Did you know that Malta ranked 22nd out of 156 countries participating in a happiness survey? The report is 172 pages long and I must admit, I didn’t read it. Also because, whatever it is, it’s certainly not based on the Maltese sense of humour.

In fact, the Maltese tend to complain quite a lot! As a friend put it, “if you complain about anything in Malta, someone will empathise with you and you forge the first connection to start a conversation and bond. It’s our culture.” Maybe he’s right. Perhaps beneath that old habit from harder times, we're a happy bunch (when we’re not collectively worrying about politics, that is).

There is, after all, a lot to be happy about! Here’s what I reckon are the top contributors to happiness in Malta.

1. The sunshine makes you happy by default

No, I’m not bragging about the 300 days of sunshine once again, although that does improve the quality of life (when it’s not 30+℃). Sunshine produces vitamin D, which boosts your immune system and produces some welcome happy hormones.

2. The sea is liquid joy

It's refreshing on a hot day. It sounds soothing. It offers blue open views, a calming space. It smells of salty air. It spells adventure to divers on a scuba venture. It's adrenaline to those doing water sports. 

3. Pastizzi are a handful of happiness

Do we always have to mention pastizzi? The simple answer is: YES. I recently saw a quote that sums it up nicely: “You cannot buy happiness but you can buy pastizzi, and that’s pretty close.”

4. Beauty is everywhere

There is much beauty to behold, from the Baroque architecture to the bastions and cliffs hugging the Mediterranean sea. But not only. City streets and daily life have a charm of their own. There are also cranes in cities and litter in the countryside, however as an Indian sage once said: “When there are so many flowers in the garden, why look at the pile of rubbish?” 

5. The smiles from strangers

Sweeter still is the smiles from strangers. Like when you are on a mission heading mindlessly towards your destination and a street vendor sings to you, “Bonguuu, sinjura, l-ghodwa t-tajbaaa!” (“‘Morning, ‘Ma’am, good day!”) Stark contrast to icy stares into space on a Tube. And priceless.

6. The excitement of learning new things

Malta is tiny but, surprisingly, you can do anything and it’s all within reach. There’s never a moment’s boredom and you can easily do the things that make you happy. Now that’s also priceless.

7. The feeling of being involved

Malta is a welcoming place, and it's easy to make friends when you have a shared interest or frequent the same places. On the other hand, there’s a special kind of happiness in doing good for others and there are plenty of opportunities in Malta. Even if you’re on a short stay, volunteers are always needed at animal shelters and many NGOs. 

Enjoy Malta and be happy!