NEWSLETTER
Golden Sands Malta
SUMMER 2014
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Perry Newton Project Director Azure Services Ltd
Today, we have computers, booking systems, an overwhelming variety of locations, airport transfers, car hire, trips, tours and any experience you can imagine. You can book online, offline, daytime or night-time. You can book early or late, go large or go budget. Oh and if that’s not enough, there’s a whole new language developing these days too. I’m not sure if Oxford’s actually in on this but as far as the population is concerned “minivacs” is a real word! Apparently it’s what’s known as a “little holiday” not necessarily a break or the main holiday? As is “staycation” which means you actually aren’t really going anywhere at all but in reality staying exactly where you are.
By the time you read this, summer in the UK will most probably have run its usual 2-week course of rain showers and now be over. Time to put the barbecue away once more then! It didn’t always seem this way though... I remember the glorious 70’s when summer seemed to last for years? I still remember the Silver Jubilee street party we had and the parade of the Sally Army, the waft of mothballsmelling uniforms and blindingly polished trumpets. I remember summers back then took military planning of a near obsessive attention to detail that began a full three months before the day of departure, when the shiny albeit slightly rusty, Mark 1 Cortina emerged from the car wash ready for the journey along with a frazzled but purposeful looking dad.
Silver Jubilee in the summer of 1977 (Daily Mail) Back then it was all about making enough tinfoil - wrapped sandwiches to feed a small continent and packing the essentials like corned beef and bacon, so no one went hungry - ever! Then there was the loading of the 4 ¾ tons of people and luggage into the car so that it sagged at the rear, just enough for the exhaust to catch and head off into the sunshine with everyone arguing and fighting. Those were the days!
of places to visit with RCI’s exchange programme, so be sure to check them out. If you’re planning a return visit to Golden Sands then as usual you will find Malta’s airport its usual easygoing hassle-free place. It really has to be one of the easiest airports in Europe to pass through and although Air Malta isn’t always the cheapest option, they don’t look through you like you’re invisible and neither do they have sniffer dogs to check if your bags are a midget gem over weight. Oh and they don’t charge you extra for actually
Personally I’m not what you might call up-to-date on these new fangled words. I was recently ridiculed for encouraging a few friends into taking “Onesies” when infact what I really meant was for us to take “Selfies”. Onesies, which is hard to believe, are apparently one piece romper-type suits for adults - the kind you wore when you were 3 months old and as for the Selfie - well its a picture you take by yourself of ...well yourself. “Still with me?” It’s nice to see then that when making improvements, simplicity and function are primary drivers in any change or enhancements to what we do. It is therefore, extremely satisfying to read incoming letters and speak to returning members eager to share their stories with us, online and here in the newsletter, regarding their “simple” and “nice” experiences with RCI and Azure. Could it be the personal approach from RCI’s offices and our own that is a big plus these days instead of “keypad options “ from a robotic telephone voice system whilst also having a travel exchange system and onsite member services person, who is willing and able to organise multiple requests so that you don’t have to? Anyone prior to owning will tell you at some time or another, he has tried booking a “budget airline” flight... (real name deleted), along with car hire and a hotel all at the same time. Now I must point out here, there’s nothing fundamentally wrong with budget airlines but on occasion and even for the shortest of breaks, it can be a harrowing experience which can Cleethorpes UK in the 1970s result in bringing a grown man to his knees, leaving him, a gibbering, sobbing wreck, with the whole family looking on, bemused. What they’re not seeing of course is that on the computer in front of him, lies the one page he was relying on to trigger the whole booking process, which has now.... timed out. The cookies have kicked in (yes, I do understand some new technologies!) just as the screen was refreshed and....voila the whole price has now inexplicably rocketed by some £300 for the same flight that appeared on your screen literally seconds ago! Simplicity then I truly believe, is key and real people are back in fashion (as I’ve always said would be the case.) Online is good, timesaving and easy but knowing someone is there at the end of the phone to help you at any stage of an enquiry or booking, or just to answer a quick question, is undoubtedly reassuring and something we pride ourselves in here at Azure. Before signing off and risking being reprimanded by the marketing team for mentioning the weather (which by the way is pretty stunning today and has been for quite some time) ok no weather updates! I just want to say that the year is already flying by at an incredible pace. The world really is your oyster this year; there are tons
checking in your standard 20kg case. Not one to steal anyone’s thunder, it just leaves me to say that once again we have a great newsletter for you, with lots of info, lots of new things happening in and around the resort and the membership. There’s a piece on our Greek Hellas Rally adventure, raising money for vital Cancer
Research and also Help For Heroes, who give incredible support to UK troops. Did you know that Maltese nationals can and do enlist into the British army every year. I believe a considerable number too, for such a small island. We have introduced a new benefit to members, here at the resort with the introduction of Chris Mamo, a personal trainer. Chris left the army recently after twelve years and two tours of Afghanistan and Iraq achieving a “master physical training instructor” rank. Chris is a great guy and is at the gym Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7am offering tailored exercises for all, as well as expert advice and assistance on nutrition, rehabilitation, flexibility etc, so be sure to see him on your next visit. Our donations from the rally will be split between the two charities. I believe it stands at a reasonable figure already but we are grateful for any more donations, however small. The holiday season is upon us but then again these days every day is a possible holiday. We should in all probability come up with our own new term for these. How about “allidays” maybe, or “wheneverdays” or maybe even “whateverwheneverdays”! I don’t know about you but I think they may catch on!
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AZURE’S ‘BIG FAT GR∑∑K’ RALLY Team Azure’s racing team complete the ‘Big Fat Greek’ Rally to raise money for Help for Heroes and Cancer Research UK
RCI’s Dimitris Manikis nicknamed Minimi Dimitris.
