Il-Bizzilla September 2015

The Air Malta In-flight magazine

SEPTEMBER 2015 issue 33 local • travel • food & drink • business • EVENTS

CALIBER RM 033

05

Issue 33

Contents

September 15

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

p. 12 ..... Meet Joe Roscoe Young, charming and talented – Joe Roscoe is one of Malta’s most promising songwriters.

p. 21 ..... A Tale of Three Cities The Medieval harbour cities are definitely ones worth visiting.

p. 36 ..... high Flying Dentistry Dr. Jean Paul Demajo discusses the benefits of conscious sedation.

p. 54 ..... maLTA MAp A guide to the little Maltese Islands.

p. 56 ..... Exploring the Islands Fancy discovering the islands? Here’s what to look out for.

p. 71 ..... made in malta Support local trade and take home something truly unique.

FOOD & DRINK

p. 74 ..... Myths and Legends The folklore and traditional tales surrounding our Islands.

p. 80 ..... Eminent Visitors

p. 40 ..... Pastizzi: Cheaper by the Dozen Probably Malta’s most iconic and traditional fast food.

EVENTS p. 28 ..... Out and About

Marie Benoît gives a passing nod at some of the many distinguished visitors who came for a brief or long stay over the years.

p. 46 ..... Celebrating Lampuki It’s Dolphin Fish season in the Mediterranean.

Here’s what’s been going on, who’s been seen, and where they’ve been spotted.

p. 86 ..... The Golden Strip: Sliema Promenade

p. 89 ..... Restaurant & bar Guide

p. 30 ..... What’s Happening in Malta

This seafront promenade is one of Malta’s most popular destinations.

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 during the month of September.

06

BUSINESS p. 27 ..... The Taboo of Discussing Salary Have you ever wondered how much your coworkers earn per year?

p. 49 ..... An Expat in Malta: Trusts We follow up with the Dawson family who are now dealing with trust funds in Malta.

p. 93 ..... air malta news

p. 65 ..... Lifestyle Choices

Here's what's been going on behind the scenes of Malta's national airline.

A selection of some of the most luxurious residential-lifestyle choices in Malta.

p. 66 ..... Malta Business Roundup A brief overview of what’s been going on in the past month.

p. 38 ..... Germany: The Land of Ideas From bustling cities to idyllic landscapes, Germany offers it all.

p. 60 ..... A Second Chance for New York Veronica Stivala returns to the Big Apple for a second take on the city that never sleeps.

p. 97 ..... interview il-Bizzilla talks to Shirley Jobson, Air Malta Cabin Crew.

p. 98 ..... Big names visiting Malta

Indulge in a Turkish Hammam while in Malta.

52 heads of government will join the Maltese Prime Minister for this year’s Commonwealth summit CHOGM 2015.

p. 73 ..... Passion and Beauty

p. 100 ..... inflight information

An interview with Fawaz Gruosi, the creative force behind the world-renowned de Grisogono jewellery.

All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

p. 68 ..... SPA

TRAVEL

AIR MALTA

p. 78 ..... The Individual Investor Programme in Malta (IIP) The IIP is a modern citizenship-byinvestment programme aimed at ultra-high net worth individuals.

p. 102 ..... destination information Planning a trip? Take a look at all of Air Malta's flight routes and code-sharing routes here.

p. 104 ..... electronic device information All the info you need with regards to phone, laptop and tablet usage onboard.

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

CONVERTED HOUSE OF CHARACTER WITH LARGE POOL, DECK AREA AND LANDSCAPED GARDEN REF: 912622

l

€1,900,000

l

LIJA

Rare opportunity to acquire this converted HOUSE OF CHARACTER located in one of the best streets of this popular, charming village and having a wonderful back garden enjoying total privacy and a very large pool and deck area. The main accommodation comprises a large arched room serving as an entrance hall, a very spacious arched mill room which has been converted into a sitting and dining room, a study, fully fitted kitchen and breakfast room leading onto the garden, guest toilet and 3 spacious double bedrooms (main having ensuite bathroom and the spare bedrooms having ensuite shower rooms). There is also a one car garage. The garden is truly special and is a rare find which must be seen to be truly appreciated. FREEHOLD.

CHARMING 5-BEDROOM FAMILY HOME, COMPLETE WITH POOL AND GARDEN REF: 508761

l €690,000 l

MOSTA

A superbly finished HOUSE OF CHARACTER (approx. 450sqm) enjoying a large landscaped garden with pool and deck area. Comprising an entrance into a grand hallway, study, formal dining room and living area with functional wood fireplace leading onto the garden. Separate fully fitted kitchen/ breakfast area, a large sitting room leading outdoors. 5 bedrooms (main with en-suite bathroom), washroom, box room, guest toilet and one car street level lock up garage. An ideal family home. FREEHOLD. Through Homes of Quality, we find great satisfaction in providing a uniquely personal property service to clients, both local and overseas. As part of Frank Salt Real Estate Group we have access to perhaps the largest property and client database in the Maltese Islands, while operating independently to facilitate the extremely high level of personal interface with clients. At Homes of Quality we are equally proud of the smallest designer apartment as a grand palazzo… the defining factor which ensures that a property is to be found on our listings is quite simply… quality!

Grahame Salt Director

Недвижимость, проживание и бизнес на Мальте. Сервисная поддержка от А до Я. Мы говорим по-русски! Звоните нам 00356 23421614

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

08

Chat with us

New Website

www.belair.com.mt

Meet the Team Editorial and Sales The Content Factory Executive Editor Dana Bonello SALES AND Project Coordinator Renata Vella Design TBWA\ANG Art Director Jeff Fabri Designer Rebecca Bullock Contributors Enrico Sammut Henley & Partners Jean Paul Demajo Lina Azzopardi Malta National Aquarium Marie Benoît Mariella Fenech Mark Bencini Melanie Vella Ricky Vella Veronica Stivala

Buying, selling, or letting? It’s as easy as you imagine it to be.

Make it happen fast with Belair Property. We aim to make your move as smooth and simple as possible.

ON THE Cover Columbus Yachts – brand of Palumbo Group M/Y Columbus 40S Hybrid www.columbusyachts.it • sales@columbusyachts.it Come to visit CY at next Monaco Yacht Show – stand QE14.

Photography Mark Cassar Joe Muscat

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.

Special thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority and Air Malta for the provision of photographic material.

Printed in Malta by VelPrint Ltd. All magazine rights are reserved by Air Malta PLC.

Tel. +356 2011 8000 / 2014 8000 Email. info@belair.com.mt

09

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

10

From the CEO... Hello and welcome on board!

Thank you for choosing Air Malta!

In this edition of our inflight magazine we have got some exciting news to share. We have upgraded our range of products in both our economy and business classes as part of a "We Care More” initiative.

Through these changes Air Malta is moving forward to meet the needs of contemporary travellers.

This is an important development and a significant milestone for Air Malta. We have made many product changes to offer you more choice and flexibility. You will be able to get what you require at the price you choose. We understand that you look for peace of mind when flying and do not want to be worried with luggage charges or other extra fees. Therefore, even our lowest price product - Simply Fly - still includes a piece of hand luggage, a small snack and free online check-in where this service is available. This is in contrast to what most other carriers offer.

The new product range has been upgraded following the feedback and comments received from you, our customers. For more information please visit www.airmalta.com/we-care-more.

You can also read about our new range of inflight bar items and our fleet plans. Have a look at out Sky Bar menu which you can find in your aircraft seat pocket.

Customer satisfaction is of utmost importance for us. We love to hear your feedback and what we could do better. Visit www.airmalta.com/wearelistening to answer a few short questions and you can get 10% off your next flight.

For more information on Air Malta offers visit our website www.airmalta.com and www.facebook.com/ AirMalta and join our newsletter mailing list to receive these offers directly in your inbox.

Wherever you are flying with us I hope you have a great flight!

Philip Micallef, CEO Air Malta

From the Editor…

September has always been one of my favourite months, probably because it still feels like summer, but with slightly lower temperatures. Last month saw almost 40°C marking it as the third hottest day in our Island’s history, so slightly cooler weather is (almost) always welcome! Apart from that, September heralds the new season with all of its expectations and projections for the future; it’s a month for new beginnings – and finally, it’s my birthday month, which means that I am relatively biased in that way.

As for you dear reader, if this is your first time visiting my gorgeous island, welcome to Malta! You’ve definitely picked the right month to explore and discover what this tiny Mediterranean gem has to offer.

If on the other hand you’re local, then thank you for taking the time to read through this month’s issue of il-Bizzilla, we certainly do hope that you will enjoy leafing through our pages as much as we’ve loved putting them together and look forward to hearing any feedback you might have.

On a more personal level, our publication looks forward to the new season and the changes it will bring. Becky, our designer has taken the plunge and will be relocating overseas as of next month; I’d like to take this opportunity to publically thank her for everything and wish her all the very best for the future – as for myself, I am now one year older (and hopefully wiser!) so here’s to new beginnings.

Dana

12

MALTA & GOZO IN NUMBERS

The Maltese Isles

in numbers Passengers carried onboard air malta flights:

It has been said that numbers speak louder than words – we’ve put together a few to give you a better idea of what to expect from our small, yet idyllic, Mediterranean archipelago.

50,754,711 since 1st April 1974

4 2 3

300

ar

423,282 The Current population of the maltese islands

4

The hottest temperature ever recorded

98°C

flew the equiva len lta a m

f to

air

44°C

2 8 2

National holidays in Malta each year

The temperature milk needs to be heated to make a traditional ġbejna (cheeselet)

etween Malta nce b and a t s G di

o oz

885

10

of whom are permanent Comino residents

The

unshine eac s of s hy y a D e

5 km

times to the moon and back

359

15 minutes

churches in Malta and Gozo

316 km2

The average driving time between one destination and another in Malta

Total area of the Maltese archipelago

Portomaso is an exclusive development found along the St Julian’s coastline. This waterfront development was the first of its kind in Malta, and covers some 130,000m² including The Marina, the 5 star Hilton Hotel, and the skyscraper building known at the Portomaso Business Tower.

even large penthouses with their own swimming pool. A major advantage to this development is the underground car park which accommodates every property. Prices are dependent on availability, whilst one may choose to purchase or rent out a property as it becomes available.

Those who invest in properties within this development are guaranteed a return on investment since it’s much sought‑after and considered of a high reputation.

The Portomaso development is now well‑known for its assortment of luxury apartments, penthouses, duplex’s and great landscaping.

More of these properties enjoy stunning views of the Marina, whilst others overlook the Sliema seafront. Apartments may be in the form of small one‑bedroom pads, singular multi‑level properties, 3 to 4 bedroom villa apartments or

Each Portomaso apartment is individual, such that no two properties within the development are completely identical. Forming part of a Special Designated Area (SDA), the area is now well lived‑in, the facilities are fully up and running, and managed with years of experience.

As a Special Designated Area, Portomaso is also a very good option to purchase with

e info@remax‑malta.com

f facebook.com/maltarealestateremax

w www.remax‑malta.com

Regional office: 76a, Gorg Borg Olivier Street, St. Julian’s STJ 1081, Malta.

a view of letting it out. Rental returns are excellent – though one should always seek advice from a professional before purchasing.

Apartments for sale and to let are available however very often, their availability become scarce. If you’re looking to buy an apartment, or would like more information on this prestigious development, do not hesitate to get in touch with me on kevin@remax‑malta.com

+356 9966 3322

14

JOE roscoe

01

Meet Joe Roscoe In just under two years since starting his career, Joe Roscoe and his band have played to an audience of over 7,000 people at the Beland Festival in Malta, won the Best Newcomer Award at the Bay Music Awards 2013, and opened shows for the likes of Malta’s legendary act Winter Moods. Does Joe Roscoe have what it takes to take his music all the way?

WORDS BY Melanie Vella

PHOTOS BY Joe Muscat

15

JOE roscoe

I

caught up with Joe after being blown away by his bright eyes, captivating husky voice and his charismatic stage presence at July’s Sliema Arts Festival.

Joe Roscoe, 22, burst onto the stage performing covers and his own songs as he commanded the attention of people strolling the sidewalk. Within minutes of the Joe Roscoe band striking up the sound, a large crowd was drawn in. Young, googly-eyed fans lined the stage while singing along to his lyrics. His music is a hybrid of acoustic folk, indie and pop.

Roscoe’s talent to draw in the crowds developed while busking on the streets of Manchester. The ambitious singer-song writer decided to move to the UK to study Sound Engineering, while relentlessly pursuing his passion for music.

Contrary to the bold personality that oozed out that summery night on stage, Joe is actually quite shy in person. His boyish looks and undoubtble talent makes him even more compelling.

“The first time I went busking on the streets of Manchester, I found it quite

16

JOE roscoe

You have to put yourself out there, conquer your fears and have fun

nerve-wracking to stand on a corner and perform to an unknown audience.

But it’s taught me so much, helped build my confidence and share my music with whoever wants to listen,” says Joe. “I get days when I only get a few coins tossed my way. But that’s counterbalanced by days when groups of people gather around. They have no obligation to stop. They’re usually on their way to meet someone or going to work. But they stop – sometimes for half an hour – to listen and enjoy.”

And the curiosity for his music has been intensifying, especially in Manchester.

‘They know my lyrics… in Manchester!’ he chuffs to himself when fans belt out his tunes during gigs or while busking.

“You have to put yourself out there, conquer your fears and have fun,” says Mark Bencini, lead bassist and somewhat of a mentor to Joe – and clearly one of his biggest fans. “As a Maltese artist dedicated to his talent, Joe is doing the right thing, learning the technique of creating music and immersing himself on the international scene,” he says.

Joe plays with the rest of his band, the Joe Roscoe band, when he’s in Malta over the summer months. The band is made up of Isaac Zahra on the guitar, Mark Bencini on bass, Chris Tate on the drums and Joe as lead vocalist. They were friends before they were a band.

“Whenever we play, it’s like we’re jamming. Before a gig we’ll be buzzing to play and we feed off each other’s vibe. All we need is a good sound system to catch the crowd’s attention. We don’t even prepare a set list. We have our songs and we play according to the feedback from the crowd. This sets us apart,” says Joe. The closest the band gets to busking in Malta is their Friday night gigs on the Strait Street crossroads in Valletta. “I leave my case open while we fire up the

quirky streets of the capital city, and roll everyone into the weekend vibe,” says Joe. “You never know who could be passing by while you’re singing away on the streets. It’s also a great way to meet new people and musicians. Opportunity can be anywhere and everywhere.”

Are there any challenges when living this exciting life? “The excitement of leaving and pursuing this dream, was at times overshadowed by the sudden realisation that I shifted my entire life, left my home, my family, my friends and moved to another country. It can be daunting. I express these ups and downs in my latest song, ‘Figure This Out’. It’s about not giving up and seeing the opportunities rather than the challenges.”

