Bizzilla September 2016 Issue 45 by Air Malta

The Air Malta In-flight magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016 issue 45 local • LIFESTYLE • food & drink • business • EVENTS

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WE INVEST IN OUR PEOPLE. WWW.TIPICO-CAREERS.COM

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THE SECOND YEAR OF TIPICO CAREERS Last year, the Malta-based German company Tipico launched a new employment opportunities website called www.tipico-careers.com through its subsidiary Tipico Careers. First had a chat with Tipico Careers about the website’s development and how it is aimed at today’s dynamic jobseeker. With its headquarters at the Portomaso Business Tower in St Julian’s, Tipico offers a wide range of pre-live and live sports betting products delivered through cutting-edge mobile and online channels as well as through a top-class portfolio of approximately 1,000 retail outlets, predominantly in Germany. One of the key drivers behind Tipico’s growth is that it is an organisation that attracts young people with great tech skills, business understanding and an international outlook. This is why Malta was chosen as the hub for European operations because it offers a business-friendly environment with access to welleducated staff – both local and international. “Like the company, the Tipico Careers website is young, fun,

innovative, intelligent and engaging. It reflects our work, which is all about acquiring top talent and investing in our workforce.” The Tipico Careers site introduces newcomers to the company with a very innovative motion graphic animation called: ‘What’s in it for you at Tipico’ showing the company’s history, its position within the German market, its premium partner and the benefits one would enjoy when joining the organisation. Another video available on www.tipico-careers.com shows Tipico’s high-end offices based in the iconic Portomaso business tower, with an amazing view of the Mediterranean.

them with initiatives through a multitude of instant and effective social media tools available on people-preferred, often handheld devices. These include Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, Skype, Google+, Whatsapp, Xing and many others platforms.” “At Tipico we very much believe that such tools are the way forward in terms of communication and we feel that they will take over the previous and current generation of online communication tools as we know them today. We enjoy using social media platforms to keep people updated with what the brand has to offer by engaging users via pictures, videos and related approaches.”

Whenever possible, the company employs local talent, but some jobs are snapped up by people who make Malta their new home. And it is for these that the website also features an introductory video to Malta’s gems, gorgeous locations, the island’s culture, beaches and nightlife in the ‘Why Malta?’ section. “These days it’s all about attracting people and engaging

tipico-careers.com

Issue 45

Contents

SEPTEMBER 16

LOCAL p. 10 ..... malta & gozo in numbers Facts and figures about the Maltese Islands.

p. 14 ..... Woven Gold Monastery work, or Ganutell consists of floral decorations made of gold plated and silver plated thread worked with knitting needles.

p. 42 ..... Experience Arts and Crafts Gozo offers much more than meets the eye.

p. 46 ..... High Flying Dentistry Dr. Jean Paul Demajo discusses the negative effects of neglecting your teeth.

p. 58 ..... Exploring the Islands Fancy discovering the islands? Here’s what to look out for.

FOOD & DRINK

p. 72 ..... A holy place in Gozo The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’Pinu is definitely one to look out for.

p. 76 ..... Ramparts of Power

p. 36 ..... In Ftira we trust Ever wondered what you could do with a kilo of flour, olive oil and a sprinkling of water?

EVENTS

If you look closely, the Maltese coastline is speckled with watch towers dating back to the time of the Knights.

p. 62 ..... Lampuki Fest in St Julian’s The quintessential Dorado, Mahi Mahi, or Lampuka is celebrated this month.

p. 29 ..... Out and About

p. 92 ..... The Gun and the Fort

p. 96 ..... Restaurant & bar Guide

p. 30 ..... What’s Happening in Malta

The remarkable thing about Fort Rinella may well be its inconspicuousness.

Thinking about eating out? Here are this month's picks of top local bars and restaurants.

A roundup of events happening in Malta and Gozo this month.

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

LIFESTYLE AIR MALTA

p. 20 ..... See you at the Beach! A guide to Malta’s bluest seas this season.

p. 40 ..... Belgium’s Intriguing Capital Admittedly, when many of us think of Brussels, holidays aren’t always the first thing that comes to mind.

p. 66 ..... 7 Reasons you know you’re going to return to Malta If you happen to be reading this on your way home, here are 7 reasons to come back.

p. 100 ..... air malta news A round-up of this month's news.

p. 106 ..... interview

BUSINESS

Il-Bizzilla talks to Aldrin Cassar, Cargo Agent.

p. 108 ..... Flight and Company information All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

p. 68 .... A whiff of sea air in Mellieħa

p. 48 ..... Malta Postal Museum

p. 110 ..... destination information

This northern village offers much more than its highly popular stretch of sandy beach.

A recent addition to Valletta’s cultural scene is the Malta Postal Museum.

Planning a trip? Take a look at all of Air Malta's flight routes and code-sharing routes here.

p. 89 .... Malta Philarmonic Orchestra

p. 51 ..... iGamingjobsmalta.com

p. 112 ..... electronic device information

This month, the MPO has launched its exciting 2016/17 Concert Season.

Thinking of a career move? Check out Malta’s freshest vacancy portal.

All the info you need with regards to phone, laptop and tablet usage onboard.

MEDINA

The Air Malta In-flight magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016 issue 45 local • LIFESTYLE • food & drink • business • EVENTS

Meet the Team Editorial and Sales Content Factory Executive Editor Dana Bonello Business Development AND PROJECT CO-ORDINaTOR Renata Vella

Contributors Air Malta Dave Esmonde-White Diane Brincat Dr. Jean Paul Demajo Giljan Sammut Grahame Salt Lovinmalta.com Maria Vella Marie Benoît Richard Borg Stephen Vella Victor Paul Borg

...taste Malta

ON THE Cover Fungus Rock, known Maltese as Il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral “the General's Rock” Photography Anthony Vella Daniel Cilia Dave Esmonde-White Denise Wilkins Jürgen Scicluna Mario Borg Ted Attard Victor Paul Borg

Design TBWA\ANG Art Director Jeff Fabri Designer Berthrand K. Pisani

Would you like to be featured on il-Bizzilla? For advertising opportunities and restaurant listings, get in touch with Renata on (+356) 2142 4924 or renata@contentfactory.com.mt For anything related to editorial or photography, contact Dana on dana@contentfactory.com.mt

The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied by any means without the written consent of the publisher. Editorial features and opinions expressed in il-Bizzilla do not necessarily reflect the views of Air Malta, the publisher, or the editorial team. Both Air Malta and the Publisher do not accept responsibility for commercial and advertising content. Although the authors and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this magazine was correct at press time, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Special thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority, Air Malta and ViewingMalta.com for the provision of photographic material. Printed in Malta by VelPrint Ltd. All magazine rights are reserved by Air Malta PLC.

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

‘The best name in Malta property’

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

FOR SALE ▪ MELLIEHA ▪ VILLA

FOR SALE ▪ BALZAN ▪ HOUSE OF CHARACTER

Mellieha (Santa Maria Estate) - A luxuriously appointed VILLA enjoying marvellous open views of the valley & the sea beyond ▪ Spacious accommodation throughout ▪ Hallway ▪ Sitting/dining room ▪ Fitted kitchen/breakfast ▪ Study ▪ Guest toilet ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms (all with bathroom/shower en suite) ▪ Laundry room ▪ 2 walk in wardrobes ▪ Underlying 2 car garage with extra storage ▪ Garden & swimming pool with sun terrace

An exquisite converted FARMHOUSE situated in this sought after village location ■ Finished to a high standard throughout ■ Fantatsic original features (exposed wooden beams & stonework) ■ Wonderful secluded layout with all rooms overlooking the garden ■ Possibility to extend further ■ Entrance hall ■ Fitted kitchen/breakfast with Miele appliances ■ Dining room & large living room ■ 3 bedrooms ■ 2 bathrooms (master ensuite) ■ Guest toilet ■ Picturesque & private mature garden ■ Space for a swimming pool ■ Freehold

FOR SALE ▪ PORTOMASO ▪ APARTMENT

FOR SALE ▪ SLIEMA ▪ APARTMENT

New - immaculate corner APARTMENT located in one of Malta's most exclusive residential addresses ▪ Spacious and bright accommodation ▪ Hallway ▪ Open plan sitting/dining leading onto a most beautiful terrace with breath-taking marina views ▪ Large fully fitted kitchen ▪ Guest toilet ▪ Guest bathroom ▪ 3 double bedrooms (master ensuite) ▪ Bedrooms have views onto the landscaped gardens ▪ Property also includes an underlying car space ▪ Close to all amenities including the newly refurbished Hilton Hotel with gym & pool facilities

Qui-Si-Sana - Sliema ▪ A recently built SEAFRONT APARTMENT enjoying unobstructed views forming part of a small block ▪ Accommodation comprises of an open plan kitchen/sitting/ dining room leading on to a good sized balcony ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (master ensuite) ▪ Laundry room ▪ 1 car lock up garage situated within the building ▪ Freehold

Price: €1,100,000 - Ref: SV600030

Price: €1,300,000 - Sole Agents - Ref: FA600242

Price: €1,100,000 - Sole Agents - Ref: HC600076

Price: €850,000 - Ref: FA600150

TO LET ▪ THE ADELAIDE ▪ SEAFRONT APARTMENTS

TO LET ▪ IKLIN ▪ HOUSE OF CHARACTER

14 luxury SEAFRONT APARTMENTS in a prime location on the “sunny side” of Tower Road ▪ Chic rental apartments - close to all amenities ▪ Exceptional interior design & cutting-edge technology ▪ Open plan kitchen/sitting/dining room leading onto the front terrace with spectacular sea views ▪ 3 double bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (master ensuite) ▪ Separate laundry room including washer/dryer ▪ Air-conditioning throughout ▪ Underlying parking

Exceptional one of a kind HOUSE OF CHARACTER ▪ Central & tranquil country location yet close to amenities ▪ Entrance hall ▪ Modern high spec’ fully fitted kitchen ▪ Spacious open plan dining/sitting area with views onto garden ▪ 4 bedrooms ▪ Large secluded swimming pool ▪ Surrounding sun terraces ▪ Landscaped gardens with lawns ▪ Private driveway with car port ▪ Fully air-conditioned ▪ Large basement/games room

From €3650 monthly - Sole Agents - Ref: BR600002

€6000 monthly - Ref: HC02791

▪ 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 ▪

www.perry.com.mt

From the CEO... Hello and a warm welcome on board the airline of the Maltese Islands. This is my first welcome note as acting Chief Executive of Air Malta. It is indeed both an honour and a challenge to take over the position of CEO of the airline temporarily. We are going through an interesting phase in our development, a phase that gives Air Malta the opportunity to continue to consolidate its position as the national airline of the Maltese Islands and to help pave the way for future growth over the next few years. The first six months of 2016 proved to be very good for the Islands, showing a cumulative increase over the first half of last year with the number of incoming visitors climbing by almost 74,000 to exceed 835,000. Travel for holiday purposes grew by 11.8 per cent to reach 700,907, while the number of business and professional tourists grew by 8 per cent over the first six months of last year to reach 68,904. September continues to be one of the most popular months with a quarter of a million tourists expected to visit the Islands this month. During September the weather is still very warm with sea temperatures constant at 26 degrees centigrade. There are a variety of events organised in September, which we highly recommend you visit. These include the Qormi Wine Festival, the football match between Malta and Scotland, the Victory Day celebrations, Rockestra - the rock concert organised by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra with the aim of raising funds for the Malta Community Chest, the Eros Ramazzotti Concert, and the Malta International Airshow, amongst others. At Air Malta we continuously strive to improve the connections to and from Malta, both for tourists visiting our Islands and for Maltese residents. The Commercial team has finalised our winter flight schedule that will see interesting increases in the frequency of flights to Brussels, Catania, Palermo and Munich over last year. For more information about our flight schedules, please visit www.airmalta.com and www.facebook.com/ AirMalta and join our newsletter mailing list to receive offers directly in your inbox. Please do give us feedback about your experience with Air Malta, and what we could do better. Visit www.airmalta.com/wearelistening to answer a few short questions, and you can get 10 per cent off your next Air Malta flight. It really only takes two minutes minutes! Wherever you are flying with us I hope you have a great flight! Thank you for choosing Air Malta. Joseph Galea, Acting CEO, Air Malta

From the Editor… I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again – September is my favourite month of the year. Primarily because its my birthday month, which means I’ll be celebrating from beginning to end – just to make the most out of it. There must be a perk of growing older, right? Secondly because the weather seems to have cooled down to the perfect temperature where we can still enjoy the summer weather in all its glory, without the excessive heat brought by the earlier months this season. But enough about myself and onto you…if this is your first time in Malta then welcome to our beautiful archipelago, we really do hope that it lives up to its expectations and that you have a grand time here. If, on the other hand, you’re a repeat traveller, then you must already be familiar with what to expect – the blue sea and skies, great food and welcoming atmosphere guaranteed to make you smile! Safe travels, and until next month!

Dana

The Maltese Isles

in numbers Passengers carried onboard air malta flights:

It has been said that numbers speak louder than words â&#x20AC;&#x201C; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve put together a few to give you a better idea of what to expect from our small, idyllic, Mediterranean archipelago.

50,754,711 since 1st April 1974

us s ta r t a b

ine

tonnes of potatoes exported annually

320 Monuments in valletta

flew the equiva len lta a m

f to

air

e k to

unesco 3 declared world heritage sites

6,000

885

The old maltese currency (lira) was used for

182 years

times to the moon and back

349,386 the maltese drive on the left

27km long/14.5km wide

The number of licensed vehicles in malta

Total length of Malta

supporting our customers At Bank of Valletta we are proud to support our business customers to grow locally and internationally, to expand their operations and to finance major projects. We understand that a supporting and long term relationship helps businesses to grow as they continue to invest in the Maltese economy.

your success is our goal

Bonnici Brothers Ltd. - National Flood Relief Project

BOV BUSINESS BANKING 2131 2020 I bov.com

Issued by Bank of Valletta p.l.c., 58, Triq San Ĺťakkarija, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1130

Malta: An Ideal Location for Rental Investment It is no surprise that we are experiencing growth in the rental market due to the increase in demand from expats, as well as supply of property to let. Locals have come to a realisation that property is indeed a very good investment, a source of income, and can be used as a retirement plan. Similarly, foreigners visiting Malta as tourists, as well as those conducting business locally or simply living on the island, have seen the potential for Buy to Rent property in both Malta and its sister island Gozo. Malta has become one of the best places in Europe for rental investments both in commercial and residential. Investing in a property with the aim of eventually turning it into a prolific rental is something pretty enticing. Around the Maltese Islands, rental investment is popular namely because of the increasing demands for such accommodation from locals, foreign students, the foreign work force from all different types of industries and also retirees.

So what should you be considering before making this decision - Where do you start? Knowing What to Buy The notion of buying to let is extremely titillating but before embarking on the purchase, one has to be aware of certain characteristics which tenants typically like to look out for. You can do this by placing yourself in the shoes of a tenant. What would he or she require? What kind of property would make life simpler for myself as a lessor? Or the easy way out - contact a real estate agent who specialises in this field and is backed with a good track record.

Choosing Right Remember that in most cases, a modern property is always a better deal, possibly requiring less maintenance and upkeep both for the tenant and for yourself from the onset. It’s also a question of location; over the years the best rental investment areas have been in locations such as St Julian’s, Sliema, Gzira, Msida, Swieqi, Tal-Ibrag and the surrounding areas, plus Mellieha, Bugibba, Qawra and St. Paul’s Bay. Now, as things stand in 2016, there are many more areas which have opened up and become good rental areas and made the market expand rapidly. So when you’re looking for a property, the property needs to be clean, easily accessible, and have the everyday modern gadgets. The most important detail when purchasing is that you purchase right. The simplest way of doing this is to calculate the sale price (negotiate well or have a good agent do it for you), add the actual cost stamp duty, notarial fees, furnishings and finishes (if needed) and then find out what the real rental is for the type of property you are buying. Make sure you don’t get led up a garden path with fictitious rental values to avoid disappointment. Take the rent, multiply it by 12 (months) and then divide that by your total cost – which leaves you with your gross yield. If you’re happy with the figure, go for it. In today’s market, 4.5% - 8% is very achievable. Another very important point you need to keep in mind is the capital appreciation of the property you are buying. Although it’s never guaranteed, as these are always predictions, a good agent will guide you and let you know roughly what the trend of property prices are in that specific area.

Kevin Buttigieg - CEO RE/MAX Malta

Top or Bottom An apartment is generally the first best rental option to invest in, but there are a few things to keep in mind: • A ground floor apartment may get to be very dark, so make sure there is some outdoor space and larger windows to maximise ventilation and light. • Make sure the common parts of the building are well kept, the management company is reputable and the lift is in good working order. • Make sure an architect checks that all is built according to law.

Some Perks and Ideas Clients are ready to pay for modern gadgets in the middle to upper end of the rental market. Put these in and it will speed up your rental. Remember every day you lose is revenue off your bottom line. Also, in these type of rentals, any extra gadgets could also increase your rental yield. When choosing an apartment as your investment, I would also recommend you look for light. Don’t get me wrong – it is ok if the bedrooms are not so well-lit, but it’s important that the front room or the kitchen get some light. Also try for South facing property and a big enough terrace according to the size of the apartment so people can sit outside.

