

1.Have a flawless English CV

2. Show your personality with a cover letter

3. Learn how to describe your true self

4. Make sure you know the industry terminology in English

5. Prepare for job interview questions in English

6. Show your English skills during the job interview

7. Review with a professional English teacher

Book a personalised interview training course with an experienced teacher, contact us to learn more.

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How to Prepare for Meetings in English

Read tips written by our in-house experts!

Running a Business Meeting in English

1. Be positive and upbeat

2. Body language is International

3. Learn the required functional language

4. Plan, practice and repeat

5. Pre-empt Potential Questions

Participating in Business Meeting in English

1. Develop your listening

2. Focus on note-taking skills

3. Acquire the necessary functional language

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What’s the secret to learning English fluently? Read our tips!

1. Have the right attitude

2. Get out of your comfort zone

3. Don’t stress yourself…too much!

4. Find out where you are at the moment

5. Create a plan to get to your desired level

6. Focus on all language skills and areas

7. Practice, practice and practice!

8. Don’t rely on the books too much

9. Live the language

10. Experience an English school, trust your teachers

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Try these adventure sports in Malta

Add some Excitement to your trip!

1. Rock Climbing

2. Abseiling

3. Deep Water Soloing

4. Bouldering & Coasteering

5. Kayaking