Ever heard of the country called Malta? No? Well, it’s on the map and it could easily be a location you can tick off your travel bucket list.

But, before you go online and buy your ticket to Malta, there are a few things we think you should know about the country. Either way, don’t let what you’ll be reading here cloud your judgement. After all, the greatest adventures are said to be somewhere out of the unknown.

1: Small but Packed

Malta is a small country. It’s about a fifth of the size of Greater London with a population of 450,000 and steadily growing. So, it’s crowded as heck. Not to mention the 1.6 million tourists per year who visit. It’s one of the smallest yet most densely populated countries in the globe.

Pray that you don’t visit the country the same time the rest of the whole world decides to flock in. The brighter side – the country is an archipelago so you can easily take a short ferry ride to the other islands like Gozo or Comino.

2: Historical Diversity

Being located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta was the ideal naval base for the surrounding countries during its colonization period. It has been conquered by the Greeks, the Romans, the French, the British and other nations over the years.

Why do you need to know this? Just imagine the diversity of the mix of cultures in this country. You get a bit of everything around it whether if it’s their cuisine, way of life or traditions.

3: Architectural Wonderland

Did you know Malta has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites? The capital, Valletta, is one along with the Saflieni Hypogeum and the Megalithic Temples of Malta. The architecture here is a mix of numerous different building styles from different nations says Paul.

Monuments, temples and military buildings surround almost every inch of the land mass. There’s plenty of background for your next profile picture! Did you also know Malta is one of Game of Thrones’ shooting locations? When you explore the city, you’d totally see why.

4: Slow Paced Life

If you’re from a busy city, don’t expect time to move according to your pace in this place. The Maltese are very laid back which means things are never done in utmost hurry. You might get impatient but we’re giving you a heads up to be more patient. There’s plenty of excitement if you’re in the right place at the right time so plan your trip around their yearly events and festivals!

5: Big City Transportation

Since Malta is quite small, there’s no need for lots of vehicles. That’s what you’d think. Malta actually has 337,000 vehicles during the last count in 2015. That’s almost 75% of the population. The way they drive might send you on your knees. Yes, they drive as crazy as the Italians do in narrow streets. So, be ready with a travel insurance when you rent a car.

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We’re quite sure that you’ve looked up several travel plans for Malta. Those are helpful but don’t follow them to a tee. Malta is great country to let loose a bit of your inner explorer! And just in case you fall in love with the country, you can buy your citizenship for €1.15 million. Not joking.

6: Diving is Devine

Malta is famous for its pristine beaches, clear blue sea and 300+ days of sun every year. The diving industry in Malta Is booming and for a good reason. The government of Malta has been doing a great effort in promoting this industry, and rightly so. Diving wrecks have increased by 600% during the past 9 years and now diving in Malta is a heck of a lot more interesting. There’s also 100’s of caves that across the island’s shoreline where divers can explore the underwater habitat.

There’s no reason whatsoever not to fly over and explore Malta for a few days. Ryanair operates daily flights all over Europe and it has never been easier and cheaper to visit.