Best Buy January 2016

COVER STORY

Tired of hearing the term ‘New Year’s resolutions’ already? So are we, which is why it’s time to approach the desire to explore new territory at the start of the year with a totally different mind-set.

Martina Said discusses the importance of setting goals, and how to achieve them. PAGE 3 >

BEST BUY YOUR MONTHLY SHOPPING GUIDE DISTRIBUTED WITH THE TIMES

Issue 104

January 2016

IN THIS ISSUE...

Homes

LED Lighting – Made in Malta

From classic to contemporary, Sarah Micallef takes you through the latest trends in fireplaces to help you beat the chill at home this winter.

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Eating & Drinking Daniel Cauchi, Executive Chef at Michael’s in Valletta, treats you to a tangy three-course meal for even the most discerning foodie.

PAGE 12 >

Altern Limited develops and manufactures LED lighting in Malta, offering a range of products for the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors. LED is known to have two very important benefits over older technologies, mainly increased lifetime and reduced energy consumption. However, commercially available LED lighting still suffers from a number of flaws in its design and use. Altern has developed a range of solutions to tackle such shortcomings, and offers a quality-centric, cost-effective LED product range.

Altern’s power supply can withstand higher electricity fluctuations, higher temperatures, and is IP65-rated. By separating key components in the LED design, Altern has also managed to achieve better thermal management of its LED products, thus increasing reliability and LED lifetime. Because the LED products

are designed, developed and built in-house, flexibility is intrinsic in all Altern’s offerings, and they can be constructed in different shapes and sizes, using LED chips in varying sizes, colours and temperatures. This offers a unique opportunity to designers, architects and home owners to implement light that is personal and custom-designed to the application.

Altern also offers services such as Energy Auditing and implements products such as Photovoltaic (PV) Systems, LED Lighting, and Combined Heat and Power (CHP).

Altern Limited, KW17A, Corradino Industrial Estate, Paola.

T: 2099 6465; E: info@altern.com.mt; www.altern.com.mt

Motoring With Malta having one of the oldest car fleets in all of Europe, MarieClaire Grima finds out whether the immensely successful Government scrappage scheme can help clear the air and the streets. PAGE 22 >

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COVER STORY

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Time to start afresh The start of a new year brings with it a renewed desire to explore new territory, but more often than not, we fall short before even getting started. Martina Said discusses the importance of setting goals – not resolutions – and how to achieve them.

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ew Year’s resolutions are there to be broken. The fact that they’re even called resolutions, rather than goals, means they’re even more likely to fail. High expectations and years of disappointment have turned New Year’s resolutions into something of a thorn in our sides – we tell ourselves we’ll focus on losing weight, changing our style, donating more to charity, finding a hobby we’ll love and countless other things within the space of a single year. If that isn’t pressure, I’m not sure what is.

Rather than setting out to achieve mammoth goals, jot down a list of tangible ones and start with one of them rather than all at once. Short of ideas? Here are some.

Explore your interests

We make time for everything, but often cast aside the things that get us going because we decide that we don’t have time for them. Take the time to explore your passions, especially if they’re ones you don’t get to implement in your day-to-day job – try new things and revisit old interests if you still haven’t figured out what you’re passionate about, and even then, simply throw yourself into something and give it time before deciding it’s not for you. Take up a sport or join a gym group, sign up for a painting class or learn how to use computer software for your own personal needs – whatever it is that you’re keen on pursuing, you can only start by giving it a shot.

Invest in experiences

Postponing that trip or foregoing that expensive dinner will eventually be something you regret not doing. Saving your money for a rainy day is important, but so is living your life and in the end, it’s the fun and satisfying experiences that matter and that you’ll recount to your children and grandchildren.

Take an unexpected trip to a place you’ve never seen, attend a concert you’ve been promising to attend every passing year or organise a local camping trip in good company (if you enjoy roughing it, of course.)

Volunteer

Never undermine your needs or problems, but remember that it’s likely there is someone out there who is worse off than you, someone, perhaps, who

isn’t even as out of reach as you might think. Many people express their desire to do voluntary work at some point or other in their lives but rarely commit to it. This time, you should – tap into what makes you tick, be it giving your time to orphaned children, homeless animals or those suffering from a terrible illness, and pursue the wish to lend them a hand.

Treat yourself well

The way you treat your body and mind in your younger years will reflect on you throughout the rest of your life, so it’s important to be good to yourself first and foremost. Giving your body the best treatment you can afford is generally one of the hardest goals to achieve, but remember that it’s the one you have to live with, so eat well and exercise regularly, and do

not encourage its deterioration through bad habits that you know very well are doing you no good.

