Il-Bizzilla, January 2022 by Air Malta

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

# 1 0 9 JA N UA RY 2 02 2

08 The perfect neighbour: Rabat.

12 Portrait of an artist: Mario Zammit-Lewis

Inflight food menu and boutique shopping guide inside.

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contents 8

THERE’S NO OBSTACLE WE CANNOT OVERCOME

RABAT: THE PERFECT NEIGHBOUR David Baker explores Mdina’s often overlooked neighbour, Rabat.

12 PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST We take a closer look at the works of Mario Zammit-Lewis

20 AIR MALTA DESTINATION: CATANIA

Find out more about the fitness trend sweeping the islands.

SIX TOP SIGHTS This month’s top sights round up takes us around the streets of Rabat.

AIR MALTA SKY SHOP

ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS Here’s what not to miss when exploring the Maltese islands.

This month’s Air Malta destination ventures to the popular Sicilian city.

ANCIENT CHAPELS

Hundreds of travellers each year visit Malta to catch a glimpse of our ancient houses of worship.

RAQUELA

Peruse our onboard boutique, for fragrances, gifts and more.

64 AIR MALTA NEWS

A round-up of this month’s events and news.

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

Lauren John catches up with the local singing sensation.

OUR MONTHLY RECIPE

Chef Konrad Grixti serves up a delicious pork cheek dish, with local ingredients.

Palazzo Falson, Mdina, dig deep into their archives.

RESTAURANT GUIDE

All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

ELECTRONIC DEVICE INFORMATION

COULD IT BE?

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK: WINTER SOLSTICE AT THE TEMPLES Tour guide Denise Cassar takes us on a rural walk around Wardija and Żebbiegħ.

Feeling hungry? Here’s where to head this month.

INFLIGHT MENU

Browse our onboard menu here.

70 FLIGHT AND COMPANY INFORMATION

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

ON THE COVER

This statue of St Paul was inaugurated in 1845 and stands 4m high on St Paul's island. It is thought to be located near the spot where St Paul was shipwrecked in 60 AD, and for many locals it offers a sign perseverance.

MEET THE TE AM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG

Visit Gozo Ylenia Attard

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Dayna Camilleri Clarke

PHOTOGRAPHERS Aron Tanti Christine Cassar Colour My Travel Continentaleurope Jason Borg (DOI) Justine Ellul Konrad Grixti Heritage Malta Kritzolina Lisa Farrugia Luke Engerer Mario Gauci Palazzo Falson Historic House Archives Viewing Malta Vincienne Bezzina Visit Gozo Wikimedia Commons Ylenia Attard

SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG CONTRIBUTORS Air Malta Christine Cassar David Baker Dayna Camilleri Clarke Dean Muscat Denise Cassar Duncan Barry Heritage Malta Konrad Grixti Lauren John Lyndsey Grima Martin Banks Palazzo Falson Historic House Stephen Gauci Valletta Cultural Agency

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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 Dayna 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.

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SAVING OUR

W ELC OM E

FROM THE CHAIRMAN...

FRO M THE ED ITO R...

Merħba,

Is-Sena t-Tajba to all of our readers, and welcome on board.

It’s been exactly one year since I was given the opportunity to become Air Malta Executive Chairman. To describe the past year as eventful, is certainly an understatement.

You don't need me to tell you, by just about any unit of measurement, 2021 was a challenging one. We have been through a mill from the pandemic and more, and a reset feels long overdue. But, at last, we are at the threshold of a brand spanking New Year. One whole dozen unsullied months overflowing with potential for renewal, change and rebirth. Out with the old. In with the new. With this sentiment in mind, Bizzilla celebrates new beginnings, in whichever area that may be, from creativity and culinary to exploring new lands. In this issue, you'll find plenty of that and more.

2021 has been characterised by constant changes in travel requirements and uncertainty across virtually all markets which have hampered tourism’s recovery and the desire or ability to travel. To mitigate this situation, we have regularly reviewed our network and schedule to meet this ever-changing demand, seeking to offer our customers a choice of travel balanced with the current realities of the aviation industry. Being positive and anticipating a pent-up demand for air travel, we have launched our full schedule for summer 2022. We are optimistic that this demand, coupled with a rational balance in travel requirements, will help in slowly restoring optimism and increase air travel.

For many of us, January is that time of year we become filled with good intentions to get healthy by losing weight and doing more exercise. If that sounds like you (certainly not me as I am sat here scoffing leftover Maltese Christmas log!), be sure to check out the feature on Obstacle Course Racing (OCR), the fitness trend sweeping the islands.

At the end of last year, we facilitated the process for our customers who wished to travel with their pets in the cabin, to be able to book this online through airmalta.com. We are happy to note that last month over 200 of our guests chose to travel with their pet companions onboard our flights with over half of them booked through our newly launched website facility.

Such successes encourage us to step up our efforts to enhance our products and services for the benefit of our guests and we look forward to offering more initiatives in 2022.

We are also delighted to introduce you to local singing sensation Raquela this month. Her new single proves a hit on the local airwaves, and we honestly haven't turned off her catchy songs in the office! You can find an interview with her on page 24 Elsewhere we caught up with renowned artist Mario Zammit-Lewis, wandered around the villages of iż-Żebbiegħ and Wardija and wolfed down Chef Konrad Grixti's divine pork cheek culinary concoction (a tough job someone has to do!) We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

In particular, we aim to grow our range of customer selfmanagement options through our digital channels, allowing our customers to manage their travel requirements wherever they are.

On that note, take care; our wish is that 2022 will bring you serendipitous introductions, newfound perspectives and inspiring conversations wherever you are going.

We are also pleased with the take up from our Flypass Frequent Flyers to the 50% KMiles discount offer during the month of November 2021.

For more information and the latest news about Air Malta, our winter flight schedule, new website and booking engine, and our new Business Class fares, please visit www.airmalta.com and www.facebook.com/AirMalta and join our newsletter mailing list to receive great offers directly to your inbox.

Sit back, relax; you will soon be there.

On behalf of my team and myself, I would like to wish everyone a peaceful, successful and above all safe and healthy 2022. Thank you for flying Air Malta! Enjoy this edition and keep safe.

Dayna

David G Curmi

EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, AIR MALTA

EDITOR 4

Explore Malta Safely by Bus Get your travel card from our Ticket Office in the Airport Welcomers’ Hall

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D E S T I NAT I ON

WORDS DAVID BAKER

T H E PER F EC T N EIGHBOU R

CHURCHES, PALAZZOS, CATACOMBS, ROMAN REMAINS, LOCAL MARKETS AND CLUBS AND DELICIOUS MALTESE PASTIZZI ARE ALL PART OF THE LOVELY VILLAGE OF RABAT. Anyone who comes to Malta invariably visits Mdina – the island’s

As such it has a wealth of rich and well-preserved churches as well

beautiful and well-preserved medieval capital. And quite right that

as various catacombs, including the Abbatija Tad-Dejr hypogeum

they do. However, those who accidently stray into nearby Rabat will

and St Paul’s Catacombs.

be fortunate to discover an expansive and vibrant town, whose locality is filled to the brim with historical sites, winding streets and trails to

Nothing provokes the imagination more than a creepy jaunt into

explore coupled with a plethora of restaurants and cafés offering

the bowels of a church to find out where and how (important)

anything from seriously tasty food down to the cheap and cheerful.

people in Ancient Rome were buried, right?

The area of Rabat (and by extent Mdina) is located upon a

Labyrinthine tunnels lead to a collection of catacombs, which

strategically important plateau on high ground, offering it as the

remained in use up to the 4th century and were excavated in 1894.

perfect site for habitation. Thanks to this naturally defensible

The underground burial chambers form part of the larger Roman

location, the site has been inhabited since prehistory.

Necropolis, located outside the city walls for health reasons.

Rabat means suburb in old Arabic, which is because it used to

It’s an incredible experience to follow the small winding paths

be part of Mdina, until the Arabs dug a moat across the hill and

passing countless empty crypts, all looted throughout the centuries,

fortified its tip creating the citadel you see today.

but none of it takes away from the thrill of exploring history from almost two thousand years ago.

The town formed an important part of the early development of Malta and is widely considered to be the Cradle of Christianity in

For a population of around 12,000 there are ten churches in Rabat!

Malta, a holy site so revered in the Christian faith that it was visited

The important ones are found on Saint Paul’s Street – the main

by two Popes – Pope John Paul II in 1990 and Pope Benedict in 2010.

stretch of the old town.

D E S T I NAT I ON

The parish church of St Paul’s takes pride

Rabat has even more attractions. The

spelt Domvs Romana) is also a must. Built

of place – a building with a well-balanced

recently revamped Wignacourt Museum

in the 1st Century BC, the Domus Romana

façade and a rich interior. Further down

next to St Paul’s church was completed in

has been excavated to the discovery of

the street is the Franciscan church

1749 and consists of three main floors. It

well-preserved mosaics, statues of the

dedicated to the Nativity. Dating back to

houses a wonderful collection of paintings

Imperial Roman family, coins, tableware

1500, it holds within some remarkable art

and provides the access to St Paul’s

and many other artefacts depicting daily

pieces including two of the islands’ oldest

Grotto – believed to be the place where

Roman life and has been ranked amongst

religious paintings: a Lamentation for

St. Paul himself sought refuge after being

the finest preserved in Europe.

Christ and a Virgin and Child with Angels

shipwrecked with his missionary party on

by Antonio de Saliba. Both have been

the island. He chose to live and pray in the

For the intrepid lovers of nature, you can

restored in recent years.

subterranean grotto, where the St Paul's

venture out to the borders of Rabat’s

church was later built on top.

locality to enjoy the sites of Fort

Over on the other side of Rabat is the

Binġemma and walk across the Victoria

Dominican church – a sturdy edifice typical

The museum also includes in its

lines – which run across five localities

of this order’s buildings. Adjoining the church

subterranean level one of Malta’s larger

in total. Walking through this often

is a peaceful cloister – the largest one in

wartime shelters where villagers took shelter

overlooked part of Malta is both peaceful

Malta. On Triq Santu Wistin is the Augustinian

during the frequent air raids of World War II.

and lets you see more glimpses of Malta

church. The church was designed by Glormu

8000 workers dug 841 shelters by hand and

during the times of British rule.

Cassar who later went on to build St John’s

50 of them are on display today.

Co-Cathedral in Valletta – many in fact

A day out combining a visit to Rabat

consider this church a forerunner to his

Travelling further back through the history

and neighbouring Mdina, will surely be a

Valletta masterpiece.

books, a visit to the Domus Romana (also

highlight of any stay in Malta.

