Best Buy August 2016

COVER STORY

Three Maltese Olympians tell Marie-Claire Grima all about how they started out, their past Olympic memories and the road to Rio. PAGE 3 >

BEST BUY YOUR MONTHLY SHOPPING GUIDE DISTRIBUTED WITH THE TIMES

Issue 111

August 2016

IN THIS ISSUE...

FOOD & DRINK Everything’s better when it’s fresh from the grill – Sarah Micallef looks at the most mouth-watering options for your next barbecue.

PAGE 9 >

Valletta 1566 – One Exhibition, Two Venues, A Multitude Of Facets Valletta 1566 – Melita Renascens is a major exhibition organised

by Heritage Malta in collaboration with Malta Libraries, to commemorate the 450th anniversary since the laying of the first stone of the city of Valletta.

The story behind the city of Valletta is not only one of knights, buildings and historical happenings but a story of the people of Malta, Maltese society and the life of all those who in these last 450 years inhabited or walked the streets of the city – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – built during the baroque period.

Valletta 1566 – Melita Renascens is a first in its nature especially due to the innovative set-up split between two venues, namely the National Library and the Vendome Bastion, site of the former National War Museum at Fort St Elmo.

The two exhibitions are not complementary stand-alone exhibitions but one story-line split between two venues. Each

venue has a beginning and an end, and they share the same catalogue, design and general concept, exploring different aspects from different eras of Valletta during these 450 years, most notably the foundations and construction, social, political, administrative and cultural aspects. As the history of Valletta is too complex to be exhibited in a chronological way in a limited space, Valletta 1566 – Melita Renascens relies on 11 different themes.

The exhibition is another hallmark in the series of high standard exhibitions organised by the national agency for the museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage.

The exhibition will remain open till July of next year. The opening hours at Vendome Bastion, former War Museum, in the lower part of Fort St Elmo, are from 9am till 4pm (last admission 5.30pm), while at the National Library the exhibition is open between 8.15am and 1.15 pm.

BEAUTY The range of quick-fix cosmetic treatments available on the market nowadays is almost limitless – Martina Said explores some of the most common ones. PAGE 17 >

BACK TO SCHOOL The holidays will soon be over and the children will be heading back to class. Sarah Micallef finds out what to prepare for and how to enjoy the last days of summer. PAGE 22 >

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

COVER STORY

3

OLYMPIC TALENTS

The Summer Olympics are well under way in Rio, and Malta’s flag is waving among the rest of the participants’ banners. Marie-Claire Grima speaks to three Maltese Olympians about their demanding routines in preparation for the games, the excitement and pride that comes with representing their country and the state of sport culture in Malta. to manage time appropriately.

As a registered student athlete there, I was also granted the privilege to utilise several academic tools including on demand tutoring and priority registration when it comes to picking classes. I was also given a personal academic coach who would help me with issues I was having in school.”

Andrew Chetcuti, swimmer

“It’s quite ironic that I got into swimming since I was scared of the water as a child. However, my parents forced me to overcome this fear and take up swimming and I've loved it ever since. I train nine times a week and go to the gym three times a week.”

“My diet isn't really anything special, except that I try and avoid unnecessary junk food like sugars and sweets. I try to stick to protein-rich food that will best help me recover after an intensive workout, such as chicken and steak, as well as complex carbs like pasta and rice. My regime doesn't change too much as the Games approach since I like to keep a steady routine, but as race day draws closer, a lot more emphasis is placed on recovery in between sessions.”

“I have two treasured memories from past Games. The first is the

opening ceremony. Walking out in front of thousands of people was a surreal experience and I'll never forget it. The second is the actual lead up to the race itself. I walked out on pool deck and was able to make out my family holding up a Maltese flag in the vast crowd of people. Living in the Olympic Village is also an incredible and eye-opening experience. It's a city within a city where you are surrounded by some of the world’s best athletes.”

“I haven’t found juggling the different aspects of my life difficult, as I have always been pretty decent with time management skills. Of course, I'm not saying it comes naturally and I did have to organise my schedule to make it work, but I managed. Furthermore, I am enrolled at the Georgia Institute of Technology in the United States, one of the country’s most rigorous universities, so I've had to learn

“In the US, sport is almost a way of life. Athletes are treated with utmost respect and given any aid possible to reach their maximum potential – that’s why the US is one of the premier sporting countries in the world.

