“Il-Bizzilla” - Air Malta’s In-Flight Magazine - August 2018

# 6 8 AU G U S T 201 8

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

Ġ I G Ġ I F O G U p. 18 Street fireworks at their best. Here’s what to look out for.

TA LK O F THE TOWN p. 58 This month, it’s St Julian’s - the city that never sleeps.

CASINO MALTA ACQUIRES BATTLE OF MALTA NEW ADDITION WILL GUARANTEE A €1,000,000 PRIZE POOL

Casino Malta, the country’s newest and largest Casino, recently announced that it has acquired the rights related to the famed Poker Tournament “Battle of Malta”.

This tournament was started in 2010 and has grown in participants from year to year culminating in over 2,000 entries in the 2017 edition.

The 2018 edition of the tournament will be held between 25th to 30th October 2018, with a guaranteed prize fund of €1,000,000 and a buy in of €550.

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EXCLUSIVE Detached Villa, Attard

Price on Request

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MLS ID: 201040 | +356 9910 8074

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

Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated.

EXCLUSIVE Marina Apartment, Portomaso

LIVE MARINE

39

#68 AUG UST 2018

CONTENTS

65

14 . M A LTA & G O Z O I N N U M B E R S

Facts and figures about the Maltese Islands.

1 8 . Ġ I G Ġ I F O Ġ U

Street fireworks at their best. Here’s what to look out for.

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

Here's all you need to know about extraction and immediate implant replacement.

2 9. R A N G E R R AY

I had a dream… where Maltese and the environment would walk hand-in-hand.

32 . W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G I N M A LTA A collection of events to keep you occupied this month.

39. O N S TA ND BY, B E NE ATH THE SUM ME R SU N Cue the slow-mo running… this is Malta’s Baywatch.

4 4 . A I R M A LTA T R AV E L F E AT U R E

Take a trip to Ukraine's capital.

48. HIS LIFE IN ART

A picture speaks a thousand words… but what about a thousand pictures?

52 . T H E L O W E R B A R A K K A

A neglected spot with stunning views.

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

9 0 . L- I K L A T-TA J B A

This month, it’s St Julian’s - the city that never sleeps.

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

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

65. S T JULIAN ’ S

A bustling seaside area with a quirky tradition.

73. ABOUT TIME

Tick, tick, tick, tock - the watches worth watching.

8 0 . T H E A N T I P O R TA

9 4 . R E S TAU R A N T & B A R G U I D E

Thinking about your next meal? Here are this month’s top picks.

10 0 . A I R M A LTA N E W S

A round-up of this month’s news.

10 8 . F L I G H T A N D C O M PA N Y I N F O R M AT I O N

All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

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

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

It’s time to spill your guts.

8 8 . T O WA L K T H E L I N E

How did the fenkata and ftira find their way into our Mediterranean diet?

110 . D E S T I N AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

Well, come on in, be my guest.

8 4 . TA X I C O N F E S S I O N S

All the information you need with regards to phone, laptop and tablet usage on-board.

This often ends with a dip in the big soup.

find the knight win a flight

&

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

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

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

Closing date is the last day of the month.

SALES LETTING COMMERCIAL Malta’s leading estate agency. Renowned for a bespoke and residential and commercial sales ond lettings, including relocation advice, property management and home interiors consultancy.

Contact us today to find out more.

Local. Experienced. Personal. Frank.

XAGHRA, GOZO Ref. 110924 | €520,000

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MELLIEHA Ref. 507284 | €290,000

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Gozo Branch - t 2210 2000 | m 9943 7257

Mellieha Branch - t 2289 8000 | m 9976 7189

A very spacious, double-fronted, traditional, rustic looking HOUSE OF CHARto move in. Accommodation comprises a very pretty entrance hall, bedroom and bathroom at ground floor, large lounge, kitchen and dining area - both opening onto a back yard with a large pool and patio area, 3 double bedrooms (all en suite), main bathroom with walk-in wardrobe on the first floor and another bedroom and bathroom with roof terraces at the front and back; garage.

Highly recommended for viewing. SOLE AGENCY.

Furnished APARTMENT with half ownership of roof, (approximately 160sqm) in a small block of two. Entrance opens into a combined kitchen, living and dining area overlooking a balcony enjoying distant sea views, guest bathroom, two main bedrooms (both with an en-suite shower) and a spare bedroom. Additionally, property comes with a kitchenette and a laundry area at roof level overlooking a roof garden enjoying fantastic, distant sea views. This property boasts well-lit rooms and is situated in a quiet residential area. Served with lift. Freehold.

SOLE AGENCY.

QORMI

MARSASCALA

Ref. 318093 | €985,000

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Ref. 214331 | €410,000

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Fgura Branch - t 2367 3000 | m 9943 7570

Marsascala Branch - t 2235 3000 | m 9976 7188

Meticulously restored TOWNHOUSE (parts of which date back to the 1800s)

Overlooking the south coast, this is a lovely APARTMENT located right at the tip of Marsascala. Having a lovely terrace where one can enjoy amazing views of the sun rising, further accommodation includes a large kitchen, living and dining area, family bathroom and 3 double bedrooms (main with en suite and all enjoy sea and country views). Included in the price is a 1-car garage with extra storage space. A rare find, especially on the seafront. SOLE AGENCY.

old, allowing the utmost practicality and comfort. Accomodation comprises 4 large bedrooms, 3 with en suite facilites, large open plan kitchen, living and dining area, 2 pantries and a study. The property boasts an arched cellar and a wartime shelter together with a large outdoor area and a large rectangular overflow pool. Optional garage is also available.

(00356) 2379 4794 | franksalt.com.mt | fs@franksalt.com.mt BALZAN I MOSTA I FGURA I GOZO I MARSASCALA I MELLIEHA I SAN GWANN I IBRAG I SLIEMA I SPINOLA I ST JULIANS I ST PAUL’S BAY I COSPICUA

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# 6 8 AU G U S T 201 8

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

ON THE COVER The shimmering sea of Comino, as blue as ever and insanely inviting.

Sail by the islands or take a dip in the cool Mediterranean waters for the ultimate Malta experience.

Ġ I G Ġ I F O G U p. 18 Street fireworks at their best. Here’s what to look out for.

TA LK O F THE TOWN p. 58 This month, it’s St Julian’s - the city that never sleeps.

MEET THE TEAM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kristina Cassar Dowling SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG CONTRIBUTORS Air Malta Alessia Caruana Andrei Vella Laurenti Christine Spiteri David baker Francesca Balzan Giulia Privitelli Helen Raine

Jean Paul Demajo Tessa Meredith Paul Vassallo TCD Valletta Waterfront Veronica Stivala PHOTOGRAPHERS Daniel Balzan Paul Mangion ILLUSTRATIONS Steven Bonello

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE FEATURED ON IL-BIZZILLA? For advertising opportunities and restaurant listings, get in touch with TBWA\ANG on sales@il-bizzilla.com or (+356) 2131 0608. For anything related to editorial or photography, contact Kristina on editor@il-bizzilla.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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APARTMENT IN A PRIME LOCATION REF: 914354

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Highly finished APARTMENT in the prestigious Portomaso Marina Development, located on a high floor with breathtaking sea and marina views from its front terrace. Property comprises entrance hall, kitchen area, spacious lounge and dining area, guest toilet, utility room, bathroom, two spare bedrooms, master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and ensuite bathroom. A garage space is also included in the price.

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

Grahame Salt Director

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

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

8

FROM THE CEO...

Merħba, August is the airline’s busiest month as summer reaches its peak and festivities on the Maltese archipelago are at their best. The feast of Santa Maria which falls on a public holiday on 15th August is celebrated with great pomp and style in seven different villages around Malta and Gozo. The atmosphere is truly a joyous one with celebrating marching bands and wonderful pyrotechnic displays that light up the Maltese summer nights. Do not forget that Our Capital City Valletta is currently the Cultural Capital City of Europe and a number of events are currently being organised to promote creativity and culture.

One event that should not be missed is the Malta Mediterranean Literature Festival that brings together active writers and translators from the Maltese islands, the Mediterranean and beyond.

As I will eventually soon be leaving the national airline this may be one of my last opportunities to address you and to thank you for using our services. It’s been a great experience and I would also like to thank each one of my Air Malta colleagues who work so hard day after day to offer you, our guests an enjoyable travel experience.

Dear guests, thanks to you too for making Air Malta your choice of airline and it is certainly thanks to your continued support that Air Malta flies every day.

At Air Malta, our passengers are our esteemed guests and I am happy that during the last 24 months I have, as the airline’s Acting CEO, been welcoming you aboard our flights. Over the last two

FROM THE E D I TO R . . . years we have overhauled our products, increased our fleet and expanded our network of destinations. I augur Air Malta continued success and growth as it works its way to become the ‘Airline of the Mediterranean’.

When I think August, I think beaches, I think mini-break, I think parties. As young and free as that might sound; August has always been that one month where things stand still for a while.

At Air Malta we put you, our guest, at the center of all that we do and we are always keen to know what we could do better to improve your Air Malta flight experience. We constantly endeavor to improve our services to meet the changing expectations of our guests, and your feedback will contribute to our change and improvement process.

When I was a child we’d head to Gozo for a couple of weeks in August, my parents would take two weeks off to spend with my sister and I. We’d go to the beach and rent paddle boats, build sandcastles and host a BBQ where all the family would join. It was family time at its best.

Visit airmalta.com/wearelistening to answer a few short questions about your flight with us and you can win one of 10 free return Air Malta flights we are offering every month. It really only takes 2 minutes!

Gozo is the place to be in August, it’s packed with visitors mind you, but being part of the crowd during this time of year isn’t half bad. The Santa Maria Feast held on 15 August is widely celebrated in Gozo so there’s a lot of hype in city centres who celebrate in their village pjazza. St Julian’s is also a fun place to visit at the peak of summer, the clubs are bursting at the seams, the restaurants flaunt their daily catch and the ġostra is a spectacle to look out for.

Wherever you are flying with us I hope you have a great flight with us. Air Malta is much more than just an airline.

Thank you for choosing Air Malta. As our welcomed guest we hope to see you onboard another one of our flights soon.

For more information about Air Malta and our flight schedules please visit www.airmalta.com and www.facebook.com/AirMalta and join our newsletter mailing list to receive great offers directly in your inbox.

Joseph Galea Acting CEO Air Malta

Discover the islands, eat fresh fish and hunt down on the cool, shady spots while the sun glistens of the inviting Mediterranean Sea.

Have a safe flight,

Kristina

With 300+ associates and 28 offices covering the Maltese Islands, RE/MAX Malta is at your service.

With an extensive property database, we also have a vast range of RE/MAX Exclusive listings - guaranteeing you’ll find your perfect match.

For more exclusive properties, kindly visit exclusive.remax-malta.com

XAGĦRA, GOZO FARMHOUSE

€450,000

MLS 240031035-336

Exquisitely converted with a good sized pool situated just a stone’s throw away from the main square. Very carefully restored, retaining all original features, arches and beams with additional extensions to provide a comfortable and practical living space. One of the most attractive rooms of the property is the separate dining room situated just off the kitchen, ideal for entertaining.

Call Nick on +356 7922 1227

TIGNE’ PENTHOUSE

€4,200,000

MLS 240171002-273

Well positioned fully detached south facing penthouse, forming part of an exclusive gated complex. Tigne Point residential development offers a residential swimming pool and beach club, piazza with surrounding cafes, restaurants as well as a shopping mall. This 3-bedroom penthouse enjoys a spectacular 180 degree view of Sliema Creek, Manoel Island, Valletta Bastions and the Grand Harbour.

Call Lorna on +356 9940 4303 Call 2015 6800 Emall info@remax-malta.com

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E N J O Y T H E B E A U T I F U L M A LT E S E I S L A N D S W H I L E S AV I N G M O N E Y

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we found another deal, where we were able to spend a relaxing spa day including a full body massage and access

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a full day Catamaran Cruise. The package included

which was also included in the package.

lunch and drinks, the usual price is â‚Ź55 but we only paid â‚Ź38.50 Euros per person on DealToday.com.mt. Not only

Dealtoday.com.mt offers a large variety of deals that you

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enjoying amazing views of the Maltese coastline and

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TRENDING RIGHT NOW

GLOBAL MOBILIT Y FROM YOUR BASE IN THE MEDITERRANEAN IN MODERN DAY GLOBALISATION AND GEOPOLITICAL INSTABILIT Y, MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE LOOKING BEYOND THEIR DOMESTIC SHORES TO LIVE, TRAVEL AND DO BUSINESS FREELY. MALTA’S CITIZENSHIP PROGRAMME CAN GET YOU THERE.

H

ave you ever dreamt of living in the very heart of the Mediterranean? Do you feel nostalgic every time you have a farewell glance at Malta’s beautiful cost and shimmering sea?

Malta offers a myriad of benefits that have changed the way of life of many expats and new Maltese citizens who have moved to Malta permanently. It is intrinsically a laid-back way of life, where you can enjoy a drink al fresco after a day’s work in one of the many eateries and watering holes, even in the middle of winter because the weather is so mild.

And property is still very accessible when compared to some other EU countries, from quaint restored townhouses in village cores for those wanting to live the local character, to lap-of-luxury apartments in gated condominiums that tick the boxes of busy business individuals and globe trotters who are after a comfortable base where they can put their feet up and enjoy the view in between business trips.

Malta is a safe country to live in, with high standards of education and health care. The extended family is still at the core of the Maltese culture and it defines people’s way of life. That is why Malta is so attractive for families with

HIGHLIGHTS OF MALTA CITIZENSHIP

European Union citizenship within 1 year

Schengen residency in two weeks upon applying for citizenship

Visa free travel to more than 168 countries

The right to live, study, work, do business and retire in Malta and the rest of the EU

Access to high quality free education and healthcare

Source and remittance-based taxation only: no wealth tax; no asset reporting; no inheritance tax 0

Citizenship automatically handed down to future generations

Low minimum presence requirement

GLOBA L MOBILIT Y FROM YOUR BA SE IN THE MEDITER R A NE A N

young children. With English being one of its official languages, Malta manages to combine the best of the business practices from the Anglo-sphere territories with a Mediterranean lifestyle.

Malta is the first country in the world to legislate for a holistic business environment where blockchain and cryptocurrencies can operate BECOME A MALTESE AND EU CITIZEN Malta’s citizenship programme is the first to be recognised by the European Commission. The scheme offers highnet-worth individuals and families the opportunity to gain Maltese, and therefore EU, citizenship in return for an investment in the country’s social and economic development. The country admits to its shores reputable applicants, being known for its thorough due diligence test before obtaining the Maltese passport.

VIEWS FROM THE EXPERT Dr Priscilla Mifsud Parker, a private client lawyer heading the Corporate and Tax Services at Chetcuti Cauchi Advocates law firm, has helped many individuals relocate their families and businesses to Malta. “Our main focus in this process is to find tailormade solutions for each and every particular client,” said Dr Mifsud Parker. “We strive to find a balance between optimising and protecting the client’s high value assets, while we help them in their estate and wealth planning and business structuring.”

Malta’s MIIP has been a resounding success. Apart from its recognition by the European Commission, it has garnered excellent reviews on its solidity and high levels of due diligence. Indeed it is even being touted as a sound model which other countries could emulate.

MALTA, A BURGEONING ECONOMY Beyond the dream of toes in the sand, Malta offers huge potential for businesses. Malta is proud of its robust economy that continually registers high growth, its sound financial services industry that withstood the international financial crisis, a stable political environment, access to a booming property market and a high European standard of living.

Malta is at the forefront of global innovation and international leadership. Dubbed ‘The Blockchain Island’, Malta is the first country in the world to legislate for a holistic business environment where blockchain and cryptocurrencies can operate. Judging by the undisputable success of the gaming and finance sectors as well as the growing industries of maritime, pharma and aviation, the future looks bright indeed for those forward looking enough to seize the opportunity and jump on the bandwagon.

“Malta’s friendly business environment is also helping to attract significant foreign investment”, she continued. “A company set up in Malta can offer its goods or services worldwide and authorised companies even enjoys passporting rights to carry out their activities across the EU. Malta’s favourable business eco system has proven to be one where both start-ups and relocated business structures can thrive.”

Chetcuti Cauchi Advocates is a law and professional services firm, with offices in Malta, Cyprus, London, Zurich and Hong Kong, advising high net worth international families and their businesses on residency & citizenship, property, corporate and tax, financial services and fintech and yachts and jets.

Dr Priscilla Mifsud Parker Senior Partner, Tax & Corporate Direct Tel: +365 2205 6603 • Email: ask.pmp@cclex.com

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PASSENGERS CARRIED ONBOARD AIR MALTA FLIGHTS:

SINCE 1ST APRIL 1974

ES

BU S TA R T A

SI

FL

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THE EQUI

VA

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AIR

320

MONUMENTS IN VALLET TA

885

6,000 TONNES OF POTATOES EXPORTED ANNUALLY

TIMES TO THE MOON AND BACK SINCE 1 ST APRIL 1974

349,386

THE MALTESE DRIVE ON THE LEFT

THE NUMBER OF LICENSED VEHICLES IN MALTA

28km long/14.5km wide

N

OF

M

L

TA

T

A

K TO

N

1W

EE

DECL ARED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

S

3

50,754,711

The heart and soul of a great holiday is exceptional food.

Add a little extra flavour to your holiday by visiting the Carob Tree food court in the heart of St Julian’s - 11 kitchens and bars, serving an eclectic mix of local and world cuisine.

Find your flavour at carobtree.mt

BOV CARDS

time to reward yourself at Montblanc compliments of your BOV premium cards

Earn points in the BOV Loyalty Rewards Programme every single time you use your BOV Visa Platinum, BOV Visa Gold or your BOV Skypass.

More information is available from www.bov.com or contact 2131 2020.

Issued by Bank of Valletta p.l.c., 58, Triq San Ĺťakkarija, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1130 Bank of Valletta p.l.c. is a public limited company regulated by the MFSA and is licensed to carry out the business of banking in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta).

DELICATA’S CL ASSIC WINE FESTIVALS ARE BACK

O

ne of the biggest highlights on the wine

three spritzers are semi-sparkling, medium-dry in style

enthusiast’s calendar, the Delicata Classic

and bursting with fruity flavours.

Wine Festival, organised by Malta’s foremost

and award-winning Delicata winery, is back.

