Best Buy May 2016

COVER STORY

It’s that time of year again – Marie-Claire Grima speaks to Ira Losco and past Eurovision contestants about the changing face of the contest. PAGE 3 >

BEST BUY YOUR MONTHLY SHOPPING GUIDE DISTRIBUTED WITH THE TIMES

DISCOVER THE ‘JOI’ OF HEALTHY COLOUR!

LumiShine™ is the perfect tool to help you achieve the ideal hair colour.

Issue 108

May 2016

IN THIS ISSUE...

HOMES Barbecue season is almost upon us – get your house and outdoor spaces in order with tips from Sarah Micallef. PAGE 9 >

With a pre-blended permanent crème and demi-permanent liquid system, LumiShine™ gives first-time colourists and busy master colourists alike an easy colour solution for every salon service and every hair type. Offering a simple to use, one-to-one mixing ratio, its line of gentle formulas instantly provides healthy results.

The difference with LumiShine™ is in the blend of breakthrough technology and client comfort, all wrapped up in an easy-to-use versatile palette that gives amazing results. The exclusive ArgiPlex Technology repairs hair damage and locks in exceptional colour longevity, vibrancy and shine. Furthermore, while most hair colour depletes Arginine (an amino acid essential to hair’s health) leaving hair dry, brittle and prone to breakage post-colour service, LumiShine™ restores 100 per cent of the Arginine that the haircolouring process strips away. This actually stabilises dyes deep within the cortex for longer-lasting, fade-resistant colour. And last but not least, its 'gentle-fresh fragrance' technology neutralises airborne ammonia and replaces it with calming notes of bergamot, iris and sandalwood.

The future of hair colour just got a lot brighter. Joico recently introduced LumiShine™ Repair+, a permanent crème and demi-permanent liquid colour, which is now in Malta and will be available soon in professional and leading hair salons. LumiShine™ Repair+ leaves hair 100 per cent replenished and re-strengthened with up to twice the shine. Whether someone is looking for a whole new look, a slight update, or to cover up some early greys,

To ensure the longevity of glossy colour, clients are advised to use the Joico K-Pak Colour Therapy regimen. These products can be used as an after-colour service and for home maintenance. JOICO colour care products are designed to make brilliant colour results last and last!

For more information on LumiShine™ and JOICO, contact Salon Services Ltd on T: 2144 9236 or E: marketing@salonsmalta.com or visit www.joicoeurope.com

INTERVIEW Taryn Mamo Cefai, who plays Lydia on Strada Stretta, talks to Jo Caruana about the thrill of the stage, who inspires her and her rockin’ upcoming project.

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HEALTH Skin is the body’s largest and most visible organ. Martina Said finds out how to keep it looking and working at its best. PAGE 23 >

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COVER STORY

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Ira Losco during rehearsals in Stockholm.

Photo by Andres Putting (EBU)

EUROVISION FEVER

Love it or loathe it, it’s once again time for the Eurovision Song Contest. Marie-Claire Grima looks at the changing face of the festival, speaks to past (and present!) contestants and finds out whether our lack of neighbours really puts us at a disadvantage or not.

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he Eurovision Song Contest turns 60 this year and continues to divide opinions on whether it’s the TV event of the year, an offense to anyone with ears, or something that can be easily ignored if it’s not your cup of tea.

Chris Scicluna and Moira Stafrace, veteran Eurovision contestants who were part of the Irish contingent in 1993, represented Malta in the Eurovision in 1994 and wrote Malta’s entry in 1999, fall firmly in the third camp. “It's a great show and a great spectacle but it's not the meaning of making music. You’re only famous for three minutes,” they said. The two happily recall the commitment, dedication and excitement that came with being involved in the contest,

but say they do not follow Eurovision anymore, describing it as ‘a distraction’ from their current musical projects.

While it’s hard to argue with the distraction part, the contest has undergone significant changes since the 90s and early 2000s, when Chris and Moira were competing – years which many would consider to be Malta’s Eurovision golden years. In 2004, the first televised semifinal was introduced, giving more countries the opportunity to take part, even if they didn’t make the final cut. It also gave artists who made it through to the second round twice the amount of exposure. A second semi-final was introduced in 2008. Amber, who represented Malta last year with ‘Warrior’, describes Eurovision as a ‘milestone’ in her career – a

step which brought her closer to where she wants to be, rather than the end goal.

“It’s part of the journey. After Eurovision I started working on new material and an album which will be out in the coming months,” she says.

Ira Losco, Malta’s Eurovision darling and this year’s representative, concurs. “I think the contest is a lot more relevant to the music industry as a whole than it was back in 2002, and that's one of the main reasons why I decided

to try and take part in the competition again,” she tells us. “When Loreen won with ‘Euphoria’ in 2012, it really showed me that Eurovision had changed and moved forward.”

However, the most significant change in the Eurovision came through the internet.

It has given the Eurovision community a chance to come together not just once a year, but all year round if they wish to. Through different social media channels, Eurovision fans can share, speculate and scream about their favourites, with on-the-minute updates from all the participating countries. Ira confirms that the biggest change she has witnessed from when she was competing in 2002 is the rise of social media. “Back then I used to get messages from fans

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COVER STORY we feel like we had a particularly strong entry, and were cheated of a victory or a higher ranking, we tend to blame it on ‘the neighbours.’

