Episode 14 Escape to the Continent

In 1940, this tiny island found itself at the centre

of a battle between Allied

and enemy forces for naval supremacy in the Mediterranean.

By 1942, it had become the most bombed place on Earth.

Find out which country I am in, in just a moment.

On today's house hunt, I employ my very subtle powers of persuasion.

You don't buy this house, I'm going to chop off your head,

how is that as a deal?

Throw a few curveballs...

You do make things difficult, don't you?

And deliver some crackers.

I think Johnny needs to get his chequebook out. I love this house.

Welcome to Escape To The Continent.

Now, this behind me is the capital city of Valletta, in Malta,

a small island that fell victim to intense

bombardment during the Second World War

due to its strategic position in the Mediterranean.

Now, during that war, Malta was hit by some 15,000 tonnes of bombs

and holds the record for the longest sustained attack,

which lasted 154 days.

But the population of some 270,000 people refused to surrender.

And as a reward, King George VI presented Malta and its residents

with Britain's highest civilian honour for bravery -

the George Cross.

Today, Malta still shows the scars of battle etched on its landscape.

But that doesn't detract from the natural beauty

and centuries of fascinating history that this country has to offer.

Just under a four-hour flight from the UK, Malta is

located 60 miles south of Sicily, in the middle of the Mediterranean,

between Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

Its location between continents has seen it

occupied by everyone from the Greeks, Romans

and Arabs to, more recently, 150 years of British governance.

Malta gained independence in 1964 and is now part of the EU.

At just 122 square miles, Malta is smaller than the Isle of Wight.

But with nearly 422,000 residents, it is

one of the most densely populated countries in the world.

The capital city, Valletta, packed into less than a square mile,

is one of the most concentrated historic areas on the globe

and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But it is not simply a historian's paradise.

Modern Valletta is a vibrant, busy city

great for shopping and socialising.

Overlooking the city is a hilltop battery of cannons,

which today draws in visitors with its daily mid-day gun salute.

Malta has no shortage of stunning scenery

with a coastline that varies from spectacular rugged cliffs

and natural rock formations to golden, sandy beaches.

With its rich history and culture, beautiful landscapes

and nearly year-round sunshine, it is clear to see why Brits

are drawn to this island and many choose to make Malta their home.

Malta is a small island with a high population density,

which means land is scarce.

So when it comes to property out here,

those of you with green fingers, be warned -

gardens are rare so come at a premium.

Waterfront homes in the north of the island command

some of the highest prices,

particularly in Sliema, St Julian's and Valletta.

So head south and you'll find the best property

bargains and a quieter, more rural way of life.

So what area is going to be right for today's buyers?

Well, let's meet them and find out.

Today's house hunters are Claire, John

and their 11-year-old son, Harry.

Claire is an NHS occupational therapist

and John works for a building company.

They met over 13 years ago.

-We met through our friend Justine, didn't we?

-Yeah, we sort of...

-We was in a bar, weren't we?

-A bar, yeah. And we went out for a drink.

-And that's it.

-That was it.

-One year and one day later we got married.

They had Harry, who is now 11.

And they all currently live in Buckinghamshire,

in an unusual house.

When you look at it from the outside, it looks very, very small.

As you walk through the front door and actually come into the house,

it is a little TARDIS, or should I say a large TARDIS,

spread over three floors. But there is somewhere better for us.

And hopefully, that will be Malta.

The idea of Malta as a place to move to came about after many

happy holidays on the island.

From the moment I first went to Malta six years ago,

I just completely fell in love with the culture, the history,

the people that live there.

You get nine months of sun. You know, the beaches.

The activities and sports for Harry.

And just the way... Family-orientated, they all are.

Yeah, just love it. Just love it there.

Millie, the dog, will be part of the move,

but Claire has two grown-up children who will be staying in the UK.

Unfortunately, George and Leah, our two older children, won't be

able to join us at the moment, with the commitments of work.

So that is going to be a real shock to the system,

not seeing them every day.

But they are really supportive, aren't they, George and Leah?

They're really supportive of us going,

which has made it a bit easier.

As Harry is 11 years old, the move involves not only finding

a property but also a good school for him to attend.

I think the only concern I have for Harry is probably schooling.

Just making sure that he is settled, that he is making friends

and getting the good education that he deserves.

I'm looking forward to moving to Malta because I can see my dad

more and we get to play together and we get to spend more time together.

I'm a better footballer than my dad

because I can do better skills than him.

And he is a better keeper than me.

With the sale of the UK home, John and Claire would have a

cushion of capital to tide them over until they find what work they can.

For John, a fundamental change in work life is

one of the driving factors.

You know, I don't want the rat race I have now -

getting up at 5.00 in the morning to be in the office by 7.00.

You know, I've been doing this for so long, I just feel it is time.

I've got people that I've met

and people that I know that have said that they have contacts over there.

Push comes to shove, I'll work behind the bar.

Harry has already sat an entrance exam for a school on the island,

and they are expecting the results soon.

Harry, going to senior school, it's that step up.

We had an offer on the house yesterday, I've accepted it.

If there has ever been a right time, it is now.

Yeah, well, my contract at work is also coming to an end.

-It just seems to be all falling into place.

-Yeah.

Better to regret something you have done than something you haven't.

Exactly.

Indeed. And I don't think this will be a regret.

Claire and John have only ever holidayed in Mellieha,

in the north of the island.

And this is where the school they applied to for Harry is situated.

But as Malta is so small,

they want to explore all options across the country.

So they are flexible about location, but what about the property itself?

With Harry being looked after by his elder sister in the UK, I am meeting

Claire and John near Valletta, to hear more about their plans.

Well, John and Claire, here we are in wonderful Malta.

In a way, I suppose, this feels like a second home to the two of you.

