Best Buy April 2015 by Content House

Men

From the classic stripe to enduring and hard-wearing denim, Sarah Micallef sheds light on the ultimate menswear trends for spring 2015, that should feature in every male’s wardrobe this season. PAGE 5 >

BEST BUY YOUR MONTHLY SHOPPING GUIDE DISTRIBUTED WITH THE TIMES

Be aware of what you eat and enjoy it

Issue 95

April 2015

IN THIS ISSUE...

HOMES Martina Said discusses the pros and cons of the most popular flooring options for the home, ranging from hardwood and engineered wood to laminate and classic ceramic. PAGE 7 >

MOTORING

More than just gluten-free We are becoming increasingly critical of what we eat, and the number of people who have to leave certain substances out of their food is steadily increasing. You want to know exactly what the ingredients are, but above all, which ones are not included.

– besides gluten – may vary from product to product. The icons on our packaging make it clear beyond doubt which substances are excluded from our products, in keeping with prevailing legislation and/or analysis limits, if any.

Sarah Micallef looks into the DemoEV project aimed at achieving electromobility in Malta, as well as other options to reduce CO2 emissions on our roads. PAGE 19 >

Spoilt for choice

People are deliberately searching for 'free from’ products. Some do so because they wish to decrease, or totally eliminate, the consumption of certain substances, or because they do not want to eat food that was genetically engineered. Others do so because they are allergic or sensitive to certain substances and are therefore seeking, for example, gluten-free, lactose-free and/or other egg-free products.

The Peak’s Free From range boasts over 30 different products which are always on the increase in order to offer you a great variety to choose from to accompany you throughout the whole day, including crisp breads, snacks, cereals, pastas, sauces, spices, breadcrumbs, couscous, quinoa, cakes, pancakes and bread mixes, as well as many different types of flour.

All Peak's Free From products are gluten-free. In addition, they often also exclude other allergens such as egg, dairy, wheat and GMOs. The substances that a Peak's Free From product excludes

Imported by J. Calleja Caterers & Wholesalers Ltd. T: 2152 3865/2752 3865; E: info@jcallejaltd.com; www.jcallejaltd.com; fb: facebook.com/J.Calleja

Eating & Drinking Chef Johann Chetcuti of 717 Bar & Grill in Mellieha prepares a threecourse feast for meat lovers. PAGE 20 >

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Foreword

Editor’s Letter After what seems to have been a never-ending winter, it is time to shed some layers and welcome the arrival of spring in all its glory. For the stylish and trend-seeking men out there, we’ve researched the musthave spring trends of 2015 in the world of men’s clothing and accessories. From the revival of the classic stripe to the popularity of versatile denim, this year’s spring trends should

appeal to a variety of tastes (see page 5). If you’re currently in the process of setting up your home, you’re likely to find this month’s articles dedicated to the home immensely useful. Turn to page 7 for a broad feature on the various flooring options available for the home, including pros and cons on each kind that might tip the

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

Publishers

scales and help you make up your mind if you’re struggling to decide between one and another. Continue to page 11 for a good look at how best to integrate statement pieces of furniture inside your home, and how to protect these precious items to ensure their longevity.

Content House Group Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel. T: +356 2132 0713 F: +356 2132 0714 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt EDITOR Martina Said Contributors Sarah Micallef, Jo Caruana Advertising Publication Sales Manager Mark Barbara Advertising Sales Executive Caroline Gauci

NEXT ISSUE:

Advertising Sales Coordinator Lindsey Ciantar

06.05.15 DOn'T MISS IT

DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar Printer Progress Press Ltd

Colour Fest: The colours of spring 17-19 April Scouting for youths Since the founding of the Scout Movement in Malta in 1908, scouting has been one of the most active and strongest youth organisations on the island, run by volunteers at Group level right up to Association level. Scouting is an adventure for young people – it provides fun, friendship and challenge, and helps them develop their skills and talents. The aim is to encourage the physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual development of young people so that they may achieve their full potential and as responsible citizens, improve society. Our age

specific programmes are based on a set of learning objectives which are organised in six areas of personal growth known as the SPICES – social, physical, intellectual, creative, emotional and spiritual – each of the areas contributes to the development of the person as a whole and all are equally important.

If you wish to know more about scouting, get in touch on E: info@scout.org.mt or visit our website www.scout.org.mt

Join us at Valletta Waterfront between 17th and 19th April for a fun-packed weekend for the whole family. The iconic coloured doors of Valletta Waterfront, with their artistic impression of colour, have been the inspiration for this event, and together with the historic Grand Harbour will serve as a backdrop for your weekend. Activities include live bands, spring/summer

fashion shows, children's crafts and entertainment, and more. Parking at Valletta Waterfront has never been so easy with both free and flat rate parking available.