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A RT

I NSERT A TR ET XT HERE

WORDS YLENIA ATTARD

PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST M A R I O Z A M M I T- L E W I S

MARIO ZAMMIT-LEWIS IS AN INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED MALTESE ARTIST BORN IN 1949 IN MSIDA. PRESENTED WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK TO SUCH A DISTINGUISHED FIGURE, I WAS EAGER TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MARIO, AND PERHAPS UNCOVER THE SECRET TO HIS GRAND SUCCESS. Mario greets me at his home studio in the scenic seaside town

under Master Raffaele Pontecorvo. The painting still hangs on his

of Marsaskala. As he ushers me in, I am engulfed by tens, if not

wall now. Looking at it fondly, he says, “I kept it for me, my very

hundreds, of paintings and sculptures displayed around the room.

very first one”. Underneath it are an array of trophies and awards,

It was a museum of one’s own making, made up of pieces decades

so that as the eye travels across the wall, one gazes at where

old to days new. As he starts to point out “this one here… and that

he started, and sees how far he has come, charging one with

one over there…”, all I manage to conjure up is a “wow” and an “I

motivation and inspiration.

love it”, like someone seeing a Van Gogh for the first time. Recently, Zammit-Lewis was one of fifty artists, among thousands, While Zammit-Lewis, as of late, focuses mainly on portraiture and

to be selected by Prof. Vittorio Sgarbi and Leonarda Zappulla for

the nude – enticed by its expressiveness, I later learn – he’s also done

the project ‘I NARRATORI del nostro TEMPO’. Ten of his paintings

quite a few other pieces – such as collaborating with sculptors, and

have been selected for Sgarbi to sign and give an opinion on, who

then “painting them alive”, as he says. Additionally, a rather eye-

will then interview Mario on television and online – for his audience

catching piece in his studio is a painting of a woman surrounded

of over a million followers. This project is following Zammit-Lewis’

by flowers, done on a glass door. Mario, grinning, tells me that he

recent exhibition that ended on the 23rd of December: his first

has another one like this, from 2011, in the Philippines, which he

personal exhibition in Malta, at Società Filarmonica Nazionale “La

comically had to transport piece by piece ever so carefully all the

Valette”.

way from Hong Kong. Zammit-Lewis’s numerous exhibitions in the past, and winnings in At 16, while living in Turin, Italy, Zammit-Lewis started to experiment

huge internationals competitions throughout his life, speak for the

with painting, and created his first oil painting of Leone Tolstoi,

mastery and impressive quality of his art. “It’s the creativity, and

ART

catching a moment in time” that for Mario

to create the latest masterpiece - tubes of

artists that are still alive, investing in

spark such passion for his work. “I try not to

paint, paintbrushes, rags, canvases, easels,

the future, as this is “how you keep

do a photographic thing. I get close to the

and, of course, old photographs from his

art alive”.

photo, but want to show that it isn’t one, so

life. He is currently working on a painting

I keep the brush strokes visible.” Describing

of his parents. His mother sits on a red

Although Mario has crossed the globe,

his art as having a “slightly unfinished

armchair, with a chihuahua resting on

and quite possibly other planets too, he

style”, he says he’s been characterised in the

her lap. Behind her stands his late father.

has still chosen Malta as his permanent

past as “an artist who represents painting”.

“I still have to finish that one,” he points

place of residence. Standing next to a

out. “My father was a Grand Master of the

giant 3D layered sculpture of the Maltese

His inspiration, right now, have been his

Sovereign Order of the Knights of Justice”,

Islands that took him six months to

past trips to Yemen, Shanghai and Hong

something Mario too is part of, “so I’m

complete, he proclaims, “I never gave up

Kong, among others. “I like travelling”, he

going to paint him with his uniform on. I

the Maltese passport. I wanted to remain

chuckles, heavily emphasising his words.

know he would have liked that”.

Maltese from the beginning.”

would do between 200 and 360 flights a

After a few anecdotes – such as the time

We are undoubtedly lucky to have such

year. Thinking I may have misheard him, he

when a painting of his was stolen and

talent in our midst, and Zammit-Lewis still

confirms that he was “more on the plane

was seen on a news article six months

has even more plans for projects in 2022.

than on the ground” for most of those

after, having been exhibited somewhere

Covid permitting, he’s kicking off with a

years. His house is, in fact, adorned with

– Zammit-Lewis shares how his favourite

personal exhibition held at the Maltese

souvenirs from his trips – not a snow globe

part of his work is meeting people. “I

Parliament in Valletta – a celebration of

or magnet, though, but ancient art pieces

love talking to people about art. Some

a maestro of our time. As I leave, I think

he managed to acquire.

like the simple scenes, some like the

about what Zammit-Lewis secret to success

colours, the figures… there’s so many

is. But there is no secret. It’s hard work and

We move further into his home, and into his

different opinions.” And he also strains

unwavering determination to thrive, plus, it

studio, cluttered with everything he needs

how important it is to purchase art from

seems, a lot of travelling.

When he lived in Hong Kong, he said he

GOZO

WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

GOZO, A LEGENDARY ISLAND!

GOZO IS AN ISLAND BRIMMING WITH OVER 7,000 YEARS OF DRAMATIC HISTORY, WITH MANY CAPTIVATING LEGENDS PASSED DOWN FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION. THERE ARE TALES OF SAINTS, GIANTS, FAIR MAIDENS, BARBARIC PIRATES AND SLAVES. LIKE SANSUNA, A GIANTESS WITH SUPER-STRENGTH, WHO IS SAID TO HAVE EASILY LIFTED THE HUGE STONES USED TO BUILD OUR ANCIENT ĠGANTIJA TEMPLES IN XAGĦRA. It’s no wonder then that if you ask any local about their favorite

scared, she prayed for protection, but the pirates destroyed her

legendary tale, they will happily recount from among the vast number

home, beating Matthew before forcibly shackling him and returning

of stories linked to our landmarks.

him to their pirate ship as a slave. Żgugina pleaded for her son’s mercy by the shoreline but the pirates mocked her. Inconsolable,

THE LEGEND OF SAN DIMITRI

she visits the ruinous chapel and notices that the painting of San

The legend of heroic San Dimitri is a popular local tale involving

Dimitri is still intact above the altar and prays for help, reciting

a mother’s love for her only son, barbaric pirates, and a saint

repeatedly “San Dimitri, give me back my son. Only you can

who saves the day. An old widow Natalizja Cauchi, known as

perform this miracle”.

Żgugina, lived near Ras San Mitri (The Cape of St Demetrius), a remote westerly part of Gozo beyond Għarb renowned for its

The legend goes, that the heroic saint who was pictured on

rugged scenery and treacherous coastal conditions. Every day,

horseback, gallantly and gloriously takes human form and then

Żgugina visited St Demetrius Chapel near her home to pray

gallops out from this painting, out of the chapel and towards the

for the protection of her son, Matthew. At that time the island

sea in pursuit of the pirate ship. Not long after he returns to the

was regularly ambushed by marauding Turkish pirates who

chapel carrying Matthew, reuniting mother and son. Overcome with

would steal the islander’s food and possessions and attempt

emotion Żgugina embraces her son and is so pre-occupied she fails

to enslave its people who were particularly at risk from these

to notice San Dimitri retreat back into the mural. As a poor, humble

perilous attacks.

islander, Żgugina shows her gratitude by lighting an oil lamp in front of San Dimitri’s mural and keeping it alight every day. Some

One day a Turkish Galleon arrived and soon after, boatloads

say the area was later damaged by a landslide and that this small

of pillaging pirates came to shore. The invaders ransacked St

15th century chapel ended up submerged underneath our seas,

Demetrius chapel and Żgugina’s modest home. Outnumbered and

remaining peacefully intact.

OEZ X OT H E R E I N S E R TG T

Many years later, divers exploring the seabed claimed to have

single-handedly. Finally, he was washed ashore clinging to debris

stumbled across an intriguing chapel with an alluring glow emitting

from the ship in the direction of an unfamiliar island, brimming

from an oil lamp still burning brightly, not knowing this was fuelled

with beautiful flowers and with trees laden with bountiful fruits –

by a mother’s love, giving thanks to the saint who saved her son.

the island of Ogygia. Lured by the song of the beautiful nymph

Nowadays, a 17th century chapel stands where St Dimitri’s Chapel

Calypso, Ulysses ventured into a cave high up in the cliffs to take

once stood and if you were to visit, you will notice the altarpiece

some rest. It was here that he met Calypso, daughter of Jupiter, the

depicting the San Dimitri legend, with a mother in prayer, a son

God of War, and the Queen of Ogygia – who enchanted Ulysses.

chained and an heroic San Dimitri on horseback.

Calypso was a captivating, beautiful nymph offering Ulysses all the food, wine, love and power any man could ever wish for. Although,

THE LEGEND OF CALYPSO

legend states Ulysses’ dearly wanted to return to Ithaca, his

The origins of the legend linked to Calypso’s Cave in Gozo is found

homeland, Penelope, his wife, and Telamon, his son. Calypso offered

in Homer’s Greek epic poem The Odyssey, and many locals believe

Ulysses her island’s kingdom, eternal youth and happiness and it

Gozo is the mythical island of Ogygia referred to in this ancient text.

is said he remained spellbound under her influence for seven long

This story involves the heroic Greek warrior Ulysses, who was kept

years, until the gods took pity on him and ordered the nymph to

a prisoner of love by the beautiful nymph Calypso in a cave by the

release him. After Ulysses was released he built a boat and set sail

cliffs overlooking the red sands of Ramla Bay.

towards his home.

Ulysses had been sailing home to Ithaca after the Trojan war,

We’ve always known Gozo is a remarkable island, full of historical

following the siege of Troy when his ship was struck by tremendous

and geographical treasures – these legends only add to its

thunderstorms. His shipmates all perished in the sea storms and

mystique. Why not visit to discover this legendary little island, and

for nine days and nights Ulysses battled the unrelenting tempest

start your own memorable journey?

GOZO

WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

GOZO: A ROMANTIC GETAWAY DESTINATION

A ROMANTIC HOLIDAY IS ABOUT GETTING AWAY FROM THE MADDING CROWD AND FOCUSING ON YOUR LOVED ONE. WHETHER YOU’RE CELEBRATING AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE IN YOUR JOURNEY AS TWO OR WHETHER YOU’RE TRYING TO REKINDLE A RELATIONSHIP, GOZO IS A GREAT PLACE TO SPEND QUALITY TIME, ENGAGED IN ACTIVITIES AND INTERESTS THAT BRING YOU TOGETHER! ACCOMMODATION TO SUIT YOUR TASTE AND BUDGET

TAKE A BOAT RIDE

In Gozo, you will find a variety of accommodation options that fit the

You cannot visit Gozo without enjoying a boat trip around the coast.

many different requirements of travellers. Stay at a luxurious 5-star

Boat trips depart from Mġarr Harbour, Xlendi, Marsalforn and Dwejra.

or 4-star hotel, a charming or sleek and stylish boutique hotel or opt

Enjoy a day out at sea, explore the many secret coves and savour these

for an intimate stay at a rented farmhouse or villa. You will also find a

moments with your loved one.

great selection of guesthouses, self-catering apartments, and B&Bs. COMINO HISTORY, NATURE AND THE SEA

Take a boat to the island of Comino and explore the island. In summer,

Sometimes it’s difficult to believe that the small island of Gozo is so rich

the island’s turquoise waters are a real mecca for tourists but in winter

in history and culture. Exploring the town of Victoria, the Citadel and

the solitude and silence of the place mean that you will truly enjoy

the various villages and hamlets of the island is an experience you will

quality time for two. Walk up to the coastal tower of Santa Marija and

treasure. Beyond the historical aspect of the island, nature and the sea

feast your eyes on the views across the channel and stroll down to the

are just a step away. Gozo is truly a case where you can have it all!

