Marsaskala: Malta's Seaside Gem

• HelloMerħba
  [mer-hba]
• GoodbyeĊaw
  [chaw]
• YesIva
  [ee-va]
• NoLe
  [leh]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yekk yohb-hbok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzi
  [skoo-zee]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [keef eent]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo eent]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [tit-kel-lem bl ing-lees]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [ma neef-heems]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [nisht-yek ee-nara l-men-oo yekk yohb-hbok]
• I don't eat meatMa nikkulx laħam
  [ma nik-kools la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [sah-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nisht-yek in-hal-las yekk yohb-hbok]

• Help!Għajnuna!
  [ai-noo-na]
• Go away!Mur għalik!
  [moor al-leek]
• Call the Police!Ibgħat il-Pulizija!
  [ib-gat il-poo-li-zi-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ibgħat tabib!
  [ib-gat ta-beeb]
• I'm lostInkejt
  [ink-eyt]
• I'm illJien maħdum
  [yee-en mah-doom]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inkun
  [nisht-yek in-koon]
• I'm just lookingInħares biss
  [in-har-es bis]
• How much is it?Kemm jiswa?
  [kemm yis-wa]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisqgħalik
  [dan hoo-wa wees-ugh-ha-leek]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' tieħu prezz iżgħar?
  [tees-ta tee-ehu prezz iz-ar]

• What time is it?Xi ħin huwa?
  [shee heen hoo-wa]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [hoo-wa l-ew-el see-eha]
• Half past (10)Noqsan (10)
  [noks-an (10)]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-od-oo]
• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [war-a-no-fsin-har]
• EveningFl-ewwel lejl
  [fl-ew-el layl]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-bee-er-ah]
• TodayIllum
  [ee-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
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• 1Wieħed
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• 2Tnejn
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• 3Tlieta
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• 4Erba'
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• 5Ħamsa
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• 6Sitta
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• 7Seb'a
  [seb-a]
• 8Tmienja
  [tmi-en-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [dis-a]
• 10Għaxra
  [a-hax-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [feyn hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shee-nu l-in-di-rizz]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turi li (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tees-ta too-ree lee fooq il-map-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta jasal il-ġej?
  [meh-ta ya-sal il-gey]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet (al)]

Marsaskala, a picturesque fishing village located in the southeastern region of Malta, derives its name from the Arabic word 'Marsa' meaning 'port' and 'Sqalli' referring to 'Sicilian'. This nomenclature reflects its historical significance as a strategic port used by Sicilian traders and settlers during the medieval period.

Built by the Order of Saint John in 1614, Saint Thomas Tower is one of the most prominent historical landmarks in Marsaskala. This coastal fortification was constructed to defend against Ottoman and Barbary pirate attacks. The tower, with its robust square structure, played a crucial role in safeguarding the Maltese coastline.

During World War II, Marsaskala, like much of Malta, was heavily bombarded by Axis forces. The town's proximity to the Grand Harbour made it a target for aerial attacks. The local population sought refuge in nearby shelters, and the resilience of the Maltese people during this period remains a source of pride.

Constructed in the 1880s by the British Empire, Żonqor Battery was part of a larger network of coastal defenses. This artillery battery was strategically placed to protect the entrance to Marsaskala Bay. Today, the battery stands as a testament to the island's military history and offers visitors a glimpse into its past.

Post-independence in 1964, Marsaskala transformed from a quiet fishing village into a bustling residential and tourist hub. The town experienced significant growth, with the development of modern amenities, restaurants, and hotels. Despite this modernization, Marsaskala has retained much of its traditional charm, maintaining a balance between historical preservation and contemporary living.

Dedicated to Saint Anne, the Marsaskala Parish Church is an important religious and cultural center for the local community. Built in the 20th century, the church replaced an older chapel and serves as a focal point for various religious festivities, including the feast of Saint Anne celebrated every July.

Marsaskala is located in the southeast region of Malta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), situated approximately 10 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, which will get you to Marsaskala in around 20 minutes. Alternatively, there are several bus routes (such as X4 and TD2) that connect the airport to Marsaskala, although the journey will take longer due to multiple stops along the way.

Marsaskala is a compact town, making it easy to explore on foot. For those who prefer public transport, Malta Public Transport operates several bus routes that connect Marsaskala to other parts of the island, including Valletta, Sliema, and the airport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available and can be a convenient way to travel. Renting a car is an option, but parking can be limited in some areas.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. For smaller establishments and local markets, it is advisable to carry some cash. ATMs are plentiful in Marsaskala, and you can easily withdraw Euros using your bank card. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in major towns.

Marsaskala is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and always keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Marsaskala has a local police station and medical facilities. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The closest major hospital is Mater Dei Hospital in Msida, which is about 15 kilometers away.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonġu' (good morning in Maltese). A handshake is also customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as pastizzi and ftira. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Always thank your host.

To experience Marsaskala like a local, visit the Marsaskala Fish Market, which is particularly vibrant on Sundays. Engage with locals in small cafes and restaurants, where you can try traditional Maltese dishes. Take a stroll along the promenade, especially in the early morning or late evening when it is less crowded. Don't miss the annual Marsaskala Summer Festival, which features local music, food, and fireworks.