Il-Bizzilla, October 2018

# 70 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 8

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

R O C K S T E A DY p. 67 A taste of Malta’s current music scene.

TA LK O F THE TOWN p. 58 This month, it’s Comino - a magical island perfect at this time of year.

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

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

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

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

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5

A

5 4 3

2A

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LIVE MARINE Price Upon Request

MLS ID: 301351 | +356 9910 8070

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

Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated.

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INSERT TEXT HERE

#70 O CTO B ER 2018

CONTENTS

26

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

Facts and figures about the Maltese Islands.

1 6 . T H R O U G H T H E A N T I P O R TA

Nanna and her infinite wisdom.

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

Replacing the old with the new.

26 . C O M I N O I N L O W S E A S O N

What to see when the temperature drops.

32 . W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G I N M A LTA

A collection of events to keep you occupied this month.

3 8 . A R C H I T E C T U R E I N M A LTA

Discovering the mesh of old and new.

40 . M I C A S

Putting Malta on the map for Contemporary Art.

42 . L E I P Z I G

It's time to discover a whole new city.

5 4 . T H E A I R M A LTA M U S E U M

Behind closed doors lies a wonderful collection.

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

Take a trip to Comino - a magical island perfect at this time of year.

42

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

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

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

67. R O C K S T E A DY

78 . T H E N A K E D T U R T L E The effects of plastic on our environment.

Literature in Malta. The miracle of words.

85. THE GR ANARIES IN FLORIANA

Malta’s largest open space with a whole lotta history.

All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

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

82 . S O M A N Y B O O K S , S O L I T T L E T I M E

A round-up of this month’s news.

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

Willie Apap vs Victor Pasmore.

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

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

A taste of Malta’s current music scene.

7 5 . A R T C O M PA R E D

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

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

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

8 8 . T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F M A LTA

The history and legacy of our local uni.

find the knight win a flight

&

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

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

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

Closing date is the last day of the month.

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

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DESIGNER FURNISHED CORNER APARTMENT IN TIGNE POINT REF: 914585

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€ 1,950,000

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Description: A beautifully finished and furnished 3 bedroom APARTMENT with uninterrupted open sea views from a large terrace. This wonderful property has never been lived in and has been furnished and equipped to highest standards.

Ready to move into, full of light and stylishly decorated, this outstanding 4th floor apartment is an unmissable opportunity to acquire a home in Sliema’s most prestigious location. Car space included in price.

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

Grahame Salt Director

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

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

6

# 70 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 8

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

R O C K S T E A DY p. 67 A taste of Malta’s current music scene.

TA LK O F THE TOWN p. 58 This month, it’s Comino - a magical island perfect at this time of year.

ON THE COVER Take a short boat ride to Comino and enjoy the quiet beaches where the clear blue sea never disappoints.

MEET THE TEAM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kristina Cassar Dowling SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG CONTRIBUTORS Air Malta Alessia Caruana Andrei Vella Laurenti Claire Pace Monreal David Baker Giulia Privitelli

Helen Raine Jean Paul Demajo Martina Vassallo Matthew Bumford MICAS Sarah Chircop TCD Valletta Waterfront Veronica Stivala Victor Paul Borg PHOTOGRAPHERS Emma Tranter Paul Mangion

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

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

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

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

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

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

INSERT TEXT HERE

7

You want to make an investment you can enjoy, let us make it happen.

Malta is the perfect place for your Mediterranean home or buyto-let investment. With 22 branches and divisions across the Maltese islands and over 49 years’ experience in real estate, Frank Salt Real Estate is perfectly positioned to help you find and buy the property you are after in a seamless and effective way.

Local. Experienced. Personal. Frank.

00356 2379 4794

fs@franksalt.com.mt

franksalt.com.mt

BUYING | SELLING | LETTING | COMMERCIAL | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | HOME INTERIORS | HOMES OF QUALITY

8

FROM THE CEO...

Merħba,

FROM THE E D I TO R . . . magnificent capital city, Valletta, this year’s European City of Culture.

Dear guests, I feel honoured to be addressing you for the very first time as Chief Executive Officer of Air Malta.

Being appointed in this role is definitely the most memorable milestone for me in my career. I’m also excited to re-join the airline where my career in aviation started as a cadet pilot just over 32 years ago on the Boeing 737 aircraft.

I am taking up this role with pride as Air Malta nurtured my passion for aviation and offered me a solid foundation to further my career with major international carriers. The airline has offered a platform for career development to many other pilots currently employed in Malta and abroad, which is why I feel privileged to have been given this opportunity to contribute to its continued growth. In recent months the airline has registered double-digit growth in passenger figures.

This augurs well for the next steps of growth as we embark to make Air Malta, the Airline of the Mediterranean.

This month, the Maltese Islands offer a very interesting program of varied cultural activities and events. In my opinion you shouldn’t miss Notte Bianca in Valletta on the 6th October. This is a night long spectacular celebration that brings together the magic of Innovation, Creativity, Music, Culture and Art in the historical baroque setting of our

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

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

I hope that wherever you are flying, it proves to be an enjoyable experience.

Air Malta is much more than just an airline. Thank you for choosing Air Malta. As our welcomed guest we hope to see you on-board another one of our flights soon.

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

Captain

Clifford Chetcuti Air Malta CEO

October is the time for new beginnings. University is back on the agenda as is the run of the mill nine to five for many whose kids are back in school. For the rest of us October means chilli wake ups and late night drinks after work. Anything to lift the spirits right?

Malta in October seems new, it seems fresh and different but I can’t quite put my finger on it. What makes Malta different in October? It might be the fact that the beaches are not as occupied or the streets not as crowded with the masses of tourists heading back home for the winter.

This makes for the perfect opportunity to visit our tiny islands. With much more space to move around and explore, the Maltese islands welcome you with open arms. Comino in particular.

We think of Comino as a summer destination, but the treks, hikes and walks along the coast provide for the most serene environment you will ever long for. Trust me, it will be worth the choppy boat ride.

Allow the gentle, yet crisp, breeze to guide you along your path of discovery afoot the islands in the heart of the Med. Have a safe flight,

Kristina

INSERT TEXT HERE

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

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

For more properties, kindly visit remax-malta.com

XEMXIJA APARTMENT

€650,000

MLS 240041023-208

Sea front highly finished and fully furnished fourth floor apartment consists of a fitted kitchen/breakfast/living, separate dining area, front terrace overlooking the bay with a jacuzzi. A main bathroom, a boxroom, three double bedrooms, main bedroom with en-suite and walk-in wardrobe and a back terrace. Included a 1-car street level lock up garage.

Call Roderick on +356 7946 1080

RABAT TOWNHOUSE

€1,100,000

MLS 240091053-47

A family townhouse, larger than the average home with ample space even for a sizable family.

Recently styled and modernised but still retaining lots of it’s original feel. The 4-bedroom property is complemented with a 150sqm garden, a self-maintaining lap-pool and large deck area.

Property is being sold partly furnished. Panoramic country views, and own roof with possibility of further expansion.

Call Adrian on +356 7903 1970 Call +356 2015 6800 Emall info@remax-malta.com

remax-malta.com

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An elevated luxury ‘Apartment’ with Valletta & sea views Tigne Point | €2,500,000 | Ref: FA600793 3 Bedrooms

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Property Area: 238m2

A luxurious APARTMENT in Tigne Point - a prime location ▪ Walking distance to fantastic amenities including “The Point” shopping mall & “Piazza Tigne” with many cafes & restaurants ▪ Residents only swimming pool ▪ Large open plan kitchen/living/dining room leading onto a front terrace with spectacular Valletta, Manoel Island & sea views ▪ 3 double bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (master ensuite) ▪ Utility & laundry rooms ▪ 2 further terraces ▪ Underlying 2-car lock-up garage ▪ SOLE AGENTS

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Newly converted ‘House of Character’ with pool & parking Safi | €1,300,000 | Ref: HC600307 4 Bedrooms

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Internal: 220m2

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A ‘Seafront Commercial Building’ with Grand Harbour views Valletta | €2,200,000 | Ref: OF600109 Ground floor parking

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A’Seafront Apartment’ in a prime location with wonderful views St Julians | €940,000 | Ref: FA501028

Property Area: 550m2

3 Bedrooms

A unique & inspiring business opportunity ▪ Corner COMMERCIAL BUILDING in a prime & iconic seafront location in the prestigious harbour area of Valletta, Malta’s capital city ▪ Large office space with underlying warehouse/parking area ▪ Short walking distance to the busy Valletta commercial centre ▪ The building consists of three levels (ground floor, first floor & roof area) offering flexibility of use ▪ Toilet & kitchen facilities ▪ Excellent transport links to main arterial roads & airport ▪ Additional parking facilities in the vicinity ▪ SOLE AGENTS

External: 155m2

A wonderful, recently converted HOUSE OF CHARACTER finished to very high standards throughout ▪ Excellent location within this quiet village ▪ Close to all local amenities ▪ Natural light in all rooms ▪ Hallway ▪ Sitting/dining room ▪ Fitted kitchen/breakfast ▪ 4 bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite) ▪ Laundry room ▪ Garden ▪ Swimming pool ▪ Also included with the property is a 1-bedroom guest annex ▪ Underlying garage ▪ SOLE AGENTS

3 Bathrooms

Internal: 195m2

External: 15m2

St Julians - a prime location ▪ Corner SEAFRONT APARTMENT enjoying beautiful sea & Balluta Bay views ▪ Highly finished throughout ▪ Fully furnished ▪ Hallway ▪ Living room & dining room both leading to an ‘L shaped’ terrace ▪ Separate fitted kitchen ▪ 3 double bedrooms (master with walk in wardrobe) ▪ 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite) ▪ Spacious laundry room ▪ Guest toilet ▪ Store room ▪ Rear balcony ▪ Optional parking facilities available ▪ SOLE AGENTS

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Outstanding’Seafront Penthouse’ with incredible sea views Sliema | For Rent | €3700 monthly | Ref: PH600201

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A magnificent SEAFRONT PENTHOUSE with breathtaking sea views across Sliema Creek, Manoel Island & beyond to Valletta ▪ Excellent location ▪ Fully furnished ▪ ‘State of the art’ finish with exceptional interior design ▪ Open plan fitted kitchen/dining/living area leading onto a large front terrace with spectacular views ▪ 1 bedroom with large walk in wardrobe ▪ Luxurious en-suite bathroom ▪ Laundry room ▪ Rear terrace ▪ Air-conditioning ▪ Underlying parking ▪ SOLE AGENTS

An outstanding HOUSE OF CHARACTER situated within one of Malta’s most sought after villages ▪ Beautifully converted to an exceptional standard ▪ Unique courtyard ▪ Lots of natural light throughout ▪ Entrance hallway ▪ Spacious open-plan kitchen sitting/dining area with access to the beautiful landscaped garden ▪ Swimming pool & sun terraces ▪ 5 bedrooms ▪ 5 bathrooms (2 ensuite) ▪ Guest cloakroom ▪ Laundry room ▪ Spectacular roof terrace

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

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11

TRENDING RIGHT NOW

5 REASONS WHY THE BLOCKCHAIN REVOLUTION MAT TERS TO YOU

F

or the past few months we have been hearing about little else than blockchain technology, distributed ledger technology and cryptocurrencies. For most of us, these disruptive technologies remain elusive technological concepts which only tech geeks can understand. In truth, the complexity behind the technology is something which only technical specialists will truly understand, however we cannot let this discount the benefits which the implementation of such technologies could bring about in our day-to-day lives. One does not need to understand how an aeroplane works to benefit from its use. Rather than shying away from the challenges which embracing such technologies will bring, Malta was one of the few jurisdictions which sought to provide an environment within which innovation may flourish, rather than stifle it or dismiss it. With the regulator’s seal of approval, it is only a matter of time before what is unfamiliar today becomes our bread and butter when doing business.

Blockchain technology promises to eradicate or at least significantly reduce the chance of breaches by putting the power back into the hand of the data subject. Essentially, I would be able to control my e-identity, decide who has access to my personal information and to personal records online without the fear of these being compromised. This is possible because data on the blockchain is decentralised which means that there is no central authority holding everyone’s data in one location that is vulnerable to cyber-attacks. To breach the blockchain, one would need to overpower over half the network of nodes, a feat that would require a tremendous amount of computing power.

Additionally, anything stored on the blockchain would have been verified and secured by cryptography which gives us peace of mind that information is accurate and makes the blockchain nearly impossible to hack.

It is understandable if you’re wondering, the above is all well and good, but how will I be affected? We have broken down five of the top benefits which we expect to see in the next five years as more businesses incorporate these technologies.

Lack of trust between contracting parties has led to the creation of a number of businesses acting as the middleman to a transaction; an unbiased third party who will ensure the fairness of each transaction. A prime example is Paypal, a payment processor that the general public associates with secure payments. From a buyer’s perspective, we are able to purchase an object with the click of a button, however, for that payment to be processed, our funds must first pass through multiple intermediaries, including banks, corresponding banks and credit card systems, thus consuming both money and time. Businesses make significant efforts to reduce bank processing costs while banks strive to reduce the risk. Buyers often do not realise that in order to make up for such intermediary and processing costs, merchants need to up their prices.

1. MASTERS OF OUR OWN INFORMATION Today, information is just a push of a button away, so much so that we are now being inundated with information from every angle. The challenge lies in sifting through this information to identify what is truthful and what is not.

Beyond this, data protection and security breaches are a growing reality and despite huge efforts to avoid such grave violations, to some extent we remain at the mercy of individuals with less than noble intentions.

2018.07.19_5 Reasons Why the Blockchain revolution Matters to You Final.indd 2

2. CHEAPER AND FASTER PROCESSING

17/09/2018 10:35:57

BLOCKCHAIN

5 R E A S O N S W H Y T H E B L O C K C H A I N R E V O L U T I O N M AT T E R S T O Y O U

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If we take the same simple purchase and put it on the blockchain, the middleman can be taken out of the equation entirely. Since everything would be safely recorded on the blockchain, the trusted third party is no longer needed, thus significantly cutting down on costs and time. In a fully implemented blockchain solution, a payment would take seconds to be completed and confirmed, compared to 2 – 3 days today.

3. CHALLENGING TRADITIONAL PLAYERS Businesses are well aware that they risk becoming obsolete if they refuse to adapt to innovation. While blockchain technology can be adapted to a large variety of industries, it is the very same middlemen that the technology promises to render redundant that have sought to embrace the technology as a means to reinvent themselves in a decentralised world. Banks, who by nature tend to be conservative and risk averse are now investing heavily in research and development to understand how they can remain competitive in today’s world.

From a Maltese perspective, with the advent of online financial institutions such as Revolut, which is set to officially launch in Malta during the Delta Summit in October, Malta’s banks certainly cannot remain idle.

This is not limited to banks, but can also be applied to industries spanning health, education, financial services providers such as insurance, and fund managers as well as government agencies. Sooner rather than later, these stakeholders must step into the future. As users and consumers, we will be spoilt for choice. This is the best time to test the waters to demand more from the different stakeholders and understand what they are proposing.

4. EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES GALORE Malta’s commitment to this industry will invariably lead to an upward cycle. With the foundations now in place for a new industry that promises to become a major contributor to Malta’s economy, it is only natural that demand for growth in supporting industries will follow.

In an environment where growth is the order of the day, the sky is the limit for budding young professionals.

5. RIPE FOR INVESTMENT With the coming into force of the law expected on the 1st of November 2018, Malta’s legal framework shall provide a truly comprehensive structure within which businesses may operate and offer their services in a fully regulated manner. This means that there is no better place for tech companies and entrepreneurs than Malta. Several cryptocurrency exchanges, and other service providers have already realised what Malta has to offer and have already set up their operations locally while many others follow. These will go on to create further employment opportunities.

VIEWS FROM THE EXPERT As Head of Corporate & Fintech at Chetcuti Cauchi Advocates, an international law firm, Steve Muscat Azzopardi is in the thick of the unprecedented interest in Malta from the worldwide blockchain and crypto industry.

With over fifteen years’ experience in the Financial Services Industry, Steve returned from Luxembourg to Malta’s booming economy in 2012 and since then has advised and assisted countless individuals and businesses to establish a venture in Malta and internationally.

Although some stalwarts within the blockchain and crypto sphere challenge the very idea of legislating the industry as going contrary to the roots of the concepts that gave rise to the technology, Steve views the recent Malta laws and subsidiary guidelines extremely positively.

