Feature: Malta tops International Living's 2011 Quality of Life Index

Malta has done it again and is at the top of International Living's Quality of Life Index. Every year, the magazine “Übersee-Immobilien” compiles a list of countries that are an ideal travel destination for those who want to buy property abroad. The list is based on feedback from the magazine's readers as well as numerous surveys conducted by the editorial team. A range of indicators are used, ranging from climate and healthcare to cost of living, culture, security, etc.

In 2011, Malta was ranked second alongside New Zealand. France, Monaco, Belgium and France follow among the 191 participating countries. “Of the two, Malta is our favorite,” says Eoin Bassett, editor of International Living magazine. “But with 5.2 hours of sunshine a day, a stable government and economy, Malta is a very strong draw for expats. And it is English-speaking.” Malta was also voted first when it came to the climate factor.

The big question is: What can this island offer potential residents? Well, how about a quiet lifestyle and virtually non-existent crime? Mediterranean sunshine all year round? The opportunity to benefit from significant tax relief?

Anchored almost in the middle of the Mediterranean, 60 miles from the Italian island of Sicily, frost and snow are largely unheard of in Malta and the temperature rises to 25 degrees Celsius even in November. There is hardly any crime, the locals are hospitable and the healthcare is excellent. There is no property tax, and foreigners who benefit most from living here are those who withhold income from elsewhere and then have it taxed at 15% in Malta.

Access to the island of Malta is always important for foreign investors investing in Malta and with the introduction of numerous low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Easyjet in the last five years, the number of visitors has increased. Malta has grown rapidly, not only in tourists but also with property buyers who see Malta as a relaxed yet vibrant home away from home. The introduction of the euro in 2008 was also a plus, and although it did not radically affect property prices in Malta, it did make trading much easier.

These are just some of the benefits of living in the Republic of Malta. Additionally, there is often no need to learn a foreign language as everyone on the islands speaks English as a second language.

And what type of property is most in demand? Pretty much everything, be it villas and apartments or typical character houses and farmhouses. The great thing about real estate in Malta is that it is so diverse. Whether you're looking for a trendy seafront apartment in the heart of the island or a cozy, secluded 300-year-old house in a remote village like Siggiewi or Rabat, Malta is sure to have a vibrant offering. And in a country that is the third most populous country in the world but has limited land, the government and developers are constantly looking for ways to utilize the space without impacting the rural land that is still available and untouched by development. Today there are beautifully staged settlements such as Hal Saghtrija and Tas-Sellum, built to hide perfectly in their respective valleys and cliffs, or Portomaso, Tigne Point, Fort Cambridge and Pendergardens, which are deliberately built into the port areas of St. Julians and Sliema are also Malta's urban hotspots. Such developments offer close proximity to the island's business and commercial centers while still offering complete privacy and seclusion from the hectic pace of everyday life. And when you complement this with all modern luxuries and amenities as well as stunning views of the sea and harbor areas, what more could you want in life?