Where to Buy Well its very simple: location location location is the key. Nowadays it’s not necessarily that the location needs to be in Sliema or St Julian’s - the locations needs to be the ideal location in the area you choose. For example, in the South you need to be close to the office areas such as Smart City and Sky Parks. Soon there will be an abundance of office space in the central areas so central areas will definitely become popular rental areas as well. If you aim to buy to let, be aware that RE/MAX Malta boasts one of the largest professional teams of commercial letting agents on the islands. We have specific letting agents who are trained specifically to provide you with rental valuation of residential and commercial properties, and assist you to eventually rent the property, as well as manage the property if need be. My advice is simple: consulting with a RE/MAX Malta commercial agent will help you decide on the best way to invest in this sector of real estate depending on your budget. You can also email me directly as, being one of the main experts on the island, I spearhead the team and make sure all runs smooth from A-Z. We have based our business model on helping clients get the best deal possible for their money.

HOT PROPERTIES IN MALTA Corner Penthouse in Ibragg

— — — —

Detached Villa In Mgarr

Over 300m 2, highly finished Spacious Kitchen and Living Area all leading to terrace 3 Double Bedrooms (2 Bathrooms) Interconnecting 3 Car Garage

Price €950,000

Ref No: 240221002-29

— — — — —

Set on 7800m 2 of land Surrounded by mature gardens and walkways Fantastic pool are with country and distant sea views Elegantly designed 3 double bedrooms

P.O.R

Duplex Apartment in Portomaso

Commercial Premises in Tigne point

— One of the most stunning properties in Portomaso — Set on two floors, measuring a total of 416m 2 with direct access to a Laguna — 4 bedrooms with ensuites and walk in wardrobes — Open plan layout with two large terraces overlooking Laguna

— — — — —

Price 3,600,000

Price €425 per m2

Ref No: 240011024-776

Corner penthouse - Tigné Point

— — — —

Corner Duplex Penthouse with 3 Double Bedrooms Measures 447m 2, external area 143m 2 Sea Views and Valletta Views Large terrace , infinity pool and 2 car spaces

Price €4,000,000 +356 9966 3322

Ref No: 240011024-794

www.remax-malta.com

Ref No: 240011024-761

Office Space Being Sold Finished Total of 1700m 2 Available Call for more details More options available

Plot - Madliena

— — — —

To be Sold as Shell Option to buy in shell form for 1,950,000 Great Location with valley and distant sea views Call for more details.

Price €1,350,000

Ref No: 240011024-786

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Woven Gold WORDS AND PHOTOS BY Dave Esmonde-White

TRADITIONAL

slight squint of concentration belies the ease and speed at which Lordes Falzon’s hands move. Nimble fingers made deft by many years of practice, she is effortlessly creating beautiful artificial flowers from gold thread. Mrs Falzon is a master of the ancient craft of monastery, or as it’s known in Maltese, Ganutell. Using little more than gold and silver wire, beads, crystals and wire forms, Mrs Falzon transforms these raw materials into a glorious arrangement of flowers and leaves. Carefully winding the wire around a flat form, she meticulously creates individual leaves and petals, which she will then combine to form mounts of decorative bouquets. As its name may hint at monastery (or more precisely, cloister and monastery work) is thought to have originated as a technique within the sheltered walls of 16 th century European convents and monasteries. For many centuries the craft remained the exclusive practice of the nuns and monks who developed and mastered it into a highly skilled art form. It is thought that monastery was first introduced into Malta during the early 18 th century by the predominantly French Knights of St John, who commissioned the creation of striking mounts as gifts to the aristocracy of the time. We know that, in the late 18 th century, precious mounts were gifted to Pope Pius IX and Catherine the Great. The exact point at which the tradition first passed from the enclaves of the monasteries to the Maltese populace is lost in the mists of time. At its peak, however, monastery was a widely practiced, thriving craft, with mounts being traditionally used as a decorative feature in gracious homes, or being donated to the church in order to decorate their altars and holy statues.

As the craft grew in popularity, monastery began to take on a distinctively Maltese form. Mounts began to incorporate the styles or even complete pieces of ganutell, a similar but less complicated technique of making artificial flowers. Gemstones and precious metals began to give way to the more economical and readily available materials of the industrial revolution. Crystal and glass beads began to be used and plated wire replaced the prohibitively expensive solid gold and silver threads. In the aftermath of the Second World War, the monastery and ganutell crafts all but disappeared, with only a small number of dedicated practitioners keeping the craft alive. The craft was passed on from generation to generation – Mrs Falzon, as young girl at the time first learned her skills this way, watching and being taught by her aunt. The craft was little know outside of its small circle of enthusiasts until a remarkable resurgence in appreciation during the 1990’s.

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Bolstered by the support of the Ministry of Culture, interest grew, formal classes in the craft were established and the crafts once again became popular and widely practiced. Despite the monastic crafts now being widely practiced, mounts are difficult to come by. They are very seldom available for sale, passing directly into private and church collections. Mounts may occasionally be found in estate auctions but they are rare, and fetch amazingly high prices. Notwithstanding the scarcity of mounts for sale, mounts in both the monastery and ganutell styles can easily be viewed in Malta’s many churches – this is particularly true during the church feast months in summer, when mounts are on display adorning the alters and icons. A particular mount that should not be missed can be seen in the Madonna tal-Mirakli Chapel in Lija. This mount was gifted by the cousin of Pope Pius IX as appreciation for the refuge granted to him in Malta during the upheaval of the Italian Unification. However many other collections are well worth seeking out – these include the collections held in St Paul’s, Valleta; St Publius, Floriana; The Church of the Assumption of Mary, Mosta; and St George's Basilica in Gozo.

TRADITIONAL

Furniture with passion since 1947

Joinwell has one of the largest furniture showrooms on the island having over 4,000 square metres of display area. With 70 years of experience we take pride in what we do, offering a wide variety of styles and different brands. Our staff are all well trained and helpful, and we try to provide our customers with a great service from start to finish. For your furnishing needs contact us or visit our showroom.

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Saturday 9am - 1pm

Mill Street, Qormi www.joinwell.com.mt

joinwellmalta +356 2278 2000

See you at the beach! WORDS BY Stephen Vella

hough close to continental Europe and forming part of the fast developing island state of Malta, Gozo is a world apart both in its lifestyle and topography. It has photogenic charm and is still largely undeveloped. Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister island has managed to preserve an authentic island ambience with a rural landscape and a pristine coastline. The main reason for the Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unspoilt state is its relative isolation. It is situated just under six kilometres to the northwest of Malta, and Comino lies almost midway in the Gozo-Malta channel. Regular crossings between Malta and Gozo began in 1989. The first car ferry, the Jylland, came into operation in 1968. This easier access brought about a spate of development some of which has somewhat spoilt parts of the island. However, Gozo can still boast of a host of treasures, amongst them the beautiful beaches.

BEACH TIME

The hot summer months put the pleasures of its swimming spots into focus. For such a small island the diversity in its coastline is impressive, even if sandy beaches are not its forte. Nevertheless the red sands of Ramla and San Blas bays to the north of the island are attractive, especially if you have small children who find sand fascinating and can spend hours playing in it, allowing you to relax a little. Calypso's cave is located in a cliff, overlooking Ramla Bay. This site is thought to be the same cave Homer mentioned in The Odyssey where Calypso, the beautiful nymph, kept Odysseus as a ‘prisoner of love’ for seven years. It is presumed that the cave is a complex labyrinth, extending down to sea level at some points, however stone boulders block the way a few metres inwards. The cave is not particularly impressive but the view of Ramla and the valley make a visit worthwhile. San Blas Bay is another very pretty, tranquil, sandy and secluded bay situated at the end of beautiful valleys on Gozo’s northeast coast. It is Ramla Bay’s little sister. The sand at San Blas Bay has the same reddish-orange colour and rocky landscape as that of Ramla, making this beach special as well. What makes San Blas Bay less crowded and more peaceful is that it is more secluded and that the final part of the road leading down to it has been closed to traffic as it is very steep. Visitors therefore have to proceed to the beach by walking down a steep hill. It is not easy to get there with small children. As is the case with Ramla Bay, it is perfect for snorkelling around the rocks and boulders on the side of the bay. These two beaches are unspoilt. 01. Ir- Ramla il-Hamra/Jürgen Scicluna 02. San Blas Bay/Jürgen Scicluna

For such a small island the diversity in its coastline is impressive, even if sandy beaches are not its forte

BEACH TIME

01. Xlendi Bay 02. ħondoq ir- Rummien

Xlendi is a narrow inlet cutting into the rocky island. Time was when there were few buildings there. Not so these days. Blocks of flats have managed to deface its original natural beauty; the ruggedness of the bay. But it is still picturesque. There are now several amenities and fish restaurants, and Xlendi, with its dramatic scenery, is still a popular and attractive place to swim. In Medieval times, Marsalforn, across the island from Xlendi, served as Gozo's main harbour, and is the island’s largest fishing village. There are two pebbly beaches and, for the more adventurous, several deep areas off the rocks. Many Maltese families own or rent flats there and buildings are crowded. It is transformed at night when the buildings merge into the background, the restaurants and cafés are lit up, and a holiday atmosphere is created. It could well be the south of France or some Italian or Spanish seaside resort. Another refreshing spot to swim is ħondoq ir-Rummien, a small bay at the bottom of a steep paved road on the southern coast of Gozo, facing the island of Comino. Here you can cool your feet and wash them in the rhythmic foam of incoming waves. The water is clear and clean , and there are usually rides available on small boats to the Blue Lagoon of Comino available here.

Mġarr ix-Xini is a small inlet and gorge backed by a spectacular valley, which runs from the sea right up to the village of Xewkija with its massive church.There is a grand looking coastal tower guarding the entrance to the creek. It’s the largest of its kind in Gozo and was built as a lookout post in 1661, because Turkish pirates made their way to Gozo using Mġarr ix- Xini as their harbour. Here hundreds of Gozitans were forced to board ships as slaves. Things were so bad, that in 1551, most of the population of Gozo was driven into slavery. It is also a very popular dive site. During the rule of the Knights of Malta it served as a small harbour for galleys. This attractive bay has become well known beyond these islands since the film 'By the Sea', starring Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, was partially filmed at Mġarr ix-Xini from August to November 2014. This is perhaps one of the harder points on Gozo to get to but it's worth the perseverance. If you go early enough there is parking right by the beach. Hidden at the bottom of a steep road, the scenery is gorgeous and the water staggeringly beautiful. The highlight, however, is the seafood café, offering a delicious selection of all manner of locally-caught delights, freshly brought ashore by local fishermen. “Gozo is different," concluded the priest, Dun Salvatore. This quote, from Nicholas Monsarrat’s The Kappillan of Malta, sums Gozo up appropriately.

What memories of the Mediterranean will you take home?

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+356 2356 1839

BUSINESS NEWS

2015 Gran Cavalier reds released

elicata has released the longanticipated 2015 vintage of the Merlot and Syrah D.O.K. Malta wines in the winery’s flagship Gran Cavalier range. Both cask-matured red wines have become very sought after thanks to the wines’ quality and unparalleled multiple gold-medal count. Barrel samples tasted earlier en primeur were very promising and a recent tasting of the actual finished wines from bottle confirms their pedigree and potential. Once again, the Merlot is crafted from hand-picked grapes with prolonged hang-time from bespoke vineyard parcels with the most suitable clay loam soils at Tas-Salib, in the vicinity of Rabat in Malta.

The Merlot varietal is well-structured following judicious skin maceration and 10 months of maturation in barrique. It tastes delicate and is reminiscent of the classic French style that made Bordeaux claret popular, but with that added pleasurable dusty and faintly savoury Maltese hallmark to it. The 100 per cent Syrah is equally glossy and tantalising in nature, already showing typical trademark flavours of raspberry and dark fruits along with hints of crushed black pepper and depth. Delicata, Malta’s most awarded winemaker, is committed to crafting classic wines in a style true to the Maltese land the grapes come from. www.delicata.com

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Style this season in your unique way, and let your jewellery reďŹ&#x201A;ect your personality and mood. Sterling silver charms from â&#x201A;Ź59.

FOR ALL THE UNIQUE FACETS OF YOU Explore the new Autumn collection, be inspired and share #TheLookOfYou

The Strand, Sliema

Republic Street, Valletta

Mikelang Refalo Street, Victoria, Gozo

www.pandora.net/en-mt

SOCIAL

out and about Here's what's been going on, who's been seen, and where they were spotted around Malta last month.

Vitals Health Group Gozo Hospital Project Launch

Unveiling the new medical helicopter at the Gozo General Hospital in Rabat

SPEAK MALTESE Maltese word:

Kemm gÄ§andek Ĺźmien? Phonetic sound:

Young Flyer

Our young guest, Elise Sophie Kaltenegger, enjoys the July issue of Il-Bizzilla

Kemm an-dek zmi(i)n? Translation:

How old are you? Supported by:

Te fit-Tazza Exhibition Launch Pallazzo De Piro, Mdina www.tefittazza.com

www.ghaqdatalmalti.org

want to learn maltese? Get your hands on this Englishto-Maltese dictionary 'Kelmet il-Malti' Available from all leading bookshops.

Would you like to be featured on our social pages? Drop Dana an email on dana@contentfactory.com.mt

EVENTS

EVENTS THIS MONTH

2nd – 3rd September

QORMI WINE FESTIVAL

4th September

MALTA VS SCOTLAND

Hal Qormi

Ta’ Qali National Stadium

Renowned for its wine-making culture, Qormi is once again reviving this centuries’ old tradition while creating an added attraction for locals and foreigners at this time of year. The Qormi Wine Festival is fast establishing itself in the annual calendar of events, attracting thousands of patrons. This event is a feast of Maltese culture, arts and traditions, making it the main event for the cultural and tourism sector in the month of September. Besides food and wine, this 12th consecutive edition of the festival sees the participation of bands, various soloists and musicians. Several exhibitions and competitions will also be held during the two days. www.festiesterniqormi.org

On 25 July 2015, Malta was drawn to play against England, Slovakia, Scotland and Lithuania in group F of the qualifying round of the World Cup Russia 2018. Malta’s matches kick off with a game at home against Scotland, before facing England at the Wembley Stadium. www.mfa.com.mt

6th – 11th September

7 MALTA INTERNATIONAL MUSICAL BANDS FESTIVAL 2016 TH

Valletta A six-day festival of bands, majorette groups, marching bands, folk groups, street bands and piper bands make up the seventh edition of the Malta International Musical Bands Festival 2016. During this week, there will be three four street parades and concerts in most towns around the island. www.euroartproduction.it

7th – 9th September

GLITCH FESTIVAL Buskett The very first edition of the Glitch Festival will be making waves on the island, bringing together a killer lineup at the house-and-techno fortress, hidden deep in the magical woods of Buskett. Glitch Festival promises an intimate two-day adventure with full focus on a diverse, quality line-up and the best atmosphere and energy on the dance floor. / Glitch Festival 2016

EVENTS

Casino Malta – Your top entertainment Spot! With its exotic beaches, and unique venues, Malta is rapidly growing as one of Europe’s top entertainment spots. To cater to such demand for new and exciting events, Casino Malta offers an excellent entertainment calendar all year round. At 3000m2, Casino Malta is the largest casino on the island and boasts the most gaming tables and slots. It has also successfully developed the gaming scene in Malta, offering a more luxurious, fun and exciting experience to all those who enter by featuring top quality events, performers and entertainment. The month of September presents an superb schedule of events with live music, cabaret shows and more, almost every day. The line up features the singer Desi Campbell, along with Danielle Bitton, Larissa & Band and Step & Co. Apart from top notch entertainment, Casino Malta features a first-rate bar, where professional mixologists can whip up any cocktail of your choice. So whether you’re looking for a relaxed night out with the best music in Malta, or want to try your luck on tables or slots, you’ll surely find something to suit you at Casino Malta. Find Casino Malta in St. George’s Bay, near the InterContinental hotel and opposite the Bowling Centre. See the full schedule of events at www.casinomalta.com.mt.

