Il-Bizzilla, October 2020

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

# 94 O C T O B E R 2 02 0

10 Discover the delights of Dingli.

48 The olive harvest, Malta's liquid gold.

85

In-flight food menu and boutique shopping guide inside.

BOV PERSONAL PENSION PLAN

PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR RETIREMENT You can still enjoy today’s lifestyle after retirement. As little as €40 monthly can give you the peace of mind you need when you retire.

Talk to us | 2131 2020 | bov.com Investment returns in the pension fund can go down as well as up and past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance. Changes in the rate of exchange currencies may also affect the value of your investments.

This product is issued by MAPFRE MSV life p.l.c. Bank of Valletta p.l.c. with registered office 58, Triq San Żakkarija, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1130 is an enrolled Tied Insurance Intermediary under the Insurance Distribution Act 2006 for MAPFRE MSV Life p.l.c. and is regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority.

contents 10

22

8

34

MALTA & GOZO IN NUMBERS

AIR MALTA DESTINATION: TIVOLI, A DAY TRIP FROM ROME

Facts and figures about the Maltese Islands.

Just a stone’s throw away from the Italian capital, is the ancient town of Tivoli.

10

38

A STROLL AT SUNDOWN

SPRING CLEANING

There’s more to what meets the eye in this rural Maltese village of Dingli.

How sustainable soaps are providing a lifeline for survivors of domestic abuse.

14

41

MALTA DOORS

PEOPLE OF MALTA

An exciting visual project showcasing impressive façades across the islands.

22 OF PAPER AND BOOKS We meet local Glen Calleja, who has mastered this intricate art.

26 PAWSOME PAINTINGS AND FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS Stepping into the past, Palazzo Falson share Captain Olof Gollcher’s love for pets.

29 PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST MEETS ALAN AZZOPARDI In this month’s portrait of an artist, we enter the charcoal world of Alan Azzopardi.

In our collaboration with the People of Malta, we meet Michael from Siġġiewi.

29

42 A STYLE GUIDE FOR THE MALTESE ISLANDS

Step into Autumn/Winter wear with our fashion guru, Natalya Vukuvić.

48 MALTA’S LIQUID GOLD

Ylenia Attard takes a look at the seasonal olive harvest.

52

SIX TOP SIGHTS This month’s top sights round-up takes us around delightful Dingli.

48

54

THE HISTORY OF SPECIAL OLYMPICS Christine Cassar explains the vital work of the Special Olympics Malta team.

62

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

64

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK: NATURE TRUST MALTA Discover the wonderful locations and continuous work under the Nature Trust Malta umbrella.

70

PATTERNS IN ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS Designer and architects, Atelier Maison share their tips on utilising patterns.

74 RECIPE

Local Michelin starred Chef, Jonathan Brincat serves up a sensational John Dory dish.

76 RESTAURANT GUIDE Feeling hungry? Here’s where to head in September.

80 AIR MALTA NEWS

A round-up of this month’s news.

85 MENU

Browse our new onboard menu here.

88 FLIGHT AND COMPANY INFORMATION

All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

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

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

64

AN ALL-INCLUSIVE VIP HOLIDAY OPEN 24/7 | BAR | LIVE MUSIC | SLOTS | TABLE GAMES | POKER

Get in touch and book an exclusive VIP experience including free flights, five-stars accomodation & transport.

24 H INFORMATION | T. 00356 237 10 555 | ST. GEORGE’S BAY, ST. JULIANS Casino Malta is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority. License number MGA/B2C/273/2014. A minimum age of 25 years for Maltese citizens and 18 years for non-residents is required. An identification document is required on entrance. Please play responsibly!

ON THE COVER

Be sure to catch the most spectacular sunset over the Dingli cliffs during your visit to Malta.

MEET THE TE AM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG EXECUTIVE EDITOR Dayna Clarke SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG CONTRIBUTORS Air Malta Alice Barnes-Brown Atelier Maison Caroline Tonna Christine Cassar Dayna Clarke Dean Muscat Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti Ellen Beunderman Katja Abela Ministry for Gozo Natalya Vuković Paula Agius-Vadala People of Malta Jonathan Brincat Rebekah Cilia Stephen Gauci Visit Gozo Ylenia Attard PHOTOGRAPHERS Alan Carville Alan Azzopardi Alexandra Pace Aron Tanti

Atelier Maison Audrey Gauci Celine Ferlat Christine Cassar Daniel Balzan Elaine Compagno Esther Sammut Carbone Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti George Scintilla Giola Cassar HSBC Fusion Jason Borg (DOI) Koala Media Lisa Farrugia Lisa Gwen for MaltaDoors Marija Grech Mario Gauci Natalya Vuković Noni Restaurant Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum Archives Paula Agius Vadala People of Malta Roderick Vella Special Olympics Malta St Jeanne Antilde Foundation Stephen Buhagiar Viewing Malta ILLUSTRATOR Bryan Wolfgang Reiter OFFICIAL AIR MALTA PHOTOGRAPHER Daniel Balzan

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 Dayna on editor@il-bizzilla.com The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied by any means without the written consent of the publisher.

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

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

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

A space where creativity meets craft to highlight the local charm

Now also in Valletta!

Come visit our brand new store in St.Johns square in Valletta

8, Misraħ San Gwann, Valletta, Malta

souvenirsthatdontsuck

108, Triq Manwel Dimech, Sliema, Malta

maltasouvenirs

SOUVENIRSTHATDONTSUCK.MT

W ELC OM E

FROM THE CHAIRMAN Merħba During this unprecedented period, Air Malta, like many other airlines, is facing a challenging winter. The many different regulations currently being imposed by numerous countries to contain the spread of COVID-19 has caused people to be cautious about travelling.

As an Airline we are constantly monitoring and analysing the situation and making changes to our network to achieve the perfect balance between demand and capacity. However, this is not an easy feat in an ever-changing scenario whilst securing the safest standards possible when travelling.

We are backing and have joined international calls which are being headed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association of the world's airlines, to call for the development and deployment of rapid, accurate, affordable, easy-to-operate, scalable and systematic COVID-19 testing for all passengers before flight departure. This testing is an alternative to quarantine measures and is intended to re-establish global air connectivity, restore confidence, and get people to travel again. This is important for the economic development of the Maltese Islands.

With these initiatives we will keep on supporting the Islands and the various economic sectors to keep the country connected to the rest of the world during these challenging times.

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 we 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 only takes two minutes! Your feedback helps us understand your travel needs better and continue improving our travel experience.

Thank you for choosing Air Malta. As our welcomed guest, we hope to see you on-board another one of our flights soon. Enjoy this edition and keep safe.

Dr Charles Mangion AIR MALTA CHAIRMAN

6

W ELC OM E

FRO M THE ED ITO R...

Dear travellers, October is a beautiful time to be on the Maltese Islands, as we transition away from the long balmy days of summer into the milder winter months. Walking around and exploring local sites on foot is entirely manageable, which makes it an excellent time for discovering lesser-known parts of the islands. One such destination you should add to your itinerary is the rural north-westerly village of Dingli. Sitting at Malta’s highest point the area offers a spectacular vantage point of the limestone cliffs and surrounding Mediterranean sea. Just head to the St Magdalena Chapel, and you will find a picture-perfect viewing platform, time it for it a mesmerising sunset. Ylenia Attard explores the area on page 10 – and our six top sights offers up what else to catch while you’re in the vicinity.

The world is changing beyond recognition, but the Maltese islands hardly at all, the olive harvesting is still occurring, the fishermen are wrapping up the lampuki season, and the Aleppo pine trees are looking resplendent after September’s impromptu rain showers. It’s the day-to-day life here which keeps us grounded at team Bizzilla, and the wonderful inhabitants we get to meet. Head to page 14 and check out Alice Barnes Brown’s interview with Lisa Gwen Andrews, regarding Malta Doors, a visual project encompassing beautiful Maltese facades, with fascinating stories to tell. We promise you’ll be eyeing up your next instaworthy Maltese door!

Elsewhere in this packed issue, local Maria Eileen Fsadni catches up with Nature Trust Malta. They have been very busy protecting nesting turtles along the Maltese coastline, alongside other fantastic work within the local environment. Enjoy Bizzilla and enjoy Malta as life starts to slow down in this transitional autumn period.

Sit back, stay safe, you’ll soon be there,

Dayna EDITOR

7

T H E M A LT E S E I S L E S IN NUMBERS IT HAS BEEN SAID THAT NUMBERS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS. WE'VE PUT TOGETHER A FEW TO GIVE YOU A BETTER IDEA OF WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR SMALL MEDITERRANEAN GEM.

27

TRAVEL DISTANCE TO CROSS THE ISLAND

BY CAR

14.5

KM

KM

LONG

30

LETTERS IN THE ALPHABET

WIDE

OVER

AROUND

365

30

TOWERS ON THE MALTESE ISLANDS

1 2 OF

CHURCHES ON THE MALTESE ISLES

INDEPENDENT ISLAND NATIONS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

1-3 DAYS TO START A BUSINESS

3

DECLARED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

EXPLORE THE ISLAND

BY BUS 7 DAYS OF UNLIMITED TRAVEL BY BUS FOR ONLY

21

Always wear a face mask

Buses sanitised daily

Exact fare only

Travel made easy www.publictransport.com.mt

D E S T I NAT I ON

10

D E S T I NAT I ON

A S T R O L L AT S U N D OW N WORDS YLENIA ATTARD

THE SUN SHINES WARMLY ON MY SKIN AS I STRIDE SWIFTLY UP THE ROAD. THE DESTINATION IN MIND IS DINGLI CLIFFS, THE HIGHEST PLACE IN MALTA, KNOWN FOR PICTURESQUE AND STUNNING VIEWS. AN ELDERLY LOCAL, SITTING ON HER PORCH, LOOKS UP AT ME AND MY BULKY CAMERA. IT’S NEARING 7:30PM, AND SHE KNOWS WHY I’M HERE. Removed from other towns and villages, Dingli is first spotted

below it are the other four major geological strata, ending with the

at the end of Triq ir-Rabat, a long, pleasant road with fields on

oldest rock type, the Lower Coralline Limestone, forming the base of

either side, and some sparse, tiny houses. This small village, with

the cliffs, which is around 30 million years old. The highest point of

an area of 2.5km2, houses around three to four thousand people,

the cliffs is at Ta’ Dmejrek, standing at 253m above sea level.

and is said to have existed since prehistoric times, later becoming a parish in 1615. Further up from the primary school and a few

In front of me, in the distance, is an infamous landmark: the

shops, past the traditional Maltese houses adorned with coloured or

Aviation Radar. Mounted in March 1939, the Radar is characterised

limestone balconies, one reaches St Mary’s Parish Church, and then

by a large white ‘golf-ball’ on top, which, besides being used for

eventually, the Cliffs.

aviation purposes, was also used in the Second World War due to its underground radar system. The Radar complements the

I reach the cliffs with an exuberant air. The rocky, rugged, white

natural atmosphere surrounding it as it cleverly combines modern

cliffs divide my picture into two segments: the cliff top, nearby, and

architecture with nature.

the surreal and ethereal above and below it. The sun’s rays dissipate through the sky, merging into one unit – sky, sun and sea, a pale

Walking further ahead, with Maltese flora around me, I reach the

pool of blue and pearlescent white. The sea is still, waves unmoving

St Mary Magdalene Chapel. This 1646 chapel stands alone on the

and seemingly solid. There is barely a breeze or a sound. Standing

cliffs, built in a traditional Maltese chapel style, simple architecture

still, I hear people chattering faintly in the distance, crickets chirping

with an altar made from Maltese limestone. The open sea, foggy,

and birds flying by. Dogs on leashes pant and play in the grass and

and bleeding into the infinite cosmos, swallows the tiny chapel.

fauna growing on the cliff top. I’m poised by a rubble wall on the

Despite the mist, the small uninhabited island of Filfla is still visible.

other side of the road, which separates the cliffs from stretches of

Although, admittedly, the cliffs may be the best feature of this

fields. The cliffs’ plateau is made of Upper Coralline Limestone, and

village, Dingli locals recommend some other lesser known spots

11

D E S T I NAT I ON

12

I N SDEERST T ITNAT E X TI ON HERE

worth visiting, like Għajn tal-Ħasselin, where, in the past, people

air, and as I stare more at it, not quite caring at how blinding it is,

would go to wash their clothes, and for those who like hiking and

I see, with great clarity and sharpness, a dance of warm colours

exploring, there’s Misraħ Għar il-Kbir (the Great Cave) and Ta’

on its surface. We are all entranced by this pastel landscape, and

Ħammud Cliffs.

although we may see it often, we’re still mesmerised every time.