Blue Lagoon.

SEEK OUT THE SUNSETS

ACTIVE HOLIDAYS FOR TWO

Sunset watching is pretty easy in Gozo. There are many places where

Indulge in outdoor fun activities with your significant other. Gozo

you can enjoy a beautiful sunset, perhaps on top of the list are Dwejra

provides the opportunity to try hiking, biking and abseiling, but you

and Xwejni Bays.

might also be interested in sea sports including diving and kayaking.

DINING OUT

As we come closer to February, Gozo will start preparing for

Book one of the cosy sea-view restaurants and savour the tastes of the

Valentine’s Day celebrations. But Gozo is not only a romantic

traditional Gozitan cuisine. While Gozitan cuisine is firmly embedded in

destination during this month. After all, it is the island where Homer

the local produce tied with the typical Mediterranean seasons, Gozitan

says the nymph Calypso captivated the hero Ulysses with her magic

chefs will pleasantly surprise you with a wide spectrum menu.

for seven long years!

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

T R AV E L

WORDS AIR MALTA

CATANIA CALLING A SI CILIAN G EM O F U ND ENIABLE BE AUT Y

JUST BELOW THE TIP OF THE FAMOUS ITALIAN BOOT, SEPARATED FROM THE ITALIAN PENINSULA BY THE STRAIT OF MESSINA, YOU FIND SICILY, THE LARGEST MEDITERRANEAN ISLAND. THERE ARE VARIOUS PLACES IN SICILY WORTH VISITING, THOUGH I SECRETLY HAVE TO ADMIT THAT CATANIA IS BY FAR ONE OF MY PERSONAL FAVOURITES AND SHHH… DON’T TELL THE OTHERS. I mean they’re all special in one way or

is found at the foot of a volcano, is reason

lava covered the city causing devastation

another, honestly with this being said,

enough to visit. However, there are many

in 1669, and then not long after in 1693

however, my aim is to try and entice you

other reasons as to why you should plan to

an earthquake shook the town down to

towards this specific destination so that you

visit as soon as possible.

its foundations. This shocking calamity instigated a phenomenal rebuild; the whole

can experience its exceptional splendor. Before I do start with my pitch for Catania,

of the old part of town was reconstructed

Catania is the second largest city in Sicily

however, a little history about the city

using Baroque style, and wide open squares

and is located on the east coast of this

would definitely not go amiss. To a great

and avenues were incorporated into the

Italian island, which means that one will

extent it can be said that Mount Etna

new city design. What really sets this city

be able to enjoy impeccable views of

contributed considerably to Catania’s

apart from other parts of Sicily, however, is

the crystalline blue Ionian Sea. Moreover

evolution. Throughout the years there were

down to the building material that was used

this city is also situated just beneath the

several instances where volcanic eruptions

- Lava. This explains why the city is regarded

towering and outrageously magnificent

destroyed the city, the worst of which

as a ‘grey’ city but also why this perception

Mount Etna. For me, the fact that Catania

occurred in the 17th century. Hot, molten

contributes to its unique allure.

T R AV E L

CAPTIVATING HISTORICAL TREASURES

Etna gives rise to a wealth of exciting opportunities for visitors.

Despite Catania being regarded as a large urban complex, this

To start off with a more naturalistic approach, one should most

doesn’t put a damper on the historical aspect of the city. A great

definitely pay a visit to Etna Park in order to be able to delve into the

starting point for those travellers who wish to immerse themselves

magnificent natural environment this volcano has to offer. There are

in the heritage and culture of Catania, is the main square known

various trails available for exploring its slopes, some of which can

as Piazza Duomo. This piazza was designed by the commendable

be conquered through trekking and others which can be done on

architect, Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, and it is decorated with

horse-back. Apart from this, there are also sightseeing excursions

striking Baroque style buildings. There are a few important ones,

for discovering the many grottoes found in this park, and it is also

which I suggest you take time out to discover, including the Duomo

the perfect location to go birdwatching.

– the cathedral dedicated to Catania’s patron Saint Agatha. Right beside the cathedral lies the impressive structure of Badìa di

On a different note, at the foot of Mount Etna, there also lies a

Sant’Agata, which complements to the grandness of the square. At

totally different kind of park which enables travellers to experience

the very centre of the piazza, one cannot miss the city’s symbolic

the thrill factor some crave. This is Etnaland, an amusement theme

monument Fontana dell’Elefante which is a lava elephant fountain

park as well as an acquapark. It is a superb spot for families and

carrying an obelisk and bearing an inscription.

groups of friends, and offers up a ton of fun, excitement and relaxation through its different rides and attractions. Additionally, visitors may

It is hard to choose what other history-riddled landmarks to point

also be transported back in time to the prehistoric era, by embarking

out since there are so many. Therefore, I do suggest doing a little

on a scientific journey among reproductions of dinosaurs and

research of your own before visiting, so that you can explore the

humanoids that lived on our planet millions of years ago.

sites which appeal to you best. However, I would like to give a shout out to the old fortress of Castello Ursino, and recommend that you

In the summer months, tourists are spoilt for choice due to the

also take a stroll around one of the remarkable theatres in the area.

lovely warm weather that graces the island. One may simply opt to lounge around at a beach all day, or partake in one of the numerous

OUTDOOR PURSUITS

seaside activities available; such as scuba-diving, snorkelling, or

For those people who seek to engage in open-air activities and

even surfing. Alternatively, and for the ski-enthusiasts out there,

adventure, Catania will not disappoint. The close proximity to

Etna is also an excellent destination to visit during the winter

T R AV E L

months - a time when it is completely

craftsmen, artists and small businesses.

pieces of deep fried aubergines and salty

covered in snow. What makes a winter-

Furthermore, no city is complete without a

ricotta cheese. A little interesting fact

time visit even more unique is the fact

busy shopping street or mall, so if you want

surrounding this tempting dish is that it

that one would witness and experience the

to splurge a little, go on a shopping spree

was named in honour of the local composer

transformed snow-covered mountain, and

along Via Etnea or pay a visit to Porte di

Vincenzo Bellini who created the successful

at the same time, still enjoy the exquisite

Catania Shopping Mall which is just outside

opera Norma. Another popular recipe from

view of the enchanting blue sea - an

the city centre.

this area is Pasta con i Masculini which is topped and served with fried anchovies – a

impressively contrasting image. IRRESISTIBLE LOCAL CULINARY SCENE

good choice for those fish lovers out there.

STREET MARKET BUYS AND SHOPPING

Catania is home to some oh-so-delectable

More traditional savoury delicacies are

The fish market La Pescheria may be

signature culinary delights – which I strongly

Scacciata Catanese, homemade bread-

considered as an iconic cultural attraction

urge you try. After all there’s nothing worse

dough pies filled with any local cheese

in Catania, and whether you like fish or

than living with regrets. Conversely, there’s

and complementing ingredients such

not it’s well worth a walk around. The fishy

nothing better than getting a taste of the

as anchovies and a variety of different

smell, vibrant colours, and hustle and bustle

real deal, so ordering up a dish from where it

vegetables, as well as Arancini di Riso. The

is an experience in itself. Not only that but

originated from is sure to go down as a treat.

latter are rice balls found all over Sicily, however, what makes them unique in

for any of you that like free tidbits, you also get the chance to taste a lot of the

One of Catania’s most renowned dishes

Catania is that they are long and cone-

fresh fish and seafood. Apart from street

is Pasta alla Norma. The pasta is tossed

shaped, and typically filled with ragu, peas

markets, Catania is also home to countless

in rich tomato sauce accompanied with

and mozzarella.

Air Malta operates regular flights to Catania. More information on www.airmalta.com Please follow the latest Covid-19 guidelines with regards to travel.

M USIC

WORDS LAUREN JOHN

R AQU ELA

L AUREN JOHN CAUGHT UP WITH TRI-LINGUAL SINGER-SONGWRITER RAQUEL A DALLI GONZI TO SPEAK ABOUT HER CAREER AS A MUSICAL ARTIST ON THE ISL ANDS, HER LOVE FOR ITALY AND ALL THINGS ITALIAN, AND HER TOP PICKS IN MALTA TO SPEND TIME IN. “Covid did give me space, time and energy to write. I started

Raquela’s early introduction to Italian culture has stayed with

taking my music seriously during this time. Before that, I would

her, so much so that teaching the language is now her job away

just go with the flow. During Covid, I realised I was my own hero,

from singing, and she’s also visited Italy many times. Even with

my own supporter. I needed to push myself as much as possible

this passion and interest in all things Italian, releasing a song in

to do what I loved.” A sentiment that has surely been echoed by

another language seems like a challenge on a whole different

creatives all over the world who, in the most difficult of times have

level, but it’s one she has relished.

found inspiration. “I find it very easy and liberating to write in Italian. I find I Dalli Gonzi‘s inspiration resulted in the single ‘Breaking Free’ - a

express myself so well. The challenge was in composing a vocal

classy and emotive song - laced with instrumental lines that

melody on a classical piece of music that had already been

wouldn’t be out of place in an Enya song. Raquela has said that

written by Marco Balbinot.”

classical music was her first love, and there are hints of that in ‘Breaking Free’, but the overall track gives something more. It’s

One vocal melody and lyrics later and ‘Lo Voglio’ was born, a

classy, the subtle pop beats give it broad appeal, and the video is a

soaring classical ballad, performed in video form in a striking

refreshing change from the full-throttle, over-styled pop promos we

Maltese building accompanied by members of the Malta

see a lot of across Europe.

Philharmonic Orchestra. With bright lips, a flowing gown, and an emotive vocal, Raquela seems very at home in

Raquela recorded ‘Breaking Free’ in English, but English isn’t the

this setting and with this style of music, but what about

only language she has a love for, you could almost describe her as

something dif ferent? We had our answer when we asked her

a Maltese with an Italian heart. She says “I’ve always loved Italy, its

to pick a favourite song to cover and duet on. “Currently, my

language and its culture. When I was young I used to watch TV in

favourite song is ‘Strangers By Nature’ by Adele. I’d want to sing this

Italian on a daily basis. So, I would say that what attracted me to

particular song with Ben Bailey, and I’d like to perform it somewhere

the language first were the cartoons in Italian.”

in Valletta.”