Make one change at a time

Understanding that our willpower as humans is limited and often weak makes it easier for us to understand why so-called resolutions do not work. Pledging to start eating a healthy breakfast every morning is one thing, but attempting to do that alongside pursuing a hobby, joining the gym and reading more books at the same time is another, which require a lot more attention and vigilance than we are capable of on an ordinary day. So be realistic about your goals and reap the benefits – you never know, it might finally be the year you succeed at achieving them. BB

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TRAVEL Sydney, Australia

The Top Places to Visit in 2016 Planning a quick getaway or annual holiday this year, but not quite sure where to go? Whether you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful sojourn to a European city or going a little further afield to explore a new country and culture, we’ve got you covered. Sarah Micallef discovers some of the top destinations for 2016 in Europe and beyond.

Latvia

Marking 25 years since its independence from the Communist regime, Latvia is a true Baltic treasure. Visit during its silver anniversary and experience a country which is truly blossoming: restoring ancient castles and manor houses, resuscitating ancient traditions and transforming its cuisine into the stuff of foodie fantasy. Its capital Riga has also come a long way following its tenure as European Capital of Culture in 2014, boasting improved infrastructure and a slew of renovations.

Australia

If you’ve always fancied going Down Under but the cost has made it impossible to do so, 2016 could be the perfect time. If you’re on a budget, Australia has just become a lot more attainable, thanks to a faltering currency and a slip in petrol prices. It’s a lot of land to cover, and has some truly impressive sights, including

the Great Barrier Reef and the wilderness of Tasmania. Nature lovers would also do well to enjoy these natural wonders before environmental threats necessitate compromises.

Botswana

One of the most sparsely populated nations in the world, Botswana was also one of the

poorest countries in the world as recently as the late 1960s. It has since transformed into one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and one of Africa’s most stable, thriving societies, boasting an inspirational journey from rags to riches.

This year, Botswana celebrates 50 years of independence, making it a perfect time to

visit. The Okavango Delta becomes a lush animal habitat during the seasonal floods, making it perfect for safaris.

Animal lovers can look out for cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, leopards, lions and black and white rhinos.

Japan

If you’re looking to experience a completely different culture, Japan should definitely be on your list. Famous for its high-rises, imperial palaces, national parks, shrines and temples, Japan marries the modern with the ancient in a unique and stunning way.

Tokyo’s skyscrapers and pop culture offer a striking contrast to Kyoto’s elegant Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, gardens and cherry blossoms, and the rush of excitement can already be felt following Tokyo’s successful bid to host the Olympics in 2020. It certainly makes for an exciting time to visit.

Poland

Tourist numbers keep growing for underappreciated Poland, and with its medieval architecture and hearty cuisine, it’s easy to see why. 2016 is a great year to visit as it will be Wrocław’s turn to don the crown as European Capital of Culture and all that comes with it. Meanwhile, Kraków will also be buzzing, as the Pope will be visiting to celebrate World Youth Day in July.

Greenland

If you fancy a wintery getaway, you should definitely consider Greenland. Watch the midnight sun illuminate the glaciers or watch in awe as whales breach the surface of the ocean, dogsled the tundra and witness the wonder that is the Northern Lights. Need another draw to visit this year? In March, Greenland will be hosting both the Arctic Winter Games as well as a festival of music, food and dance. BB

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HOMES

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Warm yourself by the fire the latest in fireplaces January is one of the coldest months of the year, and even on this sunny island, temperatures can drop to uncomfortable levels in our homes. One of the most stylish ways to beat the chill at home is by installing a fireplace, and there are a wealth of both classic and contemporary styles to choose from. Sarah Micallef takes you through the latest trends in fireplaces.

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fireplace can really add value to a home – both upping the style factor and reducing heating costs in the winter months. While the wind blows and the rain falls outside, fireplaces create ambience and provide a feeling of warmth and comfort indoors, serving both as the focal point of a room in terms of style, as well as a gathering point for family and friends to talk and warm themselves.

When choosing a fireplace for your home, your choice of décor should be your first step towards determining the style you go for. While the mantle-and-hearth fireplace will always remain the classic reminiscent of Hans Christian Andersen fairy tales, the latest trends in fireplaces are leaning towards a cleaner, sleeker and more modern look. In fact, contemporary designs are placing an emphasis on simple lines, with the fuel of choice most commonly being natural gas, closely followed by electric flames, which are growing in popularity.