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9th September

STAGE AND PROMS ON THE SEA Mġarr Harbour The Gozo Youth Wind Band (GYWB) will present a musical programme on a stage on a large floating platform in Mġarr Harbour. This concert offers a unique Mediterranean setting where music can be enjoyed against a backdrop of seacraft and a moonlit sky. www.ncfhe.gov.mt

EVENTS

10th September

ROCKESTRA Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre This year’s Rockestra, in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund, will present a unique experience where in a number of instrumental pieces will be performed by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, and popular songs will be performed live by a number of talented artists. www.rockestra.org.mt

16th – 18th September

QALA INTERNATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL Qala, Gozo Music, dance, costumers… the 11th edition of the Qala International Folk Festival is organised by the Qala Local Council and the Qala Menhir Folk Group. A weekend of folk dance, music and traditional food in the quaint village square will be brought to life by an intercultural programme that has grown to attract locals and visitors. www.visitgozo.com

24th September

Żejt iż-Żejtun, Olive Pressing Festival

Żejtun Żejt iż-Żejtun, celebrating the olive picking season and olive pressing foroil, is organised by the Żejtun Local Council. This event brings together village folk and farmers on carts carrying the olive harvest for pressing, while parading along the streets of Żejtun. Drummers and flag bearers in medieval costumes, together with folk singers and dancers, will providethe traditional musical input in celebration of a bountiful harvest. Join the festival and experience authentic folk dance, art and traditional village attire, music, and, above all, the best in local Maltese cuisine with Maltese ftajjar dressed in freshly pressed olive oil for tasting. For more information please visit www.zejtunlocalcouncil.com

EVENTS

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? Fancy a tour of some of the show’s most iconic filming locations? Then why not join one of our exclusive Game of Thrones Tours? Group Tours are held on most Saturdays and Private Tours are held on most weekdays and Sundays. Relive the quest for power between the Houses of Stark, Baratheon, Lannister and Targaryen on the island where it all started. Join local actors who actually took part in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones on this exclusive tour as they unravel the secrets and adventures of your favourite characters.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Led by two talented local actors who actually took part in Game of Thrones. • Exclusive locations and photo opportunities not accessible on any other tour. • The joys & tribulations of being on a GoT film set and the latest about the stars. • Includes hotel pick-ups and drop offs in luxurious air-conditioned comfort. • Includes visits to the locations used as the Gardens of King’s Landing, The Tower of the Hand, The Red Keep, The Stables, The Baelish Brothels, The Red Waste and The Village of Lhazar.

WHY OUR TOUR

23rd - 25th SeptembeR

The Bubble Festival The Elysium, Mellieħa A three-day festival for everyone, filled with sun, fun and smiles! Come and enjoy your weekend while together we help make the world a better place. Music, art, cocreation and awareness are at the heart of this positive occurrence. The Bubble 2016 will be a Festival of LOVE! 100% of the profits from the festival are donated to charitable causes each year. /Bubble Festival 2016 - A Festival of LOVE

24th – 25th September

Because we do it differently. We have worked on Game of Thrones and want to share with you, in person, our experiences of working alongside your favourite actors, and relive with you the emotions we shared at the different locations used. We want you to go back home feeling part of Game of Thrones.

MALTA INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW 2016

Malta International Airport Held annually each September at the Malta International Airport, the Malta International Air Show, one of Malta’s largest outdoor events, has gained the wellearned reputation as one of Malta’s top outdoor family events, and is now in its 24th edition. The forthcoming edition promises to be another successful air show, since discussions are underway with many countries to confirm participation. On the show ground, once can also enjoy touring around the static display aircraft and retail outlets selling official merchandise. www.maltairshow.com

Tours cost €59. For info and booking: E: info@maltafilmtours.com | M: +356 7942 1112 W: www.maltafilmtours.com

27th September

30th September

Valletta

St. George’s Square, Valletta

Held each year on the 27th of September, the purpose of World Tourism Day is to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic values. Together with the rest of the world where tourism is recognised as an industry, the Ministry for Tourism and the Malta Tourism Authority will be organising a series of events to mark World Tourism Day. www.cityofvalletta.com

The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is held every last Friday of the month in St George’s Square, Valletta. The parade commences with the AFM Band marching down Republic Street onto St. George’s Square. Here, the new guard marches out from the Main Guard in order to replace the old guard, who marches out from The Palace Valletta. Following the exchange of duties, the AFM Band conducts a marching display in the same square. www.afm.gov.mt

WORLD TOURISM DAY

CHANGING OF THE GUARDS

until 23rd July 2017

VALLETTA 1566 – MELITA RENASCENS Fort St Elmo Heritage Malta’s forthcoming major exhibition, in collaboration with Malta Libraries, commemorates the 450th anniversary since the laying of the first stone of the city of Valletta. The exhibition opened at the National Library and the former National War Museum at Lower Fort St. Elmo in July 2016 and shall remain open for a whole year. www.heritagemalta.org

30th September

MPO Season Opening Beethoven & Brahms

Manoel Theatre In collaboration with the Manoel Theatre, the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra present their 2016/2017 season opening concert. Under the direction of Principal Conductor Brian Schembri, the orchestra will be joined by acclaimed Maltese pianist Charlene Farrugia to perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 which will be followed by Brahm’s Third Symphony. www.maltaorchestra.com

MADE IN MALTA

MADE IN MALTA Looking for local products? Then you've come to the right place. By purchasing authentic Maltese products, manufactured by skilled craftsmen using the finest materials, you are contributing towards keeping these skills alive on our Islands, and taking home something truly Maltese.

Mediterranean Ceramics

Mdina Glass

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

Head over to Mdina Glass at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village to see the glassmakers, free of charge. While you’re there, check out the wide range of unique, practical and decorative handmade glassware including this brand new, hot out of the furnace, range of tumblers available in various colours to suit all surroundings. For more info tel: +356 2141 5786. You can shop at any of the 8 outlets throughout Malta and Gozo or online with worldwide delivery at www.mdinaglass.com.mt Find Mdina Glass on

/mdinaglass

Feel free to contact us: T: +356 2010 5552 M: (David Grima) 9920 1055 M: (Brian Grima) 9944 0922 www.MediterraneanCeramics.com

Welcome to Malta Simonds Farsons Cisk plc is today synonymous with a beer brewing tradition rooted in quality. At the very base of this tradition are its longestablished 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 1929, this dedication has consistently contributed to creating the award-winning brews, that so many have grown to appreciate time after time. Cisk Lager beer 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 thirstquencher. Alcohol content is 4.2%. Today Cisk Lager beer has developed and progressed considerably since its launch in 1929 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 Strong – an outstanding extra-strong premium lager with a 9% alcohol content. Cisk lager beer is now available online at www.amazon.co.uk

Bread

In Ftira We Trust Diane Brincat talks about Gozitan pizza and why we love it so much.

BREAD

ave you ever wondered what you could do with half a kilo of flour, a few tablespoons of olive oil and a sprinkle of water? I bet that whatever you can come up with doesn’t even come close to the culinary marvel that is Gozitan pizza, also known simply as ftira. You may be familiar with ftira as a ring of sourdough bread, a staple in traditional Maltese baking. While ftira is a Maltese thing so to speak, the Gozitan ftira is, in fact, a rustic pizza with a crunchy base cooked in a stone oven (much like Maltese ftira, which is where the similarity begins and ends), and quite obviously, a renowned product of Gozo.

Where can I find it? The small Gozitan town of Nadur is best known for two things – its infamous carnival where throngs of people visit in their best fancy dress, and Gozitan ftira. In fact, Nadur boasts two of Gozo’s most popular bakeries, which have been satisfying ftira cravings for the past 50 years or so. While both bakeries, Mekren and Maxokk respectively, serve their own clientele and are not at all interchangeable, they have similar backstories, wherein each bakery is currently run by second or third generation family members of the original owners. Now, it feels like this has to be said; food is at the heart of every Maltese and Gozitan family – this may be because it brings them together at least once a day for dinner, or because food here really is just that good that it surpasses any kind of familial tension. Either way, while in the advent of stuffing one’s face with a Gozitan ftira, one is unlikely to give two hoots about where it came from, this delicacy hailing from Malta’s sister island has one very special ingredient, and that’s love.

What’s so special about this ftira-pizza concoction? Assuming you’ve never been close enough to see, smell or taste this ftira, then that’s a very valid question. Let’s start with the sourdough base; once it’s been painstakingly prepared within the four walls of the charming bakery, the ingredients are added – with tomatoes,

potatoes, cheese, parsley and seasoning being staples for most variations. Finally, the ftira is placed inside a traditional brick oven to cook at a high temperature. As previously mentioned, the fact that the bakeries that produce these pizzas do so with a lot of love and commitment is enough of a guarantee that you’re one ftira away from your life being forever changed.

BREAD

This delicacy hailing from Malta’s sister island has one very special ingredient, and that’s love What kind of ftira to go for Do it like the locals In case this wasn’t abundantly clear, the Maltese like to have their own version of things – bread, sausage, cheese, you name it. That said, you can order a ftira with all its usual ingredients like tomato sauce and potatoes, but with the special addition of tasty Maltese sausage and ġbejna, a milky variant of local cheese made from goat’s milk. While in the Med… Renowned for the quality of its crops, tomatoes, tuna and potatoes sourced from the Maltese Islands are likely to be truly some of the best you’ll have ever tasted. Naturally, there’s a ftira

that combines all of these scrumptious ingredients. For many locals, the combination of these ingredients will take them back to their childhood where they spent many a lazy Sunday afternoon enjoying these very ingredients spread on Maltese bread (or what we like to call hobż biż-żejt), lovingly made by the family matriarch (or patriarch!). Take a walk on the wild side If you’re feeling adventurous, and perhaps need some spice in your life, Maxokk offers a special chicken curry ftira that is sure to get your heart racing and your tummy rumbling. This may be far from conventional, but sometimes that’s the only way to keep things exciting! However, we do only recommend that you take things up a

notch only once you’ve tried the more traditional pizzas – for your own sake. How to do it right While you could try to make your own, or even buy a box of premade ftira from a local supermarket – we all know that neither of those would even begin to compare to the real thing. However, pre-baked ftajjar (that’s the plural of ftira) are also available if you’d prefer to enjoy your meal later on at home. In fact, if you’re going to venture to Nadur for ftira, we suggest calling in advance to order your ftajjar to avoid disappointment. Oh, and make sure to use your maps app to get there – there will be signs along the way, but you wouldn’t want to get there late and have a cold ftira on your hands!

Belgium's intriguing capital

TEXT SUBMITTED BY Air Malta

dmittedly, when many of us think of Brussels, holidays arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always the first thing that come to mind.

Brussels is the de facto home to the European Union. Since the end of World War II, Belgiumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital city has been a major centre for international politics. Yet the city is a popular destination for tourists and boasts a wide number of attractions. And, of course, one cannot mention Brussels without mentioning its delicious Belgian chocolate, beer, mussels and fries. Here are some interesting facts about Brussels.

TRAVEL

Quick facts Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and home to some one million people. It is officially a bilingual city where French and Dutch are spoken.

History Brussels’ history has its roots in the Middles Ages. The city was the centre of trade between the cities of Bruges, Ghent and Bologne, where the Senne River met the economic route that stretched from the east to the west of the country. Top among its exports were tapestries woven from the finest silk, which were bought to decorate the homes of royals and aristocrats. You can still see some of these tapestries in European museums, such as the Louvre. Speeding forward, Belgium’s last great revolt was in 1830 when it protested against King William of the Netherlands to gain independence. King Leopold I became the first King of the Kingdom of Belgium on 21 July 1831. The walls of the city were taken down during this period and replaced by a set of boulevards in the shape of a pentagon following the original outline of the Brussels. The current circle metro line weaves around this same ring road.

Architecture Art Nouveau is definitely the highlight of Brussels architecture. Take this in by walking or cycling. The presence of this style can

be attributed to Victor Horta a famous designer in the early 20th century known throughout Europe for his contemporary architectural constructions. The larger art nouveau examples include Victor Horta’s Wacquer warehouse, which is now the home of the Centre of Comic Strip Art, the Old England building, which is now the Museum of Musical Instruments, and La Metropole, the most famous hotel in Brussels. Other architectural highlights in Brussels include the Bourse. Formerly the home of the Brussels Stock Exchange, it is now the Brussels office of the Euronext Exchange – a panEuropean Stock Exchange that replaced the Brussels, Paris and Amsterdam stock exchanges in 2000. The Bourse building was crafted in the neo-Renaissance and Second Empire styles. The whole building has been designed with hundreds of sculptures and bas-relief; allegories for Brussels, Freedom of Trade, Africa and Asia are crafted in and around the building.

Food and drink Belgian chocolates are some of the best rated in the world. You will be spoilt for choice as there are thousands of varieties to choose from. What is special about them is that they are made with 100% cocoa butter and with no vegetable oil. This is what ensures such a good quality and great taste. However, do be careful to buy genuine handmade Belgian chocolates (pralines and truffles are the best). Some top brands (listed in order of price) are Leonidas, Neuhaus, Godiva and Pierre Marcoloini’s. Speaking of food, you should also try moules et frites (mussels and fries), a traditional dish for which the Belgians were supposedly the first to put together. There are a whopping 400 varieties of beer in Belgium. Beer is treated with such reverence in Belgium and Brussels that the capital city even has a small beer museum at the Grand Place, the city’s central square. The museum plays a video about the history of beer and the beer-making process, and serves beer at the end of the screening. A popular spot for drinking beer is the Délirium Café, a bar that serves all 400 varieties of Belgian beer, as well as beers from all around the world.

01. 02. 03. 04.

The Triumphal Arch in Cinquantennaire Parc Monts des Arts Selection of chocolate truffles Tourists picking up candle souvenirs in the form of a traditional glass of Belgian beer

AIR MALTA FLIGHTS Air Malta is currently operating nine weekly flight to Brussels. This frequency will continue in November and December and is expected to increase in 2017. Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

GOZO

01. Salt harvesting at Xwejni, Gozo/ Ted Attard 02. Opera selfie at Aurora, Gozo/Daniel Cilia

Experience Arts and Crafts Sea Salt Harvesting

Operas in Gozo

Salt is born of the purest of parents: the sun and the sea. (Pythagoras, 5th century B.C.)

Autumn in Gozo is announced with the beauty and grandeur of opera. The two opera houses in Victoria, buzz with activity during the final, run up weeks to the two awaited performances.

The much sought after quality of the crunchy, sunkissed, purest-of-white salt crystals harvested from the Mediterranean Sea stems from the abundance of these two natural elements. Sea salt has always been a highly valued commodity because of its preservative attributes. In Gozo, sea salt harvesting has a time-honoured history, dating back to Roman times. There was a time when high demand encouraged enterprising Gozitans dig out rock- hewn pans to supplement natural rock-pools. These salt pans can be seen in various parts of the coastline on Gozo, most prominently at Qbajjar, Marsalforn. The advent of mined salt could have sounded the death knell of harvested sea salt, had it not been for the single-minded resolve, entrepreneurial aspiration and passion for an age-old tradition of a handful of expert sea salt harvesters like various generations of the Ċini family in Gozo, working in 350-year-old salt pans at Qbajjar Marsalforn. The tradition has been thankfully kept vibrant by marketing sea salt as a gourmet product.

The Aurora Opera House is proud to announce the return of Bizet's all-time favourite opera in 4 acts, CARMEN, in a completely new production on October 2016. Brimming with back-to-back popular classical choruses and arias, the Spanishset opera, full of toreadors, handsome soldiers and seducing ladies, speaks of a love that not even death can tame. It comes to life (and a tragic death) at the Aurora Opera House on October 15th, 2016. On the 27th and the 29th October 2016, Verdi’s masterpiece and all-time favourite AIDA is being performed at the Teatru Astra, Victoria, Gozo. If Verdi’s name stands for Italian Opera, than AIDA stands for Verdi: you cannot get beyond AIDA in Italian Opera. Intimacy and Grandeur: superb and poignant music from the word go. Pharaonic in concept and execution. Opera - a great way to experience Gozo. Check visitgozo.com

PROPERTY

More than a move

sk anyone who is involved in the property industry in Malta and Gozo, no matter how peripheral, and they will invariably relate the fact that it is probably the most exciting, vibrant and rapidly moving time ever, especially in the higher end of the market. The flow of owners, serious developers and investors, both local and foreign, from all parts of the globe, is more than impressive – it’s phenomenal. To facilitate this surge and also as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to substantial growth, the decision to relocate Homes of Quality was taken by the directors. However the move is more than just a geographical one to beautiful new seafront offices on Tower Road, (perhaps the most sought after street in Malta), but also a move to an entirely client needs-driven mentality, where the highest levels of service, consultancy and an after sales service that is second to none are the norm, rather than the exception. This holistic approach

Grahame SALT Director

to property sales has proven to be much appreciated and welcomed, especially by overseas investors who perhaps need that extra level of reassurance during the process of re-locating to Malta, from places as distant and diverse as South Africa, Hong Kong and Russia, not to mention those clients seeking vacation or residential properties from within Europe. The large, light, bright and modern new Homes of Quality offices have been custom designed to allow the team of consultants to engage each client in comfort and privacy, enabling client needs to be identified and fulfilled smoothly and professionally. The new Tower Road centre of operations has, as part of the goal of providing the best possible customer experience, a computer programme specifically designed for real estate giving consultants and clients instant and up-to-the-minute details on the thousands of real estate options

available at any given time. Staffed by a compact team of experienced negotiators and led by managing director Grahame Salt, Homes of Quality is able to offer an unprecedented level of personal, individual service to every level of client from corporate to domestic. The impressive new state-of-the-art offices are now a venue for consultations with legal, financial and lifestyle professionals ,who can be quickly brought on board to advise and direct Homes of Quality clients to achieve the most advantageous solutions to any situation which may arise. This all-encompassing attitude to client service is a move from the present into the future – a truly 21st century service experience which is what discerning clients not only demand but is also deserve. 211 Tower Road – a short move but a huge leap in customer care.