“Malta has no neighbours”, we wail disconsolately, floating plans to give Gozo and Comino nationhood so that they can vote for us and conveniently ignoring the fact that many of the other Eurovision non-winners have plenty of neighbours but still haven’t been able to outdo the competition.

by email or through a guestbook on the website,” Ira says. “Now I can receive message and reply to fans from all over the world in a matter of minutes directly through Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. It's brought the fans much closer to us as artists, and I really like that I can have this communication and relationship with them.”

WILL THIS TIME BE THE CHARM?

Malta has often sent contestants to try their luck again and again. The basic reasoning behind this seems to be “well, we got so close last time, we’ll definitely win this time round.”

However, this doesn’t always work out as well as we plan. Eurovision trouper Chiara, for example, has represented Malta in the contest three times. She placed third on her first try and second on her second try – the next time had to be a win, right? Wrong – she punched in at a disappointing 22nd place.

However, our national optimism this year seems to be more justified than the usual ‘Ira nearly won in 2002, so it must be her turn now’ sense of entitlement. Despite some outcry over the fact that it wasn’t the original song which won the Malta Song, Walk on Water, co-written by Swedish singersongwriter Molly Pettersson Hammar, is a strong entry, with a modern sound that Malta in the past has been slow to embrace. A brief look at the comments section for the video sees enthusiastic comparisons to Ella Eyre, Sheena Easton and even Beyoncé. And at the time of writing, Malta was one of the top five bookies’ favourites to win this year’s edition of the contest.

THE NEIGHBOUR ISSUE

Malta is far from the only country that has never won Eurovision – we’re in the respectable company of Portugal, Iceland, Romania, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Lithuania, to name but a few. However, whenever

University of Malta lecturer Dr George Cremona argues that ‘neighbours’ in Eurovision have become more of a non-issue as the world grows more connected. “Social media has made us everyone’s neighbours.

What happens in Malta reaches the home of the farthest Eurovision fan in seconds. It’s certainly jarring when countries describe their geographical neighbours as ‘beloved’ or ‘favourite’ before they drop the 12-point bombshell, but I don’t personally believe this has much of an impact on the ultimate outcome of the contest. A winning song is always a winning song.

And anyway, Ira and Chiara didn’t need neighbours to get to second place in 2002 and 2005. I think Malta should do what it does best and keep focusing on the product we’re sending up to Eurovision. That way, we can convince the people at home that ours is the song that deserves to win – neighbours or no neighbours!” BB

THIS YEAR’S FAVOURITES Russia

Sergey Lazarev’s You Are The Only One, this year’s favourite, is a pulsating tune reminiscent of 90s eurodance and the theme from Pirates of the Caribbean.

France

The upbeat handclaps really make J'ai cherché by Amir, an earnest and passionate tune sung largely in French (as expected) but with a cooing English-language chorus.

Sweden

If I Were Sorry by Frans is a cheerfully melancholic tune sung in an accent veering from London to Stockholm to the Midlands – the young half-British singer was raised between England and Sweden.

Australia

It’s Australia’s second time taking part in the Eurovision and its finger is right on the musical pulse – Dami Im’s Sound of Silence sounds exactly like an Adele track.

Malta

Nothing to add here. Best wishes to Ira and Walk On Water!

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Foreword

FESTIVAL FUN One of the hottest topics in Malta at this time of year is, invariably, Eurovision, so we’ve decided to dedicate our cover story on page 3 to the festival. We spoke to Malta’s golden girl Ira Losco as well as past contestants Amber and Chris and Moira, to find out what they really think of the competition and how it has affected their careers – and we also looked at the countries which are the favourites to win this year’s contest. Which one is yours?

© 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.

Of course, Eurovision isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but there are plenty of other things in this month’s Best Buy to kindle your interest. Despite the spate of odd weather, summer is right around the corner – the article that starts on page 9 will tell you everything you need to know about getting your home ready for barbecues and pool parties aplenty, as well as keeping it fresh and cool when the temperatures start soaring.

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Publishers

We’re also kicking our health and fitness regimes into high gear before we start scoffing sausages and chugging ice-cold beers on the beach on a thrice-weekly basis. Turn to page 23 for tips on keeping your skin at its best, and to page 30 for the best ever summer nutrition plan. Happy days!

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

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

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

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DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar Printer Progress Press Ltd

EFFORTLESSLY STYLISH DÉCOR

THE ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS

Gozo Pools Ltd specialise in anything to do with swimming pools and spas.

Whether you need top-of-the-range spas, infra-red cabins, pool tiles, equipment or chemicals, we have what you need at prices you can afford. At Gozo Pools, our goal is to provide you with courteous, expedient, professional service of the highest calibre.

At Gozo Pools, the customer always

comes first. We will endeavour to exceed your expectations with our highquality service.

Gozo Pools, 75, Capuchin Street, Victoria, Gozo.

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These striking and stylish recycled coloured glass bottles are excellent and versatile decoration pieces. They fit easily and simply into any space and are one of the most effortless and effective ways of adding that special touch to any space, be it a living room, kitchen or bathroom.

Use alone or with cut flowers or branches, in a corner on the floor or on a shelf, staircase, chest or table.

