Il-Bizzilla, October 2017

# 5 8 O C T O B E R 2017

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

AG R I T O U R I S M I N M A LTA p. 14 Cooking for the season, the Mediterranean way.

TA L K O F T H E T O W N p. 58 This month take a look at what Rabat has to offer.

ARE YOU READY TO

FIRST EVER EURO CASH CHALLENGE IN MALTA 20th – 23rd October (4 days full of Cash game action)

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MLS ID 200629

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Laguna Apartment, Portomaso Designer Finished, 155 m², Waterfront

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unparalleled quality has been in place since the inception of the brand.

THE VOICE OF LUXURY REAL ESTATE Exquisite Townhouse, Cospicua 5 Bedrooms, 480 m², Rooftop Pool

€3,500,000

MLS ID 200550

+356 9910 8077

200, Tower Road, Sliema T. (+356) 2010 8070, M. (+356) 9910 8070 E. sliema@sir.com.mt Portomaso Marina T. (+356) 2010 8077, M. (+356) 9910 8079 E. portomaso@sir.com.mt

maltasir.com Distant Sea View Farmhouse, Naxxar

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Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated.

5

#58 OCTOBER 2017

CONTENTS

28 38

10 . M A LTA & G O Z O I N N U M B E R S Facts and figures about the Maltese Islands.

14 . AG R I T O U R I S M I N M A LTA

Does the Farm to Table concept work for Malta? Oh, yes it does.

20 . INTERESTING FORTIFICATIONS IN MALTA The defence mechanisms that soar over our shores.

24 . H I G H F LY I N G D E N T I S T R Y

Dr Jean Paul Demajo explains how to overcome dentistry fears.

26 . D R E A M I N G O F F R A N K F U R T Discovering the hidden treasures of Frankfurt.

2 8 . E S P L O R A P L A N E TA R I U M

Reach for the stars with Malta’s science centre.

31. OUT & ABOUT

Who’s been seen and where they’ve been spotted.

32 . W H AT ' S H A P P E N I N G I N M A LTA

A collection of events to keep you occupied this month.

82

3 8 . R O L E X M I D D L E S E A YAC H T R AC E The history and the journey of a local yacht race.

4 4 . S H O R T B OAT T R I P S

Cruising along, viewing Malta from the crystal blue waters.

5 4 . B E AU T I F U L N I G H T S

The spectacular sights that set Malta’s nights in a dreamy scene.

5 8 . TA L K O F T H E T O W N

This month we’re focusing on Rabat, the go-to spot for shopping, dining and relaxing.

62 . I S L A N D H I G H L I G H T S

Here’s what not to miss while visiting the Maltese Islands.

67. VO L U N TA R Y W O R K What can an old laptop do? The agara Foundation makes a change.

80

6

70 . S W I M M I N G A N D A N A B U N DA N C E OF FRESH FISH Bountiful October and all it has to offer.

74 . TUCK ME IN WHEN SEPTEMBER ENDS The alluring grey of Malta and the ways to make the most of it.

8 0 . TE FIT-TA ZZ A

The minimalist designs that shape our culture – one year in.

82 . V I C T O R PA S S M O R E

Decadence? What does it mean to an art historian?

8 5 . WAT C H I N G YO U WAT C H M E

The study of a culture from the eye of an observer.

9 5 . E N T R E P R E N E U R S U N D E R 3 5

Two 'Wonder-Women' and their thriving businesses.

9 5 . R E S TAU R A N T & B A R G U I D E Thinking about your next best meal? Here are this month’s top picks.

10 0 . A I R M A LTA N E W S A round-up of this month’s news.

10 8 . F L I G H T A N D C O M PA N Y I N F O R M AT I O N All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

110 . D E S T I N AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N Planning a trip? Take a look at all of Air Malta’s flight routes and code-sharing routes here.

112 . ELEC TRONIC DE VICE INFORM ATION All the information you need with regards to phone, laptop and tablet usage onboard.

Find the Knight Win a Flight Two readers have the chance to win a complimentary return ticket each to travel on any scheduled Air Malta destination (excluding taxes and charges).

All you have to do is find the small Air Malta Knight who stars in the airline’s safety video and is hidden somewhere in this magazine.

Send us an email on media@airmalta.com with the page number where you managed to locate our knight, together with a picture of the competition applicant’s airport boarding card.

Closing date is the last day of the month.

w w w. h o q . c o m . m t BECAUSE YOUR HOME M AT T E R S

BEAUTIFUL 16TH CENTURY PALAZZO IN THE HEART OF THE THREE VILLAGES REF: 616596

l

€ 2,950,000

l

ATTARD

An impeccable and well-kept double fronted PALAZZO in the heart of this typical Maltese village built in the early 16th century. This property has been tastefully converted whilst retaining extremely unique old world features, such as high ceilings; most of which are predominantly composed of stone slabs and wooden beams, while some others are vaulted, patterned floor tiles, original flagstone, a large wooden balcony and old statues amongst others. Entrance through an arched hallway with marvelous frescos leading onto the courtyard, lateral dining room, living room and large kitchen and a bedroom with private facilities on ground floor level. On the first level one finds an imposing ‘Sala Nobile’ leading to a massive terrace overlooking the courtyard and the gardens with pool, two double bedrooms and a master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and private terrace overlooking the village center. Complementing this property is a larger than usual garage. Property is ready to move into, covering an area of 600sqm. Freehold

TRADITIONAL HOUSE OF CHARACTER WITH COURTYARD AND POOL AREA TOTALLY PRIVATE REF: 452958

l

€ 850,000

l

MQABBA

A charming HOUSE OF CHARACTER, set in a most quaint environment, typical of a traditional village core.

The footprint of the house is of 460 sqm with an internal area of approx. 300 sqm with the possibility of further extensions. The house is full of old world charm and authentic features making it a true gem. Layout comes in the form of a welcoming and sunny entrance/hallway with large apertures overlooking the central courtyard and a sunny landscaped pool area surrounded by a lovely garden with a 400 year old olive tree, lemon and pomegranate tree. Further accommodation in the form of a large mill room used as a living room with study and library, separate dinning and kitchen area with pantry, three bathrooms (two en-suite), four bedrooms, and a second kitchen upstairs leading onto the large sunny terraces. Wonderful property. Complimenting this property is a very large well, and solar heating, making this property very cost effective to run.

Through Homes of Quality, we find great satisfaction in providing a uniquely personal property service to clients, both local and overseas. As part of Frank Salt Real Estate Group we have access to perhaps the largest property and client database in the Maltese Islands, while operating independently to facilitate the extremely high level of personal interface with clients. At Homes of Quality we are equally proud of the smallest designer apartment as a grand palazzo… the defining factor which ensures that a property is to be found on our listings is quite simply… quality!

Grahame Salt Director

Недвижимость, проживание и бизнес на Мальте. Сервисная поддержка от А до Я. Мы говорим по-русски! Звоните нам 00356 23420645

Homes of Quality, 211, Tower Road, Sliema Tel: +356 2342 0000 UK Tel: +44 (0) 871 711 8994 Mob: +356 9947 4340 Email: info@hoq.com.mt

8

MEDINA ...taste Malta # 5 8 O C T O B E R 2017

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

ON THE COVER Iconography on a Rabat faรงade AG R I T O U R I S M I N M A LTA p. 14 Cooking for the season, the Mediterranean way.

TA L K O F T H E T O W N p. 58 This month take a look at what Rabat has to offer.

COVER_October B .indd 1

25/09/2017 11:08

PHOTOGRAPHY Jeff Fabri

MEET THE TEAM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kristina Cassar Dowling SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Renata Vella CONTRIBUTORS agara Foundation Air Malta Alessia Caruana Christine Spiteri Diane Brincat Fiona Mercieca Giulia Privitelli Helen Raine

Jean Paul Demajo Julian Sammut Matthew Aguis Paul Vassallo Sarah Chircop Steven Edwards TCD Tia Reljic Valletta Waterfront Wayne Flask PHOTOGRAPHERS Aaron Briffa Clive Vella Kurt Arrigo Kurt Mifsud Mario Galea Peter Bartolo Parnis

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE FEATURED ON IL-BIZZILLA? For advertising opportunities and restaurant listings, get in touch with Renata on (+356) 2142 4924 or renata@contentfactory.com.mt.

For anything related to editorial or photography, contact Kristina on kristina@contentfactory.com.mt.

Editorial judgement was used for Issue 57. The closing paragraphs of LGBT + Malta = <3 do not reflect the view of the author of the feature, Diane Brincat.

The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied by any means without the written consent of the publisher.

Editorial features and opinions expressed in il-Bizzilla do not necessarily reflect the views of Air Malta, the publisher, or the editorial team. Both Air Malta and the Publisher do not accept responsibility for commercial and advertising content.

Although the authors and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this magazine was correct before going to print, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.

Special thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority, Air Malta, Shutterstock and ViewingMalta.com for the provision of photographic material. Printed in Malta by VelPrint Ltd. All magazine rights are reserved by Air Malta PLC.

VISIT THE FULL RANGE OF MEDINA WINES AT: WWW.DELICATA.COM /DELICATA WINERY

10

FROM THE CEO...

FROM THE E D I TO R . . .

Merħba, we welcome you on board this

explore the streets of our capital or visit

October is here and even though the sky is

Air Malta flight.

imposing palaces and museums during

still blue and the sun is still shining, there’s

the Notte Bianca event? Or wander

a crisp feeling in the air. Malta is blessed

Last month marked the beginning of a

through the candlelit lanes and paths

with a climate that keeps all locals pumped

new era for Air Malta as we celebrated

of the fortified city of Birgu and live

with Vitamin D but for some of us, myself

the launch of a new product - Go Light,

the magic of historic enactments and

included, the weather can’t hop into the

offering customers the possibility to travel

events of this outstanding celebration

colder season any sooner.

without checked in luggage at just Eur39

during Birgufest? If you are planning to

one way including taxes and charges.

travel to Gozo, the lovely town of Santa

This month we’re taking you to Rabat, a rural

Lucia welcomes you to unique set up

village that evokes the local vibe of community,

This is our first step to become a hybrid

whereby the entire village is lit up with

agriculture and simple living. A typical scene

airline where the opportunity to travel on

flaming lanterns. For more information

in Rabat reveals pensioners in their rightful

a low fare whilst flying a full service airline

about Air Malta and our flight schedules

habitat - gathered around a table; playing

is now a reality. Our new fare structure

please visit airmalta.com and

cards and eating pastizzi. A sight that instantly

has never been more attractive and we

facebook.com/AirMalta and join our

brings a smile to your face (and also has you

can proudly say that our guests managed

newsletter mailing list to receive great

craving a pastizz tal-piżelli).

to make this journey even more exciting

offers directly in your inbox.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to wine

for us given that our web bookings soared by 35% during the first week after

At Air Malta we are customer driven

and dine in a traditional Maltese courtyard,

launching Go Light.

and are always keen to know what we

then Rabat is also the place to go. For some

could do better to improve your Air

fine food with an excellent view – this rural

September also brought some more

Malta flight experience. Visit airmalta.

treasure will hit the spot and provide for a

good news. We have confirmed two

com/wearelistening to answer a few

great romantic holiday surprise.

new destinations that we are adding

short questions about your flight with

to our network for summer 2018.

us and you can win one of 10 free return

Culture and heritage in Malta is huge

Next year we are returning to Spain

Air Malta flights we are offering every

and Rabat is no different. With some of

to the city of Malaga. We will also be

month. It really only takes 2 minutes.

the oldest wall paintings on this island, the cave churches found in Rabat are a

resuming our services to Manchester.

We are currently significantly increasing

Thank you for choosing Air Malta. As our

spectacular sight – probably one of my

capacity to many of our more

welcomed guest we hope to see you

favourite culture spots on the island.

established routes thereby continuing

on-board another one of our flights soon.

to improve connectivity to and from the

Come October, Malta seems to calm down;

Maltese islands.

so take it easy this month, enjoy a good meal

October is one of the best months to visit the Maltese Islands as there are diverse cultural activities one can enjoy across the Maltese archipelago. Why not

Joseph Galea

in an outstanding setting and maybe enjoy a brisk walk in the countryside.

Acting CEO Air Malta

Have a safe flight,

Kristina

HEAD OFFICE (+356) 21 31 0800 ST.JULIANS (+356) 21 31 0088 VALLETTA (+356) 21 31 0800

‘The best name in Malta property’

FOR SALE | SAN PAWL TAT-TARGA | DETACHED VILLA

FOR SALE | TIGNE POINT | APARTMENT

Offered at €1,890,000 - Ref: BD600003

Sole Agents - Offered at €1,650,000 - Ref: FA600737

A DETACHED VILLA set in a prime residential location ▪ The spacious floor plan features an entrance hall ▪ Sitting / dining room ▪ Fitted kitchen / breakfast both opening onto a terrace ▪ Large swimming pool with entertaining areas surrounded by landscaped gardens ▪ Family room / study ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ▪ Guest toilet ▪ Laundry room ▪ Large 10 car garage ▪ The property is finished to a high standard with marble & parquet floors ▪ Airconditioning throughout ▪ Separate 1 bedroom guest annex with independent access

Tigne Point - a prime location ▪ Exquisite SEAFRONT APARTMENT within this highly sought after development ▪ Very spacious open plan kitchen/dining/living area leading onto the terrace with panoramic views of the open sea, Fort Tigne & Valletta ▪ 3 bedrooms (master with walk-in wardrobe, en suite bathroom & a terrace with spectacular sea views) ▪ 3 bathrooms ▪ Guest toilet ▪ Laundry room ▪ Private underlying car space ▪ Lift access ▪ Access to residents only swimming pool complex ▪ Amenities include some of the finest shops, restaurants & leisure facilities in Malta ▪ Being sold fully furnished ▪ SOLE AGENTS

FOR SALE | MANIKATA | HOUSE OF CHARACTER

FOR SALE | ST.ANGELO MANSIONS | APARTMENT

A unique House of Character, expertly finished to a high specification throughout ▪ Spacious accommodation over 3 floors ▪ Wonderful traditional courtyard with mature plants ▪ Fantastic countryside views from multiple sun terraces - ideal for alfresco entertaining ▪ Quiet location & close to Malta’s sandy beaches ▪ Hall ▪ Sitting room ▪ Dining room ▪ Fitted kitchen/breakfast ▪ Study ▪ 4 bedrooms ▪ 4 bathrooms ▪ Kitchenette ▪ Laundry room ▪ Many original features including wooden beams & restored stonework ▪ Wood-burning stove

An impressive elevated SEAFRONT APARTMENT with magnificent bastion & marina views ■ Set in an unparalleled historical location within Vittoriosa & the Three Cities ■ Close to all local amenities ▪ Walking distance to the cafes & restaurants along the marina ■ Lift access ▪ Sitting room ■ Dining room ■ Fully fitted kitchen/breakfast area ■ 3 double bedrooms ■ 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ▪ Laundry room ▪ Balcony ▪ Private underlying car space

Sole Agents - Offered at €895,000 - Ref: HC600189

Sole Agents - Offered at €585,000 - Ref: FA600651

TO LET | SLIEMA | SEAFRONT APARTMENTS

TO LET | MELLIEHA | DETACHED VILLA

Exclusive to Perry - Introducing ‘One One 0 The Strand’ ■ 12 brand new luxurious SEAFRONT APARTMENTS & 1 PENTHOUSE with spectacular panoramic views of Manoel Island, Sliema Creek & beyond to Valletta ▪ Close to all local amenities including the promenade ▪ State of the art finish with high speed internet & air-conditioning throughout ▪ Fully furnished ▪ Large open-plan kitchen/dining/living area with sliding doors onto the front terrace ▪ Fully fitted kitchen/ breakfast ▪ 2/3 bedroom options available (with en suite facilities) measuring 164m2 or larger 328m2 4 bedroom apartment also available ▪ Underlying car parking

Recently constructed fully DETACHED VILLA built on a plot size of approximately 1000m2 ▪ Superb position in this highly regarded residential location ▪ Outstanding views to the open countryside & sea ▪ Close to all local amenities ▪ Spacious open plan living area with floor to ceiling glass doors leading onto the swimming pool with surrounding gardens & sun terraces ▪ ‘State of the art’ fitted kitchen ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 4 bathrooms (2 en suite) ▪ Jacuzzi ▪ Sauna ▪ Alarm system ▪ Air-conditioning throughout ▪ 1 car lock-up garage & car port for 2 further cars

Sole Agents - Offered at €3500 monthly - Ref: FA600583

Offered at €8000 monthly - Ref: DV600054

▪ Collect your free copy of our leading ‘Real Estate’ publication from the exit of the arrival lounge ▪ ▪ Our Perry Letting department offers a wide selection of both prime commercial and residential properties for lease ▪

perry.com.mt

PASSENGERS CARRIED ONBOARD AIR MALTA FLIGHTS:

SINCE 1ST APRIL 1974

ES

BU S TA R T A

SI

A

EW

THE EQUI

VA

LE

AIR

320

MONUMENTS IN VALLET TA

885

6,000 TONNES OF POTATOES EXPORTED ANNUALLY

TIMES TO THE MOON AND BACK SINCE 1 ST APRIL 1974

349,386

THE MALTESE DRIVE ON THE LEFT

THE NUMBER OF LICENSED VEHICLES IN MALTA

28km long/14.5km wide

N

OF

M

LT

FL

T

A

K TO

N

1W

EE

DECL ARED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

S

3

50,754,711

Valletta our Capital city, and a World Heritage site, which is known for museums, palaces and grand churches.

The Baroque landmarks also include St John’s Cathedral whose opulent interior is home to the Caravaggio Masterpiece.

Valletta will be hosting the title of the European Capital of Culture in 2018.

Dotted with quaint cafes, beautiful boutique hotels, restaurants and wine bars, today Valletta has become very much alive.

VALLETTA: INCREDIBLE VIEWS OF THE GRAND HARBOUR A fantastic property now available for rent in the most sought after area of Valletta. The property is being offered unfurnished with the possibility of also being used as an office.

Viewings highly recommended!

Property is also being offered for sale.

BEDROOMS : 5 | TOTAL AREA : 500 m2 | PRICE ON REQUEST

LUXURY

VALLETTA: RARE TOWNHOUSE WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS Exclusive. John Taylor is proud to offer for sale exclusively a two bedroom townhouse in Valletta, with breathtaking unobstructed views of The Three Cities and the Grand Harbour. This Rare Townhouse has to be seen to be appreciated, and is situated near all major amenities.

