“Il-Bizzilla” - Air Malta’s In-Flight Magazine - February 2019

# 74 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

S PECI A L E D ITI O N We explore what 2019 has in store for the iGaming industry.

COVER FEBRUARY ISSUE 74 A.indd 1

23/01/2019 14:10

COVER FEBRUARY ISSUE 74 A.indd 2

23/01/2019 14:10

MALTA’ S P RE M IE R GA MING D E ST INAT ION

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14

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#74 F E B RUA R Y 2019

CONTENTS

20

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

Facts and figures about the Maltese Islands.

14 . R E V E A L I N G R A B AT

Mdina’s under-explored suburb is a highlight of

history and culture.

1 8 . C A R N I VA L T I M E

We look at the history of Malta’s carnival.

20 . P O R T R A I T O F A N A R T I S T

We catch up with Maltese designer, Saz Mifsud.

24 . B U S I N E S S O R P L E A S U R E

Whatever your reason for visiting the Maltese islands, we have you covered.

2 5 . O F F T H E B E AT E N T R AC K

We explore St. Julian’s where old meets new.

2 8 . A H I S T O R Y O F L OV E

We sit down with the curator of the historic Palazzo Falson.

3 0 . VA L E N T I N E ’ S I N M A LTA

Staff writer Alessia Caruana explores Valentine’s in Malta

from a personal perspective.

3 6 . W I N E S

How to recognise quality wines.

42 . N I C O DA R M A N I N

Maltese Tenor Nico Darmanin returns to Malta for a Valentine’s concert.

25

50

45 . A M T R AV E L F E AT U R E

We head to Frankfurt, one of Germany’s most

underrated cities.

5 0 . A N U N F I N I S H E D L U T E

An intimate look at a Maltese lute maker.

5 8 . A N E X PAT I N M A LTA

Interview with an expat living in Malta.

6 3 . TA L K O F T H E T O W N

Six sights to see in Rabat.

64. ISL AND HIGHLIGHT S

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

6 6 . M A LTA E X PAT

We sit down with Maltese expat, Steve Hili.

70 . M A LTA E X P E R I E N C E

Intern Eefje Vermey discusses her time in Malta.

73. TECHNOLOGY

We delve into the Maltese Video Game industry.

9 1 . R E C I P E

Chef Joe Vella gives us his Mediterranean-inspired chicken schnitzel recipe.

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

Hungry? Here are this month’s top restaurant and bar picks.

9 6 . A I R M A LTA N E W S

A round-up of this month’s news.

10 4 . F L I G H T A N D C O M PA N Y I N F O R M AT I O N

All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

10 6 . D E S T I N AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

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

10 8 . E L E C T R O N I C D E V I C E I N F O R M AT I O N

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

S PECI A L E D ITI O N We explore what 2019 has in store for the iGaming industry.

91

“Let’s be frank, working with us has never been this good!”

We are Malta’s leading, independent real estate agency.

If you are as passionate as we are about real estate and quality customer service, we currently have very limited vacancies for property sales consultants.

We are growing our operations across the island, so if you have strong integrity, a motivated personality, a good command of English, and would like to join a professional and fun-loving real estate family, we look forward to offering you the personal growth you have been yearning for.

Full, professional training and support will be provided to the successful candidates. All nationalities are welcome to apply.

Katya Scicluna, property consultant

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careers@franksalt.com.mt

Further information: www.franksalt.com.mt/careers

“When it comes to ‘Friendly Yet Professional Consultants’, Frank Salt Real Estate is No. 1 amongst the top real estate agencies in Malta”.

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6

ON THE COVER The winding narrow streets of Rabat are a wonder to behold.

Become mesmerised in this labyrinthine old city and be transported to a Malta of old.

MEET THE TEAM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG EXECUTIVE EDITOR Matthew Bumford SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG CONTRIBUTORS Air Malta Albert G. Storace Abhishek Chatterjee Alessia Caruana David Baker Dayna Clarke Eefje Vermey Gadgets Helen Raine

Jo Caruana Matthew Bumford Ministry for Gozo Sarah Chircop Wines of Distinction Visit Gozo PHOTOGRAPHERS Albert Camilleri Brian Grech Daniel Balzan David Cilia Jamie Iain Genovese Kurt Paris Lisa Attard Rene Rossignaud OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHER Justine Ellul

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

tbwa-ang.com

Finger on the Pulse Adweek’s 2018 Global Agency of the Year

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.

+356 2131 0608 \ info@tbwa-ang.com

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8

FROM THE CEO...

FROM THE E D I TO R . . .

Merħba

We welcome in February with an exploration of love.

At Air Malta, our customers’ experience is of utmost importance. In this regard, over the coming weeks, we shall be

year on the 10th of February in both Rabat and Valletta and is the first parish feast of the year.

finalising a number of projects which we have been relentlessly working on for months. These projects will present an enhanced Air Malta product offering.

Starting with our Business Class service, we will be presenting our customers with a new gourmet food menu. This menu will be available on board our flights very soon.

This month we will also finalise our Summer schedule which will offer some new interesting destinations. To operate this schedule we will be welcoming two brand new Airbus A320neos which will offer added comfort and an enhanced experience to all our customers.

All these initiatives and changes are in line with our present focus, that of customer centricity.

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

At Air Malta we are customer driven and are always keen to know what we could do better to improve your Air Malta flight experience. Visit www. airmalta.com/wearelistening to answer a few short questions about your flight with us and you can win one of 10 free return Air Malta flights we are offering every month. It really only takes 2 minutes!

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

Cultural festivities during the month of February offer travellers a unique experience which should not be missed.

The feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck is one of the major public holidays and a religious feast in Malta. It is possibly one of the oldest traditional celebrations on the

Our main Malta destination this month is Rabat. This town, a suburb of Mdina, is often overlooked but has many hidden treasures of its own. Its winding alleyways and inviting features are a sight to behold and we hope you enjoy exploring it with us.

It is truly amazing how much there is on offer in this relatively tiny space and while Valletta 2018 is now in the past, the artistic and cultural explosion in Malta shows no signs of abating.

Other features of this issue include an interview with Maltese Tenor Nico Darmanin, an overview of iGaming in 2019 and a great Chicken Schnitzel recipe from chef Joe Vella.

Captain

islands after being shipwrecked on Malta in AD60. This event is celebrated every

Air Malta CEO

credited with bringing Christianity to the

We explore Valentine’s in Malta and go off the beaten track in St Julian's - home of the infamous ‘Love' monument. But love is more than statues and romantic gestures of course and there are plenty of places to show and share love in Malta, not just on this one day!

Have a great flight.

Clifford Chetcuti

Islands. St Paul is Malta's patron saint,

Because love is, indeed in the air, all around us and in this magazine (which is, technically also in the air!)

Happy Travels,

Matthew

THE PROPERTY SECTOR IS STRONGER 1 THAN EVER. 1

Independent survey conducted by Esprimi in June 2018.

“As a leading real estate company, we believe it is our duty to stay ahead of the trends and tendencies in the market, and to know the very latest information so that we can pass it onto our clients,” says RE/MAX Malta CEO Kevin Buttigieg.

59.8% BELIEVE THE MARKET IS STRONGER IN 2018 THAN IN 20171

“This latest survey highlights the fact that the real estate sector on the island is continuing to go from strength to strength, with belief in it remaining strong. Most Maltese are still looking to buy property, and many believe that now is the right time to do so.”

For the full insights on the property sector go to blog.remax-malta.com/insights

Discover a wide range of properties on

remax-malta.com

Malta’s largest property database

PASSENGERS CARRIED ONBOARD AIR MALTA FLIGHTS:

SINCE 1ST APRIL 1974

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BU S TA R T A

SI

FL

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THE EQUI

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AIR

320

MONUMENTS IN VALLET TA

885

6,000 TONNES OF POTATOES EXPORTED ANNUALLY

TIMES TO THE MOON AND BACK SINCE 1 ST APRIL 1974

349,386

THE MALTESE DRIVE ON THE LEFT

THE NUMBER OF LICENSED VEHICLES IN MALTA

28km long/14.5km wide

N

OF

M

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TA

T

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N

1W

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DECL ARED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

S

3

50,754,711

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BLOCKCHAIN

MALTA’S TAX REGIME THE BIG NAMES IN CRYPTOCURRENCY ARE CALLING MALTA HOME. WITH ENTITIES LIKE BINANCE AND OKEX ENDORSING THE NATION, MALTA IS THE EMERGING HUB TO WATCH FOR DIGITAL ACTIVITY. For income tax purposes, returns derived from financial tokens - whether received in fiat or cryptocurrency - should be treated as income.

In the case of transfer of tokens, tax treatment depends on whether the transfer is a trading transaction (taxable) or a transfer of a capital asset. Capital assets are only taxable in so far as the token meets the definition of ‘securities’ in the Income Tax Act. "Badges of trade" are widely accepted indicators to help determine the intention and nature of a transaction. No VAT implications arise in the hands of the issuer in such scenario.

Financial tokens which do have the same characteristics as “marketable securities” as defined in the Act will be subject to Stamp Duty considerations.

Utility tokens - Their value is restricted solely to the acquisition of goods and services within the DLT platform of the issuing Malta is the world’s first nation to establish a fully-fledged legal

company or within a limited network of DLT platforms.

and taxation framework to facilitate investments in blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies.

For income tax purposes, payment received in exchange for utility tokens is treated as advance payments for goods or

Last November, the Malta Commissioner for Revenue issued

services and is taxable once goods or services are delivered.

three guidelines covering income tax, stamp duty, and VAT

For VAT purposes, such tokens are treated in the same manner

treatment of those transactions involving Distributed Ledger

as vouchers.

Technology (DLT) assets. A categorisation of DLT assets was made common to all three guidelines. This allows DLT assets

All tax guidelines clarify that the income tax, stamp duty and

to be categorised into coins and tokens, with the latter further

VAT treatment of any type of DLT asset will not necessarily be

sub-divided into financial tokens and utility tokens.

determined by its categorisation but will depend on the purpose for and context in which it is used.

Let’s dive deeper.

Credence focuses on the execution, developing capacity as Coins - DLT assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others

an outsourced service for a select customer base. Our multi-

are designed to be used as a means of payment, exchange or to

disciplinary team can rapidly support the design of commercial

function as a store of value without the characteristics

and organisational strategy as well as offer corporate services,

of a security.

technology and financial support, project management, regulatory support and compliance for Digital Business

The tax guidelines consider the proceeds from an initial

specialised in Fintech.

offering not to be subject to Tax, VAT or Capital Gains. Profits derived from day trading or mining of cryptocurrencies represents income and is subject to taxation. Furthermore, coins are not subject to Capital Gains.

Financial Tokens - DLT assets granting rights to dividends like

You may contact Credence by telephone on

equity shares, or interest payments like bonds, or payments

+356 2125 2893 or on digital@credence.com.mt

linked with the performance of a specific asset of a company

40, Villa Fairholme, Sir Augustus Bartolo Street,

similar to derivatives.

Ta’ Xbiex XBX 1095, Malta.

13

14

D E S T I N AT I O N

REVEALING RABAT WORDS HELEN RAINE

THE NAME ‘RABAT’ IS DERIVED FROM THE ARABIC WORD ‘SUBURB’ AND IS OFTEN MISJUDGED PREMATURELY AS A SUPPORT ACT FOR MDINA. THIS HISTORICAL TOWN IS MUCH MORE THAN THAT. A WANDER THROUGH THE NARROW STREETS WILL REVEAL A ROMAN VILLA, ICONIC HOUSES OF CHARACTER, DOZENS OF CHURCHES AND A BURGEONING FOOD AND DRINK SCENE. THERE ARE PLENTY OF SECRETS TO EXPLORE BELOW GROUND TOO WITH THOUSANDS OF YEARS OF HISTORY HIDDEN IN CATACOMBS UNDERGROUND. FOLLOW OUR GUIDE TO UNCOVER THE FUN QUIRKS OF THIS INLAND TOWN.

PL ACE OF DA R K NESS

ROM A N R EM A INS

The catacombs are perhaps the biggest draw here,

More evidence of Roman presence can be found at the

so it is best to visit early to avoid the crowds. As you

Domus Romana, or Roman Villa, built in the 1st century B.C.

descend into the dim tunnels, the rocks overhead

The villa’s mosaics rival those of Pompeii and Sicily. The

seem to carry the full weight of human history.

Domus Romana museum houses an interesting display of

Christians, Jews and Pagans were all buried here

fascinating minutia from Roman times, including hairpins,

during the Phoenician and Roman times. The area

perfume bottles and coins.

were these catacombs are located is locally known as Tad-Dlam which means a Place of Darkness.

L A Z Y LUNCH Cosmana Navarra restaurant is named after a 17th-century

There are two main catacomb sites dating around

Maltese female aristocrat who lived here and stumped up

4 B.C. to 8 A.D, St Paul’s and St Agatha’s which are

the funds for St Paul’s Church. Her death mask is currently

located about one hundred metres apart. The dead

on display in the Wignacourt Museum . This restaurant

were laid to rest here many times along with their

is the ideal place to try a fenkata (rabbit stew), which is

prized possessions. St Agatha’s has some incredible

a traditional Maltese dish. The original features of this

frescos from the 12th to 15th century; the Saint is said

townhouse offer a unique dining experience and make sure

to have sheltered here when she skipped out on Sicily

to look for the classic wooden balcony and the family coat of

to escape the attentions of the Sicilian Governor

arms when visiting.

(going back turned out to be a grave mistake; she was gruesomely tortured). However she is now

ST PAUL’S GROTTO

revered on both islands and she is even said to have

St Paul was famously shipwrecked on Malta and legend

prevented a Turkish invasion on Malta and quelled a

has it that he used this grotto as the headquarters for his

stirring Mt. Etna on Sicily.

fledgling church. St Paul’s Grotto is now considered a sacred place and is located beneath St Paul’s church. This

St Paul’s boasts large subterranean halls complete with

magnificent church houses a statue of St Paul, which was

intact circular tables (triclinia) and stone couches. Take

donated by Grandmaster Pinto in 1748. A silver galley that

a seat hewn from the rock and imagine what it would

commemorates the 1,900th anniversary of Paul’s shipwreck

have been like to eat a funeral meal here.

is also here.

16

D E S T I N AT I O N

MEMOR A BLE MUSEUM

KEEP THE PR IORY

The Wignacourt Museum has recently undergone an extensive

The Dominican Monastery has long been overlooked,

restoration programme and boasts a wonderfully old-school

although Game of Thrones has helped to put it back on

collection of exhibits that meander from the 4th century

the map. The building was cast as the Red Keep in a scene

onwards. The collection also includes King Henry VIII's Septem

where Cersei Lannister threatens Ned Stark. It’s 1km

Sacramants, which was written to counter Martin Luther’s

south of the main town and includes a chapel dedicated

arguments. There’s a small catacomb, a WWII air raid shelter with

to Our Lady of the Grotto, after a local saw a vision of the

50 rooms (an oven on the next floor provided 2000 loaves of bread a

Virgin Mary in the 1400s. If you can’t find a friendly friar

day during the war) and a baroque chapel to explore.

to open the chapel, the good thing is that it is possible to view it through a grille.

SNACK TIME You simply cannot visit Rabat (or indeed Malta) without

DR E A M DINNER

stopping at Crystal Palace to try the most popluar Maltese

Dinner at Palazzo Castelletti would round off the day nicely.

snack pastizzi. These flaky pastries, filled either with

This palace used to belong to the Knights of St John after they

ricotta or peas, are a prized national delicacy. This

were presented with the keys to the fortified medieval city of

pastizzeria bakes them day and night and is famous for

Mdina. The building alone makes Rabat worth a visit and it

being open almost round the clock, satisfying late night

is also perched on top of yet more Roman remains which are

clubbers and early risers alike.

open to the public.

Locations - Valletta � Floriana � Ħamrun

www.festivalsmalta.org

18

C U LT U R E

MALTA’S CARNIVAL IS UNIQUE WORDS ALBERT G. STORACE

THE MALTESE ISLANDS, NO LESS THAN OTHER COUNTRIES WITH A ROMAN CATHOLIC TRADITION, HAVE BEEN CELEBRATING CARNIVAL FOR MANY CENTURIES. The general impression is that Carnival was introduced to

Ash Wednesday comes immediately after Carnival Tuesday,

Malta by the Knights of St. John in 1535 during the brief reign

the festival’s last day. As Carnival is tied to Lent and Easter

of Grandmaster Pierino di Ponte. However that was only the

is fixed according to the lunar calendar, this year’s Carnival

first of a long list of annual Carnival celebrations in Malta

organised by Festivals Malta, will be celebrated from 1-5

which continues to grow every year. There are reports of Carnival having been sporadically celebrated in Malta even before the arrival of the Order in 1530. No matter what, where and how, this festival came to stay and is loved by the majority of Maltese and foreigners whether resident or visiting.

March. The earliest reports of Carnival in Birgu back in the 1530s mention the presence of a 'King Carnival' to whom all revellers owe homage. Malta has had a centuries-old tradition of this important figure lording it over everybody around from a float heads the défile which makes its way along the narrow streets of Valletta.