It’s easy to see why natural gas fireplaces are favoured by many. Convenient, cost-efficient and easy to maintain, they’re the clear frontrunner for contemporary homes, and can be turned off and on with the flick of a switch.

Meanwhile, electric fireplaces are also becoming popular, due to their easy maintenance, versatility and simple installation. If you’d like to skip construction mess and hassle, the electric route is certainly the way to go – they add atmosphere for a lower price, with newer models

simulating hyper-realistic flames. Meanwhile, if you’re a fan of the old favourites, wood-burning models are now far more efficient than they used to be, and also come in modern styles if your décor is more contemporary.

While not quite as maintenance-free as some of the other options available, nothing offers quite the same ambience as a crackling wood fire.

The size of the fireplace is also changing with the times.

Today, fireplaces are bigger – much like the way in which televisions have become widescreen. Traditional-looking fireplaces are falling out of favour, making way for models featuring more glass and less metal – the most popular of which have little or no trim, providing the largest viewing area possible.

As for finishes, they really run the gamut – from traditional brick to sleek tile, glass and metallic finishes. The fireplace of today is certainly more versatile than it was in the past, and a variety of decorative elements is also available to change the look of your fireplace, regardless of the finish.

You can update it by adding decorative rocks or crystals, as well as a new fire insert.

Another growing trend in the world of fireplaces is see-through or double-sided fireplaces – providing an interesting and stylish new option for your home décor.

Apart from providing a striking talking-point, doublesided fireplaces are practical too: they offer light and heat on both sides of the wall, and act as a divider for larger areas or open-plan rooms. This trend is also particularly popular as it connects the bedroom with the master bathroom, warming both rooms and providing a lovely, relaxing atmosphere as you soak in the bath on a cold winter night.

However, installing a fireplace is not the only way to heat up your home. By investing in energy-efficient doubleglazing, you will reduce your energy costs and make your home warmer and quieter. Double-glazed apertures use two sheets of glass with a gap between them, creating an insulating barrier which helps to keep out the cold. The ever-popular method of underfloor heating – which works by turning the entire floor area of each room into a large, low-surface temperature radiator – is another option worth considering, which translates into lower heating bills and a smaller carbon footprint. You can also prevent further heat loss by closing curtains and lowering blinds after dusk to reduce draughts and keep you cosy indoors.

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

Turn up the heat

Stay warm and cosy this winter with our range of firewood, wood pellets and briquettes.

Our firewood product range includes beech, oak and ash, available in bags or box pallets.

Amongst a wide selection of ENplus certified wood pellets is premium brand Natur, made from 100 per cent Austrian fir that burns cleaner with little ash content. Rekord lignite briquettes is the most economical type of fuel that produces constant heat with ambers lasting for up two or three hours.

MG firelogs. M: 9989 2320; E: sales@mgfirelogs.com; www.mgfirelogs.com

Stylish and energyefficient apertures

REHAU uPVC window, door and curtain walling systems boast environmental and practical benefits. The brand offers a range of stylish double-glazed and energy-efficient systems which reduce heating costs. Our uPVC systems include hinged apertures, tilt and turn and sliding, and can achieve an ‘A’ rating – the highest energy rating when installed with the appropriate glazing unit, making REHAU profile-compliant with the latest building regulations. REHAU systems can also accommodate triple-glazing which can help improve noise reduction.

For further enquiries T: 2169 2917; M: 7949 4438; E: info@andrewvassallo.com; Fb: Andrewvassalloltd

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HOMES

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HOW TO HACK THE JANUARY SALES

The big red signs are up, the crowds are thronging and there’s a feeling of anticipation and excitement in the air – Marie-Claire Grima finds out how to get the best out of the January sales.

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anuary is a fantastic time of year to snap up something you really want for your home for a fraction of the price you would normally pay. But while it’s great fun to grab a bargain (or ten) at the time of year when retailers are clearing their shelves with a vengeance in order to make way for new stock, there are some things you should keep in mind to avoid frittering away your money on useless or poorvalue purchases.

Go with a plan of action

You should always embark on your discounted shopping spree with a plan of what you want to purchase in mind. It’s all very well to saunter into a shop, just looking for a bargain – but what is it that you actually need? Take stock of anything in your kitchen, living room or bedroom that is due for an upgrade or a replacement – it’s a good time of year to buy a high-quality item that might be out of your price range during the rest of the year.

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HOMES

However, you don’t want to buy something that clashes with the rest of the room, so it’s a good idea to take a photo of the room with your mobile phone and have a look at it before you buy – it will help you visualise how it would look as part of the whole, along with the rest of the furnishings that are already in place.