BEDROOMS : 2 | LIVING AREA : 180 m2 | PRICE : € 1,060,000

REAL

E STAT E

THE GREATEST TRANSACTIONS ALWAYS BEAR THE SAME SIGNATURE

JOHN TAYLOR MALTA · SALES & RENTALS · 118&119 TOWER ROAD, SLIEMA · TEL.: +356 21 33 31 10 · MALTA SLM 1605 · MALTA@JOHN-TAYLOR.COM JOHN TAYLOR INTERNATIONAL LUXURY REAL ESTATE NETWORK | FRANCE · GERMANY · ITALY · MALTA · MAURITIUS · MONACO · PORTUGAL · QATAR · RUSSIA · SAUDI ARABIA SPAIN · SWITZERLAND · UNITED KINGDOM · UNITED STATES | AIX- EN-PROVENCE · BERLIN · CANNES · COMO · COURCHEVEL · DOHA · GENEVA · GSTAAD · LAUSANNE · LONDON · MADRID MALTA · MEGÈVE · MERIBEL · MIAMI · MILAN · MONACO · MOSCOW · NEW YORK · PARIS · RIYADH · ST-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT · ST-PAUL DE VENCE · ST-TROPEZ · THE HAMPTONS · VALBONNE WWW.JOHN-TAYLOR.COM

PURCHASING A RENTAL INVESTMENT Kevin Buttigieg - CEO RE/MAX Malta

Rental investments have been on an upward trend for a number of years. Statistics show a 15% - 20% Year-on-Year growth over the last three consecutive years. The truth is that supply is not keeping up with the major demand from an influx of expatriates moving to our Islands due to company expansion and the relocation of new foreign companies. It is projected that this increase in demand will continue to organically grow whilst the BREXIT aftermath and initiatives laid down by the Government will pay huge dividends to the Maltese Economy.

A forecasted 300,000 to 400,000 square metres of office space is presently on plan to be developed over the next five to ten years to bridge the gap between demand and availability for first class office space. This means that the infrastructure in Malta will be able to accommodate from 30,000 to 40,000 employees over the next decade, of which forty percent will be expatriates.

In other words, over 18,000 new jobs for Maltese Nationals may be created over the next ten years whereas the demand for residential rental housing for expatriates will continue to increase substantially.

We must acknowledge that a hike in rental property prices may place an amount of pressure on the Maltese Government to further increase housing subsidies for lowincome earners that may not afford to rent a property but this may not be such a bad problem to have if everyone looks at the bigger picture.

In fact, the Government of Malta has already issued an initiative for income earners that earn less than the aggregate income €23,000 per annum where a maximum benefit is being offered of €2,000 subsidy.

If we continue to look at the bigger picture and work together to resolve the social issue that may affect a small percentage of the population, a rental investment is still a valuable asset that may garner anything from 3.5% rental yield.

If you are interested in discussing rental investments opportunities with us, contact one of the branches on +356 2015 6800 or call me directly on +356 9966 3322 and I will be able to guide you in the best way possible.

Apartment in Msida Located in a prime rental location, this apartment is situated near many amenities in the area. It is new to the books and being sold finished. This unit will include a bedroom, open plan living area and a bathroom. Measuring a total of 58sqm, with a balcony and set on the 3rd floor, this property will make an excellent rental property. More units available in the same apartment block.

Price: €130,000

MLS 240011024-848

Studio Flat in Msida New to the market and an excellent opportunity to buy for rental purposes. The project will include maisonettes, flats and penthouses. It is located in a highly popular rental area, close to both the University of Malta and Mater Dei Hospital. This particular unit is a studio apartment which will be finished to include a bedroom, open plan living /kitchen/dining space and a bathroom. Property is being sold finished and will make an excellent buy to let investment.

Price: €140,000

MLS 240011024-853

Duplex Apartment in Sliema A great architectural residence being sold on plan, located within walking distance to Tower Road and The Strand. The second floor duplex apartment comprises a large open plan living/dining/ kitchen in a square layout, 2 bedrooms (main with en-suite), family bathroom and guest toilet. Construction to be ready by May, 2018.

Price: €290,000

MLS 240021078-34

Apartment in Sliema This brand new 2 bedroom, modern apartment with a retro look and finished to high specifications in one of Sliema’s most prominent areas of Tigné, seconds from the promenade and close to all amenities. Property comprises of a combined kitchen/ living/dining finished to high standards with brand new furniture, 2 bedrooms with master bedroom having an en-suite, another bedroom, bathroom and a study. Property will be sold entirely furnished including TVs and Air Conditioning in all rooms.

Price: €350,000

MLS 240221007-54

Apartment in St Julian’s Featuring stunning views of the open sea and the picturesque Spinola bay, this 2 bedroom apartment is situated on the seafront, on the first floor. One can enjoy a spacious layout enjoying a lot of natural light. It extends to 90sqm and is well presented throughout.

Price: €450,000

MLS 240011070-75

Apartment in Fort Cambridge, Sliema

SO

+356 9966 3322

LE

AG

T EN

S

Forming part of Fort Cambridge, this is a highly finished and fully furnished luxury apartment, enjoying the use of a communal swimming pool. Accommodation is spread on 150sqm and comprises of an entrance hall, kitchen/ breakfast and sitting/ dining area leading to a good sized terrace measuring approximately 7.2m x 2m (from which one could enjoy spectacular sea views), a utility room, bathroom, 2 double bedrooms and a shower en-suite. Various optional parking spaces and lock up garages available for sale.

Price: €650,000

www.remax-malta.com

MLS 240171006-929

FARMING

Cooking for the Seasons MEDITERRANEAN EDITION WORDS BY Sarah Chircop

M

ost of the greatest cuisines from all over the world have come out of hardship, forced out of an intensive and laborious negotiation between the farmer and the landscape. This high- purpose driven-work is what contributes to the symbiotic relationships between soil, animal and crop and keeping this whole system happy is what ultimately ensures good flavour and good food.

However, the idea of where ingredients come from is something we continously take for granted today as we tend to think that we can have what we want whenever we want, irrespective of how good or bad it tastes. But in truth, it is all about the ingredient, about cooking with the seasons, and not only do we need to be asking questions like what am I eating and where is it coming from, but also how are we getting to it and what does an ingredient represent? It should be about something that points outwards, to something larger than just the cheque at the end of the meal. It doesn’t matter how good the chef ’s technique is, if they don’t have good ingredients, then they can’t make good food, because chasing after the best recipe, the best flavour, is chasing after the best ingredients.

Kurt Mifsud began his career in the food industry at 18, working in various quality establishments across the island. He went on to study at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy and led the Maltese delegation to the first edition of the ‘Slow Food Youth Network International Conference’ at the Milan Expo' in October

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Kurt Mifsud

2015. He is currently the CEO and founder of the ‘Mediterranean Culinary Academy’ and I talked to him a bit about what agritourism and agriculture look like in the Mediterranean and what is so unique about the Maltese islands: "The Mediterranean is surrounded by three different continents: Europe, Asia and Africa, this makes it one of the most culturally interesting places on earth as well as one of the richest with regards to biodiversity. Malta and Gozo are smack bang in the middle of this region and thanks to our rich history of the many conquerors who have left their individual marks on our culture, there is a beautiful blend of flavour and ingenuity, that is only possible thanks to the ‘savoir faire’ of our farmers and producers."

There seems to be a general improvement in the way people are thinking about and consuming food. People are becoming more and more interested in where their food is grown and produced and whilst this is a good thing, are the supermarket and restaurant industries showing the same kind of progress?

"I would like to see more restaurants using more local produce and showcasing traditional products in a more original and authentic way.

As for supermarkets, I do not like to generalise, however many of them do not label their produce clearly and this is a big problem since it makes it very difficult for people to know where the food originates from."

17

18

FARMING

We are committed to educate the general population on local and Mediterranean produce and promote ecologically sound agricultural and consumption behaviour by encouraging them to buy more varied seasonal produce

The best way to source your produce, Kurt tells me, is to skip the middle men and buy directly from the growers, allowing one to have an open discussion with the producer and understand the ingredients better. Kurt studied at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Turin where he contributed to the organisation of the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first-ever study trip to Malta. I asked him how this experience has helped him assess and ultimately find a way of improving our local situation; "My experience living in Italy and being a member of Slow Food International has helped me come up with a three-step solution to revitalise our food industry; Firstly, we have to build a new agricultural infrastructure. That means creating a supportive network of farmers and producers that passionately grow cleaner, more flavourful and more interesting food, while also helping them get a fair price for what they produce. Secondly, we are committed to educate the general population on local and Mediterranean produce and promote ecologically sound agricultural and consumption behaviour by encouraging them to buy more varied seasonal produce and learn interesting and tasty methods of food preparation.

Thirdly is to develop innovative recipes

and products from our local ingredients in a way that is delicious and also approachable."

It is therefore, and as always, all about education, about understanding the source and the cycle as much as it is about understanding the culture and community. Through education we can then begin to answer questions, such as what are our responsibilities to the future?

Agritourism is a growing industry on the island and I am sure that it is an area that will flourish within the coming years. Education is a big aspect of this and we must encourage people to understand the value of food and help us protect our local biodiversity. I have met dozens of producers, farmers and NGOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who work to protect our food heritage.

I believe that the best way to protect it however is by encouraging people to learn more about the local biodiversity and cultural heritage together with supporting the local economy.

Eating is an ethical act and a good plate of food is ultimately what connects us all; from the farmer to the chef, to the nutritionist, the economist, the food critic, and to you and me. So treat nature well and it will give you good food.

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GOZO

IT’S OPERA TIME IN GOZO It’s that time of year again when Gozo’s two opera houses buzz with activity in preparation for the island’s annual opera season.

Every year, two opera productions are staged in Victoria.

These opera nights have not only established themselves as key cultural events in Gozo but have also gained international critical acclaim.

The beauty of Gozo’s opera productions is that they are both highly dependent on volunteers who work hard in a bid to outshine the competing theatre’s production. Competition between Gozo’s two Opera Houses is rife and this ensures that both productions are of a very high quality. In fact, In April 2014, Opera Now commented about Opera in Gozo: “if only English National opera and Covent Garden had that sense of cutthroat competition, how much edgier London’s operatic life would be”.

This year Aurora Theatre will be doing a double-take and presenting Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana and Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci on the 14 October. Astra Theatre will stage the opera production Lucia di Lammermoor on the 26 and 28 October 2017.

Volunteers are currently in a frenzy to prepare costumes and scenes for this year’s opera season while renowned international singers prepare their voices to grace Gozo’s theatres once again.

Gozo’s 2017 opera season promises to be, yet again, a great attraction for culture lovers looking for an excellent production, in a beautiful island setting that brims with cultural opportunity.

More information: Cavalleria Rusticana & Pagliacci – 14 October 2017, Aurora Opera House : www.teatruaurora.com.mt Lucia di Lammermoor – 26 and 28 October 2017, Astra Theatre: www.teatruastra.org.mt

EXPLORE GOZO’S COUNTRYSIDE Gozo is a small island with marvellous landscape and a rich history providing many wonderful experiences for the rambler. From peaceful country and hill walks to rambles along cliff-tops with panoramic views; from coastal paths past extraordinary natural features to heritage trails through the alleyways of the Knights of St John or the unique prehistoric landscape, Gozo offers a rugged beauty that is unparalleled.

After the first autumn rain, Gozo’s countryside bursts into life revealing an incredible wealth of flora and fauna – particularly colourful wild flowers and scented herbs. With a temperate Mediterranean climate where sun and warmth are the norm at this time of year, Gozo is perfect for an Autumn walking holiday.

For more information about events visit www.visitgozo.com

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The upper level of this house of character contains three double bedrooms, (main with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe), as well as a single bedroom. There is also a good sized terrace with views of the nearby Mosta Dome.

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ARCHITEC TURE

ARCHITEC TURE

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INTERESTING FORTIFICATIONS IN MALTA WORDS BY Matthew Agius

T

he geographical position of the Maltese Islands, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, has ensured that there is no shortage of military architecture from different epochs still visible, the legacy of the archipelago’s turbulent history which saw them being fought over, time and time again, by military powers lusting after their strategic location and deep, natural harbours.

Most of Malta’s transformation into an island fortress happened in the 16th century, after the arrival of the Knights, but historians think that the Phoenicians had fortified the city of Mdina even as far back as 700 B.C.E. Strategically perched upon a hill in the centre of the island, the city of Mdina’s first recorded fortifications followed the Norman conquest of Malta in 1091 A.D. The ‘silent city’s’ current fortified form dates back to the 1700s when it was rebuilt following a devastating earthquake.

Most of Malta’s transformation into an island fortress happened in the 16th century, after the arrival of the Knights, but historians think that the Phoenicians had fortified the city of Mdina even as far back as 700 B.C.E In Gozo, the 13th century fortifications of the Gran Castello or Ċittadella, were also revised over the years. The walls of the city still standing today were built around the 15th century by the Crown of Aragon.

But the majority of the fortifications that can still be seen today date back to one of two historical periods: the rule of the Knights of St John and the British colonial era.

During the 16th century expansion of the Ottoman Empire, the Knights Hospitaller of St John were driven out of Rhodes. Holy Roman Emperor Charles V handed Malta over to these knights to protect Rome from invasion from the south.

For the next 275 years, the Knights of Malta built towns, palaces, churches, gardens and fortifications, using Malta as a base for their seaborne attacks on Ottoman shipping.

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ARCHITEC TURE

Enhancing existing fortifications around the city of Birgu, the Knights also built Fort St Michael on the opposite side of the Senglea harbour. Fort St Elmo was built at the tip of the peninsula where the city of Valletta now stands. Three forts: St Michael, St Angelo and St Elmo proved their worth when, on 18 May, 1565, Suleiman the Magnificent laid siege to Malta. What is now referred to as the Great Siege lasted until 11 September, 1565 and ended with the defeat of the Ottoman forces. In the aftermath of that siege, the Knights built the fortified city of Valletta, today Malta’s capital city, overlooking the Grand Harbour.

Fort St Michael was dismantled in 1921, but other fortifications built by the Knights can still be seen today. Amongst them are parts of the 17 th century Cottonera and Santa Margherita Lines, protecting Cospicua, as well as the Floriana lines defending the town of the same name.

A favourite amongst visitors to the islands is the picturesque and recently restored St Agatha's Tower, also known as the Red Tower, which overlooks Mellieħa Bay. Erected in 1647 as one of a line of watchtowers along Malta’s northern shore, it could withstand a forty-day siege.

The British built more forts and gun emplacements across the islands. Many of these are still standing, some open to the public.

In the 1800s, the British built Fort Verdala in Cospicua and

the Lascaris Battery in Valletta, followed by the fortifications, defensive towers, entrenchments and gun emplacements of the Victoria Lines built along northern Malta. Three forts were built on the lines: Fort Binġemma, Fort Madalena and Fort Mosta.

The defensive lines were decommissioned in 1907 and stretches of the lines have collapsed, but the three forts still survive.

Fort Pembroke was later built to protect the gap between the Victoria Lines and the harbour area.

The British also built fortifications to protect Marsaxlokk Harbour in the south, including Fort San Lucian, Fort Delimara, Fort Tas-Silġ, Saint Paul's Battery and Żonqor Battery.

Two hundred-tonne Armstrong guns were installed in Malta by the British, who built Cambridge Battery and Rinella Battery specifically to house them. The surviving hundred-tonne gun can be viewed, together with period uniforms and other attractions at the Fort Rinella Museum.

These imposing and fascinating reminders of the Maltese islands’ wartime past evoke wonder; not only as feats of military engineering, but also because they remind us of long-lost age of chivalry, crusading, heroism and legendary battles.

01. Verdala Palace, Buskett Gardens 02. St Agatha's Tower, also known as the Red Tower

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MEDICAL TOURISM

LACK OF FAITH

& overcoming your fears

F

or some, dentistry is a sore point and not a topic of conversation. It could be a subject that makes you churn and even sweat. Why? A history of bad dentistry? Repeated toothache? Is it true to say that not everyone is blessed with good teeth? I believe it is partly true.

According to Darwin we are both what our environment makes us to be and what our parents made us to be. Fiftyfifty. The environment includes sugary diets and lack of hygiene while in some, genetics may predispose them to weak teeth. Some patients brush and brush religiously and yet still develop cavities or have gum disease. Others rarely or never brush and yet have intact teeth with no gum disease.

Some patients say they have been let down by their dentist. This could be due to poor treatment, pain during treatment, lack of communication and cosmetic end result. They may have never been offered the right treatment plan that suits them. These scenarios are not necessary associated with old age. Some patients have real dental problems early on in their adult lifetime.

Some mothers say that their teeth degenerated during pregnancy and early motherhood. An old wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tale? Maybe, however there might be some truth at least in timing as young career mothers have less time for themselves and their daily needs resulting in a possible decrease in dental care amongst others.

It is never too late to fix your smile.

All ages matter. Previous failure in fixing your teeth is nothing but the opportunity to start again.

Extra-oral before treatment

Lateral view before treatment

Extra-oral after treatment

Lateral view after treatment

A CASE STUDY: A young woman in her late 40s, presents with poor-looking heavily treated dentition. She is unhappy, disappointed and has almost given up on finding a solution to her troubled smile. She was given a few options, from jaw repositioning to removable dentures, which were too extreme for her. Her saving grace was that she wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expecting any miracles. She was realistic in what she wished to achieve and more than anything determined to get it done.

3D radiography showed more obstacles; the presence of a large cyst, lack of bone quantity both in width and height, all difficult factors to deal with. Her wish was not to have a Hollywood smile (almost)

but to be able to smile again, with confidence.

The treatment consisted of 2 stages.

Stage 1 Cosmetic crowning and veneering of the lower dentition Removal of remaining upper teeth and cyst Placement of 6 implants with simultaneous bone grafting.

Stage 2 Provisional fixed bridge to assess new tooth angulations, colour and contour.

Conversion of provisional fixed-bridge to a definitive porcelain-bridge.

Ask your dentist.

Dr Jean Paul Demajo

DENTAL & IMPLANT SURGEON Trained in London and now works in private practice in Malta.

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T R AV E L

The hidden depths of Frankfurt...

WORDS BY Fiona Mercieca/Air Malta

I

’m curious to know the first thing that springs to your mind when someone mentions the city of Frankfurt to you.

If you’re famished it would probably be the Frankfurter sausages, so in that case let’s say this is the second thing that you associate this city with. Most likely its business link would be at the forefront, and I don’t blame you. My initial perception of Frankfurt was in fact that it is a business city which has an air of modernity about it, and where commercial activities reign. However, don’t be misled... this city has so much more to offer surprisingly enough.

As they say, ‘all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’. So it only makes sense that in a city where working life dominates, the leisure side is also equally flourishing, even though this is unbeknown to many. I discovered this myself relatively recently, and I’ve been dying to let you in on my findings, but first a little bit of background information and interesting facts about the place wouldn’t go amiss.

To start off with, did you know that ‘Frankfurt’ isn’t the official name given to this city? The actual name is ‘Frankfurt am Main’, which means the city residing on the river Main, however over time this was simplified. It also happens to be the largest city of the German state of Hesse, and the fifth largest city in

Germany. Furthermore, it is increasingly being considered as a global city, and is it any wonder why when almost a quarter of the residents here are foreign born. Diversity is well and truly nurtured in Frankfurt, and in more ways than one too.

