EXECUTIVE TRAVELLER ISSUE 7 / 2016
THAT X FACTOR
MARIA AZZOPARDI – THE ART IN FLYING P30 AZURE ULTRA MANAGING DIRECTOR PERRY NEWTON P4 SOARING HIGHER WIT H JOHN B. MATTHEWS, CHAIRMAN OF AIRX P12 LIVING AN EVERLASTING DREAM P23
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editor’s word
Throughout the years, I have travelled several times to conferences and events in Geneva and Dubai, both amazing places and locations I’m basically never tired of, parts of the world where I never hesitate to return. These are places where you can simply feel the sprouting wealth when walking along a promenade or while spending hours browsing through massive shopping malls. The business aviation industry I make part of has got me in touch with this crazy world of riches and beautiful creations - be it luxury hotels, cars and of course, planes. With regards to Dubai and Geneva, the sky is the limit when it comes to lavish parties, high profile events, expensive toys, clothes and jewelry. They say money won’t give you happiness but hey, let’s face it, I do not know many people who refuse it. The 7th edition of the Executive Traveller Magazine marks the third year of this publication which has become synonymous with luxury living, style, fashion and of course, business aviation. Nevertheless, in this issue, I recount periods in my life where I have been through days of desperation where lack of money was an issue and brighter days where I was able to get back on my feet, pull up my socks and venture in a journey surrounded by business jets, incredible people from all walks of life and of course, the executive traveller. In the past years, one would easily notice that Malta and the Maltese have gone through a metamorphosis. The local economy is a strong and solid one and this is reflected in the demand and supply of luxury commodities which is what keeps the economy booming. The executive aviation and yachting industries are niche markets whereby many foreign investors have chosen to explore and invest within. Malta was wise to make life easier for such foreign investment and the country is now reaping fruit of wise investment. Nevertheless, there is ample room for improvement and fine tuning. In this issue, we meet business aviation and luxury yachting entrepreneurs, talented and artistic individuals who work hard to build a business and to succeed in what they believe in. As always, I would like to thank all sponsors and contributors participating in this edition. Without them, this publication would have never become the success it is today. Hope you enjoy reading through this issue!
publishing editor Andrea Trapani atrapani@aviapros.com advertising executive Rebecca Pace rpace@aviapros.com design john wilson independent studios www.johnwilson.com.mt printing Dormax Press / Print it publisher Aviapros International Ltd Contributors Special thanks for the production of this seventh edition goes to Executive Aviation Malta as the prime contributors and sponsors, The Hilton Malta, The Hon Minister for Tourism of Malta, MEBA, Mr. John B. Matthews, EBAA, NBAA, La Valette Club, Mr. Perry Newton, LIV Group, AirX Charter, Ronn Kerr (Photography
feature / official photographer), LIV Real Estate, Rebecca Pace, John Wilson - Design, Tapp into Malta, Aeropodium, Fumia, Signature Brands, Chalice, Noel Muscat & Co, Malta International Airport, National Aerospace Centre, Azure Ultra, Azienda Milazzo Wines, Dacoby Chauffeur Drive, Jason Fabri / Watercolors Dive Centre, Maria Azzopardi, Madliena Lodge and Aviapros International for their contribution to content and financial support. Without such individual and entities’ input, the production of this 7th issue would have not been possible Advertising For advertising in our next issue, please send an email to Ms Rebecca Pace on marketing@ aviapros.com or +356 99441432, +356 79884888.
and venues, and is available at local and international business aviation conventions, conferences and events, at the Hilton Malta Lobby, Portomaso Business Tower, SkyParks, within Malta International Airport business lounges, Executive Aviation Malta’s airside lounge and the company’s executive vehicle fleet, on board business jets visiting Malta together with a range of business jet operators including international clients seeking investment and relocation to Malta. The magazine is published three times a year in partnership with top local and international brands. If you would like to subscribe, email marketing@ aviapros. com including your Name and Surname, Company name (if any), address and contact telephone number.
Subscription Executive Traveller Magazine is distributed for free to top hotels
The publication is also available online at: www.aviapros.com/ETM
Disclaimer: Particular attention has been given to ensure that all the content of this magazine is correct and up to date as on date of issue. The views expressed in the articles and technical papers are those of the authors and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. While eve,y care has been taken during production, the publisher does not accept any liability for errors that may have occurred. Copyright© 2015.