211 Tower Road, Sliema T: 2342 0000 E: info@hoq.com.mt

MEDICAL TOURISIM

High-Flying Dentistry: Porcelain Veneers 3. Veneers are very conservative of the tooth structure as minimal tooth preparation is required

Extra-oral before treatment

Extra-oral after treatment

4. For teeth that resist whitening, veneers can make even the darkest teeth appear bright white.

Disadvantages of Veneers 1. Removal of tooth tissue is irreversible, 2. Cost: veneers may be quite costly. Intra-oral before treatment

orcelain veneers are thin slivers of porcelain used to recreate the natural look of teeth, while also providing strength and resilience comparable to natural tooth enamel. Your dentist will likely begin by consulting you on your smile and requests, determining what steps are necessary to achieve the smile you desire. In addition, your dentist may create a diagnostic mock-up that will allow you to 'try on' veneers and other procedures to see if the final result is actually what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for. A computer-generated image or a provisional fitting of veneers may also allow you to view your new smile prior to commencement.

Uses of Veneers 1. Straighten teeth: often due to age or timeframe, patients do not wish to go down the road of braces. As a result, veneers offer patients an immediate quick fix for straightening misaligned teeth. 2. Tooth colour: Patients might not respond well to tooth whitening procedures. Veneering teeth gives an immediate permanent colour to your teeth.

Intra-oral after treatment

3. Close gaps in between teeth: In some cases even when teeth are already aligned, spaces appear with time. This is often due to the small size of the teeth or large size of the jaw. In either of these cases, veneers fix this very elegantly. 4. Angulation: Rotated or inclined teeth may be aligned with veneers. 5. Irregularly shaped and sized teeth: Some patients have micro-teeth or socalled micro-donts, often irregularly shaped and sized. Bonded veneers restore them to normality. 6. Bruxism: Bruxists, or patients who grind their teeth, often display unaesthetic wear facets with reduced tooth height. Veneers may restore these teeth to their natural dimensions and prevent further tooth-wear.

Advantages of Veneers 1. Custom-made veneers are almost impossible to tell from your natural teeth. 2. Veneers resist coffee, wine, tea and cigarette stains thanks to the high caliber materials used, and are the only permanent method of tooth whitening.

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

3. Some initial sensitivity to hot and cold. This typically disappears within a few days. 4. Although theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very strong, veneers are also brittle. 5. De-bonding of veneers: If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, your dentist may fit you with a night time bite guard so you do not damage your veneers. Veneers offer great results to those patients who wish to have a perfectly symmetrical set of teeth, but also to those patients who want a more natural even look not necessarily polar white but graded according to the natural aesthetics of their adjacent teeth. Of course beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Ask your dentist!

A Case Study: (PHOTOS ABOVE) An 18-year-old girl who refuses to undergo orthodontic (brace) treatment due to timeframes opts for a quick fix and a simultaneous laser whitening of her teeth. The photos show before and after images following the placement of eight porcelain veneers and whitening.

Showcasing Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest Contemporary Artists. Gabriel Caruana . Paul Scerri . Robert Zahra . Victor Agius . Antoine Farrugia . Noel Attard . Mario Sammut . Mark Mallia . Lida Scherafatmand

Robert Zahra- Veiling_Unveiling

Antoine Farrugia - Untitled

Paul Scerri- The Dredead Coat

Victor Agius- Traces

Live the Gallery Experience! Contact us on info@mariegallery5.com to book a private viewing whilst enjoying some local wine and refreshments or visit us during regular opening hours. Check out our website Find us on www.mariegallery5.com

INSERT TEXT HERE

recent addition to Valletta’s cultural scene is the Malta Postal Museum. Situated in the city centre in a narrow, shady street adjacent to the Grandmaster’s palace, the museum explores centuries of postal history through a selective display of documents and artefacts. The museum occupies a beautifully restored town house which was badly damaged in the heavy bombing of 1942, rebuilt in 1947, occupied for many years by a succession of families and then in 2014 bought by MaltaPost plc. It underwent extensive renovation and an upper floor was added resulting in today’s 4-storey building. Keep your eyes open for a red carpet which will lead you right into the museum’s lobby and reception where a fully operational post office serves its Valletta clientele.

Malta Postal Museum

It is a fact that most of us today take the Post for granted. However, centuries ago and even up to the last 100 years or so, the Post was a lifeline for many a person, a much awaited contact with far flung family and friends. Sweethearts would re-read letters from their soldiers fighting in Europe and North Africa, mothers would stop postmen and ask whether there was anything for them from a child now emigrated to Canada, businessmen would expect their daily delivery of a newspaper. And yet with today’s technological advances, the Post has lost much of its human face and personal contact. What this museum attempts to do is resurrect the important role played by the Post through objects, stories and interactive experiences. Painstakingly collected and carefully displayed, these objects explore the effects of war, governance, trade, love and politics. Letters from Lord Nelson, rare postal markings, uniforms, stamps, Prisoner of War mail, love letters and motorbikes not only

MUSEUMS

mark historic milestones but also tell the stories of the many individuals who played a part in the development of the Island’s communications. This is a collection of interest not solely for philatelists but also for lovers of culture and history. A 15-minute documentary gives an excellent introduction to postal services in Malta throughout history. A selection of shorter audio visuals take a look at the role Malta played as nurse of the Mediterranean, the way the post was handled during the plague epidemics and Internees who were deported to Uganda at the height of World War 2. Two temporary exhibitions housed in the upper galleries complement the museum’s collection. A photographic exhibition of images taken by Richard Ellis, that acute observer of late 19th century Malta focuses on the General Post Office (GPO) in Valletta and uncovers the behind the scenes work that went on in the sorting and parcel offices of the GPO. Our second floor gallery exhibits a selection of wonderful artworks designed by Emvin Cremona - one of Malta’s foremost 20th century artists who collaborated with the Department of Posts over a 23 year period. To quote Gibbons Stamp Monthly, these works are “distinctively flamboyant, imaginatively conceived and beautifully executed” and raised the profile of Maltese philately during a period of significant political developments. The museum promises to be an enjoyable experience for all the family. A kids area on the upper floor engages children to explore the post, encourages them to dress up as postmen and to design their own stamp. As you exit the museum, visit our museum shop where you will be able to buy specifically designed merchandise, inspired by the legacy of the post and the museum’s own collection. We look forward to welcoming you and hope you enjoy your visit. www.maltapostalmuseum.com

Malta Postal Museum

A new heritage attraction that brings to life the important role of the Post 135, Archbishop Street, Valletta, Malta VLT 1444 Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 10.00Hrs - 16.00Hrs Saturday: 10.00Hrs - 14.00Hrs

+356 2596 1750 info@maltapostalmuseum.com www.maltapostalmuseum.com

A gift will be given to any visitor who presents a photo of this advert upon purchasing a ticket to enter the museum.

A FRESH LOOK AT MALTESE HISTORY

Materialist Revision of Maltese History: 870 – 1919 is a new publication which offers a fresh look at one of the most intriguing periods of Maltese history. The book starts with the Islamisation of Malta in 870 and covers a period of 1049 years when in 1919 the Maltese revolted against foreign rule during the ‘Sette Giugno’ riots. This publication poses new critical perspectives based on previously known and accepted historical data. The book includes new primary sources which will be revealed for the first time, including the police logbooks of the early 20th century which shed new light on the social, economic and political history of Malta. Historian Mark Camilleri focuses on the mind and material conditions of the ‘ordinary’ Maltese people. “This book is Maltese history as it is, without the grand narratives and beautiful anecdotes which make Maltese history novel and glorious. There is in reality nothing that glorious about Maltese history; on the contrary, Maltese history was sad, dark, tragic and bleak. The Maltese people

lived in misery, poverty, insularity and ignorance and their survival in terms of wealth and security depended on their rulers. The Maltese elite was only concerned with making easy profits rather than with contributing to the over-all development of society and the well-being of its compatriots, while clerics left the people mired in ignorance and stupidity so as to keep absolute control over the Maltese mind.” The book covers 1049 years of history, starting with the Arab conquests of Malta in 870, the Norman occupation of Malta, the Knights of St John, the French period, till 1919 when four Maltese were killed during British occupation of Malta in Valletta. What prompted the author to cover such a vast period of history? “The Maltese islands were depopulated in 870 by Muslim invaders and were repopulated around a hundred years later by Muslim settlers. Thus 870 represents the end of an era. “The new era which followed the 870 massacre with the emerging Muslim settlers was an era of misery, poverty and dependence. We have this

very wrong idea that Maltese society was self-aware of its freedom, its identity and spirit and it thrived and grew progressively along the years, but the truth is very far away from this. During the years delineated in my study Maltese people were poor, miserable, highly dependent and submissive. Education was unheard of and the Maltese mind was controlled by the clerics. It was only in 1919 when the Maltese working-class began to be aware of its own freedoms and for the first time tried to overturn its objective living conditions out of its own spontaneous will.” The author contends that the Seventh June Riots of 1919 were a turning point for both the exploited majority and their superiors, their patrons, their leaders and their clerics. This was a point in Maltese history when the masses became conscious of their freedom and tried to overturn the objective conditions of their lives. The new publication is selling at €15 from leading bookstores.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN THE IGAMING INDUSTRY – IN COLLABORATION WITH IGAMING ACADEMY AND TIPICO CAREERS The

iGaming

2016/17 will see the first

This partnership once again

Malta is an ever growing

iGaming

industry

operators have increasingly

number

official partnership between

highlights

the

and changing environment,

invested

need

and

development

career

an iGaming operator, Tipico,

increasing

programs,

and Malta’s leading iGaming

understanding of, the benefits

after career paths. Due to

making of use of, for example,

training provider, the iGaming

structured

the highly specialized nature

Internship

Academy, to promote and

provide to any employer with

of some functions, and the

of the most robust, and

improve

in the industry. As a growing

international nature of most

recognized programs is the

between

roles,

Tipico

employment

offers

many

requiring

languages

sought-

additional at

their

programs.

Careers

One

Internship

the

relationship

education even

and further.

number

for,

training

young

and can

talents

enter into the job-market

program, which on a yearly

The

every year, creating options

mother-tongue level, finding

basis takes on 15 - 20 interns

vacancies in the program

for them to enter into this

the

from

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exciting and lucrative industry is

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industry’s

candidate

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often be quite challenging.

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various

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current

and

candidates

departments within the the

attendance

company in the Malta offices.

iGaming

round

following of

Academy

the

critical

requirement.

selected courses.

SO HOW DOES IT WORK? The paid internships on offer are in the Business Intelligence, Legal, Marketing and Casino departments of the company, and will be open to attendees of the following courses and dates:

Paid Internship

iGaming Academy Course

Language Requirements

Business Intelligence Intern

Business Analytics

Fluent in English as first or second language

Casino Ops Associate

Online Casino Management

Fluent in English as first or second language

Legal / AML Intern

Anti-Money Laundering

Fluent in German as first or second language

Marketing Exec Intern

Social Media Marketing

Fluent in German as first or second language

Affiliate Marketing Intern

Affiliate Marketing Management

Fluent in German as first or second languagev

The internships will be made available to the top performers in the relevant courses offered by the IGA. Going forward, we hope to see more initiatives of this nature, whereby the iGaming companies, the recruitment agencies and the training programs aimed at the industry collaborate to create an inviting atmosphere for talented young job-seekers. Note that candidates must be 18 or over to apply.

HOW TO APPLY

1. Visit the www.igacademy.com and select the relevant course page 2. Contact training@igacademy.com to apply and request more information

Global Citizens Choose Malta

he Malta Individual Investor Programme (MIIP) was launched in March 2014 and has seen an influx of the most financially successful individuals and their families invest in it. The MIIP is viewed as the most prestigious European citizenshipby-investment programme. There is a plethora of reasons that motivate the ultra-wealthy to want to acquire a second citizenship. Often, the primary motivator is the next generation and ensuring that they have the security of a future with options. European citizenship represents this. Maltese citizenship is consistently regarded as amongst the most valuable in the world. It allows visa-free access to 168 countries, including the United States, and, of course, confers all the benefits that go with being a citizen of the European Union.

However, beyond this, individuals and families seeking to obtain alternative citizenship want to know that their new country of citizenship is safe,

economically and politically stable, welcoming to people of different cultures, has a good standard of living, and holds itself in good international standing. Even if their intention is not necessarily to live in the country permanently, families want to feel at home in the place and amongst the people. Malta ticks all of these boxes. It is a country that is often seen to silently punch above its weight. Despite its small size and limited natural resources, it has succeeded in building a stable and growing economy, even in the face of crises in other parts of Europe. International credit rating agencies have consistently maintained Malta’s investment grade credit ratings, whilst at the same time downgrading that of other countries in the same region. To many, it offers an interesting balance between the way of life characteristic of the Mediterranean region, and a manner of conducting business more typically associated with the Anglo-Saxon world. It has a transparent legal system and strong democratic institutions. English

is an official language and the language of choice in business and professional circles. To families from the Gulf and the Arab world, Malta’s other official language – Maltese, a language with strong Arabic roots - adds a surprising and welcoming dimension. Another important consideration is taxation. Malta’s tax system is designed to attract international investors to do business in and from the country, and, as a result, the impact of acquiring Maltese citizenship is often completely neutral. This is an ancillary but understandably key consideration. Since the programme’s inception, Frendo Advisory has helped a number of individuals and families, from backgrounds as diverse as their countries of origin, to successfully apply for citizenship under the programme. We work hand-in-hand with the most reputable immigration firms internationally to ensure that the applicant and his or her family are welllooked after every step of the way.

For further information please contact us on info@frendoadvisory.com The MIIP is a 12-month process and entails investment in two forms: (i) a contribution (of €650,000 for the main applicant, with additional contributions (of between €25,000 and €50,000) required for the spouse and other family members) made to the Government, and (ii) an investment in Malta Government Bonds (of €150,000). In addition to that, the applicant must maintain a residential address in Malta for a period of five years, either one which is rented (at a minimum of €16,000 annually) or owned outright (purchased at a minimum value of €350,000). The applicant goes through a -multi-tiered due diligence process with the intention of ensuring that only persons of good repute are conferred with citizenship.

The best future is one with options Discover the value of EU Citizenship for you and your family The freedom to live, do business and thrive in the EU are just some of the benefits of achieving European Citizenship through Investment. At Frendo Advisory we specialise in helping individuals and families to secure a future filled with security, stability and options. We have acquired a wealth of expertise and experience through the Malta and Cyprus Citizenship Programmes, and as a family firm we are able to understand the needs of our clients while handling the process sensitively and efficiently from start to finish. If you would like to contact us we can be reached on +356 21234000 | info@frendoadvisory.com www.frendoadvisory.com

A guide to the little

Maltese Islands dwejra

ghasri

gharb

marsalforn

zebbug

san lawrenz

xlendi

2, Ross Street, St Julian's T: +356 2202 1000 E: BOSS_Store_Malta@vfgmalta.com Open Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 20:00 hrs

xaghra

victoria kercem munxar sannat

xewkija

nadur ghajnsielem

qala

mgarr

comino 2, Ross Street, St Julian's T:+356 2202 1601 E: Sarto@vfgmalta.com Open Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 hrs

cirkewwa

st paul’s island mellieha

qawra

xemxija st paul’s bay

bugibba

mgarr

naxxar

gnejna

Lost OR DAMAGED Luggage?

mosta

Kindly call or SMS the SAMSONITE Malta 24/7 customer line on + 356 9996 9172. We also deliver across Malta and Gozo.

attard

san gwa

mdina

Arrivals Hall, Malta International Airport - Luqa T: +356 2202 1401 E: samsonitemalta@vfgmalta.com Open Monday to Sunday 08:00 – 21:00 hrs

birki

qormi rabat dingli qrendi

zurrieq Malta International Airport Gate 1, Departures Lounge T: +356 2202 1300 E: BOSS_Store_Malta@vfgmalta.com Open Monday to Sunday 06:00 – 22:00 hrs

filfla

THis month il-bizzilla recommends...