Apart from its people, the city is brimming with a wide range of different attractions.

Yes, Frankfurt is a financial powerhouse, but this isn’t all. As time progresses, this rather dull reputation is disintegrating, and the city is becoming recognised for its stupendous cultural scene, striking architecture and brilliant tourism activities.

Thus, what exciting discoveries are there exactly in this small metropolis? Well, keep reading to find out.

ALLURING CULTURE There’s no escaping the cultural side of any new city you visit.

So it’s just as well that Frankfurt’s culture is one that will undoubtedly leave you spellbound and wanting to unearth every aspect of the city - yes, it’s that irresistible.

The perfect starting point to any Frankfurt adventure would definitely be the Römerberg, which is the historical old town centre. Not only is this square a picturesque gem, it also bursting with character and interesting landmarks. Right in the very middle

T R AV E L

there is the Justice Fountain, from which wine flowed instead of water during the coronation of Emperor Matthias in 1612, and surrounding it are truly splendid old buildings, including the iconic half-timbered traditional types.

On a slightly different note, as I always say, no trip is complete without a visit to a museum or two - and Frankfurt is definitely not lacking in this department. That being said, there's one, in particular which stands out to me and which in my opinion is a must-see. And the winner is Goethe House and Museum. If you’re wondering why, it’s because they are linked to Germany’s famous writer, humanist and scientist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. In my mind there’s an element of prestige attached to being able to explore the rooms where Goethe actually lived, and moreover, the art gallery next door is a real treat for art lovers. Other highly recommended museums are the Senckenberg Natural History Museum and the Frankfurt Museum of Modern Art. As I said earlier, Frankfurt isn’t short of attractions, and so the list of places to visit and things to do is nowhere near done.

Once in Frankfurt you must also go and see one of the city’s most commendable concert venues - the Old Opera House.

Furthermore, I also think that when abroad it is impossible not to appreciate one of the city’s religious structures (you could say that this goes hand in hand with my museum rule of thumb), and in Frankfurt you can tick off this requirement by marvelling at St Bartholomew's Cathedral.

To conclude, a very prominent aspect of Frankfurt is its skyline and phenomenally tall buildings. On the more historical side there's the Eschenheimer Tower, whilst on a more modern note there are two of the EU’S highest skyscrapers in this city; the Commerzbank and the tower of the Exhibition Centre. All of them will leave you in awe.

BLISSFUL NATURE Here’s a fun fact - more than 52% of the city is made up of green areas and water, which means that despite being known for its urbanisation Frankfurt is actually a very naturalistic city. Who would have thought right? But wait, there’s more... Frankfurt is also home to the largest inner-city forest in Germany, which is known as Frankfurt City Forest or Stadtwald. This area is a lovely place to explore, and it really is somewhere you can connect with Mother Nature; the city life would seem so far away that it’s actually hard to believe that you’re actually in the middle of a metropolis.

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Apart from this green area, there are also a number of other splendid parks, such as Lohrberg and Günthersburgpark.

Furthermore, botanical gardens happen to be a favourite in this city too, and one which you must definitely plan to take a stroll around is the world-famous Palmengarten.

BUZZING NIGHTLIFE Frankfurt’s nightlife is far from dull. You might think that due to the prosperous business side of the city, the nightlife here mainly constitutes drinking an expensive glass of Chardonnay from a chic wine bar, however you couldn’t be more wrong.

Infact, Frankfurt hosts one of the largest student communities, which means that if you’re looking for something more laid back or, on the contrary, a hardcore party night, then you’ll be sure to find it as well. Oh, and don’t forget to try the local ‘ebbelwoi’ drink when out and about.

SINFUL SHOPPING You might end up spending more than you wanted to when abroad here. It’s hard to resist shopping in Frankfurt, given that the city is full of shopping streets and malls. One of Germany’s most profitable shopping areas is the popular Zeil, which is Frankfurt’s premier pedestrian promenade. Here you are literally spoilt for choice, and it’s nearly impossible not to find something you like from at least one of the many department stores, retail chains or speciality shops found embellishing this long road.

DELECTABLE GOODIES My inner foodie can’t contain its excitement at the mention of food. And whilst I’m writing this my stomach is grumbling - but then again what’s new. So, let me tell you about some of Frankfurt’s local dishes. There aren’t many, but a trip to this city wouldn’t be complete without giving them a try. First off there’s Gruene Sosse, which translates to green sauce and it is made from an emulsion of eggs and oil mixed with a variety of green herbs. Most of the time this is eaten with brisket of beef and boiled potatoes. Another favourite is the oh, so popular ‘Frankfurter Wuerstchen’ that is generally served with mustard and a roll, or with sauerkraut.

Lastly, everything is better when it ends on a sweet note and therefore I can’t not mention a dessert. A truly scrumptious sweet Frankfurt delicacy is ‘Bethmännchen’ which is basically a traditional biscuit filled with marzipan and decorated with almond slivers on the outside - YUM.

Frankfurt is also home to the largest inner-city forest in Germany, which is known as Frankfurt City Forest or Stadtwald

Air Malta will restart its services to Frankfurt on Sunday 29 October with a four times weekly operation every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Fares from Malta to Frankfurt start at just €39 one-way including taxes and charges. Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

esplora & planetarium WORDS BY Tia Relijc

I

f there’s one place that both science tourists and families alike enjoy visiting in Malta, it’s the island’s interactive science centre – Esplora. While planning your Maltese getaway with the kids, make sure to include a trip to this new attraction – where there is plenty to see and much to learn.

and broaden their horizons – while also resulting in a fun day out. The facility itself includes an Activity Centre, Outdoor Adventure Experience, various interactive exhibition halls, and the most recent attraction – the Planetarium.

Esplora science centre urges visitors to Explore, Think, and Imagine. The facility holds a number of workshops, exhibitions, and shows which are easily digestible by visitors of all ages. The aim is to provide an engaging experience which will inform and inspire the audience, nurturing curiosity in children and urging them to ask questions and draw conclusions on their own. The Esplora experience is above all exciting – projecting science as an entertaining and enjoyable journey for everyone.

The Planetarium is a colourspace 4K theatre hosting educational shows related to the solar system, our planet, and life in space.

Measuring 10.7 metres in diameter, it is a unique attraction in Malta. Walking into the theatre, visitors will be met with interactive exhibits related to the Cosmos – examining concepts such as the Big Bang and Dark Matter. Exhibits about Life in Space aim to answer questions about how astronauts spend their days and carry out their necessities such as eating and washing – all in an interactive and fun way.

A trip to this science centre is great for kids. It is educational but fun, and most shows are suitable for all age groups. Esplora hosts a number of hands-on activities aimed at young children in particular, which are bound to spark scientific curiosity

Shows projected at the Planetarium aim to cover a range of interesting topics for all visitors over four years of age. Current screenings include Habitat Earth, a show focusing on the relationship between humans and other ecological networks

– as well as the intricacies of kelp forest ecosystems and the reliance of trees on tiny fungi. Perfect Little Planet takes the audience for a trip around the solar system, showcasing Pluto, the cliffs of Miranda, rings of Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, and more in an exhilarating visual experience. Back to the Moon for Good presents the Google Lunar XPRIZE, examining the concept of lunar exploration in the context of our current technology.

It suggests the idea of future human and robotic life on the moon – for good. Accidental Astronauts is a cartoon for kids aged four to eight, depicting Earth, Sun and Moon exploration guided by Sy, Annie, and their dog Armstrong through a starship computer. This entertaining show gives a good insight of the solar system and our planet – including a solar storm and asteroid crash.

There’s always something going on at Esplora, so you won’t be disappointed whenever you drop in. Shows and exhibits are always changing, so continuous visits are never uninteresting.

The Beyond the Lab: The DIY Science Revolution exhibition

that took place this summer, for example, was met with great success. This touring exhibition, part of the EU-funded Sparks project by Ecsite, served to educate and engage the audience with the idea of Responsible Research and Innovation, particularly related to healthcare. It also included a local case study showcasing the Malta Human Genome Project – a research project for new DNA variants responsible for causing disease in Malta. Sparks is a European network of science centres and museums, and this exhibition was hosted by thirty European science centres – with Esplora being one of them.

Esplora Interactive Science Centre is relatively new, having opened its doors in October last year. It is led by the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST), and is part-financed by the EU. The facility is a former hospital building used by the Royal Navy – now called Villa Bighi, located in Kalkara by the Grand Harbour. Apart from the various shows and exhibits, the area includes recreational space such as the EsploraCafé – ideal for a relaxing and educational day while on holiday.

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OUT & ABOUT

Here’s what’s been going on, who’s been seen and where they’ve been spotted. Malta’s hottest news, right here, right now.

VIP PERFORMANCE OF HOW TO BE MALTESE IN AN HOUR Palazzo Pereira, Valletta From left to right: Oliver Saliba, Wesley Ellul, Steve Hili, Anna Marie Galea, Caroline Paris, Sarah Zerafa, Daniel Azzopardi, Lydia Borg Muscat

THE GREAT VEGAN & VEGETARIAN EVENT Ramla Bay Resort Sarolta Mike & Rosanne Bugeja Sammut

OUT & ABOUT

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01. & 02. Guests at iGaming Charity Event 03. iGaming Idol '17 - Ramona Mifsud, Director of iGaming Idol together with Edward Agius, Regional Letting Manager of REMAX and Dennis Dyhr-Hansen, CEO of Matching Visions

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34

EVENTS

EVENTS this month

5th October FOOTBALL MATCH: MALTA VS LITHUANIA The National Stadium, Ta’ Qali A local event that will feature Malta’s best football players taking on Lithuania in a football match held at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali. The World Cup Qualifier first-round matches get the crowds pumped, creating an environment of comradery with a thirst to win.

www.mfa.com.mt

5th - 8th October MALTA CLASSIC Mdina and surroundings If classic cars are your thing – keep October 5-8 free, Malta Classic is the place to be. Held in Mdina and its surroundings, the Malta Classic car event features some of Malta’s top enthusiasts whose cars are their pride and joy. Make sure to charge your phones – these cars will make for some great shots.

www.maltaclassic.com

2ND - 7 TH NOVEMBER BATTLE OF MALTA Join the friendliest and largest poker festival in Europe. € 550 buy-in for the Main Event and Side events starting as low as €100!

Play poker in the heart of the Mediterranean. Group rates and packages available, for more information contact battleofmalta@pokerlistings.com

EVENTS

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6th - 8th October MALTA TATTOO EXPO Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre, Ta’ Qali An event for tattoo addicts to get some ink and a spot for the curious few to see great artists at work. With Malta’s top tattoo artists grouped together in one convenient location, the MFCC hosts the event as a cultural must-see.

www.maltatattoexpo.com.mt

7th October NOTTE BIANCA Valletta Notte Bianca is a yearly event that takes place in Valletta. With different cuisines available on the night, and cultural spots open to the public by night this event is not one to miss. Make your way up to Valletta by bus or even better, use the ferry service from Sliema for easier access and a far greater experience.

www.lejlimdawwal.org

13th - 15th October BIRGUFEST Birgu The aim of Birgufest is to highlight the history and architectural beauty of Birgu by lighting up the city with candles for the weekend. The event itself draws a large number of people to Birgu for the food, music and free cultural activities.

www.birgu.gov.mt

20TH - 22ND OCTOBER THE TALBOT & BONS LIVE MUSIC MARATHON Talbot & Bons, SkyParks The Talbot & Bons Live Music Marathon, sponsored by Yobetit.com is back for the third edition of 60 hours non-stop live music, this October, from the 20th to the 22nd, at Talbot & Bons, SkyParks. With the collaboration of Entertainment. com.mt, Talbot & Bons are preparing a weekend full of live music, with over 200 musicians contributing from various genres. Talbot & Bons are organising this event in aid of charity. This year's donations are going towards the Salesian brigade, the idea behind it being “from musicians to future musicians”. Make sure not to miss this event, have fun and donate for a good cause!

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EVENTS

14th - 15th October MALTA MILITARY TATTOO Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre, Ta’ Qali The Malta Military Tattoo is a yearly event featuring military bands that perform for an audience of all ages. The Military March also features in the spectacle providing an environment where families can enjoy the music and watch the show.

www.maltamilitarytattoo.org

21st October THE ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE Starting Point: The Grand Harbour, Valletta An event that gathers enthusiasts, competitors and spectators alike to the Grand Harbour waiting in awe for the spectacle to take place. A sail across the Mediterranean that combines the sea and the sun for a race that pushes boundaries and creates a spirit of comradery.

www.rolexmiddlesearace.com

ARE YOU A GAME OF THRONES FAN? Fancy a tour of some of the show’s most iconic filming locations? Then why not book your spot on one of our exclusive Game of Thrones Tours? Group Tours take place on most Saturdays while Private Tours are held on most weekdays and Sundays.

Relieve the quest for power between the Houses of Stark, Baratheon, Lannister and Targaryen on the island where it all started. Join local actors who actually took part in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones on this exclusive tour as they unravel the secrets and adventures of your favourite characters.

Group tours cost €59.

For info and booking: info@maltafilmtours.com +356 7942 1112 www.maltafilmtours.com

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Led by two talented local actors who took part in Game of Thrones • Exclusive locations and photo opportunities not accessible on any other tour • The joys & tribulations of being on a GoT film set and the latest about the stars • Includes hotel pick-ups and drop offs in luxurious air-conditioned comfort • Includes visits to the locations used as the Garden of King’s Landing, The Tower of the Hand, The Red Keep, The Stables, The Baelish Brothels, The Red Waste and The Village of Lhazar WHY OUR TOUR? Well, we do it differently. We have worked on Game of Thrones and want to share our experience of working alongside your favourite actors with you. We want you to relive the emotions we shared in the different locations and to go back home feeling that you were part of the Game of Thrones world.

I S L E S TA P L E S

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MADE IN

If you’re looking for a keep-sake, a token from your last Malta holiday or want to treat someone living outside our Islands then why not take some genuine Maltese products home with you?

Welcome to Malta

Simonds Farsons Cisk plc is synonymous with a beer brewing tradition rooted in quality.

At the base of this tradition are longestablished skills of selecting nature’s best ingredients coupled with the expertise of skilled and dedicated brewers ensure a high standard of quality is maintained at every step in the brewing process. Over the years, this dedication has contributed to creating award-winning brews that so many have grown to appreciate.

Cisk Lager, launched in 1929, is a goldencoloured, bottom-fermented lager with a distinctive and well-balanced character with an alcohol content of 4.2%. The range also includes Cisk Export – a smooth, well balanced and exceptional beer with a 5% alcohol content, Cisk Excel – a low carbohydrate beer, Cisk Chill – flavoured beer available in three flavours, Cisk Pilsner – a premium pilsner with an alcohol content of 5.5% and Cisk Strong – an outstanding extra-strong premium lager with a 9% alcohol content.

Buy Cisk on www.amazon.co.uk

Charmingly Local

Mediterranean Ceramics

Kinnie, Malta’s own favourite soft drink, is a unique-tasting bitter sweet soft drink with orange flavouring and aromatic herbs. Kinnie is best enjoyed ‘neat’, with a slice of orange and lots of ice. Highly refreshing, it is also an excellent mixer. These distinctive characteristics have made Kinnie Malta’s own favourite soft drink, loved by the local population and tourists.

When in Malta don’t miss the opportunity to see true craftsmen at work. The artisans at Mediterranean Ceramics will amaze you with their artistry and passion. In their Ta’ Qali studio you can admire the detailed and artistic execution of volcanic stone table-tops and many other useful and decorative pieces. The designs on these unique pieces are alluring – and anything, from table-tops to kitchen counters, lamps, plates and dishes, can be produced to your own dimensions and design. Mediterranean Ceramics have crafted this bespoke tradition into a true art. Visit the Ta’ Qali Crafts Village studio/shop, or the shop at the Valletta Waterfront. Have part of Malta in your home – worldwide delivery is easily available to add a dash of affordable art to your surroundings.

Over the years, in keeping with evolving trends in lifestyles and health awareness, a zero-calorie version, Diet Kinnie, was introduced. Other variants today include Kinnie Zest – a sugar-free variant with an added touch of orange flavour, and, Kinnie Vita, a mid-calorie beverage with natural sweeteners and contains just half the sugar and calories of a regular soft drink.

The Kinnie range is now available online at www.amazon.co.uk Never has ordering Kinnie been more convenient.

Go on – Have a Kinnie. kinnie.com

Feel free to contact us: +356 2010 5552/3 +356 9920 1055/ +356 9944 0922 www.MediterraneanCeramics.com

Would you like to be featured on our Made in Malta section? Drop Renata an email on renata@contentfactory.com.mt

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PROPERT Y

PERRY ESTATE AGENTS LETTING DEPARTMENT APPOINTED AS EXCLUSIVE AGENTS FOR LEADING, CONTEMPORARY AND LUXURY SEAFRONT APARTMENTS, LOCATED AT ONEONEO, THE STRAND, SLIEMA

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ocated in the commercial hub of this most sought after town, on the magnificent seafront, Perry’s leading letting department is proud to offer as sole agents, this newly built, contemporary building, enjoying the most spectacular and scenic surroundings. OneOneO, is located close to the popular and bustling Sliema shopping centre.

These residences offer a perfect option for the most discerning of tenants, wanting to live in comfortable surroundings. Comprising of 12 brand new, luxurious apartments and 1 penthouse, benefiting from breath taking views of the dramatic and UNESCO protected 16 th Century Valletta Bastions, as well as the impressive Sliema creek waterfront and “Manoel Island”, all apartments are designed with space in mind and are furnished to the highest sta ndards. Each unit enjoys high speed internet access, open plan fully fitted and equipped kitchen/sitting/dining areas, leading onto a sizable private front terrace with wooden decking (ideal for entertaining), en suit bathroom with master bedroom, guest bathroom and separate laundry room, with washer/dryer.

Other great amenities in the area include an abundance of top quality cafes and restaurants. OneOneO is also walking distance to the Valletta catamaran shuttle service and all public transport routes. A full time management service ensures that tenants are looked after at all hours for the duration of the lease. Enjoy comfort, relaxation, the latest in interior design and much more while being close to the lovely promenade, linking Sliema, St Julian's and Valletta. The property is also close to the town’s favourite spots as well as swimming locations minutes away.

For those who have a car, the apartments are all offered with an underlying parking space in a very comfortable street level garage, giving tenants overall peace of mind. First tenants are expected to take up residence this month. Rental prices ranging from €3,500 for a 2-3 bedroom unit measuring 164sqm to €6,700 monthly for the largest 4 bedroom double fronted apartment measuring 328sqm. An exclusive one bedroom Penthouse enjoying the most dramatic sea views will also be made available soon measuring 115sqm.