Azure’s Kevin and Perry have completed another rally to raise funds for the charities, close to their hearts, but this time they had a couple of additional members; Nigel Anastasi, one of Azure’s Marketing department’s graphic designers, alongside Alex Collyer from the Sales department. The quartet safely passed the finishing line after the 6-day Hellas Rally in Greece. Kevin and Perry, had previously, successfully completed the Race to Dakar in 2012 and have been anxiously waiting for their next challenge. The Hellas Rally was the perfect opportunity for the team to raise money for charity and to explore their passion for biking in Greece together. With the rally being in Greece, Dimitris Manikis, the Vice President of Business Development for the RCI group, who is from Greece, (kind of) made a guest appearance throughout the rally to boost the morale of the guys during difficult stages of the rally – Dimitris’ appearance was thanks to Nigel’s marketing creativity. With RCI’s affiliation to Azure, our 5,000-plus IRC members can now enjoy access to nearly 4,500 resorts through RCI’s global portfolio of affiliated resorts and hotels in over 100 countries – giving IRC members much more choice than ever before.
Left to right. Nigel Anastasi, Kevin Camilleri, Dimitris Manikis, Minimi Dimitris, Alex Collyer and Perry Newton
HOW TO DONATE Over £1,000 have been raised to date; donations are still open for anyone wishing to support this challenge via the Cancer Research Just Giving site. Visit
www.justgiving.com/perrynewton0704 or the Help for Heroes site
www.bmycharity.com/PerryNewton Kevin and Perry have only just completed the Hellas Rally, but we have no doubt that they are already thinking about the next one! Another huge well done to Team Azure!
Left to right. Perry Newton and Kevin Camilleri at the opening ceremony at Nafpaktos, Greece.
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MEDIEVAL LOVE STORY Colin and Diane Middleton met and fell in love on a battlefield in the UK
By Grazielle Camilleri
I had the immense pleasure of meeting up with Colin and Diane, members since 2006 for a casual interview. We discovered that this exquisite couple had a unique story to share with us.
TEA TIME! Henri and I thought of surprising a few Azure members who are enthusiastic fans of the Azure Facebook Page (www. facebook.com/azure) by inviting them for an Afternoon Tea catch-up between friends at the Mokka Bar while they were here on holiday. They received a personal invitation in their rooms. The objective of these tea meetings was predominantly a sweet way to say ‘Thank You’ to these members for constantly interacting on Facebook (one of our company’s strongest social media platforms), to intermingle with them and encourage them to feel more comfortable to share their exciting stories with each other, while enjoying some savoury, bite size sandwiches, cakes and a good pot of tea, of course!
When they are not vacationing in Malta, the Maldives or the Austrian mountains, Colin and Diane share an interesting mutual pastime. They both form part of two different societies which participate actively in medieval re-enactments involving 13th to 15th century shows and 15th century events, with focus on medieval foods, attire and various aspects of life from these periods. Visit the sites www.lordburghsretinue.co.uk and www.knightsinbattle.com. These events, open to the general public, take place during the summer months primarily in the North of England and the Midlands. Combat displays are on their main agenda and that is where Colin and Diane met, got to know each other and have never looked back! These events commemorate important historical battles such as the War of the Roses.
On their wedding day, Colin and Diane got married clad in authentic medieval costumes and all their summoned guests and friends were invited to dress in character for the great occasion. That is somewhat innovative! “We visit Azure and Golden Sands every alternate year. When we do not come to Malta, we enjoy taking breaks to other worldwide destinations via the exchange network available with our Azure Vacation Ownership. We just love the sincere welcome, the excellent service provided by all the staff members and we simply enjoy the history and culture that Malta, this island in the Mediterranean offers.” – Colin Middleton
Afternoon Tea at the Mokka Terrace
Mrs Ditcham with her son Benjie
The Ramsay family
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Member Exclusive
MUSIC IN MOTION With Azure members Mr. & Mrs. Throssell
‘’Thank you so much Mr. & Mrs. Throssell for meeting us. Look forward to catch up with you again next year’’ Azure Malta members Andrew and Wendy Throssell, both music aficionados have kindly spared some time during their stay with us this spring to meet myself, Henri and some other charming club members at our Afternoon Tea and cake catchup event held at the Mokka Bar. During this activity, I learnt that both Mr. and Mrs. Throssell are very fond of various music genres. While Andrew enjoys the tranquillity of classical music, his wife Wendy is in contrast interested in rock music. It is wonderful when couples explore and are able to discuss a common passion, don’t you think?
The Albion Choir Since August 2013, Andrew has been a part of the Albion choir, consisting of 20 members who perform mainly acapella songs, between 10 and 14 singers at a time. The choir, based in Sheffield, provide a unique experience via the reformatting of old and familiar songs that you might have known for years. This has given the melodies a unique, divine twist. The harmonies in their latest album These Islands are inspired from civilisations from all corners of the globe and these also include folk music.