They come in a variety of eye-catching translucent colours. Other decorative bottle shapes including demijohns and coloured miniature jars are also available.

COSAS, 55, St Paul Street, Naxxar (opposite GO antenna).

T: 2142 1110; M: 7900 1606; www.cosas.com.mt

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HOMES

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Sprucing up your outdoor space With the beautiful sunny weather the Maltese islands are blessed with, it’s no wonder properties with outdoor living spaces are highly sought after, but regardless of how big or small your outdoor area is, a little know-how will go a long way towards making it really stand out. Sarah Micallef finds out how to spruce up your outdoor space ahead of summer.

W

hether your outdoor space consists of a garden or courtyard, terrace, roof or even just a balcony, the warmer weather has begun to beckon us outside to enjoy the fresh air once more. If your outdoor area is in need of some TLC after the winter months, there are several ways in which you can add a touch of style to it – then it’s up to you to host your friends and family for a barbecue or get together, or just chill out al fresco with a glass of something colourful!

Prettying up your outdoor area for the summer season will make for a welcoming space for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Forget about cheap plastic tables and tacky chairs – outdoor furnishings and décor have improved in leaps and bounds in recent years, coming in a range of styles and materials including wrought iron or aluminium, stone, wood and wicker, meaning there’s lots to choose from, depending on your tastes and budget. Aside from giving your garden, yard or patio a more luxurious feel, the latest interior design trends also extend to the outdoors,

allowing you to extend your chosen design style from the inside out.

OUTDOOR DÉCOR TRENDS

While it’s important not to get too bogged down in what’s trendy, current outdoor décor trends can be handy as inspiration. A style that has been going strong in recent years is mid-century modern styling, which celebrates postwar design and makes use of an interesting array of materials including leather, teak and brass. These look beautiful set against elegant upholstery

TOP TIP Incorporate contemporary touches and colours into your rustic décor to bring it into the modern day and avoid looking shabby.

and bold colours. If you favour more of an eclectic feel and love collecting knick-knacks and interesting pieces from your travels, another top trend is the ‘global’ look. Aim for a curated mix of pieces like Asian ceramics, Moroccan lanterns, Mediterranean-style motifs,

silk accents and handcrafted accessories.

A personal favourite when it comes to current décor trends however is a modern rustic feel, particularly if you live in a house of character or townhouse with an old courtyard. Making use of natural textures and materials like wood and stone alongside weathered metals, this trend looks amazing if done well.

Just be sure to incorporate contemporary touches and colours to bring it into the modern day and avoid looking shabby.

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HOMES or fiberglass and generally allow for design flexibility as they can be constructed onsite. While concrete pools are usually the most expensive, you can custom design them to your specifications, and opt for a variety of finishes including plaster and paint.

Meanwhile, if you’re simply looking to give your outdoor space an update without switching out your current furniture, you can achieve a fresh new look with soft furnishings like pillows, rugs, umbrellas or canopies, hammocks and other textiles.

The classic stripe is always a fantastic option for summer, along with nautical colour schemes. Other popular colours this year include purple, coral, white and yellow, while the classics always remain so: sand, mocha, charcoal and cream will look great forever.

TOP TIP Because they’re not permanent structures, an added benefit of aboveground pools is that you can take your pool with you if you move house.

UPGRADE YOUR SPACE

With outdoor areas continuing to gain more of an upmarket feel, the usage of space has also shifted to follow suit.

Particularly within smaller areas, the emphasis is on flexible usage of space and multifunctional furniture. While it is still commonplace to have a designated dining area comprising a table and chairs, elements like furniture with built-in storage, ottomans that can be used as both seats and side tables, as well as portable fire pits, bars and coffee tables also give you the ability to reconfigure your layout to suit

the occasion, regardless of the size of the space.

Meanwhile, if you’re fortunate enough to have a large open area, you may want to consider installing a pool or Jacuzzi.

With the Maltese summer soon upon us, having a place to splash around in your yard or garden will not only give you the opportunity to freshen up or practice your backstroke,

it will also be a great feature and perfect setting for inviting people over. While pools come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the space available, there are also different types of pools to consider. The choice you make here will affect the cost, construction, maintenance and how it will be used. The first choice is whether to go aboveground or in-ground.

Above-ground pools are generally made from aluminium, resin or steel sidings with vinyl liners, and make for the most economical option albeit not being particularly customisable.

Because they’re not permanent structures, an added benefit is that you can take your pool with you if you move house.

Meanwhile, in-ground pools may be made out of concrete

Lastly, another great addition to your outdoor space is a barbecue area, where you can fire up the grill and cook up something tasty for your guests. Whether it’s a humble burgers-and-sausages feast or something a little more luxurious (we love barbecued prawns with a spritz of lemon), having a designated area for your barbecue will ensure the rest of the space is free for your guests to mill around in, or sit back and enjoy a cold drink as they wait for their dinner. BB

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Mapping out your master bedroom

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

Durable rugs for the outdoors

Finding the perfect outdoor rug can be daunting. That’s where our eye-catching indoor/outdoor rug collection comes in.

Durable, UV-protected outdoor area rugs in a variety of bright colours and patterns cheer up any space – indoors or outdoors. All of our outdoor rugs wash off with just a quick spray from a hose. Custom-made, bespoke and area rugs are also available.

