Best Buy

ISSUE 81 february 12, 2014

bestbuy. your MONTHLY shopping guide distributed with The Times

Look out for your chance t a VOUCHERo win FROM ONE TWO ONE INTERIORS ON pg 4

IN THIS

ISSUE...

interview.

home.

health.

TRAVEL.

meet MUSICIAN PETER BORG

DESIRABLE BEDROOMS

CARING FOR YOUR EYES

EASTER ESCAPE

Ultimate home security Alberta is proud to announce the launch of Agility 3.

The new upgraded Agility 3 is a state-of-the-art two-way wireless alarm system designed for the residential and small business markets that provides more than a standard home security system.

Agility 3 supports visual verification with a selfmonitoring smartphone app (also available via web browser) which enables homeowners to control their alarm systems remotely as well as view real-time images taken inside their premises with PIR camera detectors.

In the event of an alarm, the PIR camera is automatically activated and captures a sequence of images which it sends to users via RISCO's smartphone/web application. This capability enables users to view the images and confirm if there is a crime in progress.

Monitoring stations can also benefit from the visual verification feature since the capability to ascertain whether there is a false alarm will save them valuable time and resources.

Agility 3 is easy to install, can be managed remotely and gives peace of mind. The system can be enhanced with a wide range of accessories that provide additional protection against theft as well as protection against

Goodbye to tired eyes environmental hazards and provide elderly care.

Alberta, San Gwakkin Road, Mriehel. T: 2549 0466; E: sales@alberta.com.mt www.alberta.com.mt

VICHY, the expert in products for ideal skin presents IDEALIA EYES: a new beauty secret that prevents you from ever ‘looking tired’ again and an eye contour, where care products and make-up meet to offer you double the benefits.

VICHY has developed this new eye care to fight the challenges of the most fragile area of the face, the eye contour zone. The eye contour reflects our lifestyle as it gives away sleepless nights, stress and too many hours spent in front of a screen, not to mention pollution and premature ageing!

Until today, dark circles, fine lines and shadows were reduced by combining a skincare product with eye make-up for camouflage. With its unique combination of Vitamin B3, DRM-Bright complex, Vitamin Cg, caffeine and instant illuminators, IDEALIA EYES will transform your eyes in a single step. Used daily, it will correct dark circles, illuminate shadows and smoothen fine lines.

Its texture is surprisingly fresh and easily absorbed, and is best applied using its ultra soft applicator. VICHY makes no compromises when it comes to tolerance and safety. IDEALIA EYES is hypoallergenic, para-

ben free and contains soothing and regenerating VICHY Thermal Spa Water. It is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers in women of all ages.

Available exclusively in pharmacies. For further information or samples contact us on M: 7980 6836; E: vichy@ prohealth.com.mt; Facebook: Vichy.

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ISSUE 81 - February 12, 2014

Falling for February

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

As we continue to beat the chill and day-dream of somewhat less dreary days (take note, weather man), we can take a moment to thank the month of February for its annual offering of a few much anticipated events. Love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day rolls around half way through the month, which is why we dedicated an article to the origins of this mysterious feast. No one really knows when or why it began being celebrated, but it’s safe to say

Articles appearing in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. All rights reserved.

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.

Publishers

the feast has evolved tremendously since its humble roots of exchanging love letters.

Colourful preparations for carnival are now in full swing – a celebration many anticipate with enthusiasm. Be it a trip in full costume to Valletta or a more elaborate weekend away in Gozo, carnival never fails to satisfy the child in all of us. We took to the streets of the capital to get in on people’s plans for carnival this year as well as

their most memorable costume get-ups to date.

We also catch up with Red Electrick guitarist and all-round brilliant musician Peter Borg, and find out more about his flair for fashion, his stable relationship with money and his self-confessed ever-growing collection of guitars. Enjoy!

let's cruise enjoy all the ship’s facilities at leisure.

Every night is brimming with excitement, with fantastic silver service à la carte meals followed by shows, bars, casinos, shops and discos.

There is entertainment for all the family and friends.

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

T: +356 2132 0713 F: +356 2132 0714 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt Advertising Advertising Sales Executive Amy Schembri Advertising Sales Coordinator Lindsey Ciantar DESIGN SWITCH Design & Brand Strategy Tel: +356 2131 6770 www.switch.com.mt Printer Progress Press Ltd

NEXT ISSUE:

12.03.14 DOn'T MISS IT

Cruises are among the most popular types of vacations among the Maltese and the reasons why are obvious: they offer the most comfortable way to travel. Which means of transport, other than a cruise liner, offers sumptuous meals in luxurious restaurants, fun-packed bars, swimming pools, fitness centres, kids’ playing areas, comfortable cabins, Broadwaystyle shows, huge onboard shops and much more?

SMSMondial is the obvious choice for cruises as it provides all the best cruise brands under one roof: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruise, Azamara, Norwegian Cruise Line, Costa Crociere, TUI Cruises, Pullmantur Cruises and their subsidiary CDF Croiseres de France, and many more. You name it, we have it all. Contact SMSMondial on T: 2277 6000 and choose the branch which is closest to you for your convenience.

Every day starts with a huge breakfast and is an opportunity to visit a new destination or to

Like us on our Facebook page: Smsmondial www.smsmondial.com.mt

State-of-the-art office space With the increase of online gaming companies and financial institutions in Malta, the need for quality office space has never been greater. The Eden Business Centre offers state-of-the-art office space in the highly desirable business and financial district of St Julian’s, just metres away from Regional Road.

Situated in Elia Zammit Street, the building is designer finished

to the highest of standards and measures approximately 784m2. Divided over a large ground and mezzanine floor, each level is open-plan and therefore allows various customisations according to the tenants’ needs. Included within the business centre is a fully certified fire detection and alarm system, CCTV surveillance in the lobby and entrance areas, as well as backup generators and an energy-efficient glass facade allowing effective heating and cooling.

The premises also comply with all the requirements for people with special needs, including an eight-person lift, and have direct access to the Eden Leisure Car Park, with parking spaces included as part of the lease.

For further information, interested parties may contact us on T: 2371 0100; E: elg@edenleisure.com

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ISSUE 81 - February 12, 2014

PHOTOS BY LIONEL GALEA

Have you got carnival fever?

LAST MONTH'S

Carnival is a fun-filled time of year, permitting kids to deck out in full costume and adults to, well, become kids again. Best Buy asks a few locals about their carnival plans this February.