ESTATE AGENTS SINCE 1981 FOR SALE

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

FOR SALE

RABAT ▪ €1,600,000 ▪ DETACHED FARMHOUSE

VALLETTA ▪ €575,000 ▪ APARTMENT

Located in Landrijiet ■ Fully detached FARMHOUSE set on a large plot of 3400m2 ■ Wonderful countryside views ■ Entrance hall ■ Sitting room with real fireplace ■ Dining room ■ Study ■ Fully fitted kitchen with pantry ■ 3 bedrooms ■ 3 bathrooms (2 ensuite) ■ Laundry room ■ Landscaped gardens ■ Fantastic swimming pool area with kitchenette & BBQ ■ Detached guest annex with kitchen, living & 2 further bedrooms with 2 bathrooms (ensuite) ■ Wide driveway & large car port area ▪ Ref: HC600005

Fully converted ‘one of a kind’ APARTMENT ▪ Designed by one of Malta’s leading contemporary architects ▪ Immaculate renovation with very high bespoke finish ▪ Excellent location in a quiet residential area yet just a short walk to the centre ▪ Wonderful original features ▪ Huge open plan kitchen/dining/living area ▪ Fully fitted kitchen/breakfast area ▪ 2 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (2 ensuite) ▪ Air conditioning ▪ Communal roof terrace with breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour ▪ Freehold ▪ Internal size: 160m2 ▪ Ref: FA700007 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

MELLIEHA ▪ €2,600,000 ▪ DETACHED VILLA

NAXXAR ▪ €650,000 ▪ HOUSE OF CHARACTER

Santa Maria Estate - contemporary DETACHED VILLA ▪ Highly regarded residential area ▪ Elevated position with sea views ▪ Bespoke high end finish throughout ▪ Secluded location ▪ Reception area ▪ Formal lounge with real fire place ▪ Dining room ▪ Fully equipped kitchen/ breakfast area (with underfloor heating) & doors leading onto terrace ▪ Family room ▪ 3 bedrooms (2 with sea views) ▪ 2 bathrooms (master ensuite) ▪ Study ▪ Infinity pool ▪ Landscaped gardens ▪ 2 bedroom flatlet ▪ 4 car garage ▪ Ref: DV100026 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

A beautiful HOUSE OF CHARACTER converted to a exceptional standard ■ Popular historical & picturesque town ■ Retaining many original architectural features ■ Contemporary finish ■ Entrance hall ■ Sitting/dining room ■ Kitchen/breakfast area ■ Living area ■ Study ■ 3 bedrooms ■ 2 bathrooms (1 ensuite) ■ Shower room ■ Laundry room ■ Swimming pool with surrounding terraces ideal for entertaining ■ Freehold ■ Ref: HC02261

TO LET

TO LET

TA’XBIEX ▪ €3500 monthly ▪ MAISONETTE

Exceptional SEAFRONT MAISONETTE ▪ Beautifully designed throughout ▪ High specification & finish ▪ Fantastic sea views ▪ Prime location overlooking the Marina ▪ Large entrance hall ▪ Open plan living / dining area (with fireplace) ▪ Fully fitted modern kitchen / breakfast ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (master en suite) ▪ 2 balconies ▪ Laundry room ▪ Roof terrace ▪ Fully furnished to a very high standard ▪ 1 car garage ▪ Ref: MA01441

IBRAG ▪ €1600 monthly ▪ APARTMENT

A large APARTMENT measuring approximately 200m2 ▪ Luxury specification throughout ▪ New & modern block ▪ Open plan kitchen with breakfast area & central island ▪ Dining room leading to front balcony ▪ Living room with flat screen TV & surround sound system ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms (2 ensuite) ▪ Laundry room ▪ Also includes a 2 car lock up garage ▪ Ref: FA06838

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

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

19

JOE roscoe

“‘Figure This Out’ reflects my style more than any of my other songs. I composed the music, wrote the lyrics and, for the first time, came up with the instrumentation as well,” explains Joe, Roscoe also dabbles in any instrument he can get his hands on – guitar, drums, piano. His electric guitar has been by his side since he was 12 years old. “When I was 17, my father gave me an acoustic guitar for Christmas.

That’s when it all started,” he explains.

“I used to love listening to a song on the radio and learning how to play it. Eventually I began writing my own songs. I can hear a phrase, or a friend tells me a story, I’ll write it on my mobile and that can be the start of a new song.”

Besides writing his own music, Joe is learning to record it as well. “Through my Sound Engineering course, I can record the track and take it to a professional studio, rather than just record from the mic of my laptop,” he explains.

“I’m one of the only students in my course who is both a musician and can record.

This means I get a lot of time in the studio, working with class-mates on my own projects and their own.”

“People have warned me – don’t build castles in the sky. Don’t expect to make a living off this.

Just do it because it’s fun. But when you treat your music like a hobby, you don’t try as hard,” explains Joe. “I’m determined to get my music out there, on the international scene and see how far I can go. If it’s in me, now is the time to make it happen!”

To find out more about Joe Roscoe visit www.facebook.com/Joeroscoemusic

NAPLES MESSINA MALTA MAR

Marseille

Montecarlo

Naples

Messina

Malta

Marseille Superyacht ITM yard was acquired in 2014. The yard covers an area of about 12.000 sqm including 4 large dry docks ranging from 80m up to 126m, a watershed of about 95m and more than 300m of quays for afloat repairs. The Yard is only 20 minutes from the international airport, less than 2 km from a mall, 4 km from the city center and railway station, 8 km from the beach and at direct proximity of the island were the Count of Monte Cristo began his adventures.

Boulevard des bassins de Radoub Formes 5&6 - 13002 Marseille

ph: +33(0) 491132190 - fax: +33(0) 491910881 info@palumboitm.com - palumboitm.com

Calata Marinella (Int. Porto) - 80133 Napoli

ph: +39 081287164 - ph: +39 0810900112 - fax: +39 0815538455 naples.shipyard@palumbo.it - palumbo.it - columbusyachts.it

SEILLE SHIPYARD

MALTA - Superyachts Refitting Centre

MALTA - Shipyard Palumbo Malta Shipyard is a leading provider of engineering and shipyard services and has an established reputation in the ship repair, and conversion industry, having gained experience over the years on all types of ships including tankers, cargo carriers, passenger liners, luxury yachts, gas carriers and offshore units. General ship repair continues as a core activity; however the diversification into other sectors has created a stronger and more focused company, more reactive technically and commercially to market trends. The Shipyard comprises 160.000 square meters with six Graving Docks, one Floating Dock, all equipped with shore services and dockside cranes which accommodate vessels up to 300,000dwt, plus 1,3 km of berths available. The Yard offers also workshops, storage facilities and offices.

Messina Shipyard covers 74.500 square meters with one Graving Dock equipped with dock side cranes. Slipways can accommodate vessels up to 70.000 dwt, also offering more than 300 mt of berths available. The Yard is equipped with workshops, storage facilities and offices for the administration and crew.

Via S. Raineri - 98122 Messina ph: +39 090712069 - fax: +39 090672209 cantierimessina@palumbo.it

Palumbo Group Sam is a leading Company of services which through international marketing activities and high level consulting expertise, promotes and represents Palumbo Malta Shipyard, Palumbo Malta Superyachts and Columbus Yachts in the international arena of Maritime Industry.

33 ,Boulevard Princesse Charlotte - 98000 Monaco Monte Carlo

Come to visit us at Monaco Yacht Show 2015 - stand QAA23

23

TAle of three cities

A tale of three cities WORDS BY Mariella Fenech

Malta owes much of its history to its natural harbours.

When the weary handful of survivors from Rhodes reached Malta in 1530, led by their indomitable Grand Master, Philip Villiers de L’Isle Adam, they settled in Birgu, convenient for the armada of the Order whose chief business was at sea protecting merchantmen or traders alike.

V

alletta, it must be remembered, was not built until after the Great Siege of 1565. The Grand Master moved to the Castellar’s house in Fort St Angelo while the Knights built small fortifications and seven small auberges.

They brought bustle and increasing commerce to the harbours. With the upsurge of economic activity, the population of the Three Cities began to increase rapidly.

Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (L-Isla) and Cospicua (Bormla) are popularly known as The Three Cities or Cottonera for the simple reason that they are encircled by a line of fortifications built by the Spanish Grand Master Nicholas Cottoner, to protect the naval base of the Knights.

The Three Cities are replete with narrow medieval streets, churches, palazzi and palazzini, auberges, shipyards and fortifications, the latter a remarkable example of Baroque military architecture. It was the Cottonera walls that brought the Three Cities together.

After the arrival of the Knights this part of Malta became a maritime centre, a busy port, where sailors were enlisted, ships built or repaired. Birgu earned its name, Vittoriosa, after the resounding victory over the Turks in 1565. The dockyard is now privately owned and Birgu has a world class luxury marina where superyachts and less glamorous seacraft can be admired. There are many restaurants and wine bars in Birgu, several of them on the waterfront where restoration work continues.

24

A tale of THREE cities

Visit:

Senglea, smallest of the Three Cities, is named after Grand Master Claude de la Sèngle, who founded it, gave it his coat of arms and his name. Before him, L’Isle Adam built himself a country villa and ordered the planting of olive and other trees and the erection of windmills.

Senglea is built on a grid pattern with stepped streets, just as Valletta would be later. Dockyard Creek, previously known as the Port of Galleys, seperates Senglea from Vittoriosa. During the Great Siege the two cities fought in unison. Later, in 1706, The Knights of St John built Il-Maċina to maintain its fleet.

De la Sèngle’s successor, Grand Master De La Valette and leader of Malta’s defence, in 1565, bestowed another name on Isla – Civitas Invicta – Unconquered City. Senglea and its people had played no small part in the Great Siege from the

•

The Inquisitor’s Palace. Look out for the graffiti left by prisoners in the cells and elsewhere.

•

The Church of St Lawrence in existence 400 years prior to the arrival of the Knights, it became the Order’s first conventual church.

•

The Maritime Museum, the former British Naval Bakery designed by William Scamp

•

Take a look at Fort St Angelo which played a heroic role in the Great Siege of 1565 and also defended Malta during World War II. In 1991 it was returned to the Knights of Malta.

•

Look out for the fortifications at night which are lit up and the atmosphere is magical

•

View the Three Cities from the Upper Barrakka or St Barbara Bastion in Valletta.

•

Don’t miss the San Lorenzo Band Club (c. 1880) with its highly ornate three-storey façade, delicate and sophisticated

moment the infidel armada was sighted on 18 May 1565. They fought through the heat of a Mediterranean summer, going without food and with many dying in the meantime.

In 1789 Senglea was involved in the blockade against French forces. Napoleon was to remark about Malta and its harbours: ‘Nous avons dans le centre de la Mediterranée la place la plus forte de L’Europe.’ (We have the strongest place in Europe right here in the Mediterranean) He was not to enjoy his conquest for long.

Old waterfront houses survive in Senglea, many in a dilapidated state.

Like the gondola-like dgħajjes (boats), they are reminiscent of Venice. One of the most famous churches is the Basilica of Our Lady of Victories, built in 1581 to commemorate the Great Siege victory which ended on 8 September.

The people of Senglea attributed the victory to Our Lady or Il-Bambina.

It was on the very same date, during the annual procession with the Bambina statue in 1943, that word of the surrender of Italy in WWII arrived.

(Senglea was heavily bombed during WWII). Devotion to Il-Bambina or Il-Vitorja continues to this day. The church was bombed during the war but rebuilt on the same site. Happily much had been saved: sculptures, paintings, the bells and the earliest sedan chair of Malta. Apart from the titular statue of Our Lady, adorned with jewels and a crown of gold, another revered statue is that of Ir-Redentur – Christ the Redeemer – venerated at the Oratory of the Holy Crucifix. When it is taken out on pilgrimage the number of devotees from all over Malta who follow it is truly impressive.

€4.5 million in Grants

froM iceland, liechtenstein and norway investing in Malta’s social and economic development. strengthening cooperation between Malta and iceland, liechtenstein and norway.

Promote water conservation measures Protect the sea from damaging oil spills Preserve the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, UNESCO World Heritage Site empower local councils to provide a high quality service reform young inmates through training and personal development More inforMation on www.eeagrants.gov.mt / www.norwaygrants.gov.mt and www.eeagrants.org / www.norwaygrants.org | eMail fpd.meaim@gov.mt

EEA and Norway Grants – Working together for our future Supported by a grant from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway through the EEA and Norway Grants 2009-2014

Dress

27 OPENING SOON AT

PLAZA THE SHOPPING CENTRE

ff.malta DANIELS SHOPPING COMPLEX, ĦAMRUN

27

TAle of three cities

AUTHOR'S TIPS Bormla is the largest of the Three Cities and was designed as a second line of defence for Birgu and Isla.

Even after the Great Siege, the Ottoman threat was ever present.

Grand Master Cotoner’s coat of arms, a cotton tree, is portrayed on Bormla’s emblem above the motto Ingens Amplectitur Agger – Embraced by Bastions. Thanks to the persistence of Cotoner, two-anda-half miles of jutting bastions and abutting curtains are practically intact today. The hefty ramparts are up to 50 stone layers in thickness.

Grand Master Zondadari renamed the city Città Cospicua in 1721.

Malta and Gozo have been renowned for port facilities and shipbuilding skills since the days of the Phoenicians. Under the Knights the industry acquired new proportions.

The Order’s fleet of galleys was berthed in Dockyard Creek, then known as the Port of Galleys. The

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Visit the vedette in the garden at Senglea Point, a landmark on the Grand Harbour, bearing the figures of an ear and an eye. These symbolise the sentry’s duty to watch and listen carefully – because the enemy might well choose to approach under the cloak of darkness

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Take the ferry to Valletta or Sliema – or vice-versa – and enjoy Malta from the sea. Walk around the ‘streets of steps’ and take notice of the old buildings

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Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Victories, the church of Porto Salvo, both adorned with interesting works of art.

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Pop into any church or chapel that you find open.

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Walk along the local streets and alleys.

They are oozing with history.

British took over early in the 19th century and Malta became the Navy’s principal Mediterranean base.

They expanded the docks to French Creek to accommodate their navy.

In 1959 the emphasis switched to commercial business. The Drydocks has had its vicissitudes especially after the complete withdrawal of the Royal Navy in 1979. For years it was the protagonist of one of the most virulent economic controversies on the island.

Finally privatisation: The shipyards are now run by Palumbo Shipyards Ltd. The people of Bormla have a special devotion to the Immaculate Conception, and the Kuncizzjoni Parish Church stands majestically on a hill. It is renowned for its silver artifacts and a monstrance packed with diamonds and precious stones.

Built in 1584, art lovers will appreciate the great paintings by some of Malta’s most admired artists.

Country Walks in Gozo

For further information kindly log on www.visitgozo.com Rural Development Programme for Malta 2007 - 2013 Rural Development Programme for Malta 2007 - 2013

Axis 3 - Improving the Quality of Life in Rural Areas Axis 3 - Improving the Quality of Life in Rural Areas Project Part-financed by the European Union Project Part-financed by the European Union The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development Co-financing Rate: Co-financing Rate: 75% European Union, 25% Government of Malta 75% European Union, 25% Government of Malta Europe Investing in Rural Areas Europe Investing in Rural Areas

29

SALARies in malta

The taboo of discussing salary Have you ever wondered how much your co-workers earn per year? Salary is not always the easiest of topics to discuss. One possible reason for it being so sensitive a topic, is that the perception of ourselves and that built by others, is partly based on our professional activity and how much money we make. Others simply see it as plain rude.

The reality is that openly talking about salary is not the norm in many countries around the globe. This data is also not readily available online in a number of countries, including Malta.

No insight into remuneration trends hinders informed decision-making

MANAGEMENT € 32,616

EXPERIENCED € 21,704

ENTRY € 15,812 Open the can & find out at

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mployers are often opposed to having employees discuss salaries as this could lead to them asking for flexibility in reward and differentiating between poor and high performers.

While there might be a risk that a push for pay transparency may lead people to focus too much on the final number rather than the effort that is linked to it, no insight at all into remuneration trends, hinders individuals from making informed decisions when it comes to salary negotiation – whether it be while looking for a new job, aiming for a promotion or simply wanting to know their worth based on experience.