Absolutely, yeah. We have been coming here for...six years now?

-Yeah, six years.

-Six years we have been coming.

-So, as an island, it has really won you over.

-Yes, absolutely.

From the first year we came here, wasn't it?

-So, yes.

-What is the situation at home in the UK?

The house is sold

and we hopefully need to be out of there in four weeks.

-So time really is of the essence.

-Yes, absolutely, exactly.

So no pressure to find us a home.

So if we find you that perfect property that matches everything

that you and your son Harry wants, you're going to move straightaway?

Absolutely, we have to, yes. This is it.

My goodness. At the moment, you live in a property with

fields in the background, you've got a lovely garden...

I mean, have you thought what it is going to be like

when you move to Malta?

Because we are standing on an island that is very heavily populated.

-BOTH:

-Yes.

Yes, there is, but there are pockets that you can find that are quiet.

-We just want to be here.

-We are open to options, as they say.

-Are you?

-Yes.

-Do you think you are both quite flexible as a couple?

-Yes, definitely.

-Yeah, we agree on most things.

MENACINGLY: Don't we? THEY LAUGH

So what type of property then, ideally, are you looking for?

-I like a house with character, two to three bedrooms.

-Yep.

Possibly a nice courtyard. A rooftop.

And then we are open to anything.

Also, you can get lovely penthouses where you can get on the roofs

and have your barbecue on the roof.

You know, in the summer... Well, you could have one today, actually.

You could, actually. I know, it's pretty warm today, isn't it?

-So why don't you remind us of your budget?

-We have...

£200,000 plus your taxes.

Nervous about coming out?

-No, excited.

-Are you?

-And I want to do it. Let's do it.

We do have some splendid properties to show you. Ready to get going?

-Yes, absolutely.

-We are indeed.

-Come on then.

And we have picked out four properties, each of which

offer something distinct while remaining typically Maltese.

I'll be keeping the price tag of each secret till

the end of the house tours.

Our final offering will be a mystery house,

which today offers something of a millionaire lifestyle.

Claire and John may have been here six years on the trot on holiday,

but we'll immerse them in Maltese day-to-day life

to find out if this really is the place to begin a new life.

To kick off our Maltese house hunt, we are heading to Rabat,

a small town in the centre of the island.

It sprang up as a suburb to the ancient walled city of Mdina,

which was once the capital of Malta.

Outside the confines of the walls, Rabat is now much bigger than

the citadel and has a population of around 12,000.

There are historic sites to visit such as the Roman Villa,

now a museum of antiquities,

the 17th century St Paul's church and the Roman catacombs.

Rabat's narrow stone streets are filled with typical Maltese

houses, with their characteristic wooden balconies.

But it is also a modern place to live with all the conveniences.

We are sticking to the atmospheric alleyways for our first

Maltese offering. Just coming up here is our first house.

Fantastic, can't wait to see it.

If you look from the front, there is a plaque right at the top.

It was built in 1614.

Wow, that is amazing.

It is believed a rich family had it built for the local priest.

But obviously, since then, it has been a shop,

it has been part of the local community.

For being 400 years old,

-it certainly has a lot of character and charm.

-I can imagine. Fantastic.

-I can't wait to see inside.

-Let's see if you are won over.

-OK.

This historic property is what the Maltese refer

to as a house of character.

Spread vertically over four levels, this traditional town house

has been lovingly restored, keeping many original features.

And on the ground floor, is the living room.

-Wow, this is amazing.

-Wow.

-This is lovely.

-Very medieval.

-It is unusual, isn't it?

-Yeah, it is really.

-It is.

-Yeah.

-Very impressive.

-Exactly what I wanted.

-Is it?

-Yes.

Exactly what I wanted, so...

This is Maltese limestone,

-which, as you know, is everywhere around the island.

-Oh, yeah.

It's like stepping... Well, it is stepping back in time, isn't it?

-You can imagine how many people have come through that door.

-Yeah.

-Yeah, amazing.

-400 years ago.

-Absolutely.

-Yeah, impressed.

-Very impressed.

-Yeah?

A strong start. Let's continue.

Across the living room to the back of the house is

a kitchen that might not be the kind of family space Claire had in mind.

-Now, you do have to mind your head slightly as you walk through.

-OK.

-Oh, wow.

-Into our kitchen.

-Probably not the largest kitchen in the world.

-No.

But everything you need here.

Yeah. It's nice. I like it. It's cute.

It was actually fitted out not that long ago,

and I think it has been very cleverly designed.

You know, you've got the granite work surfaces,

and they are not the full width, they are half the width

so that you do have a little bit more space.

We are going to head upstairs now, so mind your head going out.

John, if you want to lead the way, thank you.

To allow for such a compact kitchen, there is

a separate utility room at the top of the house.

And through the kitchen window is a small courtyard.

Down in the basement is the third bedroom.

Once the cellar, this vaulted room is now a very generous double.

Up from the ground floor, on a half landing,

is a high-spec wet room put in five years ago

which serves the main bedroom that is just up a couple more steps.

-Oh, this is nice.

-Like being in the Tower of London, isn't it?

-Come on in.

-Oh, this is lovely.

-What did you just say, the Tower of London?

-Something like that, yeah.

Going back in time, so to speak.

If you don't buy this house, I'm going to chop off your head,

how is that as a deal?

I mean, it is stepping back in time. You are absolutely right.

And the way it's been so lovingly restored,

you get that character, that charm.

-It hasn't been stripped bare, it has been enhanced.

-Absolutely.

-So this town house has three bedrooms.

-Brilliant, fantastic.

All of them good sized. Now, how often can I say this?

-I can offer you also a birthing room.

-A birthing room?

-Yes.

A birthing room.