I N S E R TM T UESX I CT H E R E

M USIC

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

I find it very easy and liberating to write in Italian. I find I express myself so well. The challenge was in composing a vocal melody on a classical piece of music that had already been written by Marco Balbinot. Ben Bailey if you’re reading this, Raquela would love to collaborate with you in Valletta! Valletta is also one of her suggestions for music-loving travellers to check out on the island, along with Gżira, Ta’ Xbiex, and St Julians. Being a passionate local, Raquela doesn’t just have ideas on where to visit to sample Maltese culture and music, she has some general tips too. “Visit sometime in May as the weather is normally beautiful at that time. Also, visit Valletta and Mdina for knowledge on Malta’s history, visit Gozo our sister island, and get some drinks in St Julians, Gzira and Sliema areas.” There is so much to discover and enjoy across Malta and its sister islands, and lots of exciting projects and collaborations to promote its singers and bands, but living and working in the music industry and trying to make your mark on a small island is still a challenge. “It isn’t very easy in Malta, even though we are a small country. It’s all about contacts and one needs to feature in a well-known contest to be seen. However, with the right attitude, one can manage to be seen and to be heard, especially through media platforms such as Spotify and Youtube.” With Raquela focusing a lot on her music and making full use of Spotify to create a playlist of her own music, there are sure to be many interesting releases to come, and as we hopefully move towards more normal activity, some live music as well. Luckily nothing stops songwriting apart from a lack of inspiration, and that is one thing Raquela isn’t short of.

A space where creativity meets craft to highlight the local charm

When asked about her inspirations and whether there is anything special that inspires her, she replied: “Break-ups, a rainy day, cold weather, and candles.”

Find Us in Sliema and Valletta!

Follow Raquela's journey on

108, Triq Manwel Dimech, 8, Misraħ San Ġwann, Sliema, Malta Valletta, Malta

Facebook (www.facebook.com/Raquela-112692374842), Instagram (www.instagram.com/raqueladallig/) or on YouTube.

souvenirsthatdontsuck.mt

maltasouvenirs

LOCAL

WORDS MARTIN BANKS

“COULD IT BE?”

Attributed to Richard Parkes Bonington, Coastal Scene with Fishing Boats, early 19th Century, Dining Room at Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum. Photo: Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum.

CLOSE BY THE OLD CATHEDR AL OF THE KNIGHTS OF ST JOHN OF JERUSALEM, RHODES AND OF MALTA, AND SNUG WITHIN THE TOWERING, BASTION WALLS OF THE “SILENT CITY” OF MDINA, STANDS THE ONE-TIME NORMAN HOUSE. Home across the centuries to Micheli de Falsone, in the 16th

At the heart of the bel étage, the dining room, with its table set for

Century, later the Cumbo-Navarro family and their descendants,

a banquet, displaying a profusion of Bohemian and Venetian glass,

finally, until their deaths in 1962, Captain Olof Gollcher OBE and

Maltese and European silver and the lace of Malta and Gozo, is

his wife Nella. A beautiful Historic House Museum, Palazzo Falson

surrounded by early antique furniture.

is now home to the Gollcher Collection, a glittering melange of furniture, jewellery, watches, rugs, arms and armour, paintings, and

Around the walls are portraits of the Gollcher family, who arrived

a miscellany of knick-knacks reflecting Malta’s multi-ethnic and

in Malta from Sweden in 1848, and to your right – as you face the

turbulent past.

fireplace, resplendent with the coat-of-arms of Philippe Villiers de L’Isle Adam, who brought the Order to Malta in 1531, is a wonderfully

Olof Gollcher was an artist, with a keen interest in undersea

executed painting “Coastal Scene with Fishing Boats”. Certainly,

archaeology, as well as a soldier and collector. His studio –

northern Europe, almost certainly French Normandy, and certainly

which was at the summit of the building – is now the exquisite

early 19th Century, it is attributed to Richard Parkes Bonington (1802 –

and welcoming Gustav Café, the highest and most beautifully

1828) an artist born in England but who spent much of his tragically

appointed coffee establishment in Malta, with a magnificent vista

brief working life in France. Trained at first as an artist by his father,

stretching from the nearby, red dome of St John’s Co-Cathedral,

Parkes Bonington first exhibited at the Liverpool Academy at the

out across the south-west of the Island to Valletta, and the

precociously young age of eleven. With the final ending of the

glistening Mediterranean beyond.

French revolutionary wars in 1815, his father moved to Paris, where

I N S E RL T OTCEAXLT H E R E

The Dining Room at Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum. Photo: Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum.

he opened a lace emporium. The young Parkes Bonington – now

The lovely, “Coastal Scene with Fishing Boats”, in the dining room

nearly seventeen – continued his painting studies at the Ecole Des

at Palazzo Falson, is certainly a beautiful evocation of such a scene

Beaux Art, in the studio of Antoine-Jean, Baron Gros.

and its era. It is unsigned. But, having seen the masterpiece in situ, and reflecting afterwards over coffee, at Gustav Café, could it,

When well established in the career which was taking him to the

do you feel, have actually emerged from the brush of this youthful

very pinnacle of European art, Eugene Delacroix wrote of this

master? Could it be?

talented romantic landscape artist, who was his close friend during those early years, “no one in this modern school, and perhaps ever before, has possessed that lightness of touch which, especially in watercolours, makes his work a type of diamond which flatters and

Martin Banks is a research volunteer at Palazzo Falson Historic

ravishes the eye, independently of any subject, and any imitation”.

House Museum, Mdina, Malta.

Richard Parkes Bonington first exhibited at the Paris Salon in 1822,

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is open from Tuesday to

and was awarded the Salon’s prestigious Gold Medal two years

Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm (last entrance at 3:30 pm).

later, in 1824. From about that time, his health deteriorated, and

Audio guided tours are available for not more than 6 people at a

when the tuberculosis, by which he was plagued, became too bad,

time, in the following languages: Maltese, English, Italian, French,

his parents sent him back to England, where he died on September

German and Spanish. For inquiries please contact us on +356

the 23rd, 1828. Today, the Wallace Collection, in London’s

21454512 or email bookings@palazzofalson.com

Manchester Square, has thirty-five of Parkes Bonington’s works – both landscape and historical scenes. A statue was erected to

We recommend that you visit their website and read our health and

him outside the Nottingham School of Art, and in the nearby town

safety guidelines before visiting the museum:

of Arnold, number 79 The High Street – the house where Parkes

www.palazzofalson.com/

Bonington was born – is now Bonington House. Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is managed by Fondazzjoni Such was his skill, that there were many copies and forgeries made

Patrimonju Malti, a non-profit heritage foundation aiming to spread

by artists attempting to emulate the wonderful talent of Richard

awareness about our heritage through museums, publications,

Parkes Bonington, in the years immediately following his death.

exhibitions and events.

LOCAL

WORDS DENISE CASSAR (TOUR GUIDE AT COLOUR MY TRAVEL)

O F F T H E B E A T E N T R A C K ŻEB B I EG Ħ VA LLE Y A N D WA R D I JA R I D G E N AT U R E WA L K

WITH NO SNOW, LOW AMOUNTS OF RAINFALL AND TEMPERATURES AVERAGING AROUND 12°C, JANUARY IN MALTA CAN BE VERY PLEASANT AND ENJOYABLE FOR NATURE WALKS AND HIKES! THIS PARTICULAR JOURNEY BEGINS IN FRONT OF THE ŻEBBIEGĦ CHURCH.

I N S E RL TOTCEAXLT H E R E

LOCAL

I NSERT L OTCEAXLT H E R E

The area can be reached by private vehicle (plenty of parking available) or by public transport via bus number 238 from the Valletta terminus. It is recommended to start off by crossing the street so as to immediately immerse yourself into the rich heritage the islands have to offer by witnessing Skorba. These Neolithic temples date back to around 5000BC and are believed to have been made by Malta’s first inhabitants as places of worship to the fertility cult. You can then proceed towards Triq il-Wardija and make your way to St Martin’s Cave. The name of this cave derived from the locality in which it is found and has nothing to do with the actual Saint himself - as wrongly thought by many. It was cleaned up in 1931 and converted into a grotto for our Lady of Lourdes in order to attract the devotion of passer-byers. After visiting the cave, you’d want to continue along the opposite-facing path, making your way up to the Wardija Ridge. At the top of the plateau, you will be quite rewarded with some views of the surrounding area - as far as Xemxija and also parts of Għajn Tuffieħa Bay – one of Malta’s most popular beaches! Over here you will also find some of the mysterious cart-ruts, whose origins are unknown and their purpose too, although they are widely assumed to be associated with the transportation of the temple stones during Neolithic times. From here you should probably double back around the ridge and go all the way down the same road, Triq il-Wardija, until the path forks off towards Triq Sagara Familja. The next part of the walk will take you around the Żebbiegħ/Imselliet Valley, where you will be able to enjoy a variety of flora. It is important to mention that these flowers are to be marvelled at by those who choose to do the same trek after you, therefore, kindly refrain from picking and/or trampling. After exploring the valley, it is highly recommended that you head on over to Vincent’s Eco Estate. Over here you can learn about sustainable and organic farming practices used by the organisation. You might also have the opportunity to lend a hand by engaging in olive picking, honey collecting and vegetable harvesting! The produce can then be bought from the O-Veg Eco kiosk to enjoy at home or gift to friends. Before deciding what to buy however, you will even be offered the opportunity to taste most of the products; so go ahead and dip that ftira (traditional Maltese bread) in the olive oil before picking up a bottle and allow the pesticide-free strawberries to burst on your tongue before hastily grabbing a box or five! Open Monday to Sunday from 09:00am to 17:00pm, this eco farm provides the perfect atmosphere to unwind after your walk. After loading yourself with local, organic and fresh produce, you’d want to keep following Triq Ħżejjen upon exiting the farm and turn onto Triq il-Fuħħar to find yourself climbing up the last bit of road toward your vehicle or bus stop. Depending on your length of stay enjoying the views on Wardija Ridge and your visit to the eco farm, you should complete this walk in around two-and-a-half hours. So, put on a good pair of trail shoes, pack some water and make this part of your off the beaten track visit to Malta! Colour my Travel organises various tours and the full schedule is available on www.colourmytravel.com

SPORT S

WORDS LYNDSEY GRIMA

THERE’S NO OBSTACLE WE CANNOT OVERCOME. A LOOK INTO THE WORLD OF OCR LYNDSEY GRIMA CATCHES UP WITH DUNCAN BARRY, FOUNDER OF PLATOON OCR | TRAIL | FITNESS AND MILITARY INSPIRED TEAM BUILDING EVENTS IN MALTA. DUNCAN SPEAKS ABOUT OBSTACLE COURSE RACING (OCR), THE RACES ORGANISED IN MALTA AND OVERSEAS, THE KIND OF OBSTACLES PARTICIPANTS NAVIGATE AND, FINALLY, THE FITNESS AND TEAM BUILDING ASPECTS OF THE RECENTLY LAUNCHED PLATOON CONCEPT. The world of Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) has grown in popularity

Duncan claims that although there is no such thing as an OCR

internationally, and Malta is no exception. Various athletes from

athlete, most athletes or sports enthusiasts that participate in this

different sport disciplines are participating in challenging OCR

sport come from different training disciplines such as water polo,

races and training, all aiming to make it to the finish line. But what

basketball and football players, trail and road athletes, gym goers,

exactly is OCR training?