For more information visit www.vallettawaterfront.com/colourfest

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MEN BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

The ultimate menswear trends for spring

Ben Sherman at IQ BayStreet:

The advent of spring brings new season trends to look forward to, and is the perfect time to have a little wardrobe clear out to make room for some great new pieces you’ll be loving in the coming months. Sarah Micallef discovers the menswear trends for spring 2015 that should definitely be on your radar. STRIPES

An enduring staple in menswear collections, particular in spring and summer, the stripe is once again everywhere this year, stealing the spotlight at Gucci, Jonathan Saunders and Emporio Armani among others. Adorning everything from tailored pieces like smart trousers and shirts, as well as more casual styles, this season’s stripe is thick, bright and bold, bringing a modern twist to this timeless pattern. For a laid-back summery look, team a classic Breton tee with tailored chino shorts and loafers, and for an evening look that’s a little more polished, go for a pair of slim pinstripe trousers with a navy blazer and a crisp, white shirt – timeless and striking.

DENIM

The versatile and hard-wearing fabric that has come to represent a solid foundation in wardrobes everywhere: denim is being celebrated on the runways of a variety of designers from Tom Ford to Gucci this spring/ summer season. This season’s take on denim comes in doubling or tripling à la Tom Ford’s spring 2015 collection, which featured denim shirts worn with jeans, topped with a classic blazer. Another way to modernise your denim is through another trend that featured prominently this season: patchwork, as seen on Folk and Dsquared² runways. A great rule of thumb here

is never to skimp on denim – it makes for a good investment and goes a long way.

RED

If Dolce & Gabbana’s matadorthemed collection is anything to go by (and it is), red is the new breakout colour of the season, and looks set to be the definitive colour of spring/ summer 2015. With a variety of shades from blood to brick to choose from, red is certainly a statement colour, yet tends to suit most skin tones and works really well both within casualwear and smarter attire. The safest way to incorporate red into your look is by going for one key piece paired with neutral colours, but if you like to take fashion risks, why not try a deep red suit for your next special event? Team with a crisp white shirt and pair of black leather loafers for the ultimate in stylish dressing, and you’re sure to stand out from the crowd.

FLORALS

I know what you’re thinking – ‘florals for men?’ – but hear me out. Florals have slowly but steadily gained ground within menswear collections in recent years, to the point of being considered essential within the contemporary gentleman’s wardrobe in 2015. One of the leading highend brands responsible for the floral takeover is Givenchy, with a vast array of high-street labels following suit. A range of unique takes on the pattern will enable you to find a floral motif that identifies with your style, but if you’re in need of a little inspiration to make this look work, check out the collections from A. Sauvage and Topman Design – both feature some great floral ideas.

SUNGLASSES

With warmer weather and the sun making more of an appearance, spring is the perfect time to update your sunglasses. While their main aim is protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, there’s no harm done in looking good while you do it. The season’s favourites include mirrored frames, the ever-popular wayfarers, vintage-looking round frames, wrap-around sunglasses and D-frame sunnies. Choose a style that suits both your face shape and personality, and you’re onto a winner. BB

Now having existed for five decades, the Ben Sherman shirt and brand have been adopted by almost every youth culture or style movement of the last 50 years, from the mods, to two tone, to Brit pop and is today still worn by current bands and style leaders. Ben Sherman not only created clothing history with his Ben Sherman shirt, but he created a way of thinking that has helped create a global brand today. His passion for original thinking and rejecting the normal and mundane has left a legacy that can still be witnessed today. The Ben Sherman shirt is an icon and there is simply nothing quite like an original Ben Sherman shirt. IQ, Level 0, Baystreet Shopping Complex, St Julian’s.

Chivas Regal Extra:

As the newest member of our family, Chivas Regal Extra will satisfy the desires of the discerning whisky drinker with something exceptional – deep in aromas, rich in fruitiness and generous in sweetness. It’s created with an exceptional blend of rare whiskies combined with malt whiskies aged in sherry casks from the Oloroso sherry bodegas in Spain. The colour is dark in shade with a warm amber glow. The nose is fruity sweet with notes of ripe pears and melon, creamy toffee, milk chocolate, cinnamon and a hint of ginger. It tastes of sweet ripe pears in syrup, vanilla caramel, cinnamon sweets and almonds in the background, finished with a beautifully rounded mouth feel, leading to a long, luxuriant sweet finish. Chivas Extra is marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Co. Ltd. Trade enquiries T: 2381 4400.

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HOMES

BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

The vinyl flooring from Parador is extremely durable, comfortable and stylish. Due to its easy-care properties and resistance to damp, it is perfect for bathrooms, kitchens and also high traffic commercial areas. It comes in a variety of wood décors, surface textures and plank widths. Parador is available exclusively from Brands International.

Elevated floor decking:

Picking the perfect floor From hardwood and engineered wood flooring to the increasingly popular laminate and classic ceramic flooring, Martina Said discusses the stand-out features of different flooring options for the home.

etting the foundations of your home right is a fundamental part of doing up or renovating any space, and selecting the best flooring option is certainly an important part of that process. As with many other decisions that need to be made while setting up your home, picking your preferred choice of flooring can be daunting – not only because you need to live with the chosen flooring for a long time, but because the final choice should rest on a balance of personal taste and practicality, and it’s easy for one to override the other. The flooring you choose will be a surface that you, your family, children, pets and guests will walk, stand and sit on, therefore asking yourself a few key questions before parting with your money will help make your choice easier, reduce your worries and increase your long-term satisfaction with the final product.