The ladies, apparently, used to come to the top of the house,

where it is cooler.

It has now been turned into a music room,

-but that is what was originally used for.

-Oh, right!

So it could be lovely for Harry as a separate little study area.

-Yeah, definitely, yeah.

-Very interesting.

Take a look behind those doors, see what you think.

OK.

-Oh, wow! This is amazing!

-Oh, yeah.

-So unexpected.

-Very different.

-This is brilliant.

-Yeah, very nice.

-Yeah. I love it.

-Yeah.

You could, if you wanted to, make it an en-suite.

-Yeah.

-Or you can have it as another room which is part of yours.

No, I like it as it is.

-So I take it, Claire, you are not going to change it, no?

-No.

-Walk-in wardrobe?

-Absolutely.

-You haven't even got a look in, have you, John?

-I never do.

-No.

-Right, we are going to keep on heading up.

-OK.

Coming from a three-storey house in the UK, the stairs,

thankfully, aren't proving an issue.

Now, mind your head here, Claire.

We are continuing up to the top floor.

Now, I think this is a climb worth making because...

you have your own roof terrace.

Wow, this is lovely.

-Can you imagine sitting out here, glass of wine in the evening?

-Yeah.

-Barbecue going on.

-Yes, I do like a barbie.

-Relaxing...

So what do you think? You haven't looked at any houses

here, it is only our first property.

-How close are we getting to what you want?

-Very close.

Yeah, Johnny needs to get his chequebook out. I love this house.

-It's lovely.

-Well, let's see if you can afford it, then.

You have got to work out how much you think it is on the market for.

OK. I think...I think about 170.

-Yeah, 170, 180.

-Go on, John, give me a figure.

-Which one?

-180.

You should have gone with 170 because you are the closest.

-It is a tad over £170,000.

-Really?

-Fantastic.

-OK.

So I think it is time for you two to explore on your own.

Don't forget the third bedroom down in the basement.

Take your time, I'll catch up with you when you're ready.

-Lovely, thank you.

-Thank you.

-Come on, then.

..and centuries of history in its walls.

-Mind your head, Johnny.

-Yeah.

Oh, this is lovely!

-This is really nice. You reckon this is Harry's room?

-Yeah.

What's behind...?

Oh, look, you have got a little shower room. That's amazing.

-Harry would love this.

-Yeah.

-He'd have his little den, so to speak.

-Yeah, absolutely.

I think of that house... I think it is absolutely lovely.

Everything we're looking for, really.

Yeah, I like that a lot as well. It is a beautiful place.

You know, the only fault I can see is going into the kitchen,

you know, having to duck your head every time.

But, you know, if you want something like this,

-I suppose you have got to...

-Adjust to it.

-Adjust, yeah.

It's 400 years of history. And it is beautiful.

It is a very, very good start. You know, you couldn't have...

Maybe you should have saved this one till last.

THEY LAUGH

-Hello.

-Hello.

-So, first experience of Maltese homes.

-Good? Thumbs-up?

-Very impressed, yes.

-Loved it.

You did seem to really, really warm to it as we were going around.

-Yeah.

-Definitely.

We have got more to show you, but first, we are

going to do something a little bit different.

Rather than take you back to the hotel...

We've got your bags in the car

because we got you a rental for the week.

-Wow.

-OK.

Somewhere quite interesting.

-Somewhere very stunning.

-Lovely.

-Shall we go and take a look?

-Absolutely.

-Come on, then.

Claire and John have holidayed in the resort towns of the island,

but to give them a more authentic Maltese experience,

we found them a place to stay in the ancient walled city of Mdina.

So it has taken us what,

-five minutes to get from Rabat to here, in Mdina?

-Yes.

And we're right in the heart of the city

because this is going to be your house for the week.

-How exciting.

-Lovely.

-So let me give you the keys.

-Thank you.

-Enjoy yourselves.

-Will do.

-I'll be back tomorrow to show you some more properties.

-Brilliant.

-But now the time is your own. Enjoy.

-Thank you.

-Thank you. Bye-bye.

-Let's see if there is a roof terrace.

-Good idea.

Look at this.

SHE CHUCKLES INCREDULOUSLY Yeah, this is lovely, eh?

The medieval town of Mdina has plenty of winding streets and

historic sites to explore, but it is also home to many souvenir shops.

To round off their day,

Claire and John go in search of a present to take back for Harry.

-These are really nice.

-Yeah, they are.

Harry would love these.

-What do you reckon, this one?

-Yeah.

-I think so.

-Yeah?

-Definitely.

-OK, let's get that one.

-Yeah.

-Yeah, definitely.

-Come on.

It is the start of our second day house hunting with Claire

and John from Buckinghamshire on the Mediterranean island of Malta, where

they are seeking a less hectic pace of life whilst continuing to work.

Malta does enjoy a lower cost of living than the UK, but

salaries here are also less,

with the average being around £17,000 a year.

Well, we've had a great start here in Malta with John and Claire.

And yesterday, our first property, they absolutely adored it.

Well, we gave them the night off last night.

They've had some time to think and to talk about it.

Let's see what they've got to say this morning.

-Good morning, sir!

-Good morning.

-How are you? Did you sleep well?

Very well, thank you.

I am hoping I have timed this right for a little spot of breakfast.

Yeah, come on in, we were having it on the rooftop.

Sounds divine.

-Oh, my word!

-Take a seat.

-It is beautiful up here!

-This is the perfect place to have breakfast.

-Oh, yes.

-It's not even the summer and it is so warm.

-It's lovely.

So you had last night on your own, time to reflect,

time to have a think. Did you venture out?

Yeah, we popped out for a little walk round Mdina.

Yeah, it was really lovely last night.

Does it feel different as an experience that you are actually

here, looking for your future home rather than you are here on holiday?