LETTER

Ibtisam Sadegh, Iklin

Josef Cassar, Naxxar

Do you enjoy celebrating carnival?

Yes, I enjoy the fun of carnival with friends and obviously dressing up.

Do you enjoy celebrating carnival?

Yes, I get to go to Gozo for a weekend and have a good time.

Carnival there is different; people come together, have fun and celebrate.

How do you plan to spend carnival this year? With friends here in Malta – I’ve been to Gozo in previous years but won’t be heading there this year.

How do you plan to spend carnival this year? In Gozo – it’s already planned.

What is the best costume you ever recall wearing? I once dressed up as a fairy, even though I was no longer a child.

What is the best costume you ever recall wearing? The time I dressed up as a woman.

Jean Claude Farrugia, Kappara

Andrew Camilleri, Gzira Do you enjoy celebrating carnival?

Not particularly. I enjoyed it when I was younger but now consider it to be just another event.

Do you enjoy celebrating carnival?

I love it – it’s a reason to have fun at a time of year that’s relatively quiet and boring.

How do you plan to spend carnival this year? I’ll probably go to Gozo for a day to relax.

How do you plan to spend carnival this year? In Gozo with friends.

What is the best costume you ever recall wearing? I dressed up as a Star Trek character once – that was my inner geek coming out.

What is the best costume you ever recall wearing? A ballerina costume.

Victor Zarb, Dingli

Denise Pandolfi, Valletta

Do you enjoy celebrating carnival?

I’ve done my time celebrating carnival and do it now for my daughter, as it’s a tradition for children and she enjoys it.

Do you enjoy celebrating carnival?

Yes, I enjoy the party element with friends.

How do you plan to spend carnival this year? I’ll stay in Valletta.

How do you plan to spend carnival this year? With my daughter, in Malta.

What is the best costume you ever recall wearing? A cartoon character.

What is the best costume you ever recall wearing? I cannot remember.

WRITE IN & WIN This month we invite you to write in and tell us why you or a nominee deserve to win this voucher redeemable in fabrics from One Two One Interiors.

The first reply will win this useful voucher, worth €70.

One Two One Interiors have a unique passion for fabrics and are always on the lookout for innovative and high-quality products, such as the new Global Lux collection by Clarke & Clarke. They offer madeto-measure curtains and blinds as well as home consultations

by their professional design consultants.

Send your contribution and contact details (address and telephone number) by not later than Wednesday 26th February 2014.

Fabrics are available from One Two One Interiors, 21st September Avenue, Naxxar. T: 2142 2948/9 and Qui Si Sana Seafront, Sliema.

T: 2132 3155; www.onetwoone.eu

Write to: Best Buy Competition, Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel QRM3000 or email info@contenthouse.com.mt

WINNING

Last month we asked you to write in and tell us why you or a nominee deserve to win a Cosee Gas Heater, kindly provided by V&F Portelli.

The winning reply was from Joseph Portelli: “I will not nominate anyone as I only have one son who lives in London, and both my and my wife’s parents are gone to a better life. The reason I humbly deserve to win this month’s prize is because we are both retired now and live in a quiet apartment. We do have a gas heater, but we would appreciate a second unit because my wife suffers from several discomforts, the worst being arthritis, which is at its worst at this time of year. So my priority is to keep the place as warm as possible. Since we only have one heater, a second gas heater would be a nice addition to ensure my wife’s comfort and well-being.”

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PHOTOS BY Lionel galea

in the red Peter Borg is one of the most talented and best-known musicians behind some of Malta’s biggest music names, including Red Electrick, Xirka Rock and Ira Losco’s band. He chats to Jo Caruana about his bygone hoarding habit, his desire to holiday round the United States and his ever-growing collection of guitars.

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ou could say that Peter Borg is ‘pretty’ musical; but, in truth, he is absolutely immersed in the world of music.

After all he is a musician and sessions guitarist – for the popular Red Electrick, Xirka Rock, Ira Losco, the Malta Rock Movement and the Railway Studio. But he’s also a music producer and event organiser to boot. And he’s only 25.

“I first picked up a guitar when I was 12 and, without wanting to sound cheesy, I immediately knew it wasn’t just a phase. I was instantly obsessed by it and took my guitar everywhere with me, including to the bathroom. I would take it to school too, and spent every moment I could practicing.”

By the time he reached sixth form, Peter had started a couple of bands, which led to the launch of his first ‘proper’ band, Drive – now known, and renowned, as the award-winning Red Electrick.

“Music isn’t really a hobby for me anymore and it’s exhilarating to be involved in so many different projects. Red Electrick is still my main band, and we’ve had the same line-up

“Red Electrick has taken me abroad too. We played 15 shows in London and Brighton, eight shows in Copenhagen and another show in Linz.

since 2007. We have so many amazing memories together and have been through thick and thin as a team. I really do consider them to be my second family.”

Peter cites their 2013 DVD release, Red Electrick – The Unplugged Sessions (produced

by Jean Pierre Gatt and Daniel Lapira), as the unbeatable highlight for the band so far.

“It was also then that I met my girlfriend Tamara, who was our

make-up artist on the shoot, so that made it pretty special too.”

He is also thrilled to be a full-time session guitarist with Ira Losco, a role he has had since 2008. “Being involved in Ira’s projects is a huge honour for me and has led me to perform all over the world, including in Dubai, Prague, London, Linz and, recently, Berlin, where we performed at the Olympic Stadium in front of 80,000 people.

“Of course there have been many other exciting projects over the years, including working on three editions of Rockestra, six editions of Xirka Rock and kick-starting MRM (the Malta Rock Movement) with my good friends Wayne Camilleri and Gianni Zammit. Now there’s so much to look forward to this year too, and it’s a very exciting time for all of us, as well as for music in Malta.”

How would you describe your relationship with money?

It’s a pretty simple relationship really. Yes, I do spend money on gadgets, clothing, going out, meals and, of course, musical items, but I’ve found the trick is to simply set a target of how much I want to save per month and spend the rest. I am quite strict with myself when it comes to sticking to my target.

What percentage of your life do you spend shopping?

That depends what I am shopping for. When it comes to musical items I’ve learned to control myself (after ending up with umpteen guitars lying around the house). Now I limit myself to one or, maximum, two guitars per year. I do enjoy shopping with my girlfriend though. I have to admit that it’s a break from my daily routine.

Do you think that because something is more expensive it is automatically better?