I watch the sun as we ever so slowly spin around it, and this quiet

At long last, the event for which I and tons of others gathered across

reflection presents itself to me as a small spiritual experience.

the Cliffs have been waiting for is in motion: the sun is starting to set.

Black silhouettes face me. They, too, like this village, are still.

And then it’s dusk, and in a blink of an eye, the sun is no longer visible. People start to leave, their cars revving. The noise, rather

The sun mirrors itself in the hazy waters in which it’s bathing, a

jarring at first, brings me back to reality. But still, the crickets, the

bright yellow soft circle fused seamlessly into the misty blues, now

limestone plateau, the cliffs, the sea, sun and sky – they linger in my

bursting with orange and pink hues. It seems suspended in the

thoughts. Dingli is nature’s reclamation, and we’re its admirers.

13

LOCAL

14

LOCAL

BEHI ND C LO S E D DOORS WORDS ALICE BARNES-BROWN

THE MASTERMIND OF THE POPULAR MALTADOORS INSTAGRAM, LISA GWEN ANDREWS, TELLS US WHY THE ARCHIPELAGO’S SHABBY-CHIC FAÇADES DESERVE OUR ATTENTION. “I see faces”, Lisa exclaims when I ask her

gathering together the images in a

appearance of these spaces. No detail is

what draws her to photographing Malta’s

collection called ‘Abandonment Issues’. But

left out – the pretty tile work, wrought-

vibrant doorways. “Some are apprehensive,

then, I realised the access into abandoned

iron balconies, flowers and plaques are all

some are angry or sad, while others are

spaces was not always possible. I ended up

explored and presented, giving the viewer

happy. They seem to be corresponding

taking a lot of photos of façades, doors,

the opportunity to appreciate aspects they

with one another – I like dreaming of these

and places that were crumbling. One fine,

may not otherwise have noticed.

little stories behind the doors”. Each and

lazy Sunday afternoon I started a second

every doorway on these magical islands

account. In a matter of weeks, I got calls

While it’s a leisurely pursuit for the observer,

has a personality, and Lisa has made it her

regarding the account, and requests to

capturing these fabulous shots is hard

mission to document them. As the curator

showcase some work and be interviewed. It

work for Lisa. She’s been to all of Malta

of the MaltaDoors visual blog, Lisa can be

just grew from there!”

and Gozo’s 68 localities. “I literally go down

found roaming a different locality in Malta

every single alleyway. I often go back to

or Gozo each week, posting glorious shots

A visit to the Instagram page does, indeed,

the same place several times, as I like to

of the fascinating and aesthetic entrances

feel like a sunny Sunday stroll through a

investigate how a façade looks, during

she finds.

quiet village. From pastel pink Modernist

different seasons.”

buildings in Nadur to old, bougainvillea“I originally started documenting the

covered frontages in Mosta, Lisa takes

But for all her hard work and artistic skill,

abandoned spaces on Malta and Gozo,

the visitor on a virtual tour of the unique

Lisa says some of her finest photos were of

15

LOCAL

places she found at the right place, right

Lisa hopes that MaltaDoors will generate

to appreciate our urban architecture, I

time. “Sometimes you can plan things to

love for Malta’s historic buildings –

think I have managed to do that.”

minute details, and something will still

especially in the face of increased

go wrong. Other times, you happen upon

apartment construction. She sighs. “It

Besides showing locals a fresh perspective

a scene by chance, and it’s so perfect it

breaks my heart every time I see that

on the towns and cities they inhabit,

almost hurts. It’s like I’ve developed a sixth

there are permits for demolition or partial

MaltaDoors has inspired international

sense over the past 4 years – that’s as long

demolition. I’d love people to become

visitors to discover this facet of our

as I’ve been documenting doors. I’ll just

more aware and more appreciative of our

islands. A smile of delight works its way

have this really strong hunch which tells me

architecture. When I find out a place is

across Lisa’s face, and her eyes light up

to “go down here”, even though it looks like

going to be knocked down, I try to take

as she tells me “I get so many messages.

a long, winding road that will lead nowhere.

photos to highlight the beauty and the

I have quite a following from the Maltese

95% of the time, I find amazing things at

quirk of that building. In terms of helping

community in Australia and Canada. One

the end of these little alleys.”

people to change their point of view, and

person in particular told me a very touching

16

I NSERT L OTCEAXLT H E R E

I find out a place is going to be knocked down, I try to take photos to highlight the beauty and the quirk of that building.

story about how her grandparents met

continues to grow, and followers flock

Maltese homeowners are very houseproud,

in Mellieħa, and she asked me to go and

in from across the world, Lisa excitedly

and that shows from the façade inwards.”

photograph the place. I’ve had people

announces that a second series of beautiful

While exploring Malta from abroad has

who’ve come on holiday, one couple even

prints of her favourite façades will soon

become difficult, let Lisa be your guide to

came to get married here because of the

be able to purchase from the “Malta

the side streets and decaying buildings

photos! I never in a million years thought

Souvenirs That Don’t Suck” shops in Valletta

ignored by the typical tourist itinerary.

that an Instagram account could have such

and Sliema (https://shop.tefittazza.com/

an effect on even one person.”

collections/maltadoors-collab).

Covid-19 has prevented travellers from

For the faraway visitor, MaltaDoors is a

experiencing Malta’s unique charm for

window into the soul of the islands. The

MaltaDoors can be found on Instagram

themselves, but MaltaDoors has fuelled

entryways are a glimpse at the personalities

and Facebook @maltadoors, or at

their wanderlust from afar. As the blog

who dwell within – as Lisa says, “I think

https://maltadoors.com/

17

GOZO

18

GOZO

WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

W H Y G OZO I S THE PERFECT PL ACE TO P R O P O S E

With its rugged, romantic coastline, ancient mysterious landmarks,

requests from couples wanting to marry on one of the bastions.

passionate people and selfie-worthy scenery, Gozo provides the

From bastions, now onto boats and Gozo’s shores because the

perfect backdrop for romantic breaks. Situated in the heart of

crystal blue waters around Gozo’s coast often provide the perfect

the Mediterranean, the island is an ideal destination for an idyllic,

setting for marriage proposals both above and below sea level!

romantic holiday for two. The hospitality of Gozitan people and the

There are a few dive schools in Gozo that have helped divers carry

serenity of scenery here, enchants visitors and the laid back pace of

out underwater marriage proposals.

life will enrich your relationship, giving you the time and space to fall more in love with each other.

If you like the romance of the sea but prefer staying above water, then Gozo has several sailing companies where you can book

Plus, with coastal landmarks like Dwejra Tower, Xlendi Tower and

private boat trips. Over the years, we’ve witnessed many happy

Calypso’s Cave – with the latter linked to legends of love (said to be

marriage proposals and marriages aboard boat tours.

where the nymph Calypso kept Odysseus a ‘prisoner of love’ for seven years in Homer’s book The Odyssey); the island’s setting is just amazing

If you are considering a more low-key proposal, maybe in a

and you’ll understand why Gozo has the power to captivate visitors.

romantic restaurant, Gozo has a fantastic selection of restaurants renowned for serving delicious cuisine in sensational settings.

Towering high into the sky in central Victoria is one of Gozo’s most

Whether it’s a shoreline eatery at Xlendi Bay, Marsalforn or Mġarr

imposing and culturally significant landmarks, The Cittadella – a

where you can dine on freshly prepared Mediterranean cuisine whilst

3000 year old ancient fortified city. More than a million tourists

watching the sunset over the horizon; or high class fine-dining from

visit The Cittadella every year and its bastions have seen a

a grand historic farmhouse letting you feast on our finest food whilst

number of marriage proposals as earnest couples seeing the

enjoying equally satisfying country views. Savour the taste of our

beauty of Gozo from its historic high walls seize the moment with a

sumptuous Gozitan food and delight in the romance of our island

‘will you marry me?’

before getting down on one knee and asking that all-important big question to your beloved.

In fact, the baroque Cathedral inside the Cittadella hosts wedding celebrations throughout the year and the venue often receives

Gozo can set the scene; you just have to find the words

19

GOZO

WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

ENJOY GOZO’S AUTUMN DELIGHTS

Visitors to the island of Gozo often remark that it is more rural,

delicious local snacks of fresh bread, tomato paste, pickled onions

greener and moves at a slower pace of life when compared to

and goat cheeselets, tempt the senses.

mainland Malta. First impressions last, and the welcoming Mġarr Harbour, your first stop in Gozo, is a taste of the beauty that lies

Whilst Gozo’s tranquility still provides a charm for every visitor

within the island.

to the island, slumber is surely not a word to be associated with Gozo, where outdoor activities are aplenty; whether it’s abseiling,

Autumn is a great time to visit Gozo for anyone wishing to enjoy

climbing, rambling, boat trips, segway tours, horse riding

the island without the summer crowds and with mild weather

experiences, boarding, or biking, the island of Gozo has something

that allows for various outdoor activities. Indeed, this is the time

to tickle anyone’s fancy and to keep every member of the family

when the summer’s scorching heat ebbs to welcoming warmth

entertained in the place that matters most – the great outdoors.

and the island’s climate and geography combine to create an ideal

Choose a stress free holiday, away from busy roads and into the

playground for those seeking the thrill of the outdoors.

peace of country lanes. Surround yourself with nature, choose a cultural event or dine at your favourite restaurant. Gozo is so

This season offers visitors the possibility of experiencing the laid-

much different, yet just a 5km ferry trip away from Malta.

back island life as well as the cultural aspect of Gozo. With warm temperatures, beaches here are frequented well into November when water temperature averages a soothing 23C(73F) and coastal areas are blissful havens of unspoilt nature and crystal clear waters. Indeed, the outdoor summer life lingers on as winter seems to be willingly postponed.

Patrons still eat out enjoying the open terraces of the various dining places spread around the island, or on beaches where

20

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

Welcome on board. Joining you today is Malta’s best-loved beer, Cisk: an award-winning beer inspired by the amazing Maltese people and a symbol of national pride.

Why not start your Maltese experience a little early - order yourself a Cisk on this flight and discover why it’s known as Malta’s finest.

LOCAL

WORDS ALESSIA CARUANA

O F PA P E R A N D B O OK S I FIRST MET GLEN CALLEJA WHEN I VISITED HIS QUAINT RABAT STUDIO LAST SUMMER FOR WORK. I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN FASCINATED BY BOOKS AND MORE SO BY THE PROSPECT AND SPLENDOUR OF MAKING THEM, SO MEETING SOMEONE LIKE GLEN, WHO HAS MANAGED TO TURN THIS MASTERFUL ART FORM INTO A FULLY-FLEDGED BUSINESS WAS SOMETHING I WAS NEEDLESS TO SAY, INTRIGUED BY.

It started off as your typical work meeting, 10 minutes late, a

enterprise that I run. That passion hasn’t dissipated one bit and the

desperate search for parking, a long walk in the blazing summer

fundamental philosophy of why and how I run the bindery either.

heat to a google map led destination topped off by a frantic

Kotba Calleja is a small bindery run on principles of contemporary

scanning of your surroundings for a house number or name.

design using traditional bookbinding techniques.

When I did finally find Studio Solipsis, a converted hall in the heart of Rabat, I was pleased to realise I had rung the right

The need for a dedicated studio came fairly early and for a year or

door bell. In just enough time for me to catch my breath, I

two I was working from a small studio in Rabat. These were the real

was greeted by bindery owner Glen Calleja, who led me up his

roots of the Kotba Calleja bindery, in the sense that the workspace

stairwell and straight to his studio. Quick to offer me some of the

clearly influences the nature of the business one runs and the

best "meeting coffee" around (hands down) we sat down and

quality of the work one produces.

discussed what exactly it is that Glen does. I was enthralled and several paper samples and binding options later it became clear

Eventually, as the bindery became better known, the demands of

to me that this craft deserved more time than my meeting could

the business also grew. I recruited a studio assistant and took on

offer. Determined not to judge this book by its cover (quite hard

more ambitious commissions. Then in 2017, we moved again, and

to do when they’re all so impeccably made), I got in touch with

now enjoy a studio that allows us to take on bigger projects.

