Gay Malta – The Nomadic Boys

Gay Malta - The Nomadic Boys

“You want to go to a gay bar in Malta? Pick any one you come across and you’ll be just fine!”
So said our Maltese gay friends when we asked them about the gay scene. But we get their point. When it comes to gay friendliness, Malta is killing it! This tiny island nation in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea is frequently named as one of the most gay friendly countries in the world and we can totally see why!

What used to be one of the most religious places in Europe (for example, up until 2013, divorce was illegal in Malta!) the country did a 180-degree turn to pass some of the most LGBTQ progressive laws in the world, quickly becoming THE gay haven in the Mediterranean region.

We visited Malta as part of a trip with Teletext Holidays to discover the gay scene and what makes it so appealing to LGBTQ travellers. We left with a strong thirst to return and see more. The people are open-minded, super friendly (Maltese guys – heLLO!), the queer community is very visible and even though it’s such a small nation of just 400,000 people, it still has a vibrant gay scene to check out.

We’ve put together all our findings in this gay guide to Malta as we explored the country from Valletta to Mdina, Gozo to Camino and Dingli to Xlendi.

Gay Rights in Malta

They are extremely progressive!

…or to quote the United Nation’s Equality and Non-Discrimination team:

“Malta has become the gold standard of LGBTQI reforms – a beacon of human rights for LGBTIQ issues!”

This says a lot for a country where up until 2013, divorce was illegal. This gives you an idea of just how Catholic and religious Malta used to be. It all began in 2013 when the progressive centre-left Labour Party came to power and prioritised gay-friendly policies led by the proactive Minister for Equality, Helena Dalli. They began by passing a full range of anti-discrimination laws, recognised civil unions and also passed adoption laws within their first year in power.

By Stefan Arestis – Full Story at the Nomadic Boys

Malta Gay Travel Resources

Taking a Holiday in Gay Malta – Gay Star News

Gay Malta Pride - Gay Star News

For many in Europe, Malta has a reputation for being a rather genteel holiday destination for older holidaymakers. The island is trying hard to shift that perception, with youth-oriented music festivals and a growing awareness of the LGBTI tourism market. It’s also an increasingly popular spot for those with a passion for diving.

However, for many, gay Malta’s main attraction remains its tranquil, Mediterranean charm.
Most holidaymakers head for Valletta, the capital city. It’s also a major harbor which plays host to cruise ships throughout the year.

Malta is actually three islands. Malta itself has a population of 400,000, while the smaller Gozo has 30,000. Comino, the smallest part of the archipelago, is almost uninhabited.
Approximately 1.6million tourists swell Malta’s population each year. The UK accounts for around 450,000 of those.

The island nation has a fascinating history. It has been tussled over by various factions, including Arab invaders, the Normans, the Knights of Malta and French. It was a major British naval base between the early 1800s and 1964, and elements of Britishness persist, such as red phone boxes. What dominates greater is the Maltese limestone from which almost all the buildings are built. Valletta was built along a grid system. Narrow streets are lined with buildings dating back to the 1600 and 1700s. Figures of saints and the Virgin Mary abound.

By David Hudson – Full Story at Gay Star News

Malta Gay Travel Resources

Gloriously Gay Malta – Gay Star News

gay Malta
Photo Courtesy of Visit Malta

Way to go, Malta! The island nation in the Mediterranean Sea is now the 15th in Europe to win marriage equality, following today’s vote. It follows Germany, which voted in favor of the move at the end of June.

Malta, which has a population of 400,000 and is the world’s ninth smallest country country, was this year named the best in Europe for LGBTI rights. And this was before marriage equality! To celebrate the news, here are some of the most perfect spots on the island for you and your partner to enjoy together…

1 St Peter’s Pool

What: A natural swimming pool known for its immensely clear waters.

Where: Located near the village of Marsaxlokk.

Why: It’s a perfect example of Malta’s craggy, dramatic natural beauty.