"While I appreciate their perspective and remain in awe at what has been achieved, I firmly believe that regulation is the necessary precursor to mainstream adoption of this truly disruptive innovation. If we want to see heavily regulated industries such as Health or Financial Services reinvent themselves on DLT then a sound, forwardlooking legislative framework is mandatory."

In the absence of legislation to provide a common and interchangeable blockchain framework, businesses are already developing their own solutions, which is positive both for them and their consumers. However in the longterm the full capacity of this technology will be realised only if one platform can talk to another, such as different KYC platforms that talk to and trust one another, providing everyone with a single, duly verified digital identity. Steve adds with a smile “just imagine a world in which there are no more reams of KYC paperwork to open a bank account, or to invest €50 in a fund”.

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

Mr Steve Muscat Azzopardi Head of Corporate & Financial Services Direct Tel: +356 2205 6608 • Email: ask.sma@cclex.com cclex.com

13

PASSENGERS CARRIED ONBOARD AIR MALTA FLIGHTS:

SINCE 1ST APRIL 1974

ES

BU S TA R T A

SI

FL

EW

THE EQUI

VA

LE

AIR

320

MONUMENTS IN VALLET TA

885

6,000 TONNES OF POTATOES EXPORTED ANNUALLY

TIMES TO THE MOON AND BACK SINCE 1 ST APRIL 1974

349,386

THE MALTESE DRIVE ON THE LEFT

THE NUMBER OF LICENSED VEHICLES IN MALTA

28km long/14.5km wide

N

OF

M

L

TA

T

A

K TO

N

1W

EE

DECL ARED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

S

3

50,754,711

BOV INVESTMENTS

a one-stop shop for all your investments At Bank of Valletta, we provide you with a one-stop shop for all your investment needs. You can choose from a wide range of deposit products, life assurance, investment plans, investment funds, portfolio management and stockbroking services.

Visit any BOV branch or Investment Centre in Malta or Gozo to discuss your financial planning requirements and to set an appointment with one of our professional Financial Advisors.

COM 1980

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

Issued by Bank of Valletta p.l.c., 58, Triq San Ĺťakkarija, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1130 Bank of Valletta p.l.c. is a public limited liability company regulated by the MFSA and is licensed to carry out the business of banking and investment services in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta) and the Investment Services Act (Cap. 370 of the Laws of Malta).

QUIRKS

THROUGH THE ANTIPORTA WORDS ALESSIA CARUANA

Visits to my great grandmother’s

the door, with a cast iron gate

house were a treat. She was,

completing the entrance, a

firm and thoughtful, an

gate made by the finest local

oracle of wisdom and a well of

craftsmen; way back when there

knowledge with one of the most

was enough time to pay attention

infectious laughs I'll ever come

to things like iron casting, and

to know. Going to visit nanna

we didn’t need to concede to

meant, we were going to visit

mass production and imported

the entire town; the grocer, the

ready-mades.

baker, the confectioner and the ironmonger, the Mary who lives

Security systems, and alarms

across the street and the Mary

didn’t exist back then. After all

who lives further down the road.

there was no better security than the good old ‘’watchman’’

My great grandmother had a

across the road, who spent her

townhouse bang in the centre

days at her window or sitting on

of one of the centres. The door

a foldable wooden chair by her

was a royal green and its brass

doorstep, monitoring the street at

door knockers had faces that

no extra charge. She’d know about

scarily reminded me of the

a robbery before any news station

gargoyles that sat on the ledges

and I can assure you that she’d

of Paris’ Notres Dame Cathedral.

be the first to let you know of any

One high marble step lead to

suspicious activity going on.

17

There was a mini-market or as we used to call it ‘‘a grocer’’ in

Buying nanna the right bread meant hitting the jackpot, and

the corner with a distinct smell. There you’d find everything

being treated to a midday snack of freshly buttered bread

from toiletries and pasta to floor disinfectant; you’d probably

which melted right off the fresh-sliced pillowy yet crispy top.

even find the woman you didn’t want to speak to at the

Nothing and I mean nothing… tasted better.

cheese counter.

We'd sit in the living room while my mother prepared If you wanted sweets you'd go to ‘Tony’s Confectionary’

nanna’s favourite spaghetti with tomato sauce for lunch

a stone’s throw away from ‘Reno’s Ironmongery’. Nanna’s

when suddenly the bell would ring. The bell ringing was a

favourite sweets were these “orange’ glass-looking sweets

common occurrence at nanna’s house; there were always

that he’d sell by the gram at just a couple of cents. Whenever

visitors aplenty - people who cared and people who were

I went, she’d always give me a little extra to buy myself and

just curiously checking-in to get the latest scoop. Nanna

my brother something for ourselves. Needless to say, much

didn't care for gossip and was very good at sussing out those

like today, I never went back with change. However, no

whose intentions were good from those whose weren't,

errand held higher prestige than going to the baker with my

also tricks she passed on to my mother and I. The doorbell

mother to buy nanna a loaf of bread or in our case a ħobża.

would ring, even though the door was always practically

Nanna was somewhat of a ħobża connoisseur, she’d be able

unlocked, this was common for all houses in the street barely

to tell how long the bread had been out on the shelf just by

anyone ever locked their doors. Nonetheless no one ever

holding it. “No good, they fooled you, this is this morning’s

barged in because privacy was respected and trust in your

reheated bread,” she’d say and straight into the bin it went.

neighbour even more so, back then. A figure nanna couldn’t

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make out through her reading glasses would appear through the glass antiporta and she would send my mother over to see who had stopped by. Sometimes it was Joey, sometimes Dorothy, other times Mary; all people nanna held very dear to her heart. Sometimes they'd stop by with little treats for us, sometimes with a glorious purple tin box of assorted chocolates, the toffee ones were always my favourite.

In the afternoon Nanna would sit on her armchair, with her handpainted wooden fan in hand throughout summer and in winter, her woollen blanket on her legs to keep her warm. The antique rosary beads she held dear always sat close by as did the television remote which she'd use to flip through a variation of Maltese and Italian television channels. She’d always tell the best stories and offer the best anecdotes to life.

Life was simple yet pleasant at nanna’s, she didn't want much but in not wanting much she had it all. No fuss, no muss, just great

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A GLIMPSE INTO A WINERY

Upon opening a bottle of GI wine, such as a DOK Malta, DOK

Modern wineries are nowadays also found in urban or semi-

Gozo or IĠT Maltese Islands, history might be the last thing on

urban settings which permit wineries to have better access to

one’s mind. Yet, every GI wine bottle contains in itself a long

infrastructure as well as to be closer to the market. This has

history of winemaking which has shaped the development of

also been rendered possible due to the advances both in the

mankind. Today, we will be discovering the processes which take

transportation of the grapes and in the technologies adopted by

place inside a winery – the place where grapes are delicately and

the wineries themselves.

carefully fermented into wines.

It is thus clear that throughout the process of winemaking – from Indeed, winemaking has been taking place for thousands of

the grape to the final wine which we pour in our glass, all the

years. The scientific process of fermentation of the natural sugars

process, is the result of detailed research and design. Indeed,

found in the grapes turns into alcohol through the use of yeast

some wineries around the EU nowadays constitute outstanding

is basically known to all. However, winemaking is much more

architectural designs. Different wineries have adopted different

than that – it is a work of art that has evolved over the years with

methods and processes as to vinification depending on the region,

winemakers striving to use specific techniques so as to give vent to

the typology, wine variety, the oenologist and the philosophy

the wine’s best qualities thus ensuring that every bottle has a long

adopted by the winery itself. However, irrespective of the region

tale of love and passion to recount.

or country of origin, upon entering a winery, one may normally observe various processes which take place after harvesting

Winemaking is thus an annual occurrence normally happening

including the crushing, fermentation and pressing, clarification

from the end of August up to the end of September (depending on

(including settling and filtering if necessary) and finally ageing

the region) resulting in different GI wines from different regions

(where ageing takes place) and bottling. Wineries around Europe

around the EU. Wineries vary in size, design and location from one

organise guided tours and tastings for visitors. Such winery tours

country to another, from one region to another, from one winery

offer a unique opportunity to learn about specific wines and

owner to another. Small wineries, also known as estate wineries

to understand better the love and energy that is dedicated by

are normally found on the vineyards themselves where small

wineries to provide customers with the best wines.

producers produce wine from the grapes which they harvest from their own fields. Other wineries have evolved over the centuries

Wine enthusiasts who might visit a winery are definitely in for a

in well-renowned regions such as the Bordeaux region in France.

unique experience which will vary as to the time of the year when

Such wineries normally have century-old cellars where wines are

the visit occurs. Certainly, the best time to visit would be during

refined and matured over the years.

production time when one may tour the whole production

WINE

process from the arrival of the grapes at the winery up to the

including the heat (sun exposure) and water which the vines

ageing processes which a winery may adopt. Most wineries use

receive during a particular year. The higher sugar levels that are

crushers to extract the juice from the grapes that arrive from

found in the grapes result in a higher alcohol level in the wines.

the vineyards. In olden times this process was totally manual with men and women stomping the grapes beneath their feet.

Touring a winery is always intriguing especially when visiting

Modern crushers have brought about a huge advancement in

a winery which has cellars where ageing takes place. Indeed,

the process of winemaking ensuring better hygienic standards

especially for red wines and some white wines which are fuller-

which also result in better quality and longer life of wines.

bodied, the clarified wine is transferred into smaller oak barrels

This process generates what is referred to as a must - a mix of

for barrel ageing. This process helps the wine to mature whilst

crushed grapes with the skins, the seeds and grape juice.

also providing further body and taste to the same wine. Upon visiting a winery, one of the most fascinating places is normally

The crushing processes also involve what is normally referred

the wine cellar wherein one may observe the different oak

to as de-stemming. This simple process involves the removal of

barrels from different years where the wines rest and mature.

grape leaves and stems. This is most important for white wines

Time and the love of the winemaker make it possible for the

where all wineries normally crush and press the grapes in quick

wine to age becoming smoother and gaining more body.

succession so as to extract the juice and remove any skins and other solids from it.

Whoever visits one of the old wineries which have been established for a long period of time will also have the

This leads to fermentation where most wineries opt to use big

opportunity to have a historical tour as to the old artefacts

fermentation tanks to control the process. Wineries around

which were used in olden times. Wine sampling often ends a

Europe have chosen various recipients and materials which all

visit to a winery where specialised staff help the guest through

follow specific trains of thought. Thus, while fermentation in

a wine tasting session.

stainless steel tanks is very common, fermentation also takes place in coated concrete, wooden and ceramic containers.

Visiting a winery is surely an awe-inspiring experience – the dedication and long hours of master oenologists who have

Different grape varieties and grapes from different regions tend to

amassed experience over the years are brought to the fore

have different sugar levels. Sugar levels also vary drastically from

so as to produce high-quality GI wines which are truly an

one year to another depending on a series of climatic changes

expression of the territory.

21

PERRY PROPERTY MANAGEMEMT SERVICES AN INTERVIEW WITH LUISA BUSIETTA WHAT DOES THE PERRY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES

levels of service to landlords and tenants alike. We want to

PORTFOLIO INCLUDE?

be sure that landlords engaging our services are completely

At Perry we help landlords and vendors rent/sell their

satisfied with the services we offer and in the case of tenants

property. We also help clients acquire property and tenants

the home they occupy. Our aim is to make owning or renting

find their ideal rental home. We do everything from helping

a property as hassle free as possible whether the property is

clients understand legislation, finding them a client/property

leased or the client simply lives overseas and would like us to

and now managing their property. Once a client has listed

look after and up-keep their asset/investment. Put simply, we

their property with us in the case of vendors/landlords

take the stress out of property management.

or once the property has been purchased or rented in the case of purchasers/tenants, such clients may engage our

DOES A CLIENT NEED TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT RENTAL PROPERTY

management company to look after their property matters.

PORTFOLIO TO AVAIL OF YOUR SERVICES?

The client does not have to have a large portfolio of We do absolutely everything, from organising inventories

properties to avail him/herself of our services. In fact the

and arranging for properties to be cleaned pre-tenancy

vast majority of clients own or lease a single property which

and on-demand; handling collection of rent or post/

they would ask us to look after. We do not distinguish

mail; calculating water and electricity bills and bringing

between clients with larger and smaller portfolios. Our focus

such utilities up-to-date, handy man/locksmith/repair

is on maximising investments for landlords and assisting

services, right through to handling deposit negotiations

tenants to have as enjoyable and comfortable an experience

once a tenancy has come to an end. We liaise with utility

as possible throughout their tenancy. Once a client trusts us

suppliers and arrange repairs, maintenance works and safety

with their property matters we take care of everything.

reports on the clients' behalf as well as organise payments of outgoings such as service charges.

HOW DOES PERRY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES HELP

IN WHAT WAYS DOES THIS PORTFOLIO ASSIST BOTH LANDLORDS

The need for landlords, landowners and property investors to

LANDLORDS MAXIMISE THEIR BUY-TO-LET INVESTMENT? AND TENANTS?

generate maximum returns from their assets is increasingly

Our management services benefit both landlords and tenants.

important and the services and specialist advice that

We recognise that property management is a people industry,

our property management services company and letting

we are big enough to cope and small enough to care about

department can provide is invaluable for doing this. Our

personal service to both landlords and tenants. Our experience

property management services cover all areas and asset

enables us to manage all complex aspects of residential and

types from large scale villas to rural houses of character and

commercial properties whether the client is a landlord or a

modern apartments of all sizes in central/urban locations,

tenant. Meeting the needs of our customers is our core focus.

with our team providing advice and management services for

We ensure that we offer appropriate, high quality and affordable

single assets or full portfolios.

For further information, contact Luisa on +356 2131 0800 / perry@perry.com.mt

YOU NAME IT, WE’VE GOT IT.

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

EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE

24

MEDICAL

REPLACING OLD BRIDGES WITH IMPLANTS

T

he most popular way to replace a missing tooth used to be with a fixed bridge. This would involve trimming one of more teeth on either side of the missing tooth and fixing a conventional metal-ceramic bridge to each of these supporting teeth. The bridge literally bridges the gap with a suspended tooth in the middle of the supporting teeth.

ADVANTAGES

1. Quick 2. Aesthetic 3. Very good track record 4. Strong and reliable 5. Cheaper than implants DISADVANTAGES

1. Lifetime of bridge is dependent on the supporting teeth; if supporting teeth fail, bridge fails and would need replacing.

2. Trimming of the teeth causes irreversible loss of healthy tooth tissue 3. Supporting teeth may require root canal treatment 4. Area of missing tooth below bridge will continue to lose bone 5. Bridge may need changing after ~10 years.

6. Maintaining good hygiene below the bridge may be difficult.

Today the most widely recognized way to replace missing teeth is with dental implants. This involves the insertion of a fixture or screw in the jaw. Once healed a tooth is attached onto it. This method may be utilized to replace single or multiple missing teeth.

ADVANTAGES

1. Independent from other teeth 2. Very good track record 3. Maintains bone and therefore reduces bone loss 4. Very good aesthtics DISADVANTAGES

1. Expensive 2. Not suitable for every patient 3. Oral hygiene must be well kept 4. Involves surgery 5. Long duration of treatment 6. Sensitive procedure Not every patient is a good candidate for bridges. The same applies for implants. It is important to know your options and hear your physician’s advice on what is best for you! Ask your dentist.

Intra-oral before treatment

Intra-oral after treatment

A CASE STUDY

A middle-aged lady decides to remove a bridge done many years ago to replace two missing teeth. The six-tooth bridge spanned across the patient’s front teeth fixing them altogether.

The bridge was supported by four of the patient’s natural teeth having another two teeth suspended on it to replace the missing teeth. Two implants were inserted in the jaw to eventually replace the two missing teeth. Once healed the once 6-tooth fixed bridge was replaced with six individual full ceramic crowns; four on the natural teeth and two on the implants. This solution allows for better aesthetics and hygiene maintenance.

Dr Jean Paul Demajo

DENTAL & IMPLANT SURGEON

Extra-oral before treatment

Extra-oral after treatment

26

LOCAL

LOCAL

WINDSWEPT RUGGEDNESS A N D C OA S TA L S T R O N G H O L D S WORDS VICTOR PAUL BORG

The first impression of Comino is usually the wrong one. The isle looks small and miserably barren, a windswept isle forsaken between Malta and Gozo, supposedly famous only for one of Malta’s most eminent beachside spots: the Blue Lagoon, a summery attraction.