Glen to uncover some more information about this six-year-old

So these past five years have been eventful, sometimes stressful but

business and what lies in store for Kotba Calleja.

very rewarding.

WHEN WAS KOTBA CALLEJA ESTABLISHED?

WHERE DID YOUR LOVE FOR BOOKBINDING STEM FROM?

The current identity of Kotba Calleja goes back to six years

That passion started through literature. As a young poet I was

ago when I started making books in my garage at home. It

drawn to different book formats. Non-conventional books with fold

wasn’t yet a fully-fledged operation but I was keen on creating

outs, cut outs, mixed materials, oblique page formats... essentially

something unique both in terms of product and the nature of the

books which would stand out on a shelf attracted me. I initially saw

22

LOCAL

23

LOCAL

in them the potential to carry poetry further, to create new poetic

process is entirely collaborative. We see what the client needs

experiences through the book’s weirdness itself.

and then we advise on the best book structure to go for. We look at what materials would work best for the structure and

At one point I started asking, but what really makes a book? And

aesthetics of the whole product.

that’s where it all really started. I was intrigued by the book as a symbol of power and its place in our civilisation. The pillars of

Since we mix and experiment with new materials all the time, we

law and morality on which society is based are rooted in the books

often have to research and source materials which we don’t have

of law and the moral code. So the book holds immense regulatory

at hand at the studio. Once we have all the materials in hand,

power in our lives. I wanted to engage with that. So at some

then we can start prototyping. We generally have to make a few

point, I got curious about how books are traditionally made. I did

models until we are satisfied and ready to move on to producing

some research and started taking classes and educating myself

the finished product.

on the subject.

So the process is generally slow, long and fun. It demands DESCRIBE HOW THE STANDARD KOTBA CALLEJA BOOK IS MADE…

patience and stamina but once clients realise that attention

The nature of the projects we now take on as Kotba Calleja varies

and research is going to add value to their book, then they are

immensely according to clients’ needs and to our vision. The

happy to wait. Yes, we do get the occasional clients who just

24

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

want a good quality readymade book. We do cater for that as

Projects often dictate how we set up our space. Sometimes, a

well. We still love conventional books after all and conventional

project demands wide surface areas or space for washing and

formats can be fun to make and in themselves also allow for

treating paper. So we adapt our setup to the job at hand. One is

some play with materials and structure. There is conventional

never doing the same thing for a long period of time.

and conventional of course.

WHAT'S NEXT? ANY EXCITING PROJECTS IN THE PIPELINE? WHAT WOULD AN AVERAGE DAY IN THE STUDIO LOOK LIKE?

I am happy with where Kotba Calleja is at the moment. So, I

Our days are generally long. We avoid the morning rush to get to

have already embarked on an internal exercise to see what is

the studio. That allows us to manage and minimise traffic stress

working well for me and Kotba Calleja and how I can improve

and to really start the day by focusing on the job at hand.

capacities and business. It’s an exercise which looks at how things are right now. There’s always space for growth of course.

The atmosphere at the studio is generally relaxed and quiet. I

I certainly want to improve my bookbinding skills, acquaint

have always worked in silence. Music or radio in the background is too

myself with some new techniques and materials and see how I

irritatingly distracting for me. So I don’t encourage it at the studio.

can reach our clients better.

Sometimes, if an assistant is engaged in some repetitive work they might want to put earphones on and that's fine.

On the horizon there’s a new range of handmade blank and lined notebooks which I’m hoping we’ll be launching by the end of summer.

The day generally unfolds with a balance of administrative work,

We’ll also be shifting more of the stationery business to our online shop

meetings with clients and lots of exchanges with suppliers. Chasing

so as to be able to reach our international clients better.

quotes, chasing jobs, chasing confirmations, consulting with clients: that’s what our deskwork is mostly about.

For more information on Kotba Calleja visit www.kotbacalleja.net

25

C U LT U R E

WORDS ELLEN BEUNDERMAN

PAWSOM E PA I N T I NG S A N D F OU R LEG GED F R I E N DS THE TERM 'ANIMAL LOVERS' MIGHT WELL HAVE BEEN SAID ABOUT OLOF AND NELLA GOLLCHER, OCCUPANTS OF THE PALAZZO FALSON (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS THE NORMAN HOUSE) IN MDINA AND OF VILLA BRUNSWICK, THEIR COUNTRY FARMHOUSE IN MĠARR. EVEN AMONG ANIMAL LOVERS, THE GOLLCHERS WERE IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN. They had different kinds and numerous pets and farm animals

an accident. Nella wrote him that a big piece of rock, blasted in

whom they really loved. Olof’s diaries and correspondence,

preparing holes to plant olive trees, had fallen on the farm stable

preserved in the archives of Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum,

badly wounding the face of one of the sheep. Nella quickly phoned

allow us to share this love.

the vet who came that afternoon to stitch up the lower part of the jaw and give the sheep a penicillin injection.

Olof’s bulldog Jack was a well-known sight in Mdina; every morning he would leave the palazzo to fetch the newspaper from the news

Olof, an accomplished painter immortalized his dog Bogey in a

agent. Jack was so much a part of Olof’s life that when Olof

painting and today it still hangs in his studio at Palazzo Falson. The

received an award for his service as Captain in the Home Guard

Gollchers loved to show off their beautiful house; there are many

during WWII, the photo shows Jack sitting at his feet next to the

letters in the archives that attest to this.

award and surrounded by the Guard’s men.

Friends wrote to Olof and Nella asking them if they could bring There are not too many cats mentioned but in June 1949 Gasazu

friends to see their lovely palazzo and collections. There are also a

(meaning pacifier in Maltese) is mourned:

number of thank you cards received by the Gollchers’ from visitors.

Today there is no need to write a letter to ask permission to visit the

“Poor old Friend Gasazu is dead & He is buried at Mġarr

house - it has been bequeathed by Olof and Nella to the public and

He chased the mice

you can come and visit the historic house museum. Bogey is still

He stole the fish

hanging around!

But, above all he loved his mistress best” The image that comes to mind is of Gasazu crouched on the rim of

Durrell, Gerald. My Family and Other Animals. London: Rupert-Hart

the basin of the fountain in the courtyard of the palazzo dipping in

Davies, 1956. Ellen Beunderman is a research volunteer at Palazzo

his paw trying to catch one of the goldfish.

Falson Historic House Museum, Mdina.

Entries in the diary also include the donkey, sheep, goats, tortoises, and

You will find Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum in Villegaignon

chickens that were part of the farm life in Mġarr. The son of the farm

Street in Mdina. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from

manager recalls that when the donkey gave birth, Olof and his wife

11:00a.m. to 4:00p.m. (last entry at 3:00p.m.).

invited the village children to come see the baby donkey; they decorated the stable entrance and offered jars of sweets and chocolates so the

Only guided tours are available at 11:00a.m., 12:00p.m., 2:00p.m.

children could help themselves. Nella named the donkey Sallie.

and 3:00p.m. Bookings recommended by sending an email to

Another time when Olly was away, one of the sheep suffered in

bookings@palazzofalson.com or call 2145 4512.

26

INSER CT U LT T EUXRTEH E R E

27

We love the new, unseen, unexpected, unlimited, unknown. We hate boring.

We loathe boring. See the boring, kill the boring.

Share your creative design portfolio with us on richard@tbwa-ang.com for a potential freelance collaboration.

3rd Floor \ Professional Building \ Sliema Road \ Gzira GZR 1633 \ Malta

A RT

WORDS REBEKAH CILIA

PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST A L A N A Z ZO PA R D I

ON WALKING INTO ALAN AZZOPARDI’S STUDIO, I AM GUIDED INTO HIS OFFICE, WHERE ALAN POINTS AT A SET OF CHARCOAL DRAWINGS. THESE ARE FROM “BEFORE”, HE NOTES, WITH A HINT OF DISDAIN ON HIS FACE.

Knowing that Alan has lost most of his

Alan, however, is about as friendly as they

Loss of vision from one eye is strange,

sight, in one eye, you would think that

come, reading the questions in my head,

Alan explains, since infection would affect

the look of dissatisfaction was due to this

and immediately starts with “I lost my eye. I

both eyes, and would also be visible. “The

loss and no longer being able to draw. He

lost my cornea. But my eye is mine.”

first year and a half was torture. They

begins to explain, however, how two corneal

first suspected a brain tumour, then they

transplants led to his charcoal drawings

About eight years ago, Alan was on an

thought it might be AIDS, or an STD, since

being even more lifelike than “before”, if

adventure holiday, in France, when one

blurred vision is one of the symptoms.”

that was even possible.

morning, he woke up and experienced a slight blur in one eye. He went to a

Although all tests were negative, his blurred

We sit down in a dark boardroom and Alan

pharmacy and asked for an eyewash,

vision remained, and after a year-and-a-

explains that his studio is purposefully dim

thinking he had an infection.

half, his right eye started to swell up. “At the

lit since sunlight still irritates his right eye.

beginning, since nothing was visible, some

He offers me a coffee, to which I accept,

Coming back to Malta, the blurred vision

and as he sets the machine, I note him

got worse but, visibly, his eye looked normal.

feeling his way about. At that point, I do

Alan went to his family doctor, then to the

Alan went to the UK, buying a one-way

not ask how badly his vision was affected,

hospital, but everything seemed normal.

ticket, not intending to come back without

or even if his ‘bad’ eye is his, since they are

After 15 days, he lost most of his sight in his

answers. He was told his cornea was no longer

different colours.

right eye.

functioning and it had to be replaced.

29

doctors even thought I was imagining it.”

A RT

30

I N S E R T ATRETX T H E R E

31

A RT

Although he was presented with various prognosis, till today, Alan still

differently. The blur I see from my bad eye, combined with the

does not know, for sure, what caused the damage to his cornea.

other, gives me a vision of shadows, which I feel has allowed me to draw even better!”

Alan was placed on the donor list and after one year a donor was found. “I never missed one day of work during that year. I used

Alan admits he is a perfectionist, and this shines through in his

to go out with a patch and with sunglasses.” You might think it

surroundings, but more so in the incredibly life-like portraits he

was a year of simply waiting around but Alan describes the pain

loves to draw.

as severe, so much so, that his doctors called it ‘suicidal pain’.

“Closing my eyes, it felt like rocks grazing my eyes… if I opened

Till today, Alan’s eye also remained sensitive. He should not

them, the light hurt. And also, a constant feeling of someone

have pets, but yet he worked around this too, having Sphynx cats,

hitting your head.”

several air purifiers and living his life ‘normally’.

Alan was also told he would never draw again.

There is also a particular reason why Alan uses charcoal - he is colour blind, from birth, and “I simply feel more comfortable with

Just after three weeks from his first cornea transplant, Alan

charcoal; it allows my mind to relax”. Not shying away from a

caught a fungal infection in his right eye, and he says “the pain

challenge, however, Alan’s main business is designing and making

was double that what I felt before the transplant”.

signs – a world of colour! He explains how he uses special software, and mind hacks, to understand colours better and work around his

From then on, Alan focused on art, saying it helped him

colour blindness. The result is impeccable.

immensely. Alan is the type, if challenged, who will push even harder… so when he was told he could not draw, he drew even

Alan cannot draw still life, as he says with a chuckle, that he would

more, but his drawing style changed.

end up chatting away with his subject, something I can already tell about him, having noted the interview had been ongoing for over

He now draws upside down, so as he does not let his mind trick

an hour already. Given how easy-going Alan is, it seems more like

him into knowing what he is drawing. This does not allow the

five minutes.

mind to subconsciously fix any defects, which is a common problem with artists, Alan explains. He also does not use outlines,

Life, for Alan, is easier now, but he will never stop being thankful to

since this also gives a more realistic feel to his work.

the donors of the corneas. The first was a 55-year-old woman, who he happened to know, and the second is a young man from Ireland.

Alan then had a second cornea transplant. Today, “with the

The latter died in a tragic accident but Alan still made it a point to

vision I now have in my eyes, having lost depth, I see my drawings

keep in contact with his mother.

32

I N S EBRUTST IN EE XSTS H E R E

WORDS BANK OF VALLETTA

WILL YOUR PENSION BE ENOUGH?