To try the wines, all you have to do is purchase a wine purse on the night at the cash points at the entrance of the

The island’s greatest wine event will once again take

venue for €15. It comes filled with wine coins and complete

place at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, from

with a souvenir glass which is yours to keep. Handing over

Thursday 9 th to Sunday 12 th August 2018, every evening

the correct change of wine coins at the stalls will prompt

from 7pm until midnight, and it promises to be grander

dedicated wine stewards to pour a standard 150 ml glass of

than ever.

the wine on show in the festival glass.

And, doubling wine lovers’ fun, Delicata in conjunction

Every evening there is a bill of great music and live

with Nadur Local Council, will be taking its Classic Wine

cooking stations will be serving a tempting variety of

Festival to the viticultural heart of the sister island of

both traditional Maltese and international dishes to

Gozo, Nadur, on 31 August, 1 and 2 September 2018.

tease a wide range of palates.

There are over 25 wines to sample at each event. These

Either festival edition is a showcase for Malta’s wines

include the semi-sparkling Frizzantes made from the

par excellence. The enchanted atmosphere, the

native old bush vines Girgentina and Ġellewża. There are

breath-taking views of the world-class venues, whether the

the tasty white, red and rosé DOK Malta Medina and DOK

Grand Harbour in Valletta or the garden Ġnien il-Kunsill

Gozo Victoria Heights boutique wines, a selection of the

in Gozo, will make anyone’s visit truly memorable.

st

st

nd

flagship Gran Cavalier and Grand Vin de Hauteville ranges, as well as the sweeter lifestyle Dolcino and Falcon wines,

Whilst entrance is free, strictly no wine will be served

the popular lush Casella Moscato and other varietals of the

to anyone under 17 and patrons are reminded to enjoy

Classic Collection, and all three of the Pjazza Reġina wines.

responsibly. Wine purses and glasses are sold until 11 pm, wine is poured up to 11.30 pm and the festival

For the first time, Delicata’s SpritZZers are showcased

closes at midnight.

too. These ready-mixed wine coolers are currently trending again, but were released in Malta as early as in

With great wines, delicious food and great live music,

1997, at the time of all the rage in cool bars in California,

you do not want to miss out. In fact, what more could

London and New York. At only 3.9 per cent alcohol, all

anyone ask for?

More info can be found on www.delicata.com

COMMUNIT Y

Ġ I G Ġ I F OGU GROUND FIREWORKS ARE SYNONYMOUS WITH THE MALTESE VILLAGE FESTA. WHICH ARE THE ONES WORTH VIEWING?

WORDS CHRISTINE SPITERI

19

HEAD OFFICE (+356) 2131 0800 ST.JULIANS (+356) 2131 0088 VALLETTA (+356) 2131 0714

‘The best name in Malta property’

EXCLUSIVE TO PERRY

A contemporary ‘Villa’ with swimming pool & parking Balzan | €1,290,000 | Ref: SV600072

An elegant double-fronted ‘House of Character’ Safi | €335,000 | Ref: HC600296 3 Bedrooms

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3 Bedrooms

3 Bathrooms

An elegant double-fronted TOWNHOUSE with an attractive façade ▪ Beautiful original features throughout the property including wooden beams, doors & windows, traditional Maltese stonework, high ceilings & stone floors ▪ Set in this quaint & quiet village ▪ Hallway ▪ Sitting room ▪ Dining room ▪ Kitchen/breakfast area ▪ Living room ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms ▪ Rear yard ▪ Roof area ▪ SOLE AGENTS

3 Bathrooms

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‘Corner Block of Apartments’ with Grand Harbour views Floriana | €795,000 | Ref: BR600014 1/2 Bedrooms (per floor)

1/2 Bathrooms (per floor)

Garage

Secluded & contemporary semi-detached VILLA in a quiet part of this sought after village ▪ Finished to the highest specifications throughout ▪ Excellent family accommodation ▪ Picturesque alleyway ▪ Large open plan kitchen/living/dining area leading to a swimming pool & garden area ideal for entertaining & sun bathing ▪ 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms (all en-suite) ▪ Property includes an invaluable 1-car lockup garage ▪ Short walking distance to all amenities ▪ SOLE AGENTS

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Large wide fronted ‘Seafront Apartment’ in a prime location Sliema | €1,400,000 | Ref: FA601033

Property Area: 300+m2

5 Bedrooms

2 Bathrooms

Property Area: 390m2

A historic CORNER BLOCK OF APARTMENTS enjoying magnificent views of the Grand Harbour ▪ Located just a short walk from Valletta - a ‘Unesco World Heritage’ site ▪ Currently presented as 3 apartments over 3 floors (each floor having a footprint of approx. 100m2) ▪ Property retains many authentic features including high ceilings, original Maltese floor tiles, multiple Maltese balconies, an underlying cellar, a central courtyard with a well & an old entrance to a war shelter ▪ Fantastic investment opportunity - ideal for either residential or commercial purposes ▪ SOLE AGENTS

Prime location on Tower Road - An elegant 390m2 period SEAFRONT APARTMENT occupying an entire floor within this iconic 1930’s building ▪ Wide double frontage with spectacular unobstructed sea views ▪ Rare period features throughout including high ceilings, timber doors, beautiful patterned tiles & wooden beams ▪ Large welcoming hall ▪ Spacious sitting/dining room ▪ Front balcony with direct sea views ▪ Large kitchen/breakfast room ▪ 5 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms ▪ Close to all local amenities including the beach ▪ Served with a lift ▪ SOLE AGENTS

Outstanding elevated ‘Seafront Apartment’ on Tower Road Sliema | For Rent | €3200 monthly | Ref: FA600321

Luxurious ‘Villa’ with a swimming pool & views Ibrag | For Rent | €6500 monthly | Ref: SV600065

A newly renovated & refurbished stunning 6th floor corner SEAFRONT APARTMENT located on the prestigious Tower Road in Sliema ▪ Marvellous sea views from practically every room ▪ Spacious & bright accommodation ▪ Welcoming hall ▪ Open plan fully fitted & equipped kitchen/sitting/dining ▪ 3 double bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms ▪ Laundry room ▪ Property also includes an underlying car space ▪ Short walking distance to all the best amenities

Newly refurbished VILLA designed over 3 large floors ■ Excellent location in a quiet ‘cul-de-sac’ within this exclusive area ■ Attractive rural views ■ Swimming pool & surrounding terraces ■ Large sitting room & bright open-plan kitchen/living/dining leading out onto the garden & pool ■ Roof terrace with incredible, far-reaching views ■ 4 large bedrooms ■ 2 bathrooms (master en-suite) ■ Additional 2 bedroom guest apartment with an independent entrance ■ Large underlying garage

▪ Collect your free copy of our leading real estate publication from the exit of the arrival lounge ▪ ▪ Our Letting department also offers a wide selection of both prime commercial & residential properties for lease ▪

perry.com.mt

COMMUNIT Y

M

qabba is a village which rarely makes the

woodworks include traditional characteristics, such as

headlines. Yet, its name is etched in history

the rotating cone, which gives off a psychedelic visual

books, boasting national and world records for

effect, the letting off of rockets or whistles, small

its innovative pyrotechnic displays.

21

bore stars similar to a comet and the f lying rotating pyrotechnic discs.

Back in 2015, it erected a 58-metre-high steel structure named Tower of Light, which entertained huge crowds in

The phonetic word ġigġifogu is borrowed (and corrupted)

a memorable pyromusical display (fireworks synchronised

from the Italian giochi di fuoco, which evokes both the

to music). This came four years after the same village

idea of noise, movement and fire. It is the competitive

entertained us with the earth’s largest Catherine wheel: a

spirit that has spurred villagers to innovate and outdo the

free-standing structure, measuring 32.044 m in diameter.

other. Thanks to this drive the Maltese have continuously evolved the quality of their pyrotechnic art to become

Ġigġifogu is a tradition that has been handed down from

locally and worldly renowned.

generation to generation. It is both a skill and science that has through the years established itself part of

You can’t avoid the festa. It’s a week-long celebration

our cultural identity, particularly associated with the

during which you’ll witness pealing church bells,

celebration of religious feasts across Malta and Gozo.

philharmonic brass bands, sparkling lights and nougat kiosks. The ground fireworks showcase is held late at

Licensed pyrotechnics intricately design diverse

night, wherein young and old, locals and outsiders come

mechanical symbols to house explosives, which burst

together, as each set-piece is brought to life in a staggering

into colour and motion once ignited. The hand-crafted

effect of changing patterns.

The hand-crafted woodworks include traditional characteristics, such as the rotating cone, which gives off a psychedelic visual effect

22

COMMUNIT Y

The three biggest feasts this month are:

there will be doubly spectacular with the world-famous

CHRIST OUR SAVIOUR (ĦAL LIJA, 6TH AUGUST)

Rotunda as its backdrop.

One of Malta’s main pyrotechnic producers is the St Michael’s Fireworks Society in the quiet village of Ħal Lija.

Seven different towns and villages share this feast (Attard,

It’s not your average tourist destination due to its modest

Għaxaq, Gudja, Mosta, Mqabba, Qrendi, and Victoria,

size, but if you’re here at the beginning of the month, it’s

Gozo) while another three celebrate it a week after (Mġarr,

worth a visit during the festa. Lija’s main landmark is a

Dingli and Żebbuġ, Gozo).

belvedere tower, built as a folly within a private citrus garden, which nowadays serves as a roundabout leading to

ST BARTHOLOMEW (GĦARGĦUR, 26TH AUGUST)

the main square, facing the magnificent Church façade.

This is where the rural hilltop village makes up for its size.

Its award-winning St. Bartholomew Fireworks Society,

SANTA MARIJA - THE PEAK OF THE FESTA SEASON

started out in the early 1900s by a group of men in the

(MOSTA, MQABBA, 15

limits of tax-Xwieki. It is remembered for producing the

TH

AUGUST)

By mid-month, summer is in full swing. Beaches are

largest Catherine wheel of its kind, standing at a height of

packed, the turquoise sea shimmering, and the island’s

26 metres. The Għargħur festa can be paired with a trek

mood jovial. Santa Marija is huge, and most commercial

along its picturesque valley by following the Victoria Lines

businesses shut down for the holidays.

and admiring the view of the eastern coastline.

For a taste of the best ġigġifogu on the island, head south

Saints who share their feast day with St Bartholomew are:

towards Mqabba. The town’s award-winning fireworks will

St Joseph in Manikata; Maria Regina in Marsa; Conversion

surely not disappoint. If you’re looking for somewhere more

of St Paul in Ħal Safi; St Julian in St Julian’s; St Dominic in

central, make sure to head towards Mosta. The display

Vittoriosa (Birgu); Our Lady of Loreto in Għajnsielem.

AUGUST FESTA CALENDAR 5 TH AUGUST: ST DOMINIC (VALLETTA); ST PETER IN CHAINS, BIRŻEBBUĠA; OUR L ADY OF LOURDES, SAN ĠWANN; ST JOSEPH, QAL A GOZO 6TH AUGUST: CHRIST OUR SAVIOUR, ĦAL LIJA 10TH AUGUST: ST L AURENCE, VITTORIOSA (BIRGU) 12 TH AUGUST: ST L AURENCE, SAN L AWRENZ, GOZO; SAN GAETAN, ĦAMRUN 15 TH AUGUST: THE ASSUMPTION OF OUR L ADY (ATTARD, ĦAL GĦAXAQ, GUDJA, MOSTA, MQABBA, QRENDI, VICTORIA - GOZO, ĦAL MUXI ŻEBBUĠ) 19 TH AUGUST: THE ASSUMPTION OF OUR L ADY, COMINO; OUR L ADY STAR OF THE SEA — STELL A MARIS PARISH, SLIEMA; ST LEONARD, KIRKOP; THE ASSUMPTION OF OUR L ADY, ŻEBBUĠ, GOZO; ASSUMPTION OF OUR L ADY, MĠARR; THE ASSUMPTION OF OUR L ADY, DINGLI; OUR L ADY OF LOURDES, PAOL A; ST HELEN OF CONSTANTINOPLE, BIRKIRKARA. 26TH AUGUST: ST BARTHOLOMEW, GĦARGĦUR; ST JOSEPH, MANIKATA; MARIA REGINA, MARSA; CONVERSION OF ST PAUL, ĦAL SAFI; ST JULIAN, ST JULIAN’S; ST DOMINIC, VITTORIOSA (BIRGU); OUR L ADY OF LORETO, GĦA JNSIELEM.

YOU NAME IT, WE’VE GOT IT.

DINING . SEATING . SOFAS . STORAGE UNITS . KITCHENS . SOFT FURNISHINGS INTERNAL DOORS . WALL SYSTEMS . OUTDOOR FURNITURE . CARPETS . LIGHTING . HOME DÉCOR BEDROOMS . OFFICE . DOMESTIC APPLIANCES . WEDDING LISTS

EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE

24

PROPERT Y

MERC U R Y TOWE R S: Z AH A H ADI D'S F I NAL MAST ER PI EC E I N M ALTA

A

landmark property to be completed by 2020, this is

great potential for super metal yields managed by ME hotels

the ideal property investment that redefines luxury

a 5 star deluxe brand. situated in its podium, and a medium-

and contemporary urban living right in the heart of

rise building that will house a shopping mall and offices.

Malta’s premier entertainment and business hub, St Julian's.

This proposed development is designed by internationally

Half the project footprint is dedicated to 4,000 sqm/SQM of

renowned architectural firm Zaha Hadid Architects and is

landscaped piazzas. Underground parking with zoned access

one of the final projects signed off by Zaha Hadid herself,

to over 400 parking spaces is an integral part of the project.

only a few days before her untimely passing, making its mark on the international scene.

This project is definitely a game changer for the property industry in Malta and the location couldn’t be better. An

The iconic design includes a mid-height twist with open sky

excellent investment either for a rental yield or simply

vistas and a horizon pool.

capital appreciation.

The finished complex will include a mix of historical and

A one-bedroom apartment on the 14th floor consists of an

ultra-modern edifices on its site. At its heart is a 19 -century

open plan layout with an 11 sqm/SQM outdoor area.

th

heritage building, which will be flanked by a 31-storey residential tower with a boutique hotel accommodation with

ID: 240011024-843 | Price starting from â‚Ź410,000

RELOC ATI NG TO MA LTA There are many reasons why you might want to relocate.

The financially savvy might decide to do so for investment opportunities or for tax reasons. A family might relocate to get a better quality of life. A retiree may wish to settle somewhere easy-going and warm.

Someone young and ambitious might wish to relocate for better job opportunities and a chance to carve out an outstanding career.

At RE/MAX Malta, we take pride in providing an unmatched service to our clients. We ensure that every client is treated with the utmost professionalism, while being given that personal approach that ensures they feel they are in good hands. Our approach to clients is not a one-size-fitsall. It’s a personal investment in meeting the specific needs of any individual or company.

Our years of experience and the quality of our trained associates are essential when it comes to understanding the needs of the client and guiding them through the potential minefield that is relocation. From negotiating the best price possible to keeping in touch to make sure that each client is completely satisfied, RE/MAX Malta is committed to delivering a fully comprehensive, professional, stressfree service at value for money to all customers. This absolute commitment is reflected in a service that is available to all clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

THE PROJECT IN NUMBERS 62,076 SQM of mixed use development 4,088 SQM of retail & amenities 7,307 SQM 5- star luxury hotel & amenities

A BOUT R E / M A X M A LTA As a leading real estate company in Malta and Gozo, our Sales & Letting Real Estate Services are backed up by 27 offices spread over key locations on both islands. Our team comprises of over 300

275 luxury managed apartments

professionally trained individuals who are constantly

417 car parking spaces

assessed and trained to be up to date with local and international property requirements. Thanks to our in-house training facilities and close affiliations with local accounting, legal and government bodies KEVIN BUTTIGIEG CEO, RE/MAX MALTA +356 9949 5933

we ensure our team Is equipped with an up-to-date source of information.

remax-malta.com | info@remax-malta.com

26

MEDICAL

EXTRACTION AND IMMEDIATE IMPLANT REPLACEMENT

U

p until the introduction of dental implants, a single tooth replacement was usually performed with a removable denture wedged in between adjacent teeth or a dental bridge attached to 1 or 2 adjacent teeth. Nowadays most single teeth are replaced with dental implants. A dental implant is the insertion of a screw or fixture into the bone site of the missing tooth. Following 3-6months of healing the top part of the implant is exposed and a tooth/crown is attached onto it.

This is the basic manner of completing an implant-retained crown.

Today the choices on materials and the manner of which the job is completed my vary considerably. Here are a few options, which must be weighed out and selected to obtain the best aesthetic and functional result: THE IMPL ANT

The majority of implants are made of high-grade titanium. These implants are extensively researched and carry excellent success rates. These are also metal-free implants made out of zirconium. Implants also come in various sizes, shapes and forms so the right implant must be chosen for the right place.

any metal in the crown allowing room for an all-ceramic crown made from zirconia or lithium di-silicate still allowing the firing of porcelain onto it maximising the aesthetics.

SURROUNDING BONE

The implant must be inserted into an area with sound and sufficient bone.

If the area does not have enough bone then a bone graft must be performed to allow complete coverage of the implant at insertion and forever after its completion. There are many bone grafting materials available to buy; cow bone, human bone and other inorganic bone substitutes. This has become the norm for most of the aesthetic cases.

an implant was immediately inserted.

A minor bone augmentation was also placed in the socket to aid with the final aesthetics of the gum tissue. A temporary fixed acrylic-resin crown was also attached onto the implant to further help the gingiva maintain its contour. In this manner the patient also benefits from a fixed tooth as a temporary solution. Four months after the extraction and implant insertion, the temporary crown was replaced with an all-ceramic highly aesthetic crown. This sequence of treatment is not always possible but when it is, the aesthetics of the final product is highly dependant on it.

Ask your dentist.

GINGIVAL TISSUE

More often than not the bone and surrounding gum in the site of a missing tooth is to some degree resorbed. This results in an obvious drop in the gum level and/or width of the ridge. Replacing a tooth would result in either a long-looking crown or a crown with spaces in between the other adjacent teeth. This creates poor aesthetics and discomfort on eating, as spaces are obvious food traps. The bone and gum grafts restore the implant site to normality allowing for a firm anchorage and a tight gingival cuff synonymous with good hygiene.