Assess the amount of traffic expected to cross the floors and (roughly) how many people will be using the room on a daily basis. Take note of whether the floor is likely to be exposed to moisture, how often it will need to be cleaned and how long you would like it, or expect it, to last. For the kitchen, durable and easy-toclean flooring should be a priority, placing ceramic and laminate options at the top of the list, while flooring for the bathroom should be able to withstand high levels of moisture, therefore ceramic, laminate, limestone or granite are all viable options. Want to more know about the most popular choices? Keep reading.

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring is widely known for its wonderful aesthetic and durability. Its classic look means it could harmonise with a variety of home styles and architectural themes, and it creates a warm and stylish atmosphere that is unlikely to ever go out of fashion. The style choice for hardwood is vast, but the most popular species

Andrew Vassallo General Trading Ltd has one of the best decking and raised flooring systems used internationally, comprised of wood, stoneware tiles and composite. These systems are supported by polypropylene screw jacks which can take a load of one tonne on each pedestal, and are adjustable, enabling the finish floor levels to be on the same level as inner rooms. We supply various quality brands and promise a high level of professionalism to our customers. For more information, get in touch on T: 2169 2917; E: info@andrewvassallo.com; www.andrewvassallo.com; fb: facebook.com/andrewvassalloltd

Art at Home:

‘Art at Home’, established in 1985, is today one of the leading furniture companies on the island, specialising in the production, importation and sales of high quality furniture and other household decorative items. Art at Home enjoys a competitive edge in terms of product choice, quality, design and price, and keeps in line with the fashion trends and latest designs in classic, rustic, modern and contemporary furniture. Visit the showroom at Mdina Road, Attard. T: 2141 7402; E: artathomeltd@gmail.com; fb: www.facebook.com/artathomeltd

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HOMES wood and it is also particularly suitable for use over concrete floors and in kitchens. Engineered wood makes for a versatile product, and can be nailed, glued or installed over a composite surface. It is also being manufactured to be ‘selflocked’ into place, which makes for an interesting DIY project if you enjoy getting involved in the construction of your home.

include oak, maple, walnut, ash and beech, although you could probably order a specific regional variety from a local agent if you so wish. Look out for certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI) to make sure the wood you’re buying is harvested from sustainably managed forests. The best aspects about hardwood are undoubtedly its visual appeal and its great resale value, while also being easy to maintain and keep clean. It is recommended to lay hardwood floors in the living room or bedroom, or in areas that are not as high-traffic as the kitchen, in order to protect the wood.

The greatest drawback of this kind of flooring is its price – besides being costly, you’re likely to require professionals to install it, which means you’ll have to fork out a significantly greater sum of money. If you’re dead set about having it in your kitchen, however, be sure to guard it with a good protective finish against moisture and staining.

Engineered wood

Engineered wood is the closest you’ll get to real wood without paying the full price, although close enough. It features a top veneer of real wood backed by layers of cheaper plywood. Its construction makes it more stable and less susceptible to climate changes than solid

Laminate flooring

This kind of flooring is a lot more low maintenance than solid wood, and comes in an extensive variety of styles, colours and patterns. It is similar to engineered wood in that the top layer is backed by layers of plywood or compressed material, but the main difference is that the top layer is not real wood but a plastic coating applied over an image of a wood pattern. Technology has rendered this kind of flooring to look similar to real wood or other materials such as stone or stained concrete, and it is often indistinguishable. Laminate flooring comes in tiles or planks, and can be installed directly over concrete or old existing flooring.

One of the best aspects about this type of flooring is that it does not scratch easily, which makes it a good choice for pet owners, and is easy to maintain and keep clean. It does tend to get damaged with standing water though, so you’ll need to watch out for leaky appliances as if it gets ruined it cannot be refinished, unlike real hardwood. It is suitable for high traffic rooms due to its durability, but not ideal for rooms that are exposed to moisture often, such as the bathroom.

Ceramic

The variety of ceramic tiles on the market is extensive in terms of size, style, colour and finish. The price also varies significantly between products, and requires professional installation, but has numerous noteworthy features which make it a popular choice with many homeowners. Ceramic tiles are durable, resistant to water and scratches, resist most dents and are fairly easy to clean and maintain. Additionally, their versatility means you could opt between a choice of finishes and materials such as marble, porcelain, slate and granite.

On the down side, however, tiles are more susceptible to cracking than most other materials and are difficult to repair when they do – you’ll probably need to rope in the help of professional installers to replace cracked tiles, which means it’s best you have a number of spares just in case. You’ll also need to clean the grout every now and then as it stains quite easily. Since ceramic tiles are water resistant, they are best installed in a bathroom or kitchen, and hightraffic areas call for stronger ceramic as not all tiles are equally wear-resistant. BB

TOP TIP Concrete flooring, which is increasingly gaining popularity, offers the industrial look that many people are after these days, and comes in a good selection of colours and finishes. Be aware, however, that it can cause leg and back discomfort after prolonged standing, which is worth bearing in mind when deciding which room to apply concrete flooring to.