Of course, financially, the States has a lot more to fund sports than Malta, but even at a high school level there’s a noticeable difference. Sport in Malta needs to be seen as more of an integral part of life than simply a distraction from school or work. Furthermore, the idea that athletes can’t be academically successful needs to be erased – myself and a number of fellow swimmers in Malta who are also university students are proof that this couldn’t be further from the truth.”

Charlotte Wingfield, sprinter

“When I was younger, I would always try and race the boys in the playground – and I would win! Then I started doing cross-country but when I realised I didn't like running long distance, I decided to

do sprinting. I originally ran for Team GB, but running for Malta opened up many more opportunities for me, and allowed me to reach my full potential, always racing against people who are faster than I am. I love the team and I love the bond I have with my team mates as well.”

“I train six days a week – three gym sessions and three track sessions. I don't have a strict diet regime but I like to eat healthy with a cheeky sweet treat here and there! As the Olympic Games approach, training gets a lot more intense and I have been a lot more tired, but that's to be expected when you’re working hard. Some people may not understand and realise how much hard work goes into the preparation of an athlete prior to the games. It's not an easy ride and there are many bumps along the way but those hurdles are an essential part of success.”

“It has been difficult balancing a full-time university degree with a part-time job to make enough money to pay my rent, and then heading straight to training after work – that was definitely very tiring. However, I have now graduated with first-class honours in sports management. It was very hard juggling everything but I wanted to make my dreams come true and I have.”

“My favourite past Olympic memory is watching Kelly Holmes win the 800m and 1500m in Athens. Those two races were amazing to watch and proved to people that anything can happen. I also treasure the memory of watching Usain Bolt break numerous world records! As for problems related to the culture of the Olympic Games, I think the practice of doping needs to be continuously looked at. It's ruining the ethos of sport and taking medals away for others who are clean and working hard for what they want.”

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

4

COVER STORY before I can really shoot. So finding the time, motivation and energy is not easy. But my passion for shooting keeps me going.”

William Chetcuti, shooter

“When I was a young boy, my father took me to Bidnija and introduced me to shooting as a sport. From there on I was always helped and pushed forward by some very enthusiastic shooters, especially after they saw that I had a special knack for it. However, a love of hunting has been in my family for generations, and it’s a passion I’ve also inherited myself.”

“My speciality is double-trap shooting.

My training routine consists of shooting five rounds of 15 pairs each, which is the basic shooting in the preliminary stage of any competition, four times a week. Sometimes I add an additional two rounds which would be like the semi and the final of a competition. For the Olympics I'm focusing a lot also on my mental training because really that's the most important aspect of my sport.

Our training requires approximately two-and-a-half hours each time and I have to be able to clear my mind from all the action and pressures of my day

“During the Olympics, thousands of athletes from all over the world and from different cultures all come together under one ideal, for the common purpose of competing and performing at their highest level. It’s an incredible feeling. I always instinctively feel pride and honour, and also a responsibility every time I represent Malta. For me, carrying the Maltese flag on behalf of my country at the Opening Ceremony parade at the last London Olympics in 2012 is one of my most cherished memories and a huge honour – as was listening to the Maltese national anthem while I was standing on the podium after winning the two world cup gold medals in Beijing in 2011 and in Baku in 2016.”

“Sports must be integrated very strongly into the schooling system from the very early stages, making participation easier and more fun.

Children and young people have to be motivated strongly to practise sports – it could be a very important tool to solve many of the more serious social problems facing young people today, so it should be organised much more professionally and given higher priority and financial support.” BB

New SynthEtic pitch for 5 or 7-a-side football AND futsal at Qormi HockEy Club Qormi Hockey Club’s pitch has been newly refurbished with synthetic turf, allowing field hockey, futsal and football players alike to make use of the pitch.

The pitch is available to rent for five- or seven-a-side futsal and football games. The club’s sports facilities, which may be rented for any other events on request, also include showers, a meeting room, a bar and a children’s play area.

Qormi Hockey Club was established in 1971 to offer a home to those passionate about the sport of field hockey. Over the years, the club has grown, and the Qormi hockey team is now a successful competitor in both national and international games, as well as a quality hockey nursery brimming with talented young players

and dedicated coaches. Customers are free to park their vehicles in the facilities' private parking area.

Contact Qormi Hockey Club for more information or book now on M: 9974 9155.

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

Foreword

TAKE A BREAK August is generally the month where everyone checks out of their everyday life. Companies go on shutdown. People go on holiday. Life takes on a slower pace. And we’re no different – the August issue of Best Buy is always shorter and lighter than usual and the articles are bite-sized (although the paper itself is still the perfect size to shield your face from the sun if you’re reading it on the beach!)