But Comino is much more than the Blue Lagoon, it packs enough sights and curiosities despite its diminutiveness – the island is 2km at its longest point – for a daylong, easy ramble. There are the beaches, the garigue (rocky habitat that’s surprisingly rich), and two of Malta’s most significant coastal fortifications hailing back to the time of the Knights of Malta.

It’s also easy to visit independently: boats make the crossing every hour or so from Mġarr in Gozo and Ċirkewwa in Malta and cost around a tenner per person. If you visit independently you can beat the crowds at the Blue Lagoon, most of who are disgorged from ferries that sail into the lagoon in mid or late morning.

27

The best way to explore the rest of Comino is to walk around

are the vestiges of the farming community. Most of the building

its shoreline. At a leisurely pace with plenty of stops, the 9km

is derelict now, and the air of desolation, coupled with walls

walk should take around three to four hours. There are paths

eroded by sea-spray, lend an atmosphere that evokes its torturous

and dirt roads all along the way.

history, a story of hope and ruin.

An obvious start from the Blue Lagoon is to head east along a

Less than 2km away to the north, via a dirt road that runs

path that skirts the coast towards the tower. The 1618 tower is

along a shallow ridge, sits St Mary’s Battery, a squat fort

Comino’s landmark, and the largest coastal tower built by the

perched above the coast. The battery, erected by the Knights

Knights of Malta. It was built to protect the water-crossing

in 1714, is a small semi-circular fort with battlements looking

between the islands from pirates, and in its heyday it was

onto the sea. It’s the best-preserved battery of its type in

manned by a garrison of soldiers and heavy cannons. Its six-

Malta, and in its heyday was armed with heavy artillery. The

metre thick walls were designed to withstand artillery fire,

cannons on site, still survive in their positions but are now

and it has seen various other uses throughout its 400-year-

brown-black with crusts of rust. The fort formed part of the

old history, including as a lockup for prisoners and people

network of fortifications around the Gozo Channel which

carrying infectious diseases.

served to deny enemy ships safe anchorage.

Equally evocative, set inland from the tower, is the crumbling

There is another abandoned building just inland from St

building known as the village, a large building fronted by sweeps

Mary’s Battery, a pig farm that was established here to raise

of elegant loggias. This once served as the home of some sixty

disease-free stock after foot and mouth disease decimated

inhabitants – farmers and their families, a priest who doubled

Malta’s pig industry in the eighties. The road heading west of

as a teacher and bakers – who worked on a private farm on

the pig farm – a rutted dirt road that is slowly being overtaken

Comino. They grew crops for export, including cumin, the

by grasses – weaves through Wied L-Aħmar, and then reaches

spice that gave Comino its name. But the venture struggled

Santa Marija Bay.

to maintain profitability and the farm was abandoned in the 1960s; the government then bought back the island. The few

The land slopes to Comino’s highest point northwest of the

remaining inhabitants hunkered in the monastery-like structure

abandoned farm, and the garigue in that stretch is the richest

in Comino. It consists of hardy bushes that grow in pockets of soil among the rugged terrain. The garigue is dominated by wild thyme, Mediterranean heath, St John’s wort, olive-leaved butckthorns, and tree spurges. In autumn, after the first rains, you can also spot the new shoots of the ubiquitous seaside squills, a bulbous plant that dries out in the summer.

Eventually you reach Santa Marija Bay, the quieter sister of the Blue Lagoon. There’s good swimming to be had in the bay with its clear turquoise waters, as well as two historical sights. One is a structure painted in dull, pastel pink, built right on the water’s edge on the southern flank of the bay, a building that now serves as Comino’s police station – it has held a similar role since 1743 when it was built by the Knights as an outpost that guarded the landings of sea-craft in the sheltered bay.

More striking is the decidedly medieval chapel set back from the bay. The fourteenth-century chapel is dedicated to Our Lady’s Return from Egypt. It has thick wavy walls,

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three-hoop belfries, and plenty of atmosphere: it feels like a fortified chapel at the frontier, manned by an ageing priest from Gozo who pops over every weekend to hold mass. It encapsulates the desolate, frontier atmosphere in Comino, a tiny isle that is so close and seemingly empty, yet so evocative in its history and ruins and seascapes.

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THE VALLETTA FOOD MARKET A DESTINATION YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO MISS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.issuqtalbelt.com

BUSINESS

THE GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION A WORKPLACE GAME-CHANGER THE GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION (THE “GDPR”) HAS, PARTICULARLY SINCE THE END OF 2017, PROVED TO BE A POPULAR CONVERSATION PIECE AMONG THOSE AFFECTED BY ITS WIDESPREAD APPLICABILITY. IN THIS ARTICLE, DR ANTONIO DEPASQUALE AND DR EMMA GRECH, OF CITY LEGAL, EVALUATE SOME OF THE SALIENT MANNERS IN WHICH THE GDPR HAS CATAPULTED THE ‘EMPLOYER-EMPLOYEE’ RELATIONSHIP INTO THE LIMELIGHT.

T

he GDPR1 became enforceable on 25 May 2018. Although it is a European law, it applies beyond the EU.2 In practical terms, all entities which have access to the EU market will need to familiarise themselves with its provisions.

Data – now a priority The GDPR places a newfound emphasis on accountability, compelling businesses to maintain an audit trail that essentially records how they collect personal data, what they do with it and for how long they retain it.

Data Protection Officer Employers may, depending on their activities (for instance, if the employer carries out large scale systematic monitoring of individuals, such as through online behaviour tracking) need to appoint a Data Protection Officer (the “DPO”)3 conversant in data protection law, principally to monitor the data controller’s data protection strategy. Even if an entity does not officially require a DPO in terms of the GDPR, it is still encouraged to designate a suitable person to take on a similar role.

Protection’ clause which indicated that the employee was consenting to the generic processing of his/her personal data by the employer. While consent may still be relied upon by the employer as a legal basis for processing, the GDPR sets out onerous conditions that must be abided by for that consent to be valid (for instance, consent must be unambiguous, presented in a plain language and in a manner that is distinguishable from other matters).4 Consent may, therefore, not be the ideal justification for processing.

After all, consent may be withdrawn.

The GDPR does however contemplate other legal bases for processing,5 such as the necessity to comply with a legal obligation (for instance, social security laws), which employers are urged to review and, if possible in the context, consider resorting to.

to block the processing of their data; and, in some circumstances, the right to data portability, by virtue of which individuals may demand the receipt as well as porting of their data across different entities.

Information to employees With an emphasis on transparency, the GDPR requires that employers – as data controllers – provide certain information (for instance, information on the employees’ rights under the GDPR) to their employees in an adequately drafted privacy notice.6 Looking ahead The GDPR entertains steep fines for privacy infringements: a maximum of €20,000,000 or 4% of the defaulting entity’s annul global turnover, whichever is greater (a far cry from the maximum of €23,300 previously contemplated by the local Data Protection Act). 7 By now, employers ought to have carried out a rigorous housekeeping exercise to ensure GDPR-compliance. It would be wise for employers who previously classified non-compliance with data protection law as a low-risk matter to reconsider their stance if they have not yet done so.

Is that consent clause a good idea?

Before 25 May 2018, employment contracts typically contained a ‘Data

Enhanced employee rights The GDPR endows employees with considerable rights, including the right to be informed; the right of access to their data, which means that employers will be required to hand over the requested information to the employee generally within one month from the request; the right to rectification of inaccurate data; the right to be forgotten in certain cases; the right

City Legal

City Legal is a boutique law firm with offices in Valletta providing a range of services to both local and foreign clientele. For information on how we may assist you, please contact Dr Antonio Depasquale on adepasquale@thecitylegal.com or Dr Emma Grech on emma.grech@thecitylegal.com

The information provided herein is not intended to constitute advice of any nature whatsoever. While every effort has been made to ascertain correctness, the author assumes no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions or any other inconsistencies herein. This article contains information as available up to 5 September 2018.

1 2 3 4

Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016.

GDPR, Article 3.

GDPR, Article 37(1).

GDPR, Article 7.

GDPR, Article 6.

GDPR, Article 13.

7 Cap. 440 of the Laws of Malta, repealed by the Data Protection Act (Cap. 586 of the Laws of Malta).

5 6

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32

EVENTS

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

3 October CLIFF ZAMMIT STEVENS – 10TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT St George’s Square, Valletta

The hugely-talented and internationally-renowned tenor Cliff Zammit Stevens returns to Malta for his largest solo concert to-date, in celebration of the 10th anniversary of his career. He will be joined by special guest Ira Losco. The concert will also support The Marcy Foundation, which was launched in August this year in honour or Zammit Stevens’ mother, who passed away last year. It will raise awareness of drug abuse, domestic violence, mental health, HIV and child abuse. www.showshappening.com

4 - 7, 11 - 14 October US/THEM The Splendid, Valletta

The animated narrative, ‘US/THEM’, which sees brutal terrorism coinciding with child-like innocence, is coming to Strait Street. On 1 September 2004 – the first day of school, or Russian ‘Knowledge Day’ – a group of Chechen terrorists stormed into a school in the small town of Beslan, taking 1,200 hostages. The siege lasted three days. Hostages were confined within the walls of the school’s gymnasium. The massacre left 334 dead, including 186 children. ‘US/THEM’ explores how children find ways to cope with traumatic situations. violets@theshrinkingviolets.com

5 October - 31 October DRUMMING - ART EXHIBITION BY CHARLES CITY GATT Art Galleries, Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta Inspired by the title of musical piece by minimalist composer Steve Reich, 'Drumming' is a collection of recent works by Charles City Gatt. The paintings oscillate between transitional minimalist concepts and aleatoric music. Akin to musical rhythms and hues, a generally determined structure is enriched by elements left to chance, to create free multi-directional paintings. www.artsmalta.org/events

EVENTS

5 October - 2 November PARALLEL EXISTENCES Valletta Contemporary

In his long-awaited new exhibition, celebrated photographer Alex Attard creates alternative identities for historical, centuries-old documents that were severely damaged during the war, and which have since formed part of the Notarial Archives in Valletta.Now, Attard creates a parallel existence for these objects through his artistic expression, where history inspires art, and art commemorates history by restoring time, memory and purpose to it. www.alexattard.com

5 - 7, 12 - 14 October THE JEW OF MALTA Teatru Manoel, Valletta

This October, the MADC and Teatru Manoel are producing Christopher Marlowe’s classic 1590s play The Jew of Malta.

Director Chris Gatt describes the play as a “Dark, hilarious and subversive tragi-comedy. The Jew of Malta takes no prisoners as Marlowe cynically dissects a world where politics, greed and the three Mediterranean religions - Catholic, Muslim, and Jewish clash; skewering all three as he weaves a fast-paced story at once tragic, farcical, and absurd.” www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

5 & 28 October MUSIC+ - TALK AND RECITAL Exhibition Hall, Ministry for Gozo, Victoria

On the 5th October Dr Abraham Borg (Malta) will deliver a talk on the history of opera in Malta, "Opera in Malta: a brief overview", focusing on the golden eras of the Manoel Theatre and the Royal Opera House, other theatres and opera in Gozo. On the 28th there will be feature a Trumpet & Piano Recital. English trumpet player Brendan Ball, accompanied by Maltese pianist Elaine Mercieca will perform a very interesting programme including the world premiere of Alan Cassar's Deconstructed Images. www.facebook.com/theclassiquefoundation

13 & 14 October MALTA CLASSIC 2018: MDINA GRAND PRIX Mdina Gate

This October 13th - 14th, Malta Classic welcomes car enthusiasts, visitors and families to an exhilarating celebration of the World’s most iconic classic cars. Over 70 pre-1976 cars will participate in the 11th edition of Malta Classic, with drivers from international locales including France, the UK, Italy and Switzerland for the Malta Classic 2018 championship of vintage style and speed. www.maltaclassic.com

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EVENTS

13 - 14, 19 - 21, 26 - 28 October TEBUT ISFAR Valletta Campus Theatre (ex MITP), Valletta

Tebut Isfar is the new play in Maltese that drives home a poignant message in light of the controversial issues of over-development and construction in Malta. Written by local female playwright, Clare Azzopardi, the play follows the owner of a small coffin shop in Valletta, as he deals with a developer who has his sights set on turning the shop into a boutique hotel. Directed by Marcelle Teuma, and starring Peter Galea, Mariele Żammit, Leigh Anne Abela, and Roderick Vassallo. www.ticketline.com.mt

19- 21 , 26 - 28 October AMADEUS BY PETER SHAFFER Teatru Manoel, Valletta

‘Amadeus’ follows the lives of composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri in a fictionalised history of their intense competition in 18th century Vienna, and Salieri’s bitter envy in the face of Mozart’s musical genius. Directed by Stephen Oliver and featuring some of Malta’s finest performers as the play’s leads and supporting roles, including Thomas Camilleri as Mozart and Manuel Cauchi as Salieri, ‘Amadeus’ will have six performances at Teatru Manoel in October 2018. www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

29th October - 4th November INTERNATIONAL RADIO FESTIVAL 2018 MALTA Teatru Rjal, Valletta

Listen to how the world sounds. This October the International Radio Festival Malta edition will showcase on-air hosts from over 29 radio stations who will be broadcasting their programmes live from the stunning Teatru Rjal in Valletta. You can also tune-in to the shows DAB+ across Malta. www.internationalradiofestival.com

31st October at 7:30pm VIOLA & PIANO RECITAL Concert Hall, Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta

Brahms’s two magnificent sonatas for viola and piano will be the main works featured in this recital by viola player Nadia Debono and pianist Michael Laus, organised by the Goldberg Ensemble.

The recital will also feature a sonata by the German classical composer Carl Stamitz, and Dirge, a composition by the Maltese composer Christopher Muscat. Nadia Debono and Michael Laus are respectively Principal Viola and Resident Conductor of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. www.artsmalta.org/events

I S L E S TA P L E S

MADE IN

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

QUALIT Y AND DESIGN M ADE FOR YOU After working within the earthenware industry for more than 20 years David Grima and Brian Grima set up Mediterranean Ceramics, in 2008.

Soon after the production of cultural ceramic homeware, the range expanded into bespoke volcanic and Lava stone products. With a variety of tables, kitchen counters, shop counters, tiling, flooring, facades and barbecues, one will definitely find something unique at Mediterranean Ceramics. The production of such products has helped the company gain a universal advantage in the home and garden markets for bespoke highend products. Although Mediterranean Ceramics is arguably a small family run business, it was selected amongst several competing worldwide companies to locally produce handmade and hand painted ceramic murals for the new XXII Carat Club villas and Hotel on Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. One can experience the beauty of Maltese craftsmanship and watch the artists at work by visiting Mediterranean Ceramics online or at the Ta’Qali Crafts Village in Malta.

Feel free to contact us: +356 2010 5552/3

WELCOME TO M ALTA

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 ensure 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 extrastrong 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.

+356 9920 1055/ +356 9944 0922 www.MediterraneanCeramics.com

Buy Cisk on amazon.co.uk

Over the years, in keeping with evolving trends in lifestyles and health awareness, a zerocalorie 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

35

36

I S L E S TA P L E S

SELF DRIVE BOATS Captain your very own speed boat and see the historic sights and beautiful beaches of the island of Comino, Malta and Gozo. We provide you with full safety briefing for safe family fun and a chance to sight see and anchor at any secluded beaches, accessible by boat only, where you can spend time relaxing on the boat, wading in the clear blue waters, or snorkelling along the coastline. Terms and conditions apply.

For bookings and reservations – Contact us and we will get back to you right away with details and confirmation. +356 2152 5861 / 9982 6863 info@bluewaveswatersports.com www.bluewaveswatersports.com

SOUVENIRS THAT DON'T SUCK Nestled in the heart of Sliema, you’ll find this hidden gem that’s trying to fight the worldwide epidemic of bad souvenirs. Created by local designers, Souvenirs That Don’t Suck offers unique, modern and often quirky gifts that give a fresh perspective to colloquial Malta. www.souvenirsthatdontsuck.com hello@souvenirsthatdontsuck.com +356 7907 2313 souvenirsthatdontsuck

ESCAPE ROOM Scavenger Escape is a second-generation escape game.