The original reason for Carnival is abeyant: for believers only,

Says Clint Axisa, President of the Għaqda Parteċipanti Karnival

meat is forbidden just on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.

and the man responsible for the King Carnival float:

C U LT U R E

“Passion is at the root of it all. Passion, experience and

“Ideas, the colour and spectacle are amazing. I follow other

practically being born within Carnival is what does it

Carnivals which are famous in their own right", continues

for me. My later father Charles, was in my role from

Axisa, “however ours is really unique". He adds: "While

1996 until his death. I inherited his mantle so to speak

foreign Carnivals have parades along wide avenues and

and have been on the job since then. It requires full

esplanades, Malta’s winds its way along Valletta’s narrow streets.

commitment and as such, with my regular job and family

For the Maltese people, Carnival = Valletta. It is true that there

to deal with, it is utterly time-consuming. However, one

are increasing numbers of people who flock to Valletta especially

does it as it runs in my blood. I cannot help not going

on the Sunday. If Carnival leaves Valletta it risks fizzling out.”

to the warehouse in Marsa to see how things are going.

Participants give their time out of love and passion for

Just as passionate about Carnival is Jason Busuttil, the

Carnival, hours and hours of it. How could I hold back?”

event’s Artistic Director for the past six years. He too comes from a family background deeply involved in

Axisa says that from year to year there is hardly any

Carnival activities. He oversees the planning and

breathing space at all. The moment floats are dismantled,

coordination of the various facets of Carnival, keeps in

there is just a day’s break and things are set in motion for

touch with participants and makes sure that certain

the following year’s Carnival. The first few months are slow

traditional activities like the Parata, dancing of il-Maltija

and of course the hot summer months register a downward

(the main traditional dance), and among others, the Qarċilla

curve in the preparations but these gather momentum

are maintained. A special event this year will be held on

from September. Ideas as to how and what shape the King

Saturday when all participants will assemble near the Tritons

Carnival float would take come spontaneously, on the spur

Fountain just outside Valletta for the biggest Carnival Ball ever.

of the moment. Inspiration could come from some foreign related event or situation. He finds the ideas of participants of

For more information about this year’s programme of events

very high standard.

please visit www.festivalsmalta.com/maltacarnival

19

20

ART

EACH MONTH WE GET TO KNOW A CONTEMPORARY MALTESE ARTIST MORE INTIMATELY. THIS MONTH IS DESIGNER SAZ MIFSUD.

A PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST WHEN IL-BIZZILLA CAUGHT UP WITH MALTESE DESIGNER SAZ MIFSUD FOR THIS MONTH’S PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST WE GOT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT HER STYLE, INSPIRATIONS AND PATH TO SUCCESS. WORDS DAYNA CLARKE

Saz Mifsud is one of Malta’s greatest names when it comes

they are easy to wear - you can throw on a simple dress or a

to innovative textile design. The fashion print brand has

pair of denim jeans and a brightly coloured silk scarf and you

amassed various accolades since inception and is showing no

look like your outfit has been planned and thought- out. I

signs of slowing down. We caught up with Saz to understand

also love working with accessories because they are such easy

her creative journey, and vision for 2019.

gifts to give. We put a lot of thought into the presentation of our products because we wanted to create a product that was

SA Z, C A N YOU TELL US HOW THE BR A ND STA RTED?

gift-ready! Each item comes with a detailed description of our

I launched the brand Saz Mifsud 5 years ago with a collection

process and is prettily packed in a printed gift box.

of digitally printed silk scarves. Today, we have grown into a women's accessory brand of not only scarves but also silk

W H AT DOES YOUR CR E ATI V E PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

headbands, clutch bags, purses and beautifully printed leather

I am inspired by different elements from nature. Last season

handbags. The idea behind the brand is simple - I wanted to

it was florals, this season it is birds. I produce each design by

transform my artwork into wearable items. I do this by using

compiling the nature photos I’ve taken with my own paintings

my paintings and photography to create digital illustrations

- I put this imagery on the computer where I create a digital

which are then printed onto silk or leather to create

design. This design is then sent to printers abroad where it

accessories that are truly unique.

is printed onto silk or leather, depending on the product it is being produced for. My leather bags, for example, are printed

YOU H AV E A NUMBER OF DIFFER EN T CR E ATI V E

in New York on very high-quality authentic leather. They are

IN TER ESTS FROM PA IN TING TO DIGITA L MEDI A,

then sent to the production company where they are stitched

A ND FA SHION DESIGN. HOW DID YOU FIGUR E OU T

to perfection. Each product has passed through several hands

W HICH PATH TO FOLLOW?

before it is perfected.

My main interest is creating a piece of art that is not only beautiful to look at but is also functional - making art part

What is important to us is that we know who is producing

of my client’s daily life. My focus is on accessories because

our products and that the workers we choose are happy

craftspeople. This is an important part of our process and we

together to celebrate 5 years in business. Their enthusiasm is

believe that because of it, the final result is simply gorgeous.

so inspiring!

W H AT KEEPS DR I V ING YOU FORWA R D IN YOUR

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION?

A RTISTIC JOUR NE Y?

Putting my idea of beauty and colour into the world and

It gives me so much joy to dress others and add a pop of

sharing it with people, who then share it with other people

colour to their lives. This, paired with the fact that I am so

when they wear the collection.

passionate about creating and developing my art to always be better, pushes me forward.

W H AT DOES 2019 H AV E IN STOR E FOR YOU A ND

DO YOU H AV E A FAVOUR ITE PIECE OR COLLECTION?

I would like to see the brand grow outside the Maltese shores.

Each collection grows with me. It reflects my moods,

This year we are focusing on finding the next place to take the

emotions and love for colour; so naturally, my favourite pieces

brand within Europe.

YOUR BR A ND?

would be from my most recent collection as they reflect my mindset of the current time. This season I am excited about

FINA LLY, W H AT IS YOUR FAVOUR ITE PL ACE TO

my new line of leather bags because they are just so different

V ISIT IN M A LTA?

from anything I have seen or done before. Reinventing my

Personally, my favourite place is Birgu. It is a must-see as it

brand in this way helps me grow with each new collection.

is one of Malta’s historic fortified cities. Being in Birgu is like being on a movie set with its out of the ordinary architecture,

W H AT H A S BEEN YOUR PROUDEST C A R EER

surrounded by sea. It is simply breathtaking.

HIGHLIGHT TO DATE? This year the brand turned 5 and we celebrated with a collection launch party. It was such an encouraging

To view the latest collections and for more information about

experience to see our clients, both old and new, all gathered

Saz Mifsud visit www.sazmifsud.com

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24

BUSINESS

BUSINESS OR PLEASURE? WHATEVER YOUR REASON IN VISITING THE MALTESE ISLANDS WE HAVE YOU COVERED.

HAMMETT'S MAĊINA RESTAURANT Unimaginable history seeps from the Maċina’s ancient walls. Built almost half a millennium ago by the Knights of Saint John, the Maċina has been a landmark for centuries, now hosting Hammett’s Maċina Restaurant. Drawing on this history, the gastronomical concept is a take on the islands’ succession of powers with a modern representation of traditional Mediterranean culinary influences that date back to the Phoenician times. Like the Maltese language itself, the menu is a taste of history derived from the island’s Mediterranean-semitic roots, with a contemporary twist, created using only the finest local, seasonal produce. The menu is constructed by talented Head Chef Francisco Carrasco Cortes with a Michelen star background and directed by 24-time award winning Chef and restauranteur Chris Hammett.

+356 2779 4171 www.hammettsmacina.com

SOUVENIRS THAT DON'T SUCK On a mission to make souvenirs great again; Souvenirs That Don't Suck is situated at the top of Manuel Dimech Street in Sliema. It is a haven of local creativity, weaving local charm and humour with fresh designs to create a selection of products that gives a new take on the concept of souvenirs.

An array of fresh souvenirs, coupled with the store’s in-house art studio, Te fit-Tazza, will definitely result in an insightful visit to a side of Malta that is not commonly experienced.

All of the products are designed in-house and produced within Malta and the EU to keep logistics short and quality high. www.souvenirsthatdontsuck.com hello@souvenirsthatdontsuck.com +356 7907 2313 souvenirsthatdontsuck

LOCAL

OFF THE BEATEAN TRACK

ST JULIAN’S: WHERE MODERN MALTESE LIFE MEETS OLD WORDS DAYNA CLARKE

This month we set foot in the seaside town of St Julian’s

the stunning sea panorama and long promenade, here you

to take you off the beaten track. The town is known as the

can visit the wonderfully kept Our Lady of Mount Carmel

nightlife metropolis of the Maltese islands, yet there’s much

church. It is not exactly in the main hub of St Julians but well

more to the quaint fishing town than nightclubs and bars. It

worth the stroll. The church is one of the finest examples of

might sound a little odd going ‘off the beaten track’ in such

Neo-Gothic architecture on the island and stands out as it

a popular area but there is so much to see beyond the main

enraptures passers-by and tourists with its impressive design.

spots that often go unexplored. St Julian’s offers a glimpse of the stark contrast where modern Maltese life meets old and is

Compared to most well-known attractions in Malta, the church

a hive of activity both day and night.

is relatively a modern construction. Originally the church, dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel was built in the same

You’ll be literally spoilt when exploring this place here, from

location in 1859 by the Confraternity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

beautiful architecture to ancient caves to upmarket bespoke

of Valletta. This is just the start of a succinct but fascinating

fashion houses. St Julian’s is truly a 24-hour feast for all the senses,

history. The church was rebuilt multiple times, first in 1877 and

here’s our top picks to while away a day in this pretty town.

again in 1900 by the Carmelite friars. It was then rebuilt again in 1958, where it acquired its present majestic appearance. A third

WA LK TO OUR L A DY OF MOUN T C A R MEL CHURCH

restoration was required following WWII after it was heavily

Why not kick-start your day with breakfast at one of the many

destroyed by intensive aerial bombardments. Our Lady of Mount

chic cafés in the Balluta Bay area of St Julian’s? Aside from

Carmel became the parish church of the locality in 1974.

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26

LOCAL

Nowadays, it is possible to observe traditional Maltese

R EL A X

wedding ceremonies celebrated in the church, directly from

St Julian’s also offers plenty of ways to unwind. If it is the

the beach or the surrounding promenade. Since this holy place

beach you are coveting why not pop down to the beaches of

is open for the public, it is also possible to pay a visit, admire

St George’s or St Julian’s Bay, the former covers a greater area

the beautiful interior and experience a Roman Catholic Mass.

with sand and plenty of sun beds. Though, if your kind of relaxation involves an indoor spa haven, look no further than

LOV E SIGN

Carisma spa at the Intercontinental hotel, the hammam is one

As you continue your walk along the seafront Spinola Bay

of the best on the island.

welcomes all visitors with a unique monument by Richard England - the stunning LOVE monument with the word LOVE

Alternatively, if catching the latest blockbuster is your ideal

sculpted from stone. This is definitely not ‘off the beaten’ track

way to relax then there’s the 13 screen Eden cinema complex

but you can’t really not include a piece on St Julian's without

situated in the centre of St Julian’s. The Eden complex also

referring to it. This prize-winning monument can at a first

offers the opportunity for you to hold a private screening party

glance be a little bit confusing as to why the word LOVE has

with all of your friends and family (it is never a bad idea to have

been spelt upside-down and back-to-front. The idea behind

somewhere to unwind after a ‘full-on’ day of work or play. Ed.).

this project is to read the sign from its own reflection in the crystal clear sea below, but it only works when the water

CELEBR ATE

is calm enough to create a mirror effect. The reasoning,

Annually, every town in Malta celebrates its week-long

according to England, is that to truly appreciate beauty and

village festa and St Julian’s is no exception, dedicated to the

love, one must stop and take a moment of calm in today’s

town’s patron saint, San Ġiljan. Don’t be scared if you hear

fast pace of life. Surrounding the statue, you can also join the

gunshots, St Julian is the patron saint of hunters, and once

stargazed lovers and “lock” in your love with a padlock to the

his statue is carried out of the church, local hunters gather

growing collection on the rails.

and fire a salute. The week long celebration in August is one of the largest festas in Malta. The roads are closed, the streets

SHOP

are colourfully decorated and the lamp posts are ornamented

In the heart of St Julian’s, you can find major international

with vibrant lights. On top of this, you can expect some

retailers, as well as independent stores. Keep a sharp eye

mouth watering local delicacies appearing on street stalls and

out for the elegant boutique of Pippa Toledo. The up

plenty of fireworks.

and coming designer has many facets, from interiors to fashion design. Recently, the entrepreneur has expanded

ĠOSTR A

into accessories, applying her creative mind to jewellery and

Undoubtedly one of Malta’s more unusual traditions is

handbag design. Toledo’s bold and colourful pieces make

the Ġostra. The event, which dates back to the 1800s, sees

powerful fashion statements for those who aren’t afraid of

local competitors run up a 65-foot long lard-covered pole

being the centre of attention.

set up over the sea. The participants then challenge one

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another to grab the coveted end flag on the pole, without falling off into the water. Whoever retrieves the flag is crowned hero of the day, though needless to say there are plenty of laughs along the way! You can catch this unforgettable spectacle during the week of the feast.

EX PLOR E NAT UR E Ħarq il-Ħammiem Cave - Għar Ħarq il-Ħammiem is the only known fully submerged terrestrial cavern in the Maltese islands. The cave has two chambers on different levels, with an interconnecting narrow corridor leading from the upper chamber to a fully submerged lower chamber.

Inhabited by the rare albino shrimp the cave is a divers paradise. Local legend also has it that a terrifying dragon once ruled here to warn off invaders, hence the name of the surrounding neighbourhood - Dragonara!

C ATCH THE WATER POLO Did you know the town is home to one of Malta’s most celebrated sports? Water polo is widely supported across the island, but nowhere has quite the fierce competition St Julian’s provides.

On the Balluta seafront, you will find the pitch of last year’s league winners Neptunes WPSC. The club started in 1929 when Alfred Gauci, formed a strong water polo team from the many youngsters who used to meet and swim regularly in the bay. A wooden hut was erected and this served as the clubhouse. On Gauci’s suggestion, the club was to be called Neptunes as Neptune (Neptunus) was the god of the Sea. Rather inconveniently the home of the rival - San Ġiljan A.S.C club, sits just 150 meters down the promenade.

St Julian’s is a thriving and eclectic neighbourhood, with no shortage of history, cultural hotspots and festivities to devour. The question is which to find first.

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C U LT U R E

A HISTORY OF LOVE IL-BIZZILLA INTERVIEWS CAROLINE TONNA, CURATOR OF PALAZZO FALSON HISTORIC HOUSE MUSEUM, A FAVOURITE AMONG TOURISTS AND LOCALS ALIKE, ABOUT HISTORY, LOVE AND HER FUTURE PLANS FOR THE MUSEUM. Palazzo Falson has become an unmissable attraction in Mdina. What makes it so special?

Everything is special about Palazzo Falson! It embodies a unique experience connecting one of the oldest houses in Malta with a valuable fine and decorative art collection and the spirit of a passionate collector. The magnificent medieval architectural features of Palazzo Falson are what strike you at first glance. The façade has a distinguishable decorative double serrated string course, punctured with delicate mullioned windows and an attractive doorway with a hooded moulding that leads to a picturesque central courtyard.

Visitors are pleasantly surprised to discover that this is a house museum that encourages them to roam around the multitude of rooms adorned with an eclectic collection of valuables and curiosities collected by Olof Gollcher, the last owner of the palazzo. The audio guide allows you to explore the house museum at leisure and as the stories unfold from room to room, you experience the living role of the different spaces that are decorated with fine furniture, carpets, silverware, paintings and objets d’art. The house journey takes you from the courtyard to the thick walls and arched rooms of the Armoury and the Refectory to the stately living quarters of the piano nobile. The sophistication of the house displays gives you a strong sense of the past good lifestyle of the Gollchers, a wealthy shipping family who lived in Malta. Olof Gollcher had a passion for art and art-collection that he amassed throughout his lifetime. The beauty of Palazzo Falson is that it offers the visitor an intimate encounter with art in all its forms that cut across different cultures over a long timeline.

C U LT U R E

The ambience was magical in the charming courtyard adorned with cascades of blossoming purple flowers sprouting from the wisteria trees serving as a quaint backdrop The collections at Palazzo Falson range from historic

Judging by your very active social media presence

to quirky. We’re in February and with Valentine’s day an

announcing events and showing pictures of what is going

important date in the diary, is there anything bearing a

on in the Museum, Palazzo Falson is a hive of activity.

romantic flavour in the collections?

Where are you planning to take the Museum and do you

We invite all visitors to fall in love with Palazzo Falson! On

have any special events lined up?

Valentine’s day we are celebrating love with a romantic tour

Every month, our volunteers and guest curators feature the

of the museum including a complimentary glass of prosecco!

