iMalta.com

SOCIAL CUSTOMS AND CONVENTIONS

The Maltese are an extremely hospitable and proud people who enjoy sharing what they have regardless of their social level or income. In turn visitors should respect the dictates of modest dressing as practiced by a largely Roman Catholic people. This means that when visiting churches and other venues of religious importance, you should wear modest clothes. With regard to other courtesies, when in doubt, behave as you would anywhere else in Europe.

SMOKING

Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in some public buildings, including cinemas.

TIPPING

10% is expected in hotels and restaurants when not included in the bill. Taxi drivers are usually tipped 10% of the fare.

BANKS

Banks are open from 08:30am to 12:30pm from Monday to Friday. Some banks operate a foreign exchange service in the afternoons as well. On Saturdays, banks are open between 08:30 and 11:30. The Airport offers a 24-hour foreign exchange bureau.

SHOPS

Shops are open from 09:00 to 19:00 with a 3 hour siesta taken around the middle of the day. In the tourist areas some shops stay open until around 22:00.

POST OFFICES

Post offices are open from 07:45 to 14:00, Monday to Saturday.

BARS AND PUBS

Pubs and clubs usually stay open until very late; some clubs remain open till 04.00am in peak season.