Best Buy October 2016

COVER STORY

The ultimate guide to planning your wedding from start to finish, Sarah Micallef takes you through the A to Z of what to do and when. PAGE 3 >

BEST BUY

Malta’s Leading Lifestyle & Shopping Guide Distributed with The Times

THE SELFIE MIRROR EXCLUSIVE TO MALTA AND GOZO The Selfie Mirror is currently the most advanced mobile digital photography experience in Malta and Gozo, colouring your event with an interactive photo experience that everyone will be drawn towards.

Innovative design

Social Media Sharing

UNIQUE PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

Guests will be invited to walk in front of the Selfie Mirror, where interactive colourful animations will appear, inviting them to touch the mirror to start their photo journey. The Selfie Mirror gives the guests compliments and leads them through the fun experience, at the end of which they will also be able to leave their signature on the mirror to personalise their print.

PERSONALISED AND PERFECT FOR ANY OCCASION

Exclusive features

Sign Your Creation

The photos are printed out within seconds of the pictures being taken. They are professional-quality 4” x 6” prints, which can include four photos, screaming contest results and signatures. You can even incorporate your own monograms, logos or graphics!

Issue 113

October 2016

IN THIS ISSUE...

HOMES With an array of beautiful kitchens on the market, choosing the right one for you can be tough. Martina Said finds out what you have to look out for before making a decision, as well as the latest in kitchen trends. PAGE 9 >

INTERVIEW Drag racer Duncan Micallef talks to Jo Caruana about his winning race to the finish line of the European Drag Racing Championships.

PAGE 17 >

SOCIAL MEDIA COMPATIBLE Totally responsive

Instant Printing

Multilingual Features

Easy customisation

Via a social media station set up on the side of the Selfie Mirror, guests will be able to share their photo in real time to their social media profiles. This allows guests to connect to their social circles easily and share the experience. At the end of the event, we can supply you with all photos taken, which you can then upload to your own social media platform.

The Selfie Mirror. T: 7933 4479; E: smile@selfiemirror.com.mt; www.selfiemirror.com.mt

HEALTH Sustainable weight loss requires an overhaul of your eating and exercising habits. Marie-Claire Grima looks at the science behind fad diets, as well as how to find a great personal trainer. PAGE 23 >

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COVER STORY

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Planning your big day – step by step

Getting married? Congratulations! But once you’ve set your date, how do you go about putting it all together? Planning a wedding is a big job and can get a little stressful, but getting yourself organised and knowing how to handle your suppliers will make things so much easier! Sarah Micallef presents the ultimate guide to planning your wedding: what to do and when.

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o you’ve set a date for your big day, and it’s time to start putting it all together – but where do you start? Do you need to get the church sorted or should you start shopping for the perfect dress? Venue or transport? How far in advance do you need to book your suppliers? While wedding planning can seem daunting, splitting up the planning process into stages can help get you organised and ensure nothing is forgotten.

ONE YEAR BEFORE

A year before the big day is a good time to devise a budget.

If you haven’t yet picked a date, that would be the next step, but allow for some flexibility: you’ll need to check availability with the priest at your church or ceremony location of your

choice, reception venues and important guests. At this stage, you should also put together your guest list – the amount of people you invite will have a direct impact on the size of your venue, so it helps to have a set guest list before narrowing down venue choices. The next thing on your to-do list should be booking your photographer and videographer (if you’re having one), as well as the catering and music. It’s also a good time to start your wedding dress search. You need not make a final decision, but it helps to start looking a little early to avoid stressing out later!

TEN MONTHS BEFORE

Now is the time to order your bridesmaids’ dresses, plan flowers and think about whether you want to have a

wedding gift list. If you require marquees for an outdoor venue, it’s also advisable to book them at this stage in order to avoid disappointment.

If you’re having a church wedding, you should also start thinking about your readings and discussing them with the priest; for civil weddings, you should speak to your registrar.

You’d also do well to order your invitations at this stage, as well as sorting out the souvenirs you’ll be distributing to your guests. At this point you may also wish to think about your honeymoon, which will give you something to look forward to after all the planning stress!

If your wedding is taking place during peak season, consider booking your travel plans well in advance to avoid sky-high rates.

OURWEDDING.COM.MT TURNS A YEAR OLD!

Since its launch in October 2015, OurWedding.com.mt has established itself as Malta’s leading weddings portal, garnering the attention of thousands of readers with its fun and informative articles featuring everything from advice and wedding planning tips to the latest bridal and home décor trends. The portal’s extensive directory features over 300 suppliers from a variety of wedding-related sectors, and has proven an indispensable tool for couples planning their big day. To celebrate its first birthday, the team behind OurWedding.com.mt has given the portal a fresh new look that builds on its elegant design, making it even more enjoyable to browse through! Whether you’re planning your wedding or would just love to have a nosey around what’s hot and what’s not in the bridal world, OurWedding.com.mt is just what the doctor ordered.

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COVER STORY

SEVEN MONTHS BEFORE

With around seven months to go, it’s time to book the cars for the bridal party and order your wedding cake. At this stage, your fiancé should also think about getting his wedding outfit sorted, as well as the suits for the groomsmen. You can go wedding ring shopping together at this point too. As the big day approaches, it’s important to ensure that all honeymoon preparations have now been taken care of, so you don’t have to bother with them later. Check whether your passports need renewing (hint: if you are changing your surname) and sort out any preparations in advance, like vaccinations for example, if you’re off to an exotic location.