Players are locked in a themed room and have to complete a mission through solving puzzles and other challenges.

The mixture of the escape room concept and the exciting treasure hunt experience with fascinating puzzles offers great entertainment for friends, colleagues and families. www.scavengerescape.com malta@scavengerescape.com +356 7903 9330

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

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38

ARCHITEC TURE

ARC H IT E C T UR E I N MA LTA WORDS MATTHEW BUMFORD

M

Malta is well-known for its history and, from an architectural standpoint, the well-preserved nature of its many temples, palazzos, churches and fortifications. However, it should not be dismissed for its more recent architecture, creating a distinct blend between the old and the new, that can be seen throughout the island.

THE BALLUTTA BUILDINGS Found in St Julian's, the Ballutta Buildings pay homage to the Art Nouveau style. Originally designed as some of Europe’s largest and most lavish apartments, the building displays several opulent features that are well-preserved today.

Many of the apartments are still in the hands of the families of the original occupants and the building is in need of some tender love and care. However, there are plans to make the building more commercially-orientated and renew the building, outside and in, to its former glory.

You can still visit today and witness the beautiful and intricately-carved façade to imagine how the building would have been in its 1920s heyday.

ARCHITEC TURE

THE BARRAKKA LIFT A trip to Valletta is often, and understandably, a historical journey. But the capital has some contemporary architectural gems to discover.

One of the most prominent of these is the Barrakka Lift which, for many, especially those who arrive by cruise ship, it is the entrance to the capital itself. Originally opened in 1905 before being refurbished a century later the lift is perhaps the ultimate example of the juxtaposition between old and new in Valletta.

Able to carry up to 21 passengers at one time with up to 800 possible trips every hour. The twenty-story high Barrakka Lift has won a number of international architectural and engineering awards. The lift serves as a functional method of transport between Valletta and the harbour below.

THE NEW PARLIAMENT BUILDING Also in Valletta, the new parliament building was finished in 2015 at a cost of around €90m as part of the wider City Gate project. The evocative work by world-renowned architect, Renzo Piano may be a divisive addition to Valletta’s cityscape but its architectural integrity cannot be argued.

One of Malta’s most recognisable and most photographed buildings, Parliament House, to use its official title, is both spacious and functional. Designed to almost look like it is floating, the building makes use of both modern and historical materials in its creation with steel and stone in prominent use in the structure’s design.

Incredibly, the building is zero emission as it is able to recover heat from the limestone base below. While it is a working building for Malta’s parliament, it has designated areas for visitors to see the interior up close.

MALTA AQUARIUM Opened in 2013, the starfish-shaped building is home to Malta’s national aquarium. With over 130 species of fish and other marine life, the aquarium is a proud champion of Malta’s coastline and maritime heritage.

Partly-funded by the EU, the €15m project is designed to be a spectacle both inside and out with multiple educational, conservational and ecological projects taking place at any one time.

With plenty to do and see for both adults and children it is little wonder why this is one of Malta’s most well-visited tourist attractions.

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40

ART

M A K I N G M A LT A CONTEMPORARY

W

ith its

momentum. Even though

opening in

the space itself will not be

2021, MICAS

opening until 2021, MICAS will

(Malta

officially launch on the 12 and

International Contemporary

13 October, with a programme

Art Space) is set to turn Malta

of events that will see some of

into a leading player in the

the most important names in

field of contemporary art.

the contemporary art world arriving in Malta.

If you happen to be passing through Pieta or Ta’ Xbiex

The undertaking is an

and look across the Marina di

ambitious one. Not only will

Valletta, you may notice that

it give a new lease of life to

the fortifications adjacent to

a group of buildings that

the the Sa Maison Gardens,

have lain unused for decades,

with its magnificent skew

but also has the potential to

arch, are being restored to

regenerate an area that has

their former glory. Within

hitherto been a bit of a no-

the fortifications, there is

man’s land. Phyllis Muscat,

even more activity, as a team

chairwoman at MICAS, is

of builders, supervised by

undaunted by the scope of

the Restoration Directorate,

the project - 9,000 square

is bringing a site that was

metres of space, which will

once used as a gunpowder

eventually house internal and

factory (The Polverista) back

external exhibition spaces, a

to life. It was also used as a

space for artists’ residencies,

refuge for stray young women

offices as well as a museum

(The Ospizio), and is being

shop, cafeteria and restaurant.

converted into MICAS (Malta

“Our aim is to create a space

International Contemporary

that will be up there with big

Art Space) - a Government

international museums, with

of Malta and EU co-funded

whom we are already forging

project, realised through

working relationships,” she

the European Regional

says. The fruit of this is evident

Development Fund (ERDF)

in MICAS’s first big scoop: an

that is set to place Malta

installation by Ugo Rondinone,

right up there in the field of

one of the hottest artists on

contemporary art.

the contemporary art scene at the moment, who is creating

It’s been a long time coming.

two pieces especially for

The site was the most recent

MICAS.The Radiant is a stone

in a long line of contenders

sculpture that will temporarily

for the project, which had

reside in the lower part of the

been in the pipeline for many

Sa Maison Gardens before

years. But it’s all go now, and

it permanently goes into

the project is rapidly gaining

what will eventually become

ART

MICAS will become a showcase for local and international artists, which is already something, but apart from that, it will also serve as a channel for building international relations

MICAS’s sculpture garden.

international relations. Art

Another piece involves chimes

has a way of bringing people

hanging from trees, which

together, and of making

Rondinone has dedicated to

important statements, so it’s

the children of Malta - “the

not just a question of creating

future”, as he puts it. Both

an exhibition space. It’s a lot

will be unveiled in October,

more than that.”

together with an architectural exhibition that revolves around the past and the future of the site; a series of talks that will see many local and internationally acclaimed leaders of the creative industries descending on the island; a communications hub that will deal with local and international press, and to end it all, a gala fundraising dinner to be held at the Casino Maltese in Valletta.

Francis Sultana, an interior designer who works with many international art collectors, and was recently appointed as a Maltese Ambassador for Culture, sits on MICAS’s Board of Directors and is very excited about the project. “This is going to be a very important

Once the October launch event is done and dusted, there will be more to look forward to.

MICAS is already in discussion with local and international artists to create more site specific works, and wants to keep on making its presence felt even before the space actually opens its doors. But that is all under wraps right now. In the meantime, there is the building itself to complete, never an easy endeavour, but even more so when you’re dealing with something as historically important as the fortifications of Valletta. Yet the optimism and energy of Muscat, the MICAS board of directors and the rest of the team make you think that it

point in Malta’s cultural

will all go according to plan,

trajectory,” he says, “MICAS

and that in a few years time

will become a showcase for

MICAS will be up there with

local and international artists,

MoMa, The Serpentine, and

which is already something,

Guggenheim on the list of

but apart from that, it will also

every contemporary art lover’s

serve as a channel for building

list of must-sees.

For further information on the MICAS launch weekend, visit www.micas.art

41

T R AV E L

LEIPZIG AN IDEAL STARTING POINT FOR NEW DISCOVERIES WORDS DAVID BAKER / AIR MALTA

October is a popular time to visit Germany. The

Physical spaces give you a feeling of freedom as

summer vacation season is over, and the hillsides

you walk around: the market place surrounded by

are awash in brilliant shades of colour. The autumn

freshly restored civic buildings, the many parks

harvest in this country, famous for its wine and

watched over by communist-era tower blocks,

beer, is underway.

canal towpaths, acres of post-industrial wasteland packed with muscular architecture are today also

At the time of reading, you might still be able to

home to many of those creative industries.

enjoy one of the many Oktoberfest celebrations. But my advice is to avoid the raucous crowds and party

New buildings and new ideas are

atmosphere in the beer halls of Munich or Frankfurt.

inexorably — from software start-ups to coffee

Instead take to what was once the playgrounds of

shops — in Germany’s fastest growing city.

royalty in the state of Saxony, a region once again flourishing, with Leipzig at its heart.

Wander through the medieval passageways where merchants used to trade. They're now

As from the 31 October, Air Malta will be

glorious shopping arcades with arched glass

introducing flights to the city that sits at

roofs, decorative copper and stained glass.

historic crossroads. In the Middle Ages, it

One of them, Mädler Passage, houses the city's

rose to prominence as a trading hub at the

most famous restaurant, Auerbachs Keller, with

intersection of the Via Regia, a major east-west

its vaulted ceiling and heavy oak pillars. The

transcontinental route, and the Via Imperii, a

18th-century poet Goethe used to drink here

north-south thoroughfare.

as a student. It's mentioned in Faust - his tale

st

of a scholar who makes a pact with the Devil in The Leipzig of today is emerging as Germany’s new

return for knowledge.

capital of culture, but Leipzigers don’t like it being called the ‘next Berlin’, as many do! It has its own

Plus, there’s the cathedral-like Hauptbahnhof

distinctive identity.

station, one of the largest in Europe which has been turned into a modern shopping centre

While the historic centre has bars and

comprising some 140 shops on three floors.

museums, the trendy place to be is the western

Among the many other reasons for Leipzig’s

Plagwitz district. The suburb, dotted with

growing popularity today is its history.

industrial chimneys, has become the city's creative scene. At its heart is the Spinnerei,

The picturesque, kayak-friendly canals are part

a former cotton mill with its brick buildings

of an unfulfilled 19th-century plan to connect

house art galleries and workshops.

Leipzig's landlocked factories with Hamburg's seaport, 250 miles away.

This and many of the former factories and industrial sites that were left vacant after the days

The necklace of lakes offering sailing and sandy

of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) have

beaches, just a half-hour's bike ride from the city

been and are continually being rejuvenated and

centre, were previously the open-pit coal mines.

reimagined into public areas, creative enclaves,

These have been deliberately flooded over the past

and multi-use spaces Leipzig is a city that’s

20 years to transform the scars of the industrial

having a moment. The city is also about space.

past into recreation areas.

43

The Fockeberg, a fertile, 500-foot hill provides sweeping views

exhibits. In addition to the gallery, there’s also a restaurant,

across Leipzig's Südvorstadt district. This is Second World War

cafe, and hotel on premise. Gallery Hier + Jetzt (Here + Now) is

rubble — remnants of a dark past - piled up and planted over to

the spot to check out emerging contemporary urban art in the

create a rural idyll.

Tapetenwerk, a former wallpaper factory.

While walking (up hills) and even kayaking are great ways

GET TO KNOW PLAGWITZ

to explore the city, there is another way - on two wheels.

The west end of Leipzig is one of the more recent areas in the

With a sizeable student population and a relatively flat

city to embark on the gentrification process as it’s increasingly

terrain, Leipzig is a true bike city. You’ll likely encounter

been a hub for students and the city’s creative crowd. Strolling

more people zipping by on two wheels than driving and

along the Karl-Heinz Straße – the main drag in Plagwitz –you’ll

walking combined. Bikes are chained to every conceivable

come across a profusion of eateries, indie shops and cafes. At

post, fence, or railing often stacked several deep. Leipzig is

the end of the stretch you’ll come across Westwerk, another

quite a breeze to get around even as a visitor, as dedicated

converted industrial space that’s become a gathering spot for

bike lanes transect the city making it an efficient and

the creatively minded set, hosting exhibits and events. This

convenient way to see a lot of it. If you’re feeling more

neighbourhood has a more buzzing and edgy atmosphere.

adventurous there’s also plenty of day trips you can take if you want to see more of the surrounding area.

STROLL THE KARLI Karl-Liebknecht Straße, nicknamed Karli by locals, is a main

CHECK OUT THE VIBRANT ARTS SCENE

drag of the city, originating just past the Altstadt and running

The Spinnerei, which I mentioned earlier, is only part of a

south through Südvorstadt and into the increasingly alternative

revitalization project that saw the abandoned buildings of

Connewitz. Karli feels central but is still outside of downtown,

the baumswollpinnerei converted into spaces for art and

so it’s an ideal street to get to know the non-touristy Leipzig.

culture. The Galerie für Zeitgenössische Kunst (Gallery of

As you peruse the many restaurants, boutiques, bars and coffee

Contemporary Art) showcases art from post 1945, highlighting

shops that dot the Karli you will come across some interesting

German artists as well as international creators in well curated

spots like a local favourites vegan eatery - Symbiose, the fashion

T R AV E L

and lifestyle brand Tranquillo, and dozens of sidewalk patios to rest and imbibe. Day or night, there is always life on the Karli.

SAMPLE THE LOCAL BEER And about imbibing. You must try Gose beer. It originated in Goslar, a town 200 kilometres west of Leipzig, but the city adopted the style as its own after a Duke brought it to the city. This highly distinctive, carbonated top fermented sour beer with herbaceous flavours of coriander and lemon, was major business in Leipzig with dozens of breweries making the popular brew throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. The style fell out of fashion in the mid-20th century with the last brewery closing up shop in the ’60s, essentially making Gose beer extinct. Twenty years later, it was resurrected and is now produced by four breweries in Germany and many more abroad.

And where better to try a glass or two than at Bayerischer Bahnhof, the impressive former train station that has been converted into a brewery, restaurant and beer garden. It is not everyone’s taste so here’s a tip. Drink it with Allasch, a sweet caraway liqueur.

TAKE IN THE STREET ART One thing that won’t escape your eye while exploring the city, is that Leipzig is a hotspot for street art. Blek le Rat, one of the first stencil graffiti artists and Banksy pre-cursor, drew ‘Madonna and Child‘ in 1991 on the side of a house on the Karli. The piece was covered up with posters and lost to the world for years before being rediscovered and protected behind glass in 2012. Nowadays, the buildings and alleyways in and around Karli and Karl-Heinz are heavy on the street art, with something new and novel to discover at every turn.

The movement is so popular that Leipzig hosts a street art festival on October 27th.

EXPERIENCE THE NIGHTLIFE

Leipzig has shed its reputation as Germany’s ‘poverty capital’ and entered safely into the realm of poverty chic; it has been born anew as a cultural mecca

If you happen to be nocturnal, as would be expected of any legitimate student city, Leipzig has a thriving nightlife, with plenty to get enthusiastic about – theatres, concert halls, variety shows and casinos. And when you finally arrive in one of the many clubs or bars, you will realise that Leipzig is always wide awake and that the term “closing time” is not in the vocabulary.

GO NOW! You thought Berlin was the centre piece of alternative in Europe?

Think again. Leipzig has shed its reputation as Germany’s ‘poverty capital’ and entered safely into the realm of poverty chic; it has been born anew as a cultural mecca.

This city is a hidden gem, still practically unknown to people outside Germany. It won’t be long before more people discover, like I did, that it is more charming, better-looking has less hype, queues and is in-expensive in comparison to its better-known counterparts. If you don’t believe me, go see for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.

As from the 31st October, Air Malta will operate a weekly flight every Wednesday between Malta and Leipzig.

Visit www.airmalta.com for more info.

45

#GetCheeky with Us

Doctor`s Orders

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68

INSERT TEXT HERE

AC TIVISM

SOCIAL ACTIVISM ON THE GROUND

GOING BEYOND HASHTAGS TO EXPLORE VICTIM SUPPORT IN MALTA With the rise to prominence of social

VSM does he comments that: “VSM

awareness movements such as #MeToo,

provides emotional support and legal

social activism has taken centre stage

advise to victims of all crime.” He adds

in both social and mainstream media.

that “Whether reported or not, anybody

However, the fame and sharability of

who has experienced recently or in the

this hashtag activism can never escape

distant past and is still dealing with

from the real ‘on the ground’ efforts that

the repercussions of what might be

organisations around the world do in

considered a crime can reach out to VSM

terms of support and offering tangible

for free counselling or psychotherapy.”

help, guidance and assistance to victims of abuse.

The list of crimes from domestic violence to sextortion, cyber bullying to

We sat down with Karl Grech, Services

hate crimes is extensive and highlights

Co-ordinator for Victim Support Malta,

both the depth of the issues but also the

to highlight the work that is being done

depths of the work that VSM does. This

here in Malta and to gain his unique

is not a traditional 9-5 career.

perspective on the sector.