Portomaso Business Tower, St Julian's Visit tipico–careers.com for career opportunities

Fall/Winter 2016: New Modern Sartorialism

St. George's Bay, St. Julian’s Open 24/7 +356 2371 0555 www.casinomalta.com.mt

The BOSS tailoring DNA stands at the centre of this new FW 2016 Collection. Clean cuts and sharp silhouettes are the signature. Colour, detail and combinations herald a new mood. Suits in understated greys and refined navy blues are shot through with highlights of color. Monochrome looks feature a pop of yellow, rich red or bright blue. This FW Collection leads us further into a new direction for BOSS Menswear with sportswear elements signalling a modern way of dressing. Sharp tailoring is completed with clean sneakers or a backpack, while sporty separates are dressed with a leather briefcase and lace-up shoes.

catenamedia The Firs, Floor 6,Gorg Borg Olivier Street, Sliema, Malta Check out catenamedia.com/career for career opportunities

st julians sliema gzira

ann

This new Collection is exclusively available at the BOSS Stores Malta of St Julians and the Departures Lounge, Luqa Airport. For further information kindly call +356 2202 1000 or via e-mail at BOSS_Store_Malta@vfgmalta.com

Valletta

msida

irkara floriana

the three cities tarxien

marsa

marsascala zejtun

luqa

marsaxlokk

birzebbuga

AUTUMNAL ESSENTIALS Refresh your wardrobe for the upcoming season with latest and best from the Fall/Winter 2016 collections in clothing, bags, shoes and accessories. Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Blumarine, Valentino, Emporio Armani, Jimmy Choo, Sergio Rossi and most recently, DSquared2 and Zegna are some of the brands available at Sarto. Women will find both trendy and classic options, and men can choose from casual daywear to a formal suit. Centrally located close to Portomaso Tower, in St Julian’s, Sarto offers a relaxed and welcoming shopping experience in its contemporary two-floor shop. More information on /sarto.luxury; sarto.com.mt; instagram.com/sartoluxury

+YOU

FANTASTIC SALARY

DIGITAL & INNOVATION

LIFE BENEFITS

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

MEETINGS WITH A SEA VIEW

SOCIAL EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WE INVEST IN OUR PEOPLE. WWW.TIPICO.COM/EN/CAREER

Discovering malta & gozo

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

The Red tower, Mellieħa MALTA Fort St Agatha has taken on its more common alias due to its brightly coloured walls. Built towards the middle of the 17th century, the bastioned watchtower formed the sixth addition to the Lascaris towers.

Sliema Promenade MALTA Ġgantija Temples GOZO Did you know that the Ġgantija Temples are older than the pyramids of Egypt? Explore the Neolithic temple complex found in the village of Xagħra [Sha-rah] in Gozo. The Ġgantija Temples are the earliest example of megalithic temples in Malta.

Chill at one of the many cafés, or take a leisurely stroll along this broad seafront promenade that links the bustling shopping centre of Sliema, to the cosmopolitan nightlife of St Julian's.

Discovering malta & gozo

The Three Cities MAlta Birgu, Bormla and Isla are collectively known as the Three Cities. These cities had their names changed by the Knights of Malta and are, today, known as Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea respectively. Despite their picturesque winding streets, and impressive harbour views, the Three Cities are surprisingly off the tourist radar and offer visitors an authentic opportunity to soak up local life.

UNIQUE DISCOVERY TOUR OF THE THREE CITIES, KALKARA & SMART CITY

EASY! FUN! COMFORTABLE!

Your very own Rolling Geek - Is an electric buggy that talks. - Guides you along an 18 km route. - Explains what you are seeing on the way. - Takes selfies - Serves up a drink - Is safe and fully insured - Has Big Brother watching over you at all times. - Has an attitude.....Sorry! THE TOUR IS AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING LANGUAGES:

The Azure Window, Dwejra GOZO This enormous natural limestone arch is found by the shores of the quaint village of Dwejra [Dewy-rah] in Gozo. Known also for its charming Inland Sea, Dwejra bay is home to one of the most spectacular scuba diving spots in Gozo. We recommend visiting at sunset.

ROLLING GEEKS ARE TOURS WITH STREET SMARTS – IT’S HOW WE ROLL.

Mum the car talks!

Please contact us for more information on how to reach us, whether it’s using Public Transport (bus / ferry boats, or by CAR, or by PRIVATE TRANSFERS (taxi / boat transfers).

2.5 hrs Tour (18km)

with time to spare for stops

SHORTER TOUR ALSO AVAILABLE

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

OPENING HOURS Mon - Sun (except Tues):

09:30hrs - 18:30hrs Tuesday: 12:00hrs - 18:30hrs Last tour leaving at 16:00hrs For tours outside these hours kindly contact our office.

ADDRESS

Vault II, Captain of the Galleys Birgu (Vittoriosa) Waterfront, Birgu (Vittoriosa), Malta T: +356 2180 5339 M: +356 7995 0695 E: info@rolling-geeks.com www.rolling-geeks.com

A valid driver's license and credit card must be presented at time of pick-up. The minimum driver's age must be 21 years old. Not recommended for pregnant women

Discovering malta & gozo

mosta dome malta Dedicated to the Assumption of Our Lady, the colloquiallyknown 'Rotunda' is a Roman Catholic church in the centre of Mosta. It is currently the fourth largest unsupported dome in the world, and the third largest in Europe.

mdina malta Formerly known as Città Notabile, this beautiful medieval walled town served as the island’s capital until 1530. This majorly pedestrian city displays an interesting mix of Baroque and Norman architecture, including several palaces that, today, serve as private homes.

Paceville, St Julian's malta The St Julian's nightlife district is heavily populated with nightclubs, bars, pubs and restaurants. It is considered one of Malta’s largest party areas and is popular with locals and tourists alike.

Ċittadella GOZO Also known as the Citadel, this small, fortified, recently restored city is found at the heart of Victoria in Gozo. All its fortifications, including the medieval epicentre, are intact. A number of historic buildings are located within its walls making it a definite must-see in Gozo.

Discovering malta & gozo

blue lagoon comino Take a short boat ride to Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tiniest island, Comino, and enjoy the glittering aquamarine waters of the aptly-called Blue Lagoon, or the secluded Santa Maria bay. Popular with snorkellers and divers, this tiny paradise welcomes a large number of visitors each year.

Blue Grotto, Qrendi Malta Located along the south coast of the island, the Blue Grotto comprises a number of sea caverns that are known for the mesmerising natural display of sunlight and reflections in the water. Daily boat visits to the caves are available during the summer.

Marsaxlokk Fish Market malta The popular Sunday market in the fishing village of Marsaxlokk [Mar-Sa-Shlock] is a main attraction for both tourists and locals interested in buying fresh fish and seafood caught earlier on that same morning. A number of seafood restaurants are also found here.

FISHING SEASON

Lampuki fest in St. Julian's

WORDS BY Giljan Sammut

t is justifiable that Lampuki, the quintessential fish of Malta, should be celebrated. Also known as the Dorado, the 'gilted one' for its shiny golden hues, and Mahiâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mahi far away from Malta along the Atlantic coast of the southern USA, Lampuki has been fished in Maltese waters since classical times. Proof of this is the pretty unique fishing method engaged, using floating rafts of woven palm fronds called Kannizzati. Many centuries ago nobody less than Homer described how these fish gathered below floating driftwood seeking shade from the sun. Fishermen would have noticed this and, by means of kannizzati provided shade for the Lampuki whilst setting up an ambush for the unsuspecting fish. What makes Lampuki a 'Maltese fish' is probably the fact that large catches resulted in abundant supply and affordable prices. Every table could therefore eat fresh fish regularly in high season; not the norm during other times of the year.

01. Freshly landed lampuki in Spinola Bay, St Julian's 02. Crostini with Lampuki crudo at CUBA Spinola Bay St Julian's 03. Lampuki 'biz- zalza pikkanti' at Gululu in Spinola Bay St. Julian's

The Lampuki season traditionally kicks off in the second half of August after the popular festa of Santa Marija, with the blessing of the boats. The parish priest boards a fishing boat and is taken slowly round the ba,y reciting prayers for protection and good fortune all the while spraying the luzzi and kajjiki with holy water. The preparatory work done, with the laying of the kannizzati at intervals of circa one kilometre several kilometres out to sea, the three-month season begins and week on week the fish become larger and the catches more abundant. The fishermen set out with high expectations, hoping that many lampuki will have gathered in the shade of their kannizzati, which they surround with nets to haul in their catch.

FISHING SEASON

The most popular way to cook it is to slice the fish into tranches of three-to-four inches , roll each tranche in flour and fry, in oil. The fish is served with a zalza pikkanti - a flavourful, typical sauce made with tomato, capers, olives, red wine vinegar, garlic and fresh summer herbs. Towards the end of the season, when the fish have grown rather large in size, many housewives prefer to steam the tranches of lampuki, cleaned from all bones, and bake them in the traditional lampuki pie where the fish is combined with vegetables like cauliflower, spinach and carrots, as well as capers, olives fresh mint and marjoram. Lampuki pie certainly brings happy smiles to the face of many a husband returning home from a hard dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work.

Ironically, until recently, many restaurants around Malta did not offer lampuki on their menu. This fish was considered to be common and inferior to many of its more 'noble' cousins like the grouper, the John Dory and the rock fish. Certainly the flesh is neither as white nor as fine, however the lampuka offers a particular flavour, a unique taste of its own.

'Gululu' the casual Maltese diner in St Julianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay launches a special menu comprised solely of dishes which include lampuki . Past menus have included marinated slivers of raw lampuki, lampuki fritters served with kappunata, and even pasta with a lampuki based sauce, probably a first for Malta. CUBA Bistro, a neighbour of Gululu, does likewise and conjures up a menu of lampuki dishes cooked in different ways and flavoured with so many different Mediterranean herbs, spices and fresh vegetables. Be sure to taste lampuki when in Malta, it is bound to be fresh.

2016 Malta Year Set Official Issue

Castille Place, Valletta Tel: (+356) 2550 6006/7 Coins may be purchased online from www.centralbankmalta.org

JOB Slots

#VIDEOSLOTSTEAM Interested in working in the iGaming Industry? Send your cv to: jobs@videoslots.com

Senior Affiliate Manager

Join Kim and our team of affiliate champions! You will be responsible for afffiliate acquisiton and developing relationships with our existing affiliates. If you are goal oriented, dynamic and have experience in affiliation marketing, now’s the time to join us!

Marketing Manager

Our team now also requires a Marketing Manager & this could be you! We’re looking for an energetic, amibitious & creative leader who will be outlining, creating campaigns, monitor the team and improving our ROI.This role gives you the opportunity to work with our international team to maximise our marketing strategies together.

Content Writers (DE,NO,DA)

Join Sarah & our growing team of creative writers. We are looking for talented writers who can convert our ideas into words to promote our online games.You will also be proactive in suggesting innovative text for search engine optimisation.

Head of CRM

We are looking for an experienced CRM Hero & this could be you! This role will be key to keep our followers excited, engaged and impressed by our universe of game options.You’ll be a key team player in our organisation and need to possess strong online gaming experience in a relative CRM function within an online casino.

Finnish / Swedish CS

Join Jani in the customer support.In order to cover our constant growth, we are always looking for highly motivated native speakers to kick-start their future in Igaming! Full training is given in-house and full support from our team leaders is provided on the job.

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HOLIDAYS

7 Reasons You Know You’re Going To Return To Malta WORDS BY Lovin Malta

we don’t even need to play the ultimate trump card: Comino’s Blue Lagoon.

You won’t find nightlife like it anywhere else

o some, your dream holiday is about to begin and there is a lot to be excited about, while, to others, it’s sadly the end of an awesome trip. But saying goodbye sucks; with all the beautiful things to see and do in Malta, you know you’re gonna be booking your reunion with our islands ASAP and here’s why:

You’ll miss the amazing food Apart from the fantastic delicacies Malta has absolutely nailed (rabbit stew or fried octopus anyone?) you’ll

be hard pressed to find so many brilliant restaurants so closely packed together. And don’t even get us started on the seafood…

You’ll crave swimming in our seas Sure, you might be able to swim at your local pool, but you’ll be booking your flights back as soon as you hear the call of the crystal blue Mediterranean waters. With beautiful beaches like Golden Sands (Mellieħa) and San Blas (Nadur, Gozo) on the two main islands,

With all the clubs your heart desires in Paceville, and all the bars you could ever want in Valletta, Sliema, Bugibba and beyond, there’s nothing quite like Malta after dark. Plus, you’ll need to return to find more of those secret wine bars, tucked away on some adorable street corner.

Your secret history nerd won’t allow you to stay away With over 7,000 years of history spread out over the islands, Malta really packs a punch when it comes to treasures from the past. Whether it’s a visit to Ggantija, the ancient Neolethic temples on Gozo, or simply walking through the bustling streets of Valletta (or the quiet alleys of Cittadella (Gozo) and Mdina), your culture geek will miss the constant historic thrills.

Lovin Malta is an online publication celebrating the island of Malta – its people, events, culture and news. It is the go-to source for a taste of real life in Malta. Visit: lovinmalta.com

HOLIDAYS

You need to be here for V18 Malta is all set and ready to be the European Capital of Culture 2018! That means weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be hosting non-stop events in almost every genre imaginable, so there will really be something for everyone.

Your Instagram feed will look too boring How can you maintain the perfect social media presence without those gorgeous shots of Maltese balconies, or the perfect angle capturing the sunset behind the Azure window (Dwejra, Gozo).

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never rain on your parade Come on, how can anyone stay away from a place boasting around 300 days of sunshine a year?

VILLAGE FOCUS

A whiff of sea air in Mellieħa WORDS BY Marie Benoît

here is a strong tendency for the older Maltese towns and villages to be situated on spurs above the widen or valleys. Mellieħa is just such a village, which in summer becomes a popular resort. The parish church of the Nativity of Our Lady stands sentinel over the bay. It is certainly worth a visit for a chance to enjoy the view of the bay below. God is already famous but it does not stop the sacristan from ringing the church bells at various times of day. He is worried about our salvation and the temptations of the secular bay below. There is a sharp contrast between Godly matters up in the church with its pretty square, and Mammon and indulgence down in the bay.

As you descend the hill to your right there is the sanctuary of Our Lady, a discreet and barely-marked façade. Go down the stairs if you can find the energy, on a hot summer’s day, for here is evidence of the faith of the people. In this dark candle-lit cave there are many votive offerings from crutches to babies’ clothing. These offerings continue to be made from near and far in thanksgiving for graces received. It is a touching spectacle and appeals to the higher self. The sweeping expanse of Mellieħa, Malta’s largest bay, is a beautiful sight. On the right as you descend you may notice a house built into the rock. There were many troglodytes in Malta. They dug caves and used them as homes.

VILLAGE FOCUS

According to the locals, an eccentric once lived in this cave-turned-house without water or electricity. Perhaps he is still there. Above it one catches glimpses of the Santa Maria Estate, a residential area of luxurious villas.

Mellieħa has virtually no historic buildings and only the image of itself to sell. This, happily, is something it does remarkably well. However, in the distance, as you approach the bay, you cannot miss the Red Tower, built in 1649 by the Knights of Malta. It is one of the most impressive examples of coastal look-out towers. It stands gaunt on the last ridge before the Comino Channel. The doorway is approached by a flight of stone steps and was probably originally separated by a small drawbridge. Its outer walls are nearly 14 feet thick. This is a miniature fortress, one of several the Knights built to keep Malta safe from the invaders. In summer in Malta there is plenty of sunshine, which makes beach life ideal

for sun and fun seekers alike. This is Malta’s favourite summer resort and many Maltese come to live in Mellieħa in the summer months, away from the dust and heat of other towns. It was a favourite summer resort even when travelling was done in a karrozzin and luggage included hat boxes, not video cameras. The beach is crowded, especially on weekends, when, in the evenings, people pursue the primitive pleasure of cooking and eating in the open air. The indented coastline provides an ever-changing spectacle. If you do not wish to lie on the sand you can swim off the rocks. Should you be staying here for any length of time , I recommend getting up at the fragile hour of six or seven o’clock, when the tranquillity and beauty of Mellieħa are impressive. There are views like prize-winning colour slides all around. Seacraft of every shape and form are bobbing on the sea, shimmering in the early sun. The sight of a fisherman casting

According to the locals, an eccentric once lived in this caveturned-house without water or electricity. Perhaps he is still there

01. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa/Anthony Vella 02. The Red Tower of Mellieħa

VILLAGE FOCUS

01. Mellieħa Bay/Jürgen Scicluna 02. Mellieħa and Ghadira Nature Reserve 03. L-Aħrax tal-Mellieħa

his rod from some promontory is calming to behold. Somewhere in the bay there is some young lad toiling at the oars, the water a glassy calm. For being Mediterranean also means knowing how to breathe with the time. On the sandy beach there is a sea of umbrellas and deckchairs, sunhats and shirts. There are clusters of families complete with tents and ‘coolers’ whose principal pastimes seem to be eating, drinking and dashing in and out of the water. There are young couples, stars in their eyes, soaking up the rays; women shouting at their children and exchanging stories of domestic selfsacrifice with other women. As a nation we have a capacity for making lots of noise. Someone is bound to have their radio on and it may not be your kind of music. There are men with age written on their faces and Fred Perry on their polo shirt pockets. The Maltese are not sylph-like but then neither are some of the tourists displaying their varicose veins. And many of these obese people, about to embark on a diet on Monday,

VILLAGE FOCUS

are on this beach eating as if on the morrow there was going to be another Great Siege. In the Mediterranean people-watching is a popular habit and one can meditate on other people’s spare tyres without embarrassment. In the early evening, walk to the small nature reserve – an oasis. Later on go in search of mambo. There are bars and restaurants both near the bay and in the village. After a day of sunbathing the beer or wine will taste like nectar.