Contact Perry Estate Agents on 21 310800/ 0088 or perry@perry.com.mt to arrange a tour of these spectacular units

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SPORTS

SPORTS

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Rolex Middle Sea Race WORDS BY Steven Edwards

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he Rolex Middle Sea Race is a highly rated offshore classic race, held in the same esteem as the Rolex Fastnet and the Rolex Sydney - Hobart, and regarded as a "must do" race for skippers and crews.

In 1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Malta, the competitive racing scene around the island was mostly composed of British servicemen. The boats that were used to race had a military connection, and were often old German training boats captured by the British during the Second World War. The Middle Sea Race was conceived as a result of a sporting rivalry between friends, Paul and John Ripard (Maltese) and Jimmy White, an Englishman residing in Malta. All three men were keen sailors and members of the Royal Malta Yacht Club.

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The race isn’t all hard work though, with breath-taking views

In the 1960s, Paul and Jimmy, together with a mutual friend, Alan Green, set out to map a race course that was designed to offer an exciting race, comprising of different conditions to those commonly experienced in Maltese coastal waters. The course used today is the same one.

active volcano, Mount Etna is usually visible on their port side, spitting out ashes and lava throughout the night.

Once through the Straits, the course leads the fleet north to the Aeolian Islands and past another active volcano, Stromboli, where the yachts turn west to the Egadi Islands.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race course is 6 o 8 nautical miles long and is sailed anti-clockwise. The start takes place in Valletta’s Grand Harbour, beneath Fort St Angelo and the Saluting Battery.

The fleet is released in classes, with the smaller yachts first to set sail, heading north along the eastern coast of Sicily and on to the Straits of Messina. As the fleet passes by, Europe’s largest

The fleet then passes between Marettimo and Favignana, before heading south towards the island of Lampedusa. Once past Lampedusa the fleet turns northeast on the final leg towards the South Comino Channel and to the finish line at Marsamxett Harbour.

The race is viewed as a true challenge to skippers and crews, who have to be

at their very best to cope with the often changeable and demanding conditions.

They can find themselves speeding along in sail tearing winds, or suddenly parked in an unhelpful wind hole. The race isn’t all hard work though, with breath-taking views of the scenery found on the various islands that mark the course. It’s because of this scenery that the Middle Sea Race has been described as "the most beautiful race course in the world”.

Since its inception by The Royal Malta Yacht Club and the Royal Ocean Racing Club in 1968, the race has continued to grow. A break between 1984 and 1995 aside, the event has run annually with 2017 marking its 38th edition. In its early

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of the scenery found on the various islands that mark the course

days, the race attracted between 2530 yachts looking to be crowned race champion. This number has swelled in recent years thanks to a new organising committee who brought Rolex on board as title sponsor for the Middle Sea Race.

The race now features over 100 boats of various sizes and categories. The current record is held by Rambler - a boat owned by George David (US).

Set in 2007, the time of 47 hours, 55 minutes and 3 seconds demolished the previous course record established by Zephyrus IV in 2000. George David’s success has continued in recent years with his new boat Rambler 88 being first across the line in both 2015 and 2016. Despite Rambler 88 being first

across the line, the overall winner in 2016 was actually the Italian- owned vessel, Mascalzone Latino.

Due to the various classes and sizes of boats that can take part in the race, winning the overall race isn’t as simple as being first across the line.

The winner is whichever boat has the quickest IRC corrected time. IRC is a rating rule to handicap different designs of boats allowing them to race together. Each boat’s rating is calculated using measurements of the boat; her length, weight, draft, rig size, sail area, and other specific characteristics and features. The resulting time corrector, the boat’s ‘TCC’, is her handicap. After a race,

each boat’s elapsed time is multiplied by her TCC to calculate her corrected time. The boat with the shortest corrected time is the winner of the race.

On Saturday 21 October, 2017, the Middle Sea Race will once again find Maltese crews battling for success.

Unsurprisingly, Maltese boats have a long history of overall victory in the race with two victories in the past six years alone, the most recent of which was taken by Artie in 2014. 2016 also found the Maltese vessel Unica winning the double-handed division.

Regardless of who wins, the Rolex Middle Sea Race 2017 is sure to be as beautiful and thrilling as ever.

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THE SEA

TOP LOCATIONS FOR

SHORT BOAT TRIPS WORDS BY Paul Vassallo

THE SEA

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setting. Further along the coastline you will also come across Armier Bay, which houses the colourful and lively set of Sweethaven Village, the setting for the 1979 Popeye movie.

M A R SA X LOKK A frequently recommended area to visit is the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, located in the south of Malta. Acting as the main fishing harbour and port of seafood commerce, the waters surrounding the harbour house over 250 registered boats, ranging from modern trawlers to the traditional red, yellow, blue and green luzzu. Should you be making plans to visit Marsaxlokk, make sure you go on a Sunday, when the thriving fishing market is in full swing in the early morning and the smell of freshly-caught fish fills the air around the harbour. Cries of fishmongers sing out as good-natured haggling takes place on one of Malta’s most popular market days. The tantalising aroma of freshlycooked fish and frutti di mare will surely persuade you to drop anchor and make a beeline for one of the many quaint restaurants dotting the shoreline.

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ou haven’t truly experienced the full extent of the Maltese islands until you cast your gaze beyond the shoreline and out to sea. Many Maltese people would agree with the statement that there is no better way to appreciate the beauty of these islands than from the swaying vantage-point of the Maltese waters. Everything just looks that much better when your feet are positioned over the gently shifting deck.

Planning for a boat trip on your holiday to Malta would not go amiss, and would allow you to wander off to the secluded grottos and caves, the hidden inlets and coves that make up the perimeter of the island. The Maltese waters and shoreline offer a myriad of bays and lagoons to explore for the intrepid traveller.

Fortunately, if you search for a boat trip, you won’t be left wanting.

GOLDEN BAY Whether or not King Midas (a figure from mythology said to turn anything to gold with a single touch) actually ever went on a crazy boat party around Malta is debatable. Golden Bay's sparkling shores might pay testimony to this point, as the sun's rays cast liquid gold onto the warm sand. The baby-blue waters are an ideal location to drop anchor and do a spot of snorkelling or swimming. Malta's largest and most popular bay is a hive of activity during the summer, as locals and tourists alike flock to these waters and the surrounding countryside buzzes with life and energy. When the sun goes down, so do the umbrellas but sizzling barbecues are lit up as the beach parties hold sway across the bay. In the nearby Riviera Bay, locally known as Għajn Tuffieħa, you can find a less crowded, albeit more romantically-inclined

GR A ND H A R BOUR For those looking to take in some of Malta's more historical sights, a boat trip around Malta's Grand Harbour is the way to go. Taking in sights of Valletta, Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, this is an unrivalled way of recognising the vast formidable fortifications and eventful history of the island. Be sure to keep a weather eye out for the emerald-green Barrakka Gardens, where cannons stand guard along the bastions, and Rinella Bay, the only sandy beach in the location of the Grand Harbour. The Grand Harbour Marina, found in Vittoriosa, houses luxury boats hailing from international waters and can be a good place to berth and admire the boating scene.

DW EJR A BAY Gozo's beautiful Dwejra Bay should definitely be on your list of places to anchor for a relaxing time. The small, contained coves are no more than a stone's throw from the towering Fungus Rock Formation, decorated by dramatic cliffs. Across the bay you may once again find the traditional Maltese fishermen's boats (luzzu), as the waters of the bay trickle into the sea through a long, dark

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little cave. The pool of Dwejra Bay makes for a safe and fun place to swim, just like a pool but without the chlorine. Not to mention an underwater world of wonder for snorkelling just outside the mouth of the cave,rated as one of the best diving sites the Maltese Islands have to offer.

COMINO Snugly nestled between its two larger neighbouring islands, the little gem that is Comino needs no introduction to the seasoned sailor or yachtsman. A favourite spot for bathers, surfers, and divers, Comino boasts the Blue Lagoon, whose impressive crystalline waters are just begging to be accommodated by flippers and surfboards. When searching for port, look no further than a short trip around the other side of the island, where the picturesque bay of Santa Maria offers a safe haven and a less crowded scene for dropping anchor.

This little cove also gives you a splendid view of the secluded Santa Maria Caves and the imposing Santa Maria Tower, built in the 17th century and dating back to the time of the Knights.

Part of:

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HOT SPOT

October Ahoy

PLEASURES AND TREASURES ABOUND AT VALLETTA WATERFRONT Browse the shopping outlets for interesting gifts including local trinkets – from ceramics, mouth-blown glass, jewellery, to that book you’ve been meaning to buy and more.

Every Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon during October there will be a mix of music, stalls, giveaways and fun educational games for all including lifesize battle ship, mini boat races, ring toss and more. Little guests can also enjoy free activities such as balloon modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouringins, meet & greets with all-time favourite characters, puppet shows, bouncy castles and more.

Spooky maritime fun is expected during the last weekend of October in time for Halloween. The little ones will have the opportunity for trick and treating amidst the spooky décor and roaming children’s animation.

For more information visit www.vallettawaterfront.com/octoberahoy

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oin in the seafaring, corsair-themed month of free activities. Enjoy quality time with family, friends and other rowdy swashbucklers against a backdrop of historic bastions, fortifications and the sea.

The Valletta Waterfront combines food, retail and entertainment within a maritime hub, which for the past years has proved to be a highly popular destination.

The small chapel of the Flight to Egypt by the Holy Family further creates a unique ‘village’ ambience.

October’s balmy weather is perfect for a stroll along the promenade by the water’s edge. For those in search of a relaxing time with good food and entertainment, the Valletta Waterfront’s many restaurants and bars present a variety of

ARRIVING TO THE VALLETTA WATERFRONT DESTINATION

offerings catering for different tastes. The establishments’ indoor dining areas are situated inside the tastefully refurbished, historical stores, originally constructed

by Grand Master Pinto in 1752. Today, ushering in a modern era, the iconic doors have been revived with an artistic impression of colour, representing the storage of goods from days past: blue for fish, green for produce, yellow for wheat and red for wine.

An exquisite place at any time of the day - relax with a coffee in the morning watching the small boats bobbing along, occasionally the bigger cruise ships with their bustling activity; a bite to eat at lunchtime; or a lovely meal of whatever takes your fancy at sundown, with magnificent views of the historic Grand Harbour.

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Valletta circular bus (133) from the main bus terminal.

Valletta Waterfront features on most hop-on hop-off buses’ routes.

You will be dropped off a few metres away.

The Upper Barrakka panoramic lift. It is also possible to combine the ticket for the lift with the ferry crossing across the Grand Harbour to or from The Three Cities.

Electric cabs are available from just outside Valletta.

Taxis to the Valletta Waterfront are available to and from your accommodation.

Parking is also convenient. One may park on the quays starting from €3.00, in the Atrium parking located in the middle of the promenade, or free of charge on the road itself.

Berthing space for your boat is available at Laguna Marina on request.

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PROPERT Y

8 REASONS TO BUY GOZO PROPERT Y IN 2017

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ozo’s strengths lie in what sets it apart - stunning natural beauty, an unspoilt traditional lifestyle, and a distinctively relaxed pace. From the opera to the ancient temples, there’s always something to do in Gozo.

MANY LOCATIONS FOR FOREIGNERS TO CHOOSE FROM Foreigners are crazy about Gozo, undoubtedly due to its incredible beauty. Those wishing to purchase property here have plenty of options and can benefit from a variety of Special Development Areas, where no permit is necessary to purchase property.

YOU R CHOICE OF L IF ES T Y L E Looking for something quiet and picturesque? Or something in the buzzing capital of Victoria? Seaside or country? Gozo has it all.

GR E AT VA LU E FOR MON E Y Where else could you find a 3 bedroom apartment with pool access and incredible views for under €100,000?

S U M MER HOME Many Maltese (and foreigners) purchase their holiday home in Gozo, where they stay during the summer months. This is a great option as owners can rent out the property when they’re not there and enjoy the incredible beaches and relaxed summer life in Gozo.

R E T IR EMEN T HOT SPOT Just like the mainland, Gozo attracts its fair share of foreign retirees. It’s not difficult to see why Gozo has captured the hearts of the British as an ideal retirement location.

S A F E A S HOUSES Mainlanders sometimes joke about Gozo being so laid-back that residents leave their keys hanging from the front door.

We’re not sure if this is strictly fact or a bit of whimsy, but Gozo is definitely a pinnacle of safety.

SPECI A L IS T GU IDA NCE Gozo residents prefer to be known as Gozitans rather than Maltese because Gozo is an island in its own right with its

2% TA X BEN EF I T The Maltese government is offering a limited time tax reduction from 5% down to 2%. This applies to those purchasing residential property in Gozo by the end of 2018.

own identity. For this reason, when purchasing property in Gozo you should go directly to the experts. Only Gozitan property consultants will be able to give you an authentic first-hand description of the different localities.

There is so much variety to choose from when looking at property in Gozo. For friendly guidance, get in touch with Dhalia’s Gozo team by calling David on 00356 2155 1984, or emailing vic@dhalia.com.

...CONTACT LUQA TOWER...

AIR TRAVEL TODAY HAS BECOME A REGULAR ACTIVITY IN OUR LIVES. WE PASS THROUGH AIR TERMINALS, USE RUNWAYS, TRAVEL ON AIRLINERS. THAT IS TAKEN FOR GRANTED. NEVERTHELESS, THERE IS ANOTHER ACTIVITY BEHIND YOUR EFFICIENT TRAVEL; AIR NAVIGATION SERVICES PROVISION OR, AS POPULARLY KNOWN, AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL.

Malta Air Traffic Services (MATS) is the air navigation service provider for the Maltese islands; taking care of every aircraft landing, in and taking off from Malta, as well as flying over the Maltese airspace. As its counterparts in Europe, MATS falls under European Union norms and conforms to International Civil Aviation Standards and Recommended Practices.

Air Traffic Control is a definition of the past. Through the Single European Sky, the industry talks now of Air Traffic Management (ATM). We constantly discuss better ways to serve the airspace users; through direct routings, optimum slots through a coordinated network, high investments in communication, navigation and surveillance equipment, as well as human resources.

TaCo is one of the projects whereby MATS is collaborating in research with two other European organisations, Deep Blue (Italy) and ENAC (France), with the aim of increasing efficiency and providing benefits to airports - leading to cost savings which can be passed back to passengers. Furthermore the project aims to improve Environmental Performance and Airport Capacity.

Thanks to the Single European Sky ATM Research - Joint Undertaking (SESAR JU), MATS has the opportunity to contribute towards the change that the ATM industry is delivering in the quest of optimising the already efficient air traffic service.

MINIMIZE FUEL CONSUMPTION/CO2 | MINIMISE NOISE | MAXIMISE CAPACITY

For further information follow www.tacoproject.eu This project has received funding from the SESAR Joint Undertaking under grant agreement no 699382 under European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation program © – 2016

Beautiful Nights WORDS BY Helene Raine

S

it at After a day of bright summer sun, the cool onset of evening is a blissful time in Malta. This is the moment to unpack a gourmet picnic on the cliffs or go on a star-gazing adventure at a remote spot in the islands.

Here’s where we like to spend some quiet time gazing at the heavens after the sun has gone down.

UPPER BARR AKK A GARDENS These Valletta Gardens sit atop a bastion built in 1560 by the Knights of Malta. They are perched at the highest point of the encircling city walls and were used by the Knights from the Auberge d'Italie for recreation. The Gardens are perhaps at their best when the sun gives way to twilight, the heat of the day starts to dissipate from the terrace paving stones and the limestone arches of an ancient colonnade are artfully illuminated. The view at night is a spectacular panoramic of twinkling lights over the historic Grand Harbour and the Three Cities; if you’re lucky, you’ll catch some fireworks going off to add to the magic.

Upper Barrakka is reached by lift or stairs from the Grand Harbour Waterfront or you can choose to walk in from the entrance located near the Malta Stock Exchange.

GĦAJN TUFFIEĦA One of the wilder beaches on the islands, Għajn Tuffieħa is a stretch of honeycoloured sand that sits in a wine-glass shaped hollow between two rocky escarpments. The sun sets over the water here, hovering above the horizon for a few seconds before plunging into the sea. If you’re a strong swimmer, it’s a beautiful time to swim out to the safety buoys in the last rays of daylight; the water is wonderfully warm in summer. Otherwise, find a good spot on the beach and watch while the sunset ignites the sky. The surrounding slopes have been replanted with native vegetation by Project Gaia; you might smell the captivating scent of Wild Thyme, honeysuckle or rosemary on the night air.

The beach is in the north-west of Malta, just past the village of Manikata. There

is a car park at the top and access is via a long flight of steps.

RDUM TAL-MADONNA Star-gazers should head to these dramatic cliffs to find one of the darkest places in Malta. This peninsula has escaped much of the light pollution on the islands and on a clear night, the stars blaze. Bring a blanket, find a comfortable spot and lie back, like our forefathers, to look for patterns in the sky. You’re surrounded by garigue here, the rocky, coastal habitat that is home to many of Malta’s native plants, and far below, you’ll hear the crash of the sea on the boulder scree where parts of the cliff have tumbled down over time. There’s also a little chapel where you can light a candle.

The darkness has also made this area a stronghold for one of Malta’s more cryptic inhabitants, the Yelkouan Shearwater.

During the breeding season (October to July), these seabirds return to the cliffs to find a nest, mate and rear their young deep in rocky burrows – their eerie, braying calls ring out during that time.

COMINO Comino is a very special place and if you get the chance to spend a night at the hotel, you should take it. The island is car-free (save a handful of vehicles belonging to the resident farmer and the hotel), and once the day-trippers go home, the only sounds are the rush of a wave or the call of a bird. The Blue Lagoon is blissful in the evening, free of crowds and with the sun setting behind Cominotto over the Gozo Channel. You can also walk the coastal path from the hotel to Santa Maria Bay and enjoy the evening on the beach, with the gauzy lights of Gozo before you.

R AMLA BAY, GOZO The terracotta sand at Ramla seems to glow even brighter at sunset – it’s the perfect time for a walk on this broad, beautiful beach. There’s little development here and the beach is backed by pretty dunes, where several rare plants grow. Beneath the sands of time, the remains of a Roman villa lie hidden – it was excavated in 1910 then reburied for protection - and in the bay, there’s an underwater wall that was built by the Knights to keep out invaders. As night starts to fall, you’ll have the place almost to yourself, just like the Greek hero Odysseus, who, legend has it, was detained or seduced (take your pick) by the sea nymph Calypso and spent long years in a cave overlooking Ramla. Take an evening picnic, stretch out on the sand to look at the stars and think about the many cultures that have called this island home over the millennia.

There are regular ferry boats to Comino from Ċirkewwa; the Comino Hotel has its own boat service.

Get to Ramla Bay from Xagħra (a 40-minute walk or short drive) or from the village of Nadur.