Retirement is a phase in life which most people look forward to.

of age. The aim of these limitations combined with the tax

After years of hard work, most people imagine themselves living

incentives is to ensure, as much as possible, that an individual

in a comfortable manner, at least at the level of comfort enjoyed

gets to retirement age with a pot of savings to supplement

prior to retirement.

the state pension. When the time arrives to access the private pension plan, 30% of the pot is payable to the individual as

At least two thirds of pre-retirement income is required to

a lump sum tax free. The remaining 70% are received by the

maintain the same level of lifestyle upon retirement. While old

pension plan holder over a number of years based on the

age brings new additional costs, these will be largely offset by

individual’s age and life expectancy. The annual receivable

other costs which end upon retirement, mainly the end of bank loan

amount is taxable as part of the person’s annual income and in

repayments. However, not everyone will be eligible to receive two

accordance to the income tax rates as stipulated by the Inland

thirds of their current income, since the state pension is capped. As

Revenue Department.

at 2020, the maximum pensionable income stands at €24,986 for those born after 1962. This will provide a maximum state pension

You can still enjoy today’s lifestyle after retirement. With as

of €16,657 so all those earning more than €24,986 will be short of

little as €40, you can have the peace of mind you need when you

their two thirds state pension. The higher the income, the higher

retire. Talk to us about the BOV Personal Pension Plan, simply set

the shortfall. A person earning €30,000 would require an income of

up an appointment with one of our licensed representatives by

€20,000 upon retirement in order to maintain their pre-retirement

calling on 2131 2020 or email on customercare@bov.com.

lifestyle, of which a maximum of only €16,657 will be provided by the state as at 2020. This leaves a shortfall of €3,343 for a seamless transition towards retirement. Unless one has other sources of income, going into retirement will result in financial shock and a departure from the lifestyle one is accustomed to.

Investment returns in the pension fund can go down as well as up and past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance.

Changes in the rate of exchange currencies may also affect the value of your investments. This product is issued by MAPFRE MSV Life p.l.c. Bank of Valletta p.l.c. with registered office 58, Triq San Żakkarija, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1130 is an enrolled Tied Insurance Intermediary under the Insurance Distribution Act 2006 for MAPFRE MSV Life p.l.c. and is regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority.

The government has, in recent years, introduced tax incentives for individuals opting to invest into a private pension in Malta.

Individuals may be eligible for a 25% tax rebate on a private pension contribution of €2000 for a maximum tax credit of €500 per annum. A private pension cannot be accessed prior to a person reaching 61 years of age and not later than 70 years

33

T R AV E L

34

T R AV E L

WORDS AIR MALTA

ROAMING FROM ROME: A DAY TRIP TO TIVOLI ROME IS ALREADY AN INCREDIBLE DESTINATION IN ITS OWN RIGHT, HOWEVER SHOULD YOU WISH TO ESCAPE THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF THE ITALIAN CAPITAL, HERE’S A DAY TRIP TO THE HISTORIC TOWN OF TIVOLI YOU REALLY SHOULDN’T MISS.

35

T R AV E L

36

T R AV E L

TIVOLI - JUST 30KM FROM ROME

Stroll along winding and labyrinth-like paths that offer a pleasant

All it requires is just a one-hour north easterly trip from Rome

surprise at every turn such as musical fountains, elegant statues,

to the quaint town of Tivoli to dive headfirst into two of the

frescoed rooms and breathtaking waterfalls. If you can pull

most impressive sites within Italy’s Lazio region, Hadrian’s

yourself away from the magnetism of the gardens, you will also

Villa and Villa d’Este. Many visitors like to combine both of these

find quaint little cafe and boutiques along the narrow winding

villas into one day instead of two-day trips from Rome, and it is

streets of this charming villa.

possible to do so.

GETTING TO TIVOLI A history buffs haven, Hadrian’s Villa features a spectacular,

By train, you can reach the offerings of Tivoli in as little as 34

expansive complex of 30 ancient Roman buildings that were

minutes, although some travel options will take around an hour

erected during the second century by Emperor Hadrian as a

to an hour and a half, either way, it is doable when staying in

tranquil getaway to retreat from the lively capital of Rome. Here,

Rome. Positively, the journey is very inexpensive, and a ticket can

visitors can embrace a snapshot into the decadence of ancient

cost you less than 4 euros one way. Villa Gregoriana is situated

Rome when you walk along the 250 acres of marble pavements,

just a short stroll from Tivoli train station, if you want to visit

palaces, theatres, libraries, baths, temples and private quarters

the other villas, you will need to take a bus. Don’t worry as these

that once housed royal guardsman, attendants and slaves.

connections are well sign posted. This does make it tricky to explore more than two of the Villas out of the three in just a day.

If you revel in formal perfectly manicured gardens, Villa d’Este is an absolute must-see. Situated on the opposite side of Frascati

The majority of visitors decide to opt for a tour to both Hadrian’s

from Hadrian’s Villa, this stunning estate features a spectacular

Villa and Villa d’Este in one day. This allows them to explore

mansion, but it is the luscious gardens that most visitors come

the ruins without having to worry about understanding bus

to experience. What makes these historic gardens particularly

times. Why not book a guided tour? The commentary will

enthralling is the Renaissance approach of combining unique

detail all you need to know about the fantastic villas and their

waterworks and artistic features into the beautiful landscape.

extensive history.

Air Malta operates direct flights between Malta and Rome. One way fares start at just €29 including taxes.

Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

37

LOCAL

38

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

WORDS ALICE BARNES-BROWN

SPR I NG C L E A N I NG HOW SUSTAINABLE SOAPS ARE PROVIDING A LIFELINE FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE.

For such a small island, Malta has a plethora of incredible

not thinking about anxieties, worries and everything you’ve been

charitable initiatives. One of these is Meraki Soaps, a social

through,” she continues.

enterprise set up by SOAR at the St Jeanne Antide Foundation.

To help survivors of domestic violence rebuild their lives in a

Meraki Soaps, SOAR’s latest venture, not only provides a safe

post-abuse, alien new world, Elaine Compagno leads therapeutic

space and creative activity – the artisanal, luxurious and cruelty-

sessions of soap-making. With her background in health and

free products the survivors make have become a profitable

beauty, combined with her intimate experience working with

source of income, for themselves and the charity. This enables

women who have suffered at the hands of partners, she’s the

the Foundation to continue supporting survivors.

perfect person for the job.

Elaine explains: “We’re trying to do something that’s good.

As a way of gathering survivors together and providing a support

Good for the women, good for the Earth, good for the people

network (as well as improving their life-skills and employment

who buy the product.” The survivors who put together these

prospects), SOAR has pioneered all kinds of workshops, from

aromatherapy delights are involved in every step of the way.

performance art to clay modelling. “We’ve been finding that

“Besides learning how to make the product, the women develop

projects which have a creative element are very effective,”

other skills, for example research and development and marketing.

Elaine says. “The action of sitting down and doing something

This gives space for women to experiment, to find themselves

repetitive means you’re just really focused on what you’re doing,

and what they like. It allows them to build their identity.”

39

LOCAL

Having scoped out their Facebook page, I want to know more

selected salons, Meraki produces wedding favours, which have

about Meraki’s colourful products. There are Bundt-shaped

been a big hit with couples. “They’re making a donation, they’re

antibacterial soaps, the perfect Covid-19 companion. But despite

giving their guests a token, and a survivor is earning something

the name, Meraki make more than just soap – there’s explosive

out of it, so it’s really a win-win… if it wasn’t for Covid-19, we

bath bombs, exfoliating body scrubs, and soothing balms.

would be running at full capacity right now.”

I can’t say I’ve seen anything like them in Malta before. So where

I reassure her that good work doesn’t go unnoticed. Elaine smiles,

does Elaine get her inspiration from? “I follow a lot of well-known

“I’m sure, I’m sure”. Her confidence in Meraki’s future is well-

‘Soaperies’. There are a lot of online tutorials as well. But for

placed, as SOAR keeps growing the initiative and hopes to make

the most part, it’s a matter of buying a small amount of raw

it self-sustainable. Above all, they want to support more survivors

material, experimenting with it, and giving it out to the women

of domestic violence – whether that’s through soap-making,

who volunteer. We test it, and see if it’s going to be something

mentoring or group therapy.

that’s fun and easy for our ladies to make.”

“We really do see a change in the women, within a few weeks Elaine proceeds to describe Meraki’s most recent innovation,

of attending these groups. Imagine what it’s like to live with

‘Whipped soap’. She decides showing is better than telling, and

someone who doesn’t let you do anything, who’s always telling

says “let me get one, let me show you a jar!” I wait, eager to

you you’re rubbish, you’re stupid. So when a survivor is making

see what she has in store. Seconds later, she proudly displays

the product, she thinks, “I’m gonna get it wrong, look I made a

a stout jar filled with piped pink liquid that resembles fluffy

mistake”. But the women around her will say “no, no, it’s okay”.

marshmallow. Amazingly, it holds its cloud-like shape and

And that reassurance, that validation, is priceless.”

elegant lines, even in this hot Maltese spring. The soap pushes against the side of the glass, and I imagine scooping my hand in.

The sense of confidence, friendship and control gained from Meraki’s work is carried into other aspects of a survivor’s life – the

Putting her beauty background to good use, she extolls the

household, the workplace, and even the law courts. As Elaine

benefits of the whipped soap, telling me how cleansing and

says, Meraki is of immeasurable value to the survivor. But you can

moisturising it is. She doesn’t need to, because I’m already

put a value on the products they make. And with the knowledge

sold. So are a lot of Meraki’s customers – the response has been

you’ve helped a woman to thrive again coming free with your

incredible. As well as selling products at the Foundation and in

luscious beauty buy, it’s a price well worth paying.

40

I N S E RL TOTCEAXLT H E R E

THE PEOPLE OF MALTA IS AN ARTISTIC PROJECT TO SHARE EMOTIONS, STORIES, PERSONALITIES, MOODS AND CONTRASTS DEPICTED IN PICTURES AND IN CITATIONS OF THE MALTESE PEOPLE.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHEN BUHAGIAR AND RODERICK VELLA

TH E PEO PLE O F M A LTA M I C H A E L , S I Ġ Ġ I E W I , M A LTA

“It all happened 32 years ago, I was 19 years old. They lifted me up during the feast celebrations, I fell down on my back. I was paralysed. I remember how shocked I felt when they told me that I couldn’t use my hands like I did before. I even went abroad to receive specific treatment but there was no progress. That’s when I decided to make the most of my current situation. I’ve been painting with my mouth for 20 years now. People from IZDA used to come to help me develop my skills. When I’m painting, I forget the rest of the world. As you can see, I love drawing Maltese landscapes, old trucks and vans. Whoever’s been through an accident, I say, “Don’t give up. Be strong.” It’s difficult at first but life doesn’t stop there.”

Michael

www.facebook.com/thepeopleofmalta

41

FA S H I ON

WORDS NATALYA VUKOVIĆ

A ST YLE GUIDE FOR THE M A LT E S E I S L A N D S : AU T U M N/ W I N T E R

Malta’s colder months are somewhat of an enigma; our islands

cosy sweater, is perfectly suitable for the Maltese climate. This

are renowned for the warm sun and ability to spend every

season, you will want to pair a cropped brown leather jacket over

afternoon by the sea in one’s most extravagant beach attire…

a pair of slim-line trousers, or opt for a coat you may belt at the

but what about the wintry days? There might be very little

waist for a dressier, more versatile look.

information available on the web when it comes to packing for a winter trip to Malta, but fortunately, we have put together a

ANIMAL PRINTS ARE ALWAYS ON TREND

guide for those eager to dress stylishly in colder weather too.

Leopard and tiger prints could be considered classics - they work with most pieces, and can easily liven up the most basic of

LOOK GOOD IN LEATHER

ensembles. So when travelling light and opting for the neutral

Maltese winters are fairly mild, which means you will not need

and multi-functional pieces, throw animal print into your

to carry that dreaded puffer jacket in hand when travelling. A

suitcase. Whether that’s a cosy coat or simply a shawl to protect

faux leather jacket, especially when layered and worn over a

against the harsh Maltese wind, it is bound to dress up any look.

