Malta has earned a spot on Forbes’ list of the Best Places to Retire Abroad in 2026, with the global publication highlighting the island’s sunny climate, affordable healthcare and Mediterranean lifestyle.Describing Malta as a “sunny Mediterranean island nation with terrific beaches,” Forbes praised the country’s combination of history, safety and quality of life.The publication singled out Valletta, Gozo, St. Paul’s Bay and Qawra as some of the best places for retirees to settle.Forbes noted that English is an official language, healthcare is excellent and affordable, and the cost of living is around 25% lower than the average in the United States.The magazine also highlighted Malta’s low crime rate, stable government and relatively low natural disaster risk as major advantages for retirees looking to relocate.For Americans, Forbes pointed to the Malta Retirement Programme as one of the most popular residency routes, requiring a minimum annual retirement income of around $39,000 per couple and a one-year residential lease.It also noted that a tax treaty between Malta and the United States helps prevent double taxation, while most retirement income kept outside Malta is not subject to Maltese tax.Although travelling back to the US generally requires a connecting flight, Forbes pointed out that Delta Air Lines now operates seasonal direct flights between Malta and New York’s JFK Airport, making transatlantic travel more convenient.The recognition places Malta alongside some of the world’s most sought-after retirement destinations, with Forbes citing its climate, lifestyle and healthcare system as key reasons why the island continues to attract retirees from overseas.What do you make of Malta’s place on this list?•