Before treatment

THE CROWN

The material of choice was once porcelain fired onto cast gold. Then pre-fabricated titanium abutments were introduced allowing a conventional crown to be cemented onto it. Then came the revolution of eliminating

A CASE SCENARIO

A young woman presents with a broken tooth and a failed root canal treatment exhibiting recurrent swellings and exudate. The tooth was extracted, the socket cleaned and disinfected and

Dr Jean Paul Demajo

DENTAL & IMPLANT SURGEON

After treatment

ESTABLISHED SINCE 1964

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Top floor designer finished double fronted 412 sqm 11th floor PENTHOUSE forming part of this lifestyle project, comprising a marina, office tower, 5* Hotel, various restaurants and casino having an outlook onto large private front terrace with swimming pool enjoying spectacular marina and open sea views, 3 double bedrooms all with en-suite facilities 2 garage spaces.

Finishes include marble floors throughout and under floor heating in bathrooms.

Brand new exclusive designer furnished and finished to highest specifications is this unique bright TRIPLEX APARTMENT with interconnecting 5 car garage and back yard consists of very spacious living room/dining and fully fitted kitchen/b'fast, built in fireplace to a good sized terrace,4 bedrooms (ensiute shower) bathroom,master bedroom with walk in wardrobe, ensuite shower room and garage at semi basement level.

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RANGER RAY RAY VELLA HAS GUIDED A MILLENNIUM PROJECT, THAT AIMED TO PL ANT 2000 TREES, INTO A FULL-BLOWN FOREST WITH OVER 21,000 TREES AND COUNTING. HELEN RAINE DISCOVERS THIS LOCAL CONSERVATION HERO’S CONNECTION TO THE FORESTA 2000 PROJECT AND SHARES SOME TOP TIPS FOR A VISIT TO HIS WONDERFUL WOODL AND. “Foresta 2000 was a proposal which was developed by

In the meantime, the project found two key partners;

BirdLife Malta’s youth team way back in 1996,” says

Din l-Art Ħelwa (Malta’s National Trust) and PARK,

Ray. Originally, the idea being to plant 2000 Holm

the government department in charge of afforestation

Oak trees for the year 2000, but as Ray explains, you

and conservation of the countryside.

can’t propagate and plant that many trees overnight; work on the fledgling forest really got going in 2004.

The next question was where to plant. “The most

“I applied for the job to manage the area, against some

suitable land was a large, 50 ha area, the buffer zone

stiff competition” says Ray. “It was a surprise when I

of the Għadira Nature Reserve in northern Malta.

got it.”

It consisted of abandoned farmland and a steep hill which was being used and abused by 4-wheel drive

The first phase was planning and groundwork. “First

vehicles and motorcycles.” Ray applied for permits,

the trees needed seeding, pots had to be purchased,

stopped the erosion caused by off-roading, and moved

acorns gathered… it takes a while.”

on illegal campers, hunters and trappers.

30

INTERVIEW

As the Ranger, he is responsible for taking care of plantings, irrigating, cleaning and maintaining the site. There’s a lot to do, right up to cutting the grass in early summer. His vision is to reverse the trend towards deforestation on Malta by returning this area back to the original forest that would have existed in the past.

Holm Oaks are particularly important for the site. Ray says, “They are no longer common in Malta, but there are some groves on the islands which are probably 1000 years old”. Amazingly, Ray and his team exceeded the 2000tree target by more than ten times. “What is even more encouraging was the success rate for the trees’ survival, a heartening 92 per cent,” he says.

All the other trees and shrubs planted were native to the islands at one time or another. They include Aleppo Pines, Myrtle, Buckthorn, Lentisk, Olive, Rosemary, Sandarac Gum Tree (or Araar, Malta’s national tree), Phoenician Juniper, Strawberry Tree and even Narrowleaved Ash. Ray says: “What I wasn’t expecting, is that after only 14 years, I have found trees regenerating already. Some, like the Lentisk, are spreading through bird dispersal [of the seeds], while others are growing

to many other creatures, such as Weasel, Wild rabbit, Algerian Hedgehog, Pygmy White-toothed Shrew, geckos, skinks and three species of snakes.”

In the future, Ray wants the area to revert to a natural system, with all the trees and shrubs associated with a typical Mediterranean forest. “I think this can be achieved in my lifetime” he says, adding that hopefully there will be more sites like this.

“I would suggest Wied Għollieqa and Xrobb l-Għaġin, which also have similar habitat and aims.”

The site has not been without its challenges. “Of course, there was bound to be some setbacks,” Ray says. “The first years were the worst.” After a major vandalism attack in which 3000 trees were killed, thousands of people turned

spontaneously. It’s truly satisfying.”

up to an event six months later to replant the area. “It was

The area is now of international importance and has been

environment. Everyone from the President of the Republic to

a boost not just for us but for anyone interested in the

designated a Special Protection Area due to the numbers

children turned up to lend a hand. It was a hectic weekend

of birds migrating through the area. Ray says, “In both

but the target to plant 15,000 trees that weekend was almost

autumn and spring, birds can stop and refuel; we planted

reached. That one act of vandalism turned out in our favour,

many berry-growing species so that the fruit is available for

as it started a campaign to plant more trees, awareness of

birds to feast on throughout the year. More than 100 species

Malta’s environment and massive support for the area.”

of birds have been recorded here. The trees also give shelter

That support has only grown over the years and it is a

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validation of Ray’s interest in the natural environment. “I have been into birds since I was at least 10 years old ,” he says. His interest was initially piqued because he was raised in a family of bird trappers.

“There used to be a lot of turtle doves to trap. Unfortunately, those days have now gone, and that species is on the road to extinction. In my lifetime, I have seen species such as the Corn Bunting, Barn Owl and the Peregrine Falcon disappear from the list of breeders in Malta.”

The forest project he loves so much is an important part of righting some of those wrongs.

HOW TO VISIT The site is located just north of Għadira Beach, Ray explains: “There are three large maps of the area, strategically placed around the area near the gates. Parking is easy in three areas and it is a moderate walk of around 2 km around the site. Nearby is the medieval St. Agatha’s Tower and Marfa Ridge, with spectacular views of Malta’s west coast. This is the best place to see Blue Rock Thrush, Malta’s national bird, sing from the cliff faces.” The site is open to the public at all times.

You can also check out Ray’s favourite places. “Oak corner is a special place, where a few Holm and Kermes Oaks are doing wonderfully and already producing acorns. Then there is the lower trail, which is a great walk in winter and spring with its myriad flowers and orchids. A few winter ponds have a healthy population of Painted Frogs and Fairy Shrimps. We purposely left the hillsides devoid of trees so that people could see the bloom of yellow Cape Sorrel, white French Daffodils and red Sulla in springtime,” Ray says.

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32

EVENTS

E V ENTS T H I S M O N T H

2 - 30 August ‘PERCEPTION’ - MSA MEMBERS’ EXHIBITION Malta Society of Arts, Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta This year's MSA members' exhibition will focus on sensorial features and how such aspects can be reflected and featured through visual arts. The exhibition will be entitled Perception. It is the first time that the annual exhibition will put forward a theme for its members to disclose their personal and creative expression. Curated by Roderick Camilleri, the theme for this year's event was assimilated from the European artistic project AMuSE, co-funded by the European Commission and led by the Malta Society of Arts. www.artsmalta.org/events/perception-msa-members-exhibition

9 - 15 August BAĦĦ BLU / BLUE VOID Lower Barrakka Gardens, Valletta This project is a two-part installation composed of a marine system ‘Book in the Sea’, that “writes” on the surface of the water, and the ‘Effett t’effett’ exhibition, displaying sculptures composed of repurposed refuse previously collected during a large-scale clean-up by the environmental NGO, ACT. valletta2018.org

11 August TRIOS CONCERT Castello Lanzun, San Gwann TRIOS will take place in the central courtyard of Castello Lanzun which is not normally open to the public. This event offers an opportunity to visit the Castello as the backdrop of an exciting concert. The recital will feature a programme of clarinet, violin and piano trios, as well as duets and piano solo works. The programme includes works by Japanese composers Makiko Kinoshita and Shoichi Yabuta, American composers John Adams and Scott McAllister, Maltese composers Charles Camilleri and Ruben Zahra, and Greek-New Zealander composer John Psathas. www.modernmusicdays.eu

EVENTS

33

23 - 24 August POETRY ON FILM Fort Manoel, Manoel Island, Gżira This ongoing initiative merges together the art of film with Malta’s rich literature. This year’s edition of Poetry on Film sees Clare Azzopardi and Ken Scicluna working on a poetry film which presents Achille Mizzi’s work “Kafè” (Coffee), while Abigail Mallia and Carlos Debattista are producing a poetry film of Oliver Friggieri’s work “Il-Lejl f’Dan l-Istazzjon” (A Night in this Station). valletta2018.org

24 - 26 August MALTA CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL 2018 St Elmo - Valletta Through the arches and narrow streets of the capital, down the stairs and past the imposing stone facades with a thousand stories to tell, the path leads you to the fortified façades of St. Elmo, where the first edition of the Malta Craft Beer Festival is taking place from 24th - 26th of August 2018. There you will find the finest brews on the island from 15 different artisanal breweries coming from 9 different countries, some of the best street food you can find and the top local alternative bands and DJs. www.craftbeerfestival.mt

24 August - 24 November CABINET OF FUTURES St Joseph The Worker Parish Hall, Birkirkara People’s ideas about alternate and preferable futures come to life through the site-specific exhibition, Cabinet of Futures – an immersive walk-through that makes the imaginary tangible, inviting individuals and communities to visualise themselves in the scenario. valletta2018.org

31 August & 2 September AĦNA REFUĠJATI The Granaries, Floriana An original operatic work in Maltese (with subtitles in English and Maltese) that recounts the struggles of a family attempting to escape their war-torn country. Political convenience, racism and prejudice are central themes of this original work. valletta2018.org

34

EVENTS

ROCK’N MALTA SUMMER 2018 CONCERTS ROCK’N MALTA IS RESPONSIBLE FOR BRINGING OVER SOME OF THE MOST CELEBRATED FOREIGN ARTISTS FROM VARIOUS ROCK GENRES TO THE ISLAND. THIS AUGUST, ROCK’N MALTA BRINGS KAISER CHIEFS, JULIAN MARLEY AND THE UPRISING, EVERGREEN, DARK TRANQUILITY, AND LOCAL ARTISTS BRODU, MANATAPU, COLOURBLIND AND BILA.

18 August JULIAN MARLEY & THE UPRISING Aria Complex Julian Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley, together with his band 'The Uprising' will be performing at Aria Complex in Malta on the 18th of August. A Grammy award nominated, roots-reggae musician, singer-songwriter, producer and humanitarian, Julian 'Ju Ju' Marley continues in the same tradition as his father. Marley’s tour with 'The Uprising' has continually expanded across the globe circling Europe, South America, Africa and the Caribbean. Singing his own and his father's songs makes this gig unmissable. www.showshappening.com/nng/Julian-Marley--The-Uprising

24 August DARK TRANQUILLITY AND EVERGREY Aria Complex August 24 is the date for the island’s biggest heavy metal concert of the year. Headlined by Dark Tranquillity, the revolutionary Swedish melodic metal band is mainly responsible for creating the Gothenburg sound.

Touring the globe from Australia, the US and Europe, Dark Tranquillity are one of the longest-standing bands from the original Gothenburg metal scene and the most integral pioneers of the melodic death metal genre of music. Loosely within the same genre, although more progressive, is the second headlining act - Evergrey. With 11 bone-crunching albums under their belt, they promise to take metal heads to heaven. www.showshappening.com/nng/Dark-Tranquility-Evergrey

30 August KAISER CHIEFS Aria Complex British indie rockers Kaiser Chiefs play in Malta for the very first time on August 30th. Inspired by the new wave and punk rock music of the late 1970s and 1980s, Kaiser Chiefs have constantly hit the Top 10 singles and album charts and sold millions of records ever since their formation in the year 2000. The band has won various awards from NME Award for Best Album, to The Best British Group award at the 2006 Brit Awards and even shortlisted for a Mercury Prize in 2007. The crowds can expect the favourites and the number one hits most notably Ruby and I Predict A Riot, Everyday I Love You Less and Less, Never Miss A Beat and Oh My God. www.showshappening.com/nng/Kaiser-Chiefs

I S L E S TA P L E S

35

MADE IN

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A KEEP-SAKE, A TOKEN FROM YOUR LAST MALTA HOLIDAY OR WANT TO TREAT SOMEONE LIVING OUTSIDE OUR ISLANDS, THEN WHY NOT TAKE SOME GENUINE MALTESE PRODUCTS HOME WITH YOU?

MEDITERRANEAN CERA MICS When in Malta don’t miss the opportunity to see true craftsmen at work. The artisans at Mediterranean Ceramics will amaze you with their artistry and passion. In their Ta’ Qali studio you can admire the detailed and artistic execution of volcanic and Lava stone tabletops and many other useful and decorative pieces. The designs on these unique pieces are alluring – and anything, from table-tops to kitchen counters, lamps, plates and dishes, can be produced to your own dimensions and design.

Mediterranean Ceramics have crafted this bespoke tradition into a true art. Visit the Ta’ Qali Crafts Village studio/shop, or the shop at the Valletta Waterfront. Own a part of Malta in your home – worldwide delivery is easily available to add a dash of affordable art to your surroundings.

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

MDIN A G L A SS Visit Mdina Glass at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village and see the glassmakers at work. No fee and no bookings required. While you’re there, check out the wide range of practical and decorative handmade glassware on show including the new, stunning Legacy Round lanterns for indoors and out. They look great during the day but really come into their own at night when lit with a candle or fairy lights. There is a vast selection of small items that will fit easily in your luggage and Mdina Glass will be delighted to ship larger items to your door back home.

For more info tel: +356 2141 5786. You can shop at any of the 8 outlets throughout Malta and Gozo or online with worldwide delivery at www.mdinaglass.com.mt Find Mdina Glass on facebook.com/mdinaglass

36

I S L E S TA P L E S

LEIL A LIQUEURS The production of Leila liqueurs is still artisan, crafted in small batches and patiently aged until their infusion with the alcohol syrup bring out all the genuine Maltese flavours. Choose between the Carob Digestive Liqueur; an all-natural infusion of Maltese carobs & aromatic herbs, Limoncello Liqueur; a sweet, aromatic and refreshing liqueur made by the cold infusion of the zest of lemons, Amaretto Liqueur; a velvety smooth taste with an unmistakable aroma of bitter-sweet almond flavours, and Prickly Pear Liqueur; a delicate and allnatural infusion of sweet cactus fruits. +356 2156 2236 www.leilaliqueurs.com Leila Liqueurs

ESC APE RO OM Scavenger Escape is a second-generation escape game. Players are locked in a themed room and have to complete a mission through solving puzzles and other challenges. The mixture of the escape room concept and the exciting treasure hunt experience with fascinating puzzles offers great entertainment for friends, colleagues and families. www.scavengerescape.com malta@scavengerescape.com +356 7903 9330

THE M AG RO FO OD VILL AG E Make your trip to the island of Gozo truly memorable. Visit The Magro Food Village and watch artisan food in the making and sample our artisan delicacies and liqueurs for free. From honey and olives to antipasto, olive oil and cheese, the recipes are typically Gozitan and a feast for your senses. Our products make excellent gifts to take back home - either for friends or simply to enjoy yourself. To further your Gozitan food experience, you may also book the Magro Food Village Tour. Pre-booking of this tour is essential and is free of charge. +356 2156 2236 visits@magro.com.mt www.magro.com.mt Magro Brothers

FREE FOOD TASTING

PURE GOZO HONEY

AROMATIC CANDLES

CHOCOLATE MAKING

OLIVE OIL

keeping Gozitan culinary & craft traditions alive

I S L E S TA P L E S

S A ILING CH AR TERS M ALTA Spend a day or more on one of our sailing yachts in a private setting. Just relax, explore and indulge whilst our professional and friendly skippers take you to the most captivating locations, lagoons and secluded coves. We will tailor your day according to your preference.

Sailing, swimming, snorkelling and sun bathing, we promise you an exceptional service and a truly memorable experience. www.sailingchartersmalta.com info@sailingchartersmalta.com + 356 7981 1811

SO U VENIRS THAT D ON ’ T SUCK Nestled in the heart of Sliema, you’ll find this hidden gem that’s trying to fight the worldwide epidemic of bad souvenirs. Created by local designers, Souvenirs That Don’t Suck offers unique, modern and often quirky gifts that give a fresh perspective to colloquial Malta.

108, Triq Manwel Dimech, Sliema www.souvenirsthatdontsuck.com hello@souvenirsthatdontsuck.com +356 7907 2313 souvenirsthatdontsuck

M A RSOVIN ’ S M ARNIS I ORG ANIC Marsovin’s MARNISI Organic is the first Maltese wine in the premium wine category to be certified organic and awarded the official seal of ‘Organic Wine’. Marnisi is a Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend made from grapes grown at Marsovin’s privately owned Marnisi Estate in Marsaxlokk.

MARNISI 2016, portrays a concentrated, complex, layered wine that is very approachable in its infancy and will keep drinking well in the years to come. This wine is available in all premium wine shops, as well as the Marsovin Cellars in Paola and The Master Cellar in Naxxar.

37

The biggest flavour under the sun.

WE HOPE YOU ENJOY YOUR STAY IN MALTA, AND FIND THE TIME TO DO WHAT REALLY MATTERS, LIKE DISCOVERING KINNIE MALTA’S OWN FAVOURITE BITTER SWEET SOFT DRINK WITH ORANGE FLAVOURING & AROMATIC HERBS.

KINNIE.MT

AVAILABLE ON

BEACHES

ON S TANDBY B ENEATH THE S UMMER S UN

WORDS GIULIA PRIVITELLI

‘Better a thousand times careful than once dead.’

- Proverb

W

e’ve all heard this saying in some

mountain? Or that all-nighter hopping from

form or other before, and perhaps,

one bar or club to another? Or when you edged

for good reason. We can’t help

precariously close to the drop of a cliff just to see a

acting somewhat foolishly when

little bit more; or that time when you plunged into

it comes to new experiences, relationships, places,

the crisp, clear sea breaking its complete stillness?

adventures. Remember that first time you eased

Oh, the freedom, the glee. But from the sidelines

the gauge over the 100km/hr mark, wind-in-hair,

you could almost imagine Death (especially as

whizzing down some traffic-free road? Or that

we find him in Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief)

time you reached the highest branch of your

whispering, mournfully commenting: ‘Like most

newly-designated favourite tree; the peak of some

misery, it starts with apparent happiness.’

39

THE VALLETTA FOOD MARKET A DESTINATION YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO MISS

The iconic Victorian-era structure in Valletta, affectionately known as Is-Suq tal-Belt, has been transformed from a derelict structure into a state of the art destination, where one can grab a bite, shop for food and relax in the city.