Unfortunately, yes! This stems from my perception towards musical instruments. The more you spend on an instrument, the better it is, even though many people tend to disagree with me. Take guitars for instance… not only do the expensive ones sound better, but their playability is nicer, they hold their tuning better and they last longer. Oh and they look nicer too.

Is style important to you?

Fashion and image are integral parts of music, so yes, style is quite important to me.

What’s the one fashion item you couldn’t live without?

Probably my sunglasses.

When you plan to shop, where do you tend to go?

I enjoy shopping locally, and

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interview. usually head to Sliema for a look round the stores.

Do you collect anything?

I guess you can say I collect guitars. I currently have around 15. I had more in the past but decided to get rid of the ones I never use.

Do you hoard things or regularly throw stuff out?

I used to hoard stuff all the time. It was the most random and useless stuff you could imagine. I’d get emotionally attached to it and not be able to throw anything away. Luckily I kicked that habit a few years ago, with a little help from someone special.

What’s the best bargain you’ve ever made?

My Fender 52 Telecaster guitar.

Not because of how much it cost me, but because it’s my ultimate favourite guitar and it’s worth so much more to me than the money I spent on it.

If you won the million euro lottery what would you do with the money?

I’d head off on an incredible vacation across the United States and then save or invest the rest.

What three items would you take to your desert island?

A laptop with a mini production set-up, an acoustic guitar and my glasses.

What do you enjoy most about spring in Malta?

I enjoy the countryside a lot and am looking forward to the weather getting warmer so I can spend more time outdoors.

I make it a point to go for a long walk at least once a week.

Do you have any exciting plans in the pipeline?

If all goes well, 2014 looks as though it’s going to be another exciting year. I have a lot of interesting projects booked in the studio, while MRM is working on three or four big productions that will be released very soon. There are a couple of Xirka Rocks in the pipeline too, and Red Electrick is currently working on our third album. So far it’s been the most fun we’ve ever had. We are currently planning single releases, music videos, artwork, logos, photoshoots and the whole shebang.

Given the choice, would you drink champagne or beer?

Beer.

What would be your last meal?

A steak cooked by Gino at L'Artist in Sliema. Incredible!

What has been your proudest moment as part of Red Electrick?

There are too many to mention, although filming the Unplugged Sessions was pretty special.

We had been working on the pre-production of the project for six months, and every single person involved put their 100 per cent effort and dedication into it. On the day itself I remember playing my acoustic guitar while staring at the whole set-up and all the musicians we had brought together, and asking myself how we had managed to pull it off. It was a great day.

If you could perform with anyone in the world, and anywhere, who and where would that be?

It would be 1986 and I’d be on stage with Queen at the Wembley Arena.

What would be the three things on your ideal celebrity rider?

Some tea, loads of water and one shot of whiskey with ice to drink right before going on stage.

What would you never buy?

White wine. I only drink red!

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valentine's special.

Love is in the air As the most romantic day of the year draws nearer, many a couple ARE planning how they’ll spend February 14th, but do you know how it all started? Sarah Micallef looks into the mysterious origins of Valentine’s Day.

W

hereas most people will tell you that Valentine’s Day is the feast of St Valentine, the truth is that the origins of the feast remain somewhat of a mystery.

History tells of three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus recognised by the Catholic Church, and exactly which of these Valentine’s Day is tied to is unclear. According to one legend, St Valentine refers to a priest who lived in Rome in the third century and who defied Emperor Claudius II by marrying lovers in secret when the Emperor forbade marriage for young men because he believed single men made better soldiers. Upon being discovered, Valentine was executed.

Another legend tells of a priest who was martyred for trying to help Christians escape the harsh conditions of Roman prisons, while another tells of Valentine writing a love letter – the first ever ‘valentine’ – to a young girl he fell in love with while in prison, signed ‘your Valentine’, before his death.

Whereas exactly which one of these stories is true remains unknown, the figure of Valentine as a sympathetic, romantic figure is emphasised in all versions, and led him to become one of the most popular saints in England and France by the Middle Ages. The celebration of Valentine’s Day on February 14th is believed by some to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's

IN FIGURES death or burial (dating back to around 270AD), although associations have also been drawn with the pagan fertility festival of Lupercalia.

Whatever the true origins, valentine greetings became popular as early as the Middle Ages, but it wasn’t until after 1400 that written valentines appeared. The oldest known valentine dates back to 1415 and is still in existence today – written by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife during his imprisonment in the Tower of London. Since then, sending a letter of love to your valentine became widely popular, as well as exchanging gifts or small tokens of affection. By 1900, improvement in printing technology saw the emergence of printed cards beginning to replace written letters as an easy way for people to express their emotions. Nowadays, an estimated 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year according to the Greeting

Each year, an estimated 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent according to the Greeting Card Association.

Card Association.

Aside from a Valentine’s Day card for the object of your affections, a gift has become customary. Whereas it could vary from a small token to a lavish treat, the trick to picking the perfect Valentine’s gift is simple: knowing your partner.

Whether it’s something sparkly, racy lingerie, flowers, a personalised item, a sharp timepiece or the latest gadget, the main prerequisite is that it comes from the heart (never more so than on the feast of love).

In today’s busy lifestyle, it’s also common to plan an evening out with your better

half to celebrate Valentine’s Day and take some time out from the daily grind to enjoy each other’s company. Going out for a romantic dinner at a stylish restaurant is a popular choice and for good reason – there’s nothing like a romantic mood while you enjoy a delicious meal and a good bottle of wine in a quiet corner of your favourite eatery.

If you’re in need of relaxation, a soothing couple’s massage will work like a charm, and there are plenty of spas and hotels that offer a variety of Valentine’s deals. Choose from a special treatment to a full-on pampering day, or if you can afford to, take the celebration into the weekend and opt for a weekend break at a hotel for some uninterrupted couple time. For the more adventurous

couple, a dinner or massage may not quite cut it, but a host of more unconventional activities could be just what the doctor ordered this Valentine’s Day. Why not use the holiday to try out something fun and adventurous you’ve always wanted to do, like quad biking, rock climbing or horse riding?

Whatever it is you end up doing this Valentine’s Day, remember the sentiment of the holiday, which, despite its uncertain origins, celebrates one thing above all else: love. Whereas the greatest emphasis is often placed on your significant other, also remember your other loved ones including family and friends – I am sure St Valentine, whoever he may have been, would have wanted it that way.

