In an article published by the Wall Street Journal, a survey conducted by the expat social group InterNations has revealed which countries expatriates are the most and least happy residing in. The group surveyed 14,400 expats living in 64 countries. Malta was found to be the third most popular country for expats, needing a minimum of at least 50 votes in order to make the list. 

According to InterNations co-founder, Malte Zeeck, Malta ranked high due to health care provisions, safety, quality of life, job prospects, cost of living and the warm weather. The bottom line is that "people just love the work-life balance" in Malta, says Mr Zeeck. In addition to this, the fact that Malta is one of the lesser known EU Member States, and its status as a tax haven have both contributed to its ranking high on the list.

For Elaine Mulcahy, a 42-year-old native of Ireland, Malta's weather, historical sites and the modest cost of living have all contributed to her satisfaction with residing in Malta. Ms Mulcahy went on to say that the way of life is laid-back and Mediterranean. She also stated that she was surprised to see the number of both young and retired expats residing in Malta. Lastly, the use of English and the ease with which her businesses are run from Malta have made for a good life on the island. Mulcahy moved to Malta three years ago from her home in England.

Cheryl Morriston, 54-year-old from America, says "it's a sweet little paradise" when speaking of Malta. Morrison humorously added that she did not want to speak of life in Malta for fear of attracting too many people.

The ranking scheme was based on a number of indicators, including satisfaction with life in general, leisure options, ease of settling in, costs of education and childcare, the ease of finding friends as well as travel options. The top spot for the country with the happiest expats was Ecuador, for the second year in a row. Mexico moved from third place to second in this year's survey.