42

FA S H I ON

43

FA S H I ON

44

I N S E RFA T STHEIX ON T HERE

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE NEUTRALS

carried in hand for your evenings out, but one that could also be

This season, monochromatic outfits in neutral tones have

worn as a cross-body bag for daytime adventures is ideal. The

resurfaced - and few trends could be more convenient when

multi-functional clutch is key when travelling, and better yet?

sorting your travel pack list. Neutrals are easy to replicate and work

You can always throw this into a large tote bag when needed,

with anything and on anyone. Pack a cream-coloured sweater, midi

and fold that tote bag into a corner of your suitcase when

skirt and tailored pants to match, and style these with jewellery

boarding the plane.

that can be worn time and time again and yet never grow old such as chunky gold, or pearls for a classic look. There really is no

OPT FOR MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SHOES

better way to pack lightly and still look stylish! Bonus tip: Include a

When exploring the Maltese terrain, you are going to want

touch of blue to your neutral outfits - this colour combination has

a pair of comfortable shoes that could also suit a heavy

proved to be one of the biggest fashion trends of the season.

downpour. Boots will satisfy your every need, and why not try slouch boots rather than the typical knee-high pair? Not only

PACK THE PERFECT STATEMENT PIECE

are they convenient, but also incredibly stylish - and they work

When opting for monochrome looks, remember to carry a pop

with evening wear too! Simply pair them with a black dress and

colour bag along with you. A small, yet conspicuous clutch

oversized blazer for a fashionable look.

45

LOCAL

WORDS YLENIA ATTARD

M A LTA’ S LIQU ID GOLD

WHETHER YOU’RE HIKING IN THE COUNTRYSIDE OR SHOPPING IN AN URBAN CITY, YOU WILL NOTICE AND STUMBLE ON PLENTY OF OLIVE TREES AROUND MALTA. THIS IS OF NO SURPRISE, SEEING AS THE MEDITERRANEAN COMPRISES 97% OF OLIVE FARMING, WORLDWIDE.

The production of high quality extra virgin olive oil makes olive

(218 BC-533 AD), although we owe the start of olive cultivation in

growing an essential part of Maltese agribusiness, and thus

Malta to the Phoenicians (700BC).

there are a number of businesses that own olive groves for the production of olive oil. Olives are split into two subspecies: the

The production of olive oil dates back to at least the Arab period

wild olive, and the cultivated olive. Whilst one does find the

(870-1090 AD), since we find a handful of Maltese villages and

wild olive in Malta, the most important for agritourism are the

towns named after the Arabic word for ‘olive’, ‘zaytun’, like Għajn

cultivated ones, specifically the varieties, or ‘cultivars’, known

Żejtuna and the town of Żejtun. The latter holds an annual

as Maltija, Bidnija and the Bajda, which is actually white. The

olive oil festival called Żejt iż-Żejtun, where villagers parade

Bidnija cultivar, in particular, has many health benefits due to its

around the Żejtun streets, carrying their olive harvest, ready for

high amount of antioxidants, and dates back to Roman times

oil production. Similar to these locations, one also finds places

48

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

49

LOCAL

50

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

named after the Maltese word for olive, (żebbuġ), like Żebbuġ

bottles their olive oil in just a few days. Others prefer to make it at

(Gozo), Ħaż-Żebbuġ and Birżebbuġa. Some also believe that Bir

home – from start to finish. The process involved in being this self-

id-Deheb, which translates to ‘a well of gold’, was named after

sufficient is quite simple yet messy, as it involves grinding the olives

virgin olive oil, referred to by Homer as “liquid gold”.

into a paste and then pressing that with a weighty object. The liquid separates from the olives and is then stored in glass bottles – usually

With the abundance of olive trees around Malta, one would

dark green ones. If one wishes to do this regularly, then one can

not be surprised at how many Maltese locals have olive trees

invest in an oil press, to make the process easier and smoother.

in their own yards or fields. While some leave their trees

Making your own olive oil gives you total control over what you’re

unattended, resulting in an olive rainstorm in late autumn,

consuming, and it is so fulfilling seeing your finished product.

ending up in olives being trampled on by passer-by, others choose to hand-harvest their olives come late September, when

Apart from using olive oil while cooking, especially in Maltese

olives are usually ready to be harvested. Hand-harvesting olives

cuisine, one can serve it with some sourdough – this is often an

also happens on the University of Malta campus, as there are

appetizer in local restaurants. Additionally, and most notably,

over 100 olive trees present, meaning usually around 430 kilos of

olive oil is used in the quintessential traditional Maltese dish:

harvested olives. The olive oil made from these olives is sold, and

the ħobż biż-żejt, which literally translates to bread with oil,

all proceeds go to charity.

but is so much more than that – it is the key to many locals’ hearts. Thick slices of bread, sometimes sourdough, sometimes

Back at home, however, most residents hand pick their olives

a ‘ftira’ (a disc-shaped semi-flat bread), are generously coated

to enjoy with their families. If one has a large amount of olives,

with local olive oil and either a sweet tomato paste known as

one may choose to preserve them by brining them, so that they

kunserva, or rubbed with tomatoes. Then, one adds the typical

last for a few months (unopened jars of brined olives may even

ingredients, like chopped onions and garlic, olives, capers and

have a lifespan of a year or two!). Olives make for great snacks

tuna or anchovy, and finally season with salt and pepper. Being

or appetizers, and as a twist, one popular local dish is stuffed

super easy to prepare, the ‘ħobż biż-żejt’ is often the ideal work or

olives (żebbuġ mimli). Pitted green olives are stuffed with a tuna-

school packed lunch, a quick dinner at home, and the perfect snack

anchovy mix, and can be served in a Maltese platter, which,

to have while at the beach.

other than olives, may include cheeselets, Maltese sausage, bigilla and water biscuits, among others.

The beach, the sand, the local produce: there may not be a sweeter sensation than the taste of rich olive oil in your mouth,

Whilst eating your own home-grown olives is a rewarding enough

with the sound and visuals of crashing ocean waves before you.

concept, some take it to the next level and opt to take their crates

Or, perhaps, like Cleopatra, you’d rather take a dip in an olive oil

of olives to a local olive oil production company that produces and

bath, allowing the rich liquid to nourish your skin.

51

LOCAL

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

52

LOCAL

SIX TOP SIGHTS

ST MARY’S CHURCH

VERDALA PALACE

BUSKETT

Head into the rural village of Ħad-Dingli to sample a rural lifestyle the Mediterranean is famous for.

At the centre of the village core is the parish church of Santa Marija Assunta - The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven. The Church was built in 1903 on the same site of the 1678 church.

Verdala Palace is a grand palace situated in the Buskett Gardens, limits of Siġġiewi and Dingli. It was built in 1586 during the reign of Hugues Loubenx de Verdalle, and it now serves as the official summer residence of the President of Malta.

The Buskett Gardens form one of the few woodland areas in Malta. The small forest is located in the fertile valley of Wied il-Luq in Siġġiewi, just east of Dingli. The beautiful Buskett woodlands are open to the public and make for a charming picnic destination.

ST MARY MAGDALENE CHAPEL

THE DINGLI RADAR

THE CLIFFS

Just 100m from The Cliffs is one major landmark that has characterised Dingli Cliffs for 81 years – The Radar. The Dingli Radar was the first station in the Maltese Islands, mounted at Dingli Cliffs on 27th March 1939 to plot aircraft in the vicinity.

Nowadays, the Technical Station of Malta Air Traffic Services Ltd caters for all the technical needs of the radar as it monitors air traffic passing through Malta’s flight information region.

No trip to Dingli would be complete without a walk along the dramatic coastline. The Dingli Cliffs, the highest point in Malta (280 meters), provide spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and the sea below, as well as the uninhabited island of Fifla. Here’s the perfect place to catch that breath-taking Mediterranean sunset.

St Mary Magdalene Chapel is a Roman Catholic chapel located in a truly picturesque location on the Dingli cliffs, that’s why it is also known as “il-kappella tal-irdum” which means “the chapel of the cliffs” in Maltese.

The date of construction of the chapel is not known, but the oldest reference to the building was made in 1446.

53

LOCAL

WORDS CHRISTINE CASSAR

T H E H I S T O RY O F SPEC I A L O LY M PI C S SPORT UNITES PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE. IT BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER, IRRESPECTIVE OF GENDER, AGE, RACE, RELIGION, AND DISABILITY. THESE WERE THE FOUNDATIONS THAT FIRST ESTABLISHED SPECIAL OLYMPICS INTERNATIONAL. The founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, was an American philanthropist

Shriver’s efforts paved the way to a number of accomplishments,

who strived for the acceptance and rights for people with intellectual

including the first International Special Olympic Games, in 1968. In

disabilities. Considering that these people were often neglected, this

her opening speech, she emphasised that sport could help children

hit home because Shriver’s sister, Rosemary, also had an intellectual

realise their potential for growth. She also pledged that through

disability. Especially since both sisters used to take part in various

Special Olympics, people with intellectual disabilities from all over

sports activities, including swimming, skiing, sailing and football, at

the world will have “the chance to play, the chance to compete and

times there were limited options for Rosemary. So, during the late

the chance to grow.”

1950s and early 1960s, Shriver wanted to take a stand towards the injustice shown.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MALTA Eunice Kennedy Shriver was a woman with a vision. She believed

What once started as a vision, became a worldwide organisation that

that if people with intellectual disabilities were treated in the same

has continuously strived to give people with intellectual disabilities

way other athletes are treated, one can achieve more successes

a platform. Taking Malta as an example, Special Olympics Sports

and accomplishments. In the year 1962, she started inviting young

Director, Christabel D’Amato, gave me a better insight of what they’re

athletes with intellectual disabilities to her backyard for a summer

doing to honour Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s lifelong mission.

day camp. “Camp Shriver” soon became the ideal place where these children could allow their physical abilities to flourish in several

Special Olympics Malta was established back in the year 2000 and

sports activities.

successfully obtained full accreditation from the international body

54

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

55

LOCAL

56

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

of Special Olympics in 2006. “We embrace all those who have an

Big plans are in the pipeline for all athletes who are part of Special

intellectual disability,” Christabel tells me. It’s all about a person’s

Olympics Malta. With the Special Olympics Malta Games 2022 and

ability in a sport, rather than their disability. Christabel explains how

the 2023 Summer World Games being just a few years away, the

it has become their lifework to fight for the acceptance and rights

preparations are well underway.

for these athletes, just as Eunice Kennedy Shriver did years ago.

Special Olympics Malta currently offers free, professional year-

Additionally, Christabel hopes that the organisation will keep making

round training in various sport disciplines, including Aquatics,

its mark on the world. While progress has been made, there’s always

Athletics, Bocce, Bowling, Cycling, Dance, Floor ball, Football, Golf,

room for improvement. In the future, she tells me that they plan on

Gymnastics, Kayaking, MATP, Open-water swimming, Rugby, Table

working with more schools and also include pilot programmes such

Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball and Water Polo. Additionally, fitness and

as adults in resource centres and athletes involved in leadership and

fundamental skills classes are also offered to all athletes.

education. The future is most certainly a bright one.

On top of that, Special Olympics Malta serves as a platform to

Anyone can get involved with Special Olympics Malta. Should you

showcase the abilities of these athletes on an international level.

be interested in joining the dedicated team of athletes, coaches,

Some of their recent successes include the Abu Dhabi 2019 World

volunteers, sponsors, and clinical directors, kindly refer to the

Games, where Malta’s athletes secured a total of 40 medals: 15

information below.

Bronze, 13 Silver and 13 Gold. Christabel also explains how all of their athletes put their heart and soul in all the sports activities they take part in. In this case, they started all the training, diets and preparation two years prior to the Abu Dhabi 2019, World Games.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/specialolympicsmalta/

Nevertheless, Special Olympics Malta is not limited to those athletes

Website: specialolympicsmalta.org

who are interested in solely competing. It also serves as a safe

Enrolment Form: specialolympicsmalta.org/get-involved/enrollment-form/

space to all those who just want to take up a new hobby and learn

Email: info@specialolympicsmalta.org

something about it along the way.

Tel: +356 99858224

57

01 01

Oracle Casino, Isle Promenade Qawra. SPB 2508.

Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours.

For info and free transport contact us on (+356) 2157 0057 www.oraclecasino.com

02

St George's Bay, St Julian’s.

Open 24/7. For info and free transport please call us on (+356) 2371 0555 www.casinomalta.com.mt

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

02

Portomaso Casino, Level -1 Portomaso Business tower Portomaso, St Julian's.

Free Transport. Free Parking.

Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours.

