Il-Bizzilla February 2015 by Air Malta

Issue 26

FEBRUARY 15

LOCAL FEATURES PlaceS FOOD

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Issue 26

FEBRUARY 15

Contents Local p. 8 Maltese Infographic – Interesting, quirky facts about Malta that you may not know. p. 10 Malta Life – February sees the start of Lent and the revelries that take place during the eagerly anticipated Carnival. p. 14 Gozo Life – If you’re looking for a romantic break with a hint of magic, then Gozo is the place to go.

p. 12

p. 16 Luxury Motoring – The future of hybrid vehicles is here powering some of the world’s most desirable cars. p. 18 Things to Do in Malta – With so much to choose from, Il-Bizzilla rounds up a few essential things to see and do when visiting the Islands. p. 58 Culture – Gozo gears up for its notoriously fascinating Nadur carnival, as well as the more traditional celebrations, which take place in the capital of Victoria, Rabat. p. 68

Made in Malta – A glance at products that are part of the Islands' heritage.

p. 86

Air Malta News – General flight information from Malta's national airline.

p. 58

Places p. 7 Around the World – All around the world preparations are underway to celebrate carnival in the most colourful way possible. Issue 26

FEBRUARY 15

p. 12 Travel Hot Spots – Adam Jacot De Boinod lists five of his top things to see, eat and do in Geneva, the gateway to the Alps. p. 50 Destination – Majestic architecture, delicious food, a most rich history, impressive art masterpieces, the list of attractions in the eternal city of Rome is endless. p.60

Events – Enrich your stay in Malta with just a few of the most happening events on the Island.

p. 66

Map – An island with a character as colourful and busy as its people, Malta is dotted with landmarks and must-see spots.

p. 69

Places to Visit – A long and rich history has left its mark on the Maltese Islands, and each site has a story to tell.

LOCAL FEATURES PlaceS FOOD

One of the many extravagantly decorated carnival floats.

FOOD p. 38 Local Food – No Maltese feast is complete without the presence of our wonderful bread. p. 48 Food in February – Malta celebrates feasts of love and carnival this month and, as always, food features heavily in both. p. 80

Restaurant Guide – Malta has countless restaurants catering to every taste. We've listed some of our favourites.

Features p. 20 We Heart Malta – Go beyond tourist attractions and get to know what lies at the heart of Malta. p. 22 Village of the Month – This month Il-Bizzilla goes to Żebbuġ, one of the oldest towns in Malta.

Local Food p. 38-41

p. 26 St Paul's Island – St Paul’s Island is said to be the site of the Shipwreck of St Paul, documented to have occurred in 60 AD. p.30 Travel – As the world becomes more accessible to us, we in turn become more nomadic in our travels.   p.34 Country Walks – The cooler months in Malta offer some great walking opportunities, as the rains wash away the summer dust and heat. p.42 Pop Culture – If you’re a fan of the popular TV series Game of Thrones, take in some of Malta’s most iconic landmarks which doubled up as film locations. p.46 Top Spots in Malta – Helen Raine lists some of the must see highlights for those visiting fleetingly.

Property p. 20 p. 54 Frank Salt – Both Malta and Gozo offer a number of charming houses of character for those looking to invest in property. p. 55

Remax – 2014 was yet again another record year for RE/MAX Malta.

Business p. 53 Medical Tourism – Malta is fast becoming a popular destination for those seeking professional dentistry services and a holiday away. p. 46

p. 56 Business News – Henley & Partners are the go-to experts in residence and citizenship planning

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

A WORLD CLASS LUXURY VILLA IN THE SANTA MARIJA ESTATE REF: 031873

€2,650,000

MELLIEĦA

Designer finished, fully detached VILLA set on more than one tumolo of land (1124 sqm). This bright, airy property is well laid out & enjoys unobstructed sea & country views as well as total privacy. Accommodation comprises of a living room with terrace, separate kitchen, dining room, study, 4 bedrooms (main with spacious walk-in wardrobe), 3 en-suite bathrooms and main bathroom with state of the art jacuzzi & power showers. This property also has a beautiful marble/glass staircase leading onto the lower level that offers a second living room, full sized billiard room, fully equipped kitchen, wine cellar, bedroom with en-suite and an large indoor heated pool. The outdoor space offers a large outdoor pool with deck area surrounded by palm trees and other exotic shrubs, overlooking fantastic views of the valley and Mellieha Bay. A 6 car garage together with 3 store rooms complete this exceptional villa.

NEWLY BUILT, VERY HIGHLY FINISHED FULLY DETACHED BUNGALOW REF: 912660

l €2,800,000 l

SAN PAWL TAT-TARĠA

Located in a very good residential area and enjoying sea and country views. This property is built on a plot of approximately 1350 sqm and is finished to very high specifications with central heating and underfloor heating, air-conditioning throughout, PVC double glazing, solar heated hot water and much more. The modern layout of the main accommodation comprises of a welcoming hallway, guest toilet, dining room, an open plan living room and a beautifully fully equipped kitchen/breakfast room leading out onto the outdoor entertainment areas, 4 double bedrooms (all having en-suite facilities) and a washroom. Downstairs there are several rooms that could be used as a games room, storage rooms or guest accommodation. There is a heated indoor jacuzzi pool. Beneath the house is a 4 car garage that opens up onto a car port for a further 4 cars. A lift shaft accesses all levels of the house. Surrounding the property is a well kept garden with lawns and just off the kitchen area is a large overflow pool and deck area looking onto the views. This property is Freehold and makes an excellent family home. Viewing is highly recommended.

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 (+356) 2342 1645

Homes of Quality, 201, Tower Road, Sliema Tel: +356 2342 0000 UK Tel: +44 (0) 871 711 8994 Mob: +356 9947 4340 Email: info@hoq.com.mt

Il-Bizzilla. Literally the most captive audience you'll ever have.

Editor Sarah Kennard Project co-ordinator Renata Vella

Air Malta media gives you the opportunity to deliver your message to 1.7 million passengers.

Design TBWA\ANG CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jeff Fabri Senior graphic designer Richard Agius Graphic designer Rebecca Bullock contributors Steven Bonello Rebecca Cachia Lea Hogg Adam Jacot de Boinod Helen Raine Kat Scriven Charlotte Stafrace Veronica Stivala Melanie Vella Leonard Zammit Munro Official Photographer Robert Camilleri BLUE MEDIA MARKETING LTD Managing directors Bertrand Attard Chris Mifsud WebSite www.bluemedia.com.mt e-mail info@bluemedia.com.mt Address 3rd Floor, Professional Building Sliema Road Gzira, GZR 1633 MALTA Tel +356 2131 0608 Fax +356 2131 0998

Il-Bizzilla is published monthly in Malta for Air Malta by Blue Media Marketing Ltd. The magazine is free to passengers on Air Malta flights worldwide. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission. Requests for permission should be made in writing to: Il-Bizzilla Magazine 3rd Floor Professional Building Sliema Road Gzira, GZR 1633 MALTA Editorial material and opinions expressed in Il-Bizzilla do not necessarily reflect the views of Air Malta or the publisher. Air Malta and the publisher do not accept responsibility for the advertising content. Special thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority and Air Malta for use of their photographic material. Products and services mentioned are subject to change without prior notice. ÂŠ Blue Media Marketing Limited 2013 Printed in Malta by Progress Press Co. Ltd., Mriehel. For information about advertising and restaurant listings in Il-Bizzilla or on other Air Malta media kindly contact our sales team: Renata Vella Mobile: (+356) 7999 5959 Or e-mail us on: sales@bluemedia.com.mt

For information about advertising and restaurant listings in Il-Bizzilla, or on other Air Malta media, kindly contact our sales team: Renata Vella Mobile: (+356) 7999 5959 Or e-mail us on: sales@bluemedia.com.mt

AROUND THE WORLD

Around the world in...

FEBRUARY

Viareggio Carnevale Four Sundays leading up to Lent Viareggio, Italy Famous either as a sun-and-sand resort or the spot where the poet Shelley drowned, Viareggio is also known to host to one of Europe’s finest carnival celebrations. In Italy, it is second only to Venice’s Carnevale for party spirit.

Rio Carnival 13th till 17th February Rio Di Janeiro, Brazil Although Carnival (Carnaval in Portuguese) is celebrated in towns and villages throughout Brazil and other Catholic countries, Rio de Janeiro has long been regarded as the Carnival capital of the world. The Rio Carnaval is not only the biggest Carnival, it is also a benchmark against which every other carnival is compared and one of the most interesting artistic events on the globe. Almost everyone has heard of the Rio Carnaval. Around 500,000 foreign visitors travel to it every year.

Maslenitsa Last week before Lent Vassilyevsky Spusk, Moscow, Russia Akin to Mardi Gras, Russia’s only surviving pagan festival celebrates the end of winter and the beginning of spring, kicking off Orthodox Lent on a very full stomach. The word ‘Maslenitsa’ comes from the Russian for butter, which is a key ingredient in the festive treat, bliny (pancakes).

Mardi Gras 17th February New Orleans, USA Mardi Gras, or 'Fat Tuesday', is the last day of the Carnival season. It always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Mardi Gras is about music, parades, picnics,

Chinese New Year 19th till 22nd February London, UK

floats and excitement. Everyone is wearing purple, green and gold, and adorned with long beads caught from the beautiful floats. People sit on the ground, throw balls, play music, eat great food and watch the crowds walk by

London's Chinese New Year celebrations are the largest outside Asia. Every year, hundreds of

between parades. During Mardi Gras, all of the

thousands of people descend on to the West End to wish each other 'Xin Nian Kuai Le' (Happy

businesses and roads are practically shut down.

New Year) in Mandarin - or 'San Nin Faai Lok' in Cantonese.

People walk everywhere and make new friends.

MALTESE Infographic

Interesting facts

ABOUT MALTA 01

A predominantly Roman Catholic country, Malta has over 360 churches – that’s roughly one for every 1,000 residents.

316

sq km Size of Malta

04 A traditional form of Maltese music is known as Għana. It is comprised of folk guitar music, usually played by men who take it in turns to debate in a sing-song voice. The lyrics are improvised and the result is usually friendly-yet-challenging.

05 The earliest evidence of human habitation in Malta was found in the Għar Dalam Cave.

Malta's capital city, Valletta, is named after Jean Parisot de La Valette, a Grand Master of the Order of Knights of St John.

The beautiful and elegant Pharaoh Hound is Malta's national dog. In Maltese, the breed is called Kelb tal-Fenek.

09 The temples at Gġantija can be traced to an era even older than that of the Pyramids of Egypt.

The ﬂag of Malta is a simple red and white design with the George Cross in the top left hand corner.

Malta's Grand Harbour boasts of being one of the best natural deep-water harbours in the world.

In 1942 Malta was awarded with the George Cross by King George VI (UK) for bravery.

Malta was previously known as Melita by the Ancient Greeks and Romans. They called it ‘island of honey’. 10

08 In 2008, the Euro became Malta's oﬃcial currency, following the Island's accession into the EU in 2004.

12 10

If you're looking for some interesting books with the Maltese Islands as a backdrop, consider reading the following... - The Kappillan of Malta by Nicholas Monsarrat - The Sword and the Scimitar by David Ball - The Jew of Malta by Christopher Marlowe.

The two main symbols synonymous with Malta and its people are the Maltese Cross and the Maltese boat (known as 'luzzu'). The Maltese cross was used by the Knights of Malta.

15 Maltese is the National Language of Malta while Maltese and English are both oﬃcial languages. The Maltese language developed from Arabic, absorbing words and expressions from Sicilian, Italian and English over the centuries. This intriguing blend of languages gives modern Maltese its unique character. Most Maltese are bilingual.

MALTA LIFE

Carnival

extravaganza February brings Carnival week, with traditional and extravagantly coloured floats mounted on trucks ready for the official procession in Valletta. Celebrated since the arrival of the Knights of St John in 1535, Carnival in Malta is eagerly anticipated by many. Expect to see children in fancy dress at all times, as Carnival coincides with half term, as well as the late night Carnivalgoers who celebrate in the usual night spots around Malta and Gozo, still wearing their outrageous outfits. The heart of the action, however, takes place in Valletta, which is where the grand defile takes place and competitions are held for best float and best costume. Originally celebrations

Sitting at the top of the bay

only took place in the capital but, nowadays, revellers gather in every corner of the Islands throughout the five days preceding Ash Wednesday. One thing is for sure, the Maltese have had valid excuses to mark Carnival for hundreds of years and the celebrations have come a long way since. Carnival week is a time to let your hair down and go with the flow – perfect for those who enjoy a good party! Read more about the revelries in this issue of Il-Bizzilla.

The picturesque bay of St Julian’s is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or begin an enjoyable evening. Spinola Bay is also popular with football fans looking to grab a beer and enjoy the day’s game with friends against the backdrop of the sea. Ryan's Pub, in the heart of this bay, is the perfect spot to enjoy any of the above. With mouthwatering burgers and new specials every day, you can expect home cooked food in a vibrant environment. And if you’re partial to your pint, you’ll find all your favourite brews on tap, served just the way you like them. Then, if your afternoon pint with friends extends into the evening, the team at Ryan's know how to get the party going, hosting top DJs spinning out the latest tunes.

Image taken from viewingmalta.com

For reservations and private functions please contact 99420011 or 99467221.

Travelling to any EU Member State? Do you know the number to dial in case of an emergency? 12

You can dial 112 free of charge to get in touch with the ambulance, fire and police anywhere in the EU. This is the European emergency number.

â&#x201A;Ź 720

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AN ESTATE AGENT THAT KNOWS ITS NUMBERS When hiring an estate agent, it is important you select an estate agent that knows itsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; numbers. One of our key strengths lies with our team, in that they are the face of the company, which delivers the service to our customers. In 2014, we sourced out four market surveys, two of which were solely dedicated to real estate trends, whereas the other two were mystery-shopping exercises so that we could gauge our own level of service. Our associates are trained to specialise in their respective fields. In doing so they become the undisputed experts in different locations of Malta & Gozo. Contact one of our associates in Malta or Gozo today and experience a different level of service.

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TRAVEL HOT SPOT

GENEVA WORDS: Adam jacot de boinod

I booked myself into the Hotel Cornavin, which overlooks the station, partly out of simplicity but partly, somewhat sentimentally, as Hergé had pretended that Tintin stayed there. Geneva is a simple city for those hard of navigational skills, split as it is by the RhoneRiver and with the lake also acting as a constant reference point. The CITY With a wonderful mountainous backdrop, Geneva is for many the gateway to the Alps. By far the most international of Switzerland's cities, this 'most compact metropolis in the world' is the seat of 25 international organisations, including the United Nations and the Red Cross.

THE SHOPPING Every kind of luxurious gift is on offer here. Switzerland is, of course, famous both for its chocolates and its watches. The chocolate brands known worldwide include Suchard, Lindt and Toblerone. The watch industry dates back to mid 1600’s and the city remains a world leader with many top brand watchmakers located right in the heart of it, including Patek Phillipe, Frank Muller, Swatch, Omega and Piaget. There are some beautiful models at the Philippe Patek Museum. The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMCO) has a particularly noteworthy collection of ceramics and glass and, likewise, the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire houses a strong collection of international art, including some wonderful alpine paintings by the Swiss artist Hodler.

THE FOOD

THE EVENTS Among the most important events in Switzerland is the Geneva Festival, across July and August, when the harbour hosts craft, food and trade stands, as well as around 120 concerts for the occasion.

By now, of course, I was hungry. The Brasserie des Halles de l'Île is central and located in Geneva's old market hall on an island. I recommend it as I do L’Adresse, which is located beneath the lake, in the Jargonnant district. It’s an urban loft with a fabulous rooftop terrace, and a contemporary bistro fashioned out of old artists' workshops.

A breath of fresh air After all these galleries, I found myself in need of some fresh air, and wandered through the Parc des Bastion, one of Geneva’s 50-odd parks that breathe life into the city. Along its promenade lined with trees, this park is home to some of the finest monuments in the city, as well as several life-size chess sets. As for the lake itself, the renowned jet fountain of water shoots 372 metres (1,220 feet) into the air from the surface. It is fun to sail on or jog alongside but is more dangerous, agitated and deep than would appear.

Air Malta offers regular flights to Zurich 14

Adam Jacot de Boinod worked on the first series of QI, the BBC series presented by Stephen Fry and is the author of The Meaning of Tingo published by Penguin Press, and creator of the iPhone App Tingo, a quiz on interesting words.

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GOZO LIFE

Romantic

GETAWAY If you’re looking for a peaceful break with a hint of magic, then Gozo is the place to go, says Veronica Stivala.

Gozo has a certain magic to it and this is accentuated during the winter months when the Island is not as populated with tourists or day trippers from Malta. Contrary to the hustle and bustle idiosyncratic to most villages on its sister island, as well as the busy main roads, Gozo has managed to retain an enviable sense of serenity, which is perfect for the couple who are looking for a romantic break over the St Valentine weekend. Book yourself a room in a hotel where you can spoil yourself with some of the special romantic packages that many establishments offer, including the likes of themed dinners, spa combos and other pampering treats. Or you could also make a reservation at one of Gozo’s quaint bed and breakfasts where you can enjoy the

luxury of having your bed made and a hot breakfast served without having to lift a finger yourself. Or if you really want to break away from the rest of the world, why not find a cozy farmhouse where you can cook for each other and then enjoy the warmth of a lit fireplace? A truly romantic getaway to Gozo would not be complete without a refreshing walk in the Island’s truly magical countryside. One particularly riveting (but not too taxing) walks is up to the Ta’ Gordan lighthouse in Ghasri. Make your way up to this spectacular lighthouse, one of Gozo’s famous landmarks, as you take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills below. Words cannot describe the sense of calm and peacefulness you will feel

Fungus Rock, Dwejra , image taken from www.viewingmalta.com 16

as you stand at the peak, the lighthouse by your side, and with the sprawling sea beneath you. Other gorgeous, scenic walks include a stroll along the rocky coast by the seaside gem that is the Azure Window in Dwejra, or you could enjoy the beautiful and historical sites as well as the fertile valleys that populate the area around Ramla Bay. Or perhaps try the unusual saltpan walk which starts in Victoria and ends up in the magnificent Wied Sara Valley. Of course, one cannot forget the many top class restaurants that exist on Gozo. Head to Xlendi, Victoria or Marsalforn to savour a sumptuous meal of freshly caught fish, or whatever tickles your taste buds, paired with a bottle of wine.