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HOMES

Protecting your furniture

Using furniture to make a statement Statement pieces of furniture can give a special focus and add flair to any given space within your home. Sarah Micallef discusses how best to integrate statement pieces with other furniture items in your home, as well as how to go about deciding which piece to place at the centre of everyone’s attention.

dding a statement piece of furniture to a space can do double duty – work towards adding interest to an otherwise minimal room or bring a sense of cohesion to a room that bears lots of elements. One piece, if chosen wisely, can make all the difference and dramatically change the look of a space, and it need not break the bank – there are lots of options when it comes to repurposing or altering existing furniture and turning it into something unique and special. A single piece of furniture can make a statement and stand out in a space if it is oversized, a bold colour, covered in a wild pattern or an odd shape, and can be anything from a striking coffee table or a coloured sofa to quirky kitchen cabinets or an alternative light fixture. You can make the piece the focal point in your chosen room by placing it in a prominent position that draws the eye upon entering the space. Not sure where that position is? Enter your room with your eyes closed. The

first area that catches your attention when you open your eyes could be the perfect spot to try. Another way of making a piece of furniture a statement is if it varies in style or timeperiod from the rest of your décor – a design trick that requires a good eye but looks stunning if pulled off well. Decorating using mismatched furniture styles and colours looks fresh but can be difficult to achieve, and you need to know what you’re doing when attempting to mix antique, modern and traditional design to keep it from looking chaotic. Successful pairings are often down to contrasts – mixing hard with soft, square with round, clean with decorative. A popular trend at the moment for example is combining a rustic look using natural textures with antique salvaged finds like vintage chrome chairs – the contrast between the two offsets the other beautifully.

Colours also need to be carefully considered: if you’ve decided to paint your walls in a bright colour for example, use a neutral or deep coloured carpet or piece of furniture to anchor and temper the effect. Mismatched colours when it comes to traditional furniture ‘sets’ are also trending and can really add an interesting element to a space – think chairs painted in a fun colour like yellow or powder blue around a natural wood dining table, for example. You can also create a statement within your space by using another decorative element: an interesting art piece. Selecting an oversized piece of art is a guaranteed way of making it stand out, but it isn’t the only option available. Make a statement by choosing a piece which features colours that don’t appear elsewhere in the room, or that makes use of text or provocative subject matter that draws the eye. Lighting an art piece is also a way of drawing attention to it, while setting it apart from the rest of your décor by mounting it on a wall on its own will serve as a statement in itself. BB

Making sure your furniture lasts a long time is important, particularly if you’ve shelled out a lot for a must-have statement item, or you’re looking to protect pieces that are close to your heart. The good news is that a little maintenance and forward-thinking makes looking after your treasured possessions quick and easy. Install blinds: Light from the sun’s rays is not only harmful to your skin, but could also fade or damage furniture. Installing blinds can prevent this from happening, protecting your furniture from unsightly discolouration. Give it a good polish: Certain materials like wood require a little maintenance to keep them looking in tip-top shape. Pay attention to any special care any of your pieces require and dedicate a little time to giving them a good clean, stain or polish every so often. Pay attention to upholstery: While upholstered items like chairs or sofas need not be cleaned very often, giving them a good steam clean once in a while will not only eliminate any dirt or odours, but will also restore their vibrancy and make them look as good as new!

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WINDOW SHOPPING

Battling hair loss or dandruff? Dalan Antique might just be your secret solution. Dalan Antique 100 per cent pure olive oil soap is a natural beauty habit of Turkish bath culture and continues to be produced with the traditional handmade methods used over the past 70 years. Dalan Antique is made from pure Mediterranean olive oil, which also gives the soap its natural colour. In order to ensure sustainable quality, Dalan produces its own olive oil and saponifies its soaps in house. Thanks to the repairing properties of olive oil, Dalan Antique moisturises and nourishes your skin, and it is also suitable for all hair types – it has been proven to prevent dandruff and hair loss by an Independent International Accredited Laboratory* and can help your hair regain its beauty and natural softness upon continual use.

*Using Dalan Antique for four weeks has been proven to be effective against hair loss and dandruff by an Independent International Accredited Laboratory.

Dalan soap is only available from hairdressing salons, beauty salons and pharmacies. For more information on the product and trade enquiries, contact Mark Navarro Hairdressing. T: 2134 4563; M: 9943 1964; fb: DalanAntiqueMalta

Bin it or Let your rug talk recycle it? about you How does one determine whether to bin waste or to recycle it? Waste which is contaminated with food, especially dairies, must be washed prior to entering the recycling bag, and this without wasting too much water! Well practically everything can be recycled given the right infrastructure, be it waste to energy or recycling of materials. Some European countries have approached the zero landfill level. But to be fair they started way ahead of us Maltese and their state-of-the-art waste management facilities are the envy of those working in the waste sector. Green Skip Services has started the journey of diverting waste from landfill to a waste treatment facility 23 years ago. Pioneering waste management in Malta, the company introduced the concept and the methods of an at source waste segregation.

