Sunday Circle Collection

www.sundaycircle.com

APRIL 2013 – ISSUE NO. 220

Interview IN HER SHOES

Joanne Cassar on finding happiness as a transsexual

By Philip Leone-Ganado Photos by Steve Muliett see page 36

Kristen BUHAGIAR On the challenges of modelling, the thrills of London Fashion Week and her pursuit of a career in medicine

By Martina Said -§- Photos by Steve Muliett see page 14

PLUS

How fostering offers new hope to children yearning for a family

By Martina Said – see page 22

TO WI N A A SU N R A wi P M th RI AZ RO SE IN G se C e p S DE H ag T S O e 4 RA TI L NA ID 8 V EL T AY IO N

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47

. contents . on the cover

16 life, more vividly

Ahead of his performance in the Malta Arts Festival, MalteseItalian actor Pino Scicluna tells Philip Leone-Ganado about his life in stories

society

20 once a priest

David Schembri asks: What happens to priests once they leave the ministry?

28 here come the brides

Kristina Galea Cavallazzi and Clara Borg tell Philip Leone-Ganado about their civil union ceremony – the first since it became law in Malta

64 home sweet home

53 a man of letters

Poet and philosopher Joe Friggieri tells David Schembri about life, language and literature, and how they all form part of the same web

music

47 the man behind the music

Howard Keith Debono, the man behind some of Malta’s top music acts talks to David Schembri about everything from music to marketing

sPort

Philip Leone-Ganado meets Ariana Axiaq and Jamie Farrugia, the teenage girls representing Malta in the 2014 Chess Olympiad

health

dance

Dr Jean Paul Demajo talks about getting your teeth

Young ballerina Sandrina Spiteri-Gonzi opens up to Philip Leone-Ganado about the harsh reality of professional ballet training, and how she’s using that experience to change the perception of ballet in Malta

literature

41 awe of the rings

60 years since the first part of The Lord of the Rings was published, Veronica Stivala finds out how far Tolkien fandom has taken Maltese devotees

28

59 queens among knights

Young adults living in their family home are sometimes seen as spoilt, but David Schembri finds they have grownup reasons for not fleeing the nest – yet

34 dance becomes her

34

67 regaining confidence back to sparkling form

reGulars 5 a word from the editor | 6 c body 12 c style | 14 c living 69 paparazzi shoPPinG 70 pets

53

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Visit the redesigned sundaycircle.com for more quality content from your favourite lifestyle magazine

Send your letterS to: Philip Leone-Ganado, the editor, Sunday Circle, Network Publications Ltd, Level 2, Angelica Court, Guzeppi Calì Street, Ta’ Xbiex, XBX 1425, or email: philip@ networkpublications.com.mt. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and where space is limited. For advertising enquiries email: renee@networkpublications.com.mt or call: 2131 6326/7/8. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole, or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in the Sunday Circle are not necessarily those of the editor or publishers. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor and publishers cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome, but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor is not responsible for material submitted for consideration.

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BOUQUET collection

Com ing Soon

A WORD FROM

THE EDITOR How do you measure a year?

We began with an electoral campaign and we end it with a new government. It’s meant changes for everyone, but perhaps none more so than Michelle Muscat, wife of the new Prime Minister, who talks to us about adapting to a new reality while maintaining normality for her young children. Mrs Muscat is just one of the personalities we encountered – from the triathlete Dermot Galea, fresh from the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii to the tattooist Guy Lee, fast establishing himself as one of Malta’s most daring and innovative.

It would be impossible to capture all the issues that dominated our thoughts this year in a few pages, but we did strive to offer a taste of the diversity that dominated twelve months of debate and change. As the introduction of civil unions promises to change the fabric of Maltese society, we examine another part of the term LGBT, and ask whether progress is as forthcoming for transsexual individuals. And as the notion of citizenship comes under scrutiny, we ask what it actually means to be Maltese, and take a peek at the experience of the expats who have left the country behind.

For our cover story, we met the writer and performer Malcolm Galea.

As he prepares to step into the high heels of the pantomime dame for the traditional theatrical Christmas offering, he gave us a spot of insight into the life of a man who makes a living from being funny.

This and more inside. Thanks for reading.

THIS MONTH

ON THE COVER PUBLISHER John Formosa Network Publications Ltd www.sundaycircle.com

Interview

MICHELLE MUSCAT

DECEMBER 2013 – ISSUE NO. 228

Feature

BECOMING ME A look at the day-to-day life of transsexual people in Malta today

PUBLICATION & SALES MANAGER Renée Micallef Decesare

See page 41

The Prime Minister’s wife on life in the Muscat household

EDITORIAL

See page 35

Philip Leone-Ganado EDITOR Exclusive

MALCOLM GALEA

Pantomime, musicals, children’s theatre, television, stand-up – what’s it like making your living from comedy?

See page 20

PLUS

The plight of the Romani – one of Europe’s most maligned ethnic groups See page 29

C TI SE AS U NT AG CA FA B OD A DIE GO 11 IN OO TO Apage 1 W G TE see &

WESTIN WESTIN DRAGONARA DRAGONARA RESORT RESORT ST. JULIANS ST. JULIANS facebook.com/undeuxtrois123malta WWW.1-2-3.FR

COVER PERSONALITY Malcolm Galea

COVER PHOTO Nicky Scicluna PHOTOGRAPHY

NA DO

Sarah Borg Rachel Agius ASSISTANT EDITORS

ART & DESIGN Sarah Scicluna Jessica Camilleri GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

SALES & MARKETING Marisa Schembri FEATURES SALES MANAGER

Viktoriya Kyurcheva SALES ADMINISTRATOR

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2. inspiring sCents

CH Eau de Parfum Sublime, the latest fragrance by Carolina Herrera, has been inspired by the ideal of a sophisticated and sensual woman; one who is fun, cheerful and charming, but with a hint of mystery. It is a modern fragrance with a touch of vintage. Patchouli and rose are the most characteristic ingredients of these vintage accords and are contrasted with fresh bergamot and sweet passionflower. The composition is completed with orchid and leather, for a remarkable harmonious combination of original floral and fruity accords.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery Limited. Tel: 2133 1553.

3. Dawn to Dusk fragranCes

The scents of orange blossom and rose honey are what make the signature of the Elie Saab perfumes, with every version of the perfume depicting a period of daylight. The debut Eau de Parfum (2011), reflects the sparkling light of midday.

The soft light of early morning is captured by the Eau de Toilette (2012), while the magic moment of dusk is introduced with the new version: Eau de Parfum Intense, an ultra sensual and feminine composition that brings the evening to life. Elie Saab is exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4079.

4. say yes

A perfume is not only a fragrance: it’s an experience, an emotion, a wonderful trip. This fragrance is a tribute to pure and modern femininity, a mix of strength, elegance and freedom. Chic, intense and soft at the same time. Sì, the new fragrance by Giorgio Armani, lingers on the skin and enchants the senses. Armani Fragrances are distributed by Chemimart. Tel: 21492212.

5. lashes get graphiC

The New Graphic Expression Collection from Clarins includes Be Long Mascara. This innovative product with its ultra easy-to-use eyeliner and a new lash enhancing formula makes even the skimpiest lashes longer, stronger and larger than life. With Clarins Graphic Expression Collection, make-up has never offered so many benefits. Available from the Clarins Beauty Centre, Ta’ Xbiex, Tel: 21339256, 21338404 and Clarins authorised outlets. Clarins products are exclusively distributed by von Brockdorff Imports Ltd.

6. untolD stories

Feminine, sophisticated, luxurious, modern and sensual. There is an untold story behind every modern woman who is thriving in her life’s journey. Whether it’s dreams she has yet to share, secrets she has yet to reveal, or ambitions she has yet to declare, there are countless facets to every woman. While some of these facets are apparent on the surface, others remain hidden, only to be discovered over time. Intoxicating, romantic, undeniably feminine, evoking a magnetic sensuality and her mysterious aura, Untold, the signature fragrance by Elizabeth Arden presents the unforgettable essence of her presence. Sunday Circle readers will have a chance to win this alluring fragrance via our online competition. Exclusively distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4080/79.

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Sunday Circle | October 2013

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iT sTyle launched in Bay sTreeT

The new IT Style store opened at the end of October to much interest from local fashionistas. Home to IT Style cosmetics and the Italian costume jewellery brand, Dudu, IT Style in Bay Street is the newest and latest addition to the impressive list of brands represented by Michele Peresso Group of Companies. Both the cosmetics and the jewellery are produced in Italy, distinguishing them from other similar products produced outside the EU. For further enquiries please call on 2385 9389 or visit us on Facebook – IT Style Malta / Dudu Malta.

QualiTy comes sTandard

a flash of sensualiTy

Anticipation. Excitement. The cool rush of power a woman feels when dressed in a pair of sexy shoes. Introducing Flash, the second fragrance from Jimmy Choo. Evoking a sophisticated, urban woman who is provocative, rebellious, and magnetic, this floral Eau de Parfum is effervescent and sensual. Pink pepper, tangerine, and strawberry open the fragrance with a fresh, sparkling introduction. Heart notes of strong, exotic white flowers reveal a sexy character. A base of white powdery woods leaves a lasting impression, both seductive and modern. Jimmy Choo Fragrances are distributed by Chemimart. Tel: 2149 2212.

classic sTyle wiTh a conTemporary calling

Italian leather specialists Coccinelle have been creating bags, shoes and accessories which perfectly represent the contemporary woman for over thirty years. The Coccinelle woman is dynamic, chic and modern and her Coccinelle bag is always in fashion, elegant, functional, and practical. For this Autumn and Winter collection, Coccinelle is offering an irresistible mix of rationality and sensuality, metropolitan esprit and the need to be seductive.

The brand also boasts a vast and varied selection of bags, purses and fashion accessories to be found at the new shop in Tower Road, Sliema, which will definitely delight. Coccinelle is represented by P. Cutajar & Co Ltd. 16 Sunday Circle | November 2013

With a long tradition of exceptional quality, it is no surprise that Bruno Magli has been a favourite among an international customer base for over 70 years. Bruno Magli footwear is an Italian luxury brand and its creations are conceived and created for the refined, elegant woman. The shoes are rigorously hand-made by expert craftsmen and every single detail is made with scrupulous care, ensuring that customers’ expectations continue to be exceeded for years to come.

Exclusively at Stivaletti – Tower Road, Sliema. Tel: 2132 2638.

sarTo presenTs d&g

One year after opening its St Julian’s store, SARTO exclusively presents Dolce & Gabbana, strengthening the bond between fashion, art and craftsmanship so clearly described by the name SARTO itself. Well known for its strong cultural appeal, the Italian fashion house will be bringing a touch of Mediterranean roots to their line. The women’s collection emphasizes the strength and confidence of the female figure, accenting her outfit with rosary beads and religious jewellery.

For the men’s collection, Dolce & Gabbana take an absolute devotion to tailoring as a way of representing the strong Sicilian dedication to family, religion and most of all...love. With a vision for quality, VF Group continues to invest in international brands like Dolce & Gabbana.

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COVER

Photography by Steve Muliett Make-up & hair by Chantal Busuttil using Shiseido – www.cbmakeupandsfx.com Clothes & styling by Luke Azzopardi – Luke Azzopardi is a Gozitan designer and visual artist for Naupaca Dance Factory Follow him on lukeazzopardi.tumblr.com 14 Sunday Circle | April 2013

COVER

A

BEAUTIFUL MIND

Kristen Buhagiar is smart, Beautiful and on her way to becoming a doctor. She SpeakS to martina Said about going back to school, the thrills of london fashion Week and the ups and downs of a life in modelling April 2013 | Sunday Circle 15

COVER

W

hen Kristen Buhagiar was younger she dreamt of becoming a doctor. Years later, she graduated in pharmacy, which was a step in the right direction for her. Two years ago, however, while in Boston presenting her Masters project, followed by a brief stint in New York for a fashion shoot for a designer she’d met previously in London, she made a decision that would alter the course of her life.

With a modelling career spanning over 15 years, it appears that Kristen’s life is anything but ordinary. She has dabbled in two distinct and seemingly immiscible worlds: science and art, and yet, while her dream of becoming a doctor budded early on, the same cannot be said of her interest in modelling. “I was so clueless about fashion that the first time I went shopping alone I had no idea sizes existed.

I bought a pair of red jeans that were huge for me,” she laughs.

After four years of clinical pharmacy and with two London Fashion Weeks under her belt, Kristen began to deliberate her future again. “I was working at Karin Grech rehabilitation hospital, working on wards with patients, consultants and nurses.” The experience prompted her to take on a more active role in helping the patients. She decided to bite the bullet and enrol in the medicine course at the University of Malta. Two years on, Kristen – now 31 – loves every bit of it. “You have to be prepared to enter medicine; I admire my course colleagues who are 19 years old,” she says. “I’m taking studying more seriously now than when I was studying pharmacy – I want to take it all in.”

Her career in modelling began purely by chance – “I was walking up Republic Street with my sister. I was 13 and she was 15. Someone approached us and asked if we’d like to take part in a fashion show. It seemed exciting and, of course, we accepted. One opportunity led to another...” The rest, as they say, is history.

“

I was so clueless about fashion that the first time I went shopping alone I had no idea sizes existed

”

She found modelling to be thrilling, and juggled these and her studying commitments as best she could, shifting her attention between the two while trying not to slack in her studies. As an energetic and free-spirited twentysomething, Kristen wanted to take on as much as she could. “There were months where I’d be really busy with modelling, but once that quietened down I’d focus on studying, and vice-versa. I always coped somehow – there were times where I fell behind in my studies but it happens to all students. Modelling was my escape.”

In 2010, while working full time at Karin Grech, Kristen got the opportunity to participate in one of the most anticipated events of the fashion world: London Fashion Week. She says the experience was somewhat surreal; tending to patients at hospital in the morning and trying on gorgeous gowns in London that same evening. “It all happens very fast – you get there, do a casting and fashion designers choose you for their show just hours before it starts.