The cliffs are in the north-east of Malta; drive past Mellieħa and Għadira Beach then take a right down the L’Aħrax Peninsula. Park at the very end and then walk onto the cliffs (be extra cautious so as not to get too close to the edge in the dark).

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LOCAL

TA L K O F T H E T O W N With so many cities, towns and villages on our little Islands, it’s hard to decide what to see and where to go. Throughout the year we’ll be highlighting our top locations for the season. This month it's Rabat.

S T AG ATHA’ S C ATACOMBS A hidden gem that is often forgotten if not unheard of in Rabat is St Agatha’s Catacomb Complex. Dating back to the 2nd or 3rd Century AD, the complex of catacombs is found underground as most burial sites in the Paleo Christian era were hidden away from the rulers of the time.

ALLE Y WAYS Walking through the older parts of Rabat takes you through alleyways where little bars, cafés and restaurants can be frequented.

Apart from the entertainment elements that make for a quiet evening, many residential areas are situated in alleys where small townhouses can be found.

MIĠ R A L-FERĦA Miġra l-Ferħa is located near Mtaħleb chapel by the sea coast. A little bit difficult to locate but an adventure in itself, the winding roads that take you down to the rocky terrain and never ending views of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Ideal as a picnic spot where an unimaginable panoramic view captures your full attention.

WIGNACOURT MUSEUM The Collegiate Museum of Wignacourt is a gem in the heart of Rabat, the home of some of Malta’s most prestigious artists such as Mattia Preti, Antoine Favray and Francesco Zahra. The museum was previously home to the Chaplains of the Knights of St John.

DOMUS ROM ANA The Domus Romana found on the border between Rabat and Mdina features the remains of a Roman Town House that was discovered in 1881, accidentally.

This discovery led us to find the most intricate mosaic as well as artefacts that survived for centuries.

LOCAL

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S TEPHANIE BORG S TUDIO BOUTIQUE CHADWICK L AKES

C A SA BERNARD

Chadwick Lakes is an area situated on the outskirts of Rabat and limits of Mtarfa and is ideal for a great picnic spot or casual Sunday stroll. The complex water system drains into a nearby valley called Speranza Valley and then into Salina Bay, eventually finding its way into the sea.

This 16th century palazzo served as a private family home in its time but due to its luxurious architecture and rich historical value was turned into a prominent cultural attraction. Casa Bernard evolved from its medieval features to a double-fronted palazzo with Baroque elements added in the 16th century.

Found in a typical Rabat street, this vibrant Studio Boutique is a treasure throve of Malta-inspired art. The artist has brought to life various culture scenes, colours and patterns as ink drawings, prints, ceramic mugs, espresso sets, cork coasters and placemats, loose leaf tea and fine paper items, amongst others. Open 4-7pm Tuesdays & Thursdays. www.stephanieborg.com stephanie@stephanieborg.com + 356 99161469

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ISL AND HIGHLIGHTS Despite its diminutive size, the Maltese archipelago is bursting with historic sites, idyllic spots, culture and tradition. The Maltese Islands are like nowhere else. Here you’ll find fossil-studded geo formations, prehistoric temples, intriguing diving opportunities, and a richly woven history of remarkable intensity. Here’s a handy guide on what to look out for during your stay.

VALLETTA, MALTA Colloquially known as Il-Belt, Valletta is the capital city of Malta that was built during the rule of the Knights of St John. The baroque city is speckled with neo-classical and modern architecture and has been declared Europe’s Culture Capital 2018.

THE RED TOWER, MELLIEĦA MALTA Fort St Agatha, more commonly known as The Red Tower due to its brightly coloured walls, was built in the middle of the 17 th century and served as a bastion watchtower in its day. It is also the sixth addition to the Lascaris towers.

ĊITTADELL A , GOZO This small fortified city is also known as the Citadel and can be found in the heart of Victoria in Gozo. With all its fortifications, including the medieval epicentre intact, this historic area hosts a number of prime locations which are a must-see on your Gozo trip.

MDINA, MALTA Formerly known as Città Notabile, this fortified medieval beauty served as the island’s capital until 1530. Known as the Silent City since its streets are mainly used by pedestrians, the narrow streets give an interesting mix of baroque and Norman architecture – some of which are private homes till today.

PACEVILLE, ST JULIAN’S Swarming with clubs and bars, Paceville is the party area that will have you dancing till the early hours of the morning. If you’d rather a more relaxed evening, then a pub or restaurant in the area could even hit the spot.

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ETHICS

ETHICS

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The Road We'd Rather Travel WORDS BY agara Foundation

H

ave you ever experienced that feeling of anxiety, say when you’re walking around in an unfamiliar area knowing that at some point or other you’ll need to ask complete strangers for directions to get your bearings right? As commuters, you probably have.

And you would also know that it’s completely natural to feel anxious when asking the simplest, most basic questions. The reasons could be many, but perhaps, they ultimately trickle down to the fact that it denies us what we really want to believe – that we are in control. It slaps us conscious of our vulnerable situation in which we have to trust others to save us the time from going around in pointless circles, sometimes literally.

The only instance in which we are in control - when curiosity emerges from the dark inner core of the lost and afraid - is in our decision to ask, to question the decisions we make and the steps we take.

So, we’ve asked two of our volunteers on what led them to renounce this sort of control and comfort in choosing their travel destinations over the past two summer seasons to spend their time and money on places no one really wants to go, and with people they didn’t quite know: Giulia Privitelli, volunteer in Dunkirk and Calais refugee camp (now demolished), 2016

It seemed then, that distance, ironically, was required to bridge the gap between what I thought and what was. Sure, we went with our own ideas on how to reduce this ‘distance’ by imparting useful computer and communication skills to some unnamed asylum-seekers, but it turned out to be a bridge composed of people, a solid 9000 individuals of different ethnic backgrounds, that made it possible. And it was miles away from the steady stream of easily accessible news articles, Facebook posts, tweets and a general feeling of pity, that we are all too often fed with.

Indeed, it brought into question the all-too-famous us and them paradigm – this inherited human error that we inevitably keep repeating over and over again. Us and them.

We are going to meet them. We are going there to help them.

They are looking for a better future. We can help them find it. And so on and so forth. There’s this invisible wall between us, constructed out of stubborn blocks of perceptions, beliefs and judgements, and the more information we glean from the news, the sturdier this wall gets. It might very well be the highest wall we have yet to climb or, better still, bring down.

Voluntary work, I should think, could bring us one step closer to doing both.

Paul Asciak, volunteer in Chtoura and Majdal Anjar camp, Lebanon, 2017

As positively as voluntary work is often considered to be, I’ve always felt that there’s a mysterious exotic pull to volunteering abroad, especially for first-timers. Perhaps, it’s the result of this thick, opaque veil that shrouds and plunges everything into the unknown. It puts misleading thoughts in our head that, perhaps, we need to be braver, more selfless, more committed individuals who are ready to go “beyond” the borders of safety and comfort. “How truly generous and selfless”, one would initially think.

Back in January 2017, I was standing at a crossroads, my head swinging between left and right.

• Option 'Right' – up a hill towards a voluntary experience spent with a group of 7 volunteers (whom I have never met before) from agara Foundation in Lebanon; • Option 'Left' – walk along a sunlit summery road spent just like the rest of my other summers... Beach, BBQs, parties and maybe a leisure trip somewhere in Europe.

But following the voluntary experience, I’ve been convinced of otherwise. The pull towards Dunkirk and Calais was not truly connected to voluntary work at all. It was actually, if I may, quite selfish, stemming precisely from the oncesubconscious-desire to be humbled: by the place, the people, their situation and my utter helplessness. Away from Malta, my family and close friends; away from the stability of studies and work, routine and the comfort of familiar sights and sounds; and distant from those self-obsessive thoughts on the prospects of my future.

Many head swings later, I ultimately chose option right, or rather, the right option. There were two main reasons which propelled me in opting to go to Lebanon; firstly, I sought a new challenge in life where I wanted to "tear borders" apart (literally the motto of our experience) by getting out of the safe haven which Malta provides and experiencing first-hand what it might mean to live in Lebanon both as a citizen and as a Syrian refugee. Secondly, I felt very fortunate about the way life was treating me with all the simple blessings of a united family, physical health, a stable job, a car loan which was at

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ETHICS

I initially went there with the aim of sharing my time and knowledge with others but have only received in return. In a surprising twist of fate, it was as if receiving was truly the prerequisite to giving long last paid off, and the list goes on.

Thus, I thought, it would be good to express some form of appreciation by sharing two weeks of my time with people who could be in need.

Our missionary experience involved empowering a group of students using twenty laptops which were obtained either through funding or through individual personnel and companies who gratuitously donated their second-hand laptops for reuse.

With the use of these laptops we delivered a programme of basic and advanced lessons ranging from topics on "Building a CV", "Photoshop Skills", "Advanced Excel", among others. Yet, as is the nature of such experiences, I

ended up receiving more than anything I gave. The profound, unexplainable fulfillment I experienced whilst observing the concentrated faces of the students during the lessons was well worth the travelling distance and costs.

One student movingly summed this up at the end of the course in a few simple words: "Thank you Paul. Thank you for coming here to Lebanon with your own money, spending your time here with us while sharing your friendship." It is difficult to forget words such as these, much more than it is to remember the places we visit when on holiday!

Sixteen days, eight volunteers, four flights - what a journey this has been, and I’ve much to thank for this experience. I initially went there

with the aim of sharing my time and knowledge with others but have only received in return. In a surprising twist of fate, it was as if receiving was truly the prerequisite to giving. But most of all it opened the doors to this excitingly unpredictable road of voluntary work – a road which I look forward to walking along again in the future.

agara Foundation is a Maltese voluntary organisation whose aim is to ‘walk together’ with different communities and individuals all over the world, and to empower them in their respective environments. Get in touch on info@agarafoundation.org

Go Beyond Ordinary

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LOCAL SPECIALITIES

OCTOBER STILL GREAT FOR SWIMMING AND AN ABUNDANCE OF FRESH FISH.

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O 02.

ctober is the month when the long hot summer “officially” comes to an end, the weather cools somewhat and children go back to school. Families with holiday homes close to the sea have closed up and the beaches are far less busy and certainly quieter. This does not mean that the swimming season is over, or that fishing boats are put ashore. The sea temperature is perfect, hovering around 23 degrees, with the air temperature averaging 25 degrees.

This may be the perfect time of the year for a quiet, more leisurely visit to Malta with great swimming and boating options along with town and country sightseeing.

For October visitors the good news is that the Lampuki season is still going

strong and although catches may be less abundant, many restaurants still offer this very “Maltese” fish on their menus. Cuttle fish and calamari are also in season, the former, the source of the delicious al nero – black – pasta and risotto dishes.

Malta boasts many fine fish restaurants of which the newest is possibly Pexxi, in St Julian's. Pexxi with its pretty outdoor terrace on the water’s edge in Spinola Bay offers an interesting menu with flavours from around the Mediterranean. The pesci crudi – raw, cured fish - include marinated red prawns, a swordfish carpaccio and a tuna tartare. The fritti - battered and deep fried – are shrimps, whitebait and baby squid. Linguine con Calamari e Guanciale – squid and cheek bacon – or con Ricci e Gamberi – sea urchin

LOCAL SPECIALITIES

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03.

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roe and prawns - fight it out for the top spot on this “spoilt for choice” menu. Fresh, really fresh fish, much of which comes off the fishermen’s boats literally metres away from the restaurant, is displayed in a large chest of crushed ice and the variety can be as many as eight or ten on any given day. This is grilled or baked under a thick layer of salt, al sale. Stormy weather could mean a depleted choice of fish, but not to worry as the Tagine Samak – Morrocan fish dish – flavoured with aromatic spices and preserved lemon, always on the menu, is a piece de resistance. Enjoy the pleasure of Malta's pristine sea with a day at the beach and dinner at Pexxi.

01. Pexxi Chefs, showing off the catch of the day picked off the fishing boat.

02. Swordfish Carpaccio dressed with a citrus dressing, orange, caper, and fresh wild fennel leaves 03. Crudo di Gamberi 04. Tagine Samak

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W E AT H E R

TUCK ME IN WHEN SEPTEMBER ENDS WORDS BY Wayne Flask

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or most of those who can’t wait for the ides of June, the 16th August often marks the beginning of the end – of summer.

Suddenly, the spectre of September and its few, mildly cloudy days, or that first dampener of a storm starts looming all over those who somehow still feel like schoolchildren who literally live for the sunny season. For some reason, the S-month still conjures dreary images of the back to school nightmare, where there’s a list of books to be bought, the ordeal of stationery requirements, a school uniform that might need a few sartorial updates and – the biggest worry of them all – the prospect of losing the essential liberty of waking up late because of a school van waiting to pick you up at an ungodly hour – say, 7am.

Bittersweet school nostalgia aside, our sunny island does seem to calm down after September kicks in. Those who unfathomably hate the summer heat (because it’s been hot even before the invention of Facebook), will invariably feel much more tranquil as the temperatures go down by a notch or two. Not only does it become a bit more “bearable” in terms of weather, but the rush at beaches and resorts also seems to subside a little until it reaches a plateau in October.

Does Malta hibernate? No, it doesn’t – not at all. As the 2018 Capital of Culture looms onto Valletta, there is no

During Notte Bianca, the Capital City is up all night with a number of events and stages set up to provide a truly unique atmosphere lack of entertainment options thanks to Notte Bianca, a now-recurring, highly successful crowd-puller held at the beginning of October. During Notte Bianca, the Capital City is up all night with a number of events and stages set up to provide a truly unique atmosphere: from theatre to alternative music to museums open at night, this event is now in its 11th edition and kicks off Malta’s cultural season.

What’s more, if you hate going out (how could you?) there’s plenty of entertainment on TV, with the football season returning to keep many of us Maltese occupied through endless, quasi-philosophical discussions about Man United’s 4-3-3 or Milan’s immoralbut-needed spending spree. Those who

get bored watching football from home (again, how could you?) always have the option of visiting one of the hundreds of sports bars in Malta, where the philosophy multiplier tends to be close to a Descartes essay.

It’s not all doom and gloom. While most of us will miss summer – the season for beaches and cold beer, for those who prefer sun creams to suntan will, without a doubt, look forward to the autumn “chill”.

Which leaves us with the schoolkid – for whom there seems to be no cover from uniforms, books, and the nightmarish appearance of the school van. Hold on, Christmas hols are around the corner.

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OPENING HOURS: 9.30am - 7.00pm (Open All Day) Closed Saturday and Sundays

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BUSINESS NEWS

TRAVEL ACROSS MALTA BY BUS Whilst sitting comfortably in your airline seat you might be pondering on how to visit the various historical sights and places of interest that enrich the Maltese Islands. An easy and convenient option would be to use the services provided by Malta Public Transport.

The helpful agents at the new Malta Public Transport sales office will be ready to answer your queries and provide the necessary information as soon as you step into the Arrivals Lounge at Malta International Airport. A range of travel cards are available from this outlet, which is open seven days a week. Details as regards the other sales offices can be found by visiting publictransport.com.mt.

If you are planning to explore the islands by bus, then the new ExplorePlus card gives you great value. This card offers flexible intermodal transport options. Apart from seven days of unlimited travel on Malta Public Transport buses in Malta and Gozo, you can also choose between one full day of travel on a Citysightseeing hop-on, hop-off bus in Malta or a return boat trip to the beautiful island of Comino. Moreover, the ExplorePlus card also includes two trips on board the Valletta ferry that operates to and from Sliema and the Three Cities.

buses, that come equipped with spacious luggage racks and usb chargers whilst free wi-fi is soon to be introduced on most vehicles. 4 dedicated airport routes, denoted with an “X”, are also at your immediate disposal. These have limited stops and provide quick travel to different areas of the island. Running till the end of October is the Tallinja Direct; an innovative network of routes that provides customers with faster transport to some of Malta’s busiest destinations.

Are you a meticulous planner but might be initially thrown aback by the new surroundings? Fret not since journeys can easily be planned thanks to our mobile app that also allows for quick viewing of both transaction and travel history. We suggest that you commence your journey by boarding one of our airport

Malta Public Transport is constantly striving to provide easy-to-use products and services with the aim of satisfying the transportrelated needs of Maltese citizens and foreign visitors. Whilst welcoming you to our island, we also hope to be an intergral part of your stay in Malta.

AN INSIGHT INTO BOV WEALTH MANAGEMENT Investments - we hear about them, read about them but we rarely ever delve into what goes on behind the scenes and who is rolling up their sleeves to make clients’ money work harder.

Bank of Valletta’s foremost investment arm, BOV Wealth Management, specialises in private banking and wealth management services to the Bank’s high net-worth customers and their connected corporate businesses and fiduciaries.

Indeed, being part of the extensive BOV Group enables BOV Wealth Management to offer a holistic and all-encompassing private banking and wealth management service.

Our Wealth Management team can also rely on an in-house team of specialists whose focus is purely related to researching investment opportunities and focusing on specific investor solutions. The advantages of having an internal function performing these very focused functions is independent and tailored, bespoke solutions in order to achieve the best outcomes for our customers in a fast and efficient manner.

Whether you are highly conservative, prefer to completely delegate the responsibility of portfolio management or would like to remain active in investment decisions, our Wealth Management team can propose personalised banking and investment management solutions to meet your current exigencies and prepare for future needs.

Feel free to contact us by email on infowealth@bov.com. Our offices may also be found within the BOV Centre in Triq ilKanun, Santa Venera.

Bank of Valletta p.l.c. is a public limited company licensed to carry out the business of banking and investment services in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta) and the Investment Services Act (Cap. 370 of the Laws of Malta). Registered Office: 58, Triq San Zakkarija, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1130-Malta Registration Number: C 2833

BUSINESS NEWS

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Cisk Pilsner voted World’s Best in World Beer Awards 2017

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isk Pilsner, brewed by the Farsons brewery, has been voted the World’s Best Czech Style Pale Lager in the World Beer Awards 2017 at a judging event held in London last August. In winning this prestigious award, Cisk Pilsner beat 18 other countries, including the Czech Republic itself.

Originally brewed by Farsons Brewery in the late 1940s, Cisk Pilsner was relaunched last year and has already garnered a number of international awards in just 12 months. Cisk Pilsner is a premium Pilsner combining a tradition of brewing excellence and passion with the finest quality Pilsen malt and Noble hops of the Saaz variety. Cool, crisp and immensely satisfying, with an alcohol content of 5.5%, Cisk Pilsner offers the discerning beer connoisseur a remarkably crisp and well-hopped flavour with a rich white head, a delicate bitterness and a superior aroma originating from the rich essential oils present in the Noble hops.

“This latest award is a significant and major achievement for Cisk Pilsner and a wonderful tribute to the brewing team. We are extremely proud of our heritage and tradition as well as our unwavering commitment to the highest brewing standards, using only choicest raw materials and applying strict quality standards, and this has once more given us results to be proud of,” said Mr Martin Polidano, Head Brewer at Farsons Brewery.