Until recently our choices in terms of warm floor coverings were restricted. But not any more. Today carpets and rugs are evermore accessories that add colour and charm to the environments in which they are inserted. And as we are unique, we have full control to have that unique carpet that resonates with us in terms of colours, design, material and size. The 100 per cent customisation of our carpets is a reality. We can choose our rugs of bamboo silk, banana fibre, linen, jute, sea grass, silk, wool, viscose, polyester or revolutionary materials like micro-fibre or recycled denim, military tents or bicycle tubes to mention a few.

We can choose the colour combination we like. We can come up or choose the design that is ‘us’, made of the material that we wish most and above all in the exact size that we require. At Maltarugs we offer you the full freedom to present us your design, or choose among thousands of ready designs; we offer the widest choice among hundreds of shades of fashionable colours, different materials to be used to obtain the right feel and the exact measurements that you require. Now you may cover your floor with that carpet that makes a statement about you.

101, Psaila Street, B'Kara. T:2702 5702; M: 9982 2866; www.maltarugs.com

How sweet are you? Diabetes is a disorder of the metabolism and the body has trouble using glucose for energy. When we eat, our body breaks down foods known as carbohydrates into glucose, which is sent to our cells through the bloodstream.

Managing diabetes requires the careful, regular and frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels along with the appropriate therapy and diet as prescribed by your physician.

When our body’s systems detect glucose in the blood, an organ called the pancreas releases an appropriate amount of a hormone called insulin. Insulin makes it possible for our cells to absorb glucose and provide the energy our body and brain need to function.

Contact Technoline Ltd on T: 2134 4345.

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COMPANY REVIEW

PHOTOS BY Matthew Mirabelli

Charles Pace & Christopher Pace, Directors at Mosta Auto Dealer

Third generation auto dealers

ollowing a decision to make a radical shift from catering to second-hand car sales, Mosta Auto Dealer was established in 1969 by Charles Pace and his father John Mary, who previously owned Castille Bar and Canberra Restaurant in Valletta. Climbing up the ladder from washing and polishing cars to managing the business and building a reliable reputation and an esteemed clientele along the way, Charles Pace has since seen Mosta

Auto Dealer expand into an innovative multi-storey car display establishment, which he now runs alongside his sons, Christopher and Karl. Having spent much of his childhood surrounded by second-hand cars, Chris joined his father’s business just shy of nine years ago. “I was always interested in the car business,” he says. “I spent a lot of time here with my father as a child and was keen to involve myself and bring fresh ideas and ways of working to the table as soon

as I started working full-time.”

Chris attributes the company’s strength to their ability to source low-mileage, one-owner cars which are under five years old from the local market, through their long-standing relationships with Malta’s leading brand agents. “We pride ourselves on holding a stock of pristine vehicles which we can offer to our clients at very competitive prices – so much so that it would be more expensive for them to import the same car from the UK

themselves, as the trend has been for the past few years now,” he says.

Another extremely important factor, according to Chris, is aftersales service, which Mosta Auto Dealer is widely known for. “We strive to make sure that every client is happy with the entire purchasing experience and go out of our way to solve any aftersales problems which commonly arise when dealing in the second-hand market. The quality of both our cars and our service is top priority for us,” he maintains. Explaining that the market in which they operate is a competitive and everchanging one, Chris adds that at Mosta Auto Dealer, other car dealerships are not their only competition – they must also contend with a rising number of private individuals who personally purchase and import vehicles themselves. “We not only compete with other businesses but also with people who, instead of buying from a dealer, choose to import cars for themselves and even

cars to sell on themselves in many cases.” So how does the company stay ahead of the competition in such a climate? “Keeping our business attractive to customers, offering great deals, and making people realise it makes more sense to buy from a reputable dealer is quite challenging,” Chris maintains, “but it is something I am proud to say we achieve here on a daily basis.” Looking towards the future for Mosta Auto Dealer, the directors’ plans are true to their goals throughout the company’s 45 years of existence: “to continue providing the best service and vehicles for our clients, while keeping up to date and relevant in the ever-changing and tricky market which we operate in.” BB

Mosta Auto Dealer, 139, 163, Constitution Street, Mosta. T: 2143 3255/2143 3887/ 2143 1825; M: 7748 0422; www.mostaautodealer.com

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LIFESTYLE

TREAT YOUR FEET RIGHT AND THEY WILL TAKE YOU FAR!

LIVING OR WORKING ABROAD?

Knee pain, lower back pain, flat feet, bunion, arch pain, ankle sprains, metatarsalgia, shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and many more problems can be solved by a pair of custom-made insoles. After consulting with a fully qualified podiatrist and undergoing a foot scan, a pair of tailor made insoles can be made to put your body in its natural alignment. A pair of good insoles re-aligns your natural foot posture, distributes foot pressure and gives more stability and support to the foot and ankle bones, thus alleviating problems in other parts of the body.