Contact us on (+356) 2138 3777 www.portomasocasino.com

02

03

LOCAL

WORDS MALTA PUBLIC TRANSPORT

TRAVELLING WITH FRESH EYES

Finally, vacation time.

temples to medieval traditions to

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

wartime aircraft. Nature has also been

Traveling by bus is the cleanest and

With everything that has been going on

generous with the country, forming

most economical way of getting around.

this year, everyone has earned extra rights

romantic rocky inlets along the coast,

Besides, it gives you a glimpse of Malta’s

to enjoy a good holiday away from it all

growing fascinating endemic species,

charm apart from the advertised must-

this year. And if you are reading this on

and gracing it with a magnificent sky.

see sites. Malta Public Transport operates

your way to Malta, the little archipelago

The name of the island itself, comes from

a network of more than a hundred routes

is waiting for you with all its beaches

an ancient word for honey.

covering every kilometre of the islands.

and waterside strolls, its culture, and

There are also convenient journeys linking

centuries-old palaces. The food, the

As its newest guest, Malta invites you

strategic locations like the airport, hotel

sights, the colours, the quaint customs,

to enjoy all that it has to offer, whether

areas, entertainment spots, popular

and the electric nightlife: there is so much

you want to lay back and relax or join in

beaches, monuments, and sights.

for you to discover.

all the activity. Your actions will also help the island conserve its natural and human

Bus stops are cleverly located to ensure

Indeed, the most exciting part of

bounty for other tourists and, hopefully,

passengers are never far off from the next

holidaymaking is soaking in the

your next visit.

trip, and they are all easily discoverable

uniqueness of the destination. But there

with the dedicated Tallinja application –

is an even better way to make your

One very impactful way of contributing to

the free smartphone app for the public

experience more memorable – by being a

sustainable tourism is with your choice of

transport system in Malta.

responsible traveller.

transportation while on holiday. Malta’s short distances and pulsating streets

Just type in the destination or spot you

Malta was created for exploration.

make it ideal for walking. When the

wish to visit in the search tab and the

Successive civilisations over the last 5,500

journeys become a little longer, though,

powerful Tallinja App will load the best

years have bequeathed the islands rich

or the heat becomes too much, the best

ways to get there from your location,

treasures, from astonishing megalithic

option is public transport.

providing route details and guiding

60

I NSERT L OTCEA XLT H E R E

you directly to the nearest bus stop. A

THE BEST VALUE FOR EXPLORERS

with the driver using either cash or any

handy feature of the app is its real-

Getting on and off the bus is made

contactless device. Please be aware that

time journey update, showing the exact

extra easy with a range of travel

the operator has a no-change policy in

minute the bus is making arriving at the

cards that give you the best value for

place to minimise exchange of cash and

bus stop.

your needs. The Explore Card offers

drivers will be unable to give change.

unlimited public transport trips for THEY’RE GREEN AND SAFE

seven consecutive days. The Explore Plus

EXPERIENCE A DIFFERENT MALTA

The Maltese bus fleet is among the

Meep bundles in a return ferry trip, a

Bus routes in Malta and Gozo penetrate

newest in the EU, with an average age

return bike-sharing trip, and a selection

local life like nothing else. They make

of only four years. The latest addition,

of sightseeing options.

their way from the bustling tourist areas

introduced just this summer, were 50

to the untrodden streets, driving past

brand new vehicles running on the

The Valletta Card is the best way to

grandiose baroque churches and village

ecologically efficient Euro VI engines, the

discover the Capital city, giving access

squares teeming with ordinary life. There

highest category certification.

to three places of interest of the holder’s

are so many dimensions to life in Malta,

choice as well as journeys by bus or ferry

and public transport captures them all.

Passengers are reminded that facemasks

for 24 hours. Another option is the 12

Getting around by bus not only adds

or visors are mandatory on public

Day Journey Card, the transferable card

new vibrant layers to the visit but is a

transport and at bus stops.

without a time limit that can be used

responsible choice that supports the

for twelve single trips on day routes or

Malta’s sustainability efforts in the

six single trips on night routes.

longer run.

everyone onboard. Circulating air on the

The Tallinja Cards are available at Malta

The fascinating islands will undoubtedly

bus is refreshed a minimum of eight times

Public Transport offices and authorised

leave their mark on you. By using the

every hour and the number of passengers

resellers. Passengers without a travel card

right means to get around, you leave your

at any given time is capped to a limit.

can still board the bus and pay directly

mark on them in return.

All buses are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to ensure maximum safety for

61

T O P L O C AT I ON S

DESPITE ITS DIMINUTIVE SIZE, THE MALTESE ARCHIPELAGO IS BURSTING WITH HISTORIC SITES, IDYLLIC SPOTS, CULTURE AND TRADITION. THE MALTESE ISLANDS ARE LIKE NOWHERE ELSE. HERE YOU’LL FIND FOSSIL-STUDDED GEO FORMATIONS, PREHISTORIC TEMPLES, INTRIGUING DIVING OPPORTUNITIES, AND A RICHLY WOVEN HISTORY OF REMARKABLE INTENSITY. HERE’S A HANDY GUIDE ON WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR DURING YOUR STAY.

I SL A N D H IG H L IG H T S

SINGITA MIRACLE BEACH, GHAJN TUFFIEHA, MALTA Singita is located in Għajn Tuffieħa, north west of Malta, and is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island.

Swings, canopy beds, Indonesian furniture, lanterns and inspirational quotes make Singita an Instagram paradise.

The restaurant in the sea view terrace offers quality dishes, from homemade pasta to healthy bowls, and evening barbecues, accompanied by cocktails and breath-taking sunsets.

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

62

T O P L O C AT I ON S

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

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

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

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

63

LOCAL

64

I NSERT L OTCEAXLT H E R E

WORDS MARIA EILEEN FSADNI

O F F T H E B E A T E N T R A C K N AT U R E T R U S T M A LTA

OCTOBER IS A WONDERFUL MONTH TO DISCOVER THE MALTESE COUNTRYSIDE AS IT REAWAKENS FROM ITS LONG DRY SUMMER SLUMBER. IN THE TRADITIONAL RUBBLE-WALLED TERRACED FIELDS SCATTERED ALL OVER THE ISL AND, THE MALTESE FARMERS ARE BUSY SOWING, NURTURING AND HARVESTING THEIR CROPS. SEEN FROM VANTAGE VIEW POINTS ON HILLS AND RIDGES, THE FIELDS FORM A PATCHWORK QUILT OF LIMITLESS SHADES OF GREEN AND BROWN. For the more adventurous visitor seeking an off-the-beaten-track

best tool to create awareness on nature conservation. Complementing

experience, Malta offers a variety of natural habitats where one

the more formal educational programmes run by NTM, are their

can explore nature at its very best with minimal or no evidence of

popular nature visits. These excursions provide the opportunity to

human activity. Even more surprising, for such a densely populated

individuals and small groups to relate to nature on a personal level,

archipelago, is its rich bio-diversity. Amongst the over 4,500

which is often the first step towards environmentally friendly changes

different species of plants and animals recorded in Malta, 85 species

to one’s lifestyle. NTM also promotes sustainable forms of eco-tourism

are endemic to the islands. These include Malta’s national plant,

and has even published its own walking guide to the Maltese islands.

the delicate Widnet il-Baħar (Maltese rock-centaury or Chierolophus crassifolius), and the elusive Qabru (Maltese freshwater crab or

A number of natural sites managed by NTM are definitely worth a

Potamon fluviatile lanfrancoi).

visit by the discerning tourist in search of rare habitats. Il-Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk wetlands is one of only six sites in Malta that sustain

One of the most active non-profit non-governmental organisations in

a saltmarsh habitat – forming a unique link between the marine,

the field of the protection and promotion of Malta’s natural heritage

freshwater and terrestrial environments. Wied Għollieqa Nature

is Nature Trust Malta - FEE (NTM). Founded in 1962, NTM has been

Reserve is a good example of how increased public awareness and

increasingly focusing on education for sustainable development as the

sound leadership/management have stemmed the tide of unbridled

65

LOCAL

development in an ecologically sensitive area. A larger and more

If you happen to come across any injured wildlife on your walks around

challenging site is the Xrobb l-Għaġin Nature Park and Sustainable

the island, the NTM Emergency Wildlife Rescue number to call is +356

Development Centre in the south east of the island. Here, NTM have

9999 9505. The demand for this service is on the increase and NTM

succeeded in creating a project where education, demonstration and

is strengthening its capacity building in this area through an ERDF

research in sustainable environment solutions aim at increasing the

funded project to set up a wildlife rehabilitation and educational

use of renewable energy, wastewater management and safeguarding

centre at its Xrobb il-Għaġin site.

biodiversity. The Pembroke Special Area of Conservation covers 97 hectares of land much of it characterised by karstified rocky terrain.

Occasionally, the work of the Nature Trust volunteers hits the

This garrigue habitat, amongst the most species-rich of the Maltese

headlines like in this year’s unprecedented number of hatchings of

Islands, sustains a healthy array of wildlife including a number of

loggerhead turtles from nests in Għadira Bay, Golden Bay in Malta and

endemic, threatened and critically endangered species.

Ramla Bay in Gozo. Meanwhile, at the time of going to print, another nest at Għadira Bay is being protected by a roster of NTM volunteers

In 2008, NTM teamed up with two other leading environmental

and will hopefully see another hefty batch of baby loggerhead turtles

NGOs, Din l-Art Ħelwa and The Gaia Foundation, to form the

waddling their way to the open sea. The work done by volunteers is

Heritage Parks Federation to manage the Majjistral Nature and

complemented by ERA – the Environmental and Resources Authority,

History Park. This is Malta’s largest natural park and enjoys six

who also support NTM.

kilometres of protected coast. Breathtaking landscape views, pristine habitats, majestic cliffs, rich wildlife and 24/7 access

The importance of early detection and protection of turtle nests

availability to visitors are all contributing to the park’s ascent in the

was highlighted when dead hatchlings were discovered accidentally

list of most visited tourist attractions in the Maltese islands.

by some children in St Thomas Bay. None of the turtles hatched successfully since the sand was compacted.

Apart from its high-profile activities in education for sustainable development and the management of important natural sites, NTM

So if you are planning any autumnal walks in the countryside or

is also actively involved in wildlife rescue. Manned by a team of

along the natural coasts during your visit to Malta, a quick browse

dedicated, professionally-trained volunteers, the rescue service aims to

through the NTM website at www.naturetrustmalta.org is highly

save, rehabilitate and release back into the wild injured animals such as

recommended. Visitors who would like to support NTM’s activities

dolphins, marine turtles, hedgehogs, lizards, snakes and chameleons.

are, of course, very welcome to do so.

66

LOCAL

67

M A D E I N M A LTA

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

MADE IN

MALTA

CISK

KINNIE

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

Kinnie, Malta’s own favourite soft drink, is a unique tasting bitter-sweet soft drink with orange flavouring and aromatic herbs. Kinnie is best enjoyed ‘neat’, with a slice of orange and lots of ice.

Highly refreshing, it is also an excellent mixer.

These distinctive characteristics have made Kinnie a Mediterranean classic since 1952, loved by the local population and tourists.

Over the years, in keeping with evolving trends in lifestyles and health awareness, a zero-calorie version, Diet Kinnie, was introduced, as well as Kinnie Zest – a sugar-free variant with an intense orange flavour.

The Kinnie range is available online at: amazon.co.uk kinnie.com

Buy Cisk on amazon.co.uk

68

I N STEERCTH NO TEX LO T GHYE R E

WORDS TECH.MT

WHY MALTA? THE COUNTRY’S RESILIENCE AND ATTRACTIVENESS DURING A GLOBAL CRISIS

A global pandemic is often the stimulus for severe economic

pool and progressive mentality not only to simply endure but

recession and uncertainty. However, amidst the current crises

to transform toward a new norm. This is confirmed in the 2020

coupled with the imminent global insecurities and geopolitical

Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) which ranked Malta

tensions, Malta’s flag has kept flying high. In fact, the Maltese

as the fifth EU country with the biggest advance in the digital

premium has been accentuated across different facets, ranging

economy. High ranking by the European Innovation Scoreboard

from economic performance and employment to property

2020 and the Global Startup Ecosystem have also proven Malta’s

markets and exportation. Despite the monumental magnitude

status as one of the top innovative and emerging ecosystems in

and economic shocks imposed by the pandemic, Malta’s economy

Europe and beyond.

has remained resilient.