Keep an eye out for tricky pricing strategies

Tactics to move sale stock quickly may include price points that make you believe you’re getting a better deal than you really are and yo-yo pricing, where prices will be raised for a limited period of time in order to profit from the flood of people who will then rush in to buy goods at the new ‘reduced’ price. Most of these practices can catch you unawares if you’re not watching out for them, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the real bargains which are definitely out there.

Read the fine print

Retailers are well within their rights to promote a substantial

TOP TIP If you’re buying a new piece for your home, take a photo of the room where it will go with your mobile phone to help you visualise how it will look before you make the purchase.

discount, and then only offer it in certain stores, and it can be very disappointing to realise that the store you’re shopping at is not participating in the promotional scheme. And when you buy something, hang on to the receipt – not only will it be useful if you need to return the item, but it should also have the terms and conditions of the returns policy printed on it. Sale items normally have a much shorter window of time when you can return them to the shop – usually seven days as opposed to a month – so make sure you adhere to these conditions too.

Be a savvy shopper

If you normally ignore digital newsletters and Facebook adverts, sale season is the time you should be paying attention to them so that you can be

aware of exclusive or onlineonly deals. Several voucher apps will also have additional special offers for this period, so it’s worth looking into them as well for additional savings.

Most importantly, don’t let the sales get the best of you.

If you didn’t snag a prize on your first attempt, don’t pick something useless up for the sake of it – just go home and put your feet up. January sales

last until the end of the month and sometimes beyond, so you’ll have plenty of time to hit the shops for a festive deal again. BB

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EATING & DRINKING

PHOTOS BY ALAN CARVILLE

Of fine and flavourful fare Daniel Cauchi, Executive Chef at Michael’s in Valletta, cooks up a storm with this tangy three-course meal for even the most discerning foodie.

Cured salmon with tarragon crème fraîche and vanilla dressing INGREDIENTS For the salmon: 1/2 side of salmon, skin on and pin boned 2 oranges, zested 150g sugar 300g coarse sea salt For the tarragon crème fraîche: 250g crème fraîche 1 lemon, zested 12g tarragon, chopped 2g salt Black pepper For the dressing: 75g shallots, finely chopped 50ml olive oil 5g salt 1g freshly ground pepper

1 vanilla pod 25g caster sugar 25g honey 150ml vegetable oil 100ml olive oil 1 lemon, juiced 30ml white wine vinegar To plate: Micro greens

Method Trim the salmon by removing the tail and belly, leaving you with a rectangular piece. Remove all bones with tweezers, or ask your fishmonger to clean it for you. Mix the orange zest, sugar and salt together. Sprinkle half the mixture onto a tray, making a bed the width and length of the salmon. Lay the salmon skin side down. Sprinkle the rest of the mixture on top of the fish and then cover with cling film. Place a weight on the tray and leave the salmon in the fridge for six hours to marinate.

Remove the salmon from the marinade and lightly wash, pat dry with a paper towel and discard the rest of the marinade – the salmon should have formed a dry crust on the outside.

With a long, sharp knife, slice the salmon thinly and arrange on greaseproof paper, cover tightly with cling film and chill.

For the dressing, start by splitting the vanilla pod in half and scrape the seeds out. Sweat the shallots in the olive oil until they are soft but not coloured. Add the salt, pepper and vanilla seeds, and cook for three to four minutes. Add the sugar, honey and white wine vinegar, and reduce the mix by half until it is syrupy. Add the lemon juice, vegetable oil and olive oil, and bring to a simmer, then remove from the heat and cool. Store for later use.

To make the tarragon crème fraiche, simply mix all of the ingredients in a bowl with a whisk until all the ingredients are incorporated. To serve, spread some crème fraiche at the centre of each plate in a circle and layer the salmon slices above it. Stir the dressing well and drizzle over the salmon. Scatter some mixed micro greens and finish with some more dressing.

EXPERIENCE CULINARY DELIGHT Fusing together the traditional & the cutting edge; the land & the sea.

113, Archbishop Street, Valletta +356 7949 8540 +356 2122 8500 michaelsinvalletta.com info@michaelsinvalletta.com

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EATING & DRINKING

Seared venison loin with apple puree, cannellini beans and port jus Ingredients For the venison: 2 venison loins (approx. 150g-200g each) Sprigs of fresh thyme 4 garlic cloves, whole Salt and pepper for seasoning 50g unsalted butter Vegetable oil For the port jus: 3 shallots, finely diced 2 sprigs fresh thyme 5 juniper berries, crushed 100ml red wine 200ml port 650ml beef stock Vegetable oil For the apple puree: 5 green apples 100g unsalted butter Seasoning For the beans: 1 can cannellini beans 50g butter Chopped tarragon

Method Trim any excess fat and sinew from the venison loins, pat dry with paper towel and season. Add a small amount of oil to a frying pan and place over high heat.

