Malta claims to be the first EU country to have achieved herd immunity. Vaccinations recently extended to all over-16s and 58.6% of the population have had two jabs.
Since 2020, 420 people have died of the virus, and the country has not recorded a death since 26 May. Quarantine is not required, but all passengers travelling to Malta from the UK must have evidence of a negative PCR test, dated within 72 hours of arrival.
Museums and tourist sites, shops, restaurants and cafes are open, and allow tables of six people. Cinemas and theatres reopened on 7 June, but bars and nightclubs are still closed, and boat parties are not allowed.
Masks are mandatory for everyone over three years of age in public spaces, but from 1 June mask-wearing on beaches was advised but no longer required. Maltese health minister Chris Fearne said masks would cease to be mandatory outdoors from 1 July for vaccinated people, as long as cases remain low.
Valletta by night
Valletta used to be like a ghost town at night. Today, it is different – or rather it will be once the pandemic recedes and visitors return….