You can now stay tuned to all your favourite Maltese TV & radio channels with up to seven days catch up, including hundreds of movies and TV series on demand with our new IPTV Box, which only requires an internet connection. Exclusively at SHS Ltd, 28, Triq Il-Qasam, Swieqi. T: 27/2137 6584; M: 7949 0008; E: piop@onvol.net/shs2@onvol.net; www.shsmalta.com

One4all Gift Vouchers – the Ideal Gift for Every Occasion

Hilltop Garage Professional services at reasonable prices under one roof: • We specialise in Japanese cars but also repair any other cars • Professional panel beating and spray painting services • 24 hour towing service • Suppliers of parts required for repairs • Free on-site surveying of damaged cars • AA insurance approved

Amrita Footcare & Wellness Centre, 6271, Giovanni Papaffy Street, Ta' Paris, B'Kara. T: 2122 3665; M: 7922 3665; www.amritamalta.com; fb: Amrita Footcare and Wellness Center

• We accept company contracts • Oven baked spray painting and windscreen repairs • Plastic bumper repairs and body modifications • Toyota repairs specialists Mention Best Buy and you will be entitled to a 10 per cent discount

Hilltop Garage, Car Crash Repair Centre, Triq Gharram, Zebbug. M: 9987 3827; E: htp@maltanet.net

Buying the right gift for your loved ones, friends or colleagues could be quite complex and time consuming. All the time and effort spent in trying to buy the ideal gift could end up being disappointing as the person may not like your choice. One4all Gift Vouchers is the answer – let them choose the ideal gift from over 500 shops and service providers, where there is sure to be something for everyone. Buy them from Fexserv, MaltaPost, Authorised Selling Agents or www.one4all.com.mt

BEST BUY RECOMMENDS STUNNING SELECTION OF HOUSES OF CHARACTER SELLING AT BEST BUY PRICES Frank Salt Real Estate Ltd is currently offering a very good selection of converted and unconverted houses of character (HOCs) in Mosta, Naxxar, Zebbug, Siggiewi, Zurrieq and their surroundings. This charming, converted HOC in Ghaxaq is one such example. Selling at a bargain price of €163,000, entrance is through a shared walk way which opens up onto a private courtyard. The property also consists of a kitchen, dining area, reception, study, bathroom, two bedrooms and another living room at second floor level leading onto two side terraces. The property is freehold.

The House Shop Visit The House Shop and take a look at this distinctive sofa bed with its unique shape and great functionality, which can improve the use of space in your home. You will be entitled to a 15 per cent discount on the Debonair Sofa bed on presentation of this advert. Opening hours: MondayFriday 9am-7pm; Saturday 10am-6pm.

Contact us at Frank Salt Real Estate Ltd for more information, or to view similar properties, on T: 2379 4794; E: fs@franksalt.com.mt; www.franksalt.com.mt

The House Shop, Abate Rigord Street, Ta’ Xbiex. T: 2133 4226; fb: The House Shop Interiors

Il-Mithna

Micallef Gardens

Il-Mithna is one of Malta's longest established soft furnishing retail outlets, offering a large selection of curtain fabrics to suit all budgets, among many other products. A professional in-house sewing service is also available.

Contact us for all your floral needs ahead of Mother's Day! From a personalised bouquet of fresh flowers for that special occasion or for your loved one, to domestic, commercial and public projects, look no further than Micallef Gardens.

Now also available from Il-Mithna is a wide range of roller blinds, zebra blinds, venetian blinds and vertical blinds.

• Landscape design & planning • Water irrigation systems • Pool & terrace design • Roof gardens • Selection of plants, trees & flowers • Seasonal fresh flowers • Garden cleaning & maintenance • Tree pruning & grating • Antiinsecticide spray (with license) • Fire logs for fireplaces • Free on-site consultation • Unbeatable prices

Free onsite consultations available. Il-MITHNA (Bonnici Textiles Ltd), 200, Naxxar Road, B'Kara. Contact us on T: 2144 5051/2744 5051/2144 4782/2148 6206; F: 2144 0598; E: clayton.bonnicitextiles@go.net.mt/bonnicitextiles@go.net.mt

Contact Micallef Gardens on M: 9945 3468; E: micallefgardens@hotmail.com; www.micallefgardens.com

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APRIL 2015

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MOTORING

Working toward a cleaner road transport system Sarah Micallef looks into the DemoEV project aimed at achieving electromobility in Malta, the benefits and feasibility of electric vehicles locally, as well as other options in reducing CO2 emissions on our roads, including gas conversions.