-Yeah, it does feel different.

-Does it?

-Totally.

You know, because you know that this is a really big step in your life.

And, you know, you only get one chance at something like this,

-and you have got to grab it with both hands.

-Yeah.

And it is not about going out, getting drunk and coming back

and getting up and then going on the beach kind of thing.

It's like working, really.

It is the reality, isn't it? It's kicking in.

Good news is we have got more to show you today.

-So shall we have a breakfast on the hoof, so to speak?

-Yes.

-Yes, great.

Let's go. I'm going to take the strawberry one, what do you reckon?

And me, and me.

Ladies...

For our next property, we are heading to the town of Sliema

on the eastern coast of Malta,

just across the water from the capital, Valletta.

Sliema began life as a fishing village, but it is now

arguably the island's main coastal resort and residential area.

Here, historic buildings rub shoulders with modern

apartment blocks.

It is a cosmopolitan place with many upmarket restaurants

and boutiques serving the growing population of 15,000.

The British influence is evident,

and it is where many expats settle.

But will it be where Claire and John want to settle?

The house I want to show them next is down the narrow inland

streets of the historic part of the town.

So...

-Time for our next poverty.

-Wow.

-Wow.

-That looks really good.

-Very Maltese.

-Yeah?

-Because that is what you are after in a way, isn't it?

-BOTH:

-Oh, yes.

One thing I want to point out before we step inside is

-the religious statue.

-Yeah.

It comes with the house. It is actually protected.

-Oh, that is brilliant.

-Yeah, that's fair enough.

-That's good.

-Shall we step inside?

-Yeah, let's do it.

This three-storey town house was built for a wealthy town dweller

100 years ago and has the traditional Maltese balcony.

Inside, it has got plenty of original character, too.

So... The door opens straight into the living room.

-Oh, this is nice.

-You can probably see, thick walls straightaway.

-Maltese limestone.

-It's nice, I like it.

-Yeah. Very impressed again.

-I like the beams.

-Yeah.

You certainly get a sense of space with this property.

We are going to walk straight through, into the kitchen.

So just there, you have got a small study,

-perfect for when Harry decides he wants to do his homework.

-Yes.

-Leads us into this.

-Oh, yeah, this is more like it.

-Yeah.

This is a bit of us, definitely.

Very happy.

-Are you happy?

-I am happy.

-This is what you call a kitchen.

-Yes.

-Or kitchen/diner, so to speak.

-Yeah.

No, this is more like it. This is what I was looking for.

Move around a bit more freely, can't you? In something like this.

-It's lovely.

-I take it that's a courtyard through there, is it?

It is. You have got your own courtyard.

-They really are hidden gems, these properties.

-Oh, indeed.

The staircase of this property is a pretty spectacular feature

and forms a spine up the centre of the house.

On this first floor, there is a bedroom to the front

of the property, with a traditional wooden balcony

overlooking the street.

But we are inspecting the bedroom at the rear.

So very ornate staircase, it's the original.

-And this would be your master bedroom.

-This is lovely.

-Yeah, it's very big.

-With your own en suite.

-Yeah, we don't have that at home, do we?

-No, we don't.

-So that is a nice bonus. Is that about a balcony?

-It is, yeah.

You have your own balcony.

-You can't get better than that.

-You are keen, aren't you, John?

-That is lovely.

-Go on, then. Have a little peak.

-Yeah? Do you mind?

-No.

No...

-Ha! This is amazing!

-Yeah, it's really good.

-Oh, this is very different.

-Look at that sun!

I can see us with a little cafe latte, a little espresso.

-An espresso in the morning, yeah. Absolutely.

-Croissants.

It's just beautiful.

Another flight of stairs -

you're going to be fit when you move out here -

-to the very top of the house.

-OK.

Up on the second floor is a further enormous bedroom.

And up from here is access to the roof.

You've got all this lovely space.

-You've also got a washroom in there, which is quite handy.

-OK.

-Lovely.

This washroom serves the top-floor bedroom

and, like most Maltese town houses, is where you will find the washing

machine, as it's on the roof where the washing tends to be hung.

See, I think, in a way, we saved the best till last,

-because I can't get enough of these roof terraces.

-No.

This is lovely. I really could see us here.

I think so, yeah.

-So what is the last thing we have to do?

-Price.

-So what are you thinking?

-I am thinking...

I am hoping 195.

OK.

I am thinking you have really thrown a curveball at me here,

so I think this one might be over budget.

225?

Your wife is very good at this,

-cos it is just under £196,000.

-SHE LAUGHS

Just under. So you are actually about £600 out, that's all.

-Wow.

-Under budget.

-Yeah.

-Yeah.

-You got excited yesterday.

In all honesty, how do you feel now, now that you know that price?

You know, I was just praying that it would be under budget.

-So I am well happy.

-Do take another look.

-Yeah, we will do.

-Take a look at those other bedrooms that you haven't seen as yet.

-OK.

-And I'm going to meet you right at the bottom.

-All right.

-Off you go.

-Wonderful. Thank you very much.

-Bye-bye.

I can't stop smiling

cos they've loved both of our properties.

But in my heart of hearts, I truly believe this gives them

everything as a family that they're looking for.

I love this house. Big wow factor for me is definitely the rooftop.

And also, I like the little terrace that we've got in our main bedroom.

Oh, yeah! Yes, of the master bedroom. Yes.

-It's lovely as well.

-Yeah, I didn't expect that.

Will you make me coffee every morning, Johnny?

Yeah, that's it, yeah.

-So two house tours done.

-Yep.

-Two great reactions.

-Yes.

-Smiling faces.

-Positivity. I'm loving Malta.

-I know, so are we.

-We are.

