Gozo Magazine

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Issue 2 Summer/Autumn 2013 Your Guide To - Accommodation - Culture - Eating Out - Shopping Beaches - Getting Around - Property - Weddings - Diving - Adventure

What’s in your ‘My Gozo Guide’ CULTURE

Explore the best of what Gozo has to offer from Historical monuments, fortified cities, temples, caves and museums.

EATING OUT

Gozo has some fantastic places to eat, from seafront bistros to rustic country restaurants specialising in home cooking.

www.mygozomagazine.com

MINI GUIDES

* Victoria * Xlendi * Marsalforn * Xaghra * Nadur * Gharb/Dwejra

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Contents

‘’We came for the weather and we stayed for the people.

They are what makes Gozo so special’’

Total Guide

8. History, Discover the history of Gozo from it’s megolithic heritage to today.

9. Museums, Gozo has some excellent museums showcasing Gozo of yesteryear.

10. Natural Beauty, No visit to Gozo is complete without a trip to The Inland Sea and Dwejra.

12. Church Life, Gozo has a total of 22 Churches, from small chapels to Basilicas, Gozo has them all.

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Charlotte, French Native, Owner of Organika, meet the local, page 29 ....................................................................................................................................................

14. Festa Time, If you are on the Island during the summer months, DO NOT miss a local Village Festa if one is happening.

16. Postcards, Our readers have sent in photos of their Gozo, including Capers and The Salt Pans.

17. Our Gozo, All of the latest news and views from the Island including a book review of The Cross.

20. Day Out, Take a trip away from the beaches and head To The Magro Food Village, see how local crafts and foods are made as well as a visit to their Ketchup plant.

25. Recommended Dining, Gozo has plenty of fantastic bars and restaurants to dine in.

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Mgarr Ix Xini

28. Victoria,, Gozo’s Capital is a bustling City, discover the old streets, markets and The Citadel.

46. Nadur, Gozo’s largest village has a lovely square and views of the Island to die for.

32. Xlendi, Discover Xlendi Bay, a picture post card seafront resort, full of great restaurants and the perfect place to hire a boat.

48. Accommodation, From hotels to farmhouses, Gozo has plenty of accommodation options available to suit all budgets.

54. Weddings, Gozo, the fairy tale 38. Marsalforn, Gozo’s premier tourist resort, discover where to eat, wedding destination. drink and sleep.

56. Getting Around, Hire a car, 41. Gharb/The Inland Sea, Visit rent a bike, book a chauffeur driven Dwejra, The Azure Window, Gharb airport transfer, explore the Island.

Folklore Museum and Ta’Dbiegi 58. Diving, Gozo is a premier Craft Centre. diving destination, find the best 42. Mgarr, The entry to Gozo has places to dive and get tips from the some fantastic restaurants, grab a experts. bite to eat and watch the ferry’s come in and out.

62. Adventure, Gozo has plenty of adventure activities from speed boats to rock climbing and kayaking 44. Xaghra, One of Gozo’s most picturesque Village’s, visit the 63. Map of Gozo, Find you way square for great bars and restaurants. around the Island

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Fliegu Bar & Restaurant

Fliegu, which means ‘’The Channel’’ in Maltese is the vision Nadur of Tony and Vanessa Grech who appreciated the opportunity Qala ARE to create not only a great dining experience but also one with x WEHERE a view. With an unrivalled position offering fantastic views of The Gozitan Countryside, Mgarr, Comino and Malta, diners are treated to a menu of local and mediterranean Ghajnsielem cuisine as well as a full pizza menu cooked in their Italian, wood burning pizza oven. For wine connoisseurs Fliegu has To Victoria over 100 different local and foreign wines to taste, all availMgarr able to view in their walk in wine celler. Open for lunch and dinner daily, or if you feel like a relaxing drink whilst For Reservations Call: +356 2155 0055 taking in the view, everyone is welcome to experience Fliegu.

How To Find Us

Triq L’Mgarr, Nadur

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Get Involved !

Add us as a friend on facebook

Follow Us on Twitter: @MyGozo Drop us an email: info@mygozo.com

Join our forum at www.mygozo.com ...........................................................

From Our Twitter Feed We asked our twitter followers what their favourite places to visit were on Gozo........

San Blas Bay; secluded beach, warm crystal waters, hidden gem @jbsho Blue Lagoon, Comino; hire a boat and cruise around, there is even a mobile ice-cream seller @si82 St George’s Basilica; goregeous square, beautiful Church, check out the roof ! @sarahjo Xlendi; it’s my favourite place in Gozo, in fact I love everywhere on Gozo but Xlendi Bay takes me back to be being 11 years old @Leehollins1 Xatt-L’Ahmar; get away from the crowds, great diving spot @maltabob

Front Cover 2013 - An Alleyway in The Citadel in Victoria, a visit to Gozo is not complete without a visit. To receive a free copy of next years mygozo magazine or to advertise please drop us an email to info@mygozo.com

Hotel Ta’Cenc & Spa

Editors Welcome

Gozo Salt Pans By Chris & Terry Camilleri

Hi and welcome to the 2nd Edition of My Gozo magazine, your definitive guide to what’s happening, what to do, where to eat and drink and where to go on The Calypso Island, which is the nickname given to Gozo. In this edition we have an action packed agenda with some new features including Postcards from Gozo, a showcase of Amateur photographers, Our Gozo - news and review section and definitive guides to diving around the Island.

We have extended town/village guides with interviews from the local community and a definitive restaurant guide. Plus for a chance to win FREE FLIGHTS with Ryanair enter our competition.

For first-timers to the Island there is plenty to see and do, whether you are a culture vulture or an adrenelin junkie there is something for everyone, The Island has some outstanding restaurants and you won’t taste fresher seafood anywhere in the world.

From Top Luscious pool at The Hotel Ta’Cenc & Spa in Sannat (48); Postcards from Gozo, Lady tending to salt pans (16); Win flights to and from Malta with Ryanair, www.ryanair.com

There are some great new additions to the Gozitan dining and entertainment scene. Lucky Jack’s, Gozo’s first bowling alley is now open in Victoria, 23Twelve, sister restaurant to the Boathouse in Xlendi is a welcome addition to the Xlendi scene, Fliegu, open in Nadur has views to die for of The Gozo Channel and Ristorante Il Gambero @ Hotel Calypso is sure to get the taste buds flowing.

For culture vultures Gozo is home to a new museum in St George’s Square, Il Hagar. If you fancy buying a property on the Island, pop into The Captains Table/Moby Dives in Xlendi for a chat with Mark as they have some great studios and 1/2 bedroom apartments for sale.

Happy Holidays

Competition For this edition we have teamed up with Ryanair to offer 3 lucky readers 2 return tickets to/from Malta. To be in with a chance of winning all you need to do is answer the following question...

What is the nickname given to The Island of Gozo ?

Mark Duffy, Editor

Answers to: ryanair@mygozo.com

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About Me

My name Is Mark Duffy and I have been visiting ‘’The Calypso Island’’ since 1987 when my parents

made their first unknown visit to this beautiful Island and we haven’t looked backed since. I was lucky enough to get married on The Island in 2010 and have some great Gozitan Friends. The Island is very close to my heart.

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TOTAL GUIDE HISTORY

The Island of Gozo is a historical monument in itself, wherever you go on Gozo you are reminded of Gozo from yesteryear. The History of the Island dates back to 5000BC when local farmers from Sicily made the short hop across the Mediterranean sea. It is thought that they made their home in caves close to the village of San Lawrenz. The temple period saw the building of the Ggantija Temples (3600-3000bc), still intact today they are widely recognised as the world’s oldest free standing structure and are certainly worth a visit.

The Bronze Age was a relatively quiet period for the Island and this continued through the Phoneician/Carthaginian and Roman periods until the Arabs occupied the Island between 870 and 1127. The Arabs left a lasting influence on Gozo, none more so than the Gozitan name of the Island, Ghawdex.

1127 Saw the beginning of European dominance when Roger The Norman freed the Island from the Arabs. Between 1127 and 1530 Gozo was ruled by a series of feudal Lords whose sole intention was to maximise revenue in the form of taxes.

On the 23rd March 1530, The Island was occupied by the Knights of St John, a religious order originating from Jerusalem.

During the early part of their rule, life on Gozo was not much improved from that of the Arab rule and in July 1551 things took a turn for the worse when The Citadel in The Capital Victoria was put under siege by The Turks. The local population was caught off-guard and around 5000 people, the entire population, were enslaved. This is considered to be a very traumatic time in Gozitan history and it took the Island many years to recover. Many of the slaves were sold off to foreign owners throughout the world. In order to repopulate the Island, people from Malta were encouraged to come over but it is thought people from Sicily also came over to Gozo.

The French took possession of the Island on the 10th June 1798. It was very much a short lived occupation of the Island and The Gozitans regained control of their Island until 1800 when Great Britain took control over the Maltese Islands.

Malta and Gozo officially became British Sovereign territory in 1813 and the rule

lasted until the 21st September 1964 when the Islands gained their independence. The Ministry of Gozo was established in 1987 and it acts as an executive function for the Island.

Due to it’s central location, probably the best place to start your cultural tour of the Island is within the Citadel, which is the focal point of the Capital, Victoria. The Citadel houses a good number of museums that offer visitors the opportunity to see how Gozo was 300 years ago. The views from the top of the Citadel offer some of the best on the Island, don’t forget to bring your camera and pop into Cafe San Martino for a bite to eat and a drink.

Ta’ Kola Windmill is one of the few surviving windmills on the Maltese Islands.

Located in the Village of Xaghra its origin goes back to 1725 at the hands of Manoel Foundation. Manoel Foundation charged itself with building up windmills to sustain the flour demand of the increasing population of Malta and Gozo. Ta’ Kola Windmill is a tangible example of rural economy and domestic Gozitan life during past centuries.

Adults (18-59yrs) €8.00, Students (12-17 yrs) & senior citizens (60+) €5.00, Children (6-11 yrs) €4.00 Opening Hours: MON to SUN: 9.00am to 5.00pm , Telephone: 21565988

Address: - 99 Pjazza il-Knisja, Gharb Opening Hours: Mon to Sat: 9.00a.m. - 4.00 p.m.; Sunday: 9.00am - 1.00 p.m

Address: - Bambina Street , Xaghra Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday 09.00am–17.00pm.

(Last admission 16.30). Closed on 24, 25, 31 December, 1 January and Good Friday

The Maritime Museum in Nadur is privately owned and has many rare and priceless Museum of Archaeology exhibits, including authenticated timber The museum of archaeology is housed in the from Lord Nelson’s ship, HMS Victory, the walls of the citadel within a 17th century first US warship, Constitution, and one of building that served as a majestic town hall Lord Mountbatten’s gold epaulettes. The during the period of the Knights of St John. collection was accumulated by Kelinu Grima, Exhibits on show include pieces from the who spent 65 years gathering the maritime Neolithic, Temple and Bronze age including memorabilia. The museum covers three relics from the Ggantija temples. centuries of seafaring, from the elegant sailing ships of the past to more recent The Folklore Museum is housed in a series famous battleships. of medieval houses dating back to the 15th century. The museum holds a wide range of Address: Parish Priest Street, Nadur Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9.00am- 4.45pm, exhibits showcasing Gozo from a by-gone Telephone: 21565226 age and traditional methods used by the rural community.

The Pomzkizillious Toy Museum was created in the 1970s and belongs to a British The Natural Science Museum is located couple who decided to exhibit their own toy just behind the law courts and showcases a collection, including outstanding antiques variety of collections, including fossils, and unique items, in this small private Mineralogy, Marine Life, Botany, Ornithology museum. You can see traditional games of and Insects. all types and materials from Malta and all over Europe.

The Old Prison dates back to the 15th Address: 10 Gnien Xible Street, Xaghra. century when the Knights of St John Opening Hours: June /end of Sept :10.30am-1.00pm & occupied the island. The walls of the cells 4pm - 6pm Mon - Sat and corridors in the old prison are covered with graffiti. It is considered as the largest The Gharb Folklore Museum is a collection of historical graffiti in one single privately-owned museum and depicts daily place on the Maltese Islands. life in Gozo of yesteryear. The museum is a showcase of traditional life and includes the Cittadella ticket (Gozo Museum of Archaeprinting press used for Gozo’s first newspaology, Old Prison, Natural Science Museum per plus a collection of old tools and clothes. + Folklore Museum)

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Make your trip to Gozo truly memorable.

Visit the Savina Creativity Centre and enjoy a free audio-visual experience on Gozo, watch Gozitan crafts in the making and sample Savina delicacies.

Savina Creativity Centre, The Magro Food Village, Xewkija, Gozo - Malta 5FM t www.savina.com.mt From Mgarr Harbour follow the main road to Victoria, until you reach the main roundabout. Then follow the signs to The Magro Food Village

TOTAL GUIDE NATURAL BEAUTY

Dwejra

Ggantija

Dwejra All visitors, past and present, cannot fail to be amazed by the natural beauty that is on offer at Dwejra, visitors are quite literally spoilt for choice with an array of geological master pieces dominating the landscape. The first thing you will notice as you are making your way down into Dwejra is the Azure Window, a spectacular natural rock formation featuring a natural arch. The stunning geography of the area was created hundreds of years ago when two limestone caves collapsed. It is easy to understand why film producers have produced several blockbuster movies on the site. For the divers amongst our readers there is a fantastic dive site called the Blue hole which can be found just in front of the Azure Window. The Blue Hole has been voted into the top ten European Dive sites and it is easy to understand why it is a favourite amongst divers. The hole consists of an underwater arch that once navigated leads divers into the open sea.

The Inland Sea, found to the right of the Azure Window is a beautiful natural lagoon, popular with swimmers and divers a like, a natural man made tunnel leads to the open sea and during the summer months it is possible to take a trip on one of the many fishing boats through the tunnel into the open sea. At time of printing a 15 minute boat ride cost €3.50. There is a sea-front café that serves snacks and drinks and the most wonderful homemade chips. The Inland Sea is a great spot for some leisurely swimming but take care when entering the water as it can be quite rocky, water-shoes are advised. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel and flippers.

As you leave the Inland Sea and head back towards the car park you will find the Chapel of St Anne, one of the newest chapels built on the Island, dating back to 1963. The feast of St Anne is celebrated on the 26th July.

In front of the Azure Window you will notice a large rock located just off the mainland. This is called Fungus rock and legend has it that the plants grown on it hold special medicinal powers. The Knights Hospitaller apparently discovered the fungus and used it as a styptic dressing for wounds and a cure for dysentery. The Knights so prized it that they often gave gifts of Malta Fungus to distinguished noblemen and visitors to the Maltese islands. Grand

Master Pinto decreed the Rock out of bounds in 1746; trespassers risked a three-year spell as oarsmen in the Knights' galleys. He posted a permanent guard there and even built a precarious cable-car basket from the rock to the mainland, 50 metres away.

He also ordered the sides smoothed to remove handholds.

The number 302 bus runs between Dwejra and Ramla Bay (via Victoria) on an hourly basis between 05.39am and 22.39pm The Ggantija Temples, a world heritage site, are found south of the Village of Xaghra. Ggantija, meaning giant in Maltese is a neolithic, megolothic temple complex dating back to c3600-2500 BC, making the temples more than 5500 years old. The temples were possibly the site of a Fertility cult; archeologists believe that the numerous figurines and statues found on site are connected with that cult. According to local Gozitan folklore, a giantess built these temples and used them as places of worship. Two temples make up the site, the southerly one is the larger, more older site and is in a better state than the northenly one. The temples are built in the typical clover-leaf shape, with inner facing blocks marking the shape which was then filled in with rubble. This led to the construction of a series of semi-circular apses connected with a central passage. Archaeologists believe that the apses were originally covered by roofing. The structures are all the more impressive for having been constructed at a time when no metal tools were available to the natives of the Maltese islands, and when the wheel had not yet been introduced. Small, spherical stones have been discovered. They are believed to have been used as ball bearings to transport the enormous stone blocks required for the temples' construction.

Ggantija is run by Heritage Malta, www.heritagemalta.org and Entry to the temples costs €5 for adults, €3.50 for 12-17 year olds and €2.50 for OAP’s. For the entry fee visitors also have access to Ta’Kola windmill located in Xaghra.

The number 322 bus operates between Marsalforn and Mgarr via Xaghra between 05.10am and 22.25 every 1.5 hours. The number 307 operates every hour between Kercem and Xaghra (via Victoria) between 05.47am and 22.47pm.