alta’s DemoEV project, which stands for ‘Demonstrating the feasibility of electric vehicles towards climate change mitigation’, is aimed at leading a number of actions to achieve electromobility in Malta, in a bid to reduce emissions and achieve a cleaner road transportation system. The main objective of the project, as the name implies, is the introduction and promotion of electric vehicles in the Maltese islands by exhibiting their feasibility, thus providing a means toward meeting 2020 climate change targets. The pilot project saw electric vehicles, namely the Renault Kangoo, Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Renault Fluence, being driven by private citizens and companies for free with the aim of testing, evaluating and publicising various

factors relating to achieving electromobility. The longterm goal is the reduction of our dependency on internal combustion engines which currently contribute, in no small part, to the deterioration of air quality within various localities around the Maltese islands, and thus create carbon neutral transportation which is powered by energy produced by photovoltaic (PV) panels. There are various environmental and personal advantages to having an electric car as opposed to a fossil fuel-powered vehicle. Firstly, while an electric vehicle essentially looks the same (excluding the tailpipe and gas tank), a look under the bonnet will tell a different story. In place of an engine sits an electric motor which requires far less maintenance – necessitating no oil changes or tune-ups. The electric vehicle’s battery acts as its gas tank, and provides the

energy required for the vehicle to move. When the car is idle therefore, no energy is wasted. The majority of the other features, like the transmission, brakes, air conditioning and airbags in an electric car are the same. The benefits are indeed substantial, with the majority of electric motors able to travel up to 150 to 180km between charges; producing no exhaust (meaning no noxious greenhouse gases); no oil consumption leading to less reliance on fuel; having long-lasting batteries which make them more cost-effective; possessing fewer moving parts, which makes them cheaper to maintain; and creating less noise pollution due to their silent engine. Aside from electric cars however, other solutions toward achieving a cleaner road transport system exist,

including an array of small cars which are designed to be both powerful and more efficient than their larger counterparts, as well as the possibility of converting existing cars to more efficient consumption, such as gas. With the first gas filling station having been installed at Malta International Airport in 2012 and various others following suit (in Rabat and Swieqi), and scheduled to follow suit (in Xewkija and Naxxar), Autogas vehicle conversion, which enables a car to run on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is fast becoming a viable option locally. While a number of car manufacturers including Citroën, Fiat, Ford, Hyundai, General Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda, Tata Motors, Toyota, Volvo and Volkswagen produce bi-fuel models which run on both LPG and petrol, it is possible for petrol-engine cars which

have not been fitted with LPG systems by their manufacturers to accept third party systems which enable them to run on LPG or petrol. In fact, over 95 per cent of vehicles which run on petrol can be converted to LPG, provided that the car uses a fuel injection system, with the conversion comprising a one-time expense constituting the installation of a sequential kit, extra fuel tank and a switch that enables the driver to switch between tanks. The future seems to well and truly be here when it comes to realistically achieving a CO2 emission-free Malta. With major milestones and developments in motion, it is certainly encouraging to see the importance being given to attaining a cleaner road transport system, which will undoubtedly benefit us in our lifetimes, as well as the generations to come. BB

APRIL 2015

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EATING & DRINKING

PHOTOS BY ALAN CARVILLE

A feast for a foodie Chef Johann Chetcuti of 717 Bar & Grill in Mellieha prepares a three-course feast to the delight of meat lovers with a curious appetite.

Pulled chicken poppers

INGREDIENTS 4 chicken legs 200g sliced onions 10g smoked paprika 5g ground coriander 5g ground cumin 10g ginger powder 5g garlic powder 10g fine salt 100g grated cheddar 100g cream cheese 100ml vegetable oil Extra oil for frying For the batter 500g dry breadcrumbs 200g plain flour 6-8 eggs

Serves 4

Method Wash the chicken legs and pat dry with a kitchen towel. Rub the legs with the oil and all the dry ingredients. Put the onions in a deep dish and place the rubbed legs on top. Cover well with foil and place in the oven for two hours, gas mark 140Ë&#x161;, to braise. Once cooked, leave to cool enough to handle and remove the legs from the dish. Put the cooking liquid and onions in a pan and reduce by half. Meanwhile shred the meat off from the bones and add to the reduced liquid. Put all in a bowl, and in a separate bigger bowl, put some ice and water. Proceed to put the mixture bowl in the ice to cool, and once cold, add the shredded cheddar and cream cheese to the mixture. Form the mixture into 12 balls and place in the freezer. When frozen, dip the balls in flour, followed by beaten eggs and finally bread crumbs. Fry the breaded balls in oil until cooked through.

APRIL 2015

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EATING & DRINKING

Grilled pork chop with honey mustard mop sauce and pumpkin relish Serves 4 Ingredients 4 pork chops 10g ground ginger 5 sprigs fresh thyme For the pumpkin relish 1kg pumpkin 500ml cider vinegar 175g sugar 3 cloves 3 cardamom pods 2 cinnamon sticks 2 star aniseeds 1 bay leaf 150g onions For the mop sauce 40g English mustard 15g honey

Method Start by making the relish. Put all the ingredients (except for the pumpkin and the onions) in a pan and simmer until reduced by two thirds. Meanwhile, peel and clean the pumpkin and onions, and dice evenly, and place them together in a dish. Roast in an oven at 200Ë&#x161; for 10 minutes. Pass the vinegar reduction through a sieve in a clean pan. Add the roasted pumpkin and onion to the reduction, bring to a boil and allow to cool. Heat the grill until it reaches a high temperature. Proceed to rub the pork chops with the ground ginger and fresh thyme leaves, and grill. Next, to make the mop sauce, combine the mustard with the honey. When the pork chops are cooked through, brush them with the mop sauce and serve together with the relish.