-We're getting close to finding you a home, I think.

-You are.

-I think so.

-Good.

Due to the UK's historic ties with Malta,

it has long been an easy place for Brits to move to.

Whilst the Maltese language, which is related to Arabic,

may be unfamiliar, their other official language is English.

They drive on the left,

and there are familiar touches of home everywhere.

Today, around 8,000 expats live in Malta.

But starting a new life anywhere can be nerve-racking, especially

if you have a child's education to consider.

I've arranged a harbour cruise with a family who might be able

to offer some words of advice. Can I introduce you?

We've got John, Julie and Kirstie. They have been here...

-How many years, Julie?

-Eight years.

-Eight years.

Obviously been a success cos you're still here, aren't you?

You've got a young family.

You've got Harry that you want to bring out.

They've actually experienced it with their three children.

It's hard to believe now because Kirstie is a teacher here.

Yes, yes, I am.

So I thought it might be quite nice... We've organized for you to

get out on a luzzu today. You can have a chat amongst yourselves.

I will leave you to it.

Get on board and I will catch you when you come off.

-Enjoy. Ask loads of questions.

-Will do.

John, who works in finance, was offered a job in Malta,

and the family moved within two months,

when the children were eight, 13 and 14.

They know life here well

and are taking John and Claire on a tour of the Grand Harbour.

Julie works as an English language teacher.

And daughter Kirstie is a primary school teacher.

So they also know a thing or two about the Maltese education system.

So, how is it emotionally with the children, bringing them over?

How did it...? Did it affect them at all?

We were a little bit worried about their reactions,

but when we finally got here, I think everybody was very pleased.

It was nerve-racking,

but then settled very easily and it is a great social life out here.

You are invited out straightaway to different things. It was wonderful.

I didn't have any problems at all settling.

So I think Harry, 11, he'll be absolutely fine, to be honest.

Yeah. And what was the school system like? Was it different from England?

The school system is different here. They do proper O-levels.

It is quite exam-orientated.

It's a bit more what we would call a traditional school.

It is back to basics.

-Yeah, they do seem as if they really push them hard, don't they?

-Yeah.

Yeah. It was definitely a challenge.

-We are coming into the harbour, and on that side, is Birgu.

-Birgu.

Or Vittoriosa. And there is a really nice set of pubs and bars

and restaurants just behind all the boats you can see in front of us.

It is one of the loveliest places to come to visit.

And some of the largest boats that visit the island dock here.

-That is so lovely.

-So you can see some real palaces here.

Getting Harry a good education is of the utmost importance,

but so too is finding work on the island.

I'm meeting them back on terra firma to discuss

the realities of living and working in Malta.

I suppose, in a way, it is a good time to get down

to the nitty-gritty, isn't it?

The practicalities of actually moving and work.

-BOTH: Yes.

-So what is employment like here in Malta?

-Is it easy to find a job?

-It should be.

Because the unemployment rate in Malta has been measured at one

of the lowest rates in the whole of the EU.

You know, what is the Maltese work ethic out here?

I think everybody here works quite hard.

-Most people have got two or three jobs.

-Really?!

-They do extra things in the evenings sometimes as well.

-Really?

-Especially in the summer months.

-Yeah.

-When the tourists are here.

That makes sense, yeah.

Are you quite flexible with what you are going to do

-when you move out here?

-Yeah, I am flexible.

You know, I may be in construction,

because there is a hell of a lot of work going on here.

You know, and I have been on the tours in the building industry.

The only problem with that area is you'll probably have to

-learn a little bit of Maltese.

-Really?

If you are in a work environment on a site or something,

they will be calling out to each other in Maltese.

You will be expected to understand what is going on at least.

-Health and safety.

-Yes.

-Is it easy to learn?

-No. No.

-It is a really difficult language.

-Now, we are sold on the lifestyle.

But obviously there are going to be some negatives.

The thing is, when you want to move to a country,

you do have rose-tinted spectacles on.

We're going to have to ask, aren't we?

Any downside to living here?

Yeah, you have to remember, this is a Mediterranean country,

so things are a little bit laid-back.

If you have anything that involves the government offices

such as... When you first start work,

you have to get your national insurance number.

These things tend to take a little more time

and patience. Patience is important.

-Are you patient?

-Yeah.

One of the things you get when you're living here is an ID card.

-OK.

-And the ID card is your passport, really, to all the services,

both government services and to banks.

You'll need your ID card for everything.

Even buying a washing machine, you will need your ID card.

They will ask you for your ID number.

-So it is very important that you get one.

-OK.

-That is worth knowing.

-So memorise your ID number.

-Yeah.

So, Kirstie, have to ask,

how easy do you think it is going to be for Claire to make friends here?

I think it'll be just fine.

Everyone is so nice and they are also laid-back.

There is not the stress here.

So, you know, go and join some like social clubs to start with

and then take it from there, I think.

-So are you more committed than ever to make the move?

-Absolutely.

-Yeah.

Yeah, definitely.

They are homeless.

They sold their home in the UK.

They look very relaxed underneath this stress,

because they have nowhere to live.

So we have got to find them the right property, haven't we?

-Yes, absolutely.

-Thank you all so much for your time.

Invaluable help. Honestly, it's so great.

-And, well, you might have some new neighbours soon.

-ALL: Yes!

Keep in touch.

-Lovely, thank you.

-ALL: Thank you.

When John and Claire do make the move, to purchase a property,

they'll need to budget for an extra 5% to 10% on top

of the asking prize for fees and taxes such as stamp duty.

If you are thinking of a move to Malta, it is worth knowing there are

some tax reducing schemes offered by the government for EU nationals,

retirees and high net-worth individuals.

It is worth checking to see if you qualify for one of these categories.

To get to and from Malta, there are regular flights

but only a handful of direct operators.

