Best Buy February 2015

ISSUE 93

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FEBRUARY 11, 2015

your MONTHLY shopping guide distributed with The Times

IN THIS

HOMES.

WEDDINGS.

INTERVIEW.

FUNCTIONAL FEATURE WALLS

THE FINAL TO-DO LIST

MEET ACTOR CHRIS DINGLI

ISSUE...

Insulate your home

Win a PAMPERIN G PACKAGE FROM CARISMA SP & WELLNE A INTERNAT SS IONA on pg 16 L

TRAVEL. EASTER ESCAPES

Give your pets the best For cats – The Scoop Free Cat litter tray is finally available in Malta. This is the only selfcleaning litter box you can leave alone for weeks at a time. With the Scoop Free Cat litter tray, there is no need to touch, empty or clean your litter box for up to 30 days.

For small dogs – Royal Canin Light Paté has been specifically formulated for small breed dogs with a tendency to put on weight and has a low calorie and high fibre content.

Royal Canin Mature +8 Paté has been formulated to stimulate the appetite and to help support vitality in ageing small breed dogs.

Insulate your home this winter and reap the benefits all year round. Eliminate problems such as damp walls and mould by simply covering your existing wall with Jabor, a prefabricated insulation board which will insulate your rooms from cold and heat, avoiding the structural framework by simply gluing the boards to the wall. Jabor comes in standard gypsum board sizes of 3m by 1.2m and can be as thick as required on order. A 30mm thickness is recommended as a minimum for effective insulation.

Jabor has been developed to be used both in new buildings as well as to be retrofitted in order to insulate our homes and save on energy bills. As well as being an effective sound insulator, an even, flat and clean surface is ensured thanks to the gypsum, eliminating all imperfections.

Available from Bitmac Ltd, Tal-Balal Road, l/o Naxxar.

T: 2141 8411/2/3; E: info@bitmacltd.com; www.bitmacltd.com

Claim your free meal today. Send an email to mail@borgcardona.com, write ‘Best Buy’ in the title and include your preference between Royal Canin Light Paté or Royal Canin Ageing Paté and let us know your address. We will send you a free voucher that can be cashed at your favourite pet shop.

Convert to LPG with Autogas

Convert to LPG and save on your fuel costs, saving nearly half the price while reducing emissions. We use the latest OBD with an adaptive fully sequential autogas system with special zero maintenance injectors for a smooth and

perfect running performance.

A warranty of two years is offered on the system and covers both mechanical and electrical parts, while the warranty of injectors is of 100,000km.

We are authorised by the Malta Resources Authority to install LPG conversions and issue installation certification upon job completion. A government grant of €200 is offered on

every installation, and if the vehicle is registered after 2009 a reduction of 10 per cent from the CO2 may reduce the license cost. You can also benefit from very low interest rates with ECO loan monthly payment terms.

Acheck Ltd, Triq tas-Sriedek, Mosta. T: 2143 2656; M: 9944 1297; www.autogas.com.mt

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Embracing February This month’s edition of Best Buy is brimming with fun and exciting reads, starting with an interview with the muchloved and accomplished actor Chris Dingli on page 20, who’s been cracking up audiences since his teenage years.

In keeping with the amorous mood this Valentine’s Day, we’ve invited two lovely couples to share their wonderful

marriage proposals with Best Buy readers, which you can find on page 4, that stand to prove without a shred of doubt that romance isn’t dead.

Browse through an informative article on feature walls for the home on page 9, with tips and suggestions on how to integrate a stand-out feature wall into any room in your home, making it memorable yet complementary and in keeping with current trends.

From travel and weddings to handy advice for a fulfilling retirement plan, we hope you enjoy this issue of Best Buy.

LAST MONTH'S WINNING LETTER: The winner of last month's competition is Maria Calleja, who is keen to add a beautiful plant and pot kindly provided by Derek Garden Centre to her living room plant collection, which benefits from lots of sunlight and welcomes numerous guests.

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

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

Low cost skiing on Mt Etna Get up bright and early, and make your way to the Virtu Ferries Terminal to catch the 6.30am ferry to Pozzallo; by 11am you could be skiing down the slopes of Mt Etna.

You will find all the standard skiing facilities on the slopes at Mt Etna, including ski rentals and ski-schools, nursery slopes for beginners and very importantly high-tech state of the art ski lifts.

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

T: +356 2132 0713 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt Advertising Publication Sales Manager Mark Barbara Advertising Sales Executive Caroline Gauci Advertising Sales Coordinator Lindsey Ciantar DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar

NEXT ISSUE:

Printer Progress Press Ltd

DOn'T MISS IT

11.03.15

This is skiing as you know it up north, but with a difference. There is the thrill of skiing on a volcano, while the sight of the glimmering Mediterranean Sea as

you glide down the slopes is a sight to be remembered.

You can easily make a day, a couple of days or a weekend out of this experience, and remember that Catania is under an hour away, while enchanting Toarmina is just over 30 minutes away.

Virtu Ferries offers a schedule that gives you the widest choice on what is comparatively the most inexpensive and diverse skiing holiday.

Virtu, Ta’ Xbiex Terrace, Ta’ Xbiex.

T: 2206 9022; E: admin@virtuferries.com

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VALENTINE'S.

Will you marry me?

With Valentine’s Day soon upon us, love is in the air for couples, with some even planning to propose to their better half on the feast of romance. To celebrate, two happy couples relive their emotional wedding proposals with Sarah Micallef.

Maxine & Nathan Brimmer After going out for a couple of years, Nathan Brimmer got down on bended knee while he and Maxine were on holiday in Venice, then aged just 21 and 22.

Nathan decided to propose a week before going on holiday, but while many plans came to mind, a few had to fall through before all the ingredients were just right. “My first plan was a ‘tower view of the city’ attempt. It failed. The tower was closed the week we were there. That was followed by a further failed ‘romantic gondola ride’ (an argument over ludicrous pricing was hardly the romantic lead up to a proposal). It was in the Guggenheim museum that I threw caution to the wind and winged it,” he recalls.