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valentine's special.

gifts ideas Amrita Footcare & Wellness Centre Make your next step pain-free with customised insoles for flat feet, bunions, back pain, ankle pain and plantar fasciitis, among others.

derek garden centre Order your red roses, soft toys and chocolates from Derek Garden Centre, one of the leading gardening centres in Malta and Gozo providing a fully comprehensive service in all garden-related matters. Open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm and Saturday from 9am to 1pm.

Call Amrita on T: 2122 3665. Insoles are made following a consultation with qualified podiatrists and with an orthotic technician in attendance.

Derek Garden Centre, 11, Cannon Road, Qormi. T: 2144 9754/2149 3790; E: info@derekmalta.com; www.derekmalta.com

Coffee can be romantic!

baci lingerie

Show your loved one how romantic you can be this Valentine’s by giving a lovable gift! With a cheeky nature and ultimate style, the NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto® machines are always ready to produce your favourite NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto® cup in seconds. With 18 delicious flavours, your taste buds cannot get bored. Go on… cuddle up this Valentine’s Day with your favourite indulgence thanks to NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto®!

This gorgeous, sexy, dotted, blackpink bikini set is taken from our Valentine’s Day collection.

Visit the BACI Lingerie shop at Baystreet, Level 2, to view our extensive collection or visit our website www.bacimalta.com and purchase online.

Fan the passions of love this Valentine’s Day with BACI Lingerie.

For more information visit facebook.com/NESCAFEDolceGustoMalta

Yana’s Jewellery

Carisma Spa & Wellness International

Custom and hand-made pieces This Valentine’s, head down to Yana’s Jewellery and surprise your loved ones with one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces. Yana’s Jewellery offers women of all ages the chance to design their own pieces – truly a unique experience. Vouchers are also available.

Treat yourself to a Valentine’s Couple package, among many other beneficial packages available at Carisma, which includes:

Carisma Spa & Wellness International. T: 2376 5524; M: 9990 0995; E: info@carismaspa.com; www.carismaspa.com. facebook.com/Carisma-Spa

Yana’s Jewellery, Triq Misrah Il-Barriera, Msida. M: 9984 1509; E: y.jewellery@gmail.com.

Find me on Facebook.

• Hawaiian Full Body Massage • Foot Bath with Dead Sea Salt • Indian Head Massage • Liposome Serum • Detox Tea Treatment time 60 minutes, now only €59 (per person)

myoka spa

Xerri's garden centre

The Royal Hammam Experience is a detoxifying body treatment that brings the whole body to a state of balance. Guests often combine a visit to the hammam with a relaxing and energising massage or other luxurious beauty treatments. It also leaves your skin feeling smooth as silk and makes a perfect Valentine’s Day gift or celebration, costing €55 per person.

For more information and bookings contact the Five Senses Spa at The Malta Hilton on T: 2137 0194; www.myoka.com

Flowers express our feelings, when we fall short of words. At Xerri's Garden Centre we can help you reach out to your loved ones by sending beautiful bouquets of fresh red roses imported directly from Holland. Whether you want us to deliver your flowers or handpick them yourself, we can help!

Book your flowers now on T: 2155 3637; E: info@xerrisgardencentre.com Visit us on Facebook at Xerri's Garden Centre, Nursery & Landscape Designers Gozo or at Dawwara Street, Victoria, Gozo.

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home.

Safe As Houses We all want to feel like the ‘king of our castle’ and safe in our own home, but should we be doing more to protect ourselves? Jo Caruana discovers why home security should become a definite priority.

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e read in the papers about houses that have been broken into, or watch on the news as victims recount being attacked in their homes. And yet, somehow, we never think it will happen to us.

“There’s no doubt that many home owners live with ‘a false sense of security’ thinking they are immune to someone breaking into their home or damaging their property,” explains Joseph Baldacchino, chief commercial officer at Alberta.

“But it’s important to know that these things aren’t random.

Thieves operate individually

or in groups, and they target people for a variety of reasons.

They are patient, too, often spending days on end observing family movements in and out of a house. They usually have informers feeding them information on certain activities and events, such as when people are away on holiday and what type of valuables are present in a house. For these reasons it is so important to be alert and to think ahead about the safety of your home.”

After all, while we are lucky to have a low crime rate in Malta, there are many threats we need to be aware of.

“Break-ins certainly top the list of security threats for homeowners locally,” continues Mr Baldacchino. “Plus, the incidence of break-ins increases when there are empty dwellings to either side of your home, making it easier for intruders to operate in a more tranquil environment.

“It’s also common for us to meet with clients who think they won’t be targeted because they live in an apartment, but this isn’t the case at all.

It is actually very easy to slip through the main entrance of an apartment block without being noticed. Then, once

inside, the thieves quickly break into an apartment by forcing open its door. Additionally, penthouses present an even easier target to intruders.

Thieves, once inside the common parts of the block, take the elevator to the top, exit onto a terrace, roof or climb down a shaft, force open

apertures or balcony doors, and gain easy access into the home. Unfortunately no one is immune.”

So with that in mind it is important to make home security a top priority, and to get good advice on the most vital elements that need to be taken care of.

“Call in the experts and stick to companies you can trust,” says Mr Baldacchino, who has a plethora of experience in the industry. “As a bare minimum and if your budget is

Continued on page 14

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THINKING AHEAD ABOUT THE SAFETY OF YOUR HOME Continued from page 13

Security Tips Things to consider to increase your safety • Today it’s the norm to automatically post holiday snaps on social media as we travel around the globe – perhaps uploading a shot of cocktails at sunset or a brilliant bargain buy. “But do think before you post,” says Mr Baldacchino. “What you may not realise is that you are announcing to the world that your home and valuables are available and unattended. Wait until you have returned to share your pictures or, better yet, say nothing at all.”

quite limited, get an intruder alarm fitted. That way, if an intruder attempts to break into your home, you, the competent authorities and the neighbourhood are immediately alerted. In my opinion this is absolutely essential.”

There are of course other options, especially if you can afford to splash out more on the safety of your home, or if you need to secure a larger area.

“The ideal home would have a security door installed at the front, a video intercom, an intruder alarm system, CCTV monitoring the perimeter of the grounds and a remote connection to a central monitoring service that keeps an eye on everything for you.

There is a huge variety of options and it makes sense to consider as many of them as possible.”

Finally, it’s important to keep your wits about you and to constantly consider your own security, as well as the security of those around you. It may be worth setting up a ‘watch’ with your neighbours, through which you all keep an eye on each other’s cars and property. This helps to show a united front to would-be attackers and also encourages a stronger sense of community in your area.