During peak months, it can get expensive,

so it is worth working in advance if you are able.

For our next offering, we are heading to the far north

of the island to the popular tourist destination of Mellieha, the place

John and Claire know best.

It is a small hillside town overlooking Mellieha Bay,

the largest beach on the island with 800 metres of golden sand.

With such an expanse of easy access coastline, historically, this part

of the island suffered countless raids from corsairs and pirates.

So in 1649, the Knights of St John

built the spectacular Red Tower to instil fear in the enemy

and security in the local population.

More recent military conflicts are also in evidence here, with

a vast network of underground air raid shelters used during the severe

Second World War bombardments, which are now open to the public.

For the 9,000 inhabitants, there is a high street full of shops,

restaurants and amenities.

A minute's drive away, in a residential zone,

is our next proposition.

So we have travelled north of the island to Mellieha,

-but I have got a feeling you know this area pretty well.

-Yes, we do.

How well?

Well, this is the first place we came to when we came to Malta.

And we have been coming ever since for six years now.

Sold on the area straightaway.

So let's see if you are sold on the property.

-Very different from other properties.

-Yep.

-First impressions?

Eh... Not too sure.

-But we'll see.

-We'll see.

-The balcony is nice.

-Yeah.

Let's see what you make of the inside, for the third time.

That's the first underwhelming reaction to the house hunt so far.

Built 13 years ago, this property has a simple, modern exterior.

But as we have been finding out,

these Maltese homes often have more to them than first meets the eye.

Here, there is a semi-basement,

which contained a large three-car garage.

And the entrance steps lead up to a raised ground floor, which is

the main living area.

-What are we thinking? A bit surprised?

-Yeah.

-Pleasantly surprised.

-Yeah, pleasantly surprised, actually.

-Yeah.

-Because it is so bad outside. Oh, no.

I wasn't sure what to expect inside, but it is really nice.

-It is quite nice, yeah.

-The kitchen behind us.

-Right.

A nice, modern kitchen.

-The kitchen is a little bit different.

-Yeah.

Because again, that open-plan feel.

-But it does work with the dining area there.

-Yeah, I do like it.

Just through there are two bedrooms and a large family bathroom,

beautifully done. The owners actually do use those bedrooms,

so really, they live on this one level.

-OK.

-There is a little bit more to show you.

-OK.

Off to the side of the living room is a marble staircase leading

up to a large, currently unused bedroom suite.

-This could be the most fabulous master bedroom.

-Yeah.

Because you have got an en-suite there.

-This is a nice surprise.

-Yeah.

-Magnificent views.

-Yeah.

-And a balcony.

-It's lovely.

You do make things difficult, don't you?

They're so deceiving, these properties.

-You just can't tell anything from the outside.

-Yeah.

Well, let's step outside.

So let's be honest,

-you were underwhelmed at the front of the property.

-Yeah.

But you can't be underwhelmed with that view, can you?

No, absolutely not.

-Beautiful. It is, isn't it?

-Follow me. One more thing to show you.

-All right.

-Great.

Off the master bedroom is a smaller room which leaves out to

a rear roof terrace.

Now, out here, we have an additional balcony.

Not quite the same views, granted.

Right.

But this is where you could actually extend this property

and have another floor.

We can go out the back?

You could go out to here. That is your border. But you can also go up.

You might not want to now, but that is a lovely thing to

have in your back pocket perhaps in five years' time.

Yeah, definitely. It is a bit of a wasted space at the moment.

-Isn't it?

-Yeah. So we have now got to put a price on this property.

We can see the potential, but as it stands,

what do you think it's on the market for?

Um... I'm going to go for...200.

John?

I'm going to go for...160.

That's really interesting

because the asking price is just over £177,000.

Really?

I feel at home in Mellieha,

so I was really happy that you brought us here.

And to have the price, yes. It's good.

-Be my guest, go and have another look around.

-Lovely. Thank you.

So it's interesting, isn't it?

You show somebody a completely different property and,

in a way, you get the same result.

They loved it. I am now confused.

Is it a genuine "I love it"? Or is it, "Oh, this is interesting."

Just going to have to wait and find out, aren't I?

Well, when I came up, I wasn't too...

I was a bit concerned. I wasn't too convinced.

But being inside and looking around, it is a really nice house.

-Yeah, it's nice.

-Really nice.

-Pleasantly surprised.

-Those views are just beautiful.

-And we know the area, you know.

We've been, like we said, coming here for years.

We know we can just jump on the bus down the road, we are

at the beach in five minutes.

Harry would love it. He knows where he is going here.

And then the extra space you've got out the back, you can extend on.

Yeah.

It could be a little project for me.

-Keep you busy. Hey, dear?

-Yes, dear.

Well, it has gone swimmingly well. And here they are.

Right, you love the inside of that property.

-Outside, can I convince you?

-Yeah, I think so.

-Yeah?

-A bit of a rub down on the door, Johnny.

-Give it a thought?

-A little varnish, it'll be lovely.

-I like that. I like that, options.

Right, here we go.

It's our final day here on the Mediterranean island of Malta,

looking for a new home for Claire, John and their son, Harry,

who are moving from Buckinghamshire with a budget of £200,000.

It has been rather exciting showing Claire and John around Malta

because, let's not forgot, they have sold their house back in the UK.

And everything we have shown them, they have given glowing reports.

But today, it is all about the mystery house.

Now, I am thinking glamour. I'm thinking fabulous views.

I'm thinking millionaire lifestyle but on a reasonable budget.

How can they refuse?

But before we head off for our final property,

I found out there has been some important news.

-Now, I've heard you have just had a phone call.

-Yeah.

Tell me, what was it about?

