For everyone saying how negative this video is, I am Maltese and everything he said was true unfortunately. Pollution, overpopulation, rubbish everywhere and the ever so wonderful traffic. You can get stuck for hours in traffic on a Sunday. So before you blabber try and see the facts for yourself. Illegal immigrants have flooded our streets and cheap labour everywhere you go. Just sprouting some facts for all the keyboard warriors out there :)
@@ronaldm8235 There are positive things, but unfortunately these negatives are quite urgent and overwhelming at the moment. History is another topic, but endangered as well, at least historic objects and sites.
you went in a particular area to record this video,,,,,tell us when it was.....also that rest shot.....Malta was without electricity something which is not normal......show them the beautiful beaches we have, churches, festas, culture, good restaurants, lovely people, sun, free public transport, free childcare centers, everyone with a decent pension, jobs.....etc@@AlexMarkTravel
I'm Italian living in malta since years, but I can tell that changed the life of many people including myself. Who thinks that going in malta it's a way to get a cheap holiday in Dubai it's totally wrong . Malta has many good sides but not everyone is able to see them and appreciate. Cheers to Malta for ever and ever!
I'm Maltese and one major issue with the mentality of the locals here is that they complain non-stop about the conditions and negatives here but as soon as a foreigner starts mentioning them they start attacking them with the usual "don't like it? leave..." which is the wrong attitude to have. I completely agree with everything you said and see no issue with a foreigner highlighting these problems. Most of these come from the short sightedness of this trash ass government we have that some how keeps getting elected.
Thanks for your comment and your support, I knew there's gonna be backlash, but someone needs to highlight these problems, and straight to the point not beating around the bush.
You’re so right. We have to keep our mouths shut! Even renewing our ID card we were told to go back to our own country by one of the security staff. The ID office was closing EARLY! we complained as we came all the way from Mgarr. So many lovely people here but a lot of ignorant beings!
I am not a foreigner , I am a local and they tell me too , to move to another country if I don't like it , but yes the mentality of some people instead working together and stand up to fix it they call you traitor or any other name under the sun
well i am not sure about i was in Malta a few months ago and the native maltese people love the current government, it is the labour party and they are doing way more better job than the pervious party
I usually stand up for my country - but that was years ago. Thank you for sharing the truth about our island. I hope the government and people will see this video as hopefully it will help them realize that we are destroying our island… thanks for this video - let’s hope more like this.
@@AlexMarkTravel Its a shame it's went down hill, I read about the rubbish issue, and recently about migrant problems. I stayed in Sliema, and did alot of walking yes I liked it, and would have been happy to return. Maybe not now.
In nies fil gvern ippappuha hi, mal korotti li jippumpjawljhom il flus. Issa ergaw ivvutawlu lil qahbec Bobby imbaghad ejjew aw ghajtu bil hmieg. Jibqa' jhalli lil Malti bulijiet arroganti kibgs jaghmlu li l madonna jridu ghax jitulfu l voti. Morru allec ivvutawlu issa
I'm Maltese and it saddens me to see the state of affairs in my own country. Maybe not everywhere is as bad as Bugibba, St. Paul's Bay and Qawra but most of what you said is spot on. Construction. Traffic. Noise. Rubbish. Bad infrastructure. Lack of Green Spaces. Cost of Living. All true. And we live here. We have to go to work in these conditions. Malta is 27km long, yet it takes me 1.5 to 2 hours to cross less than half of it to get to work in the morning. I also have just been in Spain. I rented a car and travelled 50-60 km in 40 minutes. The same time it takes me to get to work I drove 180km in Spain.
I needed a month to adjust back to the things here after being in Spain for holidays, you get quickly adjusted to a place where everything functions well, and it's painful to fit right back into this constant hassle here. Thank you for your comment.
Why a small island nation would think it's a good idea to focus on developing car infrastructure instead of bicycle, pedestrian, tram and bus networks boggles my mind. Malta has everything required for a decent little gem, it's just criminally mismanaged.
I am Maltese and live in the area and You were spot on with everything you said ,Malta became one big mess .It hurts me to live and see the state this Island became .
I am from Malta living in the Saint Paul's area and everything in this video is completely true the past 10 years has destroyed a once beautiful area with dirt, dust, bad smells, construction, traffic, noise and anti social behaviour
I’m a Maltese student, currently in Spain and immediately you can see a huge difference in quality of life. I was amazed how almost everything in the supermarket was 1/2 euro, everything is so much cheaper and greener. Sadly Malta has gone to shit and it keeps getting worse, if only it had good direction from the right people maybe it wouldn’t have turned into a shithole.
Thank you for your sincere comment, the same what I was telling people when I got back from Spain, everything there is half price, plus everything works fine from the services. Not to mention the obvious greenery, and other things.
Spot on Aleks. I am Maltese, and that is not just happening in your area but in every town on the island. The last 10 years, Malta has been ruined forever!
@@AlexMarkTravel I have known Malta to be like this for many more years unfortunately. And I am more than 40 years old. Some things will never change, but get worse. We need to take care of the tourist industry and get organised. But Maltese are undisciplined in general. Such a shame, really.
This video is spot on. If anything in understates how bad the situation truly is. I'm Maltese, and rather patriotic. Born in the mid 80's, I grew up in a rural town, and regularly spend time in St Paul's area. I truly believe we were gifted a jewel in the Mediterranean. When living aboard I would nevertheless visit regularly and bring friends along to show them around. Despite it's evident shortcoming the island always somewhat made up for these with its charm. Now it's a complete mess. A failed state. A disaster. We've reached a tipping point. The country is bankrupt in every imaginable sense, financially and, above all, morally. The only hope for salvation, if there is to be any, will probably come under the guise of real and radical change. And I'm not talking blue/red politics, or some magical. That's what brought us here in the first place.
I lived in Malta from 1961 till 1991 and must say, back then Malta for a beautiful country. Simple and really delightful … I left Malta and came to Australia under a professional visa and not as a migrant. From what I see, I am absolute disheartened and also in disbelieve at the state that once glorious Maltese island was to what it has become. I also lived in France for 6.5 years and I absolutely loved it as my roots also come from the mighty beautiful country too.
I am Maltese..... Once this island was a beautiful gem....unfortunately now in 2023 it is not the same anymore. It is heavily overpopulated....cars and traffic every hour of the day. Construction took over and no green spaces left.
sorry i am six months time in answering,what this bloke said regarding the rubbish ( not the constraction ) belongs to foreingers living in qawra and bugibba maybe he forgot to tell that 8 out of 10 are not maltese living in that aeria( bugibba,qawra,and st pauls) so he could have been fair and not brand malta as dirty because of stupid foreigners.next time if you are still around go where we maltese live and you willsee foryourself the difference
Too many foreigners. Also, since the euro union everything changed and the greed grew. When the priority is money, you lose your soul. But I still love my country of birth. I still talk to people and some love it for what it is. This asshole from Mark travel should tell us where he comes from.
Spot on. Malta used to be a beautiful place but due to greed and corruption we are now the worst in Europe. One thing you did not mention is the amount of scooters everywhere blocking the pavements and catering establishments also taking space on the pavements.
Thanks for reminding us about scooters, yes I have the scooters piled up in the beginning of the video in one scene, but definitely another hazard that people have to endure here, and I forgot to mention that as well.
I’m not against the scooters Coming from Japan, I love public transport Here, it’s 30min wait for a bus, and another 45 min ride for a trip that should take 15mins by car… What happens? I end up using a F taxi, contributing to the traffic Every Maltese I know owns AT LEAST 2 cars!! What’s up with your selfish culture?? I tried walking too BUT THERE IS NO PAVEMENT!!!!! in many parts, so I don’t feel comfortable walking in the road next to the cars - result, another F taxi. Getting rid of the scooters is not the solution, my god, it’s so bad for mental health to live here.
I am a doctor who visits patients in the Northern part of Malta and what this man is saying 100% true. Malta has become a sick hell hole ever since the island has been designed as one of the 16 smart cities in Europe. Green areas and fields and trees are being demolished without mercy because of a frenzied greed towards never ending construction. Apartments erupting everywhere like mushrooms and dogs are left barking for hours on end. Yeah , he's right about the never ending systematic road closure. All that this man says is absolutely true.
Hello Dr. I'm Derrick, a medical student in Ghana, almost done with medical school. I'll like to make some inquiries about the profession in Malta if you do not mind. Thank you.
Born and raised in Malta, lived for 31 years on the island. Now finally packed up my bags, and left Malta. I do not miss a thing of Malta other then my family. The place itself has gone downhill and the quality of life isn’t what it used to be.
I am Maltese , i live here and unfortunately everything said and shown in this video is true. Politicians, past and present made a really good job in brainwashing their followers and in return ruining this land. These last 8 years were the worst with a government obsessed with overpopulation and corruption They want an 27 km island to be filled with 800K population plus tourists. Feels like a bad dream !! Our once beautiful and peaceful island is now ruined. We are urgently in need of a re planning -- the state has to address the garbage problem , the traffic , overpopulation , construction madness , pollution, our way of life and mental health ( suicides are on the rise ) , the environment , our culture , criminality is on the rise ( mostly from foreigners fights ), the infrastructure. NOTHING is planned -- they just built an economy on cheap labour and construction and economy for the few. Jobs are being taken by third country nationals who accept ( or are forced to accept ) a misery wage @ EUR 4.20 and hr ( that was the last figure i heard of when i spoke to a person ) , 20c goes to the agency , the rest to the person. Rents are sky high , again , 10 to 20 people from poor countries are renting beds @ EUR200 / EUR 250 per month , staying in a 3 bedroom flat - a normal family cannot afford a EUR1200 plus rent , its impossble. Youngsters are leaving , they lost hope for a better future. And yes we do have positives , but the problems we are dealing with on a daily basis are way higher. Dont come , its a waste of your money - you want sea , go to Greece , Sardinia , Sicily , Cyprus , Crete , Spain I am truly sorry , writing this comment , i love Malta and its truly heartbreaking seeing our island being destroyed like this , but its the truth. And before any politically blinded ignorant comes on the attack , here are some links to check. timesofmalta.com/articles/view/i-barely-money-live-food-couriers-fell-employer-s-trap.977069 lovinmalta.com/malta/white-taxi-driver-allegedly-attacked-y-plate-driver-at-cirkewwa-while-speaking-with-tourists/ timesofmalta.com/articles/view/motorists-fume-traffic-gets-stuck-ghadira-road.1035749 timesofmalta.com/articles/view/a-mountain-rubbish-sliema-right-along-prestigious-seafront.1047127 lovinmalta.com/news/all-that-is-right-crete-is-wrong-in-malta-philanthropist-shares-comparative-insight-between-the-islands/
Thank you for your comment, you explained it even better than me. Regarding the people from very poor countries actually who ever brings them here earns quite a bit money on them it's a local business for certain people.
@@AlexMarkTravel exactly , they are abusing poor people , its awful to witness. They are promised a good wage and a good life but get poor conditions and low wages instead. Our way of life has gone down the drain too, mentally its exhausting. Thank you for showing the truth -- without the truth going out we cannot start to heal.
I left the island in 2015. I visited in March this year and coming back for a week in November. I don't recognize my beloved Malta any more. I lived in Bugibba, Qawra, St Paul's Bay and it was sooo different then (2011). I rented a 3 bedroom place off Bugibba Pjaza for about 350EUR plus utilities. The monstrosity of a building they are building in the square at the moment is just horrible. The part of Qawra close to the Qawra Palace hotel on the Triq il-Qawra is one giant construction site. People will not have any privacy in these newly constructed apartments as they are built chock a block. The only area one is safe in buying a property is UCA area where no one can build a horrible high-rise. The latest trend in Maltese greed is selling a beautiful sand stone terrace house for REDEVELOPMENT. That means tearing it down and building a high-rise or apartment block. Imagine buying a beautiful terraced house and your neighbour sells for redevelopment.....Those houses should be protected by law. The Maltese should learn from the Croatians. I visited Croatia a few times in the past few months. Their seaside towns are just out of this world. Look at Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Poreč, Split, Zadar etc. It is really sad to see what Malta is turning into. And believe me I love that rock to bits.
@@pavelsladek246 I know what you mean. Qawra / Bugibba are out of bounds for a lot of residents , we do not go there , they turned into ghettos. They are building ugly apartments with no privacy , no skill ( buildings are built by people with no building license , Africans and asians building flats with no constructions experience , its crazy ! we had a recent collapse in Paola were a young maltese boy died when the building they were doing collapsed ( Look for Jean paul Sofia , may he RIP ) -- its honestly crazy. The greed has no end . Maltese are ending up with no jobs , rent is sky high , cost of living is high . Than we have government officials going on foreign TV ( the last one was on Pakistani TV ) telling people to come here. Who is benefitting from this ? someone is making millions out of this abuse and destruction. I am truly sorry for Malta and i feel shame that the Maltese are doing this to their land. Our once quite life is gone :(
It’s heartbreaking how spot on this video is. Traveling to other busier cities has become a mental break as opposed to living in the disorganized chaos Malta has become . Our quality of life is down the drain .
This guy had the guts to speak the truth and for this ❤. I am Maltese and had been blocked from other UA-camrs when I said that you're painting an idyllic view of Malta when in reality it is a complete mess! You should be given an award for not taking foreigners for a ride! 🎉🎉 In Malta money is everything and with money you can do whatever you like😢😢
Agreed. Its so far from idyllic now. Not even our beaches are good anymore with the amount of garbage people throw in it or beside it. And thats like, what people Usually go for here, to swim, so in a way we just really ruined ourselves.
I live here but I'm not Maltese. This video is true, thank you for pointing everything out. Tourists see the fairytale advertising when they choose to travel to Malta. This island is a nightmare.
@@wecutpro2371 I would have already left this rock forgotten by God in the middle of nowhere, if it was not simply that I cannot, unfortunately. Probably one day I will. You should be an hard core Maltese who takes advantage from govt to not see that this island is failing, in every side of life. Have a nice polluted and crowded day 👋
Thank you so much for showing our poor current environment. You gave a very clear picture of our current situation. Unfortunately, as a nation, we lack self discipline were it comes to the cleanliness of our environment. For the traffic, you forgot to mention the road rage that unfortunately is on the increase. When I go abroad, I am amazed with the beautiful nature, as we lack here. Unfortunately, who has the money has the power to destroy our few natural places that is left. Hopefully with your video, something might might might might change.
Thank you for such a nice comment! Some positive news at least after the video they started regularly cleaning the streets in St. Paul's Bay. Yes, I forgot to mentioned the road rage, another big issue here.
I am from Malta and I am so sorry to see this state of affairs in my country! Honestly and truly terribly sorry. I know you are correct in most of the things you are saying, and the majority of us are voicing our concerns. The problem is that greed took over. Full stop! So sad to see my country like this!!! At the same time, not everything is lost and I hope that everyone wakes up as soon as possible.
Thank you for your comment, unfortunately many things can't be fixed all the space taken with ugly buildings is lost forever, and could have been used to a better purpose.
You are sadly, 100% correct. I’ve lived in Malta 18 years and it gets worse and worse every year. This island COULD be stunningly beautiful, rivalling Santorini but instead there is a deep seated greed and obsession with money that maintenance is never done on anything (because it costs money) so everything is falling apart. beautiful sandstone buildings in traditional Maltese style are knocked down and replaced with badly built buildings that they are painting brown or grey for some weird reason. Everything looks ugly, rubbish everywhere, beaches are filthy and stink of urine. Construction dust everywhere. The island is destroyed. It is an ugly dump. The people in charge do not care. They make rules to stop people destroying the place but all anyone needs to do is bribe someone and you do what you want. I live down South. It is better that St Paul’s Bay but it is getting the same.
Thank you for such an honest and detailed comment, yes that's my point - today north of island is like this, but once they exploit all the space, the south will be next.
Hi, I was in Malta for a fortnight in 2019 for a study holiday, and I stayed right in the St. Paul area. But, in the time I was there, visiting many parts of the island, I was extremely satisfied with the environment and almost everything I saw, and I fell deeply in love with Malta. I have always dreamed of returning, but with the pandemic it was not easy, and for the time being I have not yet done so. Is the situation really that worrying, has it worsened so much in recent years? Or maybe it was me who, seeing it for the first time, filtered out the negative aspects by seeing it through rose-tinted lenses? I am very sorry to think that such a paradise has been ruined, and I wish the best to all Maltese and their beautiful island
@@pe-peron8441 Thank you for your comment, yep in just 5-6 years many places here got destroyed completely with overbuilding and other negative things. Every year it's worse, and traffic just this year worsened unbelievably.
All you say is correct. I'm Maltese and the situation is very, very sad. The locals are very concerned but our leaders don't want to see they're responsible for destroying our beautiful Islands!
I'm Maltese born and bred here in Malta, and I'm typing this with a heavy heart. Because once upon a time, Malta used to be a nice little island. I always wanted to leave since I was a kid because I love exploring and Malta is too tiny for me. But once I got married, at one point, I felt like it was time for my husband and I to settle down here and instead chose to travel as a hobby and a source of exploration. But now?! What has Malta become!!!! We're honestly planning to leave because apart from suffering from severe allergic reactions (hubby with huge hives, never ending sinusitis and severe allergic conjunctivitis, me never ending sinusitis and at one point I suffered an anaphylactic shock, due to construction dust), since we don't have any green areas anymore (mentioned by you) it's effecting us mentally to the point where we're constantly waking up feeling depressed. We can't take it anymore and we can't wait to leave honestly. I'm absolutely very sorry and ashamed for you, all the tourists that come to Malta and Expats. 😭😭😭😭😭
Thank you for this detailed and honest comment, I understand how you feel, with all the opportunities and money this island had, the result is this present state. For any kind of normal life, moving abroad is the only option.