Presented by TheDrinksReport.com, the world’s no.1 online resource for drinks professionals, the World Beer Awards are global awards that select the very best in all the international recognised beer styles, and award and promote the world’s best beers to consumers and trade across the globe.

The process leading up to the announcement of the final results is extensive and involves an international and highly respected judging panel identifying the best beers in each of the 72 styles. Over 1,900 beers from more than 36 countries entered this year’s awards. All entries are blind tasted by an international panel of experts with heats in Canada, Japan, UK and USA. Each heat has its own chair who acts under the guidance of World Beer Awards world chair, Adrian Tierney-Jones, who commented, “The winners in this year’s World Beer Awards demonstrate that the global beer revolution is not going to go away any time soon. We have winners from the traditional brewing countries of Belgium and Germany, while the brewing powerhouse that is North America is also represented.”

Ms Susan Weenink Camilleri, Head of Marketing and Communications, commented, “We are proud of the results achieved in these global and highly regarded competitions. These global awards further emphasise the world class quality of our beers and boost awareness both among our loyal Maltese consumers and beyond our shores.”

Cisk Pilsner is the premium beer in the Cisk portfolio which is spearheaded by the award-winning Cisk Lager and also includes Cisk Excel, Cisk Export, Cisk Strong and the Cisk Chill range.

All beers are brewed, distributed and marketed by the Farsons brewery

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FICTION

The Protector WORDS BY TCD

FICTION

Her voice was like a tiny feather floating around in the sky

D

own a pretty little lane, just opposite St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat, lived an equally pretty girl named Agatha. Her skin as soft as silk and hair as dark as the night sky. Turning fifteen at the end of the month, she had her father’s good looks and her mother’s thirst for knowledge. Rarely seen without a book in hand, her favourite thing to do was to roam the streets of her village looking for new and interesting spots to discover.

Saturday mornings, while all the kids her age were out enjoying the weekend, she preferred to tiptoe down the grand staircase of her new family townhouse, hoping not to get caught, and make her way to her favourite room in the house. She would quietly open the old creaky door and continue descending until she felt the heavy air of the house’s basement, trying to enter her lungs.

stranger, the photo was black and white and looked like a 19th century image.

With so many questions twirling around in her head, she placed the photo in her pocket, grabbed her books and hurried upstairs. Maybe her father would know something about this photograph.

Agatha, almost out of breath from carrying all the books, ran into the kitchen to find her father sitting with a beautiful woman. A woman in a white dress, with pink ribbons in her hair - she looked like the little girl in the picture but all grown up. She had kind eyes and perfectly white skin.

“Who are you?” Agatha asked.

This is where Agatha felt most at ease. There was something about this room, which was so far underground, that made the walls feel constantly wet. It was also the largest room in the house.

“I’m Perri. Don’t you recognise me?” the woman in the white dress replied.

Agatha had been trying to research the history of the big, old townhouse she lived in for the past three months.

With books scattered across the floor, this is where she’d spent most of her time.

“But dad, who is she?” Agatha asked, “And where are we going?”

On this particular day, while tidying up and putting all her books away, something caught her eye. Under the old staircase, wedged behind some rusty tins of paint, the corner of a book poked out curiously. Excitedly, she pulled it out and noticed that it was just another one of her mother’s photo albums. It must have fallen out of the boxes when they were unpacking.

At that same moment, Perri got off her chair, walked over to Agatha, placed her hand on her shoulder and whispered softly in her ear.

Thinking nothing more of it, she continued stacking up her books neatly on her make-do bookcase, when she heard a loud noise behind her. Agatha jumped and quickly turned around.

“Silly photo album,” she muttered to herself.

Somehow, Agatha understood. This must be her protector.

Someone to watch over her. She had many questions for Perri who answered them all. Over the next 60 years, Perri has never left Agatha’s side. She doesn’t see her often but she knows Perri is always by her side.

As she bent down to reach for the album she noticed a strange photograph, one she had never seen before. It was of herself at around the age of ten. Dressed in white with a pink ribbon in her hair, something was very strange though.

Agatha had no recollection of having this photo taken. Even

We all have someone looking over us. Someone resting their hand upon our shoulder. Some people call them spirits, energy, saints or angels. Others call them friends, family and loved ones. Agatha called hers Perri, the woman with the kind eyes and feathery voice.

“Agatha, grab your bags it’s time to go,” her father ordered.

“Aggie, what are you talking about? Stop playing games.

There’s no one here.”

“Only you can see me, my darling. I have always been by your side, and I will always protect you.” Her voice was like a tiny feather floating around in the sky.

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ART

M I N I M A L I ST M A LTA ICONIC MALTESE STAPLES THROUGH THE EYES OF THE TE FIT-TAZZA TEAM WORDS BY Christine Spiteri

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ynamic duo Andrew Farrugia and Craig Macdonald translate symbols of our archipelago’s eclectic culture and unique identity in their one-year old project, Te fit-Tazza. Their contemporary pieces of art set out to document iconic elements of Malta.

“All of our prints celebrate the island’s charm, but some in particular, add a dose of nostalgia,” Craig says. “Our aim was to capture and document these attributes in the form of minimalist depictions. Taking away as much detail from our subjects as is possible, while keeping the subject instantly recognisable.”

In their first series, Te fit-Tazza takes us on a visual trip around the island’s intriguing landscape: NORTHER N TOUR: MELLIEĦ A TOR R I L-A ĦM A R Majestically perched on top of a hill, the Red Tower - built in 1647 by the Order of St John to strengthen northern coastal defences - is an iconic part of the northern landscape, famous for surrounding country walks as well as its history.

Artist’s note: “This print comes with a lot of unforgettable childhood memories that we can treasure for years to come.

As a watchtower, it is definitely the most iconic on the island: its colour and the aesthetic of this unique tower tie in as an illustration, lending perfectly to the beauty that we try to capture in our prints.”

GOZO TOUR: QBAJJA R & W IED IL-GĦ A SR I QBAJJA R During the sweltering summer months, one can witness locals scraping up the salt-crystals in what is a centuryold Gozitan tradition of sea-salt production, passed down families, for many generations. The scenic salt-pans stretch about 3km along the north coast of Gozo, west of Marsalforn.

Artist’s note: “We’re amazed by how people interacted with this natural beauty and used this place for their salt production.

This print represents a healthy and respectful interaction between the land and her people,” Andrew says.

W IED IL-GĦ A SR I Just up the road from Qbajjar salt pans, you'll find Wied il-Għasri - a hamlet on the western part of the sister island famous for its picturesque valley. Tucked between its high cliffs, at the end of the valley, is a secluded little pebblybeach, like a natural sea-corridor, which is quite remote, but well worth the effort to get to.

Artist’s note: “We still remember the first time we walked down the narrow stairs to discover this hidden bathing spot. The way the valley flows out to sea protects it from rough seas making it one of the most peaceful gems in the Maltese archipelago.”

SOU TH TOUR: FILFL A & M A R SA X LOKK FILFL A One of the smallest islands in the archipelago, Filfla floats calmly in the middle of the Mediterranean, serving as a home to a protected ecosystem and marine species. She is best appreciated during a picturesque coastline drive from Wied iż-Żurrieq to Għar Lapsi, where one can absorb its silent beauty awash with the colours of sunset.

LUZZU BY DAY The colourful fishing boats, dating back to the Phoenicians, can be admired rocking gently at Marsaxlokk. They are now considered a symbol of Malta, lending to years of tradition and history, with the iconic eye as a protector from evil and sign of good health. If you visit on Sunday morning you can observe fishermen at work.

Artist’s note: These were the two first artworks we created.

We spent months refining the style, removing and re-adding details, until we achieved a result that was both modern and minimalist but is still local and recognisable.

ART

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THE ARTS

THE SIGHT AND SMELL OF DECADENCE WORDS BY Giulia Privitelli

"Never have things of the spirit counted for so little. Never has hatred for everything great been so manifest – disdain for beauty, execration of literature. I have always tried to live in an ivory tower, but a tide of shit is beating at its walls, threatening to undermine it.” – Gustave Flaubert

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his was Flaubert over one-and-a-half centuries ago, and his words – the “tide of shit beating at its walls,” as he puts it – still resonate and reeks profusely to this very day.

Nothing spells this out more clearly than the hundreds of looped viral videos flooding our social media networks, or that instance when a pair of glasses lying on the floor of a modern art museum was mistaken for a gallery piece. Yes, that really did happen. But the tide is so strong and high, that it truly is difficult to sensibly distinguish between artwork, what is presented as artwork, and what is really just a plain everyday mundane object. More so when the average time spent by the non-art specialist in front of an artwork amounts to no more than a minute, even if it’s a famous masterpiece (a recent study at the Louvre Museum found that visitors took an average of 15 seconds to take in the complex beauty of da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, so even one minute might be pushing it).

Quantity, simply put, has choked out quality. Yet this is not surprising and nor is it something that is only pertinent to our age. The same confusion and uncertainty was prevalent in the last two centuries when the language and aesthetics of art shifted from the familiar (largely figurative) to the unfamiliar (largely abstract) and, ironically, to the ridiculously familiar but de-contextualised object. It might here be worth recalling the episode wherein a group of masons working on the construction of Victor Pasmore’s house in Gudja (Malta), dutifully removed a few courtyard sculptures after having mistaken them for piles of unusable stones. But it is not with a condescending eye that we consider such anecdotes. Indeed, we find them funny… innocent, perhaps. Ignorance, in other words, was displaced by humour, and not only seeped into, but also oozed out of the realm of what was once exclusively reserved for intellectuals and visionaries who had something

meaningful, prophetic even, to say.

We had then, at least by the turn of the 19th century, a situation wherein the old notion of universal beauty, the ‘noble’ mission of art, and the decades of thought and artistic activity that sought to define it in permanent form, had fizzled down into a delicate modern counter-concept: the beauty of ephemerality, of brevity, and instance. Art, thus, faced (and eventually became) a new contradiction of sorts.

For the moment one replays or pins down that brief instance, wouldn’t the temporary nature of the artwork or what it represents be compromised, and therefore its intended ‘beauty’? Wouldn’t it be like capturing the sublimity of a single note or sound, and repeating it obsessively until it is completely devalued, or its original value transformed? How different is this from the machine-made product that emerges atop an endlessly rotating conveyer belt? The questions go on, but in most instances, they travel along a common route: the degradation of what we thought we knew about art. In other words, decadence.

And so, an impossibly complete, conscious and clean cut with the past was necessary if this new modern counter-concept of transitoriness was to stand for what it claimed. But, alas, here we must again walk into dangerously ambiguous territory.

We find in the last two centuries (but this, truly applies to all the neat demarcations of art historical periods), artists and writers who at once wanted to move on from the clutches of the previous era, but who at the same time could not be completely free of it either. Marinetti, Beuys, James Joyce, Ezra Pound, Yeats, T.S Eliot among others, sought to distance themselves from the previous generation by the denial of the emblems that signalled a decadent era.

THE ARTS

A recent trip to the Renia Sofia museum in Madrid brought me face to face with a Picasso associated with ‘avante-garde decadence’ as well as with his apocalyptic piece, the Guernica, which in the words of Sandberg, stands out as a “pathetic symbol of the recent past and a warning for the future”.

Indeed, inevitable linear connections between generations remained, so it is not at all surprising to find the name of revolutionary artists associated with both the end and the beginning of an era. In fact, it is more likely to be the norm rather than the exception. This effort to break with the past to give room to the innovations of modernism, could thus, only be successful if the break was not merely a linear one. It had to be a conceptual and technical break, otherwise the break would only serve to lead into another kind of decadence.

What a chore though. Because even if innovation could be theoretically without precedent, even if we briefly manage to reach that ivory tower, at some point or other we will soon hear that all too familiar sound beating at its walls. The best way to prepare is to remind ourselves not to look out… and not despair.

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‘Decades of Decadence: Literature and Art in the 20th century’ is a two-part series of lectures which will be held at the Victor Pasmore Gallery in Valletta between November and December 2017.

A selection of Victor Pasmore’s creations, including drawings, reliefs, acrylic, oil and spray paintings, constructions and composite works can be viewed in the Victor Pasmore Gallery which is open to the public between Monday and Friday, 11.00am-3.00pm. Entrance is free of charge and gallery talks are provided daily at 1.00pm. The gallery is located just five minutes away from the Valletta main bus terminus, next door to the annexe of the Central Bank of Malta.

The Victor Pasmore Gallery is currently managed by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Malta, with the intention of bringing to light the importance of Pasmore and the Maltese modern art movement.

Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti is a non-profit organisation which aims to spread awareness on the islands’ extensive heritage, both locally and internationally, through museums, exhibitions and publications.

For more information about the gallery, lecture programme, workshops and other related activities, kindly visit www. victorpasmoregallery.com or get in touch with us via e-mail on info@victorpasmoregallery.com or by calling on +356 2250 3360.

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Airport | Bay Street | B’Kara | Bugibba | Għargħur | Gozo | Sliema | St Julian’s | Valletta

LOCALISMS

WATCHING YOU WATCHING ME WORDS BY Alessia Caruana

I

sit at my favourite cafĂŠ in Valletta and I watch. I watch the old man walk in with the newspaper under his arm. I watch the lawyer slyly slither to the bar where he waits for the young blonde he's not meant to be waiting for. A blue-eyed brunette takes a seat and orders a cured salmon salad while she waits for her boyfriend to walk in. I order my toast, the boyfriend walks in, but he's late and she's already eaten her salad.

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LOCALISMS

Opinions may be subjective but apparently so is our line of vision. On this island we're all journalists, and our word travels faster than the daily post.

But handle with care because junk mail exists for a reason after all

She seems angry, he doesn't seem to care, I'm intrigued.

Popcorn anyone? She catches my stare and I look down at my phone because I obviously wasn't staring at her, but we both know I was, and she probably was too.

I'm observing habits, taking note of looks and wondering whether my waiterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bringing my coffee over from Brazil, it's meant to be called an espresso for a reason for crying out loud.

I sit there and watch, espresso in hand thankfully, and watch people gossip about people they don't even know. Now that's a first. They must spend every waking moment with their subject to know so much, right? They must be best friends goes the gullible voice in my head. But they arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. They never were. They've probably never even had the opportunity to share a hello. They heard the story from someone who told someone else who then told their mother, who told their priest, who told their friend.

We really are observers, we sit, we watch, we talk. The common cold stands no chance at the rate which gossip

LOCALISMS

spreads on our tiny island. It's true, as I sit at the coffee shop, I've already probably told my friend about the lawyer I mentioned earlier, who is not meeting who he is meant to and having a drink when he probably shouldn't be. The girl finally walks in. Spotted, goes a voice in my head. Shame on you screams my moral compass. Type say my fingers. Before you know it a sordid tale of two lovers is born, a friend's been notified and suddenly everyone's talking about the lawyer and the girl, all before she's even had the chance to order a coffee. Poor thing she never stood a chance. It turns out the girl was his much younger sister. How embarrassing, let's just hope word didn't get to his wife, would hate to ruin a marriage over a foolish rumour. I mean who would spread such a thing? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all done it at some point, so slap on those handcuffs, you know you're no saint either.

I've eaten my toast and had my coffee but I've asked for the bill, so I wait. I wait long enough to notice the old man sitting beside me in the corner. He reads his novel rigorously and sips his cold bitter lemon with one dash of lemon. He then looks to me and inquires how old I am, I say 23 and he tells me about when he was my age he was already busy raising his three children with his wife whose no longer with

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us, God rest her soul. The children now live in Australia and barely visit, but he's too old to travel, and they're too busy to plan a trip. He then shows me a handful of passport- sized photos of gleaming grandchildren which he proudly pulls out of his tattered leather wallet to lovingly name each one.

Jamie, Alison, Karen, Maria and little Sam he said. His cake has arrived and my change has too. I tell him it's been a pleasure and he shakes my hand and wishes me a good day.

Here in Malta we're surrounded by helpful locals with friendly smiles, kind old men with curios stories to tell and coy women with some not so delightful stares. We see them, we speak to them and we think we know them. Know them enough to have the authority to write their story. It's a universal reality, not just a Maltese one, that your story isn't as true as the story being told about you. What people think they saw is far truer than what you know you saw and what they think they know is obviously truer than what you know you know. Complex isn't it? The art of observing? Opinions may be subjective but apparently so is our line of vision. On this island we're all journalists, and our word travels faster than the daily post. But handle with care because junk mail exists for a reason after all.

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ECONOMY

MAKE THE ECONOMY… WHAT AGAIN?

M

ake the Economy Great Again. We’ve all heard it… one of President Trump’s many infamous campaign slogans. Researched and chosen to elicit feelings of hope in people. Though he is the subject of much criticism and the butt of many jokes, Mr Trump did make us think.

Is ‘Greatness’ really going to solve our problems; some of them are as complex as climate change, huge wealth inequalities and social injustice; and all of these have an impact on each and every country on the planet.

Maybe what we need in our economy instead is more humanity.

But how do we make the economy Human again?

We start by making more responsible choices every day.

Recycling stuff, reducing our consumption, reducing waste, buying seasonal products, choosing local shops and going for fairly traded goods. However it’s not always easy to make the right choice, even if we know what it is. So why don’t we make it easy?

Kopin is giving them more exposure by bringing to you the alternatives out there, through the SUSY Map available on www.kopin.org, where social enterprises in Malta and Gozo are mapped so they can be found more easily. This map can be useful

Kopin, a Maltese NGO, has been working towards this goal in Malta, especially during the last three years now as part of the “EU SUSY-Sustainability Economy” project.

The social and solidarity economy doesn’t only benefit the planet and our conscience but also local producers and local talent, ranging from designers to bakers and candlestick makers. Many businesses in Malta are showing a great commitment to social causes in their ventures and innovative social entrepreneurs are steadily making new footprints in the sand.

for visitors and residents alike, even including sustainable, locally designed souvenirs, which, unlike most knick knacks you find in souvenirs shops, actually don’t suck.

Profit is not at the forefront of such an economy - people are.

And we want you to meet these people.

So, where better to showcase Malta’s many alternatives to mainstream consumer products than at a market fair?

On Sunday 22 October at the magical Fort St Angelo in Birgu, with a view of the magnificent Grand Harbour, Kopin invites you to explore all that which our islands have to offer in terms of social enterprise. Free arts and crafts workshops, an entertainment area for kids, a street food market with local vendors and even local farmers who will be selling wine and other products (yummy).

There will also be a local band to show off Malta’s musical talent.

Come join us on Sunday 22 October for some food and wine tasting (and a taste of some Spanish gin to mix things up a little), and get your early Christmas shopping out of the way while supporting the local Human economy.

The SUSY-Sustainability Economy Day begins at 10am and lasts until 5pm and entrance is free. You can get there by bus, or by boat from Valletta, walk the beautiful Birgu seafront until the end and discover the historic Fort St Angelo.