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EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPES Andrea Trapani interviews Managing Director PERRY NEWTON and learns how Azure Ultra creates bespoke luxury yachting experiences that go “Beyond Ordinary” each and every single time The yacht charter business is very competitive; how is your company reacting to the ever-demanding requirements of the VIP traveller? Sailing on a luxury yacht is one of life’s most pleasurable experiences, and Azure Ultra aims to create on-board memories to last a lifetime. Put simply, we provide a yachting experience that is “Beyond Ordinary”. From the moment guests step aboard, they receive sterling VIP treatment all the way. We are a close team of professionals completely dedicated to providing the definitive luxury yachting experience, and as a result we are able to tailor-make charters to cater for all our guests’ individual requirements. Bespoke luxury charters can be arranged for holidaying families, small groups, businesses, wedding parties, honeymooners…indeed, any anniversary or occasion that can be elevated beyond the ordinary with the Azure Ultra touch. On-board privacy is guaranteed, with discretion being the byword of all our members of crew. Paying unsurpassed attention to detail, our team of captains and stewards will go all the way to ensure things run seamlessly, enabling guests to spend a memorable time aboard. Ashore, we continue to match the level of quality of the on-board experience with five-star accommodation in our beachside luxury hotel. As part of Azure’s range of lifestyle products, we
offer our guests access to impeccably designed and fully-serviced penthouse suites with spectacular views of the Mediterranean coastline. You clearly set very high standards for both staff and boats. How do you ensure those standards are maintained? Our commitment to providing superlative service to our on-board guests is ongoing. We set very high standards across all our operation, from the ongoing training of our highly professional crew down to the stylish interiors and deluxe finishings of our top-of-the-range motor yacht fleet. We believe that the smallest detail counts towards rendering guests’ on-board experience as luxuriously complete as possible. As Managing Director, I am most rewarded by the enthusiasm and motivation that drives our dynamic Azure Ultra team. Each and every one of our staff shows outstanding dedication to providing the best service to our guests, and this is the great distinguishing feature of our company and the Azure Ultra experience itself. Is there any limit to the charters Azure Ultra provide? Malta’s unique location at the heart of the Mediterranean enables us to provide bespoke charters which cover varying distances across both territorial waters and those that extend
One of our greatest strengths lies in the fact that our parent companies allow us all the flexibility and adaptability we require to meet guests’ aspirations and turn their dream vacations into a reality 4
beyond. Our highly professional team of captains and crew members holds years of boating experience, with specialist nautical knowledge of the Maltese Islands as well as the Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian, Ionian, Ligurian and Adriatic maritime zones. No yachting itinerary is too complicated for us to manage and organise on our guests’ behalf. Azure Ultra is entering its second holiday season. What have you learnt from last year and how do you plan to build on its success? Azure Group is the European leader of luxury lifestyle vacations. Bringing Azure Ultra – its fractional boat ownership and charter programme – to Maltese shores has been an unprecedented success. As everybody in highend business knows, our clients expect only the very best – and quite rightly so. We therefore constantly seek to respond to – and to hone our service around – their evolving needs. Meticulous attention to detail lies in everything we do; this, combined with the dedication and ongoing professional development shown by every individual team member, acts as the driving force behind all our efforts to continue developing the best possible lifestyle holiday for our guests. We received nothing but good feedback last year, and the 100% positive reviews on TripAdvisor were truly humbling. “We have had other yachting experiences in Portugal/Spain/UK, but none were even close to this.” “From the moment we stepped aboard the yacht, we were treated like VIPs… now I know how all the celebrities feel about having their own yachts.” One of our greatest strengths lies in the fact that our parent companies allow us all the flexibility and adaptability we require to meet guests’ aspirations and turn their dream vacations into a reality.