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TOTAL GUIDE NATURAL BEAUTY

Calypso’s Cave

Saltpans Ta’Cenc Cliffs

Aquaduct Calypso’s Cave is found a short distance from the Village of Xaghra and over looks the golden sands of Ramla Bay. The cave is named after the nymph Calypso. In the story ‘The Odyssey’, Odysseus was kept as a prisoner of love for seven years by the nymph Calypso, Calypso lived on an Island called Ogygia and it is believed that the Island being referred to as Ogygia was in fact Gozo. The view of Ramla Bay from Calypso Cave is nothing short of spectacular and is worth visiting for this alone.

Ninus Cave is a fabulous cave with stalactites and stalagmites located at the back of a private house on 15 January Street in Xaghra. The cave was discovered in 1888 by Joseph Rapa.

Open daily between 8am and 18:00pm.

Not too far from Ninnus Cave you will find Xerri’s Grotto, an underground cave discovered in 1924 by the owners Grandfather who discovered the cave whilst digging a well. Further caves were found whilst the family were building an air raid shelter during the 2nd world war. Visitors can see stalacite and stalagmite formations including some interesting speleothems in the form of an elephants ear’s, a tortoise and a giraffe. Xerri’s Grotto can be found on Xerri Street. Opening hours, Mon to Sat, 09.00am to 18.00pm, entrance fee is €2.50.

Ta’Cenc and the Sanap Cliffs offer some wonderful coastal walks.

The Ta’Cenc cliffs are the highest in Gozo at some 150m above sea level, the views from the cliffs are amazing, bring your camera, a bottle of water and put on plenty of sun cream. We recommend

starting your walk at the village of Sannat, head south past the left hand side of the Church and follow signs for the Hotel Ta’Cenc, take the country track to the south and then proceed to the west where the cliffs will take you to Mgarr Ix-Xini.

Sea-Salt has been produced in Gozo for hundreds of years and it is a cottage industry that has been passed down families throughout the generations. The Gozo Salt Pans are found to the North of the Island just west of Marsalforn past Obajar Bay. These ancient salt pans are still worked by the locals during the summer, a simple process, high tides fill the salt pans; the sun evaporates the water leaving salt. The salt is then stored and processed within Caves that have been carved into the rocks. The salt can be purchased directly from the producer and you certainly won’t get any fresher salt than from here.

As you take the road out towards Ta’Pinu from Victoria you will come across The Old Aquaducts. They were built in the 19th Century and were used to carry water from Għar Ilma hill to a purpose built reservoir in Victoria. Building started in 1839 and finished in 1843 when the first water was available in a fountain in Sabina Square, in Victoria. Unfortunately the Aqueducts fell to progress in the form of electrical pumps but Għar Ilma hill is still renowned for it’s fresh water. The aqueducts come to life during the winter months when they are surrounded by lush green scenery. mygozo magazine Page 11

TOTAL GUIDE CHURCH LIFE Gozo is blessed with 22 churches in total, some dating back as far as the 15th century. Where ever you go on Gozo there is a church waiting around the corner and their beauty is not to be ignored. They are very much the focal point of Village life and the annual festa’s honouring the Church’s Patron Saint is an exciting time for Gozitans and tourists.

The Citadella, in Victoria was built between 1697 and 1711 and sits within the fortress of the Citadel. The church’s feast is celebrated on the 15th August each year and is dedicated to the assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Santa Maria, this is one of the biggest feasts held on Island. It is a baroque Cathedral designed by Lorenzo Gafà, the Maltese architect who also built the Cathedral of Mdina. It is said that it lies on the site where a Roman temple dedicated to Juno once stood. It is most famous for the remarkable trompe l'oeil painting on its ceiling, which depicts the interior of a dome that was never built.

The Basilica of Ta’Pinu is Malta and Gozos most popular place of pilgrimage. Legend has it that prayers said in the chapel saved Gozo from the plague.

Numerous miracles and acts of God have been manifested at the Basilica. The origins of the Shrine of Our Lady of ta' Pinu are relatively unknown. In 1575 the apostolic visitor Pietro Duzina was delegated by Pope Gregory XII to visit the Maltese Islands. In his pastoral visit to the church, he found that it was in a very bad state and he ordered the Church to be closed and demolished. When demolition began the workman broke his arm while striking the first blow. This was taken as an omen that the chapel should not be demolished. The church was the only chapel on the island to survive Duzina's decree ordering the demolition of other similar chapels. Pinu Gauci became the procurator of the church in 1598 and its name was changed from "Of the Gentile" to "Ta` Pinu", meaning "Of Philip". In 1611 Gauci offered money for its restoration. It was rebuilt, with a stone altar erected and investments for liturgical services provided. Gauci also commissioned the painting of the Assumption of Our Lady for the main altar. This was done in 1619 by Amadeo Perugino. In 1883, Karmni Grima was walking past the now run down church and heard a voice asking her to recite three Hail Marys'. Over the following years miracles were attributed to the grace of Our Lady of The Assumption to whom the church was dedicated.

The works for the new church began on 30 May 1922, to be consecrated on 31 August 1932. It was built in a neo-romantic style. Inside the church there are 6 mosaics, 76 colored windows and many ex-voto. The

bell tower is 61 metres high. Pope John Paul II celebrated mass on the parvise of the shrine during his visit to the island of Gozo on 26 May 1990. On 18 April 2010, when visiting Malta, Pope Benedict XVI donated and placed a Golden Rose in front of the devotional image of Our Lady Of Ta' Pinu which was brought over from Gozo to Malta for this special occasion. The Pope invited everybody to "Pray to Her under the Title Queen of the Family" St George’s Basilica situated in Victoria is a beautiful church, found in St George’s Square it was originally built in the 1670s. A new façade was built in 1818 due to damage done during an earthquake.

The dome and the aisles are of recent construction (1930s and 1940s). There are several works of art in the church which include the painting of the dome and ceiling by Gian Battista Conti of Rome and other paintings and sculptures by Mattia Preti, Giuseppe d'Arena, Stefano Erardi, Alessio Erardi, Francesco V. Zahra, Giuseppe Calì, and contemporary Alfred Camilleri Cauchi and John L. Grima. The titular statue of St George was carved from solid wood by Pietro Paolo Azzopardi in 1838 and is the first titular statue on the island. The area over which the church is built is of considerable archaeological interest, with evidence of activity dating back to at least to the Roman period. The parish celebrates two feasts during the year: 23 April, the official date celebrating the death of the martyr, and the third Sunday of July, when the solemn festivities in honour of Gozo's patron saint are held.

The village of Xewkija is dominated by its Rotunda Parish Church, dedicated to St John the Baptist. It became the first parish outside Victoria on 27 November 1678. The church was initially built thanks to Bishop Michael Molina, who after visiting Xewkija decided that the local villagers deserved at better place to pray and attend mass. The church is capable of housing 3000 people, the population of the Village.

The church is the largest on Gozo and was built by Maltese stone and was designed by Josepth D’Amato.

The current church was completed in 1952 and replaced an older Church that occupied the site. The Feast is celebrated on the 24th June each year. The rotunda dome is 75 metres high making it one of the largest in Europe.

Other Notable Churches can be found in the Villages of Gharb, San Lawrenz, Ghasri, Zeebug, Xaghra, Nadur, Ghajnsielem, Sannat and also on the Island of Comino.

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TOTAL GUIDE CHURCH LIFE

Ta’Pinu

Xewkija

Xaghra

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TOTAL GUIDE FESTA TIME

TOTAL GUIDE FESTA TIME

Visiting a Village Festa During Your Stay On The Island Is a Must Any visitor to Gozo is sure to return with photos of fireworks and religious ceremonies taken during one of the many religious festivals that take place throughout the year. If you are lucky enough to be on the Island whilst a feast is taking place then you are in for a real treat.

Gozitans take their village feasts seriously and rivalry between the different patron saints is something akin to that of two local football teams, T-shirts are worn depicting the colour of the feast and during the Feasts there is lots of singing and celebration.

The Village’s really do look their best during Festa time, Churches's are lit up and shown in their full glory and flags and banners adorn the local houses. During Festa time it is a great opportunity to taste some real Gozitan/Maltese products including savory and sweet dishes.

Feasts have been taking place on the Island for hundreds of years and are held to celebrate the Patron Saint of the Town/Village, each Parish celebrates at least one feast during the year. The highlight of any feast is normally a fireworks extravaganza and Gozo knows how to put on a fireworks show to rival any in the world.

Two of the largest feasts on the Island are held in Victoria where in July, The Feast of St George is celebrated and in August when the feast of Santa Maria takes place. Both of these feasts are a cacophony of sound and colour.

The St George's feast takes place this year on the 21st July, there are various activities which take place in around the Parish during the day including horse racing, music by the renowned La Stella Band Club and the carrying of the statue of St George into the beautiful basilica around 10pm.

The feast of Santa Maria, is celebrated on the 15th August every year and celebrates the The feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin, due to the long weekend this is one of the more busier feasts and many Maltese pop over to enjoy the long weekend. The feast is celebrated throughout the weekend and activities include horse racing up Republic Street.

This date also see's the Islands celebrating the anniversary of the arrival of the Santa Marija convoy vessel which arrived in Malta on the 15th August 1942 carrying much needed food supplies to the war damaged islands.

Gozo Feast Calendar - 2013 26-May 02-Jun 09-Jun 10-Jun 16-Jun 22-Jun 23-Jun 29-Jun 07-Jul 14-Jul 16-Jul 21-Jul 28-Jul 04-Aug 11-Aug 15-Aug 18-Aug 25-Aug 01-Sep 02-Sep 08-Sep 15-Sep 13-Oct 20-Oct 08-Dec 08-Dec 10-Dec 15-Dec

St. Paul, Munxar Corpus Christi, Ghasri St. Anthony, Ghajnsielem Corpus Christi, Ghasri Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana Our Lady of Pinu, Ta’ Pinu St. John the Baptist, Xewkija St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur The Visitation, Gharb Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kercem Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Xewkija St George, Victoria St. Margaret, Sannat St. Joseph, Qala St. Laurence, San Lawrenz The Assm of Our Lady, Victoria Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Xlendi The Assm of Our Lady, Zebbug Our Lady of Loreto, Ghajnsielem St Gregory, Kercem The Nativity of Our Lady, Xaghra Our Lady of Graces, Capuchins, Victoria Patronage of the B. V. Mary, Ghasri Jesus of Nazareth, Xaghra Immaculate Conception, Victoria Immaculate Conception, Qala Our Lady of Loreto, Ghajnsielem St Lucy, Kercem mygozo magazine Page 15

POSTCARDS

Why not get involved with the next edition of MyGozo and send us your best pictures of Gozo and the stories behind them. Send them with a pic of yourself to postcards@mygozo.com

Growing Capers

Before departing on this trip, I read that capers thrive on the island of Gozo. I was hoping I would be able to harvest some and take them home, but was afraid I would be visiting too early in the season to find any ready for harvest. I am so happy I was wrong!

The caper plant thrives in stone walls and rocky crevices, and disdain rich earth. A cliff of limestone sends the capers into a fit of ecstatic growth, which is exactly where I discovered them while on a walk looking for wild rosemary to flavour a soup I was preparing.

Capers have a history stretching back to Pharaonic times. Tightly rooted in a wall crack or rock crevice, it bushes out gallantly during the most arid months of the Mediterranean summer. Small buds, closed tight as fists, spring daily from the long shoots, opening eventually into exquisitely delicate white flowers with violet pistils and stamens which last no more than 24 hours and look like butterflies at rest. They then leave behind a stem with a tiny seed pod that will grow into a caper fruit.

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Teri Hardy, from California, is a passionate cook, photographer and traveller, she spent 2 months visiting Gozo in 2012 and has planned a return trip in 2013

Capers are an extremely versatile ingrediant and the taste of a fresh caper is a joy to behold Whilst on Gozo you can purchase hand ripened capers fresh from local farmers..

Salt Pans

As we’re writing this account, a northwesterly wind is occasionally reaching severe gale force at times. It is a fact that we just experienced the second highest March windspeed since 1970, and the weather for the previous three months was drier and windier than usual. For some individuals wind is irrelevant, for others it is make or break. Going through our photos we came across this particular photo showing a woman fighting against the elements in order to earn her living. When it comes to salt extraction, we are lucky if we have a double and sometimes a triple harvest.

The salterns are filled with water round the beginning of May, and then the salt is collected first at the beginning of August and again at the beginning of September. If the good weather holds, there is a third harvest at the beginning of October. In mid-September 2012, weather conditions were volatile and the salt harvest was threatened.

It is said that people act out of love or fear – either to realise a positive reaction or else to avoid a disaster. This photograph depicts the looming disaster and how it was avoided. And the positive reaction? You do not need us to provide it. You taste it at your tables..

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Whilst on Gozo make sure that you take a trip to The Salt Pans located west of Marsalforn where you can see how sea salt is gathered and harvested, you can even purchase some to take home.

Chris and Terry Camilleri, reside in Xaghra and offer all kinds of photographic services on Gozo. www.chris-camilleri.artistwebsites.com Tel: +35699557702

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Our Gozo This edition’s news, views and discoveries

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Heart of Gozo, Il-Hagar Museum

Visitors to Gozo are in for a treat following the opening of a new museum in St Georges Square, Victoria.

Heart of Gozo, Il-Hagar Museum was inaugurated in February this year and is the first purpose built Museum on the Island. Il-Hagar is a showcase of historical and artistic artefacts that have been made available to the public after years of being hidden from view. The museum was built in collaboration between Fondazzjoni Belt Victoria, a cultural group established to create a cultural identity for Gozo and St George’s Basilica.

The name Il-Hagar is the name given to the medieval town of Gozo and the museum not only displays artefacts and historical objet d’art but also holds art exhibitions as well as local cultural events.

Visitors to the museum will see pieces of art that were restored and conserved by the company PrevArti of Mosta who were responsible for the restoration of

three paintings. These are the seventeenth century painting St Cajetan by an unknown artist, together with two eighteenth century works, namely the Holy Trinity by Enrico Regnaudand The Virgin of Light by Gio Nicola Buhagiar.

As well as restoring the paintings, the museum also houses sculptures that have also been restored. The works selected were the statues of the Risen Christ by an unknown artist, the Veronica attributed to Saverio Laferla, and Ecce Homo by Carlo Darmanin.

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The Museum is located in St George’s Square to the left of the Basilica Heart of Gozo is open TuesdaySunday between 11am and 7pm, Adults €5, Children €3, Family Ticket €10.

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Gozo is blessed with some stunning Churches and a new addition to the Gozitan Church architectural landscape is the St Cecilia Chapel in Ghajnsielem, a medieval Chapel which has been

restored to it’s past glory. The chapel was originally built in 1615 and functioned until 1644 when it closed and was neglected over three centuries.

Baron Group, The Ministry of Gozo and Eco-Gozo joined forces to restore the chapel and the result is a stunning space that does the old chapel full justice. The restoration work included new wooden flooring, lighting and the planting of endemic plants. The outer walls were re-built and the roof restored using traditional methods.

Through the eco-Gozo scheme for NGOs, the Ministry for Gozo is financing 38 projects implemented by 37 organisations with a total amount of €1.24 million. Projects address various sectors ranging from renewable energy, to cultural, social and environmental aspects in various Gozitan localities.

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St Cecilia Chapel can be found between Ghajnsielem and Xewkija close to the helipad just off the road to Victoria.

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Our Gozo News Malta and Gozo have been awarded 3rd place in ‘The Best Diving Destination Of The Year Award’ in The International Diver magazine, making the Islands the favourite place to dive in the Mediterranean. This is great news and see’s the Islands maintaining their hold on the European diving market....Keep it up !

Gozo has recently been voted the 6th best Island to live on in Europe in the 2013 Travellers Choice Awards based on feedback from users of Trip advisor.

Congratulations to Nadur Youngsters who are the new GFA Football Champions 2013 winning their 11th Title in the process.

TV Watchers, look out for the BBC and Discovery Drama called The Whale, which is being filmed on Gozo. Charles Furness stars as Nantucket seafarer Thomas Nickerson and Jonas Armstrong plays first mate Owen Chase The Whale is based on Herman Melville’s, classic, Moby Dick.

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Book Review

The Cross, George Gauci .....................................................

George Gauci is a writer and also works in the tourist industry. Originally from Qormi in Malta, George has lived on The Island of Gozo for the past 15 years.

George’s debut novel is called The Cross and tells a poignant story about a family and their life on the Maltese Islands.

You have to be determined And disciplined to write a book When did you start writing and what inspired you ?

Cross. In the story, this cross, which is actually a pendant, is a very important object in the story.