© 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.

A few people who certainly aren’t slacking off are the Maltese athletes who are going up to Rio for the Olympics. For this issue’s cover story, we met with three sporting heroes, who told us all about their routine, prepping for the Games and the experience of competing in one of the biggest tournaments in the world on p3.

We’re also exploring our roofs – a part of our home which we tend to neglect, but which has

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

Beach accessories

Hand woven in Morocco using 100 per cent natural materials, these straw bags and baskets from Cosas are the perfect choice for shopping trips, picnics or days at the beach. They also look great in the home for storing magazines, blankets or toys. Beautiful woven patterns and sturdy woven construction ensure a long product life. Many sizes and styles available.

Cosas, 55, St Paul Street, Naxxar.

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-1pm; 4.30pm-7pm; Sat 9.30am-1pm; T: 2142 1110; M: 7900 1606; E: info@cosas.com.mt www.cosas.com.mt

7

Publishers a lot of potential (p9) especially for hosting pool parties and barbecues (p11) – what’s on your grill? Quick-fix beauty treatments take the spotlight on p17, and for parents who are either dreading or looking forward to their children’s return to school, we have a handy guide for stress-free planning on p22, as well as some tips on how to squeeze the last drops of summer bliss out of the lazy season.

NEXT ISSUE:

14.09.16

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

T: 2132 0713 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt EDITOR Marie-Claire Grima Contributors Sarah Micallef, Martina Said Advertising Publication Sales Manager Mark Barbara Advertising Sales Executive Diane Scerri Advertising Sales Coordinators Lindsey Napier, Marvic Cutajar DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar Printer Progress Press Ltd

DOn'T MISS IT

DON'T SHAVE YOUR DOUBLECOATED PETS The double coat found on many pets provides a natural thermal barrier to the heat, as long as it is well-groomed.

Shaving removes this natural thermal protection and puts them at risk of heat injuries.

hair without sacrificing healthy top coat.

There is an alternative solution for: • Shedding fur all over your sofa, beds, clothes and furniture • The embarrassment of fur all over your home when guests come to visit • The endless cleaning and vacuuming • The constant checking and wiping of fur off your clothes

Prices start from €20, depending on size and coat type. For more information, send a pm on our Facebook page.

Fb: PurrFactPawsbyJackie

Try our de-shedding treatment! It removes the undercoat and reduces shedding by up to 85-90 per cent! It also removes dead undercoat and loose

We use a combination of tools with no chemicals or sedation involved. Our treatment can be done on dogs, cats or rabbits.

You can also shop online at www. purrfactpawsbyjackie-malta.com.

We are the sole agents for the multiaward winning pet care products Animology Pet Care Excellence.

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

HOMES

RAISE THE ROOF

9

BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

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.

A peaceful area for growing flowers and crops, a way to lower your electricity bills – or both? Marie-Claire Grima looks at the options available to those who want to make better use of their rooftops.

At Gozo Pools, the customer always comes first. We will endeavour to exceed your expectations with our high-quality service.

Roof garden

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

T: 2155 4251/2156 5288; M: 9949 3767; E: gozopools@onvol.net; www.gozopools.com

Have you ever thought about growing your own food?

Not only are roof gardens an extremely picturesque addition to any roof, they can also provide you with home grown and certifiably organic herbs and crops.

Furthermore, plants have the ability to reduce the overall heat absorption of the building which then reduces energy consumption – perfect for keeping houses cool during the blisteringly hot summer months. They are also an excellent way to prevent rain run-off during the wet winter season — excess water can be stored and saved to water the garden on drier days.

Gazebo

Popular in warm and sunny countries all over the world, gazebos can provide shade, shelter and a place to rest, besides having ornamental value. They are traditionally made out of wood, but alternative lightweight materials can also be used if you do not wish to have it as a permanent structure on your rooftop. You can also place garden furniture within the gazebo and enjoy the pleasures of dining al fresco — add screens to keep out the pesky insects that plague our islands especially during summer!

Swimming pool

While swimming pools in Malta are traditionally relegated to the garden or the courtyard at ground level, many people are considering putting them on their roofs as a way to maximise the space in their homes. There

isn’t any digging involved when it comes to placing an above-ground pool, and the average above-ground pool costs less than a comparable in-ground pool, including maintenance and winter costs. For some clean family fun, there’s nothing quite like it.