BREAKING BARRIERS A WOMAN’S WORLD

In certain circumstances being a man in

Victim support has long been a

this sector can actually help men who

female-dominated field. Perhaps

have suffered from domestic abuse to

understandably so considering the

come forward and seek support.

nature of most domestic abuse is male

A SPOTLIGHT ON SUICIDE PREVENTION

to female orientated (though there are

“Male domestic violence has actually

clearly more levels and dimensions

been on my mind because men can be

PROJECT SPOT

of abuse than this). Being a man in a

victims too. We’ve seen both abusive

VSM are launching Project SPOT

woman’s world then, especially in such a

women and abusive men,” he adds. “But

sensitive area such as victim support, is

unfortunately men are much less likely

a delicate undertaking.

than women to report abuse despite

also to survivors of suicide. VSM staff

abuse being a clear and real issue.”

are to receive specialised training in the

For Karl, whose youthful shyness belies a

December which aims to offer specific support for individuals who have lost a family member or a friend to suicide and

UK in October/November for this with a campaign launching at the end of the year.

clear passion and belief in the work that

Karl seems determined to help remove

VSM does, this seems less of a challenge

any stigma surrounding abuse from

and more of a calling. His determination

every gender and angle. He highlights

Victim Support Malta is a Non-

in support of his clients is commendable

the importance that VSM has of taking a

Governmental organisation aimed at

and the love he has for his job shines

victim-centred approach to every situation

through as he speaks.

before drawing any conclusions.

ABOUT VSM

supporting all victims of crime across Malta. The small and dedicated team headed by Director Krista Tabone and Chairperson Julianne Grima work together

Still, being the ‘only guy’ in the office

He also stressed a key point in the

should surely present some challenges.

importance of re-introducing positive role models into an environment (of a

“It doesn’t bother me as much as

victim of abuse) in order to foster the

people probably think it bothers me,”

reparative process.

their clients. Offering emotional and therapeutic support, the work they do helps people throughout Malta overcome the damage caused by crime and abuse.

If you need to get in touch with Victim

he suggests. “We work well together.

The industry is female-dominated but I

When asked, finally about the aims of

think there is still space for men within

VSM and his own growth within the

this line of work. We need all kinds of

organisation he said “your goal is to

people as each individual brings certain

work yourself out of a job.”

aspects of themselves to the table.”

You can only hope that in this Regarding the the actual work that

to provide the best possible service to

circumstance, he achieves his aim.

Support Malta please contact us on info@victimsupport.org.mt karl@victimsupport.org.mt +356 2122 8333 Text your donation to: 50617313 - €2.33 50617916 - €4.66 50619246 - €11.65

47

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MALTA INFLIGHT BIZILLA MALTA IIP A-DPS_180806.indd 1

INSERT TEXT HERE

2018/08/07 11:33

NEW WATERFRONT HOMES LAST APARTMENTS REMAINING

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BLOCKCHAIN

MALTA – THE HUB OF CHOICE FOR BLOCKCHAIN BUSINESSES WORDS JOSEPH F. BORG, TESSA SCHEMBRI, WH PARTNERS

Malta has identified blockchain as the industry with the

VFAs such as exchanges, custodian services, brokers and

potential of becoming a new pillar of the economy. Over

wallet providers. The VFA Act establishes the Financial

the last two years, regulators, policy-makers and financial

Instrument Test that distinguishes between three types of

service providers have become increasingly interested in

virtual currencies (referred to as ‘DLT assets’): the ‘Virtual

the blockchain space, and in particular, cryptocurrencies.

Token,’ the VFA and a ‘Financial Instrument.’

The Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA) Act, the

VFA Issuers, must draw up a ‘whitepaper’ to be compliant

Innovative Technology Arrangements and Services (ITAS)

with the legislation which must be registered with the

Act and the Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) Act were

Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). VFA Issuers

adopted by the Maltese Parliament on the 4th of July 2018

and VFA Services Providers will be required to appoint a

and are expected to come into force in the first week of

VFA Agent who shall act as the main intermediary between

November 2018.

them and the MFSA. The law also prescribes a transitory period which may be availed of by issuers and/or VFA

The Maltese legislator has looked even further down the

service providers who are already operating when the VFA

line than its EU counterparts as the new laws target the

Act comes into force.

Decentralised Ledger Technology (DLT) ecosystem as a whole, rather than simply focusing on regulating virtual

This is an exceptionally exciting time for Malta and is a

currency associated business.

further reminder of the forward-thinking mentality of the Maltese legislator. As the MFSA continues to issue

The MDIA Act provides for the establishment of a central

consultation documents, it is to be expected that the

authority which is responsible for the oversight of,

final subsidiary legislation which will apply to this sector

amongst others, the voluntary certification of “technology

is finetuned with the aim of finding the right balance

arrangements” (DLT platforms and smart contracts) and

to achieve a high degree of consumer protection while

the voluntary registration of “technology service providers”

ensuring that the framework is attractive for the industry

(system auditors and administrators of the platforms and

and its stakeholders.

smart contracts).

For more information, please contact WH Partners at The third legislative instrument is the VFA Act which shall set out the framework for Initial VFA Offerings (the so-called ‘ICOs’) and the licensing framework applicable to the provision of intermediary services in relation to

blockchain@whpartners.eu.

53

54

COLLEC TIONS

COLLECTING A PIECE OF HOME WHEN UP IN THE AIR

T

here are many ways of defining the collector, more so the nature of his or her collection,

yet it can be agreed that the collector is someone who is stimulated by a passionate need to satisfy an intellectual, aesthetic and/or emotional need. In the case of Francis Dingli, a collector and photographer who’s been flying Air Malta all his life, his collection of memorabilia related to the airline brings out a sense of identity and personality.

We spoke with Francis to learn more about this collection, how he started collecting, and what stimulated him…

“I started collecting Air Malta items around the time of its inception in 1974.

The attraction began with my father, who wanted us to collect something that was exclusively Maltese as we were immigrating to the UK, to preserve a connection to home.”

Like many Maltese who immigrated to the UK in the 1970s, Francis wanted to maintain a piece of homeaway-from-home. Francis chose to collect a series of images and objects that somewhat represent the physicality of migration. But what does his collection consist of exactly?

“The collection consists of a beautiful array of items that have some sort of a connection to the history of the airline but also to Malta. The collection ranges from photographs of the original aircraft and crew from 1974, inflight magazines, postcards, boarding cards, as well as the inflight newspaper - items that were all part of the early years of Air Malta. I also have a collection of

COLLEC TIONS

aircraft models, a full sheet of vintage boarding cards

established with the airline over the years?

and stickers from the 1970s when check-in staff used to

“I have never flown with any other airline from

allocate seats by placing a sticker on your boarding card.”

London to Malta but Air Malta. For over 30 years, I’ve developed friendships with captains, first officers,

A collection is often somewhere between a creation

inflight managers (pursers), as well as crew and have

and a process, so what is the goal of this collection and

been photographing them throughout that period.

is it an ongoing one?

These pictures were taken as a token of respect but also to serve as memorabilia of their time on board.

“By nature, it is an ongoing collection as I am always

On a more personal note, the closest members of Air

adding to it. Everything I find concerning Air Malta I

Malta had also come to my wedding.”

collect in order to keep improving it. I have invested a lot of time and money into this collection and hopefully it

And finally, we asked Francis how he feels about

will contribute towards future generations appreciating

exhibiting his collection to the public some day?

something that is after all linked to our national identity.

I hope that my collection somehow reflects the history

“As to exhibiting this collection, I would like it to

and quality of the airline, while ensuring its prestige.”

be officially experienced by the public, for them to appreciate the history of our airline as well as my own

Did he ever think his name would end up in the

personal connection with it. Ultimately, I would like

inflight magazine so many years later? We asked him

this collection to play a part in maintaining the future

to tell us more about what kind of connection he’s

of our national airline.”

55

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LOCAL

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

BLUE LAGOON

FLORA & FAUNA

WATCHTOWER Saint Mary’s watchtower is the fifth

The blue lagoon is probably

The natural areas on Comino are

one of the most frequented

something special, as you walk

of the six Wignacourt Towers. The

spots on the Maltese Islands.

along, discover new endemic

bastioned fronts were used by the

The turquoise waters with an

plants and take the time to

Armed Forces up until 2002. The tower

abundance of saline beckon

appreciate what’s nestled below

is now under the care of Din l-Art Ħelwa.

visitors from near and far.

your feet.

SANTA MARIA BAY

TREKKING

Second to Blue Lagoon, but for no

The autumn months are perfect

Finding a quiet spot to sit

apparent reason, Santa Maria Bay

for a trek along the coast of

and watch is not a difficult

is a beautiful inlet with crystal clear

Comino. Its size even allows you

job in the autumn months;

water in a beautiful surrounding.

to cross the full perimeter in on

look out in the far distance

‘not-so-tiring’ afternoon.

THE VIEW

and you’ll see Malta on one end and Gozo on the other.

59

A GUIDE TO THE LITTLE

MALTESE ISLANDS

għasri

għarb

żebbuĠ

marsalforn

san lawrenz

xlendi

xagħra

victoria kerĊem

xewkija

munxar sannat

nadur gĦajnsielem mĠarr

qala

comino

Ċirkewwa

st paul’s island mellieĦa

qawra 01

xemxija 04

st paul’s bay

buĠibba

mĠarr

naxxar

Ġnejna

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mosta

attard

sa

mdina

qo rabat 05

dingli qrendi

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

Żurrieq

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filfla

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

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

02

r

www.dragonaracasino.com

03 04

st julian’s sliema gżira

an Ġwann

05

msida

Valletta

birkirkara floriana

the three cities

ormi tarxien

marsa

marsascala żejtun

luqa

marsaxlokk

birŻebbuĠa

62

ISL AND HIGHLIGHTS

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

GOLDEN BAY, MĠARR, MALTA A great spot for hikes on the cliffs where you can watch the sunset and enjoy the view. The beauty of Golden Bay is experienced when the golden sand gets stuck in your toes and the rush of the sea gently crashes against your legs.

SAN ANTON GARDENS, ATTARD, MALTA Surrounding the Presidential Palace, San Anton Gardens provide the most beautiful setting under the shade of the many trees in the area. The rustic garden boasts a variety of flowers; from roses to bougainvillea.

INSERT TEXT HERE

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

SMART CIT Y, K ALK ARA , MALTA An urban area for the technologically aware. With an uninterrupted view of the Mediterranean Sea, the bars and restaurants located along the periphery evoke the perfect setting. Planned to be Malta’s top quality technology centre and a great source of entertainment.

BUSKETT, SIĠĠIEWI, MALTA Malta’s greenest spot formed by a combination of green woodland and a fertile valley. Ideal for picnics, bike rides and family fun, Buskett is a great area to enjoy a sunny afternoon.

63

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Relax & Unwind SE AFRONT TOWER

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

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INHAWI BOUTIQUE HOSTEL

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Spend a relaxing day by the pool enjoying one of the most stunning views of Valletta and cool down in one of our sea water swimming pools, including a kids' splash pool.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served from our BBQ grill kitchen from 9:00 till late.

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MUSIC

RO CK S TE ADY

MALTA GOES CRAZY FOR THE EUROVISION SONG CONTEST, BUT THAT'S NOT THE ONLY GIG IN TOWN. HELEN RAINE TAKES A LOOK AT FIVE LOCAL BANDS THAT ARE WORTH CATCHING UP WITH. IRISH INFLUENCED

Red Electrick have a new string of catchy singles. Their latest,

Airport Impressions

G.O.R.G.E.O.U.S, has a reggae feel; you can practically feel the

Ignore the band name – this is not elevator music and

groupies massing.

one listen to this melodic, alternative band will have you rushing to iTunes to download their album. They started

Listen to: Young Again

out in 2000 and hit the big time in 2016, when they played

Find out more: www.facebook.com/RedElectrick

the Isle of MTV concert to 50,000 people. A two-year break followed before their blend of rock and folk burst

HYPNOTIC HIPPIE

back onto the scene this year with a new single, Ivy. Singer

Tribali

Errol Sammut, easily identified by his perma-shades, has a

Fixtures at practically every Maltese festival since their

powerful voice that belts out tunes you won’t be able to get

2004 beginnings, Tribali use traditional instruments such

out of your head. The riffs of guitarist Johan Schembri are

as the Indian sitar, Australian didgeridoo and Afro-Cuban

equally key to creating the band’s unique sound. AI started

bongo, blended with expert guitar and bass playing. It’s an

as a duo but have been joined by drummer Steve Farrugia

intoxicating cocktail of international sounds, with deeply

and bassist / keyboardist Chris Curmi, who create the rich,

Maltese roots. The fusion has been a great hit and Tribali

complex background to the vocals.

have played as far afield as Glastonbury (UK), the Byron Bay Bluefest (Australia) and Everness (Hungary). The band,

Listen to: Mariette

consisting of six members, has supported the likes of Moby,

Find out more: www.airportimpressions.com

Crowded House and Faithless; they continue to soar.

HIPSTERS

Listen to: The Traveller

Red Electrick

Find out more: www.tribalimusic.com

The band formed in 2008, blasting out tunes reminiscent of The Verve and Magic. In 2014, a collaboration with the

METALLERS

Malta Philharmonic Orchestra (Young Again) came out to

Beheaded

great acclaim, the swelling strings of the orchestra taking the

Beheaded’s brutal death metal music wasn’t exactly given

band into the big league. Singer Matthew James Borg stepped

a rapturous welcome when they launched in 1991, but

down earlier this year and the band was joined instead by Joe

undeterred, they metalled on, eventually amassing quite the

Roscoe who had been putting out some impressive work of his

following, especially overseas. They signed their first record

own in the UK. After working with producers in Los Angeles,

deal with X-treme Records in Sweden. This is classic,

67

high-energy death metal; expect growling vocals, machine gun drums and grinding guitar solos. Perfect for releasing the tension if you’ve had a bad day, it’s the sort of thing that will give your mother a headache.

Listen to: Ominous Bloodline Find out more: www.facebook.com/BeheadedMT EARWORMS nosnow/noalps Their name is reminiscent of a hiking company (and, in fact, the band dresses like they are about to pop out for a walk) so it’s no surprise that the music is an energetic breath of fresh air. Beware though - songs like Go will get seriously stuck in your head. Their vibe is a little punky but there are also flares of reggae and rock. This is another group that is appreciated just as much abroad and in the decade they’ve been playing, they have toured European cities from Milan to Paris.

The five-person band has been busy recording lately but with new songs in the bag, gigging will hopefully be a priority for the rest of the year.

Listen to: Romantikpolitik Find out more: www.nosnownoalps.com FULL ON MALTESE FOLK Etnika Etnika bring out the beauty of the Maltese language in their luscious ballads; if this isn’t playing in every coffee shop across Malta already, it should be. The band initially formed around 2000, in part to revive ancient Maltese instruments - the żaqq, a kind of bagpipe, was in imminent danger of extinction. One of the last bagpipe builders joined forces with them to bring the żaqq back to life and the musicians also helped to resuscitate the flejguta (a type of cane whistle flute), the żummara (a reed pipe), the tanbur (a frame drum) and the żafżava (a friction drum). The results are spectacular; soothing, slightly trippy music that transcends the ‘folk’ genre.

They took a long hiatus from 2003 before releasing Maddalena's Marvellous Tripfolk Klabb in 2016; the song Maddalena was a traditional high-pitched chant sung by Maltese women but Etnika have worked their modern magic on it. The band can now be found playing again in Malta and beyond.

Listen to: Maddalena's Marvellous Tripfolk Klabb Find out more: www.facebook.com/etnikamalta

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70

BUSINESS

BETWEEN AA RO ROCK BETWEEN C K AND ANDAADESERT DES ERT Lessons from the Northern Rock collapse: an overhaul of the risk landscape support, queues formed outside of its branches and £3bn of deposits were withdrawn in three days. The bank was experiencing the first British bank run in almost 150 years Northern Rock was nationalized in February, just as the football team that bore its name started to experience a slight renaissance following the departure of Allardyce, whose fortune at Newcastle United mirrored that of the bank.

The run on the bank precipitated the US sub-prime crisis crossing the pond, with numerous large banks eventually bailed out by governments across the EU looking to provide support for their local financial system. The crisis in the banking system ultimately culminated in a sovereign-debt crisis.

The summer of 2007 had Newcastle buzzing. Newcastle United had a wealthy new owner in billionaire Mike Ashley and the

Manifold lessons have been learned from ‘the run on the rock’.

new manager Sam Allardyce was still very much in fashion.