I came before the boom of mass tourism. When maersk air was around. But if what you say is true then its slowly turning into a giant tourist trap. 5 years from now it would probably be: transformation complete...
Could you please tell why Malta has changed? I saw many comments about "10 years ago was better..." but If you didn't have any revolutions/wars/dictatorships, what's happened?
It used to be more peaceful. Crime was at an all time low and we had less construction. Now cranes everywhere you look. No more greenery because they keep on building in ODZ areas and we're completely filled to the brim with 3rd world country people who are taking jobs from us Maltese citizens because the government that was elected 10 years ago, decided to bring them here so that companies pay these poor souls very low wages, instead of increasing said wages and employ Maltese people. Not to mention the amount of corruption which has caused us to be listed on the grey list and because of this, us citizens are suffering. Malta is in a huge debt because of said corruptions. The party that was elected 10 years ago, wanted to only be elected so they can launder money and fill their pockets from the taxes we pay for. And the list goes on and on. @@ТетянаОлянюк-п2д
I left Malta 2 years ago for a job, and let me tell you that living in another country (UK) is not all glitter and gold. I'm glad for the experience though as it has made me appreciate Malta so much more! I have been back and forth often during these 2 years and it is true that there are a lot of things which we can improve on in Malta, however there are so many other positive things that we take for granted (the friendly people, healthcare system, education, beaches, food, weather amongst others). I found this video to be too negative and also very disrespectful (telling people to avoid our beautiful country!) Rest assured that no country is perfect. I am very much looking forward to go back home once my work contract finishes!
Just to disappoint you a bit, healthcare here has gone down the drain. Massive queues everywhere and every GP is suggesting you to go to private hospital, because in Mater Dei you wait for a specialist appointment for six months. Beaches will surprise you as well. Thank you for your comment.
@@AlexMarkTravel I actually worked in Mater Dei for a few years and I am now working in the UK as a doctor. I can honestly tell you that the Maltese are very lucky with the healthcare system in place. As I said, we need to appreciate what we have more!!!
@@sarahchetcuti1383 Excuse me but what to appreciate, getting any attention at Mater Dei means at least 4 hours of waiting and processing time for kids, I don't know how much adults wait and wouldn't like to find out. Have a friend went for a screw in his arm to be taken out (waited 6 years after he broke arm to finally get invited) and then he went there at 7am, got that screw/bolt taken out at 17:00pm waited the whole day with no food and water. Any specialist is either 6 months waiting, or 50-100e at private clinic. After the blackouts the ER was full of patients in beds it looked like in American movies. Mosta clinic you come in the morning and you need to spend the whole day waiting there as well. I heard that health care in UK is completely bust, but this here is nearing that as well. I told people to avoid as there are much better places for their money and holidaying, better kept and organised, much cleaner where their money will be more respected, life for families here also who ever can, should choose other places as it is near to impossible if you want your kids to have any kind of active life and connection with nature, even simple things like riding a bicycle.
@@AlexMarkTravel Come on! Here the waiting times are 6 days for a bed once admitted!!! All I'm saying is that if you want to make a video about our country you need to show both sides... I agree that we need to fix a lot of issues in Malta but come on, how rude are you to tell people to avoid our country?!!!
The healthcare system in Malta is much better than the UK but pays less. She is right. Now Alex, whoever you are, tmerix is sewwa maghruf. We agree where you are right, but disagree where you are not. I am from Malta, worked in the shitty English NHS for 20 years. This doctor is right.
I am Skandinavian living in Malta for 7 years now, its not s perfect country for sure but weather and job keeping me here. Garbage in Msida is picked up before 9.00 twice a week though. When it rains it floods, traffic is bad and a lot of constructions and dust. But its a very safe place, very metropolitan, and many great resturants. Been to many worse places😊
@@R1Ghostrider-g5y I agree with you about the Greece, one of my favorite countries, but this guy came to Malta from Scandinavia so comparing to Scandinavia, Malta has way better weather and climate. For me it's too hot during summer, and the air is too humid and dusty all year round.
Malta is over populated. Up to 12 years ago we were a bit more than a third of a million and now the population on this tiny island has doubled. Sustainability is the buzz word nowadays and Malta has become everything but sustainable. It's become one large dump site. The health system has collapsed, the environmental state has worsened, let's not mention the pollution. All this is also because of the foreigners who became Maltese residents. The tourism minister has replicated to this video and said that the person doing this video didn't go to wied iz zurrieq. Please do come to wied iz zurrieq!! I'm a resident and I would gladly see a similar video reporting the whole chaos there is at wied iz zurrieq. On Sunday morning is somewhat similar to hell. Parking is a starter, traffic on the road and at sea!!!!! And slowly it's almost becoming another construction site. Thanks minister. Everyone out there, DON'T COME TO MALTA.
Thank you for your detailed comment. And thanks for inviting me to Wied Iz-Zurrieq, I remember the whole Zurrieq area as a quiet place years ago, I would really like to see how it looks today.
@alexmarktravel similar to Baghdad or New Dehli, unfortunately. Entering zurrieq from Valletta Road, you'll find around a dozen cranes welcoming you. Every terraced house is becoming a block of flats. But our once a jewel wied iz zurrieq, where I have lovely memories of my childhood is now unrecognisable. And I didn't quite understand what 'prodott turistiku' did Clayton Bartolo produce there? In 35 years, all I saw is patchwork at wied iz zurrieq. Every government promised an overhaul, and unfortunately, we were forgotten by all. Now they will come again, promising heaven to gather their votes, and once back in power, we're once again forgotten. And what I say is that this is all our fault. We allow them to take us for granted. We empower them when we vote, and before we shake the whole electoral system with an unprecedented low turnout, things will never change.
@@philippavella1716 This is so sad to hear, as Zurrieq as I remember was very quiet village, traditional, with old houses all of them having those long bamboo covers from top to the bottom of the main house doors. It was quite unique, nice traditional streets, as I remember streets were clean as well, such a shame that nothing is spared. Thanks again for sharing.
I live in Malta (central area in Gzira) since 2018, and everything that this guy describes is spot on. Not only in the North in St Paul's Bay or Buggiba, but everywhere else as well. Rubbish management is a huge fail here, public transportation is unreliable and there are no real public spaces for people to enjoy - the beaches are literally always overcrowded, even in the winter, there is no one spot on the island where you can sit down in peace to enjoy the sea view without having to listen to someone's shouting or disco music.
I am Maltese, what this gentleman is saying is a 100% true non exaggerated situation. My once beautiful island is now a constant construction site. its sad.
I'm a Brazilian citizen, man! It's usual for me to see these bizarre situations... Rio de Janeiro is even worstst than that! Malta is a paradise in a comparison with the most midian and big Brazilians cities.
Thanks for sharing. Well Malta is a member of EU and gets EU funds all the time, plus it's a tourist destination, so it shouldn't be like this. But I am very sorry to hear that Brazil is in such a shape.
The Malta of the times of the green buses and vibes disco have long gone . What’s left is an island full of greed and the only people to suffer are the majority of Maltese . It used to be such a beautiful island . I myself am Maltese and often come to visit family . Such a shame Malta is slowly being robbed of its identity.
Thank you Alex for such an honest review of Qawra/Buggiba/St Paul's. I have lived here in the past and still visit on a regular basis. I totally concur with your findings. At one time it was the place to go, now local people try to avoid it. The power outages used to be infrequent and sporadic, however these days we are using more and more electricity and the grid is struggling to cope. Add to that extremes of climate and the outcome isn't good. There are many beautiful aspects to Malta but these go hand in hand with the rough elements. Malta is a small country and in my opinion it is overcrowded, but not with Maltese people.
Im maltese and live in Australia and everything in this video is true. They have spoilt this little island, for the sake of money. You cant take it with u wen u die, i will never return to Malta for the reason of over population. Which is a shame as I was born there, and travelled to malta in the 70s and 80s . It was much nicer and cleaner then. I went back in 2017 after 33 yrs and hated it, it changed to the extreme i was to scared to hire a car for all the traffic. Malta has a lot of history but its slowly being distroyed buy construction.
I am from Malta born and raised, never liked it and never will. To travel 10km to work it takes you 2 hours, 30 minutes to find parking and a 10 minute walk, property prices are sky high, wages were always disaster and was never aligned with the cost of living that is going up every week. The island lacks knowledge, common sense, and road infrastructure is disaster, I believe that who designs the roads is smoking crack on a daily basis. There is more roundabouts than there is churches. Garbage collection is still the same for as long as I can remember (35 years). But like you said, this town and many other towns on the island, hosts foreign works / residents. Those workers / residents are usually from third world countries (India, Nepal, illegal imigrants and those areas.. I am not mentioning the countries that are not in the European Union as those countries usually we are similar). Most of those foreign workers / residents unfortunately lack education, driving skills and hygiene. Those foreign residents are causing accidents on a daily basis, not obeying laws and much more. Since a lot of people here want to be rich in a day, lots of people are opening restaurants and companies and hiring those type of people. About the history, what history is left on this island? powerful people are building apartments next to prehistoric sights, and getting permits. All the restaurants that you see here you rarely see a Maltese traditional restaurant, Mostly is Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese restaurants. Most of those issues mentioned are not Maltese fault, but because the country welcomed residents from all those third world countries and now we are paying the price. 20 - 25 years ago it was a much much better island than it is nowadays.
I tried to comment but it went in nirvana it was similar to your comments but mine ended with me almost finishing homeless (not to be a racist as I also am a mom to a half African boy whom I love dearly but I ended up like that with Church food till I found a job as many took in Indian and Philippines most made promises that I had nights for sure and told me not to tell the job agency (as they get a percentage they would rather give me as an extra)the same agent that sent me for the appointment)I found their numbers and called directly so imagine when I asked when I would start as (rain was for the next three days and the shore cafes would not open they said lol) my fate was already arranged before I even went on my assigned appointment (I shined even the same job (let's call them competition was amazed as I made Knocker concoction cocktails tout suite)they had already filled the job!!(They had told them I was a chef and not the truth to make things worse)The jobs were just 2-10minutes walk from where I lived so I could do nights!When I tried to get a full time job and after two weeks I got fired (the excuse he the BOSS was betting on earnings 1600euros a week) as I'm Maltese as you though I have a foreign name and surname.I just got 160euros and he had to pay taxes and stuff only a Malteser would need so better to employ students who wore very short shorts and flirted then me.I was told to leave my other job (part time) as he thought I was going there too in the same time (I noticed weird guys snooping and passing by with same caps and glasses and tennis shoes daily and after on one day I was left to wait for the uniform for (8hours) he had the nerve to tell me the same day I had pay I was fired and not to let the secretary wait as she is not an animal haha(she saw how I was after just getting my delivery or groceries a few minutes before I went with them in a box) (I have fibromyalgia) also the other job forgot to pay me so I went the day before at 4pm I worked till 2pm in his job he thought I went before from work and took my pay)when I was using Qawra food help and all that MacDonald's had already helped me when we lost the Paris plane so they offered me a job as soon as I was in the beginning of all this.They also asked if I needed food.Its true what the soldiers in the Paris airport said they really help ask for the manager when you are in a similar state.Im in Albania my boyfriend sent me an airplane ticket and they told me if you come back tell us we will employ you don't worry even the church food.Blessed thou it be always
Super spot on. I am Maltese too and you described life here perfectly! It's an absolute hell on Earth! This is a country run by greed where nobody gives a shit and the people who are supposed to help you most are the ones who kick you in the nuts and make life miserable for you! Another thing to mention about the road works .... even the simplest of jobs take weeks and sometimes even MONTHS to finish. In other countries where people actually give a shit and where things are serious, small road works would take not more than 3 days to finish, yet here some of the main roads and most commonly used roads are closed for months! This leaves us with very few alternatives and hence an accumulation of traffic which can sometimes take hours to get through! It's HELL.
you're right, I lived and worked in Malta* St Julian's *2000-03 Malta was a beautiful place to live.. It came back in 2012-13 the southern part, everything 5* more expensive, migrants, crowds, not to mention everything you know yourself,
@@vukaleksic1654 Yes I remember a huge difference as well before 2010. :( It's really sad honestly, remembering what Malta once was and seeing what it now is. When I was a kid I could not imagine why people would want to leave Malta, I loved it so much. Now all I want to do is leave.
@@rachelcool95 Yes, there were still pounds back then :) and mostly the migrants were Chinese shops..At that time I planned to stay there permanently..The food was great, the people were great, everything was great..I loved the pastizzi the most
Along with loads of others here, I am also maltese... I am studying at the university here, and almost everyone I know from there has plans to leave the country and go somewhere else in within europe. This is unfortunately a common desire by people my age as things are looking bleak here, from the politics, the economy of the country, the people and their attitudes and so on. Every time I travel abroad it feels so much better elsewhere, even in eastern europe.
im sorry not to be rude or anything but you're only showing one side of the island - bugibba/qawra i believe, and those places are generally not the nicest, cleanest. Other localities are not this bad
I agree with you to a point. But why should be this area, which is the biggest town and one of the biggest tourist spots here, be left like this, and treated worse than other parts? Plus you have Gzira and some other parts which are in dire state as well.
@BellaBonello they are bad , just not this bad ! construction is everywhere , rubbish , noise , pollution -- the whole island is suffering . Certain parts more than other , granted. Our way of life has gone down the drain
Whole Malta is shit man not only Buggiba or Qawra. Sliema is shit Valetta is shit and it is a shame to be shit a historical place but anywhere in Malta sucks. I already try to go back to Norway because this country is awful the mentality the economy the hygiene i hate it.
@alexmarktravel Go to Mosta and tell me if you still feel this way. Idk, I spent 10 days there and thought it was lovely. Even Alex in Malta who has lived in Malta for 9 years and loves it, hates Buġibba and told me to avoid it like the plague so yeah, of course if you're in the worst part of Malta, you will see all the negative things.
I am a Maltese citizen concerned by the excessive construction destroying built and natural heritage. For example, the Sliema seafront buildings are now a bland, could-be-anywhere mediocrity. Parts of Malta are still beautiful but visit before they are spoiled too.
Thanks for finally a proper comment on this topic. Gzira as well it's not recognizable, and since Valletta is also in danger of losing the UNESCO protection, they should definitely hurry up with visiting.
Unfortunately, this is how Malta is now. I've lived here for almost a decade. It went from a bit chaotic and 'rough around the edges' but very cheap and friendly, to a complete disaster which is insanely expensive (rent, food etc.) considering the quality of things. If you are thinking of moving here and working remotely (or just living a modern life), also be aware the internet is horrendous. When it works it is actually quite fast, but it is completely unreliable - sometimes cutting out for hours on end. The only saving grace is that beer is still relatively cheap (and heck, you will need a drink if you spend any time here!).
😂 You made me laugh about the beer comment, definitely you would need it, spot on! But even beer prices are steadily going up, everything else yes constantly going up. Thank you for your comment.
Thank you for making this video, as someone who's Maltese I'm very ashamed of whats happening with my country thanks to corruption, violence, femicide, cencorship, caring more about social justice then the condition of the island and the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia. Not to get political but Progressive liberalism is cancer and this government needs to go.
I visited Malta in 2023 and stayed in St Paul. I didn't see more bins than normal. Actually don't remember any. Construction sites were not more than i would see anywhere else. Actually really liked Malta and would love to visit it again
Than you for your comment, yes sorting out things here usually is a bit slow. But at least now after this video they clean the streets almost every day in St Pauls' Bay.
Thank you for showing the true side of this island. Not the false advertisement shown on post cards and travel ads. Hopefully your message will be heard and might herald a change. But, knowing the new trend, of who cares as long as I make money, it won't happen.
Thank you for your comment, well at least they started cleaning the streets regularly in St. Paul's Bay after this video, unfortunately all the other problems are as they were before.
I just love Malta. Been there several times and would always visit again. But I would never travel to Malta in summer (too many tourists). Friendly people, great weather, lovely places, swimming all year around (did it end of November and once in February). Yes, the amount of new buildings/construction sites is somehow shocking but this would never change my mind about Malta as such!
as someone from the greek island of corfu, all those things are nothing new for me, we have a huuge garbage problem, i still know to appreciate the island knowing that things like garbage, construction is not it‘s fault but rather the people who organize that stuff
This guy is completely correct. Malta has become an overpopulated dump with construction sites on every road covering everything in dust. Compare malta today with malta 15 years ago quality of life has gone down the drain 😢. We turned a paradise into a dump so the rich could become super rich and buy bigger yachts what a shame
I've lived in Malta for 4 months until July this year. It's a place with consistently amazing weather and you can definitely have a good time, but unfortunately a lot less livable compared to elsewhere, for the reasons that were mentioned in the video. It's a nice tax haven if you can make use of that with a company, but other than that it's better to live elsewhere. Like mentioned in the video, it's also twice as expensive as compared to Tenerife, where I also lived, and it's a much better island in terms of everything (besides tax).
Ive lived here for 4 years and can support everything he says and shows in this video. I came from Spain and previously the UK, Malta is much more like North Africa than it is Europe, terribly dirty and noisy, traffic jammed streets, huge construction going on continuously. Garbage everywhere, streets caked with filth and dirt. This is the picture you get when you live here, dont get me wrong, there are some amazing seaside spots and views, and if you come on vacation from a cold climate you may be impressed. But if you arrive here from another EU nation for work, you will likely be fantastically disappointed, not forgetting the incredibly high costs of living, 1000 per month for poorly finished 1 bed apartments, very high costs for daily groceries etc etc
Streets caked with filth and dirt? What? I never saw that anywhere in Malta and I was there for 10 days. Mosta, where I stayed, was very clean. However, I saw a lot of dirt in Amsterdam and London where I also just came from. Every place that has a lot of tourists is going to deal with dirt since tourists don't care about how dirty things get since they're leaving it behind. Maybe you spent a lot of time in St. Julian's, especially Paceville, idk. I imagine that area is dirtier than usual since it's mostly full of 18 year old drunk tourists.