It is an exciting atmosphere and the people are lovely, but it’s also busy and very hard work.”

16 Sunday Circle | April 2013

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COVER She did it for two seasons, each time modelling for around seven designers. It wasn’t just the fashion, however, that captured her attention. Kristen says the best part of it all was meeting a variety of people, many of whom she had never even heard of before.

“The models, the designers – they’ve got so much energy and drive. They’re not just dreamers, they do things. It’s inspiring.”

Kristen says modelling couture at Fashion Week is a big responsibility for the models. “The designer briefs you about the mood and the inspiration behind the clothes. It is like a script,” she says, “and you are the actor that narrates that script in the best way possible. You have to act the part, be the dress.”

Returning to her job, however, meant dealing with a bigger and different kind of responsibility. After the whirlwind experience of Fashion Week, Kristen experienced what she describes as something similar to “culture shock”. “At Fashion Week, you are an ambassador for the couture you’re modelling and, in that way, you have a responsibility to do it well. But shifting back to work was like a shock to the system.

People there were young and beautiful and patients in hospital were grey and dying... It was a huge contrast,” she reflects.

Letting go of her job to model full-time, however, has never been on the cards for Kristen. Maybe it’s because she never got the opportunity, she reveals – although I suspect that modelling alone would not have quelled her craving for learning and academia.

For years, she’s been immersed in two very different roles – does shifting between them bring out different sides of her personality? Not anymore, she says.

“When I model I simply play the part. I’m aware that modelling and medicine are two different areas that probably cannot merge but they have structured my personality and made me who I am today,” she says.

“

The models, the designers – they’ve got so much energy and drive... It’s inspiring

”

18 Sunday Circle | April 2013

Kristen has flourished on the local fashion scene and has been in demand for work for a long time. As she moves in front of the camera – making poetry with the angles of her body, her signature crystal blue eyes catching the light, welling with expression – it isn’t hard to see why. There’s no denying she is strikingly beautiful and incredibly easygoing. I ask if it is a challenge to remain grounded in an industry that can inflate your ego and confidence as quickly as it can puncture it. “People’s comments are positive and you welcome them. But you become aware of who you are and work on maintaining that.”

What about rejection – has she ever been rejected for a job? “Oh yes,” she says, waving her hand dismissively. “It’s part of the job. One has to expect sooner or later they’ll get rejected. But opportunities are infinite. You simply have to embrace them with an open mind and heart,” she says. “Trace a path to achieve a goal and dance along to it.” Indeed, Kristen is dancing all the way.

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DANCE

Dance BECOMES HER Young ballerina Sandrina Spiteri-gonzi openS up to philip leone-ganado about the harSh realitY of profeSSional ballet training – and uSing that experience to change the waY we think of ballet here in Malta Beaded Motifs Gaudi, by JB Stores, Iklin Ballet Wear The Dance Studio, San Gwann

She should know. At the tender age of 13, Sandrina left Malta for vocational training at the prestigious Elmhurst School for Dance in the UK – one of only three girls to be accepted out of approximately 800 who auditioned.

From then on, her life was geared towards a professional career in dance: over eight hours of dance training every day, and academics relegated to a bare minimum, during the students’ own time.

Graduating from Elmhurst at age 16, Sandrina was accepted into the English National Ballet School, where the demands intensified further. “I was in a class of 15 girls from all over the world: the world’s best all in one room. You give up everything: no boyfriends, no family, no holidays, no eating whatever you

34

Sunday Circle | July 2014

want. There’s no time to socialize unless with another dancer: you live in this little cocoon; you only spend time with people in your company,” she explains.

“The teachers expect perfection; they put you down every day. They have that mentality: they break you to make you. You’re marked and graded on everything: your weight, your technique, flexibility, artistry and turn-out [rotation of the hips]. But the truth is that some things you’re just born with. So when a teacher tells you: ‘Your turn-out isn’t good enough,’ over and over again, and you’re working every day to try and improve it – if you’re lucky by just 3 per cent – it’s mentally disturbing.

“There are these crazy traditions that you end up living by: soaking your feet in a tub of surgical spirit to make the skin on your feet tough, because if it remains normal they’ll blister and bleed. I’m still young now, but when I look back at when I was 15 – I was such a baby, and doing all this.”

So why, I ask, would anyone put themselves through this? Sandrina laughs, repeating the question as if it’s something she’s asked herself many times before.

Photograph Federico Peltretti

B

allet tends to have this painted picture: everything’s very glamorous and frilly, all the ballets are stories like Cinderella and Romeo and Juliet,” says Sandrina Spiteri-Gonzi. “But behind the curtain there’s so much more going on.

Being in rehearsals and seeing the blood, sweat and tears that go into it...it’s mad.

You can’t know what it’s like until you experience it yourself.”

DANCE

July 2014 | Sunday Circle 000 35

DANCE

“When I ask people my age why they stay away from ballet, they tell me it seems boring. I want to change that perception” artist community – it is setting its sights high: “My aim is to change the audience perception of classical ballet, and its demographic, by pushing the boundaries of ballet and its surrounding art forms,” Sandrina explains.

Yet broadly speaking, the general perception of ballet today remains one of a stuffy and elitist art form. Does Sandrina believe it can be opened up to a new generation? “I think it’s slowly changing,” she says. “A lot of new choreographers are emerging who understand the image problem and want to make it more accessible. In London today you can go into a club or a fashion show and find a ballet performance happening. When I ask people my age why they stay away from ballet, they tell me it seems boring. I want to change that perception. I think by exposing people to ballet as a professional art form, and by creating new events, you can open it up to them. For instance, this year English National Ballet made its debut at Glastonbury, performing Akram Khan’s Dust from Lest We Forget, just after Mettalica’s headline set.”

Photograph Ryan Galea

“Because if you love ballet and you’re passionate about your dancing, then getting into a major company is the dream. I have friends who were recruited from the school into the English National Ballet company and I often ask them: is it worth it? But dancing in these amazing theatres, and dancing these famous ballets, and hearing the applause of the audience...of course it’s worth it.”

Only a very small percentage of the dancers who graduate from top schools, however, are actually picked up by dance companies – for the rest, the future is uncertain. When this did not immediately pan out for Sandrina, she was determined to make sure her next step was a positive one. “I decided I’d rather be a big fish in a small pond,” she says with refreshing honesty. “Instead of constantly beating myself up about how tough it is, I’m determined to make a difference here, where it’s more manageable.”

Which brings us to the Classical Ballet, Culture and the Arts Foundation, Sandrina’s forthcoming venture: the young ballerina’s way of using the experience she has accrued abroad to push forward the ballet scene at home. The CBCA foundation officially launches in August, and – counting among its board members prominent figures from the local arts community, cultural institutions, tourism sphere and international 36

Sunday Circle | July 2014

Sandrina also sees the Foundation – which is not-for-profit – addressing Malta’s broader cultural needs. “I want to stage performances in Malta with quality, international dancers from great companies. Fortunately, many of the people I grew up with are today’s emerging dancers and choreographers, and I can depend on those friendships to create a platform for talented local dancers to interact with these professionals without leaving Malta, as well as promoting Malta as a destination for cultural events and entertainment.”

Her plans are already underway. In July and August, two of the brightest young talents in British ballet – Laurretta Summerscales from the English National Ballet, and Tierney Heap of the Royal Ballet – will be delivering masterclasses in Malta for the Ballet Summer Intensive, for which Sandrina is artistic director. The CBCA Foundation, moreover, has offered scholarships to three talented students from local ballet schools in order to attend the masterclasses; in the future, Sandrina sees these scholarships being extended to allow promising students to attend courses or auditions overseas.

As she sets off, does she ever worry that – being so young and having spent so long abroad – her drive might be taken for presumption, in an often-competitive local arts scene? “Definitely, but that shouldn’t be the case,” she says. “A lot of people in Malta try to set up their own thing, when there’s already a lot of things happening; I’d rather work with them than setting up something new. I don’t want to be perceived as a threat; I want to work with the whole community to see things move forward.”

The CBCA Foundation will launch with a Gala Soiree on August 10 at the Grandmaster’s Palace, featuring a performance by English National Ballet soloist Laurretta Summerscales.

promotion

The ArT of Time The Sunday CirCle meeTS Jean marC PonTroué, The Ceo of luxury SwiSS waTChmaker roger dubuiS, To find ouT whaT makeS iT So differenT from The reST

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aying that Jean Marc Pontroué’s personal watch is unique is no ordinary understatement – it is like saying a Ferrari is “fast”, or that Mount Everest is “high”. Pontroué is the affable CEO of Roger Dubuis watches, a high-end Swiss watchmaker that proudly displays its artful watch mechanisms in glorious detail on its timepieces – locally available only through Gioielleria Zampa. In Pontroué’s case, part of the mechanism of his watch includes his initials – JMP – made in metal. “The watch would not work without these initials,” he says, with more than a hint of pride. That pride is not unjustified.

Founded in 1995 by its namesake, formerly a watchmaker at Patek Philippe, the Roger Dubuis wristwatches brand has quickly made a name for itself for challenging the expectations of what a Swiss watch should look and feel like, while at the same time remaining 100 per cent Swiss.

While the criteria for a watch to be called Swiss do not guarantee the watch to be entirely made in Switzerland, Roger Dubuis watches are not only fully Swiss-made, but this brand is the only watchmaker to have the “Poinçon de Genève” hallmark on its entire production. This hallmark is a guarantee of the finest Swiss craftsmanship, performance and durability. In fact, watches bearing this hallmark cannot be made outside of the Canton of Geneva.

A Roger Dubuis watch can take up to 2,400 working hours to make, with every last part, down to screws you can’t see, being finished by hand. What goes inside one of these watches is mesmerising – so much so, that Mr Dubuis decided to expose the intricate mechanisms and integrate them as part of the watch’s design, as he was convinced that people would not only be interested in the exterior design, but also in the very soul of the watch.

“From the very first day, Monsieur Dubuis, who is still active in the company, decided to display this cocktail of incredible mechanics and movements, exclusive to our brand, which is so fundamental to our wristwatches’

spectacular designs. For hundreds of years, the more fashionable your watch was, the more it was at an open price point,” says the CEO, who joined the company three years ago after working at Mont Blanc. “Roger Dubuis was the very first man to decide to change established trends by introducing spectacular design, but associated with very strong mechanical content. We were the first brand 20 years ago to change the ingredients of what made a high-end watch,” he says.

This sort of approach distinguishes the brand from the hundreds of other Swiss watchmakers it is in competition with. “It’s like a Ferrari – you do not buy one because it’s red, but because of the engine inside it. All our movements are open, because we want to show that our mechanism is one that you won’t find in other brands,” Pontroué says.

Roger Dubuis watches, then, are designed for connoisseurs. “We are not a logo. We are not a name brand. We are a brand for connoisseurs, we are for people who are after exclusivity. Our customers do not need reassurance from Mr X or Ms Y, because they are celebrities themselves.”

This exclusivity is taken a step further in the Rarities scheme, where buyers can work with an individual watchmaker and ask for their very own movement to be made – just like Pontroué has. “There are numerous brands which make limited edition wristwatches with special dials or straps, but there is no other brand that tailormakes a customer’s own wristwatch movement,” he winks knowingly.

This is made possible by the fact that Roger Dubuis watches are made entirely in the company’s integrated manufacturing facility.

“We do everything here,” he says, pointing at his own watch. “Except alligator straps. We don’t have alligators in our country – yet.”

Roger Dubuis watches are exclusively available at Gioielleria Zampa in Republic Street, Valletta and Portomaso.

September 2014 | Sunday Circle 23

cover story

20 Sunday Circle | November 2013

cover story

BEHIND CLOSED DOORS He’s best known for penning tHe eurovision Hits Desire anD seventH wonDer, anD now His Debut novel aims to be just as glamorous. gerarD james borg tells pHilip leone-ganaDo about writing, eurovision success – anD wHy He remains fascinateD by gossip anD scanDal. P hotograPhy by S teve M uliett a rt D irection by J eSSica c aMilleri h air by n aDia at P rive

I’ve been in Gerard James Borg’s apartment less than three minutes before he offers me a Martini. When I politely decline, he seems genuinely disappointed. “I thought it would have been fitting,” he shrugs as he pours me a glass of water.

Fitting, he means, because we’re here to discuss Sliema Wives, Gerard’s new novel: all glitz, glam, and scandal in high society. But perhaps fitting also because as our interview begins, I get the sense that Gerard himself has walked straight out of the pages of his own novel. Sharply dressed and immaculately groomed, here is one – he seems to project – with a taste for the finer things in life.

In person, he comes across as energetic, larger than life, as if he’s constantly struggling to contain himself: on more than one occasion, he leaps out of his seat to punctuate a point, or vividly act out part of an anecdote he’s relating.

Locally, of course, Gerard’s name is inextricably linked with the Eurovision Song Contest. As a lyricist, his songs have represented Malta in the finals on five separate occasions: an 8th place finish with Claudette Pace and Desire in 2000; 2nd place with Ira Losco and Seventh Wonder two years later; then On Again, Off Again, Vertigo, and Vodka. He has also written lyrics for over forty songs in national finals across Europe, placing 3rd in the Netherlands and Norway, and 2nd in Iceland, among others.

But Sliema Wives takes its cue from a different vein of Gerard’s writing endeavours: in particular, he explains, a weekly newspaper column he used to write, entitled Private Eye. The series took the form of restaurant reviews-cumcelebrity interviews, with Gerard touring the island’s wine bars and eateries in the company of well-known local personalities – from Simon Busuttil to Moira Delia – asking the sort of “juicy” questions that conventional interviews shy away from. Would you rather be felt up by your husband or David Beckham? Would you rather slap Claudette Pace or Angie Laus? That sort of thing. “People responded really well to the style,” Gerard laughs. “It wasn’t the prim and proper interviews everyone was used to: it was edgy, witty and full of gossip. When that finished, many people asked for more, so I found myself thinking – why not a book?”

Four years later, that book is Sliema Wives. It tells the story of five local women nominated for a prestigious Woman of the Year award in an international lifestyle magazine.