We've got to go to the school tomorrow

cos Harry's being enrolled into the school that we've been

-going for since we've been here.

-That's fantastic news!

-Yeah.

-Yeah.

-Because you really didn't know, did you?

-BOTH:

-No.

Just found out now.

Oh, John, you are welling up!

-No, it's brilliant.

-That's brilliant news!

You were praying for this school, it was so important.

And in a way, you based the whole move on the school, haven't you?

We have, yeah.

On Harry getting into this school that we have wanted and fought for.

Well, he did it. He did the test.

Can you feel the weight has been lifted off your shoulders?

-Totally.

-Absolutely.

-Yeah.

Yeah, it is all for, you know, for Harry. Knowing that he

is going to have the fantastic education that he deserves

is just...

-We really do need to find you somewhere to live.

-BOTH:

-Yes.

But that is great news. Harry is sorted.

-The first school of your choice.

-BOTH:

-Yes.

-Really difficult to get him in there, wasn't it?

-BOTH:

-Yeah.

Now you can relax a bit. And let the hunt continue for this property.

-OK.

-Right, I'm going to drag you on. Come on, let's go.

For our mystery house, we are heading south to Kalkara,

a village across the water from the capital of Valletta.

In such a strategic position at the mouth of the Grand Harbour,

this peninsula was home to the 19th century Fort Rinella.

Built by the British to house the most powerful gun

of its time, the Armstrong 100-ton canon, it is now a living museum.

The area is seeing an injection of investment with

the building of a technology park

and residential development which aim to boost the local economy.

With a population of 3,000,

this village was originally built around Kalkara Creek,

a sheltered inlet known for its boat-building of the traditional

Maltese dghajsa, originally used as water taxis across the harbour.

Up the hill from the creek in the new residential area

is our mystery house. So...

-It is time for our final property.

-OK.

-Now, this is our mystery house.

-OK.

-Or perhaps I should say mystery apartment.

-OK, fine.

-Yeah.

-OK.

Look at your face.

You're like, "What has she got?" What have we discovered here?

-I'll tell you what, let's step inside.

-Both:

-OK.

Claire and John seem sceptical about this property.

It might not be the characterful home they were after,

but as a new-build apartment, it does offer some bonus

facilities they haven't been able to get elsewhere.

So, we are going to start the tour of our final property.

-OK.

-Right.

-It's nice.

-You walk straight into this reception room.

-Yeah.

-You can tell, it is a totally new build, isn't it?

-It is, yeah.

-And then you have this fabulous hallway.

-It's amazing, isn't it?

-That's lovely. That's really unexpected.

-Shall we continue?

-Yes.

-Please, yeah.

-Come on.

-So you've got a good-sized double bedroom there.

-Yeah.

A second bedroom there, more of a children's bedroom.

Family bathroom.

And this is the master bedroom.

-This is lovely.

-It's very funky.

-I like it, it's nice.

So three bedrooms in total.

Obviously, all on the same level.

-But you have the en-suite.

-Oh, lovely. That's a bonus.

-So, do you like it so far?

-Yes.

-Very nice.

-Yeah, I do.

Well, one more very important room to show you. Let's keep going.

And our final room is the kitchen living space.

-This is nice.

-It is a bit different, isn't it?

-It is.

I like the space. I like open plan.

You have tremendous views out the window.

Because if you're going to move abroad,

-this is what you want to see.

-Yes, it is stunning.

-It's a lovely view, isn't it?

-Isn't it?

You've got the harbour, Kalkara Creek. You've got Valletta.

-Oh, it's lovely. It's stunning.

-It is. That is beautiful.

So we have got to put a price on all of this.

Have you been thinking how much it is on the market for?

-Yeah, I've been thinking.

-Have you?

-Yeah.

Well, I'll tell you what, hold that thought,

-cos I do have one more thing to show you.

-OK.

-Let's go.

After a slow start,

John and Claire are definitely warming to this option.

Also included is underground parking for two cars.

But it is up on the roof where I've saved the best till last.

-And this...

-Oh, my goodness!

..is your millionaire mystery pad pool.

-Oh, my God! This is unbelievable.

-Yes.

-I was not expecting this at all.

-This is what Harry is going to love.

-Yes.

-There are 12 other apartments in total.

-Right.

You do share this with the other apartments.

-But, hey, it's not bad, is it?

-No.

-No.

-Not bad at all.

Rooftop swimming pool, you can't go wrong with that, can you?

But can you afford it on your budget?

Final time, guys, final time. What are you thinking?

I'm going to go for 205, over budget. I'm going to go 205.

220.

-So both of you think it is over your budget.

-Yes.

The asking price is around £188,000.

That's good, isn't it? Really, for what you are getting.

Yeah, for what you are getting. I'm really surprised.

I thought it would be over budget, I really did.

-To have this is an absolute... Well, beyond a bonus, isn't it?

-Yeah.

Now you have seen this amazing pool, I think you should go back,

have a look at the apartment.

-OK, thank you.

-Thank you.

-Please do. You're welcome.

-This is a nice sized room, John.

-Yeah.

Nice little room for Harry. Maybe.

Maybe, yeah. Got little speakers in here as well, haven't you?

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

I think Harry'd be blown away. Especially by the swimming pool.

Who could say that they've got a swimming pool on their rooftop?

I mean, there's not many people they can say that, can they?

-No.

-And those views are just breathtaking.

-Yeah.

The head is spinning.

Every house we've seen has got something that we love.

Each has got an upside and each has got a downside.

We have got to discuss it and see

how we feel we want to move forward, so to speak.

-And decide quite quickly, hadn't we?

-Yes, dear.

That's it. You've seen everything now. Property tours completed.

You probably want some time to reflect on what you've seen.

-And then, I think we should have a chat.

-Definitely, yeah.