‘Object of Curiosity’ in the Refectory and display the ‘Book of

Our museum hosts will share love secret stories and highlight

the Month’ in the Library. Throughout the year we organise a

love-related objects in the collection. Romance is in the air at

series of lectures and art exhibition tours for history and art

Palazzo Falson with love songs being played throughout the

history aficionados while during the balmy summer nights,

day while indulging in love themed treats at our Pop-up café

the courtyard is transformed into a lively hub for music and

on the roof terrace with incredible bird’s eye views of Malta.

poetry performances and film screening. We also cater for specific requests such as exclusive after-hours museum tours,

There have also been many occasions where Palazzo Falson

private events and parties, intimate dinner parties, small

has been the backdrop for a marriage proposal. On one

stand-up receptions and civil weddings.

particular occasion, we were requested to keep the museum open after hours to assist a young gentleman in his marriage

Since this year marks the 15th anniversary of the death

proposal to his girlfriend. The couple toured the museum

of Professor James Quentin Hughes, a British architect,

while museum hosts played the part of being ‘visitors’ until

historian, educator and author with strong connections with

they entered Olof Gollcher’s art studio where they had their

Malta, we are teaming up with the University of Malta to

portrait photograph placed on the easel. The young lady

organise a symposium in his honour. Hughes had started

was surprised and instantly her boyfriend knelt down and

a School of Architecture at the Royal University of Malta

asked for her hand in marriage. It was a special moment we

and became its first Professor of Architecture. Hughes’ past

celebrated together over some bubbly in the courtyard

students and scholars will reflect on his contribution to Maltese Baroque and Military architecture. By the end of the

Another special romantic occasion was the celebration of a

year we will feature our annual temporary exhibition for the

golden marriage anniversary where the couple renewed their

enjoyment of the public.

vows here and celebrated with a small group of family and friends. The ambience was magical in the charming courtyard

How can the public be updated on all these exciting events?

adorned with cascades of blossoming purple flowers sprouting

We keep our audience in tune of what’s on at Palazzo

from the wisteria trees serving as a quaint backdrop for a

Falson with announcements on our website, Facebook page

very special occasion. The soft notes of the guitarist playing

and Instagram. Many others follow us through the Malta

background music was accompanied by the relaxing sound of

Tourism Authority (MTA) website, Trip Advisor and

the fountain.

Lonely Planet.

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30

C U LT U R E

FEBRUARY IS THE THE OFFICIAL, UNOFFICIAL MONTH OF LOVE SO WHAT BETTER SUBJECT TO EXPLORE THAN LOVE ITSELF, SPECIFICALLY VALENTINE’S DAY AND HOW THIS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF ROMANCE AND COMPANIONSHIP IS PERCEIVED AND CELEBRATED IN MALTA?

LOVE IN MALTA STAFF WRITER ALESSIA CARUANA PONDERS LOVE AND VALENTINE’S DAY FROM A PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE WITH A MESSAGE THAT WILL HOPEFULLY RESONATE WITH US ALL.

C U LT U R E

Valentines’s Day is perhaps the greatest hallmark holiday

By ‘ends meet’ of course I mean enough to buy a wrap

of them all. Recognised as a significant cultural, religious,

from the Turkish place down the road, a vodka Red Bull

and commercial celebration of romance and romantic

and a couple of cigarettes from the local shop in between

love in many regions all around the world, it should not

lectures. But fret not, because I'm sure he's stowed away

be forgotten that St Valentine was, in fact, an actual saint

something to at least pay for your bus ride home. Romeo,

and in Malta the feast day of St Valentine is celebrated in

you shouldn't have, no really, you shouldn't have. But alas,

Balzan, a town not far from Attard where relics of the saint

love is not what you always expect it to be.

are claimed to have been found.

A few years and many assignments later I was a University Relics and saints aside, most Maltese are too busy waiting

student who had spent the majority of her Valentine's days

for their love letters to arrive by post (or WhatsApp) to

at some bar or another doing shots with her best girlfriends

be anywhere close to being bothered with any sort of

discussing which fool didn't take the hint, again (cue Sex

relic. On Valentine's day the priority for most is Cupid's

and the City theme music for dramatic effect). Of course,

bow and arrow and making sure someone (anyone really)

while at the bar you'd always find the odd left over male

hits the bullseye.

specimen lurking and waiting to swoop the Valentine-less damsel drenched in perfume off the bar stool and into his

Much like in any other country, the minds of the Maltese

car. Woah there. Slow down Zorro, you can drive yourself

are polluted with movie moments that set the bars of

home. I’ll take a cab.

romance excessively high for anyone. I mean just look at Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in Pretty Woman, or

And then finally, eventually when you do find someone,

Leonardo and Kate in Titanic. Where's our sinking ship?

like I did, you realise that Valentine's day really isn't as shiny

Where's our saviour? As a girl in Malta you go through a

as those red balloons hanging outside the flower shop. Most

variety of Valentine's phases.

Valentine's days have become little more than an Instagram posting contest of who took whom out to the better

As a child, I was busy dreaming of my prince and my

restaurant, or who flew whom where and who surprised

rose. By the age of eleven, reality started to settle in when

whom with what sort of bouquet in their car before work. It is

my classroom crush asked me to be his girlfriend on

a filter-fuelled competition of who, what, where and how.

Valentine’s day and gave me one of those special shiny stickers that you only give to special people. You may

You can’t tell me that I’m the only one left wondering how

know the ones that are 3D and probably cost his mother

he managed to break into their car to put flowers on the

a couple of extra cents at the stationary store. I was

driver’s seat in the first place? Yes? No? Never mind.

over the moon, there I was having my very own Disney moment, at the tender age of eleven! A few euphoric

One of the most romantic gestures ever received was

seconds later he broke it to me that I was girlfriend

witnessing my drunk boyfriend climb up to my second

number two for the day and that my best friend made it

floor balcony to apologise after we had a stupid argument.

to the top spot instead. But readers you needn't worry,

I wasn't taking his calls so he thought that climbing up to

he reassured me that there was also a third girlfriend in

my balcony would make things better. There were no

line for the top spot, so I wasn’t alone or last, just second.

vine-covered trellises to safeguard his arrival or dimly

Second. It then dawned on me that romance was dead

lit lamps in my window. This was a full-on parkour (sort

and that most boys will pull any sticker out of their

of) romantic gesture in pitch dark. It was the kind of

pocket to bag a girl, or in the case of he who shall not be

gesture that leaves you in a wheelchair, and much like our

named, three.

dear Romeo, dead before the end credits. That's when it hit me; love wasn't dead, it was just stupid. This wasn't the

So when boys and girls are busy juggling respective

Notebook or even American Pie it was reality, and in the

others where does that leave the romantics of the world?

real world, half the time, prince charming is drunk, foolish

Watching Love Actually on repeat that's where. Fast

and late for your 9pm dinner booking.

forward to my college days, and that once hopeful girl who dreamed of rose embellished letters arriving in the post

So here's to many more stupid Valentine's days because

box was now a cynic. I had become the veritable Scrooge of

in the end, if you look hard enough, there is a meaning in

Valentine's day. Boys were clueless and too busy trying to

them somewhere. So may your card choices be wise and

make ends meet with their stipend to be anywhere close to

your restaurant selections Trip Advisor worthy. Salut!

focusing on love.

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EVENTS

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

1st & 2nd - 8th to 10th February PATRICK MARBER’S - CLOSER M Space, Oscar Zammit Street, Msida

A must-see black comedy of sex, honesty and betrayal. Closer follows the story of Dan, Alice, Anna and Larry, to explore the modern concept of love and how they struggle to find intimacy but can’t seem to get closer. Performed in English. www.masquerademalta.com

8th February MOZART’S GREAT MASS Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul, Mdina

The last musical setting of the mass was composed by Mozart and left unfished due to his untimely death. Peter Manning, who was the concertmaster of the London Opera for over 19 years will be conducting this musical performance. The event is free. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. www.maltaorchestra.com/events/mozarts-great-mass/

9th & 10th - 15th to 17th - 22nd to 24th February THE ACROBAT Spazju Kreattiv, Valletta

Agnes Moon’s feel-good romantic comedy, "The Acrobat" (Blood Ties) is being staged for the first time in Malta, in English. This play follows the rags-to-riches story of a professional thief who finds himself trapped in the enormous abode of an incredibly rich and mysterious vampire, who is as seductive as he is lethal. www.kreattivita.org

EVENTS

33

10th February MOVIMENTO Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta

An event where you can be an active participant and learn about the art of designing dance while being encouraged to be a choreographer yourself! This is a project curated by ĹťfinMalta, the national dance company of Malta along with Esplora, Malta's interactive science centre. www.zfinmalta.org/education/movimento

14th to 16th February UNFORGETTABLE MFCC, National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta Maltese tenor Nico Darmanin performs swing, jazz and big band classics in this historic location, with live music by the Big Band Brothers, under the musical direction of Daniel Cauchi, and featuring singer Jasmine Abela.

www.ticketline.com.mt/bookings/Shows. aspx?ProductionId=629

16th February KIDS DIG SCIENCE Studios A & B, Spazju Kreattiv,Valletta

Nurture the budding scientist in your child with the help of scientists from the Malta Chamber of Science who will help your child learn about matter-the building blocks of the universe and create interesting things with your little scientists. This event is for children above the age of 6. www.kreattivita.org/en/event/properties-of-materials- kids-dig-science-2018-19/

34

EVENTS

16th February DISNEY IN CONCERT-BEAUTY & THE BEAST Malta Fairs & Convention Centre, Ta’ Qali

A wonderful opportunity for you to enjoy some quality time with your children as they enjoy the 2017 live-action film version of Disney’s Beauty & The Beast while being treated to a live performance by Malta Philharmonic Orchestra of the critically acclaimed music score of the film. www.maltaorchestra.com/events/disney-in-concert- beauty-and-the-beast/

24th February TAG ALONG SOUTH COAST TREK South Coast of Malta

Put on your hiking boots and explore the south coast of Malta while enjoying scenery from the different cliffs and bays along the south coast.

The trek is being organised by Tag Along Travellers and pets are welcome! www.facebook.com/events/784040071940532/? active_tab=about

27th February FOLLY, FANTASY & FEELING – A LIGHT-HEARTED POETRY SOIRÉE Salesian Theatre, Sliema

Poetry as you have never heard it before! Nicholas de Piro, Alex Manché and other talented artists collaborate to produce an entertaining evening of poetry, music and dancing, while raising funds for the Save Valletta Skyline Appeal. This is also an opportunity to discover this wonderful venue in the heart of Sliema. https://booking.teatrumanoel.com.mt/Event/12384/

1st - 5th March CARNIVAL OF MALTA Valletta

A varied programme of events featuring a number of competitive dances, grotesque masks, artistic floats, parades, The Grand Ball and other traditional items such as il-Qarċilla. Events culminate on Tuesday evening in St Anne Street, Floriana for the Grand Defilé, which wraps up winter carnival celebrations with a bang. www.festivalsmalta.com/maltacarnival

I S L E S TA P L E S

MADE IN

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C U LT U R E

WHEN WE THINK OF THE EUROPEAN WINE INDUSTRY MOST OF US WILL IMMEDIATELY TURN OUR THOUGHTS TOWARDS FRANCE OR ITALY. HOWEVER, MALTESE WINE HAS BEEN GROWING IN BREADTH AND DISTINCTION FOR SOME TIME NOW. WE EXPLORE THE INDUSTRY IN MORE DETAIL AND LOOK AT HOW TO DISTINGUISH FINE WINES.

RECOGNISING QUALITY WINES

Anyone who is new to the world of

bottles. Different quality wines have

Very often wines are judged by

wines might be overwhelmed by

different banderoles depending on

consumers according to their

the huge variety of wines that is

the status of protection that they

drinkability. This factor - tasting

available nowadays. It is sometimes

qualify for – banderoles are pale

right – is very often based on the

difficult to know which wines are of

green in colour for IĠT wines and

elements of a harmonic texture,

the highest quality, which of those

yellow for DOK wines. In order to

subtleness, ripeness, some presence

wines really originate from their

avoid counterfeits for the assurance of

of tannins in red wines and a delicate

regions and which of those wines

customers, banderoles are made out

flavour. It is often these kinds of

will provide them with the best

of high-security paper and contain

wines that gain popularity with

tastes to suit their desires.

an individual number for traceability

regular drinkers who do not wish to

purposes. On the right side of the

get out of their ‘comfort zone’ to try

This is where the DOK, IĠT and

banderole, one can also observe a

more elaborate wines which might

other quality marks come in. DOK

holographic security strip which

present more difficult qualities to

and IĠT were created to regulate

replaces the excise stamp which can

judge and appreciate.

wines produced in the EU with

be found on each bottle of wine for

wines being able to qualify for

sale locally.

However, experimenting with quality wines provides a whole new

quality marks only if they conform to strict criteria including region of

Appreciating Wines at Home and

world where consumers have the

origin, the particular grapes used

when Dining Out

opportunity to try different tastes and

and the techniques used

Despite having introduced the quality

experience quality wines from around

for production.

wine regimes over ten years ago,

Europe. This immediately provides

the quality marks are not so well

an insight into how complex, diverse

In Malta, DOK and IĠT wines are

understood. Having said this, some

and wide-ranging the world of quality

mostly recognised through the

basic knowledge as to DOK and IĠT

wines is. It also provides a reflection

collar label, often referred to as a

has seeped through most of the

of the different regions, their climate,

banderole which is fixed on the wine

local population.

the geography, the culture and, most of

C U LT U R E

all, the passion that vintners put into

Quality wine marks do help

from vineyards around Malta and Gozo.

producing quality wines.

producers to get the best prices

People attending such events have the

for their wines. However, it is not

opportunity to taste and try a wide

The ability, the science and love of

necessarily true that the most

range of wines with different tastes and

appreciating quality wine diversity

expensive wine is the best wine.

palates which are intended to provide the

is therefore not only an experience

Age is most probably one of the

ultimate wine tasting experience both

within the wine sector but a true

most common factors which give

for the inexperienced wine drinker as

enrichment to one’s culture and

rise to wine prices. This also builds

well as the professional wine lover.

knowledge of the different territories of

upon the general presumption

Europe. It provides the way to expand

that the older the wine the more

Moreover, wine tasting events are

not only one’s taste buds but also the

expensive it is.

organised all throughout the year with wine and food pairing being a

knowledge as to different territories and cultures which pride themselves in

Take in a festival

very popular methodology. In this

producing their quality wines.

Wine festivals have become very

manner, quality wines are paired with

popular events in Malta. The fact that

exquisite food so that the tastes of both

The Pricing of Quality Wines

these festivals are normally held in

the food and the wines are enhanced.

Wine is one of the commodities in

wonderful settings, often forming part

Often such wine tasting events make

life and its pricing largely depends

of our cultural heritage, continues to

ample use of Mediterranean dishes to

on supply and demand. Indeed, wine

enhance the festival itself.

complement the quality wines which are being served on that particular

prices increase and decrease over time depending on yearly harvests

Wine festivals in Malta are very

occasion bringing forth the best of

and on the demand for a particular

often enriched through cultural and

food and wines.

wine. One of the most effective

entertainment aspects making use of

catalysts for wine pricing is actually

local talent. However, the main focus

The Maltese wine industry is growing

scarcity which puts up prices from

of such events still remains the DOK

and maturing and, like a fine wine,

year to year.

and IÄ T wines which are harvested

will only get better with age.

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DOK Malta DOK Gozo A success story

Wines of Distinction DOK Malta • DOK Gozo IGT Maltese Islands dokmaltadokgozo dokmaltadokgozo.gov.mt

Brought to you by

GOZO

GAULITANA

A FESTIVAL OF MUSIC WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

“Gozo’s main classical music festival” returns between 8 March and 7 April 2019, promising great music under the direction of Colin Attard. Receiving critical acclaim from established international press, including Musical Opinion UK,

The festival concludes with the OPERA+ Weekend (5-7 April), three days of cultural bonanza highlighted by the production of Puccini’s Manon Lescaut. The opera returns to the Maltese stage after an absence of 20 years, starring Miriam Gauci –

this year’s edition promises to be an exciting programme of events focusing on the theme “Women in Society”. Gaulitana is renowned for having, in the past years, brought the arts, closer to the younger generation through its GAULearn project,

Gaulitana’s Honorary Patron - in the title role.

particularly through #opera4me - adapted opera performances

L-Akkademja ta’ l-Ilsien Malti. Concorso Jan Langosz, Festival

for the discovery of school children.

Taking cue from Manon Lescaut (the festival’s staged

Belliniano & Associazione FEM are some of the foreign institutions working closely with Gaulitana. Alexander Frey returns as Artist-in-Residence, in a festival offering an

opera), the festival shall underline the importance of

unmissable feast of the arts, including its Espresso Series in

female engagement in the arts and the wider socio-political perspective, by presenting female composers’, artists’, and performers’ works to the public.

the historic Ċittadella, the TALK RE U series – ushering in key events in the upcoming week – and the MusicAlive series, aiming to present live music to a wider audience.

Gaulitana will include an eclectic mix of events with

Quoting Opera Click’s portal: “Gaulitana and the island of

multifarious styles – orchestral, chamber, recitals, vocal, featuring international and local artists and ensembles. Held in various locations around Gozo (with some events in Malta),

Gozo absolutely deserve a visit”.

Collaborating entities include the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, Heritage Malta, University of Malta and

the festival incorporates multiple creative arts, from literature, to acting and live-painting, whilst presenting different genres (jazz, pop, musicals and folk music). It will also host an exhibition by 30 Chinese female artists and shall commemorate

Gaulitana is supported by the Gozo Cultural Support Programme

the bi-centenary since the birth of Clara Schumann.

www.gaulitanus.com

of Arts Council Malta in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo.

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40

GOZO

GOZO:

YOUR ROMANTIC GETAWAY W O R K , L I V E , P L AY WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

Rolling hills of deep green, a pristine coastline that extends to the Mediterranean blue and meandering streets in tranquil villages where life is still at it should be – blissfully simple. Welcome to Gozo, where the spirit is freed from the stresses of rushed schedules and where romance can find the ideal place to flourish! Whether you’re celebrating an important milestone in your journey as a couple 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! Between the 1st and the 17th February, the Ministry for Gozo in collaboration with local communities, will be putting up a programme of events, guiding visitors on what to do and where to go, for Valentine celebrations. Check out the official tourism portal www.visitgozo.com for events and accommodation options and enjoy a romantic stay close to home.