Photovoltaic and solar panels

It is estimated that Malta is now generating around 4.7 per cent of its energy renewably – not the most impressive figure but some progress is better than none. You can do your bit for the environment and cut down on your own electricity bills at the same time by installing photovoltaic or solar panels. As long as your roof is large enough, and not hidden by anything that’s producing shade, the panels, powered by Malta’s blazing sunlight, can generate as much electricity as an average-sized household needs.

BarbeCue area

A rooftop is the perfect place to have a barbecue during the summer months and even as late as October, if the weather permits. Barbecue sets come in all shapes and sizes, depending on how much space you have on your rooftop, and how committed you are to maintaining it. You can even make use of disposable barbecues, which take away the hassle of cleaning at the end of the evening. Simply sit back on some comfy outdoor furniture, pour yourself a drink and enjoy the crackling scent of grilled meat that is so typical of summer in Malta.

BB

BRINGING IN NATURAL LIGHT

Andrew Vassallo Ltd offers custom-made skylights which transform any room by bringing in natural light. Monolithic and continuous modular skylights are available in single, double or triple layer PMMA (Methacrylate) or PC (Polycarbonate) and can be equipped with opening devices, insect screens and blackout. The company is also introducing The A Dome – a system of four walls in PMMA material, guaranteeing thermal insulation performance. It can be adapted to any dimensional requirements.

Andrew Vassallo. T: 2169 2917; M: 7949 4438; E: info@andrewvassallo.com; Fb: Andrewvassalloltd

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

FOOD & DRINK

11

King of the grill Nothing beats a good barbecue in the summer months, and what makes it good? Plenty of food of course!

Sarah Micallef checks out the best meats that are sure to make you king of the grill at your next barbecue, and keep your guests coming back for more.

A

long with firework soot and salty sea air, the smell of sausages and burgers grilling away on the barbecue has got to be one of the smells that are most synonymous with summer time in Malta. As the sun begins to set on a balmy summer evening, there’s little we like doing more than getting our friends and family together for a barbecue, and as with most gatherings on our fair, foodloving islands, the star of the show is most certainly what will be on our plates (and finally in our bellies!)

Apart from the obligatory pre-dinner nibbles, loaves smothered in garlic bread, and delicious side dishes comprising all manner of rice, pasta and potato salad combinations, the spotlight at any barbecue traditionally falls on the meat. But just what are the most popular meat dishes for the grill among Maltese barbecue aficionados?

Niall Scicluna, from Snow White Quality Meat & Poultry Market reveals that for the most part, we like to opt for steaks, like cube roll and rib-eye.

“Barbecuing the meat means

that there is a high guarantee that it will be tender, and this can’t really be done in winter as grilling indoors will make the house cloudy,” he says. Meanwhile, he points to another undeniably popular barbecue option, maintaining, “another popular food which is probably more common for budget reasons and ease of use are beef burgers and pork sausages” – we knew it!

But apart from these tried-and tested favourites, I ask, what other meat options would he recommend as alternatives, that perhaps people are not that

so familiar with, for their next barbecue? “I would suggest pork fillet and pork belly, along with boneless chicken thighs, which are very versatile and juicy cuts,” he says, which all sound very good indeed.

Meanwhile, a lighter option that many of us don’t often consider is fish and seafood. A word of warning though – delicate fish like sole or flounder tend to become flaky and break apart on the grill, so it’s best to choose a firm steak fish such as salmon, swordfish or tuna. As for seafood, you can throw it all on the barbecue – from shrimp

to crab and even lobster, just make sure the tender meat doesn’t overcook.

As for Niall, he says he could eat barbecued meat every day of the week – besides being delicious, it’s also easy to prepare. “Just take any suitable cut of meat, marinate in some freshly squeezed lemons, olive oil and a good pinch of freshly ground salt and pepper, and on the grill it goes, ready to eat in 15-20 minutes tops,” he says of his preferred cooking method.

When it comes to barbecues, it appears that simplicity really is key! BB

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

BEST BUY RECOMMENDS VALUE FOR MONEY CRUISES

TAL-PUZZU RESTAURANT

The Captain Morgan all-inclusive full day cruises to Comino and the Blue Lagoon are a fun, good value outing for the whole family.

The price includes buffet lunch and unlimited beer, wine, water and soft drinks. Each boat has a fully-stocked bar, Wi-Fi and toilet facilities. Tickets for exclusive jet boat rides are also sold on board.

Located just a few minutes away from Mellieha Bay, this family-run restaurant offers tasty and mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas using fresh ingredients with various toppings such as rucola, Parma ham and Maltese sausage, among others.