I hadn’t actually thought about writing a book until a chance meeting with an author about 10 years ago, he was impressed by some of my own life, especially when I recalled the events that had taken place on the day I was born, my upbringing and the way I spoke about the Maltese Islands.

Have you got the writing bug and do you intend on writing a sequel ?

Why is the book called The Cross ?

I always wanted to call it 'The Cross' because I feel that everyone has some kind of cross to carry through their lives. As we know, life is not easy and for some, life is harder, but if one takes life one day at a time and through belief, keeps hoping that tomorrow things might change for the better, then that day will come. Later on I decided to put the Knights of St. John cross on the front cover for a lot of reasons. The eight pointed cross is the Maltese

I think once you have the writing bug it is very difficult to stop writing, the second book is always the hardest but there will be a sequel to The Cross but that will be the 3rd book in the trilogy, I am currently busy writing a second book.

What advice would you give to an aspiring author ?

You have to be determined and disciplined to write a book. I say that one cannot rush a story. One has to feel the story and get to live the characters he has written about. He has to make them become real. If they become real to him, then they will also become real to the reader. mygozo magazine Page 18

Our Gozo News The Leone Philharmonic Society, based at The Aurora Theatre in Victoria are this year celebrating their 150th Anniversary. Celebrations run from April to November and include The Main Event on The 12th October, when the opera Falstaff by Giuseppe Verdi will be performed.

Baseball enthusiasts can now participate in their favourite game, Gozo’s first baseball team, The Għajnsielem Redcoats now participate in the Malta/Gozo Minor Baseball league and the sport is proving popular amongst people of all ages.

Gozo could soon have it’s own cruise liner terminal. Prime-minister Joseph Muscat recently announced that the government will be launching an international expression of interest for the development of a new cruise liner terminal in Gozo

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Sometimes the author has to scrap many hours of work because the story changes due to new ideas.

This can be frustrating, but if the change is going to make the story that little bit more interesting, then at the end the author will be very satisfied. When the last fullstop is put down, the author gets a lot of satisfaction. When it is printed and he has the book in his hands, he feels great pleasure. When the author sees people reading his book and enjoying his work he is fulfilled, as his dream has now become a reality.

Who would this book appeal to ?

My book was written for all the Maltese and Gozitans, those living on the islands as well as those abroad, especially for the million and more second and third Generation Maltese and Gozitan descendants, in places like Canada, Australia, England and America. I want them to know where they come from. It reaches every reader. They learn about the Maltese culture before World War Two and what the

Book Review

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Archaeological Walks on Gozo, written by Lenie Reedijk, has been designed to allow he visitor to the Island to enjoy both the beauty of the landscape and it’s rich archeological heritage, in particular that of the phases before the Christian era. Gozo possesses an adundance of interesting archaeological sites and features, some of which are among the most famous in the world.

The book is available in all main bookshops on Gozo and Malta and in The Archaeological Museum (Casa Bondi) in The Citadel.

Lenie has now written a second guide called Exploring Comino and is also available in all main bookshops, it is also available in Italian. Both books cost €5.95

........................................................................ islands went through during World War Two and after. The book will also appeal to tourists who are looking to learn more about the Maltese Islands and life on it.

Has the feedback been positive so far ?

I get compliments daily by the readers I meet. They are all very happy with the story and they say it touches them in different ways. My Canadian born niece wrote; 'The story is excellent and amazing. It led me through such a wide range of emotions. It made me laugh; it made me cry. It made me feel so proud to be Maltese.'

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At the time of printing The paperback edition will be out on sale at all major bookshops on Malta and Gozo by the end of June. Those who want a signed copy can email George on ggandc@maltanet.net (Postage charges where applicable).

George and his publisher Jeff Murphy are currently preparing the book for adaptation to a screenplay hopefully with the support of the

MFC.

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TOTAL GUIDE FAMILY FUN UNIQUE GOZO FOOD EXPERIENCE: .........................................................................

The Magro Food Village Get away from the beaches and museums for a couple of hours and immerse yourself into real Gozitan food production ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... isiting the best of what Gozo has to offer isn’t V all about beaches and cultural places of interest,

In the Village of Xewkija you will find a company which has been at the heart of Gozo agriculture and food production for the last century. Magro Brothers are a name who are sinominous with food production on the Island and at their Xewkija Headquarters you will find The Magro Food Village where you will find a unique experience of how local food is produced on Gozo, as well as artisan crafts at their Savina Creativity Centre and if you are lucky you might even bump into The Queen Of England and The Duke of Edinburgh...........

Four generations of Magro Brothers have built up the company over the years into the largest food processing company in Malta today.

Magro Brothers business has been built upon Tomato Processing and the chances are that if you are a reader from the UK, Ireland, Europe, Africa and Australia then the tomato ketchup you put on your chips was probably made in Gozo.

Throughout Gozo there are 300 farmers who produce Tomato crops for Magro under licence and over 10,000 tons of tomatoes are processed each year. Gozitan tomatoes are renowned for their juiciness and this is because they are grown in open field and sun-ripened. The cultivation of the tomato is still the largest farmed crop on The Maltese Islands and during peak harvest season, which is July and August, The Magro complex is certainly a busy place with tomatoes being processed into pastes, sauces, juices and ketchups.

Magro Brothers was founded in 1916 by three brothers who set up a company which bartered Gozitan Agricultural produce on the mainland in Malta in return for household items that were needed on the Island of Gozo. The Brothers would venture over to Malta twice a week with As well as the processing of Tomatoes Magro their fruit and vegetables and would return with Brothers is also home to a cheese making............. goods such as kitchen utensils which were then sold at Gozo’s largest market at Pjazza Savina, which at the time was the main market square on Left to right; Food scientist in the Cheese department, tradiThe Island. tional honey making, Maltese platter of bread, paste, olives ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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TOTAL GUIDE FAMILY FUN

.....and beverages and make sure you leave some room in your luggage to take some goodies home with you !

As well as local food, At The Savina Creativity you will also get an opportunity to see how traditional crafts such as lace-making and candlemaking are still standing the test of time.

A tour of the food village normally lasts around an hour and you will be guided by knowledgeable tour guides who are on hand to answer any questions you may have.

....................................................................................................... and gourmet yoghurt facility, all of which are produced using traditional methods.

We would certainly recommend booking a Magro Food Village Tour, which are free of charge but subject to pre-booking. The tour will give you a unique experience in local foodmaking and crafts all under one roof.

The tour is a great learning experience and lot’s of fun is to be had along the way with the chance to sample local delicacies and the possibility during the summer months to see how a tomato is taken from field to can. At other times of the year you can see how ketchup is made for the export markets.

Gozo is famous for it’s cheese, also known as cheeselets and on the tour you will get to visit the Dairy Centre where you can see how the cheeselets are hand-crafted using centuries old traditional methods.

As part of the tour you will get to visit the artisan food-making facility at The Savina Creativity Centre where you will be able to watch staff delicately craft local products, including the infusion of oils and vinegars, the pressing of sun-dried figs, see how jam is made and sundried tomatoes. During this part of the tour there is an opportunity to sample the local delicacies.....

If you are looking to experience something extra then why not avail yourself of an agro-tourism adventure where you can participate in hands-on cooking classes with professional local chefs.

This is a great opportunity to make your own cheeselets, prepare infused olive oils and make some delicious jams. Traditional Gozitan recipe cooking lessons are also available. The classes/lessons are available at a fee and can be booked by calling +356 2155 6663 or by emailing visits@magro.com.mt, www.magro.com.mt The Magro Food Village is located in the Village of Xewkija, follow the signs approaching Victoria. .......................................................................................................

Top to Bottom; A local farmer harvesting his tomato crop, The Queen of England visiting Malta and The Duke of Edinburgh visiting Magro Brothers in November 2005

Metal Artist At Work UK–born Jackie Roberts learned artistic metalwork at Edinburgh’s Telford College in Scotland; pursuing a passion for metal as a mid-life career change. Since moving to Gozo in 2001 she undertakes commissions, exhibitions and shows her work at select venues around the Maltese islands and in the UK. You can make an appointment to visit her home studio and workshop or see her work at Prickly Pear and Organika in Victoria or Gleneagles Bar in Mgarr. Jackie is also keen to pass on her skills and encourage others to enjoy working with metal. She offers ‘taster’ sessions in basic metalwork and more intensive courses tailored to individual’s interests and abilities, by prior arrangement.

Jackie was awarded a Malta Crafts Council prize for innovation and creativity in 2010 with her collection of Mediterranean marine life and in 2012 her second solo exhibition: ‘The Nature of Metal’ ran for six months in two of Scotland’s Royal botanic gardens. She also enjoys collaborating with other designer/makers in Gozo – most recently with textile designer Pat Holtom on a series of mixed media wall hangings.

Jackie’s work is inspired by the natural world, its landscapes and creatures; also by cultural symbolism. Some pieces are realistic, some semi-abstract, others have a functional use. Jackie mostly works in copper, mild steel and brass using hand and power tools to cut, shape and mark, then brings out the metals’ natural hues by artistic burning with an oxy-acetylene torch; finally spraying with a protective layer of clear lacquer. Crossing the boundaries of art and craft Jackie uses traditional metalworking techniques to make imaginative, collectable, handcrafted pieces. Because all the pieces are handmade each one is unique.

Jackie says: “I came to live on Gozo in 2001, drawn to the island by its unique charm and dramatic landscape.

Inspired by nature and cultural symbolism my work may be functional or wearable, decorative, or simply fanciful.

I often incorporate scrap metal, found objects and plant material into my work reincarnating what others have discarded. My designs cross the boundaries of art and craft, using traditional metalworking techniques to turn copper, brass and steel into contemporary hand-crafted pieces.

Jackie Roberts/Pat Holtom When I’m not bashing metal I enjoy walking with my dogs in the spectacular Gozitan landscape, gardening; chilling out with friends of all nationalities at the beach, on a boat round Comino, or over local food and wine by the sea during the summer and also enjoying live music sessions where I have been known to take the stage. Life is good on Gozo.”

My studio is centrally located at my house in Xewkija near the imposing St John’s Church and Rotunda. There are spectacular cliff-top walks around Ta’ Cenc or through the valley to Mgarr ix-Xini bay and its historic coastal tower.’’

Visits by appointment, studio/workshop in Xewkija, Gozo robertsj@maltanet.net M: (00356) 79562753 or find me on Facebook.

mygozo magazine 4

Patrick Buttigieg the chef behind the multi - award winning Patrick’s Lounge, Restaurant & Steakhouse in Vicoria, Gozo Takes time to enlighten us on The Paradox of Food & Wine Pairing these days the business of pairing wine and food has slightly grown all too technical. First and foremost, the golden rule in dealing with what wine to drink with what food, is to please yourself and drink whatever you feel is to your liking, whether it is Soave, Valpolicella, Shiraz or a cold beer. Having said that, one should still follow certain general rules, for example, that Shiraz does not savour too well at all with lemon cheesecake but works a treat with chocolate.

Harmony should always exist between food and wine. They should have similar intensities DQG WKHUH VKRXOG DOZD\V EH D EDODQFH 6WURQJ DQG SRZHUIXO à DYRXUV VKRXOG EH SDLUHG ZLWK VLPLODU ZLQHV DQG GHOLFDWH à DYRXUV VKRXOG EH SDLUHG ZLWK OLJKWHU ZLQHV 0HDW RI DOO WKH IRRG FDWHJRULHV LV WKH RQH WKDW SHUPLWV WKH JUHDWHVW à H[LELOLW\ LQ FKRRVing wine. There are many dishes with which the wine partner proves happily adaptable, depending on whether you prefer to drink white or red. Different cooking techniques open up different wine possibilities. Some say that a wine should be matched to the sauce rather than the meat. There is some logic in this, however a sauce in most cases should FRPSOHPHQW WKH PDLQ LQJUHGLHQW DQG WKHUHIRUH VKRXOG QRW SURYLGH WKH GRPLQDQW à DYRXU An alternative approach is to marry the weight of the wine to the texture of the meat. A WRXJKHU RU PRUH ÀEURXV FXW RI EHHI IRU LQVWDQFH UXPS ZLOO UHTXLUH D ELJJHU DQG EROGHU ZLQH WKDQ D OHDQHU FXW OLNH EHHI ÀOOHW 7KH VRIWHU IHHO RI ZLQH RQ WKH SDODWH JHQHUDOO\ LPSDUWHG WR D ZLQH E\ QHZ RDN EDUUHOV LV JRRG ZLWK WHQGHU PHDWV VXFK DV ÀOOHW VWHDN or spring lamb as in any wine that has distinct roundness of contour from low or age softened acidity. :KHQ LW FRPHV WR PDWFKLQJ ZLQH DQG ÀVK LW LV QRW VLPSO\ D TXHVWLRQ RI UHPHPEHULQJ WKDW PRVW UHG ZLQHV GR QRW JR ZLWK PRVW ÀVK ZKLFK LW emphatically doesn’t, but also that it is quite easy to overburden the à DYRXU RI D VLPSO\ SUHSDUHG GHOLFDWH ZKLWH ÀVK VXFK DV -RKQ 'RU\ ÀOOHW ZLWK WRR KHDY\ D ZKLWH ZLQH 4XLWH DV LPSRUWDQW DV WKH à DYRXUV of a wine in this regard is its weight, the body and texture of it on the SDODWH 2QO\ WKH ÀUPHVW WH[WXUHG ÀVK VXFK DV PRQNÀVK VHD EDVV RU snapper together with the likes of lobster and crab, are likely to stand up to a medium bodied constituted wine.

These are but a few pointers but present some simple guidance in making a wise choice when pairing food and wine. Something to keep in mind is that once you have established the basic principle of a match, that is, which particular style of wine goes with which particular dish, you can always ring the changes on similar styles of wine from all over the world. You will doubtlessly even come up with successful combinations of your own be it UHG ZLWK Ă€VK RU ZKLWH ZLWK EHHI Patrick Buttigieg is the owner of the gastronic marvel, Patrick’s Lounge, Restaurant & 6WHDNKRXVH LQ 9LFWRULD *R]R 3DWULFN¡V LV D ZLQQHU RI PRUH WKDQ DZDUGV LQ LWV Ă€UVW years, has published a book on their extensive and award winning wine cellar and continues to satisfy even the most critical of foodies with innovative and tantalizing dishes FUHDWHG IURP WKH Ă€QHVW RI LQJUHGLHQWV 7R WDVWH IRU \RXUVHOI DQG LQGXOJH LQ D PHPRUDEOH dining experience, Patrick’s is considered a “must haveâ€? for any visit to Gozo.

Patrick's

Lounge | Restaurant | Steakhouse _ ZZZ SDWULFNVWPXQ FRP Triq L-Ewropa | Victoria | Gozo | Malta

RECOMMENDED DINING GUIDE

Experience The Best Of Gozo’s Restaurants Starting Point: Mgarr For Fresh Seafood and a view to die for As the ferry slowly makes its way into Mgarr harbour, the smell from the Port-side restaurants really gets the taste buds flowing and you just want to get off the ferry and dive straight into a fresh-sea food platter, Mgarr really is the definition of fresh fish. Husband and wife team Leli and Jane Buttigieg have been serving high quality food to locals and tourists alike at their restaurant Tmun, for the past 25 years. Aided by their son Paul, Tmun sets high standards on the Gozitan food scene, ideally situated on the water’s edge, the team at Tmun do not rest on their laurels and constantly strive to improve the variety of food they offer. The famous Bouillabaisse soup for two is a must and contains no less than 7 different varieties of fish. The restaurants Asian cut pan fried local calamari has an exotic twist to it and the team have a wide array of daily specials, including Sushi the last time I visited. Vegetarians are well catered for with a fantastic choice of fresh local pasta and for meat lovers the herb crusted Irish Frenched rack of lamb comes with all of the trimmings. (Martinu Garces Street, Mgarr; +356 2156 6276). A few paces up the hill, L'Ankra, recently taken over by the energetic pairing of Gino and John Paul, continues to serve up a fine dining experience. Their menu is rich and has an excellent local feel to it, specialities include a delightful sea-food risotto, cooked to perfection. The Beef Carpaccio is tender and it is obvious that only the finest cuts of beef are used in its preparation and for those looking for a taste of Gozo the starter platter of local meats, including wild boar salami is a must. Pasta lovers are spoilt with a truffle ravioli that is well

balanced and light. Make sure you leave some room for the deserts, homemade cheesecakes are the order of the day. (11, Shore Street, Mgarr; +356 2155 5656). If fish is your achilles heal then head to Seaview Restaurant, located on the sea-front in the heart of the harbour, it has been serving up great sea-food with a cracking view for two decades. (15, Shore Street, Mgarr; +356 2156 5541).

