Not without some regret did we leave Malta after a two-week vacation, in which we enjoyed both culture and nature, as well as the kindness and helpfulness of the Maltese people that we met.

There is almost no greater contradiction than between this kindness and helpfulness, and the behaviour of some Maltese once they are behind the wheel in the car, or even the bus, that they drive. Speeding and ignoring extended stripes on the often narrow roads seem to be ‘normal’ to them.

Undoubtedly, the trips from and to the airport were the most dangerous parts of our holiday.

The already low number ofcasualties in traffic could be lower if everybody would behave in a more civilised way.

Friends and relatives had told us about the outstanding quality of public transport in Malta and this for a very pleasant price.

Well, for us, the prices are still pleasant, but the quality has degraded dramatically.

Too many buses are overcrowded, often with just one set of doors. Once in the back of the bus it is a real struggle to get out.

The air conditioning is not working, or working too hard, which may result in a stiff neck; and it is always very noisy.

Buses arrive too late, or not at all, and on bus stops there are often so many bus lines provided that it is impossible to stand in line, because you do not know which bus will be the first to arrive.

This results in people getting annoyed and forcing their way in, which is not very nice.

Nevertheless, we will visit Malta again, but with some lessons in mind.