FIVE MONTHS BEFORE

Now is the time to sort out your beauty team for the big day. Book your hairdresser and make-up artist, but before doing so, a consultation and trial is a must, especially if

it’s your first time using their services. You may also want to start discussing your plans for hen and stag nights with your friends at this stage, unless that duty has been relegated to the bridal party and groomsmen.

TWO MONTHS BEFORE

A couple of months before your wedding day is the ideal time to send out your invitations and pick out gifts for the bridal party. Try on your wedding dress with your chosen accessories and shoes to ensure everything fits well together, and make sure you’ve factored in the cut and style of the dress when planning how you’re going to wear your hair. Book any final pre-wedding pampering treatments so you can relax before the big day, and finally, put your mind at rest by confirming everything one last time with your suppliers – this will help you make sure that everything will go off without a hitch! BB

IT’S ALMOST TIME! GET ORGANISED A couple of months before the big day rolls around, it helps to call your suppliers to set up a final meeting or fine-tune details over the phone. 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, for example), run them by your fiancé or someone you trust who will help you make up your mind. While your hair and make-up trial should be done and dusted, it won’t hurt to call the hairdresser and make-up artist one more time to confirm everything, as well as how many people will be getting pampered.

A very important task is setting a timeline for the day, which will help retain a sense of order in the chaos. One small glitch can 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 anything goes wrong. Another useful tool is a budget spreadsheet, which will help you finalise any pending calculations and make sure you’re a step ahead.

Perfect your first dance

If your spouse-to-be is really uneasy about showing off his or her dance skills in public, don’t fret! At Plethora Dance, we will create the perfect dance just for you, even if you have two left feet. We provide guidance with basic movements to make sure you are comfortable and confident. During your lessons, we’ll break down every movement and picture opportunity so you will look back on this as a great memory. We promise you’ll be surprised with how good you’ll look dancing with the right tutor.

Your dance lessons are a great opportunity to spend time together in the midst of the hustle and bustle of life and last-minute preparations for the big day. From charmingly simple to a show-stopping routine, you can make a statement that you, your friends, and your loved ones will remember for years to come.

Plethora Dance. M: 9949 0896; www.plethoradance.com; Fb: Plethora Dance

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Foreword

PLANNING AHEAD October’s a good time for strategising – it’s in that period of time right before the super hectic Christmas season strikes, and so it’s ideal for making plans which will take you through winter and the rapidly-approaching year ahead. Our cover story on page 3 is essentially a checklist of all you have to do if you’re planning a wedding in 2017, with handy guidelines and timeframes included. This month is also a good time to start nesting for © 2016 All rights reserved. Articles appearing in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to print, however the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

winter and making your home comfier and cosier for the chilly months ahead. In this issue, we’re looking at designing our dream kitchens, and the current leading styles (p9), as well as autumn trends for living rooms and bedrooms (p13).

Of course, it’s not all about bundling up in blankets and staying in. If you’re looking to change your life for the better for the sake of your health and

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

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Publishers

appearance, our feature on page 23 looks at how to make real lifestyle changes that you won’t have abandoned long before the mince pies start rolling out. And for a healthy shot of adrenaline, turn to page 17, where you’ll find an interview with drag racer Duncan Micallef – the fastest man in Europe on four wheels.

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

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

NEXT ISSUE:

09.11.16

DOn'T MISS IT

DESIGN Nicholas Cutajar Printer Progress Press Ltd

Coolbox Air-Conditioning by Kenneth Micallef – Flawless Installations And Repairs

THE STORY OF YOUR WEDDING Weddings have changed so much in the last five years. More and more couples want to enjoy their wedding day free from photographers running around and interfering with their once-in-alifetime celebration, telling them how and when to pose. A wedding is nothing else but a celebration of love – the love which the couple have for each other, and the love which their friends and family have for them.

That is after all what good photographers seek to express in our work during a wedding – love and emotions! With each wedding, there is

a whole unique story unravelling in front of us, overflowing with tears, smiles, hugs, laughter and love, and our job is to capture these emotions right as they happen. And that is the biggest shift in wedding photography today – no more staged poses or re-enactments, but simply the story of your wedding!

If you believe that you can see your wedding narrated in my style, then drop me an email on ian@ianabdilla. com or call me on M: 7905 9217. I would love to listen to your story.

Happy wedding planning!

Coolbox Air-Conditioning by Kenneth Micallef is a reputable air-conditioning company specialising in installations and repairs of any type of air-conditioning systems including VRFs, in both domestic properties and commercial entities.

Whether it’s a new installation, a repair or a service required at your home, office or business, contact Coolbox AirConditioning for any air-conditioning requirements you may need. We are able to provide an accurate installation quotation even if you only have property plans in hand. All work is carried out in a pre-agreed and timely manner. Our staff is polite and educated, working under the direct supervision of Kenneth Micallef, who has been in

the business for over 20 years. We look forward to your business and to amaze you with our quality service.

Now official distributors of Daitsu Air-Conditioning and HiDew Dehumidification Systems.

Coolbox Air-Conditioning by Kenneth Micallef. M: 9940 7656; E: info@coolboxmalta.com; www.coolboxmalta.com

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HOMES Images courtesy of Distinct Homes

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

PERFECT HOME COOKING EVERY TIME

The Best Kitchen for Your Home Homeowners are spoilt for choice when shopping around for a new kitchen, but as Martina Said discovers, that could turn out to be a problem in itself. She chats with an expert to find out what to look out for before making a decision, as well as the latest trends on the market.

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nyone in the process of buying a property – or dreaming of the day that they’ll finally own one – will likely agree that the room or section they’re most looking forward to seeing complete is the kitchen. And how can you not? Even for the less-than-average cooks among us, the kitchen is a social space, representative of quality time, important gatherings and even momentous revelations between family members.