Maria Stivala & Ryan Callus Ryan Callus proposed to his girlfriend of three and a half years, Maria Stivala, while they were in Kenya doing missionary work with Karibu! Malta.

Ryan says “it had been on my mind to propose to Maria for a couple of months before leaving for the trip, but as soon as we arrived in Kenya, it felt like the right place to do so. We were surrounded by so much love and happiness.” While he didn't have a concrete plan as to how he would go about it, Ryan confided his wish with the priest who led the mission on their first night. “He told me, let's sleep on it and organise something discreetly. I had to wait until the last week!” he recalls.

“It was our last day in Kenya and the group of 25 of us were organising a play depicting a traditional Kenyan wedding. We were dressed in traditional attire as the witnesses of the bride and groom, and all the children were wearing orange ribbons,” Maria explains.

The group convinced Maria that it was tradition in Kenya for the witnesses to read a speech, and Maria started by reading a speech about love. Ryan went on to read his speech, and half way through, asked Maria to join him. Before she knew it, Ryan asked her ‘Utani Owa?’ meaning ‘Will you marry me?’ in Kenyan, going down on one knee and repeating the question in English. Maria said yes, and along came Jumbo the pet goat from the nuns' compound in Ruiru, dressed in orange ribbons, with her ring tied around its neck.

Maria looks back on the exciting time, maintaining, “for most of the ceremony, I wasn't sure what was happening, as it was already an emotional day since we were leaving the children that afternoon. Once I realised what was going on, I got very emotional. It felt surreal!”

As for Ryan, a mixture of emotions was going through his head. “I knew Maria would say yes, but Fr Carm had joked about what I would do in the event she said no… this made me nervous. In the end, the plan worked well, with some tweaking. Coordinating 100 children turned out to be a nightmare so I left it to spontaneity. What mattered most was that we succeeded in giving the children an unusual experience, the group a closing off event, and in our case, a moment to cherish for a lifetime.”

It was a chilly January day, and the pair had been wandering around the city for five days. Maxine muses, “in retrospect, Nathan had been acting a little bit strange at the time.” They decided to visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. “We were wandering through the garden inside the museum’s gates and looking at the sculptures when we came across a very old olive tree in the far corner. The Wishing Tree, as we learned it was called, had small slips of paper tied all over its branches, where people had written their wishes. We stood there for a while reading the wishes that people had left,” Maxine recalls.

“Nathan is very good at reading my moods and must have sensed how I was feeling, because he turned to me and asked what I was wishing for. I felt a little silly, but I told him that I wished we’d be happy together for a very long time. He smiled at me and said that it was a good wish, then got down on one knee, pulled out a ring and said he wished that I would marry him.”

Looking back on what was going through her head at that emotional moment, Maxine maintains, “it all happened so quickly that I didn’t really have time to process what was happening. Just before he popped the question I was feeling very warm and peaceful, and I was just happy to be standing there sharing this nice moment with the person I love. When he actually asked, I burst into tears and couldn’t answer straight away. I think that threw him a little. I’m not sure if I actually ever said the word ‘yes’ or if I just nodded incoherently until he put the ring on my finger!”

It was certainly a relief for Nathan, who had prepared himself for anything. “Every scenario played in my head. Every single one. If she had turned into a lemur and flown off, I’d like to think I was prepared for the eventuality. That didn’t stop the sheer panic of making sure I worded it right and timed it perfectly,” he says.

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VALENTINE'S.

GIFT IDEAS Derek Garden Centre

MICHAEL KORS LEXINGTON CHRONO A classic gold-tone watch for everyday use: the Lexington collection from Michael Kors. Designed with the aspirational man in mind, our Lexington watch takes sleek and streamlined to a whole new level. The bevelled gold-tone stainless steel bezel and bracelet strap provide tactile texture while the date function and chronograph dials complete a dynamic piece. Whether you’re wearing it en route to a business meeting or boarding a flight to the Maldives, the effect is refined for all manner of occasions.

It is a special day to express your love. Surprise your special one with a bouquet of fresh roses on St Valentine’s Day. The rose has long been a symbol of love and passion; the ancient Greeks and Romans associated roses with Aphrodite and Venus, goddesses of love. Used for hundreds of years to convey messages without words, they also represent confidentiality.

Available from SUNLAB (Bay Street - Gozo - Iklin - Paola - The Point - Valletta) and VIP boutiques (Sliema and Valletta).

Send your love by ordering online now at www.derekmalta.com. We will do the rest for you.

FOSSIL TOWNSMAN AUTOMATIC WATCH

Clèment This Valentine’s Day treat the special woman in your life to a set of gorgeous Jessica Jewels 925 silver bangles, adorned with natural stones giving them a modern yet classic look that will guarantee she’ll stand out from the crowd. Starting from €179.95.

From desk to dinner, daily commute to jet-set journey, think of Townsman as his best-dressed essential.

Crafted with an exposed automatic movement, it's a sleek, pulled-together style that never takes itself too seriously. Available in a white and black dial.

Available from SUNLAB (Bay Street - Gozo - Iklin Paola - The Point - Valletta) and VIP boutiques (Sliema and Valletta).

B'kara Bypass, B'kara. T: 2149 4654.

Clèment

Baci Perugina

Surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a set of beautiful bangles.

Stunning cubic zirconas are used to clad these Jessica Jewels 925 silver bangles – and they make the perfect accessory for any outfit.

Nothing says ‘I Love You’ better than BACI® Perugina®.

Wish your loved one the very best this Valentine’s Day with this cute and cuddly plush toy.

Accompanied by some delicious BACI® Perugina® chocolate pralines, he’s just waiting to be hugged!

B'kara Bypass, B'kara.

T: 2149 4654.

Baci Perugina chocolate is available in leading supermarkets and grocery stores. Fb: BACIPeruginaMalta

Challenger Fitness Centre

The Bearded Man Company

Taking the challenge.