ACCOMMODATION TO SUIT YOUR TA STE A ND BUDGET

various villages and hamlets of the island, is an experience you will treasure. It is also notable that the island’s

Gozo has great accommodation options that fit the many

calendar of yearly events includes not only typical summer

different requirements of travellers. Stay at a luxurious 5-star hotel, a stylish boutique hotel or opt for an intimate stay at a house of character or villa. Ask your service provider about

Mediterranean feasts but also a veritable musical programme including three international music festivals, Gaulitana, the Victoria Arts Festival and Mediterranea and world-acclaimed

seasonal offers and choose whether to stay in Victoria or a nearby village. Accommodation is well spread across Gozo and some

opera, presentations in the two Gozo theatres. The Give Me Gozo calendar of events can be viewed here:

villages have restaurants and bars that enliven the quaint squares, and where you can enjoy great food and wine and mingle with the locals for a more authentic feel of the island. Check the great

www.visitgozo.com/what-to-do-in-gozo/enjoy/annual-events/ top-10-festivals-gozo/

selection of guesthouses, self-catering apartments and B&Bs and

SEEK OU T THE SUNSETS

leave for a great stay in beautiful Gozo.

CULT UR E, HISTORY, NAT UR E A ND THE SE A

Sunset watching is pretty easy in Gozo. Experience beautiful sunsets from different vantage points, foremost among which Dwejra. Let nature inspire your soul.

Despite its size, Gozo amazes for its cultural and historical offer. Exploring the town of Victoria, the Citadel and the

www.visitgozo.com/blog/best-places-to-watch-a-sunsetin-gozo/

GOZO

DINING OU T Book a romantic dinner at a local restaurant and choose to

hot summer months. Boat trips depart from Mġarr Harbour, Xlendi, Marsalforn and Dwejra. Enjoy a day out at sea, explore

savour the traditional Gozitan cuisine. While Gozitan cuisine

the many secret coves and savour these moments with your

is influenced by local, seasonal produce, it is heavily influenced

by Mediterranean cooking. Ask for the torta tar-ross u l-qargħa (rice and pumkin pie) or the minestra bil-qastan (vegetable

loved one. www.visitgozo.com/what-to-do-in-gozo/escape/boat-trips/

soup with chestnuts) and other seasonal dishes that will warm your heart. Not all restaurant serve typical local food but if you

ACTIV E HOLIDAYS FOR T WO Indulge in outdoor fun activities with your significant other.

want specifically local food, there are restaurants with typical, local recipes on their menus that you can look up. www.visitgozo.com/what-to-do-in-gozo/enjoy/food-and-drink/

Gozo provides the opportunity to try hiking, biking, abseiling, and kayaking. Contact a Gozo operator in adventure travel.

restaurants/

There are professional people who can guide you through

TA KE A BOAT R IDE You cannot visit Gozo without enjoying a boat trip around

incredibly beautiful itineraries and off the beaten track.

So, with Valentine’s round the corner and with so much to do on an island that mesmerises with its beauty and authenticity,

the coast, weather permitting. The coastline enjoyed from the sea in winter is magical,and contrasts with its arid look in the

go for a relaxing Gozo stay and plan what to do and where to stay by checking the many options on www.visitgozo.com

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42

MUSIC

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM EAGER TO DISCOVER A MIX OF CULTURE, HISTORY AND UNABASHED MUSICAL TALENT WHILE IN MALTA? THIS MONTH, TENOR NICO DARMANIN RETURNS TO THE ISLAND TO GIVE A BIG-BAND SWING CONCERT IN ONE OF THE ISLAND’S MOST BEAUTIFUL SETTINGS – THE ARCHAEOLOGY MUSEUM’S GRAN SALON. JO CARUANA FINDS OUT MORE. The Archaeology Museum – located on Valletta’s busy

concert venue before, and that its acoustics work brilliantly

Republic Street – has to be one of my favourite historical

for this purpose. “So, when we were approached by Toni

venues. Built in 1571, it was originally home to the Order

Attard at Culture Venture, who is producing Nico’s concert,

of St John’s Knights from Provence in France and, today, it

we thought it would be a great fit. The programme itself will

houses gems like the ‘Sleeping Lady’ (from the Ħal Saflieni

include a mix of classical songs immortalised by artists from

Hypogeum), the ‘Venus of Malta’ (from Ħaġar Qim), and

the golden age of music, and where better to hold such an

striking bronze daggers (recovered from the Bronze Age layers

event than the Auberge de Provence – a building dating to the

at Tarxien Temples).

Knights’ period and which immortalises various aspects of our cultural heritage through its archaeological collections?”

However, few aspects here beat the incredible Gran Salon, with its richly-painted walls and wooden beam ceiling; it’s

Visitors to the concert will doubtlessly notice that the hall

an awe-inspiring space that never ceases to amaze. And,

is actually undergoing restoration works at the moment, as

this month, it is set to take on a new and exciting role as the

Sharon explains. “Our conservators have been working

venue for tenor Nico Darmanin’s upcoming ‘big band’ concert

on this hall for the past two years now, documenting and

Unforgettable on 14, 15 and 16 February.

ultimately conserving the wall fabric and paintings, as part of a project sponsored by Bank of Valletta. During

“We’re going to be spending a few nights at the museum –

the process a number of painted dates have surfaced, the

literally,” smiles Nico, who is one of the island’s best-known

earliest being from 1875, which is of course very exciting.

international tenors, and who recently completed his debut

Scientific analyses are also being carried out in order

at the world-famous Glyndebourne Opera House in the UK,

to identify and help us date the pigments. Guests to the

which has also hosted legendary opera stars such as Luciano

concert will be able to spot this on-going work, as well as

Pavarotti and Montserrat Caballé. “The Gran Salon is such

see some other treasures from within the museum as they

a cool venue and I am thrilled to be presenting this concert

walk through, so this is an excellent way to combine some

there. I have actually had the pleasure of giving two recitals in

wonderful local culture with the chance to see one of our

this gorgeous hall already and the vibe is always stellar.”

beautiful museums in a different light.”

Among his many reasons for loving the venue, Nico cites its

On the night, Nico will be taking to the stage alongside well-

‘perfect’ location in the heart of Valletta, and its ideal size. “As

known singer Jasmine Abela and the Big Band Brothers – an

the concert coincides with Valentine’s Day, the mood will be

energetic ensemble known for their incredible musical talents.

intimate and romantic,” the tenor continues. “And the Gran

The programme, meanwhile, will present classics from the

Salon suits that to a tee as it isn’t too big but is still so glorious

likes of Mario Lanza, Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra. Nico

impressive. It also complements the programme perfectly and

adds. “I have no doubt that Unforgettable will be a wonderful

sets the scene for something wonderful to happen. I love the

evening of music and swing for us to enjoy together.”

feeling of grandeur, the colours and the details in the design. I can’t think of anywhere that would suit this event better.”

Unforgettable – A Concert by Nico Darmanin will take place on Agreeing, the Museum’s senior curator Sharon Sultana

14, 15 and 16 February at the National Museum of Archaeology,

explains that the Gran Salon has actually proved itself as a

Valletta. Tickets are available from www.ticketline.com.mt

MUSIC

The Gran Salon sets the scene for something wonderful to happen Nico Darmanin

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T R AV E L

GERM AN Y ’ S MOS T UNDERR ATED CIT Y IS THE PL ACE TO GO THIS Y E AR WORDS DAVID BAKER / AIR MALTA

The spotlight could be shining even more brightly on

Spread along both banks of the Main River (hence its formal

Frankfurt in the coming months depending on the outcome

name, Frankfurt am Main), the city has always held a special

of Brexit negotiations. Its status may well be elevated to the

place in German history. It gave the country its most famous

leading financial centre of Europe if, as anticipated, many

writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who is as important

large financial institutions and companies leave London in the

to Frankfurt as William Shakespeare’s home is to Stratford,

aftermath of whatever outcome the politicians decide.

England. His house is tucked away on a small downtown street, which was also the site of important elections and the

But, (as I am sure you will be pleased to hear) this is not

coronations of kings and emperors of the Roman Empire.

an article on Brexit, politics, finances or anything else that surrounds the furor around the UK’s departure from the

Like so much else, the original Goethe House was destroyed

European Union.

in World War II. Still, the 1950s reconstruction provides an evocative feel for the early life of Goethe, who was born into

There is another reason the spotlight should be shining on

a wealthy Frankfurt family and later forsook his hometown.

Frankfurt and that is from a traveller’s perspective.

Many rooms are furnished with late baroque pieces and art,

Its reputation as a major financial centre means that Frankfurt

which makes it feel as if the Faust author just stepped out.

is often dismissed as a ‘dull business city’ and is almost completely overlooked by ‘citybreakers’.

History is still a major tourism draw for the city, even though many sites had to be rebuilt after World War II. But exploring

But you may be surprised to learn that it makes a perfect

Frankfurt through a historical lens only paints one part

short visit destination. Despite its relatively small resident

of the picture. To get a full view of what Frankfurt is now

population (700,000 compared to London's 8.6 million), it has

— and will become in the next few years — you need only

established itself as an international city in its own right.

look toward its skyline. Locals liken it to Manhattan and more

Already, more than half of its inhabitants have non-

affectionately ‘Mainhattan’.

German backgrounds and more than 100 different languages are spoken there daily. Moreover, its growth as

There's a fascinating mix of architecture, with modern glass

a financial hub has also contributed to the development

high-rises looming over traditional red-brick churches. You’ll

of a diverse art, music and food scene, that’s only getting

also notice an abundance of tower cranes stretching their necks

more alluring for travellers.

ever higher, signifying the city’s continued metamorphosis.

Plus, the swanky hotels are a bargain at weekends when the

At the base of the tall, glass structures, the modern

businessmen have left!

thoroughfares and complexes such as the MyZeil shopping

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46

T R AV E L

centre, are lined with boutiques and popular stores and

wallow in the past, Frankfurt’s city planners elected to look

throughout the city, cafes, bars and clubs provide ample

to the future, clearing large areas of the city and investing in

entertainment value.

modern transport networks and business. This is not to say there is nothing of the past to see today.

The glass roof of Zeil has a ‘tunnel’ section stretching down from the top of the building, making a stunning piece of artwork

You can get in the old-world mood with a stroll through

to reach the floor. The shopping centre is also home to the largest

Römerberg, the heart of what used to be the largest medieval

bouldering centre in Europe, ideal for anyone who likes climbing,

quarter in Germany. The half-timbered houses are ‘picture-

as well as Germany’s largest escalator, measuring a staggering 46

perfect’ and well they might be, since fifteen historic houses

metres. Just don’t look down as it’s seriously steep!

were meticulously rebuilt and 20 new ones were added in the traditional style after being flattened in World War II.

Few European cities are as defined by their skylines as Frankfurt. And a great way of taking in the topography is by

Visitors can now enjoy the timber-framed buildings, as well as

cruising down the Main.

the lively square in the heart of Römerberg. Some of the most notable buildings there are the Old St Nicholas Church and

Flowing 527km between Mainz and Bamberg and passing

the Haus Römer, which together with the Goldener Schwan

through 3 German states (Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg and

(Golden Swan) building belonged to the Römer merchant

Hesse), the Main River is one of the main tributaries of the

family in the 15th century.

mighty Rhine River. Attractions like Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), Frankfurt Cathedral, Frankfurt’s famed financial

The city planners also turned their thoughts to the arts

district, and Europaturm, the city’s tallest building, are all visible

and tourism, creating a vast array of museums and galleries,

along the waterfront. Boats also sail past the Grossmarkthalle,

including the celebrated ‘modern art museum’ and the

the abandoned wholesale market that will soon be part of the

collection of museums along the south bank of the River Main

new headquarters of the European Central Bank.

affectionately known as Museumsufer or Museum Embankment.

Frankfurt suffered in World War II, as did many German

The Staedel Museum is a 200-year-old institution and houses

cities. Unfortunately, this reduced one of Europe’s largest

one of the world’s most impressive and important collections,

medieval cities to a pile of rubble. Only the city’s first

documenting 700 years of art history, alongside visiting

skyscraper, the ‘Dom Cathedral’ and a scattering of other

exhibitions. Visitors may recognise popular works of art such

elderly buildings, survived the attacks. Choosing not to

as Edgar Degas’ ‘Orchestra Musicians,’ Claude Monet’s ‘The

T R AV E L

Luncheon,’ and Rembrandt’s ‘The Blinding of Samson.’ Other

Few other cities in Germany would want to claim this tangy

artists you’ll find in the museum’s permanent collection

brew, which is made with fermented apple juice and served

include Vincent Van Gogh, Edvard Munch’ and Picasso. The

in glazed jugs known as Bembel. One of the most fun ways to

Dialogue Museum on the other hand redefines the common

try it is to jump on board the ‘Ebbelwei Express’ – a multi-

perception of a museum which, by definition, is a place where

coloured tram that takes you on a one hour tour of the city,

you go to see artifacts: see being the key word. The concept

accompanied by traditional music, pretzels and a glass or ‘two’

behind Dialogue Museum, is unusual but impactful.

of the unique beverage!

Guests join a one-hour guided tour that moves through four

Alternatively, in the northeast corner of the city, the one-

rooms where, in absolute darkness, you will get to experience

time village of Bornheim retains its laid-back atmosphere

daily life without any visual components, the way blind or

and cafe culture despite being fully incorporated into the

visually impaired people do. (All guides, as a matter of fact,

big city.

will be visually impaired.) You will be surprised at the range of emotions you can feel in just 60 minutes — utter hopelessness

The Kleinmarkthallem the centrally located little brother

being a major one — but it’s an incredible experience.

of the wholesale market, teems with life on Saturdays.

Locals converge on this two-story covered market for fresh

The changes in Frankfurt are also very apparent in the

fish, cheese, bread, olive oil and, yes, an artery-clogging

Bahnhofsviertel, the district around the main station, which

assortment of sausages. From there, it's a short hop to the

was known for its high level of drug trade and prostitution.

retail district, which features a full complement of designer

This image is changing as artists move in and lots of

boutiques on Goethestrasse.

bars, cafés and shops open. This just proves that with its neighborhoods, banking district, art centres and apple wine

If the shopping makes you peckish, head for the neighbouring

taverns - Frankfurt has many faces.

Fressgasse (literally, feeding street). Frankfurt may be synonymous with link sausage, but when Frankfurters go out,

One of those faces is obviously the steel and concrete. In

they crave anything but German food.

contrast, Frankfurt also has a sublime botanical garden.

The Palmengarten, which can be discovered in the middle

Trattorias, tandoori places and Thai cuisine are all well

of the fashionable Westend, has 50 acres of tropical trees,

represented. Most restaurants, even small ones, have at least a

orchids and ferns. Many are tended in greenhouses, like the

few menus in English. But if they don’t, the friendly staff will

Tropicarium, which has a mini-rainforest. A children's train

surely translate for you.

winds its way past the park's lake and gardens and the garden is often host to dozens of concerts in the summer, as well as

The beautiful city of Frankfurt is often referred to as the

being a scenic wedding destination. It’s also the perfect place

gateway of Europe, with an abundance of cultural diversity,

to enjoy a picnic and wile the day away in the sun.

historic buildings, modern architecture, great shopping avenues and the friendliness of the local people.

On the south bank of the river lies a quieter part of the city.

The area of Sachsenhausen – the city’s most beguiling quarter

Frankfurt remains aloof from other popular destinations

- hugs narrow alleys and old buildings and is renowned for its

of Germany by offering unhindered and non-congested

nightlife and local drink ‘Apfelwein’ or Apple Wine. To say it is

sightseeing opportunities as well as being a unique and

an acquired taste doesn't quite do it justice.

colourful place to visit.

Air Malta flies five times a week to Frankfurt with fares starting from as low as €39 per way including taxes and charges on the Go Light product.

Visit www.airmalta.com for more info.

47

MAKING LUXURY AFFORDABLE

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RELAX&UNWIND

SEAFRONT TOWER Boasting a seafront location and a seasonal outdoor pool, The Seafront Tower is located in one of best spots in Sliema close to shopping malls and restaurants. You can find Fort Tigné and the ferry to Valletta a few steps away. You can choose either to stay in a sharing dormitory or a suite. All rooms feature a balcony, and some overlook the sea.

Tigné Seafront, Sliema, Malta

•

T: 2134 3185

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

Triq Telgħet, St Julian’s, Malta

•

T: 2138 2554

PAPARAZZI 29 CLUBHOUSE Set on the beautiful location of Manoel Island - Paparazzi 29 Clubhouse is a family run restaurant offering a large and mouthwatering range of delicious meals. From homemade pizzas and pastas to juicy steaks, ribs and fresh fish.

Manoel Island Bridge, Triq il-Forti, Manoel Island, Malta

FISH RESTAURANT Food is served in the welcoming and stylish interior whereby the panoramic wall to wall glass panes create the feeling of dining literally ’on the water’s edge’, just a few inches away from the calm Pieta sea and in the spacious outside terrace, both bestowing a Mediterranean ‘al fresco’ feel.