It’s also one of the most complicated and budgetconsuming parts of doing up a home. It doesn’t stop at the tiles laid purposely for it or the cupboards and surfaces, but extends to the appliances that it’s filled with and all the crockery and utensils that go in it. To this end, choosing a kitchen for your home should be a well-made decision that takes multiple factors into consideration.

Godwin Giusti, Sales Manager at Distinct Homes Ltd, says his first suggestion would be to seek advice from those with vast experience in the field and industry.

“Every kitchen is a completely unique story – if you take, for instance, a block of apartments, where space for the kitchen is more or less the same, you’ll probably find

completely different kitchen units in each apartment. A kitchen is not a standard tool in your home, therefore it is imperative that if you’re seeking to develop your own kitchen, you need to find someone who can listen to you and develop your idea in the best possible way, keeping your budget and available space in mind.”

Visiting a showroom that offers lots of possibilities for the same kitchen model would be the next step. “Possibilities in terms of design, materials, colours, technical features and more, so that you can personalise and develop a kitchen, with expert help, to really suit your needs and get the best out of your space, not forgetting safety considerations. It’s more important to experience, evaluate and choose what works for you when you see lots of possibilities within the same kitchen model rather than seeing lots of different models, as you run the risk of getting mixed up and losing focus.”

Turning to different sources for inspiration is another important step, as is keeping an open mind when crunch time comes. Godwin says it would help to take note of what you like or would want to avoid in your own kitchen, but it is certainly not the most important

The Pyrex Argento rose gold aluminium 11-piece cooking set is perfect for cooking at home or in a large kitchen. The set is made of aluminium, creating an even heat distribution, and has safe non-stick coating for added convenience while cooking. The set is easy to clean, dishwasher-safe and contains no lead or cadmium.

The set includes a 26cm casserole pan (5.5l) with lid, a 24cm casserole pan (4l) with lid, a 16cm sauce pan (1.2l) with lid, a 26cm frying pan, a 22cm frying pan, a ladle, a spatula and a skimmer. The set is also available in 7pc. Prices start from €79.50.

STURDY AND CONVENIENT FOOD TROLLEY

The foldable wooden service trolley by Foppapedretti is a convenient food trolley that takes up little space when closed, remaining standing and holding bottles and glasses in their compartments. It has two wide trays with sides and convenient compartments for glasses and bottles.

The varnished solid frame is sturdy and durable, moving around easily thanks to its scratch-proof swivel castors. It is made from solid wood and is available in the colours natural, walnut, wenge and canaletto. Open dimensions in cm: H:76, D:49, W:75; Closed dimensions in cm: H:76, D:49, W:27; Weight: 13.4kg.

Petrolea, Valley Road, Msida. T: 2123 4501/ 2123 5487; E : showroom@ petroleamalta.com; www.petroleamalta.com

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HOMES

Budgeting for a New Kitchen

thing. “The mental attitude with which you approach the development of your kitchen with the assistance of a kitchen specialist is crucial, so that we can guide you in the right direction backed by years of experience.”

It’s also advisable to go kitchen shopping with the correct measurements of the space you’d like to develop your kitchen in. “To this end, evaluate the possibility of including your living room wall units into the equation. For instance, we have a selection of kitchens to which living room wall units from the same series can be added, and therefore you’d have one complete and harmonious kitchen/living room combined space. Lastly, if more than one person will eventually be using the kitchen, do visit the showroom together. The kitchen is a project that should last for quite a few years, therefore it should be designed in a functional way for everyone involved.”

Moving on to the latest design trends in modern-day kitchens, Godwin says all products with an element of design move through particular trends, and kitchens are no exception. “As 2016 draws to a close, the changes in trends we’re seeing now mainly concern kitchen colours. Whereas

up until recently, gloss colours were the order of the day, we are now slowly seeing a shift towards raw colours, such as the look and feel of raw wood which is treated with whatever modern day technology and techniques allow. We’re also seeing a shift towards a mix of plain earth colours and wood – where the base units and columns are done one way and the upper units are done in a contrasting yet complementary colour.”

There’s also a move towards kitchen cabinets and units without handles, known as the seamless touch. Godwin says that applied handles tend to age a kitchen, and due to the increase in their popularity, Distinct Homes Ltd currently offers two different designs for such kitchens – those with handles that are moulded in the door itself or those with a recessed handle. BB

TOP TIP In terms of materials, laminate remains the most popular as it is the most budget-friendly material and offers the most value for money because of its strength and durability.

“Start by evaluating what style of kitchen you’re after – whether you want a contemporary, modern feel or a classic type of kitchen. Classic kitchens normally start from a slightly higher price range than the more modern ones. Also, bear in mind the space allocated for your kitchen. Our suggestion is to not make it larger than you actually need it to be, as every centimetre of unit that you include has to be paid for,” advises Godwin.

It’s also imperative to factor in safety issues. “Our first considerations when planning and designing a kitchen revolve around safety, then functionality and finally the design. You must also factor in the kitchen’s wear and tear: will it be installed in an apartment for rental use? Or will it be solely for personal use? A kitchen installed in an apartment for rental use needs to be of a higher resisting material than that used for personal use.”

Godwin’s final word of advice: “think of how much you’re ready to invest in your new kitchen and what you can actually afford, then try to find the best product possible within your set of parameters. Finally, do your own research about the company offering you the product.”

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HOMES

Crafting a beautiful space

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smh.com.au

Whether you’re decorating a new home or simply wish to spruce up your surroundings with a few fresh ideas, the latest interior design trends can help you make any space, from the living room to the bedroom, look beautiful.

