The best thing about food in Malta is that, by European standards, it is extremely cheap. One can find over 1000 restaurants which cater for different budgets and tastes. There are restaurants offering typical Maltese cuisine but one can find all different sorts of cuisines and fast food restaurants.

Throughout the year there are festivals that fill Malta and the islands with fun, music and laughter. Carnival in February, features floats and processions, the Food Festival in March will have your stomach groaning with excess, and the spectacular Fireworks Festival in April fills the sky with colour and light. The Mnarja festival of folk, in June is a chance to hear more traditional sounds, whilst the Historic Cities Festival in October celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the islands. There are many other activities and festivals on going, like , "Lejla Mgarrija" (display of Maltese grown fruit and vegetables, some to extreme sizes), the Beer Festival and the Wine Festival.

Like most Mediterranean people, the Maltese are very hospitable and outgoing. They also tend to do things in a showy kind of way. If one understands this basic trait of the Maltese character, one would immediately understand why the Village Festas in Malta and Gozo are so fascinating and spectacular. Most Maltese are very dedicated to their Church and Patron Saint, and put all their efforts to prepare for their feast.

Malta is an ideal place to relax, and the capital Valletta winds down considerably in the evenings. For those who prefer their evenings watching other people do the energetic stuff, the beautiful Manoel Theatre in Valletta is a must. The magnificent gilded interior plays host to concerts, plays, theatre and opera.

There are four casinos on the island and all of them have their own dining facilities, bars, entertainment programmes and of course all of the table games like black jack, roulette and poker. Casino di Venezia in Birgu, Dragonara Palace Casino in Paceville, Oracle Casino in St. Paul's Bay and Portomaso Casino in St. Julians.

The thriving nightlife in Malta is growing extensively and drinks are generally inexpensive compared to other European countries. Entrance to most major entertainment venues is also reasonable. The picturesque St. Julian's Bay, still a fisherman's den, is beautifully lit up at night-time, donned with cafes and restaurants of all types and varieties. There are also a number of lounge and wine bars here if one prefers a relaxed evening, sipping cocktails, dining and dancing. For the big clubbers, heading up to Paceville just a few minutes walking distance, is truly a haven. But it is also suitable for the older, more adventurous individuals who enjoy pubs, wine bars, restaurants, rock clubs and jazz clubs. Nightlife in Malta kicks off surprisingly early compared to other European holiday islands - even the most hardcore clubs are open by 10.30pm till the early morning hours.

Other parts of Malta are also suited for night entertainment, such as Bugibba, Mellieha and Marsascala. These have similar venues, though on a smaller scale to that of St. Julians.

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