Captain Morgan Value for Money Cruises. Adults â‚Ź20, children under 12 years â‚Ź10, children under five free. T: 2346 3333; E: info@captainmorgan.com.mt; www.captainmorgan.com.mt

Decorative Concrete and NaturaL Stone Stoneage supplies natural stone wall coverings for pools, waterfalls or any outdoor or indoor features. A vast range of wall coverings, as well as stainless steel waterfall blades are available. We also provide laying services.

Stoneage, Triq San Silvestru, Mosta. M: 9952 6254; Fb: Stoneagemalta

13

Tal-Puzzu also 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. Outdoor seating is also available.

11, Triq Gorg Borg Olivier (Main Street), Mellieha.

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

Daily exercise and weight control are the baseline of a healthy lifestyle. Choose fibrerich food such as wholegrain bread, pasta, rice and cereals. Plant-based oils, nuts and legumes provide polyunsaturated oils that, in small amounts, lower our unhealthy blood cholesterol. Choose meats containing lower amounts of fats, such as poultry and fish, and consume low-fat dairy products. Lastly, eat red meat and fats from animal sources in limited amounts, as these are still necessary for our body to function efficiently. Maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle by eating the correct amount of each type of food.

Nutritionist Geoffrey Axiak. M: 9982 2288; E: axiakg@yahoo.com; www.gaxiak.yolasite.com

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

COMPANY PROFILE

15

PHOTO BY Alan Carville

Vincent Borg, Director of V&C Group

From two-man show to fully-fledged group

W

hat started off as a two-man business handling small-scale projects back in 1992 is now a full-sized construction and development company with a long list of respectable achievements to its name.

V&C Group is the fulfilment of a dream for brothers Vincent and Charles Borg, who were both restaurant owners before deciding to venture into the entirely different field of construction and development.

“Through hard work and perseverance, we both managed to work two full-time jobs whilst completing small projects which led to us to quit our other jobs, recruiting our first employee and focusing on small-scale projects,” says Vincent Borg, Director of V&C Group. “Over time, we started tendering for medium-scale national projects and later major ones too, including the majority of the significant works at SmartCity Malta, the Sant’Antnin Family Park in Marsascala, Life Science Centre in San Gwann, CA Site in Luqa

and the Coast Road to name but a few.”

“These sorts of projects,” he adds, “required the recruitment of several labourers, mechanics and professionals in this line of work, as well as significant investment in efficient, effective and environmentally friendly plants and machinery.

Throughout the years, profits were re-invested for us to be able to venture into the development sector, and we have since also invested in various properties around Malta and Gozo.”

The services offered by V&C Group range from excavation, demolition, rock cutting, trenching works, road works, drainage works, road paving and landscaping works to concrete, asphalt and instant road repair. The company also has numerous properties for sale and for rent including commercial and residential properties, as well as warehousing.

In the ever-growing and competitive industry of construction, Mr Borg says “we strive to achieve the best results in our works by making

sure that we understand the clients’ needs and expectations, as well as maintaining a healthy relationship with our employees and making sure that they are happy at their place of work, as without the personnel, the company would not be what it is today. Ensuring that clients are satisfied with our service, as well as making sure that each and every specific project is finished in a timely manner without any errors is paramount to us.”

On the company’s future

plans and prospects, Mr Borg says that certain changes are underway, such as ones to company policies, while potential partnerships with foreign companies who are willing to invest in Malta are also in the pipeline.

“We are currently working on two projects which, if they turn out to be successful, will favour the tourism industry and Maltese society as a whole. Malta’s business sector is booming and working sustainably in the present will

lead to a brighter and better future for all companies. No one can foresee or predict the future,” says Mr Borg, “but I do hope that companies, including V&C Group, will continue to grow at a steady pace as they have been for the past 24 years.” BB V & C Contractors Ltd, Whyte Harte, Triq il-Kostinjus, Naxxar. T: 2142 0086; M: 7942 4661/7949 4661; E: info@vccontractors.com; www.vccontractors.com

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

BEAUTY

The best of cosmetic beauty

17

treatments

A number of cosmetic treatments have become as mainstream as tweezing and waxing, making them more accessible to the average consumer and way more affordable than they’ve ever been. Martina Said discusses some of the most popular ones that you can get done in under one hour.

High Definition eyebrows

Brows have taken centre stage in the world of beauty, and many are now understanding the extent to which they can change the face. HD Brows is a seven-step eyebrow shaping treatment that focuses on improving the design of your eyebrows in the most natural way possible. It involves a combination of techniques including tinting, waxing, threading, tweezing and trimming using specialised HD Brows products, with fantastic results that will definitely instil eyebrow envy.