Everything was 100% spot on! Also the poor states of pavements (besides the ridiculous tiled one you pointed out). Taking a walk can be downright treacherous! They're literally falling apart, narrowed due to construction or hoarding, gaping holes, overturned rocks - a nightmare! It's safer to walk on the street next to the cars!
I am Maltese myself, I have had moved to the UK for many personal reasons but also I left Malta for many reasons that you also pinpointed! Fortunately, there are places in Malta that are still less chaotic & messy (I HOPE) unlike Bugibba-Qawra-StPaulsBay & also sliema & stjulians area. You are completely right about everything you pinpointed in this video. You are not being negative like other comments has stated, you are only saying FACTS. Malta was the JEWEL of the Mediterranean, but now not anymore. the downhill of Malta started back in 2013, 10 years later 2023 look at my Island now what it become.
As a tourist I loved Malta. Was there in October 2022 for a week and every day was a mini trip. Especially Valetta and Mdina are amazing, but Gozo was nice too, as well as experience such as local buses in narrow streets, great weather, warm water, fresh fish to eat, central Malta seen from the buses' windows... All of that made my holidays so enjoyable that I love recalling this trip. I recommend Malta for tourists, it is unique and cosy. Of course there are bad sides like constructions or a lot of old, ugly hotels, but it's still great destination. 😊
Thank you for your comment. I need to share this with you fresh fish in Malta you can eat: 1. If you catch it yourself 2. If you hit Marsaxlokk fish market. Every other option means that you will probably eat defrosted sea produce. Calamari are usually imported frozen from abroad. There are only few restaurants on the whole island that probably serve fresh fish and that's it.
@@AlexMarkTravel I ate in Marsaxlokk :) btw I was also disappointed in some of the places in Malta, for example totally crowded and stinky Blue Lagoon or Sliema with ugly buildings, but still loved the general experience and vibe and there were so many beautiful places and landscapes that I totally recommend for tourists. I used buses from Valetta for a whole week to visit Mdina, Blue Grotto or Marsaxlokk and never had any problems with them (it was October 2022), I actually liked the experience. Like you mentioned in the video some people wouldn't like Malta, but I think majority of tourists like it a lot :) greetings from Poland and thanks for the informative video!
@@saga2828 Good move eating out at Marsaxlokk. 😀 Yes, off season is much better experience in Malta, as well, that's what I recommended to viewers in my Valletta video. Pozdrawiam Polsko! 😃
My wife and i stayed in Bugibba/Qawra in June and absolutely loved it. Traffic around Valletta and the Airport a bit crazy but that was the only slight negative
Spot on sir. I am quite fortunate to reside in a nicer part of Malta, however not everyone has the luxury to do so. Our government has prioritized the interests of construction moguls (and their own pockets) over their own people. Its a disgrace.
I’m Maltese and what he said and showed is true. St Paul’s is no longer a suitable place for tourists. There are still nice places to visit, but some places are best to avoid completely. It’s nicer (and cleaner) if you stay in the South. Beaches are also cleaner and less crowded. If you want to experience something authentic, ditch the big hotels and stay in a boutique hotel (you can find one in certain villages. If you need tips, drop me a comment below.) It’s best to rent a car, but, plan your route. Start your day around 8:30 - 9:30am (if you try driving before you will end up stuck in rush hour traffic. You will still find traffic afterwards, but it will be a bit better.) Watch out for all the bolt and wolt drivers on motorcycles because they drive like crazy and they try to take-over from the left side and not the right! Do ask the locals for the best eateries. Don’t fall into tourist traps.
Its been years since I left Malta so I don't know what its like now, but from what I remember the south is a lot nicer. Zurrieq was my favourite. I have fond memories of walking to the local bakery every morning for freshly baked ftira and snorkling at wied iz-zurrieq. It was always so peaceful.
I have been staying in Qawra for the last month, and I agree with this video, Qawra is filthy. To the point that my 5-year-old son started calling Malta "a rubbish island." Because Qawra literally has rubbish everywhere you look. He will come back to the UK where we live and will be telling his teachers and friends all about how dirty Malta is. And it is sad, as he is Maltese and should be enjoying it without having to see all the rubbish around. I would suggest you also take a video on the way to Fra Ben beach (the field on the other side of the Aquarium which looks like it has never been cleaned, full of rubbish of all sorts). The road by this field is walked by many people - mostly tourists every day. It is disgusting. Then I would suggest to come to Fra Ben beach to film the state of the beach itself- full of cigarette butts and other rubbish, mostly plastic, left by people every day and not cleaned. The only way it gets cleaned is by being washed out in the sea. As you snorkel in the sea you can start noticing the ever increasing levels of plastic in it too. Aside, garbage collection trucks have to be monitored for how they collect rubbish and fined, as each time they come they leave half of the rubbish on the street, as it falls out of the bags when they lift them. Construction is the other big problem- luckily this summer we have an air-con and can close the doors when sleeping, otherwise the sound of construction starts early in the morning and doesn't stop until the evening, constant noise pollution. Also dust pollution with no fresh air. I can go on and on about how bad things are in Qawra. I can't imagine anyone in their right mind wanting to come here again after having spent their first holiday here. The only reason we still come is because we have family here. Very sad, hopefully, the Maltese government will improve the situation ASAP.
Thank you for your very detailed and honest comment. That field of rubbish you mentioned is across the street from that giant crater of somebody's unsuccessful construction project. Notice taken, and I will probably film that area as well. Regarding the garbage trucks and many people have noticed that also, some of them put the grey bags together with black garbage bags.
The last tourist who called Malta a dump was given the response by The Minister of Tourism whoever that is ; that so many thousands of tourist still came to Malta. The Minister will be singing a different time come next year.😞
I find it great, that this video speaks the truth! Can't stand videos where people try to crook others with giving a wrong/ dream impressions. Thanks for this insight!
I went to Malta on a holiday back in July, and although I wouldn’t go as far to tell people not to go to Malta, because I had the greatest times of my life there! But I do have to agree with you with some of the stuff you said in the video. But I wasn’t aware that there was rubbish scattering the place? And I did wonder that everywhere looked like a massive construction site, and the pollution was 👌and traffic was so wonderful that it took almost 3 hours to get from IS-SELLUM to Valletta on the bus, which should normally be a 30 minute bus ride, and when I was on the bus, I did thought it may help to reduce traffic on the roads if they built a railway of them kind, but if Malta did build a railway, it will more than likely be built underground, because with the already stated construction sites and the {hills} it would be impossible to build a railway on level ground, but I think you’ve got more than enough construction to worry about 😅, and to solve pollution. Since Malta is smaller than the Isle of Wight in England, I bet it will probably be cheaper to convert petrol and diesel cars to run on vegetable or any other plant-based fuel, rather than turning everything, electric like what the UK and the rest of Europe are doing, {seriously, you are doing just fine with your solar panels you don’t need anything else} 😂 anyway, that are my opinions on how to make your country great again, alongside kicking out all the stuff you don’t need. Thank you for reading my comment and the best wishes from the UK! 🇬🇧
I am English & first came to Malta in 1998. I really liked it & Malta has a certain charm to it. Despite the cranes & construction from that time also. I loved the limestone buildings, blue sky & beautiful sea & the old busses. I returned every few years & always have a nice time. I was planning on going to Malta this year & was looking forward to sitting in a nice restaurant in Valletta or Sliema & enjoying a bottle of Red Label wine. However, after watching your video, im seriously having second thoughts.
In Valletta you can still enjoy, but just so you know it's full of restaurants now, and some of them, bars work until late as well, so there's more choice for dining but also more noise and crowd. Enjoying Sliema just forget about it, traffic, noise, concrete, sums it up pretty much.
go on your holiday and enjoy we go to bugibba twice a year and have done for over 20 years. yes it has changed but the video has been made for the dramatic effect and yes some of it is true construction always seems to be going on and takes forever. we will be back in malta in june and again in august this year
@@eastfife106 I'm still planning on another trip to Malta. Hopefully at the end of this year. I'll stay in Valletta or Sliema. Especially if EasyJet start doing flights from Newcastle again.
@@TheBigT79Yeah, don't let this video stop you from going - I just spent 10 days there (I stayed in Mosta) and I spent 5 days in St Julian's last year and I absolutely loved it. Maybe it's because where I'm from in the US there is always so much construction getting in the way, but I didn't even find the construction everyone complains about to be that bad.
@@ESCSteph That's good to hear. I'm planning another trip quite soon but there's a few logistical problems as EasyJet no longer fly there from Newcastle. I may even go later in the year. Nov or Dec. 👍
Bravo for being brave enough to speak out! I’m sure you will receive comments such as: “if you don’t like it, go back to your country!” (I’ve heard that many times) but don’t let this discourage you to share the truth.
Thank you so much for this comment I appreciate it a lot. One of the reasons, I made this video is the gruesome state of St Paul's Bay but most of the Malta as well, and also the fact that here as a foreigner you need to keep your head down and not comment anything or criticize anything while Malta lives of foreign money and foreign work force, and all the damage is not done by foreigners here as foreigners don't make the rules, so I said OK, today is the day some truth comes out there for people to see.
I am staying in St Paul's Bay this week and all he says is true. Can't believe its changed so much :( It used to be a lovely place to come to but now its just a dump.
We visited Malta not long ago and were so disappointed. Sadly we did find these things true. We felt we were in a third world country. Won't visit again sadly.
Love the honesty. Went to Toronto. Was shocked that Chinatown smelled like urine. Went to Paris. The only thing I enjoyed was the supermarket near the mall. Never will romanticize about a travel destination again. Always overcrowded and expensive.
I’m a new follower Thanks for the video❤❤❤ Every country in the world has its positives and negatives. The issue is the person’s conviction. If he is convinced in this country and his work is good, he does not focus on anything. For example, I am in Denmark. People here are not social at all and are dry and rough in style and personality. The simplest thing is that if you say good morning or try to speak after saying hello for a while, they consider you mentally unstable. My neighbors, we have not known each other for more than two years The weather here is dark, cloudy, cold and dreary Work is also difficult Health is like the rest of Europe Most of the nationalities are Japanese, Sri Lankan, African, American, Indian, Chinese, Russian, and Brazilian Italian Bosnian everyone We all have similar characteristics in terms of education, family, friends, and lifestyle, except for the Scandinavian, especially Denmark. Most of them suffer from society I once happened to be talking to the neighbour, a danish who lives in the area, and we were talking about traveling on summer vacation with a group. I asked him: Do you travel with a Danish group? He told me that he want to relax on his vacation, and the aim is to get away from the rough style of the Danes. How do you want me to travel with them? I laughed in amazement There is a saying that if you see the worst, you prefer the bad The tax here is 40 to 60%, which is why Malta is much better in any case And if the Dane is in a bad mood, I do not know how to express it. I advise you to move away into space, because when he sees you, he will transmit all the hysteria and spoil your day and your mood, because his mood is bad, and you, too, are supposed to have a bad day. I'm sorry for this clarification, but unfortunately it is the truth Countless mental illnesses in Danish society The strange thing is that the Danes know and know that they are weird I deliberately write all this so that you can notice the differences
With heavy heart I have to agree with you. I am Maltese and proud. Unfortunately the governments left all to do what they want. Building everywhere Dirt everywhere Pollution everywhere And the list goes on!
Hello Alex, i love your video about Malta but to be honest I'm confused now cause I and my family planning to relocate to Malta by February. With what I've seen in your video about Malta I'm sad 😢 and if I may ask what other country can you suggest apart from Malta? Thank you
@@ImoleayoROjo Hello, if you can really choose the location not related to your job, than definitely Spain. You can also consider Portugal. I don't know if you consider any of the northern countries as well, there are more options? Here the things are such that it became really difficult to have even half-normal life due the constant construction and jammed traffic, noise and everything else.
Thank you for showing us another reality in Malta. Is refreshing to see someone telling it like it is. Was planning to go this October but now i won’t.
Well, don't be so close minded. Will you judge Malta by one youtuber guy who showed possibly the most populated place in Malta? I suggest that you still go, just don't visit these areas, I hate them as a Maltese myself
I’ve been to Malta a few times and I love it there. The traffic is intimidating though and that part I’d say is accurate. I’ve never had a good traditional Maltese meal at a restaurant there but I have had gone cooked traditional meals in a few dear friends homes there. I would say the smell of limestone was not something I liked and you cannot escape it. The main strip of Valletta had an open air restaurant that has about 200 pigeons all over with stray cats watching. My wife hated that bit. Besides my friends there it’s the history and culture I love the most. Malta can curb immigration by putting a stop. But I don’t think they can curb the traffic and overdevelopment. Many historical buildings are being torn down to make way for modern buildings. The overbuilding is the issue mainly amongst a few issues
I'm English, born in the UK. My father was Maltese. I visited Malta 15 years ago for the first time and really fell in love with the island. Yes, the roads were in poor condition but it was clean and quiet, the locals were lovely and welcoming (in fact a few people starting talking to me in Maltese assuming I was from there!), it was reasonably cheap and I really felt like I was reconnecting with my roots. It genuinely makes me sad to watch this video and read the comments. I would have loved to retire in Malta but this has really put me off. So sad.
Im Maltese, I agree. Almost every young person that you meet here wants to go live abroad. Its not the country itself that is bad- the countryside and stuff is lovely when it hasnt been contaminated. But theres construction everywhere, garbage everywhere, people dont clean up after themselves. In my opinion its not worth it and its way too pricey nowadays to even live.
Im from Ireland and visited malta (st pauls bay) for the first time in August, I thought the country was largely quiet a nice spot to visit, yes there was some rubbish and yes the driving/ road infrastructure isnt the best but theres plenty of places/ attractions to see and do and the water is crystal clear and very warm
Thank you for your comment, yes the water around Malta has special properties like this for example: "The health authorities detected microbiological EColi contamination" this was around 5-6 beaches this summer in the island.
@@joekool9601 Good things are rare and between, unfortunately, especially when you are in the middle of non-stop road and building construction, pollution, dust, noise, trash everywhere. prices going up etc. Out of all these you want me to concentrate on good things, ha what a joke.
@@AlexMarkTravel maybe it’s because I’m proud of my country and don’t appreciate foreigners putting it down for the sake of their UA-cam channel . And that’s me being polite others will tell you to go back where you came from or just go someplace you like.
@@joekool9601 Hello, while appreciate you being polite, don't worry got so many comments to go back and even worse. But that's it foreigners invest their time and life here, do all the heavy lifting, it's prime time they express their opinion as well. So enjoy some real picture of the situation here for once. All the best!
Straight to the point man, everything is so true and I just don’t know, why Maltese people are not complaining about this? If it was another country, the local would make a riot, but here seems like they are all fine with it. 🤷♂️
@@mendegeorge5579 I am struck by this too...the Maltese are unhappy about the situation in Malta but they're a peaceful people and don't make a fuss. Don't be fooled....the locals are very angry about the destruction of their Islands....
This is such a fair critique. I feel the overdevelopment of my native Lithuania's sites in a very similar way. Too many constructions in vulnerable places, wrong urbanisation solutions and growing use of cars. The paradox is that it is exactty small authentic places people connect with. Then big capital comes and puts a developent pressure where silent lively authentic places used to be. Overmotorization of such a beautiful place is so wrong :( It's a shame that public transpot is not well-improved, as Malta used to be quite walkable. There must be regultions for overusing private transport. By the way, with the slippery outdoors tiles this is a real disaster in many places around the world. For example, in my country, Lithuania, where is it rain and snow starting from November till March, they started using super-slippy tiles imported from China, cheap but not wise at all :(
When I went to Malta, I somehow loved it, even though when I saw some videos before hand and all we saw was yellow buildings! But now, me and my mum are planning to go again in 2025!
I am a gozitan citizen, and i can absolutely confirm that the same issues are on our island too. The rate of construction has absolutely sky rocketed in the last few years, for example my street which was considered as one of the quietest was turned overnight into one of the noisiest roads. Moreover in a span less than 2 years around 3 appartment blocks and 4 massive houses were built which led to lots of noise, dumped construction debris and dust everywhere. Furthermore, the traffic issue is quite significant spcially in Victoria and the road leading to Xewkija, I had my fair share of close calls with terrible drivers which cannot adhere to the basic rules of the road (reading signs, roundabouts and lane discipline). In addition, the issue regarding overpopulation is very relatable, especially in places like marsalforn where we've reached a state that its more often you see a foreigner over a local. Lastly, the road conditions are absolutely humerous, roads like the ones leading to Ta' kercem and Ta' Sannat are amongst the worst. Alot of these roads have not been redone since the 90s and with increased use of stone lorry trucks, the roads' condition has rapidly detiriorated. Gozo is far from the island it once was and I'm afraid there is not much left to save.
Thank you for your comment. Yes, you are right, even with all that Gozo is still pretty much better than Malta, comparing this very moment. Unfortunately as you stated it started in Gozo and probably won't stop until they turn it into concrete island.