“Our membership has developed and grown over the years. We feel that we are a part of a large family - so welcome each time we visit the resort and through our experience, all our holidays in Malta have been excellent. If you are a member and have found fault with anything, and have not communicated it to the management, you only have yourselves to blame as Azure Malta will do everything to help to ensure that your stay is perfect. All staff are hospitable and each year, they seem to set the bar higher for themselves. Bravo!” - Andrew Throssell
Mrs Sharp
Henri and Grazielle with members at Mokka Terrace
The Calland family
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LORD NELSON’S ROMANCE WITH MALTA
By Henri Diacono
In the month of May in 1800, Lord Nelson, Lady Emma Hamilton and Sir William Hamilton visited our island after departing from Palermo, in Sicily. The relinquishing of Sir William’s post as Great Britain’s Ambassador to the Court of Naples and Sicily was the reason of this cruise. Lady Emma Hamilton felt that leaving the Neapolitan Court was a great loss for her personally and the uncertainty of a future life in England tormented her. Lord Nelson thought that the best way out was to visit Malta, after all Czar Paul I bestowed on her the honour of making her Dame of the Order of St. John and she wished to see the island. Emma obtained this recognition for her personal intervention in supporting the starving Maltese by sending several shiploads of corn on merchant ships to our Island. In the last week of their stay here, Lord Nelson and The Hamiltons stayed in a large Palazzo in Tas-silg. The Palazzo was the property of the Noble Testaferrata family. This is the ‘pretty house’ which Flora Fraser mentioned in her book Beloved Emma.
A safe pony provided them with much fun and long strolls on the shores in this fishing village, bringing with it, much desired and relaxing time out, from the busy life of Court or at Sea. Further up the road, Nelson and the Hamiltons dined in Palazzo D’Aurel as guests of Brigadier General Thomas Graham, who had established his headquarters there, with the kind permission of Marchesa Bettina Dorell. The romance, which enveloped this couple, bore fruit for it was during this cruise in Maltese waters that Emma Hamilton and Nelson’s child was conceived. Nelson was deeply in love with Emma Hamilton as he wrote on board the Victory on 16th March 1805…
‘‘The ship is just parting and I
take the last moment to renew my assurances to my dearest beloved Emma of my eternal love, affection and adoration.
’’
- Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson
Lord Nelson
Henri Diacono - Guest Relations Coordinator
Members’ Lounge
Lady Emma Hamilton
WEEKLY MEMBERS’ DRINKS
Members’ Lounge
LUNGE INTO SUMMER
By Chris Mamo
Whether it’s to increase your core strength, increase muscle tissue or gain more hip flexibility, the static lunge is a great exercise option. With summer in full swing, this is a quick and easy exercise to maintain your beach-ready body.
Snack Smarter
Research suggests that eating about three meals a day with two or three snacks in between can make your metabolism more efficient. Choose snacks that have roughly 100 to 200 calories and contain a healthy balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
Eat Bananas
People whose diets are rich in potassium may be less prone to high blood pressure. Besides reducing sodium and taking other heart-healthy steps, eat potassium-packed picks such as bananas, cantaloupe, and oranges.
Get a Massage
Certain trigger points, areas of tension in the musculoskeletal tissue can cause back pain. Ask a massage therapist or other body worker who specialise in myofascial release or neuromuscular therapy to focus on these points during a massage.
GET FIT WITH AZURE MASTER PERSONAL TRAINER: CHRIS MAMO
THE STATIC LUNGE
This exercise works your glutes, thighs, hamstrings and quadriceps. It also improves your flexibility and balance.
Visit our offers for members www.azure.com.mt for more details
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HOW YOUR MEMBERSHIP CAN MAKE YOU MONEY By Donna Davies
BECOME AN AZURE AGENT We all love to share our holiday experiences with friends and families. As an Azure Agent, you’ll be doing just that – spreading the benefits of a five star lifestyle on holiday – whilst being paid for doing so! Donna Davies oversees the Agents Marketing programme for Azure. Living in Malta for five years with her two beautiful daughters, Donna knows Malta and Azure very well and is a great asset to the team. She loves working with members and explaining the benefits of the programme and how they can earn money, making future holidays pay for themselves! “I am always amazed by the reaction of our members when I explain how much they can benefit by becoming an azure agent. Let’s face it; there are very few businesses that reward their members by giving them actual money. From my point of view this programme is one of the best marketing tools in the business and it’s yet another fantastic perk that Azure members can take advantage of” says Donna.
INTERESTED?
• This is a programme we have designed for our entrepreneurial members.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO HAVE A CHAT WITH DONNA, ASK FOR HER AT THE AZURE RECEPTION OR:
• You will be allocated 10 weeks at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands to rent out.
TELEPHONE (00356) 2356 1827 EMAIL AGENTS@AZURE.COM.MT
• Set the price your clients are to be charged for the accommodation.
• Once your clients have visited the resort and taken their obligatory tour you will be paid this amount minus a 5% handling charge and €25 admin fee.
• For anyone you refer who becomes a member of
Azure, you will be paid a further £1,000 commission, upon completion of their membership.
Stand with your feet together and your hands at your sides.
1
Take a long stride forward with one foot, pointing your knee and foot in the same direction.
2
Keep your torso upright and your centre of gravity directly above your hips.
3
Bend your rear leg until your knee almost touches the ground.
4
GET FIT WITH AZURE MASTER PERSONAL TRAINER: CHRIS MAMO
Push up and transfer your weight to your forward leg while straightening your rear leg.
5
Don’t let your forward knee move past your toes.
6
Allow half your weight to shift to your rear leg as your rear knee bends almost to the ground. and repeat
7
Visit our offers for members www.azure.com.mt for more details
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Why Azure? With over 10 years experience in Malta alone and with two successful vacation clubs; Island Residence Club and The Heavenly Collection, Azure Services ltd are responsible for the sales and marketing of high end Vacation Club memberships at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Golden Sands in Malta. One of Europe’s leading Vacation Ownership specialists, award winning Azure Malta employ over 130 staff and have a rapidly increasing member base of over 5,000 families. Like most industries and products, Timeshare, as some of you know it (or think you know it) has changed over the last decade. If you think about the first mobile phone you ever had and compare it to today’s technology and capabilities – they are completely different. Fast-forward to today’s generation of hotels and developers throughout the world. They have been creating resorts and services that transport you during your annual vacation to a life that you deserve to live, to enjoy experiences that until now were only a dream on your wish list.