Malta’s quality of life, infrastructure, level of local labour skills, Whilst by no means is Malta immune to the global economic

and bilingualism have increased Malta’s attractiveness in terms

downturn, its economic performance over the first six months

of foreign direct investment and investor engagement. In fact,

of 2020 shows that it is well poised for a gradual but positive

Malta has remained active in attracting such investment into the

recovery. Whilst the euro area’s GDP contracted by 3% during

country through strategic projects in research and development

the first quarter of 2020, Malta’s GDP rose by 0.5% during the

related to telehealth and digital innovation. With a government

same period. Whilst other economies suffered in retaining or

and business sector proactively working together to secure

saving jobs, recent figures from Eurostat show that Malta was

economic survival and employment protection on one end

the only EU country where employment rose during the second

and attracting new niches of growth on the other end, Malta’s

quarter of 2020. This was also confirmed by Moody’s, S&P and

vision is promising and encouraging. With the responsibility of

Fitch who all graded Malta as one of the strongest economies in

representing the technology sector here in Malta, Tech.mt strives

Europe with minimal unemployment levels. Forecasts for 2021 also

to strengthen Malta’s identity as a destination of choice from a

remain positive with the European Commission predicting Malta’s

commercial, investment, and technological point of view.

economy to register 4.1% growth next year.

The local property market has also proven resilient during such turbulent times. Whereas property markets around the world collapsed, property prices fell, and property deals were called off, property sales in Malta totalled €330 million during the month of July only. In terms of trade, Malta has also done significantly well. Whilst exports of goods decreased for all EU Member States

Website: https://tech.mt

in July 2020 when compared to July 2019, Malta registered an

Email: techmt.contact@tech.mt

increase of 16.1%. This ultimately shows Malta’s resilience during

Facebook: @tech.mtMalta

large scale disruptions in supply chains and global slowdowns.

Linkedin: tech-mt

From a technology and innovation perspective, Malta has also

Twitter: @TechmtMalta

retained its attractiveness as a global hub with a skilled talent

Instagram: tech.mtMalta

69

LIFESTYLE

WORDS PAULA AGIUS-VADALA’ AND KATJA ABELA (ATELIER MAISON)

PAT T E R N S IN ARCHITECT UR AL ELEMENTS PATTERNS ARE ALL AROUND US, BUT WE JUST DON’T REALISE IT – IN LIGHT FITTINGS, IN JEWELLERY, IN THE CLOTHES WE WEAR, IN THE CURTAINS IN OUR SITTING ROOM. WHY NOT USE THEM IN OUR INTERIORS, OR WITHIN OUR ARCHITECTURE? A pattern is defined as a repeated decorative design. We are always on

The introduction of a pattern into a space, can make the space

the lookout for new and interesting patterns to adapt and integrate in

feel a little bit more personal, since a custom-designed pattern is a

our designs. Whether it’s a rug, a curtain, a screen, a wall, a balcony, or

personalised element in the space. Patterns can make a large spaces

even a ceiling, there is always room for patterns.

look cosier and less empty, by breaking down a large element into smaller ones.

Let’s begin with the different types of patterns there are out there.

Certain architectural details can incorporate a pattern in different 1. Geometric Patterns. These patterns are formed using the regular

ways. In the past we find some beautiful works of art in the form

shapes we all know – squares, circles, diamonds and so on.

a wrought iron railings. Nowadays these railings are sought after –

2. Organic Patterns. Instead of using rigid shapes, the shapes used to

especially when renovating an old place. Some even replicate the

form the pattern are more free-flowing and soft – like shapes found

traditional wrought iron railing. Why not perforate a steel sheet with

in nature.

the pattern of your choice, as an interesting way of reinterpreting the

3. Digital Patterns. These patterns can be similar to geometric

old wrought iron railing? You can even create a contemporary pattern

patterns, but the shapes will be smaller and more random, even

using a series of verticals and diagonal members, which will result in a

unique architectural element.

sort of ‘pixelated’.

4. Traditional Patterns. You cannot go wrong with the classics. These patterns can be considered a cross between organic and geometric.

Elements like railings and even door openings, need not be ordinary

Using floral patterns together with regular borders and perimeters

or boring parts to your home. Add a pattern or perforation in parts of

in a repetitive manner, can create a rich and high end feel that is

them. You have to be careful however, that patterns are not overdone.

obtained with traditional patterns.

They have to be simple and subtle, but at the same time timeless. You

70

I N S ELRI T F ETSETXYTL E HERE

71

LIFESTYLE

don’t want to get fed up of it soon after it becomes part of the space.

An economical way of using patterns and blocks of colour at the same

A pattern need not be colourful and complicated. It can be created

time can be done by using off cuts of different types of marble, of

with the help of embossing or debossing a surface.

different shades. In certain confined or small areas it can work. Like a guest bathroom, or a single exterior wall, or even a quirky kitchen top.

On a larger, more architectural scale, the regular repetition of openings on a façade – slit windows or doors, can create a decorative

The way in which tiles are laid out can also create a pattern. A

repetitiveness to the surface.

typical example of this would be the 10cm x 15cm glossy white tiles you find in almost every Metro station. It feels as though we are

Wall cladding in the form of mosaics, of different shapes can also be used

moving away from using large tiles, and we are going back to using

in small doses in order to introduce patterns into your interior. For example,

smaller, more intricate shapes and tiles for flooring and cladding. The

the use of small hexagon tiles in a terracotta material applied onto an

old skills man would create

exterior or interior wall can add a playful element to the space. Mosaics need not only be applied in pools or bathrooms but by using a mosaic

Adding patterns can be an economical way of bringing sophistication

pattern of a larger scale on a single wall can be something different.

and intricacy into a space. A high-end look for less.

72

NEDXDTRHI N KE IFNOSO ED R TA T ER

SOME GO OD

FO OD FOR THOUGHT

73

FOOD A ND DRINK

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

YOUR DELICIOUS

MONTHLY RECIPE

Jonathan Brincat

Award-winning and Michelin Starred Chef Jonathan Brincat, also known as “Noni”, is the founder and co-owner of the restaurant with the same name in Valletta. After gaining valuable experience in different roles at the kitchens of five-star luxury and gastronomic establishments, before gaining his own star, Jonathan previously worked under Michelin starred chef Gary Hollihead at the Corinthia London.

74

FOOD A ND DRINK

In Maltese the John Dory fish is known as Pexxi San Pietru, after St Peter. It’s believed the black spot on the side of the fish is said to represent the fingerprint of St Peter when he lifted it from the sea. Here local Michelin star chef Jonathan Brincat, shares his exciting plate, with a fusion of local and eastern flavours.

JOHN DORY, SAFFRON EMULSION, SEAWEED BOTTARGA INGREDIENTS 1 John Dory (approx 1.6 - 2kgs) 3 leeks 1 fennel bulb 3 celery stalks 1 litre white wine 1 sheet Konbu seaweed 6 sheets nori 3 grams high quality saffron 300 ml cream 200 grams butter Maldon salt

METHOD Start by filleting the fish carefully and divide into 4 equal portions, rest on a tray with absorbent paper and put aside in the fridge.

Clean carefully the fish bones and head, put in a small pot add the vegetables and white wine, cover bones with water and bring to a boil. Skim off impurities at the top, simmer for 20 minutes. Switch off and let stock rest for an hour; pass through a fine strainer.

Soak seaweed in 200 ml of the stock and set aside for 10 mins. Strain again the 200 ml stock and put in a small pot and reduce on high heat with the 3grams saffron till thick. Add cream and reduce again. Finish with 2 knobs ice-cold butter. Arrange seasoning with salt and lemon juice.

Bring fish fillets out to room temperature and season with plenty of maldon salt. Warm up a pan with a bit of neutral oil (no olive oil). Pat dry fish fillets and start frying on high heat skin side for 1 minute, lower temperature and continue cooking for another minute. Change fish side and cook for one more minute start putting butter cubes in the pan and baste fish fillets till butter is almost burnt.

Remove fish from pan and season with lemon juice.

Warm up the sauce, and put each fillet in a plate; garnish with the seaweed and put sauce on top of the fish fillets.

75

FOOD A ND DRINK

A GUIDE TO

DINING ON THE MALTE SE ISL ANDS

76

IF NOSO ED R TA T NEDXD TRHI E NRKE

TA' KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO

WATERBISCUIT

80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema

InterContinental Malta, Saint Julian’s

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.

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.

+356 2376 2225 malta.fnb@ihg.com malta.intercontinental.com/gastronomy/waterbiscuit

+356 2133 7367

GRANA

GROTTO TAVERN

Bouverie Street, Gżira

St Paul’s Square, Rabat

Perfectly baked pizza, juicy tender meat and tasty pasta.

That's what Grana is all about! Bring the family, gather your friends and join Grana for delicious dishes, specially crafted by experienced chefs. Open daily for dinner between 18:00hrs and 22:30hrs and for lunch on Saturday and Sunday, between 12:30hrs and 15:00hrs.

The Grotto Tavern is the only restaurant in Malta where one can dine in a magnificent natural Cave whilst enjoying a unique dining experience in a candle light setting. We offer a tasting menu serving the finest seasonal produce with developed innovation and expertise to bring forth tantalizing dishes.

Grotto Tavern is situated in the heart of Rabat, the suburb village of the old capital Mdina.

+356 2016 5109 www.facebook.com/granamalta

+356 2145 3258 / 7945 3258 info@grottotavern.net www.grottotavern.net

77

FOOD A ND DRINK

BOTTEGIN PALAZZO XARA

SINGITA MIRACLE BEACH MALTA

St Paul’s Street, Rabat

Triq Għajn Tuffieħa, Mġarr

Experience good quality food and drinks in a traditional local band club setting inside the historical 300 year old Palazzo Xara. Relax in the Palazzo's OPEN AIR courtyard in a nice cool breeze, only Rabat can offer while listening to soft symphonic jazz music. We pride ourselves in using local genuine products and ingredients. Bottegin Palazzo Xara is located within the winding narrow streets of the heart of Rabat.

Nestled in completely natural surroundings, Singita Miracle Beach philosophy is all about positivity and wellness. Mediterranean pasta, fresh salads, local and exotic fruits, seasonal vegetables, Italian pizza, evening barbecues, and a lot more can be experienced in our sea view terrace. Waiting for the sun to set straight into the sea sipping our fresh fruit cocktails, it is now considered as one of Malta’s top experiences.

+356 2145 4538 / 7945 4538 info@bottegin.com.mt www.bottegin.com.mt

+356 2157 8586 www.singita.it/en/malta/ singitamalta

LUNA AT PALAZZO PARISIO

MUŻA RESTAURANT

29, Victory Square, Naxxar

Auberge d'Italie, Valletta

There are few places on the island that exude elegance like Luna. The restaurant at the 18th century Palazzo Parisio, it is open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner throughout the year serving Italian cuisine with an international flair. In the warmer months – and the sunnier days in winter – guests can slip into the magic of the garden, whilst the colder weather brings people into the cosy heart of this stately home. Experience life the elegant way at any time of day. For more information regarding opening hours, kindly visit our Facebook page or website.

Securing the best venue in town, MUŻA Restaurant is the envy of the capital. Housed in the stunning surroundings of MUŻA public space within the historic Auberge D’Italie, it is breathtaking on all counts. All the dishes are inspired by a selected choice of artworks that are on display in the galleries. Peep through the windows and get a glimpse of the artworks within the museum. MUŻA…the place to be inspired!

+356 7979 0900 catering@muza.org.mt www.muzarestaurant.com.mt

+356 2141 2461 info@palazzoparisio.com www.palazzoparisio.com

78

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

© 2020 McDonald’s Corporation. All pictures shown are for illustration purpose only. Actual products may vary.

A I R M A LTA N E W S A I R M A LTA N E W S

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

AIR MALTA SAVED THE COUNTRY FROM INCURRING €5.5 MILLION IN COSTS FOR THE TRANSPORTATION OF MEDICAL GOODS IN THE WAKE OF THE COVID-19 EMERGENCY Air Malta was instrumental in saving up to €5.5 million in

Air Malta CEO Clifford Chetcuti, assisted by staff at the Airline’s Cargo

cargo costs as it assisted the Government of Malta to deliver

Section, engaged with various international logistics' operators.

some 800 tonnes of medical supplies to Mater Dei Hospital frontline workers at the height of the Covid-19 emergency.

It was through Air Malta’s excellent commercial relations with Qatar Airways, that a viable and far less costly solution was

Air Malta was crucial in engaging its commercial partners

found to transport such an exceptional load to Malta.

in securing substantial cost-saving on the delivery of this exceptional cargo.