The Basement level is now open for the first time to the public as a food market with outlets serving fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, delicatessen, bread, herbs and spices, oils, gourmet foods, wines, fresh delicacies, and a great selection of local and international foodie gifts.

These include local favourites such as Vecchia Napoli: pizza, Zest: asian street food, Gululu: a typical Maltese kitchen, ImPasta: fresh pasta and The Pulled Meat Company together with; Venchi’s “chocogelateria”: quality Italian gelato and confectionery, Tapea by Pico Loco Spanish tapas, Bert’s Kitchen, T’Anna Mari fish grill, Konak Middle Eastern cuisine, The Salad Bar and Ta’ Kelinu Maltese pastizzerija.

discover a selection of freshly prepared culinary delights & take home a unique foodie gift

Upon heading to the ground floor be ready to have your senses tingled; with several bespoke stalls preparing a journey of international culinary specialities for immediate consumption.

Heading outdoors, the adjacent square has now been transformed into another open space in the capital city, where one can enjoy the glorious Maltese climate.

Catching up with friends in a perfect setting with great food and drinks from Star Café and Ginger Eatery. Be it a quick coffee to kick start your day, al fresco dining or a casual bottle of wine to share between friends; there is no better place to sit back and relax, all with the wonderful backdrop of Is-Suq tal-Belt.

CHECK OUT OUR DAILY EVENTS CALENDAR ON FACEBOOK FOOD TASTINGS ARE HELD DAILY AT THE FOOD MARKET ON LEVEL -1

IS-SUQ TAL-BELT, MERCHANTS STREET, VALLETTA TEL. 2210 3500 OPEN ALL DAY, EVERY DAY

www.issuqtalbelt.com

BEACHES

I’m not about to get all dark and morbid, don’t worry. The

volunteers have got you covered in all the most popular

sky is blue, the sun is almost white, people are laughing

swimming spots on the islands. But there are some little

and chilling by the sea. It’s August for crying out loud, and

things you can do to help yourself too, especially if you’re

people are giving themselves a break, as are you, I presume.

planning to spend several scorching long hours beneath

But while you’re all footloose and fancy free, it won’t hurt to

the hot, white sun. Here are just five of them:

41

keep tabs on some precautions which could, quite frankly, help you maintain that sense of enjoyment even longer.

1. SLAP ON THAT SUNSCREEN

Of course, accidents do happen, and often it’s not even

Nobody likes to be caked in sunscreen cream, I get that.

something you can control or have any say on. But safety is

Things, or rather, everything sticks to your skin – sand,

no accident. Safety reminds you that nature is not always in

crumbs, clothes, sweat, flies... Basically, applying sunscreen

the mood for fooling around; that the sea can be a graveyard

to your skin turns you into a massive, walking gluestick

as much as it can be a playground.

with a very distinctive smell. Yet, it is necessary. Such is life.

Indeed, sunscreen is your best shield against those nasty

Sure, you can count on the several lifeguards and first-

sunburns which can have both short and long-term effects

aiders to take care of you, should the need arise (though

on your health. You don’t want to experience either, trust

I hope not); the Malta Red Cross and their dedicated

me; even having a cold shower will be painful. And do not

42

BEACHES

be fooled by size. Far too often the ears and toes are

technically speaking, a destructive one and not quite

forgotten and thus subjected to a torrid ordeal. The lips

for the better, even though appearance-wise you

too can get burnt, and of course, the top of your head if

might think it is.

you’re a few hairs short of what you used to be. So balm them up.

2. HELLO ALOE

Let’s face it, the chances of getting sunburnt is Sunscreen, however, does not protect you indefinitely.

pretty high. Now, I’m no big fan of cure after cause,

Firstly, it wears off approximately after two hours,

but in the likelihood of a sunburn you might want

and most certainly after you’ve had a dip in the sea.

to consider applying aloe gel to the exposed area,

Moreover, while sunscreen may block some of the

rather than simply wait it out till you start shedding

sun’s more harmful rays, it does not block them

dried-out skin. Aloe gel (often referred to as aftersun

all. Actually, it is not likely to stop the rays which

cream) is therefore, quite a handy item to carry

penetrate deepest into your skin, which is also why

around with you as it could help relieve you from

you may still get a tan with sunblock on. Don’t get

itchy skin, cool your skin, or could even be used as a

too excited though; any change in skin colour is,

leave-in hair-conditioner (Bye bye frizz).

PHARMACERIS S 50 +

There’s nothing quite like waddling around barefoot on the sand or pebble-laden beach

Did you know that UV rays affect the skin not only on sunny days? Even during cloudy weather, it’s important to use the necessary protection from the sun to avoid the effects of photoaging on your skin.

This body lotion is recommended for delicate, sensitive and problem skin requiring very high protection from intense sunlight, sunburns and

3. YOU SWEAT, YOU HYDRATE

harmful UVA/UVB radiation. Such protective

This is pretty obvious, right? In summer the body

products are also recommended by specialists

heats up rapidly and frequently, and there will be days

during dermatological treatments and after aesthetic

when it feels like you’re sweating through all your

medicine procedures, in order to protect the skin

sweat glands, all at once. All 2.6 million of them (give

from discoloration.

or take). So that’s quite a lot of fluid that needs to be replenished. In truth, there is no exact amount of water

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headaches, light-headidness, fatigue, muscle cramps, less

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and less visits to the restrooms – all are signs that your body probably needs to be flushed with water. Listen to it, and avoid postponing for too long.

4. TWEEZING OUT THE STING

There’s nothing quite like waddling around barefoot on the sand or pebble-laden beach. Sadly though, there are quite a few ways where freedom might quite literally, sting you in the foot: a sea urchin, a splinter from the boardwalk or perhaps a piece of sharp plastic, metal or glass. You would do well therefore, to carry antiseptic cream with you as well as a pair of tweezers to pull the little stinger-critter out. And while you’re at it, might as well save the other beach-goers the annoyance and dispose of your rubbish appropriately. The sea urchins can’t be helped though.

5. SPEAK TO THE FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOOD LIFEGUARD

Lifeguards aren’t there to look good. Nor are they there to tell you off or spy on your every move. They observe and react to anything that might be a threat to someone’s life; they literally guard life in places which are brimming with it. The different-coloured flags too, aren’t there to look pretty. Ask your lifegaurd about them and you’ll be told whether it’s clean, clear or safe to swim. They will also provide you with emergency numbers and the location to any nearby clinics and care facilities, in case their warnings were muffled by the waves. Even if thankfully, you might not personally need to use such services, you might find yourself in a situation where you could provide the information to someone who does. Who knows? You too could, in a way, become the friendly neighbourhood lifeguard for a day, if you’re paying attention that is.

44

T R AV E L

K YIV

AWAITS CURIOUS TRAVELLERS TO UNVEIL ITS RICH & COLOURFUL HISTORY

One of the things that excites me about travelling, is going to places where the masses haven’t yet ventured. But, as the world gets increasingly smaller, finding less travelled destinations is getting increasingly harder.

I think it is fair to say that Ukraine and its capital Kyiv, can still be classed as being on a ‘road less travelled’. But times-are-achanging and Europe’s third greenest capital city is growing in popularity as a tourist destination, helped no less by Air Malta now flying weekly to Kyiv International Airport (Zhuliany).

The hosting of high profile events in recent years such as the 2012 European Football Championships, the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest and the 2018 EUFA Champion’s League Final, has shone the spotlight even more brightly on what is considered to be one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe. Perhaps, equally importantly, these events have led

WORDS DAVID BAKER / AIR MALTA

to investment in a wave of new hotels and restaurants.

T R AV E L

45

The centre of Kyiv has been the main focus for the

Ukraine’s evolving new identity of post-Soviet rule. Tourism is

refurbishment and includes buildings restored and

still in its infancy and prices are very inexpensive (compared

redecorated, especially on Khreschatyk Boulevard and

to many other European capitals). But there are many other

Maidan (Independence Square). Many historical areas such

reasons to visit too.

as Andryivskyi Uzviz, have become popular street vendor locations, where one can purchase traditional Ukrainian art,

A WA LK IN THE PA R K

religious items, books, game sets (including marvelous chess

Kyiv is a city that values its open spaces. Built mostly on hills

sets) as well as jewellery.

overlooking the third longest river in Europe (the Dnieper snakes through the heart of the city on its way to the Black Sea), Kyiv,

There are, in fact, many unexpected facets to life in

offers many dazzling vistas. You also cannot help but notice

Kyiv - from the ancient golden domes that glitter majestically

just how clean the air is. And trees grow seemingly everywhere

in the sun like a magical kingdom to its ultra-modern buildings

making it hard to differentiate where the city ends and nature

and decadent nightlife. The Ukraine capital also boasts avant

begins. I didn’t try it, but it is said one can walk from one end of

garde chefs, artists, architects and, yes, fashionistas. Who knew

Kyiv to the other without ever leaving the shade.

Kyiv would also be a shopping destination that goes far beyond kitsch Russian egg dolls and onion domed figurines?

There are over 120 parks, nearly 500 public gardens and over 70 boulevards and as a result this means there is an average of

Indeed this is an exciting time of progress and challenges with

about 20 square metres of greenery per resident.

46

T R AV E L

It also means choosing the best park to visit, is not that

11th century church that is thought to rival Hagia Sophia in

straightforward. Shevchenko Park would be high on the list

Constantinople). Inside, the air is thick with incense and at

given it is the most central and considered amongst the most

prayer time, the walls seem to mystically vibrate to a cappella

popular among locals, hosting numerous events: food festivals,

of choral music. It’s intoxicating stuff.

exhibitions of Ukrainian producers, master classes of famous dancing schools and parades. In the centre stands the monument

The city also has its own UNESCO world heritage site in

to Ukraine’s most famous poet and writer Taras Shevchenko.

Kyivo-Pecherskaya Lavrce, an ancient monastery complete with catacombs and the glass-encased tombs of monks. A

Mariinsky Park offers a different perspective being situated

city comprising nearly three million people has to be big. But

on the fringes of the national parliament, on the hills along

conveniently for the tourist, many landmarks are within each

the Dnieper River, providing splendid views on the left bank

reach of other, making it an ideal destination for a city break.

of Kyiv. This is an imperial park, founded in 1874 by the order of Alexander II and home to Mariinsky Palace, a breathtaking

At the heart of Kyiv is Maidan. It is to the city what Times

monument of Baroque architecture.

Square is to New York. Not only is it the main tourist centre, it is also the political heart where most of the government

The greenery extends beyond the parks and boulevards into

offices are located in close proximity to the plaza.

the Old Town, with its cobbled streets, welcoming squares and charming pastel-coloured houses. You’ll find it packed with

Meanwhile, deep down below ground, all the metro lines

original golden domed Gothic churches and walls and towers

intersect underneath Maidan, making it a convenient

dating back to the 14th century. Soviet Statues now share

transportation hub. The metro is the backbone of the city

prominence with contemporary buildings further heralding

and an attraction in its own right. It is cheap, reliable, fast

an era of the modern independent Ukraine.

and efficient. It also offers tourists a unique opportunity to experience some wonderful examples of post-war Stalinist

Oh and about those onion domes - the huge green and gold

architecture. In some of the older stations grand chandeliers

one that dominates the cityscape belongs to St Sophia (an

hang imperiously from tall ceilings. And mosaics and

sculptures are set within grand marble halls more akin to

oxen’ and ‘the Milkwoman’. Built between 1910 and 1912, it

a Russian palace than a public Metro system. You should

provides commercial space for local farmers and agricultural

definitely check out the stern statue of Lenin, which adorns

producers. But today, the market is a convenient place to buy

the concourse at Teatralna.

food, much as it is to meet local folk, representative of all strata of the Ukrainian society. From 387 stalls and 59 outlets

Some of the stations are deep – very deep as they were

you can find everything: from the most basic products to

designed as nuclear bomb shelters. Indeed the ‘Arsenalna’

exotic. One of the claims to fame is that the lard is the best of

station at 105.5 metres (350 ft) is the deepest underground

the all world. If you like lard that is.

station in the world. (London’s deepest is Hampstead, at just 58.5 metres). There are no elevators on the network but

This is a great place to eat, and a lot of the proprietors will

some extremely long escalators will transport you towards

offer you local food that can make you feel like a guest of a

the platforms.

Ukrainian family. Away from the Bessarabsky is perhaps Kiev’s single greatest fast food experience. Kyivska Perepichka is

A short walk away from Arsenalna, you can also experience the

little more than a window where two women hand out pieces

extreme opposite to the depths of Kyivs’s transport system in

of fried dough enclosing a mouthwatering sausage.

the shape of the monstrous Motherland Monument. Built in the 1970s and standing at 102 metres above ground, the imposing

One of the biggest surprises was how many ways there are

structure serves as another reminder of the nation’s Soviet past.

to prepare potatoes here and what is possible to put in the dumplings to make them tasty. Other delicacies not to be

WOR KED UP A N A PPETITE?

missed are green borsch soup made from sorrel or if you want

With plenty of walking to be done you will surely work up an

to push the boat out, have some black caviar, it is plentiful

appetite, and there are plenty of options to satisfy it. A visit

and far cheaper than you will anywhere else in the world. Be

to the Bessarabian market – or what Kyivians simply call the

wary of what you choose to wash your food down with. A visit

Bessarabsky - is a must. Here, according to locals, you can

to Kyiv would not be complete without a shot (or several) of

’taste, drink and smell the city.’

horilka pertsivka, a vodka infused with spicy chilis.

This large indoor market is on the western end of

History continues to unfold in Kyiv. A revolution has come and

Khreshchatyk, the main and the most famous street in Kyiv. It

gone and a creative wave has swept over the city, embodied by

is referred to as the shortest yet widest main drag in the world.

urban art, vintage cafes and an on-going party atmosphere.

So at only 1.2km long, (but remarkably broad) it won’t take you

Whether you’re looking for stunning architecture, boutique

long to walk it.

shopping, high culture or first-class cuisine, Kyiv has it all.

The imposing market building has a facade decorated with

Seemingly overnight, the city has become hip. Its’ time is

sculptural compositions such as ‘The Peasant with the

clearly now. Now it’s your time to experience it.

Air Malta operates a direct weekly service every Tuesday between Malta and Kiev. One way prices start at just €69 including taxes and charges. Visit www.airmalta.com for more info.

48

INTERVIEW

JOE PHILLIPE ABELA

HIS LIFE IN ART WORDS ANDREI VELLA LAURENTI

J

oe Phillippe Abela is a colourful man in every sense

not only in their work but in them as indviduals - he

of the word and a true gentleman. His life is like a

discussed the work with them, saw their progress and

moveable feast oscillating from artistic bohemian

progression and decided that the next logical step

gatherings to public lectures. His subject? Art. He explained to me how his love affair with art started

was to start collecting their works. Every piece in his collection is related to a specific artist he knew. There is a personal story behind every canvas.

at a very young age over a cup of tea one Saturday afternoon. Joe Phllippe was born and raised in Rabat

Joe Phillippe insists that he is not a collector of art in

but family connections exposed him to the world

the sense of the word. He explained to me that he sees

of art. He told me how family friends from Mdina

himself as a guardian to a collection. Since art is a way of

aroused his interest in art.

communication he strongly believes that art should not be collected because that would defeat the purpose.

Abela moved to London in 1977 and worked for David Carritt. The latter was a renowned art historian, critic

Joe Phillippe approaches art through his senses. He

and connoisseur of the old masters. Joe Phillippe

prides himself as being non-academic preferring to

worked for Carritt for five years and described this

feel art rather than understanding it cognitively. He

period as a finishing school to his foundation in art.

explained that his bias doesn’t exclude the academic

The five years he spent working for David Carritt

aspect to understanding art. As a guardian to a

were ones of networking, building contacts and

collection Joe Phillippe has a responsibility towards

visiting houses to see private collections. In 1985 Joe

the work of art, the person behind it and towards

Phillippe moved to New York City. He found the city

the community.

to be vibrant and exciting and open to every kind of possibility. This time he was working for a man who

He explained that the artist can take his work back

collected modern art and surrounded himself with it.

if it is needed to be shown at some public exhibition

He discovered that living with art stimulated him and

however the painting in question will still belong

that it was something he wanted to do for the rest of

to the collection. The responsibility towards the

his life.

community lies in his belief as a guardian of art; Joe Phillippe has the obligation to share his knowledge

In New York City Joe Phillippe quickly established

and experience to the younger generation.

his reputation as an eccentric art lover who mixed with artists and visited their studios to discuss their

After some years spent in New York, Joe Phillippe

work. He explained to me that these studio visits took

returned to London where he organised talks once

place every month. It was not long before he started

a month and continued to support the artists he

collecting art himself.

knew by buying their work. His private flat at Earl’s Court was organised into an artistic place. A space

The collection started in New York City during 1986

where artists, students and people from all walks of

and 1987. Joe Phillippe was interested in the up and

life could view art. Joe Phillippe used to ask buskers

coming artists of that time. Since his interest was

at the nearby station to join in to liven up the

INTERVIEW

Since art is a way of communication he strongly believes that art should not be collected because that would defeat the purpose

atmosphere with their music and performances. This

important to students who are reading History of Art

sort of happening took art outside the limited space

at the University of Malta (or any other educational

of the galleries and manifested itself as an organic

institution) and to anyone who is interested in art. The

experience in people’s lives.

collection was received with great appreciation and interest but its future remains uncertain. Joe Phillippe

Such events prove that art is not collected to show

is still looking for a space to anchor the collection for

off power but to communicate passion, love and

posterity. Since moving house, all the work has been

communication between cultures. Joe Phillippe

stored away safely. Joe Phillippe dreams of turning

managed to take art out of the institutions that

the collection into a foundation where students would

shackle it. His guardianship is independent and

benefit from scholarships, internships and exchanges.

doesn’t adhere to preconceived ideas of what a collection should or should not be.

I personally see Joe Phillippe as a midwife to the artists. A man who listens with interest and debates

Joe Phillippe moved the collection to Malta in 2008.

with passion. An artist in his own right because as

He continues to surround himself with art to educate,

Salvador Dalí said, “a true artist is not one who is

connect and discover. He insists that this collection is

inspired but one who inspires others”.

49

50

50 YEARS

50 Years of Creativity TBWA\ANG ARE CELEBRATING 50 YEARS AS A MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY. Founded in 1968 as Associated News Limited, the agency has developed a track record for producing innovative, thought provoking and trend-setting campaigns for some of Malta’s biggest companies including internationals such as McDonald's and Nissan as well as local market heavyweights like Bank of Valletta and Brown’s pharmacy.