I moved here in 2019 having first visited Gozo in 2017, for a teaching job. When Covid came that stopped as it was a language school for students from overseas, and it never reopened. I am from England and enjoy the life here, but can honestly say that the increase in (very shabby) building work and traffic is a big issue that the government should address before Gozo is ruined. I remember years ago when similar problems arose in Menorca, the government stepped in. I wrote to various ministers but the only one who replied was Bernard Grech (who is not in power). People come here for an unusual holiday to a place not ruined by stilly nightclubs, etc, but it cannot last if they see that they are coming to a polluted, crowded, traffic-ridden (and the roads are poorly-kept anyway...) island pretending to be a sky rise town in the Middle-east, so to speak. I have a shop in Victoria now and hear first-hand from many visitors that they are disappointed to see Gozo going the way of Malta... I find there is too much apathy from the locals - whilst they agree things are going wrong, they do nothing but shrug their shoulders. Please, people who care (such as you, Alex) rise up against this wave of destructive materialism that is ruining a unique island! It is critical and essential!
@@AnnabelleJARankin Thank you for your comment. There are several local NGO groups which voice themselves on all major problems and protest. But still that doesn't affect much the outcome in the end. When I spot something critical from my end I will do a video about it, but I don't think there's a chance of saving Gozo if the local people generally let these things happen, Malta is pretty much gone, and the next on the builders agenda is Gozo.
I think you missed the mega huge cockroach problem. The infestation is a health hazard, they are everywhere… going out at night is a horror movie if you have a phobia or simply dislike them..and I think the rat problem is actually worse than what you showed.. breaks my heart.. I was born there but fled almost 20 years ago… it’s been transformed into a complete rubbish dump.. there IS beauty in Malta but unfortunately all these things you mentioned, pollution, dirt, traffic just doesn’t make it worth it anymore… 😔
Thank you for your comment, I get a lot of positive, but also a lot of negative comments, imagine if I mentioned the cockroach problem as well, it would be too much. 😀 Yes, all the issues they just kill the joy of anything good here.
We stayed in a certain hotel, that has a good reputation, & 4 & half stars, we saw 3 cockroaches in our 3 weeks there, 2 in the bathroom, one in the sleeping area, we've stayed in other hotel's in Malta, & never had this.
We coming to Malta for SP 2024, 4 days away. I hope they've cleaned up. Also, I've been to Rome several times it's the same on the outskirts. They touristy center is clean though. Napoli was also dirty like in your video.
I left Malta in the 1970s, at the age of 16. The biggest problem then was unemployment, which is why so many people left for Australia and other places. Some came back and some didn’t. I will always love the place, as it’s absolutely unmatched in terms of historical buildings and culture. Have to admit though, that it’s not a relaxing place anymore. Getting around isn’t easy, and the video is really quite accurate, as much as I hate to see it. Most people are better off financially, but they also seem to be a lot more stressed, mostly due to the reasons pointed out in the video. To me now, it seems like a ticking time bomb. Something has to give. I feel so fortunate to have lived in this beautiful island when we had such a relaxed and idyllic lifestyle. Let’s hope things work out. I am just glad that I have the option of escaping the insane overdevelopment and chaos that ensues at the moment.
I live on Gozo (moved over 5 years ago) and the change here is similar: traffic, bad roads, pollution, ugly over-development and an excess of immigrants from Eastern countries (many brought over on false pretences - given contracts that do not last, for instance) and a complete lack of concern from the government for these issues. Maltese and Gozitan people shrug their shoulders rather than protest and make a difference, which is a shame because the beauty of the buildings is crumbling/fading fast and is not being properly conserved or renovated.
Been visiting for decades and bought our dream home in Malta 10 years ago. Literally been a downhill trajectory since then and everything said is factually correct I'm afraid. We're selling up and leaving it really saddens me to say there are just so many better places to set up now. How can Malta be helped back to it's former self?
Good video Aleks. Lived here for 8 years and 100% agree. I would never recommend anyone coming here either for vacation or living. Especially for vacation I'm shocked why anyone would ever come. But even for living there are much better places.
Hi Alex, I am Local Maltese and when I say local I mean I was born and raised in Malta and lived in Qawra/ Bugibba until the age of 18, I then moved to teh UK, I have just returned from a holiday to visit family for two weeks, I do agree on some of the points you have made but unfortunately in your videos you have failed to emphasis why Malta is in this situation, as mentioned I agree on some of the points such as the rubbish situation but this where you failed to mention the massive influx of expats that have moved to Malta (not complaining about people moving in I am only talking about volume) more people + more rubbish + Mobility = more traffic and pollution you mentioned construction but think about it, such as yourself you have moved to Malta (and this is not a personal attack on you) if this construction did not take place where do you think you would of ended up living ? because flats and apartments don't magically appear and if construction did not take place the few properties available would be double the price because demand would surpass supply by miles, you have also mentioned Tenerife I want to remind you something, population in Tenerife is around 954,300 people with 2,034 square kilometres (785 sq mi) Malta on the other hand is 316 km² with a population of 535,000 (I believe this much more) Tenerife is bigger than Malta by 1,718.38 sq km, Tenerife is around 6.44 times bigger than Malta. I will also remind you that in 2022 2.3 million people visited Malta, no wonder the beaches are overcrowded, very sorry but you are not comparing apples for apples, Malta is massively over populated and as such issues of over population with naturally come to light. I agree on food shopping very expensive and that is me comparing to UK prices however Malta has got a lot to offer and I am not surprised that many want to move there, a British family ones said to me Malta is like Marmite you either love it or hate it (had to research what the hell marmite is 🤣) and I do agree. PS I used to love living in Malta/ Qawra I have many amazing memories that will always be with me
Hello, thank you for such a detailed and well measured comment. Qawra was the nicest and best looking part of St. Paul's Bay but now it's the ugliest in Malta, because it was unlimited construction galore in the last 5-6 years with no green spaces not a single tree planted or kids playground, just pure concrete, so this is how much they went. I didn't want to go into more detail as then it would turn political, and that was not my idea, but to pin point the result and quality of life and service here at this moment. You wouldn't recognize Qawra today, but in a negative way. And I am grateful to Malta for many things, but if there wasn't enough room here for me, I wouldn't come here, I would go to some other place. When you build you have to plan for everything and everyone, not just let greed take over with no planning, just putting money first and desires of few people. Yes, I know about the Tenerife it is 7 times bigger island, but not comparing what is not comparable (size and resources), cleanliness, the existence of public services there which take care of all green spaces, public transport, taking care of the beaches, you name it they do it highest level, and Tenerife proportionally makes much less money than Malta that's the point. For Malta huge planning had to be applied long time ago because of it small size, instead who ever was steering the island chose completely different path - easy money.
articles are starting to appear in the newspapers highlighting how the government's plan to import cheap labor (there is a huge turnover around the TCNs who come here and find themselves in a condition of legalized slavery) has not taken into account the impact on services. building housing (which interests Maltese business) is not enough as is evident. let's try to understand that all these people arrive because they are pushed to arrive, they are attracted and this detail is important to understand
I was just there and I agree. There are so many opportunities that the Malta officials missed. My grandfather came from Malta 100 years ago and I'm of Maltese decent, so that's why I went. I was expecting old limestone buildings and a relaxed "island" type of atmosphere, instead it was stressful and hectic. I spoke to some locals and was told that construction exploded over the past five years and everything has changed. Malta has lost it's identity and I don't know how the damage can be undone. There are construction cranes everywhere and they are packing people in still. All the drinking water is bottled, the electrical grid is a joke, there is limited space and being a small island, there is no room for anything. I can't see how it is conducive to families with small children, no place to play, no parks to speak of, trash in vacant overgrown lots. They really missed the boat. Malta has 300 days of sun, yet I didn't see one solar panel. If every roof had solar panels for electricity and they would be self sufficient and probably have more than they need. There needs to be a moritoirium on new construction and the very old vacant limestone buildings restored. I'm sure my grandfather would be rolling in his grave if he could see Malta now. Such a beautiful island with so much history being destroyed from within. There is hardly any "Maltese" culture, it has been taken over by foreigners and outside developers. What a shame.
my mom is maltese born and raised and we visit the country every year for a month. I have personally witnessed its gradual decline. I blame the greedy corporations and 3rd world invaders 100 percent
The developers are pretty much local ones, there is one very famous and a good friend with certain people who make decisions on the island. But you summed up everything perfectly.
Just hope the Malta tourism authority looks at this . Certainly a wake up call , I'm Maltese and the video is 100% right . Malta attracts cheap students kids party people for festivals etc. in fact they call Malta the new magaluf . If there is alcohol they are happy
Im in malta right now and i really love it. The people are kind, lots id things to see here and its surprisingly very cheap. the public transport is a mess tho. Busses come ang go as they please. Had one bus change the rout after 15 minutes so we had to take another bus (lmao). Its cheap but that shows. Last night ive waited 1.5 hours at a bus stop where like 15 buses stop and every single one one of them didnt stop cause they were too “full”. Generally speaking sliema and fiorina are really overpoluted. Today i found a used condom in the morning, and trash literally everywhere. The buildings look like theyre gonna fall apart any second. Dont get me wrong tho. Mdina, rabat and gozo are beautiful. And Valletta as well. There are lots of places worth seeing and the beaches are wonderful (if you can find a sandy beach that isn’t overpopulated). Just know what youre getting into.
This is one of my favourite comments for sure, thank you for an honest view on the things! 😀 Can you please tell us where are you from, since for us residents nothing is really cheap here, except petrol maybe?
@@AlexMarkTravel I’ve just read my comment again and oh my, so many typos 😂 Anyways I’m from Austria and pretty much everything is more or is at least as expensive there as it is here. Like simple things like flip flops, eating in restaurants (you almost always have to pay like 40+ euro minimum for 2), gas (disel is like 1,60 per litre) or even mcdonalds (mcflurry is about 3.80 and here its 3,30 i think) and normal gelato. Considering that its a touristic place i was expecting things to be much more expensive. Generally speaking Malta is a beautiful country but a bit messy tho, and at times during our bus rides i feel like more driving thru Egypt than an eu-member state. Not because of the people, but because of the state the buildings are in.
@@Arnamoo Thanks again for explaining. Yes, obviously Austria isn't cheap either. Prices here went quite up, and they are not stopping either. If here it was cheap for you try Spain next year you will be amazed with prices of food and drinks.
@@AlexMarkTravel oh i will definitely thx :) btw i checked some prices today at a discounter, veggies are much cheaper here (ab eggplant is about 90 cents per kg whereas in austria its 1,60 for each eggplant), but stuff like Philadelphia is ridiculously expensive here its like 3,50€ whereas in austria its about 1,70 😅
‘I love it here’ I respect your opinion, but I find it shocking how guys from countries such as yours (Austria, Sweden, Norway) seem to like Malta so much 😂 To each their own, of course! My opinion coming from Tokyo, is that I found it way more expensive (yes, really, and no, not because of the yen, I earn in Euros/USD), quality is appalling, for everything, and everyone seems to be angry all the damn time, or try to scam you
Was in Malta this summer for two weeks and loved it, one of the best holidays of my life. Had fresh fish from the fishermen's club in St Paul's Bay, loved Gozo, camped in Comino, hiked almost all the western side of the island, was just majestic. I would say down points for me are the crazy heat and blatant racism I witnessed although it's super multicultural and international.
"Had fresh fish from the fishermen's club in St Paul's Bay" - First of all eating fresh fish in Malta is almost like a fable, a story, because mostly everyone serves frozen/defrosted fish. Second sea around St. Paul's Bay (but other areas as well) is polluted, even if you catch it yourself, all the sewage now goes into the sea, there is no water recycling plant, and sewage system is overloaded.
Problem is also sometimes they finish but after a year (or months even) they come back to do more because the apartments didn't sell so they need to rearrange them again. Nobody cares about residents, like you don't exist.
The garbage system is ridiculous. The fact that people are not given a better solution to get rid of their garbage at any time like in other countries and then are getting fined for it is just insane. Imagine you ate fish at home during the hot sommer months and you are forced to keep the waste until the right time for trash collection comes. Dear Maltese Government, place some big dumpsters in each neighborhood (like other, normal countries do) and stop punishing the residents for your own incompetence.
Sheesh... My family and I are thinking of relocating and investing. We finally agreed on one country based on feedback from years ago: the island of Malta. I kept watching and thinking - maybe this isn't too bad, but reading the comments here ...I'll do some more homework. Stay strong my Malta Bros & Sisters!
@@aytnic007 Hi Cinthya - thanks for reaching out. I'm still having a look and doing homework. I'll keep your contact (thanks for keeping your name on your profile - it's easier to find you :) ) The places I've found that are advertised are relatively small, which is understandable - it's a little island. So I'm leaning on a little farm at the moment with a minimum of 5 bedrooms. But I will contact you once my homework is complete! Thanks!
I would suggest visiting twice, once in summer and once in winter and stay for at least a week both times. Stay far away from the St. Julian's (overrun with tourists) and Buġibba (the video highlights the issues this city has) and see what you think of it. I was in Mosta for 10 days and loved it very much!
I am from Malta and what you said is 100% the truth. I'd like to add something as well. If you are trying to move to Malta. First of all: The sights aren't that special, as you've seen in the video. Stuff is so expensive, even just normal, necessary things you'd need on the daily, that you wouldn't even be able to last a week without ending up broke. And last but definitely not least, is the total frustration, anger and desperation to find a job with or without qualifications is insane. Every employer here in Malta want someone either with an insane amount of experience or a bunch of qualifications, and here's the fun part, all that I've mentioned earlier and you'll still get paid with such shit wage that you'll still have to find another part time job just to go by. Thank you for making this video, Sir. Hopefully with your criticism something here changes, I doubt it. But thank you either way. Good day.
For everyone saying how negative this video is, I am Maltese and everything he said was true unfortunately. Pollution, overpopulation, rubbish everywhere and the ever so wonderful traffic. You can get stuck for hours in traffic on a Sunday. So before you blabber try and see the facts for yourself.
Illegal immigrants have flooded our streets and cheap labour everywhere you go. Just sprouting some facts for all the keyboard warriors out there :)
Thank you for your very honest comment.
What about the history - Anything on that? Or anything positive atall!
@@ronaldm8235 so what, as if the country's history makes it bearable to live in m8
@@ronaldm8235 There are positive things, but unfortunately these negatives are quite urgent and overwhelming at the moment. History is another topic, but endangered as well, at least historic objects and sites.
you went in a particular area to record this video,,,,,tell us when it was.....also that rest shot.....Malta was without electricity something which is not normal......show them the beautiful beaches we have, churches, festas, culture, good restaurants, lovely people, sun, free public transport, free childcare centers, everyone with a decent pension, jobs.....etc@@AlexMarkTravel
I'm Italian living in malta since years, but I can tell that changed the life of many people including myself. Who thinks that going in malta it's a way to get a cheap holiday in Dubai it's totally wrong . Malta has many good sides but not everyone is able to see them and appreciate. Cheers to Malta for ever and ever!
Hello ratto
Can I ask you about job opportunities in malta as medical laboratory technician
I'm Maltese and one major issue with the mentality of the locals here is that they complain non-stop about the conditions and negatives here but as soon as a foreigner starts mentioning them they start attacking them with the usual "don't like it? leave..." which is the wrong attitude to have.
I completely agree with everything you said and see no issue with a foreigner highlighting these problems. Most of these come from the short sightedness of this trash ass government we have that some how keeps getting elected.
Thanks for your comment and your support, I knew there's gonna be backlash, but someone needs to highlight these problems, and straight to the point not beating around the bush.
You’re so right. We have to keep our mouths shut! Even renewing our ID card we were told to go back to our own country by one of the security staff. The ID office was closing EARLY! we complained as we came all the way from Mgarr. So many lovely people here but a lot of ignorant beings!
Where I live it is clean. Close by there are the Mnajdra and Haġar Qim temples and the beautiful Wied iż-Żurrieq.
I am not a foreigner , I am a local and they tell me too , to move to another country if I don't like it , but yes the mentality of some people instead working together and stand up to fix it they call you traitor or any other name under the sun
well i am not sure about i was in Malta a few months ago and the native maltese people love the current government, it is the labour party and they are doing way more better job than the pervious party
I usually stand up for my country - but that was years ago. Thank you for sharing the truth about our island. I hope the government and people will see this video as hopefully it will help them realize that we are destroying our island… thanks for this video - let’s hope more like this.
Thank you for your comment and support, I will try to get some more truth out about the current situation.
I went to Malta in 2014 I really liked it, seems like alot of change.
@@shaunbat5097 You wouldn't recognize it today, a lot, a lot of negative change.
@@AlexMarkTravel Its a shame it's went down hill, I read about the rubbish issue, and recently about migrant problems.
I stayed in Sliema, and did alot of walking yes I liked it, and would have been happy to return.
Maybe not now.
In nies fil gvern ippappuha hi, mal korotti li jippumpjawljhom il flus. Issa ergaw ivvutawlu lil qahbec Bobby imbaghad ejjew aw ghajtu bil hmieg. Jibqa' jhalli lil Malti bulijiet arroganti kibgs jaghmlu li l madonna jridu ghax jitulfu l voti. Morru allec ivvutawlu issa
I'm Maltese and it saddens me to see the state of affairs in my own country. Maybe not everywhere is as bad as Bugibba, St. Paul's Bay and Qawra but most of what you said is spot on. Construction. Traffic. Noise. Rubbish. Bad infrastructure. Lack of Green Spaces. Cost of Living. All true. And we live here. We have to go to work in these conditions. Malta is 27km long, yet it takes me 1.5 to 2 hours to cross less than half of it to get to work in the morning. I also have just been in Spain. I rented a car and travelled 50-60 km in 40 minutes. The same time it takes me to get to work I drove 180km in Spain.
I needed a month to adjust back to the things here after being in Spain for holidays, you get quickly adjusted to a place where everything functions well, and it's painful to fit right back into this constant hassle here. Thank you for your comment.