At Challenger Fitness Centres we believe in giving our clients the choice to work out at the time and location that best suits their lifestyle, which is why we have four strategically placed gyms in Qormi, Paceville, Cottonera and Valletta – with early opening hours and late night closings.

If you’re looking to purchase a unique and unexpected gift for your significant other this Valentine’s Day, head over to one of our outlets for a thoughtful gift voucher.

We are offering new recruits a special price of just ¤170 for a one-year subscription. T: 2149 7265; E: challengermalta@hotmail.com; www.challengermalta.com; Fb: Challenger Gym

Our beard oil is a multi-purpose miracle worker. Crafted with clean and natural ingredients, every bottle is free of the questionable chemicals often used in the beauty industry.

It truly takes care of everything, from intensely conditioning to moistening, leaving your beard smooth and nourished.

Our range contains no nasties, plenty of ethics and fabulous ingredients.

Available from leading barbers. Call on M: 9947 2152; www.cortexltd.com

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HOMES.

Make a statement Looking to add a little interest to a boring space? Or would you like to section off an area within a large open-plan room? Sarah Micallef discovers how introducing a feature wall can be both stylish and functional, while making a cool design statement in your home.

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f you’re looking for a quick, easy and affordable way to inject a little vibrancy and make a statement in your home, a gorgeous coat of brightly coloured paint will instantly boost any room; but if you’re worried about it being overpowering, introducing a feature wall, or a statement wall, as it is also called, will allow you to add colour and

personality without having to go the whole hog. What’s more, feature walls are bang on trend in interior décor right now.

A feature wall in your living room, bedroom, bathroom or even kitchen could add as much character as a statement sofa or luxury coffee table, but paint is not your only option. Numerous creative

alternatives are possible, be it simply a contrasting colour, patterned or textured wallpaper

to complement your décor, or adding drama with innovative lighting and commanding

attention with a work of art.

You can also do the reverse to make the wall stand out, by painting or wallpapering the surrounding walls and leaving your feature wall plain.

While the point of introducing a feature wall is for it to stand out, it is important that it also ties in with the theme of the space, and complements the general design, colour and decorating motif you already have laid out. Additionally, while a feature wall can serve as a focal point to your room, it can also serve to transform the space if planned out intelligently – giving it a larger, wider, cooler, warmer or more intimate appearance, depending on your needs.

Indeed, a smart designer will always use a feature wall to enhance a room’s best assets, and sometimes even downplay any of its weaknesses. Uneven walls, for example, can be disguised using a bold floral design, while stripes can provide a great optical illusion, increasing the feeling of space.

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ADD CHARACTER To ANY ROOM wITH A STATEMENT FEATURE WALL Continued from page 9

Your chosen accent colour could also impact the mood of your room, so be mindful of the colour you go for and what the space will be used for.

Bright and bold colours infuse energy and vibrancy, which would work well for a living room or kitchen, while soft, tonal colours lend themselves well to the calming, relaxed atmosphere you’d want in your bedroom.

Whether you’re opting for adventurous or toned down in terms of colour, a common use for feature walls within the modern home is to anchor or define separate areas within larger, open-plan spaces. You can choose to highlight a particular wall in your living room so as to define a reading corner, for example; or a feature wall in your kitchen can be used to section off the dining area. When selecting which wall you are going to use as your statement, or where you are going to erect a gypsum partition as a feature wall, it helps to remember a general rule: feature walls should be centred on a focal point within the room – think chimney breast, TV or your bed’s headboard.

Cool ways to define your feature wall How do you go about choosing how to define your feature wall? Here are some top tips for inspiration.

Try using different paint sheens for a subtle appeal. Since low sheens are usually used on interior walls, using a mix of low and high sheen can make a great statement. Paint your feature wall in a high sheen paint to make it stand out.

Choose the colour of your feature wall to complement a prominent piece of artwork you will display on it. If you’ve got a treasured oil painting you’d like to show prominently for example, lift a colour from the painting to use on your wall.

Replicate the colour of your feature wall across the room using accessories like cushions, curtains and plant pots. This will ensure it ties in with the rest of your décor while still making the statement you intended.

Take the design concept outside by using a feature wall to partition off areas within your garden, or as a backdrop for water features, planters, sculptures and espaliered plants.

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PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY ONE TWO ONE INTERIORS

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HOMES.

Getting it right with home apertures Martina Said discusses aperture solutions for the home as well as the latest trends in curtain fabrics.

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hether constructing a brand new home or renovating an existing one, it is sometimes assumed that one is knowledgeable about all aspects related to the house, even if it is not one’s area of expertise. In relation to home apertures in particular, this is often the case, but in truth you are most likely unable to determine which types of apertures are best suited for the different rooms in your

house. Choosing the right aperture for your home, however, could mean all the difference between a well-insulated space and an energy-efficient one, or not. It is wise, therefore, to rope in the experts to help you make an informed choice. Here is a run-through of the most commonly used materials available on the market.

the most resistant and hard-wearing, and require significantly less maintenance in comparison to wooden ones. Aluminium is also the preferred choice for many a contemporary home for its aesthetic value, allowing for very slim frames on doors and windows that come in a range of finishes.

It is widely agreed that aluminium apertures are

In general, a variety of materials can be used for apertures, but sometimes it is a must to use specific materials.

For instance, in the case of a building exposed to prevalent high wind forces, heavy doubleglaze panels in certified heavyduty materials should be used.

In such cases it is even more important that sliding profiles should have the function of a lift and slide, so that when the doors are not in function wheels are supported.

Aluminium is considered among the best options as it is virtually immune to moisture and rot, and is rather reasonably priced. It is durable, and can be produced in a variety of colours. High-quality PVC apertures, on the other hand, make for great insulators, resist condensation and will not distort when exposed to extreme temperatures.

If you need to use wood apertures in keeping with the style of your home, it is recommended to opt for softwood options, which require a bit more upkeep, but are cheaper than hardwood frames

and tend to retain their quality and visual appeal.