Tigné Point, Sliema, Malta

50

INSIGHT

AN UNFINISHED LUTE THE MALTESE ISLANDS ARE AS MODERN AND VIBRANT AS ANY EUROPEAN COUNTRY AND YET, THEY ARE ALSO STEEPED IN HISTORY AND TRADITION. WE EXPLORE THIS TRADITION THROUGH MEETING MALTESE PEOPLE AND LEARN ABOUT THEIR LIVES AND STORIES. WORDS SARAH CHIRCOP

INSIGHT

His father quickly caught on to their new venture and started enriching what was initially a hobby with research and knowledge and a library of books

Films and fairy tales often show us

with him,” he adds. Whether they were

over seven years, their organisation

that endings usually have some sort of

repairing a boat, fixing up the kitchen

‘Band Aid Music’ was formed in 1999.

purposeful resolution. For as much as

at home or building a compressor to

Starting out as a guitar workshop

we have the need for stories and to tell

spray Charles’ first car (a 1968 Fiat 850

and lutherie, today it has become a

them, we also need endings that follow

bought by his father), the pair were

place that assists musicians, whether

some logical conclusion that provide us

inseparable. When eighteen-year-

to repair, restore and even sell high-

with closure. Yet life teaches us that most

old Charles decided to make a course

quality stringed instruments.

stories often terminate quite abruptly,

change at University, he found himself

with endings that are left unfinished.

left without a monthly stipend for a

One year, and with the island’s

And no matter how carefully we plan,

year. Barely having enough to give his

prestigious Baroque Festival around

there is never really a guarantee that we

car petrol, he quickly got creative on

the corner, Felix was encouraged to

will reach our hoped conclusion.

how to make some pocket money. “I

create a Renaissance lute from scratch.

needed to figure out what to do with

Unfortunately, he never lived to

But what does it mean for something

myself and having been into music and

complete working on the creation of this

to be unfinished? It can simply be

playing since I was thirteen, I started

instrument and so it was left unfinished

something incomplete, unpolished,

fixing up my friend’s guitars.”

in his studio. “There was and still is a big absence ever since he passed away

unprocessed. But something unfinished can also reveal details that the finished

His father quickly caught on to their

four years ago. A large part of my world

perhaps cannot. It can reveal a portrait

new venture and started enriching what

suddenly turned into a big void and very

that is only accessible when in this

was initially a hobby with research

few people understand this I think,”

undressed, rough and raw state.

and knowledge and a library of books.

says Charles. “Today, however, I work

“The word started to spread slowly on

on instruments with a certain ease, and

Laid to rest on an old upturned fishing

what my father and I were doing and the

this is thanks to all the tools my father

boat and sitting quietly in the dark,

demands started to increase. We soon

either invented or recreated.” Charles

the unfinished Renaissance lute in the

found ourselves entrusted with fragile

remains working in his father’s studio

working studio of Charles Busuttil,

and precious instruments that required

and his years of experience and expertise

holds a melancholic story with an

serious treatment.” Rising to the varied

means that he now receives shattered

unfinished ending. Yet it reveals

and versatile challenges, Charles and his

but prestigious instruments, sometimes

a tender portrait of a father-son

father looked to further enrich and refine

straight out of an auction, for him to

relationship, one full of love and labour,

their technique by entering guilds and

rebuild and restore, fix and finish.

and the power of perseverance.

also attending workshops abroad.

“My father was an engineer, a nautical

It was only a matter of time before the

for Charles to complete and although it

and navigational engineer, and spent

father-son duo began looking into the

will most certainly be finished one day,

over 40 years teaching engineering in

building of instruments themselves.

its unfinished-ness is both a symbol of his

various technical institutions,” says

“We really wanted to try our hand

father’s endeavour and perseverance and

Charles, who speaks with unmistakable

at making a traditional Maltese

a reminder of life’s temporariness. Let this

admiration and pride of his father,

‘Kitarrina’, so we contacted Crispin

unfinished instrument be a reflection and

Felix. “And I was always with him…

Attard, an expert maker of this local

homage to things left unsaid and undone,

I was brought up constantly in his

and traditional guitar, to show us the

to uncontrollable circumstances that, in

company and did absolutely everything

process.” Working and restoring for

the end, control us.

His father’s unfinished lute too waits

51

52

PROPERT Y

Exclusive Triplex Penthouse in Tigne Point. Designed by Pippa Toledo, Represented by Malta Sotheby’s International Realty

DESIGNING LUXURY

AN INTERVIEW WITH PIPPA TOLEDO BY MALTA SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY As a name synonymous with luxury interior design in Malta,

truly unique to the desires and requirements of the people I am

Pippa Toledo’s style is as timeless as it is pioneering. Here

working with at the time. Our individual perception of luxury is

she talks to luxury real estate brand Malta Sotheby’s

as unique as our DNA, and I thrive on discovering how best to

International Realty about her unique approach and

blend clients’ wishes with the practical realities of life in Malta.

highlights why it’s always good to utilise the services of an interior specialist when crafting the design for your new

The results are as distinctive as they are – but they stand out as

home. I have been passionate about interior design for as

the ultimate blend of luxury with comfort, and the best of island

long as I can remember. To me, it’s not just about making

living with ubiquitous warmth and personality. Just take

things look beautiful, but also about crafting practical homes

this upmarket Tigne Point triplex for instance, exclusively

that work for my clients’ individual lifestyles. If you are

available for sale with Malta Sotheby’s International Realty-

moving to Malta, then you may already be looking at property

not only does it exist within one of the most desirable

here on the island, or considering what sort of home you may

postcodes on the island, but it has been moulded into the

like. The good news is: there is so much choice, and the

ultimate Mediterranean home that its owners were dreaming

options really are endless. I feel privileged to have worked

of. It is achieving this that truly drives me.

with countless clients over the decades, and to have helped them inject style and personality into the houses they have bought on the island – blending a little of their global aesthetics or international flair with the blue of our seas and the yellow of our limestone buildings.

To me, the whole process revolves around careful consultation. I consider each client carefully, get to know them, and help them to imagine the property they want to call home. Of course,

Your best life begins with a home that inspires you.

luxury is at the very heart of that process; but not necessarily

Contact Malta Sotheby’s Realty at +356 2010 8070 or

luxury in the obvious sense of the word – but luxury that is

info@sir.com.mt for more information

54

48

M A LTA C I T I Z E N S H I P A N D R E S I D E N C Y P R O G R A M M E S

TRENDING RIGHT NOW

3 LIT TLE-KNOWN FACTS ABOUT THE MALTESE CITIZENSHIP AND RESIDENCY PROGRAMMES

F

or years, tourists have flocked to the Maltese Islands in droves, partly because of the island’s warm climate and crystal-clear blue waters.

Today, people are looking to relocate permanently and make a greater investment in the island by opting for one of the Malta Citizenship and Residency Programmes.

A detailed insight into the framework of the programmes reveals their high-quality standards as well as the positive effects they have had on the economy.

HEALTH CARE

Malta ranks 3rd in health care around the world, with Maltese citizens having access to free public medical treatment and residents having availability to a number of private hospitals and clinics. The island offers one of the best standards of quality of life globally and provides workers’ rights and legal frameworks that are still absent even in certain western nations.

FACT #1: MALTA OFFERS INVESTORS ONE OF THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF QUALITY OF LIFE EDUCATION

The educational framework in Malta is of the highest standards, with a top performing University that is free to all citizens of the island with special benefits and access to education in EU member states, as well as a number of private business schools and a very healthy English language school industry made available also to residents. An island with no natural resources, Malta understands the importance of investing in human resources and growing its knowledge ecosystem. Malta is now aiming to grow as a core base of education in the Mediterranean, and to integrate Blockchain technology within its education system. Last year, the University of Malta launched a €300,000 scholarship for a Master’s and Doctorate degree in Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) and Blockchain technology, and courses specialising in the industries of the futures, such as Gaming, were introduced.

INNOVATION

Malta has taken big steps towards cultivating innovation and securing a path of growth for its future. It is the first country in the world to fully legislate Blockchain technology, making it a magnet for Fintech companies.

Whilst making the most of and regulating new opportunities, Malta continues to operate on the edge of innovation and prepare itself for a future context. Malta’s attractive tax rates and corporate legislation has already seen several foreign companies setting up shop in Malta.

As a pro-business jurisdiction, one of the objectives to reinforcing a sector is to increase the development of related services and, in turn, sustain growth.

55 M A LTA C I T I Z E N S H I P A N D R E S I D E N C Y P R O G R A M M E S 49 3 L I T T L E - K N O W N F A C T S A B O U T T H E M A LTA C I T I Z E N S H I P A N D R E S I D E N C Y P R O G R A M M E S

FACT #2: MALTA HAS THE BEST DUE DILIGENCE STANDARDS IN THE WORLD Each candidate and corresponding applications belonging to family dependants must pass a strict fourtier due diligence programme assuring that individuals entering Malta do not have any association with any form of corruption. Amongst other measures, the programme checks wealth, pending court cases and will even revoke already approved citizenships, if necessary. The due diligence system is considered one of the highest in the world, going so far as to be described as ‘textbook’, and it has even been suggested that the programme should be set as the benchmark for others. In fact, the little island has taken the initiative to encourage the cooperation between different jurisdictions to standardise the due diligence process across the board, as well as welcomes recommendations regarding background checks and the sharing of information. Moreover, most of the recommendations put forward by the Transparency Report are similar to those proposed by the jurisdiction of Malta itself, not to mention that the country has the highest rejection rate of all programmes. Malta is also one of the few jurisdictions that requires investors to show physical presence on the island and that publishes the names of the approved investors.

FACT #3: MALTA’S ECONOMY IS BOOMING ALSO THANKS TO CITIZENSHIP AND RESIDENCY INVESTMENT Malta’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) amounted to over €11 billion in 2017, increasing by 6.6%, thanks to probusiness government incentives. An estimated 1.38% of GDP, from the 1st July 2017 to 30th June 2018, was a result of the island's citizenship programme. This comes as no surprise, as investors for the citizenship programme not only bring to the table their skills, global network and capital, but also invest in businesses and contribute to tax payments. The presence of such investors within the community fuels demand for services and products, increases the value of property, as well as creates employment and business opportunities resulting in Malta currently having one of the lowest unemployment rates.

As the majority of naturalised applicants for citizenships are registered as self-employed, investment citizens are growing industries and specialising in niche markets that have boosted the country’s economy. In 2017 alone, Malta’s surplus grew to over €400 million, 90% of which was accounted by the country’s Citizenship

by Investment Programme, making the surplus the highest in the Eurozone and fourth worldwide. With the Malta Residency Visa Programme reaching over 1000 applications by the last quarter of 2018, this programme too is slowly making its mark on the island. As a result, both investors and Malta itself are growing in stability and wealth.

PROFESSIONAL OUTLOOK Dr. Jean-Philippe Chetcuti heads the firm's global residency and citizenship practice and is an avid believer in the benefits that Malta’s Citizenship by Investment Programme brings to both investors and Malta itself.

“The landscape is evolving. The lack of economic or political stability is certain countries has seen an increase in applications for citizenship in Malta. The island’s growing economy has attracted many investors who are looking for a stable and strong jurisdiction for both personal and business investments who require more mobility.”

“Malta provides investors of its citizenship programmes the same rights as any other person born in Malta or holding Maltese citizenship. Whether the individual wants to send their children to reputable universities in Europe or who are looking ahead and want to secure access to the job market, Malta provides citizenship investors with a stable environment in which to live.”

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

Dr Jean-Philippe Chetcuti Senior Partner, Residency and Citizenship Direct Tel: +356 2205 6604 • Email: ask.jpc@cclex.com cclex.com

58

E X P AT I N M A LTA

EVERY MONTH WE SIT DOWN WITH AN EXPAT WHO HAS DECIDED TO MAKE THEIR HOME IN MALTA. THIS MONTH IT IS DANCER AND TEACHER CASSANDRA STRAUB.

AN EXPAT IN MALTA WORDS MATTHEW BUMFORD

Q - TELL US A BOU T YOUR SELF? I am a 22-year-old dancer – born and raised in Canada. I have been dancing all my life and am very fortunate now to continue in this field through working as a teacher and secretary for the Voluntary Organisation Step Up for Parkinson’s. We provide free specialised movement classes for people with Parkinson’s in various locations around Malta. Additionally, I teach various styles of dance to children at the Dance Project studios. I combine this with my studies at the University of Malta. I am studying for a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship as a means to work on sustainability within the Voluntary Organisation.

Apart from what I do for work, I love to spend time out in nature, cooking and laughing with my loved ones.

Q - W H AT BROUGHT YOU TO M A LTA I originally came to Malta to study Dance at the University of Malta. I was not interested in any of the programs I had found in Canada at the time, and my family had been reading a lot about Malta. I have family in Germany as well, so the program that was calling to me, family not too far away, the sun, and craving a new adventure everything seemed to suggest ‘Malta.’

So my family and I packed up our lives in Canada and moved to Malta nearly 4 years ago. My family has since moved to Germany, but after graduating with my Dance Studies degree I had found a very happy life here surrounded by incredible people as well as inspiring opportunities in my field. All this means I have no plans on leaving any time soon.

E X P AT I N M A LTA

Q - HOW IS THE WOR KING EN V IRONMEN T HER E DIFFER EN T COMPA R ING TO W HER E YOU W ER E BEFOR E? I have never had a conventional 9 to 5 job, neither in Canada nor in Malta, so it is quite difficult to compare. However, I find that in Malta there is quite a lot of freedom to be an individual thinker. You are given direction, but I find most businesses are very open to having the input and feedback of their staff. I find quite a lot of variance as well based on my experiences in Malta – you may have someone very strict and diligent, or someone more laid back but these variances in the workplace will exist regardless of where in the world you are. I appreciate that in most cases I have felt that I am working with my employer, as opposed to under them.

Q - IS THER E A N Y A DV ICE YOU WOULD GI V E TO EX PATS MOV ING HER E? To an expat moving to Malta the biggest advice I would give is to get involved, and not to be afraid to go places on your own.

Malta is small in size, so people often think there can only be so much going on, and they will soon get bored. This could not be more wrong. This island is lively! Not just with parties, but there are activities happening every day that anyone can be a part of, and something that will cater to the interests of everyone. If you are coming to Malta and don’t know anyone, go to an event of interest on your own and strike up a conversation with the people around you, this is how I have met some of the greatest people here. Almost everyone I come across is very open to speaking and sharing with one another. There are endless activities in outdoor adventures, the arts, shows, history, and volunteering – there are a lot of people with great initiatives on this Island, and the extra help is always welcome! My biggest tips would be to get involved, explore outside the main areas, and don’t be shy.

Q - W H AT A R E YOUR FAVOUR ITE PL ACES TO V ISIT IN M A LTA? My favourite places to visit in Malta are anywhere that I can go and explore! I live in St.Julian’s at the moment, and while it is convenient and there is so much going on here, I love nothing more than to get out into nature. The first 2 years of living here I would have asked – what nature? But you just need to explore a bit and you will find that the country is packed with natural beauty. Go for a drive in the countryside or hop on a kayak and explore some caves. One of my favourite spots to view the sunset for instance is Dingli Cliffs. When it comes to something more relaxed, I enjoy going to listen to some live jazz with my friends, which there is plenty of here. My favourite spots are Bridge Bar in Valletta, and Vilhena Band Club in Floriana. Last but not least, one of my favourite places is wherever the Step Up for Parkinson’s family is.

59

A GUIDE TO THE LITTLE

MALTESE ISLANDS

għasri

għarb

żebbuĠ

san lawrenz

xlendi

marsalforn

xagħra

victoria kerĊem munxar sannat

xewkija

nadur gĦajnsielem mĠarr

qala

comino

Ċirkewwa

st paul’s island mellieĦa

qawra 01

xemxija 03

st paul’s bay

buĠibba

mĠarr

naxxar

Ġnejna

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

mosta

www.dragonaracasino.com

attard

sa

mdina 04

qo rabat dingli

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

qrendi

Żurrieq

filfla

INSERT TEXT HERE

01

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

www.oraclecasino.com

02

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

www.casinomalta.com.mt

02 03

r

04

st julian’s sliema gżira

an Ġwann

Valletta

msida

birkirkara floriana

the three cities

ormi tarxien

marsa

marsascala żejtun

luqa

marsaxlokk

birŻebbuĠa

LOCAL

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

IS-SERKIN (CRYSTAL PALACE)

RABAT TRAIN RIDE

IL-BITĦA TA' DONI Il-Bitħa ta’ Doni is a traditional Maltese

The Crystal Palace is often referred to

Walking and exploring Rabat can

as the pastizzi shop that never sleeps.

be interesting but this train ride

restaurant in the heart of Rabat. It is

This pastizzi shop stays open all night

offers you an informative guided

the perfect place to have a nice relaxing

long at the weekends and closes for

tour of this timeless town, as you

lunch or a quick bite after a long day

only two hours on weekdays. Situated

travel through Rabat and it’s rich

of exploring Rabat. The restaurant is

in Triq San Pawl, this pastizzi shop is

history. The tour begins from the

found nestled in a chapel of the same

rumoured to have have been around

ruins of the Domus Romana and

name in Triq San Pawl and stays open

for more than a 100 years.

lasts for 30 minutes.

till 4:00p.m. every day.

ST PAUL'S CHURCH

ST PAUL'S CATACOMBS

ST DOMINIC CHURCH & CONVENT

One of the most prominent landmarks

Not to be confused with St Paul’s

A little-known tourist and pilgrimage site,

of Rabat, St Paul’s Church was built

Grotto, the Catacombs date back

St Dominic’s Church & Convent deserves a

in the 17 th century to replace an older

more than 1500 years, this site

lot more attention than it currently does.

church which was built in 1538.

serves as the earliest evidence of

You can find one of the major Maltese

You can find St Paul’s Grotto

Christianity in Malta. It is a complex

relics here which is a marble statue of the

underneath the church. St Paul, one

system of over 30 tombs, 20 of

Virgin Mary, shedding tears of blood. It is

of the twelve apostles of Jesus was

which are open to the public. The

believed that this miracle first occurred in

believed to have taken refuge here

site is managed by Heritage Malta

1999. This church has a rich history going

after he was shipwrecked in Malta in

and are open to the public every day

back more than 600 years and was built

the year AD 60.

from 9:00a.m. to 4:30p.m.

by The Dominican Order.