This Event is brought to you by Kopin and supported by the European Union, the Ministry for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, the Voices Foundation, Spaniche Wines, Nordes, The Local Council of Birgu.

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BUSINESS

MALTA'S YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS UNDER 35 AND JUST GETTING STARTED WORDS BY

Diane Brincat

I

f when you think of start-ups and entrepreneurs, all you can picture is a group of tech geeks huddled over a computer somehow making tonnes and tonnes of money with every keystroke, well then reality probably isn’t all too different from that scenario. However, not all new ventures in Malta are headed by tech wizzes – in fact, many young businesses are founded by bright entrepreneurs who have a knack for spotting gaps in the market and diving into new opportunities headfirst.

On an island where small businesses are the order of the day, from village grocers and small cafés to bespoke jewellery and glitzy boutique hotels, entrepreneurship in Malta is thriving. More specifically, Yana Azzopardi and Yasmin De Giorgio are two young entrepreneurs whose projects have taken Malta by storm.

YA NA A ZZOPA R DI – YA NA’S JEW ELLERY yanasjewellery.com | @yanasjewllery Triq Misraħ il-Barrieri, Msida Made for, and by, forward-thinking and fashion-conscious young women, Yana’s Jewellery has become synonymous with big, bold and beautiful style. Each bespoke piece is carefully crafted using large, colourful stones adorning elegantly braided straps.

Launched by Yana Azzopardi in 2013, following an exhibition in London in 2010 and two years moonlighting, designing and selling at different markets and exhibitions, Yana’s Jewellery is now officially based in Msida, with an outlet where clients are given the unique experience of customising their own piece of jewellery. Whether you’re looking to pick out your favourite colours or create a statement piece for a special occasion, Yana’s team will ensure that you leave the shop with the necklace or bracelet of your dreams.

Nowadays you’d be hard-pressed to not hear women cooing over their mutual appreciation for Yana’s work.

In fact, ask any young woman on the island about her jewellery collection and she’s bound to say that she owns at least one piece made by Yana – and that she’s got her eye on at least half a dozen other designs that she just can’t wait to get her hands on.

BUSINESS

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On an island where small businesses are the order of the day, from village grocers and small cafés to bespoke jewellery and glitzy boutique hotels, entrepreneurship in Malta is thriving

YA SMIN DE GIORGIO Over the past five years, Yasmin de Giorgio has rolled out a plan to revolutionise healthy eating and living in Malta. From stocking a food truck with delicious healthy treats to recently opening up a one-of-a-kind eco spa, Yasmin has done the unthinkable and health freaks across the islands have never been happier.

THE GR A SS Y HOPPER thegrassyhopper.com | @thegrassyhopper Triq San Ġorg, Gżira and 59, St John's Street, Valletta The Grassy Hopper is the answer to every vegetarian and vegan’s prayers. With a varied menu that offers 100% vegetarian or vegan-friendly dishes, The Grassy Hopper uses nothing but fresh and local ingredients to keep their clientele happy and healthy.

The Grassy Hopper was actually one of the first independent eateries with a veggie focus to sprout up on the islands. After launching with a food truck in 2013 and then opening cafés in Valletta and Gzira in the following years, it looks like Yasmin

has tapped into a sweet spot for locals looking for fresh and organic meals, and they just cannot get enough.

SA N YA sanyamalta.com | @sanyamalta Sanya Spa (At Hilltop Gardens) Triq L-Inkwina, Naxxar There is virtually no place like Sanya Spa anywhere on the Maltese islands. A one-stop shop for high quality living, Sanya offers everything you can think of to help maintain a nourishing lifestyle.

Sanya is a complete wellness centre that puts you, your health and your happiness at the very core of its focus. The team there will support you whether your focus is to heal, learn or go-within. Sanya offers a holisitic experience that will help you build a bridge between body and mind, whether you're taking yoga and Pilates classes at the yoga hub, relaxing and detoxing at the eco spa, receiving a naturopathic or homeopathic treatment at the clinic, or replenishing vital nutrients at the juice bar.

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RESTAURANT

& bar guide

MARSAXLOKK

TERRONE RESTAURANT, 1 Wilga Street Marsaxlokk +356 2704 2656

www.terrone.com.mt

/terrone

We could tell you about our restaurant but we think you would rather hear from our customers, so we present a small selection of headlines from recent TripAdvisor reviews since March 2017: Original flavours Amazing place – Lovely fresh seafood whilst overlooking the waterfront – A healthy south Italian restaurant – Perfect food – Very good restaurant – A thoroughly enjoyable experience. Highly recommended

by TripAdvisor so we invite you to look us up and read the details yourself. Booking recommended. Parking available outside. Short taxi ride from most locations including Sliema/St Julian’s/Valletta.

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B A R S & R E S TA U R A N T S

MDINA

DE MONDION RESTAURANT,

The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misraħ il-Kunsill, Mdina +356 2145 0560 www.xarapalace.com.mt/www.demondion.com info@xaracollection.com Set atop Mdina’s century-old bastions, within the Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, the de Mondion offers a unique fine dining experience, enhanced by truly spectacular panoramic views of the island. Awarded the runner-up for the best boutique dining hotel in the world and consistently rated amongst the top restaurants in Malta for its cusine, refinement and excellence. Promising discreet yet impeccably-attentive service, de Mondion allows its patrons the time and privacy to savour their cuisine. Group lunches are available on request while bookings for private functions and special celebrations are also welcome.

PALAZZO DE PIRO – XPRESSO CAFÉ & BISTRO,

Palazzo de Piro, 3 Triq is-Sur, Mdina, MDN 1131 +356 2010 0560/+356 2145 0560 www.palazzodepiro.com

info@xaracollection.com

Set within the magnificent 18th century Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, located in Malta’s Silent City, Mdina, Xpresso Café and Bistro is an elegant spot for casual dining, snacks, coffee, afternoon tea or simply a get-together with friends. The talented Brigade of Chefs makes use of the fresh produce from nearby valleys and slopes when producing their seasonal menus. Through close co-operation with local growers and producers, Xpresso Café and Bistro seeks to showcase the freshest and best the region has to offer through a menu of healthy dishes. With magnificent views of the Maltese islands, fine architectural heritage and a passion for culture and art, Xpresso Café is the perfect place to enjoy the history of Malta, its rich culture and its culinary delights.

THE MEDINA MALTESE CUISINE RESTAURANT, Mdina +356 21450 560

info@xaracollection.com

Lose yourself in all of Mdina’s tranquillity and dine in the romantic surroundings beneath the wild flowering Oleander tree in the vine-clustered courtyard during the summer, and by candlelight and an open log fireplace that keeps the restaurant warm and cosy during the winter months. The restaurant is a mixture of ingredients designed to please the most discerning clients. The foundation for our cuisine is solely based upon three principles: the sourcing of local produce, for every single dish to evoke the skill and talent of our chefs and to provide our clients with honest food. The Medina presents a selected à la Carte menu based on Mediterranean and local cuisine, frequently changed to guarantee the pleasure of regular diners.

TRATTORIA AD 1530, Misraħ il-Kunsill, Mdina, MDN 10150 +356 2145 0560

www.xarapalace.com.mt

info@xaracollection.com

The Trattoria AD 1530 at The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux in Mdina is a charming eatery that prides itself on serving traditional and tasty food typical of the word ‘trattoria’. Strategically situated in one of the old squares of the Silent City, with the beautiful and imposing Vilhena Palace directly opposite and the magnificent 17th century Palazzo of The Xara Palace on the other side, the Trattoria’s idyllic location is simply perfect for indoor or al fresco dining. Trattoria AD 1530 is the ideal restaurant for every occasion and is open for coffee, lunch, dinner, snacks and afternoon tea.

B A R S & R E S TA U R A N T S

MELLIEHA

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ONE 80 KITCHEN & LOUNGE, 30, Triq il-Wied ta’ Ruman, Mellieha, MLH 4023 +356 2152 1637

www.one80.com.mt

one80@foodrinksconcepts.com

Situated on the way down from Mellieha centre, one80 enjoys 180-degrees of picturesque views, stretching from the majestic parish church perching on the top of the hill, down to the lush greenery of ‘Wied ta’ Ruman’ and onto the largest sandy beach of the island, Mellieha Bay. Perfectly positioned for a quick lunch if you are on the way to Malta’s sister island – Gozo. Watch out though, as lunch might extend into a fully blown dinner… basking in the evening sun with a spectacular sunset view which can be enjoyed from the spacious terrace and every spot of this stunning restaurant. one80 is a food and drink destination for a complete night out. You may visit the lounge area for lighter snacks, cool cocktails and drinks.

MOSTA

TA’ MARIJA RESTAURANT – EST. 1964, Constitution Street, Mosta +356 2143 4444

www.tamarija.com

info@tamarija.com

Awarded Best Maltese Food Restaurant for more than ten years, Ta’ Marija doesn’t just serve Maltese cuisine, but creates dishes with what is locally traditional while adding their own signature flavours of sumptuousness. Head to their Folklore Dinner shows held every Wednesday and Friday evening for a touch of Maltese liveliness. Enjoy your dinner with musicians playing mandolins and guitars, and singers belting out Maltese songs while you enjoy the culinary delights of the evening. After your delicious dinner, the charming Maria Muscat will present the folklore show in a variety of languages, featuring six dancers who lure you into a jovial story of Maltese history told through dance. Ta’ Marija is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Transport can also be arranged.

SLIEMA

TA’ KOLINA, 151, Tower Road, Sliema +356 2133 5106

+356 9942 4877

takolina@gmail.com

Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been open since 1974. Ta’ Kolina is a typical Maltese restaurant with its traditional Maltese limestone interior and décor. A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of five local starters; five main courses; dessert & coffee for €20. There’s a unique à la carte menu with some 20 starters from €4.50 to €7.50, and 20 main courses from €11 to €24 to choose from. Ta’ Kolina offer a variety of fresh fish, rabbit, steak and many more traditional dishes.

A wide selection of the best Maltese wines are available offers ranging from €6.50 to €25 per bottle. All in all this restaurant provides its guests with the true taste of Maltese cuisine at a reasonable price.

TA’ KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO, 80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema +356 2133 7367

+356 9984 771

Set in one of Sliema’s oldest bakeries, Ta’ Kris is all about providing a genuine mix of affordable Maltese and Mediterranean dishes in a homely fashion and rustic surroundings. Ta’ Kris offers a varied menu of traditional Maltese food such as bragioli, rabbit, octopus stew, bebbux (snails), balbuljata (corned beef hash), baked lamb, two daily specials, pasta dishes, a selection of fresh fish on a daily basis and mouth-watering steaks. Ta’ Kris also offers take away service and special menus can be designed for all occasions. Ta’ Kris opens from Monday to Sunday, from 12.30pm till 11pm. Booking is recommended.

10 0

B A R S & R E S TA U R A N T S

ST JULIAN’S

THE AVENUE, The Avenue, Gort Street, Paceville, St Julian’s +356 2135 1753/+356 2137 8731

www.theavenuemalta.com

This award-winning restaurant has been a household name for over a decade and remains a regular favourite. Its versatile menu, friendly service and well-pitched prices all contribute to The Avenue’s strong appeal. Best known for pizza, freshly-prepared pasta or grills, or you could opt for succulent poultry and fresh fish – the menu is not only versatile but portions are generous. The Avenue started off 30 years ago as a snack bar and today encompasses three different sections, all with different character and décor: the arusticstyled room, the elegant ‘Valentino’ section and the more informal and colourful segment.

This venue is popular with locals as it’s good value for money. In fact, looking through the large, glass windows, one can see the place is always bustling with people and life. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Includes two hours free parking at the Portomaso car park all week. Delivery service to the surrounding areas is available.

PARANGA, InterContinental Malta, St. George's Bay, St Julian's, STJ 3310 +356 2376 5064 malta.fnb@ihg.com malta.intercontinental.com/gastronomy/paranga

Paranga is the hotel’s seaside restaurant, set on teak decking adjacent to the rippling Mediterranean Sea. Here one is certain to find and an enticing and exclusive atmosphere where the centre of attention is the pristine and unspoiled natural flavour of the cuisine. Chef de Cuisine Claudio Farrugia presents a menu characterised by superb array of stimulating and diverse Sicilian flavours interpreted in both a traditional and contemporary style. Fresh fish and shellfish arrive daily from local fishermen, creating, with certainty, a peak of individual interest or the ideal fare for a special occasion. All of which may be enjoyed with an ideally selected and impeccably paired wine, aperitif or digestif.

ZEST, Hotel Juliani, 25, St George’s Road, St Julian’s +356 2138 7600

www.zestflavours.com

info@zestflavours.com

Opened over 15 years ago as Malta’s first Asian fusion restaurant, Zest’s menu will take you on an exciting culinary journey. Get swept off your feet with delectable dishes from Zest’s signature Indonesian beef rendang, to lobster Phad Thai, 48-hour short rib of beef with coconut puree and milk chocolate praline panna cotta with salted popcorn. At Zest, no attention to detail is spared including the décor and design that elevates one’s dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Original architectural details and attractive features, including a sea view balcony, open wine cellar and a live-cooking sushi bar, are sure to leave a lasting impression. For an extraordinary dining experience in one of Malta’s most-talked about restaurants, why not add a little Zest?

TA’ XBIEX

THE GALLEY, Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, XBX 1028 Ta’ Xbiex +356 2131 8801

thegalley@artisanfoods.com.mt

The Galley Restaurant overlooks the stunning Marsamxett Harbour, enjoying spectacular views of the Valletta skyline. Adjacent to the Royal Malta Yacht Club and yacht marina, this stylish restaurant offers staple popular dishes and seasonal specials, including premium meats, fish, pizza, pasta and light snacks at lunch time. The venue interior emulates a beach house with good, natural light and soft furnishings, and the atmosphere is casual and comfortable. There is ample parking space available, and with good proximity to neighbouring Sliema and Valletta it is well serviced by public transport. The Galley is especially popular during weekends so booking is recommended.

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

EVENTS & NEWS

from Malta’s national airline The following pages will give you an insight on what’s going on at Air Malta. The behind-the-scenes and highlights of past months and forthcoming ones. Malta’s national airline tells it like it is, ensuring all Air Malta passengers are well-informed while soaring high in the sky.

AIR MALTA INTRODUCES GO LIGHT 01.

I

n line with its growth strategy, Air Malta has introduced a new range of prices under the Go Light brand. Fares will be available from €39 one-way including all taxes.

The new product range includes a new product – Go Light, a hand luggage only one-way starting from just €39. This type of fare, which is the first step Air Malta is taking to become a hybrid airline, provides guests the opportunity to travel on a low fare without having to sacrifice the level of service expected from a traditional airline.

This complements decisions such as the return to Frankfurt, Tunis and Manchester together with the decision to add another aircraft to the fleet next summer.

The Minister announced that Air Malta is also working on a number of new routes and frequencies. In fact, the Malaga route was announced only late last month and will commence as from Summer 2018.

Air Malta’s Chairman Dr Charles Mangion added, “The changes introduced today are the first tangible proof of a changing National Airline. This is a bold step for

02.

Commenting on this announcement Minister For Tourism Dr Konrad Mizzi said that this initiative is part of the Air Malta’s revitalisation process and is expected to increase sales in the coming weeks.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

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03.

This is not the only good news, Air Malta has overhauled all its charges and reduced its lowest fares for Go Light.

Furthermore, in order to achieve extra benefits for seat reservation, flexibility, and so on, customers can choose either of the two other economy class products: Go Smart or Go Flex.

Business Class has also be given three new product categories from which customers can select their preferred option according to their requirements. These being: Just Business, Smart Business, Business Freedom.

01. Air Malta Chairman, Dr Charles Mangion 02. Paul Sies, Chief Commercial Officer explaining in detail Go Light 03. Air Malta Acting CEO Joseph Galea opening up the press conference 04. Minister for Tourism, Dr Konrad Mizzi

Further information is available on airmalta.com/letsgolight. Or by calling Air Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Call Centre on +356 21662211 or from Air Malta sales office at Malta International Airport.

04.

us, aimed to offer an enhanced and superior product whilst also increasing much needed revenue. The hybrid model adopted provides guests with a unique platform that empowers them to build a tailor-made product according to their wants and needs. These changes have been implemented following the feedback and comments received from customers.â&#x20AC;?The booking options for the new Go Light product are varied and one can not only purchase luggage and ancillary services during the booking stage through www.airmalta.com, but guests can purchase these services at a later stage before departure from the airlineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s call centre or at check-in.

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

105

CALLING ALL SUPERHEROES

Karmenu Vella, European Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries

I

f you are flying Air Malta at the beginning of October, there's a good chance you'll find yourself in the presence of a modern-day superhero.

Sneak a peek at the man sitting next to you or at the woman across the aisle – they could well be on a mission to save our planet from destruction. How? By keeping an eye out for our oceans, the source of all life on Earth.

Oceans produce at least half of the world's oxygen: we literally depend on them for every other breath we take. Yet beneath the sparkling Mediterranean you might admire from your seat, worrying changes are taking place. Climate change, pollution, overfishing are threatening our oceans – and our own survival – to an unprecedented degree.

Luckily, there is hope. This month, hundreds of ocean advocates fly to Malta to take action for healthy oceans at the fourth Our Ocean conference. In fact, you might even be one of them yourself –

if so, thank you for your contribution!

Unlike traditional superheroes, today's ocean champions know that there is no straightforward solution: no single villain to hand over to the police and eliminate this existential threat. Instead, the path of action will require a mix of measures.

Part of it will be making certain ocean areas off limits to fishing, giving marine life a chance to recover. Another part is tougher rules and more patrols that make it harder for pirates and other villains to plunder our seas.

We also need to rethink our current economic model of consumption. Our grandparents grew up in a plastic-free world. Yet our grandchildren will still be finding the remains of our plastic when they take their own grandchildren to the beach.

Many companies, big and small, are already looking into ways to achieve a more circular economic model, focused on recycling and reusing resources.

These are the kind of innovative superheroes we need. And that is exactly

MALTA, 5-6 OCTOBER 2017

what the Our Ocean conferences are about: getting ocean advocates from all walks of life – policymakers and scientists, business owners and educators – into the same room and asking them what they can do to keep our oceans healthy.

Our Ocean is a chance to review and track previous pledges we've made, measure our progress, and promote further action where needed. Together we can come up with bright new ideas, put them into practice, and spread the word, getting more and more people, companies and governments to join our ranks.

I am proud that the European Union is hosting this year's conference, and of the part we are playing in creating a global alliance of superheroes for our oceans.

Because it's not just the person sitting across the aisle. When it comes to our oceans, all of us can be a superhero. So why not lean back, gaze at the sea below and spend the rest of the flight asking yourself what you can do for our ocean?

Find out more at www.ourocean2017.org or contact us via email at MARE-OOC-2017_BUSINESS@ec.europa.eu #OurOcean

10 6

A I R M A LTA N E W S

WELCOME TO MALTA ONCE AGAIN RYAN GIGGS!