Alternatively, opt for the best of both worlds with an aluminium exterior and wood interior; offering the benefits of seeing the beauty of the wood inside, whilst the aluminium exterior bears the brunt of the elements.

Skylights, which form part of the family of apertures, are well worth considering when constructing your home. Their benefits are numerous, one of the main ones being cost savings on electricity and heat.

Natural light provides warmth and ambience – as a result, rooms which feature a skylight require less artificial lighting and possibly less heating as natural light increases the average temperature of that room.

Skylights also offer a perfect bridge between the indoors and outdoors, allowing one to feel more connected to nature. Therefore they also offer physiological benefits, as increased exposure to sunlight increases the production of Vitamin D as well as serotonin, responsible for increasing positive feelings and good energy levels.

Dressing those apertures Curtains and blinds do not just play a decorative role in your home – they are as functional as any appliance in helping to keep rooms warm and cool throughout the year.

Jonathan Bonnici at One Two One Interiors says the choice of fabric is an essential part of the process of choosing curtains, as the material will dictate how Continued on page 14

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CURTAINS AND BLINDS PLAY A FUNCTIONAL AND DECORATIVE ROLE IN ANY ROOM Continued from page 13

well your curtains function and hold up over time.

“If curtains are too heavy, they may not fold crisply when drawn; too light and they may not fall well. I always suggest holding fabrics up to a window, even in our fabric showroom itself and pleating them like an accordion at the top and letting them drape to see if the effect is the one you are after,” he explains.

“Sunlight will fade fabrics over time. If the room gets a lot of light, it's smart to avoid bright colours, since they tend to fade faster. In general, neutral colours are less likely to fade and more likely to blend into a room’s décor. Linen, silk, faux silk and velvet are best choices for window treatments since they tend to hang the best and some of these fabrics can also help keep out the cold and protect you from the heat during warmer days.”

Jonathan adds that the length and width of an aperture also need to be factored in when deciding how to dress it. “With length, one ought to keep in mind that hanging panels higher than the window will give a sense of height to the room. We normally recommend that you hang curtains about 20cm above the window frame, but for a dramatic look, some go higher. For a more traditional look, you might consider having your curtains puddle on the floor by adding 5 to 10cm to your length. For a modern, crisp look, have the panel fall flush with the floor.

With respect to width, be sure to add 15 to 30cm on both sides. This ensures the curtains will not block a lot of window glass when they are open, and will not get in the way. In addition, if you plan to use the curtains to shut out the sun, those extra centimetres around the perimeter of your window frame will also help block out any creeping light.”

CURTAIN fabric trends Jonathan Bonnici at One Two One Interiors says the current trend is the use of a curtain as a tool to enhance the design of a space. “As a result, we are seeing many contemporary, open-plan living, dining and kitchen areas featuring just sheer curtains to soften the link between inside and outside. This in turn has brought about a growing supply of textured sheer fabrics in different blends of linen, silk and polyester as well as many new motorised blinds options for use within such open-plan living spaces.

The most style-savvy homeowners are also embracing more muted colours and even folk- and floral-inspired prints.”

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WEDDINGS.

Wedding fever With only a month or so to go before exchanging vows with your significant other, excitement and anticipation are at their peak, and the list of final preparations is rather long. Martina Said rounds up some of the most important tasks to set straight before ‘the’ day.

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any a married couple would easily admit that the last few months prior to their wedding day were a rat race of sorts – lots of calls to be made, appointments to be attended and general things to be organised. Well, it appears that organisation plays a key role in the success and smooth running of your wedding, and the easiest way to stay on top of things is to keep a dated list with a countdown of things to

be done before the big day.

So, in case you miss anything, here’s our pick of fundamentals a month prior to your wedding.

Meet the suppliers Begin by calling up all your suppliers to set up a final meeting or to fine-tune all details over the phone. If there are complicated specifics involved, then it is always recommended to meet in

person, including the florist, ceremony officiate and photographer. If you’re unsure of still-negotiable details, such as changing a song or two from the list supplied by your band or must-have shots that you forgot to mention to the

photographer, run them by a trusty confidante who will help you settle your concerns and make up your mind.

By this point, your hair and make-up trial should have been done and dusted, but

it wouldn’t hurt to call the hairdresser and make-up artist one more time to give them a final number of how many people will be getting pampered. Book any final beauty treatments such as a facial or teeth whitening for approximately one week before the wedding, and avoid using any products that you’ve never tested on your skin before, in case of an adverse reaction.

One very important task is a timeline of the day, which will help retain a sense of order in a potentially chaotic situation, such as your preparation time, and the order of events at the reception venue. It is possible for one little glitch to offset a series of other important preparations, so be sure to determine the timing and logistics of the entire day, leaving a ‘time cushion’ in case something goes wrong.

This is also the right time to draft a budget spreadsheet if you haven’t done so yet; and if you have, finalise any pending calculations to make sure you’re a step ahead.

Go through all the contracts you signed and jot down all the payments you’ve made already, after which you can take note of how much you still owe each supplier and by

This month we invite you to write in and tell us why you or a nominee deserve to win a great prize from Carisma Spa and Wellness International.

The first reply will win a pampering package that includes: • Traditional Turkish Hammam full body exfoliation • Traditional Turkish Hammam full body foam massage • Hair shampooing • Detox tea • Complimentary use of spa facilities • Three hours free parking The prize is courtesy of Carisma Spa and Wellness International. T: 2376 5524; M: 7936 7373; E: info@carismaspa.com; www.carismaspa.com.

Send your contribution and contact details (name, address and telephone number) by not later than Friday 27th February 2015. Write to: Best Buy Competition, Content House Ltd, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel QRM3000 or email info@contenthouse.com.mt

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WEDDINGS.

“If you’re unsure of still-negotiable details, such as changing a song from the list supplied by your band, run them by a trusty confidante who will help you make up your mind.” when all payments need to be settled. Staying organised this way will undoubtedly alleviate unnecessary stress so close to the wedding.

