As Malta was a part of the British Empire for more than 150 years, it’s not surprising that Maltese and British people still share a lot of similarities in the way they do things.

From how we drive our cars to the languages we speak, here’s how the Maltese and British have more in common than you might think!

1. Traditional Food

The love of good food is shared by both the British and Maltese, with local dishes being a topic of great pride for both nationalities. Whilst the British have the classic roast dinner, Maltese cooking includes favourites such as rabbit stew or bragioli. There are plenty of restaurants throughout the Maltese Islands that will serve a traditional English breakfast on the same menu as traditional Maltese fare such as a fenkata (rabbit). Beer, meanwhile, is a favourite drink for both the Maltese and the British, and is sold in both countries in pints instead of litres.

2. Language

In Malta, English is a joint official language alongside Maltese, and is spoken fluently by most inhabitants of the islands, who often choose to switch between the two languages from one sentence to the next. There’s plenty in the Maltese language itself that has also taken inspiration from the English language.

3. Driving

Driving in Malta is on the left, just like in the UK. That means that all local cars are right-hand drive, unlike any other country throughout the rest of Europe. There are a number of British-made cars also used regularly by the Maltese, as well as vintage models that are reserved for special car shows.

4. Plugs

This is a bit on the nerdy side, but still good to know! Malta is unique in Europe as being the only other country than the UK to use the ‘type G’ power socket, which is of British origin and works with a three-pin plug instead of a two. Go to any other European country and you will need to bring with you a plug adapter, but not so when travelling between Malta and England.

5. Shopping

Vast shopping arcades with popular shopping chains such as Next, New Look or Topshop are enjoyed both by the Maltese and the British in their respective countries, and supermarkets such as Lidl also are essential grocery shopping outlets in both Malta and the UK.

6. Love of Fireworks


Both the British and the Maltese are well-known to love a good firework display. Whilst the Brits will light up the sky in a pre-set colourful display accompanied by classical music to celebrate Bonfire Night or New Year’s Eve, the Maltese will happily add fireworks to any event from local festas to weddings.

If you’re considering a holiday in Malta, check out The Ultimate Way to Spend 3 Days in Malta. And if you’re looking for a place to say, look no further than the Radisson Blu Resort, St. Julian’s!