Sarah Micallef discovers the latest home décor trends to look out for, and suggests a few fresh ideas on how to implement them within your home this autumn.

NATURE-INSPIRED

Warm textures like wood, paper, fur, shearling, hides and cork are key to this interior design trend, which works beautifully across the home. And playing off the soft and warm tones, industrial features made up of concrete, clay, copper, glass and steel complete the look and create a perfect balance.

JEWEL TONES

This year’s Pantone Colours of the Year have enjoyed their moment in the spotlight, but they’re soon set to be replaced with the season’s new ‘IT’ colour palette. Jewel tones reminiscent of metals, space, stars and clouds are going to be all the rage in 2017, with materials and textures including metals, raw-cut quartz, lucite and opal looking to become firm favourites.

COSY SPACES

While it’s been all about openplan living for a while now, it would seem that the years to come will see a bit of a reversal, with a renewed appreciation for cosy, closed-plan living.

Little reading spaces and splitlevel flooring are where it’s at, creating designated areas in which you can relax and enjoy your home. These spaces will also be increasingly devoid of digital distraction, with more and more of us opting for living spaces that are not centred around an electrical device.

UPHOLSTERED HEADBOARDS

The trendiest beds of the moment are undoubtedly timber bedframes, but that’s all set to change in 2017, as a shift to more luxurious upholstered headboards is on the cards. This trend is sure to

bring an added luxe feel to any bedroom, and will have you feeling like you’re waking up in a high-end hotel room!

But while the choice between neutral or bold colours, plush velvet or linen, buttons or ties is yours, it’s useless without a great, supportive mattress to carry you stylishly into the land of nod.

COLOUR POP

Bold colours still have a place in the home, but in smaller, strategic quantities. The colour pop trend features accessories, chairs or sofas in black and white, pastels, neutrals offset by bright colours including yellow, orange, pink, red, green, cobalt blue, peacock, and purple.

Meanwhile, wallpaper and soft furnishings are another great way to bring a pop of colour into a room, be it your living room or bedroom, as are fun

artworks featuring pop art or optical illusions.

BOHEMIAN LIVING

If you love nothing better than collecting trinkets from your travels with which to decorate your home, this trend is spot on. With main influences stemming from North Africa (including Morocco), Turkey, the Middle East, India, South America, China and Japan, this look champions items with a regional look, like tweed, mohair and checks. The most important element in this look is craftsmanship – with the beauty lying in the imperfection of unique, hand-made products with an authentic artisanal quality. Look out for inlaid mother-of-pearl products, hand-knotted carpets, hand weaves and basket work in particular.

AQUATIC AND BOTANICAL

An offshoot of the natureinspired trend are all things aquatic and botanical. Colour palettes reminiscent of lakes, lagoons and oceans provide the perfect soothing backdrop for a bedroom, dressed up with items taken directly from nature including green plants, herbs and images of animals.

A great source of inspiration here comes from sea creatures, shells, coral and fish, of which decorative elements can be used within showcases and bell jars around the home.

More abstract ideas in the form of artwork or textiles display landscapes, the sea, clouds and the weather, and can even take the form of large-scale murals or wallpapers featuring environmental landscapes covering entire walls. BB

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COMPANY PROFILE

The Joy Of Living Beautifully

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linicaJóia, formerly the location of Estetika Sliema, has been rebranded and redefined into a specialised hub offering medical, cosmetic and nutritional services right in the heart of Sliema. The clinic’s mission statement is to treat all clients as valuable individuals with different needs, aiming to offer each and every person who walks in a personal and professional experience.

The clinic, which has been established for more than 10 years, specialises in a number of treatment areas, with the foremost being liposuction, fat transfer and body shaping.

It is one of few clinics in Malta that offers both laser-assisted (Smartlipo™) and powerassisted liposculpture, which enables the treatment of small, stubborn fatty areas as well as

larger overweight patients. The clinic has registered excellent results for double chins, ‘bat wing’ arms, breast fat on men, and of course tummies, hips and thighs of all shapes and sizes. Fat removed may also be re-injected into the face for cheek enhancement in cases of volume loss. Fat-dissolving mesotherapy, ultrasound and connective tissue manipulation devices for cellulite removal are also offered as part of the clinic’s body-shaping treatments.

Other treatments include a full range of injectable neurotoxins, dermal fillers and thread lifts for the correction of facial wrinkles, expression lines and volume loss, as well as fractional carbon dioxide resurfacing laser for removing scars, stretch marks and advanced signs of facial ageing. Laser and peels are used at the pigmentation clinic

to treat all varieties of facial pigmentation, no matter how stubborn. Last but not least, ClinicaJóia also houses a women’s health clinic, offering a full range of gynaecological check-ups and fertility and approved birth control treatments.

ClinicaJóia supports its cosmetic procedures with dietary and lifestyle modification testing and counselling. Antibody-based food intolerance tests are run to check for food intolerances and allergies, using technology from Cambridge Nutritional Science in the UK, which is considered to be the industry standard. Symptoms of food intolerances can range from cravings, stomach pain and cramps, to psoriasis, breakouts and migraines, to candida, thrush and cystitis, so the blood test is followed by a one-hour

consultation to understand what is truly triggering the client’s symptoms. The clinic’s consultant will also interpret the test result and design a personalised nutrition plan for each client.

