The Maltese archipelago consists of 3 islands lying in the Mediterranean, 93 km south of Sicily and 350 km north of Libya. Malta, the largest, is indented by many bays and harbours. The Islands' scenery and architecture provide a spectacular backdrop with honey-coloured stone contrasted against the deepest of Mediterranean blues.

Malta was colonised by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, the Knights of St John, the French and the British who all left an imprint on Maltese culture. Malta gained its independence in 1964 and became a republic in 1974.

The Islands have been described as one big open-air museum. What makes them unique is that so much of their past is visible today.

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

The official languages of the country are Maltese and English.

BANKS

Foreign automated exchange machines and bank automatic tellers are available. Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels, leading shops and restaurants.

TIME

Malta is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

ELECTRICITY

The electric current in Malta is 240 volts, 50 Hz AC. Square fitting, standard three-pin British plugs and sockets are used.

CLIMATE

Malta has a warm climate. In November, the average maximum temperature is 20ºC, the average minimum temperature is 14ºC. Delegates can expect 7 hours of bright sunshine and no more than the occasional rain shower. The sea temperature at this time of year is 19ºC; the more adventurous delegates may wish to bring a swimsuit.

CURRENCY

The local currency is the Malta Lira (Lm). Rate: Lm 1 = approx. €2.4, £stg1.5, US$2.4

VISA

EC citizens only need their national identity papers. Visitors from most European and Commonwealth countries and the USA require only a valid passport.

ARRIVING BY AIR

Malta is just a few hours flight away from most European cities. There are direct scheduled flights serviced by the national carrier Air Malta, the official airline of the congress, and other major carriers.

For further information please visit the National Tourism Authority, Malta - Destination Site - http://www.visitmalta.com