See full collection at Maltarugs, 101, Psaila Street, Birkirkara. M: 9982 2866; E: info@maltarugs.com; www.maltarugs.com; Fb: MaltaRugs

Modern master bedrooms with a walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom may look simple in design, but require as much planning as the high-traffic areas in your home. Martina Said discusses the details required for planning a master bedroom.

Start with the bed

The bed is both the masterpiece and the headache of any bedroom – it is the focal point of the room, but also the biggest piece of furniture that will never budge. Try having the head of the bed close to the wall opposite the bedroom’s entrance for optimum positioning, but avoid pushing it right up against the wall for the sake of manoeuvrability when tucking in sheets. Also avoid placing the bed in a diagonal position as it takes up an unnecessary amount of space. If you can’t make up your mind, think about your bedroom priorities first: would you rather your bed is far from the window? Do you prefer to enter the room and immediately look at the bed? If you have a TV in your bedroom, where are you most likely to place it?

A bed needs to be proportionate to the size of your master bedroom, and allow for other necessary bedroom items to be installed. Avoid opting for a big bed if you

TOP TIP Do not hold back from spending serious money on a mattress – remember that a high-quality mattress will last you years and guarantee a good night’s sleep, which should not be bargained with.

don’t have the space for it and ensure you have at least two feet of walking room around the perimeter of the bed. Do not hold back from spending serious money on a mattress – remember that a high-quality mattress will last you years and guarantee a good night’s sleep, which should not be bargained with. Consider sets of sheets that complement the colour scheme and overall feel of your bedroom, although in truth, you can never go wrong with a crisp, white set.

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 and tilt and turn and sliding apertures, 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

Choosing furniture

One of the most used pieces of furniture in a bedroom is the nightstand, but you must decide what you’ll be using it for first before buying: will you be piling on books and papers or just a glass of water? Will you have a reading lamp on it?

Your answers will determine the size of the surface, but for a minimalist option, choose something smaller with drawers for storage.

TOP TIP Consider sets of sheets that complement the colour scheme and overall feel of your bedroom, although

in truth, you can never go wrong with a crisp, white set.

A walk-in wardrobe will eliminate clutter from your main space, doing away with large pieces of furniture such as the wardrobe, chest of drawers and set of cupboards. It’s also an ideal way to gather all your clothes, shoes, underwear and the works in one space that is separate but in close proximity to the bedroom, eliminating

mess and disorder from the main bedroom simultaneously.

Opt for a walk-in wardrobe design that reflects your needs: you’ll need to choose between closed or open cupboards, different types of shelving and even a colour scheme that complements you and your partner’s style.

A space to escape

A master bedroom needs to be more than just a space to sleep – it should serve as a retreat you’re eager to walk into at the end of the day.

Add a loveseat, a cosy and comfortable armchair or even a small worktop for your creative pursuits to elevate your bedroom from a resting place

to a safe haven.

The en suite bathroom

A master bedroom complete with a walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom is the epitome of bedroom luxury and definition of modern elegance.

An en suite bathroom is practical in many ways – you

can simply hop out of bed and into the shower in the morning, and go to the loo conveniently in the middle of the night without having to tip-toe across the house. It also has financial benefits, as master bedrooms with an en suite are highly sought-after and can increase the resale value of your property. BB

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COMPANY PROFILE

Kenneth Mallia, CEO, Seamless

PHOTOS BY INIGO TAYLOR

PERSEVERANCE AND GROWTH

I

n 2008, Kenneth Mallia started a company in a small factory in Handaq, manufacturing solid surfaces. Despite his tender age – he was only 20 at the time – he was determined to make a success out of the business which he called Seamless Limited. The opportunity for international expansion soon arose, and a second factory opened in Libya in 2011, a very proud moment for a company that was less than three years old.

As the years went by, the company’s reputation grew and spread, as did its number of clients and soon the factory in Handaq became too small to service the company’s requirements. In 2013, five years after it had been established, the company moved to a larger factory, its present site in the Corradino Industrial Estate. Kenneth’s perseverance, hard work and dedication had paid off – Seamless Limited is now one of the leading surface manufacturers in Malta, as well as the primary local agent for a wide portfolio of international brands.

Seamless is the Maltese representative for the South Korean conglomerate Hanwha,

whose sister companies include Hanex Acrylic Surfaces and Hanstone Quartz. Hanex acrylic surfaces are used for kitchen surfaces, wall cladding, customised sinks, vanities, baths, shower trays, bars, counters, hospital receptions and many more. Since the surfaces are made from 100 per cent acrylic, they can be cut, shaped, moulded, routed and thermoformed in an endless number of shapes and designs. There are more than 100 colours to choose from, ranging from classic

favourites to new neutrals, and the material can be repaired and restored to its original condition in the event of any damage.