ClinicaJóia’s multi-disciplinary team is headed by a highly experienced cosmetic physician assisted by a team of aesthetic nurses, as well as a gynaecologist, pain management practitioner and food intolerance screening consultant. Its pain management clinic, which is a first for Malta, includes the use of ozone and plateletrich plasma (PRP) therapy in the treatment protocols, as well as physiotherapy and pharmacotherapy, aiming to treat both localised pain, such as joint and spine disorders, and more general ailments such as fibromyalgia. With

its doctors and medical personnel attending clinical updates overseas at the largest congresses at least twice annually, the team behind ClinicaJóia is striving to make this clinic the go-to location for specialised and personalised medical treatments. BB ClinicaJóia, 66, Sir Adrian Dingli Street, Sliema.

M: 9947 4584; E: info@clinicajoia.com; www.clinicajoia.com; Fb: ClinicaJoia. Follow and like ClinicaJoia on Facebook, look out for the Best Buyrelated post, and enter for the chance to win a free personalised cosmetic medical consultation!

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INTERVIEW

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The Fastest Man in Europe From zero to 160km in 0.8 of a second? Drag racer Duncan Micallef goes that fast! Here he talks to Jo Caruana about his winning race to the finish line of the European Drag Racing Championships.

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here aren’t many people who can claim to be the best in Europe at something – but Duncan Micallef can. Earlier this year he beat off stiff competition to become the fastest drag racer in Europe, when he drove 1,000 feet in just 3.89 seconds while racing at the world-renowned Santa Pod track in the UK.

“I actually came to drag racing quite late in life,” Duncan tells me. “Before that I was an avid footballer; I made it to the premier league when I was just 15, and played with the national team until I was 21.”

However, as a busy entrepreneur – he runs several businesses including a mobile phone shop and a takeaway restaurant, and is planning to

open a hotel in the near future – Duncan couldn’t cope with football’s strict training regime, so he decided to try his hand at go-karting instead.

“I was runner-up in the ROTAX 1-5 that first year, which was already a great achievement in such a short time. So I was hooked, and keen to try my hand at faster sports – which is how drag racing came into

the picture. The moment I tried it, I became obsessed with it, and never looked back – even though I hadn’t known anything about the sport before then!”

Duncan soon started going from strength to strength in the sport. As a team he and his colleagues invested in better cars so they could reach faster speeds in short times.

“In 2010 we achieved 5.92 seconds for a straight quarter mile, progressing to 5.83 in 2011. I knew I was capable of

going faster, so I contacted Norwegian drag racer Rune Fjeld, who rents the top fuel dragsters, and went to the UK to get my license sorted.

“After that, I achieved my first local record in 2013 with 4.13 seconds thanks to the power of the car, and made it to fourth and third place respectively in 2014 and 2015 at the European championships.

The highlight obviously came this year, when I finished in just 3.896 seconds and was officially given the title of

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INTERVIEW Where would you most want to drag race in the world?

The US, definitely. The championships there take place in 24 different places, leading up to the final in Pomona and Las Vegas. That’s where I hope to get to!

Who would you most want to drag race with and why?

In Europe I am lucky enough to have raced with the best, so I have achieved what I can on this continent. In the States that’s a different story, and I hope to race with their top five drivers there. That would be the ultimate goal for me in this sport.

“Racing a drag racing car is a unique experience – can you imagine going from zero to 160km in 0.8 of a second? A super-fast car goes from zero to 100km in four seconds, so the difference is really unbelievable.” the fastest drag racer in Europe. My next step? I hope to travel to the United States to compete there – it’s the world capital for drag racing.”

How would you describe the sport?

It’s all about adrenaline. Racing a drag racing car is a unique experience – can you imagine going from zero to 160km in 0.8 of a second? A super-fast car goes from zero to 100km in

four seconds, so the difference is really unbelievable. There are only about 50 drivers in the world who can achieve that speed, and it’s all about concentration. Aside from that, it’s also the people attached to the sport who make it special – they’re a very nice and supportive group.

What is the state of the sport in Malta?

As an island we’ve always done well in motor sports especially in drag racing. I think that it boils down to the fact that

we’ve had a drag racing track locally since the 80s, so we’ve had the time and space to practice.

What has been your highlight so far?

I always strive to be the best at anything I do, so knowing I have reached the top spot in Europe is a fantastic feeling.

I couldn’t have dreamed of achieving this a few years ago, so I am very pleased to have gotten this far – but already I have new targets to hit!

What three things would you take with you to a deserted island?

Apart from my family, I would take a mobile phone (even though it wouldn’t make much sense!), a ball so I could keep playing football, and a car.

Hopefully there would be enough space to race it!

What would be your last meal?

Rabbit, ideally cooked by the team at L-Ingliz Restaurant as their recipe is my favourite. BB

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS

JOEM AUTOPARTS

CEFAI FORMAL WEAR

Did you know that battery selection depends on the type of vehicle you drive? Newer vehicles mean more commodities but also require more battery power to sustain the added convenience, safety and system features such as navigation, ABS, ESP and air-conditioning.

Bosch is continuously investing in technology to ensure that customers’ requirements are always met and exceeded.

Cefai Formal Wear is a formal wear hiring service, with locations in Mosta and Xewkija, Gozo. At Cefai, the groom can try on a range of different styles until he finds something that fits his personality and physique. The wedding’s colour scheme is then discussed, in order to coordinate the groomsmen’s outfits, up to a year ahead of the wedding.

Of course, no tuxedo outfit is complete without the shiny patent shoes, with sizes available at Cefai ranging from those for babies to men.

JOEM Autoparts Ltd, 67, Birkirkara Road, St Julian’s.

T: 2133 7074; M: 9927 7925.

Cefai Formal Wear, Mosta. T: 2141 9040; Xewkija, Gozo. T: 2155 0372; www.cefaiformalwear.com

Celebrating life one event at a time

CANDYLICIOUS

At Kudos we believe in celebrating life – every occasion, every milestone, every laugh, smile and tear. We know that sharing these moments makes them extra special, and we want to be there to help you celebrate life one event at a time.