Disruption is the abiding philosophy. TBWA is a major international collective where teams generate ideas to turn abstract concepts and ad breeds into living campaigns that excite and engage.

Disruption requires clients to buy into the agile, out of the box and sometimes unorthodox approach to advertising.

This gets results as shown by the many awards and accolades garnered by the agency over the years. Fifty years is a long time in the ad world with trends and fads continuously

moving and flowing forcing agencies to be constantly ahead of the curve. That the agency is celebrating this milestone anniversary is a real feat.

“Those who follow trends join the navy.

Those who set them become pirates” As founder Godfrey Grima puts it, "It’s modesty that will win you gold stars. Research, hard work, and a tireless commitment to producing convincing campaigns will fill your treasure chest.”

This pragmatic attitude, combined with an incessant desire to innovate has steered the ship well for the past 50 years and will undoubtedly be a part of the agency for the next 50.

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What if

Cinderella

...

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AN OASIS IN THE CITY

L ANDMARK

53

WORDS TESSA MEREDITH

T

he Lower Barakka is a small island of greenery planned to offer some respite in a busy city. Its setting is more relaxing and tranquil than

that of Upper Barakka.

Built on St Christopher bastion, its most prominent feature is a monument in the shape of a small classical temple, a cenotaph in the style of a Doric Temple whose architect was the Maltese Giorgio Pullicino. It was erected in memory of Sir Alexander Ball who in 1799 was detailed by Lord Nelson to head the Maltese insurgency against the occupying Napoleonic troops who at the time had been besieged inside the fortified Valletta enceinte.

This small monument was erected by public subscription in 1810 to honour the British Commissioner and later Governor of Malta.

54

C U LT U R E

A word about Sir Alexander who was a popular figure and was highly esteemed by the local population.

Although not the first Civil Commissioner of the Maltese Islands – he officially succeeded Charles Cameron in this post in 1903 – it was Ball who brought the new British administration into gear and established a popular and warm relationship with the Maltese. Ball also created gardens round the island and persuaded farmers to grow potatoes.

His Under Secretary was none other than the poet, critic and philosopher Samuel Taylor Coleridge who described Malta as a cumulus of gardens.

From Ball’s monument there is an excellent view across Grand Harbour to Bighi, the site of a former Military hospital, and the adjacent fortress of Ricasoli.

The latter was built in 1670 on designs of the Chevalier Antonio Maurizio Valperga, the military engineer of the House of Savoy. It was the Florentine knight Fra Giovanni Francesco Ricasoli who donated 20,000 scudi to construct the fort, and it was named in his honour.

The biggest and most heavily armed fort in Malta in 2012, its impressive gate was used in Game of Thrones.

This 300 year old fort saw use during the French invasion of Malta in 1798 and the subsequent Maltese insurrection, after which it ended up in British hands. In World War II parts of it were destroyed by aerial bombardment. For a time it was also used as a prison. It is now used as a filming location.

The Lower Barakka has its own loggiata in clear imitation of the one in the Upper Barrakka. There is also the Malta Siege Bell Memorial nearby. This architectural sculpture is the work of Michael Sandle R.A. and was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992. It was raised in memory of the 7,000 brave seamen and civilians who lost their lives during World War II, courageously defending ships bringing provisions and fuel to beleaguered Malta.

This 13-tonne bronze bell rings for two minutes every mid day in their memory.

Look out for the commemorative plaques dedicated to, amongst others, the Hungarian revolution of 1956, The Prague spring, Giuseppe Garibaldi and the 50th anniversary of the European Union.

Less busy than Upper Barrakka, this green gem is closer to the sea with a better view of the forts and affords the best vista of the entrance to the Grand Harbour.

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LOCAL

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TA L K O F T H E TOWN WITH SO MANY CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES ON OUR LITTLE ISLANDS, IT’S HARD TO DECIDE WHAT TO SEE AND WHERE TO GO. THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WE’LL BE HIGHLIGHTING OUR TOP LOCATIONS FOR THE SEASON. THIS MONTH IT'S ST JULIANS.

LAPSI CHURCH A quaint chapel in the oldest part of St Julian’s originally built by the Knights of St John. Erected in c.

1560, this charming chapel went through many structural changes through the years but still holds its character. The current structure dates back to 1716.

PORTOMASO TOWER Malta’s tallest building to date, serving as both a residential and entertainment location.

The luxury apartments overlook the top class marina and stylish restaurants. Pay the area a visit if you’re looking for a spectacular meal or brisk walk by the water.

SPINOLA PALACE Spinola Palace was built by Far Paolo Rafaela Spinola in 1688. An architectural gem originally commissioned by the Knights of St John with a detailed heritage. 1798 saw the Order’s emblem destroyed by French troops who occupied the island while the later years saw the palace’s conversion into a hospital.

ST JULIAN’S FEAST

PACEVILLE

ST GEORGE’S BAY

A feast celebrating the locality’s patron

Probably the most bustling spot on

Located in the heart of Malta’s nightlife

saint and namesake - St Julian. The

the island - Paceville simply refuses

city, St George’s Bay can be found in

feast is held in late August every year

to sleep. With clubs, bars and pubs

Paceville where tourists and locals spend

and features traditional activities as

on every corner, this free entrance

hours relaxing on the sandy beach.

well as a vibrant atmosphere due to

nightlife zone is the heart of music,

Since the beach is situated amongst the vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene,

its neighbouring vicinity Paceville.

partying and entertainment. Pace

The St Julian’s Band Club and Spinola

yourself for a long night out; the

it provides the perfect setting for a

Band Club both take part in this

area will keep you buzzed till the

day-long beach adventure. Grab a beer

local celebration.

early hours of the morning.

and a couple of friends and you could be looking at a fun couple of hours.

A GUIDE TO THE LITTLE

MALTESE ISLANDS

għasri

għarb

żebbuĠ

marsalforn

san lawrenz

xlendi

xagħra

victoria kerĊem

xewkija

munxar sannat

nadur gĦajnsielem mĠarr

qala

comino

Ċirkewwa

st paul’s island mellieĦa

qawra 01

xemxija 04

st paul’s bay

buĠibba

mĠarr

naxxar

Ġnejna

Portomaso Casino, Level -1 Portomaso Business tower Portomaso, St Julian's. STJ4011 Free Transport. Free Parking. Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours. Contact us on (+356) 21383777 www.portomasocasino.com

mosta

attard

sa

mdina

qo rabat 05

dingli qrendi

Is-Suq tal-Belt Valletta Food Market Merchants Street, Valletta

Żurrieq

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filfla

01

Oracle Casino, Isle Promenade Qawra. SPB 2508. Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours. For info and Free Transport Contact us on (+356) 21570057

www.oraclecasino.com

02

St George's Bay, St Julian’s Open 24/7. For info and Free transportation please call (+356) 2371 0555

www.casinomalta.com.mt

03

Dragonara Casino, St Julian’s, Malta Open 24 hours. For free transport kindly call: (+356) 2092 1000

02

r

www.dragonaracasino.com

03 04

st julian’s sliema gżira

an Ġwann

05

msida

Valletta

birkirkara floriana

the three cities

ormi tarxien

marsa

marsascala żejtun

luqa

marsaxlokk

birŻebbuĠa

62

LOCAL

ISL AND HIGHLIGHTS Despite its diminutive size, the Maltese archipelago is bursting with historic sites, idyllic spots, culture and tradition. The Maltese Islands are like nowhere else.

Here you’ll find fossil-studded geo formations, prehistoric temples, intriguing diving opportunities, and a richly woven history of remarkable intensity. Here’s a handy guide on what to look out for during your stay.

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

BLUE L AGOON & SANTA MARIA BAY, COMINO A short boat ride away, Comino boasts two picturesque beaches; the Blue Lagoon with aquamarine waters and Santa Maria Bay with crystal clear waters excellent for snorkelers and divers. This paradise welcomes large amounts of visitors each year.

INSERT TEXT HERE

BLUE GROTTO, QRENDI, MALTA The mesmerising natural display of sunlight and reflections in the water found in the Blue Grotto are sure to be one of the highlights of your Malta holiday. Daily boat rides can be taken to the many caves and caverns found in the area.

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

MARSAXLOKK FISH MARKET, MALTA If it’s a fresh fish market you’re looking for then Marsaxlokk [Mar-Sa-Schlock] should be on your day plan every Sunday. A selection of restaurants specialising in seafood dishes can also be found along the promenade serving fresh delicacies and traditional Maltese dishes.

63

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SAN ĠIL JAN T H E V I L L A G E T H A T B E C A M E M A LT A ’ S P A R T Y T O W N WORDS IGGY FENECH

T

he town of San Ġiljan (St Julian’s), located on the

tens of thousands of partygoers on a weekly basis. Even

north east-coast of Malta, has evolved beyond all

so, as you make your way through the maze of streets

recognition from its humble beginnings as a small,

lined with restaurants, designer outlets, convenience

seaside, fishing and hunting village. Today its skyline

shops, tourist traps and bars, you’re very likely to spot

is dominated by the 320 foot-tall Portomaso Business

remnants of St Julian’s past. And nothing tells the

Tower – Malta’s tallest building so far and an unofficial

town’s history better than its churches.

monument to the role it plays in the country’s economy.

The oldest one seems to have been Lapsi church, which This shift intensified in the 1980s, when the village

was built sometime before 1580 for the Knights of the

began its ascent to becoming Malta’s tourism and

Order of St John, who used to head to the tiny village to

clubbing capital. The former can now be seen in the

hunt. That church was rebuilt in 1593 and then replaced

many hotels and language schools in the area. The

again in 1682, only to be damaged by the 1693 Sicily

latter, through the Paceville district, which welcomes

earthquake, which affected large parts of Malta.

66

LOCAL

From the records of the pastoral visit of Bishop Paolo Alferan

the last green lungs in this busy area. Nearby, there is also

De Bussan, we know that the church had been rebuilt by 1730

the famous LOVE monument, where many place love locks

and, although not massive, served the residents well. Indeed,

on the railing.

documents show that in 1847 St Julian’s was only home to some 50 families, with the population swelling up to just

The last church on our list is the Millennium Chapel, a

over 1,000 in the summer months.

safe haven in the heart of the party mile of Paceville that is meant to serve as ‘an oasis of peace’ to anyone who seeks

Meanwhile, just a few roads away, the Carmelite Priests of

it. A product of its time, it brings us back to present-day St

Valletta, built a small chapel in Balluta in 1858. The chapel

Julian’s, a town that has become synonymous with coming of

was rebuilt and enlarged in 1900. An adjoining convent soon

age, as every Maltese person of these past three generations

followed, and this would go on to serve as the Government

will surely remember.

School for the area during World War I as the actual school had to be turned into a wartime hospital.

And yet, while the town has changed completely throughout the years, it is still called home by over 10,000 people – some

As St Julian’s population grew, so did its churches and by

of whom have lived there for generations. This facet of St

1961 the now-Parish Church of St Julian’s was officially

Julian’s can also be noticed in the green grocer trucks that

opened to the parishiners. From Spinola Bay, the church

sell their produce by the roadside, and the very few cafés that

can be seen on the hill overlooking Għomor Valley, one of

have survived largely unchanged.

HOTSPOT

69

VALLETTA WATERFRONT: THE HISTORIC DESTINATION WITH THE COLOURED DOORS

T

he Valletta Waterfront combines food, retail and entertainment within a maritime hub, which for the past years has proved to be a highly popular destination. The small chapel of the Flight to Egypt by the Holy Family further creates a unique ‘village’ ambience.

For those in search of a relaxing time with good food and entertainment, the Valletta Waterfront’s many restaurants and bars present a variety of offerings catering to different tastes, with dining right at the water’s edge. The establishments’ indoor dining areas are situated inside the tastefully refurbished, historical stores, originally constructed by Grand Master Pinto in 1752. Today, ushering in a modern era, the iconic doors have been revived with an artistic impression of colour, representing the storage of goods from days past: blue for fish, green for produce, yellow for wheat and red for wine.

An exquisite place at any time of the day - relax with a coffee in the morning watching the small boats bobbing along, occasionally the bigger cruise ships with their bustling activity; a bite to eat at

lunchtime; or a lovely meal of whatever takes your fancy at sundown, with magnificent views of the historic Grand Harbour.

ARRIVING TO THE VALLETTA WATERFRONT • Valletta circular bus (133)

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

• Valletta Waterfront features on most hop-on hop-off buses’ routes. You will be dropped off a few metres away.

Enjoy Maltese Nights on Thursday evenings: patrons can go back in time through the Maltese Islands’ history and experience traditional folk dancing, falconry displays, the terramaxka – a musical instrument which was popular in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries and Maltese games, amongst other activities. Participation in all activities is free of charge.

• Electric cabs are available from just outside Valletta.

Meanwhile little guests can enjoy free activities including: balloon modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouringins, meet & greets with all-time favourite characters, puppet shows, bouncy castles and more, every Saturday evening (19.30hrs onwards) and Sunday afternoons (12.30hrs onwards).

For more information visit www.vallettawaterfront.com

from the main bus terminal.

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

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

• Parking is also convenient.

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

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

HERE’S WHAT’S BEEN GOING ON, WHO’S BEEN SEEN AND WHERE THEY’ VE BEEN SPOT TED. MALTA’S HOT TEST NEWS, RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW.

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72

LUXURY EVENT & WEDDING PLANNER

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I

f you are reading this and searching for the ideal destination wedding, look no further, Malta is simply the best. Malta has locations for every Bride and Grooms dream wedding. From a sunset beach

to a beautiful garden or a historical palace, there’s the perfect setting for every couple.

We live in Australia and our family were thrilled to make the journey to Malta. It wasn’t just a wedding but a once in a lifetime family holiday together. Everyone we met in this picturesque country was warm and friendly, and we left Malta feeling that it had become our home away from home.

I always dreamed of getting married in Malta, the country my grandparents were born in and fell in love. Thanks to Sarah Young and her talented team she brought my dream wedding to life, and I married Benjimen, on April 12th.

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We couldn’t have picked a better country to be married in than Malta. I always wanted a fairy tale wedding and our day was just that, a fairy tale.

ART

About Time WORDS FRANCESCA BALZAN

I

cannot think of two more contrary experiences… that of sitting on a plane – just as you are doing right now, counting time until you touchdown at your destination – as opposed to visiting a museum, where the idea is to draw out time, taking it all in slowly, meandering from room to room appreciating the

timeless quality of the antiques on display… which brings me to just such a timeless museum and the real object of my story today: timekeepers.

Let me start by introducing you to Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum - one of the oldest extant homes on the Maltese islands. It is distinguished by its architecture and by the very fact that it has survived more or less intact, give or take the various changes and embellishments that were added to it over the 800 years of its existence (never mind the fact that it overlies Roman, and probably much earlier, remains).

01.

73

74

ART

02.

Its first documented residents were the Falsone family (hence

around 1797 by Robert Robin (1742-1799). Distinctive for its

the name of the Palazzo), who wielded power in Mdina which

ten-hour dial, this watch reflects French Revolutionary Time,

was then the administrative capital of Malta. After passing

which was based on the decimal principle. Revolutionary or

down to noble families and various other individuals, the

Decimal Time was officially adopted in 1793, and it stipulated

house was eventually bought by Olof Frederick Gollcher

that the Gregorian calendar was to be abandoned in favour

(1889-1962) in 1927. Gollcher was an intriguing character.

of the Republican calendar, which divided the day into ten

His ancestor on the paternal side had arrived in Malta from

hours with one hundred minutes each having one hundred

Sweden in the mid-19th century, making firm roots in Malta

seconds. Although quite simple, this system of timekeeping

by marrying a Maltese lady and setting up a shipping business

did not prove popular, and by 1795 was no longer compulsory.

which still thrives to this very day. Gollcher, known to all

On the 1st January 1806, French timekeeping reverted to

his friends as ‘Olly’, was an artist and an enthusiast of all the

the traditional system. Few examples of these watches were

fine things in life: travel, art appreciation and collecting, the

produced, most of which are no longer extant.

study of history and generally keeping in touch with his many contacts all over the world. Undoubtedly his travels and his

Another notable watch turns out to be the oldest one we

knowledge of history gave him an edge as he formed, over

know of in Maltese collections. This rather elaborate silver

decades of his life, a wide-ranging and important collection of

and tortoiseshell pair-cased verge watch was made by Isaac

art and historic relics.

Haas (Hasius) in Haarlem around 1690-1700. These watches together with others from the collection were displayed

These are displayed throughout medieval Palazzo Falson and

in a temporary exhibition, one of a series that Palazzo

remind us not only of their own individual stories but of the

Falson regularly organises about little known aspects of the

man who selected them for his collection. Just as his character

decorative arts, at Palazzo Falson in 2015/16, guest curated by

was intriguing, clever, well-read and interested in all manner

David Thompson (formerly Curator of Horology, The British

of things, likewise his collection reveals an eclectic and broad

Museum). Although the catalogues are no longer available,

range of interests. Amongst the weird and the wonderful -

there is some information and clips of the exhibition on the

from important Museum pieces to curiosities - are a small

Museum website and an interactive tour can still be acquired

collection of pocket watches.

from the Museum.

The star of the watch collection is the French decimal time

Aside from these portable keepers of time, Palazzo Falson also

watch. It is signed Robin a’ Paris No. 2, and was made in Paris

displays two exemplars of the typical Maltese wall clock. The

03.

so-called Tal-Lira clock is a type unique to Malta and you may well see some exemplars of it as you tour the historic houses and museums of Malta. Originating from the 17th century, the Maltese wall clock had a

now... take the right path

painted and gilt case and the dial was decorated with floral motifs, birds, landscapes and other scenery on a white background. It was a luxury item which would be found in prominent areas of upper-class homes, palaces and convents.

Olof Gollcher’s home and collections are now owned by the Olof Gollcher Art and Archaeological Foundation and managed by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti. The

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past in Malta’s own ancient capital of Mdina.

Contact us to learn more ACT Advisory Services Limited St. Julians, Malta Tel: (+356) 2137 8672 01. French decimal time watch 02. Sitting Room with Maltese clock in the centre 03. Pocket watch by Isaac Haas (Hasius), made in Haarlem around 1690-1700

Victoria, Gozo Tel: (+356) 2155 9202 Email: info@act.com.mt www.act.com.mt

76

POEM

I shoulder the mouth of the abyss; the threads of fear, softened, slide off my back; my face held steadily by the honest sun, the radiant gorgon, blinding me instead to reveal what I could not see, and unveil what is true; naked, she releases me a chained spirit now a changed being, a wild fowl, burnt and brazened by images of the past a charred steed now a charged steed, charging still towards the poles of the earth to meet you.