• Bear in mind that there are eyes everywhere, and lots of people can see what you’re up to in your house – especially if you advertise your recent purchases. “For this reason, be sure to dispose of packaging quickly, and as far away from your home as possible. If thieves know the sort of items you’ve bought recently – such as expensive entertainment or computer equipment – then they will be more tempted to break in,” Mr Baldacchino cautions.

• Unfortunately we all know that the elderly are often targets for break-ins, and they may do their best to stand up to their attackers when trying to protect their homes. “My advice to them would be not to put up a fight,” says Mr Baldacchino. “Give the robbers the money or valuables they want, as this will get them out of your home and your life as soon as possible. Your own safety is more important.”

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HEALTH.

Caring for your eyes Getting our eyes tested is something many of us tend to neglect, pushing it to the back burner until it hits us right on the nose – sometimes literally!

Sarah Micallef looks into the ways you can care for your eyes, both by preventing damage and protecting your vision.

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magine not being able to see the vibrant colours of nature, or focus on the faces of people around you. Out of all of our senses, studies have shown that the majority of people would be most affected by the loss of their sight. To this end, 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, with a severe deficiency in this vitamin 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 with a high level of

Top TIP It is recommended that you get your eyes checked at least ever y two years or sooner if you encounter any noticea ble deterioration in your sight.

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 systemic diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma and other conditions such as high cholesterol.”

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 cause conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.”

Moreover, if you engage in an activity that involves focusing on small details such as reading or sewing for long periods of time, be careful to avoid eyestrain (whereby the muscles around your eyes become tired). To do this, take regular breaks from what you’re doing by simply closing your eyes for

a short period every now and then, and letting them relax, or focusing on something else in the distance.

Aside from these preventative measures, regular eye checkups 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 exams are important regardless of

He goes on to emphasise how important it is that children have their eyes tested too, in order to “ensure normal development and academic achievement, as children will not normally complain about vision problems as they don't know what ‘normal’ vision looks like.”

Following an eye check-up, if you do require lenses to correct your vision, you have a choice between contact lenses and glasses. To this end, Mr Camilleri advises, “I would definitely not recommend contacts for children below the age of 12 or adults who are careless about their hygiene for that matter, as this can cause serious infections and ulcers which are painful and difficult to treat.

Otherwise contacts and glasses should both be used, as using contacts all the time is not beneficial and one needs to give one’s eyes a rest by wearing glasses. Glasses have become a very fashionable item nowadays, and can complement the face if carefully chosen.”

When it comes to caring for your eyes therefore, it is really a case of prevention is better than cure, but if your eyes do need a little help, wearing the appropriate lenses will make a world of difference, both to how you see the world as well as preventing your sight from worsening. In keeping with Kevin Camilleri’s rule of thumb about your eye health: “when in doubt, check it out!”

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home.

Your guide to bedroom design When decorating a bedroom, functionality need not neglect good design and practicality. Martina Said looks into the most important factors to consider when decorating your sleep haven, without abandoning the dream features you’ve always wanted.

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he kitchen could easily be considered the heart of any home – it gathers people round the table for lunch or dinner, and is the go-to room for instant consolation – or more specifically, food. The living room serves a similar purpose of bringing people together in a warm and inviting setting, especially in winter, beside a warm and crackling fire.

No other room in the house, however, offers the same level of comfort and security than the haven that is our bedroom.

It’s where we rest, re-charge, dress up and drop dead after a long day’s work. It is an intimate room, one that only its users need be happy sleeping in.

When putting together your idea of a perfect bedroom,

there are numerous aspects to keep in mind, the most important one being that the design and decor within that space need to complement the primary purpose of the room, that of sleeping comfortably.

The ambience, therefore, plays a very important part.

Individual taste dictates whether a bedroom is neutral, serene and calming or with loud, bold and vibrant choices of colour and furniture. Whatever it is, it must work for you and you alone, considering it is possibly the only room in the house you needn’t show to visitors under most circumstances.

A study conducted by the American National Sleep Foundation sought to discover which bedroom elements are most important to people in order

Choosing a colour

to get a good night’s sleep.

While the most common factors include a comfortable mattress and comfortable pillows, a large proportion of participants consider a dark and quiet room as well as a cool room temperature to be important aspects too, suggesting the design and layout of a bedroom are not to be dismissed.

The bedroom should be the room in your house that induces feelings of calm and relaxation, making the choice of colour a particularly important decision. Remember, the colour you pick now will likely stay on those walls for a number of years to come, therefore avoid choosing a colour on a whim or that is simply ‘on trend’ this year, as chances are a new colour will be on trend next year. Earth and warm colours are among the more universal choices for walls, which need to complement the colour of furni-

ture and even fabrics. Spots of bright colours and texture could then be incorporated into the bedroom through accessories such as a bedside ornament, cushions and even a rug.

The correct bed The bed is the focal point of a bedroom – it must be coordinated with the rest of the furniture in the room, the correct shape and size according to the dimensions of the room, as well unconditionally comfortable.

You’ll be way better off spendContinued on page 20

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DECORATING TIPS FOR YOUR SLEEP HAVEN Continued from page 19

Space and storage These two go hand in hand – you want to ensure good storage facilities in order to guarantee a spacious environment. Owning your own home makes you appreciate the numerous times your parents probably chased you round the house ordering you to clean up your room, because they knew well before we did that clutter and chaos in a bedroom are stressful and nerve-wrecking. ing a bit more money on an appropriate mattress and pillows than suffering long nights of restlessness and backaches.

If your bedroom is comparable in size to a master suite, then a queen size bed is a logical option. If not, however, avoid opting for a bed that takes up an impractical amount of space, disrupting the placement of other necessary furniture in the room and limiting the amount of free space in which you can move around.

Statement features Neutral and calming colours need not be interpreted as ‘boring and washed out’.

But if uniformity and colour coordination are not really what you’re after, then a statement wall, eccentric pieces of furniture or even unusual flooring should do the trick.

You could choose to decorate a wall by simply painting it a different colour, hanging an interesting mirror or clock, or even covering it with bold wallpaper. The latter is increasingly being introduced in Maltese households, as it easily transforms the appearance of a room, giving it a striking twist. If you’d rather keep the furniture and walls clean, statement flooring is another option, using wood or laminate flooring or even carpeting.