In Mellieħa there are boats which take you to Comino and back. These islands seen from the sea are infinitely desirable. You want to caress them, possess them. Malta has more than its fair share of blues – blue horizons, blue tranquil waters, a clear blue sky. In Mellieħa sea and sky meet in eternal friendship and are an ideal backdrop to a sundrentched holiday.

GL UT EN

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FR EE

A holy place in Gozo WORDS BY Maria Vella

CHURCHES

he Gozitans take their religion seriously and nowhere is this more evident than at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’Pinu. Known simply as Ta’ Pinu' it is to be found near the village of Gharb. Located on the edge of a cliff in open countryside, visitors can enjoy some beautiful views, while also witnessing the devotion accorded to Our Lady. The long history of this Basilica, which started as a tiny chapel, is shrouded in the mists of time. However, the following potted history is of interest. Ann Monsarrat, who lived in Gozo for many years, with her husband, writer (The Cruel Sea) Nicholas, writes in an article in Treasures of Malta (Easter 1996) entitled Giovanni Gourgion and Preti’s ‘Virgin of Mercy’: “Giovanni’s wife, Elena... had some interesting fields in her dowry. They were in Ghammar, Gozo, and on one of them stood a tiny chapel already old in 1587 when Pino Gauci, father of Elena’s maternal grandmother, bought the land. After he had restored the building and kept it in good shape for a while, the grateful local population called it after him, Ta’ Pinu’.” In fact, the inquisitor Pietro Duzina, who came to these islands in 1575, had found that the chapel was in a very bad state. He ordered the church to be closed and demolished, and its duties passed to the parish church. When demolition began, the workman broke his arm while striking the first blow. This was taken as an omen that the chapel should not be demolished and it was the only one on the island to survive Duzina's decree. Similar chapels had been demolished. In 1611 Gauci offered money for its restoration. It was rebuilt, with a stone altar erected and investments for liturgical

01. Ta' Pinu church 02. Alter inside Ta' Pinu Church/Denise Wilkins 01

CHURCHES

services provided. Gauci also commissioned the painting of the Assumption of Our Lady for the main altar. This was done in 1619 by Bartolomeo Amadeo Perugino, an artist of local extraction.

John Paul II celebrated mass on the parvis of the sanctuary, and then placed a halo of golden stars studded with diamonds around the head of Our Lady.

As devotion to Our Lady continued to grow years later, midmorning on Friday, 22 June 1883, Karmni Grima a 45-year-old devout peasant spinster, went past the chapel through the fields and heard a voice from inside the chapel, calling her to enter and pray. Some time later, Karmni was bedridden for over a year but was finally cured. She confided in one of her friends, Francesco Portelli, about the voice incident. He revealed that the same had happened to him and that, as a consequence, his mother had been miraculously healed. These two events encouraged people on these islands to make this site a place of pilgrimage. Priests soon began saying mass from under a makeshift canopy raised in front of the chapel, for inside there was no place for all these devotees. In view of this, the ecclesiastical authorities decided to raise a shrine which would incorporate the small chapel, a project which was not without its difficulties. At long last, on 30 May 1920, the Bishop of Gozo laid the foundation stone of the new church and an imposing Romanesque shrine now guards the ancient chapel. The soaring interior-with its unadorned arches-conveys a rare beauty. The intricately-ornamented friezes inside and the stark isolated position of the whole structure single out its uniqueness.

The church is built in a neo-romantic style. It enjoys plenty of light and some 76 coloured windows. Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary holds an annual ceremony of the presentation of babies to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu' during which baptised babies are presented to The Blessed Mother of Ta’Pinu' while the parents pray to the Mother of God that she may keep her maternal protection over their children and families.

The building of this monumental shrine was concluded on 8 May 1936. On 26 May 1990, during his visit to Malta, Pope

As we face life’s challenges, holy places, like Ta’ Pinu' continue to sustain us and help us face them.

The Virgin of Ta’ Pinu' has often been connected to several miraculous healings of both Maltese and foreigners, who claim to have been saved, healed or helped through her intercession. The Sanctuary is adorned with many ex-votos , have been given to this sanctuary by those who have received graces: some were healed, saved at sea or received some special favour through the intercession of Our Lady of Ta' Pinu. On 18 April 2010, when visiting Malta, Pope Benedict XVI donated and placed a golden rose in front of the devotional image of Our Lady of Ta' Pinu, which was brought over from Gozo to Malta for this special occasion. The Pope invited everybody to "Pray to Her Under the Title Queen of the Family.”

VEDETTES

Ramparts of power

01. Għajn Tuffieħa Tower

WORDS BY Richard Borg

VEDETTES

uring their stay in Rhodes, the knights had built coastal towers that could send signals of danger by carrier pigeon or by lighting fires on the roof. In fact, watch towers could be found practically the whole length of the Mediterranean coastline which was controlled by the Christian kingdoms, including Naples and Sicily.

For generations there had been lookout towers built on these islands to give warning of attacks by corsairs and Turks, and ward them off. Malta had been a fortress since the mid-16th century, and its fortifications had gradually been built to an impressive scale. Begun by Italian and Spanish military engineers during the first half of the 16th century, they had evolved in terms of sheer scale to such an extent that they were highly costly to maintain. Still, even when the British arrived in Malta, they found them to be a powerful deterrent to any invading army. The coastal towers are numerous and many are well preserved. Most were probably built around 1610. Early in the 17 th, century the Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt (1601-1622) decided to build a number of coastal towers at vulnerable points along the coast, capable of signalling news of an impending landing to each other and to the headquarters in Valletta. They were to be strong enough to discourage a frontal attack in the belief that marauding parties would bypass them. Most followed a standard design of fireproof structures, square in plan with two storeys. Sometimes the doorway entered directly into the upper storey. There was an internal spiral staircase leading to a flat roof surrounded by a parapet with gun embrasures. The parapet provided space for signalling devices such as flags, lamps and bonfires at night. Another 13 or 14 watchtowers were built hurriedly in less than a year during the grandmastership of Martin

VEDETTES 01

de Redin (1657-1660) who carried on the project, started by the Italian Grand Master Lascaris (1560 –1657). These watchtowers were supported by robust square forts. One of them is the Wignacourt Tower at St Paul’s Bay; it is one of the most imposing and is beautifully maintained by Malta’s heritage organising Din l-Art ħelwa. It is the oldest surviving defence post in Malta and designed by the Maltese military engineer Vittorio Cassar, son of the prolific Girolamo, and to whom several towers are attirbuted. This watch tower was subsequently used as a police station and during World War II as a telegraph post by the British. This was Malta’s northernmost defensive outpost until St Agatha’s Tower (the Red Tower) was built in Mellieħa and finished in 1649. Another is St Mary’s Tower in Comino, funded by Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt. Its design is attributed to Vittorio Cassar. It is a small fort built to guard the South Comino Channel and the sea route from Malta

to Gozo. This small tower was used in the making of The Count of Monte Cristo, the lavish $38m (2002) retelling of Alexandre Dumas’ classic tale of revenge, which made extensive use of several distinctive Maltese locations, and the cast and crew spent five weeks filming on Malta and Comino. Perhaps the most distinctive Maltese location used by this film was the tower on Comino. This cliff-top fort is perched 150 metres above the sea. It was used in the film as the exterior of the infamous Château d’If, the prison where Dantès is kept for 13 years and where he is taught swordplay by Abbé Faria. You get a great view of the tower on the ferry crossings between Malta and Gozo and, if you take a boat trip to Comino itself, you can walk along the cliffs and climb up to the top of the tower. The fishing village of Marsaxlokk too, has its watchtower. St Lucian Tower is square and impressive, and looks out on the bay of Marsaxlokk where the Turks had landed their forces prior to the Great Siege of 1565. Not ones to be deterred, they again attacked in July

The coastal towers are numerous and many are well preserved. Most were probably built around 1610

01. Tal-Luppija Tower/Mario Borg 02. Tal- Ħamrija Tower

VEDETTES 1614, putting ashore some 5,000 troops. In Dragut’s words: ‘Till we have smoked out this nest of vipers we shall do no good anywhere. They were driven off by Maltese cavalry and the guns mounted on this fort. As a result of this success, the Grand Master decided to build a similar tower on the coast which would command both the bay and the creek in Marsascala. The tower was named after a chapel dedicated to St Thomas, which stood close to where St Thomas Tower now lies. Gozo too has its towers. The St Cecilia Tower in Ghajnsielem is one of four guard towers that defended the approach to Xewkija. Of the four, only the one dedicated to St Cecilia has survived. There is another tower in Xlendi which guarded the entrance to Xlendi creek, while another tower guards Daħlet Qorrot, near Nadur. This is known as ‘Ta’ Sopu’ and was constructed during the reign of Grand Master Nicholas Cotoner (1663-1680).

Another very visible tower along the coast is Ghallis Tower in Salina Bay. This is one of De Redin’s series of towers along the coast, so that each one could communicate with its neighbours, pass on messages and warning of danger. Mamo Tower, at St Thomas Bay, on the limits of Marsascala, was conceived as a fortified country house as this bay was considered to be vulnerable to enemy attacks. There were other watch towers built by the knights to give warning of corsair attacks and to guard some of the vulnerable landing places. These were supported by robust square forts. Malta displays some of the finest collection of military architecture in the world, which was been designed by Italians, Spanish, French, German and British, while Maltese military engineers contributed in no small way. Malta without its watchtowers would simply not be the same.

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RETIREMENT

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ith over 300 days of guaranteed sunshine a year, as well as an average year-round temperature of 20 degrees, it really is no wonder as to why Malta remains one of the most popular places to retire to. English is spoken fluently by most locals and the relatively low crime rate make it one of Europe’s safest destinations. Over 7,000 years of history offers up ancient temples, imposing fortifications and grand palaces, while more modern Malta provides a well-oiled functional infrastructure, as well as a more cosmopolitan side with entertainment venues and shopping areas galore. The recently opened Hilltop Gardens development offers an intriguing alternative to buying a home if you’re planning to retire here. Located at the edge of the old village of Naxxar, this vibrant, gated community is spread over an impressive 17,000m2, with a building footprint of only 50 per cent. The bright and airy living spaces are surrounded by lush gardens, serving up a luxurious and calm lifestyle. This is further supported by an extensive list of services with the sole purpose

of surrounding you with everything you may need. From the obvious spa and wellness centre and outdoor pool area, to a convenience store, hair salon, library and even garden allotments. This really is a village within a village. And the best part of it all is that this is beautifully maintained and manned by full-time staff. While this is a fairly new concept for Malta, it is the key to acquiring a superb lifestyle when moving to Malta. The team behind Hilltop Gardens fully understands that you’ve worked hard and played hard, and now it’s time to kick back and relax. It’s time to socialise and travel more, and actually do the things that you never had the time for. So why not go ahead and enjoy life in a community of like-minded people, while others take care of everything else. Over 100 luxurious yet affordable apartments and penthouses are currently on offer for lease or rent. For an appointment or viewing please call +356 21 432 277.

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CONCERTS

Malta Philharmonic Orchestra 2016/2017 Season Launch

his month the MPO launched their thrilling 2016/2017 Concert Season. Put together by the MPO’s Principal Conductor and Artistic Director Brian Schembri, the programme includes masterworks from Beethoven, Verdi’s Requiem, Brahms’ Third Symphony, Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony and Elgar’s Enigma Variations. The season will also feature international guest soloists and conductors including Michalis Economou, Jean-Marc Burfin and Narek Hakhnazaryan as well as some of Malta’s most talented musicians such as Charlene Farrugia, Miriam Gauci and Joseph Calleja. Beethoven is particularly prominent this season with performances of his Ninth Symphony, Missa Solemnis and his “Eroica” Symphony, which was recently named the “greatest symphony of all time” by BBC Music Magazine. Russian composers are also featured through the Russian Masters Series which presents works by Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and

Rimsky-Korsakov. Also part of this series, London Symphony Orchestra’s co-leader, Carmine Lauri will be returning to Malta to perform Glazunov’s Violin Concerto. In addition to the many concerts in Malta, the orchestra will be travelling to Italy, Belgium and Austria to give performances in a number of prestigious venues including Vienna’s famous Musikverein. The first of these international concerts will take place in Rome with a performance of Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis, often considered one of the composer’s greatest achievements. The MPO will also play a central role in the cultural activities of Malta’s EU Presidency with very special performances in Malta, Brussels and Vienna. Malta is famous for its ubiquitous festivals and the MPO are proud to be featured regularly at many of them. This season, the orchestra will perform at festivals including the ŻiguŻajg Festival in November, Valletta International

Baroque Festival in February, the International Spring Orchestra Festival in May and the Malta International Arts Festival in July. The orchestra will also feature in full-scale productions of operas including Bizet’s Carmen, Verdi’s Aida and Puccini’s Madame Butterfly. The MPO perform regularly to a wide audience and this season features an increasingly diverse range of performances. The orchestra will present a Maltese adaptation of the iconic story of "Peter and the Wolf ", the annual MPO Fanfare Concert in May will feature Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition and the Youth Summer Concert will bring together the combined forces of the MPO and the Malta Youth Orchestra. There will also be performances outside the classical music genre including Rockestra in September and a concert featuring the music of The Beatles in February, so there is surely something for everyone to look forward to throughout this concert season.

Visit www.maltaorchestra.com for more information.

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FORTIFICATIONS

The Gun and the Fort

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY Victor Paul Borg

he remarkable thing about Fort Rinella may well be its inconspicuousness, diminutiveness and singularity of purpose. It was built for the purpose of operating the Armstrong 100-ton Gun, which has a barrel that weighs 100 tons, reputedly the largest cannon ever made (it is said that only two of its kind survive, the one in Fort Rinella and another in Gibraltar). With its profile blending into the sloping contour of the land, the squat, low-lying fort is unique in various ways â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is also the only extant Victorian Fort in Malta (constructed in the 1870s), and now it holds a new absorbing exhibition about the human aspect of the British military during the long reign of Queen Victoria.

FORTIFICATIONS

The permanent exhibition, opened earlier this year, is a fitting addition to the fort’s attractions on the 25 th anniversary of its restoration and opening to the public by the NGO Wirt Artna. The exhibition deals with the ethos and kits of soldiers: it is about the welfare and the lot of the soldier on and off the battlefield (there is nothing in the exhibition about the prowess of military hardware). The hand-held fighting tools – bayonets, pistols, rifles, knives – are exhibited in just one cabinet, and the rest is dedicated to the apparel and day-to-day issues of the soldiers. And one of the first things that the site guides, dressed in Victorian military uniforms, like to point out is that it was during the Victorian era that pensions for soldiers were introduced – and that was a seminal development that instilled the concept of soldiery as lifelong engagement.

At the time, a lot of effort went into making soldiers’ gear more effective and portable. The kit was unwieldy and bulky to start with, and making the kit lighter and more compact served to unencumber the soldiers and make them more adept at moving and fighting. All the individual pieces of kit and gear are exhibited, and what’s striking is the range of stuff they had to carry – tinned meals, cutlery, clothes, a foldable mattress, blanket, cleaning kit, mosquito net – and units of soldiers also had to haul collective gear such as camping equipment, primitive surgery tools, a portable toilet, lanterns, and so on. The human aspect of life in the military is not amiss. Alcoholism was a problem among the military for example and, at one time, a drink called ‘Gunfire Tea’ was promoted as a substitute to more potent unadulterated gin or rum: it was

a brew of black tea spiked with rum. Also on display are smoking pipes, but the exhibit that struck me most is the hardbound book titled 'The Wonder Book of Empire' â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this sits among a cluster of triumphalist, propagandist exhibits on the British empire that are wryly interesting, if only because the postimperial thinking has changed so much. Other things on display are a variety of uniforms, including the uniforms of the Malta regiment at the time. The exhibition spreads along two corridors in the innards of the fort, adjacent to the living quarters (the living conditions within the fort are recreated with period furnishings and a waxwork of a soldier in one room adjacent to the exhibition). In its heyday the fort was manned by 30 soldiers, not so much because so many were needed to operate the cannon, but for contingency purposes: a complement of 30 soldiers would be able to withstand a surprise attack on the fort by enemy forces. (The robust

INSERT TEXT HERE

FORTIFICATIONS

The story of the mammoth cannon – which remains the prime reason for visiting the fort – is so surreal that it could well pass as a military myth

and enclosed fort is surrounded by a dry moat, it is partially gouged into the bedrock, and the only thing that’s exposed is the cannon itself.)