O

ur First Officer Paul Sultana and all Air Malta staff were honoured to welcome the football legend on board KM101, flying in Business Class from Heathrow Airport to Malta.

Mr Giggs came to Malta to give a live technical commentary during the Malta vs England FIFA World Cup European qualifiers football match for UK's ITV channel. The match was held last month.

FAREWELL TO AIR MALTA’S CAPTAIN JOSEPH SCIBERRAS

I

n 1974 the possibilities of becoming a pilot in Malta were very remote however the start of Air Malta had heralded new and exciting opportunities for young Maltese aviation enthusiasts and the possibility of a career in aviation became a reality. September 13 marked the last flight for Air Malta Captain Joseph Sciberras, the last captain to retire from the very first Group of Air Malta Maltese pilots.

After 43 years flying the national pride, Captain Sciberras successfully flew a total of 30,000 fly ing hours. His last flight KM 612, Malta – Rome – Malta of Tuesday 13 September 2017 was a celebration of emotions, memories and a farewell to an airline very close to Mr Sciberras' heart. Air Malta thanks Captain Joseph Sciberras for his excellent contribution, loyalty and continuous support throughout all these years and wishes him a happy well-earned retirement.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

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CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Thank you for flying Air Malta.

Air Malta has a very strategic and important role. As an island state we cannot afford not to have our own airline that can provide vital passenger and cargo connections to and from the islands. Over the last three months my board, together with my management team, have been working hard to give the airline a new vision and a new direction.

During this time we took some very important decisions, including the re-opening of the Frankfurt, Tunis and the Manchester routes, the opening up of a new scheduled service to Malaga and the addition of the ninth aircraft next Summer.

That’s not all. Other new scheduled services will be announced in the coming weeks.

Apart from operating to new destinations last month we revamped our fare structure and in line with our growth strategy we have introduced a new range of prices starting from just €39 one-way including all taxes.

This new product range includes a new product – Go Light, a hand-luggage-only fare. This is the first tangible proof of a changing airline to a hybrid model, giving you, our guests, the opportunity to travel on a low fare without having to sacrifice the level of service expected from a traditional airline.

This is a bold step for us and is part of the programme to revitalise the airline. Through these changes we aim to offer an enhanced and superior product whilst also increasing much needed revenue. The hybrid model adopted provides you, our guests with a unique platform that empowers you to build a tailor-made product according to your wants and needs. These changes have been implemented following the feedback and comments received from customers.

The booking options for the new Go-Light product are varied and you can not only purchase luggage and ancillary services during the booking stage through www.airmalta.com, but you can purchase these services even at a later stage before departure from the airline’s call centre or at check-in. Our main priority is you, our customer, as without you there would be no Air Malta. That is why we are looking into new ways to provide you with the best customer experience through the entire customer journey.The Economy and Business class products are being overhauled and are expected to improve substantially in 2018 with even better products and services. Next year we will introduce a new

paid catering concept for Economy Class passengers, giving a wide choice of quality snacks and meals to our customers. Our Business Class product will also be revamped and guests will still continue to enjoy a gourmet meal.

It is indeed an exciting time for Air Malta.

Being competitive and innovative is the only way to survive in this ever-changing aviation industry. I can therefore assure you that the Air Malta team is working hard to continue building upon our airline’s past achievements and further innovate like never before.

We are living in a time of constant change, and that’s why we need to continue changing and adapting ourselves. There is a bright light future for Air Malta. With the overall enthusiasm and the right amount of energy, we can succeed in giving the airline a great future based on sustained profitability.

We are proud of the airline’s 43-year heritage and amazing track record to open up new tourism markets that brought millions of tourists to the Maltese Islands. Together with my team we are working hard to maintain the airline’s good reputation, good will, and amazing safety record.

I wish you a pleasant and safe flight and on behalf of Air Malta, I hope to welcome you again on board our aircraft very soon.

Charles Mangion Air Malta Chairman

Dr Charles Mangion was appointed Chairman of Air Malta on 12 July 2017.

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA RETURNS TO MANCHESTER

A

ir Malta be returning to Manchester as from May 2018.

"In line with its growth strategy, Air Malta is committed to continue expanding its routes and flight frequencies to Europe's main airports. Air Malta's decision takes into account a number of factors including the new aggressive commercial strategy, the newly launched Go Light product, changes in fees and a renewed commercial agreement with a major Tour Operator who will be committing a number of seats on each flight," Minister for Tourism, Dr Konrad Mizzi, said.

Paul Sies, Air Malta Chief Commercial Officer, added, “We are thrilled that Air Malta will operate to Manchester once a week every Tuesday. Additional frequencies are being studied at this moment. Over the past weeks our sales team worked really hard to source new commercial opportunities and team up with major industry players to restart this route. All past contracts in relation to the flight operation have been revisited and new negotiated terms are expected to lower the cost of operation.

“This is more good news for both Maltese and our friends in the UK visiting the two countries, either travelling in groups or making their individual arrangements,” Mr Sies added.

The re-introduction of Manchester is further proof of the new growth strategy of Air Malta. Earlier Frankfurt, Tunis and Tel Aviv were announced.

The flight will operate as follows: KM146 DEP MALTA

07:30

KM147 DEP MANCHESTER 10:55

ARR MANCHESTER 10:05 ARR MALTA

15:15

Over the years, Manchester has managed to successfully reinvent itself to become a vibrant city with an exciting and very active nightlife. Home to many architectural showpieces including the Grade II listed Corn Exchange, the Manchester Town Hall and the 49-storey Beetham Tower, Manchester has quickly established itself as one of the most modern cities. Thanks to its elaborate Metrolink tramway, it is extremely easy to freely navigate through the various districts, such as the Piccadilly Gardens.

A shopper’s haven, Manchester boasts high-street department stores based in Arndale Centre, Market Street, Exchange Square, Affleck’s Palace and the Trafford Centre. With Manchester being host to two of the biggest football clubs in England – Manchester United and Manchester City – Old Trafford and City of Manchester Stadium are both easily accessible.

Further information is available on www.airmalta.com, by calling Air Malta’s Call Centre on +356 21662211, from Air Malta sales office at Malta International Airport or from Travel Agents in Malta and the UK.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

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VALLETTA 2018 CITY REVITALISED

I

n the run-up to the highly anticipated Valletta 2018 Cultural Programme, the city of Valletta bubbles with life at any time of the day, creating an unforgettable adventure for visitors with history and tradition to be discovered at every turn. Valletta is an open-air museum and the grid of narrow streets, boasting some of Europe’s finest artworks, churches and palaces, make visiting the city a unique experience. The aim of Valletta 2018 is to set projects in motion that are inclusive to different kinds of audiences. This is not limited to shows & exhibitions but also extends to a number of city sites that will contribute to the regeneration of the city.

The foundation aims to restore these areas, bringing back to life some of the capital’s forgotten treasures.

Is-Suq tal-Belt, or the indoor market, built in the 1860s under British rule, instantly grabbed the Foundation’s attention.

Neglected over the years, this overlooked gem was seen as a diamond in the rough with huge potential to be restored to its former glory as a central hub of activity. The restoration of the market does not simply stop at improving the space to sell fruit and vegetables in but has been pushed and taken to new heights. Several food stalls and a lounge area are being installed with part of the building being retained for cultural activity.

Thus, this creates an unbeatable combination of functionality with cultural activity. Works on this site have been underway since 2014 and are now nearing completion. The site is expected to be open to the public this October.

Strait Street, or more popularly known as Strada Stretta, on the other hand is currently experiencing an increasing growth of activity and social life whilst restoration and regeneration works are underway. In direct co-ordination with Valletta 2018 Foundation, Dr. Schembri Bonaci’s goal is to move beyond creating something of the moment but to turn Strait Street into a permanent hub of entertainment. The regeneration of jazz music, cabaret, theatre and urban culture is among the programme’s objectives, which will see the participation of international artists on a regular basis. The rehabilitation of Strait Street as an activity centre, architectural restoration reflecting its character and history along with the re-establishment of entertainment and urban culture life, is among the work that will be carried out.

Among the highly-anticipated projects is MUŻA which will be opening its doors to the public next year. MUŻA, meaning muse in Maltese, is the chosen name for Malta’s new museum of art that will be housed at Auberge d’Italie, located very close to City Gate, Valletta’s entrance. The community-oriented project will be the first of its kind and shares a common vision with the Foundation – promoting art and museums as a tool for social transformation. The collection which will be housed at

An artistic impression of Is-Suq tal-Belt

MUŻA will be transferred from the National Museum of Fine Arts which closed its doors to the public last year. The reason behind this move is two-fold: the new museum will be greener by generating its own energy requirements through renewable sources, and its new location will make it more easily accessible to the public to foster more appreciation of the arts.

The Valletta Design Cluster is the fourth of the four mentioned infrastructural projects. Works are being done to revive the Old Abattoir site in Valletta – an abandoned structure in the heart of Valletta’s residential quarters. This project is intended to be a catalyst for urban development in a neglected area of the capital city. This new design hub will create new opportunities for designers, artists, other creative professionals, as well as young people. Although the site is still undergoing works, the Valletta Design Cluster has already started its own initiatives and has received interest from both local and international entities.

This will be completed by next year.

Other notable infrastructural works include restoration being done on the Jesuit Church, Palazzo Ferreria, Palazzo Castellania and the Civil Sports Club in Archbishop Street.

Apart from the infrastructural projects mentioned, Valletta 2018 is also implementing a Cultural Programme as a build-up to and during the year 2018. The Cultural Programme, which will be launched at the end of September comprises a variety of high-quality projects hailing from various artistic disciplines bursting with talent. The programme brings people from different backgrounds together to participate through culture and create meaningful connections.

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I N F L I G H T I N F O R M AT I O N

FLIGHT & COMPANY INFORMATION SURVEY: Customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance at Air Malta and we are always looking for ways to improve your experience.

Visit our website to answer a few short questions. www.airmalta.com/wearelistening

NEWSLETTER: Subscribe to our newsletter or like our Facebook page to learn about our promotions, with fares starting from as low as €44 including taxes.

Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

SMOKING

Alcohol consumed at high altitude can have a stronger effect than usual.

Cabin crew are legally empowered to refuse serving any alcohol to an intoxicated passenger and to anyone under the age of 18. In extreme cases, crew may also temporarily confiscate the passenger‘s own drinks so that the passenger would not become a nuisance to the other passengers and crew.

Furthermore, Air Malta is bound by international regulations which prohibit embarkation or the carriage of drunken passengers. But once you are reading this article, Air Malta‘s Flight Safety Committee is confident that you are a law-abiding and exemplary passenger. Indeed, the cabin crew may need your assistance to restrain another passenger in the unlikely event that he or she may act irresponsibly during the flight. The consumption of one’s own alcoholic beverages inflight goes against Air Malta policy.

Smoking is prohibited from when you leave the terminal building until you arrive to the terminal building. Smoking is allowed in designated areas only. Smoking is not allowed during any phase of the flight and in any area of the aircraft. Should you be aware of a passenger who has smoked in the toilet during the flight, please inform the cabin crew immediately so that they can check for any undetected fires. The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) not allowed on board Air Malta flights.

Similarly, the use of naked flames on and around the aircraft is also prohibited.

I N F L I G H T I N F O R M AT I O N

AIR MALTA FLEET

ENHANCE YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE At Air Malta, we want our passengers to have everything they need to make their travel experience comfortable in one place. Here are a number of services that we offer.

JOIN OUR BUSINESS CLASS Upgrade to Air Malta’s Club Class for priority service.

Members can make use of the special check-in counters for more leisurely and efficient boarding, enjoy access to the La Valette Lounge at Malta International Airport, and get more privacy with a separate inflight cabin area.

AIRBUS 319 CARRY MORE WITH YOU Are you worried about not being able to fit everything you need into your suitcase? Stop stressing out and check out our extra baggage service. Simply book your extra baggage online and get the most out of your trip. Visit www.airmalta. com/excess-baggage-en-gb for more details.

QTY: 1 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 141 ENGINES: CFM56-5B6/P MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 73.5 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 33.84M

FLY IN COMFORT Enhance your comfort with extra legroom during your flight.

This option gives you more space to relax in preparation for your trip. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/services-byair-malta/seat-selection or more information.

WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH RANGE: 4,815 KM

GET SPORTY Are you passionate about a sport? We make it easy to travel and take your specialised equipment with you at a very minimal cost. Visit www.airmalta.com/excess-baggage-engb for more details.

GROUPS

AIRBUS 320

We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than 10 adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you can’t get anywhere else. Email groups@airmalta.com for more information.

QTY: 7 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168/180 ENGINES: IAE V2500/ CFM565B4/P MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT:

WEB CHECK-IN Skip the line and check-in before you get to the airport. You may check-in online before you get to the airport, up to 24 hours prior to departure up until one hour before your flight. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/check-in for more information.

77.0 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH RANGE: 4,055 KM

destination information

finland SWEDEN

RUSSIA

NORWAY • Oslo Stockholm

ESTONIA

LATVIA DENMARK • Copenhagen

UNITED KINGDOM

REP. OF IRELAND

LITHUANIA

• Moscow

BELARUS • Bremen

Birmingham • • Berlin Bristol • • Amsterdam • London City London Heathrow • • Hannover HOLLAND • London Gatwick GERMANY • Brussels BELGIUM • Düsseldorf • Dresden

Luxembourg

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly •

Lyon •

Marsille •

UKRAINE

• Prague

• Frankfurt

CZECH REPUBLIC

• Munich

FRANCE

• Warsaw

POLAND

HUNGARY

SWITZERLAND • Geneva

ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA Trieste •

Milan • Turin • Verona • • Venice Florence • • Bologna Genoa •

MONTENEGRO

• Sofia

• Bari • Brindisi ALBANIA

• Olbia Naples • • Cagliari

BULGARIA • Istanbul

TURKEY GREECE

Lamezia Terme

Palermo •

TUNISIA

KOSOVO F.Y.r.O.M.

• Rome

Tunis •

• Otopani

BOSNIA & SERBIA HERZEGOVINA

• Ancona ITALY • Pescara

Pisa •

SPAIN Alghero •

MOLDOVA

• Budapest

AUSTRIA

• Zurich

• Nice

SLOVAKIA

• Vienna

• Reggio Calabria • Catania

Larnaca •

CYPRUS

Malta Tel Aviv •

ISRAEL

ALGERIA

LIBYA

EGYPT

IRAN

AIR MALTA DIRECT FLIGHTS AIRPORT

• Abu Dhabi

OMAN

SAUDI ARABIA

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Amsterdam Berlin Birmingham Bristol Brussels Catania Düsseldorf Frankfurt London Gatwick London Heathrow Lyon Marseille

8 1 1 1 10 15 2 4 5 15 3 2

AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Milan Moscow Munich Palermo Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly Prague

Rome Tel Aviv Tunis Vienna Zurich

7 2 14 2 7 9 2 10 3 (fortnight) 3 8 8

CODE-SHARED ROUTES • BRISBANE

ETIHAD AIRWAYS Abu Dhabi

Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney

australia

ALITALIA via Brussels, Heathrow and Rome via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi

• Sydney

LUFTHANSA Arlanda (Stockholm) via Munich Berlin via Munich Bremen via Munich Dresden via Munich Düsseldorf via Munich Frankfurt Hannover via Munich Munich Oslo via Munich

• Melbourne

BRUSSELS AIRLINES Brussels Copenhagen

• Perth

via Catania via Brussels

CZECH AIRLINES Prague

australia SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES

Rome London City Frankfurt Pescara Alghero Cagliari Brindisi Catania Amsterdam Nice Geneva Ancona Reggio Calabria Lamezia Terme Naples Bologna Trieste Genoa Turin Venice Verona Cagliari Bari Brindisi Pisa Florence Palermo Milan Linate

AUSTRIAN AIRLINES

Zurich

Budapest Otopeni (Buc) Prague Sofia Warsaw

EMIRATES Larnaca

MERIDIANA Olbia Naples

via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome

via Rome via Catania

TURKISH AIRLINES Istanbul

via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna

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E L E C T R O N I C D E V I C E I N F O R M AT I O N

USE OF PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES ON BOARD TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

NON-TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

Any devices that can send or receive data by wireless means, such as mobile-phones and tablets, may be used during all phases of the flight provided their transmit/receive capabilities (e.g. Bluetooth and Wi-fi) are switched off. Alternatively, if the device has ‘Flight Mode’ capability, this must be enabled. Such devices shall be safely secured in the customers’ hand (handheld) or a pocket during taxi, take-off and landing. Larger devices (e.g. laptops) shall be switched off and stowed away safely during taxi, takeoff and landing. Accessories, such as headphones, must not obstruct access to the aisle. If the data transmission capability cannot be switched off (whilst the device is operating), the device itself must be switched off for the duration of the flight.

These could include, but are not limited to, items such as DVD players, electronic games, music players and personal cameras. Such devices shall be safely secured in the customers’ hand (handheld) or a pocket during taxi, take-off and landing.

Larger devices shall be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing.

L APTOPS AND NOTEBOOKS Such devices may be used during boarding and during flight but not during taxi, take-off and landing. Any built-in data connectivity such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi must be disabled.

These devices must be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing since they could hinder an emergency evacuation.

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT USE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES?

CAN I USE HEADPHONES? Personal headphones can be used during all phases of the flight.

However, we ask you to remove your headphones during the safety briefing.

For safety reasons, customers sitting in an emergency exit row must refrain from using headphones during taxi, take-off and landing.

Under certain circumstances, your Flight Crew or Cabin Crew may ask you to switch off all Personal Electronic Devices. This may happen during automatic landings, low visibility takeoff or landing, or during emergency situations.

I SHOULD INFORM THE CABIN CREW WHEN … … portable electronic device is damaged, becomes hot, produces smoke, is lost, or falls into the seat structure. If safe to do so, the device must be switched off immediately.

If you require more information, please refer to the table below which includes a list of Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) which can be used onboard Air Malta flights by phase of flight. Please do not hesitate to contact any member of our cabin crew if you have any further questions.

PHASE

Boarding

HAND HELD PEDS (e.g. smart phones and tablets)

LARGER PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

WI-FI, TEXT & PHONE CALL FUNCTIONS

YES

YES

YES

YES

instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

YES

YES

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

NO

NO

NO

Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

Cruise

YES

YES

YES

NO

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

NO

YES

NO

Landing

YES

NO

YES

NO

Taxi to Stand

YES

NO

YES

YES

Extended Ground Delay (when

Circa 10 minutes to landing

Safety Notice: The carriage of damaged, defective or recalled lithuim batteries or devices is prohibited on-board Air Malta aircraft.

INSERT TEXT HERE

Gozo,

Photo by Daniel Cilia

your best Opera destination

www.visitgozo.com

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