Test the outfits If you have yet to schedule final fittings with your seamstress, then do not put it off any longer, as alterations and changes take time to be finalised. If you’re having the bridal party’s dresses made to measure, as well as the mother of the bride and any other relatives, do not forget to factor them in and advise them as early as possible of the date and time of their fittings.

Take all items necessary with you to a fitting, including the underwear you’ll be wearing on the day, the shoes and accessories – this should give you a better idea of what you’ll look like on the day, and give your seamstress enough time to make changes if called for.

Once you’re happy with the final result and can take your wedding gown home with you, hang it appropriately according to the instructions given to you, and keep it away from cigarette smoke or cooking smells as they could easily penetrate the fabric. If the bridal party are scheduling their own fitting dates, it wouldn’t hurt to send them a friendly reminder just in case, and to have them try on their outfits for a final time at home after they’ve collected them. This also applies to the groom and groom’s men – if they’re renting tuxedos, you want to make sure they’ve collected the correct sizes and styles which they opted for.

Discuss with the best man to have them all delivered back at once by the return date after your wedding day, to avoid multiple trips.

The seating plan The majority of Maltese weddings involve a church ceremony followed by a standing reception, but seated receptions are becoming increasingly common, which require the necessary task of drafting a seating plan (this is also necessary for the church ceremony). Making use of an electronic seating plan, which you could access for free online, might make your life a little easier, allowing you to

drag and drop names at your own leisure to create different groups. You must also establish an RSVP date of approximately

three weeks before the wedding, giving you enough time to determine the final number of attendance.

Prep time Getting ready with your bridal party and close family is one of the best parts of the whole day, but it could also be a long and tiring one as you’re bound to be up bright and early with a lot of waiting time in between.

It is therefore important to be well-stocked with a host of tasty drinks and treats for yourself and your bridal party to keep you going until the last remaining moments before you

walk down the aisle, especially if it’s true that you don’t get to eat much on your wedding day.

You should also set the stage for a fun environment while getting ready – including a playlist of feel-good music and t-shirts or robes for everyone to wear. This should help you settle your nerves before getting hitched, and remind you that you’re never too old to have a blast.

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WEDDINGS.

PREPARING FOR YOUR BIG DAY

Mellieha Holiday Centre

Sweetness

Where Dream Weddings come true

Would you like a sweet ending to your occasion?

Consider a perfect candy ending, reminiscent of childhood giggles and carefree times, so smiles are a guarantee!

At the Mellieha Holiday Centre, we understand how important this day is for you and this is why we offer attention to every detail, making your wedding a precious day to remember forever. Whether a formal or a more relaxed occasion is what you have in mind, we are happy to create a unique celebration tailored to your individual requirements. The beautifully landscaped grounds, with a delightful view of the Mellieha Church are indeed a perfect setting for the perfect wedding.

We believe that every client is unique, but our passion is constant, while our prices are amongst the cheapest on the island.

Contact us and we can design a candy bar which will surely give your party a perfect ending that guests will simply love.

Contact Inez Cutajar at the Mellieha Holiday Centre. T: 2289 3000; E: info@mhc.com.mt; www.mhc.com.mt

M: 9942 0131/7970 8748; E: Maria.elena.attard@gmail.com

KG Events

Mik’s Garage Organising a wedding or event can be demanding, and that can lead to oversights on the actual day.

KG Events undertakes the whole project and takes the stress away. Promising commitment and an eye for detail, KG Events planners will give you the perfect day you deserve. From your chosen venue to your required transport, we will ensure that every detail is synchronised to perfection.

At Mik’s Garage you can hire an original and exclusive 1947 Rolls Royce convertible which is the only one of its kind in Malta.

Our commitment is evident through the successful weddings and events we have lovingly organised. So with panache and a personal touch, let us do it all for you, because we care.

Also available are the E Class Mercedes, the 1965 Morris 1000 convertible, Austin Princess sevenseater and stretch limousines (including the Hummer), ideal for the groom, prewedding and also as a wedding car. We offer the best service and ensure that your wedding day is a special one to remember. We also offer black taxi service for airport transfers and all kinds of transfers. At Mik's Garage, you will not be disappointed.

E: gattkatia@gmail.com; M: 7761 8905; www.kgeventsandco.com

Mik's Garage, Triq il-Gizwiti, Naxxar. M: 9940 9332/7941 0582; www.theweddingsite.com/miksgarage

Fotogenic Studio

Ice Cool Exhibits

Weddings are our specialisation at Fotogenic Studio, and we cater for any wedding style and adapt to our clients’ needs.

Charles at Fotogenic Studio is the most qualified and awarded wedding photographer on the island. We accept one wedding a day, because we believe in quality and creativity.

We offer our clients original custom-built ice exhibits, whereby we come up with ideas which will reflect the event and make it very special for your guests and yourself.

Fotogenic Studio, 34, Triq il-Ferrovija, Hamrun. T: 2144 5647; M: 7945 1246; E: photos@fotogenicstudio.com

Contact Paul Kind on M: 9903 6901; E: icecoolexhibits@onvol.net

Wedding DJ Service

Steps Ahead Dance Centre

Get in touch to find out more about our wedding DJ service.

A standard package includes: • Five hours of service (which start upon the arrival of the couple at the venue) • A playlist that is tailored to the individual couple’s tastes • Background music available before the arrival of the couple at no extra cost • Smart attire and presentation Any nature or style of wedding can be catered for, and a larger P.A. system can be rented at an extra cost. An overtime charge of €25 per hour will apply if the five hours are exceeded.

Ice Cool Exhibits deliver an hour before your guests arrive, complete with LED lights and crushed ice for dressing.

Our Ice Exhibits will last for several hours whether indoors or outdoors, make a great talking point with your guests as well as a beautiful backdrop for your pictures.