Make your wedding a sweet one with a sweet bar or candy cart that will not only make your guests feel like kids again, but will also brighten up the venue. Candylicious has gained a reputation for offering a lavish and unique sweet display for your wedding, birthday party and events. We can create a beautiful display in a particular theme or colour range, and you can take your pick from a rainbow of yummy sweets.

Our displays are all designed with you in mind and to suit your budget – something different, unique and unexpected for your guests that will make their lasting impression a sweet one.

For this reason, Bosch offers three main types of batteries, the S3 for the older applications with no or few extras, the S4 which meet the specifications of original equipment power values and the S5 which exceed the original equipment power values.

Kudos's mission is to offer the widest selection of unique and quality party favours, supplies, decorations and gifts for all of life's special occasions. We know how stressful planning a wedding or party can be, and we assure you that we treat every event as if it were our own. Since 2009 we have been helping brides and grooms, parents, parents-to-be and event planners to find the perfect favours, supplies and decorations to create memorable and extraordinary celebrations.

Kudos, Vjal il-Qalbiena Mostin, Santa Margherita, Mosta. T: 2141 6139; M: 7930 0023; E: info@kudos.com.mt; www.kudos.com.mt; Fb: KudosGifts

Candylicious. 6, St Francis Street, San Gwann. T: 2702 9117.

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HEALTH

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BEST BUY RECOMMENDS YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT

CHANGE FOR GOOD If you’re looking to get leaner and fitter, there are no quick fixes – you need a gradual overhaul of all your unhealthy eating and activity habits.

Marie-Claire Grima gets the lowdown on fad diets, ‘health food’ and picking the personal trainer who will help you get real results.

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t’s been proven time and again that long-term weight loss is the result of healthy lifestyle changes.

One may see immediate results from short-term fad diets which cut out important elements of the food pyramid or rely too much on one aspect of it.

However, these results are not sustainable, and once you quit the diet, your weight will shoot right back up again.

The small percentage of people who have maintained weight loss over several years have made true lifestyle changes – the kind that involve making the best choices for yourself each and every day.

“Extreme diet regimes can affect a person’s metabolism, especially when they include unhealthy products whose sole aim will be business-related,” says nutritionist Geoffrey Axiak. “These ruin the metabolic rate of a person and cause a consequent slowing of the person’s own metabolism. This results in a consequent increase in weight rather than a decrease. Extreme diets also disrupt a person’s hormonal balance and thyroid functioning, leading to abrupt changes in a person’s weight. They also lead to a lack of certain nutrients – vitamins and minerals – from a person’s body. The person undergoing the diet thus suffers the consequences of malnutrition, and experiences the side effects that come from a lack of nutrients required in one’s body.”

To promote and maintain regular and long-term weight loss, Mr Axiak recommends eating small, frequent meals at two- to three-hour intervals, eating food that is low in saturated fats, salt and sugar, and avoiding trans-fats (the artificial fats found in fast food). He says that protein should come from plant sources, such as nuts and oils, rather than from meat, and that fish, fruit and vegetables from local sources should be a regular part of your diet.

Between 2.5 and three litres of water should be drunk every day. Furthermore, to complement a healthy and balanced diet, moderate exercise should be carried out at least three times a week.

HEALTH FOOD SHOPS – WHAT TO BUY AND WHAT TO AVOID

Health food shops are more common than ever, and the breadth of the food and supplement choices available can be a little mind-boggling. When it comes to supplements, it’s best to consult with your doctor before buying a particular kind of supplement – if you’re not lacking in that particular vitamin or mineral, you might just be throwing your money away. On the other hand, a few health food store staples definitely worth picking up include chia seeds, black rice, natural honey and sweeteners, dried fruit without added sweeteners, as well as specialist items such as cacao nibs, spirulina and

Daily exercise and weight control are the baseline of a healthy lifestyle.

Choose fibre-rich food such as wholegrain bread, pasta, rice and cereals. Plantbased oils and nuts and legumes provide polyunsaturated oils that, in small amounts, lower our unhealthy blood cholesterol.

Choose meats containing lower amounts of fats, such as poultry and fish, and consume low-fat dairy products. Lastly, eat red meat and fats from animal sources in limited amounts, as these are still necessary for our body to function efficiently. Maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle by eating the correct amount of each type of food.

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

SMALL FRUIT, BIG BENEFITS Pfanner Cranberry Juice is a delicious and refreshing beverage for all the family, made 100 per cent from cranberries.

Despite being such a tiny fruit, the cranberry has amazing health benefits. It’s a gift from nature and packed with nutrients and vitamins – so much so that it’s known as a super fruit!

The full range of Pfanner 100 per cent juices and drinks is represented and distributed locally by Nectar and can be found at leading supermarkets and outlets all over the island.

Nectar Ltd, Industrial Zone, Ta’ Qali. T: 2014 0000; E: info@nectar.com.mt

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HEALTH

wheatgrass, which are key ingredients for making healthfriendly smoothies or desserts.

Also, if you’re thinking about switching to vegetarianism, or simply want to ease the amount of meat in your diet, most health food shops stock a range of soy products such as tofu and tempeh, as well as meat-free sausage, Quorn mince and other vegetarian substitutes.