Similarly, Hanstone Quartz surfaces, which are composed of 93 per cent quartz and 7 per cent resin, are used for kitchens, wall cladding and vanity tops; however, they can also be used for flooring, offices, reception areas, lifts, foyers and other public or private spaces. Both materials are very hygienic and NSF51

certified, a standard applicable to the materials used in the manufacture of food equipment which indicates that they are resistant to pollutants and bacteria. They’re simple and easy to clean – a damp cloth or sponge is enough for every day cleaning, while basic stains can be removed with mild detergents or general purpose cleaners. And they’re long-lasting too – each surface comes with an international warranty of 15 and 10 years respectively. Seamless also offers a wide variety of Paini

kitchen mixers, backed with a five-year guarantee and Astracast stainless steel kitchen sinks.

Starting a company so young must not have been easy and Kenneth admits that there were difficult moments on the way, which were overcome thanks to the unity and hard work of the Seamless team, and the clients’ positive response to the company’s skill and work ethic.

“Seamless has been through thick and thin. However, we’ve always faced the challenges we’ve encountered with a positive attitude,” Kenneth says. “The future seems bright, thanks to all our clients that have put in a good word for our services.” Does he have any plans to branch out into different ventures in the immediate future? “Although Seamless Limited is mostly synonymous with kitchen tops, plans are always in the pipeline, so one can never tell.” BB Seamless Limited, KKW13B, Corradino Industrial Estate, Kordin, Paola. T: 2144 0404; M: 7940 0404; E: info@seamless.com.mt; www.seamless.com.mt

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INTERVIEW

ON THE ROAD TO ROCK As she gets set to take centre stage in rock musical Rock of Ages, Strada Stretta’s leading lady Taryn Mamo Cefai talks to Jo Caruana about filming, travel, and her dad’s legendary pork stroganoff.

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aryn Mamo Cefai has quickly become one of the best-known young faces on Maltese television, and she’s also taking the theatre world by storm.

She first joined the performance world as a ballerina when she was just three, and was bitten by the acting bug a little while later.

“I first starting acting at my old school, St Monica’s in Gzira, where I took part in prize day plays and auditioned for the bigger roles as I got older. I think I was very lucky to have

attended a school that gave so much importance to the arts, not to mention one that had a well-equipped stage that we were fortunate to use on a daily basis. I think both our acting teacher, Emily Chircop, and our then-headmistress, Joanna Gatt, were very supportive and trained us to multitask between education and extracurricular activities.”

“When I was 14 and playing the role of Truly Scrumptious in our school musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang I remember standing on the famous doll box on the last day of

performances. As it was opening, the song started to play, the lights hit me, the audience sat in awe of our handyman’s detailed hard work and I thought to myself: “this is where I belong. This is what I want to do.” I think if you’re passionate about the stage, then that thrill of performing never leaves you. It’s addictive.”

Taryn later secured a scholarship with the Stagecoach School for the Performing Arts where she practiced drama, dancing and singing. “That’s when I really fell in love with

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INTERVIEW

the stage,” smiles Taryn, who is currently reading for her degree in marketing (and darting between filming and rehearsals). “It was an instant love affair and I haven’t looked back since.”

With her sights set on international training, Taryn then spent a year at Bird College in London, where she obtained a Foundation Degree in Musical Theatre. “I think living in London for a year was a life-changing experience. I was a 17-year-old away from home with no option but to adapt. It was a wake-up call that challenged me to grow mentally, push myself beyond limits and live away from the safety net of our little island,” she says. Back in Malta, the actress landed her first role on screen as Sarah in the local TV series Il-Klikka and has since featured in Malcolm Galea’s movie 20,000 Reasons in the role of Juliana.

She is now playing the leading lady in Malta’s most-watched television series Strada Stretta, which will be releasing its second season later this year after a very successful first run. “Strada Stretta being officially announced as Malta’s

leading programme by the Broadcasting Authority has been the latest career highlight for me,” she says. “The reality is that the acting business in Malta doesn’t pay the bills; passion is what drives us to film long hours and spend our weekends on set.”

the best female entrepreneur this island has ever seen. I have big dreams and larger-than-life goals, and they’re definitely going to keep me busy for the next few years!”

Taryn has also recently landed the role of Sherrie in Malta’s first long-running musical Rock of Ages, which opens on 29 June. “My character Lydia, on Strada Stretta, is a rich, welleducated young lady and her style is very Grace-Kellymeets-Audrey-Hepburn. On the other hand my preparation for Rock of Ages goes into a completely different era – 80s rock. So I’ve pulled out my Rolling Stones tank tops and boots for rehearsals. The rocker scene is definitely out of my comfort zone both physically and vocally, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and being seen as more than just the panto princess!”

“I think the best part about acting is meeting different people, learning from them and really becoming a team, so that you can work with the same mindset to achieve mutual goals. In this industry, you get inspired on a daily basis and that’s what makes it so stimulating. One day you’re admiring Audrey Hepburn’s classics, another day you’re wondering how Beyoncé can pull off a full on dance routine while keeping her vocals on point, and some days you’re at the Manoel Theatre on a Friday night appreciating the abundance of local talent.

Every acting experience is so different, yet you somehow always take something new away from each and every project.”

“Right now it’s all about my career for me,” she adds confidently. “I am set on finishing my degree and starting my marketing career, while acting part-time.