Never miss a chance to dance If your wedding day is approaching and you are worried about that first dance, do not fear. Steps Ahead is here to lead you to the floor, with grace, elegance and style, allowing you to wow your friends and family, and make the most of your big day. We offer you a professional, personalised and competitively priced service. Give us a call today!

The price of our standard package is €240.

Contact Edward on M: 7970 4908; E: ed_tag@yahoo.co.uk

Steps Ahead Dance Centre, Triq In-Nassab, Qormi. M: 7904 7667; E: info@stepsaheadmalta.com; www.stepsaheadmalta.com

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INTERVIEW.

Of Fiddles, Flair and Tomfoolery UK-based actor Chris Dingli lives and works in London but regularly returns to Malta to wow audiences in one cultural initiative or another – the most recent of which was the Comedy Knights’ 12 Months of Funny over the festive season. He tells Jo Caruana about his adoration for all things theatrical, as well as his unadulterated penchant for pizza and ice-cream.

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ou can’t help but look up to Chris Dingli. And no, that’s not because he is particularly tall (he isn’t), but because he is one of the most talented and versatile performers Malta has ever produced.

Having won over local audiences in his late teens and early 20s, Chris moved to the UK 11 years ago to take his theatrical career to the next level. He trained classically at Webber Douglas, one of London’s top drama schools, and has since played lead roles from Shakespeare and other major playwrights in London theatres, as well as across the UK and in Europe, whilst working on film and TV with some of the world’s most recognisable names. He now divides his time between Malta and London, where he lives with his wife and baby daughter.

In Malta he is known for his popular comedy shows, the improvised Dingle Bells Malcolm Smells series with Malcolm Galea and, more recently, the satirical sketch show Comedy Knights.

His latest circus show, The Hogwallops, will tour the UK and Europe in 2015.

Meanwhile, as an accomplished violist, Chris has played as a soloist and with orchestras in London, Italy, Malta and Edinburgh. He has played as a guest with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and on London’s Capital Radio.

Currently, Chris has several very exciting projects on the go too. There’s the film Hackney’s Finest – a darkly-comic British thriller in which he plays Boris, a drug-crazed gun for hire – which will be released in cinemas later this year.

“Plus, I’m looking forward to writing, producing and acting in more Comedy Knights’ productions,” he says with a smile. “Our Christmas show was more successful than we ever imagined it would be. We have some opportunities to create more shows and I’m looking forward to making more people laugh at our brand of humour and satire.”

Finally, Chris is exploring the possibility of revisiting the last project he worked on before leaving Malta in 2004. It is an initiative that will doubtlessly thrill his local fans, not least because it would mean revisiting a past collaboration that proved very popular. “I’d be teaming up with Malcolm Galea again, which is one of my favourite things in life ever… apart from a particular type of ice-cream that is (see below!),” he grins.

What is your earliest memory of theatre?

Going to see the annual MADC panto every year. I remember being transfixed by the story and terrified of the baddies.

One year, I made it onto the stage in the kiddies’ scene. The dame interviewed me and made a joke I didn’t understand. I was then sent backstage with an actor, and I remember being very impressed with what the back of the set looked like. The wooden struts holding scenery in place, the other actors standing around in costume; it was somehow even more magical than what was going on on stage!

The Manoel Theatre’s backstage seemed vast to me at the time. As a performer, I remember being in a school play in Grade 6, and deliberately pretending to slip and fall to get a laugh. I was privately very satisfied when I did.

Can you remember the day you knew theatre would be the career path for you?

I was in the sixth form soirée and suddenly, girls were

interested in me. I took note of that. Seriously speaking, it was more a case of slowly realising that I couldn’t imagine doing anything else for the rest of my life.

I suppose early on it was people like Alan Montanaro and Edward Mercieca who inspired me, then later on people like Tony Bezzina, Chris Gatt, Jes Camilleri and John Rosser. The influence of directors like Chris and Tony was huge, especially Tony. I remain thankful for the opportunities he gave me as a young actor to this day.

Indirectly, then, my music tutor Joachim Atanassov. Much of my professional theatre work in the UK is that of an actor-musician.

Ironically, even though I chose acting over music, I still play for a living. If he hadn’t pushed me so hard to practise and improve as a musician when I was young, I’d have struggled later on in life. I also played the viola to earn money in between acting jobs.

What have been the highlights of your career so far?

The sixth form soirée at Junior College was a turning point for me. Until then, I was determined to become a professional musician. I used to play music at a fairly high level, but somehow, creating something and then performing it in the soirée gave me a thrill I hadn’t felt as a musician.

Another key moment was my first MADC panto. This

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INTERVIEW.

confirmed that theatre was my calling. I was hooked from then on.

My first experience outside of Malta was my time at drama school – two of the most difficult and yet rewarding and happy years of my life. My first job was touring the UK with a production of Terms of Endearment. That was a milestone. I got to experience what it is like to travel with a production, live out of a suitcase in a different town every week, and work in some of the UK’s most famous theatres with some very wellknown, talented and respected people.

How do you spend your down time?

I’m a TV series geek and spend way too much time watching them, and then reading about them in online blogs. I also spend way too much time reading articles on the AV Club website (a TV fan site). Actually, I do read quite a bit offline too. I read approximately a book a week. The kind of book depends on the season: winter is the time for fantasy stories, summer for pulp fiction, spring and autumn are non-fiction.

What's your favourite thing in your whole house?

My viola. I’d literally risk my life to save it.

If you could perform at any venue in the world, and with anyone, who would you pick and why?

There are so many actors, musicians and directors that I’d love to work with, I really can’t choose. So, for the sake of fulfilling a childhood fantasy of mine, I’m going with Monty Python at the Hollywood Bowl or at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

If you were advising a friend to see one annual cultural event anywhere in the world, what would it be and why?

Hey, I’m a working actor. Come and see my next show! And bring a friend. Don’t buy the cheap seats.

What upcoming local event are you most looking forward to?

The next instalment from Comedy Knights – which I am part of – of course.