Light and ventilation Windows, doors or even decorative glass panes are a must in any room, the bedroom being no exception. Besides saving money on electricity bills, natural light brightens a room in a way that artificial light cannot, and large windows simultaneously offer good ventilation, necessary for humid winter months as well as blistering summer ones.

When planning the right place for light fixtures in the rest of the room, consider scattering them around, rather than concentrating them in the centre of the ceiling. Install lampshades, up lights and pin lights to create a tranquil ambience and great mood.

Avoid the hassle again by making room for storage space – be it in the form of a treasure chest, boxes in your cupboard or drawers under your bed.

Keep the isles of your bedroom clean and clear from any obstructions. Anything from a small pile of clothes destined for the washing machine or mismatched pairs of shoes scattered around could make the neatest of rooms look messy, which is not worth the

effort of keeping everywhere else in top condition.

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travel.

The perfect Easter getaway Easter holidays will be with us before you know it, making it the perfect time to start planning a well-deserved vacation. Sarah Micallef looks into the top destinations for spring, as well as some advice on what to do before you go.

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hough it may still feel like the year has just begun (where did January go?), Easter, falling on Sunday April 20th this year, will be with us before you know it, and with it come the Easter holidays.

With springtime in full swing, it’s the perfect time to plan a holiday or quick getaway, as a great deal of destinations will be blessed with favourable weather conditions at this time of year, not to mention not being quite so crowded before the busy summer tourist season hits.

When planning your holiday, the destination you choose to go for will often reflect the type of getaway you want, so it’s always advisable to consider what you’d like out of your holiday before making any concrete plans. Manolita Cutajar, Travel Consultant at Orange Travel Group, advises, “clients should know what type of holiday they want when booking their holiday. Should you wish to learn about a particular place or city, say Prague for example, joining an organised tour would be ideal. On the other hand, should you want a more relaxed holiday, a cruise would be the recommended solution.”

Asked about her top recommended destinations for the Easter holidays, Ms Cutajar maintains, “springtime is always a wonderful time to travel. Places like Italy, France and the Czech Republic would

As for the different types of holidays one can opt for come the Easter period, Ms Cutajar states that both long and short holidays are ideal at this time of year, so it

spring. Another relaxing short-break holiday would be a mini cruise that ends in Malta over the Easter holidays,” she affirms.

be radiant, coming back to life after a long, cold winter.”

She goes on to add that in her experience, places like Costa Amalfitana, Lake Garda, the undiscovered but beautiful Puglia region, Prague or even a luxurious West Med cruise would all be ideal due to their mild weather, besides not being very crowded and offering lots of interesting places to explore.

would depend on how long you can afford to get away, both in terms of budget as well as leave from work and kids’ school holidays. “Although the most popular holidays over Easter are week-long trips, one can find shorter breaks over Easter and springtime in general too. Visiting attractive and interesting destinations such as Lourdes, Puglia and Piemonte are ideal during

Aside from planning the type of holiday and destination carefully, Yannis Bonnici, product and business development manager at Fexserv Financial Services highlights the importance of having your money situation sorted before jetting (or cruising) off. “Particularly if you’re planning a long-haul holiday to an exotic location,” he warns, “you need to plan in advance.” He advises planning

your currency at the same time as your travel tickets, maintaining “the best thing to do is book your currency beforehand and then pick it up as the day you are travelling gets closer.” This way, you’re sure to have the currency you need before you fly and won’t be disappointed. Offering 100 different currencies, Fexserv guarantees that they will buy back whatever you don’t spend, so it’s easy to plan ahead.

Once your flight or cruise tickets are booked and your spending money is taken care of, it’s time to tie any remaining loose ends. Ensure you take the necessary vaccinations if your chosen location is a more exotic one by consulting the National Immunisation Service Centre at the Floriana Health Centre. Some of these need to be taken a good time in advance, so don’t leave it to the last minute to enquire about what you need. If you require any form of medication, you’d also do well to make sure you have enough to last you throughout your stay, as well as to put together a mini ‘first aid kit’ with useful items like plasters and pain relievers for any little mishaps you might have.

With all the remaining bits and bobs taken care of, leave booked and visas acquired (once again, if you need them), you’ll be all set to pack your bags and head off to your latest great adventure. Bon voyage!

Refer to page 2 for more information on Orange Travel’s cruises, and to get more ideas on where you can go this Easter.

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motoring.

New or used: Choosing the best car option Buying a car, be it new or second-hand, necessitates coughing up a substantial amount of money, which is why one must weigh this all-important decision with care. Martina Said underlines the pros AND CONS of each option ahead of sealing the deal.

pros and cons to each choice, and evaluating both thoroughly is important ahead of making an investment worth a few thousands.

The case for buying new There are numerous obvious pleasures and advantages that come with a brand new purchase, mainly that you could get your car customised to just the way you want it, especially if you’re after something very specific. Adding to this is the fact that no one has used it before you, which means it’s endured no accidents that you might not be aware of and suffered no wear and tear either. It comes with a clean record, and that in itself is a big pro.

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here’s nothing like stepping into a brand new car – that undistinguishable smell of newness, the sparkling cleanliness inside and out, and that allure of knowing you will be the first one to drive it. A brand new car is all yours, equipped just the way you want it and used and abused by none other than yourself.

were around, selling rickety vehicles that wouldn’t offer much more than what you have already. The market has improved dramatically in the last few years, and consumers now have the option of purchasing a second-hand car which packs almost as much punch as a brand new one, with the main exception being that, well, you are simply not its first owner.

sum of money in return for an old car, on the condition that a new and cleaner car is bought.

Last year, Finance Minister Edward Scicluna announced the scheme for the third year running, whereby interested parties would be granted €500.

The scheme is also available to companies seeking to replace commercial vehicles and applies to cars ten years or older.

The attraction of a second-hand car in mint condition, however, is appealing in its own way – gone are the days when just a handful of used car dealers

In a bid to incentivise consumers to get their old cars off the road, a scrappage scheme was introduced by the government three years ago, offering a

There are lots of questions to ask in the process of buying a car, one of the most important being: should you buy a new or second-hand car? There are

The car’s warranty is simply untouched, and coming from the manufacturer means if something goes wrong with the car, it is their responsibility to fix it. Some used cars could come with a warranty, but there’s no guarantee. There’s also the benefit of reduced maintenance expenses. For the first few years, or several thousand miles, there shouldn’t be much need for excessive repairs, such as new tyres, a new battery or new brakes.