ESTATE AGENTS SINCE 1981 FOR SALE

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

MADLIENA ▪ €3,900,000 ▪ DETACHED VILLA

PENDERGARDENS ▪ €750,000 ▪ APARTMENT

DETACHED VILLA set on a large plot of 2248m2 ▪ Malta’s ﬁnest residential location ▪ Breathtaking views down through the valley to the sea ▪ Beautiful mature garden ▪ Large swimming pool with a surrounding terrace & gazebo ▪ Entrance hall ▪ Kitchen ▪ Dining room ▪ Study ▪ Large living room ▪ 4 double bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms (all en suite) ▪ Electric garage ▪ Laundry room ▪ Back-up generator ▪ Air conditioning throughout ▪ Alarm system ▪ Double glazing ▪ Water well ▪ Internal size 398m2 ▪ External size 2048m2 ▪ Ref: DV01353 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

Spacious wide fronted APARTMENT ▪ Highly sought after development ▪ Excellent rental potential ▪ Prime location in St.Julians ▪ Close to all amenities ▪ Large contemporary open plan kitchen/dining/living area ▪ Sliding doors onto large front terrace ▪ Fully fitted kitchen ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (master ensuite) ▪ Study ▪ Guest toilet ▪ Laundry room ▪ 2 further terraces ▪ Mitsubishi air-conditioning throughout ▪ 1 underlying car space ▪ Internal size 244m2 ▪ External size 79m2 ▪ Ref: FA07919 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

FOR SALE

L/O RABAT ▪ €1,900,000 ▪ HOUSE OF CHARACTER

SLIEMA ▪ €425,000 ▪ PENTHOUSE

Dramatic FARMHOUSE perched on the edge of a secluded cliff ▪ Spectacular rural location ▪ Magnificent panoramic sea & country views ▪ Built on a plot of 5200m2 ▪ Central courtyard ▪ Spacious dining/sitting room with real working fireplace ▪ Kitchen ▪ Living area ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ Space for 3 ensuite bathrooms ▪ Beautiful garden area with natural amphitheatre of rock formations ▪ Internal size 140m2 ▪ External size 5234m2 ▪ Ref: HC100050 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

Luxurious PENTHOUSE in a modern block ▪ Recent price reduction ▪ Wonderful far-reaching views of Unesco listed Valletta & Manoel Island from its spacious terrace ▪ Being sold fully furnished ▪ Open plan dining & sitting room with doors leading to the terrace ▪ Fully fitted kitchen/breakfast ▪ 2 double bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ▪ Store room ▪ Rear terrace ▪ Underlying car space ▪ Internal size 130m2 ▪ External size 35m2 ▪ Ref: PH00807 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

TO LET

TIGNE POINT ▪ €3500 monthly ▪ SEAFRONT APARTMENT

High specification furnished SEAFRONT APARTMENT ▪ Excellent seaviews of Sliema Creek & Manoel Island ▪ One of the best residential locations in Malta ▪ Fantastic amenities ▪ Close to promenade ▪ Spectacular communal swimming pool ▪ Open plan dining & living area ▪ Fully equipped kitchen with sliding doors onto large front terrace ▪ 3 double bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (1 ensuite) ▪ Guest toilet ▪ Laundry room ▪ Underlying car space ▪ Property area 200m2 ▪ Ref: FA100009

SWIEQI ▪ €1500 monthly ▪ MAISONETTE

Exceptional & spacious MAISONETTE ▪ Fully furnished ▪ Stylish finish ▪ Spacious layout ▪ Fantastic open plan kitchen/dining/living area ▪ Fully equipped modern kitchen & appliances ▪ Outdoor terrace with sun loungers ▪ Quiet residential location ▪ Short walk to St.Julians & all the amenities ▪ 2 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms ▪ Laundry room ▪ Parking ▪ Airconditioning ▪ Country views ▪ Ref: MA500009

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

Malta’s leading property website - www.perry.com.mt Sliema (Head Office) ▪ St. Julian’s ▪ Valletta

LUXURY MOTORING

The Advent of the

Hybrid Hypercar It seemed almost inconceivable five years ago that the world’s most desirable cars would one day be powered by petrol/electric hybrid systems, however that day has already come and gone. WORDS: Owen Bonello The car that started it all, the Jaguar C-X75, never actually made it to production because Jaguar felt it was the wrong time to launch a hypercar which would cost around €1 million, due to the on-going global recession. This unique car had electric motors powering each wheel, and was charged by micro gas turbines or by plugging it into the mains. Where Jaguar left off, Ferrari, McLaren and Porsche picked up. Their production hybrid offerings are all powered by different hybrid systems, ideal for pottering silently around town while offering incredible fuel efficiency, especially considering their performance when driven hard. The production-ready Porsche 918 Spyder burst onto the scene at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Its power comes from a 4.6-litre petrol V8 which delivers 608bhp via all four wheels. It is supplemented by two electric motors for an 887bhp total power output. The motors are powered by a battery, which is charged by energy recovery systems. The car can also be plugged into the mains. The McLaren P1, which costs a shade over €1 million, is powered by a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine developing 727bhp. This combines

with a single electric motor mated to a battery for a total of 903bhp. Both the Porsche and McLaren feature all-electric modes for driving in builtup areas. It’s awe-inspiring to think cars like these can travel along silently while emitting no harmful emissions. Completing this amazing trio is the €1.3 million LaFerrari, which is probably the most hard-core of the three. The car is powered by a 6.3-litre V12 churning out 789bhp, together with a Kinetic Energy Recovery System. LaFerrari doesn’t have an all-electric mode for driving short distances unlike the other two cars, and this is because its 963bhp total power output is solely aimed at delivering as much performance as possible. As you’d expect, all of these cars boast biblical performance figures, but what’s even more impressive about them is that they are all flagship models from

prestigious car manufacturers and all incorporate hybrid petrol or electric technology. Just as cars such as the Porsche Carrera GT, McLaren F1 and Ferrari Enzo set new benchmarks for road car performance in the past, the new generation of hybrid hypercars has set a new one altogether, and that’s why they all have a rightful place in automotive history. These hypercars also reflect what’s going on in motorsport. All current F1 cars are petrol/electric hybrids with batteries and energy recovery systems. Similarly, the majority of competitive machinery on endurance racing grids around the world is powered by petrol/electric or diesel/ electric powertrains. Seeing such technology being used in flagship road cars shows that going racing eventually does improve road car technology. Whoever said green cars are exclusively the domain of hippies and environmentalists?

This article was provided by Anchovy Luxury, a Malta-headquartered international luxury digital marketing agency. Several illustrious international brands are currently on the agency’s books. | www.anchovyluxury.com 18

TIME TO GE

ICED T NOT

Why in flight advertising really works. We offer you a unique opportunity to reach the most captive audience you’ll ever have. That’s a quarter of our local population every month. On a plane. With nowhere to go for the next hour or so... and with plenty of time to check out what our islands have to offer. Blue Media Marketing is offering you the opportunity to deliver your company’s message on a dynamic medium on-board all Air Malta flights. For advertising opportunities please contact Renata Vella on 00356 2142 4924, 00356 7999 5959 Alternatively e-mail on sales@bluemedia.com.mt

www.bluemedia.com.mt

THINGS TO DO IN MALTA

Things to do in MALTA there is so much to do on this small island of ours, that visitors often feel like they must be missing out on something. So We’ve rounded up a few of the BEST things to do and see, all of which are an intrinsic part of our daily liVeS. 04

Organise a fenkata and sample the very traditional dish of fried rabbit.

09 Explore Valletta – one of the most historic cities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and wonder at the magnificent St John’s co-Cathedral.

10 01

Take a walk along the Sliema and St Julian’s seafront, and enjoy a wonderful Mediterranean meal at one of the many restaurants along the way.

Visit the Ġgantija Temples – said to be the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

Browse for traditional delicacies and local crafts at the Victoria Market in Gozo.

Organise a boat trip and enjoy the views of the Islands, rugged coastline from out at sea.

Buy Maltese pastizzi – a local pastry delicacy – and eat them in the sun.

06 Explore the tiny island of Comino on foot during the quieter months.

11 Experience the nightlife in Paceville.

07 Go swimming at Golden Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in Malta.

Take in the view from Calypso’s Cave above Ramla Bay in Gozo.

12 Catch a play at the Manoel Theatre, one of the oldest working theatres in Europe.

THINGS TO DO IN MALTA

The Malta Experience

13 Pay a visit to the Mosta Church, famous for having one of the largest domes in the world.

Located in Malta’s capital city, Valletta, and housed within what was once the Sacra Infermeria of the Knights of Malta, is The Malta Experience. This audio-visual spectacular is one of the largest attractions in Europe in terms of duration, system and language commentaries. It is also the only show that retraces 7,000 years of Maltese history. The 45-minute presentation can be listened to in one of 17 languages.

18 14

Take in the views of the breathtaking Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Go to Marsaxlokk – a quaint fishing village known for its markets, fresh fish and authentic fishing techniques.

Visit Hagar Qim, Malta’s prehistoric freestanding Megalithic temples which are situated in Qrendi.

Visit the atmospheric underground chambers at the Hypogeum, which were dug thousands of years ago.

PRESENT YOUR AIR MALTA BOARDING PASS FOR A 15% DISCOUNT ON THE ENTRANCE FEE (not valid with any other offer)

Hop onto a ferry to Gozo and head to Dwejra to admire the Azure Window, which is undoubtedly one of Malta’s highlights. Malta is one of the best places in the world to go scuba diving, with fantastic diving courses and the opportunity to see some incredible underwater wildlife during your holiday.

Shows are every hour on the hour as follows: Monday to Friday: 11am till 4pm Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays: 11am till 2pm (Closed on Good Friday & Easter Sunday).

In a purposely-built auditorium, with a panoramic screen, sensational vision and a gripping commentary, The Malta Experience brings 7,000 years of history to life. The show is undoubtedly worth a visit for anyone interested in Malta’s unique story. Moreover it is an ideal reference guide to the island’s places of interest. So why not make it your first stop and let Malta’s treasures unfold before your eyes?

www.themaltaexperience.com

20 Trek along the rugged coastline, which provides a backdrop to Malta’s beautiful beaches and crystal clear seas.

WE HEART MALTA

We Malta

The quaint charm, friendly locals and entertainment encompassing anything under the sun has captured many visitorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hearts. Add a romantic rhythm to the mix and the postcard-perfect Maltese lifestyle takes on a whole new beat. Go beyond tourist attractions and get to know what lies at the heart of Malta. WORDS: Melanie Vella

WE HEART MALTA

Meet Martina Simerska from the Czech Republic and Twain Cutajar from Malta.

he couple’s favourite Maltese word sums up how they feel about Maltese lifestyle: 'lussu' meaning luxury.

At 23, Martina had been living and working in Prague, the Czech Republic, for a few years. Her feet began to twitch once she turned the final pages of ‘Eat, Pray, Love’, a popular novel inspiring many to head out on their own globe trotting adventure. When she asked a friend in England to suggest a country that offered sunny weather, English speaking locals, and an easy to start a new chapter, he immediately pointed to the little dot in the middle of the Mediterranean. He put Martina in touch with a Gozitan friend. “I was so surprised by how eager she was to help a complete stranger settle in, at no charge,” says Martina. Soaking up the serene beauty and peaceful Gozitan lifestyle was a huge leap from Prague city life. She swapped laid back Gozo for more upbeat adventures in Malta once her best friend Linda joined her. “I stumbled upon an intriguing mishmash of small island, city life by the sea.” “The Maltese locals welcomed us with open arms. We were living the summer

dream of fun, friends and working at a lido by the beach,” she recalls. “My plan was to spend three months of summer indulging in the sand, salty water and beachy tunes, and then to head to the Italian Alps to look for a job.” That is until her musically atoned ears picked up the tunes played by the DJ in the lounge area of the lido. Martina was brought up in a musical family with both her father and brother playing drums and guitar. “I noticed his good taste in music before I laid eyes on his smile and dark, boyish looks.” Twain is a regular on Malta’s underground music scene, organising events with international DJs with a keen ear for easygoing underground tech tunes. Twain was out to impress on their first date. “I put on the Maltese charm by organising a boat trip to the Blue Grotto for starters, then we headed to Upper Barrakka in Valletta for a few drinks. The romantic view of the harbour worked its magic and I managed to sneak in our first kiss,” says Twain. Martina and Twain see Malta as their base, but their lifestyle allows them to travel regularly, in fact they just returned from

Mexico last month. Their adventurous spirit continues whilst in Malta too. “It’s exciting to have a foreign girlfriend and to appreciate all Malta’s beauty with fresh eyes,” explains Twain. Even after three years together, they still go on weekly road trips to discover new secret spots around the Islands. In summer they take their boat to hidden gems like Delimara in the south, and Kanal beach in Comino. “I’m very proud of my country. Whenever Martina’s family come to visit us, or we have a foreign DJ come over for one of the parties I organise, I love to immerse them in the full Maltese experience – from decadent food, to captivating history with the backdrop of scenic sights,” says Twain. Winter takes them to cosier nooks like their favourite wine bar, Del Borgo, tucked away in the side streets of Birgu, which offers a rustic, artistic vibe. This is where they went for their second date. Their French bulldog, Pedro, completes this family portrait as he accompanies them wherever they go. “Our slightly competitive nature makes us compete over whose country has more to offer, but with the variety of entertainment, food and outdoor expeditions, I’m confident I’ve managed to help Malta steal Martina’s heart,” he says.

Photography by Tumer Gencturk 23

Village of the month

My Town, Zebbug WORDS: Charlotte Stafrace

Village of the month

One of the pleasures of visiting Malta during the low season is that it is cool enough to actually fit in quite a bit of sightseeing throughout the day. Some of that should surely centre around the villages and smaller towns, as this is the real heart of the island. Apart from the must-see cities of Valletta and Mdina, the popular towns on the tourist map are Rabat in the north and Marsaxlokk in the south. But head to the centre of Malta and you will come across the town of Zebbug – which means 'olives' in Maltese.

ebbuġ, which is also my hometown, is a place seeped in history. It is one of the oldest towns in Malta and was given the title of Citta Rohan by Grandmaster Emanuel de Rohan-Poldruc in 1777. To honour the title, a gate was built to serve as a grand entrance. Walking through the gate today gives an idea of a grandeur of past days. There is plenty to see in Żebbuġ – most of its beauty is connected to the splendour

of architecture in Malta. When Malta was under the Sovereign Order of the Knights of St John, Żebbuġ was an important and flourishing town due to its successful cotton production. The vast olive groves for which the town is named no longer exist, having made way, some 400 years ago, to the city centre, including Żebbuġ’s pride and joy today – the magnificent parish church dedicated to St Philip of Agira. It’s a grand, albeit dark, church dating back to the late 17th

century. Come and visit at a quiet time and have a leisurely walk around the different small altars, enjoying the various works of art, including some by the renowned Maltese artist Antonio Sciortino, who was also a ‘Żebbuġi’, born in this city. The prime masterpiece of the church is the statue of St Philip made of silver in 1864 and recently renovated to its former glory. If you happen to be here during Easter time, this parish boasts one of the most elaborate and lavish Good Friday processions, with all the fanfare, chariots

Village of the month

and a cast of hundreds that Żebbuġ likes to show off. The church lies in a big square, lined with small bars which serve tea or beer all day and are the regular meeting place for the town’s male population – from snippets of overheard conversation, you will realise that topics from the state of the international economy to the woeful performance of the local football team are discussed with great seriousness. Just off the main square is a boulevard lined with trees under the shade of which is a thriving market that's held four times a week. This is where I get my fresh vegetables, fruit and fish. On other days, stalls sell all kinds of household and clothing items.

