It is September and the temperatures are still above the 30-degree-mark. The sun is so strong that you can easily get sunburned if you are not careful when you are at a café or at the terrace of a bar. What strategies do the Maltese apply to cope with the heat? The first rule can only be learned over a long period of time, and it is called “getting used to it”.
You will enjoy the sun during your first year in Malta, and curse it in subsequent years. The temperatures only drop a little bit at night, and the constant heat can be very challenging for the body if endured over a long period of time. My second advice can help with that, and I suggest to drink a lot of water. Water is very important for the body’s own natural cooling system. And yes, you will sweat – a lot. Because of this it is also wise to take a change of shirts to work. It often happens that the first one is already sweaty by the time you get to the office.
Air conditioning is a must
The Maltese know this, and have an air conditioning system in every bar, shop, and more importantly, in every office. Without a decent air conditioning, it would not be possible to concentrate properly. The rooms are usually cooled down to 24-26 degrees. Most apartments also have air conditioning systems and fans. Especially during the summer months, from July until September, they will be necessary on hot days. During this time, the power consumption increases dramatically, as air conditioning systems are proper power guzzlers.
Avoid direct sunlight
Planning is already half the battle. This is also true for a summer in Malta. Do you have to go to the post office, attend a meeting at the bank, or do you have to meet a friend? Combining meetings with obligations helps you avoid getting from one air conditioned room back into the heat. You can try to combine as many tasks as possible to save time and energy.
My last advice would be to use the large natural pool around Malta: the Mediterranean. You can go swimming in the evenings or after work. This has become my daily ritual in Malta, and I enjoy a cool-down in the waters during the hot summer months.