WORDS GIULIA PRIVITELLI ILLUSTRATION STEVEN BONELLO

Walking in Circles is the working title of an artistic-literary project supported by the Arts Council Malta – Malta Arts Fund. The illustrated-poetic journey, spanning over the cycle of one full year, will be launched in the form of a publication in October 2018.

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INHAWI BOUTIQUE HOSTEL

MOVIDA BE ACH LID O

Inhawi Hostel is located in St. Julian’s. It offers the charm of a boutique hostel which features an outdoor pool with panoramic views of Balluta Bay and the Mediterranean Sea. The hostel is located in a restored 19 th century building with a modern décor. The rooms are spacious and comfortable each featuring free air-conditioning and an en-suite bathroom with one or two showers, a toilet and a sink – a luxury for most hostels. All rooms feature either sea view, garden / valley view or pool view.

Spend a relaxing day by the pool enjoying one of the most stunning views of Valletta and cool down in one of our sea water swimming pools, including a kids' splas pool. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served from our BBQ grill kitchen from 9:00 till late

Triq Telghet STJ 1342,, St Julian's • 2138 2554

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ARCHITEC TURE

OPENING DOORS THE ANTIPORTA IS AN INNER DOOR PREVALENT IN MALTESE HOMES – WHICH SIMULTANEOUSLY PROVIDES PRIVACY AND ACCESSIBILIT Y TO THOSE ON EITHER SIDE. VERONICA STIVAL A STEPS INSIDE THIS OFTEN-OVERLOOKED ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTERISTIC, WHICH IS RAPIDLY DISAPPEARING FROM OUR ARCHITECTURAL L ANDSCAPE.

W

ith its wooden skeleton, its delicate glazing, and characteristic bell, the antiporta is a ‘welcome’ sign, it’s the space and location of an initial greeting, a

conversation starter, while also a convenient shelter from the scorching sun or pelting rain.

Yet with the advent of mass-produced, frameless glass panes and intercom buzzers preceding communal entrances, the quasi-spiritual experience of entering a building so eloquently presented by the antiporta became a very clinical affair, and with time is slowly being phased out of Maltese buildings.

In an attempt to salvage the memory of this architectural feature, Chris Briffa Architects have engaged themselves in a research work and an exhibition, which is on at the Venice Architecture Biennale, and which will then move to Malta after that.

81

Sadly the antiporta is a fastfading feature of Maltese houses, a reflection of our changing living habits

antiporta. “The antiporta presented a negotiation between public and private space that for long characterised the encounters on our streets. Through its enclosure it hosted stories of familiarity as it was the backdrop to every event the building would host,” explains Briffa.

The exhibition focuses on the antiporta’s manufacturing, with investigation into the attachment that local practitioners have to their craft. In parallel, they documented the nostalgia attributed to this piece, through filming the personal stories people have to describe of their own antiporta and using footage of antiporti across the island which showcase so well the social interactions we were interested in. “The way people communicate across the glazing and with people they might not be familiar with, is fascinating,” observes Briffa, adding how “all this was enabled through the construction of the antiporta: it talks of a society very different to the compartmentalised and divided, alienated and individual of the contemporary; it talks of a time when the intrigue of encounter fostered new temporary and less temporary Although a feature of Maltese houses, glass ante-doors have been a standard feature in many buildings all over Europe, particularly in public buildings such as churches.

But, notes Briffa, who is leading the project, “in Malta it has taken an interesting twist in that pretty much every Maltese house, big or small, in town or in the village, had to have one of these artefacts. One could say that it was inconceivable that any Maltese house built between the 18th and late 20th century would be designed without the antiporta; which was always followed by the intrata (entry hall), in turn leading to the salott (formal sitting room) and eventually to the rest of the house. This symbolic procession of invitation (when the main door is left open), privacy (the choice of glass or laced curtains), entry (the low level brass door knob), alarm (the chimes and bells) and eventual review of the intrata spoke volumes of the home, its inhabitants and their social status.”

relationships and connections.”

Sadly the antiporta is a fast-fading feature of Maltese houses, a reflection of our changing living habits: “Our modes of living have changed, and with them our ability to encounter and socialise; our perception of safety and shelter, and our time to linger and invite. Contemporary living dictates that the door is shut upon entry and there is barely any negotiation between in and out. This presents dead frontages, doorscapes that don't relate to our curiosity in the same way they did so short a time ago,” laments Briffa.

While the team’s first task is about creating awareness, and shifting the spotlight back on this local relic, their long-term direction is to stir away from nostalgia and look ahead towards its next chapter. “How can one re-interpret its multi-functional, social and fundamental layers and present it within a new perspective is what we are now asking

In addition to its architectural idiosyncrasies, the creative

ourselves. Perhaps this project, like our Gallarija Miftuha, will

group of professionals, artists and architects behind the

eventually lead to a new prototype to extend the relevance,

project were also interested in the social dimension of the

and ultimately the lifetime, of this beautiful artefact.”

Welcome on board. Joining you today is Malta’s best-loved beer, Cisk: an award-winning beer inspired by the amazing Maltese people and a symbol of national pride. Why not start your Maltese experience a little early - order yourself a Cisk on this flight and discover why it’s known as Malta’s finest.

84

HUMOUR

THE TA XI CONFE SSIONS WORDS ALESSIA CARUANA

T

he Taxi in many ways has become the

We all squish at the back while that one of us gets

upholstered confessional of our generation,

lumped the front passenger seat that no one wants to

like a safe space to share all your

claim; sorry not sorry I guess. It's 5am, we're on the way

shortcomings, tears and joys just until you

to Attard, one of us has already been dropped off and

arrive home. The driver becomes your best friend

another one who doesn't seem to care where she might

because he's the person you'll probably never see

end up, is out like a light. My other friend beside me is

again or at least won't remember by the next day

feeling sick, the driver frantically breaks the car like

so he's the perfect candidate to weigh in on all the

Vin Diesel in the Fast and the Furious and warns us

thoughts you'd never normally share if you hadn't

that if anyone were to feel sick in his car he'd leave us

consumed your body weight in tequila.

on the side of the road. So much for knights in shining taxis. One look around me and I was begging my friend

The taxi driver waits patiently just round the corner.

to keep it together for just a while longer, wasn't in the

The streets of Paceville are their hunting grounds,

mood to hitchhike or function for that matter.

like wild hyenas waiting to attack. Taxi Ms? TAXI? Hi, how much please? Swieqi, Buġibba, Attard, Rabat and

Almost an hour later it was down to two, the sleeper

Paola? 40 Euro for the 5 of you? Sold. Completely doable

and me. By this time it's sunrise and my mother's

on a student’s stipend right? Yes. Well anything would

obviously blowing up my phone, seconds away from

make sense at 04:30, when all logical thinking has fled

calling the police on me for being out past my curfew,

your brain and the ridiculously high heels you thought

but I have no credit to text back because I'm a student

would snatch you a boyfriend get kicked off your 18 year

who just responsibly spent my pocket money on

old feet the moment you hit the back leather seat. We've

drinks, a pizza that will probably cost me a heart

been squished in like sardines, because there's no way

attack in my 50s and this taxi. The driver offers his

the crafty driver is going to lose an additional couple of

phone, and I assure my mother I'm alive even though

pennies to his opponent parked beside him. Better luck

I'm not quite sure I want to be alive to witness the

next time Frankie.

“I expected better from you” speech.

HUMOUR

85

We've been squished in like sardines, because there's no way the crafty driver is going to lose an additional couple of pennies to his opponent parked beside him. Better luck next time Frankie

Driver asks me what my curfew was and I say 3, when he

enough to ask if I got home ok. He was perfectly right,

asks why I was still out by 5 I explain that my best friend

so now not only was I wasting my money but my time

knocked unconscious beside me and her boyfriend got

too. My friend’s been unloaded to her house through

into a fight because she cheated on him with his friend

the back entrance and it's my turn to get home. Finally.

at the club, having led to a considerable amount of tears

Joe. My best friend for one hour. I'd most likely never

and dissolving mascara on her part. Meanwhile the guy

see him again or recognise him if I were out, but he'd

I liked walked away into the night with some bottle

accepted me and my friends like some strays off the side

blonde with denim underwear for shorts and there I was

of the street so the least I could do was accept the friend

nursing my semi comatose friend back home sounds like

request he had just sent me.

fair trade to me.

I walk out the car and just like that my very own Joe le Driver who I've now discovered is named Joe tells me

Taxi rides off into the sunset while the birds chirp and

about his clubbing days, about how he met his wife and

I reflect on my poor night’s choices while my mother

how I shouldn't waste my time on boys that don't care

escorts me up the stairs like a fugitive in custody.

VIDEOSLOTS WELCOMES

25

Konnichiwa!

Videoslots - the World’s Biggest Online Casino with an ever-growing number of staff members, 27 different nationalities. Diversity is the key word here: our staff complement is as diverse as the selection of video slots we offer. As we expand further we’re looking for Japanese speakers to join our Customer Support and Content teams.

Why Join Videoslots?

We do work hard to keep our Casino in the top spot, but we offer quite a lot of benefits such as attractive relocation packages, beach club memberships, VIP entrance to festivals and clubs, flexible working hours, quarterly company events and an annual trip, weekly breakfasts, and a healthy lifestyle allowance.

Who can apply?

We’re looking for a person who speaks/writes fluent Japanese, can work on their own initiative and be a team player. The company believes in diversity and offers equal opportunities to prospective candidates. At Videoslots, you’ll find a mix of young leaders and experienced heads, and people who want to learn and improve their career and the company as well.

Meet Megumi Megumi Katsumata, 36, joined Videoslots in April as a Content Writer for the Japanese market. She shared with us some information about her job, why she moved to Malta and a few tips for aspiring Japanese wishing to move to Malta!

At Videoslots I work with friendly people from many different countries, especially those in my department. They’re great teammates indeed!

Japanese is a complicated language; we have three styles (hiragana, katakana, and kanji) that are mixed, so you have to switch between styles as needed in order to be polite.

Although very small, Malta is very interesting as I can see a lot of different cultures. There are also heaps of historical places and beautiful beaches, and besides that Malta allows me to travel to Europe easily. l like working, but it is important for me to have the right balance and Malta makes this possible. It is often said that the Japanese are hard workers, but hard work does not always equal good work. If you are moving to Malta, you’ll get to see that some things in life are more important!

Videoslots SEND YOUR CV TO: Jobs@videoslots.com

www.videoslots.com |

Gambling can be addictive, play responsibly. Videoslots.com is operated by Videoslots Ltd, a company registered in Malta having registration number C 49090. Panda Media Ltd is regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority under licence number MGA/CL1/956/2014, MGA/CL1/1048/2014, MGA/CL1/1047/2014, MGA/CL1/1091/2015, MGA/CL1/1261/2016 and MGA/CL1/1262/2016 and the Gambling Commission in United Kingdom under licence number 000-039380-R-319311-007. The facilities provided to UK players is solely made in reliance on the latter licence.

GOZO

87

CULTURAL EVENTS ON THE ISLAND OF GOZO SANTA MARIJA FESTA - A CELEBRATION ROOTED IN TRADITION Summer in Gozo is not just about the sizzling sun, blissful coastlines and the wonderful Mediterranean dishes – it also revolves around weekly village feasts that add more flavour to the island’s rich cultural calendar.

The festa season peaks right in the middle of August when Victoria (ir-Rabat) is impeccably decorated for the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin, also known as Santa Marija.

This celebration is a real crowd-puller, not just because it coincides with the peak of the summer holiday season across Europe, but also because it is a feast that offers a unique blend of faith, street marches, food, music, fireworks, and tradition. The locals love Santa Marija as the festa is connected to one of the most crucial historical moments during World War II, when food and fuel supplies arrived in Malta on the 15th August 1942 amid heavy

Photo by CVC media

bombardments, saving the islands from starvation. This

are complemented by an event that takes place during day

gave Malta a lifeline of hope and for this the island has

time; the Santa Marija agricultural show.

remained religiously grateful.

The agricultural show has been taking place in Gozo, every The week-long celebration starts with a band concert

15th August, since 1855. This is held at the Villa Rundle

on the 8th August and ends with a spectacular fireworks

gardens in Victoria and includes exhibits of local produce,

display on the 15th. For a whole week, every evening, the

livestock, poultry, farm machinery, vegetables and song

smell of delicious Maltese food fills the air, fireworks

birds. Artistan work and crafts, locally produced wines,

light up the city, while hundreds of revellers party to the

oil, and honey are also on display making this show an

sound of traditional band marches. The night activities

authentic local experience.

S ECO N D ED I T I O N O F T H E G OZO F I L M F ES T I VA L Following last year’s success, the Gozo Film Club is proud to announce the second edition of the Gozo Film Festival. This event is taking place in the

UNMISSABLE AUGUST EVENTS

beautiful setting of one of the Gozo Citadel’s bastions, from Friday 24 till Sunday 26 August.

This three-day festival promotes local and international filmmakers and offers guests free viewing of selected movies, spanning different

QALA FESTA // 2ND – 5TH AUGUST CONCERTS AT MĠARR HARBOUR // 3RD, 10TH, 17TH, 24TH, 31ST AUGUST CERAMICS FESTIVAL // 4TH AUGUST CONCERTS IN MARSALFORN // 6TH, 13TH, 20TH, 27TH AUGUST

genres. The festival programme features lectures

CONCERTS IN XLENDI // 11TH, 15TH, 18TH, 25TH, 31ST AUGUST

on filmmaking, feature films, short movies,

MALTA INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL (GOZO ED.) // 10TH – 11TH AUGUST

documentaries, and a children’s programme – it is an

SAN LAWRENZ FESTA // 10TH – 12TH AUGUST

opportunity to experience cinema in unique setting, under the summer sky.

More information on www.visitgozo.com

ŻEBBUĠ FESTA // 17TH – 19TH AUGUST GĦAJNSIELEM FESTA // 22ND – 26TH AUGUST WINE FESTIVAL // 31ST AUGUST – 2ND SEPTEMBER

88

FICTION

FICTION

TO WALK THE LINE WORDS TCD

T

here they sat, looking out at the sea,

took each step up the slippery pole with

watching the waves hit the concrete,

pride - even though some of the runners only

watching the crabs scurry to the

had three good steps in them.

shore and fall back into the choppy blue sea.

They looked out at the regular boats that

From a bird’s perspective; this might seem

called the bay their home, the local children

like a silly game but amusing it was indeed.

splashing about in the shallow waters as the

As Tilly and Manny perched themselves

rest of the seagulls hunted for their dinner.

upon a luzzu, ready for the show to start;

But Tilly and Manny sat and waited. Tilly

Diego the duck paddled towards them with

and Manny were not your ordinary seagulls,

a grin on his face. “He’s back, he’s back - the

they were smart - cunning and rather witty;

champion is back.”

they knew a show was about to begin.

As the sun threw its rays onto the bay, the Every August Tilly and Manny would sit and

three of them lifted their heads up higher,

watch the fat men. They’d watch them run

in hopes of seeing the champion of the pole,

up that strangely positioned pole that poked

the only known runner to make it across the

out of a barge and hovered over the open sea

finish line. It was three years ago when the

of the bay. Every year this would happen but

gulls and the ducks basked in the champion’s

they’d never learn - the humans of course

glory, when a roar of applause filled Spinola

not the birds. See what the humans failed to

Bay as the plump champion fell into the salty

learn, year in, year out, was that whenever

brew; with a flag in his hand and a smile

they ran up the oddly angled pole, they’d

beaming across his face.

fall into the sea and make the biggest of splashes. They called it il-ġostra.

Now every year, they’d wait. Sit and wait for the stout champion to work his magic. They

From Tilly and Manny’s perspective; this

watched the amateurs for hours until the

looked like a silly little game. They wondered

highlight of the evening finally drew closer.

the reasons why round men would take a

There he was; the roundest man they’d ever

shot at retrieving a flag delicately placed

seen. He cracked his knuckles, rubber his

at the tip of a greased pole. They sat, each

belly and took his first step on the greased

and every year, and wondered. The daring

up pole. What would happen next… the birds

acrobats did however look rather happy and

watched on in absolute amusement.

89

90

INSERT TEXT HERE

FOOD

91

L-I KL A T-TA J B A WORDS PAUL VASSALLO

T

he wide range of

Which brings up the subject of

gastronomical choice on

bread. A Maltese person will tell you

display when sitting down

“Il-ħobż tal-Malti m’ hawnx bħalu.”

for a meal in a typical Maltese

(“There’s nothing like Maltese

restaurant is a long-standing

bread”) and this is because the

tribute to the relationship between

unique taste and feel of a freshly-

the people of Malta and past

baked Maltese loaf is an experience

civilisations who have occupied our

in itself. The relationship between

sun-kissed islands. If you’re looking

Maltese bread and the Maltese

for a historical rollercoaster ride,

people is a close one. Records of

look no further than your menu,

people eating bread in Malta date

which contains such a rich variety

back to c. 1,200 BC and by 400 BC

of dishes that represent the different

it was considered a staple part of

ages of Maltese antiquity.

any meal and during the Medieval ages, 1,300 BC, it was considered the

The Age was not the only Brown

diet of the commoner, along with

thing around in early 750 BC. An

cheese, vegetables, meat and fish

age of commerce, early Phoenicians

if it could be afforded. Nowadays,

were just settling in Malta and with

there is a certain pleasure in drying

them came trade and a taste for

yourself off on a bright, sandy

olives. Brown, green, black, the tasty

beach after a refreshing swim in

olive flourished in Maltese weather.

the sun-warmed Maltese sea, your

The Phoenicians established a large

mouth watering with anticipation as

scale olive oil industry in Malta, and

you eye the ħobż biż-żejt u t-tadam

this industrial advance was taken up

that has been packed away for your

during Roman times, with certain

afternoon lunch. It would probably

village names still paying homage

be considered borderline blasphemy

to this legacy, giving us names such

by many locals should you try to

as Żejtun, Żebbug and Birżebbuga.

prepare this traditional Maltese

Nowadays, the use of olive oil in

snack without using a Maltese loaf

many Maltese dishes adds a unique

or ftira (a ring-shaped Maltese loaf).

