The Maltese lifestyle and climate make it a great place to consider when buying property overseas

Valletta, the imposing fortified capital of Malta and a historic port town, is the location of the finale of Pynchon's literary achievement V. As in the novel, which sees the paths of various characters collide on the island state, Malta is shaped by a heady mix of cultures, both past and present. The Maltese island of Gozo possesses the oldest free standing building in the world, dating back to 3500BC. Subsequent rule by the Romans, control by Carthage and governance of the British Empire has left a plethora of historically significant remains and cultural influences.

Indeed, it is this mix of ancient and modern, European and African that makes Malta such an exciting and vibrant place to live. Nowadays Malta is renowned as a tourist destination, as it consists of a group of islands located in the centre of the Mediterranean. The islands of Malta enjoy a year-round temperate climate, often drenched in the Mediterranean sunshine.

Currently a tourist hotspot, Malta possesses a huge number of ancient sites - it is often remarked that the island is an open air museum. Against a backdrop of these historic sites are numerous restaurants and bars serving delicious Maltese cuisine. Although it is by no means the dominant culinary choice of the island, the blend of Sicilian and Tunisian flavours and influences makes for a distinct Mediterranean diet.

A British legacy
Now a republic, Malta was under British rule for a century and a half. Consequently, the official languages are both Maltese and English, making Malta an excellent choice for those looking to move overseas in pursuit of a better quality of life, but who wish to retain a sense of British identity and use of the language. Available property often consists of picturesque villas that nestle against a backdrop of verdant hills. The island is stunning, where ancient towns, fortified against the sea, are flanked by beautiful beaches. Economically the islands are growing in strength. Located in the centre of the Mediterranean, they have long been of strategic importance. British rule led to support during both world wars and in 1942 the island as a collective was awarded the St. George's Cross for bravery during the war. Located on route to the Suez Canal, the islands now generate a huge volume of business as a service provider to the shipping industry.

Valletta is a well used port that ranks as one of the busiest in the world. Investment opportunities are plentiful, with both the tourism industry and more traditional businesses well represented, and the islands continue to provide an affluent and comfortable standard of living for many. Stable environment Competitive property prices and a stable market make the island an excellent place to invest. Many properties rank as eminently affordable compared to those available in the UK. For those that fancy the holiday lifestyle without the need to learn a new language you could do a lot worse than looking at Malta.