Next Stop: Victoria Capital Foodie Heaven

The Island's Capital, Victoria, does not fail to deliver when it comes to offering high quality restaurants. The capital has some excellent restaurants that are a must visit on your trip to the Island. Take yourself back in time and while away a couple of hours in the historic building that houses The Restaurant, La Stanza, located in a old building that used to serve as part of the Citadel and was built by the Knights of St John. La Stanza is full of character and the view from the terrace offers an unobstructed view of the Citadel. I nside the restaurant you will find romantic enclaves and an historic inner terrace where lunch and dinner are served. The menu is very much traditional with a modern twist and the hosts Stephan and Melissa have created a warm and friendly feel to the place. The Octopus Carpaccio starter has a great kick to it and the linguini with sea-urchin sauce is both unusual and delightful at the same time. If you find yourself dining with a fellow seafood lover, the seafood platter for two is a must. (56,Triq L-Imghallem, Victoria, +356 2155 8047). Nestled in a corner of

Independence Square you will find IT-Tokk, a restaurant that offers a great, well shaded terrace that overlooks the market below and also has commanding views of the Citadel, a great spot both day and night. IT-Tokk serves an excellent local Rabbit Stew, a staple dish on the Island, and the chef has the recipe down to a tee.

The fish soup is also hearty and delicious and goes well with a slice or two of Gozitan bread. Vanessa and her team give everyone a warm welcome and service is quick and efficient. (IT-Tokk, Independence Square, Victoria, +356 2155 1213). Just behind Independence Square you will find a quintessential Gozitan Square which is home to St George’s Basilica as well as two excellent Café bars that serve top quality Gozitan dishes and snacks, Grapes Wine Bar and The Piazza Cafe. Both Grapes and The Piazza are owned by the delightful owner, Dione, who has created a varied day time menu including Gozitan Sandwiches, excellent meat and fish pasta.

mygozo magazine Page 25

RECOMMENDED DINING GUIDE If you are lucky you may even get to see a wedding at St George's Basilica unfold in front of your eyes. (St George's Square, Victoria, +356 7947 3504). Head up the hill and into the Citadel, take the steps to the left of the court house, turn right and you will find Café San Martino, a new edition to the Gozitan landscape, the café/restaurant has a great roof terrace that offers superb views of the Island. The menu has typical Gozitan dishes including fresh salads and anti pasti plates with local Gozitan cheese's and meats and which is best served with a glass of local wine. The sunset views are second to none. For a red meat blow-out, a visit to Patrick's Tmun is a must. Patrick’s Lounge and Steakhouse is a multiple award winning restaurant that sets the standard in Malta and Gozo. Chef Patron, Patrick, has quietly built an establishment driven by a refined talent and a clear notion of style that stretches far beyond the sanctuary of his formidable kitchen. With a knack of staying at the forefront of the restaurant scene, Patrick’s consistently delivers freshness, yet confidence inspiring familiarity, in his cuisine and jaw dropping wine cellar. Steak is the house speciality and pride is taken in carefully seIecting perfectly marbeled prime cuts and aged beef. Other specials sometimes include impressive chateaubriand for two, sumptuous Porterhouse Steaks, flavour rich USDA aged beef & delicate Kobe beef (Europe Street, Victoria, +356 2156 6667), www.patrickstmun.com. Lovers of Chinese food won't be disappointed; Victoria is home to Fu Hua, one of the original Chinese restaurants on the Island. Fu Hua also provides a take-away service (Fortunato Mizzi Street, Victoria, +356 2156 4666).

Next Stop: Xlendi Waterfront Dining

You could spend two weeks in Xlendi and still not have time to eat in every one of the restaurants found in this pretty seaside village. Take a stroll along the quayside to the left of the bay as if you are looking out to sea, climb a few steps and you will arrive at IC Cima. This restaurant has been going

strong in Xlendi for two decades now and its rooftop terrace is a must, the views down on Xlendi and the open sea are commanding and if you arrive early enough you will have the privilege of eating your meal whilst seeing the sun set. The menu offers a mix of Mediterranean and Gozitan and the food served is always of the highest quality.

(St Simon St, Xlendi, +356 21558407). Back down in the bay, The Moby Dick serves fantastic steaks and also has a full Chinese Menu as well, the sizzling chilli chicken comes highly recommended, and there is also a full range of pizzas and pasta dishes available. Look out for the daily specials and wine of the week. (Marina St, Xlendi, +356 21561518). A little further along from the Moby Dick you will find one of the newest arrivals on the Xlendi foodie scene, The Boat House. As the name suggests, this restaurant is housed within an old converted boathouse and is full of character, it has an almost New England feel to it. The owners are seasoned restaurateurs and they certainly know how to put together a menu and please their customers. In 2012 The Boat House was awarded one of the top 40 restaurants in the Maltese Islands by the The Definitive (ly) Good Guide. Specialities include fresh fish and seafood, live lobsters and shell fish, suckling pig, Argentinean and Irish beef. A vast wine cellar of over 200 different wines helps to ease your dinner down. (Marina St, Xlendi, +356 21569153).

Reservations are recommended. New for 2013 is the sister restaurant to The Boat House, 23Twelve, which serve up the same high standards that have been set by Joseph and Rose. (Mount Carmel St, +356 21559315). Two doors away from The Boat House is a gem of a restaurant called Ta’Karolina. Tucked away in the corner of the bay, the restaurant is named after the cave it sits in front of. This restaurant is busy both day and night and it is easy to understand why. Joseph and his team run a well oiled machine and the kitchen consistently serve dishes of the highest quality. Sea-food is the order of the day here, the fisherman literally anchor right in front of the restaurants doors and next to the restaurant you

will find fisherman’s huts where the nets are fixed after a tough day at sea. Ta’Karolina also serves up fantastic fresh pasta and meat dishes. (Marina St, Xlendi, +356 21559675). An extremely welcome addition to not only the Xlendi food scene, but also the Gozitan dining scene is the Sapana Indian restaurant. Gozo hasn’t had an Indian restaurant for over 20 years, but it has been worth waiting for. The team at Sapana know what a curry experience is all about and the menu serves up all of the Indian classics. The menu lives up to its expectations and the guys here certainly know their curries. The mixed starter platter is a must. (Rabat Rd, Xlendi, +356 21562100).

Not all of the best restaurants are necessarily found on the sea-front, C-Seven serves an excellent variety of Mediterranean and local dishes and has daily specials including seafood Lasagne the last time we were there.

If I could choose one dish from their starter, I would opt for the garlic mushrooms in a creamy but subtle sauce which are among the best I have tried. C-Seven also serve fresh fish, pasta and meat dishes as well as a good Pizza menu. If you are in hurry then their sister snack bar serves good burgers and the bar also serves excellent Crepes, just likethey are made in France. The pub section to the restaurant has a cracking cocktail list and they serve up a mean Mojito. (Rabat Rd, Xlendi, +356 27012242).

The Pirates Galley, located on the waterside with a great view of the bay is a new addition to the waterfront and offers great value for money pasta, meat dishes, pizza’s, burgers and a mean breakfast. It’s a great place to set up and watch the world go by and watch divers enter the water beneath your feet. There is also live music at least once a week and is the perfect place to relax over a beer or two.

The Pirates Galley Bar and Restaurant

Live Mu sic

Angelo Attard Xlendi Seafront, Xlendi, Gozo e m Tel: +356 9947 8119 ne Ho Genui Food Email: gozoprincess@vol.net.mt Made Web: www.piratesgalleygozo.com mygozo magazine Page 26

Next Stop Xaghra Sleepy Gozitan Village

carte menu as well as various market menus that offer very good value. The fish soup is a must as is the Chateaubriand, if you have room for desert I highly recommend the Crepes Suzette, flamed at the table no less.

Ta’Frenc is closed on Tuesdays. (Marsalforn Rd, Xaghra, +356 21553888).

Located on the main sqaurein Xaghra, Rubble Bar/Restaurant, has been one of the main stays of the Xaghra food scene for a long time. Local regulars mix with tourists who are drawn to the bar for it’s relaxed atmosphere and a place where you can catch up with friends. The terrace has great views of the square and inside, the bar has an oldie worldie feel to it where you can feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Don’t be fooled by the word bar in the name, Rubble serves up delicious plates of local Gozitan delicacies, as well as excellent pasta, meat and fish dishes. If you are not feeling peckish then the bar serves great cocktails and has a large selection of wines available. The owner Audrey, will make you feel at home and service is always Walk into the Village Square in Xaghra and with a smile. Don’t be surprised if you are you could be walking back in time 100 years. on your own and a stranger strikes up a Xaghra is one of the most beautiful villages conversation with you, it’s that kind of place on the Island and is also home to some where people are made to feel welcome. quality restaurants. Breeze Restaurant, (Victory Square, Xaghra, +356 21563758) located on the square has been operating for three years and has built up a strong flow Next Stop Marsalforn of loyal customers. The restaurant is family Seaside Delight run and Rita and George, the proprietors, have worked hard to create an imaginative menu. The Mediterranean cuisine and vegetarian menu offer salads, fresh pasta, meats including duck, quails and local rabbit.

The restaurant serve daily caught fresh fish, Gozitan Delicacies and Traditional food as well as Pizza. The black tagliatelle with seafood comes highly recommended.

Nothing is too much of a problem for these guys and if there is something that you want that isn’t on the menu then the team will do their best to prepare something to taste.

The Breeze menu is complemented by a large selection of local and foreign wines.

Marsalforn is littered with restaurants and a Breeze is open every day for lunch and little insider knowledge is required to help dinner but closed on Wednesday during you make an informed decision. Il Kartell, winter months. (Victory Square, Xaghra, with its prime location in the corner of the +356 21553044). Situated in between bay, is a must visit on a trip to Marsalforn.

Victoria and Marsalforn, you will find Testament to Il Kartells reputation is that you Ta’Frenc, one of the most well known will be fighting with local Gozitans and restaurants on the Maltese Islands and has Maltese who come over for the weekend won too many awards to mention. Ta’Frenc for a table, something which always a good is an institution for real foodies who are sign in a restaurant. Manager Philip Spiteri, looking for a fine dining experience and has carried on the traditional methods he executive chef Mario Schembri and his team learnt from his late Mother, Carmen. The do not fail to deliver. Ta’Frenc is housed in lampuki pie, with the home-made sundried an authentic old farmhouse and diners have tomato paste is heavenly and is best served the choice of dining in their own private with a bottle of house wine from their dining room or on the beautiful terrace. own vine-yard, Ta’Mena. The house As you walk into the restaurant you may specialities change on a regular basis, fish notice a sweet smell in the air, this is in fact comes high on the menu, and why not, you the new herb garden where both herbs and can literally dip your toes into the water flowers are grown organically and used from your table. The menu has a great throughout the menu. The menu has a anti-pasti platter and all of the ingredients classic French feel to it and includes an a la have been hand made over at the estate.

RECOMMENDED DINING GUIDE (Marina St, Marsalforn, +356 21556918). For a taste of real Gozitan cuisine, head to Menqa L’Antika. Chef and owner Gordon Camilerri, has created a wonderful ‘Gozitan’ menu that encompasses the best that the Island has to offer from a food perspective. The restaurants motto is ‘’evoking memories of Gozo’s earliest gastronomy and Gordon takes dinners back to his childhood with an array of dishes that are both authentic and unique to Gozo. The main ingredient that makes Menqa stand out is its attention to detail. For a starter we recommend the Gozo cheese, bacon & crusty bread kebabs with a sundried tomato dressing and for main the stuffed boned quail in a carob syrup infused jus. (Marina St, Marsalforn, +356 2730 0309).

L’Aragosta located on Marina Street specialises in Locally Caught fish and throughout the day you will see Fisherman walking upto the restaurant with their catch of The day, you won’t get fresher fish than this anywhere. There is usually at least 4 different varieties of fish to choose from Cooked how you like it. From the terrace of L’Aragosta you can watch the world go by.

(Marina St, Marsalforn, +356 2155 4138).

If you fancy a beer or cocktail before or after your meal then the sister pub, Kyra’s Inn located next door has a wide range of beers and cocktails made to order.

La Pulena, located on Il Menqa has been a main stay on the Marsalforn food front for the last two decades, the reason is Simple, the food is well prepared and it’s clear that passion is put into each dish that goes out to the customer. La Pulena serves delicious home made pasta, including freshly made baked ravioli topped with tomato, cream and parmesan cheese, and specialises in fresh fish and meat dishes. There is also an Extensive pizza menu available. Where possible La Pulena sources it’s menu locally,.

(Marina St, Marsalforn, +356 2155 9777)

Next Stop Nadur View To Die For A new restaurant to The Gozitan foodie scene is Fliegu, which means The Channel in Maltese. Upon walking into the restaurant diners will be taken aback by the amazing views from both the dining room and the terrace. You are treated to magnificent views of Mgarr, Comino, Malta and The Gozitan Countryside. The menu us Mediterranean/local cuisine with meat and fish dishes with a twist as well as a full pizza menu cooked in their Italian, woodburning pizza oven. For wine conniseurs Fliegu has over 100 different local and foreign wines to taste, all available to view in their walk in wine celler. Open for lunch and dinner daily, or if you feel like a relaxing drink whilst taking in the view, everyone is welcome to experience Fliegu....

For reservations call +356 2155 0055 mygozo magazine Page 27

CAPITAL

Victoria, Gozo’s Capital City, otherwise known as Rabat to the locals, is a hustling, bustling City with a very busy feel to it during the day. Victoria wakes up around 6am when the local work force head for work and pop into the numerous bars for a coffee and Pastizzi, a simple, but delightful Gozitan pastry normally made of Cheese or Pea. One of the busiest bars is Tapie’s Bar in San Francisk Square, a visit to Gozo wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this truly local bar where you can sit outside and watch the world go about their daily business.

VICTORIA

For handcrafted jewellery we recommend visiting Prickly Pear Designs who make their own pieces of jewellery as well as featuring work from local and international designers. See www.ppdjewellery.com for further details or visit their shop at 96 Triq San Gorg .

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

A visit to Victoria, and Gozo, would not be complete without a visit to the Citadel which dominates the capitals skyline. The Citadella is an historic fortified city. The Citadella is on Malta's tentative list of future World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, who describe it as a small fortified town.

the full glory of the Gozitan people.

Villa Rundle Gardens offer a green space within the heart of the City for Gozitans and Tourists a like to relax in a peaceful environment. The gardens are located next to the Duke Shopping Centre and they are named after the British General, Leslie Rundle. The gardens house exotic plants and trees from around the world and during Festa time it is home to competitions such as vegetable growing contests.

Victoria, and Gozo, are lucky to have two theatres, The Astra Theatre and The Aurora Opera House, both of Shopping, Most of Gozo’s shopping is which put on several Operas throughout done in Victoria and there are three the year, a popular event in the Gozitan excellent shopping arcades, two found cultural calander. Both are found on at the lower end of Republic Street and The area is known to have been first one at the upper end. The Duke Plaza, fortified during the Bronze Age approxi- Republic Street. See individual theatres for show dates etc. . the newest plaza in Gozo, houses a mately around 1500 BC. It was later large supermarket where you can buy developed by the Phoenicians and everything from fresh fish to fishing continued development until, by Roman A welcome edition to the Gozo entertainment scene is Lucky Jacks, the rods, as well as fashion shops, restautimes, it had become a complex Islands first Bowling Alley. Located rants, bars and a Spa which has an Acropolis. Up until the 18th Century it below the Downtown Hotel, Lucky in-door swimming pool. The Arkadia was the only fortified refuge against Jacks is a great place for all of the family Centre, a little further down from the attack for the inhabitants of the island. to spend a couple of hours, there is Duke also has a large supermarket, pharmacy, Mc Donalds and numerous Within its walls lies a fine 17th century bowling, sport on tv, a bar and great food. It is open on weekdays from UK High Street fashion shops. The baroque Cathedral designed by original shopping arcade is located at Lorenzo Gafà, the Maltese architect who 5pm-11pm, and all day till late on weekends. Triq L’Ewropa, Tel: +356 2210 the top end of Republic Street and has a also built the Cathedral of Mdina. It is 8000 large supermarket selling all essential said that it lies on the site where a goods. A daily market takes place in Roman temple dedicated to Juno once Independence Square, also known as stood. It is most famous for the remark- Spa’s/Leisure It-Tokk, where you can buy anything able trompe l'oeil painting on its ceiling, If you are looking for somewhere to really get away from it all and relax for a from Sea-Bass to Sun Hats. Just behind which depicts the interior of a dome couple of hours then head to The Independence Square you will find St that was never built.