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Sharing ownership leaves you free to concentrate on only the positives: indulging in the luxury boating lifestyle
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THE CALL OF NEW HORIZONS Europe’s leading Fractional Yacht Ownership provider, now offering charters in Malta
00356 2356 1839 charters@azureultra.com
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executive traveller
You mentioned “fractional ownership” earlier. What exactly does this mean and what does it offer your customers? Ask most high-end boat owners whether there are any negative aspects to owning a luxury yacht, and you will probably receive a predictable reply. While many will leap at the chance of having a motor yacht at their disposal, there are some well-known disadvantages. The cost of maintenance, crewing and berthing in suitable, convenient marinas – where most boats spend the majority of their time – can be astronomical and extremely problematic. Azure Ultra’s fractional plan is revolutionary in that it allows clients to pay a “fraction” of the overall cost of the boat, entering a shared ownership system. We believe this has all the advantages of yacht ownership with none of the drawbacks. Yacht sharing leaves you free to concentrate on only the positives: indulging in the luxury boating lifestyle. We provide the full VIP service via a top-class yacht management team composed of a personal captain and steward/ess. All year round nothing is left to chance, and our procedures ensure that everything is in place for our members’ professionally crewed boat to be ready to board when they require it. Azure Ultra’s guaranteed five-star service extends to other flexible member-exclusive options, such as the ability to exchange yacht usage with a choice of prestigious five-star accommodation. Our vacation stays cover city and resort networks worldwide, and members also get to enjoy a peerless range of Azure products and services – including a soon-to-be launched supercar club. Additionally, Azure Ultra’s fractional programme offers the possibility to charter one’s on-board entitlement, thereby generating income from the ownership plan.
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You have more than 20 years’ invaluable experience in the vacation industry. Going forward, how do you see this industry developing in Malta? As a high-end holiday destination the island will continue to grow. Already viewed as a “safe” destination, events such as Valletta being honoured with the title of 2018 European Capital of Culture can only enhance Malta’s reputation and raise its international profile. Azure Ultra will continue to expand and promote the Maltese Islands while going forward, as we seek to expand into new markets with our products. Our targeted marketing campaigns and inspection visits to Malta have already attracted Europeans of different nationalities along with visitors from the Middle East. Following the launch of Azure Ultra, we immediately sold out the full 30 weeks of fractional usage offered by the first two luxury motor yachts to join our 7
fleet, Miss Moneypenny and Don’t Ask. This fast-paced success prompted us to acquire a third boat, Mio Amore, within the same year. It is a source of great satisfaction that each new buyer is now a long-term visitor to Malta as well as a proud part-owner of a luxury yacht berthed at the prestigious Grand Harbour Marina. Running high-profile, time-demanding businesses such as Azure Ultra can become all consuming. Can you relax? In my free time I am a passionate adventure motorcyclist. I believe that we all need to set daily personal challenges to help us become better developed human beings. I enjoy challenging myself both physically and psychologically by participating in ambitious rallies and road trips, all in aid of charity. I suppose in this respect I adhere to the Azure Ultra mantra of going “Beyond Ordinary”.
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Malta (LMML) VIP Terminal – Advantages for Business Aviation and the Executive Traveller Situated just off the main aircraft parking area, the VIP Terminal provides travellers with privacy and efficiency. It is situated not far from the main terminal and caters for VIPs, business jet travellers and passengers wishing to travel in style. It has been specifically designed to make ones travel experience as stress-free and exclusive as possible. Complete with own immigration and security to guarantee a swift transition from aircraft to land side and vice-versa. All standard travelling procedures can be processed through the comfort of the VIP Terminal, without the need to queue or wait, allowing passengers to relax at the VIP lounge until aircraft is ready for departure. Average transition time from drop off to plane or vice-versa – 5 to 15 minutes Contact us for more details on ops@executivefbo.com or +356 999 00 747
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How long have you been in the aviation industry and what was it that attracted you to this business? I was introduced to the world of aviation when I was 16-years-old. My stepfather was an aircraft engineer with British Airways who started a flying school at Redhill Aerodrome. Keen to take to the skies, during my time off school I started washing aircraft in return for flying lessons. On the day of my 17th birthday I had my first solo flight (the youngest legal age to fly unaccompanied!). I then began working for a larger flying school with its own charter department. It was there that I learnt how to compile charter quotes and how to grow an effective fleet, which allowed me to start my own charter company at the age of 19.