Sear the venison all over until medium/dark brown in colour. Reduce the heat, add some butter to coat the loins together with the whole garlic and thyme, and set aside until plating.

For the jus, add a splash of oil to a pan over a lowmedium heat. Add the shallots, thyme and juniper berries, and leave to sweat. Add the red wine and the port, let the liquid reduce until almost dry before adding the beef stock. Reduce to the desired consistency, much like a thin, rich gravy.

For the apple puree, peel and core the apples, and cut into 1cm cubes. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat and add the apples. Cook until the apples are soft, then cool to room temperature and blend until smooth and season to taste.

Separately, wash the beans from the brine, melt the butter in a pan over medium heat and add the beans and tarragon. Cook for one minute on high heat, stirring continuously, and season to taste.

Before plating, pre-heat the oven to 190°C, place the venison in the oven for approximately five minutes, remove from the oven and leave to rest (cook the venison to desired liking, but it’s best served medium rare). In a round plate, add a swipe of apple puree and align a spoonful of beans. Slice the fillet and arrange next to the puree and beans. Pour the hot jus on top and serve.

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Strawberry pannacotta with fresh berries and walnut crumble Ingredients For the pannacotta: 4 gelatine leaves 350ml whipped cream 300ml whole milk 120g caster sugar 400g fresh strawberries Fresh mixed berries, to garnish For the walnut crumble: 50g rolled oats 40g wholemeal flour 50g walnuts, chopped Pinch of salt 50g caster sugar 1tsp ground cinnamon 60g unsalted butter

Method Make the crumble by mixing all the dry ingredients together. Separately, put the butter in a small saucepan, melt over a moderate heat, pour it over the dry ingredients and mix together.

Spread the mixture on greaseproof paper and bake in a pre-heated oven at 180°C until lightly golden. Cool and store in an airtight container for later use.

For the pannacotta, soak the gelatine in cold water for about four minutes and set aside.

Place the cream, milk and caster sugar in a heavy saucepan and gently bring to the boil over a medium heat. Blend the strawberries in a liquidiser and add to the mixture together with the gelatine, mixing well. Pass through a fine sieve into a jug.

Prepare a desired mould or glass. Pour the pannacotta mixture, dividing it up evenly. Place in the fridge for one hour until set, then serve with fresh berries and a sprinkle of crumble.

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

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JLS STONEWORK

Cosas

With 27 years of experience, JLS can make your dreams come true. We carry out modern, rustic and classic interior and exterior stone works, including balustrades and columns, arches, fireplaces, coving, stone kitchens, lavur (hand-made), wall covering, frames and more. The staff here does its best to meet your requirements, and apart from stone dĂŠcor and furniture, we also do plastering, painting, waterproofing/membrane, plumbing and drainage pipes along with tile laying, gypsum ceilings and wall partitions. We also offer refurbishing services for houses of character, farmhouses and villas.

Hand-woven rugs from southern Spain, known as jarapas, are available at Cosas. Due to the artisanal nature of the manufacturing process, each hand-woven rug is a 'one-off', resulting in a unique product that adds a pleasant sensation of warmth and comfort to any room.

The rugs are available in various colour combinations and in the following sizes (cm): 60 x 120, 120 x 160, 140 x 200 and 170 x 240.

Call Louis Spiteri for a free quotation or visit at 73, Triq Barth, Hamrun.

T: 2125 0138; M: 9944 3998; E: jlsstonework@gmail.com; www.jlsstonework.com

Cosas, 55, St Paul Street, Naxxar (opposite the GO antenna). T: 2142 1110; M: 7900 1606; www.cosas.com.mt

Enduring, quality Gypsum

Internal wall insulation using Jabor

When Eric Cortis launched his company, he started off with small domestic gypsum projects which he carried out himself.

Today, the company has grown enough to accept not only domestic projects but also substantial commercial and industrial jobs of high standards. By concentrating on each and every individual project, our team of experienced interior and exterior decorators produce products of extremely high quality and pride themselves on the excellent standards throughout. From the very first visit on-site, expert quotations and professional suggestions, we ensure each project takes off to a good start and ultimately finishes on time, every time and with excellent results.

What is Jabor? Jabor is a prefabricated panel consisting of standard gypsum panels measuring 3m by 1.2m by 13mm, and fire rated EPS sheets 20kg/cu.m density. The panels are glued directly to the wall using a Malta Adhesive Glue and anchor bolts, thereby avoiding the use of metal frameworks.