An introduction to
VACATION OWNERSHIP
Everyone loves the ‘feel good factor’ and booking a holiday every year, is for most of us, the ultimate way to achieve this. So much so, that according to the Association of British Travel Agents in their 2013 ABTA Consumer Trends Survey, results clearly show this to be the case and detailed other leisure activities, new electronic gadgets, home improvement and eating out throughout the year as areas people would choose to cut back on before forgoing their holiday.
Why Vacation Ownership?
We also want more for our money in terms of value, experience, guaranteed standards of accommodation and service; these are key reasons why the Vacation Ownership industry is growing at such a rapid rate every year.
Love Malta? Secure a week for you and your family at today’s prices and enjoy holidays for many years to come. No interconnecting rooms or bland self catering apartments, you choose from studio to 4 bedroom beautifully designed spacious suites that match your family size. Timeshare resorts give you more more space, more facilities and more choice. Experience firstclass service and high-end accommodation – EVERY time.
With top names like Hilton, Marriott, Disney and Four Seasons developing bigger and better resorts for their timeshare owners, members are keen to purchase and lock down the cost of their future holidays and enjoy tomorrow’s holidays at today’s prices.
Timeshare/Vacation Ownership/Vacation Clubs of today are regulated and governed. Exchange companies can penalise resorts that do not maintain quality standards in accordance with their quality rating by withdrawing the quality awards (RCI Gold Crown, RCI Silver Crown and RCI Hospitality awards). Governing bodies such as Timeshare Association (TATOC) and Resort Development Organisation (RDO) have in place stringent compliance regulations that Vacation Ownership Clubs need to abide by, giving the consumer peace of mind.
OWN IT
EXCHANGE IT
Owning without the hassle of owning a holiday home outright, the management company takes care of the resort, keeping high standards, so all you have to do is enjoy your stay.
SHARE IT
With today’s hectic lifestyles most families make a point of enjoying family time together at least once a year. To know you have the security of a guaranteed standard of accommodation each year is one less uncertainty to worry about and saves a huge amount of time, money and risk searching for online accommodation. Owning the flexibility of a floating period of time in a particular season at your home resort takes the hassle out of planning, allowing you to enjoy your spacious fully furnished ‘home from home’ every visit, whilst taking advantage of the discounts of your Vacation Club; whether it be for flights, car hire or restaurant, bar and spa savings at the resort.
USE IT
Love Malta but also want to see the world? How about another 4,500 resorts in 100 different countries? - With access to resorts from RCI - the largest holiday exchange services provider offers beach resorts, ski destinations, luxury city breaks, quiet tranquil escapes, cruises and much more. Not only can your timeshare be exchanged for other high-end accommodation in hand-picked destinations each year but on top of that week, you get to take advantage of Extra Holidays and Late Deals enabling you to travel as often as your time allows. A dedicated customer service will advise you and introduce you to an extensive range of concierge services.
Can’t use your membership this year? How about gaining instant popularity amongst friends and family by transferring your week’s occupancy rights to them to use? Alternatively take a trip together and make use of RCI’s exchanges and upgrade the accommodation size, so you can holiday together. Looking for that special gift? RCI also offer guest certificates for purchase, what better gift to someone than the perfect holiday?
For further information or to speak to someone contact Azure at www.azure.com.mt or ext 1811
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FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP
TIMESHARE The name Timeshare appeared in the 1960’s in the UK explaining vacation home sharing that became popular after World War II, where 4 families in Europe would purchase a cottage jointly sharing use of it in each of the 4 seasons
The first Timeshare in the United States was in 1974
People are enjoying shared ownership of everything from race horses to yachts, artwork, vineyards, helicopters and Ferraris — items that might otherwise be under-utilised assets. Welcome to the world of Fractional Ownership sometimes called Asset Sharing. Whilst people have shared assets since the beginning of time, the modern version is a little more formalised and is generally targeted towards luxury items. There are companies that specialise in fractional ownership of cars, artwork, jewellery, handbags, yachts, vineyards and even pets!. Whatever asset you want a piece of, there’s probably a company out there that can help you do it.
Private Jets
Instead of buying a private jet, you could buy a share in an aircraft based on the flying hours you actually need. Instead of owning a single jet, you gain guaranteed access to the largest private fleet in the world, paying only for the actual time spent flying rather than for every second your jet is parked on the tarmac. Fractional jet ownership is simply a more intelligent approach to private aviation, allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of owning a private jet, whilst only paying for the hours you fly.
9 out of 10 Timeshare owners said that Timeshare offer a better experience than self-catering holidays
Over half a million people that live within Europe own Timeshare in over 1,300 different resorts.
The Timeshare industry is over 50 years old, and generates revenues of over $14 billion per annum in sales and $45 billion in economic output (figures from the ARDA International Foundation, 2010)
Luxury Yachts
Enjoy all advantages of yacht co-ownership in the Mediterranean – hassle-free and at just a fraction of the cost! ‘Smart-Yacht’ fractional yacht ownership puts the asset ‘luxury motor yacht’ within your reach. By sharing costs for purchase and maintenance of your vessel with others you save a lot of money without having to sacrifice your personal wishes..
Supercars
There is no better way to experience the benefits of owning a multimilliondollar collection of exotic cars (short of going out and buying a multimillion-dollar collection!). Gone are the absurd capital requirements of ownership and the hassles of maintenance, downtime, insurance, storage and transport. As a Dream-Share member, you focus simply on enjoying the driving experience and leave everything else to them.