CrossFit athletes, among others.

Duncan Barry explains that "OCR comprises of obstacles whereby

"As in every sport, practice makes perfect, and skills are developed

athletes navigate such obstacles during a race, the likes of The

as one goes along. However, this sport engulfs participants with

Grid Sprint, Gridlock, The Grid, Ninja Warrior, Tough Mudder, Black

strength and endurance, at the end of the day, and most of all,

Ops, Grid Kids, among others. Think of an obstacle course as like an

drives participants to conquer their fears such as the fear of heights.

assault course. This kind of training mimics military training: from

There’s no age for this sport: until recently we have seen individuals

climbing low and high walls, crawling under nets in muddy terrain

as old as 65 years old participate in OCR races. We have also seen

and climbing up high cargo nets and ropes, to obstacles that put to

kids as young as four participate too."

test your balancing skills and hanging techniques such as walking or running on a long wooden plank, shimmying a rope, or army shuffle

Duncan explains that the best way for a beginner to start is by

and monkey bars, among other challenging acts. Most OCR races

learning basic techniques on how to navigate obstacles. "I believe

include a trail/swim run, from a 2k to a 6k+ scenic trail."

that it is pertinent one joins an OCR club that has experience in the

I N S E RSTP T OE RX TS T HERE

SPORT S

I N S E RSTP T OERX TT S HERE

field (excuse the pun)! Some obstacles can be dangerous if you

comprises of exercises which are based on army training. The

are inexperienced. OCR fields are sprouting across our islands, so

team building side is also military inspired to create a kind of

people have a choice of clubs these days although not all clubs

different team building event with fun-filled military activities.

host an OCR field, but such clubs use third party OCR fields to

We offer a mix of OCR, abseiling, ‘war’ games and a ride out at

train in or train their members. Learning to run the proper way on

sea on military style RIBs (dinghies). We cater for small, medium-

both road and rough terrain is also key as running is part and parcel

sized, and big gun companies.’

of an OCR race." An active lifestyle is great for, not only our physical health, but OCR training attracts many spectators, including family members,

also our mental health. "During the pandemic and lockdowns,

and such races sway people away or proves to be a break from the

many people, evident from statistics published in various media,

routine gym life. OCR provides an outlet for an outdoor, fun sport.

were feeling depressed and the only way forward was to engage

What’s special about OCR is the fact that races can instil a sense of

in outdoor activities while trying to change our lifestyle habits.

teamwork among participants – a sense of belonging where no one

I for one went down the road of OCR and healthy eating. We all

is left behind.

have to navigate obstacles we face in life; if we don’t, we are doomed. We all need support when we face problems in life.

In fact, the concept of ‘no man is left behind’ is what inspired

And when navigating obstacles in an OCR field, you manage to

Duncan Barry to name his OCR training group, Platoon. Adopting

overcome those obstacles through the support of coaches and

military-inspired training, the group’s mission is to instil a sense

team members. Same goes for mental health, and such a sport

of teamwork among team members. The latter is exactly how

discipline helps you tremendously. If you fear heights but manage

OCR training adopts perfectly for teambuilding activities. In fact,

to overcome that fear, you can overcome any other obstacle in life

Platoon is made up of two concepts: the fitness aspect and the

that you may face, with the help of others."

teambuilding for company employees’ aspect. ‘The fitness team is made up of a number of individuals of all ages

For more information on Duncan Barry’s Platoon and OCR training,

that train together as a team and participate in OCR races and

visit their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/platoonocr.mt/ and

trail runs together. Since OCR is military inspired, our training

on Instagram Platoon OCR & Trail.

THE SHORELINE Suite 407, Level 4, Block SCM01, Smart City, Kalkara, Malta. Contact us on (+356) 2180 8895 Email: sales@theshorelineresidence.com www.theshorelineresidence.com

Illustrations are the artist’s impressions only and cannot be regarded as representations of facts or accurate locations.

04 01

HAVE AN

BLE

UNFORGETTA DAY AT

Oracle Casino, Isle Promenade Qawra. SPB 2508. Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours. For info and free transport contact us on (+356) 2157 0057 www.oraclecasino.com

WINTER PACKAGE

Portomaso Casino, Level -1 Portomaso Business tower Portomaso, St Julian's. Free Transport. Free Parking. Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours. Contact us on (+356) 2138 3777 www.portomasocasino.com

Entrance to Popeye’s Film Set A variety of Animation Shows Scavenger Hunt Access to Popeye’s Comic Museum Entrance to the Cinema (15 minutes Documentary of the Film Set) Silver Smith Demonstrations Use of Nine-Hole Mini-Golf course Free Postcard Free Popcorn

olf

Mini-G 02

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November - May: 10.30 - 16.30

Bus Number: 101 +356 21 524 782

www.popeyemalta.com Popeye Village Malta Popeyemalta79

LOCAL

WITH SO MANY CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES ON OUR LITTLE ISLANDS, IT’S HARD TO DECIDE WHAT TO SEE AND WHERE TO GO. THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WE’LL BE HIGHLIGHTING OUR TOP LOCATIONS FOR THE SEASON. THIS MONTH IT'S RABAT, MALTA.

LOCAL

SIX TOP SIGHTS

IS-SERKIN (CRYSTAL PALACE)

RABAT TRAIN RIDE

IL-BITHA TA' DONI

The Crystal Palace is often referred to as the pastizzi shop that never sleeps. This pastizzi shop stays open all night long at the weekends and closes for only two hours on weekdays. Situated in Triq San Pawl, this pastizzi shop is rumoured to have have been around for more than a 100 years.

Walking and exploring Rabat can be interesting but this train ride offers you an informative guided tour of this timeless town, as you travel through Rabat and it’s rich history. The tour begins from the ruins of the Domus Romana and lasts for 30 minutes.

Il-Bitħa ta’ Doni is a traditional Maltese restaurant in the heart of Rabat. It is the perfect place to have a nice relaxing lunch or a quick bite after a long day of exploring Rabat. The restaurant is found nestled in a chapel of the same name in Triq San Pawl and stays open till 4:00p.m. every day.

ST PAUL'S CHURCH

ST PAUL'S CATACOMBS

ST DOMINIC CHURCH AND CONVENT

One of the most prominent landmarks of Rabat, St Paul’s Church was built in the 17th century to replace an older church which was built in 1538. You can find St Paul’s Grotto underneath the church. St Paul, was believed to have taken refuge here after he was shipwrecked in Malta in the year AD 60.

Not to be confused with St Paul’s Grotto, the Catacombs date back more than 1500 years, this site serves as the earliest evidence of Christianity in Malta. It is a complex system of over 30 tombs, 20 of which are open to the public. The site is managed by Heritage Malta and are open to the public every day from 9:00a.m. to 4:30p.m.

A little-known tourist and pilgrimage site, St Dominic’s Church and Convent deserves a lot more attention than it currently does. You can find one of the major Maltese relics here which is a marble statue of the Virgin Mary, shedding tears of blood. It is believed that this miracle first occurred in 1999. This church has a rich history going back more than 600 years and was built by The Dominican Order.

T O P L O C AT I ON S

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.

ISL A N D H IG H LIG H T S

DRAGONARA CAVA (CORAL LAGOON), L-AHRAX POINT, MALTA One of Malta’s best kept secrets. Venture off the beaten track to discover one of Malta’s natural wonders, located in the limits of Aħrax and Little Armier Bay.

UPPER BARRAKKA AREA, VALLETTA, MALTA If you’re into architecture, this is the perfect spot to snap some pictures of some of the traditional Maltese balconies, and capture spectacular views of the Grand Harbour. 42

I NTSOEPR T L OTCEAT X TI ON H ES RE

MDINA, MALTA Interested in taking a journey through time? Mdina has it all - a long history, medieval and baroque architecture, and prestigious treasures that are part of our cultural heritage.

NADUR BELVEDERE, NADUR, GOZO One of the best spots in Nadur to experience the sun rising from the east.

XWEJNI SALT PANS, MARSALFORN, GOZO The distinct Xwejni Salt Pans are truly a must-see. Sea-salt production is one of the oldest Gozitan traditions that has been passed down from one generation to another.

TA’ PINU SANCTUARY, GHARB, GOZO An architectural masterpiece that must be seen to believe. Dedicated to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu, the sanctuary is visited by both locals and tourists alike, who wish to pray or simply admire the art, architecture and magnificent designs. 43

LOCAL

WORDS DEAN MUSCAT

ANCIENT CHAPELS

MALTA IS CHOCK-A-BLOCK WITH CHURCHES, CHAPELS, AND CATHEDRALS OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP. WHETHER IT’S THE SPLENDOUR OF THE ROTUNDA OF MOSTA OR THE BAROQUE ARCHITECTURE OF THE MDINA CATHEDRAL, HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF TRAVELLERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD CONTINUE TO VISIT THESE SHORES JUST TO GET A GLIMPSE OF THE MALTESE PEOPLE’S MANY TEMPLES OF WORSHIP. Venture outside the well-explored route of the island’s parishes,

angular design, these are considered to be some of finest and rarest

and there’s even more to discover. Scattered in the heart of the

examples of 15th-century frescos on the island.

countryside and along humble rural trails are a precious collection of ancient chapels. They may be simple and unostentatious in

The chapel’s roof is supported by four pointed arches, which lead

appearance, but these rustic chapels shed even further light on

to a main altar and apse. The remains of an iconostasis are still

Malta’s deep-rooted history of religious devotion.

present, indicating that the chapel was built at a time when Malta was still under the influence of the Orthodox Byzantine religious

CHAPEL OF THE ANNUNCIATION – ĦAL MILLIERI

denomination. The chapel underwent extensive restoration works in

In the rural southern hinterland between Żurrieq, Qrendi, and

recent years and is open for visits every first Sunday of the month,

Mqabba lie the remains of a long-forgotten Medieval hamlet - Ħal

from 9.00 am till noon.

Millieri. First documented in 1419, the village is believed to date back even earlier, to possibly pre-historic times. Today, the most

CHAPEL OF SANTA MARIJA TA’ BIR MIFTUĦ – GUDJA

prominent remnant of this blotted out settlement is the Chapel of

The chapel of Santa Marija ta’ Bir Miftuħ (translated as ‘open well’)

the Annunciation.

is located in the limits of Gudja and is hailed as one of the bestpreserved examples of 15th-century religious architecture in Malta.

The quaint little Medieval chapel is particularly noteworthy for its

Built around 1430, the chapel was officially declared a parish in 1436

series of Byzantine-style frescos, depicting ancient saints and holy

by Bishop Senatore de Mello. Its parish status came despite the

men, that line its interior walls. With their Gothic lettering and

fact that the chapel was never situated at the centre of a village,

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

Chapel of St Marija ta' Bir Miftuħ

St Magdalena Chapel

LOCAL

Chapel of the Return of the Holy Family from Egypt – Comino

as a typical Maltese parish church is expected to be. Instead, this

it had fallen into a state of disrepair and, following its eventual

austere chapel, with its fine pointed stone arches, served as the

collapse, was rebuilt anew in 1646. You can still make out the Latin

main temple of worship for a smattering of nearby villages for well

inscription above the doorway commemorating its reconstruction.

over 200 years.