On the day of my 17th birthday I had my first solo flight - the youngest legal age to fly unaccompanied What does it take for AirX to be one of the island’s most recognized business aviation operator? It has been remarkable to watch AirX’s journey since its turn around from a company on the brink of bankruptcy just 6 years ago, recognised only last month as one of the world’s top 10 charter companies in the world. I have always seen the aviation industry as dysfunctional and precarious. For this reason an understanding of the market and a willingness to adapt and diversify has been crucial to our success. Our unique business model, combined with a high
compliance and regulation track record have prompted strategic investment with strong 7% - 15% returns for investors. Aside from the business benefits, for me one of the highlights and driving factors has been the implementation of the AirX Apprenticeship scheme. Having grown up witnessing first hand the struggles pilots go through trying to succeed in this impenetrable industry, it has been so rewarding to help young pilots achieve their dreams and the energy and enthusiasm of these remarkable individuals has helped make AirX what it is today. What can you tell us about the current fleet diversification you offer? How challenging it can be when you operate a variety of aircraft types? AirX operates a diversified fleet separating us from the majority of operators. On top of our established Citation Xs and Legacy fleet we have also built the largest fleet of Challenger 850s in Europe. Our fleet also includes three converted B-737 aircraft, re-fitted and re-configured to cater for large VIP groups such as music tours, sports teams, royal families and government travel. Our A340, due to come online imminently, offers 90 lay flat seats, a presidential bedroom with a study and luxury bathroom as well as 2 lounge bar areas. The A340 will be the industry’s largest and longest-range executive jet in the history of general aviation available for pure charter. At the other end of the spectrum AirX has recently entered the low-cost airline market with the acquisition of Lolo Flights offering low cost travel to popular holiday destinations. The possible challenges faced with such range of services are reduced compared to our competitors, as we do not deal directly with owners. We own or control all of the assets that operate within AirX. We therefore don’t need to start applying for owner’s releases or negotiatint com-
SOARING HIGHER Executive Traveller talks to JOHN B. MATTHEWS, chairman of AirX, Malta’s most recognized business aviation operators 13
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I find myself surprised by the dichotomy of living and working in Malta; Europe’s most beautiful, relaxing holiday destination offers no breaks when it comes to aviation! plicated billing structures. Another advantage separating us from smaller operators is that we do not have Post Holders covering dual roles. All positions are centralised at our HQ and operate on a full time basis. Whilst this increases our back office costs it also creates a strong platform enabling us to grow with confidence without overreaching our capabilities in any given area. Without exposing any sensitive trade secrets, geographically, which part of the globe do you see that business aviation is currently well underserved, hence, an entrepreneur would be wise to focus on? My answer is perhaps unexpected; in my view there is no area around the globe which is under served. A number of operators have been making bold statements with regards to expansion in certain regions with new aircraft orders to the tune of billions of dollars. The reality is that aircraft deliveries do not match the industry announcement of orders and growth. In fact we see manufacturers reducing production, redundancies and revenue falling with regards to aircraft deliveries. The financial boom created a finance model within aviation which allowed for nominal deposits and easily accessible finance. The result has been an influx of aircraft into the market without any growth in demand. We have seen operators forecast exciting success in China, Russia and Africa only to pull out of these regions along with financial institutions carrying
out repossessions in South America. I am in no doubt that the inevitable aviation recession will correct the market but as yet I see oversaturation rather than opportunities to expand. What can you tell us about the Malta jurisdiction when it comes to setting up and holding a local AOC? In your honest opinion, what are the real benefits of setting up base here in Malta? I find myself surprised by the dichotomy of living and working in Malta; Europe’s most beautiful, relaxing holiday destination offers no breaks when it comes to aviation! The standards expected by the Civil Aviation Directorate in Malta are exacting and unremitting. Their constant push for excellence ensures AirX operates to the highest standards while their progressive approach means they welcome and support our growth. Malta is also a highly aviation-friendly environment having recently invested €17 million in the development of a modern aviation park and with tax legislation aimed at encouraging aviation players to operate from Malta. Malta’s geographic location offers us a strategic position in the heart of the Mediterranean while its pool of highly professional workers have been so instrumental to our growth. The Maltese sunshine is also a welcome bonus!
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Where do you see AirX in the coming five years? What are your plans for the future? In the next 5 years the industry will only get tougher. As the aviation recession hits, AirX’s healthy financial position makes us ideally placed to capitalise and use it as a platform for expansion. Our portfolio of investors continues to grow allowing us to acquire more aircraft giving us a stronger, more diverse fleet. We are excited about diversifying our service and looking forward to further expansion within the low cost industry. At the other end of the spectrum we are also excited to see where the A340 VIP market as well as the 737 VIP tours take us. Further down the line we have plans to open offices in new locations around the world expanding out geographic presence within the industry. Whatever turbulence strikes the world of aviation within the coming months we look forward to the exciting opportunities that will ensue.