Handbags & Jewellery
Luxury handbags/purses. You can fractionally own, or rent, depending on how you look at it, a designer handbag from websites, such as Bag Borrow or Steal or Canada’s Shoulder Candy. The idea is simple, instead of spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on one designer handbag, the shopper spends anywhere from $20 to $75 per month to choose from a selection of bags through fractional ownership, so if you choose to diversify your collection without buying them all, your dilemma is solved. Shouldercandy.com offers handbags by Chloe, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry, Marc Jacobs, Chanel and more.
RCI is the oldest holiday exchange company in the marketplace – celebrating 40 years in 2014
There are approximately 20 million Timeshare owners worldwide, of which over one and a half million reside in Europe alone
With 1,312 resorts in Europe and over one and a half million owners, it generates £3.2 billion in European tourism expenditure annually
Increasing number of prestigious hotel brands have offered Timeshare for many years, including Hilton Hotels, Disney, McDonald Hotels & Resorts, Sol Melia – with many more joining each year Statistics courtesy of RDO.org and RCI.com
Pets
Let’s not forget about our furry little friends! BorrowMyDoggy connects dog owners with local dog borrowers who would love to spend time with a dog providing a platform to make introductions based on availability and location across the UK. When owners lend their dog to a trusted dog borrower, the benefits are multiple with the dog getting more love and exercise, the borrower companionship and the owner the peace of mind that whilst they are busy, that their dog is having fun!
Fine Art
Adore Andrew Wyeth? Pine for Pablo Picasso? If you want to save on buying artwork that can cost thousands and get a tax break to boot, you could fractionally own it with a museum. Many patrons, instead of donating their art after death, are co-owning it while they’re alive, with the painting in the museum for half the year and in their house the other half, or allowing a gallery to have part of a collection instead of all of it.
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A FUN DAY AT THE AZURE PLAY CENTRE By Grazielle Camilleri
We would like to introduce you to Mandy Nicklin our new Play Centre Co-ordinator who has joined the Azure team in March this year. A fully qualified childcare attendant and mother of 6, who comes with 30 years of experience in day-care, your children are certainly safe in the Mandy’s hands. Azure believe that children’s facilities form an integral part of the family resort and have looked at ways to enhance the younger guest’s enjoyment with this unique Playmobil themed Play Centre. If the children are happy, then the parents are relaxed and can enjoy a relaxing break.
ACTIVITY PROGRAMME
The Azure Play Centre is situated in the Sands Tower, a few metres away from the Azure reception desk and caters for children aged between 4 and 10 years. The service is complimentary to hotel residents, staff and on weekends, it is open to guests dining at the hotel’s restaurants. Booking in the summer months is highly recommended.
MONDAY MALTA DAY
Games linked to traditional Malta, dot to dot of the Mosta Dome, make a Maltese lady, colouring the fungus rock.
TESTIMONIAL
TUESDAY UNDER THE SEA AND BEACH DAY
“Our family stayed at the Radisson Golden
Arts and crafts, make your fish, sun safety dress up colouring game, care for the turtles, make your shark, crab or lobster mask.
Sands resort between the 11th and the 18th of April. We have 3 young children aged 5, 6, and 7 and one of the highlights of our stay was the
WEDNESDAY JUNGLE AND ANIMAL DAY
excellent kids club facility at the Azure members club. Having visited many kids’ club facilities in
Finger puppets, jungle mobile, a variety of games based on animals, fishing game and much more.
different countries at fine hotels, this one sets a very high standard for others to follow. We were most impressed with both the large range and quality of toys, games and activities on offer but particularly with Mandy who is a complete
DID YOU KNOW?
natural and great with children. She runs the club with great control in a warm, friendly, fun environment. We felt very comfortable leaving our children with her at the club knowing that they would be safe and happy. We wished to write to you and express our thanks for providing such a wonderful facility and long may it continue.” Tarminder Singh Atwal, Bedworth, Warwickshire (UK)
This year Playmobil celebrates its 40th anniversary (1974-2014) Playmobil’s miniature population grows by 3.2 every second with over 1 billion produced every year. In honour of four decades of toy boxes made across the globe, 40 giant characters have been made life-size.
THURSDAY CUPCAKES AND SPORTS DAY
3D cupcake making, finger puppets, quizzes about sports, interactive games linked with cupcakes and sports.
SUNDAY ANYTHING GOES DAY
Activities on Sundays vary from week to week. These include dream catcher making, face painting, water tattoos, air hockey and tent making.
Call Mandy on extension number 1870 or Email on play.centre@azure.com.mt Opening Times: 10 am to 6 pm daily Closed on Friday and Saturday.
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EXPERIENCE PALAZZO PARISIO MALTA’S PARKS & GARDENS PART 2
Images by Kirsti Newton
By Kirsti Newton
Palazzo Parisio Highlights
Opposite the large church in Naxxar sits the rather impressive Palazzo Parisio, an 18th century property procured by wealthy Maltese banker, merchant and philanthropist The Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna, in 1898.