Maluka Massage and Beauty Spa. George’s Square which is home to a Locted in the old part of town, Maluka great shop called, Organika which sells A new edition to The Gozitan Museum offers a wide range of treatments and lots of locally produced products, arts scene is IL Hagar, The Heart of Gozo, beauty massages. 73, Triq Santa Maria, and crafts by local artists and organic the museum is located in St George’s products as the name would suggest.

Square and the museum really bring out Tel:+356 2156 5198.

mygozo magazine Page 28

Heart of Gozo, Il-Hagar Museum

WHERE TO EAT

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CAPITAL LIFE

Ask The Local

................................................................................................. people everywhere you go and what used to be a burden like everyday shopping became a pleasure as you get to chat with everyone. It is also very safe and kids can be very independent.

And obviously, the countryside is beautiful and it is really nice to go for walks after school. I appreciate this simple life, far away from heavy traffic, consumer society and individualism.

French Native Charlotte has made Gozo her home for the past 6 years, she is the owner of Organika, a delightful shop in St George’s Square, Victoria.

I am originally from France and my husband and i were living in Scotland when we moved to Gozo 6 years ago and it felt like home after only 3 weeks!. We came for the weather and we stayed for the people. They are what makes Gozo so special. As it is a tiny island, you get to know

My favorite spot in Gozo is near San Blas Bay, where you can smell the orange blossom walking around the citrus and carob trees and admire wild flowers. My favorite café is café Real in Xaghra ‘s main square, they have the best homemade ice cream ! And our canteen is Mojo’s in Victoria as they always have great salads with fresh local products. When we want a special diner, we head off to Qala, at Il Wileg, a restaurant in a traditional farmhouse. The chef, Martin, grows his own herbs and spices in his garden.

Food enthusiasts will not be disappointed on a trip to the capital, Steak lovers will feel at home at Patricks Lounge and Restaurant, for top quality Chinese head to Fu Hua, for lunch with a spectacular view Cafe San Martino, located in The Citadel is a must. In Independence Square where the daily market takes placed you will find IT Tokk serving great food and is right in the heart of the market. For great wings head to Lucky’s Bowling at The Downtown Hotel

i INFORMATION

Tourist Information - The Malta/Gozo Tourist Information office is located at 17 Independence Square, opening hours Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 9am 1pm.

Accommodation

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Banks - There are two major banks located on Republic Street, Bank of Valletta and HSBC. The banks are generally open between 8.30am and 2pm Mon-Fri and between 8.30am and 12.30pm on saturdays.

The 3 * Downtown Hotel located on Europa Street is Victoria’s Only Hotel. It is a 3* Hotel with comfortable rooms and modern facilities. There is also a splash pool located on the roof. Rooms from 40 euros per night. Tel: +356 2210 8000 - www.downtown.com.mt

Transport - The majority of the Islands traffic will pass in and through Victoria at some point during the day. The main bus terminus is located on Main Gate Street and is the main hub for travel around the Island. See www.arriva.com.mt for routes and details.

Casa Mia Bed and Breakfast, located in the old part of town is a great choice for those people looking to immerse themselves into real Gozitan daily life.

Casa Mia is brimming with character and each room has been lovingly restored to it’s past glory. Rooms from 35 euros pppn, Tel: +356 2730 0169

Gozo Village Holidays based in Victoria on Capuchins St have a wide range of high quality accommodation available accross the Island including 3 farmhouses in Victoria. Citadella, Giradu and Palazzino Cittadella farmhouses are all well located within Victoria and offer high quality fixtures and fittings.

To view these farmhouses or view other accommodation the group has on The Island visit www.gozovillageholidays.com, Tel: +356 2155 7255.

Email: info@gozovillageholidays.com

mygozo magazine Page 29

Tapies Bar St Francis Square Victoria

IT TOKK

where the locals meet

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Restaurants and Bars 1. Cafe Jubilee 14. Red Star 15. Majii Wine and Dine 2. Palazzo Antonin 3. IT Tokk 16. The Clock House 4. Grapes Bar 18. Brookies 5. Piazza Cafe 19. Maldonado 6. La Stanza 20. Mo’s 7. Il Panzier 21. Citadella 8. Patricks T’Mun 22. Cafe San Martino 9. Cordina Cafe Bistro Shops 10. Fu Hua 11. Mc Donalds 23. Organika 12. Ta’Rikardu 13. Tapies Bar

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Lounge | Restaurant | Steakhouse +356 2156 6667 | www.patrickstmun.com Triq L-Ewropa | Victoria | Gozo | Malta

IT TOKK RESTAURANT Independence Square, Victoria, Gozo

It-Tokk, local food coffee & wine bar, is the central casual dining experience in Victoria, on the island of Gozo, for traditional Maltese food and much more. Situated on the picturesque Pjazza Independeza ( Independence Square), right in the heart of Gozo. we recommend that every visitor wanting to get a good taste of Maltese food comes round to It-Tokk at least once. Many return over and over again.

At It-Tokk we keep things simple. Our food is homely, our style casual and friendly, and our décor cosy, welcoming and unique. Our prices are moderate and you can literally spend as much or as little as you like. We open our doors at 10 am and serve food and drink all through the day and evening, so whether it’s for a hearty english breakfast, light fresh fish for lunch, a late afternoon spicy bite of pizza with a glass of wine, or a hearty rabbit stew for dinner, you’re always welcome at Tony's & Vanessa's.

If you happen to be around on an event night (Carnival, St. George Feast, Santa Marija Feast, Notte Gozitana) then aim for a table on the beautiful roof terrace and watch all the events happening, while enjoying our delicious food. We do special menus for events like birthday parties, christenings, staff parties etc.

OPEN EVERYDAY FOR LUNCH AND DINNER FROM 10AM UNTIL LATE .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

FOR RESERVATIONS PLEASE CALL +356 21551213 www.it-tokkrestaurant.com

XLENDI

Xlendi, is a picture postcard bay located to the south west of the Island and is a firm favourite amongst Gozitans, Maltese and Tourists a like. Many people are attracted to Xlendi due to the Waterside setting of the many bars and restaurants that line the quayside.

There is also a small sandy beach and excellent sunbathing spots located around the bay and plenty of water sports activities to keep all of the family happy including canoeing, banana boats, pedalos and diving schools.

Self-Drive motor boats can also be hired as well as fishing trips organised, see page ...Xlendi is home to over 20 restaurants that serve up fresh fish caught the same day, pasta, pizza, Indian, Chinese, and excellent meat dishes.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

As you would expect from a sea-front location, everything revolves around the water in Xlendi, hire a boat from Xlendi Pleasure Cruises and explore the bays around Xlendi or venture further a field to Comino or around the Island. Xlendi is home to several large caves including St Catherine’s Cave and Carolina's cave.

Carolinas is found on the cliffs on the right hand side of the bay if you are looking out to the sea. The cave was once the property of Caroline Cauchi, a wealthy woman from Victoria. In later years she founded the Augustinian Sisters on Gozo and donated almost all

SEAFRONT PARADISE

of her land, including the cave and other land in Xlendi to the sisters.

During the summer months the Sisters would reside in Xlendi and would bath in the cave that offered them privacy from other swimmers as it could only be reaches by private stairs. St Catherine’s Cave is located to the right of the bay, just as you are entering Xlendi Bay, it is a popular place for snorkelers and divers alike owing to the crystal clear waters found in and around the cave.

During the 17th Century, people in fact lived around the cave and it received its name after a Church that was built above the site and the Saint whom the Church was dedicated to. Unfortunately the church is longer on the site.

At the Head of the Bay you will find an old watchtower dating back to 1650, it was built on the order of Grandmaster Lascaris and stands 35 ft square at its base and 30 courses high. Although visitors cannot go inside the watchtower, it is currently being restored, but it is well worth the walk, for sun seekers there are some fabulous bathing opportunities around the tower. The Watch Tower can be reached by following the coastal path to the left of the bay through the Kantra Valley and by taking the bridge that connects the headland to the land.

Il-Kantra is a valley found to the left hand side of the bay close to the watchtower. The name Kantra derives

from Alcantara in Spanish-Sicilian. This is due to the odd shape of the valley that resembles a bow. Il-Kantra is home to many types of flora and fauna, these are allowed to flourish as the valley isn’t populated. The Watchtower is reached by a bridge built by the Knights of Saint John over the Kantra Valley.

In 1955 During British rule of the Maltese Islands several emergency mills were built that were capable of producing flour for the Islands if a Cold War was to break out. One of these mills was excavated in the cliffs behind The Mount Carmel Church, in Xlendi, and is the only one left intact on Malta and Gozo. The excavation of the mill was a huge undertaking, cumulating in an entrance tunnel some 30 metres long, and a 3 storey chamber that housed the grinding and milling equipment, thankfully the mill was never put into use, but there are plans to restore the mill to its former glory as most of the original equipment is still inside.

The church in Xlendi is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel and dates back to 1868. On the first Sunday of September each year a feast is celebrated in honour of Mount Carmel and it is a really enjoyable weekend to be in Xlendi. During the day water games are held in the bay, with the traditional 'gostra' a greasy pole that you have to climb to seize a flag, proving very popular. mygozo magazine Page 32

Ask The Local

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Gozitan Christian Spiteri is currently studying at the University of Malta, he shares with us his love of Gozo and tips.

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Police Station - Xlendi Police station is located on St Andrews Street Bus - Route 306 operates between Xlendi and Marsalforn via Victoria, the first bus leaves Xlendi at 05.20am and the last one at 22.45pm

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Late night drinking can be found at C-Seven and The London Lounge at weekends. Xlendi is home to The Captains Table, a pub which has live music on a regular basis throughout the year. Xlendi houses’ one of Europe's most picturesque nightclubs, La Grotto, which is perched on a cliff-side overlooking the Xlendi Valley. See www.lagrottaleisure.com for further details and entry prices.

Above La Grotto is a smaller club called Club Paradiso which is open all year round and is operated by the same people as La Grotta.

When in Gozo, there are plenty of attractions you shouldn’t miss. If photography is your hobby, then you must visit the Azure Window in the picturesque Dwejra bay, which has been nominated as one of the seven wonders of the modern world. For a relaxing swim, then Ramla bay is the best. Furthermore, there are the Ggantija Temples in Xaghra, which are more than 5000 years old – older than the pyramids in Egypt. Lastly, Xlendi is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing evening while dining in one of the several restaurants along the seafront.

There’s only one word to describe it: it’s perfect!

If you’re a meat, fish, pasta, pizza lover, then Xlendi is the ideal place! I You can sit outside the bars and restaurants and watch the world go by, including the fisherman who bring in their daily catch.

Gozo is definitely heaven on Earth!

There are thousands of spectacular sights around the continents, but if you ask me, the best place is Gozo. To start with, where else would you consider leaving your children alone in the streets or by the sea? You don’t have to worry about that if you’re in Gozo! It’s one of the safest places in the world. Also, what if you like swimming or diving? Gozo is just the ideal place. And guess what? Our sea is among the cleanest in the world. What makes Gozo even more special is that it has its own language, which is a mixture of Semitic (Arabic), Romantic

Xlendi is packed with lots of excellent places to eat, we recommend the following, Ic Cima, The Boathouse, The Moby Dick, Ta‘Karolina, Sapana Indian Restaurant, 23Twelve, C-Seven, The London Lounge, Zafiro and IL Terrazza.

NIGHTLIFE

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VILLAGE LIFE

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Sapana Indian Moby Dick St Patricks Ta’Nona Zafiro Churchills Il Terrazzo Ic Cima Da Manuel

Hotel Xlendi Villa Xemkija San Antonio Ulysses Aparthotel

Accommodation

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The 4 * St Patricks Hotel maintains a prominent position on the Xlendi sea-front and has rooms that offer a commanding view of Xlendi Bay. All rooms are air conditioned and the hotel has a rooftop pool, the ideal place to relax after a hard day in the sun. Tel: +356 21562951, info@stpatrickshotel.com, www.vjborg.com

finished with plasma tv and wifi. The penthouse offers a great view of the bay and a large terrace to entertain in the evening.

Tel: +356 2156 1518; info@mobydickgozo.com, www.mobydickgozo.com

If you are heading to Gozo for a diving holiday then the Moby Dives Complex offers a home away from home and is located only a stones The 3* Hotel San Andrea is a family run hotel throw away from the sea. There is an on-site that offers a warm welcome and sits in front of pub that has regular entertainment. Tel: +356 Xlendi Bay. All rooms are air conditioned and 2156 4429, info@mobydivesgozo.com www.mobydivesgozo.com the hotel has an on-site restaurant.

Tel: +356 2156 5555 The San Antonio Guest House offers excellent reservations@hotelsanandrea.com value for money B+B accommodation and a fantastic pool. Tel: +356 2156 3555 For 5* Self Catering accommodation look no further than the Moby Dick Complex located www.clubgozo.com.mt on the waters edge. All rooms are expertly

mygozo magazine Page 33

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SEVEN BAR & RESTAURANT

Ta’Karolina Restaurant, Xlendi

The Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants in Malta & Gozo 2013 Award Winner "Where romance and memories are created, with delightful Marina Street, Xlendi staff in a wonderful setting by the sea serving excellent food". For Reservations call, +356 2155 9675

mygozo magazine 4

Ta’Karolina Restaurant, Xlendi

The Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants in Malta & Gozo 2013 Award Winner

"Where romance and memories are created, with delightful staff in a wonderful setting by the sea serving excellent food".

Marina Street, Xlendi For Reservations call, +356 2155 9675

WWW.ULYSSESAPARTHOTEL.COM

Weddings Private Functions Special Occasions Corporate Events Linking the love for the local produce and the legacy with the island of Gozo was the primary aspiration behind the setting up of this catering company, based on the Island of the three hills.

Set-up in the year 2006, Connection Caterers served as a hub between the different catering activities carried out by the same company. Since 2002, Philip Spiteri and George Borg ventured in catering for outdoor functions and due to its success, it needed a satellite kitchen besides the restaurant’s infrastructure. The addition of the cafeteria at the Duke’s Shopping complex in Victoria (Gozo) accentuated the need of centralising the kitchen of all these activities. Whether it is a wedding with a 3-figure attendance, a dinner in a historical building, a coffee break on a beach, a lunch in a remote place, a private dinner in a farmhouse or a corporate meeting in business premises, Connection Caterers are fully equipped to cater for your needs. The expertise of the head chef, George Borg is highly requested not only locally but also on an international scale, having represented his birth place numerous times out of our shores. Connection Caterers invests all its energy to give a personalised service to each function.

Venues: Ta’Mena Estate, Countryside, The Beach, Farmhouses, Dwejra, Salt Pans, On A Boat etc Tel: +356 9900 1965, +356 7900 1965, +356 2756 3297, Email: info@connectioncaterers.com

LIVELY

Marsalforn is Gozo’s main summer holiday destination with many Gozitans and Maltese having holiday flats there.

It is situated to the North of the island and is only a ten minute drive from Victoria. Marsalforn is a traditional fishing village and boats can be seen coming and going throughout the day providing fresh fish to the bustling restaurants.