Eventually, though, I want to be

Taryn also cites another major and long-lasting source of inspiration in her life – her mother. “She’s not a performer herself although she’s a talented pianist, but she’s always encouraged me to

take on different projects and helped me to balance having a lot of things on my plate. I think it’s important to have a supportive family to come home to after a long day of lectures, work, rehearsals and filming. She and I have this little thing that we do, whenever I start doubting myself or get nervous about an audition. She says: ‘You can…’ and I have to reply ‘…do it’.

It’s a song from the Secret Garden but we’ve turned it into our own little empowerment routine.”

With so many things on her plate, Taryn says that down time is a luxury for her, and she always tries to make sure it’s used wisely. “When I’m not juggling my degree studies and assignments, working part-time, attending theatre rehearsals or filming, I usually hit the gym or enjoy a good

read on the beach. Travel is my passion so getaway breaks are a must; they’re a good booster for the months to follow. I also really love food, especially my dad’s pork stroganoff. He’s an exceptional chef and his signature twist served with rice takes this typical Russian dish to a whole new level!” BB Tickets for Rock of Ages are on sale now at www.ticketline.com.mt

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HEALTH

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

Stay safe while soaking up the sun

Rumours are swirling that summer’s coming early this year, making it as good a time as any to stock up on sun protection products before temperatures soar without warning. Martina Said highlights the essentials.

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un-kissed skin makes even the palest of people look healthy, vibrant and that little bit more alive after winter. But the reality is that, on these sun-drenched islands, we’re more likely to get scorched than sun-kissed. Not only is it not a good look – super contrasting tan lines and bright, red skin are hardly the pinnacle of sexy – but it's also immensely unhealthy and bad for the skin.

Besides lazy beach days, barbecued food and a long list of other great things, summer brings with it a number of potential abuses to our skin. It is the body’s largest organ, so it’s essential that we take care of it. Damaging UV rays cause an array of negative side-effects over time, including cataracts, premature ageing of the skin – which causes wrinkles, dryness and pigmentation – as well as cancer. However, awareness and a few simple tricks will ensure your skin looks, feels and remains fresh.

Hydrate and exfoliate

Skin tends to produce more oil in summer, making us opt for more aggressive cleansers that dry out the skin as a result. Opt for a mild, foaming cleanser to eliminate excess oil and avoid stripping the skin of moisture at a time when you need it the most. Also, continue applying moisturiser, even on oily skin. The heat makes us perspire more, and so we lose more moisture as a result, making a daily application of moisturiser as fundamental as the consumption of water.

Exfoliating removes dead debris from the skin’s surface, preventing your pores from getting congested and improving the effectiveness of toners and moisturisers.

After exfoliating (ideally two to three times a week), hydrate the skin to seal in the moisture and finish off with a layer of sunscreen that has a good Sun Protection Factor (SPF). Upping your level of skin hydration in summer

DEFEND YOUR SKIN WITH THIS TRIPLE ACTION CREAM The Daily Defence cream from Sans Soucis is an ultra-rich balm to give skin a boost during the hot summer weather. The cream acts as an anti-oxidative agent, evens out your skin tone and provides SPF 25 protection.

ANTI-OXIDATIVE The vitamin C and vitamin E found in the cream act as a protective shield against oxidative stress and free radicals.

EVEN SKIN TONE Encapsulated colour pigments practically melt into the skin when applied and improve the skin tone, while light-refracting pigments optically conceal fine lines and wrinkles.

SUN PROTECTION Ideal for daily use, the SPF 25 level protection blocks the sun’s harmful UV rays and prevents light-induced, premature skin aging.

Noriva Ltd, 351, Mallia Haus, Htajriet Street, Mosta. T: 2141 3112; E: info@noriva.com.mt; www.noriva.com.mt

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HEALTH baseball caps that offer little to no protection to your ears, and protective clothing too if you’re predisposed to getting burnt.

While Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing is likely to do the trick, you’re sure to find an adequate piece of clothing by simply raiding your wardrobe – look out for plain cotton tops, ideally with a collar and a sleeve to cover as much skin as possible.

is paramount with the use of intensive face masks, toner and regular facials – try creating your own face mask at home for an organic, natural option that retains the skin’s natural oils and elasticity.

Water and a balanced diet

One of the best ways to keep skin (as well as the rest of your organs) healthy and hydrated is by drinking plenty of water, especially but not just in the summer months, when lots of water is lost through sweat.

Higher temperatures and more time spent outdoors lead to internal dehydration, which can result in intense headaches, sun stroke and dizzy spells. Aim to drink at least eight 250ml glasses of water every day to help detoxify the body and maintain a healthy balance of moisture. You must increase your intake if you consume caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee, and if you struggle to consume that much plain water, consider adding some fresh ingredients such as mint, lemon or lime to a jug of water – healthy and extremely refreshing!

A balanced diet is the basis for healthy skin as it provides

the body with all the necessary nutrients, so try substituting processed sausages and canned fruit with fresh foods that are full of the good stuff, including fruit and leafy greens, which are naturally high in fluids, fibre, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

Sunscreen is not overrated

Sunscreen is the most highlyrecommended defence against sun burn and skin disease, and comes in a wide range of formats and consistencies so that everyone can find a

product that suits them best.

The SPF factor you choose is entirely up to you – whatever the product, ensure you apply it 15 to 30 minutes before leaving the house, and that you put on enough that it takes you a full minute to rub it in. If you’re reapplying at the beach or outdoors, be sure to cover your face and body properly, and keep re-applying every two hours.