The chapel was mainly used by farmers living in Dingli’s desolate countryside and, thanks to its high-rise position, it also served as

A belfry was added to the chapel shortly before the Knights of St

an easy-to-spot navigation point for fishermen sailing under the

John took hold over Malta. Legend has it that before the invading

expanse of Dingli’s limestone cliffs.

Turks could desecrate the chapel in the bloody throes of the Great CHAPEL OF THE RETURN OF THE HOLY FAMILY FROM

Siege of Malta in 1565, villagers buried religious treasures, along with the bells, in the tombs of the chapel and the surrounding countryside.

EGYPT – COMINO

While many historical artefacts - including beautiful frescos painted

This charming little chapel, one of the few inland sites on the tiny

above the main entrance - were unearthed during recent restoration

islet of Comino, is dedicated to the Return of the Holy Family from

works, the original bells remain nowhere to be found.

Egypt and dates back some 500 years. However, according to map evidence it stands on the site of a much earlier church dating

Today, the chapel plays host to the annual Bir Miftuħ International

from 1296, which was likely ransacked and destroyed by treasure-

Music Festival, which invites classical virtuosos from all over the

hoarding smugglers.

world to play within its hallowed walls every spring. It is also open The simple whitewashed façade with its charming bell-gable arches

for visitors on the first Sunday of the month from 9.30a.m. till noon.

is unique in the archipelago. Inside is Neo-Gothic splendour that’s all CHAPEL OF MARY MAGDALENE – DINGLI

swooping corners, pointed archways, and an intact iconostasis that

Perched nail-bitingly near the edge of Dingli cliffs is a wayside

separates the nave from the altar. As with the Hal Millieri chapel,

chapel that boasts spectacular open horizon views. This shoebox of

this is another indication of a time when Malta fell under the

a chapel is extremely simple in design, with a façade comprised of

Byzantine church. Mass is still celebrated in the chapel.

a single doorway and a small oculus window. Inside is a limestone altar and an altarpiece depicting the chapel’s titular Mary

As most of the chapels listed in this article are attended by not-

Magdalene kneeling before a resurrected Christ.

for-profit organisations and volunteers, it is always best to check online and on relevant social media pages to ensure the chapels

While the chapel’s exact origins are lost in time, historians are

will be open on the day of your visit. Some chapels are open by

certain a chapel already existed on this site as of 1446. By 1575,

appointment only.

IN I N S EBRUTST EE XSTS H E R E

WHATEVER YOUR REASON IN VISITING THE MALTESE ISLANDS, WE HAVE A WEALTH OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR YOU.

BUSINE SS OR PLE A SURE?

GO & FUN Looking for a refreshing way to cool down in the heat? Malta’s top-selling Go&Fun Green Energy drink is the answer! If you’re seeking a boost, this popular energy drink is sure to do the trick like no other, and it tastes great to boot. This beverage offers a unique taste packed with natural flavours and free from taurine, what's more it's a local Maltese offering and one of Malta’s top-selling brands. Keep your eyes peeled for its distinctive packaging whilst you are travelling around the islands, and grab a Go&Fun!

ORDER ONLINE & HAVE IT DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR FAST EASY EFFICIENT WWW.GREENS.COM.MT

SCAN THE QR CODE TO BENEFIT FROM A €5 VOUCHER ON YOUR NEXT ONLINE ORDER

ORDER KINNIE FROM AMAZON.CO.UK AND ENJOY MALTA’S OWN FAVOURITE BITTERSWEET SOFT DRINK WITH ORANGE FLAVOURING & AROMATIC HERBS FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME .

KINNIE.COM.MT

KINNIE.MT

AVAILABLE ON

NEDXDTRHI N KE IFNOSO ED R TA T ER

SOME GO OD

FO OD FOR THOUGHT

FOOD A ND DRINK

WE BRING YOU THE BEST THAT THE MALTESE KITCHEN HAS TO OFFER WITH RECIPES INSPIRED BY MEDITERRANEAN AND EUROPEAN CUISINE.

YOUR DELICIOUS

MONTHLY RECIPE

Konrad Grixti was born and raised in the quaint village of Dingli and as a teenage boy he discovered his love for preparing food while earning the extra buck during the summer holidays. He is a motivated culinary school trained chef with roots in 5-star hotels and restaurants. Today he is Head Chef at L’Agape restaurant in Rabat where he loves combining local ingredients with techniques learned during his career. 50

FOOD A ND DRINK

This recipe showcases three of Malta’s favorite ingredients while emulating our neighbours’ famous fonduta but utilising our inimitable sheep cheese ġbejna. Local foraged mushrooms are a plus with their nutty flavour but if you’re not lucky use any of your favourite mushrooms.

PORK CHEEK CROQUETTES LOCAL MUSHROOMS, “ GBEJNA ” FONDUTA INGREDIENTS FOR PORK CHEEK COOKING

1/2 tbsp Sherry vinegar

35gr butter

4 Pork cheeks

vegetable oil, for deep-frying

250ml milk

1 litre Chicken stock

1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard

100ml fresh cream

1 Carrot

1/2 tbsp English mustard

3 egg yolks

1 Onion

Flour

1 Celery stick

Eggs

FOR SAUTEED MUSHROOMS

1 Bay leaf

2gr salt

300gr Local mushrooms

1 Sprig of fresh thyme

Panko breadcrumbs

(or Oyster mushrooms)

FOR PORK CHEEK CROQUETTES

FOR FONDUTA

50gr Mature cheddar

250gr Fresh local sheep cheese

Hint of garlic

25g Parsley, chopped

(ġbejna friska)

Chopped parsley

50g Shallots

50gr dry Sheep cheese (ġbejna), grated

Salt and pepper

Unsalted butter Dry white wine

METHOD Rinse the pork cheeks under cold running water and soak for 2 hours. Remove any sinew, place in a pan and cover with water, bring to the boil then discard the water and cover with chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and add the mirepoix. Cover with a cartouche and simmer gently until tender(2-3hrs), then leave to cool in the liquor. Remove the pork cheeks then reduce the liquor over a medium heat to a syrupy glaze consistency. Once cool, pull the meat and mix together with the rest of the ingredients using just enough glaze to bind everything together, taste for seasoning and adjust as needed. Roll the mixture in clingfilm into a ballotine and chill in the fridge until set. Cut into desired shape, dip first in the flour, then the eggs and finally the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process twice. Deep-fry the croquettes for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Dry on kitchen paper and season. Over a bain-marie heat the butter,the milk and the fresh cream. Add the remaining ingredients and whisk constantly for around 8 to 12 minutes until the mixture just thickens. Keep warm. Warm olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add the butter and garlic. Cook gently, increase heat, add mushrooms and season. Toss for 5 minutes and add white wine. Reduce to syrupy consistency and garnish with parsley. Finally start plating by pouring the fonduta followed by the sauteed mushrooms and topping with the croquettes. Serve immediately. 51

FOOD A ND DRINK

A GUIDE TO

DINING ON THE MALTE SE ISL ANDS

TA’ MARIJA – YOUR GASTRO MALTESE KITCHEN Constitution Street, Mosta Established in 1964, Ta’ Marija is one of the island’s most historically rich restaurants. Head to their Folklore Dinner shows held every Friday evening for a touch of Maltese liveliness. Transport can also be arranged. Their gastro menu is bursting with creativity with what is locally traditional while adding their own signature flavours of sumptuousness. From small-sized appetizers and platters ideal for those of you looking to experience a variety of different flavours, to traditional home-made ravioli, bringing you your favourite Maltese dishes in a way you never imagined. Mains include traditional and signature Maltese dishes ranging from popular rabbit selection, seasonal fish and shellfish in season, local meats and the famous ‘Whisper’ chargrilled steaks … also specials offered on the day. Be sure to leave room for their mouth-watering home-made desserts.

+356 2143 4444 www.tamarija.com info@tamarija.com

IFNOSO ED R TA T NEDXDTRHI N ER KE

BEEFBAR IN THE CITY

VINI E CAPRICCI BY ABRAHAM’S

The Mall, The Phoenicia Malta, Floriana

Gozitano Agricultural Village, Mġarr Road, Xewkija, Gozo

Born in Monte Carlo, Beefbar is a global fine-dining phenomenon from entrepreneur Riccardo Giraudi. A celebration of playful innovation, understated modern luxury and the most elite meats in the world. Now located within the prestigious Phoenicia Malta. Drop in for the iconic dishes and signature sauces that put Beefbar on the map. From Certified Japanese Kobe beef and Australian WX Wagyu beef to delicious vegetarian recipes and exquisite, fresh fish. Open year round for lunch and dinner, Beefbar in the City is a foodie’s slice of heaven.

Vini e Capricci by Abraham's is the answer to every gourmand’s prayers, and an experience in its own right. A truly innovative gastrodome, home to exquisite food and award-winning wine and spirits. A concept which integrates a strong educational element, where the public not only can purchase but will also experience products first-hand; a sumptuous celebration of food and a flair of excellence. A landmark in the Maltese Islands, with an aim to marry a store selling the finest ingredients with a cultural and artistic offer second to none. Constant attention to detail and a passion for the good things in life is what makes Vini e Capricci a unique culinary destination.

+356 2291 1084 www.maltacity.beefbar.com reservations@beefbarcity.com.mt beef.malta beefbar_malta

+356 2156 3231 www.viniecapricci.com viniecapricci@abrahams.com.mt abrahamsgozo abrahamsgozo

TA' KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO

HAMMETT’S MACINA RESTAURANT

80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema

Triq Il-31 ta' Marzu Xatt Juan B. Azopardo L-Isla

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 braġioli, rabbit, octopus stew, bebbux (snails), balbuljata (corned beef hash), baked lamb, daily specials, pasta dishes, a selection of fresh fish on a daily basis and mouth-watering steaks. Ta’ Kris also offers take away & delivery service and set menus can be designed for special occasions. Advance booking is recommended and may be done through our website, via email, by phone, or on Facebook. Ta’ Kris is open from Monday to Sunday, from 12:30pm till 11pm.

Hammett’s Macina Restaurant is located in the ancient Macina walls, which were built nearly half a millennium ago by the knights of Saint John. You will find the history in the building, but also in the dishes. These are a modern take on traditional Mediterranean culinary influences that date back to the Phoenician times and were awarded a Michelin plate twice already. Not only the dishes, but also the cocktails are colourful, tasty and bring you the best the Mediterranean has to offer. Not to mention the wine list which is completely sourced from the coastal areas of the region.

++356 2779 4171 www.hammettsmacina.com hammetts.com.mt hammettsmacina

+356 21 337 367 | +356 79 337 367 www.takrisrestaurant.com takrisrestaurant@gmail.com

Open Waters Advert.pdf

22/06/2021

ANDREW’S BAR St. George’s Bay, St. Julian’s Andrew's Bar is a freshly re-opened venue where fun is not optional, good food is compulsory, and building great memories is essential! Steeped in legacy, this is, in fact, Malta's oldest bar! The place is a go-to, and you're simply going to love indulging in the extensive menu with a great local cuisine focus with traditional Maltese dishes and modern dishes such as pizza or pasta. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or also for a quiet drink or two!