November 2013 | Sunday Circle 21

COVER STORY “They all know each other, but they’re all jealous of each other, so what we get to see is the bitching and the backstabbing that goes on behind the air kisses,” Gerard explains. “There’s lots of scandal and intrigue, and also scenes of everyday life – but the sort of everyday life that doesn’t often come to light. I think we all love to read about how other people behave, or rather, how we like to think they behave.”

Each of the five women represents a trope of some kind, from the snobby aristocrat to the nouveau-riche whom the others never quite accept. “I had a lot of fun creating the characters: although completely fictitious, each one was inspired by a mix of several people... and some imagination,” Gerard says with a hint of mischief.

Ultimately, however, all draw their inspiration from the same source, which in turn underpins the entire novel: the upper-crust, code-switching stereotype of the Sliema pepe. Gerard deflects any questions as to whether his portrayal is more satire or celebration – “I want people to take from it whatever they’d like,” as he flittingly puts it.

He certainly recognises that the stereotype is a pervasive one: launching into storytelling mode at the slightest prompt, he animatedly tells me about a woman he met recently who’d only just moved to Malta, but who was already aware that Sliema had a reputation as the posh part of the island.

I wanted the book to be entertaining, juicy, and revealing. People will recognise elements of themselves and their relationships in it But by that same token, he admits that he doesn’t see anything to it beyond “a fun part of life in Malta”. I have a bit more luck drawing him in to a response on whether he sees any part of himself in the stereotypes he examines. “Actually, people do often guess that I’m from Sliema,” he says (he was actually born and raised in Floriana). “But I think it’s just because I feel more comfortable expressing myself in English – even though I’m perfectly capable of speaking Maltese.”

The book does aim to touch upon some serious issues. “Unhappy marriages, for example,” says Gerard. “It’s a reality many people are living, but you’d never know it because they’re in conscious denial, or they’re showing a different face to the world.” But it is the book’s lighter elements that the author is keen to emphasise, and he does so with no apologies for the frivolity. “I wanted the book to be entertaining, juicy, and revealing. People will recognise elements of themselves and their relationships in it, but I didn’t want to end up writing some sort of philosophical novel. Who am I to profess?”

22 Sunday Circle | November 2013

HERITAGE

Home-grown

Tales

San niklaw EStatE, a winEry locatEd on tHE oUtSkirtS of ZEjtUn, iS aS inconSpicUoUS aS it iS wondErfUl. Martina Said MEEtS tHE paEdiatric SUrgEon, joHn caUcHi, wHo rUnS it P hotograPhy

I

t isn’t long after setting foot inside the marvellous yet unobtrusive grounds of San Niklaw Estate in Zejtun that I begin to feel somewhat cut off from the world. After driving through a series of winding roads in sticky September weather in order to get there, the feeling is more than welcome.

I am greeted by John Cauchi, a paediatric surgeon by profession and avid wine enthusiast, who forms part of the family that owns the estate as well as the neighbouring chapel of San Niklaw.

“You made it,” he says, poking fun at my distressed phone calls asking for directions. As the closing gates shut out noises from the outside world, he proceeds to show me around the Estate. Four hectares of land are home to 500 olive trees and six vineyards – no minor undertaking, he admits.

88 Sunday Circle | October 2013

by

S teve M uliett

“When we began rehabilitating the property and my two brothers and I decided to carry out this venture, we all agreed to either do it the proper way or not at all, all the while keeping it small, unique and top quality,” says John. “We also kept it small in order to lay down the proper infrastructure for wine and olive oil production, which was quite the task.”

He explains his family has long harboured a love for quality, home-grown produce, particularly wine and olive oil. While the idea to set up their own production plants had been lingering in their minds since 2000, it wasn’t until five years later that they began executing the plan. “My brothers and I all do different things, each one is in a different profession, but we share this common interest of making wine and olive oil. I used to simply enjoy making wine as a hobby; and then this thing mushroomed into a business.”

HERITAGE

October 2013 | Sunday Circle 89

HERITAGE

As we proceed through the vineyard where Vermentino grapes grow – the only white wine produced at San Niklaw Estate – John explains the intricacies behind choosing the right ground in which to plant vines. “We decide what grape to plant on the basis of the terroir available at San Niklaw – which means the climate and soil specifications that vary from place to place. For instance, we have a vineyard on sloped ground that is exposed to Xlokk winds, so we needed a strong and hardy grape planted there.” Will grapes not be good enough for wine-making if conditions are not ideal?

“The same grapes could be planted elsewhere, but you won’t necessarily get the same result.”

He adds that maintaining the fields involves quite a bit of work – the vines and trees are irrigated on a weekly basis to avoid dehydration, pruning is done in January to rejuvenate the plant for its next round of vegetation and the fields are kept as clean as possible, all of which is done manually.

“One of the most important things is cleanliness – the fields, the fermenting tanks... everything. I won’t say the place is as clean as an operating theatre, but almost.

Perhaps it comes from my experience of high-sterility environments,” he jokes.

Walking towards the production hub on the estates, away from the unforgiving sun, John explains the process the wine must undergo.

Grapes are harvested at the end of August, although this could differ by a week or so, depending on whether they are mature enough yet or not. “Maturity is determined by the 90 Sunday Circle | October 2013

condition of the grape and the sugar content.

For instance in July, the grape begins to change colour as the sugar content increases and we cover the vines as they become interesting to the birds,” he says. “Nature is quite remarkable.”

The olives, meanwhile, are harvested between September and October – picked by hand and cold-extracted on the grounds.

Four wines are produced at San Niklaw estates – one white and three red. We walk to the tank room, where the fermentation process takes place in temperaturecontrolled tanks. “The wine is stored in the tanks – when the reds are ready we transfer them into the cellar, into oak barrels where they stay to age. Each barrel lasts a maximum of four years, although you get the most goodness from oak in the first three years.

The white stays up here in the tanks.” John says the reds are tested from the barrel, or barrique, and when they decide it has stayed long enough, they prepare to bottle it.

We continue down into the cellar – the woody scent he describes is immediately noticeable, as is the difference in temperature and humidity. “We’ve left some wines to age for a year down here.

The whole process in fact can take a few years – from picking the grapes to bottling the wine,” he says. “We get blasts of activity, but ageing the wine is nature’s work and we intervene as little as possible. We take whatever the fields give us and let nature take its course; like custodians of the wine, babysitting it until it ends up on the table.”

With an annual production of 10,000 bottles, John says the small amount is intended to keep the product excellent and exclusive. They are also selective about where to distribute, targeting specialised wine shops and selective restaurants. “A lot of passion goes into making this wine, to the point that it breaks my heart a little every time I see it leave the winery. I’ve developed a huge affinity for these products.”

I ask John how the business fits alongside his other demanding job. “I’ve got two passions: paediatric surgery and this.

Here at the vineyards, I forget the world, it de-stresses me. I’m in nature and love seeing the result of a product that I am passionate about. This is the reason why I wanted to be a surgeon too – to see results of your craft is very satisfying,” he says. “In different ways, they are both art forms... and I love them both.”

Outside the tank room, just before the stairs to the cellar, is an old-looking wooden makeshift bar decked with wine glasses, plates and baskets. The wine enthusiast opens a bottle of refreshing Vermentino ‘Neptunus’ and pours a glass. “Making white wine in our climate is a challenge. I’m very proud of this,” says John, while swirling the wine in the glass. He goes on to accompany the wine with a side plate of San Niklaw olive oil and a wicker basket filled with galletti – and a taste of both products is testament to the soul that goes into making them, a true labour of love.

POP CULTURE MUSIC

ElE

c

F E E c i l r t

What happens When you take three music lovers, one emerging genre and legendary parties? rachel agius talks to the minds behind electro-sWing malta, a local iteration of a sWeet-sounding movement that is taking europe by storm

February 2014 | Sunday Circle 000 25

MUSIC

I

first met the Electro-Swing Malta boys about a year ago. Still a fledgling endeavour with modest aspirations to match, Tom Devenish, Michael Carbone and Alex Spiteri Gingell – The Chef, Dockerbone and Zicotron, as they are known professionally – have come further than they ever could imagine through the wonderful, upbeat world of Electro-swing.

For the uninitiated, electro-swing music is a combination of the bouncing 1930s swing music, known for its big band arrangements, and any number of more modern rhythms.

Swing music was big in a time when people needed a little hope in their lives: the Great Depression, one world war over and another looming make for desperate times. This music injected happiness and fun, at least temporarily, at a time when very little was certain and sources of joy were hard to come by.

Today’s iteration of the style – electro-swing – has a similar flavour. It is almost impossible to resist the bold, toe-tapping beats that span genres and generations with equal abandon.

Locally, you would need to keep an eye out 26

Sunday Circle | February 2014

for the events organized by Electro-Swing Malta to get your fix and they have, over the past year, met and exceeded expectations.

“We were concerned that people might not take to the style,” says Michael, describing the first tentative steps of the trio’s foray into a genre that was only just breaking through in Europe at the time. They needn’t have worried.

“The first couple of parties were... OK, they were a flop,” he laughs, “but after that, more and more people became interested.”

Electro-swing Malta set the bar for parties that catered to the weird and the whimsical. Each event has a theme and the partygoers’ enthusiasm surprised even the organizers. “People really go all out with their costumes,” Tom says. “We like to create a holistic event – it’s about dressing up, the music and the atmosphere.” There seems to be plenty of that to spare. Dancers, illusionists, tarot readers and other performers liven up the evenings and using Tom’s knack for rescuing discarded junk, they have created a fantastic collection of props. These parties became the talk of the

town and fans waited eagerly for news of the next one.

Keeping pace with developments on the continent, Electro-Swing Malta grew from strength to strength, a development that did not escape the notice of electro-swing DJs abroad. As word spread locally about the music, they began to receive invitations to play abroad. “It is still such a rush when someone gets in touch and wants us to play in their city,” smiles Alex, the one who usually breaks the news to the other two.

Over the past six months, Electro-Swing Malta has travelled to a number of European countries and played in several cities. The response, without exception, was positive. “We worried that perhaps the audiences abroad would not like our style or that we weren’t up to their standards,” says Michael. But the requests to play continued streaming in, allaying any fears that their music was not up to scratch.

They went on to draw the biggest crowd at a European event other than a music festival, at the Roxy Club in Prague.

MUSIC

How does it all happen? All three have held on to their day jobs and receive no funding from outside sources.

Surely paying for all this is a source of anxiety? “We’re not in it for the money,” Tom quickly clarifies. “It doesn’t really matter if we make a loss.” Alex nods: “It’s about the music, giving people a chance to let loose once in a while. And since we’re not focused on profit, we are completely focused on the product.”

Anxiety in general is not something that concerns these three. “Planning starts months in advance, lies dormant until the last couple of days before the event and then we put everything together in two days,” says Tom. “There simply isn’t time to encounter problems.”

The Do-It-Yourself vibe that comes across is not far from the truth. Over the course of last summer, The Lido in Sliema played host to a series of weekly events titled Swing Island and each week, renowned DJs from all over Europe got the crowd moving. The hosts saved on expenses by offering their own couches and spare bedrooms to the foreign acts, a kindness repaid them when they travelled abroad to play.

For now though, Electro-swing Malta is staying put. They have recently had to say goodbye to their ancestral home at Duke’s club, which is soon closing down. But soon they’re wondering aloud if there are any contortionists available for hire locally – and that quickly puts to rest any concerns that their upcoming events might not match up to its predecessors.

The next frontier? “Electro-swing is only just catching on in the States,” says Alex. “It would be great to play over there.” 2014 is already filling up, with about 5 gigs already planned and many DJs clamouring to visit the island and its electric audiences. “We have had to put people on a waiting list,” Michael says, “There simply isn’t enough time to fit in all the DJs over the course of a year without saturating the calendar.”

Despite the logistical manoeuvring, this is probably the most planning that has ever gone into their endeavour.

There is a palpable excitement when the three chatter among themselves, recalling the excitement and the escapades of their European travels. They may have been at this a year but it is clear that the music is still a source of unbridled enthusiasm.

“We have had to put people on a waiting list... There simply isn’t enough time to fit in all the DJs over the course of a year”

28

Sunday Circle | February 2014

It looks like the coming months will have plenty for budding electro-swing fans to sink their teeth into. And given their business model (i.e. having no business model), The Chef, Dockerbone and Zicotron, seem equally at ease with a jam-packed calendar as they are with pulling off spectacular lastminute events that audiences won’t soon forget. With their skills tried and tested across Europe, ElectroSwing Malta look set to fill the coming year with great parties, foreign acts and that infectious, uplifting music partygoers can’t seem to get enough of.

4 FREE MUGS TO COLLECT! WITH ANY 2

BOXES

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THEATRE

For many, the annual maDC pantomime is one oF the highlights oF the Christmas season. philip leone-ganaDo meets luke sayDon anD karen DeCelis, two oF the stars oF this year’s show “Christmas is the season of magic and panto is one of the things which contributes to that magical atmosphere,” says Karen Decelis.

“My parents used to take me and my brother to see loads of plays when we were young, but it is the pantos which I remember with a great fondness. Panto is like a tradition for the Maltese families. It is a reason for families and friends to get together, sit down, laugh and be part of the fun.”

This year, Karen will be on stage playing Rapunzel in the MADC’s RapunzelStiltskin, a mash-up of the classic princess-in-thetower fairy tale with the story of the imp Rumpelstiltskin. Playing opposite her as the trickster with the long name is Luke Saydon. “Rumpelstiltskin is always on the lookout to make the wackiest deals with the goodies,” he says. “Ask him to share the stage with a long-haired bombshell and all of her problems and he’ll be up in her tower before you even know it.”

“The way that the script is written, you won’t realize that these are two fairytales,” adds Karen. “They’re cleverly intertwined.

Rapunzel meets Rumplestiltskin and they have a seemingly simple deal… but then things get complicated.”