Despite stocking a considerable amount of food that can be easily integrated into your diet plan, a lot of health food shops also sell tasty treats that can derail your weight loss strategy unless you’re aware of what they really contain. These include sugarloaded cereal or granola bars, juices, smoothies and bottled teas that often have nearly as much sugar as a regular soft drink, baked chips that are just as high in carbs as their fried counterparts, and dried fruit with added sugar or DID YOU KNOW? Despite boasting ‘all-natural’ and ‘organic’ labels, many smoothies and bottled teas often have nearly as much sugar as a regular soft drink.

preservatives, such as yogurtcovered raisins or frosted cranberries. While there’s no doubt that these snacks are delicious, and can also provide a good energy boost if you need it, it’s best to be aware that not everything that falls under the banner of ‘healthy food’ is necessarily so, and that they should be enjoyed in moderation.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PERSONAL TRAINER

If you’re looking to get fit and healthy, having a personal trainer beside you on your journey will really help motivate you, keep you on track and help you get the results you want. A personal trainer should be able to show you a fitness certification from a trustworthy organisation in their particular area of expertise. They also need to be considerably experienced, unless you’re willing to give a first-timer a go. More important than that, they need to have a personality that motivates you into getting fit – while some react well to positive cues such as encouragement and cheering, others will want a more military-style trainer, who will scare them into working harder. If you’re looking to

achieve a specific fitness goal, it’s best to work with a personal trainer who is well-versed and specialised in that field – expertise and passion from your coach can go a long way towards helping you reach the level of strength and fitness that you need.

Before you settle on a personal trainer, make sure they fit in your budget, as the price between one trainer and another can vary greatly. Some trainers offer semi-private sessions or group discounts which may be more affordable.

You also need to check when the trainer is available, how many clients they have at the moment, and whether your schedules are compatible.

Ideally, they should also be based somewhere that’s within walking or easy driving distance, so that you won’t be tempted to make excuses that it’s too far and start slacking off. Make sure that they keep track of how you’re doing, from personal bests to weight lost to gains made. These achievements not only motivate you and help you stay on track, but also ensure that your trainer is doing the work you’re paying them to do. BB

FROM BASIC PROGRAMMES TO MASTER’S DEGREES The Institute of Technology, Humanities, the Arts, Medicine and Science (ITHAMS) provides courses ranging from basic programmes to Master’s degrees. Furthermore, ITHAMS provides education and training to over 1,000 students, delivered both at the Institute’s campuses and onsite in the workplace. We work with students to create a career that they can be proud of, helping them develop the skills through which they can achieve success.

Certification courses starting in November, January, March and May: First Aid, Paediatric First Aid, Health and Safety, First Aid at Sea; these are all run at Basic, Standard, Intermediate and Advanced Levels.

Postgraduate courses starting in November, January, March and May: Clinic Management Essentials, Burn Management, Life Support, Paramedic Essentials,

Trauma Life Support, The English Language In The Medical Profession, How To Write A Scientific Paper, Health Management Systems.

Institute of Technology, Humanities, the Arts, Medicine and Science, Sir Temi Zammit Buildings, LS1.0.1.2, Life Sciences Park, San Gwann.

T: 2738 8919; M: 9947 5536; E: info@ithams.com; Full prospectus available at www. ithams.com

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ACTIVITIES

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LIFELONG FUN, LEARNING AND ADVENTURE

Adult Support — For a Challenge!

Do you have a passion for the outdoors? Do you see a healthy and active lifestyle as essential to a happy life? Well, why not instil that love for the outdoors and that healthy lifestyle in the young people you work with?

Want to develop a communitycentred spirit in our local youth? That's one of scouting's main goals! When you join as part of the Adult Support team, you give back to the community as a volunteer in a fun and exciting way.

Rover Scouts — For Life!

For 18-26 year olds, Rover Scouts is a network offering exciting opportunities.

Whether you're into rock-climbing, kayaking or something more obscure, you'll always find someone to share your interests. It can open doors to new friendships, adventure and unforgettable experiences while at the same time

developing your leadership and organisational skills.

Venture Scouts — For Opportunities!

The Venture Scout Unit (15-18 years) is a do-it-yourself mix of fun, adventure and personal challenges that brings together like-minded young people from all walks of life for weekly meetings and activities.

Scouts — For Adventure!

The Troop Section is for youths aged between 11 and 15 years. The aim of this section is to provide Scouts with fun, challenging and interesting activities while at the same time teaching skills and values they will need to face the world tomorrow.

Cub Scouts — For Exploration!

The age range for Cub Scouts is from 7 to 11. The Cub Scout adventure is full of fun and exploration — we are all about

finding out about new things as well as discovering new ways of having fun. Getting out into nature is what Cub Scouting is all about.

Beaver Scouts — For Fun! The Beaver Scout Section is the youngest section of the Scouting family — the age range is from 5 to 7 years.

Their activities are based

around making things, outdoor activities, singing, playing games, outdoor visits, investigating nature, listening to stories, learning how to be safe and most importantly, making new friends.

The Scout Association of Malta. E: pr@scout.org.mt; www.scout.org.mt; Fb: MaltaScouts

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WHERE TO DINE

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

T: 2754 4388; www.talpuzzu.com

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

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

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

da Luigi Restaurant Open Tuesday-Saturday 7–11pm; Sunday lunch 12–3.30pm, dinner 7-11pm; Monday closed.

Optional: Open for lunch by reservation only WednesdayFriday for small groups over 8 persons.

Glormu Dingli Street, Rabat.

T: 2145 0123; M: 9925 1976.

Coral Cove Coral Cove, Seashells Resort, Qawra Coast Road, Qawra.

T: 2157 7101.

Run by a locally born and brought up family with roots right in the heart of the ancient village of Rabat, Da Luigi lies a stone's throw away from the medieval capital city of Mdina.