Used to stay at the mellieha holiday centre. But i wonder what mellieha bay has turned into. Havent been there for 15 years
@@skylineXpert Thank you for your comment, when I get a chance I will do some filming in Mellieha as well.
Why a small island nation would think it's a good idea to focus on developing car infrastructure instead of bicycle, pedestrian, tram and bus networks boggles my mind.
Malta has everything required for a decent little gem, it's just criminally mismanaged.
@@Anonymoose66G sería un sitio perfecto para una red de metro ligero bien administrada.
I am Maltese and live in the area and You were spot on with everything you said ,Malta became one big mess .It hurts me to live and see the state this Island became .
Thank you for your comment.
Well, it's your fault. If you actually tried to make a difference then it could change, but you're lazy and just expect others to do change for you
What changes have you made where you live?
I am from Malta living in the Saint Paul's area and everything in this video is completely true the past 10 years has destroyed a once beautiful area with dirt, dust, bad smells, construction, traffic, noise and anti social behaviour
Thank you for your comment.
Gozo is still beautiful, noch the start bildung too many houses.
Especially anti social behaviours with racism on the rise.
LOl I Live in NYC that is a paradise compared to what NY is like......
@@dojocho1894 This is your chance, move here for an upgrade. 😀
I’m a Maltese student, currently in Spain and immediately you can see a huge difference in quality of life. I was amazed how almost everything in the supermarket was 1/2 euro, everything is so much cheaper and greener. Sadly Malta has gone to shit and it keeps getting worse, if only it had good direction from the right people maybe it wouldn’t have turned into a shithole.
Thank you for your sincere comment, the same what I was telling people when I got back from Spain, everything there is half price, plus everything works fine from the services. Not to mention the obvious greenery, and other things.
Pls what school are you in ...
I was about to choose malta but after seeing this video I think I should go to Spain
@@missfranciscalee If you can choose, definitely go to Spain, quality of life can't be compared.
@@AlexMarkTravel oh thank you so much
@nicolez9376 what university are you in and how did the whole process go I'm having issue on the right one to pick...
Spot on Aleks. I am Maltese, and that is not just happening in your area but in every town on the island. The last 10 years, Malta has been ruined forever!
Thank you for your comment and support.
@@AlexMarkTravel I have known Malta to be like this for many more years unfortunately. And I am more than 40 years old. Some things will never change, but get worse. We need to take care of the tourist industry and get organised. But Maltese are undisciplined in general. Such a shame, really.
This video is spot on. If anything in understates how bad the situation truly is.
I'm Maltese, and rather patriotic. Born in the mid 80's, I grew up in a rural town, and regularly spend time in St Paul's area. I truly believe we were gifted a jewel in the Mediterranean.
When living aboard I would nevertheless visit regularly and bring friends along to show them around. Despite it's evident shortcoming the island always somewhat made up for these with its charm.
Now it's a complete mess. A failed state. A disaster. We've reached a tipping point. The country is bankrupt in every imaginable sense, financially and, above all, morally.
The only hope for salvation, if there is to be any, will probably come under the guise of real and radical change. And I'm not talking blue/red politics, or some magical. That's what brought us here in the first place.
Thank you for your very honest comment.
Spot on!.
I lived in Malta from 1961 till 1991 and must say, back then Malta for a beautiful country. Simple and really delightful … I left Malta and came to Australia under a professional visa and not as a migrant. From what I see, I am absolute disheartened and also in disbelieve at the state that once glorious Maltese island was to what it has become. I also lived in France for 6.5 years and I absolutely loved it as my roots also come from the mighty beautiful country too.
@@france4me117 Thank you for your comment.
I am Maltese..... Once this island was a beautiful gem....unfortunately now in 2023 it is not the same anymore. It is heavily overpopulated....cars and traffic every hour of the day. Construction took over and no green spaces left.
Thank you for your comment.
sorry i am six months time in answering,what this bloke said regarding the rubbish ( not the constraction ) belongs to foreingers living in qawra and bugibba maybe he forgot to tell that 8 out of 10 are not maltese living in that aeria( bugibba,qawra,and st pauls) so he could have been fair and not brand malta as dirty because of stupid foreigners.next time if you are still around go where we maltese live and you willsee foryourself the difference
why can't the government hold the expats from entering the island and tighten for few years so populations gets controlled and well organized.
Too many foreigners. Also, since the euro union everything changed and the greed grew. When the priority is money, you lose your soul. But I still love my country of birth. I still talk to people and some love it for what it is. This asshole from Mark travel should tell us where he comes from.
Spot on. Malta used to be a beautiful place but due to greed and corruption we are now the worst in Europe. One thing you did not mention is the amount of scooters everywhere blocking the pavements and catering establishments also taking space on the pavements.
Thanks for reminding us about scooters, yes I have the scooters piled up in the beginning of the video in one scene, but definitely another hazard that people have to endure here, and I forgot to mention that as well.
I’m not against the scooters
Coming from Japan, I love public transport
Here, it’s 30min wait for a bus, and another 45 min ride for a trip that should take 15mins by car…
What happens? I end up using a F taxi, contributing to the traffic
Every Maltese I know owns AT LEAST 2 cars!! What’s up with your selfish culture??
I tried walking too BUT THERE IS NO PAVEMENT!!!!! in many parts, so I don’t feel comfortable walking in the road next to the cars - result, another F taxi.
Getting rid of the scooters is not the solution, my god, it’s so bad for mental health to live here.
I am a doctor who visits patients in the Northern part of Malta and what this man is saying 100% true. Malta has become a sick hell hole ever since the island has been designed as one of the 16 smart cities in Europe. Green areas and fields and trees are being demolished without mercy because of a frenzied greed towards never ending construction. Apartments erupting everywhere like mushrooms and dogs are left barking for hours on end. Yeah , he's right about the never ending systematic road closure. All that this man says is absolutely true.
Thank you for your comment and support.
Hello Dr.
I'm Derrick, a medical student in Ghana, almost done with medical school. I'll like to make some inquiries about the profession in Malta if you do not mind.
Thank you.
@ayi-bisahderrick3403 sure, please ask.
@@excatholic6392
Thank you🤗. Can i have an email or your what's app number? I've a lot to ask about. And I would like to be your friend as well
You could link me up to a medical student if I'm asking too much. I'd be very much grateful Doc. Thank you!!
Born and raised in Malta, lived for 31 years on the island. Now finally packed up my bags, and left Malta. I do not miss a thing of Malta other then my family. The place itself has gone downhill and the quality of life isn’t what it used to be.
Thank you for your honest comment.
me too maltese will be on the loose any time very soon 😅😅
I am Maltese , i live here and unfortunately everything said and shown in this video is true. Politicians, past and present made a really good job in brainwashing their followers and in return ruining this land. These last 8 years were the worst with a government obsessed with overpopulation and corruption They want an 27 km island to be filled with 800K population plus tourists. Feels like a bad dream !! Our once beautiful and peaceful island is now ruined. We are urgently in need of a re planning -- the state has to address the garbage problem , the traffic , overpopulation , construction madness , pollution, our way of life and mental health ( suicides are on the rise ) , the environment , our culture , criminality is on the rise ( mostly from foreigners fights ), the infrastructure. NOTHING is planned -- they just built an economy on cheap labour and construction and economy for the few.
Jobs are being taken by third country nationals who accept ( or are forced to accept ) a misery wage @ EUR 4.20 and hr ( that was the last figure i heard of when i spoke to a person ) , 20c goes to the agency , the rest to the person. Rents are sky high , again , 10 to 20 people from poor countries are renting beds @ EUR200 / EUR 250 per month , staying in a 3 bedroom flat - a normal family cannot afford a EUR1200 plus rent , its impossble. Youngsters are leaving , they lost hope for a better future.
And yes we do have positives , but the problems we are dealing with on a daily basis are way higher.
Dont come , its a waste of your money - you want sea , go to Greece , Sardinia , Sicily , Cyprus , Crete , Spain
I am truly sorry , writing this comment , i love Malta and its truly heartbreaking seeing our island being destroyed like this , but its the truth.
And before any politically blinded ignorant comes on the attack , here are some links to check.
timesofmalta.com/articles/view/i-barely-money-live-food-couriers-fell-employer-s-trap.977069
lovinmalta.com/malta/white-taxi-driver-allegedly-attacked-y-plate-driver-at-cirkewwa-while-speaking-with-tourists/
timesofmalta.com/articles/view/motorists-fume-traffic-gets-stuck-ghadira-road.1035749
timesofmalta.com/articles/view/a-mountain-rubbish-sliema-right-along-prestigious-seafront.1047127
lovinmalta.com/news/all-that-is-right-crete-is-wrong-in-malta-philanthropist-shares-comparative-insight-between-the-islands/
Thank you for your comment, you explained it even better than me. Regarding the people from very poor countries actually who ever brings them here earns quite a bit money on them it's a local business for certain people.
@@AlexMarkTravel exactly , they are abusing poor people , its awful to witness. They are promised a good wage and a good life but get poor conditions and low wages instead. Our way of life has gone down the drain too, mentally its exhausting. Thank you for showing the truth -- without the truth going out we cannot start to heal.
I left the island in 2015. I visited in March this year and coming back for a week in November. I don't recognize my beloved Malta any more. I lived in Bugibba, Qawra, St Paul's Bay and it was sooo different then (2011). I rented a 3 bedroom place off Bugibba Pjaza for about 350EUR plus utilities. The monstrosity of a building they are building in the square at the moment is just horrible. The part of Qawra close to the Qawra Palace hotel on the Triq il-Qawra is one giant construction site. People will not have any privacy in these newly constructed apartments as they are built chock a block. The only area one is safe in buying a property is UCA area where no one can build a horrible high-rise. The latest trend in Maltese greed is selling a beautiful sand stone terrace house for REDEVELOPMENT. That means tearing it down and building a high-rise or apartment block. Imagine buying a beautiful terraced house and your neighbour sells for redevelopment.....Those houses should be protected by law. The Maltese should learn from the Croatians. I visited Croatia a few times in the past few months. Their seaside towns are just out of this world. Look at Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Poreč, Split, Zadar etc. It is really sad to see what Malta is turning into. And believe me I love that rock to bits.
@@pavelsladek246 I know what you mean. Qawra / Bugibba are out of bounds for a lot of residents , we do not go there , they turned into ghettos. They are building ugly apartments with no privacy , no skill ( buildings are built by people with no building license , Africans and asians building flats with no constructions experience , its crazy ! we had a recent collapse in Paola were a young maltese boy died when the building they were doing collapsed ( Look for Jean paul Sofia , may he RIP ) -- its honestly crazy. The greed has no end . Maltese are ending up with no jobs , rent is sky high , cost of living is high . Than we have government officials going on foreign TV ( the last one was on Pakistani TV ) telling people to come here. Who is benefitting from this ? someone is making millions out of this abuse and destruction. I am truly sorry for Malta and i feel shame that the Maltese are doing this to their land. Our once quite life is gone :(
It’s heartbreaking how spot on this video is. Traveling to other busier cities has become a mental break as opposed to living in the disorganized chaos Malta has become . Our quality of life is down the drain .
Thank you for your comment.
This guy had the guts to speak the truth and for this ❤. I am Maltese and had been blocked from other UA-camrs when I said that you're painting an idyllic view of Malta when in reality it is a complete mess! You should be given an award for not taking foreigners for a ride! 🎉🎉 In Malta money is everything and with money you can do whatever you like😢😢
Thank you for your comment and your support.
Agreed. Its so far from idyllic now. Not even our beaches are good anymore with the amount of garbage people throw in it or beside it. And thats like, what people Usually go for here, to swim, so in a way we just really ruined ourselves.
@@_-S.C-_ Completely true, also now we don't know which beach is safe for swimming anymore??? With several being full of sewage water.
I live here but I'm not Maltese.
This video is true, thank you for pointing everything out. Tourists see the fairytale advertising when they choose to travel to Malta.
This island is a nightmare.
Thank you for your comment.
Yes, you can go back to your country if you have one.
@@wecutpro2371 Thank you and you can go back to your cave if you have one? I suppose you do?
@@wecutpro2371 I would have already left this rock forgotten by God in the middle of nowhere, if it was not simply that I cannot, unfortunately. Probably one day I will.
You should be an hard core Maltese who takes advantage from govt to not see that this island is failing, in every side of life.
Have a nice polluted and crowded day 👋
Thank you so much for showing our poor current environment. You gave a very clear picture of our current situation. Unfortunately, as a nation, we lack self discipline were it comes to the cleanliness of our environment. For the traffic, you forgot to mention the road rage that unfortunately is on the increase. When I go abroad, I am amazed with the beautiful nature, as we lack here. Unfortunately, who has the money has the power to destroy our few natural places that is left. Hopefully with your video, something might might might might change.
Thank you for such a nice comment! Some positive news at least after the video they started regularly cleaning the streets in St. Paul's Bay. Yes, I forgot to mentioned the road rage, another big issue here.
What can we do about it. If you or anybody else has Ideas, I'll join you.
I am from Malta and I am so sorry to see this state of affairs in my country! Honestly and truly terribly sorry. I know you are correct in most of the things you are saying, and the majority of us are voicing our concerns. The problem is that greed took over. Full stop! So sad to see my country like this!!! At the same time, not everything is lost and I hope that everyone wakes up as soon as possible.
Thank you for your comment, unfortunately many things can't be fixed all the space taken with ugly buildings is lost forever, and could have been used to a better purpose.
@@AlexMarkTravel you're right! So many bad decisions were taken by our government. Nature will always rule, however.
You are sadly, 100% correct. I’ve lived in Malta 18 years and it gets worse and worse every year. This island COULD be stunningly beautiful, rivalling Santorini but instead there is a deep seated greed and obsession with money that maintenance is never done on anything (because it costs money) so everything is falling apart. beautiful sandstone buildings in traditional Maltese style are knocked down and replaced with badly built buildings that they are painting brown or grey for some weird reason. Everything looks ugly, rubbish everywhere, beaches are filthy and stink of urine. Construction dust everywhere. The island is destroyed. It is an ugly dump. The people in charge do not care. They make rules to stop people destroying the place but all anyone needs to do is bribe someone and you do what you want.
I live down South. It is better that St Paul’s Bay but it is getting the same.
Thank you for such an honest and detailed comment, yes that's my point - today north of island is like this, but once they exploit all the space, the south will be next.
Hi, I was in Malta for a fortnight in 2019 for a study holiday, and I stayed right in the St. Paul area. But, in the time I was there, visiting many parts of the island, I was extremely satisfied with the environment and almost everything I saw, and I fell deeply in love with Malta. I have always dreamed of returning, but with the pandemic it was not easy, and for the time being I have not yet done so. Is the situation really that worrying, has it worsened so much in recent years? Or maybe it was me who, seeing it for the first time, filtered out the negative aspects by seeing it through rose-tinted lenses? I am very sorry to think that such a paradise has been ruined, and I wish the best to all Maltese and their beautiful island
@@pe-peron8441 Thank you for your comment, yep in just 5-6 years many places here got destroyed completely with overbuilding and other negative things. Every year it's worse, and traffic just this year worsened unbelievably.
@AlexMarkTravel Thank you. I'm very saddened to hear this. Let's hope for better times ;/
All you say is correct. I'm Maltese and the situation is very, very sad. The locals are very concerned but our leaders don't want to see they're responsible for destroying our beautiful Islands!
I'm Maltese born and bred here in Malta, and I'm typing this with a heavy heart. Because once upon a time, Malta used to be a nice little island. I always wanted to leave since I was a kid because I love exploring and Malta is too tiny for me. But once I got married, at one point, I felt like it was time for my husband and I to settle down here and instead chose to travel as a hobby and a source of exploration. But now?! What has Malta become!!!! We're honestly planning to leave because apart from suffering from severe allergic reactions (hubby with huge hives, never ending sinusitis and severe allergic conjunctivitis, me never ending sinusitis and at one point I suffered an anaphylactic shock, due to construction dust), since we don't have any green areas anymore (mentioned by you) it's effecting us mentally to the point where we're constantly waking up feeling depressed. We can't take it anymore and we can't wait to leave honestly. I'm absolutely very sorry and ashamed for you, all the tourists that come to Malta and Expats. 😭😭😭😭😭
Thank you for this detailed and honest comment, I understand how you feel, with all the opportunities and money this island had, the result is this present state. For any kind of normal life, moving abroad is the only option.
I came before the boom of mass tourism. When maersk air was around.
But if what you say is true then its slowly turning into a giant tourist trap.
5 years from now it would probably be: transformation complete...
Could you please tell why Malta has changed? I saw many comments about "10 years ago was better..." but If you didn't have any revolutions/wars/dictatorships, what's happened?
It used to be more peaceful. Crime was at an all time low and we had less construction. Now cranes everywhere you look. No more greenery because they keep on building in ODZ areas and we're completely filled to the brim with 3rd world country people who are taking jobs from us Maltese citizens because the government that was elected 10 years ago, decided to bring them here so that companies pay these poor souls very low wages, instead of increasing said wages and employ Maltese people. Not to mention the amount of corruption which has caused us to be listed on the grey list and because of this, us citizens are suffering. Malta is in a huge debt because of said corruptions. The party that was elected 10 years ago, wanted to only be elected so they can launder money and fill their pockets from the taxes we pay for. And the list goes on and on. @@ТетянаОлянюк-п2д
@@ТетянаОлянюк-п2д Same question
I left Malta 2 years ago for a job, and let me tell you that living in another country (UK) is not all glitter and gold. I'm glad for the experience though as it has made me appreciate Malta so much more! I have been back and forth often during these 2 years and it is true that there are a lot of things which we can improve on in Malta, however there are so many other positive things that we take for granted (the friendly people, healthcare system, education, beaches, food, weather amongst others). I found this video to be too negative and also very disrespectful (telling people to avoid our beautiful country!) Rest assured that no country is perfect.