MARSALFORN

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

16th Century, Marsalforn was the most As you approach Marsalforn from important port in Gozo. Food and supplies were imported from Sicily and Victoria, you will probably notice passengers were able to board boats the lush green scenery that surrounds that took them to Licata in Sicily and you, this is known as The Marsalforn further afield. Marsalforn was considValley. The Valley is surrounded by ered so important during the reign of several hills, the most famous being the Knights of the Order of St John that Tas-Salvatur (Our Saviours Hill) also they considered abandoning the Citadel referred locally as Tal-Merzuq Hill (Ray in Victoria and building a new fort that of Light). On top of the hill sits a large overlooked Marsalforn Bay. This plan statue of Christ the Savior, this Marsalforn is Xlendi’s bigger sister and never materialized as the plans were waserected in 1904 and sits proudly during the summer months the promfought strongly by the Gozitan people. over Marsalforn. enades will be full of people and With the growth of Mgarr as a port, restaurants packed with locals and Marsalforn is a composite word. "Marsa" Marsalforn began to lose its importance holiday makers alike. There are a wide on an economical front and was mainly is an Arabic word meaning `port` or range of restaurants to choose from, inhabited by small fishing communities. `bay.` There is disagreement on the most situated on the sea-front. For origin of the second part of the word youngsters there is an amusement park `forn` -. Forn means "a bakery" in As you leave Marsalforn to the left of located in the car park and during the Maltese, but it is highly improbable that the bay you will come to the bay of summer months it is possible for small this has anything to do with Marsalforn, Qbajjar, home to two very good children to take a ride on a donkey that for it is unlikely that a bakery would be restaurants and also home to a quiet operates along the promenade. Eating built in an area with a small population. shingle beach, a place to get away from an ice-cream purchased from one of the It is quite likely that this name, like that the masses. excellent Galaterias is a great way to of other Gozitan ports, might refer to a round off an evening. type of ship. In that case it would derive Just west of Qbajjar you will find the magnificent Salt Pans, where you will from Liburna. an Illyrian type of a ship, There is a small sandy beach located to which became livurna in Greek, and still find to this day families who make the east of the promenade, it can tend their living out of turning the salt from lifurna in Arabic. The name might also to get busy during the summer, espethe sea into a product that is served on have been derived from forna, a word cially at the weekend, there are other your table. The families still maintain used by Gozitan fishermen to refer to " bathing spots towards the west of the the ancient traditions that their forefaa cave hollowed out by the sea". There bay on the rocks towards the headland. are several of these in Marsalforn, the thers adopted. It is possible to Xwieni Bay and Obajjar Bay are located purchase the salt directly from the best known being Ghar Qawqla `the west of Marsalforn and offer good source and also see how the salt is cave at the steep hill`. swimming and bathing spots as well as turned from the salt pans to the table. several bars and restaurants Marsalforns history dates back to Roman times and as recently as the

mygozo magazine Page 38

Qbajjar 1 2

KEY Food and Drink Accomodation

ATM Swimming Zone Boat Launch

Marina

One Way

t

4 5 6

Misra h Sir M n ichela or ngelo li F 7 Refalo 8 9 10 K iq r 11 T 12

Bus Terminus

b

Restaurants and Bars

14. Cafe Del Mar 15. Smileys 16. Glassbox 17. Electra 18. Bo-Jangles 19. Il Forno 20. La Trattoria 21. Smugglers 22. Murella 23. Calypso 24. Odyssey 25. L’Antika

To Victoria 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Otters Pierre’s Neptunes Il Kartel Ta Pennellu Pebbles Smiles IL Forno

16

c

Accomodation a) Calypso b) Lantern c) Giovanna d) Electra

9. Smugglers 10. Dragon 11. Simply Blues 12. La Trattoria 13. Bo-Jangles 14. Electra 15. Lantern 16. Tang Cheng 17. Arzella 18. Murella 19. Chez Amand 20. Qbajjar Restaurant

Hotel

Police Station

20 19 t r o -P Pjazza San Pawl Triq il d

17

Triq il-Obajjar

26. La Pulena 27. Latini 28. Beppes 29. Lounge 21 30. Arzella

a

21Calypso

18

hra - Xag

1. Qbajjar 2. Chez Amand 3. Otters 4. Pierre’s 5. Neptunes 6. Il Kartel 7. Unwind Bar 8. Krya’s Inn 9. L’Aragosta 10. Dive Bar 11. Ta Pennellu 12. Marlene D 13. Pebbles

13 14 15

24 23 22

IX Triq

Parking

K

Marsalforn

3

il-P or

19

29 30 28 27 26 25

Triq

I INFORMATION

I was born and bred in Gozo but when I was young my dream was always to travel and in 1984 I headed down under to Australia to start a new life. My heart however was always in Gozo and my passion in the food industry after being given a taste for the industry having worked at my cousins restaurant IL Kartell when I was young. I returned to Gozo in 1991 for a 6 week visit to catch up with family and friends and I soon realised that this was the place I wanted to be and eventually raise a family in a safe environment and I have been back ever since.

Over the past 20 years I have managed to

Triq ir - Rabat

For late night drinking head to Mellos where there are some excellent cocktail and great tunes.

Murella Lounge Bar has a great atmosphere and often has live music and if you are looking for a real pub experience then head to BoJangles, a traditional pub serving pints, pub food and shows live football. If you enjoy belting out a few classics then the Piùtrentanove Lounge Bar holds Karoeke nights every Monday night during the summer, as does The Glassbox

establish two businesses, IL Gambero and together with my partner and head chef, George Borg, Connection Caterers Ltd, specialising in outside event catering., and I am currently opening Ristorante Il Gambero in Marsalforn Bay and another Restaurant is in the pipeline, namely Il-Barumbara at Mgarr Harbour near the Grand Hotel, whose main aim is to boost local and traditional products . I am a firm believer that we should use as much local produce in our menus and daily lives as possible, this is something that was taught to me growing up on our family farm, which is now an Agri-Tourism Estate, open to the public called Ta’Mena Estate. Ta’Mena produces it’s own wine as well as other traditional food like Olive Oil, jams, “kunserva” (sundried tomato paste), etc. I am proud to be living in Gozo, part of an island with a history of over 4000 years, believing in reviving and saving skills in traditional genuine methods, which makes Gozo, a place to experience......

d Triq il - Wie

NIGHTLIFE

Philip Spiteri runs IL Kartell Restaurant in Marsalforn and is Co-owner of Connection Caterers. He shares his passion about Gozo.....

Tri q

Marsalforn has over 25 restaurants, the majority of which line the sea-front promenade. With so much to choose from it is difficult to choose where to dine, we recommend IL Kartell, Ristorante Il Gambero @ Calypso Hotel, Menqa L’Antika, L’Aragosta, La Pulena, Chez Amand (Qbajjar), and Murella.

Meet The Local

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Triq Santa Marija

WHERE TO EAT

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VILLAGE LIFE VILLAGE LIFE

To Xaghra

Triq Lapsi

Accommodation

.................................................................................................

The 4* Calypso Accomodation Hotel a) Hotel Calypso b) Lantern c) Maria Giovanna The 4* Calypso enjoys a prominent location on d) Electra Hotel the water front. With a beach in front of the hotel and a roof top pool this is a family friendly hotel, BBQ evenings are held on the roof and the hotel has an excellent on-site restaurant. Tel: +356 2156 2000 info@hotelcalypsogozo.com

furnished hostel is situated in an excellent location in Marsalforn Bay. It offers a warm yet family atmosphere. It is located close to all amenities and the beach. Tel : +356 2155 3630 bugejajoe@vol.net.mt

Hotel Electra has been part of the Marsalforn landscape for many years, it continues to over great value rooms, all offering panoramic views Supermarkets - There is a large supermarket located on Triq IL Obajjar just up The Lantern Guest House is a family run hotel of Marsalforn Bay. All rooms are air conditioned. There is also an on-site restaurant. that offers a warm welcome and sits in the from the Lantern Guest House. heart of Marsalforn, yet in a peaceful location. Tel@ +356 2155 6196, electragozo@gmail.com ATM's - There is a bank of Valletta cash All rooms are air conditioned and the hotel has machine located on The Promenade an on-site restaurant. Tel: +356 2156 2365 Atlantis Lodge, located next to Atlantis Diving next to the Dive Bar. Centre and within walking distance from rlantern@onvol.net Marsalforn sea front All the guest rooms have Bus - Route 306 operates between an en suite bathroom, TV, telephone, free WiFi Maria Giovanna Guest House - a typical Xlendi and Marsalforn via Victoria, the Maltese town house that has just been access and air-conditioning unit. Tel+356 2155 first bus leaves Marsalforn at 06.17am 4685, diving@atlantisgozo.com renovated. This romantic and elegantly

and the last one at 23.17pm

mygozo magazine Page 39

The main ingrediant which makes Menqa L’Antika stand out from the crowd is the attention to detail. From the decor to ambiance, to the new produce assessed day after day for quality by Chef Patron, Gordon Camilleri, results in an incomparable dining experience. The talented chef, whom through experience has tasted most Mediterranean and European fusions, has gone back to childhood bringing you the original immaculate taste of Gozo’s native kithchen while using The Island’s tasteful produce from limited space.

This has contributed in the exceptional gastronomy of our earliest traditions..

Open daily for lunch and dinner evoking memories of Gozo’s earliest gastronomy.......

Menqa L’Antika Restaurant Marina St, Marsalforn, Gozo Tel: (+356 27300309) Mob: +356 79203623 www.menqalantika.com

L’Aragosta Restaurant - Marina St - Marsalforn Tel: (+356) 21554138, (+356) 21558438

At our family run restaurant you find the great service and healthy food comes first.

We serve delicious home-made pasta and specialise in fresh fish and meat, thus providing a fine selection of dishes which cater for all tastes. Pizza also available.

Marina Street (il-Menqa), Marsalforn Gozo, Malta

T: (+356) 2155 9777 M: (+356) 9942 0881

GHARB, SAN LAWRENZ, DWEJRA Gharb Folklore Museum,

Accomodation

Museum

it Triq

K

- Tru Triq IL Tal Mado Virt nna u

Parking Restaurants and Bars Accomodation

7

Gharb

6. Hotel Kempinski

Museums

K IL

Triq I

l Wil

ja nis

7.Gharb Folklore

q Tri

1. Jeffries 2. Rangers Bar 3. Savina 4. Tatita’s 5. Azure Window

3

Triq Ta’Sdieri

Frenc ta l-Gharb

ATM

x

KEY Food and Drink

leg

San Lawrenz

Dwejra The Inland Sea

4 Triq San Lawrenz Ta’Dbiegi Crafts Centre

Triq Wied Merill

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1

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz

Dulu ri Law

renz

To Dwejra 5

2

Gharb is a beautiful Village, located west of Victoria about a ten minute drive away. Gharb is one of the oldest Villages on the Island and derives it’s name from Arabic, although in Maltese it means ‘’West’’ and it is in fact the western most Village on the Island.

Gharb started life as a small hamlet hundreds of years ago and was originally populated by farmers who worked the fertile land. You can see it’s ancient roots in the centre of the Village where some houses have fine examples of decorated stone balconies. Gharb is quintessentially Gozitian and it’s main square, with the church dominating, has been the scene of many a postcard throughout the years. The village is home to many traditional Gozitan industries and is still home to traditional lace and cotton makers. The Parish of Gharb is the second oldest Parish on Gozo, the current church, built in 1699 is dedicated to the visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth. The feast is celebrated on the 1st Sunday in July. Gharb lies amongst some of the most scenic countryside on the Island, particularly at Dbiegi, the largest hill on Gozo. San Lawrenz, Gharbs neighbour is also dominated by it’s Village Church and sqaure.

WHERE TO EAT There are several options available in Gharb, Jeffries, located on Triq I-Gharb, has been a very amongst tourists and

6

To Victoria

locals for many years and serves high quality food in a traditional atmosphere, for reservations Tel: 21561006.

Ta’Salvina, located on the main sqaure is is renowned for its local and Mediterranean cuisine, Tel: 2155 2505 for reservations. The Gharb Rangers FC Bar, located at 118 Triq il Knisja, is an institution in Gharb and has a fantastic roof garden where you can while away a summers evening. The bar serves excellent pizzas aswell as other well produced local dishes. In San Lawrenz you will find Tatita’s in the main sqaure and down the road at Dwejra you will find The Azure Window where diners can enjoy an unrivalled view of The Inland Sea. For reservations call +356 2156 6560

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Gharb is home to several quirky museums including, The Gharb Folklore Museum located on the main square. The Village also houses the Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village, a must visit for any visitor looking to sample Gozo’s arts and crafts. In the limits of Gharb you will find the Basilica Ta’Pinu, see page.... for further details.

Down at The Inland Sea you will find The Azure Window, Fungus Rock and as the name suggests, The Inland Sea. At The Inland Sea we recommend taking a boat trip from the shore, you get to go through the tunnel and out into the open sea to see some stunning scenery.

ACCOMMODATION San Lawrenz is home to the 5* Hotel Kempinski and Spa, as you would expect from a 5* Hotel the standard is very high. The hotel is home to 3 very large swimming pools, including an indoor one, spa experiences and several excellent restaurants serving high quality international food. See www.kempinski.com for further details Gozo Village Holidays have a great complex called Village Ta’Sbejha which is located in the village of Gharb.

Ta’Sbejha offers self-catering apartments with patio or terrrace overlooking the pool. It is ideal for large groups.

See www.gozovillageholidays.com for further details.

i INFORMATION

Supermarket - There is a supermarket just as you approach the entrance to San Lawrenz village, there are also some general stores located around the main square.

Bus – Route 305 runs between Sannat and San Lawrenz via Gharb. Route 302 runs between Nadur and Dwejra via Victoria. Route 311 runs between Victoria and Dwejra

mygozo magazine Page 41

MGARR

GATEWAY TO GOZO

To Nadur Grand 14 Hotel

Tri

4 5

L’Ankra

2

in Triq Mart

o Garces

KEY Food and Drink

ATM

Accommodation

Swimming Zone

Parking

Boat Launch

Marina

One Way

€

Restaurants and Bars

1. Country Terrace 2. Gleneagles 3. Il-Kcina Tal-Barrakka 4. Ta Paulo 5. Horatios Tavern 6. Manoels 7. Tmun

10 11

8. Da Luigi 9. Monkeys Fist 10. Seaview 11. Al Porto 12. l’Ankra 13. Huan Yuan 14. Porto Veccio Accommodation 14. Grand Hotel

12

10

To Qala

Bus Terminus

7

8 9

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13

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Fort Chambray

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To Malta

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Mgarr, Gozo’s port, is the gateway to the Island. As the ferry makes it way slowly into the harbour, Gozo’s beauty is immediate; Mgarr is a picturesque fishing village that hasn’t really changed much throughout the years. One of the most immediate sights will be the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Loreto that sits high above Mgarr and is actually in the Village of Ghajnsielem, it is a gothic style church and was built 1924. In 2011 the church received a set of 8 new bells with the largest weighing 5.5 tonnes. Ghajnsielem celebrates its annual feast on the last Sunday in August.

As you would expect from a major port the main activity in Mgarr revolves around the fishing industry and the harbour is full of fishing vessels, large and small. There are no beaches in Mgarr but just around the corner to the east, you will find Hondoq Bay, a shingle beach that offers good swimming facilities. Comino is a short distance across the water from Mgarr.

WHERE TO EAT Diners are spoilt for choice with an abundance of high quality restaurants in Mgarr.

As you would expect, fresh sea-food is the order of the day but there are top quality restaurants serving a la carte food including Gozitan, Mediterranean and Chinese food.

We recommend IT-Tmun, the sister restaurant to Patricks Tmun in Victoria, it serves fusion and international cuisine. Tel: 2156 6276 for reservations. Also highly recommended is L’Ankra, located on Shore St specialises in excellent Italian food, Tel: 2155 5656 for reservations. Seaview Restaurant is a great spot for lunch or dinner and watch the boats coming and going. Tel: +356 2156 5541 for reservations.

HISTORY/SIGHTS/WHAT TO SEE AND DO Ferry services have operated between Gozo and Malta as far back as 1241 when the fishing industry was firmly established on the Island. As the fishing industry grew, so did Mgarr and communities begun to spring up around the vicinity of the harbour, especially more towards the hillside areas.

The actual port area didn’t see any development until 1841 when a breakwater was built to provide extra protection. Throughout the 20th and 21st century the breakwater was extended several times and in 2008 a new ferry terminal accommodating 600 passengers and 200 cars was finally completed at a cost of €9.3 million. The new ferry terminal now allows the larger cruise ships that would normally visit Malta to stop on Gozo and allow cruise passengers a chance to see what Gozo has to offer. There are now plans to further develop the area with the creation of the Zewwieqa Waterfront, transforming parts of the port that are not in use into a family oriented space including restaurants, open spaces and restaurants.

Sitting above Mgarr Harbour to the left is Fort Chambray, an old historic city located within a fortress. Built over 250 years ago during the reign of the Knights of St John, the fort was initially built as a replacement to the Citadel in Victoria. There was also a thought that building the fort would increase trade between Gozo and Malta.

The Fort was only ever used once for military purposes, in 1798, during Gozo's defense against the revolutionary forces of General

Bonaparte. Several British regiments were stationed at the fort during the Crimean and First World Wars but fell into disrepair during the 20th century. Fort Chambray is now being developed into a luxury village community of apartments and villa’s with communal pools and opens spaces. See www.fortchambray.com for further details.

ACCOMMODATION Accommodation -The 4 * Grand Hotel sits above Mgarr and offers commanding views of Mgarr, Comino and Malta. Rooms are well laid out and the hotel has a fantastic pool which has great views of Comino and Malta. For reservations see www.grandhotelmalta.com for further details.

i

INFORMATION

ATM – There is an ATM machine situated at the ferry terminal.