Without knowledge of what the sectoral or national average salary is

for their job position, especially when starting a new career path, prospective employees are left with no choice but to take up whatever remuneration package is offered, leading to possible disgruntlement or dissatisfaction later on. Similarly, employees can not be critical of packages well above what is normally paid. Increased reward generally carries greater accountabilities or risk.

Tools such as Salariesinmalta.com provide average salaries of job positions in Malta to which indiviuals can benchmark their own current and prospective income. This tool goes even deeper and provides salary data based on variables such as age, years of experience and company size.

Salariesinmalta.com offers average salary data for more than 100 job positions in Malta.

It is powered by KONNEKT search & selection - Malta’s largest recruitment company.

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out & about

out and about Here's what's been going on, who's been seen, and where they've been spotted around Malta in the past months.

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Costa Shake It Up Event Costa Coffee, Valletta 01

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McDonald's 20th Anniversary Party Upper Barrakka

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Barista of the Year Maria Ellul and Wayne Falzon (Barista of the Year 2014) Moira Delia and Sean Gravina Rodney Pisani – President of the Bar Tenders Guild Guests enjoying Costa's shaken iced coffee 04

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Victor Tedesco, Khamzat Khasbulatov, Melo Hili, Hector Naudi, Paul Caruana Christine Williams, Raymond Bonnici Irina Romachevskaya, Nathalie Debono Reuben Demicoli, Tonio Micallef, Erika Micallef, Kate Aquilina

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out & about

Daniel Wellington Launch

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Cafe Del Mar 01

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SPEAK MALTESE 01. Etienne Barthet, Karen & Gordon Cutajar, Romina Brincat, Alistair & Michelle Muscat, Buzzi Manche', Ivan Brincat, Paul Borg Olivier, Nicolette Barthet, Gloria Brincat, Joanne Galea, Donna Borg Leyland and John Manche' 02. The beautiful setting of Cafe del Mar 03. Caroline & Kurt Paris 04. DW hostesses showing off their DW watches

Maltese word:

Sa침침a Phonetic sound:

sah-ha Translation:

Good bye Showers 2015

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Cafe Del Mar

Supported by: www.ghaqdatalmalti.org

want to learn maltese?

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01. Michela and Kayley 02. Cafe Del Mar

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

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events

EVENTS THIS MONTH 3, 10, 17, 24 SEPTEMBER

4 SEPTEMBER

Fra Ben Reggae Bar, Qawra

Main Street, Qormi

If you’re after an alternative scene, this event is definitely for you. Join in the musical vibe every Thursday at Fra Ben, sip on an iced mojito and listen to an eclectic mix of professional and beginner musicians jam their way into the night. What’s more, musicians are all encouraged to pick up an instrument and join in while patrons dance the night away.

Entrance is free. /tafraben.reggaebar

The annual Qormi Wine Festival is back on the first weekend of September, marking its 11th edition. The 2015 edition will be held at the heart of the village core that will be dressed up for the occasion, from Friday 4th to Saturday 5th from 1930hrs until midnight.Well 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. This annual event will once again present a wide selection of local red, white and rosé wines of several grape varieties, provided by Marsovin.

Separate wine stalls will be set up alongside Main Street Qormi, with the characteristic St George’s Parish acting as a fitting backdrop to this typical festive setting.

Fra Ben Jamming Qormi Wine Sessions Festival 2015

5 SEPTEMBER

6 SEPTEMBER

Electrifying Elmo Valletta Classic Car Show Fort St Elmo, Valletta A Cultural Events Brand Malta (CEB) launch production! Come and dine, dance, mingle, relax and experience Fort St. Elmo like never before.

What to expect on the night?

Buskers and entertainment - established and upcoming Maltese and foreign talent will be busking up the night, providing ongoing musical entertainment throughout...International street escapologist Tony Roberts will be highlighting the busking scene on the night! Food, drinks and live entertainment available throughout the night.

Tickets sold at €15 that include food (not drinks) and a complimentary welcome drink. /Electrifying Elmo

Valletta The very first edition of the Valletta Classic Car Show organised by Għaqda tal-Pawlini and the American Auto Club Malta. The event will be held from 18:00 onwards and showcase a collection of privately owned classic cars from different eras. /Valletta Classic Car Show

26 september

Żejt iż-Żejtun, Olive Pressing Festival Żejtun Żejt iż-Żejtun, celebrating the olive picking season and olive pressing for oil, 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 provide the traditional musical input in celebration of 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

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events

Are you a Game of Thrones fan?

Every Saturday and Sunday. Pick up from your Malta Hotel.

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 including Arya, Ned, Robb and Sansa Stark, Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, Khal Drogo, Joffrey Baratheon, Lord Varys and Cersei, Jaime & Tyrion Lannister.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • Led by two very talented local actors who actually took part in Game of Thrones.

• E xclusive locations and photo opportunities not accessible on any other tour.

• T he joys & tribulations of being on a GoT film set and the latest about the stars.

• I ncludes hotel pick-ups and drop offs in luxurious air-conditioned comfort.

• I ncludes entry to Fort St Elmo, San Anton Palace, The Monastery, The Counterguard and visits to Valletta, Mdina, Rabat, Manikata and Buskett.

WHY OUR TOUR

8 till 13 SEPTEMBER

VI Malta International Musical Bands Festival Various venues, Malta A six-day festival of bands, majorette, groups, marching bands, folk groups, street bands, piper bands, make up the sixth edition of Malta International Musical Bands Festival 2015.

During this week there will be three parades in most towns of the island. Venues: 11 Sept 2015, 7pm , Zebbug, Main Square; 12 Sept 2015, 10am, Valletta, Republic Street; 12 Sept 2015, 7pm, Bugibba, Main Square for other details visit: www.euroartproduction.it/ festival-malta-music.html

6 SEPTEMBER

Corazon – A Concert at Volare Café

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.

Valletta The famous singer/songwriter Corazon Mizzi will be performing Maltese, English and Italian songs live at the Volare Cafè (Valletta, next to the Law Courts). Do not miss this unique event!

Please send an e-mail to info.bdsevents@gmail.com to book a table or by phone on (+356) 7704 4023.

Tours cost €59.

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

This is a small group tour.

Bookings received on a first come first served basis.

A Slice of the High Life Our innovative programme lets you enjoy the luxuries of Sunseeker yacht ownership at a fraction of the cost.

Luxury yachting - owning a slice is easier than you think.

Find out how: WWW.AZUREULTRA.COM

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events

12 SEPTEMBER

Rockestra 2015 MFCC, Ta Qali The Event of the Year is Back... and better than ever before!

Save the Date and Join us for a massive night of rock with some of Malta's best talent and one of Malta's finest exports - You have been asking us and we have listened: Marc Storace is the special guest for this year!

Tickets can be bought from: www.ooii.com.mt or from San Anton Palace/The Palace, Valletta (weekdays between 09:00 and 15:00). Standing tickets can also be bought from The President's Kitchen Garden between 17:00 and 21:00.

Doors open at 19:00 /Rockestra 2015

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13 SEPTEMBER

18 till 20 SEPTEMBER

Beach Garden, St Julians

Victoria, Gozo

Colours, Music, Love, Freedom... and more colours. This is what Holi Malta brings you this September.

Hundreds of people, dressed in white, come together to share in music, dance and visual euphoria. Be part of this colourful experience, inspired by the indian fest Holi: The indian Holi fest takes place on the day of the fullmoon of the Phaluga month and is one of the most famous celebrations in the northern parts of India. At this Hindu-Festival people celebrate the victory of the good over the bad and the beginning of the spring.People paint themselves with various colours and throw colourful powder in the air to express the freedom and to colour their everyday life. The most important thing is, that on this day all castes of the indian castesystem are nullified and put out of force. On this day of celebration all people are supposed to be equal!

This is where the idea to bring this festival to the rest of the world come from. Let the colours of Holi spread the message of peace and happiness. /Holi Malta – Island of Colours

The Bavarian Beer Festival in Gozo will be held between the 18th and the 20th September.

Enjoy the German beer festival with original German beer and authentic Bavarian food that includes sausages, haxe, weisswurst and meatloaf amongst others. Music and entertainment for the whole family in Victoria Football Ground (between bus terminus and villa rundle) Reservations (for groups or individuals): (+356) 2156 6095 or (+356) 7983 4459

Holi Malta – Għawdex Island of Colours [01] Oktoberfest [02]

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19 SeptEMBER

events

19 till 20 SeptEMBER

Malta Sports Day Chocolate, Sweets and Ice Marsa Sports Club Cream Festival Malta Sports Day will bring together the iGaming community of Malta for an action-packed day of intense sporting competition and fun! This event will be the first of its kind in Malta and will all be held in the name of local charities, so participating will directly help out the island we call home. The day itself will be held on 19th September 2015, at the state-of-the-art Marsa Sports Complex, with every aspect of the event being meticulously organised to ensure that everyone involved has a day that they won’t forget! If you’re a gaming related company based in Malta, you can register your team, or a number of teams, to participate in this ‘athletics with a twist’ event. These teams will directly compete with each other and will nominate a member from their team to take part in each of the disciplines we have lined up. If that’s not enough motivation, there will be a large crowd to cheer you on or to throw you a cold beer when times get tough! /Malta Sports Day

Ta Qali National Park The 2015 Chocolate, Sweet and Ice Cream Festival is the largest, most exciting celebration of sweets Malta has ever seen. Indulge in chocolate, sweets and ice cream delicacies during the season's most delicious event! Enjoy fine chocolate samples from artisan chocolatiers, lectures on chocolate making and demonstrations from Malta’s master chefs. You can even drop into the celebration of sweets, featuring the best purveyors of cupcakes, candies, cookies, and sweet treats. If this is not enough, we’ve even got highlights of creameries with dozens of flavours which will surpass all your expectations. The weekend is fun filled and entertaining for the entire family. A number of artisans will exhibit their handcrafted items.

Pony rides, antique gas engines, a car show, motorcycle show and a magic show are just some of the many things to do and see.

During the event patrons will be entertained with live performances from the likes of Malta’s finest artists which shall compliment the atmosphere. Children will also have their share with activities including bouncy castles, face-painting and other animation to their delight. www.maltachocolatefestival.com

25 till 26 SeptEMBER

27 SeptEMBER

90 Years of Film From Russia with Love Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta The Malta Film Commission celebrates 90 years of filmmaking in Malta. A concert by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, under the artistic direction of Maestro Brian Schembri. This year, Malta celebrates a very important milestone in its rich cinematic history. Malta’s 90 year legacy as a film location is best summed using the unsurprising moniker, coined by a CNN journalist in 1999, of being “A Hollywood in the Mediterranean”. Despite its diminutive size, over the past 90 years, Malta's natural landscape, architectural heritage and purpose-built film facilities allowed it to double for a wide variety of locations across multiple periods and settings, making Malta known as an incredibly versatile location.

The thought behind this project is also to celebrate the lives of film industry veterans and to remember and thank those who outstandingly contributed to the film industry. This unique pairing of the National Orchestra with wellknown soundtrack movies which throughout the years were filmed in Malta guarantees broad audiences of music lovers, screen tourism and films fans alike. /90 Years of Film

Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta The first performance of the esemble - Guberniya - took place in Tver (Russia) in 2002 in the jubilee concert devoted to the anniversary of the newspaper "Veche Tveri".

Vladimir Derevyagin (accordion), Natalja Bogdanova (dombraviola), Alexander Nekrassov (balalaika-contrabass), Mikhail Rikhmajer (balalaika), Marina Korchagina (vocal) are all professional musicians with higher conservatory education and professional concert experience. They try to be original in every musical piece they perform. The wide repertoire includes Russian classical pieces, Russian traditional folk sketches and Pop. A great number of the instrumental compositions were created by the artist director of the group Vladimir Derevyagin.

His authoring works and the arrangements of folk pieces (the world-known "Kalinka", the gipsy romance "Black Eyes" and others) are full of creative fantasy and musical humour. The performance of the popular tunes from the repertoire of such groups as "ABBA" and "Bony-M" sounds very special thanks to the Russian folk musical instruments and always receive standing ovations. www.mcc.com.mt

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MEDICAL TOURISM

high-flying dentistry

Conscious sedation Before Treatment

For people who only visit the dentist when they cannot get away without one, sedation may be the ideal treatment modality. Sedation can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. In fact, patients are usually awake, with the exception of those who are under general anesthesia.

What Types of Sedation Are Used in Dentistry?

The following types of sedation are used in dentistry: 1. Inhaled minimal sedation: Patients breathe nitrous oxide – otherwise known as 'laughing gas' – combined with oxygen through a mask that's placed over the patients nose. The gas helps you relax. Your dentist can control the amount of sedation you receive, and the gas tends to wear off quickly. This tends to be used for children.

2. Oral sedation: The patient takes a pill on the eve and another an hour prior to the procedure. Typically, the pill is a member of the same drug family as Valium. The pill will make you drowsy, although you'll still be awake. A larger dose may be given to produce moderate sedation. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. Some people actually fall asleep during the procedure but may easily be awakened with a gentle shake.

3. IV moderate sedation: The sedative drug is injected in the vein working very quickly. This method allows the operator to continually adjust the level of sedation.

Some patients require high doses of sedation whilst others require a minimal dose. Regardless of which type of sedation

you receive, you'll also require a local anesthetic in the form of an injection. This would be administered once the patient is sedated, eliminating the fear aspect of the needle or procedure.

Who Can Have Sedation at the Dentist's?

Sedation is most appropriate for people with a real fear or anxiety that is preventing them from going to the dentist.

For example patients who: • have a very low pain threshold • keep fidgeting in the dental chair • have very sensitive teeth • have a very bad gag reflex and cannot bear the thought of having things in their mouth, let alone have treatment done • need a large amount of dental work completed all at a go.

Sometimes, children are given sedation if they are terrified of going to the dentist or refuse to cooperate during the visit.

Dentists are usually accompanied by an anaesthetist who performs the sedation allowing the dentist to focus on the treatment required. Sedation is a line of treatment which unfortunately not many dentists make use of, but which works wonders for the patient. This treatment allows the patient to finally get all his/ her dental treatment done without having to go through what they call a 'traumatic experience'. In fact patients who undergo conscious sedation love it.

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

After Treatment

A Case study: Patient wishes to improve on her smile and change her old dental restorations. The treatment consisted of: 1. Periodontal gum treatment stabilising disease and establishing health 2. Removing her old metal-ceramic bridges and having them replaced with all-ceramic metal-free restorations 3. Replacement of old large metallic fillings with ceramic inlays 4. Simultaneous laser tooth whitening and provision of maintenance home whitening trays 5. Review maintenance programme.

Ask your dentist!

40

travel

Germany: The Land of Ideas Set right in the heart of Europe, Germany had an influential impact on the continent’s history. From Charlemagne and the Holy Roman Empire to Bismarck’s Reich, Nazism and the rise and fall of the Berlin Wall, no other nation has cast Europe the way Germany has, for better or for worse.

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his country boasts of riches, elegant big-city charm, small picturesque towns, paganinspired harvest festivals, a wealth of culture and art and the perennial pleasures of huge tracts of forest. Delightful castles and fine beer and wine are all there waiting to be savoured. The Reunification in 1990 was yet another chapter in Germany’s complex history.

Germany is a year-round destination, and its people love to party and kick up their heels at everything from black-tie opera to harvest romps.

The Winter Carnival season occurs

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throughout the country, with big cities like Munich, Cologne and Mainz erupting into commotion just before Ash Wednesday.