Amber, Triq Guze' Abela, Zebbug. M: 7960 2316; E: ericcort@maltanet.net

For more information on insulation and finishing products for interiors and exteriors, visit Bitmac Ltd, Tal-Balal Road, l/o Naxxar. T: 2141 8411/2/3; E: info@bitmacltd.com; www.bitmacltd.com

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Foreword

New Year, New Beginnings January brings with it a new sense of purpose – one which drives us to achieve previously unaccomplished goals and set new ones. Sometimes we fall into the trap of setting ourselves up for too much, too soon at this time of year, but if there’s any time to start afresh, I’d say it’s now.

This month marks my last issue as editor of Best © 2016 All rights reserved. Articles appearing in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to print, however the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

Buy Shopping Guide, and what a ride it has been. I’ve had the joy of shaping and seeing this publication grow and become a better version of itself over the past two years, thanks to the input of the entire team. I’m pleased to pass the baton to my colleague, Marie-Claire Grima, who will bring her own distinctive touch to your favourite shopping guide while staying true to what Best Buy has always been and offered.

Best Buy is the leading shopping guide distributed with The Times every month on a Wednesday.

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Publishers

With that, I’d like to thank our faithful readers, advertisers and contributors for making this journey a memorable one. 2016 will bring with it new challenges and projects for me within Content House, the publisher of this newspaper, which I seek to approach with the same enthusiasm as I did back in 2013!

Content House Group Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel.

T: +356 2132 0713 F: +356 2132 0714 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt EDITOR Martina Said Contributors Sarah Micallef, Jo Caruana, Marie-Claire Grima Advertising Publication Sales Manager Mark Barbara Advertising Sales Executive Caroline Gauci Advertising Sales Coordinators Lindsey Ciantar, Marvic Cutajar

NEXT ISSUE:

DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar

DOn'T MISS IT

Printer Progress Press Ltd

10.02.16

How to maintain Sugar? No a healthy diet Thank You! and sunflower oil, as well as nuts and legumes are crucial to provide polyunsaturated oils that in small amounts lower our unhealthy blood cholesterol.

It is easy to say “you are what you eat”, but when it comes to applying this in practice, is it so easy?

Maintaining a healthy diet can be satisfying but this does not come without some sacrifice. A modern, well-researched food guide pyramid emphasises the importance of daily exercise and weight control as a baseline of a healthy diet and as part of a healthy lifestyle. It shows the importance of choosing food containing fibre in our bread, pasta, rice and cereals, where brown and wholegrain foods are preferable. All oils coming from plant sources, such as olive oil

It demonstrates the importance of choosing healthier meats containing less fats, such as poultry and fish, besides consuming low-fat dairy products. Lastly, it advocates eating red meat and fats coming from animal sources in limited amounts, as small amounts of fat are still necessary for our body to function efficiently. The secret of everything is eating the correct amount of each type of food to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.

Geoffrey Axiak M.Sc. Nursing (Manchester), B.Sc. Nursing, P.G. Dip. Nutrition & Dietetics, Dip. Public Management, Cert. Clinical Nutrition (Leeds)

Geoffrey Axiak, M: 9982 2288; E: axiakg@yahoo.com; http://gaxiak.yolasite.com

Ecomil organic, sugar-free drinks can be labelled as ‘sugar-free’ because they contain less than 0.5g of total sugars per 100ml or 100g; and as ‘unsweetened’ because they are free from any kind of ingredient used for their sweetening properties (according to regulation (EC) No 1924/2006). Besides, these milk alternatives are also gluten-free and lactose-free – you can choose from almond, coconut and hemp.

Contact GreenTrade, the sole agents, on M: 7979 6541; E: greentrade@go.net.mt; www.greentrademalta.com

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WHERE TO DINE

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YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE Melita Gardens Melita Gardens, Triq Idmejda, Balzan.

T: 2147 0663/4; E: info@melitagardens.com.mt

Melita Gardens is truly one of a kind – its vast gardens, spanning over 5,000 square metres, sit proudly and directly next door to San Anton Gardens, and since undergoing a change in management in July 2014, its popularity has continued to grow. To those unfamiliar with the establishment, Melita Gardens offers a delightful surprise behind its imposing walls. Its sheer size leaves you speechless, yet the magnificence of its gardens instantly gives you a sense of peace and tranquillity.