Trips to Comino - Check out Xlendi Pleasure Cruises who offer shuttles and trips to Comino and around Gozo. See www.xlendipleasurecruises.com Supermarket - There is a supermarket on the hill on the left hand side as you leave the harbour.

Bus – Route 301 runs between Victoria and Mgarr and coincides with the ferry timetable. The first bus leaves Victoria at 05:30am and the last bus 23:05. The first bus leaves Mgarr at 06:15am and the last bus 23:25pm.

mygozo magazine Page 42

Located in the picturesque harbour of Mgarr, Tmun, has been setting high standards on the Gozitan food scene for the last 25 years. Husband and wife team, Leli and Jane, joined by their son, Paul, have justifiably been rated one of the best restaurants on the Island year after year. The family set high standards and constantly strive to improve their menu with new twists to modern classics. Tmun regulars as well as Leli and Jane all have fond memories of their original restaurant in Xlendi but since 2008 the restaurant has took up residence in Mgarr harbour where diners can relax in a more modern environment whilst literally dipping their toes into the sea. Sitting outside Tmun, enjoying a beautifully prepared meal whilst watching the local fisherman bring in their catch is a joy to be-hold. Tmun is renowned for it’s seafood, as you would expect due to the location, but also serves excellent meat and vegetarian dishes. The wine list is Read what Some of Our Diners Are Saying About Us ‘’Food was great , the owners lovely and very helpful .

We are frequent Gozo visitors and this was possibly the best meal there. In the docks, so interesting outlooks.

Great choice of wines‘’ April 2013, London, UK ‘’Got to be one of the best restaurants on Gozo for both quantity and quality. Great food, staff and company. The freshly made prickly pear sorbet is divine - a great accompaniment for any meal. The restaurant also serves local dishes and fresh fish’’ May 2013, Sydney, Australia Tmun, Mgarr, Triq Martinu Garces, Mgarr, Gozo Opening Hours: Mon-Sun, Lunch 12.00:14.30, Dinner, 18:30-22:30, closed on Tuesdays For Reservations call; +356 2156 6276 Email: info@tmunmgarr.com Website: www.tmunmgarr.com

CHARMING VILLAGE

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KEY Food and Drink

Parking

Accomodation

Museum

Tr iq

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Ggantija Temples Triq Ta Qacca

Restaurants and Bars

Xaghra, located to the North East of the Island is the second largest Village on the Island with a population of just over 4200 people. The village is perched on a high hill and has great views of much of the Island including Ramla Bay. In Maltese, Xaghra means ‘’wilderness’’, a term relating to its location on top of a hill. Many people believe that Xaghra was one of the inhabited parts of Gozo, and looking at the architecture of the village and its surroundings it is easy to understand why. The focal point of the Village is the Church, dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The church that stands today was built in 1815 and the church is covered in marble throughout. The Village feast is celebrated on the 8th of September and if you are on Gozo at the same time, a visit to the feast is a must. In the weeks prior to the village feast, the Xaghra Youth Centre organise the annual Xaghra Youth games, an annual event that revolves around the history of the village, Gozo and Malta and includes horse racing, the building of the Ggantija Temples, The Great Siege of 1565 and other events. If you are on Gozo around the 22nd August the games are a great family event.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO Xaghra is home to a good number of museums and historical monuments including Calypso’s Cave, The Ggantija Temples, Ninu’s Cave, Xerri’s Cave

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Cornocopia Hotel

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To Marsalforn

Xaghra

Triq Parisot

XAGHRA

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1. D-Steak 2. Xi-Xi 3. Oleander 4. D Venue 5. Coffee Jubilee 6. Breeze 7. Rubble Bar

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Accomodation 6.Cornucopia 11. Bullara Homes

Museums

7. Ta’Kola Windmill 8. Ninus Cave 9. Xerris Grotto 10.Toy Museum

and Ta’Kola Windmill, you could quite easily spend a day in Xaghra.

WHERE TO EAT For food lovers Xaghra is home to some excellent restaurants. Rubble Bar located on Victory Square serves both lunch and dinner and has a fantastic menu with a good variety of local delicacies as well as some excellent steaks. Inside Rubble you will find an old style bar that has a really friendly and welcoming environment. Breeze Restaurant serves excellent local and mediterranean food, including daily specials and a good choice of vegetarian food. They specialise in pasta dishes and the seafood pasta is a must. Tel: +356 2155 3044 for reservations.

D-Venue, located on Victory square serves superb food including a wide choice of Gozitan and Maltese dishes, it also has live music. Look out for their themed nights that occur throughout the year. Tel: +356 2156 6542 for further details. If you are looking for something a little different, the Cornucopia Hotel hold BBQ evenings around their pools throughout the summer, live music is also provided, contact +356 2155 6486 for dates and reservations. If you have a sweet tooth then we highly recommend that you visit Cafe Reale, located on Victory Square. They serve some amazing homemade cakes and pasteries

ACCOMMODATION Xaghra is home to some of the best accommodation on the Island. From 4* Hotels to 5* Farmhouses the choice really is yours. If you are looking to stay in a hotel, yet still immerse yourself into Gozitan life then Xaghra is home to The 4* Cornucopia Hotel, built around an old converted farmhouse the hotel has real charm. For reservations see www.vjborg.com If you are looking for a home away from home, Bullara Gozo Homes have a selection of 5* farmhouses all located next to each other, a ten minute walk from the centre of the village. Each farmhouse is equipped with high quality appliances, wifi and everything and more you could wish for. To view their farmhouses visit www.bullaragozohomes.com. To view other accommodation in Xaghra Gozo Villa Rentals have some excellent choices, www.gozovillarentals.com Bus – Bus route 322 runs between Marsalforn and Mgarr via Xaghra roughly every 90 minutes between 05:24am and 22:39pm Shopping - There is a daily morning market that takes places in The Main Square in Xaghra that sells fresh vegetables and fish. There is also a small supermarket located on Triq L’Ispiera mygozo magazine Page 44

RUBBLE BAR

Experience the scrumptious selection of antipasti, salads, pasta, steaks and fresh fish at Rubble Bar in the heart of Xaghra Square, where exotic local ingredients and mouth watering sauces come Open daily from 9am-3.30pm together in a symphony of flavours. We warmly welcome you to join us for a casual lunch or dinner and from 6.00pm until late. where you will devour genuine food, at good prices and with stand out service. Or come along and Closed on Thursdays simply chill out and relax with some friends over a few drinks or refreshing cocktails in a warm and cosy ambience.

Rubble Bar and Restaurant, Victory Square, Xaghra, Gozo Tel +356 21563758

The friendly, family run restaurant offers a mediterranean cuisine and vegetarian menu complemented with a local and foreign wine list

www.breezerestaurantingozo.com 85, Victory Square, Xaghra Tel: +356 21553044

Breeze Restaurant

NADUR

5 8 Ta Kenuna Tower

San Blas Triq € 3

4

Main Square

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Main Square

6

KEY Food and Drink

ATM

Accomodation

Museum

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Nadur is Gozo’s largest village with a population of just over 5000 people.

Nadur means ‘’lookout’’ in Maltese and comes from the Arabic word nadara.

Perched on a high hill with commanding views of Comino and Malta it is clear why Nadur was an ideal spot to look out for unfriendly enemies.

Several watchtowers were built in and around Nadur , Ta’Kenuna Tower was built by the British in the 19th century and was used as a telegraph link between Gozo and Malta. From the tower you can see much of the Island and the views out towards the Comino channel are to die for. When the Knights of St John ruled the Island a tower was built by Grand Master Nicholas Cotoner and is known as Ta’Sopu tower. It is also called Dahlet Qorrot and San Blas Tower after the two bays it sits between.

During the 1960’s a lot people from Nadur emigrated to the US, Canada, Australia and the UK, many of whom have now returned to the Village and their allegiances to the countries they emigrated to are shown in the flags hung outside their homes.

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FESTIVAL VILLAGE

Restaurants and Bars 1. Maxokk 2. Al Capone 3. Rabokk 4. Anthonys 5. Ta’Kenuna 6. Fliegu 7. D-Bar

Museums

8. Ta Kenuna Tower

carnival is known as the Grotesque or Macabre Carnival due to the outfits that are donned by the festival goers.

Nadur is also home to The Nadur Wine festival. The dates for the Delicata Classic Wine Festival in Nadur this year, are 31st August, 1 & 2nd September, with a live concert by Airport Impressions on Saturday Night. Nadur also hosts a Christmas market that is a great spectacle and normally takes places on the first weekend of December.

The focul point of Nadur is The Parish church which was built in 1760 and is dedicated to St Peter and St Paul. The feast takes place on the 29th June each year.

Nadur is home to the Kelinu Grima Maritime Museum. The beaches of San Blas Bay and Dahlet Qorrot are also reached via Nadur.

WHERE TO EAT

If you are looking to dine in a restaurant that has fantastic views of the Gozo Channel, Comino, Mgarr and the Gozitan country side then Nadur is home to a new addition to the Gozo restaurant scene, Fliegu. For reservaWHAT TO SEE AND DO tions call +356 2155 0055.

There are several places to eat in Nadur Outside of Gozo, Nadur is probably Village itself, for those looking for a most famous for it’s annual carnival light snack in the form of a Gozitan that takes place in February during the 5 Ftira or pizza we recommend the days that precede Ash Wednesday. The Maxokk Bakery for an authentic taste

View from Fliegu Restaurant, Nadur

of Gozo. They are located on St Jame’s street in the heart of the village.

Gebuba Wine Bar, located on the main square is an intiment bar serving cocktails and wines from around the world. Rabokk located in the main square serves great snacks and pizza’s and is good value for money. For those looking for a la carte food head to Anthony’s, a wine bar and restaurant situated in a quaint square behind the main church, Tel: +356 2156 5369 for reservations.

ACCOMMODATION Despite being Gozo’s largest village there are no hotels as such in Nadur, there are however a wide variety of farmhouses to choose from, see www.gozovillarentals.com for more information.

i INFOMATION Bus - Bus route 303 runs between Victoria and Mgarr via Nadur every hour from 6am until 11pm.

ATM - There is a Bank of Valletta atm located in the main square.

Shopping - There are several grocery stores located around the main sqaure selling all household goods. mygozo magazine Page 46

The official media library of the Maltese Islands is accessible online at viewingMalta.com with an ever-growing collection of professional photography, video footage, sound and more.

Register today and gain access to the extensive library of professional stock ready for download at the click of a button!

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL MARIO GALEA ON 22915202 OR EMAIL MARIO.GALEA@VISITMALTA.COM

mygozo magazine 4

Accommodation

Discover The Best of Gozo’s places to stay Bullara Gozo Homes

Hotel Ta’Cenc & Spa

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Visitors to Gozo are quite literally spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation, the island has some excellent accommodation available and first time visitors are quite literally blown away by the choice available.

Whether you are looking for a 5* Hotel or a quaint B+B, all budgets and tastes are catered for.

liking and Gozo has some excellent alternatives. One of these is to stay in a B+B and Gozo has several excellent B+B choices to choose from. Xlendi is home to the San For a taste of village life then head to the 4* Cornucopia Hotel, located on the outskirts of Antonio Guest House, a intimate guest house with 20 rooms that has one of the best the Village of Xaghra. The hotel has a farmhouse feel to it and you really do get that swimming pools in Xlendi. The rooms offer ''away from it'' feeling, the hotel has two large excellent value for money and the house is in swimming pools and hosts a twice weekly BBQ a peaceful part of Xlendi. In Marsalforn a When deciding where to stay on Gozo it can warm welcome awaits you at the Lantern night during the summer months. prove to be a difficult decision as many factors Guest House, centrally located and a minutes are taken into consideration, do you want to walk from plenty of bars and restaurants it is At the budget end of the scale you will find be close to the sea ? in the country side ?, an ideal choice for those with a lesser budget. the 3* Downtown Hotel located in Victoria. hidden away from the hustle and bustle of Marsalforn is also home to the Electra Guest Now the only hotel in the capital, it offers an daily life in a quiet village ? do you want to excellent location from which to explore the House and Maria Giovanna hostel both go half board, self catering etc. offering excellent value for money. delights that Victoria has to offer. Guests will find great value for money, the rooms are For those visitors looking for a room with a Other excellent B+B options include Mariblu large and comfortable and the hotel has a sea view, there a several excellent options in Xewkija, Lellux B+B in Qala, Dar Ta Zeppi in rooftop splash pool if you fancy a dip. available, The 4* St Patricks Hotel in Xlendi Qala, Casa Mia in Victoria, Poppetts Farmis located on the waters edge and offers house in Xaghra, Daydream B+B in Xaghra.

Staying in a hotel isn't always to everyones commanding views of the beautiful bay, The St Patricks Hotel has a small rooftop Our Top Hotel Picks splash pool and during the summer Hotel Ta’Cenc & Spa, Sannat St Patricks Hotel, Xlendi months holds regular special events on If you are looking for total The 4* St Patricks Hotel, set on the rooftop. In Marsalforn you will find peace and tranquility during the waters edge at Xlendi Bay your stay on Gozo, look no offers views to die for of the the 4* Calypso Hotel, located in the port, further than the 5* Hotel crystal blue sea located in rooms offer great views of Marsalforn Ta’Cenc. Luxurious rooms are front of the hotel. You can Bay. The hotel has a rooftop pool and spread throughout the quite literally touch the sea during the summer hosts regular BBQ beautiful gardens. Guests can from your balcony. enjoy a private beach www.vjborg.com nights where live music is provided. www.vjborg.com Mgarr is home to the 4* Grand Hotel which has commanding views of the Grand Hotel, Mgarr Cornucopia Hotel, Xaghra Gozo Channel towards Comino and The 4* Grand Hotel sits above Hidden away in the sleepy Mgarr Harbour and enjoys village of Xaghra you will find Malta. The hotel has a large sized superb views of Comino and the 4* Cornucopia Hotel. The swimming pool amid peaceful surroundMalta. Rooms are spacious hotel has a homely feel to it ings where guests can while away the and include large terraces to and the luxurious surroundsummer days. enjoy the views from. ings will not want you to leave.

For Visitors with a larger budget and looking for a luxury stay then they need look no further than the 5* Hotel Ta'Cenc and Spa in Sannat. The hotel offers it’s own version of luxury and privacy. The Hotel is set in mature gardens and guests are left alone to their own devices, if you are looking for real privacy then Hotel Ta'Cenc and Spa is a must stay. There is an excellent Spa facility on-site offering full spa and body treatments, an ideal way to pass a few hours away and retreat from the sun. The hotel has it's own beach access and several swimming pools where you can laze around and enjoy a cocktail or two.

You could easily come to Gozo for a week or two and not want to leave the hotel.

www..grandhotelmalta.com

www.vjborg.com

Calypso Hotel, Marsalforn The 4* Calypso enjoys a prominent location on the water front. With a beach in front of the hotel and a roof top pool this is a family friendly hotel, BBQ evenings are held on the roof . www.hotelcalypsogozo.com

Kempinski A 5* Hotel the Kempinski is an exclusive hide-away resort in San-Lawrenz. The hotel offers a fantastic spa and three outdoor pools and all the luxury you would expect from a 5* hotel. www.kempinski.com

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Hotel San Andrea, Xlendi The 3* San Andrea is set on the waterfront at Xlendi.

Rooms are spacious and sea-view rooms offer superb views of Xlendi Bay. The hotel has an excellent restaurant. www.hotelsanandrea.com

Downtown Hotel, Victoria ............................................

Well located in the Capital,

Victoria, the 3* Downtown offers excellent value for money, rooms are large and there is a rooftop pool to cool down in. www.downtown.com.mt mygozo magazine 4

TOTAL GUIDE ACCOMMODATION As an alternative to Hotels, Gozo has some fantastic self-catering options, from 5* sea-front apartments to 5* luxury farmhouses. Over the past 10 years there has been a real surge in the availability of high standard farmhouse accommodation on the Island and one of the newest farmhouse developments is by Bullara Gozo Homes in Xaghra. Located a 10 minute walk from the bustling Village Centre, Bullara offer a choice of 5 luxury farmhouses, all housed in the same complex, which makes them a great choice for large groups all wishing to be within the same vicinity. Each farmhouse has been expertly finished with top quality furnishing and fittings yet the farmhouses still have the charm of Gozo from yesteryear with exposed beams giving real character.

Pools come as standard, so does free wifi, cable tv, ironing board, hair dryer and washing machine, and for the fitness fanatics, free bikes, all nice little touches.

If you are looking to sample Gozo village life then this could be the ideal option.