It is a busy town and, during the summer, there is a whole programme which keeps us residents entertained - and occasionally reaching for the earplugs. For starters, there is not one band club in Żebbuġ, but three - which can regularly be heard competing with each other as they rehearse within metres of each other. There are poetry and song evenings, and there are two major feasts in summer – the feast of St Philip (the patron saint), and also that of St Joseph. Even if you are not particularly keen on Maltese festas, the fireworks, both the ground and aerial ones made by the local fireworks factories, are remarkable. If you get here early in the morning, during

festa time, you can see whole gangs of men putting these fireworks up in the main square. I never fail to be intrigued by how they eventually put together all these little parcels of explosive powder, connected by multitudes of wires, to create the different shapes and colours which all finish with a resounding ‘boom’ after lighting up the sky. I’ve seen a lot of change in all the years I’ve lived here and, although Żebbuġ, like other towns, has become large and sprawling, it still has the feel of a village. There are still the little shops – holes in the wall jostling for business against the upmarket fashion spots in the bigger cities. The town rises early;

Village of the month

sometimes you will catch a crowd of women returning home after mass, stopping for milk, fresh bread and a chat – at 7am! In winter, the streets are quiet after 8pm apart from a few diehard regulars at the local bars and social clubs. I would advise you to come early, grab a cup of tea or coffee in one of the small bars, and watch the square come to life. Then, as you wind your way down the narrow alleys, take in the ornate facades on some of the old houses and palazzos, and the chapels all around town. As you look around and appreciate the wrought iron windows and balconies, you will also notice some interesting ‘niċeċ’ – corner niches dedicated to various saints. Some are small stone sculptures intricately carved out of the town’s limestone, others contain full-sized statues, finished in coloured paint and surrounded by decorative lights. The residents usually keep each ‘niċċa’ in their street spruced up by lighting candles and placing flowers. Sometimes, you may hear someone muttering a prayer asking for the interception of that particular saint to resolve some health problem in the family. As you wander through the streets, try to sneak a look into some of the houses, as it is still quite usual to have the front door open, access barred only by a glass fronted second door. You will get a glimpse of a different pace, a different setting of a unique part of Malta. You might even get a whiff of something truly tasty cooking on a slow stove or the irresistible smell of freshly baked bread coming from Billy the Baker, a genuine old bakery just round the corner from my house.

Photos by Foto Classic 27

ST PAUL'S ISLAND

WORDS: Rebecca Cachia

ST PAUL's island

Threatening to sweep the vessel further off course, the violent storm continued to batter the Alexandrian freighter with all its might.

The sailors, drenched in fear and desperation, dropped four anchors off the stern in a valiant attempt at securing their continued passage from Crete to Rome. There was only so much that could be done, however, for the ship continued to drift into shallower waters. By morning, the anchors were lost to the watery depths and the vessel was unceremoniously splintered as it ran aground. Among the sailors clambering ashore was Paul the Apostle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a political prisoner of ancient Rome and the man who, by means of this fateful shipwreck, changed the course of Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s religious and cultural future forever.

ST PAUL'S ISLAND

ocated to the north of the small village of St Paul’s Bay, St Paul’s Island is said to be the site of this maritime event which occurred in around 60 AD. The story of the island and St Paul’s shipwreck is described in much detail in the Bible, and is etched into the ancestral memory of the Maltese. The view out towards the island – which is sometimes split in two depending on the sea level – is a

scenic – yet – subtle reminder of the quintessential power of the dark waters out of which it emerges. Like a resting predator, the serenity of St Paul’s Island in the calmness of spring and summer hides an aggressive character, unleashed in the stormy days of winter. Paul and the crew stepped ashore and, as the legend continues, they were met with kindness from the Maltese, who lit a bonfire. As people gathered around the fire, Paul was bitten by a poisonous snake

but was not hurt in any way. The Maltese were taken aback, for surely this must be a unique and extraordinary man; a man, that legend has it, rid the island of poisonous snakes forever. This particular part of the story is vividly commemorated in St. Paul’s Shipwreck Church in St. Paul’s Bay, which supposedly lies on the site where the Maltese lit the bonfire as a sign of their hospitality. Paul was then invited to the house of Publius, the Romans’ chief

ST PAUL's island

representative on the Maltese Islands. It was at this time that Publius’ father was struck by a deadly fever but was cured when Paul visited their house, on the land on which now stands the Cathedral of Mdina. Publius then converted to Christianity out of gratitude and admiration, and he became the first Bishop of Malta, making the Island one of the first Roman colonies to convert. The history of St Paul’s stay in Malta is therefore intertwined with Malta’s cultural past, as he sowed the seeds for the future of Christianity on the Island. The story of Paul, his shipwreck and the strong Christian traditions that captivated Malta are immemorialised across the Maltese Islands. This is nowhere more apparent than on St Paul’s Island itself. The view out towards the Island is dominated by a sculpture of St Paul that was originally erected in 1844. Unfortunately, strong wintry winds and salty sea spray have had dire effects on the statue. To counter these adverse weather conditions, the statue is restored by the National Trust of Malta, Din l-Art Ħelwa, every few years to ensure that it will forever remain part of the Maltese panorama. St Paul’s Island has for a long time been uninhabited, save for some wild rabbits and small lizards darting their way across the maritime garigue and golden samphire flowers. It is now sadly believed, however, that even the rabbits and the lizards are no longer around. That said, it wasn’t always this way. Up until the 1930s, a farmer by the name of Vincenzo Borg – known locally by the nickname Ta’ Bajdafin – lived in an ancient building right next to the renowned statue. Vincenzo had to abandon the Island with the onset of the Second World War, and it has been left to its small, animal occupants ever since. As a visitor to Malta, the surest way to take in the scene of St Paul’s Island and imagine its biblical history is to head to the promenade of the village of St Paul’s Bay or neighbouring Bugibba. There are also many boat tours that include a short drive past St Paul’s Island on their itinerary.

The feast of St Paul's Shipwreck is celebrated on 10th February. Images of St Paul's Island by www.viewingmalta.com 31

Travel

The Age of the Urban Nomad WORDS: Kat Scriven 01

Sitting in an upright chair of the airport lounge, watching as people of all walks of life pass by. Mothers with toddlers in tow, business men with stiff collared shirts, families with sun tans and duty free bags, travellers with their scuffed backpacks. 32

Travel

ll on the go, all off to yet another destination. We have entered a new phase. A phase where travel has become a part of our inherent life. We are on the go, we are on the move. Falling asleep in one country and waking up in another. We are not bound geographically and there is no place we cannot get to. We have become urban nomads. Moving, working, playing; the world is a mere tap of your iPhone screen away. Technology allowing us a taster into a world beyond our own home while travel allows us to indulge, to embrace and to experience the rest of the world. From the sleek simplicity of Scandinavian design found along the

narrow streets of old Stockholm to the chaos of Paraganj in New Delhi, the world is yours for exploring. Getting a glimpse into a new culture, seeing how another person looks and lives their life on this planet. We can fly to Venice for the weekend and be back in time for work on Monday. We can leave home in the middle of winter and walk straight into the heat of somewhere elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer. As we travel, we learn and we grow, we see things we have never heard of before. We taste flavours that set our tongues alight and feast upon new design to our eyes delight. Our minds expand to new dimensions as our cultures fuse and our preconceptions fade. 09

Travel

Whether headed to a business meeting, to see an old friend or simply to explore an unknown city; whether it is the first or the 100th time you have been there, find that incredibility in the moment you are experiencing. You are crossing seas and flying over lands. You are living what your ancestors only dreamt of. Eat something new, speak a few words of a new language, walk down a narrow, cobbled street you have never before seen. Eat a pastry in Montematre and shop the stalls of Portobello market, lie on the beach in 06

Barcelona or breathe in the fresh alpine air in Switzerland. Look to the many different ways we all inhabit this planet. Travel teaches you more than any book, it shows you real people and makes you question exactly where you fit in. You are one in a sea of seven billion. Forge your own unique path. You are an explorer, let each trip take you on an adventure. This journey is your own and there is always something new to seek and discover. Where are you flying to today?

Things i wish someone had told me Before my first major journey, I asked friends for tips and tidbits of advice on what I would need, what may come of use in a tricky situation. Years later and I admittedly have still not mastered the art of skillful packing. However I must admit there are a few things that I have learnt over the years that, if asked those same questions, I would answer to. Pack the things you love. My first trip around India consisted of me spending six months in that beautifully chaotic land. I packed way too much and nothing that was really necessary anyway.

Kat Scriven was born in Africa but considers herself an explorer of the world. Fuelled by her love of new cultures, the unknown and the enticing beauty of a new city, her love for travel is rivaled only by her passion for writing and design. www.thesaltyseawench.com Photo credits to Peleg Cohen | 1.Tokyo at night | 2. Children in West Africa | 3. Cow carrying a cart in streets of Dehli, India | 4. West African coast | 5. A Phillipine boy | 6. Vietnam's coast 35

COUNTRY WALKS

Walking the Road Less Travelled In the cooler months Malta offers some great walking opportunities. After the first autumn rains, the land discards its dust brown summer mantle and replaces it with a lush green cover. The weather becomes pleasantly cooler too but hardly ever very cold. With the exception of Sunday afternoons when half of Malta apparently does its Sunday driving along its country roads, the area stretching west from Rabat to Mgarr is a quiet, sleepy one and ripe for discovery at a slow paceâ&#x20AC;Ś 36

COUNTRY WALKS

“

the valley forms part of one of the largest valley systems On the island

”

he road from Rabat to Mġarr is just short of 10 kilometres long and can easily be covered in less than three hours. Starting from the Rabat bus terminus, take the road that goes past the Roman Domus and skirts the edge of the town, overlooking the township of Mtarfa across to the pleasant Hemsija valley. Past the large roundabout on the outskirts of Rabat, keep going straight (road signposted to Baħrija, Mtaħleb) and soon the last buildings are behind you. Another 10 minutes on the road and it splits into two. Take the right turn (signposted Tas-

Salib). A 100 metres further, the road forks again with no signposts this time. Take the right turn which will take you across the Qlejgħa Valley via a stone bridge. There is normally running water here and the valley forms part of one of the largest valley systems on the Island. From the bridge there’s a steep 10 minute ascent past the disused rural chapel of Tas-Salib until you reach the top of the hill, going past the tiny hamlet that goes by the same name; while to your right there are views across to the rounded hilltop of Il-Qolla, a Bronze Age village site.

COUNTRY WALKS

At the top of the hill there’s a crossroads, again not signposted. Take the immediate road to the left. You are now on the Dwejra Ridge, one of a series of such high ridges that characterise the northwest of the Island. It’s a lovely country road with wild garigue on both sides and small copses of old carob trees here and there. Soon you'll pass by a very fine example

of a ġirna, the traditional rounded stone hut built without the use of mortar. At the top of the road there is the Nadur Tower which dates back to 1637. Though small in size, this tower occupies one of the highest points on the Island – roughly 800 feet above sea level. It commands scenic 360-degree views and is also a spot favoured by bird watchers in the

early mornings or late afternoons during the spring and autumn migration, when substantial numbers of birds of prey can be spotted. The road continues its meandering way with views of the privately owned Għemieri Palace to your left; a low, red painted building with its own private

COUNTRY WALKS

chapel set amidst a mature grove. Further on, a few houses mark the hamlet of Għemieri – take the road to the right and in a couple of minutes you are at another unmarked junction. Make a right turn and you are on the Tas-Santi Road. The road is now pleasantly downhill as far as Mġarr. This is arguably Malta’s most scenic road. It’s a three-kilometre stretch, initially with the deep and lush Santi Valley to your left while the low slung Fort Binġemma sits on the ridge to your right. Fort Binġemma was an essential part of the Victoria Lines, a line of fortifications built by the British in the late 19th century to guard the costal harbour towns from possible invasion via the vulnerable northern coast of the Island. The fort guards one of the few natural access points along the Dwejra Ridge. The views along the road stretch as far as the bays of Għajn Tuffieħa and Golden Sands, while, in the distance, the steep white face of the Ta Ċenċ cliffs on Gozo can be made out on all but the haziest of days. Midway through the road is the sleepy hamlet of Tas-Santi and, beyond it, sit stretches of vineyards and fertile fields. Some of the fields here are dedicated to growing strawberries – a commodity the village of Mġarr has become well-known for. Mġarr, in fact, hosts the hugely popular Strawberry Festival in spring. The Tas-Santi road ends on the outskirts of Mġarr where a right turn, mercifully signposted, gets you to the village in about 20 minutes. On the way there is a curious battlemented residence that goes by the name of Castello Zammitello, an old structure with origins dating back to the 17th century and now a favoured venue for wedding receptions. Mġarr itself is another quiet village and a closely knit farming community fanned around its oval domed church. There’s a variety of eating and drinking places around the village square and it’s a good place for a well-earned rest and some interesting people-watching.

This walk is not a circular route and therefore best made by public transport. Rabat and Mgarr are served by frequent bus services from both Valletta and Sliema.

Local food

Our Daily Bread WORDS: Leonard Zammit Munro

Food is an essential part of who we are. The way we prepare and consume our food reflects our cultural background, and forms an integral part of our heritage. And no mention of Maltese food is complete without a reference to the local bread, and specifically the popular loaf called 'Tal-Malti' (literally, 'of the Maltese').

s is typical of countries like Malta, whose history dates back some thousands of years, bread has remained an important focus of local cuisine. During the past century, it has evolved from a staple which determined the survival of a whole population, to a delicacy which is relished by locals and visitors alike. And indeed, Maltese bread tastes like no other in the world. Very crusty on the outside yet soft on the inside, many visitors find the combination of the taste and texture of fresh Maltese bread

irresistible. However, to enjoy it at its best, the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hobza tal-Maltiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; should be eaten fresh, on the same day it was baked. Although you can find typical Maltese bread at most village groceries and supermarkets, a visit to a local bakery is well worth your while, if only to witness and appreciate the rustic authenticity of the way it is produced - not to mention savouring the enticing aroma of the finished product, fresh out of a wood-burning oven! Although less so today, bakeries, especially in the Islandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; villages, still act as a meeting place where people go to buy

Local food

their bread, share news about the village and contribute to maintaining community ties. Due to its breadmaking heritage and the several bakeries it hosts, Qormi is considered to be the capital city of breadmaking in Malta. This claim has been etched in history with the title of Casal Fornaro – meaning the Bakers’ Town – which it acquired during the time of the Knights of St John. In Gozo you will also find a number of bakeries where you can relax and sample their fresh bread-based specialities on site. A perfect bread-based snack is ‘ħobż biż-żejt’, served in practically every Maltese and Gozitan bar or kiosk, and still a favourite packed lunch for many. Each bar and household has a different version of the ingredients for this popular snack, but they all make for a great lunchtime sandwich. The ħobż biż-żejt’ is a large thick round of Maltese bread dipped in olive oil, rubbed with ripe tomatoes and filled with a mix of tuna, onion, garlic, tomatoes and capers. A version made with the unleavened variety of local bread, the ring-shaped ‘ftira’, is just as delicious. In restaurants, smaller portions known as ‘bruschetta’ are served as appetisers. First-time visitors to the Maltese Islands are pleasantly surprised to realise that a loaf of bread can prove to be such a treat in itself. Some are so taken by this genuine delicacy that they make sure to grab a loaf before boarding their planes, thus taking home a simple, but incredible, slice of Maltese life! Buy a loaf: If you’re an early riser, it will be worth finding the time to visit a bakery. Maltese bread is about

Image of Maltese Bread by www.viewingmalta.com 41

Local food

1. Maltese bruschetta 2. M altese ftira. Image taken from www.viewingmalta.com 3. Typical Maltese bread 4. Fresh Maltese 'ftajjar' at the bakery. Image taken from www.viewingmalta.com

walking past a baker’s early on a winter’s morning and suddenly getting intoxicated by the smell of fresh bread coming out of a wood-burning oven. It’s about childhood, picnics, a snack by the sea. You dig a hole in the soft centre and steal the warm pieces before anyone notices. You watch the butter melt, you cut a door-stopper size and have a swig of beer and talk with your mouth full to your friends. A basket before a fenkata. A van hooting its horn at the end of the alley and you join a throng of old ladies, all wanting their own variations of what’s on offer... ‘misjura’ or well done..

or ‘naqra nejja’ for someone who doesn’t like her bread too crusty. Qormi is the capital of breadmaking in Malta. In fact, during the rule of the Knights Hospitaller, it was known as Casal Fornaro meaning the bakers' town. Nowadays an annually-held festival, Lejl f'Casal Fornaro (a night at Casal Fornaro), takes place in Qormi in late September. Veteran baker Ġorġ 'Il-Foqs' is locally known as the best in his profession and his bread is very sought after. He is located in a corner on St Catherine's The Historic Norman Castle at Clitheroe Square in the older part of the city

known as the San Ġorġ area. Other notable bakers like Ġorġ 'il-Boqboq', Ġorġ 'is-Sufa', and Ġorġ 'taz-Zinger' are based in San Ġorġ. On a humoristic note, the people of Qormi are teased as being 'nies sa Nofsinhar' meaning that they are not to be relied on after noon due to most Qormi residents in the past being bakers and working late at night and in the early morning, thus being very tired by noon. The reason for the Maltese bakers working in the small hours of the day is that people wanted to have fresh bread ready to be bought as they were heading home.

Pop Culture

Play the Game of Thrones in Malta WORDS: Helen Raine

Winter might be coming on the TV hit series Game of Thrones, but the sun always shines on the fictional King’s Landing. That made Malta the perfect place to film the first series. Under the Islands’ hot Mediterranean skies, centuries old palaces and forts were transformed into the hometown of the scheming Lannisters, while ancient Gozitan rock formations provided the wild backdrop as Daenarys became a Khaleesi. If you’re a fan and want to visit the filming locations, you’ll also be taking in some of Malta’s most iconic landmarks; here’s where to play the Game of Thrones in Malta.

The Azure Window, Gozo To imagine Daenerys Targaryen, standing with the wind in her hair as she marries Khal Drogo, Dwejra in Gozo is the place to head. The Azure Window in this Heritage Park is a natural limestone arch that curves gracefully over the Mediterranean surf. The

archway appears behind the wedding scene in Season One and the happy couple could scarcely have picked a more beautiful spot. While you’re here, try snorkeling from the tranquil Inland Sea through the cliff tunnel that leads to the ocean.

