Before diving into the ways to make friends, it’s important to grasp the social fabric of Malta. The Maltese are known for their hospitality and friendliness, which makes it easier for expats to approach them. However, they also have strong ties to family and long-standing friend groups, which might initially seem like a barrier to entering new social circles.
Language: While Maltese is the national language, English is also an official language, and most locals are bilingual. This removes the language barrier and makes it easier for English-speaking expats to communicate and build relationships.
Religion and Festivities: A large portion of the population in Malta is Roman Catholic. Participating in local feasts and religious festivals can be a great way to meet people and learn about Maltese culture.
Cultural Norms: Maltese people generally have a laid-back attitude, but they value respect and politeness. Understanding and adapting to these norms can help in making lasting friendships.
Join Expat and Social Groups
One of the easiest ways to meet people in Malta is through expat communities. These groups are specifically designed to help expats connect and adjust to their new environment.
Online Forums and Social Media: Platforms like Internations and Facebook groups are fantastic resources. Look for groups such as “Expats in Malta” or “Expats living in Malta” to find upcoming events and meet-ups.
Local Clubs and Societies: Joining clubs or societies can help you meet people with similar interests. Whether it’s sports, books, hiking, or diving, there’s likely a club in Malta that matches your interest.
Networking Events: Keep an eye out for networking events targeted at professionals. These can be particularly useful if you’re looking to meet people in the same industry.
Participate in Local Activities and Classes
Engaging in local activities not only helps you integrate into the community but also provides opportunities to meet locals and other expats.
Sports and Fitness Classes: Joining a gym or attending group fitness classes can be beneficial. Sports like water polo, football, and basketball are popular in Malta and joining a local team can be a great way to make friends.
Cooking and Language Classes: Learning how to cook Maltese cuisine or taking Maltese language classes can also be a great way to meet people. These classes are often interactive and provide a relaxed environment to chat and make friends.
Volunteering: Giving back to the community can be both fulfilling and a good way to meet like-minded individuals. Look for local NGOs or community groups that match your interests.
Embrace the Café Culture
Malta has a vibrant café culture, and locals often spend hours chatting over coffee or meals. Regularly visiting local cafés can help you become a familiar face and strike up conversations with locals.
Attend Local Events: Keep an eye on local events such as book readings, art exhibitions, or live music performances held at cafes. These can be good conversation starters.
Befriend Café Staff: Making friends with the staff can not only make your café visits more pleasant but can also help you get introduced to other regulars.
Be Open and Approachable
Your attitude plays a crucial role in how easily you make friends. Being open to new experiences and showing a genuine interest in the culture and people of Malta goes a long way.
Show Interest in Maltese Culture: Ask questions, show curiosity, and respect towards local customs and traditions. This demonstrates your willingness to integrate and makes you more approachable.
Invite Acquaintances Out: Don’t be afraid to make the first move. If you’ve had a couple of pleasant conversations with someone, suggest meeting for coffee or a meal. It’s a simple gesture that can help deepen budding friendships.
Stay Positive: Moving to a new country can have its challenging moments. Maintaining a positive outlook can make you more attractive to potential friends.
Conclusion
Making friends as an expat in Malta requires a mix of openness, effort, and understanding of the local culture. By joining groups, participating in local activities, and embracing everyday opportunities for interaction, you can build a fulfilling social life in your new home. Remember, building meaningful relationships takes time, so be patient and enjoy the journey of meeting new people in this beautiful Mediterranean gem.