Germany’s musical heritage is showcased in a plethora of festivals.

Some towns concentrate on particular composers, such as the Thuringian Bach Festival in March or the Richard Wagner Festival each July. The jazz festivals in Stuttgart in April and Berlin in November are extremely popular and lively.

Autumn is a great time for harvestinspired mayhem, especially on the River Rhine, where The Rhine in

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travel

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Flame frolics feature barges laden with fireworks. Oktoberfest is Munich’s annual lager frenzy, but it has become a very commercial event and might disappoint expectations. German families embrace Christmas fairs, mainly held in Nuremberg, Lübeck, Münster, Heidelberg and Munich.

German forests studded with oak, beech, birch, chestnut and ash trees are wonderful places to escape the madding crowds and relax. Berlin is the nation’s capital, the focus of reunification and barometer of Germany’s moods. Berlin is popular with art lovers, architecture and artefacts. Its numerous museums will keep the most dedicated culture addict happy.

Frankfurt is the most international town, with over a quarter of the population being foreign. It boasts Germany’s most spectacular skyline, mirrored in the Main River, and Europe’s tallest office building.

Lübeck is a glorious medieval town that earned its place in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

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River Rhine Aerial view of Munchen: Marienplatz, New Town Hall and Frauenkirche Oktoberfest, 2012 Berlin at night

Munich, rivalled only by Berlin as Germany’s most popular destination, is a city that enjoys contradicting itself. Head down to the capital of Bavaria, where folk traditions rub shoulders with BMWs, haute cuisine and high-minded sophisticates.

Munich is a compact city, but the visitor can easily spend several weeks exploring its architectural treasures, museums and idyllic surroundings. The Allstadt is a pleasure to stroll around its avenues and spacious squares that recall the glory of Bavarian monarchy.

AIR MALTA FLIGHTS This summer Air Malta is flying three times a week to Berlin, six times a week to Dusseldorf, seven times a week to Frankfurt, twice a week to Hamburg and eight times a week to Hamburg.

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43

Pastizzi: cheaper by the dozen WORDS BY Lina Azzopardi

The word pastizzi is not a Maltese expletive, nor is it the name of a tenor. They are something you eat and the Maltese consume mountains of them. The most popular are made with ricotta.

The other variety is made with a pea mixture. The British have baptised them cheesecakes.

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local food

Photo credit: Michael Caroe Andersen

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ou can order them at elegant cafés or village bars, or take them away from pastizzi shops that sometimes also sell pizza, sausage rolls, qassatat (cheese pies) and other takeaway dishes.

Pastizzi are the food of princes and paupers.

Buying half a dozen cheesecakes will not destroy anyone’s economic rhythm. As to eating them in the street, what you lose in dignity you are certain to gain in weight. They are probably Malta’s earliest take away. It was pastizzi a deux in those days when restaurants and snack bars were almost inexistent.

There are those who have spent a lifetime making pastizzi and pastizzi only for a living, churning out thousands of them each day. In the heavy black metal trays in which they are baked, you can fit about three and a half dozen. But don’t ask how many they bake in a day. This is a secret they will not share. “We bake more on weekends; more in winter than in summer. And

consumption around Christmas goes up markedly,” a young man in a pastizzeria tells me. They are determined not to divulge more information.

This Maltese takeaway is generally diamond-shaped but sometimes round, in which case they are not as crisp, and do not leave quite as many delicious crumbs all over the table and floor, as the pastry is different.

With the introduction of modern machinery for making the pastry and electric ovens for baking, life is much easier for those who make them in large quantities. Before, pastry had to be made by hand, and then the trays of pastizzi taken to the baker. Now it is a one stop shop.

All pastizzi taste the same but different and everyone has his favourite pastizzeria. The connoisseur can tell you where the best ones are found.

AS OUR NAME WOULD SUGGEST, LOBSTER IS OUR SPECIALTY. The rest of the menu is classic Sicilian, with lots of fresh fish, quality meats, vegetarian & vegan options.

As a contrast, the bar snack menu is a constantly changing, international fusion of small dishes.

Our products are locally sourced and organic where possible.

All this, plus a dedicated, passionate and experienced kitchen- and waiting staff will make your dining experience at ELP a memorable one.

Take a picture of this advert and start your meal with our delicious USDA Beef or Swordfish Carpaccio on the house!

ELECTRO LOBSTER PROJECT | 32, MAIN STREET, BALLUTA BUILDINGS | ST. JULIANS | 27357357 facebook.com/electrolobsterproject | pinterest.com/elpmalta | instagram.com/electrolobsterproject

MALTA’S NUMBER 1 GOURMET BURGERS Uncompromisingly fresh quality, Handcrafted, Gourmet Burgers, made from 100% pure Angus Beef, served in unique surroundings.

All our burgers contain only the freshest ingredients with absolutely no unnecessary fillers or additives. All we add are onions and a secret blend of herbs and spices, that give our burgers that truly Badass taste.

Take a picture of this advert and finish your meal with a Badass dessert on us!

CAUSE LIFE’S TOO SHORT FOR NORMAL...

Badass Burgers | 1, Triq San Gorg, St. Julians | 21384066 | badassburgers.eu | facebook.com/badassburgers

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local food

But then, everyone is a connoisseur as we have all been eating pastizzi since we were small. It has been said that the obesity of the Maltese is partly due to their being connoisseurs of cheesecakes. They consume thousands in a lifetime.

The smaller and more delicate variety are served at cocktail parties and wedding receptions. Young people demolish dishfuls of them at their own noisy celebrations.

They are typically Maltese, these pastizzi. However, you will also find them wherever the Maltese have emigrated: Canada, America, Australia, where some enterprising Maltese has introduced them.

They bear little resemblance to the quiche or cheesepie.

The recipe for cheesecakes is apparently about 300 years old. Ricotta was probably brought over from Sicily or Italy. According to the late folklorist GuzĂŠ Cassar Pullicino, ricotta existed in Malta in the early 18th century. Did the grand masters and knights eat pastizzi for elevenses? Did Napoleon ever get round to savouring them? Perhaps but we shall never know.

A close relative to the pastizz is the qassata.

This is round, bigger and the pastry heavier.

Ricotta is used for the filling or a mixture of peas and anchovies. For most people two qassatat would make a satisfying meal.

Pastizzi and qassatat reign over the hamburger, the sandwich and the pizza when it comes to a quick take-away.

They are tasty and cheap and part of our culinary culture. They must be eaten fresh and hot. The well-organised Maltese housewife buys them uncooked and freezes them for any eventuality. Tourists have been known to take them home to farf lung places, though how well they survive the journey is another matter. If you ask a Maltese living abroad which food they miss most they will tell you: “After Maltese bread, it is pastizzi of course!�

Pastizzi are the food of princes and paupers.

48

FOOD REVIEW

Celebrating Lampuki

01. Fresh Lampuki 02. L ampuki moqli biz-zalza pikkanti at Gululu 03. Torta tal-Lampuki at Gululu

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WORDS BY Enrico Sammut

It 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 Mahi-Mahi far away from Malta along the Atlantic Coast of the southern USA, Lampuki has been fished in Maltese waters for centuries, since classical times.

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roof 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, at the same time, 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

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prices. Every table, rich or poor, could therefore eat fresh fish regularly in high season, not the norm during other times of the year.

The lampuki season traditionally kicks off with the blessing of the boats in the second half of August after the popular festa of Santa Marija. This feast, celebrated in August, the Ascension of Our Lady in Heaven, is the one most celebrated in Malta and Gozo, with big colourful, noisy festas held in several towns and villages. The parish priest boards a fishing boat and is taken slowly

round the bay or harbour, reciting prayers for protection and good fortune, all the while spraying the luzzi and Kajjiki – traditional fishing boats – with holy water. With the preparatory work done, with the laying of the kannizzati at intervals of around 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.

49

FOOD REVIEW

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 many different breams and snappers. Certainly the flesh is neither as white nor as fine, however the lampuka offers a particular flavour, a unique taste of its own.

The most popular and, not surprisingly, best 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 typical, flavourful sauce made with tomatoes, 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 to bake them in a traditional lampuki pie where the fish is combined with vegetables like cauliflower, spinach as well as carrots and also capers, olives fresh mint and marjoram.

03

Maltese restaurants today are blessed with many young and talented chefs, and several 'modern' dishes using lampuki are conjured up in restaurant kitchens each day.

Gululu, the casual Maltese diner in St Julian’s Bay, celebrates each September with a special menu comprised solely of dishes which include lampuki. Celebratory menus have included marinated slivers of raw lampuki, lampuki fritters served with

kappunata (a side dish made with stewed tomatoes and peppers) and even pasta with a lampuki based sauce, probably a first for Malta.

CUBA Bistro a neighbour of Gululu, does likewise, and offers a menu of lampuki dishes using Mediterranean and Creole cooking methods.

Be sure to taste lampuki when in Malta, it is bound to be fresh.

51

LEGAL

An Expat in Malta

TRUSTS All characters in this article may very well be fictional, but the benefits and legal matters described below are nothing but than real.

Words BY Dr Mark Bencini B.A., M.A. (Fin. Serv.), LL.D., Dip. Tax. contact@vallettalegal.com

I

t is 8:15 am and all preparations are under way for the Dawson family to spend their third day house hunting in Malta. John and the family have already seen several candidate properties for the buying but Etienne, their real estate agent, wanted to show them a few more before they make up their mind.

John's mobile phone rings. Mr Jones, his father-in-law, is calling. John wonders whether all is fine with him back home and answers. 'Good morning John, it's David, I spoke to Anna yesterday and she told me that you and the family are in Malta with the intention of buying a property there.' 'Hi Mr Jones, yes we are all excited. We have spent the last couple of days house hunting and we have seen some exquisite properties with views of the Mediterranean Sea.' John replies. 'John, I have an important surprise for Anna that I need you to keep from her for a few days until my arrival on the island.' John listens carefully at what Mr Jones has to reveal.

'The lawyer in Malta to whom I had referred you some years ago when you were intent on setting up a corporate structure for you international business exploits, is also a licensed trustee. When I was visiting the island some years back, I immediately saw the investment potential of buying immovable property there so I found a pretty sea view apartment and purchased it. My desire was to leave the property as a gift for Anna on my demise and I wished that it would be a surprise. Fortunately, I was able to place the property in trust with our lawyer for Anna's benefit once I go

52

LEGAL

Nowadays, trusts form an integral part of Maltese society.

and visit greener pastures.' John is left without words. Mr Jones always has an ace up his sleeve.

Mr Jones goes on explaining that, notwithstanding the fact that Malta is founded under principles of civil law, some years back, Malta has sought to incorporate the institute of trusts into its legal system. Nowadays, trusts form an integral part of Maltese society.

The Maltese have taken great initiative to ensure that Trusts are properly regulated by introducing a system whereby all trustees are required to be licensed by the Malta Financial Services Authority. Indeed, trustees are required

to adhere to rigorous standards of practice, and regularly undergo reviews by the Authority in order to ensure the proper administration of trusts and compliance with anti-money laundering standard and procedures.

The trust had been created within a few days and, since Mr Jones wanted the property to be rented out and serve as an independent source of income, he opted for a discretionary trust wherein his trustee would manage the property for his and his wife's benefit, and, once they pass away, they would be replaced

by Anna as the sole beneficiary.

Trusts are transparent from a Maltese

fiscal point of view and thus, this structure did not trigger additional or unnecessary taxes.

John listened attentively to the wealth of information that Mr Jones shared with him. His parents in law had utilised the secrecy afforded to Maltese Trusts in a formidable manner to ensure that Anna would discover the trust once she would replace them as beneficiary. They also appointed some of their siblings as Trust Protectors, since they wished to be cautious and ensure that the trust was completely fool proof, seeing that they were not in Malta often.

53

LEGAL

Anna's plan to come to Malta and purchase her own property was going to trigger an undesired coincidence. This caused Mr Jones to take the decision to fly to Malta and somewhat anticipate the surprise by introducing her to the property immediately. All logistics were planned with John and two days later Anna was taken by the estate agent to Mr Jones' apartment under the pretense that she was going to visit 'an apartment that she could not resist acquiring'.

Anna walks into the apartment and to her complete disbelief she finds her parents standing in front of her. Within a few minutes all is explained and Anna discovers that she is the future beneficiary of an exquisite property in Malta. The bubbly is brought out and popped. It's time to celebrate.

The above is a fictional story that includes true facts about the benefits enjoyed through the involvement of trusts in one's estate planning.

Other interesting benefits enjoyed by the Dawson family may be found on www.vallettalegal.com

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These These possibly possiblyhave havewhen whencoming comingto towork work include include Facebook, Facebook, Twitter, Twitter, LinkedIn, LinkedIn, in inMalta” Malta”explains explainsThomas ThomasMahoney.

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56

A guide to the little

Maltese Islands dwejra

ghasri

gharb

zebbug

san lawrenz

xlendi

marsalforn

xaghra

victoria kercem munxar sannat

xewkija

nadur ghajnsielem mgarr

qala

comino

cirkewwa

st paul’s island mellieha

qawra

xemxija st paul’s bay

bugibba

mgarr

Lost OR DAMAGED Luggage?

naxxar mosta

gnejna

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

st julians san gwann

g msida

attard

mdina

Arrivals Hall, Malta International Airport - Luqa T: +356 2202 1401 E: samsonitemalta@vfgmalta.com Open Monday to Sunday 08:00 – 20:00 hrs

birkirkara floriana qormi marsa

rabat dingli

luqa 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

sliema gzira

57

THis month il-bizzilla recommends...

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

BOSS summer 2015: MUSIC MEETS FASHION The world of music delivers the right ingredients for a sophisticated and effortless dress code. BOSS builds its latest collection around an aspirational archetype that mingles with the industry’s downtown cool. From halflined coats to tumbled slim-fit jackets: the clothes find a balance between tailored and casual.

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

The news is in their fits; the jackets offer unconstructed tailoring, and therefore a casualness that is downtown ready. Whilst details lend easiness to the new BOSS look, it is defined by boxy shapes on top and tapered, slightly cropped trousers below.

Rich colour combinations – a flamingo pink shirt over sandtoned trousers, and art deco blue over coffee – also bring a new beat to the BOSS world.

Valletta

the three cities tarxien marsascala

SARTO

zejtun marsaxlokk

birzebbuga

Centrally located close to Portomaso Tower, in St Julian’s, Sarto offers a relaxed and welcoming shopping experience in its contemporary two-floor shop, making it the ideal place to find the latest and best in clothing, bags, shoes and accessories.

Dolce & Gabbana, Blumarine, Burberry, Valentino, Emporio Armani, Jimmy Choo, Sergio Rossi 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. facebook.com/sarto.luxury www.sarto.com.mt

58

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.

LOWER Barrakka Gardens, valletta MALTA Created in 1775, this public garden is one of the most beautiful parks in Valletta and was originally created as a recreational area for the Knights of St John. The garden includes several statues and breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour.

The Red tower, mellieha 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.

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.

Sliema Promenade 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.

59

Discovering malta & gozo

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.

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.

For over two decades, Hank’s been there for you.

Open for lunch and dinner 365 days a year and always with a awesome selection of mouthwatering American favourites ready to be washed down by our famous cocktails and beers, Hank’s been there. He even throws in free parking and bright sunshine most of the year on his seaside terrace. Well, he can’t do anything about the sun but you know he would if he could.

Good times happen at Hank’s Book yours today!