Pop Culture

Mdina Mdina is a medieval walled city, where imposing palaces jostle for space with cloistered convents. Its city gate is topped with stone lions, the Lannister sigil, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect stand-in for the exotic metropolis of Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing. Like Ned Stark, you too can cross the stone bridge over the moat to explore this Citta Notabile. Only a very limited number of vehicles are allowed inside, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to imagine the whispers and threats flying as the characters battle for power in the winding flagstone lanes. The graceful Pjazza Mesquita also features when Lord Baelish leads Ned Stark to the brothel where he has hidden his wife Catelyn.

Pop Culture

Verdala Palace, Buskett Gardens, Dingli Verdala Palace is the summer residence of the President of Malta, but Game of Thrones borrowed it to create Illyrioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mansion in episode one; Daenerys meets Khal Drogo for the first time here. In the surrounding Buskett Gardens, once the hunting ground of the Knights of Malta, the Starks discover a stag killed by a dire-wolf. The Palace itself is generally closed to the public, but you can explore the neighbouring gardens, where walking trails will take you through citrus groves and woodlands.

Fort Ricasoli, Kalkara

San Anton Palace and Gardens, Attard The San Anton Palace is another Presidential residence, which is transformed into the Tower of the Hand and the Red Keep Hallway. Ned meets Littlefinger here shortly before disaster befalls him. The Gardens, with their walkways, fountains and orangery, are open to the public although the palace itself is not.

Many of the settings in Game of Thrones are actually created in a Belfast studio, but Fort Ricasoli serves as the gatehouse and wall of the Red Keep when the King and his courtiers cross into the city in episode three. When you see the gates, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll understand why; two artfully twisting columns adorn the hefty door of this 17th century fort. The same gate appears again in episode five as Arya tries to get back into the Red Keep after escaping through a secret passage. The fort saw active duty for many years after its completion in 1693 and again in World War II. Due to erosion from the sea, it is closed to the public, but you can view the gates from the outside.

Fort St. Angelo, Vittoriosa Waterfront Malta has been called the 'Fortress Island' for a reason; this second fort, St Angelo, broods over the Grand Harbour and its aura of impregnability makes it ideal as the Red Keep Dungeon. Arya chases a cat into the tunnels beneath the Red Keep while she is under the instructions of Syrio Forel and overhears a key conversation between Varys and Illyrio here In 1998, a treaty granted the Order of the Knights of St John the upper parts of the fort. It is currently being restored and should reopen mid-2015, but you can view it from the outside. The waterfront is a lovely place to grab lunch in an open-air restaurant.

Pop Culture

Fort Manoel, Manoel Island, Gzira If Mdina has the beauty, Manoel Island has the brawn. In the series, this star-shaped fort is transformed into The Great Sept of Baelor, where Joffrey forces Ned Stark to admit to being a traitor and then orders one of the biggest TV shockers of all time. The central square of the Fort and its defensive ditch also feature. It was built in 1726 by the Knights of Malta and was a Royal Navy base in World War II. The fort is being restored and remains closed to the public but parts of it can be seen from the water. Image taken from www.viewingmalta.com

Tal-QarHa, Manikata Manikata is a sleepy little hamlet not far from the beautiful beaches of Għajn Tuffieħa and Golden Bay. For episode eight, the Razzett tal-Qasam farmstead becomes Lhazareen, the village attacked by the Dothraki. The dry-stone walls of the village can be seen behind Daenerys as she approaches an injured Khal Drogo afterwards. This is the farming heartland of Malta, a place time forgot, where villagers still sit on their stoop of an afternoon and figs grow wild in summer.

MtaHleb Cliffs, near Rabat The desolate beauty of these cliffs has long been a place to get away from it all for Maltese nature lovers. In Game of Thrones, Dothraki riders trot above the limestone bluffs and the location serves as a Dothraki Campsite after Khal Drogo collapses in episode nine. Later, Daenerys walks into the funeral pyre here, emerging as the Mother of Dragons. If you visit, you’ll discover that the spectacular view of Filfla Island is missing from the show and the sea that should be pounding beneath the cliffs has been transformed into a CGI desert. Decide for yourself whether you prefer the wild ocean version or the fictional sandy one. Photo by Foto Classic

TOP SPOTS

Malta's Top Spots in a Day

WORDS: Helen Raine

Good Morning Mdina

Get Stuck in a Rut

Rock Your World

Get off to an early start in the ‘Silent City’ to experience the quiet atmosphere of this 4,000 year old architectural treasure before the crowds arrive. Imposing palaces and convents line the narrow, paved streets and the view from the bastions is of Malta unfolding below you towards the sea. Take the time to visit the beautifully-curated National Museum of Natural History or St Paul’s Cathedral.

Just south of Rabat, the mysterious Misraħ Għar il-Kbir (known locally as the Clapham Junction Cart Ruts) are a complicated set of tracks, scored deep in the limestone. There is considerable argument as to their origins; some suggest they were made by sledges pulling goods or by cartwheels; others claim that they were irrigation channels. Visit them to add your own learned opinion to the debate.

The temple of Ħaġar Qim was built around 3600 BC and is one of the oldest freestanding structures in the world (older, even, than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Egypt). The intricate, cloverleaf floor pattern was likely created to honour a Goddess and 'fat lady' statuettes (the Venus of Malta) were discovered here, symbolising fertility. The giant rocks that make up the walls are carefully aligned with the sun so that, on key dates, such as the solstice, the rays of the rising sun illuminate sacred features. The seaside location overlooking the islet of Filfla adds another layer of loveliness and, if you have time, a sister temple, Mnajdra, lies just a few hundred metres away and is equally deserving of a visit.

Just outside the walls of Mdina lies the town of Rabat; the name is derived from the Arabic word for ‘suburb’. Here you can tick off another Maltese must-do, namely eating a pastizzi. Crystal Palace is the (almost) undisputed champion of this pea-or-ricotta-stuffed filo pastry delicacy; cheap and authentically Maltese, they make the perfect snack.

If you got just one day in Malta, there are some highlights you shouldn’t miss. So rent a car and hit the road for a roller coaster trip around the Island that will have you back at the airport by nightfall.

TOP SPOTS

View Valletta As capital cities go, Valletta is tiny but this compactness is part of its charm, especially for those on a tight time schedule. UNESCO describes it as 'one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world' so let yourself get lost wandering the maze of ancient streets and buildings, knowing that you are safely corralled by the deep moats and fortified walls, built to keep out the Turks after the Great Siege of 1565.

Into the Blue

Hypogeum Hyperbole

If you can’t bear to leave the Island without dipping your toe in the Mediterranean, now is your chance. From the temples, make the short drive to the Blue Grotto for a quick swim.

Fitting the Hypogeum into your day will require some forward planning. This World Heritage Site has strict entry limits and advance booking is essential. If you are organised enough to get a ticket, however, this ranks as one of the best travel experiences in the world (book for early afternoon; you’ll need to cut out the cart ruts to make time). An underground, prehistoric burial site and temple, the Hypogeum is made up of intricately cut rock chambers with ancient red ochre paintings and carved features that mirror the temples you’ve just seen above ground. The place will give you goosebumps.

Valletta has formed the backdrop for numerous films (one of the most recent being World War Z) because of its steep, atmospheric staircases and alleyways, with brightly-coloured doors and balconies set into honeyhued stone buildings. The capital has undergone a huge renovation recently with innovative architect Renzo Piano transforming the City Gate from a tired 1960s-scape to a commanding entrance with a distinctly 21st century feel, including a new Parliament building. Whether you see a ‘giant cheese grater’ or an example of world-class architecture is something you’ll only know if you go. There is a lot to do in Valletta, so you’ll have to prioritise. Peek inside St James Co-Cathedral for its world famous marble floor, inlaid with angels, skulls and skeletons; walk down to the Grand Harbour, one of the finest sea entrances in the world; visit the National Museum of Archaeology which has some of the original decorated stones from Ħaġar Qim amongst other treasures; or just order a Cisk in a pavement café and watch real life in Malta slide by. This is a great place to have dinner too. There are dozens of atmospheric restaurants where you can eat everything from cosmopolitan world food to traditional specialties such as fenek (rabbit) or bebbuxu (snail). As a final goodnight (or il-lejla it-tajba, as the Maltese would say), round off with a shot of bajtra liqueur made from the prickly pears that grow all over the island.

Food in February

Feasting Before the Fast WORDS: LeA HOGG

I come to the Three Cities for my piece during this month of more celebrations. Traditions, beliefs and customs cross cultural and social boundaries and, as in most parts of the world, February brings us the feasts of love and carnival.

he temperature of the Mediterranean this winter had been unusually cold, bitterly so at times as this is an island that is totally exposed. And as I hurry my way up the narrow flight of steps right across from the promenade in Cospiqua, I am sprayed with droplets of the Mediterranean Sea. I enter the most ancient building in Kottonera and, despite the thick limestone walls and the vast surface area of stone flooring, I start to feel warm nearly instantly. The Knights Privy Lodge welcomes me, and wraps me in a blanket of comfort, shielding me from the bad weather and giving me a feeling that I belong. Old buildings have character and give out vibes which are good or bad. Here it is only good. The building itself enchants me, the carvings in stone, the cock and crow embedded into the stone corners watch over me from either side, birds of two extremes creating balance and harmony. You can easily envision the life of another era here, an era of romance, of knights and maidens and of masked balls. Apart from good food, every celebration needs a good atmosphere and this is created by the company you happen to be with, and the location. On the Island, Carnival these days takes place in Valletta but the original celebrations were held in the Three Cities. The first Carnival here can be traced as far back as 1535, and I close my eyes to hear the mirth and laughter of the knight and his guests, courtship, masks and elaborate clothing with all the elegance of a Venetian masquerade. Surely this is how it must have been.

Food in February

The ladies adorned with their finest, the 05 servants carrying trays of food, everyone must be replete before the 40 day fast of Lent begins. Abundance, merriment, this is the time and place to be frivolous and let your imagination run wild. And today the Carnival parade is vibrant; high-pitched excited voices compete with the loudness of music, whistles are blown into the air, the noise all around matching the extremities of the colourful clothing, boisterous children are dressed in fancy costume and Valletta buzzes. This is the Catholic feast before the fast, a European feast taken to Brazil by the Portuguese. I notice in the last few years that carnival sweets have started to appear at the confectioners nearly as soon as the Christmas festivities are over. They contain all that is not good for you, but that's what celebrations are all about. They are about spoiling yourself and allowing life to take over and eclipse the usual restrictions we face, be it for esthetic or health reasons. So what is a prinjolata? It is a mix of crushed biscuits and buttercream, pistachios, glacĂŠ cherries, pine nuts and chocolate moulded into a little peak and enveloped in icing and meringue. I made mini versions last year; bite size pop-in- 07 the-mouth prinjolata sweets and I will be repeating them this year again. Coloured sugared almonds are also associated with Carnival here and these are served at weddings, and other festivals and celebrations too. Something we no longer see though is the 'qarÄ&#x2039;illa' which was a piece of pastry shaped into a bride and groom form. This was perched on a long rod and paraded around the village streets during Carnival. A villager dressed in legal attire would then read a fictitious marriage contract in the name of fun. And speaking about wedding vows, this is the month when many will be thinking of popping the question while others will dread the same question. February is the month that puts pressure on many romantic relationships.

If you are on the Island on Valentine's Day try to celebrate with a special local meal. You can also make original food gifts for a change, share a bottle of Maltese rose wine with some homemade truffles, or make your own edible flowers with the strawberries that are still in season. You can simply dip fruit in chocolate and wrap in ruffled paper and bows. Chocolate chip muffins, coloured ribbons to decorate jars, sprinkled with pearls and glitter to jazz everything up and impress your loved one. Or quirky ideas like painting an old mug and filling it with ginger heart-shaped biscuits. The possibilities are endless and during these times when everyone has anything they want all year round, a personalised gift can have much meaning.

And you can also cook a meal for your loved one making use of the fresh produce available this month. All kinds of citrus is still at its peak, and by now, the fruits will have turned to bright orange and yellow colours. You can preserve mandarins, clementines, grapefruit and kumquats, and also make jams and marmalades.

In season this month you will also find artichokes, purple kohlrabi, Jerusalem artichokes, endive and fennel, as well as winter potatoes. I can think of so many combinations to wow a loved one. Simplicity is always in mind as when you use fresh produce, the best way to prepare it is barely cooked. You do not need to take a full day off to prepare a meal because a fresh seafood pasta or a rabbit loin steak will surely capture the heart of your other half! You cannot beat Malta for freshness of natural ingredients, fruit is distributed to the shops on the same day it is harvested and, in the case of animals, on the same day of slaughter. If you opt for fish, find a trusted fishmonger who can identify the catch of the day. If you live on the Island, support the hard work of our local farmers and also the traditional methods of the food distribution chain. Remember the small local meat and vegetable shops in your area and the green grocery vans in every village that keep your local community alive. The local farming and agriculture industry is at the root of our culture and our heritage. Because we are what we eat. Not many days go by here without the sun making an appearance and, if you are a visitor in February, I hope you will be able to bask in the winter sun for many hours. This Island is blessed with many good things that life offers and the brightness of the light, so unique on the Island,will put you in the right spirit to share the experience of our life in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Lea Hogg is a columnist and feature editor specialising in the food and cuisine of the Mediterranean Region. Her work includes TV and radio broadcasting. Her recipes are available on the local press. Her blog is www.goodfoodeveryday.wordpress.com With thanks to the Government Farm at Ghammieri | Photo Credits: 1-4. Pix by P, of a house in Cospiqua | 5. People in Valletta, dressed up for Carnival | 6. 'Perlini', carnival sweets taken from www.viewingmalta.com | 7. Fresh chocolate covered fruit 51

DESTINATION

Returning to the eternal city Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Veronica Stivala has thrown a coin in the Fontana di Trevi too many times to ever stop returning.

here are some cities that, no matter how often you visit, always have something new to offer. Rome is one such city. Majestic architecture, delicious food, a most rich history, impressive art masterpieces, the list of attractions in this city is endless. And even though I have visited a number of times, I know I will return many times again. Here’s why: There’s a belief that you have to throw a coin into the celebrated rococo fountain that is the Fontana di Trevi. I stick to this ritual, so perhaps that’s why I keep going back. The fountain dates all the way back to 1732 when work was first begun by Nicola Salvi and was completed by Giuseppe Pannini in 1762. A word of warning though as the fountain is undergoing restoration work, so you cannot enjoy it in its full glory. Although, of course, you can still toss in that coin, and a second and perhaps third if you wish to be hearing wedding bells soon.

single column. Look out for the baroque altar baldachin, which stands over the tomb of St Peter, and Michelangelo’s famous Pieta sculpture in the basilica itself. The Vatican Museums are a mustsee, and the crown jewel here is, of course, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Castel Sant'Angelo is nearby. This is now a museum but was originally commissioned as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in the second century AD. Exhibits here include weaponry and artifacts related to the building's long, colourful history. The elliptical Piazza Navona is close and was originally a chariot-racing stadium. Most famous here is one of the three fountains here: Bernini’s baroque Fountain of the Four Rivers, which represents the four great rivers of the four continents known in the 17th century when it was built: the Danube in Europe, the Nile in Africa, the Rio de la Plata in South America, and the Ganges in Asia. Another must-see is the impressive Coliseum, it was the largest amphitheatre of the Roman empire and

is the largest in the world. It could hold an estimated 80,000 spectators. A word of warning about the lurking animators, especially in the Coliseum area. Dressed in an attractive centurion kit complete with pseudo-armour and red plumes sticking out of their helmet, some take advantage of unsuspecting tourists and lure them into taking photos and then charging the earth. Of course, the more you visit a city, the more you begin to see its cracks and flaws. And Rome is certainly not a city without them: the traffic can be a nightmare (though for the tourist ambling around the city and with no strict timetables, this is not really a problem), and if you speak to any Roman, they will complain till the cows come home about unemployment and the government. But despite this, the Romans still manage to retain a certain zest for life, which is manifest in their mouthwatering dishes, their idiosyncratic sense of style and their warm approach to socialising. Rome, I will be back.

But, of course, there are oodles more attractions to savour in this gorgeous city. What I like especially about Rome is that many of the main attractions are within walking distance. Why not start at the Vatican City – just look for the recognisable dome of St Peter’s Basilica. The Piazza San Pietro, which circles the basilica, is a masterpiece in itself. And if you want to be a proper tourist, stand near the central obelisk (there’s a stone that marks the exact spot), and focus on the colonnade. You'll see each row of four columns line up perfectly to look like a

Air Malta offers regular flights to Rome

Photo (left): Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy | Photo (above): Colosseum in Rome, Italy 53

medical tourism

High-Flying Dentistry

Missing molars A missing molar is a very common scenario. How many molars are you missing? A single lower or upper molar, an entire side or do you have absolutely no molars in either jaw? The first molar tends to be the first one which comes up in the mouth. Erupting at the age of 6-7 years the first molar erupts at a very young age, a time when maybe our oral hygiene and willingness to take care of our teeth is not at its best. The second molar erupts around 12 years of age when we tend to be more concious of our teeth, either due to orthodontic (brace) treatment or routine dental checkups. These posterior teeth are often not brushed as well as they sit further back in the mouth and, as a result, end up with large cavities, eventual root treatments and so on. Some tend to fracture needing extracting and others are simply left untreated resulting in failure as if they went missing, they would still not be visible when smiling. In time these patients come to realise the following problems: 1. The movement of adjacent teeth by collapsing in the missing tooth space causing food packing. 2. The opposing teeth move up or down into the space of the missing tooth

causing an unbalanced biting place with possible interference on chewing. 3. The gingival tissue collapses inwards due to loss of bone in the area of the missing tooth caused by a lack of stimulus from the roots of extracted tooth. 4. F acial features around the cheek area change due to lack of tissue support offered by molars. This is mostly evedient when more then one molar is missing. 5. M olars are for chewing whilst incisors are for biting. Therefore the loss of molars will cause excessive load on the remaining anterior teeth resulting in anterior tooth chippings, fractures and wear. Patients with missing molars on one side tend to chew on the other side, also resulting in an excessive unilateral load. 6. Functional disability in chewing leads to a change in the choice of food we eat due to the inability to chew properly and digest accordingly. This may also result in gobbling as opposed to chewing food leading to indigestion. How do we replace missing molars? Well this is always broken down into two categories; a removable replacement and a fixed one. A conventional removable replacement is a denture which may

replace all your molars in one jaw at once. A fixed replacement is either a bridge or and an implant. A bridge, by definition, bridges the gap of the missing tooth by attaching the bridge to the teeth on either side of the space. This is a relatively quick procedure but involves the detrimental shaving of the teeth on either side of the space. The implant on the other hand stands independantly of the adjacent teeth and carries far more advantages than the bridge. Although the expense is more than for a bridge the pros far outweigh the cons. Every case should be measured on its own merits, but whats for sure is that at any age whatsoever, missing molars should be missing no more! The reality of it is if molars are missing for a long time we tend to get used to it that way and forget how comfortably we ate prior to losing them, not to mention their multifactorial uses mentioned above. It is never too late to replace your missing molars. Ask your dentist!

