When you’re tired of the daily routine and want to relax, a trip sometimes seems the only thing that can get rid of some of the accumulated stress. Considering a trip is not something you go to on a daily basis, the destination needs to be special and unforgettable, so the time and money are well spent. There are so many places to choose from that it’s hard to settle for one only.
Looking on the internet, it’s difficult not to be tempted to travel to Malta, given the number of people sharing their experiences. After all, it’s a very versatile destination, where the British, Italian, and Arabic influences meet, creating a magical place. Still, despite all its beauties, you feel bound to look for some Malta safety travel tips, as you look up to a trip free of worries.
Unless you’ve already been to Malta, you can’t simply assume what the answer is to the “Is Malta safe to visit?” question. That being said, you need to do your research and see for yourself what the situation is before you spend your cash on plane tickets and hotel rooms.
Luckily for you, we’ve thought about this, thus creating this Malta safety guide to help you in this regard. Are you curious about the safety levels in the country? You will find them below.
Highest Risks You Expose Yourself to When Visiting Malta
Overall Risks in Malta: MEDIUM
Overall, you should know that Malta is safe to visit, although there are some things here and there that may occur, depending on your luck. As such, pickpockets and thieves are alive and well, and they may sometimes conduct their crimes. It might happen as you are not someone who knows the way things unfold in the country, thus being more vulnerable to someone attacking you.
Scammers also exist here and they could target anyone, from Maltese nationals to foreigners. They use many tactics to get their victims drawn in, which is why everyone should be on the watch for these individuals.
During the hunting season, incidents may happen because not all of the hunting areas are marked, and can overlap with public areas, camping areas, and more. This is why it’s better to be careful just everywhere.
Regarding road travel, some roads are poorly maintained, so it’s essential to take care while driving there.
Pickpocketing and Theft Risks in Malta: LOW
The first thing you may wonder about when Malta becomes a choice is “How safe is Malta for tourists regarding theft?”. Pickpocketing and theft are crimes that aren’t specific to Malta only but could happen anywhere in the world, regardless of the security levels.
Generally, crime is pretty rare against tourists, but you shouldn’t rule it out either. There’s still a possibility of handbag snatching, robberies, and pickpocketing, so just because crime is not so frequent, it doesn’t mean that it definitely can’t happen.
There is the possibility of getting your belongings stolen, including your money, passport, and more. Also, there have been cases in the past that included pickpocketing in buses.
- How to Avoid pickpocketing and theft in Malta?
Something you should definitely do is avoid flashing your belongings in public, as well as not take all of your money with you. If you do so, it might be all taken away in pickpocketing or theft cases.
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, but quiet and deserted areas may be good spots for perpetrators too. Also, it’s better to keep your bags and purses in front of you if you find yourself in the middle of a crowd and remember to keep the flaps facing your body.
If possible, try to arrive at your accommodation before the sun goes down, so you’re not at risk of being robbed at night.
Scam Risk in Malta: MEDIUM
Scams are so annoying, and they are like that not only because you’re at big risk of losing your money, but also because scammers are existent in Malta, and they’re not only waiting in the bushes to attack unsuspecting tourists. Actually, scams are performed on Maltese nationals many times, and scammers use many forms.
That being said, they can either offer business ventures, romance, friendship, or employment opportunities. Through various manipulation tactics, it’s easy for them to obtain what they want from innocent people.
- How to avoid getting scammed in Malta?
If you want to avoid having your money taken away by scammers, you need to have no trust for anyone offering you the things listed above. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and always keep your distance if you’re approached by someone offering you things, as well as someone trying to distract your attention.
Kidnapping Risk in Malta: LOW
Kidnappings are not an issue in the country, so if you were wondering “Is Malta safe to visit regarding kidnappings?”, you’ll be happy to find out that you’re safe. Not only that, but the average value for Malta from 2008 to 2014 was 0 kidnappings per 100,000 people.
At the same time, you can’t exclude the possibility altogether, as you never know what those around you are actually thinking and planning. That said, vigilance should still be maintained.
- How to avoid getting kidnapped in Malta?
One thing you could do is not walk alone, especially at night or in deserted areas, where kidnappers could wait for the right moment. Do not trust strangers, and if you see any areas where you’re advised to avoid, follow the authorities’ indications, so you avoid any incident. Try to monitor the local news too in case of anything going on at the moment.
Terrorism Risk in Malta: LOW
Thankfully, if you decide to travel to Malta, terrorism won’t be the biggest issue, as there’s no recent history of terrorism in the country. Everything has been really peaceful in this aspect.
Conversely, you can’t rule out the possibility of an attack, especially considering the fact that there’s a global risk of terrorism.
With that, you never know the next spot terrorists choose to attack. Having said that, these attacks could happen just anywhere, from public areas to popular tourist spots. Attacks could be indiscriminate, meaning that Maltese nationals, as well as tourists in the country, could become targets.
- How to avoid terrorism in Malta?