Sticky toffee pudding with candied bacon Serves 4 Ingredients For the pudding 225g dates 175ml boiling water 175g self-raising flour plus extra for greasing 1tsp bicarbonate of soda 3 eggs 90g butter plus extra for greasing 150g brown sugar 20g honey 100ml milk For the toffee sauce 180g brown sugar 60g butter 250ml cream 10g honey For the candied bacon 8 rashers of bacon 50g brown sugar

Method Stone and chop the dates, put in a bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Leave to soak for 30 minutes until cool. Heat the oven to 180Ë&#x161;, next butter and flour four baking tins and place them on a baking tray. While the dates are soaking, mix the flour and bicarbonate of soda together, and beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Beat the butter and sugar together until creamy. Gradually add the eggs, beating well, and proceed to fold in the honey, flour mixture and milk gradually until all the ingredients are mixed together. Pour the mixture into the moulds and bake for 30 minutes. Lay the bacon rashers on a baking tray and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and discard any fat. Sprinkle with the brown sugar and bake again in the oven for 15 minutes. Once done, set aside and allow them to cool. For the sauce, put the sugar and butter in a medium pan together with half the cream. Bring to the boil, stirring all the time until the sugar has completely dissolved. Stir in the honey and simmer for a further three minutes, until the sauce obtains a toffee colour. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the rest of the cream. Remove the puddings from the oven and leave to rest for five minutes. Put on a plate and pour the warm toffee sauce over them, and garnish with candied bacon flakes.

APRIL 2015

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WHERE TO DINE

YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE DE ROBERTIS Open: Monday-Sunday 12-2.30pm, 7-10pm. Castille Hotel, Castille Square, Valletta. T: 2124 3677/ 2124 3678/2122 0173; F: 2124 3679; E: info@hotelcastillemalta. com; www.hotelcastillemalta.com

Il-Veduta Open: daily 11am-11.30pm. Il-Veduta, Is-Saqqajja, Rabat. T: 2145 4666/2145 3656; Deliveries: T: 2145 5500; E: info@veduta.com.mt; www.veduta.com.mt

The Oracle Casino Bistro Entry requirements: Maltese must be over 25 years old and foreign nationals must be over 18 years old. Proof of ID/Passport will be required on the first visit. Oracle Casino Bistro, Islet Promenade, Qawra. T: 2157 0057; E: win@oraclecasino.com; www.oraclecasino.com

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

De Robertis is one of the longest established restaurants in Valletta. Located across the road from Auberge de Castille, the restaurant is well-known for its refined cuisine at affordable prices. The open-air terrace dining area enjoys spectacular views of Valletta, the Grand Harbour and surrounding towns, providing a very romantic setting at night with the glimmering lights of the towns beneath. The menu includes a fusion of Italian, Mediterranean, French and local cuisines, all beautifully presented to patrons in a lavish way by our friendly staff, making De Robertis definitely one of the best venues for an informal business lunch or romantic dinner in Valletta. We also cater for group lunches and staff parties with set menus, tailor-made to the clients' tastes and budget.

Unparalleled views As the name implies, Il-Veduta is blessed with unparalleled views of two-thirds of Malta, directly overlooking the countryside and distant sea. Situated just outside the fortifications of Malta’s old capital, Mdina, the restaurant has become a household name among families looking for the perfect Sunday lunch venue. The spacious establishment, with indoor and outdoor seating, is split on three levels that can cater for large groups of up to 300 people. The third floor can be used for private functions of up to 100 people. The diverse menu consists of a vast selection of delicious Mediterranean fare, with a variety of starters, pizzas, pastas and grills, all modestly priced. Il-Veduta also offers a delivery service, for customers to enjoy the enticing menu from the comfort of their homes. Delivery menus can be viewed on Veduta’s accessible website.

The Oracle Casino Bistro is open daily for dinner from 7pm till midnight. Reservations are recommended. Look out for special promotions given regularly at the Bistro. The Bistro is also open daily for lunch from 12pm till 3pm. The lunch set menu is only €5 between Monday and Saturday while the Sunday buffet lunch is only €10. On Wednesday we serve our fabulous buffet for €7. Take time out to enjoy the Oracle Casino Bistro, a place to relax and catch up with friends. The Bistro is a modern, city-style restaurant within the casino itself. We have created an à la carte menu which blends the flair of international dining with the distinct colours and flavours of the Mediterranean. Choose from a variety of antipasti, pasta dishes and fresh fish to a selection of contemporary specialties and grills. With regular themed evenings and nightly live entertainment, the Oracle Casino Bistro provides a unique combination of two nights out in one, offering the fun of the casino and the pleasure of dining.

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 stunning area was recently discovered by Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, who used part of the Ta’ Cenc terrain for their movie set ‘By the Sea’ and the Kantra Lido as their hideout. Enjoy a breath-taking view of the Maltese islands while visiting il-Kantra Restaurant for lunch or dinner, and tuck into a variety of Sicilian and local dishes, with fresh fish and tender meat specialties. Booking is recommended.

APRIL 2015

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APRIL 2015