Growing older in Malta: Experiences of British retirees

Abstract

International retirement migration (IRM) is attracting increasing research interest. This article reports findings from an exploratory case study of 16 older people who have moved from the UK to grow older in Malta. Data was collected using in-depth interviews drawing on a life history approach. This article builds on previous research in the IRM field by providing detailed examples of the push and pull factors influencing the decision to move to Malta and the reported positive experiences of living in Malta. The article also discusses negative impressions of life in Malta, an issue that has not been previously documented in relation to Malta. Future difficulties that the immigrants may encounter are also considered. This article contributes to the growing body of knowledge concerning the experience of IRM.