Mediterranean feel factor which very accurately represents Maltese

It would be amiss to write an article

summer food. Just ask your local

on any sort of Maltese cuisine and

bar or café if they can whip you up

not bring up what is often identified

a typical ħobż biż-żejt u t-tadam

as both the national dish and a

(bread with oil and tomatoes) or

favourite Maltese past-time, the

try making it yourself, it’s very

fenkata (defined as both a dish of

simple and recipes can easily

stewed rabbit generally eaten with

be found online.

a side of spaghetti, and a nightly

92

FOOD

gathering of people who will be eating the aforementioned dish). The fenkata’s roots are thought to lie in a form of symbolism that dates back to when Malta played host to the Knights of St John. During this time, hunting restrictions were imposed by the Knights and the fenkata is speculated to represent a resistance to these new laws.

The dish was to rise in popularity in the late 18th century after these restrictions were lifted, during which time the rabbit population had risen and was no longer endangered and thus less of a commodity than before, with people adopting the technique of domesticating rabbits.

There are far too many other Maltese dishes that could have a whole piece dedicated to their origins and influence in Malta, therefore I would like to impart a few choice dishes with a brief explanation that you might want to try once you set foot on Maltese soil: pastizzi (puff-pastry filled with peas or ricotta), timpana (baked pasta and minced beef), lampuki (dolphin-fish, served in a variety of ways), mqaret (deep-fried pastry containing dates), and many others to choose from. I hope that these words have whetted your appetite for some traditional Maltese food, good luck and good eating.

INSERT TEXT HERE

93

Big Tasty®

© 2018 McDonald's Corporation.

It’s Big. And it’s Tasty.

All pictures shown are for illustration purpose only. Actual products may vary.

R e stauraN t & B a R Gui DE

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

BIRZEBBUGIA

FERRETTI RESTAURANT

95

Triq il-Qajjenza, Birzebbugia

+356 2165 0247 / +356 7965 0247 / +356 7944 2223

info@ferretti.com.mt

Overlooking the sea, enclosed within historically rich walls, Ferretti serves genuine Mediterranean cuisine. With a rich and varied menu that spans a wide range of dishes, our main concern is your satisfaction and enjoyment.Ferretti, with its relaxing, comfortable and upscale ambiance, will provide you with the tranquillity that is so rare to find nowadays. Set in the remains of an historic battery built during the time of the Knights of St John by the Knight Francesco Maria Ferretti c.a. 1715AD, the décor combines history with modern motifs that give the restaurant its unique character. The moat that surrounds the façade overlooking the sea, a reconstructed bridge, and the large outdoor terrace and surrounding patio make Ferretti a restaurant to be experienced.

FLORIANA

HAYWHARF RESTAURANT & CLUBHOUSE +356 2122 3446/ +356 7922 3373

Xatt it-tiben, Floriana

info@haywharf.com.mt

Refreshing and charming atmosphere, Haywharf Restaurant & Club House Terrace Lounge is located by the Valletta bastions with the magnificent views of the Valletta harbour and Manoel Island. Our restaurant is perfect for anyone looking for a casual dining experience.

Upstairs, one can enjoy a beautiful and spacious terrace with picturesque views. At the Clubhouse Terrace Lounge one can find a carefully wide selection of classic and signature cocktails, spirits, wines from all over the world and mouth-watering platters to share. Designed with the intention to blend the classic with modern interiors, it gives a spectacular look to the refurbished venue. We have worked hard to make Haywharf your destination of choice. You can sense this immediately when you first enter, every aspect of the place bears our personal touch.

MARSALFORN, GOZO

ARZELLA

Il-Menqa, Marsalforn, Gozo

+356 2155 4662

+356 7940 9924

bookings@ristorantearzella.com

The shimmering Mediterranean encircling our island has always been regarded by the islanders as an unfailingly reliable source of nutrition - and Ristorante Arzella is certainly no exception. It is with the same consistency that we ensure to deliver only the tastiest selection of fresh fish and seafood to our clients’ plates. Your host, Christian, will be delighted to recommend a dish perfectly suited to your tastes, which you can enjoy either during a leisurely lunch or a relaxed dinner on our open terrace whilst feasting your eyes on wide uninterrupted sea views. Choose from an array of colourful pasta dishes, meats, mouth-watering antipasti and a vast selection of wine guaranteed to make your dining experience the most memorable yet.

MARSAXLOKK

TERRONE RESTAURANT +356 2704 2656

1 Wilga Street Marsaxlokk

info@terrone.com.mt

www.terrone.com.mt

/terronemt

We could tell you about our restaurant but we think you would rather hear from our customers, so we present a small selection of headlines from recent TripAdvisor reviews: High quality, freshly cooked food with daily menu - Best meal we had in Malta - Good food, good service and good view - Unexpected jewel in Marsaxlokk - Amazing place not to be missed. - Terrone offers art on a plate. We invite you to look us up and read the details yourself or even better: come and try it. Booking recommended. Parking available outside.

Short taxi ride from most locations including Sliema /St. Julian’s/ Valletta.

96

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

MDINA

DE MONDION RESTAURANT

The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misraħ il-Kunsill, Mdina +356 2145 0560

www.xarapalace.com.mt/www.demondion.com

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

PALAZZO DE PIRO – XPRESSO CAFÉ & BISTRO

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

www.palazzodepiro.com

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

THE MEDINA MALTESE CUISINE RESTAURANT +356 21450 560

www.medinarestaurantmalta.com

Mdina

info@xaracollection.com

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

TRATTORIA AD 1530 +356 2145 0560

Misraħ il-Kunsill, Mdina, MDN 10150

www.xarapalace.com.mt

info@xaracollection.com

The Trattoria AD 1530 at The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux in Mdina is a charming eatery that prides itself on serving traditional and tasty food typical of the word ‘trattoria’.

Strategically situated in one of the old squares of the Silent City, with the beautiful and imposing Vilhena Palace directly opposite and the magnificent 17th century Palazzo of The Xara Palace on the other side, the Trattoria’s idyllic location is simply perfect for indoor or al fresco dining. Trattoria AD 1530 is the ideal restaurant for every occasion and is open for coffee, lunch, dinner, snacks and afternoon tea.

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

MELLIEHA

REFLECTIONS SPORTS PUB & GRILL +356 2152 3756 / 7953 6969

97

97, Cross Square, Mellieha

events@reflectionsmalta.com

Big Pub & Grill with views from it’s terrace serving breakfast, lunch & dinner everyday. A family friendly Pub which serves best beer from all over the world and the Pub with most draught beers in the North of Malta served in pre cooled glass to keep its freshness. Shows all Sports live on its 9 screens and you can enjoy Karaoke every Friday nights and a live singer every Saturday night. A Vast a la carte Menu that will surely satisfy everyone. One can choose to sit or in our very big internal fully air-conditioned restaurants or in the Pub or in the Terrace outside. You can also find a Games room including: Darts, Air hockey, Table Soccer, Pool Table and other Games which is an assets if you have kids.

MOSTA

TA’ MARIJA RESTAURANT – EST. 1964 +356 2143 4444

www.tamarija.com

Constitution Street, Mosta

info@tamarija.com

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

SALINA

GIUSEPPI’S BAR & BISTRO +356 2157 4882

Salini Resort, Salina Bay, Naxxar

www.giuseppisrestaurant.com

info@giuseppisrestaurants.com

Whether dining al fresco on one of the restaurants terraces or in the cosy ‘Mediterranean meets The Hamptons’ interiors, the restaurant feels warm and familiar yet modern and spacious where diners can sit back, forget their woes as they sip on a homemade cocktail or glass of wine from the carefully curated and extensive wine-list. The menu changes daily and is sure to excite and delight both the more conservative and the more adventurous of foodies, with recipes lovingly handed down through generations. Whatever you decide they are carefully created every day. The restaurant is open for lunch daily and for dinner from Monday to Saturday in the Summer. Booking is recommended.

SLIEMA

TA’ KOLINA

151, Tower Road, Sliema

+356 2133 5106

info@takolina.mt

Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been open since 1974.Ta’ Kolina is a typical Maltese restaurant whit its traditional Maltese interior and décor.A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of starter, main dish, dessert and coffee for €22 per person. There is also vibrant a la carte menu and daily display of fresh local fish.

Dining here is a true Maltese experience for reasonable price.

98

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

TA’ KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO +356 2133 7367

80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema

+356 9984 771

Set in one of Sliema’s oldest bakeries, Ta’ Kris is all about providing a genuine mix of affordable Maltese and Mediterranean dishes in a homely fashion and rustic surroundings.

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

ST JULIAN’S

THE AVENUE

The Avenue, Gort Street, Paceville, St Julian’s

+356 2135 1753 / +356 2137 8731

www.theavenuemalta.com

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

CAROB TREE FOOD COURT +356 9947 0460

Spinola Park, Triq Mikiel Ang Borg, St Julian’s

www.carobtree.mt

eat@carobtree.mt

The Carob Tree is an exciting new food court with 11 kitchens and bars; located on the first floor of Spinola Park in St Julian's. This carefully curated space has many cuisines on offer; from fresh salads, to selections of sensational pastas and pizzas. There’s various authentic Asian food like Indian street food, Japanese, and Thai. Moreover guests can enjoy flavours of sushi, various types of meat, fish tapas, and of course coffee, and ice cream and dessert. Not forgetting delicious cocktails from our mixology bar and our craft beer bar out on the terrace.

Carob Tree is open every day from 7.30am till 11.30pm and weekends till 12.30am.

PARANGA

InterContinental Malta, St. George's Bay, St Julian's, STJ 3310

+356 2376 5064 malta.fnb@ihg.com malta.intercontinental.com/gastronomy/paranga Paranga is the hotel’s seaside restaurant, set on teak decking adjacent to the rippling Mediterranean Sea. Here one is certain to find an enticing and exclusive atmosphere where the centre of attention is the pristine and unspoiled natural flavour of the cuisine. Chef de Cuisine Claudio Farrugia presents a menu characterised by a superb array of stimulating and diverse Sicilian flavours interpreted in both a traditional and contemporary style. Fresh fish and shellfish arrive daily from local fishermen, creating, with certainty, a peak of individual interest or the ideal fare for a special occasion. All of which may be enjoyed with an ideally selected and impeccably paired wine, aperitif or digestif.

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

ZEST

99

Hotel Juliani, 25, St George’s Road, St Julian’s

+356 2138 7600

www.zestflavours.com

info@zestflavours.com

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

TA’ XBIEX

BLACK PEARL RESTAURANT & PUB +356 2135 1753/ +356 2137 8731

Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, Ta’ Xbiex

info@blackpearl.com.mt

Gracing the Ta’ Xbiex Seafront and overlooking Manoel island and the bastions of Valletta is a beautiful century-old ship which has endured the test of time. The Black Pearl was built in Sweden in 1909 and had sank and refloated twice during her service. Rumoured to have been owned by Hollywood’s heartthrob Errol Flynn, she has also been featured in prominent movies, most importantly in ‘Popeye’. The ship has been turned into a restaurant since 1987. Having been recently restored and acquired by new management, The Black Pearl Restaurant & Pub offers visitors a unique dining experience. Whether you are going out for drinks or opting for a delicious lunch or dinner, The Black Pearl is a must visit on the island.

THE GALLEY

+356 2131 8801

Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, XBX 1028 Ta’ Xbiex thegalley@artisanfoods.com.mt

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

VALLETTA

RISETTE

Casa Ellul, 81, Old Theatre Street, Valletta VLT 1429

+356 2122 4821

info@risette.com.mt

www.risette.com.mt

Risette is a tribute to the lady of the house. It is an informal fine dining restaurant set within the elegant Casa Ellul, in the heart of Valletta. The kitchen is led by Chef Andrew Borg. His extensive experience in kitchens throughout Europe has complimented and developed his devotion for fine cuisine. The menu combines cultures and methods into dishes which express Andrew’s passion for flavours together with his mastery of technicalities, complimented with attentive detail to the fine produce that he chooses to include in his dishes. Open for lunch and dinner.

EVENTS & NEWS

FROM MALTA'S NATIONAL AIRLINE The following pages will give you an insight on what’s going on at Air Malta. The behind-the-scenes and highlights of past months and forthcoming ones.

Malta’s national airline tells it like it is, ensuring all Air Malta passengers are well-informed while soaring high in the sky.

COLLABORATION BETWEEN QATAR AIRWAYS & AIR MALTA

D

uring his official trip to the State of Qatar, Minister for Tourism Konrad Mizzi, held

a cordial meeting with Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker.

The Minister and the Group Chief Executive have both discussed means of collaboration between Malta and

Qatar Airways.

Qatar Airways and Air Malta have also officially signed an agreement for pilot training, through which Air Malta shall be training 20 Cadet pilots employed with Qatar Airways. Cadets benefiting from this opportunity will

Minister Konrad Mizzi was accompanied by Air Malta Chairman Charles Mangion and Malta

be building hours on the Air Malta

International Airport CEO Alan Borg.

route network flying Airbus A320s with experienced Maltese training

Middle East. With respect to pilot

for Tourism Mr. Konrad Mizzi during

training, the Minister said that this is

his visit to the State of Qatar. The

in line with the Government’s strategy

new direct route between Malta and

to First Officers with Qatar Airways.

for the airline, adding that Air Malta is

Qatar, which will commence in 2019,

looking for new opportunities and new

will provide a number of close mutual

Minister for Tourism Konrad Mizzi

revenue streams.

ties such as this training programme,

captains. Upon their return to Qatar, the cadets will continue their training with the intention of being promoted

as well as serving the people of Malta

highlighted that the added routes by Qatar Airways next year will enhance

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive,

with access to more than 150 global

Malta’s connectivity and give easier

Akbar Al Baker commented, “I am

destinations, with one seamless

access to and from Malta and the

delighted to have met with Minister

transfer in the Middle East.”

A I R M A LTA N E W S

101

T

Paul Mangion / Air Malta

EROS RAMAZZOTTI TRAVELS ON AIR MALTA he Italian singer/songwriter with worldwide popularity and a unique charisma was in Malta in July as a special guest of Joseph Calleja for the Maltese tenor's annual

concert at the Granaries in Floriana, attended by thousands of locals and tourists. It was a great experience to have Eros Ramazzotti

as a VIP guest on our flight.

I

Social Media Specialist Alison Casha welcomed Eros inside the VIP terminal at Malta International Airport prior to flying back to Milan.

MARIO BIONDI TO PERFORM IN MALTA - 8TH AUGUST taly's soul and jazz sensation Mario Biondi will be

The concert will surely feature hits from Biondi's latest

performing in Malta on August 8 during a concert

album Brazil along with old favourites from his repertoire.

which is being held at the Piazza d'Armi at Fort St Elmo.

His first foray on stage was in the Festival Della Canzone Siciliana, placing third. Biondi's musical pursuits earned

Biondi, whose real name is Mario Ranno is Sicilian. Born

him the opportunity to perform alongside great Italian

in Catania, he has built a solid reputation along the

singers which included Califano and Fred Bongusto as

years as the leading Italian soul and jazz musician of the

well as American jazz legend Ray Charles.

modern era.

With his powerful and unique voice, Biondi was Biondi’s unmistakable deep voice is warm and sensual,

encouraged to pursue a solo career. Featuring material

yet clear and confident. A vast range of experiences has

inspired by American R&B artists like Lou Rawls, Luther

made him the great artist he is today, often gaining

Vandross and Donny Hathaway, Biondi's debut record was

comparisons to the late legendary Barry White.

released in 2006 named Handful of Soul.

Organised by Music Hall Events, the Mario Biondi Tour 2018 tickets can be bought from www.showshappening.com

102

A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA INAUGURATES ITS DOUBLE WEEKLY SCHEDULED SERVICE TO LOURDES

A

ir Malta inaugurated its new twice weekly scheduled service between Malta and Lourdes. The flights to the French city, organised in collaboration with Britannia Tours, are being operated for the summer period every Monday and Friday.

Air Malta’s inaugural flight, which was operated last month marked the start of a very important and significant journey for the Maltese Christian Community. On this flight the painting of San Ġorġ Preca by Gozitan artist Manuel Farrugia was carried on board and displayed in the Sanctuary of Our Lady’s chapel of Lourdes.

This initiative was part of a tour organised by Britannia that included a procession led by Auxiliary Bishop of Malta Mgr Dr Joe Galea Curmi and members of the MUSEUM society of Malta carried a painting and a relic of Saint George Preca that was placed inside the Sanctuary.

Mr Noel Farrugia from Brittannia Services stated: “Lourdes is a place synonymous for pilgrimage and religious tourism. The beautiful surroundings of the Pyrenees, a region renowned for a magnificent natural heritage, offers travellers the possibility

to visit and discover new places. As an agency, Britannia Services, is now also offering packages for travel to both Lourdes and the Pyrenees. Together with Air Malta we have invested significantly on this particular route and remain committed not just to develop this route into another popular destination for the Maltese market but also to attract new incoming traffic particularly from the Basque region.”

Mr Paul Sies, Air Malta’s Chief Commercial Officer added, “We plan to carry 6,300 passengers on this route on the 21 return flights we have scheduled for this season. The change to a scheduled service is intended to increase traffic on this route.

Tarbes Lourdes is a very sought-after and known destination for Maltese in summer and regarded as place of worship and pilgrimage. However it has much more to offer like a gateway to the Pyrenees, it’s not too far from Toulouse and possibly even more interesting is that it is a gateway to the North of Spain.”

This year Air Malta is celebrating 30 years of service to Lourdes after having operated its first flight in March 1988.

Over the years it has operated this route incessantly as a charter service and has carried around 180,000 passengers on this route.

Lourdes, France

(above) From left. Air Malta’s crew operating the flight Mr Joseph Camilleri – Inflight Manager, Ms Vanessa Buhagiar, Mr Tonio Farrugia – Air Malta Head of Network and Commercial Partnerships, Mr Kristian Farrugia – First Officer, Ms Ursula Borg Olivier – Malta Tourism Authority, Capt. Vincent Agius, Mr Alex Cardona – Malta International Airport, Head of Traffic Development and Customer Services, Ms Stephanie Baldacchino and Mr Joseph Zammit.

Customers can book flights through www.airmalta.com, by calling Air Malta’s Call Centre on +356 21662211 from Malta or 0826 102223 from France, from Air Malta sales office at Malta International Airport or from Travel Agents in Malta and France. Call charges may apply.

THE FLIGHT SCHEDULE WILL OPERATE AS FOLLOWS: MONDAY KM4438 DEP. KM4439 DEP.

MALTA LOURDES

17:00 20:15

ARR. ARR.

LOURDES 19:25 MALTA 22:30

FRIDAY KM4438 DEP. KM4439 DEP.

MALTA LOURDES

17:50 21:00

ARR. ARR.

