Full country name: Republic of Malta
Area: 320 sq km (124 sq mi)
Population: 399 867 (2003)
Capital city: Valletta (pop 92,000)
People: Maltese
Languages: Maltese, English and Italian
Religion: Roman Catholic (98%)
Government: Parliamentary democracy
President: Eddie Fenech Adami
Prime Minister: Lawrence Gonzi
GDP: $5.3 million
GDP per head: $13,800
Annual growth: 2%
Inflation: 2.8%
Major industries: Tourism, electronics, ship repair, construction
Major trading partners: Italy, Germany, UK
Member of EU: yes

Visas are not required for holiday visits of up to three months by Americans, Australians, Britons, Canadians, Japanese, Libyans, Moroccans, New Zealanders, South Africans, Tunisians or nationals of most EU countries. more information

Health risks: None
Time: GMT/UTC plus 1 hour
Electricity: 240V, 50Hz
Weights & measures: Metric
Currency: Euro

Banks are the best place to change money; they almost always offer a significantly better rate than hotels or restaurants. Waiters and taxi drivers expect a 10% tip. All major credit cards are widely accepted. Bargaining for handicrafts at stalls or markets is essential, but most shops have fixed prices. There's an 18% value-added tax on all consumer items.