Use of Public Transport in Malta
I hear lots of complaints about public transport in Malta, but really it's not that bad any more. The only problem is the lack of direct services, but then again, when they are implemented, it takes a while for them to become commonly used. For example, Bus Route 65 which commutes between Sliema and Mdina via Naxxar and San Gwann is nowadays well used, but I do remember when it was first put in place - people took time to become aware of the service.
Another problematic factor is the close proximity with humanity. One does not always feel inclined to sit next to another person that might randomly begin to chat - about the weather, politics or even their personal life. Yet again, others really have no option but to use this means of transport.
While the Park & Ride Scheme is quite useful, and the new Controlled Vehicle Access means that one often finds parking, I still find that public transport beats them all. Park & Ride is very convenient - but only for those entering Valletta before 9 am - meaning you have to be there at around 8.30. Skip that deadline and you've no parking space. The parking Scheme in Valletta means you pay fees for parking inside the capital beyond the first half hour. Not a bad deal at all, but definitely not sustainable if you are doing this every day and do not have an ID Card with registered address in Valletta. With public transport, I choose a suitable parking place for my car, and then catch a bus into the capital. This saves me fuel to find a parking space, and a long walk to wherever I want to get. The 'time wasted' as some call it, is the same as if I had to find parking and then wend my way towards court or wherever it is i want to go.
The service has improved greatly and the more modern buses are not as crowdy as the older ones seem - there is more room to move around and get off the bus when full.
Another problematic factor is the close proximity with humanity. One does not always feel inclined to sit next to another person that might randomly begin to chat - about the weather, politics or even their personal life. Yet again, others really have no option but to use this means of transport.
While the Park & Ride Scheme is quite useful, and the new Controlled Vehicle Access means that one often finds parking, I still find that public transport beats them all. Park & Ride is very convenient - but only for those entering Valletta before 9 am - meaning you have to be there at around 8.30. Skip that deadline and you've no parking space. The parking Scheme in Valletta means you pay fees for parking inside the capital beyond the first half hour. Not a bad deal at all, but definitely not sustainable if you are doing this every day and do not have an ID Card with registered address in Valletta. With public transport, I choose a suitable parking place for my car, and then catch a bus into the capital. This saves me fuel to find a parking space, and a long walk to wherever I want to get. The 'time wasted' as some call it, is the same as if I had to find parking and then wend my way towards court or wherever it is i want to go.
The service has improved greatly and the more modern buses are not as crowdy as the older ones seem - there is more room to move around and get off the bus when full.
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