The property itself dates back further to around 1722 and the Order of the Knights of St. John, when Gran Master Antonio Manoel De Vilhena used it as his hunting lodge. You can still see the Orangery and various architectural elements from this period, today. Nowadays the Marquis’s granddaughter Christiane Ramsay Scicluna, Baroness of Tabria and her daughter Justine Pergola, whose passions are reflected throughout the stunning Palazzo, run the property. Referred to by locals as ‘little Versailles’, Palazzo Parisio is a visual gem nestled in the heart of Naxxar, a village where true Maltese villagelife survives to this day. Upon entering the heavy double doors, your eyes immediately focus on the intricate frescoed ceilings. Fine art and marble decorate lavishly designed rooms adorned with mirrors, sparkling chandeliers and opulent decor. Audio tours of the property are available, guiding you through the sumptuously decorated rooms. At the foot of the grand staircase sits the original Scicluna carriage, built in England and one of the finest examples of 19th century private transport on the island. Floor patterns resembling those in the Vatican, decor inspired by Pompeii in Italy and influences of Louis XIV’s style, can be seen featured throughout the majestic rooms
THE DOWNTON WAY Palazzo Parisio offers a tranquil setting and heavenly location in Malta, to while away a few hours enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner, in the Luna restaurant. Breathe in the floral aromas sitting outside or dine inside, amidst the plush pink and grey lavish decor. Experience the quintessentially English Afternoon Tea, served from 3pm – 6pm daily. Handpicked teas accompany exquisite homemade cakes, scones and finger sandwiches all served upon fine china and shining silverware. A definite treat for any occasion and a must do on your list of things to do in Malta!
MEDITERRANEAN GARDENS
Not only is the Palazzo a fine example of a noble house in Malta but with it comes an unexpected treat, a stunning picture postcard garden, almost like a secret garden, something completely unexpected due to its location in Naxxar’s village core. Manicured lawns and vibrant coloured blooms envelop your senses upon entering this haven of peace and stunning architectural delight. For keen gardeners, a stroll around the visually impressive gardens will lift your senses with its vibrant colours and delicate aromas, including a sizeable collection of over 60 Hibiscus and dazzling Bougainvillea, which feature amongst many more unusual plants, flowers and shrubs. Enjoy the fragrant Freesias and wander through the wrought iron gate to solitude beneath 200-year-old trees. A year round garden, the different seasons reveal their colourful aromatic delights. At this time of year the colours are so strong and defined, that even the best high definition blue ray film, doesn’t come close! Magenta Bougainvillea spill down the sand coloured walls, resting above the fresh greenery framing the paths, intertwined with multi coloured blooms and fresh white Lilies. Tall spiky Agapanthus, sit side by side with Jacaranda and Oleander trees and summer yellow Datura, known as Angel’s trumpet flowers, list slowly in the summer breeze. Baroness Scicluna has opened up these beautiful gardens to the public and every species has been painstakingly chosen to fit both aesthetically and practically, to suit the Maltese climate, especially the hot, dry summers. A labour of love has made these award-winning Italian style gardens a must-see for visitors to the island of Malta.
Did you know that Malta’s famous lager ‘Cisk’ comes from the nickname given to the Marquis Scicluna? The Marquis opened Malta’s first private bank and began using cheques. An unpopular method of payment at the time, and after a lot of mispronunciation, the nickname of “Iċ-Ċisk” (cheque in English) stuck and when the first privately owned Maltese bank took over one of their client’s operations in 1928, creating The Malta Export Brewery, Cisk Pilsner was the name given to its lager.
For further information on how to visit Palazzo Parisio pass by the Guest Relations Coordinator’s desk in reception, or call Henri Diacono on extension 3106
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WHAT’S ON IN MALTA JULY – SEPTEMBER 2014
Crammed with culture, art and Mediterranean pizazz, Malta comes alive in summer with the plentiful events organised by local tourist authorities, resident villages and private organisations. Here is Azure’s guide to the best events held in Malta this season!
By Grazielle Camilleri
7TH – 10TH AUGUST 2014 - MALTA 29TH – 31ST AUGUST 2014 - GOZO DELICATA CLASSIC WINE FESTIVAL Valletta & Nadur, Gozo
18TH – 20TH JULY 2014 SLIEMA STREET ART FESTIVAL Sliema Promenade - Free
Following last year’s success, the popular 3km Sliema Promenade will once again be transformed into a fusion of art, dance and music with artists, locals and visitors exhibiting throughout the weekend. Attracting a wide range of international artists, artworks will include traditional graffiti artwork, sculptures, stencil graffiti, sticker art, wheat-pasting, street poster art, guerrilla art and street installations.
Held each year in August at the beautiful Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, and in Nadur the viticultural heart of Gozo, the festivals coincide with the start and finish of the Maltese grape harvest. Wine lovers are in for a sure treat as a selection of over twenty Delicata wines will be available for the general public to taste as well as some delicious food, and some great live entertainment. Once you purchase a souvenir glass for €12 at the entrance, enjoy unlimited wine tasting from a variety of Malta grown grapes including Syrah, Merlot, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and many more. If you are a visitor to our islands, make sure you take an evening out to attend and enjoy all this unique festival has to offer.
27TH – 28TH SEPTEMBER 2014 MALTA INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW Malta International Airport, Luqa Tickets Prices available at the Air show Gate Adults: Saturday: €13 / Sunday: €15 Children under 14: Free
14TH JULY – 2ND AUGUST 2014
The Malta International Airshow has, since 1993, been an extremely popular annual event. Visitors can look forward to a visually impressive static display of a variety of both military and civilian aircrafts, grounded for public viewing. The programme also includes incredible aerial displays by the professional pilots, demonstrating unique formations and some aggressive airborne stunts. This is an exciting event for all the family.
MALTA ARTS FESTIVAL
Valletta & other locations - Free Presenting local and overseas artists and talented performers alongside each other, the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts hosts annually the Malta Arts Festival, a showcase of top quality events including theatre, music, dance, and poetry performances. The event opens up access to special venues, such as the new Pjazza Teatru Rjal open theatre on the old Opera House ruins in Valletta and the Argotti Gardens.
