Breastfeeding in Malta
If you are breastfeeding you will have no problem feeding your baby publically while in Malta. Remember to keep well hydrated and eat well when breastfeeding in hot weather.
Powdered Formula in Malta
For formula fed babies, the quality of the water in Malta is generally quite good and bottled water is available everywhere but please be mindful of the fact that it can be overpriced in hotels and it is cheaper to buy it in the local shops and markets. It is always safer to use bottled water when abroad for babies and toddlers, even if it is just because the local water might taste different. Bottled water should be boiled when making formula for infants under 6 months and when selecting water, try to find one with a low mineral and sodium content.
Premixed formula is available to purchase from large supermarkets in the UK and Ireland. These are very useful for the plane and remember to bring enough to cover any delays that may occur. You can buy Aptamil (Milupa) and Cow and Gate in many of the larger supermarkets however, you are more likely to find Italian brands of formula. The formula is imported and so tends to be expensive. If you are unsure about whether your child will be happy with a different brand of formula then it would be safer to pack one or two cartons to bring with you.
Baby Food in Malta
Jars of baby food however organic or salt-free choices you might be used to at home may not be available. Many of the larger ‘hypermarkets’ sell the Hipp Organic brand of baby food and jars of baby food. Many of the restaurants, particularly in the larger resorts will be happy to make up soft food for your baby and if you booke self catering accommodation you will be able to buy fresh food to cook in most of the markets.
There are plenty of baby and toddler friendly restaurants in Malta and the main tourist resorts are used to catering to families with young children. Most hotels will offer high chairs in the restaurants and many of the local eateries will also have them. if you are going to be travelling off the beaten track or are would like more flexibility in where you eat you can bring a fold away highchair. These are suitable for babies over 6 months or that can sit up on their own.
Nappies and Changing
Nappies (Huggies and Pampers) are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies as well as baby bottles. Again, these can be expensive as they are imported. Changing facilities are available in malls and restaurants. For a list of child restaurants with changing facilities and air-conditioning see: Restaurants Malta
Where to Buy Your Baby and Toddler Essentials
Scotts Supermarkets can be found throughout Malta. Scotts sell all of your baby and toddler essentials from food, formula and nappies to cows milk, fresh fruit and vegetables and even bath toys. If you are staying in self catering accommodation you will be able to find all of your groceries here and if you are on foot, you can arrange for delivery to your hotel or apartment.
Scotts can be found in the following locations:
• Attard (Triq L-Ghenba) open 7.00am – 7.00pm (with Late Night Shopping until 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays and Sunday opening hours from 8.30am-12.30pm) Click to view Map
• Naxxar (Vjal 21 ta` Settembru) open 7.00am – 7.00pm (with Late Night Shopping until 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays and Sunday opening hours from 8.30am-12.30pm) Click to view Map
• Burmarrad (Triq Burmarrad) open 8.00am – 8.00pm (Sunday opening from 8.30am-12.30pm) Click to view Map
• Santa Lucia (Triq il-Gudja) open 8.00am – 8.00pm (Sunday opening from 8.30am-12.30pm) Click to view Map
• Sliema (Amery Street) open 7.30am – 8.00pm (Sunday opening from 8.30am-12.30pm) Click to view Map
• Spinola (Spinola Bay) open 7.30am to 7.30pm (Sunday opening from 8.30am-12.30pm) Click to view Map
• Zabbar (Triq il-Mina ta’ Hompesch) open 7.00am to 7.00pm (with Late Night Shopping until 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays and Sunday opening from 8.30am-12.30pm Click to view Map
• Fleur-De-Lys (Triq Fleur-De-Lys) open 7.00am to 7.00pm (Sunday opening from 8.30am-12.30pm) Click to view Map
Sterilizing
Sterilizer bags are great for holidays and are small enough to pack. Another option is to bring sterilising tablets or microwavable steriliser bags if you will be staying in self-catering accommodation. There are Mothercare stores in Valletta, Sliema and Birkirkara where you can pick up clothes, sterilising equipment or any other necessities that you might need.
Slings and Strollers
Ideally, you should bring both a stroller and a sling with you to Majorca. Front carrier or slings are also a very useful for sightseeing and for negotiating busier areas and some of the nature reserves. If you can find a light sling it will keep your child cooler in the hot sun.You might want to bring a smaller fold up stroller for older children however it is very handy in the evenings if your baby can sleep in a stroller when you eat out, so make sure whatever you bring is comfortable. Remember to bring a sun shade or a parasol and blackout covers are fantastic if you will be out and about a lot as they allow your child to sleep easily.
For information on slings and buggies click here.
Insect Protection
Mosquitos on the islands of Malta do not carry malaria but a bite can cause an unpleasant reaction. Seek medical advice if an insect bite causes swelling, bruising or persistent pain. Click here for further information on insect protection and how to deal with insect bites.
Sun Protection
Ensure that you bring sunblock for babies older than 6 months and for toddlers (Factor 30 +) along with a hat which covers the back of the neck. Sun block cannot be used on babies under the age of 6 months and therefore it is important to ensure that their skin is protected by keeping them away from direct sunlight and using UV protected clothing. You can also buy a stroller shade which covers much more of your stroller and if the sun is particularly bright, this may be more useful. Remember to use sun umbrellas at the beach and by the pool if they are available and to encourage toddlers to play in the shade (if possible). A UV protected small sun tent can be purchased for babies to sit or lie in on the beach.
For further information on protecting your baby from the sun click here.
Travel Safety
Taxis in Malta will have a seat belt in the back if you plan to bring your own car seat however this may be cumbersome and you can also arrange to hire a taxi with a car seat (See getting around, above). For tips on travel safety while abroad, click here.
Using Babysitting Services
Using a babysitter abroad would not be for everyone but it is your decision. Most good hotels in Malta will offer babysitting services with experienced babysitters however they tend to be quite expensive. For information on using babysitting services when abroad and a checklist of questions to ask a babysitter click here.
First Aid
A good first aid kit is essential for any trip abroad. Click here for advice on first aid and how to treat minor injuries, burns and bites yourself.
Travel Insurance
If travelling from the UK and Ireland you should ensure that you and each family member travelling has either the European Health Insurance Card or private health insurance. Irish residents can apply for the card at http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/1/schemes/EHIC/ and UK residents can apply at www.gov.uk . This card allows you to get health care covered by the public health system in France. If you have previously applied for a card make sure that it is in date before you travel. Travel insurance should be taken out if you are covered by private healthcare however check your policy as it may offer you some cover while overseas.
Emergency Numbers
The European Emergency number is 112 where you will get English speaking operators who can direct your call to the appropriate emergency response services. For a list of other important emergency numbers see http://www.malta.com/en/local-information/emergency-contactm
Pharmacies
Most pharmacists speak English well and if your child is unwell they may be able to direct you to a doctor or hospital.
Consular Services
Contact your consular service or embassy if you have been a victim of crime, arrested on suspicion of committing a crime or if you or anyone in your family has a serious illness. Consular offices also provide help in the case of a lost or stolen passport.