Louis, who owns and runs this culinary outlet, is the third generation of well renowned local bakers. He passionately recalls the days of their local bakery, where traditional methods and the best of hand-picked ingredients were used. Such traditions almost vanished when machinery took over due to industrial progress, when baking was no longer a passion but a mass production activity. It was this drive and passion for cooking which led Louis to embark on this culinary adventure, with the intention of reviving traditional recipes.

Food is mostly appreciated when accompanied by the appropriate wines.

This menu takes you through a journey of wines from different continents, notwithstanding the local line of wines which are proudly presented. Da Luigi also provides a platform for artists who are inspired by its mystic location overlooking a picturesque valley.

On the menu you will find a range of local and international dishes, and do feel free to ask them to prepare anything particular – it is their pleasure to assist. Bon appétit!

Sunday lunches at the Coral Cove restaurant are back! Enjoy mouthwatering buffets while admiring breath-taking sea views. These lunches can be savoured throughout the coming seasons, including all of this winter.

With a bright, modern and airy ambience, Coral Cove is considered a gem by visitors, especially for the magnificent Sunday lunches where you can enjoy a wide variety of antipasti, starters, main courses and desserts. The buffet price includes free-flowing water, soft drinks, juices, house wine, house beer and coffee.

This is a truly ideal hangout for family lunches, social occasions and group celebrations. A fantastic show-cooking display, excellent value for money and tasty food with a difference make the Coral Cove an all-inclusive experience not to be missed.

Pre-booking is advisable – have you booked your table?

Pulena Restaurant Marina Street (Il-Menqa), Marsalforn, Gozo.

T: 2155 9777; M: 9942 0881.

At the family-run Pulena restaurant, you’ll find that great service and healthy food comes first. Situated in the seaside town of Marsalforn in Gozo, the restaurant offers delicious home-made pasta, while its specialities include fresh fish and meat. There’s really something on the menu for everyone at Pulena, no matter what their tastes are!

This family-friendly restaurant opens for lunch and dinner, and outdoor seating is also available. Pulena is a Quality Assured establishment, certified by the Malta Tourism Authority.

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BEAUTY starts. To apply, swipe a brush with bronzer on parts of your face that would naturally attract light, such as the cheekbones, forehead and nose, and blend it in to the skin without leaving harsh lines.

Breaking down beauty basics Confused by the slew of contouring videos online and desperate to correct your eyeshadow technique? Martina Said looks into the most common make-up and beauty products we take for granted, and how we should use them.

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t’s no coincidence that beauty products, makeup tutorials, contouring tips and application tricks are more available now than they’ve ever been – women want to take control of their own beauty routines and learn how to get the job done well.

While basic tutorials cannot replace the technique and touch of a professional makeup artist, there are lots of tips you can take heed of and implement in your daily beauty regimen. “The best make-up tip to remember is that the start and end of make-up application shouldn’t be visible in any area. Colours need to fade into each other smoothly and it's not the quantity that makes the difference, but

precision,” says make-up artist Denise Caruana from Narcissus Health and Beauty Clinic.

To begin with, any product you choose needs to be suitable for your skin type, colour and texture, especially when choosing a foundation, which should act as a base for your make-up. If you have dry skin, try a liquid or hydrating powder formula, while powder or matte products would be best for oily skin. When choosing a shade, ensure that it matches the skin on your neck, arms and chest rather than your face, and if you’re looking to apply make-up for a special occasion, you should start with a layer of primer.

If the foundation you’re using is a liquid formula, apply a few

drops to a sponge and dab it onto your forehead, nose, chin and cheeks, and from the centre of your face, blend it into your skin in a downward motion, working your way out towards the edges without leaving rigid lines, as Denise recommends.

To achieve a contoured look, use a matte bronzer which is subtle and which will give you a soft glow. Leave the shimmery bronzer for highlighting certain parts of the face and for evening time, avoiding bright lighting which will light up your face like a shiny disco ball. Start out with a light shade of bronzer until you get comfortable with the idea and technique of contouring, and work your way towards deeper hues once summer

When shopping for blushers, look for ones that correspond with your natural look when flushed, and try pair them with the same hue of your lipstick, using warm blushes with warm lipsticks, and cool blush tones with cool lip tints. When in doubt, a rose blusher with a brown undertone tends to work well with almost everyone.

Tricky techniques start to come into play when applying eyeshadow, which we’ve all had our fair share of mishaps with.

For starters, when choosing a colour palette, limit yourself to natural colours such as brown and taupe, which are universally flattering if you haven’t mastered the technique of blending yet. Grey and muted purples – such as plum and mauve – are easy to work with too. To apply, blend two shades of eye shadow onto the lid, and pick a lighter tone to sweep across the area between the lash line and brow. Mastering eye-shadow application takes time and practice, so keep face wipes and make-up remover handy so you can start over as

many times as you need.

Reserve complex routines with layers of make-up that include primer, contouring, blush and eye-shadow for smarter and dressier occasions. For daily wear, Denise recommends keeping things light and easy.

“Nowadays, most brands offer products like BB creams, which can help you achieve an even complexion,” she explains.

Short for Beauty or Blemish Balm, BB creams moisturise, protect and correct the texture of your skin, consolidating multiple skin-perfecting products into one tube. “I recommend some contouring using a natural blusher, eyebrow definer such as powder or pencil, mascara and lip gloss.” BB

Brush Care Make-up application is always best done using brushes. These can be washed with shampoo and conditioner for personal use and dried upright so that the brush isn't damaged. Brush cleaners are also good for quick cleaning. Dry the brushes in a clean environment to avoid contamination.

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