Dr Jean Paul Demajo Dental and Implant Surgeon Trained in London NOW working in private practice in Malta.

PROPERTY

Owning a piece of Malta’s history In today’s fast paced life with long working hours, stress-filled days and ever-looming deadlines, there is no better way to let the tension of the day simply melt away by coming home to one of the Maltese Islands’ charming houses of character or farmhouses.

It is said that ‘A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams’. Owning a one-of-a-kind house of character or farmhouse is a dream that many aspire to. And with good reason. Malta and Gozo are dotted with a large number of charming houses of character and farmhouses for sale and to let. Most of them are found, of course, in rural areas, so they also come complete with quaint little villages or with acres of countryside surrounding them. Many of them are tucked away in little cul-de-sacs or tiny roads giving a sense of being cut off from the rest of the hectic, high-speed life that goes on around us. Tranquillity is the key. But what makes properties such as these even more special? For some prospective property-owners and renters, it is the fact that these houses ooze history and authenticity some of them date back to the 17th and 18th century. However, even though the properties are very old, they have been renovated with love and care; several of them still contain traditional features such as Maltese balconies, the antiporta (glazed door), kantina (basement), wooden tiles,

cangatura (flagstones), giebja (underground cisterns) or wells, internal courtyards, wooden beams, and tarag tar-ragg (winding staircase). Many of them marry old and new with effortless beauty, and are combined with contemporary finishes and styles, using modern materials and including modern amenities such as gorgeous kitchens, solar heating, air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes. For others, it is because many of them are larger properties than the norm nowadays, since they were originally built for larger families. Houses with four and five bedrooms, and the same amount of bathrooms, are not unheard of; many of these kinds of properties also offer vast living spaces, as well as well-sized halls and sometimes mill rooms and even remissas (stables) and servants’ quarters. And, because the walls are thicker than the norm, indoor climate control is usually much easier that it would be in a recentlybuilt property. For yet others, the large outdoor spaces with surrounding yards and gardens, is the clincher, making it simple for sunworshippers or night-owls to install a swimming pool, barbeque area,

Words by Omar Xuereb, branch manager, Marsascala branch | Frank Salt | www.franksalt.com.mt

entertainment quarters or sun deck. Many of these residences also offer stunning views either of the sea, the lush countryside, the charming village core or the picturesque winding roads surrounding the property. Properties such as these in Malta and Gozo are of limited supply. With houses of character and farmhouses being in constant demand by both local and foreign nationals nowadays, this ensures that the price of the property offers steady capital appreciation. Prices start at around €190,000, average at €250,000 and can go up to the one million euro figure. And if you are looking to buy-to-rent, they make an ideal rental investment and are perfect for holiday letting throughout the year. Whether you are interested in buying or letting, a house of character or farmhouse is something which will certainly change your lifestyle for the better. Each house of character is unique and provides a living gateway to Malta’s chequered heritage and history, a sanctuary of tranquillity that never fails to mesmerise its tenants.

PROPERTY

Property Predictions for 2015 2014 was another record year for RE/MAX Malta. The company closed the year with a 28% increase in promise of sales, the most significant increase in transactions that they have experienced in the last five years. This can be attributed to a number of reasons, including but not limited to, the first time buyer scheme, a further gain in market share as well as an increase in the growth of sales associates operating within the RE/MAX Malta team, not to mention the continuous effort in training of their associates. RE/MAX Malta boasts of being the largest real estate company in Malta with over 17 offices open and over 200 sales and letting associates. According to reports in 2014, Malta hit a high in property sales as well. Over 3,000 buyers out of the estimated 10,500 benefited from the first time buyer scheme, whereas there was a significant increase in up-market sales to foreigners taking advantage of the Global Residence Programme (Non-EU Citizens), The Residence Programme (EU Citizens) and the Citizenship by Investment Schemes. The popularity of the first time buyer’s scheme, which exempts those that are eligible from stamp duty on their first €150,000 spend, prompted the

authorities to extend the scheme till the end of June 2015. Regardless of the distraction of the festive season, January 2015 started where 2014 left off, with a consistent growth in property sales. The forecast for 2015 is that this trend will carry on throughout the year. Continuous effort by the Government of Malta to market the country as an island of excellence has further enhanced the chances of Malta having another record year, not only in real estate, but also for the economy. On 17th January, ratings agency Standards and Poor’s affirmed Malta’s rating at BBB+/A-2' with a stable outlook. The foreign investment of €320 million in Enemalta (Malta’s energy company), 25 per cent increase in iGaming licenses as well as other major enhancements to the general infrastructure of Malta in 2014 are indications that 2015 will have sustained growth throughout the new calendar year.

The increase in investment in the country has a multiple affect on the economy, in particular, to the real estate industry but also to those that service the industry. The iGaming industry, for example employs over 10,000 people, of which an estimated 4,000 are foreigners that require accommodation in the form of rental apartments. An increase of 25 per cent in iGaming licenses will definitely follow an increase in foreigners requiring a place to live. The development of the new power plant, which has been tied into the investment of Enemalta, will also create an increase in the demand for rental apartments to cater for the foreign staff, engineers and executives that will most definitely be working together with the locals. We envisage that besides the organic growth, created by various schemes to increase foreign investment, there will also be a considerable growth in property sales in 2015 directly from the rental investment market in order to cater for that demand.

If you are looking for a qualified investment that will provide a sustainable return, contact me directly on +356 9966 3322 or send me an email on kevin@remax-malta.com. You may also browse our website at www.remax-malta.com Kevin Buttigieg Managing Director 57

BUSINESS NEWS

The Individual Investor Programme of the Republic of Malta Henley & Partners was awarded a Public Services Concession by competitive tender with regard to the design, implementation and international promotion of the Malta Individual Investor Programme (IIP). The IIP is a modern citizenship-by-investment programme aimed at ultra-high net worth individuals and families worldwide. It offers citizenship in an EU Member State that is stable, neutral and highly respected, with an efficient application process, and the world’s strictest due diligence standards and vetting of applicants, thus ensuring only highly respectable clients will be admitted. Furthermore, the programme is capped and only 1,800 applications will be admitted. The IIP has been introduced with the aim of complementing the existing talent pool in Malta by attracting intellectual and financial capital that will further support inward investment to Malta. It allows for the grant of citizenship to duly qualified, reputable foreign individuals and families who make a significant contribution to the economic development of Malta. The legal basis regarding citizenship-by-investment is contained in Articles 10 (9) (b) and 24 (1) (i) of the Maltese Citizenship Act, Cap 188, and the Individual Investor Programme Regulations of the Republic of Malta, 2014. Furthermore, an agreement reached between the EU Commission and the Maltese Government on 29 January 2014 confers upon the IIP a unique legal status with explicit EU treaty protection acknowledged and approved by the EU Commission. The IIP requires a person to make an economic contribution to the country. In return, and subject to a very thorough application procedure including detailed due diligence and background verification checks, the applicants and their families are granted full citizenship. To qualify for citizenship, the main applicant must be at least 18 years of age, meet all of the application conditions, make a non-refundable contribution to the National Development and Social Fund, and meet certain other requirements.

The contribution amount is required to be paid by the main applicant in the sum of €650,000, with additional contributions required from the spouse and for each child under the age of 18. An application may include children between the ages of 18 and 26 years if they are financially dependent on the main applicant and are not married. In addition, parents over the age of 55 years may also be included in the application as dependants, if they are living with and are fully supported by the main applicant. Due diligence fees are payable for all applicants, as well as fees to cover the passport application and bank charges. Additionally, the following investment requirements and other obligations must be met: • Property – either the purchase of a residential property in Malta with a price of at least €350,000, which must be held for five years, or the lease of a residential property with a rental of at least €16,000 per annum, also held for five years • I nvestment – €150,000 in a prescribed investment, details of which are published from time to time by the Identity Malta Agency, which must be held for five years • I nsurance – the holding of a valid global health insurance policy with medical expense cover • Residence – the applicant must have been legally resident in Malta for one year prior to issuance of certificate of naturalisation • O ath of Allegiance – all applicants aged 18 years and over are obliged to visit Malta in person to undertake the Oath of Allegiance.

BUSINESS NEWS

All applicants must have a clean personal background and no criminal record. A person who is deemed a potential national security risk, a reputational risk or is subject to criminal investigation, will also be denied citizenship. Malta has developed a four-tier due diligence system which is considered the most thorough in the world for this kind of programme. The names of successful applicants will be published annually, along with all other naturalisations granted by the Government.

Government, all relevant information provided and the background of the applicant and any dependants are verified by one or several due diligence agents. All required due diligence fees, passport fees and bank charge fees as well as a non-refundable deposit of €10,000 against the Government contribution, must have been received, the source of all funds must have been verified and a risk weighting procedure carried out. Within a four month period and subject to the application being approved in principle, the applicant is required to:

Applications must be made on the prescribed forms and be accompanied by the appropriate fees and specific documents which, in addition to the usual personal documentation such as passport copies, birth certificates etc., include a medical certificate confirming that the main applicant and any dependants are not suffering from any contagious disease and that they are otherwise in good health; and a police certificate confirming that the applicants have no criminal record. Highly detailed due diligence checks are carried out and an application will be declined if it turns out that it contains false information or omissions.

• R emit the contribution (less the deposit already paid)

The Regulations stipulate that the process to achieve the issuance of a Certificate of Naturalisation under the IIP shall be a minimum of six months and a maximum of two years from the date of submission of the application. This includes the time taken to fulfill the property and investment requirements, as well as the one year residence requirement. Before the submission of an application to

• U ndertake the Oath of Allegiance in person in Malta, together with all dependants aged 18 years and above.

• Demonstrate compliance with the property requirement • S how proof of residence for one year • M ake the prescribed investment • B e in possession of a valid health insurance policy for the entire family with the requisite level of cover

Having satisfied all of the above requirements, a certificate of naturalisation can be issued, enabling successful applicants to become citizens of Malta.

CULTURE

Carnival

IN GOZO

Gozoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ruggedness has various facets. The month of February brings with it the originality that only Gozitans can express during the Carnival festivities. During these celebrations, Gozitans shed their usual customary religiosity centred around the celebrations of their feasts, saints and various religious festivities, to don a more celebrative and colourful attitude, which precedes the sombre Lenten period. This notwithstanding, Gozitans apply the same verve and energy to these celebrations. Carnival in Gozo has a longstanding tradition, being the period preceding Lent, which was practiced rigorously due to the Maltese Islandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Catholic tradition. 60

CULTURE

Carnival is celebrated around many localities in Gozo. Whilst the organised carnivals in Victoria, Nadur and Xagħra, amongst other localities, include a variety of dances, hilarious sketches, costumes, floats, and the traditional kukkanja, Gozo is particularly renowned for the spontaneous Carnival held in Nadur. It all started many years ago within the village, with young people rummaging for ideas to disguise themselves and parade through the little streets, making great fun along the way. Today, participation in the Nadur carnival has grown so much that people from all over the island flock for the three days of fun, colours and sounds where everyone can be anyone they want through provocative disguise.

Celebrations start early in Gozo with the organised Carnival in Nadur on 8th February. The official celebrations start on Friday 13th February and continue till Tuesday 17th February. Apart from the parades in Republic Street, Victoria, the other carnivals held in the other localities around Gozo offer a glimpse of Gozo’s diverse culture which can be traced distinctly to each of the various localities. In admiring the various dances and parades, one is easily carried away by the party atmosphere of costumes, dance and music but most of all of sheer imagination and creativity. Gozitan, dance companies apply a lot of energy

to costumes and choreography, and one is amazed at what such a small community can produce. Carnival has grown significantly in Gozo in the past two decades, becoming a major annual festival that attracts visitors to the Island looking for a uniquely fun experience. Its atypical and extreme nature has been a contributing factor to its success, and has been pulling bigger crowds. Today, one can find other activities surrounding the Carnival in Nadur. However, none of these has tamed its extreme and ‘wild’ nature which makes it so attractive amongst foreigners and locals. Funny and grotesque costumes are the order of the day. So as the sun sets, let the fun begin!

Photos of Carnival in Gozo, taken by Daniel Cilia 61

EVENTS

Dates to remember in...

FEBRUARY

Mistra Battery Open Day

Flying Sculptures

Mistra Bay 1st February

St James Cavallier 16th January till 15th February

Witness first hand the extensive restoration of the historical Mistra

The French-Belgian duo, Elodie Laurent and Stephane Kiszak,

Battery monument. Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna is holding its first public

experiment with production as mobile artists. The materials are

heritage day with accompanying historical re-enactments, which reveal

lightweight and small, leading to new methods of creation. 'Flying

different aspects of past life at this tiny fort. Entrance fees range from

Sculptures' serves as a reflection on sculpture and photography,

€3 per adult, €2 for AOPs and €1 for children.

questioning the concept of ecology and travel.

For more information look up Mistra Battery Open Day on Facebook.

Please visit www.sjcav.org for more information.

Events

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Be Back Before Midnight MADC Playhouse 6th till 8th & 13th till 15th February Peter Colleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production takes you on a roller coaster rise of stomach-wrenching twists and jaw-jamming laughter, while you jump out of your seat with fright and horror. Directed by Colin Azzopardi, the Maltese cast brings you a nightmare of frightening occurrences which will leave you breathless. For ticket info please visit www.madc.com.mt

Brooklyn Lager Launch Party at New York Best New York Best Sliema 10th February Color TV promotions are hooking up with the New York Best burger joint to bring another slice of the Big Apple to our little island. The Brooklyn Brewery is coming to Malta and New York Best is celebrating the launch of this with a bash that's mixing street food, mojito and Malta's bouncing DJs under one roof. The line up includes MATHEMATIKAL, U Jack, SQUEAK! and many others. For more information please visit www.newyorkbest.com.com.mt

Disney in Concert - Magical Music from the Movies MCC Valletta 13th February at 7pm & 14th February at 3pm Be enchanted by Disney in Concert. This full length concert of Disney music, featuring vocalists and animations will engage the audience like few concerts do. This is a concert for 'children' of all ages as they explore many of Walt Disney's stories and characters through amazing orchestrations and original film animation. Tickets available from: http://booking.mcc.com.mt

EVENTS

Friends of Friends La Grotta Club, Gozo 13th February Carnival time! This weekend Maltese and foreign revellers alike seek refuge on the sister island of Gozo for three days of partying. For the third year running, Friends of Friends will kick start your weekend on Friday night at the Grotta Cave. Jay Zinga & Dale will go back to back for the warm up slot, making way for Friends of Friends, head honchos Slim & Squeak!, who will take to the decks for a three hour battle. U-Jack will continue late into the night. Doors open at 10.30pm. For updates and information please visit the ‘Friends of Friends’ Facebook page.

Carnival in Malta and Gozo Valletta and around the Maltese Islands 13th till 17th February Carnival is long embedded in Maltese folklore. The weekend brings with it bursts of hued creativity and unmasked silliness. The streets of the Capital are coloured with extravagant floats and families doning their fancy costumes, and this is the heart of where the festivities unravel. The main squares are filled with performers doing traditional dances in over-embellished costumes known as parata. Most towns and villages have their own interpretations of activities as, traditionally, this marks the last blow out before the more reflective religious Lenten fast. For a twist on the traditional, head to Nadur in Gozo for a more spontaneous and mysterious set-up, where revellers indulge in a more quirky interpretation of activities. Munch on traditional Carnival treats like prinjolata and join the big Carnival parade which ends in the main street of Floriana with a fireworks display. This is the right time to explore Malta’s bright and colourful streets or shrowd yourself in mystery and head to Gozo. Viva Viva il-Karnival!

The Gozo Carnival Party 2015 by Duncan F The Ku Club 14th February After the Saturday night street parades, Duncan F performs his legendary surprise carnival show, as he teams up with Julian Drury and other special guest DJs and performers for a night of musical mayhem smothered in colourful extravaganza. Get your costumes ready and accommodation booked as the Carniva lweekend will be landing soon! Entrance is at €10 before midnight. Doors open at 10pm. For more information please visit the Duncan F facebook page.