Check that the brand you opt for is water-resistant so that it doesn’t come off easily with water and sweat; has a SPF

of 15 or higher for adequate protection when in the sun; and has broad-spectrum protection to protect you against UVA rays, responsible for premature ageing, as well as UVB rays which are the major culprit of sun burn and skin cancer.

Clothing, lip balm and eyewear

A hat is a must in order to protect your scalp and ears from those harmful rays if you’re out and about in the peak of summer heat. Choose wide-brimmed hats over

Just like a sun burn at the back of the knees, getting sun burnt on the lips is painful and dangerous. Cracked, peeling and scaly lips can be prevented by applying lip-specific products that have a SPF of 15 or higher. Apply it every two hours or so, depending on the amount of time spent outdoors and exposed to UV rays.

Prolonged UV exposure is also harmful to the eyes, and can in time lead to eye problems such as cataracts among other ailments. Purchase a pair of sunglasses with a high level of UV protection, ones which have a dark lens and which cover the entire eye area to prevent light from penetrating the sides.

With the adequate products and equipment in hand, you’re ready to enjoy a safe and funfilled summer. BB

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EATING & DRINKING

PHOTOS BY inigo taylor

A FIESTA OF FLAVOURS The Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa’s well-loved al fresco eatery, The Summer Kitchen, returns for another season under the stars. Here, the hotel’s executive chef, Stefan Hogan, presents three of the restaurant’s signature dishes.

Smoked burrata, baba ghanoush, fire roasted peppers and preserved lemon oil INGREDIENTS 4 pieces burrata cheese 2 red peppers, roasted and peeled 2 aubergines 2 garlic cloves Juice of 1 lemon 35g tahini paste 50ml olive oil Salt and pepper

Method Score the aubergines and grill over a hot flame until the skin starts to char and blister. Allow to cool and peel the skin off, place the flesh in a colander and allow to drain from the excess liquid.

When cool enough, place in a food processor with the garlic and tahini paste, blend and gently drizzle in the olive oil. Place into a bowl and fold in the lemon juice gradually. Season and refrigerate.

Serve with roasted peppers marinated in olive oil, garlic, parsley and sherry vinegar, a fresh smoked burrata and plenty of warm toasted ciabatta.

THE SUMMER KITCHEN RETURNS THIS MAY.

THE SUMMER KITCHEN With exotic new menus featuring dishes from all the corners of the RETURNS THIS MAY. Mediterranean, enjoy lunch, dinner or drinks under the stars by our

lush poolside gardens. Whether you fancy tossing the carbs with our stone baked

With exotic new menus featuring dishes from all the corners of the mouth-watering saladsunder or tucking our traditionally Mediterranean, enjoy lunch, dinner or drinks the starsinto by our lush poolside gardens.

Whether you fancy tossing carbs with our pizzas, we look forward tothe welcoming you back. mouth-watering salads or tucking into our traditionally stone baked pizzas, we look forward to welcoming you back.

Reservations required for tables of 12 guests and over.

Call Kitchen Reservations required for The tablesSummer of 12 guests and over.team on 21440301 Call The Summer Kitchen team on 21440301

THE SUMMER KITCHEN RETURNS THIS MAY.

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EATING & DRINKING

Grilled Lamb Cutlet with Chimichurri Ingredients 20 lamb cutlets 2 cloves garlic 1 sprig fresh thyme Olive oil Rock salt Cracked black pepper Juice of 1 lemon Portobello mushrooms Cherry tomatoes Chimichurri 120 ml red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon rock salt, more for seasoning 3-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 shallot, finely chopped 1 red jalapeno, finely chopped 95g chopped coriander 100g chopped parsley 15g dried oregano 200ml extra-virgin olive oil

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Eton Mess Method

Marinate the lamb cutlets with the sliced garlic, thyme, olive oil, salt, pepper and lemon juice.

Place the garlic and shallots in vinegar to soften with the salt. After 10 minutes whisk in the olive oil and add the herbs and jalapeno, check seasoning and adjust.

Heat a pan until smoking and sear the lamb cutlets for a few minutes on each side, then season with rock salt.

Serve with grilled Portobello mushrooms and cherry tomatoes roasted in the oven with ginger, verjus and thyme. Drizzle with the sauce and serve with an orange, grapefruit and pickled fennel salad.

INGREDIENTS 500g strawberries 400ml cream, whipped to a soft peak 1 tsp chopped stem ginger A few large meringues

Method Roughly chop half the strawberries and fold into the whipped cream with the stem ginger. Cut the remaining strawberries into quarters. Crush the meringues lightly.

In a glass build the mess by alternating layers of cream, strawberries and the crushed meringues.

Finish off with plenty of crushed meringues.

Build this dessert up at the last minute to retain the different textures.

The Summer Kitchen at the Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa is now open for lunch daily, and will be open daily for dinner from 18 May.

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WHERE TO DINE

YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE Tal-Puzzu Restaurant 11, Triq Gorg Borg Olivier (Main Street), Mellieha.

Reservations: T: 2754 4388; www.talpuzzu.com

Tal-Puzzu restaurant and pizzeria in Mellieha is the first in its area to offer wood-fired pizzas. This family-run restaurant offers tasty and mouth-watering pizzas using fresh ingredients with various toppings such as rucola, Parma ham and Maltese sausage, among others.