This year’s script is written by Steve Hili, the first time the comedian has taken on panto – but if those speaking his lines are to be believed, this first outing will be one to remember. “The show includes outrageously funny humour, toe-tapping songs and a mix of characters from both fairytales as well as new ones to make the plot even more interesting,” says Luke. And as for the more adult material that Hili has been known for so far, it’s all still

in there – much more subtly of course. “It provides entertainment for children and adult audiences alike,” Luke smiles.

The production also promises to take full advantage of the technological possibilities afforded by the space in which it is being staged – building on the MADC’s recent tradition of high-tech, visually spectacular performances. “The large MFCC stage, the projections, the pyrotechnics and all the special effects the venue permits make the MADC panto an even more magical experience, captivating audiences of all ages.”

But of course, panto would not be panto without the larger-than-life figure of the Dame, and donning the high-heels for the third time this year is Jean-Pierre Busuttil. “JP is playing the role of Madame Penza Stanky, Rapunzel’s mother,” Karen explains. “She is a typical Maltese woman with a touch of Englishness typical to many Maltese people, and JP has brought his own energy and spark into the role of this bombastic woman.”

As perhaps the largest theatrical event of the year in terms of attendance, panto has always built on a special relationship between actors and audience. “Panto is nothing without the audience booing, clapping, the children’s scene and the traditional punter scene,” says Karen.

“Every year a new family is created behind the scenes and the vibe created by the cast and crew is like nothing I ever experience in other productions I am part of,” adds Luke.

“The physicality as well as technicality of the show requires constant focus and support from everyone involved, and it is this teamvibe that really makes this show enjoyable for us and spectacular for our audience.”

38 Sunday Circle | Christmas Special Edition 2013

MUSIC

RapunzelStilstkin runs at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali from December 21st until January 5th. Tickets can be booked on 7979 6232 or online at www.madc.com.mt

Red October Malta

P hoto

by

J acob S ammut

Trade Enquiries: Red October Co. Ltd. Tel: 2147 0400 | Email: mschembri@redoct.net The Liquer Shop, Gozo: Tel: 2155 6531 Email: info@wisto.com.mt Visit our newly updated website www.redoctobermalta.com Christmas Special Edition 2013 | Sunday Circle 43

travel

Off the Beaten Track MALTA HAS A LoT MorE To oFFEr THAn Sun And SEA. WE TAKE A LooK AT THE FIVE dESTInATIonS THAT HAVE rECEnTLy BEEn AWArdEd AS EuroPEAn dESTInATIonS oF ExCELLEnCE (EdEn) For THEIr unIquE ASPECTS oF LoCAL HErITAGE santa luĊIja, Local Intangible Heritage

The 16th century maritime city of Isla – with its iconic gardjola watchtower, imposing bastions commanding spectacular views over the Grand Harbour, and the traditional regattas drawing huge crowds twice a year – was given the award for Aquatic Tourism. “Isla offers a pleasant walk along its streets, each with its own character,” says Executive Secretary Arthur Perici.

“This also offers the opportunity for visitors to visit various key landmarks such as the Basilica dedicated to the birth of the Virgin Mary, the cave of Mikelin and the Sheer Bastion (IlMaċina), before a lunch at the waterfront area, where all the restaurants are owned by residents from the locality employing local staff, guaranteeing a unique, friendly experience in direct contact with the local population.”

The tiny hamlet of Santa Luċija in Kerċem exemplifies everything that is so loved about the Gozitan village idyll, and is particularly active in promoting its unique local heritage with a number of annual events: the Bis-Saħħa wine festival, the Ikla tan-Nanna (a traditional meal with all local ingredients), and the Winter Light Festival in honour of the patron saint. The prehistoric Mixta site within its confines represents what is probably the first human settlement on the islands. “Santa Lucija is a very small hamlet,” says Carmen Bellamy, a member of the Administrative Committee. “The picturesque Village Square remains the focal point. There is also Għar Ilma which supplied water to Victoria, and parts of the majestic aqueduct built to transport the water still stand on the road from Victoria.”

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Sunday Circle | June 2014

mer an Brim raphy b y Jonath

Santa Lucija

Photog

Isla

Photography by Philip Grixti

Isla, Aquatic Tourism

G har b

travel

GĦarb, Regeneration of Physical Sites

Nadur, Emerging Rural Destination

Within the confines of Għarb lies Wied il-Mielaħ, a typical Gozitan valley and one of the most important natural sites on the island, with a conglomeration of rubble walls, flora and fauna, and geological features. “This valley which was abandoned and neglected over the years has been rehabilitated and restored to its natural beauty and is nowadays a tourist attraction and families going there for family outings,” says Mayor David Apap Agius. “The town also has a wealth of sites of historic importance: it has recently restored the medieval San Dimitri chapel, Pilgrimages Cross and Ta’ Sdieri Bridge, among others, and hosts the Sanctuary at Ta’ Pinu, a renowned place of pilgrimage.

With 87.5 per cent of its area falling outside the permitted development zone, Nadur remains a place of unparalleled rural charm: incorporating everything from the tranquil bays of San Blas and Daħlet Qorrot to the vast plantations of citrus and olive trees in Binġemma valley. The town has also become synonymous with its rich cultural activities: the famous carnival, the June Agricultural Fair, and the annual Wine Festival. “A number of foreigners have standing appointments with our activities,” says Councillor Rita Mifsud. “The activities are part of what give us our identity, and the fact that visitors can share in that, and feel part of it, offers an entirely unique experience.”

MellieĦa, Protected Sites

European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) is a project initiated and co-funded by the European Commission which is managed and implemented by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), which promotes sustainable tourism models across Europe. The project focuses on little-known destinations which pursue their economic growth in such a way as to ensure the social, cultural and environmental sustainability of tourism while enhancing their typical characteristics.

The EDEN runners-up are: Santa Venera, Żejtun, Żurrieq, Lija, Qormi, St Paul’s Bay, Birgu, Xewkija, Sannat, Xagħra & San Lawrenz

Mel lieha

B ephen

by St y h p gra Photo

Photography by Ivan Vella

raphy Photog

Attard

by Ted

uhagia

r

With a number of natural bays including the famous Għadira, overseen on either end by the majestic church of Our Lady of Mellieħa and the historic Red Tower, Mellieħa needs no introduction as a sun and sea destination. But as Deputy Mayor Clayton Bartolo explains, it is much more than that. “Walking in Mellieħa offers you so much: from spectacular views to pure natural environments.

Walking along the Aħrax Road brings you to a small chapel and a hidden lagoon; there’s the clay at Selmun, the old stone beehives at Mġiebaħ; Manikata is a traditional agricultural community...you won’t get all these experiences in many other places.” With Iljieli Melliħin, the town is also pushing cultural activities, encouraging visitors to spend the night and see more of what this beautiful destination has in store.

Nadur June 2014 | Sunday Circle 87

travel

Stunning

SANTORINI It Is one of the most popular Greek Islands for tourIsts wIth Its GorGeous vIews and IncredIble landscapes. there Is no better place to escape to than stunnInG santorInI

36 Sunday Circle | March 2013

travel

S

antorini has a magical quality to it that few other places on Earth can boast – the island is crescent-shaped and unique as it is the result of several remarkable volcanic explosions that erupted over thousands of years. The island slants downhill from the high cliffs into the neighbouring Aegean Sea. It is dotted with small villages filled with white and blue houses built into the cliffs, located at the extreme southernmost part of the Cyclades islands in Greece.

The island itself owes its very existence to the volcano.

Santorini is known to attract all kinds of tourists, particularly those seeking a romantic escape. It offers an intriguing history, awesome volcanic landscape, a cosmopolitan atmosphere, beautiful sunsets and endless views of deep blue sea. Santorini’s group of islands consists of Thera, Thirasia, Aspronisi, Palea and Nea Kameni islands, located 63 nautical miles north of Crete.

Landscapes and views aside, Santorini also leads the way in exclusive luxury accommodation on the island, such as Aqua Vista, an exceptional collection of boutique properties offering unparalleled service in breathtaking locations. The hotels enjoy an impeccable reputation – they have played host to numerous celebrity clientele over the years, from Hollywood elite such as Harvey Keitel and Hugh Jackman to fashion icons Jean Paul Gaultier and Gianni Versace.

Tucked away in the heart of Kamari in Santorini and a short distance away from the famous black sand beach is the Acqua Vatos hotel, which was recently fully refurbished and transformed into a hip boutique hotel in the spring of 2011. It is trendy, elegant and eccentric, with minimalistic design and exhibitionist bathrooms. Acqua Vatos is ideal for families with kids, as there are rooms designed and equipped especially for them. The very large pool is a star attraction for adults and children of any age.

March 2013 | Sunday Circle 37

travel

Up north the cliffs rise to a heady 450 metres above sea level in the Imerovigli area. Here, taking advantage of the unsurpassed views and sunsets sit another three of Aqua Vista’s fivestar properties: the Above Blue Suites and Villa, the Dreams Luxury Suites and The Aliko Suites.

The best part of these properties is that they offer the perfect residence for any kind of holiday. Whether it is romance, luxury, adventure or a home-like atmosphere, at least one of Aqua Vista’s unique accommodation scenarios is sure to get the attention of potential visiting tourists.

The entire range radiates refined elegance and discreet luxury. They are exclusive retreats with the intention of offering the best of everything: spectacular locations, classic architecture, sophisticated interiors and impeccable service.

For couples, these accommodation options tick all the boxes. There is a focus on complete privacy and bespoke service. Many have private plunge pools, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis and secluded balconies and terraces. All suites in all properties are individual in the way they’re styled. Many were once cave houses occupied by villagers and fishermen which have been painstakingly restored, staying true to the original architecture and design but with a contemporary luxury touch.

MARCH SPECIAL OFFER Book your Santorini 2013 holiday by 31 March and save up to

€200 per room

For more information about the Santorini packages call ROCS Travel today on 2015 1515, check out their website www.rocsholidays.com or email them on

travel@rocsgrp.com

38 Sunday Circle | March 2013

eXPerIeNCe SaNtOrINI WITH ROCS TRAVEL In the past years, ROCS Travel has invested lots of energy in redefining the notion of what a real holiday is all about. With more than twenty years of experience in the travel industry and after inspecting more than 1,000 properties around the globe, there is one thing we’ve learnt: ROCS clients deserve better than just the cheapest of what is out there. This formula has made ROCS Travel the leading leisure tour operator in Malta.

For 2013, ROCS included a portfolio of eight magnificent and breathtaking properties in Santorini which will feature in their new 300 page World Holidays 2013 Brochure. Package rates start from as little as €359 inclusive of return Airmalta flights to Athens, seven nights’ accommodation, daily Greek Buffet Breakfast and all taxes.

travel

Each property also has its own personality with a defining touch of Greek island luxury. The cliffs at the Dreams Luxury Suites, for instance, are so steep that it feels as if nothing stands between you and the sky. Views are a full 180 degrees and standing on the terraces looking out on the caldera makes you feel as though you’ve taken flight.

Dining is also an essential part of the Aqua Vista experience. For completely private dining, terraces are transformed to restaurants for two, decorated with

candles and with a private chef. The breakfast menu at the Aliko Suites is quite literally endless with guests offered anything they would like to eat. Aqua Vista’s full portfolio also includes several great value three-star and four-star properties across Santorini.

It all seems too good to be true – beautiful sunsets, stunning landscapes and backdrops and an island to explore that is filled with rich history, architecture and entertainment that guarantees an unforgettable holiday.

WIN aN amazINg trIp for tWo to oNe of the aqua VIsta hotels IN the greek IslaNd of saNtorINI ROCS Travel and Sunday Circle team up to offer a fantastic prize to the idyllic island of Santorini.

Simply log on to sundaycircle.com to find out how to participate and you can be on your way to the beautiful Santorini for the holiday of your dreams.

The prize includes: An amazing five-night stay for two to one of the Aqua Vista Hotels featured in the ROCS Travel World Holidays brochure, including return flights to Athens on Airmalta.

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March 2013 | Sunday Circle 39

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style

Fashion in the Garden Barefoot Beauties walked the lawns of the Prime minister’s summer residence at GirGenti Palace for sarto’s sPrinG/summer 2014 Garden runway fashion show on may 8, featurinG Blumarine, dolce & GaBBana and emPorio armani Words Luke Engerer

W

alking into Girgenti Palace felt like walking into an old-fashioned Italian wedding: classical embellishments, traditional food and sounds-fromthe-south perfectly blending into the surroundings of Girgenti.

Vintage sophistication with a modern touch set the stage for the stunning collections from these three Italian Luxury brands.

June 2014 | Sunday Circle 59

style

The show opened with Blumarine. The collection embodies Bohemian attitude and a natural elegance. Wallpaper prints with coloured flowers on an ecru background, exalted by blue lagoon colour combinations and Art Nouveau inspiration for the patterns. Iris prints with abstract floral designs combined with green and chocolate with contemporary Boho graphics.

From the flowy, floral, colourful Blumarine collection the show moved on to Emporio Armani for men, with a look that is basic, pure, modern and visual. Graphic effects obtained with a highdefinition technique offer playful geometric shapes on clothes, bags and shoes. The collection offered infinite shades of white, putty and ice with touches of Armani blue and teal green.

Dolce & Gabbana closed the show. The theme for the women’s collection is an imaginary journey to rediscover ancient Sicily, where history and myth come together. The Greek temples and theatres, symbols of classic architectural perfection, are reinterpreted as if in a dream; as if a traveller, having visited some of the marvelous landscapes of ancient Sicily, wanted to re-create those unique settings in his mind: that type of beauty, 60

Sunday Circle | June 2014

magic and enchantment can only be found in such a vision.

Only in an imaginary world can the unexpected and irrational intertwine with spontaneity and naturalness. The unforeseen is interlaced with spontaneity, creativity with the absurd, and dreams with reality.

The prints for the collection are unique and recognisable: lithography of ancient Sicilian temples, prints of ancient coins that were used in the various cities of the island, traditional decorations of Sicilian ceramics and maioliche (Sicilian traditional glazed pottery). Almond tree flowers are printed, hand-painted or applied on the fabric to obtain a three-dimensional effect.