Yeah, we need to.

The island of Malta is famous across the world for one

of its ancient local crafts - filigree.

Filo is the Italian word for wire, and filigree jewellery

and ornaments are made from delicate strands of silver or gold.

Francesca Balzan is the curator of the Palazzo Falson Museum

in Mdina which houses some of the finest examples of filigree.

Francesca, lovely to meet you.

Now, I am passionate about jewellery.

But filigree jewellery, it's something else, isn't it?

Absolutely. It really is a work of art.

Very intricate, very precious little piece of art.

And so, Francesca, when did it become really popular?

Well, definitely in the 19th century.

We know that it was being produced by a large number of craftsmen.

And it was really popular in terms of people buying it as souvenirs

when they were passing through Malta.

What a wonderful thing to take away from Malta.

I mean, just looking at it, it is exquisite.

-It is quite wonderful, isn't it? It looks so delicate.

-Absolutely.

So the one thing that I've seen is the Maltese cross.

-It's got eight points.

-Yes. It is the cross of the Order of St John.

The Order of St John settled in Malta in 1530,

and it became very much a symbol of Malta.

Well, I'm going to see one of your local jewellers, a real artisan,

and I am going to be looking out for the eight-pronged cross in filigree.

-Francesca, thank you very much.

-Thank you.

-Nice to meet you.

I'm going to meet Gaetano Saliba, a leading multi-silversmith who is

one of a handful of artisans on the island still making filigree

jewellery using the traditional methods.

Gaetano, how long have you been creating this wonderful

filigree jewellery?

I started in 1989.

-Tell me, was it family business?

-It was, it was.

My grandfather started it in 1904 and my father took over and then me.

The Maltese Cross is by far the most popular design

and the one I'm going to attempt to make.

What I will need are these.

Cos my eyesight is not going to be as good as yours.

-OK, precision here.

-You are going to do an eye here.

-And we are going to bend it like this.

-So you sort of tap it round.

Yes.

-Is that too big an eye?

-We can make it a little bit smaller, yeah.

You sort of tapped it round, didn't you?

-You have to hold it like this.

-Mm-hm.

And tap it. Like a pen. You have to hold it like a pen.

You are being very polite, but this isn't going to be sold to

anybody, is it? Let's be honest.

How's that? A bit better?

Good. Yeah.

-I think you're being polite.

-Yeah, I like it. I like it.

It's shocking.

Clearly, I'm no expert, Gaetano is.

-He is going to show me the next stage.

-Then we insert this inside.

See? And then we get the other one.

And we insert on the other side. Like this.

On its own, it reminds me of sort of a butterfly wing.

This process is repeated three more times for the other

sections of the cross.

Next step is soldering.

Silver solder powder is finally sprinkled over the pieces to

form a bonding agent.

So, from here, it has to go on a firebrick, like this.

The pieces need to be heated for the silver solder powder to

melt and bond with the filling wire to the border.

We heat the cross.

And now it has started to melt.

The solder.

We get the second one.

-It looks even finer.

-Third one. Yep.

And the fourth.

To join these four sections, silver solder paste rather than

powder is used, which makes a stronger bond.

And we put some silver solder in the middle.

-It is soldered, see?

-Yeah.

The final stage is to melt two silver links into a decorative

central ball.

And this, I have to solder it in the middle.

-And then after that, in the shops, hopefully...

-Yeah.

-For another satisfied customer.

-Yes.

-Taking home a little bit of Malta.

Thank you.

So, really positive reactions from our couple on all our properties.

So are they going to go for the more practical option or have

they been won over by the Maltese character homes?

I'm not sure. They might even keep looking. Well, let's ask them

and find out.

So, Claire and John,

-we have established time is of the essence with this house move.

-Yes.

So, out of everything we have shown you, let's cut to the chase.

Have we got close?

-There is one in particular.

-There is one.

-Really?

-Mellieha.

The one with potential.

What is it about that particular property that works for you?

I think it is the area where it is, cos we know it so well.

Harry knows it so well, which is really important to us.

We are taking him away from where he knows in England...

He knows Mellieha, he knows where the beach is. He knows the restaurants.

He knows where the shops are.

Cos he is going to be going to a brand-new school,

I think it is important to keep him to an area that he'll know

and he'll find comfortable.

And also, as importantly for me,

is the two of you with that property.

-Did it feel like a home?

-It did.

The more I think about it, the more we talk about it,

-the more I like it.

-So how quickly are you happy to move?

We are looking at contacting the owner with a view to purchase.

I thought you might say to me, "We are going to have a second viewing,"

but it sounds to me like you are practically there in your minds.

-Yeah.

-Yeah, pretty much.

-Yeah.

That's fantastic news!

Well, I think the next conversation you are going to be having is

-with the estate agent after this, isn't it?

-Yes.

-Well, listen, all the best.

-Yes.

I'm going to say cheers because I am delighted.

-I hope everything goes according to plan.

-Cheers.

-And to your new life in Malta.

-BOTH:

-Thank you.

Here's to you. Thank you.

-Thank you for helping us make it possible.

-You're welcome.

Well, it has been a rather exciting week.

John and Claire were desperate to move to Malta.

They'd sold their house in the UK and were just waiting to hear

if their son could enrol in the local school.

Well, the good news is he has been accepted.

So the final piece of the jigsaw was finding them

a suitable family home.

By the sounds of it, we have achieved just that.

We wish all three of them

the very best with their new Maltese way of life.

We will see you again on Escape To The Continent.

Claire and John spoke to the agent.

But disappointingly, the Mellieha house was taken off the market.

However, John and Claire are forging ahead, renting a similar

house just up the road so Harry can begin his new school next month.

Their Maltese adventure begins, and we wish them the best of luck.