For gizmo lovers, a new car is generally equipped with all the

latest technologies. Multimedia and navigation features are ever-evolving, and although you could get such features in used cars, they’re unlikely to be the latest. New technology also applies in safety systems, with which a new vehicle will certainly be equipped. What were originally considered to be luxuries are now becoming standard in most new cars, such as brake assist, adaptive cruise control and stability control.

Many manufacturers are also adopting more eco-friendly measures, meaning the latest models are more fuel efficient and have cleaner engines with low emissions.

The case for buying used Any given model of a secondhand car will be less expensive than its brand new counterpart, and saving money on a used car could offer affordability of a slightly better or nicer model.

A new car begins to depreciate the moment it is driven out of a showroom and it’s thought that within the first year of its operation, a new car could lose as much as 40 per cent of its original value. With a secondhand car, there is no such loss of value.

You might not be able to build your car to order, but there might be certain features available in second-hand cars that are no longer made, and so are only available in older models, such as an interior or wheel design. Moreover, your savings will allow you to afford a car with higher specifications than its brand new counterpart.

With a second-hand car comes a lot less mental stress. Consider the number of times you passed on a good parking space just because, for some reason, the risks seemed higher parking in one spot and not another.

Or your frantic reaction upon realising there’s a minor scratch in the paint of your brand new car as against buying a car with a minor chip already.

We tend to be a lot more careful and cautious when driving a new car, which is all good and positive, but could also be an extra hassle. This does not imply one should treat a secondhand car carelessly, but there’s certainly a lesser concern with keeping it impeccably new because, put simply, it isn’t.

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ISSUE 81 - February 12, 2014

PHOTOS BY Lionel galea

Tasty temptations The chefs of the Pegasus at Hotel Phoenicia whip up a culinary storm with three delicious yet easy-to-follow recipes, sure to impress even the most skilled and experienced foodie.

Lobster and Prawn Ceviche with Mascarpone and Red Bell Pepper Foam INGREDIENTS 1 lobster tail 2 red prawns Juice of 1 lemon 1 tbsp chopped chives Pinch of cayenne pepper 1 tbsp chopped coriander 1 tbsp mascarpone cheese ¼ fennel bulb 2 leaves Savoy cabbage 1 tsp olive oil 1 shallot 1 clove garlic 1 cup white wine 2 cups chicken stock 2 peeled red bell peppers Salt and pepper

Method 1. Mix the lemon juice, olive oil, cayenne pepper, chives, coriander, salt and pepper in a bowl. Dice the fresh lobster tail and red prawns into small cubes and marinate in the mixture for 30 minutes.

half. Add the chicken stock and reduce by half. Place the mixture in a food processor and blend well. Strain the blended mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl. Add 3 tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp lecithin granules, and blend until a light foam forms.

2. Finely slice the fennel and Savoy cabbage. Place them in ice water and leave them to soak.

To serve: Drain the finely sliced fennel and cabbage, and place them in two martini glasses. Mix the marinated lobster and prawns with mascarpone, and mould it in the martini glasses to form the Ceviche.

Place the foam on top of the Ceviche.

3. Heat the olive oil in a pan and sauté the garlic and shallot. Add the red peppers and cook until soft. Add the white wine and reduce by

Fillet of Veal, Ragù of Veal Sweetbreads, Leeks and Chanterelle Mushrooms with Madeira Jus INGREDIENTS 1 fillet of veal 1 handful sweetbreads 1 finely chopped shallot 1 finely chopped garlic clove ½ sliced leek 1 handful chanterelle mushrooms 2 tbsp olive oil 1 small knob of butter Juice of ½ a lemon Seasoned flour 1 cup Madeira wine 1 cup beef stock Method Rub the fillet of veal with olive oil and fresh thyme. Heat some olive oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Sear the veal on all sides until brown. Place the fillet in a heated oven at a temperature of 130˚C for 25 minutes.

Bring a small pot of water to the boil and add the lemon

juice. Add the sweetbreads and poach for 5 minutes.

Cool the sweetbreads under running water and peel off the membrane and any fat deposits. Slice the sweetbreads in ½ inch slices. Heat a tbsp of olive oil and butter, add the shallot and leeks.

Lightly flour the sweetbreads, add them to the shallots and cook for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and fry for another 2 minutes. Mix in the chanterelle mushrooms. Immediately, add the Madeira red wine and reduce by one third. Add the beef stock and reduce to the desired consistency.

To serve: Slice the veal and season with salt and pepper.

Place the ragù at the centre of a plate and set the veal on top.

Drizzle the Madeira jus around the meat.

Hotel Phoenicia A great weekend is in store for Valentine’s Day at Hotel Phoenicia, starting with a fantastic Valentine's night dinner. In Malta’s buzzing culinary scene you may want to treat your love to the 'in-place' right now, with Valentine’s as the right reason to pay a visit. Phoenix, within the luxurious cloisters of Hotel Phoenicia, lets Executive Chef Saul Halevi exercise his culinary imagination for lovers. Phoenix is meticulously set up with everything from the sumptuous decor and comfortable chairs, to the memorable dining experience with four exquisitely developed dishes to tempt your palate, a wine list of impeccable credentials and live music from jazz duo Godwin Lucas.

Phoenix has been the place for generations to pop the question, and its romantic credentials exert their authority by happily married couples returning to their favourite venue to celebrate their togetherness over an intimate Valentine's dinner. Phoenix is utterly romantic, with a vintage aesthetic, spacious dining, friendly staff and a unique take on classic dishes. An unmistakably inviting atmosphere overlooking 7.5 acres of private garden is hard to come by, in which to stroll in the moonlight with your loved one either before or after dinner.

For further information visit www.phoeniciamalta.com or www.facebook.com/phoeniciahotel

Iconic five-star Hotel Phoenicia, ranked in Malta's top 3 Most Romantic Hotels in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice’ Awards, is rolling out the red carpet to romance with a special four-course Valentine’s dinner at the Phoenix.

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Blood Orange SoufflĂŠ Ingredients 55g butter 55g flour 150g milk 20g sugar Juice of 2 blood oranges Zest of 1 blood orange 4 egg whites 2 egg yolks Method Pour the milk into a medium sized saucepan together with the butter, sugar and orange zest. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon over a medium heat until the butter is completely melted.

Once the mixture comes to the boil, turn off the heat. Gradually add the flour and mix well.