+356 2370 2694 Golden bay MALTA Large clay hills slope gently around the waters of this secluded bay, found along the north west coast of the island. Taking its name from its golden coloured sand, Golden Bay is one of Malta’s most sought-after and popular sandy beaches during the summer months.

Corinthia Hotel St Georges Bay hanks.stgeorges@corinthia.com

60

Discovering malta & gozo

mosta dome malta

Photo credit: viewingmalta.com

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 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.

61

Discovering malta & gozo

The Malta

Experience

blue lagoon comino Take a short boat ride to Malta’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.

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

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

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

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

www.themaltaexperience.com

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.

62

A Second Chance for New York

travel

Veronica Stivala first visited New York City as a young teenager. She returned again to the city this summer to experience it again as an adult, and as a changed city, post 9/11.

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travel

M

y first impressions of New York some 20 years ago were how big everything was, from the multi-lane highways, to the towering skyscrapers and even to the food portion sizes (at our hotel we were even given polystyrene containers to take away more food with us, lest we had not managed to cram enough into our stomachs at breakfast). I returned this summer to continue to be impressed and a tad gobsmacked by the sheer enormity of everything. Admittedly I hail from a tiny speck of an island (Malta) but I do a lot of travelling in Europe and this city continues to impress when it comes to dimensions.

Size aside, I spent one of the most enjoyable and fun weeks of my life in this fast-paced city. A bit like London, but most definitely the double whopper version of it, New York City is truly the city that never sleeps. Actress and New York City resident Myrna Loy (1905 1993) wrote in her 1987 biography that “if you’re bored in New York, it’s your own fault”. The quip has been used widely in

guide books precisely because it is so true. Any visitor to this city will never be short of forms of entertainment, be it from stand-up comedy gigs, to jazz performances, site-specific theatre shows, the famous Apollo amateur nights, eating all kinds of food under the sun, shopping, themed tour guides, the list goes on, and on.

While my initial trip was rushed, this time round I had a full week to really get a good bite and savour The Big Apple. On my first trip, I had just over a day to explore, which involved a visit to the Museum of the Moving Image. I have fond memories of this must-visit

museum which is the only museum in the US dedicated to exploring the art, history, and technology of the moving image. Since my trip the museum has been redesigned and expanded. Sadly my second visit did not allow the time to see it this time; a good reason to return for a third.

My first trip also entailed a ferry trip around key locations such as Staten Island and a view of the Statue of Liberty. Looking back at photos taken on board the ferry I can discern the two prominent Twin Towers that were a staple of the city’s notable skyline.

Indeed their absence can still be felt

64

travel

02

01

01. L ast Column and Slurry Wall in the National 9/11 Memorial Museum at Ground Zero 02. High Line Park 03. Central Park view to Manhattan

and was something that I will always keep close to heart. I visited the National September 11 Memorial and Museum at the World Trade Centre Foundation late one evening. The museum is open till 8pm, with last admissions at 6pm. The site is effectively two things: a memorial, entitled Reflecting Absence, which consists of two enormous reflecting pools set in the footprints of the Twin Towers, and a museum which takes visitors along a journey from that fateful morning when the two towers were hit, to the present day.

or the Capitol Building. The museum is beautifully set up and contains a huge amount of material to view, read, watch or listen to. One issue I had with the museum was that the temperature was far too cold. I heard another visitor, who also complained, be told that this was done purposefully to preserve the artefacts.

The museum also has audioguides which can be rented for a price, but which information can also be downloaded as an app onto your smartphone for free. I opted for this version though struggled with the poor internet.

Both the memorial and the museum have an incredibly powerful aura to them. Seeing the lists of victims' names engraved into the sides of the pool is touching enough, let alone listening to the recordings of victims on the fourth plane which they prevented from being crashed into what is suspected to have been either the White House

Other highlights of my trip included the recently set up public park, but with a difference. The High Line is a former railway line in Manhattan converted into a public green space. It really is quite wonderful to be among refreshing greenery as you walk, elevated along the streets of New York. Star sights include the amphitheatre-style viewing platforms

65

travel

03

at 17th and 26th Streets, as well as Spencer Finch’s art installation The River That Flows Both Ways between 15th and 16th Streets.

The list of memories in this city that will stick is long but I also have to mention going to the top of the Empire State Building (visit this twice, both during the day at at night to get a view of the city lit up after sunset). You also cannot talk about New York City without mentioning the wonderful eateries there and these need not necessarily be fine diners; a case in point was the Five Guys burger place which my meat-eating partner had to visit for a second tasting the burgers were so divine.

A word of advice, we found it helpful and cost efficient to purchase a New York City Pass.

This does not come cheap, but it gives you access to a wide variety of top attractions which, if visited separately, would be even more expensive. We did not manage to do everything in the booklet, so a third visit is, most definitely, on the cards.

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67

property

LIFESTYLE CHOICES

Tumas Developments is the property developing division of the Tumas Group, specialising in residential-lifestyle choices of the highest standard.

Established in the late 60s, the signs were already apparent that the company was set to revolutionise the property business in Malta. The company has its finger on the pulse of where the property market should be heading, and is resolved to set new standards, both in Malta and overseas. A proven track record guarantees that these aims are achieved.

C

urrently our company may offer three standard-setting projects in Malta , namely Portomaso – St Julian's in central Malta; TasSellum Residence – Mellieha, in the north and Ta’ Monita Residence – Marsaskala, in the south of the Island.

In fact, Hilton International considers the Portomaso Hilton to be one of its flagship hotels.

Portomaso includes 420 luxury apartments, a five-star deluxe Hilton Hotel affording 406 rooms, a 110-berth Yacht Marina, a 23-storey business tower, shopping complex, various restaurants, beach club, health centre and underground parking. Portomaso has received a number of accolades including 'The Best Marina Development in Europe Award' in the prestigious International Property Awards for three consecutive years and 'The Award for Outstanding Landscaping from the British Association of Landscape Industries'.

Tas-Sellum Residence – Mellieha, totals some 130 villa-apartments and penthouses, planned in 11 clusters and set on 17,000m2 of graceful, terraced, landscaped land overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Here the residents enjoy the gated use of three swimming pools, communal gardens and underground parking facilities. Most of the semi-detached apartments overlook picturesque sea, country and sandy beach views. Ghadira Bay, the largest sandy beach on the island, is only a seven minute walk away.

This development is practically sold out with the exception of two seafront apartments measuring approx 230m2 each.

The development is built and, here, we may offer a small choice of one, two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses, where, in most cases, these units may be customised to personal taste.

Ta’ Monita Residence – Marsascala, a Tumas and Gasan Group project, is a new, lifestyle and standard-setting development built on the commanding heights overlooking Marsascala bay. A fishing village dating back to Roman times, this laid-back, seaside location in the south-east of the Island offers luxurious, residential units built on high grounds covering an area of over 16,000m2.

Currently, over 75% of the development has been sold, yet a range of apartments from well-proportioned studios to threebedroom apartments and penthouses, is still available. Set a stone’s throw away from the seafront, residents of Ta’ Monita enjoy facilities including a large swimming pool, spacious 'piazza' (square) surrounded by a gymnasium, shops, landscaped gardens and underground parking facilities. This project is now also complete.

All our three projects are Special Designated Areas, where non-Maltese purchasers may buy property with the same rights as Maltese citizens. This therefore means that one does not require a permit from the Maltese Government to buy property; may purchase more than one property in the name of an individual/s, company or trust; and is permitted to rent out the property legally.

For more information kindly contact us: Tumas Developments Sales Office T: (+356) 2138 6802; M: (+356) 7949 7504; E: info@tumasdevelopments.com www.tumasdevelopments.com

68

business round up

DELICATA - CELEBRATING 100 AWARDS Image: Gold medal winning Gran Cavalier Chardonnay & Merlot wines produced by Delicata

this Maltese winery has amassed an impressive 106 awards, with 22 of those being won in 2014 and 2015 alone.

Emmanuel Delicata, Malta's fourth generation family-run winery, has achieved a historic milestone by accomplishing the significant feat of being awarded over 100 international awards for its wines, over a span of 20 years.

The Bubble Festival in aid of Garden of Smiles Enjoy a weekend of music, art and fun in one of Malta's most picturesque spots while helping the world around you! Join us at The Bubble 2015 at the Elysium, Għajn Tuffieħa and the surrounding areas.

The 100 awards include gold medals won in France, Italy and Spain, silver medals won in Bordeaux, Burgundy, Paris, London, and Verona, and numerous bronze medals and commendations awarded at wine competitions all over Europe.

In 1995, Delicata entered its wines into a wine competition in London for the very first time and immediately won four awards. Twenty years on,

“Our real sense of achievement is the knowledge that the wines that have won international awards are not just our premium wines, but wines at all price-points. Our consumers can feel confident that, when they buy a Delicata wine, they have renowned independent reassurance that it will be a wine of good quality,” said Mario Delicata.

“Achieving 100 international awards is a major accomplishment that any winery in the world would be proud of. It is independent proof, from some of the world’s leading wine authorities, that the quality of Delicata wines is going from strength to strength.”

Foundation that will support young women in The Bubble is a non-profit weekend festival that India through a creative and artistic project, is held to celebrate life and in aid of humanitarian offering access to education and employment causes. This year it will take place at the end of in the villages of Bodhgaya in Bihar. 20% will go summer from 25th to 27th September (2015) at to The Gaia Foundation, which is based upon The Elysium in Għajn Tuffieħa and the surrounding integrated coastal zone management on the area. The concept revolves around the bubble Maltese Islands. 15% to Why Not?, who are of our lives, the familiar and comfortable world setting up a greenhouse and tree nursery to be that surrounds us and the environments we are able to grow trees in Malta on a large scale and used to. Sweeping us out of our routine and into the remaining 15% will go back into The Bubble a stunning natural environment, The Bubble sets The an Bubble (NGO) organises a non-profitweekend at the end NGO to set up nextFestival year's bubbly festival. out to create atmosphere of learning, creativity, music, charity, fun, relaxation, sharing oftonew of Summer (September) celebrate life. The concept of the Bubble Bubble (NGO) and aims comfortable to create a world class ideas, and awakenings to what's going on own outsidelives The Festival concerns our very - the familiar art and environmental awareness festival. A local our Bubble! world that we surround ourselves with, the people we know, the event that seeks to engage locals and tourists alike, environments we are used to and the routines that we tend to settle leaving an impression on the international scene.

This year 50% of the proceeds will go to 'Garden into. Sweeping you out of the city and into a stunning green environThis will only be possible with everyones support. of Smiles', a new project by the Right2Smile

A Weekend Festival

ment, The Bubble sets out to create an atmosphere of learning, creativity, fun, relaxation, charity, sharing of new ideas and awakenings to what's going on outside your Bubble!

For more information visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1646793192208375/

Dates

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business round up

Studio18 Auditions Now Open Introducing an exciting mix of programmes for young people of all ages!

Studio18 are pleased to announce that applications are now open for all training programmes this season.

Auditions will be held on the 10th and 11th September.

The Marina Corinthia Beach Resort is Malta’s First Official GoPro Partner The Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort is pleased to announce an exciting partnership with GoPro, makers of the world’s most versatile cameras and enabler of some of today’s most engaging content.

Guests will be offered the unique opportunity to loan a GoPro camera and accessories available at the hotel’s reception desk for free and use it during their stay in Malta to capture fascinating immersive video and photo footage.

“We believe in offering an experience rather than a stay in Malta. For this reason we have entered this exciting partnership with GoPro to allow our guests to record and preserve the memory of their discoveries,” stated Mr Jean-Pierre Mifsud General Manager at the Marina Corinthia Beach Resort.

This year, the academy will also be introducing youth companies for younger age groups, starting from the age of 11. Furthermore, Studio18 will be running more musical theatre programmes, and preparing a number of members to sit for diplomas.

Studio 18 is an organisation for informal learning registered by the NCFHE Malta.

Auditions for the following training programmes will be held on the 10th and 11th September: • Act 1 (drama, storytelling, devised work - 11 to to 13 years) • Interval (drama, storytelling, devised work - 14 to 16 years) • Creative Lab (youth company - 17 yrs+) • Muso Project (musical theatre - 16 yrs+) • Individual Programme (14 yrs+)

In addition, guests will also be encouraged to share their footage via the hotel’s website in order to share their local experience with friends, family, and other travellers across the globe. By sharing their content, participants automatically enter to win a five-night stay at the Marina Hotel.

“Every guest has his or her story, and we are proud to have entered this unique partnership in order to encourage all of our guests to truly ‘Discover Malta, Discover Marina’.

Mr. Mifsud concluded.

For programme descriptions, more information and application forms kindly visit www.studio18malta.com or get in touch on info@studio18.com • /Studio18

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SPA

Indulge in a Turkish Hammam while in Malta

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Since ancient times, the cleansing ritual at the hammam was a must for any individual’s physical and emotional health. With summer in full swing, when the skin is exposed to all elements and the soul is burdened by heightened stress, escaping to a Turkish oasis of stillness and wellbeing is a must.

hink of a warm, uplifting, quiet, stress-free space, to which you could make a quick escape out from the fast-paced, loud, tedious outside world, if only for a few soulbenefiting hours. Imagine the space comes in the form of a large area made out of marble, within which you find basins, a large dome and in the middle, a huge, warm stone to lie on.

This place does exist, and it goes by the name of ‘hammam’. The hammam is an ancient, traditional Turkish spa, known for its soothing and cleansing nature, whose health benefits have been recognised and practised since the days of ancient Rome. The hammam acts as a sacred space which houses a cleansing ritual, where warm water is used as the main component of the procedure for the physical and emotional detox.

With the heat, your body relaxes and you begin to sweat. Toxins such as

salt, alcohol, nicotine, cholesterol and other invasive organisms are expelled along with the sweat. You can then use the basins to gather water to pour over your head and body, using these waves of water to create further tranquility.

Those who enter the hammam can be cleansed further with a face mask and by having their hair shampooed with nourishing and fortifying argan products. In the hammam, one can also experience the traditional Turkish peeling and foam massage.

This Turkish bath treatment has a multitude of advantages, including skin rejuvenation, better sleep, deep skin cleansing and removal of dead cells – promoting an even tan and improvement of blood circulation.

Turkish baths can also help people who are suffering from localised aches and pains, and also helps to shift lingering cold symptoms.

INTERCONTINENTAL MALTA: St George’s Bay, St Julian’s • T: 2376 5524 • M: 9990 0995 • E: info@carismaspa.com QAWRA PALACE HOTEL: Qawra Sea Front, Qawra • T: 2157 0525 • M: 9933 7868 • E: qawrapalace@carismaspa.com SEASHELLS RESORT AT SUNCREST: Qawra Cost Road, Qawra • T: 2157 0715 M: 9957 4529 • E: seashell@carismaspa.com.

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national aquarium

unique is that the males fertilise the eggs in their pouches and carries the babies until they are born. The female selects the male with the biggest pouch as he is most likely to carry the most babies. After one month the babies are born, identical to the adult sea horses but much smaller.

Sea horses We have recently received a family of potbellied seahorses which are found to be one of the biggest sea horse species in the world, growing up to 30 cm. This species is originally from regions surrounding New Zealand and Australia.

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eahorses are 'fish'; they have fins and gills just like regular fish.

However, they have a head like a horse, a tail like a monkey to hold

on to sea weed, and eyes like a chameleon since one eye looks forward and the other looks back at the same time.

They tend to live around reefs and sea grass because they are not very strong swimmers and rely on the sea grass for safety, especially in times of rough weather. Some species also camouflage with their surroundings really well and are often completely mistaken for a piece of coral.