Events

Music From Naples Manoel Theatre 18th February Renowned Italian folk singer Lucilla Galeazzi is the star performer to present the vast Neapolitan repertoire which ranges from instrumental music to vocal music, from serious opera to opera buffa, from villanelle to sacred music. For more information please visit www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

Stand Up Comedy Night Eden Cinemas 20th February For a night of side-splitting hysterics, join the Eden Comedy Club for an outstanding line up with the outrageously funny David Tsonos, and British Comedian Matt Green alongside MC Geoff Whiting who will also be performing his own set on the night. This will be a high energy night packed with punch lines at every fullstop. For ticket prices and more information please visit www.edencinemas.com.mt

MPO Concert Series Manoel Theatre 20th February Under the direction of Brian Schembri, the third concert in the MPO Concert Series features two works by Maltese composers Carmelo Pace and Veronique Vella. The second half is dedicated to Shostakovichâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 9th Symphony. To view the full programme and for further information please visit www.teatrymanoel.com.mt

EVENTS

Esben and the Witch Razzett l-Ahmar 28th February Esben and the Witch will electrify the crowd at Razzett. Expect a dark, visceral and intense of night with the Brighton gothic rockers. The Quietus described the band as a ‘refreshing indifference toward transient musical fads’. They will be accompanied by two stunning local acts. Tickets are €15 at the door. For more information log onto www.facebook.com/ events/406783436140523/

Chesus aka Earl Jeffers Molecule 28th February Local legends DonDisko & Colour TV team up for the first time featuring special guest CHESUS aka EARL JEFFERS for a night of raw house music. Appealing to a broad array of knowing DJs, the likes of Kerri Chandler, Todd Terry, Skream and Mosca have all played this Welshman’s joints in the past. Bounce around to the best in local and foreign talent an event not to be missed! For more information please visit DonDisko & Colour TV // 28.02.15 on Facebook.

Up Next Month

Bil-Qadfa ta’ Kulħadd 2015 – Walk, Run & Cycle for Charity Starts from Market Square, Żejtun, 10am 1st March Fondazzjoni Nazareth will be organising the second edition of the ‘Bil-Qadfa ta’ Kulħadd’ walk, run and cycle for charity. Those that can’t run, walk or cycle, will be able to take a fun train that will pass along the same route. The route, of about eight kilometres, will pass through the countryside of three localities in the south of Malta - Żejtun, Marsaskala and Żabbar. The route will finish in the same place it started. All the participants will be given a certificate of participation, something commemorative to wear, a cereal bar and an energy drink. Applications are open and can be collected from any three homes of the Fondazzjoni Nazareth, or online at www.fondazzjoninazareth.org. The donation fee for each participant is €7. Fondazzjoni Nazareth will assure you that you will have fun, after the great response that this Foundation received after the first edition. Those that will be attending can meet with the renowned cartoon characters of Walt Disney, and also with the authorities of Malta. Along the route there will also be music, which everyone can enjoy listening to as they walk, run or cycle. Fondazzjoni Nazareth is a voluntary organisation that provides support and shelter for persons with special needs in three different homes in Żejtun. The main aim is to create a warm family environment in which people will be able to develop as much as they are able, in order to live as happily as possible and become the best they can be. This year, 2015, this Foundation is celebrating the 20th anniversary from its establishment by its founder Dun Anġ Seychell. This foundation is run on a voluntary basis by the Board of Directors and the Committee. The donations that will be collected from this event will go into the next project of this Foundation to build its fourth premises. For more information visit the Facebook page, Fondazzjoni Nazareth, or the website www.fondazzjoninazareth.org.

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Malta

01 Valletta 02 Attard 03 Balzan 04 Birgu 05 Birkirkara 06 Birżebbuġa 07 Bormla 08 Buġibba 09 Cirkewwa 10 Dingli 11 Fgura 12 Furjana 13 Għargħur 14 Għaxaq 15 Gudja 16 Gżira 17 Ħamrun 18 Iklin 19 Isla 20 Kalkara 21 Kirkop 22 Lija 23 Luqa 24 Marsa 25 Marsaskala 26 Marsaxlokk 27 Mdina 28 Mellieħa 29 Mġarr 30 Mosta 31 Mqabba 32 Msida 33 Mtarfa 34 Naxxar 35 Pembroke 36 Pietà 37 Qawra 38 Qormi 39 Qrendi 40 Rabat 41 Raħal Ġdid 42 Safi 43 San Ġiljan 44 San Ġwann 45 San Pawl il-Bahar 46 Santa Luċija 47 Santa Venera 48 Siġġiewi 49 Sliema 50 Tarxien 51 Xemxija 52 Xgħajra 53 Żabbar 54 Żebbuġ 55 Żejtun 56 Żurrieq

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Gozo

57 Victoria 58 Għajnsielem 59 Għarb 60 Għasri 61 Kerċem 62 Marsalforn 63 Mġarr 64 Munxar 65 Nadur 66 Qala 67 San Lawrenz 68 Sannat 69 Xagħra 70 Xewkija 71 Xlendi 72 Żebbuġ

Islands 73 Comino 74 Filfla 75 Manoel Island 76 St Paul's Islands

Beaches

01 Anchor Bay 02 Armier Bay 03 Balluta Bay 04 Delimara Point 05 Fomm ir-Riħ 06 Għadira Bay 07 Għar Lapsi 08 Ġnejna Bay 09 Golden Bay 10 Marsaskala Bay 11 Marsaxlokk Bay 12 Paradise Bay 13 Pretty Bay 14 Salina Bay 15 St George's Bay 16 St Paul's Bay 17 St Peter's Pool 18 St Thomas Bay 19 Wied iż-Żurrieq 20 Xrobb l-Għaġin 21 Blue Lagoon 22 Santa Marija Bay 23 Daħlet Qorrot 24 Dwejra Bay 25 Marsalforn Bay 26 Ramla Bay 27 San Blas Bay 28 Xlendi Bay 29 Xwejni Bay

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Map

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Made In Malta

made in Malta Handcrafted just for you When in Malta don’t miss true craftsmen at work. The artisans at Mediterranean Ceramics will amaze you with their artistry and passion. In the Ta’ Qali workshop 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 and cruets, 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 shop, or the shop at the Valletta Waterfront. Have part of Malta right at home – worldwide delivery is easily available to add a dash of affordable art to your surroundings. Feel free to contact us: T: +356 2010 5552 / David Grima: 9920 1055 / Brian Grima: 9944 0922 www.MediterraneanCeramics.com

Cisk Lager – Malta’s Award Winning Lager Simonds Farsons Cisk is today synonymous with a beer brewing tradition rooted in quality. At the very base of this tradition are its long-established skills of selecting nature’s best ingredients. The finest imported malt and selected hops are coupled with the adoption of the best brewing methods and expertise of skilled and dedicated brew masters who give constant attention to detail to ensure that a high standard of quality is maintained at every step in the brewing process. Every single batch of their beer is thoroughly tested and tasted. Over the years since 1928, this dedication has consistently contributed to creating the award-winning brews, that so many have grown to appreciate time after time.

Kinnie 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 and goes well with a number of alcoholic drinks and a variety of cocktails. These distinctive characteristics have made Kinnie Malta’s own favourite soft drink, loved by the local population and tourists alike ever since it was launched locally in 1952. Over the years, in keeping with evolving trends in lifestyles and health awareness, a zero-calorie version, Diet Kinnie, was introduced. Other variants in the Kinnie portfolio today include Kinnie Zest– a sugar-free variant with an added touch of orange flavour, and more recently, Kinnie Vita a mid-calorie beverage which uses only natural sweeteners and contains just half the sugar and calories of a regular soft drink.

Cisk Lager is a golden-coloured, bottom-fermented lager with a distinctive and well-balanced character. Its rich hop aroma and pleasant bitterness, combined with a mild astringency, make it an outstanding thirst-quencher. Alcohol content is 4.2%. Today Cisk Lager has developed and progressed considerably since its launch in 1928 and the range also includes Cisk Export Premium Lager – a smooth, well balanced and exceptional beer with a 5% alcohol content, Cisk Excel – a low carbohydrate beer, Cisk Chill – a lemon flavoured and a berry flavoured lager, and Cisk XS – an outstanding extra-strong premium lager with a 9% alcohol content.

The full Kinnie range is now available online at www.amazon.co.uk with free home delivery being offered to UK residents. Never has ordering Kinnie been more convenient and user friendly, so place your order now for Malta’s very own favourite soft drink!

Cisk lager is now available online at www.amazon.co.uk

Go on – Have a Kinnie!

www.farsons.com

www.kinnie.com

Places to visit

Places to isit ...the best way to describe what you can discover while strolling down any of the charming lanes of Malta and Gozoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s towns and villages. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a look at what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re likely to find... For a more comprehensive look at places to visit log on www.visitmalta.com As opening times may vary, phoning ahead is advisable.

Valletta

Located on the northeastern shore of Malta, Valletta was built by the Order of St John, after the Turks of the Ottoman Empire invaded the island during the 1565 Siege of Malta. With its old-world splendour and magnificent baroque architecture, it is no wonder that Valletta is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Valletta got its name in 1566 from Grandmaster Jean Parisot de la Valette, the year the city was founded. It was one of the first cities in Europe to use a grid street system. After the war, much of the economic development occurred in the suburbs, leading to a population drain that has left Valletta with a population of around 7,000 today. This small city remains the capital and administrative centre of the island.

This small city remains the capital and administrative centre of the island 71

Places to visit

Inside St. John's Co-Cathederal St John’s Co-Cathedral The simple, sober façade of St John’s gives no hint of its lavish interior. It was built as the conventual church of the Order and the Knights spent enormous sums of money embellishing the chapels of their langues. The co-Cathedral was built between 1572 and 1581, and led by Geralomo Cassar; his training as a military engineer accounts for the sedate exterior. Nearly a century later, the prolific Italian artist, Mattia Preti, transformed Cassar’s severe interior into a glowing showpiece of Baroque art. His greatest task, which occupied him for five years, was the decoration of the vault. St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum and Oratory Of all the artistic treasures in the church, the pièce de résistance’ is generally considered to be Caravaggio’s painting of The Beheading of St John. This huge, vigorous work of art dominates the oratory.

Auberge de Castille The Auberge de Castille was the official seat of the Knights of the langue of Castille, Leon and Portugal. Today it serves as the office of the Prime Minister. Auberge D’Italie The Auberges of the Knights are the inns (or officers’ quarters) where knights of a particular ‘langue’ used to reside. Casa Rocca Piccola This small palazzo, built in 1580, is the private home of the 9th Marquis de Piro. It contains over 40 rooms and a delightful courtyard giving you the opportunity to see how a patrician household lived. Fort St Elmo Fort St Elmo guards the entrances to both the Grand and Marsamxett Harbours. It was the scene of a heroic defence during the Great Siege of 1565. Hastings Gardens Hastings Gardens, in Windmill Street, has splendid views of Manoel Island and Msida Creek. Lower Barrakka Gardens This garden commands a superb viewpoint of the harbour mouth, as well as over to Fort Ricasoli, Bighi Palace, Fort St Angelo and the creeks of Vittoriosa and Kalkara. National Museum of Archaeology Housed in the Auberge de Provence, this museum contains the most important finds from the many prehistoric sites across the Islands. National War Museum Located in Fort St Elmo, this museum has a permanent exhibition of relics and personal memorabilia of World War II, including a Gloster Gladiator – christened Faith – and the George Cross. Palazzo Ferreria Palazzo Ferreria is found opposite the ruins of the Royal Opera House. Its façade resembles that of a Venetian St John’s palace. 72

Sacra Infermeria Valletta’s Sacra Infermeria, built in 1574, was the best-equipped hospital of the Order. In its day, it was counted among the finest hospitals in Europe. The Infermeria had six wards; the largest measured 161 metres and is still the longest, and one of the most impressive, halls in Europe. St James Cavalier As a millennium project, St James Cavalier was transformed into a Centre for Creativity, adapting internal spaces for modern use, providing a backdrop for numerous exhibitions, recitals, concerts, festivals and cinema shows. The Casino Maltese Originally used as the Treasury of the Knights of St John, today the exclusive Casino Maltese retains most of its original 16th century features. A truly outstanding venue with a history of noble visitors. The Great Siege of Malta This walk-through show is an irresistible, entertaining spectacular on the four month long Ottoman siege of Malta in 1565, a siege that shaped and changed Malta for ever. This 30-minutes audio-visual journey, quality assured by the MTA, is located on Republic Square (Piazza Regina). The Lascaris War Rooms The Lascaris War Rooms are Malta’s best kept secret from WW2 in being the British combined War Headquarters from where both the defence of Malta and attack on Axis – controlled Europe were conducted. The LWR consist of a massive underground labyrinth of tunnels and chambers which houses different operation rooms and supporting facilities. They are located just under the Upper Barrakka Gardens. They can be accessed from Battery Street, Valletta, or from the Valletta Bus Station into St James Ditch following directional signs.

The Manoel Theatre and Museum The Manoel Theatre, built for the 'honest entertainment of the people', by Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena in 1731, is one of the oldest theatres in Europe, and is still in use. The National Museum of Fine Arts This splendid palace, known as Admiralty House during the British period, was originally erected in 1570 and restored in the 1960s. The Saluting Battery The Saluting Battery is Malta’s 500 year-old ceremonial platform from where gun salutes are fired to greet visiting dignitaries and ships, and from where the passage of noon is signalled everyday by gun fire. An evening gun is also fired at 4pm daily. The battery can be reached through the Upper Barrakka Gardens or Battery Street in Valletta. The Siege Bell Memorial Inaugurated in 1992 by Queen Elizabeth II, the Siege Bell Memorial is a monument to the fallen of World War II. The bell is rung each day at midday. The Upper Barrakka Gardens The Upper Barrakka Gardens are situated near Auberge de Castille offering visitors unrivalled views across one of the world’s largest and deepest natural harbours, the Grand Harbour, and over to the Three Cities. Toy Museum Located on Republic Street, it showcases toys from the 1950s onward. Valletta Living History This innovative 35-minute audiovisual show, at The Embassy Complex in Valletta, chronicles Valletta’s major milestones, taking you on a journey through time and history, and revealing facts and figures about Malta’s capital city.

Places to visit

Valletta Waterfront The Valletta Waterfront is an award-winning landmark on the Island. There are 19 beautifully-restored 18th century warehouses built during the Baroque period stretching along the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge, with a backdrop of historic bastions and fortifications. The gemstone buildings were originally constructed by Grandmaster Pinto to be used as stores by the Knights of St John. 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, with blue for fish, green for produce, yellow for wheat and red for wine. The heritage buildings have been transformed into a variety of lively restaurants, retail outlets and office spaces, as well as a host of services ranging from banks to tax-free shopping, Wi-Fi connection to a tourist information service and various transport services. Valletta Waterfront at night

The iconic doors have been revived with an artistic impression of colour 73

Places to visit

The Three

Cities

On the other side of the Grand Harbour, opposite Valletta, lie the historical fortified towns referred to as the Three Cities. Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea, built by the Grandmaster Fra Nicholas Cottoner, have a unique charm and character that distinguishes them from all other towns in Malta, including Mdina and Valletta. Older than Valletta, the Three Cities were home to the first knights. Fort St Angelo, which was built around 12th century AD, was the headquarters of the Knights until Valletta was built.

Fort Rinella Kalkara [2]

Maritime Museum Vittoriosa

The Malta at War Museum Vittoriosa [1]

Fort Rinella is a late-19th century British coastal

This museum is housed in the former British na

The Malta at War Museum combines a modern

fort still armed with its monstrous Armstrong

val bakery, built in 1842 over the site of a slipway

museum dedicated to Malta's second siege

100-ton gun. Using a quarter of a ton of gun

where the Order of St John repaired their war

in World War II and a visit into a massive

powder, this gun fired a one-ton shell up to a

galleys. On show are exhibits of expertly-made

underground air raid shelter located under

distance of eight miles to pierce nothing less than

model ships, paintings, nautical instruments,

the same museum. This museum is located

65cm of iron armour. Today this fort is Malta’s

weapons and traditional Maltese boats.

just a short walk away from the Vittoriosa bus shelter. Access is from Couvre Porte Gate or Sir

only live-museum where history is recreated daily

Paul Boffa Street.

through different historical re-enactments and

Fort St Angelo Vittoriosa [3]

living-history displays. These include live-firing of

Fort St Angelo is the jewel in the crown

cannon and musketry and cavalry displays.

of Malta’s military heritage. According to

Safe Haven Gardens Senglea

tradition, it stands on the site of a fortified

Safe Haven Gardens are at the tip of the

Inquisitor’s Palace Vittoriosa

Roman settlement. In medieval times, the

peninsula of Senglea. From here one can enjoy

The Inquisitor’s Palace was erected in the 1530’s

fort was occupied by the Aragonese and the

wonderf ul views of Valletta and the Grand

as the civil law courts of the Order of St John. This

Angevins. In 1530, when the Knights arrived

Harbour. The watchtower in the gardens is

architectural gem is now home to the museum of

on the islands, the fort became the seat of

known as the Gardjola.

Ethnography. Careful historical reconstructions of the

the Grand Master of the Order. It was to play

palace display areas such as the tribunal room and the

a heroic role in the Great Siege of 1565,

prison complex, as well as a permanent exhibition on

when, against all odds, it managed to repel a

the impact of the Inquisition on Maltese society.

formidable Ottoman army.

Places to visit

Northern

MALTA 04

Malta Classic Car

The Sanctuary of Our Lady Mellieha

Selmun Palace Mellieha

Collection Museum Qawra

This is considered to be the oldest

The majestic 18th century Selmun Palace is the

A museum featuring a ‘living’ collection of a

sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady. According

largest and the last castle built by the Knights

large selection of automobiles spanning over 50

to tradition the apostles Paul and Luke

of St John, in 1783.

manufacturing years.

visited this sanctuary.