Leave the mixture to cool. Add the egg yolks and orange juice, and mix well. Whip the egg whites, in a separate bowl, to a stiff peak and fold into the mixture.

Pour the mixture into four ramekins till they are three-fourths full. Place them in a bain-marie.

Put them into a heated oven and bake for 20 minutes at a temperature of 180ËšC. Serve immediately, accompanied by ice-cream.

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wine & dinE Check out our recommended restaurants.

Vermell Bistro Get ready to take a bite out of Vermell – meaning red in Catalan – which best describes the red theme which flows through our bistro, creating a warm ambience. Tucked away in a relaxed corner of St Julian’s, Vermell has an extensive glass facade and one can enjoy the gorgeous view of Spinola Bay from within or from its outdoor terrace. Our menu focuses on Mediterranean cuisine and our signature dishes are made using fresh local fish, seafood and different cuts of meat. We strive to offer our customers genuine food, efficient and friendly service with a smile, and most importantly, a dining experience worth remembering.

Open Monday to Saturday for dinner from 6pm onwards and Sunday for lunch from noon onwards (Sunday dinner and lunch during the week by reservations only).

Vermell Restaurant, Spinola Bay, St Julian’s. T: 2137 5567; M: 7944 6158/7902 0991.

palazzo preca Palazzo Preca has been awarded twice as one of the best 40 restaurants in Malta since recently opening in November 2012. Palazzo Preca is situated in charming Strait Street, within a beautiful 16th-century palazzo. We specialise in local and Mediterranean cuisines and offer an extensive and creative menu featuring mouth-watering choices of food, as well as daily specials on the board and home-made desserts. Professional, dedicated and attentive staff will help you to ensure that your visit to Palazzo Preca is a completely enjoyable experience. Wednesday night is our special night as we turn off the lights and the restaurant is lit up entirely by candles, creating an intimate and romantic ambience.

Open all week except Monday all day and Sunday evening during winter. Bookings are recommended.

Palazzo Preca, 54, Strait Street, Valletta. T: 2122 6777; M: 9986 6640; www. palazzoprecarestaurant.com

Sa Re Ga Ma Authentic Indian Cuisine for Valentine’s Day Once again, Sa Re Ga Ma, now rated 13th among all restaurants in Malta & Gozo, has been confirmed as the best Indian restaurant in Malta. This Valentine’s, dine in a tranquil and romantic ambience. Sa Re Ga Ma is located in the tropical gardens of the Fortina Spa Resort, ideal for a romantic night out, accompanied by authentic, mouth-watering Indian food.

Sa Re Ga Ma offers diners the opportunity to indulge their senses in authentic Indian cuisine that is drawn from a variety of Indian regions. A special Valentine’s menu will be available on the night, and so will our popular à la carte menu. Besides a variety of chicken, lamb, prawn and fish dishes, we also offer an extensive selection of vegetarian dishes. Great care and attention is paid to ensure that each dish is freshly prepared with the finest quality authentic Indian herbs and spices. And, in keeping with traditional Indian food preparation methods, food is cooked in Tandoori ovens.

Free parking at The Point. Make it an Indian Valentine’s night!

Sa Re Ga Ma Indian Restaurant, Sliema. M: 9949 2513/9903 2951.

browns “One of the nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever we're doing and devote our attention to eating” – Luciano Pavarotti... and Browns Kitchen Malta is the place to do so.

Original, exceptional and tasty food is served every time – that's our commitment.

Since December 2012, Browns’ new management and its team have been striving to deliver the best quality food and service possible in order to satisfy all of our customers in all aspects. We specialise in fresh fish, premium cuts of Irish beef and much more.

We cater for all kinds of occasions including staff parties, birthday celebrations, bachelors’ and hens’ parties, large groups and any other functions where we provide tailor-made set menus depending on our customers’ budgets and requirements. Seating is available inside and outdoors, enjoying breath-taking views of the Grand Harbour.

Open: Monday to Sunday from 10am till late. Kitchen open all day. T: 2122 7410/2702 0471; www.browns.com.mt; facebook.com/brownswaterfront

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Affordable luxury

Floral delight Spring is marking its oncoming presence with the celebration of Valentine’s Day, as Malta will be splashed with bursts of red and hearts. Giving out gifts to our loved ones on this day has become quite the tradition.

Some people opt for fresh cut roses, others for longer lasting gifts such as red flowering plants or actual rose plants. But keep in mind that just like pets, plants should be given to those who have time and patience to care for them.

So this Valentine’s Day, opt to be different! Come visit us at Piscopo Gardens, where we will offer advice and suggest something different to surprise your loved one with on this magical day. The traditional red roses will still be available should you wish to stick to old roots.

Open seven days a week including public holidays between 9am and 6pm, you will find everything you need for your garden and pets.

Pets should receive some love too this Valentine’s, and if you’re thinking about giving your beloved a Labrador puppy, or maybe a furry chinchilla, consider that animals given as presents often end up unwant-

ed! Instead give some information to help your loved one make a wise decision and help them cover the cost of a future adoption. Pets are ours for a lifetime, and need love and care just like all of us.

Piscopo Gardens, Tony Camilleri Street, Burmarrad. T: 2158 3755; E: info@piscopogardens.com; www: piscopogardens.com

Alfred Hili & Co Limited was incorporated on 11th February 1977 and started trading on 1st May 1977. In the late 1950s Mr Alfred Hili became Messrs Friedrich Grohe’s agent in Malta.

This was later transferred to the company on its incorporation. The company is now being

run by his great grandchildren, Alfred and Michelle Spiteri Hili, with the help of their parents, Irene and David.

Alfred Hili & Co Ltd is the sole agent of Grohe and operates within the premises of 17, Guze Galea Street, Qormi. The company distributes to many outlets in Malta including one run by the sister company A&M Hili Ltd at 334, Manwel Dimech Street, Sliema.

Both premises offer high-end quality sanitary fittings at prices to suit all pockets, ranging from the humble Grohe Eurosmart to the striking Grohe Allure Brilliant and the beautiful Grohe Grandera, with an official Grohe five-year guarantee on all models.

Customers can take advantage of regular deals for complete bathroom or shower-room sets, that are offered on basic models as well as higher range models.

Many also benefit from the company’s remarkable aftersales service, and advice and provision of parts for even older fittings.

17, Guze Galea Street, Qormi.

T: 2123 4527/2144 4669/ 2723 4527; E: alfredhili@onvol.net

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