The Dolce & Gabbana Men’s Summer 2014 draws inspiration from Sicilian mythology, the Greek origins of which are still retraceable in places such as the Valle dei Templi of Agrigento, at the majestic amphitheatres, like the one at Taormina, and at the Tempio di Apollo of Syracuse. Creativity and tailoring research are the cornerstones of the collection, where the fantastical, triumphs in the prints of antique gods such as those of Zeus and Apollo, whose effigies are present in the whole collection.

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PHOTO ESSAY

THE CIRCUS LEAVES TOWN We go behind the scenes at the circo ViViana orfei – the last eVer animal circus to be held in malta, as neW legislation banning the controVersial performances nears introduction P hotograPhy

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J acob S ammut -§- W ordS

by

P hiliP l eone -g anado

January 2014 | Sunday Circle 23

PHOTO ESSAY

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PHOTO ESSAY

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nimal rights activists have regularly protested against animal circuses, arguing that animals are mistreated during the training process, that the space provided for large animals is insufficient, and that the stresses of constant transit and performance amount to further cruelty. Last year, 94 per cent of those who took part in a public consultation exercise favoured the banning of wild animals from circuses.

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In November 2013, the government published a draft bill – Prohibition of Wild Animals in Circuses Regulations – which proposes a ban on all wild animals in circuses, defined as “an animal that is a member of a species not normally domesticated in Malta.” Anyone contravening the regulations will be liable to a prison term of up to a year and a fine of between €30,000 and €50,000, the cancellation of their permit and closing down of the circus. The move follows other countries such as the United Kingdom, where the government confirmed that all animal circuses would be banned by next year.

Despite the controversy, animal circuses have traditionally been relatively popular as Christmas entertainment with the Maltese public. Circus promoter Silvio Zammit claims to have collected 2,000 signatures opposing the draft ban. He has consistently argued that the circuses he promotes draw on rich tradition, and that all animals are born in captivity and treated with care and dignity.

1 Pippo the Hippo turns back from his brief appearance and heads backstage to return to his truck.

2 A young member of the circus family runs and plays in what is his travelling home.

3 The decorated cabin of one of the vast array of trucks used to get the circus on the road.

4 Tigers obey their tamer, and stand on their hind legs.

5 A Colombian daredevil prepares backstage to join two colleagues in a death-defying motorcycle stunt.

6 One of the stage hands takes the lit torches a juggler has just used.

January 2014 | Sunday Circle 25

INTERVIEW

TAILORED TO SUIT Recognised and Respected foR fine tailoRing and quality, Bortex is fast approaching its 50th anniversary.

Martina Said MeetS Managing director Peter Borg Photography by Steve Muliett Setting foot in the Gagliardi showroom in Marsa is a bit like stepping back in time. An old Louis Vuitton luggage sits high up on a shelf, a glittering gramophone rests on a wooden tavolina. Already decked out in chic pieces for the Autumn/Winter collection of 2014, the place is embellished with vintage posters of Cortina, a town in the north of Italy. “It is the theme for our next collection,” says managing director of Bortex, Peter Borg. “Every season we add special touches to the showroom according to a theme.”

Now at the helm of the company for the last 22 years, Peter recounts how his father, Sunny Borg, set out small but made it big in the industry. “My father began manufacturing basic products such as pyjamas and jeans, until he met Hermiel Van Gils, who had a big tailoring business in the Netherlands,” he explains. “They eventually became partners and my father changed the line of products to suits and formal wear. Bortex acquired its start-up, technical know-how and skills from the Dutch.”

And “special touches” they truly are, making Gagliardi – a brand created and designed by Bortex Group – that much more attractive and desirable. The infant brand is the result of many years of work and experience in the field of formal men’s tailoring. Bortex, a company established in 1964, will in fact be marking its 50th anniversary next year.

Peter explains how the partnership went from strength to strength, with factories in Malta employing up to 800 people during the 1970s.

“We would receive the raw materials, manufacture the garments and send them off to the Netherlands. The partnership was good but it made us dependent on one single foreign company.” When the Van

42 Sunday Circle | May 2013

INTERVIEW Gils group encountered difficulties in the early eighties, Bortex suffered too. “My father swore that he would never be so dependent on any one customer ever again, and he set about creating the structures necessary for Bortex to go it alone,” says Peter. Bortex set up its own productdevelopment and pattern-making facilities, a sales and marketing team, and independent sourcing and production-planning design facilities, which would enable it to approach international retail customers directly.

The move paid dividends as Bortex began crossing paths with some big names in the industry, opening new doors and making way for bigger opportunities. Today, the group is active in three areas of business which are run separately, yet complement one another. The largest contributor is still private-label production.

“Bortex develops ranges of products specifically for a particular brand or retailer. We source all the raw materials and make up the garment with the customer’s label and assorted point-of-sale material. We do this for several upmarket brands, many of whom we are contractually bound not to disclose. Just to mention a few of the bigger

ones who do not bind us with confidentiality: Hackett, Jaeger, Charles Tyrwhitt, Austin Reed and Duchamp have all been long-standing customers,” Peter says, “and there are many more”.

The manufacturing process itself, which used to take place here in Malta until quite recently, now takes place in factories overseas: one in Tunisia – which employs just under 700 people, one in Serbia and another in China. “Shutting down the manufacturing plant in Malta and moving production overseas was a very difficult decision, but ultimately it had to be done or we would not be around today,” says Peter. The knowledge base, however, continues to be in Malta, with a team of 120 employees responsible for productdevelopment and design, sourcing, sales and marketing, production-planning and finance.

In a bid to move beyond the limits of privatelabel production, Bortex branched into licensing agreements whereby Bortex can sell branded products directly in partnership with the international brand-owners. In 1995, the company became the European licensee for the Rochas brand, and has along the years secured arrangements with other major names such as Pierre Cardin, Lanificio Flli Cerruti 1881 and Lanificio Ermenegildo Zegna.

The ultimate step in the Bortex struggle against dependence was the creation of its very own brand, Gagliardi. “Having Gagliardi means we have something to call our own. It is not just about making products, but about brand identity, creating concepts, seasonal themes and complete collections,” says Peter. The brand is steadily finding its way into department stores in the UK and Ireland, and there is great interest from many other European retailers and distributors. There is also a state-of-the-art online web store – www. gagliardi.eu – which ships Gagliardi products worldwide. “We are amazed by the reaction there has been to Gagliardi online. We have been shipping garments to customers in Australia, the United States and even parts of Asia, besides the European markets, which were originally our main target markets,” says Peter.

“We kept it commercial, and tried to make the appeal of the clothing as universal as possible,” but the style, he says, is “distinctly Mediterranean” – celebrating all good things Mediterranean: the joie de vivre, the vibrant colours and a laid-back approach to fashion that is still smart and elegant.

Bortex’s expanding retail division now includes seven outlets scattered across the Maltese islands and a number of shop-in-shop initiatives overseas.

May 2013 | Sunday Circle 43

Writing Lives S ArAh S ciclunA by

A rt D irection

P hotogrAPhy

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M ArijA g rech

As she prepAres for the releAse of her newest novel, renowned Author ClAre AzzopArdi tAlks to AdriAn CAmilleri About reAlism And imAginAtion, writing for Children And Adults – And the writer’s CrAft

36 Sunday Circle | January 2014

literature

C

lare Azzopardi is a writer who has become a household name for many. The recipient of several awards for her works, she lectures in Maltese Literature and is an active member of Inizjamed, an NGO whose mission it is to promote literature through literary festivals and workshops.

2014 sees her launching her latest work, Kulħadd ħalla Isem Warajh. Published by Merlin Publishers, it can be described as a collection of several short stories featuring somewhat quirky female characters: the first, Sandra, has a fixation on leaving keys lying about for others to find.

Moulding characters I ask Clare the difference between the writer and her characters. “There is always, somehow, something of yourself in the characters you create. There are also many bits and bobs of people I know well and even of members of my family.

These fragments are shaped and moulded into new characters with their own life story and their own foibles.

Humour, I find, is one of the distinctive differences between my writing for adults and writing for children... When writing for adults my humour tends to get darker, much darker

“Kulħadd ħalla Isem Warajh has eight different women with their own story to tell. They all, somehow, carry fragments of myself, either of what I am today or what I was in my childhood. Having to constantly share my head with them, their story becomes, in a way, mine, even though in reality it is one I have never lived.

“While these characters are, more or less, based on real people, my aim is not to write a documentary, but to please the reader and, more so, to have the reader empathise with these characters, despite their perceived ugliness. These characters may be founded on real people, but then the writer’s imagination takes over, which leads to the creation of something new.”

I prod her on. “My more recent works have many elements from fables and fairy tales, as well as many strange coincidences, elements which are absent from my earlier work. These elements, I believe, are what makes them literary.”

So the stories reflect reality, but they are not, strictly speaking, realist. “It is my belief that a contemporary author should not write realism in the strict sense. A journalist does that.”

Naturally, some may retort that the literary writer may be, as a matter of fact, offering the reader a lie. What use can there be in this? “In a Catholic country like Malta, we are brought up to believe that lying will inevitably lead to hell and eternal damnation. We are a guilty people, whatever we do. This upbringing, forced upon us, is very hard to overcome and lingers into adulthood.

Nevertheless, a story lets us enjoy living a lie without necessarily feeling guilty, because people expect a story to be more or less made up. One can leave behind the troubles of everyday life and find refuge in a book. I believe that escapism is necessary, particularly in the frenetic lives we lead nowadays.”

Writing for children and adults Clare is the author of numerous publications for both children and adults, and also the recipient of numerous awards. Her work, Meta l-Milied ma Ġiex, won first prize for Prose for Children in 2008, while the following year she placed second for the same award, for Ir-Re Pankrazju IV Jagħlaq Mitt Sena. She also writes for adults, with Il-Linja l-ħadra winning the National Book Prize in 2006.

“Humour, I find, is one of the distinctive differences between my writing for adults and writing for children,” she explains.

“When writing for adults my humour tends to get darker, much darker.”

Her children’s books, on the other hand, have a cheerful air about them which, she points out, she loves shaping, far from the moroseness that sometimes permeates adulthood. “I do not want to transmit misery to children. Having said that, in my children’s stories, good does not necessarily win over evil.

“Unfortunately I feel that, in Malta, authors and publishers of children’s books tend to moralise,” she explains when asked to elaborate. “That is something I do not want to do, not in my stories for adults nor in those for children.”

Page and Stage Clare’s theatrical contribution includes two plays: In-Nisa Maltin Jafu Kif, and L-Interdett taħt is-Sodda. The latter was first performed at the St James Cavalier theatre in 2006.

January 2014 | Sunday Circle 37

literature It consists of three monologues spoken by two characters: a young woman who is buried in the unconsecrated part of the cemetery and a grave digger working there decades later.

“When writing a play one needs to keep in mind the type of space in which it will be produced and what advantages and limitations such space holds,” says Clare. “When working on a play you are also working with a lot of people: the producer is constantly watching over you; the director is telling you what needs to be done; even the actors determine your type of work.

“Furthermore, a play is yours and it isn’t at the same time. It is yours up to the point you submit it, when it becomes the director’s, and the producer’s, and the actors’. A producer might keep editing stuff right up to debut night because, perhaps, he deems the play too long. Moreover, every time a play is produced by a different cast, this will further transform it, giving it a fresh vision, new character interpretations and new scenarios.

38 Sunday Circle | January 2014 000

“When writing a book, on the other hand, you are creating everything in words: the characters, the setting, the description of things. There are, so to speak, no limits set on the imagination.

One is free to set the stage as one likes without the necessary limitations of the theatre. One is free to go into as much detail as one wants. The amount of detail I now go into is, in fact, one of the differences I observe in how my style of writing has evolved over time.

“I also feel more empathy towards my characters nowadays, as compared to my earlier works. Growing older may have played a role in that”, she smiles.

“I have grown the eight characters for my new book and, even in their bizarre, if not outright obnoxious qualities, I empathise with them. I hope my readers will be able to do the same!”

Kulħadd ħalla Isem Warajh will be on sale from major bookstores from February.

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This month’s charity is The Ladybird Foundation — an NGO that helps terminally, critically, or seriously ill children to fulfil their dreams. www.theladybirdfoundation.org

Sunday CirCle iS giving one luCky reader the ChanCe to win a fabulouS goodie bag loaded with fantaStiC prizeS — while helping out a Charity CloSe to our heart. have you donated yet?

WIN A GOODIE BAG & GIVE TO CHARITY * How? Choose one of the payment options to participate and you could win yourself an incredible bag of treats. Each entry must be a minimum of €2.33 (one entry) and a maximum of €4.66 (two entries) *Winner will be drawn by lot. Closing date: 30th December 1. Send an SMS with your name, surname, email and home address on 5061 7373

for a donation of €2.33 or on 5061 8076 for a donation of €4.66.

2. Send a cheque of €2.33 or €4.66 payable to The Ladybird Foundation. Send the

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December 2013 | Sunday Circle 111

society

SCHOOL AFTER SCHOOL There has arguably never been a beTTer Time To furTher one’s educaTion. david schembri caTches up wiTh Those caughT up in lifelong learning – and geTs caughT up himself

T

here is a rather odd centre at the University of Malta. It offers a course called “Adventures in Philosophy” and it offers a course called “Gardens at Risk: Fighting Plant Pests and Diseases”. It offers a course called “A Short History of the Universe: The Big Bang to the Dinosaurs”, as well as another one on “Beekeeping and the Art of Honey Making”. The diversity – or disparity, depending on your point of view – of the courses on offer is impressive. Indeed, if the Centre of Liberal Arts and Studies were a person, they’d probably be very, very interesting to talk to.

They might also be considered quite eccentric.

Jean Paul de Lucca, the director of the CLAS, points out that the concept that the centre is based on is hardly new. “The Programme in the Liberal Arts and Sciences follows the age-old tradition of liberal education, which aims at offering a breadth of knowledge and transferable skills needed for one’s own personal growth as well as for persons to be better equipped to contribute to society,” de Lucca says. “In our case this is reflected in the range of courses on offer, some of which are more oriented towards personal development, while others lend themselves more for professional development.”