Although terrorism is not such an issue in Malta, it’s better to take safety measures to avoid being a victim in case an attack ends up occurring. So, always be wary of your surroundings, especially in public areas or popular attractions. If you see anything out of the ordinary, maintain your distance so you’re not caught in it. If you see an attack occurring, walk away from it.
Risks for Women Traveling Alone in Malta: MEDIUM
As a woman, you might always wonder “Is Malta safe to visit for solo women travelers?” if you’re alone. After all, you’re more vulnerable in a foreign place, considering you don’t know for sure what to do.
While the place is not such a dangerous one, there are still things to be careful of, so you avoid being a victim.
- How to avoid crime as a solo woman traveler in Malta?
Don’t walk alone at night, and avoid deserted or poorly lit areas, because that’s where criminals might find it easier to act. Don’t trust strangers, and take care if you’re visiting bars by yourself, because you might get unsolicited attention. Dress appropriately, and do not flash out your belongings in public.
Rape Risk in Malta: MEDIUM
Being a woman can be tough when you want to travel, as one of the questions popping up in your mind is “Is Malta safe for solo women travelers?”. Rape is one of the worst things that could happen, and nobody should have to go through such a nightmare.
Sadly, things such as sexual assault or attacks could occur, and while the risk might not be the highest, it would be better if it wasn’t there at all. Still, you can’t lock yourself in your room forever, so some safety precautions might keep you secure in this regard.
- How to avoid getting raped in Malta?
In order to avoid being a victim of rape, what you need to do is always stay vigilant, and if you’re with friends, do not split up from them. Moreover, do not go off with anyone that you don’t know, because you never know what could happen.
Make sure that, if you’re going to any club or bar, you don’t leave your drink unattended on the table, regardless of the situation. In addition, don’t accept drinks from strangers, because you can’t know if it’s been spiked.
Don’t walk alone in deserted or poorly lit areas, especially at night, and if you can, try to arrive at your hotel room before dark.
Risks for People Traveling With Children in Malta: LOW
Malta can be really friendly to your kids, and your little ones will surely enjoy their time here, given the many things they can see and experience. The sandy beaches may be just wonderful spots for them, where they could exercise their freedom and have lots of laughter. Overall, the country is really safe for them, but you still need to be careful.
- How to avoid unwanted scenarios?
Never leave your kids unattended. Hold their hand, and be around them at all times. Remember to always keep an eye on them, so they’re in no danger.
Natural Disaster Risks in Malta: MEDIUM
When thinking “Is Malta safe to visit regarding natural disasters?”, one of the things popping up in your mind might be earthquakes.
However, if you end up traveling there, what you need to look up to are tropical thunderstorms, which are a real threat. They may cause heavy rainfall and flooding, so you should always check the local news to see whether there’s a threat or not.
Transportation Risks in Malta: MEDIUM
Back in 2016, 22 road deaths occurred in Malta, which meant about 5.1 road deaths per 100,000 of the population. Although the driving conditions are not the worst, you should still be careful, as some roads are not properly maintained and could lead to accidents. Moreover, local driving standards are poor, so you should always be careful on the road and follow the rules in case of anything.
Night-clubs, Pubs, and Bar Risks in Malta: MEDIUM
Clubs might be fun to go to, but that doesn’t make them fully safe, to begin with, and you are at risk of being targeted by people who are only after their own good. So, as a tourist, you might be an easier target because you’re not too aware of how things normally unfold in Malta.
There may be cases of spiked drinks, and the last thing you’re looking forward to is waking up alone on the street, without money and any knowledge of what happened last night. It’s always indicated to be careful when going to any club or bar, and never trust someone who’s being way too nice and giving for no reason.
Don’t leave your drinks unattended, and do not accept drinks from strangers. Not only they can be spiked, but you might also be scammed and asked for atrocious amounts of money for the deed.
Health Risks in Malta: LOW
Malta is not that dangerous regarding health, but there are still some illnesses you might contact depending on the area or the current situation. Yellow fever or rabies are some risks you’re exposing yourself to, but with the right vaccinations, the risk is greatly decreased.
List of Vaccines You Need in Malta
Before you visit the country, you should visit your doctor, as you might need the following vaccines:
- Routine vaccines
- Rabies
- Yellow Fever
- Hepatitis A and B
Most Dangerous Area in Malta
One of the riskier areas in Malta is Paceville, which is pretty much the nightlife in Malta. In recent years, there hasn’t been a lot of security here, and bars and nightclubs might be dangerous for you as a tourist, depending on your luck. It’s always better to be on the watch and never let your guard down in this area.
Concluding Remarks: Is Malta Safe to Visit?
Malta is an amazing destination you cannot miss if you have the chance. The beaches are breathtaking, and there are a lot of tourist attractions to visit and bless your time therewith. In terms of safety, it’s not dangerous, but it’s not the safest country in the world either. There are still risks regarding crime, including theft, scams, and rape. Moreover, roads are not the safest out there either.
Hopefully, now that you’ve read this Malta safety guide, you know what to do to keep yourself safe and sound.
