Balzan, Malta

With a population of just 5,070, Balzan is a sleepy Maltese village that has seen rapid development in recent years, with apartment blocks replacing historic villas and gardens. While the village retains a charming historic center, the relentless construction has created a persistent bureaucratic headache for residents. The climate is subtropical-Mediterranean, with very mild winters and hot summers. Overall, Balzan is best suited for those seeking a quieter pace of life in a traditional Maltese setting, though the pace of change may prove frustrating for some.