Malta’s Heatwave: French Embrace Air Conditioning
As temperatures soar in Malta, the typically French aversion to air conditioning is starting to thaw. In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling St. George’s Square, you can now spot more than a few locals and tourists alike seeking refuge in air-conditioned cafes and shops. This shift is a testament to the changing climate, both literally and figuratively, in the Maltese Islands.
From ‘Frigid’ to ‘Refreshing’
Air conditioning, once considered a luxury or even an unnecessary extravagance by many French, is now being embraced as a necessity. The French community in Malta, numbering around 1,500, is not immune to this shift. “It’s not about being cold anymore,” says Marie-Claire, a French expat living in Sliema. “It’s about being comfortable.”
Malta’s Climate Change Reality
Malta, with its Mediterranean climate, is feeling the heat more than ever. The Maltese Meteorological Office reports that the number of hot days (over 30°C) has been increasing steadily since the 1960s. This year alone, we’ve already experienced several heatwaves, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. The French community, like many others, is adapting to these new realities.
In the quaint streets of Mdina, where temperatures can feel even hotter due to the urban heat island effect, French-owned boutiques are now equipped with air conditioning. “We’ve seen a significant increase in sales since we installed the AC,” says Jean-Pierre, owner of a popular Mdina gift shop. “Tourists and locals alike appreciate the cool escape.”
Air Conditioning: A New Normal?
This shift is not just happening in Malta’s urban areas. Rural communities are also feeling the heat. In the small village of Qrendi, where the French community has a strong presence, local councilor Pierre says, “We’re seeing more requests for air conditioning in public spaces. It’s a sign of the times.”
Back in Valletta, the change is evident. The once-empty streets during peak hours are now filled with people seeking respite from the heat. Air conditioning, it seems, is no longer a luxury but a necessity in Malta’s changing climate.