Carried out in the evenings, these courses are delivered in such a way that people with full-time jobs can attend. The programme, unlike the rigid timetable one would have to follow in one of the university’s taught programmes – be they full-time or parttime – can be dipped into at the student’s own pace, depending on their time and availability. “This mean that if, say, one cannot take up any units during a given semester due to work or other commitments, this will not affect one’s progression within the programme.

Students register for individual units and need not 38

Sunday Circle | August 2014

take an upfront commitment to complete a diploma or a degree,” the director says. That said, all completed courses can count towards a certificate, diploma or degree, depending on the amount of credits earned.

Of course, there are students who do commit to a programme. One of these is lawyer Daniela Bartolo, who has been reading for an MBA at the University of Malta. Following six years of full-time education, she admits to having had a bit of “university fatigue”, but at the same time felt the need to improve the skills required in her profession. “After testing the grounds of part-time education with an advanced diploma in international taxation, last year I started reading for an MBA to obtain a formal education on subjects such as finance, marketing and operations management, which I deem necessary when working in a corporate environment,” she says.

Although there is no dearth of distance-learning based MBAs available, Bartolo chose the UoM programme to address the biggest challenge when studying afterhours – the “loss of motivation and the inability to be very productive after a long day at work”. Having worked part-time while pursuing her full-time education, she was well-aware of the importance of having a proper timetable. “With my current MBA timetable I have lectures three times a week, which means that on three evenings I need to leave work at a specific time to go on campus for lectures,” she says. “Staying focused for three hours after a day at work still remains somewhat challenging, admittedly.

However with this structure it becomes easier to schedule reading time during the week and weekends.

Closest to exams tends to be the trickier part – thankfully my employers are supportive and I get to adjust my working hours,” she says.

society

August 2014 | Sunday Circle 39

lifestyle

“I didn’t view it as a way of boosting my CV or anything of the sort. It was just fun to do a course on philosophy and get to read Virgina Woolf” in theory easily accessible, making courses like these work really depends on the dedication of the “student” following them. In line with his masochistic spirit, Borg has often followed similar courses to while the time during his downtime. “There’s far less financial or emotional investment in this kind of course – I’ve finished quite a few of them and abandoned loads more. I didn’t view it as a way of boosting my CV or anything of the sort. It was just fun to do a course on philosophy and get to read Virgina Woolf,” he says.

An illustration depicting the Seven Liberal Arts

Furthermore, the fact there are course colleagues and lecturers helps – “we’ve created a ‘mini support group’ in reality, which of course helps,” Bartolo says. For others, particularly those pursuing higher degrees like doctorates, studying part-time is a struggle.

Neville Borg is currently reading for a PhD in Cultural Studies at the University of Hull after his day job – hardly a doddle. I ask him why he studies part time. “Because I’m a masochist,” he answers.

“And because I can’t financially afford to take a year out of work and pay my tuition fees.”

Although part-time in name, the nature of the PhD is such that it has still turned into a full-time commitment. “It greatly reduces my leisure time - most of my weekends are spent working on my course, so my working week feels extended,” he says.

That said, he still sometimes finds time for non-formal education closer to the liberal arts philosophy PLAS is based on. Various universities abroad have now started offering some of their courses for free, with downloadable video lectures and course notes. The idea is that a world-class education is being made available to people who might not have the time or money to afford it. Programmes like these – known as OpenCourseWare – include MIT’s OpenCourseWare and Open Yale Courses, many of which are also available online and on the iTunes University section. Although 40

Sunday Circle | August 2014

There is, however, a middle way – open education which is more structured and requires more dedication and commitment. Called Massive Online Open Courses, or MOOCs, these courses, offered by the likes of edX, Coursera and Udacity, also involve the opportunity for assessment through quizzes, peer-review assignments, as well as providing forums in which tutors and students can collaborate.

They also require more commitment, as I was to discover myself when, thrilled by the prospect of a free world-class education, I enrolled into two courses at once.

One thing I’ve learnt in the past years is that people do not take anything which is given for free seriously, and I was no exception this time round. Soon after enrolment (and having forgotten all about it) my inbox was flooded with emails accumulated week after week telling me another lesson had been uploaded, to the point that I was soon compelled to quit. Being somewhat more realistic about the time I could give my part-time education, I enrolled in a music production course which was part of a “signature track” – which, for a small fee per course, would then be verified by the university itself. This includes having to submit a phrase into a keystroke identification software and having a webcam photo taken by the website every time I fill in a test or submit an assignment. Since the course itself is offered free of charge outside of the signature track, what I’m paying for is the certification, not the education itself.

Although the video lectures themselves are small enough for me to fit into a lunch break or after work, I found that the financial commitment, in the end, has forced me to keep to the weekly deadlines and stay on top of the material, which means the chances of me finishing the course are much higher – and have something to know for it.

To find out more about the PLAS visit www.um.edu.mt/clas

PROMOTION

The elecTric revoluTion By 2020, electrical vehicles will account for 10 per cent of the gloBal market, renault estimates – and with its comprehensive range of all-electric vehicles, the company is looking to the future

“The automobile industry contributes to the problem of climate change,” says Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Renault group. “It generates 12 per cent of the CO2 emissions that result from human activity and accounts for 25 per cent of the world’s oil consumption.

“At Renault, therefore, we have decided to be part of the solution.

The stakes relating to the introduction of widely affordable electric vehicles call for far-reaching changes to our industry so that the automobile is once more perceived as a means of progress, both for mankind and for the planet. The aim is to integrate the automobile more fully in its environment and make our towns and villages greener, quieter and more pleasant to live in.”

After 18 years of research, lithium-ion battery technology has come of age and provides a satisfactory response in terms of both range – which has doubled compared with the technology developed in the 1980s – and safety. Although Renault engines stand out as examples as far as their CO2 emissions are concerned, using oil as a source of energy will always result in the emission of CO2. Electric vehicles are consequently the only real clean-break solution, since they do not emit any CO2 during their use on the road.

To date, Renault has delivered more than 37,000 electric cars worldwide, demonstrating its drive for innovation, clearly investing in a future with mankind at its core. Electric cars are no longer a dream out of reach for many, but a reality accessible to all.

The renaulT Ze range Twizy, an unprecedented urban mobility solution

Twizy is an unprecedented solution for city motoring. Its nimble handling prompts parallels with the world of scooters and motorbikes, yet the standard of safety and comfort it delivers is close to that of a four-wheeled vehicle. Twizy stands out as a symbol of the “Renault 2016 – Drive the Change” plan.

Kangoo ZE, Suitable for a multitude of jobs

ZOE, the compact saloon that ensures everyday wellbeing for all

The best selling Fluence has been adapted as a ZE vehicle. All the safety, comfort, space and security of the Fluence plus the sound of silence and no CO2 emissions.

ZOE is an all-electric compact saloon. ZOE – a true mass-market vehicle – is poised to become the flagship of Renault’s “innovation for all” drive and concern for the environment, as well as being an ambassador for the brand’s new design strategy.

Kangoo has all the comfort of a car combined with the versatility of a van.

Spacious 650 kilogramme loading area ensures Kangoo is prepared for most things!

Fluence ZE Elegant, innovative, intelligent

For more information visit Auto Sales Ltd - Kind’s, Mosta Road, Lija Tel: 2331 1126/2331 1131 | www.renault.com.mt August 2014 | Sunday Circle 49

society

Malta’s controversial detention policy is both a syMptoM and a further cause of the worrying level to which we have dehuManised the plight of irregular Migrants. it’s tiMe to ask where all this is leading, says philip leone-ganado P hotograPhy

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D arrin Z ammit L uPi

Sunday Circle | March 2014

soCiety

The discussion of irregular migration in Malta tends to be distressingly cylic. The investigation – and public debate – in the aftermath of last week’s riots at Lyster Barracks will undoubtedly prove useful, but they will hardly break new ground.

Mandatory detention Malta’s detention policy has consistently attracted criticism from various human rights organisations: Human Rights Watch, the International Commission of Jurists, Medicins Sans Frontières, the European Network Against Racism, and Amnesty International, to name a few. Irregular migrants who apply for protection are automatically detained until their asylum claims are processed. Rejected asylum seekers and other irregular migrants who cannot be deported are detained for up to 18 months before being released. Only those falling into the ill-defined category of “vulnerable” are exempt. “Detention in Malta is akin to punishment for arriving by boat and seeking asylum and has proven to be ineffective as a deterrent,” writes Dr Alison Gerard, Senior Lecturer in Justice Studies at Charles Sturt University.

elements; subjected to the worst of the summer heat and winter cold, with insufficient blankets to keep them warm. Access to an exercise yard was limited to one and a half hours a day. After being returned to Malta following a failed escape to the Netherlands, she was imprisoned for six months, during which time she miscarried, before being returned to detention.

It is not difficult see the riots like these as a natural consequence of these conditions. MP Marlene Farrugia, who was part of the delegation present during the riots, suggested as much when interviewed on Times Talk in the aftermath. “If we keep [detained migrants] in degrading conditions – sometimes you think: not even animals are kept like that – we can’t expect them to come out of detention as better people. You’d expect that somebody who feels his dignity being eaten away is going to rebel.” She pointed out, for example, that accommodation at the detention centre is all makeshift, and questions why a portion of the funding Malta has received to deal with immigration has never been allocated towards a purpose-built centre.

And all this is to say nothing of the actual conditions of detention. In an ECHR judgement last year - Aden Ahmed v Malta - the court found that conditions in Malta’s detention centres were not compatible with respect for human dignity, and amounted to inhuman and deTgrading treatment. Among her claims, the court heard that Aden had been detained for 14 and a half months, housed in a dorm with 40 other women and children. The dorm was exposed to the

March 2014 | Sunday Circle 43

society

“It can be easy to forget that other people have minds with the same general capacities and experiences as your own” The science of dehumanisaTion We should be startled at the way our country is so willing to detain in these conditions people who have not committed a crime (and let’s be clear, arriving in another country for the purposes of claiming asylum is not a crime). But instead, what is striking is how popular rhetoric has been twisted round to defend the indefensible. By now, the arguments of a thousand Facebook posts and online comments should be familiar to us: they’re illegal; we don’t know what diseases they may be carrying; we don’t know whether they’re terrorists; they didn’t have a roof over their heads in their countries (wherever they might be), so they should be grateful just to be here; what about our human rights?

There is a clearly a failure of empathy somewhere along the line: it seems we have stopped seeing migrants as individuals and instead started viewing them as an amorphous problematic mass.

This is not in any way a problem unique to our culture.

In his book Mindwise: How we understand what others think, believe, feel, and want, Nicholas Epley, a professor of behavioral science, suggests that the essence of dehumanisation is a failure to recognise the full human mind of another person. “It can be easy to forget that other people have minds with the same general capacities and experiences as your own. Once seen as lacking the ability to reason, to choose freely, or to feel, a person is considered something less than human.”

It may be useful to situate this cognitive process within a broader context. Dr Gregory Stanton, President of the organisation Genocide Watch, lays out a ten-stage model for how societies resort to genocide. Stage one is classification, where people are distinguished into “us and them” on the basis of race, religion or nationality: German and Jew, Hutu and Tutsi, Maltese and immigrant.

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Next, classifications are given names and symbols - “Jew”, “Gypsy” - or distinguished by colour or dress. In the third stage, a dominant group uses law, custom, or political power to deny the rights of other groups. The next stage, dehumanisation, sees one group denying the humanity of the other, equating them with animals, vermin, insects, or disease. This, Stanton points out, is crucial to the process in order to overcome our predisposition to empathy, and specifically the normal human revulsion to murder.

What follows is organisation, polarisation, preparation, persecution, and ultimately, extermination.

This is not to suggest that we are on the road to genocide.

But more subtle forms of dehumanisation are all around us.

While we are all primed to feel empathy – we feel pain when we see images of others in pain, for example – we are also all susceptible to this failure to engage with the complexity of other minds, to understand that others also experience the human condition as richly as we do. According to Epley: “Members of distant out-groups, ranging from terrorists to poor hurricane victims to political opponents, are also rated as less able to experience complicated emotions, such as shame, pride, embarassment, and guilt than close members of one’s own group.”

sTemming The Tide It is not, perhaps, as simple as suggesting that if people understood the plight of migrants, the divisions we are currently experiencing would simply evaporate. Certainly there is value to be seen in the work of individuals such as Goitom Yosief, who led an outreach tour across Maltese schools with his book Kidane: a story of hope, which aimed to foster understanding of our shared humanity. And equally, it is becoming increasingly clear that the current policy of detention is, in itself, exacerbating the problem. The UNHCR, a vociferous critic, recently commented: “One would expect that a national policy that requires asylum seekers and migrants to be held behind bars induces a perception in the public that people arriving are criminals.”

It is worth noting that the stages in Stanton’s model follow each other predictably, but not inexorably: at each stage, preventive measures can stop it. At an early stage, he suggests, the key is to “develop universalistic institutions that transcend ethnic or racial divisions, that actively promote tolerance and understanding, and that promote classifications that transcend the divisions...This search for common ground is vital.”

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Campari is a unique drink. Its distinctive red colour signifies passion. Its unmistakable taste has been enjoyed for 150 years, unchanged since it was dreamed up by Gaspare Campari in 1860. It has always been distinguishable thanks to its style, class and elegance. Campari serves as the basis of many cocktails, making it the perfect drink for any time of the day. The classic Campari Orange is a perennial favourite long drink but if you prefer to try a different expression of this passionate drink, go for a Negroni Sbagliato - 1 part Campari, 1 part vermouth Cinzano Rosso and 1 part Cinzano Prosecco. Build in a double rocks glass with ice and enjoy in your favourite company. Distributed by FBIC Ltd. Tel: 2381 4400.