The Supervisor was not fully aware of the implications of the bank’s business model and its resultant exposure to low-

The club’s shirt sponsor, Northern Rock, was flying high. It had been promoted to the FTSE 100 and was growing rapidly –

probability-high-impact risk. The methods used to manage its balance sheet may have shifted credit risk but came at the

advancing 20% of new UK home loans.

expense of increased counterparty and liquidity risk. In a climate of low confidence, this ultimately led to the bank’s

Such growth in assets would customarily be financed through a combination of sources. However, as Northern Rock’s lending

demise.

materially surpassed the growth of its retail deposits, its

Over the last decade banking and finance regulations have

resultant ‘funding gap’ was being met through the wholesale market or securitization funding. Over 70% of the bank’s

been overhauled with a view to preventing a repetition of the crisis. Regulation has imposed more stringent requirements

funding was being derived from its packaging of mortgages into bonds and selling them on to the global money markets.

with respect to risk management, reporting and bank capital in order to help identify weaknesses in advance and to mitigate

On August 9th, just two days before Newcastle United’s first

contagion risks.

game, BNP announced that it was freezing the assets of hedge funds heavily exposed to the US sub-prime mortgage market.

At enacap, we offer independent risk management solutions, valuation services and investment research

This was the result of the ripple effect stemming from declining housing prices which in turn resulted in a lack of confidence in

to regulated entities. We provide bespoke and cost-effective services to assist our clients’ in fulfilling their business needs and

Mortgage Backed Securities (MBS) - the bonds backed by loans being packaged by banks, a similar process to that of Northern

regulatory obligations – identifying pertinent risks, assessing their potential implications and supplying solutions to mitigate

Rock. The resulting panic led to lenders doubting the viability of business models thought to be over-exposed to the housing

the downside. Our various service levels allow clients to leverage enacap’s team for a regulatory-compliant alternative to hiring

market, while refusing to lend to borrowers unable to post the

dedicated in-house personnel.

most secure of collaterals.

For more information please visit www.enacap.com, email us on The bank was scheduled to tap the money markets again in September. However, by this time trust in the financial system was gone, and as the markets dried up, so did Northern Rock’s funding.

As news broke that Northern Rock required Bank of England

info@enacap.com or meet us at our Malta or London office.

THE MALTA BLOCKCHAIN LAW FIRM GAMING

PHARMA

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BUSINESS NEWS

LUXURY LIVING IN MALTA The final launch of Q2 seafront apartments at Tigné Point brings to the market a unique selection of beautifully designed layouts all with open plan living areas and sleek interiors. Available units include two, three and four bedroom apartments all boasting an abundance of natural light due to their proximity to the sea. Culminating this launch is a penthouse with three bedrooms and study, two terraces providing sweeping views and an outdoor pool.

Located in the mixed use and car free development of Tigné Point, Q2 was recently awarded ‘Best Residential Development for Malta’ and ‘Best Residential Apartment for Malta’ at the European Property Awards 2017/18.

For further information or to book a viewing interested parties may contact the Tigné Point sales office on +356 2065 5510 or email info@tignepoint.com. www.Q2.com.mt

MEDITERRANEAN CERAMICS MALTA Mediterranean Ceramics is a local family run business specialising in the production of a range of ceramic products and the sole producers of volcanic and lava stone table tops and kitchen counters - an ideal solution for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

All products are custom made and handpainted. These bespoke works of art can withstand all weather conditions since they are fired at high temperatures, thus making them maintenance free, scratch and stain proof. The company also manufactures 100% galvanised metal chairs and metal bases for tables.

Visit Mediterranean Ceramics at their studio at the Ta’Qali Crafts Village or online at mediterraneanceramics.com

73

THE ARTS

OF FALLS AND DESCENTS WORDS FONDAZZJONI PATRIMONJU MALTI

“...only by myth-making, only by becoming ‘subcreator’ and inventing stories, can Man aspire to the state of perfection that he knew before the Fall.”

J.R.R. Tolkien Man has always desired to fly, or imagined that we might be remotely related to creatures who could. It takes one gentle leap in the imagination to “mythify” our bodies, to propose that our shoulder blades are the remaining stubs of where majestic wings might once have been until we somehow, and for some insufferable reason, lost them. Just take a look at what artists have come up with. But our story here begins on a fairly high note; with a boy who was thrilled to fly, and a god whose love brought him down to earth.

During the second month of Autumn (or shall we say ‘Fall’ to keep to the theme) the Victor Pasmore Gallery in Valletta will be housing a temporary exhibition on the twentieth-century Maltese artist Willie Apap (1918-1970). From those displayed, however, one work in particular – The Descent from the Cross - will directly confront and, perhaps, even challenge Victor Pasmore’s abstract, yet suggestive work – The Fall of Icarus, painted some thirty years later. But let us be clear: the two works were independently created; one is not a reaction to the other. Indeed, the artists never met even though they might have very well heard of each other at some point in their life. Apap mostly painted in the whereabouts of Rome; Pasmore in the UK, and later in Malta with frequent trips to Italy. Apap is what one would lazily classify as a figurative artist, and Pasmore as abstract.

Victor Pasmore, The Fall of Icarus, paint, spray and graphite on plywood, 1995 photo credit Peter Bartolo Parnis

75

76

THE ARTS

Willie Apap, Descent from the Cross, oil on canvas, signed and dated 1964

THE ARTS

Every man has his own image of the face of Christ, and I leave that imagery to each person

Yet both were largely renowned for the portraits

from the cross. For viewers well-attuned with

and landscape works earlier on in their career.

the implications of both episodes, this is an

Then, a break in their artistic language soon after

unmistakeable yet indirect way of saying that

the Second World War, as if a bomb had triggered

the proud fool’s unsuccessful attempt to reach

within them a deeply lodged expression which

the heavens, that is to dwell among the gods, is

goes beyond the mere interest in aesthetic, in how

opposed by the successful descent of Christ to

things seem. They began to look beneath the veil

earth and his ascent from it. ‘For only the soul that

of the apparent; Apap shifted his focus to the dark

has beheld truth may enter into this our human

folds of the human condition, and Pasmore into

form,’ explains Socrates to Phaedrus (in Plato’s

the complete independence and freedom by which

Phaedrus), and only through the experience of love

nature operates. Once down this route, neither

kindled by the sight of the beautiful Beloved can

would ever quite turn back.

the “wings” be regrown.

Yet to inquire into something specific one will

So, in other words, and just to bring things down

also have to look beyond it, in the same way that

a notch, pride and love are opposites: where one

a doctor would look at the symptoms or effects

brings you down, the other lifts up. The Fall of

of an illness in order to understand it better.

Icarus faces The Descent from the Cross; the

Ironically enough, one way to go about this would

contrast augmented by their complimentary hues,

be to consider episodes that tend to generalise

by the abstract boldness of one and the sombre

“universal truths” such as those immortalised in

solidity of the other. One is indeed “easier” to

classical literature and sacred texts. Historical

look at; there is a sense of freedom, and it hardly

facts, myths and fairy-tales have this in common

imposes anything on the viewer save for some

– their resulting and unconnected pattern

script scrawled along its middle. The other, in

animates the fabric by which we may understand

its grave stillness, shrills in despair. Indeed,

very specific situations in the world, even as it is

the effects of pride and love seem to have been

today. And we know this all too well. This is why

reversed. Can we really be certain that Pasmore’s

we often exclaim that history repeats itself with

Icarus is falling? And where is the ladder in

hardly a stammer of surprise in our voices. This is

Apap’s Descent? In any case, what has happened

also what allows us to draw innumerable parallels

to the hero who descended so that “wings may be

between mythological heroes and historical

regrown”? What beauty remains to look at? The

figures, between the imagined and the real, and,

hero’s face is covered, as if to express the mystery

in our case, between two independently created

behind the sort of salvation that has concerned us

works of art.

so far. ‘Every man has his own image of the face of Christ, and I leave that imagery to each person,’

Representing the image of Christ’s descent from

explains Apap.

the cross in the shadow of the flight and fall of Icarus is not a new idea. The famed Florentine

Perhaps, that was the only way the artist could go

master of the High Renaissance, Andrea del Sarto

on about revealing part of the mystery, for what

(1486-1530), for instance, depicted a young boy

freedom would there be if Beauty was not ours to

preparing for flight in a scene which immediately

seek and discover? And what freedom would there

recalls, now as it did then, the contemporary

be if we were not allowed to mistake it for the sun,

iconography for a typical rendition of the descent

even if that meant falling into the sea?

‘Willie Apap: Revelations’ is open to the public between 18 October – 30 November 2018 (11.00am-3.00pm) at the Victor Pasmore Gallery and Annexe of the Central Bank of Malta, Valletta. Entrance is free of charge. A Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti exhibition, held in collaboration with the Central Bank of Malta and the Victor Pasmore Foundation.

77

FICTION

T H E NA K E D TURTLES WORDS TCD

I made it out of shells, you know? Turtle shells, which I found washed up on shore.

Just think there are 107 turtles swimming naked out there - not a care in the world.

But this is not a story about how lovely my home is. It’s a story about how my lovely home has changed over the years.

My name is Chad and I live on a tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. It used to be run by humans but now there aren’t many of them left. I think they’ve all moved to America or somewhere grand like that.

When I was younger I’d often sit and watch these humans go about there day. I used to count the happy faces passing by. I’d watch their zombie-like walks with their ears, eyes or hands glued to some form of technology or another.

What impressed me most though was their eating habits. They’d sit here, just outside my house stuffing their faces on an exhaustively huge portion of food while complaining about the heat and the lack of beaches on my island. They would eat and eat until their bellies were full. They’d then get up and get on with their day. Leaving behind half their food and a whole load of mess for my family and I to clean up.

There wasn’t always a lack of beaches you see. I remember our family trips to the most beautiful beaches in Comino. Dad trying to teach me how to swim and mum sunbathing on one of her make-shift boats, made from a plastic bottle the humans had left behind. Though, as I got older there seemed to be more and more plastic, cigarette butts and left over food on these beaches. And the sea turning from a crystal clear shade of blue to a murky, gloopy green. Eventually the humans in charge had to ban beaches and use of the sea in general. ‘’Due to hazardous chemicals found in our oceans, we prohibit anyone from entering the sea. All beaches will be banned from public use.’’ This was the major headline a few years back.

Once the beaches were out of bounds, it only took the humans another 30 years of littering and plastic usage for them to realise what the cause was. The island became too small and crowded for anyone to survive, let alone thrive. But we did. The animals, the trees - it took some time but we did it, we made this tiny island our home now.

Well anyway, I have to go now. I hope you’ve enjoyed my story but Rupert, my leatherback friend is coming for tea and I need to ask him if he’s seen any naked turtles on his way in.

79

EXHIBITION 18.09 – 28.10 2018 VALLETTA

Under the patronage of

In partnership with

Sponsored by

Endorsed by

His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar Her Excellency Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, President of Malta Maltese National Commission for UNESCO

Platinum Sponsor

Local Sponsor

HOTSPOT

VALLETTA WATERFRONT: THE HISTORIC DESTINATION WITH THE COLOURED DOORS

T

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Electric cabs are available from just outside Valletta.

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

For more information visit www.vallettawaterfront.com

from the main bus terminal.

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

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

• Parking is also convenient.

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

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

81

THE MALTA BOOK COUNCIL ITS WORK AND THE NOVEMBER BOOK FESTIVAL WORDS ANDREI VELLA LAURENTI

L I T E R AT U R E

The hard and relentless work

the island’s most important

Maltese author and scholar

of the Malta Book Council

annual cultural activities.

Mark Vella will be charing an

rarely hits the headlines. The

This event is increasing in

interesting discussion about

public is not fully aware of the

popularity with each passing

politics and Maltese literature.

role the Malta Book Council

year. Jon Grech stated that,

Tim Parks will be another

(MBC) plays in public life. The

“the festival has an attendance

prestigious guest speaker for

new manager of the MBC, Jon

rate of thirty thousand and

this year’s book festival. He

Grech spoke to me about the

the participation of more than

will be leading a seminar on

important work the council

forty exhibitors. Its cultural

the subject of translation.

has done in the past few

program features well over

months. He explained how the

fifty events in the form of book

Each year the MBC selects

council has been setting its

launches, book presentations,

a winner for the Short Film

eyes on new markets to help

poetry readings, meetings

Competition. It has to select

export Maltese authors. Grech

with authors, conferences and

the best script, which in turn

said that certain countries in

seminars”. This year’s edition

will be used for a short film.

the Middle East are receptive

will be special because of the

The script and film have to

and open to this sort of export.

inauguration of two halls. The

be based on a novella written

new halls in the Mediterranean

by a local author. This year’s

This year’s Cairo Book

Conference Centre will be

winning script was penned by

Festival was very important

called La Sagra Infermeria and

Teodor Reljic and Stephane

for Malta because two of

La Vallette Hall. The former

Sant. Sheedina Productions

our most prolific authors,

will be reserved for local

will be responsible for the

Immanuel Mifsud and Walid

publishers whilst the latter will

film’s direction, production

Nabhan had their translated

be bespoken for book sellers.

and execution. Reljic and Sant based their script on

works presented there. The translated novels are Jutta

Each year the National Book

Claire Azzopardi’s short

Heim and L-Eżodu

Council chooses a theme that

story Camilia. Camilia will be

taċ-Ċikonji respectively.

will characterise the festival.

screened during the November

This year’s chosen theme will

Book Festival activities.

Grech explained that there are

be Literature in the Diaspora.

other translation projects in

The Serbian-Maltese author

Jon Grech explained that

the pipeline. The authors set

Teodor Reljic will be charing a

whilst the council is busy

to be translated are Leanne

conference about this subject

with the logistics of this year’s

Ellul and her novel Gramma

as one of the main activities.

Book Festival, the MBC is also exploring ways in which

and Lou Drofenik’s. The latter won the National Book Prize

Other activities include an

to infiltrate and tap into

last year for her novel The

interview with the author

European markets to find new

Confectioner’s Daughter. Her

Lou Drofenik. The latter won

opportunities for Maltese

latest novel, Love in the Time

last year’s book prize and will

authors and publishing houses.

of the Inquisition was

be interviewed by cultural

This month, representatives

shortlisted for this year’s

journalist Ramona Depares.

of the Malta Book Council and

National Book Prize.

The LGBTIQ activist Michael

the chairman Mark Camilleri

Amherst will be holding a

will be attending the Frankfurt

The Malta Book Festival is

talk on bisexuality and gender

Book Fair - the largest book

held every year and is one of

pigeon holding; whilst the

fair in Europe.

More information about this year’s Book Festival can be found on the National Book Council website http://ktieb.org.mt/national-book-festival/

83

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THE GRANARIES PROTECTING GRAIN TO KEEP HUNGER AT BAY DURING TIME OF WAR WORDS MARTINA VASSALLO

F

loriana is the only true suburb of

In Floriana the pulse of the town is The Granaries

Valletta. As such it is inexorably linked

with their underground pits covered by circular

to our capital city. Like Valletta, Floriana

slabs. These stones seem to be lying on the

was conceived out of fear from attack and built

ground for no apparent reason, belying their

by the Knights of Malta. It is named after Pietro

great importance for the islands in the past; both

Paolo Floriani, the architect and engineer who

in times of siege and plague.

was mainly responsible for its fortifications. But despite the resemblance, Valletta and Floriana,

They are not the base of columns, or ruins

although depending on one another, lead

of some large, classical temple. They are

different lives.

underground storage bins which safeguarded

Sigala performing at Isle of MTV / Photo credit: Emma Tranter

the grain of Valletta. They are the last of their kind to have

place to build them in case of siege. It seems that the first such

been built in Malta, copying something that had been

granaries were excavated near Fort St Elmo during the reign

initiated, at least, since the 17th century and were in use

of the Spanish Grand Master Martin de Redin (1657-1660). In

until 1962.

fact, 70 were constructed there but only 39 remain.

The 75 in front of the parish church in Floriana were

The Granaries are bell-shaped pits, usually excavated in

actually constructed during the first years of the British

the rock where possible. During World War II, these same

administration in Malta. The architect was the Maltese,

granaries were still being used and proved very efficient.

Antonio Cachia, who had previously been employed as one of

This piazza is in front of the only parish church dedicated to

the supervisors of public works by the Order of St John. This is

St Publius who was converted to Christianity by St Paul on

one of the largest open spaces on the island.

Maltese soil.