Fungus Rock/Alistair Farrugia

The story of the mammoth cannon – which remains the prime reason for visiting the fort – is so surreal that it could well pass as a military myth. The gun was manufactured in England and the operation to transport it to the fort was lengthy, arduous and complex: a road was especially laid to withstand the gun’s weight as it was hauled from the port to the fort, an operation that took weeks (on the best of days the gun only inched forward for 75 yards). But it was worth the effort given Malta’s strategic importance at the centre of the Mediterranean – the gun was intended to protect the seaways into the Grand Harbour, where the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean Fleet was headquartered, its shells able to pierce the steel hull of ships. It had a range of some eight miles, although it could only tear into a ship’s steel hull at a range of up to three miles – a distance that

covered all possible entry points into the Grand Harbour. The cannon was fired in warning 40 times, the last time in 1905. “The cannon was so powerful,” I was told by Antoine, one of the site guides dressed up in 19th-century British military uniform, “that it served as a deterrent, and no ships dared come close to the harbour.” Arming it and firing it was a complex operation. A coal-fired mini-power station in the basement below the gun powered the whole operation: rail barrels carted the cartridge (which weighed 200 kgs) and shell (which weighed one ton) onto a steam-propelled lift, the gun was wheeled towards the lift and the cartridge and shell fed into the barrel, and then the gun was turned into position and fired. It’s almost impossible to imagine the scale of the gun or shell – can you imagine the size and weight of a shell of 1000 kg? – but once you stand next to it, dwarfed by its size, the gun’s almost-mythical size becomes palpable. Its barrel is so large that several men can lie inside it and be invisible from outside.

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Restaurant GUIDE bugibba Indian Breeze Restaurant for Granny’s Fusion Triq il-Korp tal-Pijunieri, Bugibba T: +356 2157 5501 Situated in Bugibba’s main square, Granny’s Fusion is a quaint, family-run restaurant that focuses on traditional continental and Maltese dishes. Indian Breeze Restaurant for Granny’s Fusion offers a truly authentic experience with original Maltese cuisine, served by friendly hospitable staff in a warm atmosphere. Some of the traditional dishes are rabbit, bragioli, stuffed calamari, fresh fish and charcoal-grilled prime cuts of fillet, all fresh and prepared by the local Maltese chef. This, accompanied by a crisp bottle of local wine, creates a wonderful dining experience at a great price. They serve fresh fish daily. Granny’s Fusion also offers Indian dishes prepared to perfection by their Indian chef. Both exterior and interior dining available. Full English breakfast at €2,95 (including: 3 Rashers Bacon, 2 Eggs, Large Beef Sausage, Baked Beans, Grilled Tomato, Toast and Butter and complimented with a mug of tea or coffee) is also served.

MDINA Palazzo De Piro – Xpresso Café & Bistro Palazzo de Piro, 3 Triq is-Sur, Mdina, MDN 1131 T: +356 2010 0560; +356 21 450 560 E: events@xarapalace.com.mt 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 Malteseislands, 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.

de Mondion Restaurant The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina T: +356 2145 0560 E: info@xarapalace.com.mt W: w ww.xarapalace.com.mt / 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.

Trattoria AD 1530 Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina, MDN 10150 T: +356 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 – EST. 1964 Constitution Street, Mosta T: +356 2143 4444 F: +356 2141 8181 E: info@tamarija.com W: www.tamarija.com Awarded as the Best Maltese Food Restaurant for the 10th year in 2016, Ta’ Marija doesn’t just serve Maltese cuisine, they create dishes with what is locally traditional but then add their own signature flavours of sumptuousness. For an evening of culinary delights sprinkled with a lot of liveliness, head to their Folklore Dinner shows held every Wednesday and Friday evening, which start with strolling musicians playing mandolins and guitars, who belt out the sweetest of Maltese song 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 dancefloor so that you too, can make history of your own unforgettable night! And it is not quite over till it’s over… after the show Ta’ Marija’s dancefloor 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 their esteemed foreign guests as well as their ever-loyal local friends. Transport from and to your holiday accommodation can be arranged in their all inclusive package. Who says you can’t dine, dance and sparkle all in one place?

SLIEMA Ta’ Kolina 151, Tower Road, Sliema T: +356 2133 5106 M: +356 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: +356 2133 7367 M: +356 9984 7713 Set in one of Sliema's oldest bakeries, Ta' Kris is all about providing a genuine mix of affordable Maltese and Mediterranean dishes in a homely fashion and rustic surroundings. Ta' Kris offers a varied menu of traditional Maltese food such as bragioli, rabbit, octopus stew, bebbux (snails), balbuljata (corned beef hash), baked lamb, to daily specials, pasta dishes, a selection of fresh fish on a daily basis and mouth-watering steaks. Ta' Kris also offers take away service and special menus can be designed for all occasions. Ta' Kris opens from Monday to Sunday, from 12:30pm till 11pm. Booking is recommended.

ST Julian's Dubliner Bar & Restaurant Gorg Borg Olivier Street, St Julian's T: +356 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.

Paranga St. George’s Bay, St Julian's T: +356 2137 7600 E: malta.paranga@ihg.com Paranga, the ultimate seafront dining experience at the InterContinental Beach Club on St. George’s Bay is definitely the place to wine and dine this summer. Perched idyllically above the sea, Paranga is set on teak decking with the rippling sound of the waves beneath. Open for lunch and dinner daily, serving delicious and authentic Sicilian cuisine, the focus is on the freshest of Mediterranean ingredients. The creative dishes at Paranga include a wonderful selection of delicious antipasti, mouthwatering pasta dishes and a feast of grilled fish and meats - all guaranteed to invigorate the senses. With its unique combination of good food, chic atmosphere, contemporary furniture and lighting, Paranga offers the perfect place to watch the sun go down. To wind down the evening in a stylish and relaxing atmosphere, cool cocktails can also be enjoyed at Paranga’s Bar. Booking recommended.

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ACqua Terra e Mare Level-5 Portomaso Marina Portomaso, St Julian's T: +356 79020991/21333366

: facebook.com/Acquaterreemare

Acqua Terra e Mare is situated in the picturesque Portomaso Marina, in St Julian’s, at the water’s edge steps away from the sea. Acqua’s menu derives from their Mediterranean culinary traditions offering a memorable dining experience. Their chef combines his own personal skills, passion and pride with the freshest products to craft his dishes and specialities. Local fishermen deliver fresh fish and seafood daily which, together with local produce, is guaranteed to satisfy the most discerning palates. At Acqua the team strives to offer our customers genuine food, efficient and attentive service in a relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant offers internal and outside seating and complimentary parking adjacent to the restaurant. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday 6pm -11pm Sunday lunch noon-3pm

The Avenue The Avenue, Gort Street, Paceville, St Julian's T: +356 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, freshlyprepared 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.

Zest Hotel Juliani, 25, St George’s Road, St Julian's T: +356 2138 7600 E: info@zestflavours.com W: www.zestflavours.com Zest’s Asian fusion menu will take you on an exciting culinary journey. Get swept off your feet with delectable dishes from Balinese curries, Indonesian noodles and Japanese teppanyaki to French lamb sous vide. At Zest, no attention to detail is spared including the décor and design that elevates one’s dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Original architectural details and attractive features, including an open wine cellar and a live-cooking sushi bar, are sure to leave a lasting impression. Zest also enjoys the added bonus of an open-air terrace overlooking romantic Spinola Bay, for which reservations are highly advised—only 14 seats are available in this exclusive location.

Electro Lobster Project 32, Main Street, Balluta Buildings, St Julian's T: +356 2735 7357 W: www.electrolobsterproject.com

: facebook.com/electrolobsterproject

A treasure of a place, nestled within the historic beauty of one of Malta's most eye catching buildings. Delicious food, stunning decor, an enviable selection of premium liquors, and a rich calendar of events throughout the year is what makes us truly unique. Our specialty is lobster, the rest of the menu is classic Sicilian, with lots of fresh fish, quality meats, and vegan and vegetarian options. Our bar snack menu is a regularly changing international fusion of small dishes. Join us on the terrace outside to explore our Get Decked menu, with happy hour prices between 15:00 and 19:00 every day. Enjoy mouth watering bar snacks, signature cocktails made with in-house infused spirits, our ELP gin tonics and boosted lemonades, great wines, and daily changing spirit offers on our shaded terrace overlooking the bay. Our dedicated, passionate and experienced kitchen and waiting staff will make sure your ELP experience will be a memorable one.

QAWRA

The Plum Tree Bar & Restaurant Triq l-Imhar, Qawra T: +356 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 includes a variety of dishes including Maltese specialities, mediterranean dishes and daily specials. Individual, tastes and other dietary requirements are catered for on request. Opening times from October to June : Tuesday to Saturday: 6pm - midnight for dinner. Sunday: noon - 5.30pm for lunch July to September : Tuesday to Sunday: 6pm - midnight

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Ta' Xbiex The Galley Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, XBX 1028 Ta’ Xbiex T: +356 2131 8801 E: thegalley@artisanfoods.com.mt The Galley Restaurant overlooks the stunning Marsamxett Harbour, enjoying spectacular views of the Valletta skyline. Adjacent to the Royal Malta Yacht Club and yacht marina, this stylish restaurant offers staple popular dishes and seasonal specials, including premium meats, fish, pasta and light snacks at lunch time. The venue interior emulates a beach house with good, natural light and soft furnishings, and the atmosphere is casual and comfortable. There is ample parking space available, and with good proximity to neighbouring Sliema and Valletta it is well serviced by public transport. The Galley is especially popular on weekends so booking is recommended.

NAXXAR LUNA Palazzo Parisio, Victory Square, Naxxar T: +356 2141 2461 E: info@palazzoparisio.com W: www.palazzoparisio.com Set in the historic surroundings of a noble family’s 18th Century palazzo…LUNA, the restaurant at Palazzo Parisio, is a sumptuous dining experience and an opportunity to sample international cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. During the winter months the trendy Parisian style interior is your backdrop and, as the weather warms up and the bougainvillea blooms, hidden away from the reality of everyday life the gardens are opened for guests to dine al fresco from early morning, with breakfast served from 9am, to lunch served from noon, to their famous quintessentially English Afternoon Tea from 3pm through to the crystal and candlelit night time dining. LUNA – in all its forms – offers relaxation in understated luxury, excellent service and culinary delights. They promise each and every one of their guests an albeit brief but enjoyable sojourn. Booking recommended.

Marsaxlokk Sotto Mare 28, Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk T: +356 2746 8775 / 79468770 W: www.sottomareristorante.com Sotto Mare, a casual dining restaurant with a class of its own, which brings you down to earth luxury dining. This restaurant is considered as the right place for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in the heart of Malta's most picturesque fishing village, Marsaxlokk, whether one is visiting the colourful Sunday fish market, or simply passing through and stopping for a bite. Whether it’s a business lunch or a romantic dinner, this restaurant gives you the option of dining indoor or outdoor on the seafront, overlooking the port itself. The atmosphere lends itself well for a culinary experience to remember. At Sotto Mare they are proud to specialise in fresh fish and shellfish that often lands right on thier doorstep, brought in by local fishermen. But their ample menu includes meats, poultry, game, Mediterranean dishes and various specialities which are created on a daily basis by their renowned executive chef Ray Fauzza and his young talented assistant sous chef Chaz Psaila, according to seasonal produce. They also serve gluten free meals.

TERRONE RESTAURANT 1 Wilga Street Marsaxlokk T: +356 27042656 W: www.terrone.com.mt Facebook.com/terrone We could tell you about our restaurant but we think you would rather hear from our customers, so we present a small selection of headlines from recent TripAdvisor reviews since June 2016: Amazing – Fantastic – Recommended; Unbelievable use of season fresh food!!! - Lovely food, excellent service; Stands out from the crowd - Fabulous fish!!; Best quality restaurant in Marsaxlokk - Delicious food with lovely terrace; Finally a well-cooked piece of steak The best little find in Malta. Highly recommended by TripAdvisor so we invite you to look us up and read the detail. Booking recommended Parking available outside – Short taxi ride from most locations including Sliema/St Julians/Valletta

BARS & NIGHTLIFE ST JULIAN's Saddles Pub & Wine Bar Main Street, St Julian's W: www.saddlesmalta.com Situated in the heart of St Julian's, Saddles has been established for over 38 years. Considered a central meeting place, start your evening on a perfect note in a friendly atmosphere. A big screen is available for sports and you can enjoy an ice-cold pint of Guiness on the terrace. The first floor is a cosy wine bar popular for organised parties and you can have a tasty cocktail or a genuine glass of wine on the balcony with views. Open all day long. Wi-Fi available all day.

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AIR MALTA NEWS

EVENTS & NEWS FROM malta's national airline

MTA Inaugurates More Beach Facilities

each wheelchairs, access ramps, hoists and walkways aimed at improving access to beaches around Malta and Gozo were inaugurated recently by the Malta Tourism Authority during a press conference held at Għadira Bay, Mellieħa. Addressing the conference, MTA CEO Mr Paul Bugeja explained how the Malta Tourism Authority, in collaboration with the Ministry for Tourism, has been continuously working to improve and strengthen accessibility at beaches through various initiatives. At Mellieħa Bay, special walkways have been erected leading from the roadside pavement down purposely-constructed ramps all the way to the sea. These ramps were extremely well received and MTA will be adding similar ones at other coastal locations. MTA has also invested in 10 special beach wheelchairs, which can be pulled over sand and can also enter into the water, so that all major sandy beaches will have at least one. In addition, two hoists, which make it easier for people with mobility problems to access the water from rocky shores or jetties, have been installed on a trial basis. Following an evaluation of this initial experience, MTA intends to introduce further facilities in other locations.

Mr. Bugeja pointed out that accessibility is a right that should be offered to everyone, and that MTA considers it an obligation to provide the best possible access for all. He referred to World Health Organisation (WHO) reports stating that 15 per cent of the world’s population is estimated to be living with some form of disability. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) is actively engaged in promoting the concept of accessibility for all as a central guiding principle for all tourism strategies. “The original suggestion that sparked off the introduction of beach facilities of this kind had come from a Facebook post by Ms Kira Muscat, who had commented on how such facilities would make a huge difference for people with mobility problems. The MTA took on the advice, researched the possibilities, and followed it up with concrete action. What is good about facilities such as ramps and walkways is that they are not only of benefit to people with permanent disabilities, but also to seniors, families with pushchairs or strollers, and the public in general, both tourists and locals,” concluded Mr. Bugeja. This initiative was implemented by the Malta Tourism Authority in collaboration with KNPD the national commision for persons with disability and various local councils.

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Joseph Galea Appointed Acting CEO A

ir Malta is pleased to announce the appointment of Joseph Galea as its new Acting CEO, as the two-year term of the present CEO Philip Micallef comes to an end.

Joseph Galea has over 30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in the travel industry and, for the last two years, has been Deputy Chief Commercial Officer with Air Malta, following a long stint with MTA as Director of International Marketing based in Germany. After 35 years in senior executive roles in Malta and various countries, Mr Micallef will be moving on to the next challenge in his career. Mr Micallef commented, "My two year term at Air Malta has been very challenging and interesting. Thanks to the commitment and hard work of my management colleagues and all the staff, we have managed to exit the EU Restructuring Plan and the airline is finally back on the

road to profitability. The company is now entering a new and exciting phase of growth and moving closer towards the conclusion of the talks with the strategic partner. I have worked very closely with Joseph for the last two years and the company is in the hands of a person who knows the market and its players extremely well." In his initial comments Mr Galea remarked, "It is indeed both an honour and a challenge to temporarily take over the position of CEO, as talks with the strategic partner are concluded. This is a most exciting time that gives Air Malta the chance to consolidate its position as the national airline of the Maltese islands and to have the chance to go for structured growth over the next years." Minister for Tourism Edward Zammit Lewis and Air Malta Chairperson Maria Micallef thanked Philip for his hard work and wished Joseph all the best for his new role.

(from left) Air Malta CEO - Philip Micallef, Acting CEO - Joseph Galea, Minister for Tourism - Dr. Edward Zammit Lewis, Chairperson â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Maria Micallef.

Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

Air Malta and Events by Martin organise ‘Party in the Sky’ Flight

t was a night to remember onboard Air Malta’s flight KM 7516 to the Balearic Island of Ibiza. 130 passengers, travelling on Air Malta’s two-hour charter on Thursday 21st July, were treated to an exclusive experience of a 'Party in the Sky'.

The special flight, organised by Events by Martin, saw DJ Ruby, one of the island’s foremost house DJs, and top Swedish top DJ Daniel Pereaux spinning the decks on a night flight whilst overflying the Mediterranean Sea at 38,000 feet. The exclusive VIP treatment started right from check-in. The unique experience continued at the departure

gate where coloured lights and music animated the boarding process.

requested by the organisers, presented an operational challenge to the airline.

To add to the experience, guests were treated to a special light projections show across the aircraft fuselage. A custom-made sound system was installed on-board the aircraft by Best Team Audio, whilst Nexos provided special light visuals across the aircraft’s aisles.

“However Air Malta took on the opportunity and, together with its Engineering Department and Flight Operations, conducted various tests to ensure that all equipment could safely be transported in the cabin and all international standards and regulations were followed.”

Joseph Galea, Air Malta’s Acting Chief Executive, said, “We were really excited to organise this unique flight and for the chance to offer our guests a safe but entertaining inflight experience like no other. The flight organisation as

“At Air Malta safety is the number one priority. The safety and comfort of our customers, crew, and aircraft is paramount, and we have ensured that all health and safety measures and international regulations were met,” added Mr Galea.