+356 2138 8031 info@andrewsbar.com

CMY

TA' KOLINA 151, Tower Road, Sliema Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been open since 1974. Ta’ Kolina is a typical Maltese restaurant with it traditional Maltese interior and décor. A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of starter, main dish, dessert, and coffee for €24 per person. There is also a vibrant a la carte menu and daily display of fresh local fish. Dining here is a true Maltese experience for a reasonable price. We are open for both lunch and dinner from 12:00hrs – 22:30hrs.

+356 2133 5106 www.takolina.mt

+356 2010 5590 info@beachgardenmalta.com Beach Garden Hotel, St. George's Bay, St Julian's, STJ 3302, Malta

For advertising opportunities and restaurant listings, get in touch with us on sales@il-bizzilla.com or (+356) 9929 0518

14:22

I NMSA ED RE T ITNE X MTA H LTA ERE

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?

MADE IN

MALTA

CISK

KINNIE

Simonds Farsons Cisk plc is synonymous with a beer brewing tradition rooted in quality. At the base of this tradition are long-established skills of selecting nature’s best ingredients coupled with the expertise of skilled and dedicated brewers that ensure that a high standard of quality is maintained at every step in the brewing process. Over the years, this dedication has contributed to creating award-winning brews that so many have grown to appreciate. Cisk Lager, launched in 1929, is a golden-coloured, bottom fermented lager with a distinctive and well-balanced character with an alcohol content of 4.2%. The range also includes Cisk Export – a smooth, well-balanced and exceptional beer with a 5% alcohol content, Cisk Excel – a low carbohydrate beer, Cisk Chill – flavoured beer available in three flavours, Cisk Pilsner – a premium pilsner with an alcohol content of 5.5% and Cisk Strong – an outstanding extra-strong premium lager with a 9% alcohol content.

Kinnie, Malta’s own favourite soft drink, is a unique tasting bitter-sweet soft drink with orange flavouring and aromatic herbs. Kinnie is best enjoyed ‘neat’, with a slice of orange and lots of ice. Highly refreshing, it is also an excellent mixer. These distinctive characteristics have made Kinnie a Mediterranean classic since 1952, loved by the local population and tourists. Over the years, in keeping with evolving trends in lifestyles and health awareness, a zero-calorie version, Diet Kinnie, was introduced, as well as Kinnie Zest – a sugar-free variant with an intense orange flavour. The Kinnie range is available online at: amazon.co.uk kinnie.com

Buy Cisk on amazon.co.uk

Welcome on board! FOOD, BEVERAGE AND BOUTIQUE MENU

Cash is not accepted on board. Please ask your cabin crew for a receipt.

Choose from our selection of sweet and savoury options and enjoy a range of hot beverages, beer, wines, spirits and mixers, or opt for our deals for amazing value.

WINE DEAL

BAR MEAL DEAL

Choose any Wine and Pringles, Salted Peanuts or Hummus Tomato & Basil Chips for

Buy any Main Meal with any Alcoholic Beverage for

SAVE UP TO €2.00

SAVE UP TO €4.50

only €8

only €10

PRE-ORDER

your Meal, Fragrances, Beauty Products and more, before your flight, in 4 easy steps:

1. Visit www.airmalta.com

and click on Pre-Order Menu

2. Enter your flight details 3. Select and pay 4. Sit back, relax, and get it delivered to your seat Ask any crew member for more information! Orders close 48 hours before departure. Other T&Cs apply.

Build your own Deal Choose a Main Meal and add a Snack and Non-alcoholic Beverage SAVE UP TO €5.00

AT €10.00 ONLY

Select a main

Choose a snack

Pick a beverage

ANY HOT BEVERAGE

The Extra Mile Deal Get the Ham and Cheese or Pizza Margherita Ciabatta, Snack and a non-alcoholic beverage as a meal deal for

€2.00 LESS

Get an additional €2 discount on the meal deal when you choose the Ham and Cheese or the Pizza Margherita Ciabatta as your main meal when you are flying into Malta! This offer is subject to availability and is only available on inbound flights to Malta.

Ham and Cheese available on selected flights. For a guaranteed onboard meal please visit our pre-order section on airmalta.com. Ask any cabin crew member for more information. Allergen information: ingredients and allergens may vary depending on country of origin. Please refer to product labels before consuming. Images may differ from actual products. Some products may be unavailable on certain flights, please ask your cabin crew member for more information. Cash is not accepted.

Main Meals Ham and Cheese Brioche Smoked Ham and Cheddar Cheese in a brioche Bun and served hot! €7.00

Pizza Margherita Ciabatta Vegetarian Classic mozzarella cheese and tomato on a grilled ciabatta bread. Served hot! €7.00

Beef Lasagne

Vegan Lasagne Vegan Lactose free, gluten free, vegan and served hot! €7.00

Sweet & Sour Chicken with Rice A taste of Asia and a worldwide favourite, served hot! €7.00

Snack’In Antipasto Tray A selection of salami, crackers, olives and popped cheese. €6.00

A Mediterranean classic, served hot! €7.00

SAVOURY SNACKS Twistees 50g €1.50 San Carlo Salted Crisps 25g €2.00

Hummus Chips Tomato and Basil 45g €2.50

Pringles Sour Cream 40g €2.50

Maretti Bruschette Chips 85g €3.50

Pellito Salted Peanuts 50g €2.50

Pot Pasta Mozzarella and Tomato 61g €4.50

SWEET SNACKS Bauli Chocolate Croissant 50g €2.00

Aunt Mabel's Blueberry Muffin 105g €3.50

Nestlé KitKat 40g €2.00

Haribo Goldbears 200g €4.00

Kinder Bueno 43g €2.00

Cadbury Oreo Bites 110g €4.50 59

Beverages

€2.50

Pokka Chilled Coffee Cappuccino 240 ml

€2.50

San Benedetto Still Water 500ml

€2.50

San Benedetto Sparkling Water 500ml

€2.50

Don Simon Tomato Juice 200ml

MUFFIN DEAL Buy a Muffin and any Hot Beverage for

only €6

SAVE €1.00

€2.50

Cappy Orange Juice 200ml

€3.00

Coca Cola 330ml

€3.00

Coca Cola Zero 330ml

€3.00

Kinnie 330ml

€3.00

Diet Kinnie 330ml

€3.00

FuzeTea Peach Hibiscus 500ml

€3.00

Crodo Orange Soda 330ml

€3.00

Crodo Lemon Sugar Free 330ml

Hot Beverages Douwe Egberts Black Coffee €3.50

Douwe Egberts Hot Chocolate €3.50

Pukka English Breakfast Tea €3.50

Drink Me Chai Latte €3.50

Nescafé Cappuccino €3.50

Wines & Beers Spirits & Mixers

€4.50

Cisk Lager Beer 330ml

€4.50

Bulmers Apple Cider 330ml

€6.00

Verdala Rose Wine 187ml

€6.00

Caravaggio Merlot Red Wine 187ml

€6.00

Caravaggio Chardonnay White Wine 187ml

€7.50

Maschio Prosecco 200ml

Schweppes Tonic Water 150ml

€2.00

Red Bull 330ml

€3.00

Whitley Neill Rhubarb & Ginger Gin 50ml

€5.50

Bombay Sapphire Gin 50ml

€6.00

Absolut Vodka 50ml

€6.00

Bacardi Rum 50ml

€6.00

Ballantines Whiskey 50ml

€6.00

Cash is not accepted. Please ask your cabin crew for a receipt.

Clearance Sale Air Malta Collectables Air Malta Retro Model Aircraft A320 €20.00 George, The Air Malta Pilot Bear €15.00

Beauty YSL Touché Eclat Radiant Touch €29.50 €23.50 SAVE €6.00

Feet Friend Healthy Socks €49.00 €34.00 SAVE €15.00

Wunder2 Brow Travel Set €25.50 €20.00 SAVE €5.50

Buff Body Gift Set €37.00

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray €13.00 €10.00 SAVE €3.00

Alpha H Liquid Gold €26.50

Urban Decay Naked 3 Eye Shadow Palette €45.50 €35.50 SAVE €10.00

Alpha H Absolute Lip Perfector €15.50 €12.00 SAVE €3.50

Seascape Island Apothecary Soothe Sleep Oil €12.00 €10.00 SAVE €2.00

Ultrasun 30SPF Sports Gel €16.00 €12.00 SAVE €4.00

Instant Effects Instant Eye Lift €24.00 €19.00 SAVE €5.00

Fine Cream Deodorant €26.00 €16.00 SAVE €10.00

Instant Effects 3D Lip Plumping Treatment €24.00 €19.00 SAVE €5.00

L'Oreal La Vie En Glow Set €20.00 €15.00 SAVE €5.00

Glov Make Up Remover €13.00 €10.00 SAVE €3.00

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser Duo €25.00

Boutique items are available on selected flights only. Whilst stocks last. 62

Jewellery Estella Bartlett Stars So Bright Bracelet €22.00 €15.00 SAVE €7.00

Estella Bartlett 'Live As You Dream' Bracelet €10.00 SAVE €10.00 €20.00

Estella Bartlett Star Necklace €29.00 €15.00 SAVE €14.00

Estella Bartlett Bracelet Duo €15.00 €13.00 SAVE €2.00

Kids Sprout Seed Pencil €20.00 €18.00 Ocean Soft Toy €8.50 €7.00

Watches

SAVE €2.00 SAVE €1.50

Sunglasses

Sekonda Rose Gold Plated Watch €29.00 €21.00 SAVE €8.00 Sekonda Metal Strap Blue Face Watch €49.00 €34.00 SAVE €15.00

Granite Ladies Sunglasses €21.00 €16.00 SAVE €5.00

Gifts & Gadgets

Lily and Stone Rose Gold Watch €35.00 €25.00 SAVE €10.00

Radley Canvas Bag Duo €17.00 €15.00 SAVE €2.00

Hippie Chic Watch €12.00 €10.00

Skross Universal Travel Adapter €39.00 €28.00 SAVE €11.00

SAVE €2.00

Hippie Chic Watch Grey €15.00 €10.00 SAVE €5.00

Ögon Carbon Wallet €35.00

ChocoMoon Geometric Watch €49.00 €34.00 SAVE €15.00

House of Marley Speakers €45.00

Aviator World Cities Watch €75.00 €55.00 SAVE €20.00 Boutique items are available on selected flights only. Whilst stocks last.

www.versiliasolutions.com

PLEASE TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: Customer satisfaction is of 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 and enter our monthly draw to win a free flight. www.airmalta.com/wearelistening. PAYMENT OPTIONS: We do not accept cash. You can pay by credit and debit card. We accept VISA and Mastercard for purchases up to €200. If you spend more than €50 you may be asked for identification. PRODUCTS: Items from this catalogue are offered to our guests in the name and on behalf of Versilia Solutions and its affiliates, who are the solo responsible contractual partners for the service. All prices are correct at time of printing. They may change during the length of magazine. All products are subject to availability.