Three separate entrances lead to a different area of Melita Gardens, all of which are interconnected. There is the main formal restaurant, the cafeteria/pizzeria and the Mezzanin Wine Lounge, all with both indoor and outdoor seating. Open all day, every day from 10am (except for Mezzanin Lounge which is closed on Monday), Melita Gardens is always buzzing with energy and attracts crowds of all ages.

ruben’s DriVe in restaurant Ruben’s Drive In Restaurant, Tamar Road, Qawra.

T: 2157 0134; M: 9949 6734.

El Patron by StepIn Dine & Drink El Patron, Triq Congreve, Wied iz-Zurrieq, Qrendi.

The recently refurbished Ruben’s Drive In Restaurant in the heart of Qawra is one of few local restaurants that places sole importance on the calibre of its dishes and service. For the past 17 years, it has been ably managed by chef patron Ruben Farrugia who has over 40 years’ experience in the catering industry, many of which were spent in Australia where he ran eight successful restaurants. The restaurant’s culinary focus is on Mediterranean dishes including fresh seafood, fish, meat and pasta dishes, as well as oriental fare and other specialities such as BBQ ribs, BBQ chicken wings, steaks and delicious onion rings, all prepared using only the best produce on the island and cooked keeping in mind the premise that simplicity brings out the natural flavours of food. Whether you opt for our hefty 400g, 600g or 700g steak, it will be like nothing you've ever tasted, and much cheaper than anywhere else on the islands. With generous portions and friendly and helpful staff, you are guaranteed satisfaction at Ruben’s Drive In Restaurant. We are open seven nights a week, as well as for Sunday lunch.

El Patron is the only fine-dining restaurant in Blue Grotto – a pictureperfect natural spot on the southern coast of Malta.

El Patron specialises in fresh pasta dishes, fresh meats and fresh fish, and only the best ingredients are used to create our mouthwatering dishes. Dine indoors or on the terrace which boasts spectacular sea views.

For reservations call on T: 2164 0242; M: 9944 2084.

Paradise Bay Resort Hotel For bookings call T: 2152 1166; E: info@paradise-bay.com

Break free from routine and daily stress, and spend a short break recharging at the Paradise Bay Resort Hotel. Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, we promise you a relaxing short break, be it for a family with kids or a group of friends. All of the hotel's rooms are fully air-conditioned and have a balcony with sea views.

The hotel boasts four seawater swimming pools. The large, main pool includes a shallow paddling pool for children and all pools enjoy extensive sun terraces. During the colder months, one can take a dip in one of the largest indoor pools on the island.

No day at the Paradise Bay Resort Hotel would be complete without a visit to one of our restaurants. Indulge in our popular, sumptuous buffet lunch at Il-Merill Restaurant, with captivating sea views and seating for 500 people. A short break at the Paradise Bay Resort Hotel is indeed paradise for the mind and senses.

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WINDOW SHOPPING

Valletta International Baroque Festival 2016 The fourth edition of the Valletta International Baroque Festival is nearly here.

Produced and managed by Teatru Manoel, the festival runs from 16 to 30 January and features 25 different events in nine venues in Valletta. Since its inception in 2013, the festival has gone from strength to strength, attracting strong local support and an international audience happy to spend a week or two in the inimitable

atmosphere of Valletta.

The festival incorporates an eclectic variety of music including pianistic transcriptions and 20th century orchestral music ‘inspired by the baroque’ and an internationally recognised galaxy of star performers; household names within the baroque world and without such as Jordi Savall and Philippe Herreweghe, and

harpsichord wizard Mahan Esfahani.

Local performers include the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and VIBE, the Valletta International Baroque Ensemble, the resident ensemble of the festival. There are also events specifically designed for children and the family, and the festival ends with the popular Festival Ball in Teatru Manoel.

For more information visit www.vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt

Look out for BETTER THAN Better Than noodles, pasta and rice are a range of healthy alternatives to regular noodles, pasta and rice. A 100g serving contains only nine calories, making it ideal for anyone who would like to lose weight or keep fit. These products are made from organic ingredients including flour from the Japanese konnyaku plant, which is high in fibre and absorbs a lot of water to keep you feeling full. The Better Than range is also fat-free, low GI, low in calories, glutenfree and suitable for vegans.

A world of fun Slide into a world of fun and education at The Nursery School. The Nursery School and Day Care Club is an open policy nursery school for toddlers between six months and four years of age, guaranteeing fun activities and individual attention delivered by fullyqualified and dedicated staff.

The Nursery School will be opening soon in new locations.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 6.30am5.30pm.

Triq Il-Htajriet, Mosta. T: 2741 8545.

