Malta--One of the Best for LGBT Citizens

Malta is a remarkable two-island nation (European) in the middle of the Mediterranean. It has historic sites left over from a succession of rulers– Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French, and British . It has impressive fortresses, megalithic temples and the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a subterranean complex of halls and burial chambers dating to circa 4000 B.C. Over the past few years, Malta has experienced a definite and positive shift towards greater cultural acceptance of LGBTIQ in all aspects of life. This, together with recent changes in legislation introduced by government (including gay marriage), saw the Maltese Islands elevated on the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Europe Scale in 2016. Needless to say, this has also contributed to make Malta increasingly popular with gay travelers.

By Richard Ammon
GlobalGayz.com
November 2017

Human Rights Leader
Malta, along with Belgium and the U.K., are the leading Euro countries for LGBT rights. Malta continued to legislate for greater equality in 2016, adding to existing standards and also establishing new anti-discrimination measures. The first adoption was finalized following the introduction of joint adoption for same-sex couples in 2014. The age at which individuals can independently opt for legal gender recognition under the 2015 legislation was reduced from 18 to 16-years of age. Following additional amendments to the 2015 Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics Act, trans prisoners will now be able to be housed according to their lived gender. Trans identities are also no longer classified as a mental illness or disorder. A policy on trans, intersex and gender variant inmates was also launched in the summer. (photo Malta central)

The most high-profile change in 2016 was the fact that Malta became the first country in Europe to outlaw so-called ‘conversion therapy’, introducing fines and prison sentences for those who offer these harmful practices. In 2017 the highest profile change was the approval of same-sex marriage. Prime Minister Joseph Muscat saluted the vote that Maltese society had reached “an unprecedented level of maturity. We live in a society where we can all say ‘we are equal. The attitude towards the LGBT community is one that is positive.” The younger generation especially is open towards other lifestyles and are open-minded people in general. Gay travelers to Malta will feel at home in this Mediterranean paradise.

Vacation Destination
Malta is the land of the honey. The best time of year to visit Malta is during the summer between April and October. As a Mediterranean city, it experiences a dry summer and a mild winter that comes with occasional rain and fog. (photo left: Malta harbor)

Malta is full of glistening sandy beaches, perfect weather, shopping centers, and a rambunctious nightlife. Because the island is so small there are few venues that cater exclusively to the gay community. One is Klozet, it is the only gay club in Malta and is open into late hours. Klozet has become more of a popular icon among the younger crowd but older generations party there as well. Entrance is free.

The beaches in Malta are serene and uncrowded. The most prominent beach is the Gnejna bay, located about one kilometer from the village of Mġarr on the western coast of Malta. The beach surrounding the bay is mostly sandy. most locals gather on a plateau next to the beach which provides a full view of the Mediterranean Sea. Also good views from the white rocks below the Madliena coastal tower.

On Gozo Island LGBT visitors will find comfort and friendliness at Dar-tal Kaptan boutique hotel: www.dartalkaptan.com. Nestled in the quiet village of Ghasri with panoramic valley views, but no more than a five minute drive to the capital, Victoria, Dar tal-Kaptan offers a warm, sensual and idyllic sanctuary to re-generate and re-invent oneself. The hotel inhabits a 350 year old farmhouse with unique architectural features, recently converted to a high standard residence offering comfort, charm and relaxation. Rates start at $130 per night.

On Mr B&B that there are 16 other listings for gay-stays on Gozo: https://www.misterbandb.com/s/malta?

Links to LGBT Malta:
https://www.gaytravel.com/gay-guides/malta