EVENTS & NEWS THE FOLLOWING PAGES WILL GIVE YOU AN INSIGHT ON WHAT’S GOING ON AT AIR MALTA. THE BEHINDTHE-SCENES AND HIGHLIGHTS OF PAST MONTHS AND FORTHCOMING ONES. MALTA’S NATIONAL AIRLINE TELLS IT LIKE IT IS, ENSURING ALL AIR MALTA CUSTOMERS ARE WELL-INFORMED WHILE SOARING HIGH IN THE SKY.

TRAVEL IN STYLE WITH AIR MALTA’S NEW BUSINESS CLASS FARES Air Malta launched a new series of Business Class fares which present significant discounts for bookings made either 30 days or 21 days before travel. The promotion offers customers great value; low fares, VIP lounge access in Malta and at selected airports abroad, priority boarding and check-in, separate cabin and seating, extended baggage allowance and exclusive menus. The promotion is valid for travel till 31st March 2022. Terms and conditions apply. More information is available at: airmalta.com

Typical Air Malta Business Class meal.

La Valette lounge at Malta International Airport.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES FIRST PHASE OF ITS DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY THE NATIONAL CARRIER INTRODUCES INNOVATIVE NEW CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AND DIGITAL COMMERCE PLATFORM, DEVELOPED BY BRANCHSPACE

Air Malta announced a key milestone in its digital transformation

allow them to fast adapt to the changing market conditions and

journey with the successful launch of the new booking and

overcome legacy technology constraints. The Branchspace team is

customer experience platform, developed by Branchspace.

thrilled to be a key part of Air Malta’s strategy to become one of the best airline digital retailers in Europe.”

Wayne Grixti, Air Malta’s Chief Technology Officer said, “Throughout last year we have implemented various initiatives

Branchspace was founded by Michael Huynh in 2011. In its 2021

and projects to revamp our digital ecosystem by leveraging

report, Financial Times listed Branchspace among the top third

technology to deliver an outstanding user experience when

of Europe's fastest growing thousand companies, recognising

browsing and booking through our website in a digitally secure

fast-paced disruptors. Branchspace developed its state-of-the-

environment. We are glad that we started reaping the benefits

art e-commerce platform Triplake during the last three years,

of these changes and we look forward to continue working with

complementing its digital consulting expertise with innovative

Branchspace to seek more innovative solutions that will help

technology.

us in our journey to personalise our products and services for Triplake was built with flexibility in mind. It gives control to airline

our customers.”

and travel partners, and the ability to customize according David Turton, CTO at Branchspace, has been at the forefront of the

to their needs. Triplake covers several modules, reflecting

development of the innovative Triplake platform.

the customer journey and key touch points, from planning and booking flights to optional products and services with

David says: “Branchspace built Triplake, our innovative digital

modern retailing techniques, self service changes and booking

commerce platform, from the ground up in order to help airlines

adaptations and check in solutions. It also includes the web portal

and other travel brands deliver best-in-class digital experiences and

and services on the go with the mobile app.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

TOP THINGS TO DO IN MALTA IN WINTER The winter nights may be drawing in but that doesn’t mean there still isn’t a lot to see and do when you come on your holidays to Malta this year! Here are a few suggestions for you to consider during your stay. Malta enjoys around 3000 hours of sunshine every year, and with short, mild winters you don’t have to worry about packing your thermals or finding somewhere inside to hibernate. The range of things to keep you occupied during your stay is just as varied as during the summer months, although you might not get as much of a tan. Here are a few suggestions for you to consider during your stay. DIVING IN MALTA Going diving might not sound like a typically winter activity, but the waters around Malta are some of the warmest in Europe, even during November and December. Malta is known as being one of the best locations for diving in the world, due in part to its crystal-clear waters and superb conditions. You can explore beautiful reefs, or WWII wrecks just off the coast. If you are a beginner, or just fancy scuba diving, you can explore the shallower waters and check out the beautiful sea creatures that call it home. With diving schools all over the island, no matter where you are staying, the opportunity to explore what lies beneath is never more than a few minutes away.

FILM TOURS Did you know that Malta has been used as the backdrop for countless films and TV series? It is no surprise due to its stunning scenery and landscapes, historically rich architecture and historical landmarks, and of course, the incredible weather. Films such as Troy, Munich, Assassins Creed, Popeye, Count of Monte Cristo and World War Z. But perhaps the most famous of all, is HBO television series Game of Thrones which used multiple locations throughout Malta during the filming of the first series. Why not track down all your favourite locations and spend a day touring and capturing photos?

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VISIT THE TEMPLES Malta is home to some of the world’s oldest religious structures, and its Neolithic and Megalithic temples are something special to behold. You can also visit the hypogeum- an underground network of tunnels and caverns with the most amazing acoustics. As the temperatures cool in the autumnal and winter months, it is perfect for ambling around the countryside and taking in the sights without having to worry about the heat of the sun, which can be a bit much for some!

GO TREKKING Once the first rains of the autumn have come, Malta’s countryside really starts to come alive. This makes it the perfect time to put on your hiking boots and start exploring. From the rolling hills in the north, to the dramatic coastline in the south, there is no shortage of places to see, and if you have the chance to escape to Gozo, you can cover the island on foot in one day. These are just a couple of suggestions of what you can do while in Malta during the winter months…

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IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO MALCOLM CUTA JAR D U T Y O P E R AT I O N S E X EC U T I V E

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING WITH AIR MALTA? I've been working with Air Malta for the past 22 years. I started my career at Passenger Services. Over the years I worked at Uniform Stores and later at the Procurement department. Around nine years ago I grabbed the opportunity to move back to Ground Operations and now I occupy the position of Duty Operations Executive. THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOUR JOB? Challenging, stressful but rewarding. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF YOUR JOB? Multitasking can be quite challenging especially when a multitude of airport operational issues crop up at the same time. Faced with such situations we do our best to resolve them in a timely manner in order not to compromise a flight departure. Ground Operations at the airport are not only limited to passenger movements but also cover cargo services. It is not an easy task to co-ordinate every single operation during a flight turnaround in a safely and timely way. DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES? I love general aviation photography which I love to share on my Instagram Account instagram.com/malcolmcutax. I also like doing some sports activities when time permits as I enjoy spending most of my free time with my children, Jade, Liam and Nick. WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED MALTESE DISH? Fried rabbit in garlic is one of my favourite local dishes, however nothing beats a Maltese ftira loaded with traditional ingredients such as Maltese sausage and ġbejna (Maltese cheeselet) accompanied by a cold Maltese beer. WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE OF ALL TIMES? Gladiator, Braveheart and Top Gun are definitely my favourite movies. However lately I am following a lot of TV series. WHAT KIND OF MUSIC YOU LIKE TO FOLLOW? Rock and Classic Rock. I was lucky enough to have watched Metallica play live in London a couple of years ago in the company of my Air Malta colleagues and friends. WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION AND WHY? London, as it brings me and my family loads of memories. On the other hand, Machu Picchu in Peru is on my bucket list of place I would love to visit. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SPOTS AND TIPS FOR ANYONE VISITING MALTA? Our Islands are dotted with historical landmarks starting with Valletta, our treasured capital. I suggest visiting the city to experience sunrise from the its bastions overseeing the Grand Harbour. Sunset over Dingli Cliffs or Dwejra Gozo should also not be missed. I also love visiting St Peter's Pool and all the accessible areas around Delimara which offer truly breath-taking views.

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A I R M A LTA D I R E C T F L I G H T S

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FLIGH T I N FO

F L I G H T & CO M PA N Y I N FO R M AT I O N

SURVEY

NEWSLETTER

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.

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

www.airmalta.com/wearelistening

A I R M A LTA F L E E T

AIRBUS 320CEO

AIRBUS 320NEO

QUANTITY: 3 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168/180 ENGINES: CFM56-5B4/P MAXIMUM TAKE OFF WEIGHT: 75.5 / 77 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: MACH 0.78 (450KNOTS, 833 KM/HR) RANGE: 5,200 KM, 2,800 NMI, 3,250 SMI

QUANTITY: 4 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 180 ENGINES: CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE OFF WEIGHT: 77 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: MACH 0.78 (450KNOTS, 833 KM/HR) RANGE: 6,500 KM, 3,500 NMI, 4,025 SMI

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

SMOKING

Alcohol consumed at high altitude can have a stronger effect than usual. Cabin crew are legally empowered to refuse to serve any alcohol to an intoxicated passenger and anyone under the age of 18. In extreme cases, crew may also temporarily confiscate the passenger‘s own drinks so that the passenger does not become a nuisance to the other passengers and crew. Furthermore, Air Malta is bound by international regulations which prohibit the embarkation or the carriage of drunken passengers. However, since 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 departure terminal building until you reach the arrival terminal building. Smoking is allowed in designated areas only. Smoking is not allowed during any phase of the flight and in any area of the aircraft. Should you be aware of a passenger who has smoked in the toilet during the flight, please inform the cabin crew immediately so that they can check for any undetected fires. The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is not allowed on board Air Malta flights. Similarly, the use of naked flames on and around the aircraft is also prohibited.

FACE MASKS The Airline requires all passengers to wear an approved medical or cloth face mask at all times, starting from boarding, for the duration of the flight, through to disembarkation. Passengers will not be allowed to board without a facemask. Masks should also be worn within the airport building, before and during check-in, upon arrival, when collecting baggage, and up to the point that a passenger leaves the airport building. As per the Government of Malta Legal Notice 402 of 2020, children under three (3) years of age and persons with severe cognitive, physical, mental, or respiratory impairments who have difficulties tolerating a mask as certified by a licensed medical practitioner are exempted from wearing masks. Certified individuals shall always carry the relevant medical certificate exempting them from wearing a mask. Passengers risk fines if they fail to comply.

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E N H A N C E YO U R T R AV E L E X P E R I E N C E

JOIN OUR BUSINESS CLASS Upgrade to Air Malta’s Business 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.

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

FLY IN COMFORT Enhance your comfort with extra legroom during your flight. This option gives you more space to relax in preparation for your trip. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/services-by-air-malta/seat-selection

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

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

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

ELEC T RON IC DEV IC ES

U S E O F P O RTA B L E E L E C T RO N I C D E V I C E S O N B OA R D

TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

NON-TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

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 such as GSM & Wi-fi are switched off. Devices working on Bluetooth wireless connectivity are allowed. 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.

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

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT USE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES?

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

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

I SHOULD INFORM THE CABIN CREW WHEN … Your 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

(when instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

Take-Off

YES

Cruise

YES

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

Landing

YES

Taxi to Stand

YES

Extended Ground Delay

Circa 10 minutes to landing

Safety Notice: The carriage of damaged, defective or recalled lithium batteries or devices is prohibited on-board Air Malta aircraft. 72

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