What would your last meal be?

A calzone pizza with cherry bakewell tarts and a large tub of Ben & Jerry’s Phishfood icecream, plus an espresso. And a limoncello. Or two.

What would you never buy?

I loathe shopping but, if you force me to mention an item that I would never buy above all else, I’ll say a tool kit.

I’m terrible at DIY and a big believer in DFY - Done For You. In fact, as I write, a man is being paid to hook up our new washing machine.

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TRAVEL.

Easter escapes Tired of winter yet? Now is the perfect time to plan a spring holiday in time for Easter. Sarah Micallef discovers the top destinations to visit this Easter.

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aster time generally marks the beginning of spring, and with it, the advent of milder weather. With warmer temperatures and nature being at its most beautiful, it’s the perfect time of year to plan a little getaway – just what you need to do away with those winter blues and have something fun to look forward to!

Netherlands Starting at the end of March and lasting through the middle of May, rows upon rows of blooming tulips characterise the flat Dutch landscape, making the Netherlands a beautiful Easter holiday destination. The majority of the famed tulip fields can be found in the municipality of

Noordoostpolder, which is about an hour’s drive northeast of Amsterdam. Time your visit to coincide with the annual

Countus Tulpenfestival in order to experience the beautiful scenery via special driving, biking and hiking routes. If

you’re keen on heading over to the capital, Amsterdam will also be shedding its winter layers at this time of year. Admire the tulips at the annual Keukenhof flower festival in March, and later on, in April, make sure you don’t miss the outdoor parties taking place in honour of Queen's Day.

Tuscany The beautiful Tuscan landscape in central Italy is a sight to behold as the weather gets warmer, but spring is the ideal time to visit before this popular tourist hotspot becomes inundated with holidaymakers during peak season. Take your pick from the interesting festivals taking place at this time of year, and get a taste of local life at the Festa del Grillo or the Scoppio del Carro in Florence. Cycle or ride a scooter through the rolling countryside of Siena, explore the Tuscan landscape and take a cooking class or go wine tasting, and don’t forget your dose of culture in Florence.

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IDEAL EASTER DESTINATIONS Continued from page 23

PARIS

Mallorca

Looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other? Paris in the spring is a tad cliché, but for all the right reasons. As the city of lovers awakens from its winter slumber, the book-sellers return to their posts along the Seine River, the streets fill with local food markets, and the cafés open their patios for some delightful people-watching opportunities as you sip your coffee and munch a croissant.

This time of year sees Mallorca, often considered Spain’s most popular Mediterranean island, come alive with medieval festivals and traditional spring fêtes. Mingle with the locals and join in the revelry as you experience the processions, reenactments and entertainment the island has to offer. Once there, it is a must to sample the local cuisine, and no visit is complete without a visit to the Serra de Tramuntana Mountains, which have recently been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Prague A visit to the beautiful city of Prague in the spring is ideal – the last of the snow will have melted, and the flower boxes will begin to be filled anew from its flowering magnolia trees. There are also Easter and springtime celebrations to look forward to, including the famed Prague Spring Music Festival and Czech Beer Festival. Apart from being the perfect time to avoid the heavy crowds the summer brings, this time of year also boasts a number of Easter markets, in which you can sample local cuisine and view traditional crafts.

New York If you’re looking to go a little farther for your springtime holiday, the Big Apple is a worthy choice at this time of year. After the chilly winter, New York really comes into its own in spring, with special attractions ranging from the start of baseball season for sports fans to the breathtaking cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Tribeca Film Festival alongside the usual numerous attractions of New York City.

Jaipur The capital of northwest India’s Rajasthan state, Jaipur is often referred to as the Pink City owing to its terracotta coloured buildings; and no time is the city more alive and buzzing than during its annual Holi Festival – the Hindu Festival of Colours – which ushers in spring. Join locals and visitors alike as they participate in riots of colour, and revel in the merriment as you too get pelted with brightly coloured tinted powders and scented water in celebration. If this all seems a little messy for your taste, the city is also famous for its Elephant Festival which takes place at this time of year, comprising festivities including elephant polo and tug-of-war matches.

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LIFESTYLE.

Ready to retire

Whether you’re facing retirement or already enjoying it, this is a good time to think about your options for the future. Jo Caruana looks at what’s out there for those who are 65-plus.

T

here is so much to look forward to in retirement. This is a time for you to take stock of everything you’ve earned and learnt, and to launch into this new stage of your life with zest and excitement.

After all, this is when you will finally have time to enjoy all those things you have been dreaming of. More days with your family? Perfect! Now you’ll be able to treat your children or babysit your grandchildren to your heart’s content. Love travelling?

Well, you’re no longer limited by your annual leave, so simply pack your bags and go! House proud? You will now have ample hours to dedicate to pruning the roses, growing vegetables or entertaining friends.

That said, there are several important decisions to take in the run up to retirement, as well as lots to think about the future.

To begin with, now is the time to get your finances in order. You will need to know your living costs, so work out what you will want and need to live on in the years to come.

Remember to make an allowance for extras, such as holidays, increased utility bills and the fact that you’ll have more time on your hands to go shopping.

Assess what your future income will be. Check with the government to see how much you will be getting from your state pension, and investigate any other savings accounts that you may have. In addition to your general bank accounts, do you have any savings or investment accounts, stocks, bonds, or mutual funds that need to be noted? Make a list of your major financial assets, such as your home, holiday home, jewellery and antiques, so that you know where you stand should you ever need or want to sell them. Finally, know what money you still owe (such as on your mortgage), and have a viable plan for paying it all back – ideally by the time you reach retirement or as soon as possible after that.

It is also important to consider how and where you will live. While your

current property might suit you brilliantly at the moment, will it really tick all the boxes in a few years from now? For instance, do you have lots of stairs to climb to get to the front door, are you isolated from shops or other amenities, and is it really demanding when it comes to cleaning and maintaining the house?

In general, apartment living is better suited to retirees because a smaller, one-floor property will be easier for you to manage.