Following negotiations, it was agreed that the cargo would be brought to Malta using eight special flights operated by Qatar

Following Mater Dei Hospital Logistics Department request

Airways Boeing 777 Freighter.

for assistance, Air Malta Chief Executive Clifford Chetcuti intervened to find a better solution to a proposal submitted by a

Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses

Hong Kong-based logistics operator.

Silvio Schembri praised the work done by Air Malta, whose intervention was "crucial not only in ensuring the record time

As the National Airline attempted to respond to the request

arrival of the medical cargo, but also resulted in financial savings of

made by Government, it transpired that carrying some

some €5.5 million in transport costs for the country."

800,000kgs of cargo would be logistically impossible, given that Air Malta would have had to operate some 100 flights to and

Through such extraordinary savings, the Government was able

from China.

to acquire more medical supplies in the form of personal protective equipment and masks for the frontliners in our hospitals.

Another daunting task would have seen Air Malta crews segregated into quarantine both in China and upon return to Malta.

"Moreover, this also shows the tenacity and diligence adopted

by Air Malta's management to engage with the right strategic

Analysing Government’s request regarding this exceptional

commercial partners to support our National Airline," Minister

load, it only made sense that a specific dedicated ‘freighter

Schembri said.

aircraft’ be chartered to transport the supplies since Air Malta does not have such equipment.

Air Malta remains committed towards its social obligation to the people of Malta and Gozo.

80

A I R M A LTA N E W S

Air Malta's CEO, Captain Clifford Chetcuti (first left) welcoming the first Qatar Airways freighter flight to Malta.

Staff unloading the first shipment of medical supplies.

81

A I R M A LTA N E W S

IMPORTANT INFORMATION As part of our stated commitment to Health and Safety, we have made a few changes to your travel experience. During these unprecedented times we have reviewed our processes and upgraded cleaning measures to protect you and your loved ones. We have been working with industry partners and are following best practice guidance to ensure the highest standards of health and safety, not only onboard but throughout the customer journey. Following is a list of changes and recommendations to keep you safe from the time you enter the airport, whilst onboard and upon arrival at your destination.

82

A I R M A LTA N E W S

IM

LO

ND

ON

DR

Y

PO

GI

RT

ED

N

83

A I R M A LTA N E W S A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA REMINDS CUSTOMERS OF ITS NEW TRAVEL POLICIES

In its efforts to continue improving Health and Safety, the Airline is

form (https://www.airmalta.com/covid19/) prior to checking-in

reminding customers of its new enhanced operational procedures.

for their flight. Furthermore, all passengers travelling to Malta must complete the Public Health Travel Declaration form as well

These new processes address the entire journey from the

as the Passenger Locator form. Both forms are mandatory, and

passenger’s perspective, at the departure airport, on board of the

customers will not be allowed onboard without completed forms.

aircraft and at arrival, and are devised to ensure the maximum

The forms can be accessed through https://www.maltairport.com/

protection of customers and crews against transmission of the

declarationforms/.

COVID-19 virus.

For more information on these measures and how one should The Airline is reminding customers to read and confirm their

prepare for an upcoming trip, please visit https://www.airmalta.

acceptance of Air Malta’s Covid-19 policy through the online

com/caring-for-your-health-and-safety.

84

SKYSHOP

AIR MALTA COLLECTABLES Air Malta Pilot Bear

Retro Model Aircraft (Scale 1:200)

€15

€20

FRAGRANCES 25% OFF FRAGRANCES* October Special Offer! Get 25% off any available fragrance. *Offer valid for the month of October or until stocks last.

LADIES' FRAGRANCES

GENT'S FRAGRANCES

Boss Orange Women - Eau de Toilette

Paco Rabanne Paco - Eau de Toilette

A captivating scent that opens with an uplifting burst of crispy apple and bergamot, giving a delicately feminine first impression. Meanwhile, the subtle heart notes of the scent, composed of white flower notes and orange blossom, create a carefree, light-hearted edge. The base is characterized by notes of sandalwood, olive wood and creamy vanilla which combine to create a real sense of depth, adding layers of light intensity. The resulting scent is free-spirited and soulful. Wear it with passion.

30ml €20.00 €15.00

Paco is a fresh and invigorating fragrance that is unlike any other. It is modern, young, accessible and universal. For women as for men. And it smells good!

100ml €20.00 €15.00

Boss Orange Men - Eau de Toilette

Featuring an energising blend of crisp apple, warm frankincense, comforting vanilla and bubinga wood, this vibrant new scent perfectly encapsulates the freespirited optimism of the BOSS ORANGE MAN. Spontaneous, passionate and energetic, yet casual and relaxed at the same time, he truly is a liberated soul and BOSS ORANGE MAN is destined to become his ultimate feel-good fragrance 40ml €20.00 €15.00

Michael Kors Sexy Amber - Eau de Parfum

Sexy Amber puts the spotlight on sumptuous amber wrapped in sandalwood and musk, against a bright backdrop of dazzling orange, mandarin and white florals. Inspiration was pulled from the bold Colours that often highlight a Michael Kors fashion collection.

100ml €49.50 €37.00

Davidoff Cool Water - Eau de Toilette

Discover the power of cool: Cool Water Man from Davidoff. Inspired by the strength of the ocean, this iconic male scent has been giving men that vital feeling of intense freshness for over 25 years.

40ml €20.00 €15.00 85

SK Y BA R

TAPAS DEAL Buy a tapas meal, hot drink or soft drink and a snack for

only €10

SAVE UP TO €4.50

MUFFIN DEAL Buy a muffin and any hot drink for

only €6

SAVE €1

MAIN MEAL Tapas Tray

Serrano Ham, Iberico Cheese, Mini Salami, Olives and Mini Cracker.

€7.00

Add any beer or still wine for only €3 more and

SAVE UP TO €2.50 Some items may not be available on certain routes. Please ask any cabin crew member for more information.

86

SK Y BA R

SAVOURY SNACKS Twistees 50g €1.50 Pringles Sour Cream 40g €2.50

SWEET SNACKS

Salysol Roasted Almonds 60g €2.50

KitKat 38.7g €2.00

Hummus Tomato Basil Crisps 45g €2.50

Aunt Mabel's Blueberry Muffin 105g €3.50

Maretti Bruschette Chips 85g €3.50

Haribo Goldbears 200g €4.00

SOFT DRINKS Coca Cola 330ml €2.50 Coca Cola Zero 330ml €2.50 Kinnie 330ml €2.50

BEERS & WINES

Diet Kinnie 330ml €2.50 San Benedetto Still Water 500ml €2.50 Cappy Orange Juice 200ml €2.50 FuzeTea Peach Hibiscus 500ml €3.00 San Pellegrino Limonata 330ml €3.00

Cisk Lager Beer 330ml €4.00

SPIRITS

Caravaggio Chardonnay White Wine 187ml €5.50

Absolut Vodka 50ml €5.50

Caravaggio Merlot Red Wine 187ml €5.50

MIXERS

Verdala Rose Wine 187ml €5.50

Schweppes Tonic Water 150ml €2.00

Bocelli Prosecco 187ml €7.50

Bacardi Rum 50ml €5.50

Bombay Sapphire Gin 50ml €5.50

HOT DRINKS Options Hot Chocolate €3.50 Nescafe Cappucino €3.50

Ballantines Whiskey 50ml €5.50

Lavazza Black Coffee Prontissimo €3.50

Hendricks Gin 50ml €6.50

Pukka English Breakfast Tea €3.50

PLEASE TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: Customer satisfaction is of utmost importance at Air Malta and we are always looking for ways to improve your experience. Visit our website to answer a few short questions and enter our monthly draw to win a free flight. www.airmalta.com/wearelistening.

PAYMENT OPTIONS: You can pay by credit and debit card. We accept VISA and Mastercard for purchases up to €200. If you spend more than €50 you may be asked for identification.

PRODUCTS: Items from this catalogue are offered to our guests in the name and on behalf of Versilia Solutions and its affiliates, who are the solo responsible contractual partners for the service. All prices are correct at time of printing. They may change during the length of magazine. All products are subject to availability. www.versiliasolutions.com

87

FLIGH T I N FO

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

SURVEY

NEWSLETTER

Customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance at Air Malta and we are always looking for ways to improve your experience.

Visit our website to answer a few short questions.

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

www.airmalta.com/wearelistening

A I R M A LTA F L E E T

AIRBUS 320CEO

AIRBUS 320NEO

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

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

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

SMOKING

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

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

88

FLIGH T I N FO

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

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

CARRY MORE WITH YOU Are you worried about not being able to fit everything you need into your suitcase? Stop stressing out and check out our extra baggage service.

Simply book your extra baggage online and get the most out of your trip.

Visit www.airmalta.com/excess-baggage-en-gb

FLY IN COMFORT Enhance your comfort with extra legroom during your flight. This option gives you more space to relax in preparation for your trip.

Visit www.airmalta.com/information/services-by-air-malta/seat-selection

GET SPORTY Are you passionate about a sport? We make it easy to travel and take your specialised equipment with you at a very minimal cost.

Visit www.airmalta.com/excess-baggage-en-gb

GROUPS We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than 10 adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you can’t get anywhere else.

Email groups@airmalta.com

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

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

89

D E S T I NAT I ON I N F O

D E S T I N AT I O N I N FO R M AT I O N

FINLAND

SWEDEN NORWAY

RUSSIA

ESTONIA LATVIA DENMARK

UNITED KINGDOM

REP. OF IRELAND

LITHUANIA BELARUS HOLLAND

Berlin

Amsterdam

London Heathrow

Brussels

BELG IU M

POLAND

GERMAN Y Düsseldorff

UKRAINE

LUXEMBOURG

Paris Orly

Paris Charles de Gaulle

Prague Frankfurt CZECH REPUBLIC

SLOVAKIA

Munich

FRANCE

AUSTRIA

Zurich

SWITZERLAND Lyon

Vienna

Milan

PORTUGAL Madrid

SPAIN

GEORGIA

ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA

SERBIA BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA KOSOVO

ITALY Lisbon

MOLDOVA

HUNGARY

BULGARIA

MONTENEGRO NORTH MACEDONIA

Rome

ALBANIA

TURKEY

GREECE Palermo Catania

TUNISIA

MOROCCO

CYPRUS

MALTA ISRAEL

ALGERIA

LIBYA

EGYPT

The flight schedule is subject to change without notice. For further information, kindly visit airmalta.com for the latest updates.

AIR MALTA DIRECT FLIGHTS AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Amsterdam 4 Berlin 2 Brussels 3 Catania 8 Düsseldorf 2 Frankfurt 5 Geneva 2 Kiev 1 Lisbon 2 London Heathrow 10 Lyon 2 Madrid 2 Manchester 2

AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Marseille 2 Milan 3 Moscow 2 Munich 5 Palermo 2 Paris Charles de Gaulle 3 Paris Orly 3 Prague 2 Tel Aviv 2 Tunisia 2 Rome 4 Vienna 5 Zurich 3

CODE-SHARED ROUTES ETIHAD AIRWAYS Abu Dhabi

Brisbane Melbourne Sydney

ALITALIA

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

LUFTHANSA Stockholm (Arlanda) Berlin Bremen Dresden Düsseldorf Frankfurt Hanover 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

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 EMIRATES

Budapest Bucharest (Otopeni) Prague Sofia Warsaw

Larnaca

via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna

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

AIR ITALY Olbia

TURKISH AIRLINES Istanbul

via Rome

ELEC T RON IC DEV IC ES

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

TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

NON-TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

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

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

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

LAPTOPS AND NOTEBOOKS Such devices may be used during boarding and during flight but not during taxi, take-off and landing.

Any built-in data connectivity such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi must be disabled.

These devices must be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing since they could hinder an emergency evacuation.

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT USE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES?

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHASE

Boarding

HAND HELD PEDS

(e.g. smart phones and tablets)

LARGER PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

WI-FI, TEXT & PHONE CALL FUNCTIONS

YES

YES

YES

YES

(when instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

YES

YES

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

NO

NO

NO

Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

Cruise

YES

YES

YES

NO

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

NO

YES

NO

Landing

YES

NO

YES

NO

Taxi to Stand

YES

NO

YES

YES

Extended Ground Delay

Circa 10 minutes to landing

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

92

GOZO

www.visitgozo.com