I am very much looking forward to go back home once my work contract finishes!
Just to disappoint you a bit, healthcare here has gone down the drain. Massive queues everywhere and every GP is suggesting you to go to private hospital, because in Mater Dei you wait for a specialist appointment for six months. Beaches will surprise you as well. Thank you for your comment.
@@AlexMarkTravel I actually worked in Mater Dei for a few years and I am now working in the UK as a doctor. I can honestly tell you that the Maltese are very lucky with the healthcare system in place. As I said, we need to appreciate what we have more!!!
@@sarahchetcuti1383 Excuse me but what to appreciate, getting any attention at Mater Dei means at least 4 hours of waiting and processing time for kids, I don't know how much adults wait and wouldn't like to find out. Have a friend went for a screw in his arm to be taken out (waited 6 years after he broke arm to finally get invited) and then he went there at 7am, got that screw/bolt taken out at 17:00pm waited the whole day with no food and water. Any specialist is either 6 months waiting, or 50-100e at private clinic. After the blackouts the ER was full of patients in beds it looked like in American movies. Mosta clinic you come in the morning and you need to spend the whole day waiting there as well. I heard that health care in UK is completely bust, but this here is nearing that as well. I told people to avoid as there are much better places for their money and holidaying, better kept and organised, much cleaner where their money will be more respected, life for families here also who ever can, should choose other places as it is near to impossible if you want your kids to have any kind of active life and connection with nature, even simple things like riding a bicycle.
@@AlexMarkTravel Come on! Here the waiting times are 6 days for a bed once admitted!!! All I'm saying is that if you want to make a video about our country you need to show both sides... I agree that we need to fix a lot of issues in Malta but come on, how rude are you to tell people to avoid our country?!!!
The healthcare system in Malta is much better than the UK but pays less. She is right. Now Alex, whoever you are, tmerix is sewwa maghruf. We agree where you are right, but disagree where you are not. I am from Malta, worked in the shitty English NHS for 20 years. This doctor is right.
I am Skandinavian living in Malta for 7 years now, its not s perfect country for sure but weather and job keeping me here. Garbage in Msida is picked up before 9.00 twice a week though. When it rains it floods, traffic is bad and a lot of constructions and dust. But its a very safe place, very metropolitan, and many great resturants. Been to many worse places😊
Thank you for your comment.
This is a joke right? For the weather😅😅😅😅 Greece is triple times better than malta
@@R1Ghostrider-g5y I agree with you about the Greece, one of my favorite countries, but this guy came to Malta from Scandinavia so comparing to Scandinavia, Malta has way better weather and climate. For me it's too hot during summer, and the air is too humid and dusty all year round.
@@R1Ghostrider-g5yyes but unfortunately Greece’s economy is like the Somalia one
Malta is over populated. Up to 12 years ago we were a bit more than a third of a million and now the population on this tiny island has doubled. Sustainability is the buzz word nowadays and Malta has become everything but sustainable. It's become one large dump site. The health system has collapsed, the environmental state has worsened, let's not mention the pollution. All this is also because of the foreigners who became Maltese residents. The tourism minister has replicated to this video and said that the person doing this video didn't go to wied iz zurrieq. Please do come to wied iz zurrieq!! I'm a resident and I would gladly see a similar video reporting the whole chaos there is at wied iz zurrieq. On Sunday morning is somewhat similar to hell. Parking is a starter, traffic on the road and at sea!!!!! And slowly it's almost becoming another construction site. Thanks minister. Everyone out there, DON'T COME TO MALTA.
Thank you for your detailed comment. And thanks for inviting me to Wied Iz-Zurrieq, I remember the whole Zurrieq area as a quiet place years ago, I would really like to see how it looks today.
@alexmarktravel similar to Baghdad or New Dehli, unfortunately. Entering zurrieq from Valletta Road, you'll find around a dozen cranes welcoming you. Every terraced house is becoming a block of flats. But our once a jewel wied iz zurrieq, where I have lovely memories of my childhood is now unrecognisable. And I didn't quite understand what 'prodott turistiku' did Clayton Bartolo produce there? In 35 years, all I saw is patchwork at wied iz zurrieq. Every government promised an overhaul, and unfortunately, we were forgotten by all. Now they will come again, promising heaven to gather their votes, and once back in power, we're once again forgotten. And what I say is that this is all our fault. We allow them to take us for granted. We empower them when we vote, and before we shake the whole electoral system with an unprecedented low turnout, things will never change.
@@philippavella1716 This is so sad to hear, as Zurrieq as I remember was very quiet village, traditional, with old houses all of them having those long bamboo covers from top to the bottom of the main house doors. It was quite unique, nice traditional streets, as I remember streets were clean as well, such a shame that nothing is spared. Thanks again for sharing.
I live in Malta (central area in Gzira) since 2018, and everything that this guy describes is spot on. Not only in the North in St Paul's Bay or Buggiba, but everywhere else as well. Rubbish management is a huge fail here, public transportation is unreliable and there are no real public spaces for people to enjoy - the beaches are literally always overcrowded, even in the winter, there is no one spot on the island where you can sit down in peace to enjoy the sea view without having to listen to someone's shouting or disco music.
Thank you for your comment, and sharing with us what's happening in Gzira and other parts as well. Lack of peace and quiet is one of the major issues.
I am Maltese, what this gentleman is saying is a 100% true non exaggerated situation. My once beautiful island is now a constant construction site. its sad.
I'm a Brazilian citizen, man! It's usual for me to see these bizarre situations... Rio de Janeiro is even worstst than that! Malta is a paradise in a comparison with the most midian and big Brazilians cities.
Thanks for sharing. Well Malta is a member of EU and gets EU funds all the time, plus it's a tourist destination, so it shouldn't be like this. But I am very sorry to hear that Brazil is in such a shape.
@@whiskeyfoxtrotnovember8888 Can't compare with Brazil! Malta's a tiny Island so the impact is much greater for us!
@@maryanneattard8749 I understand! I hope someday this problem be solved in your community.
The Malta of the times of the green buses and vibes disco have long gone . What’s left is an island full of greed and the only people to suffer are the majority of Maltese . It used to be such a beautiful island . I myself am Maltese and often come to visit family . Such a shame Malta is slowly being robbed of its identity.
Really like the comment, thank you!
Who’s the ones responsible for the theft? Just curious, should be some tax fee to go to pay people to take care of trash care etc.
Thank you Alex for such an honest review of Qawra/Buggiba/St Paul's. I have lived here in the past and still visit on a regular basis. I totally concur with your findings. At one time it was the place to go, now local people try to avoid it. The power outages used to be infrequent and sporadic, however these days we are using more and more electricity and the grid is struggling to cope. Add to that extremes of climate and the outcome isn't good.
There are many beautiful aspects to Malta but these go hand in hand with the rough elements.
Malta is a small country and in my opinion it is overcrowded, but not with Maltese people.
Thank you for your comment, yes for example Qawra was the best part of St Paul's Bay, now it looks like a bad version of Hong Kong.
Im maltese and live in Australia and everything in this video is true. They have spoilt this little island, for the sake of money. You cant take it with u wen u die, i will never return to Malta for the reason of over population. Which is a shame as
I was born there, and travelled to malta in the 70s and 80s . It was much nicer and cleaner then. I went back in 2017 after 33 yrs and hated it, it changed to the extreme i was to scared to hire a car for all the traffic. Malta has a lot of history but its slowly being distroyed buy construction.
Thank you for your comment.
I am from Malta born and raised, never liked it and never will. To travel 10km to work it takes you 2 hours, 30 minutes to find parking and a 10 minute walk, property prices are sky high, wages were always disaster and was never aligned with the cost of living that is going up every week. The island lacks knowledge, common sense, and road infrastructure is disaster, I believe that who designs the roads is smoking crack on a daily basis. There is more roundabouts than there is churches. Garbage collection is still the same for as long as I can remember (35 years).
But like you said, this town and many other towns on the island, hosts foreign works / residents. Those workers / residents are usually from third world countries (India, Nepal, illegal imigrants and those areas.. I am not mentioning the countries that are not in the European Union as those countries usually we are similar). Most of those foreign workers / residents unfortunately lack education, driving skills and hygiene. Those foreign residents are causing accidents on a daily basis, not obeying laws and much more. Since a lot of people here want to be rich in a day, lots of people are opening restaurants and companies and hiring those type of people.
About the history, what history is left on this island? powerful people are building apartments next to prehistoric sights, and getting permits. All the restaurants that you see here you rarely see a Maltese traditional restaurant, Mostly is Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese restaurants. Most of those issues mentioned are not Maltese fault, but because the country welcomed residents from all those third world countries and now we are paying the price. 20 - 25 years ago it was a much much better island than it is nowadays.
I tried to comment but it went in nirvana it was similar to your comments but mine ended with me almost finishing homeless (not to be a racist as I also am a mom to a half African boy whom I love dearly but I ended up like that with Church food till I found a job as many took in Indian and Philippines most made promises that I had nights for sure and told me not to tell the job agency (as they get a percentage they would rather give me as an extra)the same agent that sent me for the appointment)I found their numbers and called directly so imagine when I asked when I would start as (rain was for the next three days and the shore cafes would not open they said lol) my fate was already arranged before I even went on my assigned appointment (I shined even the same job (let's call them competition was amazed as I made Knocker concoction cocktails tout suite)they had already filled the job!!(They had told them I was a chef and not the truth to make things worse)The jobs were just 2-10minutes walk from where I lived so I could do nights!When I tried to get a full time job and after two weeks I got fired (the excuse he the BOSS was betting on earnings 1600euros a week) as I'm Maltese as you though I have a foreign name and surname.I just got 160euros and he had to pay taxes and stuff only a Malteser would need so better to employ students who wore very short shorts and flirted then me.I was told to leave my other job (part time) as he thought I was going there too in the same time (I noticed weird guys snooping and passing by with same caps and glasses and tennis shoes daily and after on one day I was left to wait for the uniform for (8hours) he had the nerve to tell me the same day I had pay I was fired and not to let the secretary wait as she is not an animal haha(she saw how I was after just getting my delivery or groceries a few minutes before I went with them in a box) (I have fibromyalgia) also the other job forgot to pay me so I went the day before at 4pm I worked till 2pm in his job he thought I went before from work and took my pay)when I was using Qawra food help and all that MacDonald's had already helped me when we lost the Paris plane so they offered me a job as soon as I was in the beginning of all this.They also asked if I needed food.Its true what the soldiers in the Paris airport said they really help ask for the manager when you are in a similar state.Im in Albania my boyfriend sent me an airplane ticket and they told me if you come back tell us we will employ you don't worry even the church food.Blessed thou it be always
mass migration ruins everything. When will anyone learn
@@gothikaslittleshopofgothiccoal burner is now a single mother and resorts to gambling 😂 toll paid
Super spot on. I am Maltese too and you described life here perfectly! It's an absolute hell on Earth! This is a country run by greed where nobody gives a shit and the people who are supposed to help you most are the ones who kick you in the nuts and make life miserable for you!
Another thing to mention about the road works .... even the simplest of jobs take weeks and sometimes even MONTHS to finish. In other countries where people actually give a shit and where things are serious, small road works would take not more than 3 days to finish, yet here some of the main roads and most commonly used roads are closed for months! This leaves us with very few alternatives and hence an accumulation of traffic which can sometimes take hours to get through! It's HELL.
Thank you for your comment. Yes, roadworks are chaotic, exactly as you described.
you're right, I lived and worked in Malta* St Julian's *2000-03 Malta was a beautiful place to live.. It came back in 2012-13 the southern part, everything 5* more expensive, migrants, crowds, not to mention everything you know yourself,
@@vukaleksic1654 Yes I remember a huge difference as well before 2010. :( It's really sad honestly, remembering what Malta once was and seeing what it now is. When I was a kid I could not imagine why people would want to leave Malta, I loved it so much. Now all I want to do is leave.
@@rachelcool95 Yes, there were still pounds back then :) and mostly the migrants were Chinese shops..At that time I planned to stay there permanently..The food was great, the people were great, everything was great..I loved the pastizzi the most
Along with loads of others here, I am also maltese... I am studying at the university here, and almost everyone I know from there has plans to leave the country and go somewhere else in within europe. This is unfortunately a common desire by people my age as things are looking bleak here, from the politics, the economy of the country, the people and their attitudes and so on. Every time I travel abroad it feels so much better elsewhere, even in eastern europe.
Thanks for sharing.
im sorry not to be rude or anything but you're only showing one side of the island - bugibba/qawra i believe, and those places are generally not the nicest, cleanest. Other localities are not this bad
I agree with you to a point. But why should be this area, which is the biggest town and one of the biggest tourist spots here, be left like this, and treated worse than other parts? Plus you have Gzira and some other parts which are in dire state as well.
@BellaBonello they are bad , just not this bad ! construction is everywhere , rubbish , noise , pollution -- the whole island is suffering . Certain parts more than other , granted. Our way of life has gone down the drain
Whole Malta is shit man not only Buggiba or Qawra. Sliema is shit Valetta is shit and it is a shame to be shit a historical place but anywhere in Malta sucks. I already try to go back to Norway because this country is awful the mentality the economy the hygiene i hate it.
@alexmarktravel Go to Mosta and tell me if you still feel this way. Idk, I spent 10 days there and thought it was lovely.
Even Alex in Malta who has lived in Malta for 9 years and loves it, hates Buġibba and told me to avoid it like the plague so yeah, of course if you're in the worst part of Malta, you will see all the negative things.
I am a Maltese citizen concerned by the excessive construction destroying built and natural heritage. For example, the Sliema seafront buildings are now a bland, could-be-anywhere mediocrity. Parts of Malta are still beautiful but visit before they are spoiled too.
Thanks for finally a proper comment on this topic. Gzira as well it's not recognizable, and since Valletta is also in danger of losing the UNESCO protection, they should definitely hurry up with visiting.
As A Maltese Person, this is unfortunately true and we cannot deny or try to hide the truth.
Tal biki ux siehbi
Unfortunately, this is how Malta is now. I've lived here for almost a decade. It went from a bit chaotic and 'rough around the edges' but very cheap and friendly, to a complete disaster which is insanely expensive (rent, food etc.) considering the quality of things. If you are thinking of moving here and working remotely (or just living a modern life), also be aware the internet is horrendous. When it works it is actually quite fast, but it is completely unreliable - sometimes cutting out for hours on end. The only saving grace is that beer is still relatively cheap (and heck, you will need a drink if you spend any time here!).
😂 You made me laugh about the beer comment, definitely you would need it, spot on! But even beer prices are steadily going up, everything else yes constantly going up. Thank you for your comment.
Thank you for making this video, as someone who's Maltese I'm very ashamed of whats happening with my country thanks to corruption, violence, femicide, cencorship, caring more about social justice then the condition of the island and the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia. Not to get political but Progressive liberalism is cancer and this government needs to go.
I visited Malta in 2023 and stayed in St Paul. I didn't see more bins than normal. Actually don't remember any. Construction sites were not more than i would see anywhere else.
Actually really liked Malta and would love to visit it again
Very sad because Malta is a beautiful country with beautiful people and lots of history. Hope they sort this issue out.
Than you for your comment, yes sorting out things here usually is a bit slow. But at least now after this video they clean the streets almost every day in St Pauls' Bay.
Thank you for showing the true side of this island. Not the false advertisement shown on post cards and travel ads. Hopefully your message will be heard and might herald a change. But, knowing the new trend, of who cares as long as I make money, it won't happen.
Thank you for your comment, well at least they started cleaning the streets regularly in St. Paul's Bay after this video, unfortunately all the other problems are as they were before.
I just love Malta. Been there several times and would always visit again. But I would never travel to Malta in summer (too many tourists). Friendly people, great weather, lovely places, swimming all year around (did it end of November and once in February). Yes, the amount of new buildings/construction sites is somehow shocking but this would never change my mind about Malta as such!
as someone from the greek island of corfu, all those things are nothing new for me, we have a huuge garbage problem, i still know to appreciate the island knowing that things like garbage, construction is not it‘s fault but rather the people who organize that stuff
This guy is completely correct. Malta has become an overpopulated dump with construction sites on every road covering everything in dust. Compare malta today with malta 15 years ago quality of life has gone down the drain 😢. We turned a paradise into a dump so the rich could become super rich and buy bigger yachts what a shame
Thank you for your comment, which practically explained everything.
I've lived in Malta for 4 months until July this year. It's a place with consistently amazing weather and you can definitely have a good time, but unfortunately a lot less livable compared to elsewhere, for the reasons that were mentioned in the video. It's a nice tax haven if you can make use of that with a company, but other than that it's better to live elsewhere. Like mentioned in the video, it's also twice as expensive as compared to Tenerife, where I also lived, and it's a much better island in terms of everything (besides tax).
Thank you for sharing this with us.
Ive lived here for 4 years and can support everything he says and shows in this video. I came from Spain and previously the UK, Malta is much more like North Africa than it is Europe, terribly dirty and noisy, traffic jammed streets, huge construction going on continuously. Garbage everywhere, streets caked with filth and dirt. This is the picture you get when you live here, dont get me wrong, there are some amazing seaside spots and views, and if you come on vacation from a cold climate you may be impressed. But if you arrive here from another EU nation for work, you will likely be fantastically disappointed, not forgetting the incredibly high costs of living, 1000 per month for poorly finished 1 bed apartments, very high costs for daily groceries etc etc
Thank you for your comment.
ua-cam.com/video/nngFn2l6KOU/v-deo.htmlsi=SBHyu-nR6YEhxbSG
Did you prefer living in Spain or the UK than Malta?