But, if even that seems a bit much, then you could consider a specialised independent living apartment, which will be tailored to the needs of people who have reached retirement age. These developments, which are usually located close to popular town centres so that you can enjoy getting out and about without having to drive, give you plenty of independence (including your own separate flat and kitchen), and also incorporate key facilities, such as on-site care staff, safety measures and common areas where you can interact with other residents.

Meanwhile, one of the most exciting aspects of retirement for some can be one of the most daunting for others: how will you fill your time?

Well, retirement should be all about you, as this is the time of your life when you can make all the decisions.

Aside from time with family and friends, Malta is awash with clubs and groups that you could join – on everything from arts and drama, to sport, sailing and travelling.

And if you want to interact with other people in your age group, then why not sign up to one of the many day centres on the island? They offer all sorts of benefits, including medical advice, educational talks, days out and welfare services, so you will be safe in the knowledge that you are getting all the assistance you could need.

Finally, be true to yourself! This really is the era in your life that you have worked for, so don’t hold back from doing the things you love.

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EATING & DRINKING.

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PHOTOS BY MATTHEW MIRABELLI

A seaFOOD treat Chef and owner of Pintonino restaurant at the Valletta waterfront, Charles Demanuele, creates a mouth-watering three-course meal especially tempting for fish and seafood aficionados.

Fettuccine with prawns and zucchini Ingredients 500g fettuccine 40ml extra virgin olive oil 1tbsp capers 2 large tomatoes, diced 2 zucchini, sliced 600g fresh prawns

20ml white wine Pinch of salt Pinch of chilli 2 cloves garlic, chopped finely

Method Pour the olive oil in a pan and allow it to heat slowly on a medium fire. Add the zucchini and the peeled and cleaned prawns, and cook for one minute. Add the garlic, white wine and diced tomatoes, and cook until the prawns are no longer transparent. Add some water to the pan if necessary. A few minutes before serving, add the salt, chilli and capers, and stir.

Boil the fettuccine as per the packet instructions.

When ready, mix the fettuccine with the sauce in the frying pan and serve.

Tasty lobster Ingredients 2kg lobsters 4tbsp extra virgin olive oil 300g cherry tomatoes 20ml white wine Dash of water 1 tbsp capers Pinch of chilli Pinch of salt Method Heat the oil in a big pan, then add the capers, salt and chilli.

Heat for a few seconds, stirring continuously. Next add the lobsters, cherry tomatoes, wine and water. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 10 minutes. Once ready, cut each lobster in half, plate the lobsters with the hot mixture and if desired, garnish with some chopped parsley.

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EATING & DRINKING. Decadent dessert Ingredients 530ml milk 4tbsp sugar 35g cornflour 4tbsp cocoa powder 50ml fresh cream, whipped Macaroon, to decorate Method Heat 500ml milk and the sugar in a saucepan until it almost boils, and set aside. Dissolve the cornflour in the remaining 30ml of milk, and add this mixture slowly to the hot milk until the consistency is smooth and creamy. Add two tablespoons of cocoa powder and mix with a whisk.

Take half of the mixture apart and pour it into a glass, and add an additional two tablespoons of cocoa to the remaining cream and mix. Pour this mixture on top of the cream in the glass and leave it to set in the fridge for two hours. Decorate with whipped fresh cream and a chocolate macaroon.

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YOUR RESTAURANT GUIDE L’Aroma

Huan Yuan Cantonese Restaurant

Situated on the Sliema seafront, L’Aroma restaurant is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Malta’s shopping centre. L’Aroma prides itself in the preparation of traditional Mediterranean cuisine using recipes passed down through the generations. The menu comprises a selection of mouth-watering fresh fish, fine meat cuts and pasta dishes all at a great value for money. One of the house specialities, the traditional rabbit dish, is regarded by many locals as the best in town. Whether for a relaxed dinner or a lazy lunch, L’Aroma is a great spot to sit down, unwind and watch the world go by.

Huan Yuan Cantonese Restaurant, situated in Shore Street, Mgarr, Gozo is a few metres away from the Gozo ferry terminal. We specialise in Chinese cuisine, offering an à la carte menu and a selection of exquisite plates. Take your meal a step further with a choice of wines from our own wine cellar, while enjoying the evening in a relaxing environment with soft oriental music and the impeccable service our dedicated staff is renowned for. We are open from 6.30pm every day from Monday to Sunday. Closed on Wednesday.

We offer free parking to our customers at the Piazzetta and at the CCCP Tower Super Market.

Call and book on T: 2156 5700; M: 9924 8938/7924 9094. Present this token and you will benefit from a ¤10 discount on your bill.

L’Aroma, 17, Ghar il-Lembi Street, Sliema. T: 2131 7633; E: laroma.restaurant@maltanet.net

End your evening with chill out music at Lounge 2u while enjoying a tasty cocktail or a glass of wine. We also cater for private parties and special occasions. Call on M: 9924 8928.

The Oracle Casino Bistro

Vegas Pub & Take Out

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.

Look no further for a cool place to spend a great time with family and friends than the latest new venue in Fgura, where one can relax in a friendly environment.

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, as well as 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.

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

Vegas Pub & Take Out is a modern pub-style venue where everyone will feel welcome. It is just the place to enjoy a few drinks accompanied by fresh, free appetisers and great music, and as long as there are drinks, there will be plenty of appetisers. We also show live football and other sport activities all week.

From delicious pizzas and grilled steaks to pasta dishes, fresh salads and homemade wraps, come and enjoy our recently launched new menu which seeks to serve the freshest ingredients to our clients.

At Vegas, birthday parties can be organised with open bars starting from €25.

Hen and bachelor parties, Holy Communion and baptism parties can also be organised, and value for money is guaranteed.

Free delivery on food items all week, including weekends.

You know what they say – what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!

Vegas Pub & Take Out, Vjal Kottoner, Fgura. T: 2767 1889; M: 7720 0776.

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