Apart from pizzas, Tal-Puzzu offers a selection of starters, salads, platters, pasta, home-made pure beef burgers, grills, rabbit, pork, chicken, duck and fish dishes. Specials of the house are offered daily.

Tal-Puzzu is perfect for meetings and events, an ideal place to meet family and friends, and a great place to savour home-made cooking. It is situated close to all the surrounding hotels in Mellieha and just a few minutes away from the popular Mellieha Bay. Outdoor seating is also available.

THE EXILES BEACH CLUB Tower Road, Sliema.

The Exiles Beach Club is located in the popular Exiles area in Sliema under the seafront promenade. In many ways, the beach club represents what summer is all about – lounging in a stylish atmosphere and great location by the water's edge.

Open Monday to Sunday from 10.30am till late.

T: 2134 4771, 2166 1422, M: 7944 2223; E: info@thexiles.com.mt

Open from morning to evening, the beach club offers a spacious terrace with sun loungers and umbrellas with full shower facilities.

The area is ideal for swimming or relaxing with one of our wide selection of refreshing signature cocktails.

THE CHEEKY MONKEY GASTROPUB

The Cheeky Monkey Gastropub is a unique venue where fun is guaranteed and good food is compulsory. The place promises a mind-boggling ambience with great entertainment, attracting a super fun crowd that makes it the place to be. We simply loved the winter but summer is going to be even better – come along and enjoy the stunning sea views while sipping those refreshingly tasty cocktails on the terrace. We will also be in charge of satisfying your taste buds with a yummy selection of great pub food. So if you’re looking to organise a birthday party or event, a fun night out with your friends or colleagues, or you simply want to watch some live football, do it with a difference at The Cheeky Monkey.

Qawra Coast Road, Qawra.

T: 7954 3853; E: info@cheekymonkeymalta. com

Melita Gardens Melita Gardens, Triq Idmejda, Balzan.

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

Our menu offers a comprehensive and delicious choice of pizzas, pasta, salads, wraps and grills. We also offer barbecues for group celebrations and gatherings. The lounge remains open through the evening, where one can relax and indulge in a platter to share, with a good bottle of wine or a cocktail on the sofas.

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.

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HEALTH

FITNESS ON FLEEK As the hot days of summer approach, many of us experience that slight feeling of panic associated with the season to flash the flesh. If you’ve been hitting the snack cabinet a little too often this winter, it’s likely you need a little help getting back into fighting fit shape. Sarah Micallef looks into the best ways to get your body beach ready and feel all the better for it.

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etting in shape and losing a few extra kilos in time for summer is hardly rocket science, but even though most of us know – at least theoretically – what needs to be done, we still find the experience a little daunting.

The trick is to get into the right frame of mind, and stop with the excuses!

Whichever way you look at it, a mix of exercise and a healthy, balanced diet is essential. In both cases however, getting in shape is truly an individual experience, and should really factor in a number of things including your age, preferences and lifestyle. A busy parent who’s got their kids’ schedules along with their own to

contend with is different to a single twenty-something who considers getting down to the gym as a hobby, for instance.

At the heart of it all however, the first step is working your body more than you had been working it before, and this will eventually increase as you grow stronger and fitter.

Whether it’s incorporating a run, jog or walk into your daily routine, joining a gym, attending fitness classes or enlisting the help of a personal trainer, exercise will help you achieve your fitness goals.

Aim for a mix of cardio to burn calories, strength training to build lean muscle tissue, and flexibility exercises to improve your range of motion. An essential part of your regime should also be rest – this will

help you recover and grow stronger, particularly if you’ve been inactive for a little while.

Then there’s changing your diet. While the choice between enrolling in an all-out diet plan or simply cutting back on fatty foods is yours, there are a number of changes you can make that will help you reach your goals. Start with the obvious – eat more greens. Serve a wider variety of vegetables with your dinner rather than just the one side option, and you’re guaranteed to eat more veggies. Replacing carb- and fat-rich foods with fruit and vegetables will help you lose weight, and having a good variety will trick you into eating more, which will fill you up with fewer calories.

Another great way to fill up on fewer calories is by eating soup – particularly broth. Meanwhile, products made from whole grains like brown rice, barley, oats, buckwheat and whole wheat are another great swap that will help with weight loss – containing fewer calories and even helping to improve your cholesterol.

TOP TIP Try starting small – replace one sugary drink with water and you'll avoid about 10 teaspoons of sugar.

When it comes to drinks, we all know how bad sugar is, yet still find ourselves reaching for soft

drinks and sugary juices from time to time. Try starting small – replace one sugary drink with water and you'll avoid about 10 teaspoons of sugar. If you want to add a little flavour, mix in some lemon, mint or frozen strawberries. Another great diet-friendly drink is green tea, with some studies suggesting that it can kick-start the body's calorie-burning engine. Alcohol, meanwhile, is (unfortunately!) another enemy of a healthy diet. To curb your intake without cutting out the fun entirely, follow your first drink with a low-calorie beverage like sparkling water rather than moving directly to another cocktail, beer, or glass of wine on a night out. BB

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