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Living an everlasting dream by Andrea Trapani
Today, I would like to share a lifetime experience with the readers of this publication, who, many of them, I may know personally, others, I may not know at all and would probably be a pleasure hearing from. As a character, I was always the social kind of person, passionate about making new encounters from all walks of life, in love with general knowledge, appreciative of the beauty of nature surrounding us. Travel has always been my passion as I believe this is a great way to get to know new people and embrace diversity which in itself makes this world a wonderful place to live in. We all go through our ups and downs in this fast and hectic life we’re living in, however, in my opinion, it’s all about managing to maintain a positive approach, working on strengthening your character and aiming high. People who have known me for many years, family and
friends, may easily get the overall impression that I am a workaholic, and they may also be right about that, however, I believe that there is more to it and work is not all I do, all the time. Unfortunately when you’re running a small 24/7 business, sometimes it tends to become quite challenging to just switch off. It all started as a dream for me some years ago, a dream which is alive, a dream I would love to keep living till the end of my days. More than 20 years ago when I was just a teen, many good friends of mine decided to enroll as cadets with the national airline, AirMalta with the aim of becoming the airline’s future pilots. In those days, it used to be one of the few options you had if wanted to land a job related to the aviation industry. I remember that, at the time, I could not take up the same challenge since my corrected eyesight would not 23
allow it and as I was missing an A-level in Pure Mathematics. I therefore decided to still apply with the airline to work within the commercial department as ground staff. Surprisingly enough, I was accepted and for 13 long years I was proud to work hard and represent our national airline. I was always full of praise and loyal to the company I made part of even when I knew that certain top management choices were not the ideal and some, in my opinion, made no commercial sense. Work experiences helped me develop skills, mature and grow a stronger character. I was never the kind of person to accept just anything that comes along, I always asked questions and questioned decisions. Alas, as years went by, I could not see much of a future for myself within the company that had brought me up and nurtured me academically. I wanted to achieve more and I
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I am now in a position where I am finally enjoying myself at work which is all I ever wanted
just couldn’t see me move ahead. As bad as this may sound, deciding to quit Airmalta was, at the time, probably the best thing I could have ever done. Leaving did not come without any heartache, however, it was time to move on, I needed to seek new ventures and change environment. The following few years that followed included some soul searching during which I tried new concepts and roles away from the airline/aviation industry. I was looking for new challenges and while some of my good old friends were thriving in their airline piloting careers, soon enough I was back on the road with barely any cash in hand. I reached a point where I could easily despair, thoughts went through my mind and at times I was asking myself if I had really made the right choices. Concerned family and friends’ opinions at the time didn’t help much as I recall many times when ex colleagues and family came up to me telling me that I should have stuck to what I knew at AirMalta and not move out of my comfort zone or build castles on sand. I admit that there were times when I was starting to feel like I failed, however, deep down I knew I had to gather the pieces, get back on track and keep following my dream. I once read a very interesting article on a mag-
azine about a businessperson who worked hard all his life to reach his targets. The story had left a mark on me and delivered a clear message that there’s nothing better in life than doing what you like doing and getting paid for it. As a character, I was always the ambitious type and it was high time I started making some income for myself and not work hard only to see others reap the benefits. I believed I had all it takes to pursue my dream, a dream which had to involve the aviation industry I had fallen in love with since my teen age. I made my homework, spent all I had left on travel expenses to fly around attending conferences and events in Dubai, Geneva and the UK. I made new acquaintances, socialized, conversed with entrepreneurs and successful business owners. I started to join the dots and carefully built a business plan with one aim, that of owning my own small, yet successful business aviation company. It was not easy, I encountered a lot of hurdles, some of which I would have never imagined to come across, nevertheless, I stuck through it and, although the first years were extremely challenging, the following years I was reaping fruit and started to make a generous profit. Six years have passed since then and today, I 25
can only say that, thanks to the tough decision I took back when at Airmalta, I was able to follow my dream. What I’ve experienced since I decided to take the plunge is something extraordinary. The people I met along the way, the business partners I encountered and moments shared together with an international array of business aviation enthusiasts is simply awesome. The beauty of it all is that, I am now in a position where I am finally enjoying myself at work which is all I ever wanted and something everyone ultimately deserves. I am not saying that apart from the determination there is no sacrifice to it all, far from it, however, at the end of the day, the satisfaction you get is fulfilling and extremely rewarding. What I have learned these past years as an entrepreneur within the business aviation industry is that, business aviation is a small family made up of a network of international players, a family where practically everyone knows everyone. The world is a small place and the business aviation world is even smaller. If you can be honest with people and offer the right service at a just price coupled by determination, a hands on approach and ethical behavior, you have a very good chance of succeeding. I may have reached some targets in my life as an entrepreneur, however, my dream lives on and I’m sure there’s much more to come in the coming years. Today, I’m thankful for the years experienced in this industry, am always looking forward to future challenges, who knows, perhaps one day, I’ll start travelling private or buy my own business jet, after all, it all starts with a dream. Andrea Trapani is owner and founder of Executive Aviation Malta and Aviapros International, he is also the editor and founder of the Executive Traveller Magazine, Malta’s only dedicated publication to the elite and high-end traveller, promoting business aviation and investment in