Lip enhancements

If clever make-up tricks aren’t helping you achieve the desired result, then lip fillers should. In this cosmetic

procedure, known as lip augmentation, a dermal filler is injected into the lips or around the mouth for fuller, plumper lips. Whereas collagen and fat injections were often the fillers of choice, they are now being replaced by newer and safer options, with longer lasting effects. The most natural temporary filler used nowadays is hyaluronic acid, which is a natural substance found in the body. These kind of fillers can improve the appearance of your lips by adding volume, structure and shape, and the effects typically last around six months, although effects could wear off sooner, especially for those with a faster metabolism.

Laser hair removal

This cosmetic treatment is probably one of the most

common and affordable ones that gets rid of unwanted hair effectively and at times permanently. It works by beaming highly concentrated light into hair follicles. The pigment in the follicles then absorbs the light and destroys the hair. It can be used to remove hair from the face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, back and other areas, and the equipment is adjusted according to the colour, thickness and location of the hair, as well as the colour of the skin. Plenty of salons as well as private clinics offer this treatment, and it is a great solution for those who hate shaving and cannot bear the pain of regular waxing.

Botox

In 2015, 6.7 million Botox procedures were carried out

in the US alone according to statistics revealed by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, making it the most popular minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure by far.

Botox is a form of Botulinum Toxin Type A, which acts to minimise muscle activity wherever it is injected.

Medically, it’s used to treat certain muscular conditions and even migraines, while cosmetically, it is used to remove wrinkles by temporarily paralysing muscles, generally in the lower central forehead, the upper forehead, and around the eyes and mouth.

It is injected in extremely small doses directly into neuromuscular tissue and can take between 24 to 72 hours to take effect, silencing nerves and muscles for around three months.

Fat freezing

Fat freezing is a relatively new method of getting rid of unwanted fat without using injections, open surgery or leaving scars. It’s not the same as liposuction where large quantities of fat are removed from certain areas – on the contrary, it is used to permanently zap localised pockets of fat in stubborn regions such as the inner thighs or love handles. A vacuum-sucking mouthpiece – which is attached to a so-called cryolipolysis machine – is placed on the skin, freezing the unwanted bulge and killing the fat cells in the process.

However, it could take a minimum of three weeks and up to two months for the body to flush out dead cells. BB

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

WHERE TO DINE

19

YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE BROWNS MALTA Valletta Waterfront.

Open Monday to Sunday from 10am till late. Indoor and outdoor dining is available throughout the year.

T: 2122 7410/2702 0471; www.browns.com.mt

Original, exceptional and tasty food served every time – that’s Browns Malta’s commitment!

Browns Malta is owned and operated by the Mamo brothers – Sandro and his wife Diane run the front of house while Chef Jonathan calls the shots in the kitchen. Specialising in original and tantalising food creations, from fresh fish to premium cuts of beef and more, patrons may treat their taste buds to the finest food prepared by our team, meticulously created using the best of local and foreign ingredients. Browns Malta caters to all kinds of occasions, with tailor-made set menus depending on customers’ budgets and requirements.

Browns Malta is located in the part of the vibrant Valletta Waterfront known as Pinto Wharf. Treat yourself to our delicious food.

Shakinah Shakinah, 5, Gorg Borg Olivier Street, St Julian’s.

T: 2731 8000; M: 7731 8000; E: booking@shakinahmalta. com; www.shakinahmalta.com; Fb: shakinahmalta

Ta’ Rita Lapsi Restaurant Ghar Lapsi, Siggiewi.

T: 2164 0608.

Ta’ Cenc il-Kantra Lido, Gozo Kantra Lido, Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa T: 2219 1000; M: 7987 3787; E: info@tacenchotel.com

Situated on the St Julian’s seafront in Balluta Bay, Shakinah presents Indian tastes, scents and flavours, in an interesting selection of exquisitely prepared, Halal certified, colourful dishes. The fresh ingredients, oriental spices and interesting flavours are carefully hand-picked by our native-born Indian chefs. Great emphasis has been placed on the décor, mood and general ambience to ensure a true Shakinah special experience. Allow yourself to be transported on a magic carpet ride to the exotic orient in the heart of St Julian’s.

The menu at Ta’ Rita is varied, and special requests can also be made, offering flexibility for groups and special events. Keeping with tradition, Maltese rabbit is probably the restaurant’s most popular dish – however, you can also find a number of other grills, pastas, pizzas, snacks, platters, burgers and specialities.