They lack teeth and, instead, have a long snout which works a little bit like a vacuum. They suck up food such as plankton and small crustaceans but are limited to food that is not bigger than their snout. Some species are known to consume 3,000 brine shrimp per day.

One thing that makes seahorses quite

There is a lack of data on the sizes and populations of seahorses which makes it difficult to determine their risk of extinction. Coral reefs and seagrass beds are deteriorating, reducing viable habitats for seahorses, therefore we must spread awareness of their need for protection worldwide.

THE LUXURY OF ITALIAN TAILORING 60 Bisazza Street SLIEMA - MALTA Ph. +356.21316045 - E-mail: malta.shop@canali.it

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More Value For You.

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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.

Charmingly Local Head over to Mdina Glass at the Ta’ Qali Crafts Village to watch the glassmakers, free of charge. While you’re there, check out the wide range of unique, practical and decorative handmade glassware including a large selection of vases, bowls, perfume bottles and even lighting solutions, in various shapes and sizes including handy miniature ranges that are great for packing safely in your luggage (even though you can buy in-store and have your items shipped to your home address).

Pictured here, a leaf bowl and double neck vase from the brand new Kingfisher Collection.

For more infoRMATION: T: +356 2141 5786 You can shop at any of the eight outlets throughout Malta and Gozo, or online with worldwide delivery at: www.mdinaglass.com.mt

Handcrafted Just For You When in Malta don’t miss true craftsmen at work. The artisans at Mediterranean Ceramics will amaze you with their artistry and passion. In their Ta’ Qali workshop you can admire the detailed and artistic execution of volcanic stone table-tops and many other useful and decorative pieces. The designs on these unique pieces are alluring – and anything, from table-tops to kitchen counters, lamps and cruets, can be produced to your own dimensions and design. Mediterranean Ceramics have crafted this bespoke tradition into a true art. Visit the Ta’ Qali Crafts Village shop, or the shop at the Valletta Waterfront.

Have part of Malta right at home – worldwide delivery is easily available to add a dash of affordable art to your surroundings.

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

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

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interview

Passion and Beauty

We caught up with Fawaz Gruosi, founder and creative force behind the world-renowned de Grisogono jewellery in this exclusive interview for il-Bizzilla magazine.

1. Could you give us a brief overview of the world of de Grisogono?

The world of de Grisogono is unique. Glamour, craftsmanship and creativity are just some of the attributes that define my brand, not forgetting the independency that allows us to create almost anything we want.

2. What do you feel sets your jewellery and timepieces apart?

The design is daring, the stones are matched with colours that set us apart. Important volumes, flowing and sensual shapes, a sense of movement and great intricacy are also unique aesthetic constants of our daring jewellery and timepieces.

3. Could you tell us more about the importance of black diamonds to the de Grisogono brand?

I was actually reading a book in 1996 when I discovered this famous black diamond called 'Black Orlov' of 190 carats. I fell under its spell and, at that time, it was not used due to its opacity, which was difficult to work with. Natural black diamonds are very rare and precious, and I decided to dedicate one collection to its powerful and enigmatic colour. We became recognisable

also thanks to the use of black diamonds and for being one of the first brands to use it.

4. How would you describe de Grisogono in three words?

Glamourous, daring and resolutely independent.

5. What are your main sources of influence when it comes to design and inspiration?

My perpetually active mind revels in sorting, shaping, organising images, words, people I meet, things I read to sketch out ideas that morph into creative impulses. I work with people I trust and who have been by my side for one or two decades, who have come to grips with the way I work and who, admirably, transpose what I envision and what I want.

6. What would you consider your largest accomplishments over the past five years?

I would say that the largest accomplishment over the past five years is to have a good balance between jewellery and watches.

7. What are we to expect from de Grisogono in the upcoming season?

Expect the unexpected.

de Grisogono jewellery is represented exclusively by Gioielleria Zampa, Valletta.

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Myths and Legends For those of you out there who take pleasure finding out all about the dark and mysterious happenings that existed in days gone by, then please be my guest and carry on reading...

WORDS BY Ricky Vella

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alta and Gozo, without a doubt, have more than their fair share of myths and legends and will certainly satisfy those who enjoy reading about such topics. As soon as you begin these tales you will soon notice that most of them involve fair maidens being rescued by chivalrous knights, love suicides, miracles and holy apparitions that involve promises of building chapels and churches for favours received.

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legends of malta

Għar Ħasan Let us start with Għar Ħasan, which takes us back to 1565 when, during the Great Siege of Malta, a Turk named Saracen Hasan kidnapped a local Maltese maiden and took her to a cave as his captive.

The locals searched high and low, and despite the fact that he hid in the dark hole, he was eventually discovered.

Hasan disliked the idea of falling into the hands of the angry mob and instead jumped off the cliff top... dragging the Maltese maiden to her death with him.

Photo credit: Kevin Grech

Calypso’s cave The island of Gozo was described as the island Ogygia in Homer’s well-known epic ‘The Odyssey.’ Legend tells us that a beautiful nymph named Calypso, captured Odysseus and held him captive on the island as her love object for seven years.

The nymph assured Odysseus that she would bestow on him the gift of eternal youth if he stayed with her.

Unfortunately he could not forget his wife, Penelope, and it was his longing for her that drove him to finally escape from Calypso’s embrace. Today, this cave can be seen atop the hill overlooking the splendid Ramla Bay. With its unique red sand, edging the blue of the Mediterranean waters, it is a sight well worth seeing.

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San Demetri’s Chapel This diminutive building perches on the edge of a peninsula in Għarb, close to a cliff known as Ras San Mitri (St Demetrius’ Cape) and, quite nearby, the Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse stands watch over the waters and rocky shore. This mysterious environment has several legends attached to it and below is one of my favourites...

Legend tells us that San Demetri took physical form and fought off Turkish Corsairs in answer to a woman’s prayer.

It all started like this...

One dark night, Barbary corsairs went into the home of Natalizja Cauchi and took her son Matthew into slavery.

Frantic with fear, the elderly woman rushed out weeping to St Demetrius’ Chapel begging the saint to return her son. She promised she would repay him by burning a lamp in his honour. It is believed that San Demetri actually stepped out of the painting cradling the boy in his arms, after which he then returned but left his ghostly horse’s hoof marks stamped into the rock.

And so it goes on to tell us that an earthquake caused the old chapel to fall into the sea, whole. Fishermen and sailors alike say that they can still see Natalijza’s lamp burning under the water! Other versions of this story are of sailors being dragged under the waves during the storm, only to find the old chapel at the bottom of the sea and a lamp burning within…

In 1935 a mosaic pavement was laid down and its walls were coated, also with mosaic in the 1950’s. Within the chapel there are paintings, representing St Paul, St Aristarchus (one of Paul’s companions in Malta), the Assumption and the Holy Face of Christ.

Kaw Kaw The Kaw Kaw bears several name variations such as Gaw Gaw or Babaw.

We were told that this creature appeared as a shadowy bogey man and he walked the streets only at night. He was able to smell a person’s guilt and enter their houses by lengthening his snake-like body through any sized gap or crevice that he stumbled on. Upon his entry his face would break into a sickly grin which was void of teeth and he would stare at his unfortunate, chosen victims.

As usual there are several versions of this tale and here is one in particular that I found interesting.

In Wardija, for instance, the Kaw Kaw would turn into a massive giant and, with just a few easy strides, was able to cross the island. He was also good at smelling out guilty humans – but his favourite time was between Christmas and the first week in February. Added to this was a female equal of the Kaw Kaw and her name was l-Imlejka. Now

this one would appear as an elderly lady to do her evil work, and so the locals placed flowers on their windowsills during the New Year in the hope that they would keep her far away. Whatever version our ancestors chose to tell us – it always guaranteed the hairs at the back of our necks would stand on end!

Funny thing was though... We always enjoyed hearing them.

There are many more eerie, creepy stories waiting to be told and I doubt very much whether I have managed to discover half of them – but I can assure you I am doing my utmost to unearth more and look forward to sharing them with you once again.

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CITIZENSHIP

The Individual Investor Programme of the Republic of Malta Henley & Partners was awarded a Public Services Concession by competitive tender with regard to the design, implementation and international promotion of the Malta Individual Investor Programme (IIP).

application procedure including detailed due diligence and background verification checks, the applicants and their families are granted full citizenship. To qualify for citizenship, the main applicant must be at least 18 years of age, meet all of the application conditions, make a nonrefundable contribution to the National Development and Social Fund, and meet certain other requirements.

The contribution amount is required to be paid by the main applicant in the sum of €650,000, with additional contributions required from the spouse and for each child under the age of 18. An application may include children between the ages of 18 and 26 years if they are financially dependent on the main applicant and are not married. In addition, parents over the age of 55 years may also be included in the application as dependants, if they are living with and are fully supported by the main applicant.

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he IIP is a modern citizenship-byinvestment programme aimed at ultra-high net worth individuals and families worldwide. It offers citizenship in an EU Member State that is stable, neutral and highly respected, with an efficient application process, and the world’s strictest due diligence standards and vetting of applicants, thus ensuring only highly respectable clients will be admitted.

Furthermore, the programme is capped and only 1,800 applications will be admitted.

The IIP has been introduced with the aim of complementing the existing talent pool in Malta by attracting intellectual and financial capital that will further support inward investment to Malta. It allows for the grant of citizenship to duly qualified,

reputable foreign individuals and families who make a significant contribution to the economic development of Malta.

The legal basis regarding citizenship-byinvestment is contained in Articles 10 (9) (b) and 24 (1) (i) of the Maltese Citizenship Act, Cap 188, and the Individual Investor Programme Regulations of the Republic of Malta, 2014. Furthermore, an agreement reached between the EU Commission and the Maltese Government on 29 January 2014 confers upon the IIP a unique legal status with explicit EU treaty protection acknowledged and approved by the EU Commission.

The IIP requires a person to make an economic contribution to the country.

In return, and subject to a very thorough

Due diligence fees are payable for all applicants, as well as fees to cover the passport application and bank charges.

Additionally, the following investment requirements and other obligations must be met: • Property – either the purchase of a residential property in Malta with a price of at least €350,000, which must be held for five years, or the lease of a residential property with a rental of at least €16,000 per annum, also held for five years • Investment – €150,000 in a prescribed investment, details of which are published from time to time by the Identity Malta Agency, which must be held for five years • Insurance – the holding of a valid global health insurance policy with medical expense cover • Residence – the applicant must have been legally resident in Malta for one year

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CITIZENSHIP

prior to issuance of certificate of naturalisation • Oath of Allegiance – all applicants aged 18 years and over are obliged to visit Malta in person to undertake the Oath of Allegiance.

All applicants must have a clean personal background and no criminal record.

A person who is deemed a potential national security risk, a reputational risk or is subject to criminal investigation, will also be denied citizenship. Malta has developed a four-tier due diligence system which is considered the most thorough in the world for this kind of programme. The names of successful applicants will be published annually, along with all other naturalisations granted by the Government.

Applications must be made on the prescribed forms and be accompanied by the appropriate fees and specific documents which, in addition to the usual personal documentation such as passport

copies, birth certificates etc., include a medical certificate confirming that the main applicant and any dependants are not suffering from any contagious disease and that they are otherwise in good health; and a police certificate confirming that the applicants have no criminal record. Highly detailed due diligence checks are carried out and an application will be declined if it turns out that it contains false information or omissions.

The Regulations stipulate that the process to achieve the issuance of a Certificate of Naturalisation under the IIP shall be a minimum of six months and a maximum of two years from the date of submission of the application. This includes the time taken to fulfil the property and investment requirements, as well as the one year residence requirement. Before the submission of an application to Government, all relevant information provided and the background of the applicant and any dependants are verified by one or several due diligence agents.

All required due diligence fees, passport

fees and bank charge fees as well as a non-refundable deposit of €10,000 against the Government contribution, must have been received, the source of all funds must have been verified and a risk weighting procedure carried out.

Within a four month period and subject to the application being approved in principle, the applicant is required to: • Remit the contribution (less the deposit already paid) • Demonstrate compliance with the property requirement • Show proof of residence for one year • Make the prescribed investment • Be in possession of a valid health insurance policy for the entire family with the requisite level of cover • Undertake the Oath of Allegiance in person in Malta, together with all dependants aged 18 years and above.

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

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HISTORY

Eminent visitors to Malta Marie BenoĂŽt gives a passing nod at some of the many distinguished visitors who came to Malta for a brief or long stay over the years.

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ir Walter Scott wrote “Malta is a place I have always longed to see,� shortly before he set out on his voyage through the Mediterranean in September 1831. He was most certainly not the only one who would have had such a wish. These islands have always given hospitality to distinguished men and women over the years. Malta is after all in the centre of the Mediterranean, 'the cradle of civilization'. What follows is but a taste of the numerous eminent and famous who came into contact with these islands and their affairs.

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HISTORY

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His aim was to give the Maltese equality with the French, Maltese majority in all government civil posts and secularism 01. Palazzo Parisio Lounge, Naxxar 02. Palazzo Parisio Ballroom, Naxxar 03. Mdina skyline; Photo Credit: Clive Vella

Let us start at random, with that brilliant and ambitious Corsican, Napoleon Bonaparte, who captured Malta on his way to Egypt. The strategic position of Malta has always been vital to communication. He arrived on Malta’s shores, on the Orient, on 9 June 1798 accompanied by some 49,600 troops.

Eyewitness accounts say that the fleet covered the sea with ‘wood and sails’ from Gozo to Marsaxlokk. Bonaparte stayed at Palazzo Parisio in Merchants Street, Valletta, now the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Grand Master at the time was Ferdinand von Hompesch who is said to have hardly put up any resistance. How could he in the face of such a massive invasion? How was he going to fight an avalanche of fire and steel led by the genius of Napoleon? Of the Grand Master’s 600 Knights, some 400 were French. The Order’s revenues had fallen and most of the knights had become impoverished as a result of the French Revolution.

As is well known, Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821) spent six days in Malta. He soon dismissed the Knights, changed the order of things, and freed the slaves.

His aim was to give the Maltese equality with the French, Maltese majority in all government civil posts and secularism.

These could have been the answer to what local literati and many city-dwellers – numbering thousands – were yearning for when facilitating the French Armée takeover. But destiny was not to be in the hands of this minority; instead, the countryside, the old aristocracy and a querulous, privileged class of Catholic clergy, preferred the security of protectionism and denied the Maltese a chance to put the development of selfsufficiency on a fast track. The eventful period of the rising of the peasants in 1798 against the French-installed government has produced a history narrative creating manipulated perceptions and interpretation perpetuated by the media to modern times.

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Bonaparte’s concept of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity did indeed produce a following at first but quickly led to a popular revolt by the Maltese against the French garrison left behind to administer the islands.

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The people of Malta felt liberated when, at great personal cost – some ten thousand men, and with the help of a British blockade at sea and the wheat supply sent by Queen Maria Carolina of the Two Sicilies, they earned their freedom through acts of valour and sacrifice. Napoleon was not able to retake the islands. His followers changed sides or went away and that was the end of his rule.

John Hookham Frere (1769-1846) did not merely visit Malta but lived here for many years until his death. He arrived with his wife, Elizabeth Jemima, Dowager Countess of Erroll, in April 1828. This distinguished English poet, diplomat, classical scholar was one of the most influential members of Malta’s 19th century intellectual scene. His career in the British Foreign Office took him to Portugal and Spain. It was in Spain that he advised Sir John Moore, the leader of the British army in there, to retreat in front of Napoleon’s army. Sir John followed his advice and was killed at the battle of La Corunna. The British reacted badly to this defeat and recalled John Hookham Frere. Thus his public career came to an end and he dedicated his time to literature and philology.