A Maltese expression – Malta qatt ma irriffutat qamh or In time, when it was felt that more storage space was

Malta needs all the grain it can get, illustrates the historical

needed, a number of granaries were built near the

importance of keeping an adequate supply of this commodity

Capuchin Friary in Floriana.

particularly for times of siege.

Other granaries or grain silos before the arrival of the Knights

In 1536 Jean Quintin d’Autun wrote in his Insulae Melitae, the

existed. Some, like those in Victory street, Senglea are now

earliest description of Malta: “Malta is very fortunate for this

buried. Another 15 were built in front of Castille, but they too

one reason, namely that Sicily, very fertile in all kinds of grain,

have been buried.

lies nearby and is for the inhabitants as good as a granary, where otherwise they would die of hunger.”

The granaries that were constructed always occupied open spaces within the fortified cities. It was the most practical

Yes, grain has always been important in the history of

Il-Fosos may have outlived their usefulness but continue to remain part of Malta’s fascinating history these islands. Although Malta has always produced a certain amount of cereals, it was never enough for the population of the islands and it has always depended on Sicily.

Storage was not enough. It had to be protected from mould, moisture, insects and rodents. Each granary had to be airtight and watertight and other precautions to protect the grain were taken inside each granary.

In his well-researched article, Il-Fosos: Underground Grain Storage in the Maltese Islands (Treasures of Malta No 48) David Dandria however quotes from the anonymous My Travels (1837) where one of the protagonists who was walking on the ramparts with her sister noticed one of the granaries being opened and commented: “...Oh! such a frightful quantity of all sorts of horrid insects has crawled out of the panniers; cockroaches of an enormous size, and great centipedes and scorpions...”

One can’t help wondering.

OLD CHARM,

MODERN TWIST Behind the seemingly impenetrable thick walls, flanking Malta’s Grand Harbour, lies a hidden gem known as the

Nowadays these once so useful granaries are no longer in

Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea), which is

use as more modern grain silos have been constructed.

surprisingly off the tourist radar. Predominantly a maritime

However the area in Floriana, officially St Publius Square

hub, rich in history, this area is reviving itself and the Rolling

but known locally as Il-Fosos (The Granaries) is made use

Geeks are paving the way with their modern take on touring.

of for large public gatherings such as political meetings.

Explore this gorgeous open air museum full of architectural

This trend started during the last years of the 19th

riches and breathtaking views, while cruising around in your

century when the first Maltese political parties started

eco friendly, smart technology vehicle.

demanding political rights from the British colonial government. The same political parties still hold public

The cars are unbelievably fun, safe and easy to drive.

meetings on The Granaries.

Following a GPS guided route at an easy pace while listening to the commentary onboard in the language of

Over the years the church authorities, too, saw

your choice gives you the freedom to sightsee at your own

that it was fit to organise important events and

pace. The online tracking and onboard communication

commemorations on The Granaries. Some of the

systems enable the Rolling Geeks’ vigilant staff to provide

highlights that graced The Granaries include the 1990

assistance throughout the tour giving you peace of mind.

visit of Pope John Paul II, with a follow up in 2001 as

The roads on the prescribed route are very quiet and it is

well as a third Papal visit in 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI.

very easy to park up and step out whenever you wish to.

Celebrities such as Elton John, local tenor Joseph Calleja and the yearly Isle of MTV concerts also take place on

The selfie feature in the cars adds to the fun, the rest is up

The Granaries.

to you to capture. Overall this is a great value for money experience, suitable for all ages.

Il-Fosos may have outlived their usefulness but continue to remain part of Malta’s fascinating history.

Visit www.rolling-geeks.com for more information.

E D U C AT I O N

THE UNIVERSIT Y OF MALTA AND ITS LEGACY WORDS CLAIRE PACE MONREAL

O

ctober means one thing for

fell into the hands of the Order of St John.

university students - time to

However, the college continued to thrive.

replace the long chats with friends

The following year, a decree was signed

on the beach with those on Quadrangle,

formalising the university’s existence under

and barbecues with group assignments.

the name ‘Pubblica Università di Studi

For many locals, the University of Malta is

Generali’. The formalisation of ‘Collegio

synonymous with days spent sipping coffee

Medico’ followed shortly after in 1771 as

at the canteen, cramming in the Common

one of the faculties of said university.

Room, and desperately looking for a parking

The short-lived French occupation of the

space. It is a place where many of us have

Islands saw the university being replaced

spent the best days of our lives. But few

by ‘École Centrale’ for two years. However,

are those who paid heed to its legacy and

the university returned to its labour under

appreciate its long history.

British rule and eventually became known as the Royal University of Malta.

The University of Malta, the highest educational system on the Islands, is one

Over time other buildings were opened for

of the oldest institutions of its kind in the

academic purposes, and the Msida campus

world, dating back to 1592 with its precursor

was inaugurated to finally become the

Collegium Melitense. Set up through papal

University of Malta we know today. This

intervention, the college was run by Jesuits

comprises of three schools: the doctoral

who were empowered to bestow degrees in

school, foundation studies, and performing

Philosophy and Theology, that is Magister

arts schools, together with G.F. Abela Junior

Philosophiae and Doctor Divinitatis. Other

College, offering higher secondary education

fields of study taught at the college included

which paves the way to undergraduate

Grammar and the Humanities. The teaching

study, and four campuses located in Msida,

was housed in a college located in Valletta,

Valletta, Marsaxlokk and Gozo.

which is known today as ‘the Old University Building’ or ‘the Valletta Campus’. A number

The university is one of the most important

of lectures, academic celebrations, and

aspects of all of its 11,500 students’ lives.

conferences still take place here today.

Every year, the University of Malta sees well over 3,500 students proudly wearing

Years later, in 1675 the first lecturer in

their graduation robes as they are presented

Anatomy and Surgery was appointed,

awards in various disciplines from one of

administering medical teaching at the ‘Sacra

its fourteen faculties, eighteen institutes,

Infermeria’, better known as the Order’s

thirteen centres or three schools.

Hospital. This is what is thought to have marked the founding of Malta’s medical school

With a legacy spanning over more than

which is today part of the University of Malta.

400 years, the university is still forging history every year, with each of its students

It was only until 1768 when the Jesuits were

contributing to its rich body of knowledge

expelled from Islands that the property

that is The University of Malta.

89

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BLOCKCHAIN

MALTA: THE BLOCKCHAIN ISL AND

M

alta has rapidly moved to the forefront of the blockchain and cryptocurrency space and is increasingly being referred to as “The Blockchain

Island”. This hugely exciting development is taking the world by storm – leading technological visionaries are almost unanimous in the view that distributed ledger technology (DLT) is as important a revolution as the internet was in the late 90s.

2018 has seen Malta introduce a holistic regulatory structure for blockchain and cryptocurrencies – a crucial development since serious players in a developing industry tend to flock towards jurisdictions that offer legislative and regulatory

James Muscat Azzopardi - Partner at Credence

certainty and stability. As stated by Silvio Schembri, Junior

blockchain/DLT related activities, including but not limited to

Minister for Financial Services, Digital Economy and

exchanges and ICOs. They have been considered pioneers in the

Innovation within the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta,

fields of blockchain and cryptocurrency since they assembled

“Malta will now become the centre for those who wish to do business in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space”.

Malta has already attracted some of the biggest names in the industry including Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange. Binance has issued a statement on Malta’s legislative framework stating that the bills “created a fertile environment for blockchain companies and cleared the

a specialised team of advisors to assist a wide portfolio of international clients on a range of regulatory matters.

The Corporate Services team at Credence bases its efforts on their understanding that velocity in closing the gap between strategy to execution is becoming ever more pertinent. Gaining the critical mass needed to execute a

uncertainties surrounding the market for decentralized

vision, shareholder/investor buy in, and internal support to

assets.” October and November will see Malta host two of

bootstrap an idea is only as good as the capacity to actuate it.

the largest blockchain related events in Europe – the Delta Summit between the 3rd and 5th of October and the Malta

Credence focuses on the execution, developing capacity

Blockchain Summit on the 1st and the 2nd of November, both

as an outsourced service for a select customer base. Their

of which are fully endorsed by the Government of Malta.

battle-tested team can rapidly support the design of the

Dr James Muscat Azzopardi, a Partner at Credence, is a regular speaker at industry events and will be speaking on regulatory issues at the Coinsbank Eurocruise 18 together with some of the

commercial and organisational strategy as well as offer corporate services, licensing, fiduciary, project management, regulatory support and compliance.

biggest names in the industry including John McAfee, Charlie Lee, Bobby Lee, Roger Ver and Brock Pierce. James will also be a speaker at the Malta Blockchain Summit, an event that is expected to attract around 5,000 attendees.

Credence is a leading corporate services and advisory firm

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based in Malta and, together with its associated law firms,

+356 21252893 or on info@credence.com.mt

has from the early days of cryptocurrency advised companies

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91

92

GOZO

GOZO INTERNATIONAL KITE & WIND FESTIVAL In this digital age, many children miss out on the simple joys of being outdoors. Flying a kite is one of these great pleasures, lost in time. Feel the thrill of holding a kite as it ascends into the skies until it almost becomes a colourful dot on a blue canvas. It’s like having happiness on a string, perhaps the ultimate carefree pastime.

Gozo will be giving visitors the chance to experience the joys of this ancient tradition during the third weekend of October in the first edition of the Gozo International Kite and Wind Festival. This is the right opportunity to feel at one with nature as kites of all shapes and sizes soar the skies over Għarb, Gozo.

The festival will feature traditional and professional kite flyers from Europe and Japan, while also providing room for visitors to come out and experience what it is like to fly a kite. People may also register their interest to attend kite making workshops organised as part of the festival programme. The area near San Dimitri chapel, out to the north of l-Għarb, will see a flurry of activity with food stalls, entertainment, and games complementing the main activities.

The Gozo International Kite Festival is a unique event, promising high flying fun for children and adults. Is there a better way to spend a typically Gozitan warm, breezy, autumn weekend?

IT’S OPERA TIME IN GOZO It’s that time of year again when Gozo’s two opera houses buzz with activity in preparation for the island’s annual opera season. Every October, two opera productions are staged in Victoria. These opera nights have not only established themselves as key cultural events in Gozo but have also gained international critical acclaim.

The beauty of Gozo’s opera productions is that they are both highly dependent on volunteers who work hard in a bid to outshine the competing theatre’s production. Competition between Gozo’s two Opera Houses is rife and this ensures that both productions are of a very high quality. In fact, In April 2014, Opera Now commented about Opera in Gozo: “if only English National opera and Covent Garden had that sense of cutthroat competition, how much edgier London’s operatic life would be”.

Gozo’s 2018 opera season promises to be, yet again, a great attraction for culture lovers looking for an excellent production, in a beautiful island setting that brims with cultural opportunity.

More information: Tosca – 13th October 2018, Aurora Opera House : www.teatruaurora.com.mt La Traviata – 25th and 27th October 2018, Astra Theatre: www.teatruastra.org.mt Visit www.visitgozo.com for more details about events happening in Gozo.

Big Tasty ™

© 2018 McDonald's Corporation.

It’s Big. And it’s Tasty.

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

R e stauraNt & B a R Gui DE

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

BIRZEBBUGIA

FERRETTI RESTAURANT

Triq il-Qajjenza, Birzebbugia

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

info@ferretti.com.mt

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

FLORIANA

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

Xatt it-tiben, Floriana

info@haywharf.com.mt

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

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

MARSALFORN, GOZO

ARZELLA

Il-Menqa, Marsalforn, Gozo

+356 2155 4662

+356 7940 9924

bookings@ristorantearzella.com

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

MARSAXLOKK

TERRONE RESTAURANT +356 2704 2656

1 Wilga Street Marsaxlokk

info@terrone.com.mt

www.terrone.com.mt

/terronemt

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

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

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MDINA

DE MONDION RESTAURANT

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

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

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

PALAZZO DE PIRO – XPRESSO CAFÉ & BISTRO

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

www.palazzodepiro.com

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

THE MEDINA MALTESE CUISINE RESTAURANT +356 21450 560

www.medinarestaurantmalta.com

Mdina

info@xaracollection.com

Lose yourself in all of Mdina’s tranquillity and dine in the romantic surroundings beneath the wild flowering Oleander tree in the vine-clustered courtyard during the summer, and by candlelight and an open log fireplace that keeps the restaurant warm and cosy during the winter months. The restaurant is a mixture of ingredients designed to please the most discerning clients. The foundation for our cuisine is solely based upon three principles: the sourcing of local produce, for every single dish to evoke the skill and talent of our chefs and to provide our clients with honest food. The Medina presents a selected à la Carte menu based on Mediterranean and local cuisine, frequently changed to guarantee the pleasure of regular diners. Our opening hours are Monday and Tuesday, open for dinner from 6:30pm onwards. Wednesday to Saturday, open for lunch and dinner and Sunday, open for lunch.

TRATTORIA AD 1530 +356 2145 0560

Misraħ il-Kunsill, Mdina, MDN 10150

www.xarapalace.com.mt

info@xaracollection.com

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

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

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

MELLIEHA

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

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97, Cross Square, Mellieha

events@reflectionsmalta.com

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

MOSTA

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

www.tamarija.com

Constitution Street, Mosta

info@tamarija.com

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

SALINA

GIUSEPPI’S BAR & BISTRO +356 2157 4882

Salini Resort, Salina Bay, Naxxar

www.giuseppisrestaurant.com

info@giuseppisrestaurants.com

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

SLIEMA

TA’ KOLINA

151, Tower Road, Sliema

+356 2133 5106

info@takolina.mt

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

Dining here is a true Maltese experience for reasonable price.

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

TA’ KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO +356 2133 7367

80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema

+356 9984 771

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

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

ST JULIAN’S

THE AVENUE

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

+356 2135 1753 / +356 2137 8731

www.theavenuemalta.com

This award-winning restaurant has been a household name for over a decade and remains a regular favourite. Its versatile menu, friendly service and well-pitched prices all contribute to The Avenue’s strong appeal. Best known for pizza, freshly-prepared pasta or grills, or you could opt for succulent poultry and fresh fish – the menu is not only versatile but portions are generous. The Avenue started off 30 years ago as a snack bar and today encompasses three different sections, all with different character and décor: the arustic-styled room, the elegant ‘Valentino’ section and the more informal and colourful segment. This venue is popular with locals as it’s good value for money. In fact, looking through the large, glass windows, one can see the place is always bustling with people and life. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Includes two hours free parking at the Portomaso car park all week. Delivery service to the surrounding areas is available.

CAROB TREE FOOD COURT +356 9947 0460

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

www.carobtree.mt

eat@carobtree.mt

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

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

PARANGA

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

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

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

ZEST

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

+356 2138 7600

www.zestflavours.com

info@zestflavours.com

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

TA’ XBIEX

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

Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, Ta’ Xbiex

info@blackpearl.com.mt

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

THE GALLEY

+356 2131 8801

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

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

VALLETTA

RISETTE

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

+356 2122 4821

info@risette.com.mt

www.risette.com.mt

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

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EVENTS & NEWS

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

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

AIR MALTA SUPPORTS LIFECYCLE CHALLENGE 2018

Air Malta’s Chairman Dr Charles Mangion presenting the airline’s donation to the Founder of LifeCycle, Alan Curry.

Air Malta is proud to support the LifeCycle Challenge 2018. This annual event is a gruelling mountain bike challenge of 2,000km, normally completed over 10-12 days in different countries every year. This challenge, considered to be one of the ten most ardous cycling challenges in the world, is organised by LifeCycle (Malta) Foundation, an NGO founded 20 years ago to create awareness and generate support for patients suffering from renal disease.

To support this noble initiative, Air Malta’s Chairman Dr Charles Mangion presented a donation to the Founder of LifeCycle, Alan Curry and Chairperson Dr Shirley Cefai, in the presence of all cyclists participating in this year’s Arabian Nights challenge.

A total of 25 cyclists signed up to attempt this year's challenge which will see the team cycling all the way from Dubai (UAE) to Salalah (Oman) this October. They will be supported by a team of drivers, helpers, a physiotherapist and a camera person.

Air Malta wishes all participants success in this challenge and would like to thank them for their dedication, support and commitment towards this noble cause. The Airline is proud to be associated with LifeCycle and its endeavours to collect funds to assist renal patients and their families. The Airline’s participation in this and similar activities highlights Air Malta’s commitment to the community.