17TH –19TH JULY 2014 MALTA JAZZ FESTIVAL Ta’ Liesse, Valletta - Free
The 24th Edition of the Malta Jazz Festival will take place in the open-air setting of Ta’ Liesse Wharf, overlooking the Grand Harbour. Every year artists from the international jazz scene in Malta, Brazil, Jamaica, Africa, the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries are invited to perform at this unique festival. This year, look out for performances from rising stars including Mehliana, Laurent Coq, Warren Wolf, the band Kneebody and local talent represented by Paul Abela Quintet, Joseph Camilleri Trio, Dominic Galea Trio and Francesca Galea, the winner of last year’s Jazz Contest.
27TH – 28TH SEPTEMBER 2014 25TH JULY – 3RD AUGUST 2014 THE FARSONS GREAT BEER FESTIVAL Ta’ Qali Park, Ta’ Qali - Free
The largest beer and music festival in Malta promises once again ten days of the finest in local and international awardwinning beers and Malta’s best line-up of local musicians and artists. With over thirteen bars, sixty draught installations and fourteen local and international award-winning beer brands, the Farsons Beer Festival is truly a celebration of the best beers on the island. This open-air festival is a safe and great family outing or night out with friends and with free entrance and parking provided, it is yet another summer event not to be missed.
ZEJT IZ-ZEJTUN Zejtun Village - Free
Zejt iz-Zejtun is arguably one of the most sought after events in Malta. The southern town of Zejtun is highly associated with olives and the Zejtun Local Council organises this event to welcome the olive-picking season. A defile’ of village folk and farmers on carts carrying the olive harvest for pressing, parade along the streets of Żejtun to live music. At this event, you will be able to experience live olive-pressing demonstrations, pageantry, and exhibitions of agricultural tools as well as enjoy traditional music and food. For more events and to plan your visit go to www.azure.com.mt/whatson
EXPERIENCE A TRADITIONAL MALTESE FESTA It’s festa season! A visit to Malta without experiencing a traditional Maltese festa, (a religious feast), is similar to going to London and not seeing Big Ben.
The festa is a genuine opportunity to enjoy Maltese tradition, essential to village life that has been around for generations in Malta. Between the months of May and September, every village has a festa.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Firework displays, ringing of church bells, bands, processions, food and drink street stalls, lavishly lit and decorated churches, elaborate street decorations, confetti throwing, carrying of heavy life-size religious statues and authentic Maltese qubbajt (traditional nougat). The more visually impressive the festa is, the better.
For the full list of festas held in Malta and Gozo between July and September 2014 visit www.azure.com.mt/summerfestas 20th July / St Sebastian, Qormi 27th July / Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Balluta 6th August / Christ Our Saviour, Lija 15th August / Assumption of Our Lady, Mosta 24th August / St Helen, Birkirkara 8th September / Nativity of Our Lady, Mellieha
S E A S O N S N E W S L E T T E R S U M M E R 2 014 / / / / / A Z U R E N E W S
SUMMER'S HERE AGAIN.
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Days of glorious sunshine and blue skies will be with us for the next six months of the year. The Golden Sands resort is already taking a different feel, with guests enjoying our idyllic beachside location.
What’s been happening at the resort? ERNEST’S WORDS
After the great news from Trip Advisor, when it announced the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Malta, Golden Sands to be the Top Hotel in Malta in the 2014 Travelers’ Choice® awards, we have also this season been named by Trip Advisor as one of the Top 10 Hotels with exceptional service in Malta. This is of great satisfaction to me and all the team. This award shows that our customer focus, which to us means getting to know our customers by meeting them when they are in-house and our determination to meet and exceed customer expectations must remain a top priority.
In April, our Easter charity campaign was once again a success. The pastry chefs made about 400 Easter figolli (the traditional Maltese Easter cakes) out of their own initiative and collected in excess of 3,000 euros in aid of the local Ursuline Crèche. I would like to thank all the staff involved for making this possible.
Mr Barry with members during members drinks
Competitions play a vital role in culinary arts as they continually raise the standards of gastronomic excellence. Recently, for instance, our Agliolio chef Manuel Schembri took part in a culinary competition in Naples named ‘La Prima Rassegna Nazionale di cucina, pasticceria e sculture’ in which he was awarded a gold medal in the Hot Kitchen section as well as a best overall trophy as part of the ChefMalta team. Refurbishments including brand new soft furnishings and new colour schemes have been made in the main hotel reception lobby as well as the Mokka Bar. For scuba diving enthusiasts, we are pleased to introduce a new dive centre operator Orangeshark H2O diving centre, situated at the resort’s beach level. Max Valli who is a Trimix diving instructor with several years of diving and professional training experience will be holding promotional training dives in the pool before moving clients on to deeper waters. Diving should be on anyone’s list of things to do in Malta. Malta and Gozo have in fact been this year voted ‘Best Diving Destination of the Year’ in the international Diver Magazine voting poll, making the islands the top diving location in the Mediterranean.
Agliolio chef Manuel Schembri
I look forward to meeting you with my team at the weekly Members’ Drinks which re-commenced on the 10th June. Until we meet again should you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time whilst you are here at the resort. Yours sincerely,
Ernest Barry
Chief Operating Officer Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands
Mr Barry with members during Members’ Drinks
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LIFE IS SWEET. CELEBRATE IT! By Grazielle Camilleri
When you are not busy relaxing by the pool, enjoying a spa treatment or simply soaking up the sun, discover the creative delights of the resort’s talented pattisiere’s, with our new selection of cakes and pastries - a treasure trove of tempting sweets and delicious cakes. Choose from these exquisite desserts alongside a cup of coffee or a multitude of different teas, while enjoying the fresh air and the idyllic terrace views of Golden Bay at Mokka Bar, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands. Served daily throughout the week.