Why had he come to Malta? His wife had developed a serious bronchial illness in 1818 and the Freres moved to various places in southern Europe to try and improve her health. In 1821 they finally settled in Malta. They lived here until Frere’s death in 1846.

Frere was educated at Eton and Caius College, Cambridge. Besides his reputation as a writer of humorous poetry, he was especially known for his masterly translation of Aristophanes and of Spain’s national epic, El Cid. The Freres lived in Casa Correa, a grand palace in Old Bakery street in Valletta which was bombed in the war. But during the summer months, they rented two small houses on the Pietà seafront. He

01. San Anton Palace 02. Plaque

honouring Samuel Taylor Coleridge 03. St John's Co Cathedral

02

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HISTORY

later built a villa and a huge garden in the area which still exists in a dilapidated and diminished state.

In 1930, the magazine Country Life featured the garden. This was the only time the magazine featured anything in Malta and not even the splendid San Anton Palace and garden was so honoured. An association, Friends of Villa Frere, was recently created to help restore the building and garden.

During his years, in Malta Hookham Frere held various positions and interested himself in the Maltese language right from the beginning, and some say he spoke it fluently. His wife died in 1831. One of his appointments, in the same year, was that of President of the Permanent Committee of the Public Library. He was held in such high esteem that his bust stands at the entrance to Malta’s National Library in Treasury Street, Valletta.

John Hookham Frere was a philanthropist and offered financial help to Maltese intellectuals, and throughout his life he

helped the poor. His house in Pietà was a popular meeting place, not only for local intellectuals such as Mikiel Anton Vassalli but for visitors such as Sir Walter Scott and Gabriele Rossetti. He was also instrumental in helping poverty-stricken Maltese families emigrate to North Africa, Egypt and the Levant.

Sir Walter Scott was another visitor and came to Malta in November 1831. After his six days in quarantine, for cholera was raging in Europe at the time, he did some sightseeing together with his family. He said of the Conventual Church of St John that it was “the most magnificent place I ever saw in my life.”

Many other visitors from Britain have come and gone. One of them being Horatio Lord Nelson (1758-1805) the Royal Navy’s greatest romantic figure. He was the hero of the marine blockade which freed Malta from Napoleon. He developed a romantic interest in, Lady Emma Hamilton who visited Malta with her husband Lord Hamilton, at the time British ambassador to the Court of Naples. Lady Nelson was safely at home in Britain. And so the story of this love affair developed. From a parttime street walker to an ambassador’s wife, Lady Hamilton also became the mistress of Lord Nelson. After the death of Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar, Lady Hamilton lost everything including her income, and died destitute in Calais. She was buried in a pauper’s grave.

Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834), friend of the poets Robert Southey and William Wordsworth, came to Malta in the spring of 1804. Coleridge was eventually given work as Under Secretary to Sir Alexander Ball. A plaque was recently placed outside the Casino Maltese by Judge Giovanni Bonello, for it is in a small room in the garret of that building that the poet spent his time learning Italian and writing his journal.

Probably the most famous Italian who visited these islands is Giuseppe Garibaldi (1807-82). Hero of the Italian Risorgimento, Garibaldi stopped in Malta in March 1864 on his way to England.

Malta had given hospitality to many Italians who took refuge here because

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eminent visitors

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Images: Top view of Valletta Photos by Kurt Arrigo

of the turmoil in Italy. The Italians who fled Italy felt at home in Malta because Italian was widely spoken, they shared the Catholic religion with the Maltese, and because the two countries are neighbours. Members of the cultured Italian classes came between 1820 and 1839. The island played host to Italians of all social classes but also those whose names were tied to the Risorgimento, like Ruggiero Settimo, Francesco Crispi, Nicola Fabrizi and Francisco de Santis. Although he had a mixed reception, many wanted to meet Garibaldi and stood in front of the Imperial Hotel in Valletta, where he was staying with his two sons Menotti and Ricciotti, and a small party. The waiting crowd was hoping to get a glimpse of the Italian hero and patriot.

The Maltese paper L’Ordine wrote: “One man kissed Garibaldi's hand, a second embraced his knees, a third his foot, others embraced and strained him to their bosoms with both arms, others again threw themselves on their knees, some fairly performing a somersault of delight, and others recited in stilted periods a discourse studied and learned by heart.”

The Italian hero was aware of the important role which Malta had played in the history of the Unification of Italy and responded to the affection showered upon him by the Maltese population with the words: “Amore con amor si paga…”

Malta is in the heart of the Mediterranean so inevitably, it has never been isolated. People of different persuasions, came and went since time immemorial. Some lived here for years, others stopped for a few days or less, sometimes as part of that educational rite of passage, the Grand Tour. One can say with confidence that all were made welcome.

Main source: Encounters with Malta. Edited by Petra Bianchi and Peter Serracino Inglott. Sponsored by Vodafone Malta Ltd. 2000 AD.

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The golden mile

The Golden Strip: Sliema promenade Malta, with its balmy climate refreshed by the invigorating sea air, is ideal for taking leisurely walks, which are not only healthy but also enjoyable. One very popular walk is along the Sliema St Julian’s promenade, with its expansive sea views of the Mediterranean – ‘the sea of civilization and all history’.

WORDS BY Marie Benoît

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here people simply hang around leisurely discussing life’s rich pattern or watching one another while getting a breath of Maltese air perhaps while eating an ice cream. Noisy, elated, energetic, some of the young men are determined not to let a single miniskirt go unnoticed. The young may be in search of a new love or a true love. And there is a senior citizen, either local of visiting, on every other bench. Some are gliding elegantly over the surface of life and walk from one end of the long promenade to another, from Tigné to St Julian’s and perhaps back as well, particularly in the summer months. Children bring out their toys and walk with their families and, sometimes, their dog. On parts of the jetty you will see everhopeful men and young boys fishing for hours on end.

Keep-fit aficionados jog along and, at the right hour, you will also find men and women looking like six volumes of Dostoevsky hoping to lose weight. There is the odd cyclist in tight lycra doing a triumphal tour of Europe, or maybe the world, getting admiring glances

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The golden mile

It is impossible not to be fascinated by this Mediterranean show. You are immersed in humanity, in a feast of vitality and colour, and this scene of movement also has its moments of calm and meditation at certain times of day.

Everything ceases in the early hours of the morning as the curtain falls, only to be drawn gently open the following day. as she cycles by. Pets are displayed and lovers are uninhibited.

In the summer months, it is the feast of Stella Maris, St Gregory, St Julian’s or a saint to whom one of the churches in the area is dedicated. Maybe it is the feast day of some saint who was instrumental in checking the cholera epidemic 300 years ago or delivered us from the clutches of the Infidel, and we do not know how soon we might need his services again. So we celebrate these feast days with panache as an act of thanksgiving and to stay in the saint's good books.

There’s plenty of sunshine especially in the summer months, which may well last until November. The rocky beach below the promenade is ideal for sun-seekers and fun-seekers alike. It provides an

ever-changing spectacle from the railings above, and the antics of human nature are an absorbing distraction.

As you walk, a prominent landmark is the fort constructed by the British in 1876.

Another is the tower which was erected

by French Grand Master De Redin in 1658.

It is one of 14 such watch towers. This dominates the promenade as it stabs the sky. In summer it is a popular rendezvous and refreshments are served al fresco.

Sliema’s buildings, along the promenade and inland, reflect its contrasting fortunes. Many of them were rebuilt stone by stone after they were bombed during the war. But the plague of development has ensured that the attractive houses built in the 19th century were turned into not-so-attractive apartment blocks.

As you walk towards Paceville you will come across the picturesque St Julian’s Bay with that important landmark, the neo-gothic church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Then comes the imposing Balluta Buildings and the little square where one may rest or take a snack in one of several eateries there. A recent addition has been a French pastry shop which became popular overnight. Further along is Spinola Bay where you must not miss the elegant Spinola Palace which you can see through a gate once you get past the chapel on the left. This was built in 1688 by Fra Paolo Rafel Spinola, Grand Prior of Lombardy, on land acquired by his brother. The Palace and its gardens were the venue for cultural and traditional activities in their time.

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The golden mile

During the French occupation of these islands in 1798, St Julian’s was the first town in Malta to be conquered by French troops. In fact it was General Claude Henry Vaubois who led the French forces into Spinola bay and French troops were stationed in the Palace which was damaged and then restored in 1826 when the property was passed on to the Church. During the First World War (1914-1918) the Palace was used as a military hospital. It’s original extensive gardens are no more. One can imagine that it must have been a splendid sight when you looked at it from below, surrounded by gardens and unspoilt by buildings. Once you get to it you will find that it has lost none of its elegance, especially when floodlit in the evening.

Spinola Bay, with its restaurants and pizzerie, vibrates with life and, in the evening, its arches with their necklaces of golden lights are reflected in the bay below with its bobbing boats.

There are kiosks dotted along the promenade and plenty of shops, mostly on the opposite side. Fashion shops and supermarkets, gift shops, cake shops and souvenir shops. There are also hotels and bars, cafés, restaurants, pizzerie. And icecream galore.

In the other direction the brave can go on walking beyond Tigné past Manoel Island and slowly to Ta’ Xbiex and towards the Yacht Marina, which is an interesting world of its own.

Image taken from viewingmalta

The long two mile promenade with its actors and actresses is a microcosm of the Mediterranean personality.

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

Restaurant GUIDE bugibba Granny’s Fusion Triq il-Korp tal-Pijunieri, Bugibba T: 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. 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.

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

de Mondion Restaurant The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina T: 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.

Palazzo De Piro – Xpresso Café & Bistro Palazzo de Piro, 3 Triq is-Sur, Mdina, MDN 1131 T: 2010 0560 E: events@palazzodepiro.com W: www.palazzodepiro.com Set within the magnificent 18th century Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, located in Malta’s Silent City, Mdina, Xpresso Café and Bistro is an elegant spot for casual dining, snacks, coffee, afternoon tea or simply a get-together with friends. The talented Brigade of Chefs makes use of the fresh produce from nearby valleys and slopes when producing their seasonal menus. Through close co-operation with local growers and producers, Xpresso Café and Bistro seeks to showcase the freshest and best the region has to offer through a menu of healthy dishes. With magnificent views of the 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.

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

Trattoria AD 1530 Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina, MDN 10150 T: 2145 6460 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.

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

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

SLIEMA Ta’ Kolina 151, Tower Road, Sliema T: 2133 5106 M: 9942 4877 E: takolina@gmail.com Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been opened since 1974. Ta’ Kolina is a typical Maltese restaurant with its traditional Maltese limestone interior and décor. A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of five local starters; five main courses; dessert & coffee for €20. There's a unique à la carte menu with some 20 starters from €4.50 to €7.50, and 20 main courses from €11 to €24 to choose from. Ta’ Kolina offer a variety of fresh fish, rabbit, steak and many more traditional dishes. A wide selection of the best Maltese wines are available ranging from €6.50 to €25 per bottle. All in all this restaurant provides its guests with the true taste of Maltese cuisine at a reasonable price.

Ta’ Kris Restaurant & Maltese Bistro 80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema T: 2133 7367 M: 9984 7713 Tucked away on a quiet, narrow street of Sliema, Ta’ Kris is the perfect location for a tranquil evening in a warm atmosphere.

Specialising in Maltese dishes, Ta’ Kris offers genuine food at very reasonable prices. The menu boasts a variety of meat dishes including rabbit, pork, chicken, veal and beef, as well as authentic Maltese dishes, such as 'bragioli’ (thin slices of beef rolled and stuffed with minced pork, ham and seasoning, seared in a tomato and wine sauce). Sea bass stuffed with a tuna risotto, covered in Maltese caper sauce, is yet another delicious item which Chef Kris graces his patrons with. With excellent service, dish selection and atmosphere, Ta’ Kris Restaurant & Maltese Bistro offers a unique culinary experience.

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

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

Electro Lobster Project 32, Main Street, Balluta Buildings, St Julian's T: 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. As their name would suggest, lobster is the specialty. The rest of the menu is classic Sicilian, with lots of fresh fish and quality meats. They also offer a full vegetarian and vegan menu. Bar snacks, fresh smoothies, specialty coffees, daily changing desserts and their bespoke cocktails, prepared with their in-house infused spirits, top off the list of delights they offer. Their products are locally sourced and organic where possible. All this, plus a dedicated, passionate and experienced kitchen and waiting staff, will make your dining experience at ELP a memorable one.

Paranga St. George’s Bay, St Julian's T: 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. For reservations please call or email.

The Avenue The Avenue, Gort Street, Paceville, St Julian's T: 2135 1753 / 2137 8731 W: www.theavenuemalta.com This award-winning restaurant has been a household name for over a decade and remains a regular favourite. Its versatile menu, friendly service and well-pitched prices all contribute to The Avenue’s strong appeal. Best known for pizza, 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: 2138 7600 E: info@zestflavours.com W: www.zestflavours.com Zest... where east meets west in both dining and décor. The chic restaurant is a point of encounter between Continental and Asian cuisine in a contemporary ambiance, oozing relaxed elegance. The menu boasts a selection of dishes from Thai curries, Indonesian noodles, Singaporean seafood laksas and continental pan-fried lamb to Japanese teppanyaki. Attractive features include an open wine cellar and a sushi bar on the restaurant floor, where patrons can sit around the chef and enjoy the art of Japanese sushi preparation. Located on the first floor of the Hotel Juliani, using this transformed town house’s original entrance and external staircase, the restaurant enjoys the added bonus of an open-air, terrace bar, overlooking romantic Spinola Bay, which is ideal for pre-dinner drinks.

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

TA' XBIEX The Galley Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, XBX 1028 Ta’ Xbiex T: 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.

GOZO Arzella Il-Menqa, Marsalforn T: 2155 4662 M: 7940 9924 E: bookings@ristorantearzella.com TASTE - A culinary fusion of Malta’s history.

FEEL - The warmth of an island and its people.

BREATHE - A pure sea breeze from the blue depths of the Mediterranean.

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

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.

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

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AIR MALTA NEWS

EVENTS & NEWS about malta's national airline

More Choice to Air Malta’s Customers - New Product Range Launched Air Malta has upgraded its range of products in both its economy and business classes as part of a 'We Care More' initiative. Through this change, which will give more choice to customers, the airline is moving forward to meet the needs of contemporary travellers.

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he new product range has been upgraded following the feedback and comments received from customers.

Commenting on these changes, Chief Executive Philip Micallef said: “This is an important development and a significant milestone for Air Malta.

We have made many product changes to offer customers more choice and flexibility. Our passengers will be able to get what they pay for at the price they choose. Air Malta understands that customers look for peace of mind when flying, and do not want to be worried and ripped off with luggage charges or other extra fees.”

“We have lowered all our fares on all routes for travel as from 1st September offering savings of up to €54 when compared to currently available round trip fares. We have also re-introduced child and infant discounts, changed from a baggage weight concept to the piece concept, and increased luggage weight allowances. What’s important is that our basic fare still includes a piece of 20kg luggage allowance and a small snack, in contrast with what most carriers offer,” added Mr Micallef.

The Economy Class has been split in to three tiers; Simply Fly, Best Value and Spoil Yourself. Business Class has another three

product categories that customers can now choose from; Business Basic, Business Value, and Business Anytime. Each category offers customers various benefits.

Depending on their requirements clients can opt to select their seats at the time of booking, have extra luggage allowances and flexibility in changing dates of travel among other options.