You too can support the Foster Clark's LifeCycle Challenge 2018 by donating at https://goo.gl/7bhRLU.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

COMMEMORATING MALTA’S RICH SEAPLANES HERITAGE The first weekend of October marks the return of the Roberts Cup. A local initiative supported by the Malta Tourism Authority, the Como to Malta Seaplanes Rally is now in its third year running.

The Cup celebrates Malta’s flying boat history with the official Central Bank of Malta medal for the competition carrying an image of Captain Cecil F Kilner’s first recorded flight in Malta on a Short Type 135 seaplane over the Grand Harbour on 13 February 1915. Leaving Malta on the seaplane carrier HMS Ark Royal, this aircraft saw later action in the Dardanelles and at Gallipoli.

From then on, Malta went on to become a primary seaplane base for the Royal Naval Air Service with a slipway and hangar built in 1916 in what would become RAF Calafrana. Malta based seaplanes were a small and yet important part of Britain’s military arsenal at a time when its Empire was at its zenith and they saw action in both world wars. Seaplanes were also a

traditional challenge of long distance flying reminiscent of the 1920s-40s. This year the crews leave Como seaplanes base on October 4. Following a planned route south through Elba and

common feature of peacetime life on the Maltese Islands with

overnighting at Naples a grand welcome dinner awaits at the

many curious occasions such as a call by the King of Spain

Phoenicia Hotel in Malta. On 6-7 October flights are planned

Alfonso XIII on an Italian flying boat in 1927. The end of Malta’s

over the Grand Harbour with the best vantage points for these

long association with the magnificent flying boats came with the

being the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta.

overall decline of long distance seaplane flying in the late 1940s.

A limited edition of 1000 medals were created for the Organised by the Malta Seaplanes Association in collaboration

Roberts Cup at the Royal Dutch Mint, with the Cup itself

with the Aero Club Como, the Roberts Cup aims to entice

being awarded in due course to the pilot obtaining the

Europe’s small number of seaplane pilots and planes back to the

highest number of those medals.

JETSET HOLIDAYS TEAM ON MALTA VISIT Together with Air Malta, Jetset Holidays, a leading UK tour operator, organised a successful VIP familisation trip to Malta for its representatives from Loundon Southend.

Making use of the Skylife Lounge prior to their departure to Malta, the group welcomed the experience and started their exclusive trip to the Maltese islands.

The team was full of praise of their inflight experience on board the Air Malta flight. They remarked that the cabin crew were extremely attentive and ensured that they all had a very relaxing flight.

In their own words ‘’Malta is the perfect destination for any duration whether it being a long weekend away or a two week summer /winter sun destination. Travellers can easily combine a visit to the Islands as a twin center with Sicily making use of the daily flights Air Malta operates between the islands.

Following their visit and experiences in Malta and Sicily, the Jetset group is now set to promote this destination combination as a twin center option to their clients.

(from left to right) Caroline Thorne - Area Manager East of England Co op Travel Jane Richards- Assistant Manager Ambassador Travel Tina Rayment - Manager Westway Travel Wickford Donna O’Sullivan - Manager East of England co op Halstead Amanda Smith - Assistant Manager Case Olden Travel Westcliff

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Discover Sardinia Fly to Cagliari from Malta and London Southend starting from

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*Terms & Conditions apply.

airmalta.com

A I R M A LTA N E W S

SUPERHEROES IN SCIENCE AT ESPLORA INTERACTIVE SCIENCE CENTRE ON NOVEMBER 10TH AND 11TH 2018

T

he agility of Spiderman is legend as he web-slings

This jam packed weekend for all ages promises to be highly

across New York City; Thor's might is displayed as

entertaining and informative, filled with fantastical science

he wields his thunderous hammer from Asgard; the

shows, dioramas, life-size figures of the most popular

Avengers’ combined super-forces fill up page and screen to

characters - perfect for selfies, a digital art exhibition, fun

take on the invincible Thanos; Flash whizzes to light speed

hands-on workshops, Superhero vs Super villain duels,

until he warps the fabric of time and space; Daredevil,

Superhero abseiling and much more. Visitors will also spot

the blind Superhero, who confronts his enemies using

Ironman mingling with the visitors or watch Wonder Woman

only echolocation to guide him in the deadly darkness.

practicing her sword moves, paint a constellation or solve the

Superheroes show no signs of stopping as they continue

Riddler’s enigmas.Also part of the event is the Superheroes in

to ignite our imagination, springing full-bodied from

Science project, where students will be exhibiting their works

comic book covers and teaming up in the super-charged

pertaining to the real science behind Superheroes.

Superheroes in Science event.

The Superheroes in Science event will be open to the public Now, more than ever before, cutting-edge science belongs

on Saturday 10th November and Sunday 11th November

to the world of Superheroes. The event will look at the

between 10:00- 18:00 on both days. Tickets are available

mind-boggling wizardry and technology behind the comic

during the event weekend at the Esplora reception and

book’s legendary heroes and villains. Explore the creative

will include access to the Interactive Science Centre and

fusion between science fiction and science fact and see who

Planetarium. Entrance for under 12’s is half price and for

might win the struggle -- is it Einstein or Spiderman? Or is

children under 4 years is free. For more information please

today's science fiction, on its way to becoming science fact

visit the Euro Media Forum Facebook page or call Esplora

in the future?

on 2360 2300.

Please visit the Superheroes in Science Project Competition website on: http://superheroscience.info/

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

NAS AND AIR MALTA HOST LOCAL CARGO AGENTS

N

etwork Airline Services (NAS), Air Malta’s Total Cargo Management (TCM) service provider, organised a get-together for local cargo agents, forwarders and shippers to mark its second year of operation as Air Malta’s partner. Present for this evening were Air Malta’s Chairman, Dr Charles Mangion, and Chief Commercial Officer, Paul Sies. Together with

John Vella, Head of Cargo Sales and Marketing, and John Gilfeather, Sales Director, NAS, and the NAS Malta Team they took the opportunity to discuss business opportunities with the local cargo operators.

Speaking at the event Air Malta’s Chairman Dr Charles Mangion said, “After two years since we started our collaboration with NAS we are registering encouraging results in terms of cargo revenues, volumes, and yield. Last year the local cargo market grew by +3% to 16,200 tons whilst Air Malta Cargo grew by six percentage points to 17%.”

“Air Malta has entered a period of growth and in just 12 months we have added 21 new routes and two new aircraft joined our fleet. As more routes and frequencies are being added there is the potential for more growth for cargo and Air Malta is willing to continue working with NAS to achieve further successes”, added Dr Mangion.

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Dr Mangion thanked NAS, Air Malta’s Cargo Sales and Cargo

and find new ways to continue assisting the cargo operators.

Operations together with the cargo agents and forwarders for

Air Malta’s cargo services is vital to the success of the Maltese

their loyalty, commitment and support.

business community as it offers a strategic link between the Maltese Islands, Europe, North Africa and the Middle

John Gilfeather said, “Network Airline Services has spent

East and indeed beyond through Interline agreements with

the last two years developing the commercial cargo strategy

partner airlines. This gives the islands a unique opportunity

of Air Malta to ensure it maximizes its cargo/courier and

to transport freight either transiting through or originating

mail revenues. Key to this success has been developing our

from Malta.

product range to include temperature-controlled and mustride products. Also, the creation of a global cargo network

Air Malta carries a sizeable amount of cargo each year ranging

connecting Malta to over 500 destinations through the

from valuables, perishable consignments including fresh fish/

expansion of Interline agreements with over 20 carriers.”

tuna to live animals, pharmaceuticals and microelectronics including special cargo consignments. The department is also

The event provided an opportunity for Air Malta’s

responsible for the carriage of mail to and from Malta and

management and NAS to discuss matters of mutual interest

offers courier services including warehousing facilities.

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1: From left Mr John Gilfeather and Dr Charles Mangion 2: Guests present at the event 3: Mr Mark Gollcher, Mr Paul Sies, Dr Charles Mangion, Mr Julian Magri Overend 4: Mr John Vella, Dr Charles Mangion, Mr Karl Gollcher, Ms Monica Borg, Ms Alison Casha 5: Mr Pieter Gollcher, Ms Oriana Mifsud and Mr Eric Camilleri 6: Mr Daniel Gauci, Mr Daniele Camilleri, Mr Rodney Giusti, Mr Fabian Borg and Mr Oliver Agius 7: Mr John Vella, Ms Maronia Azzopardi, Mr Pieter Gollcher, Mr Mark Gollcher, Ms Oriana Mifsud 8: Mr Fabian Marston, Mr Joseph Gafa and Mr John Grixti

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

THE ICONIC NORMSKI IN MALTA FOR THE INTERNATIONAL RADIO FESTIVAL 2018 Normski is an iconic British rapper who communicates

local radio stars to “have fun, be yourself - 100%. Enjoy and

his passions by means of his music and photography. His

celebrate what you’re passionate about with everyone by

involvement in the International Radio Festival being held

broadcasting on live radio.”

this year in Malta is set to create a sense of energy and hype around the event. Normski’s impressive history in pirate radio

During the event, Normski will be one of the four main

shows as well as working with BBC Radio 1, Radio 5 and other

speakers where he will introduce guest shows from around the

established platforms ensures his participation during the

world. Apart from playing host, Normski will also play some

festival will be top-notch. During his time at BBC, the show

catchy music and conduct a few short interviews with guests

titled Vibe on 5 won the Sony Award for Racial Equality in

at the IRF. Keep your ears peeled for a spot of Normski’s sound

Programming in the 90s.

during the event and at related parties being held in Malta during the week.

Normski believes that for a country or a city to become a music destination, “it has to have a passionate and cultural love for

Air Malta is a proud supporter of the 9th edition of the

music in its history.” He continued to say that, “Most countries

International Radio Festival being held in Malta between

have a style of music that is connected with its history, when a

the 29th October and the 4th November 2018. This event

city has great venues and the love of music, it can celebrate on

represents the first and only conference to debate and

many important levels the greatness of creativity and message.

showcase the business, production and curation of the world’s

The International Radio Festival is exactly that, It represents and

most consumed medium – audio/radio content. The IRF’s

is continuously building a global community that uses radio as

unique conference format presents industry leaders from the

it’s main platform to reach the listeners.”

world of broadcasting and audio production, and features more than 25 international radio stations broadcasting their

He closed the topic by claiming that he considers Malta to

programmes live-on-air to their peers and home audiences,

be a ‘top music go-to spot on the world map’ and urges all

reaching over 100million listeners around the globe.

For more information visit www.internationalradiofestival.com

A I R M A LTA N E W S

IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO

James Genovese

HEAD OF PEOPLE AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING

on the mood. However I love Għana which is

WITH AIR MALTA?

Maltese traditional folk music.

I have been working with Air Malta since August 2017.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOUR JOB?

Listen, understand and assist.

WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION AND WHY?

Italy is my preferred destination. The Italian peninsula has so much to offer. I enjoy Italian cuisine and delicacies, and with so many beautiful regions and diverse spots that this country has to

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF YOUR JOB?

offer, it is impossible not to embrace and love the

To have the time to meet and interact with all

way of life so synonymous with this Mediterranean

the employees. Being an airline many of our

country. And with Air Malta’s daily flights to

employees do not have a fixed office space and thus

various airports in Italy, there is no excuse not to

it is important to be in direct contact with them

visit it often.

wherever they are.

DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES?

I love anything related to horses. I love horse-riding and watching horse racing.

WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED MALTESE DISH?

Definitely fried rabbit.

WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE OF ALL TIMES?

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SPOTS AND TIPS FOR ANYONE VISITING MALTA?

The old fortified capital city of Mdina is my favourite local spot. The architecture that adorns the spectacular historical buildings and winding lanes of this silent city definitely makes this place a unique attraction. Not only, this city can be described as a historical monument but it also commands the most enchanting and breath taking

Castaway with Tom Hanks.

views. A trip to the sister Island of Gozo is also a

WHAT KIND OF MUSIC YOU LIKE TO FOLLOW?

beautiful rural setting, historical landmarks and

I like to follow different genres of music depending

amazing beaches.

must. The island is truly a gem, surrounded by a

107

10 8

FLIGHT INFO

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

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

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

Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

SMOKING

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

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

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

INSERT TEXT HERE

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

10 9

AIR MALTA FLEET

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

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

CARRY MORE WITH YOU

AIRBUS 319

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

QTY: 1 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 141 ENGINES: CFM56-5B6/P MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 73.5 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 33.84M

FLY IN COMFORT Enhance your comfort with extra legroom during your flight.

This option gives you more space to relax in preparation for your trip. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/services-by-airmalta/seat-selection or more information.

WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH RANGE: 4,815 KM

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

AIRBUS 320 GROUPS We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than 10 adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you can’t get anywhere else. Email groups@airmalta.com for more information.

QTY: 9 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168/180 ENGINES: IAE V2500 / CFM56-5B4/P / CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 77.0 METRIC TONS

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

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

OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 34.1M - 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH - 840 KPH RANGE: 4,055 KM - 6300 KM

DESTINATION INFORMATION

11 0

INSERT TEXT HERE

finland SWEDEN

RUSSIA

NORWAY • Oslo • Tallinn

Stockholm

• St Petersburg

ESTONIA LATVIA • Riga

DENMARK REP. OF IRELAND

• Copenhagen

UNITED KINGDOM

LITHUANIA

• Moscow

Vilnius •

BELARUS • Bremen

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

Luxembourg

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly •

Lyon •

• Tabres/Lourdes Marsille •

CZECH REPUBLIC

SWITZERLAND • Geneva

Florence • Pisa •

SPAIN

BULGARIA

• Ancona

MONTENEGRO

• Bari • Brindisi ALBANIA Naples •

• • Cagliari

TUNISIA

• Casablanca

morocco

• Sofia • Istanbul

TURKEY GREECE

Lamezia Terme • Reggio Calabria • Catania

Palermo • Tunis •

KOSOVO F.Y.r.O.M.

• Olbia

• Malaga

• Bucharest

BOSNIA & SERBIA HERZEGOVINA

• Rome Alghero •

ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA

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

• Lisbon

MOLDOVA

• Budapest

HUNGARY

ITALY • Pescara

portugal

SLOVAKIA

• Vienna

AUSTRIA

• Zurich

• Nice

• Kiev

UKRAINE

• Prague

• Frankfurt

• Munich

FRANCE

• Warsaw

POLAND

Larnaca •

CYPRUS

Comiso •

Malta Tel Aviv •

ISRAEL

ALGERIA

LIBYA

EGYPT

v

AIR MALTA DIRECT FLIGHTS AIRPORT

IRAN

• Abu Dhabi

OMAN

SAUDI ARABIA

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Amsterdam 8 Birmingham 1 Bucharest 1 Bristol 1 Brussels 9 Cagliari 2 Catania 18 Casablanca 2 Comiso 3 Düsseldorf 2 Frankfurt 7 Geneva 1 Kiev 1 London Gatwick 7 London Heathrow 15 London Southend 3 Lisbon 2 Lyon 4

INSERT TEXT HERE AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

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

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

2 2

Catania - Vienna

2

CODE-SHARED ROUTES • BRISBANE

ETIHAD AIRWAYS Abu Dhabi

Brisbane Melbourne Perth Sydney

australia

• Sydney

• Melbourne

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

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

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

BRUSSELS AIRLINES Brussels Copenhagen

via Catania via Brussels

CZECH AIRLINES Prague

• Perth

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES Zurich

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

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

AUSTRIAN AIRLINES

australia

EMIRATES Larnaca

AIRBALTIC Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Tallinn Vilnius Vilnius

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

Budapest Otopeni (Buc) Prague Sofia Warsaw Tel Aviv

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

MERIDIANA Olbia

TURKISH AIRLINES Istanbul

via Rome

11 2

ELEC TRONIC DE VICE INFO

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

NON-TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

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

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

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

L APTOPS AND NOTEBOOKS

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT USE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHASE

Boarding

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

LARGER PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

WI-FI, TEXT & PHONE CALL FUNCTIONS

YES

YES

YES

YES

instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

YES

YES

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

NO

NO

NO

Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

Cruise

YES

YES

YES

NO

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

NO

YES

NO

Landing

YES

NO

YES

NO

Taxi to Stand

YES

NO

YES

YES

Extended Ground Delay (when

Circa 10 minutes to landing

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

GOZO

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