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The more we know about the marine environment the more likely we are to protect it Watercolours Dive Centre is a registered PADI 5 STAR Dive Centre (S-21956) and is run by Jason Fabri, a qualified PADI IDC Staff Instructor. Jason has over 25 years experience scuba diving around the Maltese archipelago. “We welcome all travelers wishing to experience the wonderful world of Scuba Diving around our home”. Watercolours Dive Centre is situated by the water’s edge at the Sliema Aquatic Sports Club along the Sliema Tower Road seafront. We are open 7 days a week all throughout the year. We offer all types of PADI certified courses and accompanied dives for beginners and/or certified divers up to professional PADI Instructor levels. We specialize in organizing diving holiday packages for groups of any size, diving clubs or the individual diver and we’ll take care of EVERYTHING including airport transfers and transport, accommodation, car hire & also evening transport to typical restaurants. We also offer 24 hour assistance to the clients, transport to other Islands, diving in Gozo and more. Our dive centre is fully equipped with the latest diving equipment. Malta’s reputation for outstanding diving has made it one of the best locations in the world to dive and is increasingly popular with all levels of divers, from those wishing to learn the sport, to those practicing technical diving down to the deeper depths found here. It is an ideal location for many Europeans as its year round sunshine and clear warm waters offer some truly magical diving experiences, often difficult to be found so close to home. The Maltese archipelago consists of 3 main islands, which are dived year round by both local divers and those visiting the islands. Surrounding the islands you can find various dive sites ranging from shallower undulating topographies and reefs to deep drop-offs and wall dives. Being a strategic stronghold during the war, Malta is littered with many wartime shipwrecks and relics and has since seen many additional wrecks scuttled specifically for divers. It has always been known for its impressive wreck diving but the islands also offer the opportunity to see and dive with a host of varying marine life with hundreds of different species found beneath its waters. The Maltese Islands are renowned for the numerous caves and wrecks available for divers, both recreational and technical. Wrecks include submarines, aeroplanes, oil tankers and other vessles from World War I and II. Here you will also find spectacular underwater topography and interesting marine life. The sea temp varies from approx. 15 C in the winter season (January to March) to 28 C during the summer (June to October). The visibility is amazing sometimes surpassing 50m. For further info call Jason on +356 99821829 or +356 99589639 or visit www.maltadiving.com 29
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THAT X FACTOR Executive Traveller talks to MARIA AZZOPARDI, seasoned corporate flight attendant with AirX How long have you been in the business aviation industry and what can you tell us about your career so far? I have been in this industry for almost five years now, three of which, at AirX Charter. This line of work has fast become a big part of my life. The passion which I nurture along with the people I get to work with makes it feel I have a second family at work. Much of my day to day duties involve dealing with high profile clients and quite often, their families. This, in itself can sound stressful, although, it has helped me learn and develop new skills like handling certain work pressure. The job takes me to new places far and wide, allowing the opportunity to learn about new cultures and heritages and physically see and experience new places. This aspect is what in turn greatly inspires my other line of work, that is, painting, when back at home. What is the most exotic destination you have been to so far? Trips to the African countries are always something to look forward to. I was lucky enough to visit several African locations. I love flying to Africa, discover new places, appreciate culture and diversity. It is a beautiful continent with beautiful scenery and lovely people. I love paying visits to children’s homes while trying to help out and give a helping hand with
the considering the time limitations. This in itself fulfills me. Being with the children and locals can give you a new perspective on life and will help you appreciate and value life better. I particularly fell in love with Malawi and would love to go back there one day. Your job certainly comes with certain perks and perhaps also some drawbacks in general. In your opinion, what is the main perk being in this business and what do you consider as a drawback when compared to other careers. There are many perks in this job. I just love the industry and being with aircraft while doing something I love doing on a daily basis is just fantastic! Getting to see the world and discover new cultures and people is of course one of the biggest perks you can get with business aviation. Working with VIP passengers who may either be A-list celebrities, Royal family members, sportspeople or politicians is also very exciting and it is very satisfying to be able to serve them and see them enjoy their experience with us. The only drawback for me personally is that I have to leave my family and friends for days quite often. I have an 8 year old daughter who I miss dearly when I’m gone so I do often end up coming back with a suitcase full of gifts and souvenirs for her to try make up for it!
