The latest version of the tourist portal www.malta.com has now been online for a year.

This version of the portal, which has been around in some form or another since the launch of internet access in Malta, was recreated from scratch and launched in July last year.

Since then, the site has grown significantly to attract more than 50,000 unique visitors per month, the promoters said.

Malta.com is a comprehensive guide for tourists and Maltese, and contains information which is interesting to different audiences. A team made up of IT, search engine optimisation and tourism experts were involved in creating the website.

On the site, there are hundreds of accommodation options, with an online booking facility. Taxi bookings, airport transfers and car rentals can also be made through the site, allowing visitors to book their holiday in Malta online from just one website.

Information on touristic attractions spans popular beaches and museums to hidden gems.

There is an extensive dining section that serves as a directory for local restaurants and lists recipes of traditional Maltese fare. Towards the end of last year, the website launched an online shop at shop.malta.com, where users can purchase interesting items including excursions, vouchers and many other items that would make excellent gifts.

Malta.com offers educational material on the geography and history of Malta, the economy, the Maltese culture, doing business in Malta, employment and so much more.

Local businesses can insert listings for free in the business directory. People may also sell any product in the classified adverts section for free.