63

64

TOP SPOTS

ISL AND HIGHLIGHTS DESPITE ITS DIMINUTIVE SIZE, THE M ALTESE ARCHIPEL AGO IS BURSTING WITH HISTORIC SITES, IDYLLIC SPOTS, CULTURE AND TRADITION. THE M ALTESE ISL ANDS ARE LIKE NOWHERE ELSE. HERE YOU’LL FIND FOSSIL-STUDDED GEO FORM ATIONS, PREHISTORIC TEMPLES, INTRIGUING DIVING OPPORTUNITIES, AND A RICHLY WOVEN HISTORY OF REM ARK ABLE INTENSIT Y. HERE’S A HANDY GUIDE ON WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR DURING YOUR STAY.

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

THE RED TOWER, MELLIEĦA , MALTA Fort St Agatha, more commonly known as The Red Tower due to its brightly coloured walls, was built in the middle of the 17th century and served as a bastion watchtower in its day. It is also the sixth addition to the Lascaris towers.

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

VALLETTA , MALTA Fresh off the back of its successful stint as Europe's Capital of Culture, Il-Belt as it is colloquially known is full of modern and neoclassical architecture, bars, restaurants and experiences for any traveller.

DINGLI CLIFFS, DINGLI, MALTA A romantic spot where the sun and sky meet and the ever-crisp air grazes against your cheeks. The majestic sight that the cliffs provide gives an unobstructed view of Filfla, a member of the Maltese Islands and a protected location at that.

66

M A LTA E X P AT

EVERY MONTH, WE SIT DOWN WITH A M ALTESE EXPAT LIVING ABROAD. THIS MONTH, WE SPEAK TO COMEDIAN STEVE HILI.

A MALTESE EXPAT WORDS MATTHEW BUMFORD

Q - HI S T E V E, S O T EL L US A BI T A BOU T YOU R SEL F

its debut at this year's Edinburgh fringe. As well as that, I have

Well, I’m a professional comedian and comedy writer and

also been asked to perform in a tour of the UK called 'Never

I've been living in London for around 4 years. I started doing

Mind The Backstop'. It is a tour that a number of professional

stand up in Malta but made the move to the big city in order

European comedians living in Britain are doing over the Brexit

to take my career forward. I still miss Malta though, but I am

period - the tagline is "European Comedians say Goodbye, you

very lucky that I get to come back a couple of times a year to

know, just in case!"

do shows - including my adult pantomime in summer.

Q - YOU H AV E LI V ED AWAY FROM M A LTA FOR FOUR Q - YOU’V E ACT UA LLY BEEN BACK R ECEN TLY

A ND A H A LF Y E A R S - HOW DOES IT FEEL W HEN YOU

H AV EN’T YOU W ITH THE COMEDY K NIGHTS

COME BACK?

TROUPE - HOW DID TH AT GO?

It is home from home. As soon as I land, I am hit by the

It was great fun. Comedy Knights has now become one of the

familiarity of it all. I just know it. It is great. From the moment

biggest Christmas shows on the island. As well as performing

I am at the airport and I start hearing Maltese people talking

in it, I am also one of the writers on the show so it gives me a

(and let's be honest, generally moaning about something or

lot of satisfaction.

other) I can't stop smiling.

Q - A R E THER E A N Y DIFFER ENCES PER FOR MING TO

Q - LONDON’S A PR ET T Y BIG PL ACE BU T W H AT DO

A N AUDIENCE IN M A LTA A ND A BROA D?

YOU MISS MOST FROM M A LTA A ND A R E THER E

Of course, every audience is different, but you learn to adapt.

A N Y A SPECTS OF M A LTESE LIFE OR CULT UR E TH AT

I would say that certain British audiences are slightly more

FOR EIGNER S JUST DON’T ‘GET’ ?

challenging. This is, of course, a massive generalisation but

The kunserva. Tomato paste (and tomatoes full stop) just do

it does sometimes feel that you have to win over audiences

not taste the same! Also nobody appreciates carbs like the

and prove that you are funny, whereas in Malta and indeed in

Maltese, possibly because nobody has got bread as good as us!

other places in Europe, they seem to be on your side from the start. Having said that, there is no better feeling than winning over an audience.

Q - W H AT IS THE M A IN DIFFER ENCE BET W EEN LI V ING IN LONDON A ND M A LTA? My life in London seems to be hurtling at 100mph pretty

Q - A N Y OTHER TOUR S OR SHOWS IN THE PIPELINE?

much all the time. The pace in Malta is a bit slower which is

Yes! I am working on a brand new show which will be making

a good thing. The weather in Malta also goes without saying.

M A LTA E X P AT

For instance, I had to fly back to Malta for a gig last October

Q - FAVOUR ITE TR AV EL DESTINATIONS/FAVOUR ITE

and managed to fit in a swim! Two days before, when I was in

PL ACES IN M A LTA?

London, I had been shopping for thermal underwear!

My favourite travel destinations are Mozambique and New

67

York. Both are pretty diverse places and both are beautiful Q - W H AT M A LTESE THING DO YOU MISS THE MOST

in different ways. In Mozambique the people are warm and

WHEN AWAY?

friendly and in New York the city is full of life and energy.

Because Malta is a small place, I miss going out and knowing that I am going to bump into someone I know. You do not really

In Malta, my favourite places are Valletta, Vittoriosa and

get that experience in a larger city.

Senglea. These are particularly vibrant and beautiful and I recommend anybody to go and get lost in the history and

Q - FIR ST THING YOU DO W HEN YOU GET BACK?

culture of these places.

Whenever I get back the first thing I do is to call my mates and go out for a Cisk to unwind, relax and get back into the Maltese swing. We also like to partake in a pastizz (or two!)

Q - W H AT DO YOU THINK IS THE PERCEPTION OF M A LTA ON THE IN TER NATIONA L STAGE? It seems that a lot of people don’t actually know where Malta

Q - A N Y TIPS YOU C A N SH A R E W HEN FLY ING?

is or that we're part of Spain which is weird or even that we're

I always try to get an aisle seat as I find it more convenient

still part of the British Empire! As we do become more mature

and comfortable. I also recommend to load up on podcasts as

and grow as a country that will change and I do think Malta is

being on a plane for so long is a great opportunity for self-

growing on the International Stage.

improvement or to catch up on things you don’t normally have time for. Also, don’t be afraid to have a chat with the person

And, because I am the first Maltese person that a lot of

sitting next to you! A stranger is a friend you haven’t met yet

people meet, of course people think that everyone looks as

as they say.

good as me!!!

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M A LTA E X P E R I E N C E

MY TIME IN MALTA EEFJE VERMEY IS A ROTTERDAM UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES STUDENT AND DID HER SIX-MONTH INTERNSHIP IN MALTA.

M A LTA E X P E R I E N C E

It’s time to say goodbye to Malta after

your year abroad or an internship is

R EMEMBER YOUR GOA LS

six months. My internship is over and

not your friend. Ed.)

My advice to any one who gets homesick during an internship is

that means that I’m travelling back to The Netherlands and picking up my

By this, I mean, that being in a

always to keep in mind your goals and

daily life.

different country at a young age isn’t

why you took the opportunity in the

easy but you can really grow as a

first place. Whether your internship

I must say, it has been a rollercoaster

person by going out of your comfort

is three months, six months or a year

and it definitely changed my life. I

zone. For me, I conquered my fears

it will definitely pass very quickly so

never regret doing my internship in

through hiking in Għajn Tuffieħa and

make the most of it while you can.

Malta. Being out of your comfort zone

also managed to have my first tattoo.

is sometimes pretty hard but you must

Most probably these are things I would

During my time on the island, I must

embrace the challenge of meeting new

have never done before, but being in

say I had an unforgettable internship

people and being in different place in

this new environment, somehow I

experience where I managed to learn

order to move forward in life.

managed to pluck of the courage and

and do so many different things.

go for it.

For instance, my spontaneous trips around the island were the perfect

FACING CH A L L ENGES HE A D-ON Throwing yourself into the deep end

Now it’s nice to be back in my tiny

opportunity to explore and visit a lot

waiting to see what’s going to happen

village in The Netherlands and

of the beautiful places that the Maltese

next can indeed be exciting. When

reuniting with my loved ones whom

Islands have to offer.

I arrived on the island in August, I

I missed so much while I was away.

had no idea what to expect. Was I

A lot has happened in six months - a

What do I miss the most about Malta?

going to manage to make new friends

friend of mine got a new job, my sister

The things I experienced, the blue

and miss my family for instance? But

became pregnant and a close family

waters, the stunning views and the

fortunately everything went well. I

member got sick.

whole atmosphere of the island. It instilled a sense of rest in my mind and

forged new friendships, my family and best friend came to visit me and I had

All these people I was able to see again

changed my perspectives on a lot of

an amazing time on the island.

and re-engage with. Being away from

different things. Above all, living on the

home makes you realise how hard it is to

island was a magnificent experience.

If I was to give any advice to new

be apart from your loved ones. Of course

arrivals in Malta, especially students

I was homesick at times and there were

The island made me feel relaxed and it

or interns, it would be that is if you

a few moments when I was on the verge

was a magnificent experience.

want to have a memorable experience

of booking a flight back home, but at the

you should do things that may not suit

end of the day I knew I was doing the

I recommend taking the leap of an

you. (I concur. Your comfort zone on

internship for my own benefit.

internship here to anyone.

71

72

BUSINESS

USE OF CRYPTO AND VIRTUAL TOKENS BY MGA LICENSEES

Early last month the Malta Gaming Authority (“MGA”) launched

ties to an individual player, a player’s wallet address must

the first of two phases (“Phase 1” and “Phase 2” respectively) of

form part of that player’s registered identity with an operator,

its much-anticipated sandbox framework (“Sandbox”) for the

withdrawals can only be made from verified wallets from which

acceptance of virtual financial assets (“VFAs”), virtual tokens

deposits would have been made, VFA player liabilities must

(“Tokens”) and the use of distributed ledger technology (“DLT”)

be reported in the monthly player funds report, and when it

by its licensees (“Licensees”).

comes to Tokens these must be converted to fiat currency prior to withdrawal at the same exchange rate at which they were

In Phase 1, open as of 1 January, the MGA will accept applications

acquired by the withdrawing player.

for use of VFAs and Tokens by Licensees. Phase 1 is intended to last 10 months, but the MGA has discretion to extend it further.

The acquisition, exchange or sale of VFAs on a Licensee’s

Phase 2 will be announced at a later stage. In Phase 2 the MGA

platform or through the Licensee’s wallets is not permitted for

will accept applications for the operation of remote gaming

VFAs, but it is for Tokens in a closed loop scenario. It follows

systems using DLT.

that payments deposited in a certain VFA by a player must be returned to that player in the same VFA by the Licensee.

In so far as Phase 1 is concerned, it is important to note that under Maltese law VFAs include several so called

The MGA has updated its Licensee Relationship Management

cryptocurrencies. As a rule, Licensees will be allowed to make

System to allow Licensees and licence applicants to apply for

use of VFAs which satisfy Maltese rules on VFAs, but subject in

approval of VFAs and Tokens as a payment method.

each case to the MGA’s evaluation of the VFA concerned and the Licensee’s preparedness. The MGA says that it will use a risk-

Guidance exists, courtesy of the MGA, but the interplay of this

based approach on a case-by-case basis; guided amongst others

with Maltese law on VFAs as well as other laws, such those on

by the technology being used, security and resources available to

AML, make this a complex area which Licensees and MGA

the Licensee in question.

licence applicants ought to study carefully.

It is advisable for Licensees to carry out the “Financial Instrument Test” set out in Maltese law on every VFA they wish to accept as a means of payment.

James Scicluna is Co-managing Partner of WH Partners. He is Several specific rules apply, including that any digital wallet used

ranked by Chambers & Partners as one of the leading gambling

by a Licensee must generate a wallet address which specifically

lawyers globally. Email: james.scicluna@whpartners.eu

James Scicluna

CO-MANAGING PARTNER WH PARTNERS

TECHNOLOGY

T H E V I D EO GA ME INDUSTRY I N M A LTA WORDS GADGETS

WHEN YOU HEAR THE WORDS ‘GA MES’ AND ‘M ALTA’ TOGETHER, YOU PROBABLY THINK ABOUT THE BOOMING IGA MING INDUSTRY THAT’S SWEEPING ACROSS THE NATION. HOWEVER, IF YOU’RE MORE INTO CONSOLES THAN CASINOS, REST ASSURED.

The Maltese video game industry is growing faster than Super

is a AAA (Triple A) title, meaning it’s at the highest level of

Mario at an all-you-can-eat mushroom buffet. This field is

production value, comparable to Dark Souls or Assassin’s

attracting several of our brightest creative talents, as well as

Creed. It was one of the hottest properties to preview at E3,

expats with a passion for a-gaming-and-sunny weather.

the world’s foremost gaming convention.

Perhaps the biggest name in the local gaming scene is 4A

While this is something we as locals should be very proud

Games, a Ukrainian video game company that relocated

of, it’s not the brainchild of anyone local. However, Anvil

to Malta in 2014. The jewel in the company’s crown is the

Games is a truly Maltese studio. This company was formed

internationally popular Metro franchise, set in a post-

in 2014 by twin brothers and game enthusiasts Julian and

apocalyptic future.

Andrew Farrugia, who together developed the idea for what became their first project: ‘Holdfast: Nations at

This began with ‘Metro 2033’, and was followed by ‘Metro:

War’. This a multiplayer online game, set during the

Last Light’ and ‘Metro Redux’. The upcoming Metro Exodus

Napoleonic era.

73

74

TECHNOLOGY

Given that this is a local product, created by a relatively small

I’d find everything a little overwhelming”, Yasmin told

team, the results are extremely impressive, and the game was

us. “But the course is set up in a way so that students with

listed among US website Steam, list of best 2017 New Releases.

very different levels of experience and skill sets all really feel accommodated.”

But what if you’re not into epic multiplayers? What if you’d like to support our video game industry with a simple mobile

Yasmin makes clear that, while this course does require

game you can play on the bus?

hard work, it isn’t the trudge through dusty textbooks one might associate with academia. It offers practical hands-

If so, give Flying Squirrel Games a try. It’s a small local

on learning and prepped students for getting started in

company based in Paola. They specialise in game apps for

the industry. It’s also jam-packed with social activities.

smartphones. Their most successful game so far is their down-

“We would meet up to play video games, have board

and-dirty racing game ‘Dirt Trackin’’, which ranked in the Top

game nights, use the projector to watch and fan over our

10 charts on the Apple AppStore and the Google Play Store.

favourite series together – it really felt like being part of a super enthusiastic family of nerds.”

For the casual smartphone gamer, Match 3 games are massive. These are tile-matching games such as ‘Candy

The Institute also hosts the hottest gaming event on the

Crush’. In 2015, the Match 3 game ‘Languinis’, created by

island, the Malta Game Jam, which is part of the Global Game

Maltese company VRTron, became the number one word-

Jam tournament. Here, game designers and creatives from all

game in over 100 countries, including the USA and UK.

sorts of fields will race to create games within just 48 hours.

This breakneck race to glory is the perfect place to exercise

Malta seems to be brimming with enthusiastic creative

your skills and make valuable friendships in the gaming

youngsters, eager to break into the industry. One of the

community. You don’t even need to know how to programme

places where they can nurture and develop their talents is

to take part, so long as your bursting with ideas and willing

in the Institute for Digital Games at the University of Malta.

to collaborate.

This offers both an Msc and a PhD. We spoke to graduate Yasmin Cachia about her experience at the course.

We may not be Silicon Valley just yet, but we’re proving ourselves to have the enthusiasm and creativity to blossom

“Now, not initially coming from a Game Developing

into something special. Malta’s video game industry is about

background (B.Psych Hons, represent!), I was worried that

to level up.

iGAMING THE YEAR AHEAD

IL-BIZ ZILL A i G A M I N G S U P P L E M EN T

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CEO Lahcene Merzoug shares how ComeOn! got ahead with Pay N Play®

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Cryptocurrency as a tech trend in iGaming for 2019.

02

FOREWORD

An industry that needs no introduction.

The iGaming industry is expected to continue its trend of rapid growth this year.

In sheer numbers terms, the value of the iGaming market is forecasted to grow to a massive $55 billion worldwide.

To put things into perspective, the iGaming market has nearly doubled in the past 4 years (it has grown by 45% in the past 4 years alone) and contributed up to 12% to Malta’s GDP last year. While oft bandied, this statistic has great meaning.

Because, to Malta, iGaming is more than just numbers.

iGaming’s impact on Malta’s GDP highlights the significance this industry has to the wider Maltese economy as well as continuing to solidify Malta’s position on the European and global stage. iGaming goes beyond the slots and influences tourism, local businesses, developers, printers, restaurants, infrastructure and more. The industry has been able to transform this island and helped boost industries and macro-economies across the country.

It is for these reasons, coupled with a clear dedication to the industry, that Malta continues to shine like a diamond in the Med for the industry. Because Malta has shown, at the global level, what a clear focus and a solid commitment to iGaming can achieve.

Following on from a successful 2018 and the implementation of new regulation to strengthen the industry as a whole, 2019 has much a lot in store for iGaming. With regards to new technologies especially, it is an exciting time to be involved in iGaming and it promises to be another year of growth for iGaming in Malta.

We will take a look at a few of these emerging technologies and how they will integrate with iGaming in Malta and beyond. It is exciting to see how industries such as Virtual Reality or crypto currencies will integrate with iGaming.