Complement your meal with wine from the vast local and foreign selection the restaurant has to offer. Delicious desserts are great at the end of a meal, or just with a cup of tea or coffee as a quick treat.

Ta’ Rita is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with bar and waiter service. Takeaway service is also available.

Known for hundreds of years as ‘il-Kantra’ because of its natural beauty and clear waters, the rocky fjord inlet of Mgarr ix-Xini is home to Il-Kantra Lido Bar and Restaurant that forms part of the Ta’ Cenc territory.

This spectacular area was recently discovered by Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt who chose a large part of the stunning Ta’ Cenc terrain as the setting for their movie ‘By the Sea’, while making full use of the Kantra Lido as their hideout and safe haven.

While enjoying breath-taking views of the other Maltese islands, you can enjoy an excellent lunch or dinner at Il-Kantra Restaurant, which offers the very best of Sicilian as well as local cuisines, using the finest offerings of fresh fish and the most tender cuts of meat. A truly unique dining experience awaits you in one of nature’s most beautiful settings. Make a promise to yourself right now to visit and experience this true Maltese gem. Il-Kantra is waiting to indulge you.

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

20

WINDOW SHOPPING

SEPARATING FOOD WASTE Green Skip Services was launched 24 years ago with the aim of offering total waste management.

At that time, infrastructure to handle waste consisted only of dump sites, but EU funding has provided the means to develop the facilities required to manage some waste components.

However, improvement has been slow and at times even haphazard. Although nowadays there is more awareness, that alone is not enough, and we’re still far from reaching the level of compliance as some European countries such as Germany, Austria or France when it comes to recycling and waste management.

The latest introduction to waste management is the separate collection of food waste. One

cannot collect such material in any bag, but in a biodegradable and compostable bag, generally manufactured from paper or MATER-BI, which is obtained by means of pioneering proprietary technologies using starches, cellulose, vegetable oils and their combination. In many countries the bag which is used to dispose food waste in would have already been previously used as packaging for fruits and vegetables or as a carrier bag.

For more information about this product and others manufactured from MATER-BI, contact Green Skip Services Ltd on T: 2142 2010 or E: sales@greenskipgroup.com

WORLD LEADER IN PAINTS

Rossetti is an Italian manufacturer of paints that are commonly used to cover historical places in Italy and worldwide.

With seven types of paint available, it’s economical, easy to use and guarantees excellent coverage at 11 sqm per litre.

Gran Pittura (GP) is a high-coverage white, used as a primer on gypsum and ceilings. Super Pittura Murale (SPM) is an interior washable paint and available in white and pastel colours. Libellula Antimuffa (LA) is a moderately washable interior paint that is used against mould.

Acrylic base Idropittura (IP) is highly washable and can be used internally and externally. Mondo Nuovo Lavabile (MN) is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and is used to create impossible colour tints. Quarzo

Fine (QF) and Top Quarzo (TQ) are fine texture acrylic finish paints, for external use.

Rossetti is represented in Malta and Gozo by Coleiro General Supplies Ltd. Rossetti Head Office and Showroom, Valley Road, Birkirkara.

T: 2148 3131; M: 9947 1978.

CARING FOR YOUR EYES

Getting your eyes tested is something many of us tend to neglect but it is recommended that you get your eyes checked at least every two years or sooner if you encounter any noticeable deterioration in your sight.

Taking care of your eyes will go a long way towards ensuring your vision remains at its best for as long as possible. For starters, a healthy diet can help maintain your eyesight. Foods rich in vitamin A are important for healthy eyes, while a severe deficiency in this vitamin is known to cause a condition called xerophthalmia or drying of the eye, which in some cases can lead to blindness. Similarly, a diet rich in antioxidants has been found to help protect against macular degeneration, a serious eye disease associated with ageing.

Aside from eating the right foods to fortify your vision, protecting your eyes against harmful ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun’s rays is a must. The best ways to protect your eyes from the sun, particularly when it’s at its strongest during the summer months are wearing a hat with a wide brim and investing in some good-quality sunglasses

Leading garage doors manufacturer

with a high level of UV protection.

Kevin Camilleri, dispensing optician at K-Optics stresses the importance of wearing a good-quality pair of sunglasses with ultraviolet protection in Malta, stating “UV from the sun can cause long-term damage to the inner structure of the eye and can cause conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.”

Regular eye check-ups are also key in maintaining your eye health. Mr Camilleri recommends getting your eyes checked at least every two years or even sooner if you encounter any noticeable deterioration in your sight.