Chocolate Fudge Cake
Chocolate Pecan Tart
Millionaire Caramel Tart
Carrot Cake
NEW
DELICIOUS MENU
Chocolate Pecan Tart Millionaire Caramel Tart Carrot Cake Soft Brownie Biskuttini Almond Frolla Croissant Danish Swirl Chocolate Croissant Chocolate Twist Chocolate Cookie White Chocolate Cookie Pecan Chocolate Cookie Blueberry Cookie Dark Chocolate Muffin Blueberry Muffin Lemon Muffin Apple Caramel Cake Chocolate Fudge Cake Pastini Mississippi Mud Pie with White Chocolate Cream Lemon Meringue Pie Baked Cheese Cake Apple Crumble Strawberry Mille Foglie
“The longing for sweets is really a yearning for love or sweetness.” ― Marion Woodman
MEMBER TESTIMONIALS “Excellence guaranteed”
“Annual Visit to Malta”
Reviewed 27th May 2014 Joe M- Dumfries, United Kingdom
Reviewed 25th May 2014 Ken C - Weston-super-Mare, United Kingdon
Just coming to the end of our family holiday at this fantastic hotel and once again the staff have excelled themselves from the front of house to the cleaning staff. All make you feel very welcome. The hotel is in a beutiful spot and is maintained to the highest standard. Excellent facilities for children, restaurants excellent, lots of variety. Looking forward to next year already.
“Brilliant Hotel” Reviewed 26th May 2014 Dianelondon77 - London, UK Great hotel - we had an apartment in the Radisson Blu Resort, for a week. It was a great experience and standards were high. Having previously stayed at a hotel that was more central, I can honestly say this is the only place I’d stay in Malta. It’s peaceful, tranquil with exceptional service. Loved it!
Once again a very relaxing time in our usual spotless apartment overlooking the bay; thank you Nancy for cleaning and looking after us so well as always.. Thanks to Lara, Jennifer and Michael for their professional and attentive service in the Mokka Bar. A special thank you to Henri for your help and assistance on many matters, and for your professional and humorous approach to providing a service to your guests. If anyone is visiting for the first time I would recommend that you make Henri’s acquaintance early in your visit; it’s not difficult - he seems to be everywhere at once! Looking forward to seeing you all next June. Search for Golden Sands Malta on Trip Advisor and have your say.
“Home from home as soon as you step inside the door. The staff are helpful and polite and amazing. The food is great and so much choice. The hotel is lovely and clean and the rooms are homely. Situated in a lovely area with spectacular scenes. Just like coming home every time we visit”. – Gaynor Casey, member since 2007
“This place really is like a second home. The staff are so nice that they feel like friends. The food is excellent, the accommodation is comfortable and the views are superb. We are so glad that we found this resort and look forward to our stay every year. Keep it going Azure.” – Tracey Ray, member since 2006
S E A S O N S N E W S L E T T E R S U M M E R 2 014 / / / / / A Z U R E N E W S
DAILY ACTIVITIES AT THE RESORT
FREE
FREE
AZURE PLAY CENTRE
PIZZA MAKING
Location: Sunset Tower Level 2 Day: Sunday - Thursday Time: 10:00 hrs - 18:00 hrs
Location: Agliolio Restaurant Day: Tuesday Time: 11:00 hrs FREE
BIKE TOURS
COUNTRY WALK
Meeting point: Reception Day: Monday & Thursday Time: 10:00 hrs
Location: Book at Deli Day: Thursday Time: 10:00 hrs
FREE FREE
COCKTAIL DEMONSTRATION Location: Essence Bar Day: Tuesday and Thursday Time: 18:00 hrs FREE
YOGA Location: Check at reception Day: Tuesday and Friday Time: 10:00 hrs
ZUMBA Location: Ballroom Day: Wednesday Time: 18:00 hrs FREE
KIDS CLUB Location: Sunset Tower Level 1 Day:Open everyday Time: 10:00 hrs - 18:00
PLAYMOBIL FACTORY TOUR Playmobil Factory Tour Contact reception to book
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S E A S O N S N E W S L E T T E R S U M M E R 2 014 / / / / / A Z U R E N E W S
WIN A CULTURAL BREAK IN MALTA THIS WINTER!
Prize includes: • 7 nights’ accommodation at Golden Sands Resort & Spa (during October 2014 – February 2015*) • Breakfast • 1 cultural excursion of your choice* • Airport transfers
Malta’s capital Valletta has been crowned European’s Capital of Culture for 2018. For such a small island, Malta is rich in cultural sites and excursions, therefore Azure are offering a lucky couple the chance to experience Malta’s cultural side during the coming winter months.
CONGRATULATIONS
• Tickets for Malta’s Hop-on Hop-off South tour
For your chance to win this prize go to www.azure.com.mt/win
PRODUCED BY
THE WINNERS OF OUR 'WIN A WEEK IN TENERIFE’ COMPETITION
from the previous issue are:
Jon Grafton Creative Manager
Julian Mallia Graphic Designer
Nigel Anastasi Graphic Designer
Mr. & Mrs. John Thomas United Kingdom
HAVE YOUR SAY
Sarah Mazzone Head of Marketing
Kirsti Newton Marketing Editor
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE FEATURED IN FUTURE EDITIONS OF SEASONS?
Grazielle Camilleri PR, Media & Events
Email us on: seasons@azure.com.mt
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Visit our website on www.azure.com.mt
Martina Brtnická Marketing Assistant