This mixture of new and (relatively speaking) old is testament to iGaming’s willingness and desire to grow and innovate and so 2019 promises to be an exiting year indeed.

Happy gaming.

Matthew

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trustly

PAY N PL AY ® M AKES TRANSAC TIONS SAFER, BOTH FOR COMEON! AND OUR PL AYERS

How ComeOn! keeps Gaming Cutting-Edge.

CEO L AHCENE MERZOUG DISCUSSES H O W PAY N P L AY ® H A S C O N T R I B U T E D TO COMEON!’ S IMPRESSIVE GROW TH I N 2 0 1 8 A N D H O W T H E C O M PA N Y B AT T L E S T O S TAY O N T H E C U T T I N G E D G E O F I N N O VAT I O N .

Lahcene Merzoug joined ComeOn! as CEO in 2018, having previously worked in marketing and business development at a handful of other gaming companies. Since then, Merzoug has helped drive remarkable growth for the company, balancing risk-taking with tried and true growth tactics. We caught up with Merzoug to learn more about his experience at ComeOn! and how Trustly’s Pay N Play® product has specifically contributed to its success.

YOU’VE BEEN IN THE GAMING INDUSTRY FOR MANY YEARS, FIRST WORKING AS A CMO FOR SEVERAL TOP BRANDS AND THEN MOVING TO CEO AT COMEON! WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN GOING FROM CMO TO CEO?

There were many new challenges as a CEO and I think that was one of the main reasons I took the job. I really thrive on challenges because they sometimes push me to be outside my comfort zone and to evolve, which gives me a lot of new energy. Also, ComeOn! is a very entrepreneurial company, which suits me very well, having been an entrepreneur for almost 20 years when I lived in Stockholm, Sweden.

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WHEN YOU JOINED COMEON!, THERE WERE ALREADY SEVERAL BRANDS USING PAY N PLAY®: SNABBARE, NOPEAMPI, HA JPER AND COMEON! GUEST. HOW FAMILIAR YOU WERE WITH THE PAY N PLAY® TECHNOLOGY AT THAT TIME AND WHAT WERE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THIS INNOVATION IN THE GAMING INDUSTRY?

I thought Pay N Play® was a good innovation from the start and its timing was ideal. We know that time is a precious commodity for a lot of us in general, and it feels more and more outdated to ask customers to scan and take photos of documents, when it can all be done in a more frictionless way.

The Pay N Play® innovation is especially handy when you look at regulatory markets, like in Sweden, for example. Instead of forcing customers to undergo a lengthy KYC process, they can instead register it in a matter of minutes. It’s also important to point out that Pay N Play® makes transactions safer, both for ComeOn! and our players. A lot of previous issues with fraud and stolen personal details were eliminated by integrating the technology.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT WAYS IN WHICH YOU’VE CHOSEN TO INTEGRATE TRUSTLY?

We have integrated all three of Trustly’s products: Pay N Play®, One-Click payments, and Play as Guest. The ComeOn! portfolio contains more than 20 brands and we have chosen different integration solutions depending on the brand. So some of the new brands have been launched using only the pure version of Pay N Play. ComeOn! Play as a Guest, integrated with our flagship brand, ComeOn!, using a hybrid version of Pay N Play®.

The One-Click product was also added to a few of the other existing brands to offer a hybrid version of the product.

WHAT SORT OF RESULTS HAVE YOU SEEN FROM YOUR BRANDS? WHICH IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMS BEST?

I think that the pure version of Pay N Play® works best for us because when you implement the guest model, for example, it does cannibalize a bit of the database. It’s still a good add-on and a good feature to offer players, but isn’t as strong in terms of acquisition and conversion.

COMEON! ONLINE GAMING REVENUES GREW 11% IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2018, RIGHT AFTER L AUNCHING SNABBARE, YOUR FIRST PAY N PL AY® CASINO IN SWEDEN. HOW, IF AT ALL , HAS GOING LIVE WITH PAY N PL AY® AFFECTED YOUR STOCK PRICE? In Q3 of 2018, we had 63% growth and in general, 2018 was a great year. The last quarter has shown huge growth and at the same

05

time, we are maintaining one of the best margins in the industry.

Our success depends on a lot of factors. Obviously we can attribute a lot of it to the amazing people working here. We have many extremely talented people working under one roof — I dare to say that no other company gets so much done with so few people.

Another factor is our multi-brand strategy and the branding of our 20+ brands. No matter what type of player you are or what type of brand you like, you can always find something that speaks to you in the ComeOn! portfolio. We are also extremely good at executing smart marketing initiatives. We are a lean organization that moves quickly, which gives us an edge when opportunities arise. And Pay N Play® is a great example of one of those opportunities on which we acted quickly and seen strong success as a result.

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES AND THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT A CEO NEEDS TO WEIGH WHEN LAUNCHING AN INNOVATIVE PRODUCT IN THE INDUSTRY? HOW DO YOU BALANCE RISK-TAKING WITH DATA ANALYSIS WHEN YOU MAKE DECISIONS?

There are always some risks, but one of the many benefits of the ComeOn! multi-brand strategy is that we can test different strategies or innovations on a smaller scale, sometimes with just one of our brands to start. Then if we can clearly see the value, we are very quick to ramp up and implement those innovations across the board.

THERE’S A LOT OF BUZZ AROUND INNOVATION IN THE GAMING INDUSTRY RIGHT NOW. HOW DO YOU SEE THE GAMING INDUSTRY EVOLVING IN THE NEXT 5 OR 10 YEARS? DO YOU BELIEVE BLOCKCHAIN, VR AND AI WILL MAKE AN TRUE IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY?

This industry needs to stay on top of innovation to not lose momentum. We will see a lot of innovations in all areas of our industry and have been for a while. The tricky part for the operators will always be to identify which ones to focus on.

ComeOn! has entire teams dedicated to doing just that, so we constantly analyzing all opportunities.

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DON'T GA MBLE WITH YO U R B U S I N E S S iGAMING • CORPORATE • TA X • ACCOUNTING • LEGAL • ADVISORY • BLOCKCHAIN • CRYPTOCURRENCY

LICENCING WITH A DIFFERENCE It seems like yesterday, but it has been almost 6 months since the much-awaited MGA legal overhaul was rolled out.

This has been over long due with most operators eagerly waiting for the final product which was launched on the 1st of August 2018.

One cannot go without mentioning the key components which were introduced. Some aspects of the new law were welcomed more than others but as an advisor y company within this industr y we embraced most of these new introductions such as the consolidation of the t ype of licenses, the recognition of other licenses from different jurisdictions, segregation of the key official role and financial incentives for start-ups.

Together with our colleagues and clients we experienced a ver y ad vant age ous feat ure w hich include s t he radic al re duc t ion in t ime to go to mar ke t of game s and ot her t ime s ensi t i ve cr i t ic al change s re quire d. T he s e include t he te dious proce s s e s pre v iousl y implemente d by t he MG A , w hereby pr ior approval to launch ne w game s was re quire d. Nowaday s , i t is a ver y simple proce s s and an operator may go li ve w i t h onl y a not i f ic at ion to t he MG A . A not her ne w feat ure w hich our client s are lauding abou t is w hen t here is t he ne cessit y for a change within a company struc ture and/or movement of shareholding which can now be implemented through a notification to the MGA as well.

The previous law implied restrictions on B2B licensees from jurisdictions other than that of Malta not to offer their ser vices to MGA B2Cs licensees unless they acquire a license from the MG A themselves. Thank fully, with the introduc tion of a recognition notice this is now a possible scenario. Fur thermore, a B2B MG A licensed operator may of fer their ser vice to other B2Bs licensed elsewhere which in turn may offer their ser vices within regulated and nonregulated markets.

The MGA had no intention to issue a new legal framework and let it settle in without coming up with something new.

On the 1st of Januar y they started accepting applications for all those businesses interested to implement a DLT (Distributed Ledger Technolog y) such as blockchain setup and the introduction of cr yptocurrencies as part of their currency offering within a sandbox legal framework and a number of restrictions.

At IGamingAdvisors we have always provided professional advice for all our clients and presented creative ideas for better operation and compliance within the parameters of any applicable law. Offering advice to a number of highprofile companies gives us the strength and willingness to be part of the success stor y of this flourishing industr y. contact@igamingadvisors.com

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Q&A WITH WITH VIDEOSLOTS’S CMO

With the new year in full swing, what’s first on the agenda?

Currently our main focus is on ICE, which is the Gaming industry's biggest conference on the calendar, and LAC, which is when the affiliate side of our business gets to meet, greet and continue to build their contacts. Both expos give Videoslots the chance to demonstrate just what we have achieved already and what our targets are for 2019. It also gives members of our team the chance to meet potential new partners, such as providers and affiliates. We will be sending a big team over to London for the events and anybody wishing to meet the team can do so at stand E20 at the London Affiliate Conference.

Are there any key markets you particularly expect to expand in 2019?

We are always looking to expand into new and regulated markets, with Denmark, Spain, Italy and other European jurisdictions all on our agenda this year as we look to expand our operation... We would be interested to expand into Asia as well. We already boast more than 20 different nationalities in our office and look forward to increase that number in 2019.

How will you continue to cope with the growth of Videoslots?

It’s important that we continue to employ the most talented and progressionhungry professionals. We dedicate a lot of time, effort and resources into making Videoslots an attractive place to work. We offer some of the best benefits available to candidates. We also host themed monthly events at leading venues, with the majority family inclusive – a huge part of our culture at Videoslots.

What was your standout moment of 2018?

There were lots of reasons to be proud of what Videoslots achieved last year.

Both personally and as a business, with the whole team excelling and helping the brand continue to grow. It was a year in which we strived to continue to give our players the industry’s largest portfolio of games and we achieved that by going live with our 3000th game. That really did give us a reason to celebrate and the whole Videoslots team made the most of it. However, it’s important to keep striving forward and we will be pushing just as hard to expand as a business as we bid to stay one step ahead of our rivals.

Videoslots prides itself on innovation, how will you be demonstrating that this year?

Innovation is the key to our business. We know very well that we need to offer the best product and gamification tools possible if we want to lead the competition and we are working very hard to achieve that. One project we are very proud of is Clash of Spins, which gives players the chance to compete against other Videoslots’ players and claim rewards. Players can track their position on the leader-board during active clashes when playing their favourite slot, with points awarded to players staking between €0.20 and €2.00 per spin.

This year we are also very excited to go live with the ‘’Wheel of Jackpots’’.

It allows players to win rewards on each spin but most importantly the chance to win ‘’Jackpots’’ by simply playing different slots on site and completing different achievements during their game play. Such innovations always help us to get new players on our site as well as keeping existing players engaged.

Videoslots

www.videoslotscareers.com www.videoslots.com |

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

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11

T H E PAY M E N T C O M PA N Y P O W E R I N G PAY N P L AY® Trustly is a FinTech company that makes online banking payments fast, simple and secure. It offers instant deposits and withdrawals to players in 29 European countries. Trustly's latest innovation, Pay N Play®, lets players start playing their favourite games right away with one quick deposit from their online bank. Today Pay N Play® powers some of the industry’s leading brands, including Ninjacasino, Snabbare, and SpeedyCasino.

Visit paynplay.com for more info.

Vasilije Lekovic Director of Gaming Accounts | Trustly Pay N Play®

vasilije.lekovic@trustly.com

iGaming: Trends To Watch Out For. WORDS ABHISHEK CHATTERJEE

iGaming has long been known as an industry that is not afraid to innovate. From security to user experience, iGaming has always been about innovation and making things better for all participants and stakeholders.

This year is no exception.

Here are the trends that we expect to see in 2019 based on the technology trends we have seen so far in iGaming.

Virtual Reality Virtual Reality is growing rapidly for video games.

Companies like Vive are fine-tuning eye-tracking technology to make in-game experience smoother and more interactive.

From large-scale players like Microsoft to smaller independent studios and startups, companies are innovating in hardware that will transform the user experience which will benefit not only iGaming as an industry but also its stakeholders. Companies that are willing to grasp at this innovation and implement it as part of their offering are the ones that will succeed.

You can expect to see innovations that allow the player to move from one table to another, see other players and interact with the dealers and other players just like in a regular casino, but this time in a VR setting. Imagine the possibility of feeling things like cards or making ‘eye contact’ with other players and truly feel a part of the game.

Several large online casinos like Slots Millions and Mr Green are already offering their users VR options. It will be fascinating to see how players react to these VR options as more companies begin to do the same.

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malta

Expansion of Mobile Gambling.

60%

OF USERS ON THE INTERNE T ACCESS IG A MING FROMMOBILE DEVICES AND T H AT N U M B E R I S H I G H E R I N DE VELOPING COUNTRIES .

IN EUROPE , THE GA MBLING RE VENUE FROM M O B I L E D E V I C E S H A S A L R E A DY C R O S S E D 5 0 % OF THE INDUSTRY SHARE. MORE AND MORE C O M PA N I E S A R E N O W O P T I M I S I N G T H E I R W E B S I T E S T O B E M O R E M O B I L E F R I E N D LY.

malta

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Crypto Currency in iGaming.

Last year Malta completely revamped its iGaming regulations allowing it to become one of the few countries to have embraced Distributed Ledger technology.

The Malta Gaming Authority has started inviting companies to be part of a sandbox initiative to begin using Distributed Ledger Technology and Blockchain technology since January 1st this year.

The Malta Gaming Authority will maintain an electronic ledger and allow iGaming companies to let their users make use of virtual tokens and Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs).

This will allow companies to raise money through virtual currencies and allow users to possibly gamble using virtual currencies.

This has and will continue to impact the iGaming industry postively and will allow the industry to possibly offer an experience which is almost indistinguishable from an experience in a real casino.

It is clearly early days for this industry and one only needs to look at the volatility of the cryptocurrency market in the past year to see that it might not be easy to implement this into iGaming.

However, the intent is there and again, Malta is showing its willingness to innovate and to be a pioneer in new and exciting technologies.

F ooD FoR TH ouGHT

FOOD AND DRINK

MoNTHLY RECIPE WE BRING YOU THE BEST THAT THE MALTESE KITCHEN HAS TO OFFER WITH RECIPES INSPIRED BY THE MEDITERRANEAN AND EUROPEAN CUISINE - ITS HERITAGE AND ITS TERRITORY.

WINTER WARMER!

Chef Joe Vella A well-known Maltese culinary personality. He has had a distinguished career on the restaurant scene in Malta and has seen his recipes published in a range of publications.

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FOOD AND DRINK

The sweetness of Maltese honey combines with the tang of capers to transform a schnitzel into a mouthwatering Mediterranean meal. The freshness of lemon brings a freshness to the dish and is a nod to the upcoming spring.

CHICKEN SCHNITZEL WITH C APERS AND LEMON INGREDIENTS 4 Chicken Breasts 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Zest of lemon and 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon Maltese Honey 2 tablespoons Plain Flour 2 eggs, beaten 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs Rosemary, 1 tablespoon, chopped Fresh Thyme, 1 tablespoon, chopped 2 tablespoons Olive Oil 1 tablespoon capers 1 spoon, butter Parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped METHOD Place the chicken breasts onto a chopping board and bash them into escalopes (about 1cm thick). Mix the mustard, honey and lemon zest together in a bowl and brush this mixture over the chicken making sure it is well covered.

In separate bowls place the flour, breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and beaten eggs then dip the covered chicken first into the flour to coat, then into the egg mixture and lastly into the breadcrumb/herb mixture. Next heat the oil in a frying pan and lightly fry the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove the cooked schnitzels from the pan, pat dry and plate up and then add the butter to the pan and, when it begins to foam, add the capers, chopped parsley and lemon juice. Spoon this mixture on top of the escalopes and serve immediately.

This dish works well with a crisp side salad of mixed leaves, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

C A PER S Wild capers are native to Malta and are commonly found throughout much of Mediterranean cooking although they can also be found elsewhere.

Often overlooked by many, these pickled, olivelike. salty. unripened flower buds offer a wealth of flavour to a range of dishes. In Malta the caper plant (kappara in Maltese) can be found in the wild, in rocky outcrops and throughout the countryside.

The plants are well-suited to the hot and dry Mediterranean weather and, when in blossom, produce flowers with wide white petals and purple stamens which are quite beautiful. It is the unripened buds which are harvested and pickled to give us the capers we know best in dishes today.

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

RestauraNt & BaR GuiDE

MARSAXLOKK

CAPO MULINI RISTORANTE +356 9939 3996

Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk

info@capomulini.eu

www.capomulini.eu

/CapoMuliniMalta

Capo Mulini restaurant situated in the small and picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk and is located in the South Eastern part of Malta, specialises in fresh fish, meat and pasta while also offering delicious brick oven pizza. We select our food and its source carefully to provide an exquisite dining experience. Finished to high standards, Capo Mulini caters for everyone’s needs including all dietary requirements. We are ready to serve you…

Come and join us at Capo Mulini.

MDINA

THE MEDINA MALTESE CUISINE RESTAURANT Holy Cross Street, Mdina +356 2145 4004

info@xaracollection.com

/themedinarestaurant

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

MOSTA

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

www.tamarija.com

Constitution Street, Mosta

info@tamarija.com

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

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

SLIEMA

HAMMETT'S GASTRO BAR +356 2134 1116

33/34 Tigne Sea Front, Tas-Sliema

www.hammettsgastrobar.com

Overlooking the beautiful Marsamxett Harbour, Hammett’s Gastro Bar presents the perfect social dining experience with a wildly innovative plates-to-share concept and an extensive list of unique gourmet cocktails. Gastronomers can expect to experience culinary influences, ingredients and imaginative cooking techniques from all corners of the world and share a variety of complementing dishes in one sitting. Directed by 24-time award winning Chef and restauranteur Chris Hammett, Hammett’s Gastro Bar has ranked first in its category for food, service, ambience and overall rating by the island’s most credible restaurant survey, the Definitively Good Guide and is one of three restaurants and venues operated by the local, award winning Hammett’s Collection.