He explains, “routine eye examinations are important regardless of your age and physical health. Your eye doctor does much more than determine your prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses. He or she will check your eyes for common eye diseases and very often is the first professional to detect chronic systems diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma and other conditions such as high cholesterol.”

In keeping with Kevin Camilleri’s rule of thumb about your eye health: “when in doubt, check it out!”

Upward Door Systems Ltd (UDS) has been operating in Gozo since 1996 and has earned a reputation as a leading manufacturer of sectional, insulated, up and over garage doors. All the products are designed and manufactured to meet the aesthetic requirements for residential, commercial or industrial applications.

Upward Door Systems Ltd, Industrial Estate, Xewkija, Gozo.

T: 2156 4456; M: 9942 7391; E: uds@maltanet.net

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

22

BACK TO SCHOOL

So long, summer!

From purchasing school uniforms, books, stationery and supplies to preparing yourself for the routine of making packed lunches and laundering uniforms, the end of the summer holidays can be tough. Sarah Micallef discovers how getting organised could make the first day of school far more manageable.

T

he prospect of going back to school can be a daunting one for kids, but as a parent, helping them see the bright side will have them looking forward to it in no time. Remind them that school means they’ll get to meet their friends every day, and talking about after-school activities and interesting new subjects will help build anticipation. You can also focus on things the kids find exciting ahead of returning to school, like picking out cool new stationery and supplies!

In fact, there’s loads of shopping to be done before the start of a new scholastic year – from uniforms to school bags, books and stationery. The best way to tackle this is by making lists of everything they need and of where to get it from. Start off with checking what is still useable from the previous year and mark that off your list. While kids can be fussy with their choice of school supplies, favouring what’s trendy at the time, you can

avoid drama by setting a budget beforehand – if the new bag they have their eye on doesn’t fit within the budget, suggest looking for a similar alternative, or ways in which they can save their pocket money to get it.

Another important part of the back-to-school routine that can be made easier with a little planning is packed lunches. With the kids spending so much time at school, a well-balanced lunch will make certain your hard work in getting them to eat healthily at home won’t be undone. While life can be hectic and planning an elaborate lunch may be far from your thoughts, a little forward planning can go a long way – it’s all about achieving a balance of healthy foods that your children like. Try swapping fizzy drinks with healthy juices and squashes if they’re not keen on water, and rather than giving them chocolate or sweets as a treat, try fresh fruit as a healthy alternative. BB

But hey, summer’s not over yet!

The school term is not quite here yet, and there are still plenty of things for your kids to enjoy before summer is over. Apart from beach days, barbecues and get-togethers, family outings are a fun way to spend quality time with your kids, and if they’re interesting and educational, that’s certainly a plus!

Hours of fun could be spent at the Playmobil Fun Park, which is open till 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and till 6pm every other day. The indoor play area features specific themed zones full of Playmobil toys to enjoy, and the pirate-themed outdoor play area is great fun. A Playmobil shop displaying the full range of toys, as well as a cafeteria are also on site, while the Smiling Faces in the Making Playmobil Factory tour, is a unique opportunity to see how the Playmobil figures come to life.

Meanwhile, if your kids’ favourite subject at school is history, a visit to Heritage Malta’s ‘Valletta 1566 – Melita Renascens’ exhibition is a must. Commemorating the 450th anniversary since the laying of the first stone of the city of Valletta, the exhibition celebrates the story of the city and its people.

It is split between two venues – the National Library and the Vendome Bastion (site of the former National War Museum at Fort St Elmo), and explores different aspects from different eras of Valletta, most notably the foundations and construction, social, political, administrative and cultural aspects. The opening hours at Vendome Bastion are from 9am till 6pm (last admission 5.30pm), while at the National Library the exhibition is open between 8.15am and 1.15pm.

BEST BUY RECOMMENDS CHOOSING THE BEST HOVER BOARDS ON THE MARKET Parents often hesitate before buying their child a hover board because lately we have heard a lot of complaints – especially on social media – about the standards and safety of this product. But not all hover boards are the same.

First of all, when you purchase this product, make sure that the mains plug is UK type and fused. The power supply must be a switch mode type. Also pay attention for the (CE) marking and (ROHS) marking.

Make sure the battery is branded (like SAMSUNG) as this is an important factor. Another feature that has been introduced lately is the energy-saving mode. If left switched on, the function will be able to turn off the hover board automatically.

For more information call RC World Toys & Hobbies on T: 2720 0444.

AUGUST 2016

bEst buy

bEst buy

AUGUST 2016