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AIR MALTA NEWS

Various meetings were held with Malta International Airport, Malta Police and the Civil Aviation Directorate at Transport Malta to ensure adherence to all regulations and to mitigate all risks. Various other Air Malta departments were involved, including Flight Services, Passenger Handling, Cargo, Ground Handling, Security and Commercial divisions who worked closely together to organise the 'Party in the Sky' event. Speaking about this flight, Pierre Lindh, Managing Director of Ambassadör Events, said, “The Party In The Sky started as an idea without much substance about one year ago. As we partnered with Air Malta we realised what a huge task it would be to organise the event. We, as well as Air Malta, take health and safety as our number one priority, and we have always strived to be the leaders in the field in Malta. A huge effort was made to ensure the safety on board, and it was only by coming together across teams, suppliers and organisers in a professional way that

we were able to overcome all challenges. The event attests to Ambassadör Events, creative minds and ability to solve matters, something which has put us on the map in Europe as one of the most prestigious events organisers. Thank you Air Malta, and, on a personal note, I am also happy to have made a lot of new friends along the way!” This events fits perfectly with Air Malta’s aspiration to be a young and innovative travel operator. Air Malta has carved a name for itelf in the organisation of unique events. From the Air Malta Love Plane on Valentine’s Day to SkySpa, during which the airline offered free massages onboard, and SkyKids, where inflight entertainment for children is offered. The airline has also successfully organised an event during which it flew in formation with the Red Arrows and raced one of its Airbus A320 aircraft with a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. Such events show that, despite it being a small airline, Air Malta can organise prestigious events that grab international attention.

Enjoy your holiday – shopping can wait!

his summer it pays to leave your shopping until the last minute with our Duty Free Extravaganza.

At Malta International Airport you can enjoy slashed prices on over 1000 items in the Perfumes & Cosmetics section with discounts of up to 40%. This means that you can save up to EUR 20 on some top-selling perfumes. La vie est belle indeed at our airport this summer, as when you purchase your first perfume you get 20% off your second bottle! It’s not just bottles of perfumes that you can grab at reduced prices, as there are also some fantastic offers for our alcohol connoisseurs: up to 40% off on Gin brands and Champagnes, and over 20% of on Whiskies. Chocolate lovers will be pleased to hear that upon spending EUR 15 on Toblerone, they will get a pair of free earphones in a neat Toblerone case! Keep up with all our Airport Shopping special offers here: www.maltairport.com/visitor/shop-dine/specialoffers

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AIR MALTA NEWS

Air Malta Assists Hospice Malta Air Malta will be again assisting Hospice Malta in raising awareness of the Hospice’s aims and objectives amongst Air Malta’s customers. During the month of September and October, Air Malta’s cabin crew will be collecting donations on board the airline’s flights to help this voluntary organisation. These donations will support Hospice to continue to provide and promote the highest standards of palliative care to persons with cancer, motor neurone disease and other end-of-life diseases, as well as their families and carers. Hospice Malta’s General Manager, Kenneth Delia said, “We thank Air Malta for assisting us this year. As a voluntary, non-profit organisation we depend on the support given by companies like Air Malta

and the general public in order to keep on providing services to persons suffering from a number of end-of-life diseases”. Air Malta’s Acting Chief Executive Joe Galea said, “We wish to thank our guests for their support during this campaign. Air Malta is the only airline operating in Malta that provides continued assistance to voluntary and non-governmental organisations. This campaign forms part of Air Malta’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives whereby the airline supports organisations that work hard in the Maltese community.” This initiative is also being supported by Sky Gourmet, the airline’s catering provider. Hospice Malta is a voluntary organisation inspired by Christian values. It was founded

in 1989 and promotes and provides the highest standards of Palliative Care in a holistic manner for persons reaching end of life with cancer, motor neuron disease, cardiac, respiratory and renal diseases. More than 7000 patients and their families benefitted from Hospice services. Presently Hospice receives an average of 60 new referrals each month. Visits to patients and families amount to over 7000 per year. Services provided by Hospice include home care, a day therapy unit, hydrotherapy, respite, patient transport, loan of specialised equipment, hospital support, a children’s summer programme for children of patients’ and main carers and bereavement support for relatives and significant others. All these services are provided free of charge to all patients. Funds are generated mostly through donations and on-going fund raising activities organised throughout the year. Annual events and fund raising initiatives include the Sunflower campaign, Figolli at Easter time, BBQ, Midnight Walk, Poinsettias and cards at Christmas time. Others include donations to Hospice instead of souvenirs for special occasions and activities organised by third parties for the benefit of Hospice.

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Tourism To The Maltese Islands Continues Its Impressive Growth First half of 2016 sees an almost 10% increase in visitors

nbound tourism results for the month of June and the first semester of 2016 released recently by the National Statistics Office point to Malta’s continued positive performance in the incoming tourism field. Following a successful winter season which featured very strong off-peak growth, the positive streak has also extended into the summer season. Visitor figures for June 2016 show that around 195,000 inbound visitors were registered, resulting in an increase of 5.8% over June last year. When excluding overnighting cruise passengers from the data, the strongest increase of 23% related to the younger age group of under 24 years old. European Union arrivals increased by 7.2% while non-EU increased by 7%. The shift towards independent travel continued to prevail with tourists arriving on a package declining by 10,641 and independent tourists increasing by 23,597. The average length of stay increased marginally to stand at 7.5 nights. Total nights stayed in June 2016 reached 1.444 million, an increase of 8.6% over

June 2015, while expenditure by tourists stood just short of €170 million following a 4% increase over the corresponding month last year. Italy, the UK and France registered volume increases, while German tourism flows were almost at par with June last year The first six months of 2016 showed a good cumulative increase over the first half of last year, with the number of incoming visitors climbing by almost 74,000 to exceed 835,000. Travel for holiday purposes grew by 11.8% to reach 700,907, while the number of business and professional tourists grew by 8% over the first six months of last year to reach 68,904. Non-package tourists increased by 21.7% while those arriving on a package declined by 3.9%. Owing to the number of new routes and increase in independent travel, the number of first-time visitors increased by 10.3% to reach 576,417 during this year’s first semester. The average length of stay declined marginally to settle at seven nights per tourist.

During the first half of this year, hoteltype collective accommodation expanded by 5% to account for 602,380 tourists while the number of tourists staying in private accommodation increased by 46,019 to reach 227,470. Double digit growth was registered from the USA, Spain, the Netherlands and Scandinavia, while established markets such as the UK, Italy, France and Germany all feature solid growth over the first half of last year. Expenditure by tourists until the end of June increased by an impressive €36 million to exceed €656 million. Following an increase of 461,000 overnight stays over last year, total nights spent reached 5.846 million. Malta Tourism Authority CEO Paul Bugeja expressed his satisfaction at the sustained nature of the positive results being registered as a result of Malta’s successful actions in the market place, underpinned by a sound connectivity strategy and an ambitious product development and improvement programme aimed at enhancing quality on all aspects of the country’s tourism offer.

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INTERVIEW

il-bizzilla talks to Aldrin Cassar Cargo Agent

How long have you been working with Air Malta? I've been working at the airline for almost 30 years.

Do you have any hobbies? Riding my motorbikes, reading, and practicing sports with my daughter. Which is your favourite destination and why?

Three words that describe your job? Unpredictable, demanding and rewarding.

London because this city has it all, it can cater to everybody's taste.

What is the biggest challenge of your job?

What are your favourite spots or tips for anyone visiting Malta?

I'd say, always making sure to keep up with our promise to deliver cargo safely and on time to our customers' satisfaction.

A must for all those who are seeking something unique, should be a visit to the Hamlet of St Lucija in Gozo. Winter and spring are the best times to visit.

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AIR MALTA NEWS

MTA Participates at KOTFA and Wins the Best Tourism Marketing Award for Second Consecutive Year

he Malta Tourism Authority recently participated in the 31st edition of the Korean World Travel Fair (KOTFA) which was held in Seoul, South Korea. For the second consecutive year, the MTA was awarded the Best Tourism Marketing Award. KOTFA is the largest and most important Consumer & Trade Fair in Korea, and aims to strengthen the competitiveness of the tourism industry in Korea by combining inbound and outbound tourism. The 2016 edition was attended

by around 500 organisations' hailing from 50 different countries. The Malta Tourism Authority’s CEO, Mr Paul Bugeja, said that “Our participation at KOTFA has generated an encouraging level of interest from the Korean travel trade, media and the general public.” Mr Bugeja continued by saying that, “We are obviously extremely pleased that the MTA has once again won the renowned ‘Best Tourism Marketing Award’, as this goes to show that the efforts being made

both locally and internationally, including the in Far East, are being recognised by specialists in the field. I would also like to thank the MTA’s office in Japan for their excellent work in promoting the Maltese Islands in this discerning region.” The Malta stand at KOTFA 2016 was manned by Mr Shingo Endo, MTA’s representative in Japan and Korea. During the fair, Mr Endo was interviewed by various publications, including The Korea Travel News, which is the most popular travel industry newspaper in Korea.

MTA BIDS FAREWELL TO LONG SERVING MARKETING MANAGER IN FRANCE (Left to right) Mr Dominic Micallef - Director Malta Tourism Office France, Mr Thierry Durand, H.E. Mr Vincent Camilleri, Ambassador of Malta to France.

he Malta Tourism Authority recently announced that Mr. Thierry Durand, Marketing Manager France, has retired after many years of loyal service. Mr. Durand started working with MTA’s predecessor, the National Tourism Organisation of Malta (NTOM) in January 1998, and officially commenced his retirement on June 30th 2016. Apart from a one-year hiatus in 2006, Mr. Durand was continuously employed with Malta’s tourism regulator for a total of 17 years. Before joining NTOM in 1998, Thierry was employed with TILC, a tour operator that specialised in language holidays to various countries, including

Malta. It was during the Expolangues travel fair in Paris a year before that Mr. Dominic Micallef, Director of the Malta Tourist Office in the French capital, met Thierry for the first time. This chance encounter eventually led to Thierry’s long and productive career promoting the Maltese Islands to the French travelling public. Speaking at a special farewell reception at the Malta Embassy in Paris, Thierry stated, “The first time I went to Malta was in the early 90s and I immediately fell in love with the country. It really felt like home. My time with the NTOM and MTA has been an amazing experience and an incredible pleasure to work for Malta and all the people at the Authority. I will never

forget this part of my life… I shall dedicate my time to other matters now, but Malta will remain in my heart forever.” Commenting on Mr. Durand’s departure, MTA CEO Mr. Paul Bugeja stated that, “It is with a mixture of sadness and happiness that we bid farewell to Thierry. We are sad to lose a valuable member of our overseas marketing team, a gentleman respected by his colleagues and the travel trade. But we are also happy for him that he can now enjoy his family and all those things which he could not fit into the hectic schedule of a marketing professional. We are grateful for all that Thierry has done for Malta and MTA over the years, and wish him all the best for the future.”

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inflight information

FLIGHT & COMPANY information Survey: Customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance at Air Malta and we are always looking for ways to improve your experience. Visit our website to answer a few short questions. www.airmalta.com/wearelistening

Newsletter: Subscribe to our newsletter or like our Facebook page to learn about our promotions, with fares starting from as low as €44 including taxes. Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

Alcohol consumption

Smoking

Alcohol consumed at high altitude can have a stronger effect than usual. Cabin crew are legally empowered to refuse serving any alcohol to an intoxicated passenger and to anyone under the age of 18. In extreme cases, crew may also temporarily confiscate the passenger‘s own drinks so that the passenger would not become a nuisance to the other passengers and crew. Furthermore, Air Malta is bound by international regulations which prohibit embarkation or the carriage of drunken passengers. But once you are reading this article, Air Malta‘s Flight Safety Committee is confident that you are a law-abiding and exemplary passenger. Indeed, the cabin crew may need your assistance to restrain another passenger in the unlikely event that he or she may act irresponsibly during the flight. The consumption of one’s own alcoholic beverages inflight goes against Air Malta policy.

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

Air Malta Fleet

Enhance your travel experience At Air Malta, we want our passengers to have everything they need to make their travel experience comfortable in one place. Here are a number of services that we offer that you may not have known about: Join our business cl a ss Upgrade to Air Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club Class for priority service. Members can make use of the special check-in counters for more leisurely and efficient boarding, enjoy access to the La Valette Lounge at Malta International Airport, and get more privacy with a separate inflight cabin area.

AIRBUS 319 Qty: 2 in fleet Number of seats: 141 Engines: 2 CFM56-5B6/P Maximum take-off weight: 73.5 metric tons

C a rry mor e w ith you Are you worried about not being able to fit everything you need into your suitcase? Stop stressing out and check out our extra baggage service. Simply book your extra baggage online and get the most out of your trip! Visit www.airmalta.com/excess-baggage-en-gb for more details.

Overall length: 33.84m Wingspan: 34.1m Cruising speed: 834 kph Range: 4,815 km

Fly in comfort Enhance your comfort with extra legroom during your flight. This option gives you more space to relax in preparation for your trip! Visit www.airmalta.com/information/services-by-air-malta/seatselection or more information.

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

Qty: 6 in fleet

Groups We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than 10 adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get anywhere else!

Number of seats: 168/180

Email groups@airmalta.com for more information.

AIRBUS 320

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

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

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destination information

finland SWEDEN

RUSSIA

NORWAY • Oslo Stockholm

ESTONIA

LATVIA DENMARK REP. OF IRELAND

• Copenhagen

UNITED KINGDOM

LITHUANIA

• Moscow

• Manchester

BELARUS • Bremen

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

Luxembourg

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly •

• Frankfurt

CZECH REPUBLIC • Vienna

HUNGARY ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA

• Otopani

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA Marseille •

SERBIA • Soﬁa

MONTENEGRO

ITALY

SPAIN

MOLDOVA

• Budapest

SWITZERLAND

Milan •

Lyon •

SLOVAKIA

AUSTRIA

• Zurich

Geneva •

UKRAINE

• Prague

• Munich

FRANCE

• Warsaw

POLAND

F.Y.O.M.

• Rome • Olbia

BULGARIA • Istanbul

TURKEY

ALBANIA GREECE • Athens Palermo • • Catania

TUNISIA

Larnaca •

CYPRUS

Malta

ALGERIA

LIBYA

EGYPT

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destination information

IRAN

Air Malta direct flights airport

• Abu Dhabi

OMAN

SAUDI ARABIA

Weekly Flights

Amsterdam Athens Berlin Birmingham Bristol Brussels Cardiff Catania Düsseldorf Exter Frankfurt Geneva London Gatwick London Heathrow

7 2 4 1 1 9 1 15 2 1 4 1 7 15

airport

Weekly Flights

Lyon Manchester Marseille Milan Moscow Munich Palermo Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly Prague Rome Vienna Zurich

2 4 2 7 2 8 2 7 9 2 10 7 7

Code-shared RouteS • BRISBANE

Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney

australia

via Brussels, Geneva, Heathrow, Manchester and Rome via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi

Lufthansa • Sydney

• Melbourne

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

Emirates Larnaca

Meridiana Olbia Naples • Perth

via Rome via Catania

Czech Airlines Prague

brussels AIRLINES

australia

Brussels Copenhagen

via Catania via Brussels

Swiss International Air Lines Zurich

Turkish AIRLINES Istanbul

Austrian Airlines Budapest Otopeni (Buc) Prague Sofia Warsaw

via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna

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Electronic device information

Use of Portable Electronic Devices on board Tr a nsmit ting Porta ble Electronic Dev ices (PEDs)

Non-T r a nsmit ting Porta ble Electronic Dev ices (PEDs)

L a ptops a nd notebooks

Any devices that can send or receive data by wireless means, such as mobile-phones and tablets, may be used during all phases of the flight provided their transmit/receive capabilities (e.g. Bluetooth and Wi-fi) are switched off. Alternatively, if the device has ‘Flight Mode’ capability, this must be enabled. Such devices shall be safely secured in the customers’ hand (handheld) or a pocket during taxi, take-off and landing. Larger devices (e.g. laptops) shall be switched off and stowed away safely during taxi, 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 must be switched off for the duration of the flight.

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

Such devices may be used during boarding and during flight but not during taxi, take-off and landing. Any built-in data connectivity such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi must be disabled. These devices must be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing since they could hinder an emergency evacuation.

Ar e t her e times w hen I c a nnot use m y elect ronic dev ices?

C a n I use he a dphones?

Personal headphones can be used during all phases of the flight. However, we ask you to remove your headphones during the safety briefing. For safety reasons, customers sitting in an emergency exit row must refrain from using headphones during taxi, take-off and landing.

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

I should inform the c a bin cr ew w hen …

… 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 (PEDs) which can be used onboard Air Malta flights by phase of flight. Please do not hesitate to contact any member of our cabin crew if you have any further questions.

PH ASE

Boarding

H a nd Held PEDs

(e.g. smart phones and tablets)

L a rger PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

W i-fi, t ex t & phone c a ll f unctions

YES

(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

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

Landing

YES

Taxi to Stand

YES

Extended Ground Delay

Circa 10 minutes to landing

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

Gozo,

Photo by Daniel Cilia

the acclaimed Opera Season