LOURDES 20:15 MALTA 23:15

AIR MALTA UPGRADES

SERVICES AT PARIS’ ORLY AIRPORT - MOVES TO DEPARTURES HALL 1

I

n its continuous effort to improve its customer experience, Air Malta has moved its operation to Departures Hall 1 of Paris’ Orly Airport. The Hall offers Air Malta passengers, better ambience, better seating capacity and more

passengers as this ensures more convenience and comfort. The

amenities including various shops and restaurants. In addition

new facilities are expected to meet Air Malta’s service standards

to this, Air Malta’s Business Class passengers and Diamond Card

ensuring an exceptional customer journey for the airline’s guests.

holders now have access to the VIP lounge namely Premium Traveller Lounge.

Commenting on these improvements Chief Operations Officer, Silvio Falzon stated, “Air Malta is committed to offer its guests

The move to Departures Hall 1 gives Air Malta passengers the

quality and comfort through its customer journey. Our services at

facility to use the jet bridge to board and disembark the aircraft.

various airports are continuously being improved and audited from

The airline endeavoured to be able to offer this facility to its

time to time to ensure that the highest standards are maintained.”

THE MALTA AIRPORT FOUNDATION UNEARTHS WARTIME STORIES

B

eneath the grid-like streets of Valletta that bustle with activity practically all day, lies a quieter subterranean world of tunnels, corridors, wartime shelters, and cisterns. Although a stillness now pervades this underground labyrinth, in days gone by it pulsated with stories of grief, despair, hope, and eventual jubilation as the small island fought bravely through merciless bombings and attacks.

In a bid to unearth some of these buried stories and bring them closer to the public, the Malta Airport Foundation, in collaboration with Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna, recently embarked on the restoration project of the Combined Operations Room within the Underground War Headquarters in Valletta. Built in the early stages of the Air Battle for Malta in 1940, the Combined Operations Room was where some of the key military figures of the time worked from and took crucial decisions, which helped the island emerge victorious from what went down in history as one of the greatest battles of World War II. This room, which is at the core of a complex that sprawls across 28,000 square metres, was also used by NATO as a submarine tracking centre, in the Suez Crisis of 1956, and later in the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, before being closed down in 1977. One of the

most immediately striking features of the Combined Operations Room is a 20-metre-wide wall map, which was used by NATO to plot Russian submarines’ movements in the Mediterranean.

Years of neglect and humidity had taken their toll on this artefact, which was just given back its original look through a painstaking process undertaken as part of the wider restoration project. As the layers of mould and dirt were carefully peeled off at the expert hands of restorer Francesca Muscat, not only were the map’s true colours revealed, but also a discovery was made. It turned out that the present map had been mounted on two older maps dating back to World War II, and which were possibly used on one of the plotting tables found in the Combined Operations Room.

The complete restoration project is expected to be finalised by the last quarter of 2018, at which point the public will be able to travel back in time with a visit to this subterranean war museum.

For more information about the Malta Airport Foundation and its projects, you may visit www.maltairport.com.

10 4

A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA GOES FOR QUALITY, CHOICE AND FRESHNESS IN NEW IN-FLIGHT CATERING

Daniel Balzan / Air Malta

A

ir Malta has introduced a brand new Economy Class in-flight catering service last month. This is part of the growth strategy announced last September which included a total change and improvement of the inflight service and experience.

“By listening to passenger feedback across various channels, it became evident that our guests prefer a choice of good quality snacks. In line with how the airline business has developed, our guests want better quality and a wider selection. The buy on board concept is the second phase of the new Air Malta product initiated with the introduction of Go-Light last year. We retained the snack in the interim period while we developed the new service”, said Paul Sies, Air Malta’s Chief Commercial Officer.

“The buy on board concept is now standard for nearly all European airlines and has changed the way airlines serve inflight catering especially on short-haul flights. We have engaged the services of local and foreign experts in this project. After extensive research and consumer testing we believe we have found the right selection. We are confident that through this new choice we will cater for everyone’s tastes and hope to bring our on-board service to a higher level. The menu will change seasonally based on our passenger’s feedback,” added Dr Mangion.

“This launch is another step forward for Air Malta and a welcome improvement in inflight service. This development is part of a series of upgrades that the airline is currently working on that will also include an upgraded Business Class product which is currently being developed. This upgrade will include a new first-class inflight menu that will remain complimentary for business class passengers. This initiative is part of a holistic project aimed at putting the airline back on its feet and forms part of the Government of Malta’s growth strategy for the airline,” commented Dr Konrad Mizzi, Minister for Tourism.

A selection of over 70 quality food and drink items is available for purchase on board Air Malta flights. Guests have the option to pay by credit card or cash, a facility which was not offered previously. The airline focused on choosing reputable brands and quality products to suit its guests’ tastes coming from various countries. Depending on the length of the route, Air Malta also offers a selection of fresh and hot food items, which are specially prepared by one of Malta’s most respected chefs.

Pictures show Air Malta savouring the airline’s new economy class inflight product.

More information: www.airmalta.com/information/services-by-air-malta/in-f light-catering

A I R M A LTA N E W S

105

GLITCH FESTIVAL BACK THIS MONTH WITH THE BIGGEST LINE-UP EVER TO HIT MALTA NINA KRAVIZ, JEFF MILLS, AMELIE LENS, MOTOR CITY DRUM ENSEMBLE, HUNEE, CHARLOTTE DE WITTE, PEGGY GOU AND MORE

C

oming off two very strong editions, Glitch Festival has quickly established itself as the biggest festival in Malta as well as one of Europe’s major electronic festivals. Following last year’s strong response, hosting 4,000 people from over 50 different countries including UK, France, Germany, Australia, Brazil and USA - the Glitch team is already gearing up for an even bigger 2018 edition.

Glitch Festival returns on 14, 15 and 16 August, where music enthusiasts from all over the world are called to gather at the gates of the mystical House-and-Techno fortress for three solid days on a sonic adventure on the Mediterranean island of Malta.

Glitch Festival will officially take place at Gianpula fields, framed against the iconic skyline of Malta’s fortified city, Mdina. The main festival will be held on 14 and 15 of August followed by a boat-party on 16 August for the perfect sunsoaked finale.

Hailed by Mixmag as a “House and Techno paradise”, the festival will feature multiple stages – from rooftop pool parties to a secret, ancient vault, and promises a diverse

quality line-up of industry titans, including Nina Kraviz, Jeff Mills, Floorplan, Rødhåd, Motor City Drum Ensemble, Hunee, Amelie Lens, Charlotte De Witte, Peggy Gou and Dax J. For those willing to explore, a rare live appearance by legendary electro figures Dopplereffekt at the Vault (a new area being introduced for the first time) will be one of the Festival’s highlights, together with Gesloten Cirkel and a carefully curated list of master selectors from Young Marco, Objekt, Call Super, OR:LA, Volvox, Alexander Robotnick, Jupiter Jax and more.

If that's not enough, Glitch Festival will set-sail on 16 August with an intimate boat party for the perfect finale. The boat party was surely was one of the festival’s highlights last year and 2018 will be no different. A carefully curated line-up of master selectors including Call Super, Or:la and Alexander Robotnick is a guaranteed recipe of fun and mayhem. We’re getting excited just thinking about it.

Each night brings it closer.

For more information & tickets visit www.glitchfestival.com

10 6

A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA ASSISTS BEATING HEARTS MALTA

T

he High Commissioner of Malta to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Norman Hamilton, was called upon by the Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps, Alistair Harrison CMG CVO on 16 July 2018, for an exchange of gifts between Her Majesty and His Excellency. The Marshal is a senior member of the Royal Household of the Sovereign of the United Kingdom and the Queen’s link with the diplomatic corps.

High Commissioner Hamilton presented Her Majesty with a painting by Professor Victor Grech, a Consultant Paediatrician at Mater Dei Hospital who runs Paediatric Cardiology services for Malta and who also paints. Professor Grech is currently organising a fund-raising exhibition, in London and in Malta, for Beating Hearts Malta, an NGO that he chairs. BHM supports families of children who travel to London for heart surgery and also fund raises for cardiology equipment at Mater Dei Hospital.

From right: His Excellency Norman Hamilton presenting the painting to The Marshal of Diplomatic Corps, Alistair Harrison

It is with great pleasure and satisfaction for all Maltese that this painting of Valletta, titled “Valletta, built by gentlemen, for gentlemen”, was presented to Her Majesty since the UK, primarily through the services of Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children in London, greatly assists Malta in the care of many children with cardiac and other problems. And it is through the services of Air Malta, the national carrier, that this particular painting, as well as the other paintings pertaining to the London exhibition, are being transported to London.

This campaign forms part of Air Malta's Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives whereby the airline supports organisations that work hard in the Maltese community.

As Malta's national carrier, Air Malta is the only airline flying from Malta that fully supports the local community in all possible ways. No other airline operating to Malta provides continued support to voluntary and non-governmental organisations like Air Malta.

Prof. Grech with the painting

Beating Hearts Malta (BHM) is an independent non-profit foundation established primarily to support the needs of parents having children born with heart disease, as well as adult patients with Congenital Heart Defects. BHM also raises money in order to purchase cardiac equipment for Mater Dei Hospital (MDH) - Malta’s general hospital. BHM President, Professor Victor Grech, runs paediatric cardiology services at MDH. He also paints in his spare time, and has donated 150 paintings to BHM, all proceeds of which will be donated to BHM. The locations exhibiting and selling the paintings include the Hilton Malta and Westin Hotels in St. Julians, as well as the Phoenicia Hotel and Mediterranean Conference

Centre in Valletta. There are also plans to exhibit and sell these paintings outside of Malta, in the run up to Malta’s Independence Day, 21 September. Tentative plans are to hold simultaneous exhibitions in London (at the Maltese High Commission) and Brussels (Dar Malta) as well as in Australia, in the week of 21 September. These exhibitions are being coordinated with the help of the Valletta 2018 Cultural Programme and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion. Sponsors include Vee Gee Bee Art, REMAX Malta, Casapinta Design Group Ltd, A4L and of course, Air Malta who will ferrying the paintings to the above European capitals. The paintings make a perfect gift for your loved ones back home. If you happen to be at any of the exhibiting locations, do consider contributing towards this noble cause.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

107

VALLETTA 2018:

AUGUST H I GH L I G H TS

S

ummer is here, and so is the hot weather synonymous with this season. Valletta 2018 is

organising a number of outdoor events and activities for people to come together and participate in arts and culture while also beating the heat.

Kickstart your August with our Utopian Nights project, which started on 30 July and runs till 5 August. The project is taking place at Howard Gardens, outside Malta's old capital city of Mdina, and includes a programme of debates, storytelling activities, an open-air cinema, photo studios, street performances and a spoken word concert. Those attending may also camp in the gardens while they explore the concept of borders, in their tangible and

Serata Ghana - Yews c. Stephanie Galea

Utopian Nights c. Jacob Sammut

in English throughout, focuses on the

best viewed from the Lower Barrakka

central themes of political convenience,

Gardens.

intangible forms, which cut through and fragment our world today.

Experience Malta’s rich literary heritage with Valletta 2018’s Poetry on

racism and prejudice. The opera’s plot revolves around a family attempting to

Two evenings dedicated to Maltese

flee their war-torn country in search of

music will be held in the San Girgor

a better life in Europe and the struggles

Garden in Żejtun on 17 and 18 August.

that they encounter on their journey.

On the first day, a workshop about

This production will be staged in an

the Maltese music scene will be

outdoor setting at the Granaries (Il-

held, which focuses on music from

Fosos) in Floriana on 31 August and

25 August at the iconic Fort Manoel

traditional Maltese għana to rap; while

2 October. Tickets are currently on sale

on Manoel Island in Gżira. This year’s

the next day brings performances by

and can be purchased from tickets.

Bibita, Marmalja, R.E.A and Yews,

films will be focusing on the work

valletta2018.org.

traditional għana sessions, and poems

Film project, which merges the art of literature and film by adapting Maltese poems into film and which are then screened during Inizjamed’s Malta Mediterranean Literature Festival. The festival will be held between 23 and

by acclaimed Maltese writers Oliver Friggieri and Achille Mizzi.

by Spazjarti.

A poetic installation that explores the relationship between Malta’s coastal

Discover these and other exciting

To further celebrate the Maltese

landscape and the history of the

events happening in August by visiting

language, Valletta 2018 is also

Grand Harbour, which has witnessed

valletta2018.org or downloading the

organising the first-ever large-scale

major historical events, will be held

Valletta 2018 App.

opera which is written in Maltese,

in mid-August. Baħħ Blu / Blue Void

Aħna Refuġjati. Literally translating

uses technology which “writes” on the

Discover these and other exciting

to ‘We Are Refugees’, this original

surface of the water. The installation

events happening in July by visiting

operatic work by local composer Mario

will be held daily, twice every hour

valletta2018.org or downloading the

Sammut, which will include surtitles

in Valletta’s Grand Harbour, and is

Valletta 2018 App.

10 8

FLIGHT INFO

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

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

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

Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

SMOKING

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

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

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

10 9 SERT TEXT HERE AIRI NMALTA FLEET

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

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

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

AIRBUS 319

QTY: 1 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 141 ENGINES: CFM56-5B6/P MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 73.5 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 33.84M WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH RANGE: 4,815 KM

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

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-airmalta/seat-selection or more information.

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

WEB CHECK-IN Skip the line and check-in before you get to the airport. You may check-in online before you get to the airport, up to 24 hours prior to departure up until one hour before your flight.

Visit www.airmalta.com/information/check-in for more information.

AIRBUS 320

QTY: 7 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168/180 ENGINES: IAE V2500/ 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

A320 WITH V2500 ENGINES

QTY: 1 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168 ENGINES: CFM56-5B4/P MAXIMUM TAKE -OFF WEIGHT: 77,000 KG OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57 METRES WINGSPAN: 34.10M CRUISING SPEED: MACH 0.78 OR 828 KPH AT 36000FT RANGE: 6100KM

A320 NEO WITH LEAP-1A ENGINES

QTY: 1 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 180 ENGINES: CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE -OFF WEIGHT: 77,000 KG OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: MAX 840 KPH RANGE: 6300 KM

DESTINATION INFORMATION 11 0

INSERT TEXT HERE

finland SWEDEN

RUSSIA

NORWAY • Oslo • Tallinn

Stockholm

• St Petersburg

ESTONIA LATVIA • Riga

DENMARK REP. OF IRELAND

• Copenhagen

UNITED KINGDOM

LITHUANIA

• Moscow

Vilnius •

BELARUS • Bremen

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

Luxembourg

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly •

Lyon •

• Tabres/Lourdes Marsille •

CZECH REPUBLIC

SWITZERLAND • Geneva

Florence • Pisa •

SPAIN

BULGARIA

• Ancona

MONTENEGRO

• Bari • Brindisi ALBANIA Naples •

• • Cagliari

TUNISIA

• Casablanca

morocco

• Sofia • Istanbul

TURKEY GREECE

Lamezia Terme • Reggio Calabria • Catania

Palermo • Tunis •

KOSOVO F.Y.r.O.M.

• Olbia

• Malaga

• Bucharest

BOSNIA & SERBIA HERZEGOVINA

• Rome Alghero •

ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA

Milan • Trieste • Turin • Verona • • Venice • Bologna Genoa •

• Lisbon

MOLDOVA

• Budapest

HUNGARY

ITALY • Pescara

portugal

SLOVAKIA

• Vienna

AUSTRIA

• Zurich

• Nice

• Kiev

UKRAINE

• Prague

• Frankfurt

• Munich

FRANCE

• Warsaw

POLAND

Larnaca •

CYPRUS

Comiso •

Malta Tel Aviv •

ISRAEL

ALGERIA

LIBYA

EGYPT

v

AIR MALTA DIRECT FLIGHTS AIRPORT

IRAN

• Abu Dhabi

OMAN

SAUDI ARABIA

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Amsterdam 8 Birmingham 1 Bucharest 1 Bristol 1 Brussels 9 Cagliari 2 Catania 21 Casablanca 2 Comiso 3 Düsseldorf 2 Frankfurt 7 Geneva 1 Kiev 1 London Gatwick 7 London Heathrow 15 London Southend 3 Lisbon 2 Lyon 4

AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Malaga 2 Manchester 1 Marseille 2 Milan 7 Moscow 4 Munich 12 Palermo 4 Paris Charles de Gaulle 7 Paris Orly 9 Prague 2 Rome 14 St. Petersburg 2 Tel Aviv 5 Tabres - Lourdes 2 Tunis 3 Vienna 8 Venice 2 Zurich 7

INTRA-EUROPEAN FLIGHTS Catania - London Southend Cagliari - London Southend

2 2

Catania - Vienna

2

CODE-SHARED ROUTES • BRISBANE

ETIHAD AIRWAYS Abu Dhabi

Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney

australia

• Sydney

• Melbourne

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

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

via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich

BRUSSELS AIRLINES Brussels Copenhagen

via Catania via Brussels

CZECH AIRLINES Prague

• Perth

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES Zurich

Barcelona Rome London City Frankfurt Pescara Alghero Cagliari Brindisi Ancona Bari Bologna Brindisi Cagliari Catania Florence Geneva Genoa Nice Milan Linate Moscow Palermo Paris CDF Pisa Reggio Calabria Tel Aviv Trieste Turin Valencia Venice Verona

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

AUSTRIAN AIRLINES

australia

EMIRATES Larnaca

AIRBALTIC Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Tallinn Vilnius Vilnius

via Vienna via Munich via Brussels via Frankfurt via Amsterdam via London Gatwick via Amsterdam via Munich via Amsterdam

Budapest Otopeni (Buc) Prague Sofia Warsaw Tel Aviv

via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Rome

MERIDIANA Olbia

TURKISH AIRLINES Istanbul

via Rome

11 2

ELEC TRONIC DE VICE INFO

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

NON-TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

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

These could include, but are not limited to, items such as DVD players, electronic games, music players and personal cameras.

Such devices shall be safely secured in the customers’ hand (handheld) or a pocket during taxi, take-off and landing. Larger devices shall be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing.

L APTOPS AND NOTEBOOKS

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT USE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES?

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHASE

Boarding

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

LARGER PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

WI-FI, TEXT & PHONE CALL FUNCTIONS

YES

YES

YES

YES

instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

YES

YES

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

NO

NO

NO

Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

Cruise

YES

YES

YES

NO

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

NO

YES

NO

Landing

YES

NO

YES

NO

Taxi to Stand

YES

NO

YES

YES

Extended Ground Delay (when

Circa 10 minutes to landing

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

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