The Red Tower Mellieha [4]

Sweethaven Village Mellieha

Wignacourt Tower St Paul’s Bay

Grand Master Jean Paul Lascaris built St Agatha’s

This is where the musical Popeye, the story of

Wignacourt Tower serves as a small

Tower, popularly known as the Red Tower, in 1647. It

the much-loved sailor starring the late Robin

museum dedicated to Malta’s rich military-

served as a signal post for communication with Gozo.

Williams, was filmed in 1980.

architectural heritage.

Places to visit

View of Mdina

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum Previously known as ‘The Norman House’, Palazzo Falson is one of the very oldest medieval buildings in Mdina, dating back to the 13th century. It contains a remarkable collection of antiques, including paintings, furniture, jewellery, armour and much more, and is open for public viewing.

Mdina Mdina is one of the few great architectural treats in Malta that did not result from the activities of the Knights of St John. The oldest city on the island, going back to pre-historic times, the word Mdina derives from the Arabic word ‘medina’ which means ‘city’. Mdina was fortified in medieval times, but its protection in early times must have been its high location on a rocky crag. It is certain that, either during the Byzantine or Arab occupation of Malta, the fortifications were retracted to present proportions, perhaps for better defensibility. It was during this time, when the city was refered to as the ‘medina’, that Mdina got its name. The Arab legacy continued even though the Arabs were officially expelled from Malta in 1250, when the islands were under Christian rule. Thus the name ‘Mdina’ survived even though the city was referred to as Civitas (city in Latin) or Citta Notabile.

Vilhena Palace Vilhena Palace has a fine Baroque façade and an impressive entrance courtyard, both of which one notices on the right when entering Mdina, through Notabile Gate. In 1973 this beautiful palace was converted to host the Natural History Museum. The most interesting of the exhibits is a moon chip given to Malta by President Nixon in 1979. Casa Testaferrata This house was the seat of the old noble family Testaferrata. Historians believe that, in Roman times, the site of this building housed a temple dedicated to Apollo. Carmelite Church and Priory Museum The Carmelite Church and Priory Museum offers a unique and innovative experience as the only monastery in Malta that has opened its doors to the general public. This 17th century priory has recently been restored to its former glory. Walking around the cloister, one is led into the different areas of the priory, which now form part of the museum.

Places to visit

Xara Palace The Xara Palace is a small Relais & Chateaux hotel. The history of the late 17th century Xara Palace is inextricably linked to that of Mdina, with its walls forming part of the city walls that make up its impressive bastions. PALAZZO DE PIRO The magnificent 18th century Palazzo de Piro, has been restored to create a unique venue of cross-cultural, artistic and social dialogue. The Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, operated by Infinitely Xara, features a programme of various collections held by the Metropolitan Mdina Cathedral Museum

Cathedral Museum, offering an outstanding setting to showcase,

Originally a seminary, this museum is now one of the most outstanding

promote and sell independent contemporary art. The venue, with

religious museums in Europe. A small chapel is found on the second floor

panoramic views over Malta, also includes the Xpresso Cafe by

exhibiting church vestments. It also exhibits an impressive cross-section

Infinitely Xara, which works with Maltese producers to provide visitors

of sacred art, famous paintings, a coin collection, Roman antiquities and

with local dishes.

original documents from the time of the Inquisition. Cathedral of St Paul Palazzo Gatto Murina

The skyline of Mdina, with its Baroque cathedral, bastions and

Palazzo Gatto Murina, one of the earliest ‘Siculo-Norman’ structures

palaces, is an imposing landmark visible throughout central Malta. The

(built between 1100 and 1530), was erected during the latter part of

Cathedral is the archit ectural heart of this elegant, walled city, and lies

the 14th century. An audiovisual show 'Tales of the Silent City' is housed

on the site of a much-earlier Norman church destroyed by a violent

inside the Palazzo.

earthquake in 1693.

Rabat Howard Gardens Howard Gardens is one of the biggest public gardens in Malta. These gardens form a natural border between Rabat and neighbouring Mdina.

St Paul’s Catacombs [1] The Maltese Islands are rich in late Roman and Byzantine burial sites. The St Paul’s Catacombs are a typical complex of interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries that were in use up to the 4th century AD. St Paul’s Catacombs represent the earliest archaeological evidence of Christianity in Malta.

Casa Bernard in St. Paul's Street This late 16th century historical Maltese Palazzino is a hidden gem recently restored to its former grandeur and now open for guided tours daily Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm. Step into the past and enjoy the experience of visiting this Europa Nostra award-winning house still lived-in today. The Roman Domus The mosaic pavements in this 'Roman house', rank among the finest and oldest mosaic compositions from the western Mediterranean, alongside those of Pompeii and Sicily. They were discovered in 1881 just outside Mdina in the remains of a rich and sumptuously decorated town house of the Roman period.

Attard

Villa Bologna Attard Situated in the heart of Attard, across the street from the grand San Anton Presidential Palace, Villa Bologna is a Grade 1 Listed National Monument. It has known many distinguished residents, foremost among them the Prime Minister Sir Gerald Strickland, the only Maltese politician to have been a member of the British House of Commons and later the House of Lords. Positioned within a large working estate, Villa Bologna offers its visitors a number of small distinctive ‘secret’ gardens with enchanting characteristics, and provides a feeling of a calm and welcoming Mediterranean oasis as they stroll through vast expanses of flowering beds into shady niches around tinkling fountains or sparkling ponds.

Places to visit

Gozo &

Places to visit

Comino

With a coastline of 43km, Gozo is the second largest island of the Maltese archipelago. Forever immortalised as The Island of Calypso, this name originated from the Greek mythological location of Ogygia, referred to in Homer’s Odyssey. In this epic poem, the fabled island was controlled by the nymph Calypso, who had detained the Greek hero Odysseus for seven long years as a prisoner of love. Gozo’s history is entwined in the general story of its sister island of Malta. As a result, Gozo shared the same influences of cultures bestowed on it by the number of dominators and events that touched the Maltese Islands during the last 7,000 years.

The Blue Lagoon Comino [1] The Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet of shimmering aquamarine water, is the main attraction on the tiny island of Comino and popular for day trips. The Lagoon and the isle’s other bays, with their crystal clear waters, make Comino the ideal choice for most kinds of water sports, especially diving and snorkelling.

Places to visit

Gozo & Comino

Maltese Church

Dwejra [1] Dwejra is perhaps the archipelago’s most spectacular natural landmark. Here, geology, time and sea have worked together to produce some of the most remarkable scenery on the Islands – The Azure Window, the Inland Sea, Fungus Rock, sheer cliffs and a rocky coastline yielding fossilised remains of sea creatures dating from the Miocene period. The Citadel Victoria Gozo’s Citadel rises steeply above the surrounding countryside, its impressive bastions commanding a superb view of the island. The Citadel owes its roots to the late medieval era.

Museum of Archaeology Victoria Housed in Palazzo Bondi, this museum showcases archaeological finds from the 11 phases of prehistoric Gozo, as well as the Classical World to the Middle Ages. A section of the museum includes items discovered at sea, off the Gozitan coastline. Ggantija Temples Xaghra [2] The Ġgantija Temples ('place of giants') are thought to be the oldest free-standing structures in the world. They are among the best-preserved temples on the Maltese Islands. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the complex comprises two Neolithic temples dating from the third millennium BC (3600 to 3000 BC).

The Xewkija Rotuna Xewkija Xewkija village is dominated by a huge rotunda church built in 1971. It is Gozo’s answer to Malta’s Mosta Rotunda. The dome is larger than that of St Paul’s Cathedral in London. The church has the capacity for a congregation of 3,000 – the entire population of Xewkija. Gharb Folklore Musuem Gharb This privately-owned museum in the village’s main square depicts authentic daily life in Gozo. This museum is a showcase of traditional life and includes the printing press used for Gozo’s first newspaper, plus a collection of old tools and clothes.

Places to visit

Valley in Gozo

Gozo Cathedral Museum Victoria This museum houses over 2,000 items including the Cathedral’s archives, some magnificent paintings, clerical vestments and a silver vault. Among the paintings are several by well-known local artists Giuseppe Hyzler, Michele Busuttil and Tommaso Madiona. Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary Gharb The origins of the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu go back to a day in June 1883, when a peasant woman heard the voice of the Virgin Mary in an old chapel. In 1931, the church (as it is today), was consecrated and, a year later, Pope Pius XI raised it to the status of Basilica. The original 16th century chapel was fully integrated into the new church. Gozo Cathedral Victoria The Cathedral, built early in the 17th century, is small but graceful. Its floor is made up of a mosaic of marble tombstones and ecclesiastical emblems, while its ceiling has a remarkable trompe l’oeil painting depicting the interior of a dome that was never built. Folklore Museum Victoria This museum, housed within the Citadel, contains a wide range of exhibits depicting the domestic, rural and traditional ways of life in the agrarian economy of the Maltese and Gozitans. Pomskizillious Museum of Toys Xaghra This museum of toys is an Aladdin’s cave of whimsical treasures. Some toys on display are over 200 years old.

St Anne Chapel in Dwejra

Il-HaGar | Heart of Gozo Museum Victoria Il-Ħaġar Museum merits the ‘one of a kind’ description. It is state-of-the-art, constructed to combine a medieval building in a modern design, drawing on the latest museological technology and offering all essential visitor facilities. The museum illustrates the making of the people of Gozo through the succession of cultures, civilisations and religions that visited the island. Most of its historic and artistic exhibits belong to nearby St George’s basilica and some of them are still used, which makes of Il-Ħaġar a living museum.

Restaurant Guide

In the best Mediterranean tradition, the Maltese Islands are packed with fabulous restaurants. With everything from traditional Maltese fare to Japanese sushi, and from Italian pizza to Korean kimchee, all served in a variety of beautiful settings, dining out in Malta is an experience not to be missed.

Restaurant Guide

GOZO

Maldonado Bistro Victoria, Gozo M: 9901 9270 • E: info@maldonado.com.mt • W: www.maldonado.com.mt You’ll need to explore the backstreets of Victoria to find food worth hunting for, but once here you’ll be glad you did. Off the tourist track and with none of the traps, Maldonado Bistro is the sort of place only locals know about but with the food and ambiance to charm all. Maldonado's menu is a satisfying mix of Mediterranean cuisine using the freshest ingredients sourced directly from local growers and suppliers. So go exploring and discover a spot to treasure. We promise that your visit to Maldonado will be a special experience.

MDINA

Ciappetti Restaurant 5, St Agatha’s Esplanade, Mdina T: 2145 9987 Grapevine covered courtyards, home-grown herbs, multi-coloured lights and myriad chimes give a flirtatious wink of what’s to come. Your hosts, Peter and Mary Louise, have created a 'classic with a twist' menu of intense flavours and textures which hint at their sublime ingredients, yet are still based on traditional local dishes. Dining beneath the orange trees to the sound of running water transports clients to a peaceful place – something that we easily forget still exists in Malta. As for costs, they are very reasonable. Ciappetti’s motto is 'quality, character, consistency'. Definitely worth a visit! They also cater for a gluten-free diet. Booking recommended.

de Mondion Restaurant The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina T: 2145 0560 • E: info@xarapalace.com.mt • W: www.xarapalace.com.mt or www.demondion.com Set atop Mdina's centuries-old bastions, within the Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux and awarded the runner-up for the best boutique dining hotel in the world, the de Mondion offers a unique fine dining experience, enhanced by truly spectacular panoramic views of the island from the terraces and charming features served in elegant surroundings. Consistently rated amongst the top restaurants in Malta for its cuisine, refinement and excellence, the de Mondion promises discreet yet impeccably-attentive service allowing patrons the time and privacy to savour the cuisine, the company and the view. With exquisite cuisine combining the finest seasonal produce with innovation and expertise to create tantalising dishes, the ‘award winning’ kitchen brigade have and continue to delight the palate of a multinational clientele. Group lunches are available on request. They also welcome enquires for private functions and special celebrations. Booking recommended.

Palazzo De Piro – Xpresso Café And Bistro Palazzo de Piro, 3 Triq is-Sur, Mdina MDN 1131 T: 2010 0560 • E: events@palazzodepiro.com • W: www.palazzodepiro.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.

Trattoria AD 1530 The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina T: 2145 0560 • E: info@xarapalace.com.mt • W: www.xarapalace.com.mt 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.

Restaurant Guide

MOSTA

Ta’ Marija Restaurant Constitution Street, Mosta T: 2143 4444 • F: 2141 8181 • E: info@tamarija.com • W: www.tamarija.com Enjoy the folklore evenings and feast yourselves on a sumptuous dinner with a colourful touch of history. A night of Maltese song and dance... for an evening of culinary delights sprinkled with a lot of liveliness, come for their special folklore evenings, which start with strolling musicians playing mandolins and guitars, who belt out the sweetest of Maltese songs with assured merriment in the making. 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. At some point, you or your special guest could be hand-picked to make their moves on the dance floor so that, you too, can make history on your own unforgettable night! Well, and it is not quite over till it’s over… after the show Ta’ Marija’s dance floor remains lit up so that you and your party can dance the night away to all-time favourite songs. Locals enjoy it every time too, so this night is aimed for our esteemed foreign guests as well as our ever-loyal local friends. Who says you can’t dine, dance and sparkle all in one place?

QAWRA

The Plum Tree Bar & Restaurant Triq l-Imhar, Qawra T: 2157 5970 • W: www.the-plumtree-malta.com Established since 1995, John and Joan Mc Bride have strived to make The Plum Tree a place where mouth-watering food, value for money and a friendly service combine into a single venue. The bar area is a cross between an old Maltese wine bar and a British pub, while a separate dining area has a Mediterranean feel to it. There is also a patio for dining al fresco, especially during the summer months. The menu contains breakfast, lunch and dinner sections so one can opt for an English breakfast or a scrumptious dinner meal. Caters for small groups. Opening hours 10am-midnight from Tuesday to Sunday in October - June, and from July - September from 5pm-midnight.

SLIEMA

Ta’ Kolina 151, Tower Road Sliema T: 2133 5106 • M: 9942 4877 • E: takolina@gmail.com Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been opened 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 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 T: 2133 7367 M: 9984 7713 Tucked away on a quiet, narrow street of Sliema, Ta’ Kris is the perfect location for a tranquil evening in a warm atmosphere. Specialising in Maltese dishes, Ta’ Kris offers genuine food at very reasonable prices. The menu boasts a variety of meat dishes including rabbit, pork, chicken, veal and beef, as well as authentic Maltese dishes such as 'bragioli’ (thin slices of beef rolled and stuffed with minced pork, ham and seasoning, seared in a tomato and wine sauce). Sea bass stuffed with a tuna risotto, covered in Maltese caper sauce, is yet another delicious item which Chef Kris graces his patrons with. With an excellent service, dish selection and atmosphere, Ta’ Kris Restaurant & Maltese Bistro offers a unique culinary experience.

Restaurant Guide

TA' XBIEX

The Galley Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, XBX 1028 Ta’ Xbiex Malta T: 2131 8801 • E: thegalley@artisanfoods.com.mt The Galley is a new, already popular restaurant located at The Royal Malta Yacht Club in Ta' Xbiex. The setting is idyllic overlooking the Marsamxett harbour with spectacular views of the capital Valletta’s skyline. The interior emulates a beach house with good natural light and soft furnishings. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable with a menu that offers both staple popular dishes and seasonal specials. The menu includes premium meat, pastas and light snacks at lunch time. Prices are reasonable to accommodate the regular clientele from the yachting community. The venue offers indoor and outdoor areas with ample nearby parking and good proximity to the neighbouring busy areas Sliema and Valletta well serviced by public transport. The Galley has become especially popular on weekends and booking is recommended.

Restaurant Guide

ST JULIAN'S

The Avenue The Avenue, Gort Street, Paceville, St Julian's T: 2135 1753 / 2137 8731 • W: 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 20 years ago as a snack bar and today encompasses three different sections, all with different character and décors: the arustic-styled 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.

Dubliner Bar & Restaurant Gorg Borg Olivier Street, St Julian’s T: 2136 7106 This cosy, traditional Irish pub in St Julian’s invites all to a casual and friendly atmosphere to kick back and enjoy a jovial treat straight from the green lands of Ireland. The weekday menu, served on the second floor restaurant and boasting exceptional views of the bay, covers everything from traditional Irish and British pub food to international cuisines. Alternatively, visit The Dubliner simply to enjoy the atmosphere of the surrounding bar whilst indulging in a hearty pint of Guinness with friends. The Dubliner provides patrons with a haven from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area, where one can sit back and have a great meal or simply relax with friends.

Waterbiscuit Intercontinental Malta, St. George’s Bay, St Julian's T: +356 2376 2225 • E: info@waterbiscuit.com.mt • W: waterbiscuit.com.mt Waterbisuit is at the forefront of the Maltese culinary experience with delicious and innovative dishes for all to enjoy. Waterbiscuit, stylishly set on two floors, offers a gastronomic experience that will delight all with healthy, delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners. It is a truly contemporary location ideal for a business rendezvous, social gathering, casual dining or a night out. Breakfast promises to provide a wakeup call with a creative à la carte menu boasting six different types of Egg Benedict, the signature dish of Waterbiscuit, ideal for those who wish to indulge in a truly unique breakfast experience. Waterbiscuit also allows patrons to lounge at the bar throughout the day and night with a variety of coffees, cocktails and wines that will tease the senses; the atmosphere is relaxed and offers a delightfully glamourous feel. For reservations, kindly give them a call.