The Artisan Food Mixer is of full metal construction so it is robust, stable and durable. The planetary action allows for fast and thorough mixing. The direct drive is silent, reliable and long lasting. The single attachment hub is easy to use and allows for versatility. The bowl has an ergonomic handle for a better grip and easy handling. Everything about this mixer has been designed to make it look outstanding. Each machine is coated in baked enamel, this not only makes the Kitchenaid Artisan stand mixer easy to clean but prevents scratching and chipping easily. Available in several colours including Empire Red. See the entire range of Kitchenaid mixers at the Forestals showroom in Mriehel. Tel: 2343 6000. Web: www.forestals.com

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The NEW MilanoRed laque liquid lipstick. An unbeatable performance and a revolutionary 4-in-1 formula, it blends the comfort of a luxury lipstick with the hydration of a lip balm, the lacquer-like shine of a lip gloss, and lasting colour of a lip stain. The formula is neither sticky nor drying because it contains water, hydrating oils and butters, such as olive and Shea butter, for deep tissue hydration. The pigment-rich formula leaves full, brilliant, faderesistant colour. Hypoallergenic. Formulated to minimise the risk of allergy Exclusively distributed by A.M. Mangion Ltd. Tel: 2397 6000.

The Renault Clio delivers a high standard of comfort and safety equipment and features an affordable personalisation programme on an unprecedented level for Renault. Instantly recognisable with its front-end style featuring the Renault logo, the Clio, with its sporty silhouette, is a combination of beauty and functionality, recording low fuel consumption. See the new Renault Clio at Auto Sales Ltd – Kind’s, Lija. Tel: 2331 1126/131 for a test drive.

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Mountain Men

SOCIETY

Climbing EuropE’s highEst mountain was no Easy fEat, say thE fivE young mEn who EmbarkEd on thE toughEst advEnturE of thEir livEs – but fulfilling a CausE ClosE to thEir hEarts madE it all worthwhilE...

W ords

by

M artina s aid

76 Sunday Circle | October 2013

The team crossing the glacier, to get Capanna Giovanni Gnifetti

There is nothing particularly extraordinary about young men embarking on extreme adventures in search of a thrill – it is, pretty much, what most healthy twenty-somethings would do if they had the chance. This group of young thrill-seekers, however, is somewhat different. What started off as a joke soon became a fulfilled dream for five close friends, and what could have turned out to be an immeasurably dangerous expedition turned out to be a success.

Meet Gabriel Felice, 24, and Shan Francois Hussein, 20, both aircraft maintenance technicians with Air Malta; Timmy Borg, a 27-year old system administrator, Sean Cutajar, a 23-year old research analyst and Steve Galea, a 24-year personal financial planner. They are an energetic bunch, clearly close friends judging by the way they taunt and joke with each other. And, in the midst of breast cancer awareness month, they are eager to share the story of their mission to conquer Mont Blanc in order to raise awareness for breast cancer.

“I had been meaning to do something for charity for a long time,” says Gabriel. “Shan and I started discussing the possibilities of an adventure and we agreed to do it in aid of breast cancer since a close member of my family suffered from it a few years ago.

SOCIETY The team making their way down the valley, after a night at Refugio Regina Margherita at almost 4,600m

From left to right – Robert Gatt, Steve Ross Galea, Raphael Fenech Adami, Dr Gregory Attard, Sharon Zahra, Sean Cutajar, Timothy Borg & Gabriel Felice

October 2013 | Sunday Circle 77

SOCIETY Other members of the group were also affected by cancer in different ways.

That is how it began.” He says roping in the rest of the team didn’t require much effort and convincing: “Once Shan and I agreed, we called up Sean, who said yes in a heartbeat; Steve and Timmy too. It was a rather quick decision.”

normally do hours of walking with around 15 kilograms on our backs,” says Steve.

The choice of adventure, however, was no easy feat. “To tell you the truth, we didn’t give it much thought. I knew Mont Blanc was the highest mountain in Europe and that’s just about it – I thought: what the hell, it couldn’t be that bad.” What follows is a brief sarcastic laugh – “little did I know. It was difficult... very difficult.”

Steve and Timmy agree - “Gabe and Shan wanted a crazy adventure holiday – climbing Europe’s highest mountain was as crazy as it could get,” says Steve.

On August 22, together with Dr Gregory Attard – a seasoned mountaineer who mentored the group from start to finish – experienced climber Raphael Fenech Adami, Robert Gatt and Sharon Zahra, the team set out on the adventure of a lifetime, although what they endured during eight days of climbing, was a lot harder than they anticipated. “The first day was a huge shock – we were in an area called Monte Rosa and it was supposed to be an easy trek but we missed one of the lifts we were supposed to take to get to our first refuge. We had no visibility, very bad weather and were caught in a snowstorm – we just wanted to get home. The refuge was a stone’s throw away to our left but in a panic, we took a right and arrived at the hut six hours late at 9pm.”

Ahead of their demanding and ambitious adventure, the team underwent rigorous training and preparation in spite of their different work schedules. Timmy explains they met up at least once a week for fivehour hikes throughout the summer, besides swimming, running, cycling, gym, TRX suspension training and any other exercise that helped their preparation. “The long treks took a lot of getting used to – we don’t

“I remember thinking to myself – what the hell have I got myself into,” says Timmy.

“This was only 2 hours into the climb.” In due course, the team arrived at Capanna Giovanni Gnifetti hut, built at an altitude of 3,647 metres, which is where they slept for the first few nights. What followed was an intense crash course to familiarise them with the equipment and, most importantly, with the weather conditions,

78 Sunday Circle | October 2013

before moving upwards towards Refugio Regina Margherita, perched at the peak of the mountain at 4,554 metres. It is en route to this peak that one member of the team began suffering from altitude sickness, leading to pulmonary oedema.

“I started running out of breath on our way to Margherita hut,” says Shan. “I had a sleepless night, couldn’t stop coughing and feeling sick, but the following day I had to continue climbing. It’s hard to explain the feeling – similar to the way you’d feel after a 100 metre sprint, short of breath, but for nine hours. At a certain point, I simply couldn’t breathe – possibly the worst moment of my life. I was treated by Dr Greg who gave me medication to slow down the process of acclimatisation and as soon as we started making our way further down, I started feeling better.”

Shan’s experience affected the rest of the team. “When we found out he would not be able to join us for the rest of the climb, it was a blow to our morale. There were moments when I wondered if I could make it,” says Steve. Despite being one member short, however, they continued on. After six days of training, trekking and climbing, the team began their seven-hour ascent to the summit of Mont Blanc.

P hoto

by

N icky S cicluNa

Beautiful TEETH

HEALTH

Worried a filling Will ruin your smile? dental and implant surgeon Jean paul demaJo offers some tips on aesthetic fillings Amalgam fillings or, in layman terms, silver fillings, have been around for over 100years. GV Black put his theories into practice by testing the ideal composition of amalgam, the ideal tooth preparation, as well as its placement into tooth cavities replacing the loss of tooth tissue due to tooth caries. It is no wonder that he is still regarded as the father of operative and modern dentistry.

FACTS ABOUT AMALGAM FILLINGS:

Amalgam filling

Ceramic filling

Hundreds of studies have been conducted to test the safety of amalgam. Here are some of the scientific conclusions: • “There is no scientific evidence to connect the development of MS or other neurological diseases with dental fillings containing mercury.” — National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

• “According to the best available scientific evidence there is no relationship between silver dental fillings and Alzheimer’s.”

— Alzheimer’s Association.

• “There is no scientific evidence of any measurable clinical toxic effects (of dental amalgam).” — American Academy of Pediatrics.

• There are no current recommendations on the part of US federal agencies to prevent dentists from placing amalgam fillings where indicated because studies have consistently failed to document mercury toxicity associated with amalgam fillings. Except for the unusual cases of allergic reaction, there are no data supporting any recommendations to remove fillings.

• 20 Signs and Symptoms of Mercury Exposure from Amalgam Fillings (from the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology).

Dr Jean Paul Demajo has trained in London working in private practice in Malta

• Dental amalgam is a mixture of metals, consisting of liquid mercury and a powdered alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper.

Approximately 50 per cent of dental amalgam is elemental mercury by weight.

• Amalgam is one of the best, cheapest and strongest filling materials with the longest duration.

• They have the poorest aesthetics of all restorative materials.

• If you are allergic to any of the metals in dental amalgam, you should not get amalgam fillings. You can discuss other treatment options with your dentist.

In spite of all these studies and findings Amalgam fillings definitely remain a controversial subject still creating doubt and uncertainty on the minds of many.

In 2008, the FDA admitted that dental amalgam can cause health problems.

Norway, Denmark and Sweden have ended the use of mercury fillings and many dental schools no longer teach mercury placement. Germany, Canada, and California require mercury toxicity warnings to be given to pregnant women.

Your dentist can discuss treatment options based on the location of cavities in your mouth and the amount of lost tooth substance to replace.

ALTERNATIVES TO DENTAL AMALGAM:

• Composite Resin Fillings: getting stronger over the years but may be less durable than amalgams.

• Glass and Plastic Ionomer Fillings: limited use for small fillings.

• Gold Foil Fillings: very good but poor aesthetics and very expensive.

• Porcelain Fillings: strong, aesthetic and offer good long-term durability, cheaper than gold.

With an ever growing aesthetic and health conscious patient to deal with, the ideal restoration is obviously a durable, aesthetic and strong one. Ask your dentist!

June 2013 | Sunday Circle 97

DINING

best of both worlds Welcome to Grill 3301, Where excellence is just the beGinninG

Good things come in twos at Grill 3301. The restaurant has a wide enough range of prime meats that it could easily qualify as a quality steakhouse; yet it also specialises in fish, with six or seven types of fresh fish on display every day. Located in St Julian’s postcode area 3301 (hence the name), with a breathtaking view of St George’s Bay, its patrons still have easy access to the restaurant through the free underground car park available for it.

Head chef Carl Zahra and Maître d’Hotel Charles Cordina run the restaurant as if it were their own, ensuring five-star service and sourcing every last ingredient that goes into making a fine dining experience.

Having headed the restaurant’s kitchen since its birth five years ago, Carl takes it personally. “Each plate that comes out of my kitchen has my name, Charles’s name, and all the staff’s name on it, and it has to be up to our quality standard,” the chef says. Proof? As our photographer focuses in on the plates he’s arranged, Carl takes out his smartphone and takes a snap of his own creation.

Nothing is left to chance – every ingredient has its own place in the menu, like an instrument in a symphony; nothing extra, nothing missing. Every sauce, every garnish is prepared in-house, down to the flowers Carl garnishes the plates with, which he picks himself. He has just been in touch with a farmer friend of his to source broad bean flowers for his menu; he is now looking forward to when the garlic and chive blossoms start to appear.

The menu is nothing if not eclectic. The Irish, Aberdeen Angus, USDA Prime and Wagyu Kobe beef are allowed to speak for themselves (accompanied by a range of sauces), while the other meats are given that special touch.

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The Scottish lamb chop, for instance, is given an Arabic twist with a Rasal-Hanut marinade, while the pork belly has been cooked in a sous vide for hours before it is plated, tender as nothing else. The fish, fresh every day, can be prepared to patrons’ liking – grilled, roasted, poached or al cartoccio, with a choice of sauces.

“We’re not out to radically change the flavour of things, we’re looking to give it a more colourful, individual ending,” Charles says. “And even though we might have dishes which other restaurants make, we go down to every single detail – including making our own butter for a risotto.”

The restaurant also organises themed food and wine pairing evenings, the next of which is a Tuscan five-course feast on March 14th.

The service is equally special. Although the sea-facing restaurant can take up to 200 covers, it is only set out for 70. This way, Charles explains, a business dinner and a romantic evening can both take place with no interference.

Furthermore, the staff is also given training in wine and food pairing, so that customers can make the best of the varied wine list. Carl, who revises the menu every six months, has his eyes – and palate – on the future.

“Nowadays, you have to be creative, you have to keep moving forward,” he says. “We’ve made lots of progress from the day we started.”

Charles characterises Grill 3301’s approach as “going the extra mile” – in terms of quality service, attention to detail and even portion size. And, it would seem, to pick out that perfect flower.

For reservations, call Grill 3301 on +356 2370 2537 or +356 9999 3301 or email grill3301.stgeorges@corinthia.com

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FASHION

C

Marella So many souls for so many styles that interact in a single collection, eclectic, versatile, amazing, like every woman. The silhouettes, materials and colours are updated every season to keep apace with trends, while maintaining a classy, feminine style. The wide range of options available offers customers the chance to create head-to-toe looks that give a fresh, creative twist to any woman’s wardrobe.

Marella, Bisazza Street, Sliema Tel: 2258 2788

Visit the shop and take a look for yourself, or click on: 57/64, Old Bakery Street, Valletta Tel: 2123 0506 | 9926 3720 Email: paulmusu@hotmail.com TangoBoutiqueMalta Website: tangoboutiquemalta.com

oVs

Dorothy Perkins

The Fall/Winter 2013/14 collection at OVS is a bold, graphic mix with sexy attitude, in decisive, metropolitan patterns. Blacks and whites are the shades for interchangeable items: from the sharp waistcoat to the crepe bomber, worn with fluid kitten bow blouses and three different lengths of trousers.

The on-trend man this Fall/Winter 2013/14 will have a wardrobe to mix and match, with hassle-free, interchangeable items. Even the most formal of blazers gets a more relaxed look over ultra-fine sweaters.

OVS, Tagliaferro Centre, High Street, Sliema.

Tel: 2258 2777 OVS, Pavi Shopping Complex, Manwel Dimech Street, Qormi, Tel: 2258 2778

The average Dorothy Perkins customer is in her early thirties and she’s likely to be a busy mum or working woman. She loves fashion and takes a close interest in new trends, but often doesn’t feel able to carry off some of the latest looks.

She’s not always confident about her body, and doesn’t always know what suits her, so Dorothy Perkins gives her fashion inspiration and advice. Quality, fit and price are all important to her.

DP, The Strand, Sliema. Tel: 2134 3642 DP, Merchants Street, Valletta.