Getting to see the world and discover new cultures and people is of course one of the biggest perks you can get with business aviation
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CLOTHES BY MOSCAFASHION.COM PHOTOS BY KRISMALTA.COM 31
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visiting new places, meeting new and exciting people, all contribute to my outlook and perspective on life, which I channel into my art when I’m on the ground
We know that apart from your main flying job you also find time for some real exciting hobbies if one can call them hobbies. Can you elaborate on how you enjoy spending your time on the ground? My professional background is based in the artistic world. I studied art at university level, followed by other courses in specific areas. I still do this work when I’m not travelling. I use various media as I like change and I don’t like to limit myself. I’ve also had some of my work used in fashion design. I don’t feel like one particular style or medium is what defines me, I’d rather I work according to my feelings and moods. What comes out of me and onto the canvas or paper has a lot to do with where I’m at in life at a given time. This is where my work with AirX comes in. The experiences of being away from home for stretches of time, visiting new places that are completely unique and different from home, meeting new and exciting people, all contribute to my outlook and perspective on life, which I channel into my art when I’m on the ground. How much do you believe that the passion you have for art and fashion help you in life? In simple words, this helps me see the beauty in everything around me. I feel I’m able to appreciate it in the most intimate manner even on the ugliest of days. When you try looking at things through a different perspective, you open your eyes to the beauty in anything. I do try to instill this message to my daughter to help her to realize and appreciate what a stunning world we live in. Beauty is, after all, in the eye of the beholder, as they well say! For more information visit: facebook.com/mariazzopardi/ and mariazzopardi@gmail.com
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EXECUTIVE PHOTOGRAPHER
RON KERR
¦ IMAGERY
+ 356 7972 8870 ronkrr282@gmail.com www.instagram.com/ronkerr www.facebook.com/RonKerrImagery
Born in Malta, a warm hearted culture fillBorn in Malta, a warm hearted culture filled Mediterranean island in 1984, Aaron Kerr has been introduced to Arts through interior Design. In fact, after successfully graduating in 2004 as an Interior designer, Aaron’s passion for photography, particularly documentary photography has flourished.Throughout the years, Aaron spent most of his time documenting the inside life of theatre artists backstage or while rehearsing. His dedication and passion on the matter has lead him to document the inside story within the Vatican’s private gardens. He was later nominated as the official photographer for a European Erasmus project, documenting the interaction between students from various European countries.Aaron’s career in professional photography was enhanced when he enrolled for and later achieved a HND in photography. Furthering his studies to a BA. Hons in Photography.ed Mediterranean island in 1984, Aaron Kerr has been introduced to Arts through interior Design. In fact, after successfully graduating in 2004 as an Interior designer, Aaron’s passion for photography, particularly documentary photography has flourished.Throughout the years, Aaron Architecture documentation, Valletta - Malta spent most of his time documenting the inside life of theatre artists backstage or while © Ron kerr rehearsing. His dedication and passion on the matter has lead him to document the inside story within Architecture documentation, Valletta - Malta the Vatican’s private gardens. He was later nominated as the official photographer for a Euro-© Ron kerr pean Erasmus project, documenting the interaction between students from various European countries.Aaron’s career in professional photography was enhanced when he enrolled for and later achieved a HND in photography. Furthering his studies to a BA. Hons in Photography. The evident passion expressed whilst documenting the inside stories of professionals at work portrays Aaron’s commitment and positive attitude towards his work. He is continuously motivated and in search of new boundaries whilst engaging himself in the exploration of the unseen, something which is considered inaccessible to the common public. Aaron has recently taken his photography a step further towards the use of social media, mainly instagram. This is helping him keep his documentation alive in real time whilst at the same time allowing him to always stay well connected with his audience.