TA’ KOLINA

151, Tower Road, Sliema

+356 2133 5106

info@takolina.mt

www.takolina.mt

Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been open since 1974. Ta’ Kolina is a typical Maltese restaurant with its traditional Maltese interior and décor. A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of starter, main dish, dessert and coffee for €22 per person. There is also 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 12:00 – 22:30hrs.

TA’ KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO +356 2133 7367

80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema

+356 9984 7713

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

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

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

ST JULIAN’S

WATERBISCUIT

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

+356 2376 2225 malta.fnb@ihg.com malta.intercontinental.com/gastronomy/waterbiscuit Waterbiscuit offers a gastronomic experience to delight all with a charming and contemporary atmosphere and enthusiastically accomplished cuisine, using the freshest Mediterranean ingredients. Meanwhile, at the Waterbiscuit Bar dining may be enjoyed throughout the day, though ultimately the cocktails enjoy the limelight and each creation seeks to exceed the wildest expectations.

DRAGONARA CASINO BRASSERIE Dragonara Palace, Dragonara Road, St Julian's +356 2209 2111

brasserie@dragonaracasino.com

www.dragonaracasino.com/brasserie.html Nested within the Dragonara Palace in St. Julian's, the Brassiere offers a vast selection of meat, fish and pasta dishes headed by Italian Chef Claudio Schiavone who brings to the table a variety of signature dishes to tantalise the palate of diners seeking an exquisite dining experience. Open Everyday for Lunch & Dinner.

VALLETTA

PORTICELLO 3, Boat Street, Marsamxett, Valletta +356 7723 5548

info@porticellomalta.eu

www.porticellomalta.com

Porticello restaurant, situated in Malta’s capital city Valletta, specialises in Fresh Fish and seafood while also caters to a variety of other mouth-watering dishes, to suit each and every customer. We select our food and its source carefully to provide an exquisite dining experience. Situated close to the water’s edge, Porticello offers a breath-taking view suitable for a romantic dinner for two or for an impeccable dinner amongst friends. Our exceptionally well-trained staff is available to address each and every need including all dietary requirements. So, if you’re looking for a remarkable dining experience… we’ve got a table for you at Porticello.

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EVENTS & NEWS

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

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

AROUND 2.6 MILLION TOURISTS VISIT MALTA IN 2018 There are not many destinations which can pride themselves with nine successive years of tourism growth, the bulk of which were registered over the most recent two years of a lengthy upward trend. Sustained growth spanning almost a decade generally starts to eventually level off but not in the case of Malta’s tourism performance where the years 2017 and 2018 registered a signicant increase in visitors.

This is ample proof that Malta’s tourism potential and strategy continues to be strong as the international market responds positively to Government and stakeholder efforts to reposition Malta as a year-round destination of choice featuring a wide range of events, attractions and reasons to visit for all age groups.

During 2018, tourism to Malta, Gozo and Comino peaked at a new record high and reached 2.6 million tourists from the 2.3 million registered in the previous year.

This type of performance is unprecedented in a number of ways. It has seen the gradual growth scenarios of previous years accelerate significantly during 2017 and 2018 whilst continuing to underpin Malta’s over-performance of global, European and Mediterranean average growth rates yet again. Formerly a destination which, at best, hoped to start attracting business after its larger competitors filled up, Malta has now changed into one which is a primary destination of first choice growing at a higher rate than most of its competitors.

Maltese tourism is growing via a range of indicators. Apart from volume increases in the number of tourists, the number of overnight stays generated by tourists are also growing, reaching around 18.5 million nights last year. Hotel occupancies continue to be high during all seasons whilst other non-collective forms of tourism accommodation also attract increased guest volumes.

Commenting on this achievement, Minister for Tourism Konrad Mizzi said: “The seasonality aspect and the challenges associated with it are being successfully addressed as evidenced by the fact that during the year under review, the low-season months of November to March grew by 17.4% while the peak months April to October increased by 14.2% . Reduced seasonality makes tourism operations more profitable leading to strong reinvestment in line with Government policy which seeks to upgrade Malta’s overall tourism offer through the provision of modernised facilities, attractions and an infrastructure to match.”

The Minister added: “Malta’s success in sustaining such a positive tourism performance was strongly attributable to the strong expansion in its air connectivity. During 2018 Malta continued to improve its airline connectivity by further developing its route network with the introduction of no less than 22 additional routes operated by 6 different airlines in 13 countries. Our national airline Air Malta was one of the major contributors to this growth, introducing more than one in three of these new routes.”

A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA IS THE FIRST AIRLINE TO LAND AN AIRBUS A320NEO AT FLORENCE PERETOLA AIRPORT TO FLY THE FIORENTINA FOOTBALL TEAM TO MALTA from the Florence Airport Authority prior to be able to fly and operate into this airport.

This achievement was also noted by Airbus, the manufacturers of the A320neo, who have written to Air Malta to congratulate the airline on being the first airline to operate with this type of aircraft into Florence airport. The Fiorentina team’s visit in Malta generated a lot of enthusiasm amongst the Viola Club Malta supporters and football lovers all over the islands and culminated in a triangular tournament with Maltese Premier League sides Hibernians and Gżira United.

Air Malta has started the New Year on a high note by being the first airline to land an Airbus A320neo at Florence’s Peretola airport and having the honour of hosting on board the Italian Serie A football team, Fiorentina.

This special flight to and from Florence’s airport was made possible after technical studies were undertaken by Air Malta’s Flight Operations team. As no A320neo has ever operated into Florence, the team, together with the operating crew, had to conduct calculations and assessments and seek approval

Whilst Europe was experiencing a very cold spell with heavy snow falls in many cities, the team was greeted with blue skies throughout their stay on the Maltese Islands.

This permitted the club to undergo intensive training at the Malta Football Association’s Training Grounds in Ta’ Qali.

Various international football clubs are increasingly choosing Malta for their mid-season training camps since the islands offer great training facilities, local support, ancillary services, flight connections and a temperate climate.

AWARD-WINNING UK HOLIDAY SPECIALIST HOSTS MALTA VISIT Jessica Lukeba, Cyplon’s Malta Specialist, stated that in her opinion Sliema is the ideal base for exploring Malta, as it is conveniently located between the grand capital Valletta and the stunning coastal resorts of St Julian’s Bay. On the other hand Louis McDonagh, Cyplon’s Business Development Manager was captivated by the rural setting of Gozo and in his own words said, "the place is almost untouched by urban development".

Angela Eleftheriou, Cyplon’s Leading Malta Specialist

A

commented: “This was the first time I travelled with Air ward-winning UK-based luxury holiday specialists,

Malta. The staff were extremely friendly, cooperative, helpful

Cyplon Holidays, hosted a familiarisation trip to

and accommodating. Our trip affirmed our strong working

Malta for eleven top selling agents. The agents were

relationships and partnerships, signifying why Malta is a

invited to visit and explore the Maltese Islands and experience

diverse island for anyone looking to explore historical riches,

first-hand the islands’ cultural wonders and traditions. The

cultural glees and new adventures, nestled in the inviting

group also ventured out to Malta’s sister Island of Gozo,

waters of the Mediterranean Sea.”

renowned for its stunning sandy beaches, scuba diving experiences and historic megalithic temples.

The trip was supported by Air Malta and forms part of the airline’s drive and efforts to attract more and more visitors to

The group was truly impressed by what the Islands have to offer.

the Maltese Islands.

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA UPGRADES IN-FLIGHT SERVICE WITH THE NEW SKY BOUTIQUE SALES A new selection of new fresh food items, delicious snacks,

we are yet again improving the level of quality of the products

selected hot and cold drinks, trendy beauty products

and selection. We look forward to continue offering our

including perfumes and a number of gadgets is available for

customers an enjoyable experience whilst flying Air Malta.”

sale on-board Air Malta flights.

Air Malta’s Chief Commercial Officer Paul Sies said: “We Over 100 items are now available on-board as part of the new

are currently finalising a new business class service concept

upgraded in-flight product. These are further changes to the

that will be launched very soon. This upgrade will include a

airline’s inflight product following the rollout of a revamped

new gourmet inflight menu that will remain complimentary

service last year. These new changes have been done following

for our business class customers. After the success of our

feedback received from the airline’s customers.

improved economy class we want to create a better experience for our business class travellers.”

Speaking about this upgrade Air Malta’s Chief Executive Capt.

Clifford Chetcuti remarked: “We are happy to note that our new buy on board selection and service introduced this year has been well received by our passengers. With this upgrade

Cover of the new menu and shop brochure.

The new selection of fresh food items.

From left: The ham and cheese brioche, the mozzarella tomato and pesto panino, the roasted vegetable focaccia and the chicken Caesar style sandwich.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN GOZO IN WINTER ARE YOU LO OKING FOR A COS Y WINTER HOLIDAY ?

The Maltese Islands, with their mild sunny winters, are the place to be for anyone wanting to chase a bit of elusive winter sun! If you’re booking your Air Malta flights to Malta this winter, you should definitely dedicate a day to explore Gozo, full of things to see and do also during the winter months.

Follow our tips below on how to best spend one day in Gozo in winter to get a taste of everything that the sister island has to offer!

ĊIT TA DELL A Located in Gozo’s capital city of Victoria, Ċittadella is an ancient fortified city, mesmerizing the thousands of tourists who choose to visit it each year.

This place is perfect for those cosy winter days where all you feel like doing is take a nice walk around a city full of history and culture, while the winter sun kisses your cheeks. Dive deeply into Gozo’s older days with a visit to the Folklore Museum, the Museum of Archaeology and Gozo’s old prisons.

While there, make sure to also dedicate some time inside of Gozo’s Baroque-styled Cathedral, take a stroll along the Citadel’s Ditch and finally soak up the stunning panoramic views from the top of the city’s fortifications.

Ċittadella

TA’ PINU CHURCH One of the most famous churches in Gozo is Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary.

This beautiful church is located near Għarb and it guarantees a special experience for anyone visiting it. Upon arriving on site, you’ll be pleasantly greeted with the intricate mosaics in the square surrounding it and as you make your way inside the church, you’ll be impressed by its fine interior.

Pay a visit to its museum to discover fascinating tales of miracles that blessed the Gozitan community through the years. Different musical performances are also performed at this location, all year round.

Ta' Pinu Church

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

ĠGA N TIJA TEMPLES What is a visit to Gozo without a visit to its pre-historic temples of Ġgantija? Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, these temples are even older than England’s Stonehenge and Egypt’s Pyramids, having been built between 3600 and 3200 B.C. The name “Ġgantija” derives from the Maltese word of “ġgant” which means “giant” due to the massive size of these stones. It is believed that only a race of giants could have been responsible

Ġgantija Temples

for such impressive constructions.

Get ready for a unique experience as you make your way through impressive megalithic stones, doorways and altars.

The Interpretation Centre will help you get to know better the old inhabitants of these temples with its display of remains of all kinds.

QUA D BIKE TOUR The best thing about Gozo is that at almost any time of the year, you can enjoy the great outdoors through a variety of activities.

If you consider yourself an adventure seeker then a quad bike

Quad Bike Tour

tour could be the perfect option for you. A full-day quad tour will give you the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Gozo, even in the middle of winter!

HIKING THE COUN TRYSIDE Alternatively, hiking Gozo’s charming countryside is another great option for things to do during the winter season in Gozo. After all, the island only covers 67 square kilometres and lucky for you, there are several trails to follow, rewarding you with the most breath-taking of views. Choose amongst coastal, countryside, historical or cultural trails- there is something for everyone!

A not-to-be-missed spot during your hike is Wied il-Għasri on Gozo’s Northern Coast, a natural creek standing in between impressive cliff formations with crystal clear waters. Other sought-after spots in the North are Calypso Cave and Għar Mixta, elevated on the left and right-hand side of Gozo’s golden Ramla Bay respectively. Why not include Gozo’s remarkable Ta’ Ċenc Cliffs on the Southern Coast in your hike too?

Give this island a go and get ready for some wonderful winter moments during your holidays in Malta!

Source: Air Malta’s Blog www.airmalta.com/destinations/malta/blog

Hiking the Countryside

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO

Pauline Coleiro REGIONAL MARKET SPECIALIST

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING

WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?

WITH AIR MALTA?

The Green Mile and a very close second is The Sixth

31 years.

Sense. I cry my eyes out every time.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOUR JOB?

WHAT KIND OF MUSIC DO YOU LIKE TO FOLLOW?

Challenging, interesting and fast-paced.

I follow all types of music, from RnB to rock to classical music, depending on my mood.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF YOUR JOB?

My job is to sell Air Malta’s services to tour operators

WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION AND WHY?

and travel agents and negotiate competitive deals with

Every country has its own allure but perhaps Italy is my

them to sell Malta as a destination. With hundreds

favourite. It ticks all the boxes, as to scenery, history,

of destinations and airlines to choose from one needs

art and obviously its cuisine.

to make it enticing enough. My biggest challenge is to look for new opportunities to sell and promote the airline and the islands whilst supporting existing customers at the same time.

DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES?

I love taking long walks, camping, reading, and researching Maltese history.

WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED MALTESE DISH?

Oven baked Maccaroni. I love the crunchy ones on top. They remind me of when I was a child and used to go to my grandmother‘s house for Sunday lunch and she would serve piping hot Maccaroni that would have been baked at the bakery just round the corner from her house.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SPOTS AND TIPS FOR ANYONE VISITING MALTA?

I love Rabat and the Mġarr area. There are some beautiful walks in that part of Malta.

However my favourite spot are the three cities, especially Birgu also known as Città Vittoriosa.

Birgu is a very old locality with its origins reaching back to medieval times. The city served as the base of the Order of Saint John before Valletta was built. Walking around the winding streets and alleyways at night takes you back in time with each pallazzo and house having a thousand stories to tell especially for their roles in the Great Siege of Malta of 1565.

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FLIGHT INFO

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

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

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

Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

SMOKING

Alcohol consumed at high altitude can have a stronger effect than usual. Cabin crew are legally empowered to refuse serving any alcohol to an intoxicated passenger and to anyone under the age of 18. In extreme cases, crew may also temporarily confiscate the passenger‘s own drinks so that the passenger 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. But 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.

INSERT TEXT HERE

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

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AIR MALTA FLEET

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

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

CARRY MORE WITH YOU

AIRBUS 319

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

QTY: 1 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 141 ENGINES: CFM56-5B6/P MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 73.5 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 33.84M

FLY IN COMFORT Enhance your comfort with extra legroom during your flight.

This option gives you more space to relax in preparation for your trip. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/services-by-airmalta/seat-selection or more information.

WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH RANGE: 4,815 KM

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

AIRBUS 320 GROUPS We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than 10 adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you can’t get anywhere else. Email groups@airmalta.com for more information.

QTY: 8 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168/180 ENGINES: IAE V2500 / CFM56-5B4/P / CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 77.0 METRIC TONS

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

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

OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 34.1M - 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH - 840 KPH RANGE: 4,055 KM - 6300 KM

DESTINATION INFORMATION

v

AIR MALTA DIRECT FLIGHTS AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Amsterdam 4 Berlin 2 Brussels 6 Cagliari 2 Catania 10 2 Düsseldorf Frankfurt 5 Hamburg 1 1 Kiev London Gatwick 5 14 London Heathrow London Southend 3 Leipzig 1

IRAN

• Abu Dhabi

AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Lisbon 1 Milan 5 1 Moscow Munich 10 Palermo 2 Paris Charles de Gaulle 7 4 Paris Orly Rome 10 2 Tel Aviv Tunis 2 Vienna 7 6 Zurich

OMAN

SAUDI ARABIA

INTRA-EUROPEAN FLIGHTS Catania - London Southend

2

Cagliari - London Gatwick

2

CODE-SHARED ROUTES • BRISBANE

ETIHAD AIRWAYS Abu Dhabi

Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney

australia

• Sydney

• Melbourne

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

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

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

BRUSSELS AIRLINES Brussels Copenhagen

via Catania via Brussels

CZECH AIRLINES Prague

• Perth

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES Zurich

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

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

AUSTRIAN AIRLINES

australia

EMIRATES Larnaca

AIRBALTIC Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Tallinn Vilnius Vilnius

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

Budapest Otopeni (Buc) Prague Sofia Warsaw Tel Aviv

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

AIR ITALY Olbia

TURKISH AIRLINES Istanbul

via Rome

10 8

ELEC TRONIC DE VICE INFO

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

NON-TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

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

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

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

L APTOPS AND NOTEBOOKS

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT USE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES?

Such devices may be used during boarding and during flight but not during taxi, take-off and landing.

Any built-in data connectivity such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi must be disabled.

These devices must be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing since they could hinder an emergency evacuation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHASE

Boarding

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

LARGER PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

WI-FI, TEXT & PHONE CALL FUNCTIONS

YES

YES

YES

YES

instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

YES

YES

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

NO

NO

NO

Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

Cruise

YES

YES

YES

NO

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

NO

YES

NO

Landing

YES

NO

YES

NO

Taxi to Stand

YES

NO

YES

YES

Extended Ground Delay (when

Circa 10 minutes to landing

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

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