Streets caked with filth and dirt? What? I never saw that anywhere in Malta and I was there for 10 days. Mosta, where I stayed, was very clean.
However, I saw a lot of dirt in Amsterdam and London where I also just came from. Every place that has a lot of tourists is going to deal with dirt since tourists don't care about how dirty things get since they're leaving it behind.
Maybe you spent a lot of time in St. Julian's, especially Paceville, idk. I imagine that area is dirtier than usual since it's mostly full of 18 year old drunk tourists.
Everything was 100% spot on! Also the poor states of pavements (besides the ridiculous tiled one you pointed out). Taking a walk can be downright treacherous! They're literally falling apart, narrowed due to construction or hoarding, gaping holes, overturned rocks - a nightmare! It's safer to walk on the street next to the cars!
Yep, you are completely right about the pavement, it's the same pavement from before 2012, never refreshed, never updated. Thanks for the comment.
I'm at QAWRA /Bugibba at the moment.. It's a shit hole!
First and last visit..!
I am Maltese myself, I have had moved to the UK for many personal reasons but also I left Malta for many reasons that you also pinpointed!
Fortunately, there are places in Malta that are still less chaotic & messy (I HOPE) unlike Bugibba-Qawra-StPaulsBay & also sliema & stjulians area.
You are completely right about everything you pinpointed in this video. You are not being negative like other comments has stated, you are only saying FACTS.
Malta was the JEWEL of the Mediterranean, but now not anymore. the downhill of Malta started back in 2013, 10 years later 2023 look at my Island now what it become.
Thank you for your honest comment.
what has happened in 2013?
As a tourist I loved Malta. Was there in October 2022 for a week and every day was a mini trip. Especially Valetta and Mdina are amazing, but Gozo was nice too, as well as experience such as local buses in narrow streets, great weather, warm water, fresh fish to eat, central Malta seen from the buses' windows... All of that made my holidays so enjoyable that I love recalling this trip. I recommend Malta for tourists, it is unique and cosy. Of course there are bad sides like constructions or a lot of old, ugly hotels, but it's still great destination. 😊
Thank you for your comment. I need to share this with you fresh fish in Malta you can eat: 1. If you catch it yourself 2. If you hit Marsaxlokk fish market. Every other option means that you will probably eat defrosted sea produce. Calamari are usually imported frozen from abroad. There are only few restaurants on the whole island that probably serve fresh fish and that's it.
@@AlexMarkTravel I ate in Marsaxlokk :) btw I was also disappointed in some of the places in Malta, for example totally crowded and stinky Blue Lagoon or Sliema with ugly buildings, but still loved the general experience and vibe and there were so many beautiful places and landscapes that I totally recommend for tourists. I used buses from Valetta for a whole week to visit Mdina, Blue Grotto or Marsaxlokk and never had any problems with them (it was October 2022), I actually liked the experience. Like you mentioned in the video some people wouldn't like Malta, but I think majority of tourists like it a lot :) greetings from Poland and thanks for the informative video!
@@saga2828 Good move eating out at Marsaxlokk. 😀 Yes, off season is much better experience in Malta, as well, that's what I recommended to viewers in my Valletta video. Pozdrawiam Polsko! 😃
@@AlexMarkTravel so what country are you from ? our world leaders did all this
My wife and i stayed in Bugibba/Qawra in June and absolutely loved it. Traffic around Valletta and the Airport a bit crazy but that was the only slight negative
Thank you for your comment, I suppose we see you here next year as well?
@@AlexMarkTravel Highly possible
did you leave your apartment?! I doubt it!
@@victorpulis5113 Good one! 😂
LMFAO you must have had your sunblock glasses on or You had too many beers not to notice the shithole us locals are living in
Spot on sir.
I am quite fortunate to reside in a nicer part of Malta, however not everyone has the luxury to do so. Our government has prioritized the interests of construction moguls (and their own pockets) over their own people. Its a disgrace.
Spot on! Thank you for your comment.
I’m Maltese and what he said and showed is true. St Paul’s is no longer a suitable place for tourists. There are still nice places to visit, but some places are best to avoid completely. It’s nicer (and cleaner) if you stay in the South. Beaches are also cleaner and less crowded. If you want to experience something authentic, ditch the big hotels and stay in a boutique hotel (you can find one in certain villages. If you need tips, drop me a comment below.) It’s best to rent a car, but, plan your route. Start your day around 8:30 - 9:30am (if you try driving before you will end up stuck in rush hour traffic. You will still find traffic afterwards, but it will be a bit better.) Watch out for all the bolt and wolt drivers on motorcycles because they drive like crazy and they try to take-over from the left side and not the right! Do ask the locals for the best eateries. Don’t fall into tourist traps.
Thank you for your very useful comment.
Its been years since I left Malta so I don't know what its like now, but from what I remember the south is a lot nicer. Zurrieq was my favourite. I have fond memories of walking to the local bakery every morning for freshly baked ftira and snorkling at wied iz-zurrieq. It was always so peaceful.
@@jonbonjesus1224 Yes, the south is still nicer and much more calm, however, they are building blocks of flats everywhere in Zurrieq now.
Thank you so much for your advice. May I get back to you for questions as I'm travelling to Gozo in a few weeks? 😊
I have been staying in Qawra for the last month, and I agree with this video, Qawra is filthy. To the point that my 5-year-old son started calling Malta "a rubbish island." Because Qawra literally has rubbish everywhere you look. He will come back to the UK where we live and will be telling his teachers and friends all about how dirty Malta is. And it is sad, as he is Maltese and should be enjoying it without having to see all the rubbish around. I would suggest you also take a video on the way to Fra Ben beach (the field on the other side of the Aquarium which looks like it has never been cleaned, full of rubbish of all sorts). The road by this field is walked by many people - mostly tourists every day. It is disgusting. Then I would suggest to come to Fra Ben beach to film the state of the beach itself- full of cigarette butts and other rubbish, mostly plastic, left by people every day and not cleaned. The only way it gets cleaned is by being washed out in the sea. As you snorkel in the sea you can start noticing the ever increasing levels of plastic in it too. Aside, garbage collection trucks have to be monitored for how they collect rubbish and fined, as each time they come they leave half of the rubbish on the street, as it falls out of the bags when they lift them. Construction is the other big problem- luckily this summer we have an air-con and can close the doors when sleeping, otherwise the sound of construction starts early in the morning and doesn't stop until the evening, constant noise pollution. Also dust pollution with no fresh air. I can go on and on about how bad things are in Qawra. I can't imagine anyone in their right mind wanting to come here again after having spent their first holiday here. The only reason we still come is because we have family here. Very sad, hopefully, the Maltese government will improve the situation ASAP.
Thank you for your very detailed and honest comment. That field of rubbish you mentioned is across the street from that giant crater of somebody's unsuccessful construction project. Notice taken, and I will probably film that area as well. Regarding the garbage trucks and many people have noticed that also, some of them put the grey bags together with black garbage bags.
The last tourist who called Malta a dump was given the response by The Minister of Tourism whoever that is ; that so many thousands of tourist still came to Malta. The Minister will be singing a different time come next year.😞
ua-cam.com/video/nngFn2l6KOU/v-deo.htmlsi=SBHyu-nR6YEhxbSG
in the evening there is no rubbish
I find it great, that this video speaks the truth! Can't stand videos where people try to crook others with giving a wrong/ dream impressions. Thanks for this insight!
I appreciate that, thank you for your comment.
I went to Malta on a holiday back in July, and although I wouldn’t go as far to tell people not to go to Malta, because I had the greatest times of my life there! But I do have to agree with you with some of the stuff you said in the video. But I wasn’t aware that there was rubbish scattering the place? And I did wonder that everywhere looked like a massive construction site, and the pollution was 👌and traffic was so wonderful that it took almost 3 hours to get from IS-SELLUM to Valletta on the bus, which should normally be a 30 minute bus ride, and when I was on the bus, I did thought it may help to reduce traffic on the roads if they built a railway of them kind, but if Malta did build a railway, it will more than likely be built underground, because with the already stated construction sites and the {hills} it would be impossible to build a railway on level ground, but I think you’ve got more than enough construction to worry about 😅, and to solve pollution. Since Malta is smaller than the Isle of Wight in England, I bet it will probably be cheaper to convert petrol and diesel cars to run on vegetable or any other plant-based fuel, rather than turning everything, electric like what the UK and the rest of Europe are doing, {seriously, you are doing just fine with your solar panels you don’t need anything else} 😂 anyway, that are my opinions on how to make your country great again, alongside kicking out all the stuff you don’t need. Thank you for reading my comment and the best wishes from the UK! 🇬🇧
Thank you for your elaborate comment. 🙂
I am English & first came to Malta in 1998. I really liked it & Malta has a certain charm to it. Despite the cranes & construction from that time also. I loved the limestone buildings, blue sky & beautiful sea & the old busses. I returned every few years & always have a nice time.
I was planning on going to Malta this year & was looking forward to sitting in a nice restaurant in Valletta or Sliema & enjoying a bottle of Red Label wine. However, after watching your video, im seriously having second thoughts.
In Valletta you can still enjoy, but just so you know it's full of restaurants now, and some of them, bars work until late as well, so there's more choice for dining but also more noise and crowd. Enjoying Sliema just forget about it, traffic, noise, concrete, sums it up pretty much.
go on your holiday and enjoy we go to bugibba twice a year and have done for over 20 years. yes it has changed but the video has been made for the dramatic effect and yes some of it is true construction always seems to be going on and takes forever. we will be back in malta in june and again in august this year
@@eastfife106 I'm still planning on another trip to Malta. Hopefully at the end of this year. I'll stay in Valletta or Sliema. Especially if EasyJet start doing flights from Newcastle again.
@@TheBigT79Yeah, don't let this video stop you from going - I just spent 10 days there (I stayed in Mosta) and I spent 5 days in St Julian's last year and I absolutely loved it. Maybe it's because where I'm from in the US there is always so much construction getting in the way, but I didn't even find the construction everyone complains about to be that bad.
@@ESCSteph That's good to hear. I'm planning another trip quite soon but there's a few logistical problems as EasyJet no longer fly there from Newcastle. I may even go later in the year. Nov or Dec. 👍
Bravo for being brave enough to speak out! I’m sure you will receive comments such as: “if you don’t like it, go back to your country!” (I’ve heard that many times) but don’t let this discourage you to share the truth.
Thank you so much for this comment I appreciate it a lot. One of the reasons, I made this video is the gruesome state of St Paul's Bay but most of the Malta as well, and also the fact that here as a foreigner you need to keep your head down and not comment anything or criticize anything while Malta lives of foreign money and foreign work force, and all the damage is not done by foreigners here as foreigners don't make the rules, so I said OK, today is the day some truth comes out there for people to see.
I am staying in St Paul's Bay this week and all he says is true. Can't believe its changed so much :( It used to be a lovely place to come to but now its just a dump.
We visited Malta not long ago and were so disappointed. Sadly we did find these things true. We felt we were in a third world country. Won't visit again sadly.
Thank you for your comment.
Whow
Love the honesty. Went to Toronto. Was shocked that Chinatown smelled like urine. Went to Paris. The only thing I enjoyed was the supermarket near the mall. Never will romanticize about a travel destination again. Always overcrowded and expensive.
Thank you! Yes, it's good to get the real picture about different places unlike the mainstream UA-cam vlogging.
I’m a new follower
Thanks for the video❤❤❤
Every country in the world has its positives and negatives. The issue is the person’s conviction. If he is convinced in this country and his work is good, he does not focus on anything.
For example, I am in Denmark. People here are not social at all and are dry and rough in style and personality. The simplest thing is that if you say good morning or try to speak after saying hello for a while, they consider you mentally unstable.
My neighbors, we have not known each other for more than two years
The weather here is dark, cloudy, cold and dreary
Work is also difficult
Health is like the rest of Europe
Most of the nationalities are Japanese, Sri Lankan, African, American, Indian, Chinese, Russian, and Brazilian Italian Bosnian everyone We all have similar characteristics in terms of education, family, friends, and lifestyle, except for the Scandinavian, especially Denmark.
Most of them suffer from society
I once happened to be talking to the neighbour, a danish who lives in the area, and we were talking about traveling on summer vacation with a group.
I asked him: Do you travel with a Danish group? He told me that he want to relax on his vacation, and the aim is to get away from the rough style of the Danes. How do you want me to travel with them?
I laughed in amazement
There is a saying that if you see the worst, you prefer the bad
The tax here is 40 to 60%, which is why Malta is much better in any case
And if the Dane is in a bad mood, I do not know how to express it. I advise you to move away into space, because when he sees you, he will transmit all the hysteria and spoil your day and your mood, because his mood is bad, and you, too, are supposed to have a bad day.
I'm sorry for this clarification, but unfortunately it is the truth
Countless mental illnesses in Danish society
The strange thing is that the Danes know and know that they are weird
I deliberately write all this so that you can notice the differences
Thank you for your support.
With heavy heart I have to agree with you.
I am Maltese and proud. Unfortunately the governments left all to do what they want.
Building everywhere
Dirt everywhere
Pollution everywhere
And the list goes on!
Thank you for your comment.
Hello Alex, i love your video about Malta but to be honest I'm confused now cause I and my family planning to relocate to Malta by February. With what I've seen in your video about Malta I'm sad 😢 and if I may ask what other country can you suggest apart from Malta? Thank you
@@ImoleayoROjo Hello, if you can really choose the location not related to your job, than definitely Spain. You can also consider Portugal. I don't know if you consider any of the northern countries as well, there are more options? Here the things are such that it became really difficult to have even half-normal life due the constant construction and jammed traffic, noise and everything else.
Thank you for showing us another reality in Malta. Is refreshing to see someone telling it like it is. Was planning to go this October but now i won’t.
Thank you for your comment.
That is only one place in Malta. There are many beautiful places which he didn't even visit. One place doesn't reflect all the country.
Well, don't be so close minded. Will you judge Malta by one youtuber guy who showed possibly the most populated place in Malta? I suggest that you still go, just don't visit these areas, I hate them as a Maltese myself
@@alisonmifsud5226 Whole place is more or less a dump
@@olovlundmark8868 actually not. Not where I live
I’ve been to Malta a few times and I love it there. The traffic is intimidating though and that part I’d say is accurate. I’ve never had a good traditional Maltese meal at a restaurant there but I have had gone cooked traditional meals in a few dear friends homes there. I would say the smell of limestone was not something I liked and you cannot escape it.
The main strip of Valletta had an open air restaurant that has about 200 pigeons all over with stray cats watching. My wife hated that bit.
Besides my friends there it’s the history and culture I love the most.
Malta can curb immigration by putting a stop. But I don’t think they can curb the traffic and overdevelopment. Many historical buildings are being torn down to make way for modern buildings. The overbuilding is the issue mainly amongst a few issues
Totally agree the country has changed and not for the better or majority of people just full of greed and destroying the island.
I'm English, born in the UK. My father was Maltese. I visited Malta 15 years ago for the first time and really fell in love with the island. Yes, the roads were in poor condition but it was clean and quiet, the locals were lovely and welcoming (in fact a few people starting talking to me in Maltese assuming I was from there!), it was reasonably cheap and I really felt like I was reconnecting with my roots. It genuinely makes me sad to watch this video and read the comments. I would have loved to retire in Malta but this has really put me off. So sad.
Thank you for your comment. You can visit, but for sure don't retire here, it's becoming worse every year, unfortunately.
Im Maltese, I agree. Almost every young person that you meet here wants to go live abroad. Its not the country itself that is bad- the countryside and stuff is lovely when it hasnt been contaminated. But theres construction everywhere, garbage everywhere, people dont clean up after themselves. In my opinion its not worth it and its way too pricey nowadays to even live.
Thank you for your comment, true to the very last word you said.
I often travel to Malta and this video reports truth 100%
Thank you for your comment.
Im from Ireland and visited malta (st pauls bay) for the first time in August, I thought the country was largely quiet a nice spot to visit, yes there was some rubbish and yes the driving/ road infrastructure isnt the best but theres plenty of places/ attractions to see and do and the water is crystal clear and very warm
Thank you for your comment, yes the water around Malta has special properties like this for example: "The health authorities detected microbiological EColi contamination" this was around 5-6 beaches this summer in the island.
It’s a shame that Alex Mark likes to concentrate on the bad things rather than anything good !
@@joekool9601 Good things are rare and between, unfortunately, especially when you are in the middle of non-stop road and building construction, pollution, dust, noise, trash everywhere. prices going up etc. Out of all these you want me to concentrate on good things, ha what a joke.
@@AlexMarkTravel maybe it’s because I’m proud of my country and don’t appreciate foreigners putting it down for the sake of their UA-cam channel . And that’s me being polite others will tell you to go back where you came from or just go someplace you like.
@@joekool9601 Hello, while appreciate you being polite, don't worry got so many comments to go back and even worse. But that's it foreigners invest their time and life here, do all the heavy lifting, it's prime time they express their opinion as well. So enjoy some real picture of the situation here for once. All the best!
Straight to the point man, everything is so true and I just don’t know, why Maltese people are not complaining about this?
If it was another country, the local would make a riot, but here seems like they are all fine with it. 🤷♂️
Thank you for your comment and your support.
@@mendegeorge5579 I am struck by this too...the Maltese are unhappy about the situation in Malta but they're a peaceful people and don't make a fuss. Don't be fooled....the locals are very angry about the destruction of their Islands....