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executive traveller
issue seven
MDINA Maltese Heritage and Pride
Mdina, the old city or as better known, the silent city, is a must visit when in Malta. One of the places of interest I always recommend to a foreign visitor whether here in Malta on holiday or for business, Mdina always remains a top destination you can’t miss. Anyone who actually visits the silent city can appreciate its architectural beauty which is quite unique. Not that I should be surprised about this, of course. It’s a wonderful fortified city with a lot of history synonymous with that of the whole island. Although quaint, the imposing fortifications are majestic which leaves an impression of greatness and safety. Many tourists and visitors simply enjoy walking along the city’s cobbled and narrow streets, admiring the architecture, very often, taking a break at one of the scenic and picturesque coffee shops and popular restaurants. Although a day would practically be enough to see most of what Mdina can offer, some visitors decide to go a step further and stay at one of the most exclusive hotels located within the city boundaries. Having said so, there’s so much that can be done between entering the city and sitting down to admire the 360° views.
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executive traveller
issue seven
Palazzo Falson Palazzo Falson is the former home of artist, scholar and philanthropist Captain Olaf Frederick Gollcher. It is a two-story medieval palace enriched and surrounded by overall splendor. Within the Palazzo, you can witness a rich heritage collection and a library full of unique manuscripts together with a nice collection of Maltese silver. Complimenting this is a magnificent collection of 80 oriental rugs from remote places as far as Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Afghanistan. St Paul’s Cathedral Designed by vanguard Baroque architect Lorenzo Gafà, this unique edifice was five years in construction and is dedicated to St. Paul - the patron saint of Malta. Flanked by twin bell-towers, the cathedral’s imposing ochre facade opens into an awe-inspiring space bestrewn with marble, ornate masonry-work and richly-detailed side-chapels. The gilded arched vault within depicts the shipwreck of St. Paul in Malta as described in Acts in a series of breathtaking ceiling panel-paintings by the Manno brothers. What not to miss while visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral • The spectacular ceiling painting-panels by the Manno brothers in the cathedral’s vault. • The engraved marble tombstones of Maltese clergy and noblemen. • The 900 year old Norman door leading to the vestry. • Mattia Preti’s mural ‘The Shipwreck of St Paul’ in the semi-dome of the apse. • Mattia Preti’s accompanying altar-piece themed around the conversion of St. Paul. Natural History Museum Here you’ll find exhibitions related to Malta’s geology and paleontology, a collection of rocks and minerals, stuffed animals including the largest squid ever found in Maltese waters. The spectacular palace built in Baroque elegance is also a spot of architectural beauty which certainly deserves a lot of respect and appreciation.
figures look so natural and real giving you the feeling that you actually belong to that period. The episodes described at the Mdina Dungeons Museum range from different periods in Malta’s opulent history...Romans, Byzantine, Arabs, Knights and even French. This dates back to the times when beheading, public executions, crucifixion, torture, crime, revolts, conspiracies, punishments, imprisonment, and inquisitions were all very common practice. The Mdina Dungeons Museum provides a truly memorable and dramatic experience for the bold and brave on often forgotten aspects of the darkest past of Malta’s history.
Mdina Dungeons This is not one for the faint hearted. History is often diluted with stories of romance and heroism, yet at no time in history did any victory at war and justice come without an expense. The Mdina Dungeons Museum is an intense account of medieval events in Malta. These underground passageways, chambers and cells were home to some of the darkest and most atrocious measures taken in the bygone era. The Mdina Dungeons Museum is found underneath the noble Magisterial Vilhena Palace located on the right hand side as soon as you enter Mdina from the main gate. The incidents described within with life-size
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