Malta is a small island nation located in the Mediterranean. One of only two Schengen countries outside of mainland Europe (the other is Iceland) Malta has longstanding historical and cultural ties to the continent. Its closest European neighbor, Italy, is a couple hours away via ferry. Malta consists mainly of three islands: Malta proper, Comino, and Goza. Relative to its small size (316km), it boasts a large population (well over half a million people). Safe, prosperous, and sophisticated, Malta is a member of both the European Union (its currency is the EURO) and the Schengen Area. Its major international airport provides access to Europe and beyond. A popular tourist destination, Malta has an ancient history and culture, which remains an exotic blend of European and Arab influences (the country’s official language—Maltese, is closely linked to Arabic, although the vast majority of its inhabitants speak English). It’s capital, Valetta, draws millions of sightseers a year to its historic churches (home to original paintings by Caravaggio), palaces, and fortifications. Outside the capital, the country’s Mediterranean climate provides an idyllic backdrop to extensive beaches and nightlife.