Changes were also made so that Air Malta’s website will be the most attractive channel in terms of pricing.

The airline has also started introducing a number of ancillary services on board in order to improve the customer experience and satisfaction, and increase ancillary revenues.

Other service improvements are in the pipeline including a mobile device booking option, a more responsive website and a one-month fare calendar that will offer more transparency to customers whilst booking on www.airmalta.com.

Watch a video overview of the new product changes here: www.airmalta.com/we-care-more

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A visit to Teatru Manoel is a must Teatru Manoel is Malta’s national theatre and a unique architectural and historical jewel. It is a Grade 1 listed building and one of the finest examples of baroque architecture; a magnificent building existing humbly in the very centre of Valletta, Malta’s Capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the oldest working theatres in the world.

AIR MALTA NEWS

Located on Old Theatre Street (Triq itTeatru L-Antik), just down the road from Pjazza San Gorg where the President’s Palace is situated, the theatre was built in 1731 by António Manoel de Vilhena Grand Master of the Knights of Malta.

He commissioned and personally funded the construction of this central building to keep the young knights of the Order of St John out of mischief but also to provide the general public with 'honest entertainment'. This motto, 'ad honestam populi oblectationem', is inscribed above the main entrance to the theatre.

Teatru Manoel was originally known as Teatro Pubblico. Under British rule it became the Theatre Royal, a title it lost in 1866 to its new rival, the much larger Royal Opera House, which was heavily damaged in World War II. The ruins of this Opera House have now been turned into an open air theatre as part of Renzo Piano’s Parliament project at the entrance of Valletta. In 2014 CNN named Teatru Manoel as one of the top 15 spectacular theatres in the world.

A working theatre As Malta’s national theatre, the Manoel, as it is affectionately referred to by locals, is one of the main contributors to the

development of the local cultural scene. It is committed to the presentation of quality artistic productions, to the creation of new audiences for the performing arts and to providing a principal platform for local and international artists.

October marks the start of the performance season at Teatru Manoel.

For the next nine months Malta’s national theatre becomes a hive of activity. The eclectic programme of over 100 different events includes two operas: 'Dido and Aeneas' in October and 'Orphée et Eurydice' in March, the fourth edition of the Valletta International Baroque Festival in January, six concerts by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, nine Wednesday recitals with top musicians from around the world, plays and comedies in both English and Maltese, contemporary dance and music productions, and the Toi Toi Education Programme, which includes events and concerts devised specifically for toddlers and children, as well as youth theatre and opera groups.

Tours of the Theatre The theatre is open for tours all year round from Monday to Friday (9.30am to 4pm) and Saturday (9.30am to 1pm) and includes an audio guide in different languages.

For more information: www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

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AIR MALTA NEWS

Air Malta fleet renewal plan will save €8.2 million every year while still carrying same number of passengers

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his emerges from workings that were presented to the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) by Air Malta, which showed how its fleet renewal plan will save the airline €8.2 million per year while flying the same number of passengers.

Air Malta’s fleet renewal plan will save the airline €41 million over the next five years.

“Airplane utilisation is a key performance indicator in the industry.

Since airplanes are expensive to lease, the more they are used, the higher the return. It does not make sense to leave such expensive assets idle in winter for more than half of the time,” said Chief Executive Officer Philip Micallef.

“An annual saving of €8.2 million is the single most significant change that could help the airline break even. Many contracts have already been renegotiated, making this a key step of this important process,” he said.

Air Malta’s competitors excel in fleet utilisation, with EasyJet and Ryanair flying each of their aircrafts between 15 and 16 hours at peak, when compared to Air Malta, which flies its aircraft for only 12 hours per day at peak in August.

Air Malta’s new plan is to raise peak flight utilisation to 14 hours per day per aircraft, while continuing to fly the same number of passengers, and potentially even more. This does not jeopardise the summer’s peak traffic because additional aircraft can be leased for a month in August if the normal fleet does not cope with the added capacity.

“Today we have a fleet that caters generously for the summer period but we are losing all our profits in winter when we do not need such a large fleet.

We urgently need to change the model and create an optimal fleet that covers most of the year, with potential to add capacity as necessary. This will save money without negatively impacting any other aspects of the operation, except that everyone at Air Malta has to work more efficiently,” said Chief Financial Officer Klaus Gossler.

“If we do not implement this change as soon as possible, Air Malta will not break even and make the desired turnaround expected so eagerly by the Maltese,” he added.

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AIR MALTA NEWS

Air Malta Adds More Choice to Inflight Menu Air Malta recently launched a Sky Bar Menu with a revised selection of the Buy on Board product range. These items are offered to customers in addition to the free water and snack that are served on all Air Malta flights.

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ew quality brands have been introduced in order to offer a wide variety and better choice of products including an assortment of teas, sweets, and also a few hot food options. Other items, including Air Malta merchandise, can also be purchased.

The Sky Bar Menu will be reviewed and changed every season. This will give the airline the opportunity to listen to customers’ feedback and include, replace and introduce new items according to clients' preferences.

“This initiative is part of a series of projects the airline will be launching in the coming weeks. It is aimed at putting customers at the heart of everything we do. We are reviewing and enhancing the customer journey at every possible moment. Air Malta understands that customers want choice and flexibility, and the new menu is just one step in that direction,” commented Ursula Silling, Air Malta’s Chief Commercial Officer.

Have a look at the new inflight menu in your seat pocket

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INTERVIEW

il-bizzilla talks to Shirley Jobson Cabin CREW

How long have you been working with Air Malta?

I joined Air Malta as cabin crew back in 1994, making this year my 21st of many memorable years of flying. Some people like to change careers every so often, but I have always been satisfied with being a flight attendant and never found the need or desire to do anything else.

I love flying and even though this is no 9-to-5 job, the lack of routine is exactly what I like about it. Furthermore, I get to meet people from all over the world, and I take great pride in ensuring that their journey is as comfortable and as safe as possible.

What three words describe your job best?

Interactive, diverse and rewarding.

What is the biggest challenge when working with Air Malta?

On every flight, I form part of a team responsible for the safety and wellbeing of our passengers and I love the challenge of solving any problems that may arise at 35,000 feet, where resources are limited and space is not an option. Most of the time, an onboard complaint relating to inflight service or passenger interactions, is resolved quite swiftly. We also face huge responsibilities when we have a serious inflight-medical emergency.

Nevertheless, I feel that the biggest challenge nowadays is helping passengers realise that all safety

procedures on board an aircraft are vital and necessary. In the past, air travel was not that popular, but nowadays, people travel more frequently, and flying has become as normal as taking the bus. As cabin crew, we are trained to follow all safety procedures down to the letter, to prevent any of these abnormal situations from occurring or escalating.

Do you have any hobbies?

I enjoy reading, mostly fiction, and I also love writing short stories. Being huge fans of nature, my husband and I, together with our dog, go camping quite frequently. And of course, I love travelling in my time off, and have visited many countries, although there are still many more that I need to tick off my list.

Which is your favourite destination and why?

I always find it difficult to pick one destination as a favourite, so I'm going to list a few: India, for its colours, its diversity and for the locals, who were always so happy and generous, even with the little they had; Tanzania, for the amazing safari we went on and its island of Zanzibar, for the beautiful beaches and simple life; Iceland, for its stark beauty and wild landscapes; Mexico, for its distinctive character and fun-filled beach life; and various places in Europe, for shopping, nightlife and culture.

Where are your favourite spots in Malta? Do you have any tips for anyone visiting our Islands?

Malta will always be special for me, above all other places in the world, not only because I was born and grew up here, but also for the laid back island life, the warm climate and the sea, which can be reached from any location within minutes.

My favourite beach is Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, more affectionately known as Riviera Beach by us locals. It is one of the few relatively untouched beaches, surrounded by clay cliffs, and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. I encourage you to brave the numerous steps or the winding cliff path down to the sand... you will not regret it!

Also, if you are a culture lover, a definite must is a visit to Valletta, our capital city; Mdina, the old capital; the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua); and the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, as well as a trip to our ancient temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra in Qrendi, and the majestic Ggantija temples in Gozo – the oldest free-standing temples in the world.

And who would want to miss swimming in the crystal blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, located on our smaller sister island of Comino? One other thing to keep in mind is that the Maltese love to sit outside and chat on warm balmy evenings especially those living in small villages. So if you want to capture the real heart of Maltese life, grab a few local beers and pastizzi, find a spot on a bench by the sea and just sit there enjoying the world as it goes by.

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AIR MALTA NEWS

Big Names Visiting Malta Leaders of countries from every continent are heading to Malta. 52 heads of government will join the Prime Minister of Malta, Dr Joseph Muscat, for a Commonwealth summit. They’ll come from the Pacific, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas.

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he Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (CHOGM) takes place every two years. Usually the Queen opens the event. Last time Prince Charles did the duty. For CHOGM 2015 (27-29 November) both the Queen and the Prince will attend.

Four forums take place at the same time, giving a voice to the peoples of the Commonwealth.

CHOGM not only brings leaders together. Four forums take place at the same time, giving a voice to the peoples of the Commonwealth.

CHOGM PEOPLE’S FORUM The People’s Forum is a platform for civil society, bringing together organisations from across the Commonwealth. High on its agenda is Resilience – how should societies protect themselves from climate change, financial crises, intense storms, epidemic diseases and other threats? The Forum will draw on work carried out in Malta on resilience and vulnerability. Participants will hear a lively line-up of views, including those of the environmentalist and crusader against globalisation, Vandana Shiva.

More details about the forums, and accreditation, can be found at chogm2015.mt 01

02 03

CHOGM BUSINESS FORUM A galaxy of speakers is lined up for the Business Forum, including the Nigerian business tycoon, Folorunsho Alakija, and the Chairman of Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, Gordon Stewart.

The Forum will explore how Governments and the private sector can work together to create prosperity and sustainable economic development for all member countries. It’s also a networking opportunity like no other, a place for entrepreneurs and decision makers to share ideas.

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AIR MALTA NEWS

04

CHOGM WOMEN’S FORUM

CHOGM YOUTH FORUM

The Women’s Forum is a first for the Malta CHOGM. It will celebrate the achievements of woman and their potential under the slogan: 'Women Ahead: Be All That You Can Be'. A wide variety of topics will be covered from leadership to social development, with participants able to contribute too in a series of workshops. Thought provoking speakers include the Assistant General Secretary of the United Nations responsible for gender equality, Lakshmi Puri.

The participants will have to earn their keep while in Malta. They’ll devote half a day to community work, whether taking part in clean-ups or helping at an animal sanctuary.

400 young people from across the Commonwealth, many already making a mark in their chosen fields, will be in Malta to make their voices heard. Young people themselves set the agenda. But they’re not acting in a vacuum; the aim is to get their views on the leaders’ agenda.

05

01.

02.

03.

04.

05.

Folorunso Alakija Gordon Stweart Vandana Shiva Mrs Puri (left) Youth Forum

Air Malta is the official carrier for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

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

AIRBUS 319 Qty: 4 in fleet Number of seats: 141

Carry 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.

Engines: 2 CFM56-5B6/P Maximum take-off weight: 73.5 metric tons Overall length: 33.84m Wingspan: 34.1m Cruising speed: 834 kph

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.

Range: 4,815 km 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.

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 can’t get anywhere else!

Email groups@airmalta.com for more information.

AIRBUS 320 Qty: 6 in fleet Number of seats: 168/180

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 two hours before your flight. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/check-in for more information.

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

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

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destination information

finland SWEDEN

RUSSIA

NORWAY • OSLO

ARLANDA STOCKHOLM

ESTONIA

LATVIA

• Glasgow

DENMARK

• Newcastle

REP. OF IRELAND

• COPENHAGEN

UNITED KINGDOM

LITHUANIA

• Moscow Domodedovo

• Manchester

BELARUS

• BREMEN • Hamburg • Birmingham • Berlin Cardiff • • Bristol • Norwich • Amsterdam London Heathrow • • HANNOVER HOLLAND • London Gatwick Exeter• GERMANY • Brussels BELGIUM • Düsseldorf • DRESDEN • Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly •

• Frankfurt

POLAND UKRAINE

• Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC

• Munich

FRANCE

• WARSAW

SLOVAKIA

• Vienna

MOLDOVA

• Budapest

AUSTRIA

• Zurich

HUNGARY

SWITZERLAND

• Geneva • Lyon Linate Milan •

ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA • Venice

• Marseille

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

SERBIA • SOFIA

MONTENEGRO

ITALY SPAIN

• OTOPANI

BULGARIA • ISTANBUL

F.Y.O.M.

• Rome • OLBIA

TURKEY

ALBANIA GREECE • Athens

SICILY • Catania

• Algiers

TUNISIA

LARNACA •

CYPRUS

Malta • Djerba

ALGERIA

LIBYA

EGYPT

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destination information

IRAN

Air Malta direct flights airport Algiers Amsterdam Athens Berlin Birmingham Bristol Brussels Budapest Cardiff Catania Djerba Düsseldorf Exeter Frankfurt Geneva Glasgow Hamburg

• ABU DHABI

OMAN

SAUDI ARABIA

• BRISBANE

australia

Weekly Flights 3 7 2 3 2 1 7 2 1 13 3 6 1 7 2 1 2

airport

Weekly Flights

London Gatwick London Heathrow Lyon Manchester Marseille Milan Linate Moscow Domodedovo Munich Newcastle Norwich Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly Prague Rome Venice Vienna Zurich

7 15 2 4 2 7 6 8 1 1 7 9 2 10 3 7 7

Code-shared RouteS

• SYDNEY

Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney

• MELBOURNE

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

Lufthansa Arlanda via Munich Berlin via Munich Bremen via Munich and Frankfurt Catania via Munich Dresden via Munich and Frankfurt Düsseldorf via Munich Frankfurt Hannover via Munich and Frankfurt Munich New York (Newark) via Munich Oslo via Munich Stockholm via Munich

• PERTH

australia

Emirates Larnaca

Meridiana Olbia

via Rome

Austrian Airlines Jersey City

Newark

NEWARK •

New York

Budapest Otopani Prague Sofia Warsaw

via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna

brussels AIRLINES Brussels Brussels Copenhagen

SWISS Zurich Staten Island

Turkish AIRLINES Istanbul

via Catania via Brussels

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Electronic device information

Use of Portable Electronic Devices on board Tra nsmit t ing Porta ble Electronic Dev ices (PEDs)

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

Laptops 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.

A r e ther e t imes w hen I c a nnot use m y elect ronic de vices?

Ca 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 infor m 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

Ha nd Held PEDs

(e.g. smart phones and tablets)

Larger PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HE A DPHONES

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

YES

YES

YES

YES

(when instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

YES

YES

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

no

YES

no

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

no

no

no

Take-Off

YES

no

YES

no

Cruise

YES

YES

YES

no

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

no

YES

no

Landing

YES

no

YES

no

Taxi to Stand

YES

no

YES

YES

Extended Ground Delay

Circa 10 minutes to landing

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

Gozo,

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simplicity is the luxury

www.visitgozo.com

Operational ProgrammeProgramme I – EU Cohesion Policy Rural Development for Malta 2007 2007-2013 - 2013 Investing forofaLife Better Quality Axisin3 Competitiveness - Improving the Quality in Rural Areas of Life Project Part-financed by by the Union Project Part-financed theEuropean European Union The European Agricultural Fund for RuralFund Development European Regional Development (ERDF) Co-financing Rate: 75% European Union, in 25% Government Investing your future of Malta Europe Investing in Rural Areas

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