A holiday haven for retirees.
This renewed focus has paid off, as the number of young people visiting the island rose significantly last year. In 2007, the percentage of visitors under 24 years old was 15 percent, while visitors between the ages of 25-44 represented 36 percent. Both demographics have increased their attendance this year, with those under 24 up 53 percent and 25-44 year-olds increasing 32 percent.
The diverse population on the island of Malta influences many facets of life and attracts a wide variety of visitors. From the nightlife of Paceville to the view of the sea, Malta has much to offer every age group. Even though the visitors to Malta used to be retirement age, a great set of clubs, discos and bars has developed over the years for the local population. This is one of the main ways in which the Malta Tourism Authority has lured younger visitors to the island. A thriving, variety of local establishments gives young visitors a taste of the diverse culture that comprises the island.
Paceville is the nightlife capital of Malta. Most of the venues of Paceville are located on four main streets that spread out from the main square. These streets are Dragonara Road, Wilga Street, St. Georges Road and St. Rita Steps. A police presence is always nearby, keeping the denizens of the clubs safe and orderly. A taxi rank is also located in the main square, for those who need a lift.
Another way in which Malta is attracting a younger group of tourists is with the Isle of MTV concerts, sponsored by the Tourism Authority. This will be the third year and the Isle of MTV concerts brings in stars such as Enrique Iglesias, N.E.R.D and the Kooks. Besides the promotional act of hosting the concert, Malta also receives a lot of promotion throughout Europe on MTV. This gives the island a possible viewership of 147 million households.
The Tourism Authority is also organised last year an MTV Music Week before the concert. This include a lot of local talent, which MTV filmed for broadcasting. Many of the Paceville clubs are involved in organising the right music for the MTV Music Week. The concert took place in June, but was broadcast in September. Malta hopes that this will further draw the young and affluent to their island paradise and persuade them to get to the airport to take a Malta flight
The island will still remain one of the top destinations for those who have retired. Even with its focus on the nightlife of the youth, it still has one of the most laid back atmospheres of the Mediterranean.
Even though the pace of life is slow, every modern convenience is still available at your fingertips. So, whether you're young or old, this heavenly island can be your destination to get away. Just be prepared - once you're on the island, you may never want to leave.
And with the way the European economies are at the moment, Malta will probably welcome you for as long as you might like to holiday there!