Better Than – Ready Meals Watching one’s daily food consumption can be very time consuming, and Better Than’s Ready Meals is here to help!

All you have to do is peel the lids on the pots, heat in the microwave, mix and enjoy a tasty, healthy and filling meal.

The ready meals come in a variety of mouth-watering flavours, including Chicken Massaman Curry and Chicken Tikka Masala Rice Pots (the latter is sugar-free but not gluten-free), Mediterranean

and Arrabiata Pasta Pots, Vegetarian Phad Thai and Vegetable Penang Curry Noodle Pots.

To find out which stores in your vicinity stock Better Than, send an email to E: storelocator@jcallejaltd.com; Fb: J. Calleja Caterers & Wholesalers Ltd

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MOTORING

SCRAPPING MALTA’S TRAFFIC PROBLEMS Malta has one of the oldest car fleets and one of the lowest take-ups of electrical vehicles in all of Europe. Marie-Claire Grima finds out whether the immensely successful scrappage scheme, which has been re-introduced for the fifth year in a row, can help clear the air and the streets.

A

recent Eurostat survey revealed what many of us could probably deduce by observation – that Malta not only has one of the highest numbers of passenger cars per capita amongst the European Union member states, but also one of the oldest passenger car fleets. On an island where congestion and pollution from private cars are becoming increasingly aggressive problems, it comes as no surprise that Transport Malta’s scrapping scheme, which was introduced in 2011 with the aim of getting a mere 1,000 elderly cars off the island’s overcrowded roads, has been a runaway success, with the quota being filled and exceeded every year. 1,146 vehicles were registered under the scrappage scheme last year alone. As a result, it has been reintroduced with a broader scope year after year. “The launch date for this year’s edition had to be brought forward to December 2015 instead of January 2016, due to popular demand,” a spokesman from Transport Malta confirmed.

The new scrappage scheme features many aspects of the original scheme, including the award of a oneoff grant of between €700 and €900 to every person who scraps a private passenger vehicle which is older than ten years and registers a new car whose CO2 is between 101 and 130g/km. However, there are also a host of other measures aimed at reducing emissions, which could indirectly also ease up the log caused by traffic jams, especially during the morning commute and the drive home from work. These include allowing

people with a Category B driving licence to drive a scooter or a motorcycle without requiring additional licensing (a minimum of ten hours training is required), the introduction of a flat annual licence fee of €10 for all motorcycles with a cubic capacity lower than 125cc, and the removal of registration tax for electric motorcycles.

The same Eurostat survey which confirmed the antiquity of many of Malta’s passenger cars also showed that up until 2013, there were only 27 vehicles out of Malta’s entire fleet of private cars which ran on alternative fuel, such as electricity. In order to combat this, the newlylaunched scrappage scheme also focuses on people and organisations purchasing and registering hybrid vehicles.

Hybrid vehicles are much better for the environment than cars which run solely on fossil fuels such as petrol and diesel, and following the initial investment, much cheaper. Grants ranging from €2,000 to €3,000 will be available for the purchase of hybrid vehicles with low emissions, and as an added bonus, they will be exempt from paying the CVA in Valletta. Companies wishing to invest in electric vehicle charging points will be given a grant of up to €1,500 towards the expense.

“When you scrap an old car, you are putting a nominal value to a vehicle and removing it from the Maltese roads, thus helping to lower the average age of the current fleet,” the representative from Transport Malta said. “We are incentivising the registration of newer, smaller and cleaner cars, and collecting more revenue for Government.” BB

BEST BUY RECOMMENDS Protective shield wax

Armor All Shield is even better than a wax.

It forms a protective shield that prevents dirt and grime from sticking to your car.

Once applied, each wash reactivates the protective shield to maintain shine and protection for up to ten washes, eliminating the need for regular reapplication. Simply apply a thin, even coat of product onto a small section of the clean vehicle, then immediately and lightly wipe away the product. No drying time and no circular buffing needed.

This product is available from leading car care centres and fuel stations.

Imported and distributed by A Falzon AutoXS. M: 7947 8949; E: afautoxs@onvol.net

Learn to ride with us

At RPM we pride ourselves on giving the best comprehensive training from Licence category A1 up to full licence category A, including the new scheme as of January 2016. We teach more than is required to pass the test ensuring your confidence, comfort and above all your safety. Whether you’re a beginner or have been riding motorcycles for years, we can offer you the knowledge and experience to learn right or improve your skills.

RPM, Triq Victor Vassallo, Attard. M: 7783 7716; E: info@rpm.com.mt; www.rpm.com.mt

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JANUARY 2016