The tourist influx

What do you think of the large number of tourists who flock to Malta every summer?

It’s very good for Maltese businesses. The economy needs the substantial amount of tourists who visit our islands during the summer. Luca Cauchi, 21, BA (Hons) in Graphic Design and Interactive Media.

I think it’s a sign that Malta has a lot to offer. Ryan Grima, 20, Bachelor of Arts in French (Hons) and Italian.

Summer in Malta is the busiest season. With ongoing tourist arrivals, it’s the perfect time for businesses. Rebecca Barbara Bonnici, 19, Bachelor of Science in Earth Science.

What are the pros and cons of such an influx?

The advantages include economic growth and more income for local businesses, especially smaller ones.

The negative impacts include the increase in population and traffic. We already face the problems of being too crowded, with traffic jams throughout the year. When such large amounts of tourists visit Malta in summer, we often come across many more coaches and tour buses. They are often the cause of traffic jams. Luca Cauchi

I believe that having many tourists visiting our country helps improve our economy, but this may also lead to more pollution due to excessive use of transport. Ryan Grima

It definitely has a beneficial aspect with regard to the economic sector, but it leaves a negative impact on the environment through the generation of extra waste and excessive use of water. Rebecca Barbara Bonnici

How are tourists treated in Malta? Are they given a priority over Maltese citizens?

I think tourists in Malta are treated quite positively. I wouldn’t say they are given priority over Maltese residents, because it depends on the particular situation. In museums, for instance, foreign visitors tend to be given priority, and for a good reason.

Once they go back home, the only thing they are left with is a memory of the experience, so we have to make sure they have a memorable and pleasant holiday to remember and talk about. Luca Cauchi

There is room for improvement when it comes to the treatment of tourists because, at times, they are charged higher prices when compared to the Maltese. Ryan Grima

I believe they are welcomed overall. As Maltese citizens, we have a reputation of being friendly people. Rebecca Barbara Bonnici

Interviews conducted by Insite – The Student Media Organisation.