Zest Hotel Juliani, 25, St George’s Road, St Julian’s T: 2138 7600 • E: Info@zestflavours.com • W: www.zestflavours.com Zest... where east meets west in both dining and décor. The chic restaurant is a point of encounter between Continental and Asian cuisine in a contemporary ambiance, oozing relaxed elegance. The menu boasts a selection of dishes from Thai curries, Indonesian noodles, Singaporean seafood laksas and continental pan-fried lamb to Japanese teppanyaki. Attractive features include an open wine cellar and a sushi bar on the restaurant floor, where patrons can sit around the chef and enjoy the art of preparing Japanese sushi. Located on the first floor of the Hotel Juliani, using this transformed town house’s original entrance and external staircase, the restaurant enjoys the added bonus of an open-air, terrace bar, overlooking romantic Spinola Bay and ideal for pre-dinner drinks.

Bars & Nightlife

Malta is known for its vast number of bars and clubs catering to all ages and to all tastes in music. Try one of the following for a great night out.

PORTOMASO

Club Twenty-Two Level 22, Portomaso Business Tower, Portomaso T: 2310 2222 • E: Info@22.com.mt • W: www.22.com.mt Already the mecca for Malta’s most discerning and hedonistic crowd, Twenty-Two has also managed to attract a big number of international VIPs and celebrities from the world of music, film, television, fashion, sports and business. Twenty-Two established itself from day one as Malta’s only really exclusive venue with its stunning surroundings and breathtaking views, and with impeccable VIP table service found nowhere else on the island – Twenty-Two is luxury and comfort usually located only in the major fashion capitals around the world! Twenty-Two combines the comfort and exclusivity of a stylish wine lounge and is situated on the 22nd floor of the Portomaso Business Tower – Malta’s tallest building. Open from Wednesday to Sunday; caters for private events.

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NEWS Events and news about Malta's national airline

Which? Magazine Ranks Air Malta Amongst Best Short-haul Airlines Which? magazine, the leading magazine that gives advice to consumers, has ranked Air Malta in 6th place amongst short-haul airlines flying out of the UK. The result of this annual survey confirms Air Malta as one of the best airlines for customer satisfaction. Air Malta obtained a total customer score of 71% achieving high marks in the categories of punctuality, food and drink and cabin environment. This score placed Air Malta sixth-favourite with passengers, beating stiff competition from far larger airlines that include both legacy and low-cost carriers. The survey was conducted amongst 11,000 Which? members who were asked to rate 16 long-haul and 20 shorthaul airlines for customer satisfaction including seat pitch, punctuality, boarding, seat comfort, food and drink, in-flight entertainment, cabin environment, customer service and value for money. Commenting on this positive result Philip Micallef, Air Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chief Executive said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are happy to have achieved this ranking in independent research amongst travellers. Our commitment

to provide the best experience for our customers is second to none. We still have a lot to do, however such good results give us confidence that we are on

the right track. This achievement would not have been possible were it not for the commitment, dedication and hard work of our employeesâ&#x20AC;?.

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Air Malta Celebrates 25 Years of Operations To Vienna Air Malta is celebrating 25 years of operations to Austria’s capital, Vienna. The Maltese airline celebrated this anniversary jointly with Vienna Airport during a Maltese night event held at the airport recently. Various major tour operators attended the event hosted by the airline and Vienna Airport at the “Wiener Justizcafé” in Vienna. During a short speech Joseph Galea, Air Malta’s Deputy Chief Commercial Officer thanked the airline’s partners for the excellent co-operation and support over the past 25 years. He commented that Air Malta started operating to Vienna Airport in 1989 and was continuously present on this route. Since then it operated a total of about 12,000 return flights to/from the city and carried a total of 500,000 passengers. In 1996 the Maltese carrier opened its own office in Vienna with Air Malta staff and in 2010 the airline entered into a codeshare agreement with Austrian Airlines on the Vienna route. Air Malta also operates ad hoc charter flights to other Austrian cities including Innsbruck, Salzburg, Linz and Graz. During the event typical Maltese food and drinks were served. A varied dance and music entertainment program was performed by the Paul Curmi Dancers who created a Maltese party atmosphere among the guests. Present for this event were also Malta’s Ambassador to Austria, H.E. Keith Azzopardi, Ms Ulrike Gohs - Air Malta Sales and Marketing Manager, Austria, Martin Frendo - Air Malta Manager for Germany, Mrs. Magdalena Pappas - Group Sales Coordinator Austria & Switzerland, Mag. Stefan Ehrengruber and Mag. Carolin Drott from Vienna Airport and as well as Mrs. Corinna Ziegler from the Malta Tourism Authority office in Austria.

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Air Malta In-flight Service

Air Malta and SkyGourmet, the airline's catering supplier, have reached an agreement that sees major changes to the airline's in-flight catering and ancillary services as from the start of this year. The agreement sees Club Class passengers benefiting from an upgraded in-flight menu whilst Economy passengers are being offered a baguette and half a litre of water on all routes free of charge. A wide selection of good quality food items, including hot snacks and beverages, will be available for purchase from cabin staff at a nominal fee in the near future. Maria Micallef, Chairperson of Air Malta said: "This agreement is a major milestone for Air Malta. As part of our ongoing efforts to continue restructuring the airline, we are happy to note that this agreement will save the airline roughly â&#x201A;Ź4 million every year from the overall services that fall under the current contract, including dry goods and commissary services. This sum is appreciable as it means more than a 50 per cent reduction from current expenditure." Air Malta thanked SkyGourmet for helping reach this agreement and said it was looking forward to providing a more flexible service to customers. Philip Micallef, Air Malta's Chief Executive added: "Apart from the major cost savings, we are making sure that we provide a better quality in-flight product and selection to our customers travelling in Club. Our Economy customers will have a good quality basic baguette as is customary on most legacy airlines. However, they will have the opportunity to purchase on board a variety of quality goods". Air Malta is also reviewing other contracts in the various areas of its operation to achieve further cost savings whilst ensuring a better customer experience.

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Air Malta’s Strong Message Against Cyber Bulling

Air Malta has launched a video to support the #StopHate campaign which is intended to raise awareness about cyber bullying. The video sends out a strong message against cyber bullying which is especially common amongst youngsters, where six out of ten are in one way or another are subject to some form of cyber bullying. Joe Galea, Deputy Chief Commercial Officer said, “Our national airline is proud to support the #StopHate campaign and we’re very happy to launch this short clip to help raise awareness about the sad truth of cyber bullying and its harmful effects on the young generation.” This campaign forms part of Air Malta’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives whereby the airline supports campaigns as part of its contribution towards the well being of the Maltese community. No other airline operating to Malta provides continued support to voluntary and non-governmental organisations like Air Malta. To view video please click on the following link: www.youtube.com/user/airmalta

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IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO Sephora Mifsud

Corporate Key Account Coordinator How long have you been working with Air Malta? I joined Air Malta two years ago and been part of the Malta Sales Team ever since. What is the best thing about your job? Being the person in charge of Air Malta’s Corporate Product gives me pride and ownership which is rather challenging, yet very much rewarding. I get to meet people with different expertise from various economic sectors, be it financial and corporate services, the gaming industry, manufacture... all of which give me an insightful perspective of the day-to-day challenges they face in today’s highly competitive market. This is a good motivator for me to be more creative and launch new products and services targeted to their respective needs. Three words that describe your job? Challenging, gratifying, engaging. What is the biggest challenge of your job? Managing time effectively and meeting up with the clients’ expectations. A 100% customer satisfaction rate is my daily target. The challenge is to be flexible, try and balance out conflicting situations both internally and externally, so as to create a win-win situation for both the airline and the client.

Do you have any hobbies? I just love cooking and that’s an everyday topic amongst colleagues, family and friends. I love sharing cooking tips, dining experiences both at local and foreign based restaurants... all of which lead to another expensive hobby of mine, travelling! Which is your favourite destination and why? That’s a very difficult question to answer. I don’t want to sound evasive or diplomatic but I always manage to find a favourite spot in each and every country I visit. I must admit that I feel very much at home in both Italy and France, maybe because of their Gastronomy and the language of course, which I find fascinating! What are your favourite spots or tips for anyone visiting Malta? Hiring a car would help you visit the island in no time. Try and mingle amongst the locals by visiting small villages off the beaten track, especially whilst in Gozo, which stands out for its authenticity and rural character. As for the classical tourist spots, my favourite remains Valletta, which is in many ways is open-air museum in itself, the fortified cities which offer a spectacular view over our magnificent Grand Harbour and the ancient capital city of Mdina, also known as the 'Silent City'. I strongly suggest a round the harbour cruise and ending your soirée at one of the local al fresco restaurants.

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RULES FOR USE OF PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES Transmitting Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs)

connectivity such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi shall be disabled. These devices must be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing since they could hinder an emergency evacuation.

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’1 capability, this shall 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, take-off 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 shall be switched off for the duration of the flight.

Are there times when I cannot use my electronic devices? 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. 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 at an emergency exit row must refrain from using headphones during taxi, take-off and landing.

Non-Transmitting Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs)

I should inform the cabin crew when … … a passenger notices that his/her device is overheating. In such a case, the Personal Electronic Device must be switched off immediately and a member of the crew informed. If you require more information, please refer to the table below which includes a list of Personal Electronic Devices 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.

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.

Laptops and notebooks Such devices may be used during boarding and during flight but not during taxi, take-off and landing. Any built-in data

(e.g. smart phones and tablets)

Larger PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

Wi-fi, text and phone call functions

Boarding

YES

Extended Ground Delay (when instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

Take-Off

YES

Cruise

YES

Circa 10 minutes to landing (Cabin Crew PA)

YES

Landing

YES

Taxi to Stand

YES

PHASE

Hand Held PEDs

More information is available at http://www.airmalta.com/information/check-in

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airmalta

INFO Flight and Company 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 in-flight 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) is also not allowed on board Air Malta flights. Similarly, the use of naked flames on and around the aircraft is also prohibited.

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airmalta

In-Flight Service MENU We are pleased to offer you a great selection snacks and drinks available on board your flight today.

Bar Prices We accept bank notes and coins in Euros and Sterling. Unfortunately we are unable to accept Credit or Debit Cards. The correct change would be very much appreciated.

€ £ Alcoholic Beverages: Teachers Whisky 4.00 3.00 Bells Whisky 4.00 3.00 Gordon’s Gin 4.00 3.00 Smirnoff Vodka 4.00 3.00 Camus Brandy 4.00 3.00 Bacardi Rum 4.00 3.00 Havana Club 4.00 3.00 Campari 4.00 3.00 Noval Port 4.00 3.00 Averna 4.00 3.00 Baileys 4.00 3.00 Tia Maria 4.00 3.00 Wines: Pjazza Reġina Red Pjazza Reġina White

4.00 3.00 4.00 3.00

Champagne: Drappier Carte D’Or Brut

10.00 8.50

Beer: Heineken Cisk Lager

4.00 3.00 4.00 3.00 More items on the next page >

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In-Flight Service MENU

â&#x201A;Ź

ÂŁ

Minerals and Mixers: Sprite Diet Coke Coca Cola Fanta Orange Kinnie 500ml Tomato Juice Bitter Lemon Tonic Water Ginger Ale Soda Water 500ml Sparkling Water 500ml Still Mineral Water 500ml Apple Juice 200ml Orange Juice 200ml Tea Coffee

2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 3.00 2.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50

SNACKs: Pringles Walker Crisps Harribo Mix 160g Maltesers 175g Ready Salted Peanuts Mini Galletti Snickers 48g Corny Big Twix Standard 48g Kit Kat 4 Fingers Twistees

2.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 3.00 2.50 4.00 3.00 1.00 0.75 1.00 0.75 1.00 0.75 1.00 0.75 1.00 0.75 1.00 0.75 1.00 0.75

Safety

Charter Flights

Excessive consumption of alcohol is prohibited to the extent that bar service may be refused, thus ensuring safety and comfort to other passengers on board.

We are pleased to offer you a selection of food and beverage items against a charge.

Scheduled flights

We are pleased to offer you a complimentary snack and a bottle of water. All other beverages and snacks are available at a charge.

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AIR MALTA Fleet

DID YOU KNOW? Facts about Malta 1. Malta might be the easiest place in the world to f ind a place of worship… there are around 365 churches in Malta, one for ever y day of the year.

Enhance your Travel experience At Air Malta, we want our passengers to get everything they need to make the travel experience comfortable in one place. Here are a number of services that we offer that you might not have known about: Join the Club Upgrade to Air Malta’s Club Class for priority service. Members can make use of the special check-in counters for a more leisurely and efficient boarding, enjoy access the La Valette Lounge at Malta International Airport, and get more privacy with a separate in-flight cabin area. Kindly ask at the check-in desk for further details.

AIRBUS 319

AIRBUS 320

Qty: 4 in fleet Number of seats: 141 Engines: 2 CFM56-5B6/P Maximum take-off weight: 73.5 metric tons Overall length: 33.84m; Wingspan: 34.1m Cruising speed: 834 kph Range: 4,815 km

Qty: 6 in fleet Number of seats: 168/180 Engines: 2 CFM56-5B4/P Maximum take-off weight: 77.0 metric tons Overall length: 37.57m; Wingspan: 34.1m Cruising speed: 834 kph Range: 4,055 km

2. During summer, the Maltese population triples with the arrival of nearly 1 million tourists from all over the world.

from different languages including Italian, French, Spanish and A rabic, and is the only Semitic language in the world that is written in the Latin alphabet.

3. In Malta we drive on the left side of the road like the British, so if you are planning to drive, please do keep this in mind.

5. Malta is one of the 10 smallest sovereign states in the world.

4. Malta has a unique language spoken by over 1 million people worldwide. It has evolved

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!

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 2 hours before your flight.

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!

Your Air Malta boarding pass now gives you access to great discounts Find out how to make your ticket go the extra mile by visiting our website or our Facebook page. You can use your Air Malta boarding pass to get special discounts during your stay in Malta at many hotels, museums and more. All you have to do is present your boarding pass when purchasing the services listed on airmalta. com or at Air Malta Facebook page and you will be entitled to a special discount for your Air Malta boarding card. Make sure to mention that you wish to use this discount when making a booking, and have your boarding pass with you in order to redeem these offers.

Get sportive Are you passionate about a sport? We make it easy to travel and take your specialized equipment with you at very minimal cost. Visit www.airmalta.com for more details. Groups We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than ten adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you can’t get anywhere else!

air malta INFO

NORWAY SWEDEN • Oslo

Arlanda Stockholm

RUSSIA ESTONIA

LATVIA DENMARK

UNITED KINGDOM REP. OF IRELAND

LITHUANIA

• Copenhagen

• Moscow Domodedovo

• Manchester

BELARUS • Bremen • Hamburg

London Heathrow • • London Gatwick

• Berlin • Hannover GERMANY

• Amsterdam HOLLAND

• Brussels BELGIUM

• Düsseldorf

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly •

• Frankfurt

• Dresden

UKRAINE

CZECH REPUBLIC SLOVAKIA

• Munich

Linate Milan •

• Turin

• Vienna

MOLDOVA

AUSTRIA

• Zurich SWITZERLAND

FRANCE

• Warsaw POLAND

HUNGARY

ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA

• Otopani

• Verona

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

• Bologna

PORTUGAL

SERBIA

F.Y.O.M.

• Rome • Olbia

SPAIN

BULGARIA • Soﬁa

MONTENEGRO

ITALY

ALBANIA

• Naples

TURKEY

GREECE • Cagliari • Athens SICILY • Catania

• Algiers

MOROCCO

ALGERIA

CYPRUS

• Larnaca

Malta

TUNISIA • Djerba

LIBYA

EGYPT

MA NY

Airport

Weekly Flights

Algiers 1 Amsterdam 4 Athens 2 Berlin 2 Brussels 7 Catania 9 Djerba 3 Düsseldorf 3 Frankfurt 5 Hamburg 2 London Gatwick 7

Flights code-shared:

Meridiana

Code-shared Routes

Airport

Weekly Flights

London Heathrow 14 Manchester 4 Milan Linate 5 Moscow Domodedovo 2 Munich 7 Sofia 2 Paris Charles de Gaulle 4 Paris Orly 4 Rome 7 Vienna 4 Zurich 5

Emirates

Lufthansa

PA New York (Newark) • NJ wv

• Abu Dhabi

MD DE

SAUDI ARABIA

OMAN

Intra-European Flights operated by Air Malta: Athens-Sofia-Athens (2 weekly flights) Munich-Catania-Munich (4 weekly flights) Amsterdam-Brussels (2 weekly flights) Brussels-Amsterdam (1 weekly flight)

Etihad Airways

Austrian Airlines

SN Brussels

Abu Dhabi Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney Arlanda Berlin Bremen Catania Dresden Düsseldorf Frankfurt Hannover Munich New York (Newark) Oslo

IRAN

via Heathrow, Manchester and Brussels with Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich and Frankfurt code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich and Frankfurt code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich and Frankfurt code-shared with Lufthansa code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich with Lufthansa code-shared via Munich with Lufthansa

Stockholm Larnaca Bologna Cagliari Naples Olbia Turin Verona Budapest Otopani Prague Sofia Warsaw Brussels Copenhagen

via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa code-shared with Emirates via Catania code-shared with Meridiana via Rome and Milan code-shared with Meridiana via Catania code-shared with Meridiana via Catania, Rome and Milan code-shared with Meridiana via Catania and Rome code-shared with Meridiana via Catania code-shared with Meridiana via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared wit Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Catania code-shared with Brussels Airlines via Brussels code-shared with Brussels Airlines