This is such a fair critique. I feel the overdevelopment of my native Lithuania's sites in a very similar way. Too many constructions in vulnerable places, wrong urbanisation solutions and growing use of cars. The paradox is that it is exactty small authentic places people connect with. Then big capital comes and puts a developent pressure where silent lively authentic places used to be.
Overmotorization of such a beautiful place is so wrong :( It's a shame that public transpot is not well-improved, as Malta used to be quite walkable. There must be regultions for overusing private transport.
By the way, with the slippery outdoors tiles this is a real disaster in many places around the world. For example, in my country, Lithuania, where is it rain and snow starting from November till March, they started using super-slippy tiles imported from China, cheap but not wise at all :(
Thank you for your comment.
When I went to Malta, I somehow loved it, even though when I saw some videos before hand and all we saw was yellow buildings! But now, me and my mum are planning to go again in 2025!
All he said it is 100% the truth. Malta is not the same or how they picture it in the ads.
Thank you for your comment.
I am a gozitan citizen, and i can absolutely confirm that the same issues are on our island too. The rate of construction has absolutely sky rocketed in the last few years, for example my street which was considered as one of the quietest was turned overnight into one of the noisiest roads. Moreover in a span less than 2 years around 3 appartment blocks and 4 massive houses were built which led to lots of noise, dumped construction debris and dust everywhere. Furthermore, the traffic issue is quite significant spcially in Victoria and the road leading to Xewkija, I had my fair share of close calls with terrible drivers which cannot adhere to the basic rules of the road (reading signs, roundabouts and lane discipline). In addition, the issue regarding overpopulation is very relatable, especially in places like marsalforn where we've reached a state that its more often you see a foreigner over a local. Lastly, the road conditions are absolutely humerous, roads like the ones leading to Ta' kercem and Ta' Sannat are amongst the worst. Alot of these roads have not been redone since the 90s and with increased use of stone lorry trucks, the roads' condition has rapidly detiriorated. Gozo is far from the island it once was and I'm afraid there is not much left to save.
Thank you for your comment. Yes, you are right, even with all that Gozo is still pretty much better than Malta, comparing this very moment. Unfortunately as you stated it started in Gozo and probably won't stop until they turn it into concrete island.
I moved here in 2019 having first visited Gozo in 2017, for a teaching job. When Covid came that stopped as it was a language school for students from overseas, and it never reopened. I am from England and enjoy the life here, but can honestly say that the increase in (very shabby) building work and traffic is a big issue that the government should address before Gozo is ruined. I remember years ago when similar problems arose in Menorca, the government stepped in. I wrote to various ministers but the only one who replied was Bernard Grech (who is not in power). People come here for an unusual holiday to a place not ruined by stilly nightclubs, etc, but it cannot last if they see that they
are coming to a polluted, crowded, traffic-ridden (and the roads are poorly-kept anyway...) island pretending to be a sky rise town in the Middle-east, so to speak. I have a shop in Victoria now and hear first-hand from many visitors that they are disappointed to see Gozo going the way of Malta... I find there is too much apathy from the locals - whilst they agree things are going wrong, they do nothing but shrug their shoulders. Please, people who care (such as you, Alex) rise up against this wave of destructive materialism that is ruining a unique island! It is critical and essential!
@@AnnabelleJARankin Thank you for your comment. There are several local NGO groups which voice themselves on all major problems and protest. But still that doesn't affect much the outcome in the end. When I spot something critical from my end I will do a video about it, but I don't think there's a chance of saving Gozo if the local people generally let these things happen, Malta is pretty much gone, and the next on the builders agenda is Gozo.
I think you missed the mega huge cockroach problem. The infestation is a health hazard, they are everywhere… going out at night is a horror movie if you have a phobia or simply dislike them..and I think the rat problem is actually worse than what you showed.. breaks my heart.. I was born there but fled almost 20 years ago… it’s been transformed into a complete rubbish dump..
there IS beauty in Malta but unfortunately all these things you mentioned, pollution, dirt, traffic just doesn’t make it worth it anymore… 😔
Thank you for your comment, I get a lot of positive, but also a lot of negative comments, imagine if I mentioned the cockroach problem as well, it would be too much. 😀 Yes, all the issues they just kill the joy of anything good here.
We stayed in a certain hotel, that has a good reputation, & 4 & half stars, we saw 3 cockroaches in our 3 weeks there, 2 in the bathroom, one in the sleeping area, we've stayed in other hotel's in Malta, & never had this.
well done mate every single word you said was spot on
Thank you, means a lot to me.
All true. I'm Maltese and I honestly hate my country's state. Nothing left here anymore. Would gladly leave if I could
Thank you for your comment.
I visited malta two months ago. The island is beautiful and has stunning views but the traffic and chaos were just too much for me
Well, at least he didn't mention the rampant corruption so don't complain.
We coming to Malta for SP 2024, 4 days away. I hope they've cleaned up. Also, I've been to Rome several times it's the same on the outskirts. They touristy center is clean though. Napoli was also dirty like in your video.
I left Malta in the 1970s, at the age of 16. The biggest problem then was unemployment, which is why so many people left for Australia and other places. Some came back and some didn’t. I will always love the place, as it’s absolutely unmatched in terms of historical buildings and culture. Have to admit though, that it’s not a relaxing place anymore. Getting around isn’t easy, and the video is really quite accurate, as much as I hate to see it. Most people are better off financially, but they also seem to be a lot more stressed, mostly due to the reasons pointed out in the video. To me now, it seems like a ticking time bomb. Something has to give. I feel so fortunate to have lived in this beautiful island when we had such a relaxed and idyllic lifestyle. Let’s hope things work out. I am just glad that I have the option of escaping the insane overdevelopment and chaos that ensues at the moment.
Thank you for your very honest comment.
Im american this is true for most of the world....im older......the US is going down very quickly people are broke and drug addicted and sick......
Wonderful said I had my time 1980 + it was Wonderful bestyears of my life
Thank you for such a great job! It’s very helpful👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Glad it was helpful! And thanks for the comment.
😅 gosh he would really hate LA and San Francisco….
😂 Sorry to hear that. In the movies especially San Francisco always looked great.
After visiting Paris, I think that Malta is extraordinary clean as it is 🤣
@@markomilojevic8122 Kao sto kazu i nad popom ima pop. 😂
I live on Gozo (moved over 5 years ago) and the change here is similar: traffic, bad roads, pollution, ugly over-development and an excess of immigrants from Eastern countries (many brought over on false pretences - given contracts that do not last, for instance) and a complete lack of concern from the government for these issues. Maltese and Gozitan people shrug their shoulders rather than protest and make a difference, which is a shame because the beauty of the buildings is crumbling/fading fast and is not being properly conserved or renovated.
In Gozo they will for sure shrug with their shoulders when half of the island is on a government payroll, and not obliged to show at work.
@@AlexMarkTravel So true, so inefficient.
Been visiting for decades and bought our dream home in Malta 10 years ago. Literally been a downhill trajectory since then and everything said is factually correct I'm afraid. We're selling up and leaving it really saddens me to say there are just so many better places to set up now. How can Malta be helped back to it's former self?
Good video Aleks. Lived here for 8 years and 100% agree. I would never recommend anyone coming here either for vacation or living. Especially for vacation I'm shocked why anyone would ever come. But even for living there are much better places.
Thank you for your comment.
Hi Alex, I am Local Maltese and when I say local I mean I was born and raised in Malta and lived in Qawra/ Bugibba until the age of 18, I then moved to teh UK, I have just returned from a holiday to visit family for two weeks, I do agree on some of the points you have made but unfortunately in your videos you have failed to emphasis why Malta is in this situation, as mentioned I agree on some of the points such as the rubbish situation but this where you failed to mention the massive influx of expats that have moved to Malta (not complaining about people moving in I am only talking about volume) more people + more rubbish + Mobility = more traffic and pollution you mentioned construction but think about it, such as yourself you have moved to Malta (and this is not a personal attack on you) if this construction did not take place where do you think you would of ended up living ? because flats and apartments don't magically appear and if construction did not take place the few properties available would be double the price because demand would surpass supply by miles, you have also mentioned Tenerife I want to remind you something, population in Tenerife is around 954,300 people with 2,034 square kilometres (785 sq mi) Malta on the other hand is 316 km² with a population of 535,000 (I believe this much more) Tenerife is bigger than Malta by 1,718.38 sq km, Tenerife is around 6.44 times bigger than Malta. I will also remind you that in 2022 2.3 million people visited Malta, no wonder the beaches are overcrowded, very sorry but you are not comparing apples for apples, Malta is massively over populated and as such issues of over population with naturally come to light. I agree on food shopping very expensive and that is me comparing to UK prices however Malta has got a lot to offer and I am not surprised that many want to move there, a British family ones said to me Malta is like Marmite you either love it or hate it (had to research what the hell marmite is 🤣) and I do agree. PS I used to love living in Malta/ Qawra I have many amazing memories that will always be with me
Hello, thank you for such a detailed and well measured comment. Qawra was the nicest and best looking part of St. Paul's Bay but now it's the ugliest in Malta, because it was unlimited construction galore in the last 5-6 years with no green spaces not a single tree planted or kids playground, just pure concrete, so this is how much they went. I didn't want to go into more detail as then it would turn political, and that was not my idea, but to pin point the result and quality of life and service here at this moment. You wouldn't recognize Qawra today, but in a negative way. And I am grateful to Malta for many things, but if there wasn't enough room here for me, I wouldn't come here, I would go to some other place. When you build you have to plan for everything and everyone, not just let greed take over with no planning, just putting money first and desires of few people. Yes, I know about the Tenerife it is 7 times bigger island, but not comparing what is not comparable (size and resources), cleanliness, the existence of public services there which take care of all green spaces, public transport, taking care of the beaches, you name it they do it highest level, and Tenerife proportionally makes much less money than Malta that's the point. For Malta huge planning had to be applied long time ago because of it small size, instead who ever was steering the island chose completely different path - easy money.
I'm born and raised in Malta, and i came to conclusion that since the British left, incompetence rules in my beloved Malta.
Forget the effort of finding what Marmite is.
But as sickening as it is, it's a treat compared with Malta.
That's why the construction should stop. Malta cannot sustain all these buildings. There's plenty of empty houses and flats around. Wake up Malta
articles are starting to appear in the newspapers highlighting how the government's plan to import cheap labor (there is a huge turnover around the TCNs who come here and find themselves in a condition of legalized slavery) has not taken into account the impact on services. building housing (which interests Maltese business) is not enough as is evident. let's try to understand that all these people arrive because they are pushed to arrive, they are attracted and this detail is important to understand
I was just there and I agree. There are so many opportunities that the Malta officials missed. My grandfather came from Malta 100 years ago and I'm of Maltese decent, so that's why I went. I was expecting old limestone buildings and a relaxed "island" type of atmosphere, instead it was stressful and hectic. I spoke to some locals and was told that construction exploded over the past five years and everything has changed. Malta has lost it's identity and I don't know how the damage can be undone. There are construction cranes everywhere and they are packing people in still. All the drinking water is bottled, the electrical grid is a joke, there is limited space and being a small island, there is no room for anything. I can't see how it is conducive to families with small children, no place to play, no parks to speak of, trash in vacant overgrown lots. They really missed the boat. Malta has 300 days of sun, yet I didn't see one solar panel. If every roof had solar panels for electricity and they would be self sufficient and probably have more than they need. There needs to be a moritoirium on new construction and the very old vacant limestone buildings restored. I'm sure my grandfather would be rolling in his grave if he could see Malta now. Such a beautiful island with so much history being destroyed from within. There is hardly any "Maltese" culture, it has been taken over by foreigners and outside developers. What a shame.
my mom is maltese born and raised and we visit the country every year for a month. I have personally witnessed its gradual decline. I blame the greedy corporations and 3rd world invaders 100 percent
The developers are pretty much local ones, there is one very famous and a good friend with certain people who make decisions on the island. But you summed up everything perfectly.
It looks extremely similar to Beirut
With a 0 behind the property prices
Just hope the Malta tourism authority looks at this . Certainly a wake up call , I'm Maltese and the video is 100% right . Malta attracts cheap students kids party people for festivals etc. in fact they call Malta the new magaluf . If there is alcohol they are happy
Im in malta right now and i really love it. The people are kind, lots id things to see here and its surprisingly very cheap. the public transport is a mess tho. Busses come ang go as they please. Had one bus change the rout after 15 minutes so we had to take another bus (lmao). Its cheap but that shows. Last night ive waited 1.5 hours at a bus stop where like 15 buses stop and every single one one of them didnt stop cause they were too “full”.
Generally speaking sliema and fiorina are really overpoluted. Today i found a used condom in the morning, and trash literally everywhere. The buildings look like theyre gonna fall apart any second.
Dont get me wrong tho. Mdina, rabat and gozo are beautiful. And Valletta as well. There are lots of places worth seeing and the beaches are wonderful (if you can find a sandy beach that isn’t overpopulated). Just know what youre getting into.
This is one of my favourite comments for sure, thank you for an honest view on the things! 😀 Can you please tell us where are you from, since for us residents nothing is really cheap here, except petrol maybe?
@@AlexMarkTravel I’ve just read my comment again and oh my, so many typos 😂
Anyways I’m from Austria and pretty much everything is more or is at least as expensive there as it is here. Like simple things like flip flops, eating in restaurants (you almost always have to pay like 40+ euro minimum for 2), gas (disel is like 1,60 per litre) or even mcdonalds (mcflurry is about 3.80 and here its 3,30 i think) and normal gelato. Considering that its a touristic place i was expecting things to be much more expensive.
Generally speaking Malta is a beautiful country but a bit messy tho, and at times during our bus rides i feel like more driving thru Egypt than an eu-member state. Not because of the people, but because of the state the buildings are in.
@@Arnamoo Thanks again for explaining. Yes, obviously Austria isn't cheap either. Prices here went quite up, and they are not stopping either. If here it was cheap for you try Spain next year you will be amazed with prices of food and drinks.
@@AlexMarkTravel oh i will definitely thx :) btw i checked some prices today at a discounter, veggies are much cheaper here (ab eggplant is about 90 cents per kg whereas in austria its 1,60 for each eggplant), but stuff like Philadelphia is ridiculously expensive here its like 3,50€ whereas in austria its about 1,70 😅
‘I love it here’
I respect your opinion, but I find it shocking how guys from countries such as yours (Austria, Sweden, Norway) seem to like Malta so much 😂
To each their own, of course!
My opinion coming from Tokyo, is that I found it way more expensive (yes, really, and no, not because of the yen, I earn in Euros/USD), quality is appalling, for everything, and everyone seems to be angry all the damn time, or try to scam you
Was in Malta this summer for two weeks and loved it, one of the best holidays of my life. Had fresh fish from the fishermen's club in St Paul's Bay, loved Gozo, camped in Comino, hiked almost all the western side of the island, was just majestic. I would say down points for me are the crazy heat and blatant racism I witnessed although it's super multicultural and international.
"Had fresh fish from the fishermen's club in St Paul's Bay" - First of all eating fresh fish in Malta is almost like a fable, a story, because mostly everyone serves frozen/defrosted fish. Second sea around St. Paul's Bay (but other areas as well) is polluted, even if you catch it yourself, all the sewage now goes into the sea, there is no water recycling plant, and sewage system is overloaded.
Im maltese and yes it pains me to see this but also what pains me is that construction it start all at the same time and never know when they finish
Problem is also sometimes they finish but after a year (or months even) they come back to do more because the apartments didn't sell so they need to rearrange them again. Nobody cares about residents, like you don't exist.
I knew Malta since 1939. We had a better family life even back then. This gentleman unmasked what local politicians hide. The truth.
Thank you for your comment.
The garbage system is ridiculous. The fact that people are not given a better solution to get rid of their garbage at any time like in other countries and then are getting fined for it is just insane. Imagine you ate fish at home during the hot sommer months and you are forced to keep the waste until the right time for trash collection comes. Dear Maltese Government, place some big dumpsters in each neighborhood (like other, normal countries do) and stop punishing the residents for your own incompetence.
I agree with you 100%, we need to stock pile garbage at our homes because you have certain days and hours when to take it out.
Sheesh... My family and I are thinking of relocating and investing. We finally agreed on one country based on feedback from years ago: the island of Malta. I kept watching and thinking - maybe this isn't too bad, but reading the comments here ...I'll do some more homework. Stay strong my Malta Bros & Sisters!
I Can assist your with relocating.
@@aytnic007 Hi Cinthya - thanks for reaching out. I'm still having a look and doing homework. I'll keep your contact (thanks for keeping your name on your profile - it's easier to find you :) )
The places I've found that are advertised are relatively small, which is understandable - it's a little island. So I'm leaning on a little farm at the moment with a minimum of 5 bedrooms.
But I will contact you once my homework is complete!
Thanks!
I would suggest visiting twice, once in summer and once in winter and stay for at least a week both times. Stay far away from the St. Julian's (overrun with tourists) and Buġibba (the video highlights the issues this city has) and see what you think of it. I was in Mosta for 10 days and loved it very much!
I am from Malta and what you said is 100% the truth.
I'd like to add something as well. If you are trying to move to Malta. First of all: The sights aren't that special, as you've seen in the video. Stuff is so expensive, even just normal, necessary things you'd need on the daily, that you wouldn't even be able to last a week without ending up broke. And last but definitely not least, is the total frustration, anger and desperation to find a job with or without qualifications is insane. Every employer here in Malta want someone either with an insane amount of experience or a bunch of qualifications, and here's the fun part, all that I've mentioned earlier and you'll still get paid with such shit wage that you'll still have to find another part time job just to go by.
Thank you for making this video, Sir. Hopefully with your criticism something here changes, I doubt it. But thank you either way. Good day.
Thank you for your comment, I appreciate it.