Tel: 2122 7726 Tel: 2258 2788

Bice Boutique, is organizing a preview defile’ of the latest Autumn/Winter ladies collections on Thursday 10th October at the Intercontinental Hotel St. Julians at 19:30pm.

This will showcase elegant, refined clothes paying tribute to the splendor of ‘Haute Couture’ in the choice of fabrics, the recognizable sophisticated, timeless elegance and the meticulous eye for detail.

om

Old Treasury Str, Valletta | Tel: 2123 9885 | Email: bicemalta@gmail.c

October 2013 | Sunday Circle 115

SHOPPING

1. AkAmuti Exotic SpicE Roll-on

5. kiSSAblE bAlm

Award-winning company Akamuti brings us this 100% natural, aromatic exotic spice roll-on with a deep spicy fragrance and refreshing fruity undertones of May Chang. Frankincense has a soothing & energising effect when inhaled, while myrrh helps to encourage positive thoughts. Roll this over your temples and your wrist to clear the mind & help put things into perspective. Akamuti products are not tested on animals. Found exclusively at Shanti, Main Street, Mosta. Tel: 2141 4473.

Prepare for the perfect kiss with Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain, a pampering balm fused with a lightweight lipstain that gives you softer, smoother lips with a perfect flush of colour that lasts. And get ready to fall in love with Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain’s moisturising formula, available in seven vibrant shades. The smooth gel formula glides on beautifully, giving lips a shiny kissable look and feel.

Distributed by Charles deGiorgio Ltd. Tel: 2560 0504.

2. GEt YouR nAilS noticEd

6. Scholl’S nEW pARtY ShoE to thE REScuE

For classic, French, decorated or trendsetting nails look no further than Elegant Touch. Easy to apply, natural comfortable fit, perfect for up to seven days.

Also available in the Elegant Touch range: Nail Treatments, Nail White Pencils, Nail Files, Nail Clippers, Emery Boards, Tweezers, Scissors. Elegant Touch products are distributed by von Brockdorff Imports Ltd. Tel: 2123 2141.

The new Party Feet Pocket Ballerina flats from Scholl fold up neatly into a woman’s handbag, ready to use at any time. They are the must-have accessory for “when you just can’t stand to wear heels anymore”, with padded full-length insoles for improved comfort, and elastic trim for a better fit. Pocket Ballerina Shoes are available from Scholl Foothealth Centres, leading pharmacies and supermarkets.

Trade Enquires: Pharma-Cos Ltd. Tel: 2144 1870.

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3. Scholl Soft And Smooth hEElS

7. kElloGG’S SpEciAl k REd bERRiES bARS

Scholl Cracked Heel Express Stick is a convenient and practical way to keep your repaired heels beautifully soft and smooth. Don’t be shy, be Scholl. Available from all leading pharmacies, supermarkets and Scholl Foothealth Centres. Trade enquires: Pharma-Cos Ltd. Tel. 2144 1870.

When you’re on a mission to look and feel great, you need a few secret weapons.

Meet some of the best little snack bars around: Special K® Red Berries Cereal Bars.

When you need a mid-morning snack or a yummy way to curtail those afternoon munchies, these strawberry flavored cereal bars are made to satisfy with rice and whole grain wheat flakes, sweet strawberries, and oh-so-yummy icing. And the best kept secret? Each Special K® Red Berries Cereal Bar is 88 calories! Charles Darmanin & Company Ltd. Tel: 2269 3000 | info@charlesdarmanin.com

4. thE chEApESt 3G ExpERiEncE on AndRoid tAblEt If you were looking for a great but affordable tablet then look no more! The Vodafone Smart Tab II 7” comes with an upgradeable 4.0 OS and allows access to Google Play, the Internet, news, videos and much more. It is compact and lightweight making it the perfect tablet to carry in your bag. Built by Lenovo with Vodafone approved quality, the Vodafone Smart Tab II 7’’comes at an affordable €249.

8. WhAt YouR hAndWRitinG SAYS About You Your handwriting says a lot about you… and so does the pen you hold. That’s why over a century’s experience as pen pioneers Platignum has led us to create this distinctive range of quality pens. From the self-filling ranges we manufactured in 1919, we invented the world’s first replacement nib, created the retractable ballpoint in 1950 and introduced the first cartridge system. We’ve been writing the history of the pen for generations and are continuing to innovate for the future.

Trade enquiries: Golden Gate Co Ltd. Tel: 2138 2245 | goldengate@gg.com.mt

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BAG

SHOPPING

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Exclusive ready made wedding gowns & accessories - Bridesmaid & flowergirl dresses - Dresses for mother of the bride & groom - Bridal Shoes

Mariage, 39, St.Zachary Street, Valletta | Tel: 2122 4799 | Email: mariage@waldonet.net.mt

WEDDINGS

ELEGANT. EXQUISITE. ETERNAL.

At Antonio Piscopo Wine & Spirits, we offer our customers free advice on the quantity and range of beverages required for that special day…Your Wedding Day! Delivery will be made free of charge, while a pick up service may also be provided upon request for a small fee.

Antonio Piscopo Wines & Spirits, 115, Zabbar road, Paola.

T: 21697074. Piscopo’s Cash & Carry, Triq L-Erba’ Mwiezeb, St Paul’s Bay. T: 2157 0375. E: weddings@piscopo.com.mt W: www.piscopo.com.mt

Creative Catering At C. Camilleri & Sons (Catering) Limited we have built a reputation for creative catering and coordinating dream weddings and other elegant events. From casual to formal, standing to seated, we bring together all the elements necessary for a memorable occasion, leaving our clients to relax, confident in the knowledge that everything will run smoothly.

The principle behind our catering is translated into a desire to please our clients in a personal way. We offer the opportunity to be individualistic with an emphasis on imaginative foods and presentations, which are not only delicious, but also exciting. We also constantly strive to update our catalogue, inclusive of 300 plus items, to include a balance between imaginative foods and traditional, sought-after items. Special offers available for 2014. C. Camilleri & Sons (Catering) Ltd., 13-20, M. Borg Gauci Street, Tal-Handaq, Qormi QRM 4000. T: 2147 2255.

Jonathan Attard, Food & Beverage Executive, E: jattard@camillerigroup.com or info@camillericatering.com

April 2014 | Sunday Circle 89

WEDDINGS

Wedding Essentials 1. BVR – a brand name with over 43 years of excellent quality and

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service – proudly presents their new flagship outlet: BVR the boutique, specializing in formal and occasional wear. Parking and private appointments are now also available upon request. Let our experienced staff help you choose from our vast selection of individual designer dresses. BVR - The Boutique Savoy Gardens, Rue d’Argens, Gzira T: 2131 6902/3. St. George’s Square, Victoria, Gozo T: 2155 1287. Facebook: BVR The Boutique.

2. Scholl introduces new Party Feet™ Pocket Ballerina™ flats.

They fold up neatly into a woman’s handbag, ready to use at any time to provide immediate relief and comfort from the pain of high heels. Treat your female guests to these foldable, comfortable shoes allowing them to enjoy your night and keep them on their feet for longer. Pocket Ballerina™ shoes are available from Scholl Foothealth Centres, leading Pharmacies and Supermarkets. Pharma-Cos Ltd. T: 2144 1870.

W: www.schollfoothealthcentre.com/footcare

3 3. Pure and Precious Bridal Shoes offer a large range of attractive and elegant shoes for the Bride and her bridesmaids. They have a great fit and are designed to offer comfort throughout the wedding. These beautiful shoes come in various heel heights and extremely competitive prices. We also offer a dyeing service for satin shoes and handbags to match to your chosen colour. This service is convenient for bridesmaids, mother of the bride/ groom, wedding guests and evening shoes for all occasions. The Dance Studio, 322, Sliema Road, Kappara.

T: 2138 8186. E: info@dancestudiomalta.com.

W: www.dancestudiomalta.com

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WEDDINGS

POP WEDDINGS CULTURE

1 2

Beauty & Luxury

at Raphael Azzopardi 1.

Raphael Azzopardi’s passion for fine quality products is evident and outstanding. The home collection, which includes porcelain, fine-bone china, crystal, silver or silver plated and stainless steel, includes world-renowned brands such as Versace, Rosenthal, Orrefors, Kosta Boda, Egizia, Sambonet and Arzberg. Such a range of brands makes Raphael Azzopardi the ideal outlet for compiling the perfect gift list. Items range from the plain and simple contemporary pieces to classic and elaborate pieces.

2.

A skilled Antwerp qualified gemologist with over twenty years of experience in the business, Raphael Azzopardi specialises in topquality internationally certified diamonds and diamond jewellery.

Be it an engagement or wedding ring, customers can choose from branded diamond collections to custom-designed collections.

3.

The selection of wedding list items, be it cutlery, dinner sets or stem ware, ranges from everyday basics to more luxurious pieces. Gift lists are made available online and customers can make their purchase from the comfort of their own home. Couples placing their wedding list will be given a pair of 18kt gold wedding bands for free.

3

The variety offered at Raphael Azzopardi includes gifts of all kinds, for every occasion and to suit a variety of budgets. 6, Uqija Street, Ibrag. opposite Luxol Grounds, round the corner from ex-Jessie’s Bar now Pepe Nero T: 2137 3812.E: info@raphaelazzopardi.com.

W: www.raphaelazzopardi.com. Facebook: Raphael Azzopardi

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Make every moment count Special Occasions Package It’s your special day and there will be a million magniďŹ cent moments to cherish forever.

So make the start of your trip a memorable one with our special occasions package.

Make your airport transit like an A-lister in luxury, style and comfort.

Luqa LQA 4000, Malta Tel: (+356) 2369 6292 / 6016 Freephone: 8007 6666 Email: info@lavaletteclub.com 000 Sunday Circle | March 2014

WEDDINGS

The Epitome of Catering

by Busy Bee

If you are planning a wedding, let Busy Bee Catering handle all the details for this special day. With over 75 years’ experience in this demanding industry, we have the know-how to make your day a memorable one.

Our aim is providing constant, optimum-quality service. Our staff will help you plan the cuisine whether it is a small family or a larger celebration; whether you require a traditional selection of food items, or recentlyintroduced delicacies, or an y combination of the aforementioned arrangements. We customise all menus to meet our clients’ unique requirements, ensuring that clients get a bespoke service.

The vast experience of Busy Bee Catering staff in wedding catering is a guarantee of the smooth running of the wedding function in all its stages. So you need only concentrate upon enjoying yourselves, while we take care of the rest.

All our fare is locally-sourced, thus ensuring optimum freshness and quality, and, most importantly, doing away with the need for long storage and preservatives. Apart from ensuring catering excellence for weddings at Villa Mdina, Busy Bee Catering facilitates customers’ wedding arrangements by operating in the majority of wedding venues and locations throughout Malta and Gozo.

We are only too happy to assist you through each step of this process and with any queries you may have.

Busy Bee, 7, Antonio Bosio Street, Msida. T: 2134 0400, 2133 1738.

E: info@busybee.com.mt. W: www.busybee.com.mt

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The Perfect Wedding

1. Whether for 20 or 500 guests, Paradise Bay Resort Hotel can

definitely make your wedding a day to remember. Venues for wedding receptions include the Il-Merill Restaurant which offers an unobstructed view of the clear blue Mediterranean Sea and can accommodate up to 1,000 people (standing). Alternatively, why not have your wedding under a Bedouin tent on our private sandy beach? There is also extensive terrace space surrounding the outdoor pools overlooking the picturesque Paradise Bay, which can accommodate small or large parties.

Paradise Bay Resort Hotel, Marfa Road, Cirkewwa. T: 2152 1166.

E: events@paradise-bay.com W: www.paradise-bay.com

2

2. Your wedding is one of the most special and personal events

of your life. At Osborne Caterers, we understand this and limit the number of weddings we style and cater to each year, giving us the time to really get to know each couple, understand their dreams and, importantly, their budget. Our service is “hands on” – we can provide you with bars and waitering staff, as well as marquees, tables, chairs, linen, cutlery, crockery, décor, flower arrangements and all you may need to make your function an outstanding success! Villa Arrigo, San Pawl Tat-Targa.

T: 2142 3214. E: info@osbornecaterers.com W: www.osbornecaterers.com

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The Villa, a tastefully-renovated 19th century country house overlooking Balluta Bay caters for small, intimate celebrations as well as larger, full-scale events, including weddings, within its three outdoor terraces, two large indoor venue and an intimate private dining room.

Located within the Le Meridien grounds, the award-winning restaurant is run as an independent venue by chef patron Chris Hammett, who leads a team of experts and a brigade of chefs at the ready to organise any occasion to the client’s specifications and budget.

Whatever your event or budget contact us!

39, Main Street, Balluta Bay, St. Julians | E-mail: info@thevillamalta.com | Tel: 2311 2273 | www.thevillamalta.com

WEDDINGS

Castello Zamitello limits of Imgarr, Malta

Luxury Catering

by Catermax

Catermax Open Day at Maxtura Ivory Suite Catermax, Malta’s luxury brand for catering, is organising an open day in its fine Maxtura Ivory Suite in Gozo on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th April. This occasion brings together a number of wedding suppliers to provide a one stop shop to all those who wish to wed in Gozo. This open day gives one the opportunity to view the venue and a number of wedding suppliers, including a beautician, nail technician, photographer, videographer, car rentals, musicians, marquee and setup services, souvenirs, beverage supplier, florist and more. The convenience of finding all wedding requirements under one roof makes this a not to be missed occasion for all those who are planning to wed in Gozo. For this open day Catermax has set up a coffee shop too... here you can sit to have a coffee and snack on the selection of savoury and sweet goodies whilst enjoying the environment.

BBQ season with Catermax Summer is just around the corner. This makes us think about barbeques and the fun feeling generated during the lovely summer evenings spent with friends or colleagues. Catermax has prepared some interesting packages for the coming summer months

Maxtura Ivory Suite, Gozo

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Catermax, T: 2010 2020. E: info@catermax.com.

W: www.catermax.com. Facebook: Catermax.

ExclusivEly DistributED by tA’ xbiEx PErFuMEry ltD. tEl: 2133 1553

www.chanel.com