For more info on Bullara's farmhouses visit www.bullaragozohomes.com; email: bullaragozohomes@gmail.com Xlendi is a picture postcard seaside village and it has some great choices of self-catering accommodation. The Moby Dick complex is located on the waters-

edge and offers unrivalled views of Xlendi Bay, from the balconies you can see the fishing men returning with their daily catch or watch the sun set with a glass of wine. There are a choice of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, the latter ideal for families and there is also a luxurious penthouse that has a large terrace which is a great place to entertain. All of the apartments are fitted with high quality furnishings and as standard include free wifi and cable tv. For more info and to see further pictures visit www.mobydickgozo.com; email: info@mobydickgozo.com

located a 5 minute walk from the sea-front.

See www.mobydivesgozo.com; email: info@mobydivesgozo.com

Gozo Village Holidays have been providing high quality self-catering accommodation on the Island for the past 20 years.

The company was started in 1986 by Ino Attard and Lino Cefai with a handful of Villas which has now grown into a major holiday company and they now offer a wide variety of renovated farmhouses, villas, apartments and the charming Villages of Tal-Fanal and Ta’ Sbejha. All these properties were designed to fit in Gozo is a divers paradise and The perfectly with the atmosphere of the Ulysses Apart hotel offers divers a home island of Gozo. Although the company has away from home. Located a 1 minute walk grown they still run a family-run business from the sea, Ulysses Apart hotel forms with a long-held passion for providing part of the Moby Dives complex which beautiful villas in the most picturesque also includes The Captains Table Pub, parts of the island of Gozo. See and includes an indoor training pool. www.gozovillageholidays for more info; There are a good choice of individual email: info@gozovillageholidays.com. rooms, studios and one bedroom apartments, all come with mod cons including Gozo Villa Rentals, have the most cable tv, wifi and air conditioning. The extensive rental property database on the apartments include a fully equipped Island offering stunning farmhouses, villas, kitchen. If you would prefer to be away penthouses and other self catering from it then Moby Dives also offer a accommodation, to view their portfolio choice of 2 bedroom maisonettes sleeping visit www.gozovillarentals.com up to 5 people in a private residential complex called Ulysses Village, these are

villa rentals

The UK’s leading Gozo holiday rental provider for Apartments, Farmhouses, Hotels and Villas

Tel +44 (0) 845 519 8242 Web www.gozovillarentals.com Email info@gozovillarentals.com

Enquiries +356 2155 7255

www.gozovillageholidays.com

mygozo magazine 4

mygozo magazine 4

mygozo magazine 4

Getting Married in Gozo...

Gozo provides a unique setting for a wedding whether you’re local to the islands or visiting from abroad. We talk to bridal magazine and wedding photographer Matt “Hush” of www.weddingphotosmalta.com about the charms of a tying the knot on the Isle of Calypso.

If you ask anyone whose chosen to get married in Gozo, the attraction of the island as a wedding destination, generally fall under a few broad and probably quite obvious headings. The top of the list, in my experience from the numerous visiting brides and grooms we have photographed over these past years would include, the strong probability of good weather, the opportunity to celebrate outdoors, the romance of rustic charm and a Mediterranean backdrop and the overall experience in doing something ơ Ǥ are other great reasons as to why Gozo is a perfect wedding destination, for example, tying in a memorable holiday/honeymoon as part of your wedding

Ǥ ǡ Ƥ ƪ from most wedding vendors, who will be only to happy to accommodate ideas – the only limitation is your imagination and of course budget. On the mat Ƥ ǡ ǡ ơ ǡ get more for what you spend, particularly if you plan your day alone or alongside a good, local to Gozo, wedding organizer.

Whether you are seeking a Catholic Mass in a ǡ a small chapel or a civil ceremony at a unique ǡ ơ Ǥ gards to reception options, the possibilities for functions is endless, for example, a luxurious banquet at one of our 5 star hotels, a dream reception and party at one of the dedicated outdoor wedding venues or award winning restaurants or bespoke soiree at one of the numerous picturesque farmhouses.

Matt and the team of photographers at www.thisishush.com and www.weddingphotosmalta.com are available ơ

to visiting couples. Contact: hushabye@me.com | +356 2763 0443 | +356 9993 0443.

ơ ǡ although connecting with them from abroad may not always be the easiest thing to accomplish, so start with a date and establish the most important aspects of your day, research a little on the inter Ƥ out who is at the top of their game with important features such as catering, photography, hair styling, Ǧ ǡ ǡ ƪ Ǥ dots for yourself.

ơ so many opportunities to create memories that will last a lifetime. From a photographic point of view, the abundance of natural light, rustic backdrops and country landscapes and seascapes is a dream setting for weddings and with our renowned laid back and friendly attitude your are sure to have a day to remember that will be cherished by yourselves and your guests for years to come.

y l u r t s i o z o G “ e h t n i l e w e j a ” n a e n a r r e t i d Me

TOTAL GUIDE GETTING AROUND Upon arrival at Malta Airport in order to get over to Gozo then you will need to take an airport transfer. Victory Garage (www.victory-garage.com) and Mayjo Car Rentals both offer direct and indirect airport transfers. The advantage of a direct transfer is that you are picked up directly from the airport and driven onto the ferry and straight to your destination in Gozo. With an indirect transfer you will be transferred to the ferry terminal where you will leave your driver and go onto the ferry as foot passengers, you will then be picked up by another company on arrival in Gozo. Cost wise there is a difference, direct transfers cost circa €60 and an indirect transfer €35-40 Whether you enjoy exploring by foot, bike, car, boat, plane, or public transport, Gozo is one of the most accessible islands that you could visit. To get the best out of what Gozo has to offer we certainly advise hiring a car for at least a couple of days, expect to pay around €15-€25 Euros per day depending on make and model of the car. We recommend Mayjo Car Rentals (www.mayjocarhire.com), and Gozo Garage (www.gozogarage.com).

A great way to see the Island is by bus, unfortunately the Old Gozitan bus’s that used to be the character of the Island are no

longer in use but the bus system is now larger and a lot more reliable. Ticket prices are extremely reasonable, a 2 hour ticket cost €2.20, a 1 day ticket €2.60 and a 7 day ticket €12. For routes and timetables visit www.arriva.com.mt

operated between Gozo and Malta by the Gozo Channel Company is the lifeblood for citizens on the island. There are frequent ferry services between Gozo and Malta and the service operates 24/7. During the daytime the ferry operates roughly every 45 min between 06.00am and 21.00pm.

Over the last couple of years Gozo has seen Between 23.00pm and 05.00am the ferry operates roughly every 90 min. Ferry tickets the introduction of several companies for foot passengers costs €4.65, children, offering sightseeing tours on open top, double deck buses. The companies offer trips €1.15 and for a car and driver the cost is €15.70 return. Please note that tickets are around the island taking in all of the sights and sounds that Gozo has to offer and they purchased at Mgarr Harbour, Gozo. See are a fun way to see the island. There are www.gozochannel.com for further details. currently two companies offering this kind of Sporty readers can hire a bike and explore service, The Malta Sightseeing Company, Gozo at their own leisure, renting a bike is a and The City Sightseeing Company. The service offered by Malta sightseeing departs great way to see the Island and a company from Mgarr harbour and visits the Maritime called On Two Wheels, based in Marsalforn Museum, Savina creativity centre, the rent out mountain bikes, mopeds and motorbikes.

Ggantija Temples and Xaghra Windmill, Calypso's Cave, Marsalforn, Ta’Pinu Basilica, See www.ontwoweheelsgozo.com.

The Crafts Village, The Azure Window, A great way to see the island which is fun Fontana cottage and Xlendi Bay. The tour starts and ends back at Mgarr harbour and and exhilarating is on a quad bike. Hiring a quad bike allows you to see parts of Gozo passes by the Victoria bus station a number where cars are not permissible. Quad bike of times. Passengers can get on and off the hire prices are as follows; three hours €45, 5 bus at any time. Please see hours €55, 7 hours €65, 9 hours €75, if you www.maltasightseeing.com or www.city-sightseeing.com for more details. hire the quad for two days or more the cost is €55 daily Please see The Ferry service from Mgarr Harbour www.gozoquadhire.com for further details

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Chauffeur Services Accommodation

Airport Transfers

Victory Garage, based in Xaghra, are a transport company who have over 30 years experience in the tourist industry. A family run business, Victory garage, provide a comprehensive 24 hour service including airport transfers, taxi service, chauffeur driven cars, sightseeing and guided tours, We can also offer luxury two-bed roomed apartments and a magnificent three-bed roomed farmhouses, with private swimming pool, situated in the picturesque village of Xaghra

Tel: +356 2155 1051, Mobile: +35699494054/+35699491771 Email: victorygarage@gmail.com

www.victory-garage.com

TOTAL GUIDE GETTING AROUND Mayjo car rentals: Since 1964, The number one choice of Car hire on Gozo!

Mayjo, a family run company, has been providing auto rental and airport transfer services since 1964 on Gozo and Malta, making it the first rental company ever established on Gozo and a household name on the island.

Mayjo also specialises on low cost door to door airport transfers on a 24Hr basis. The company operates a personalised service and can take the traveller anywhere in Malta and Gozo by taxi or minivan depending on the number of people.

The dedication and commitment of the management team and support staff has been the basis of the company's growth, and today Mayjo operates one of the leading car hire and transport services on the island.

The secret of our success: We believe the main reason of Mayjo’s success story is in offering a value added and quality service while keeping prices low and with no hidden charges. Good service is given priority which has helped the company in building a solid reputation on the island and forming excellent customer relationships. Mayjo continues to strive to give the best possible personalised and professional service to all its clients.

Our promise: Mayjo care for the well-being of its customers and thus all cars are thoroughly checked and valeted before each rental. The fleet is routinely maintained and regularly serviced. Mayjo is environmentally conscious and provides low emission vehicles. 24Hr roadside assistance ensures our clients are promptly assisted.

Not just car hire and airport transfers: Mayjo not only provide car hire and transport services but has expanded in many other services to be able to meet the demands of a larger client portfolio which includes families, couples, individuals and large and small groups. We also work with many tour operators in order to suit the varying needs of today’s discerning traveller.

Mayjo will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in May 2014. The company would like to take the opportunity to thank its clients and employees for their continued loyalty, without which Mayjo would not be the success it is today.

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Chauffer Services Accommodation

Airport Transfers

Airport Transfers(Taxi & Minivan) 49 Chauffer Driven Service Victory Garage, based in Xaghra, are a transport company who have over 30 years experience in the tourist industry.

A family run business, Victory garage, provide a comprehensive 24 hour Malta & Gozo Tours • Jeep Tours service including airport transfers, taxi service, chauffeur driven cars, sightseeing and guided tours, Scooter Hire • Car Hire OVER

YEARS OF EXCELLENT SERVICE

We can also offer luxury two-bedroomed apartments and a magnificent three-bedroomed farmhouses, with private swimming pool, situated in the picturesque village of Xaghra

Tel: +356 2155 1051, Mobile: +35699494054/+35699491771

Tel: (00356) 2155 6678Email: / 2155 1772 victorygarage@gmail.com Mob: (00356) 9989 0600 / 99802505 www.victory-garage.com

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO: ......................................

DIVE SCHOOL

Scubadiving

Have you ever wanted to take the plunge ?

Tom Steiner van den Ouweelen and Audrey Cudel from Gozo Technical Diving have all of the answers...

IS DIVING DANGEROUS ?

Tom - Let’s be honest, Diving is not dangerous if you get the proper training and if you gain experience in between courses, there is no Zero to Hero formula, dive within you limits and don’t push them, choose carefully an experienced Diving Instructor. Cheap is for sure not good!

Quality is something that you will have to pay and at the end it’s your safety that comes first.

Of course accidents do happen, but Scuba Diving is a very safe activity in general..

18-20m) until they are successfully achieved. The practical applications cover a range of topics reviewed throughout the theory such as diving physics, physiology, environment, equipment and safety drills.

DO ANY MEDICAL CONDITIONS RULE PEOPLE OUT ?

Tom - You need to be fit that’s for sure, not an Iron Man or Iron woman but be fit, know how to swim, you will have to do a swim test for the first level. The best is to go to a Hyperbaric Doctor and have a full examination to know if you are fit to dive or not. Any medication or health problem has to be checked prior enrolling a course, it’s for your own safety and the safety of your Instructor.

There is a very good Hyperbaric doctor on Gozo.

located north: Billinghurst Cave. To be covered fully, this cave should only be explored with a redundant configuration (Sidemount or Twinset) according to me. It is full of life and even though a part of it collapsed, when I am exploring the inner structure of it, I have the feeling that when the sea level was much lower thousands of years ago, it must have been a man-made temple, quite similar to the Hypogeum place in Malta.

YOU RECENTLY SET UP A BUSINESS ON GOZO, WAS IT EASY TO DO ?.

Audrey - After living in Egypt, I assumed that one setting up a business in Gozo should expect to benefit from most of the existing European ad HOW MUCH DOES IT COST ? local regulations. In reality this assumption is Audrey - A try dive costs around 40-50 euros both true and false: getting accustomed to the depending on the diving school. It’s a good first way things work on the administrative side and underwater experience, a sensation dive which WHAT ARE THE DANGERS FOR A CASUAL all the expected paper work is not always so easy gives one the basics of diving. So as to become a DIVER ? and requires a lot of support and patience. certified diver, one needs to complete a first level Audrey - A casual recreational diver is exposed However having a reliable system also supports certification with one of the existing diving to a variety of dangers which can be partly the business set up through steady regulations organizations such as PADI, CMAS, SDI, BSAC, controlled. Being fit both in the body and the and a business environment strongly supported SSI, etc… they all basically provide a first training attitude we have facing the dive we are about to by the MTA (Malta Tourism Authority) investexperience covering the safety rules of diving, the make is the first advice I would give to any diver. ments and the PDSA (Professional Diving School equipment management and buoyancy basics It means one should not dive if tired, sick, Association) consortium for diving activities both allowing a diver to go down to 18-20m depth stressed or under any kind of medication or drug in Gozo and Malta. They both emphasize on the once certified. The duration of the course can influence. It also means that one should be common work and communication between dive vary depending on the organization and the aware of the equipment he is preparing to dive centres on the islands and abroad from a diving school from 4 up to 5 days and the cost with, its own limits in regards to his experience marketing point of view. The investments made including the equipment, the manuals and and the environment he is about to explore to create a friendly diving environment (facilitate certification can go from 300 up to 400 euros compared to his diving experience: when was the dive sites accesses through signs, road and average. last time I have been diving? Am I familiar with ladders, multiply projects such as additional this environment? Are the weather and water artificial wrecks, …) and attract more divers WHAT IS PADI ? conditions good enough? Am I familiar with the definitely helps. From a local aspect point of Tom/Audrey - PADI is the Professional Associa- local diving regulations and the expected dive view, all the people we have been working with tion of Diving Instructors, it’s actually the biggest profile (depth, current, visibility, temperature)? so far: builders, accountants and other dive dive organisation on the planet. They have books Did I plan this dive? The marine life is hardly ever centres on Gozo, have been very supportive and in many languages and very good material and a danger to the diver as long as he respects the friendly. they offer all types of courses from Beginner to environment not touching anything. The dangers The tips I would give to a foreigner looking to Advanced , Technical and Instructor courses..It mostly come from inexperienced divers who buy a business in Gozo is first of all to be patient. was created in 1966 and counts nowadays about intend to go beyond their limits.

Second thing, I would strongly suggest that he 100 000 professional members, 5000 dive centres gets a good accountant to support him with the in 175 countries. PADI Instructors deliver FAVORITE PLACES TO DIVE ON GOZO ? way taxes, VAT, and all financial aspects work certifications from beginner level up to instructor Tom - For me Billinghurst and Reqqa Point are when having a business in Malta. Last but not trainer (course director) level in the recreational the best dive spots of Gozo, but they all have least, I would suggest that he keeps on chasing and technical diving activities through a variety of something magic and something different. companies he expects to work with. Gozo is a courses, specialties and other programs. Most of Wrecks are beautiful, caverns and caves as well. busy island where most of the people have two the courses are supported in 20 languages Gozo has is the perfect place where any diver of or three jobs at the same time and it is not including manuals, videos and well-structured any level will find what he searches for . always easy to schedule when work should be training sessions. Its powerful marketing Audrey - Gozo offers a variety of dive places with completed. .................................................................... worldwide make a lot of beginner divers ask first different profiles in terms of depth, topography, to do their “Padi Open Water” without knowing entrances...such as drop offs, caverns, wrecks. The Tom and Audrey from Gozo Technical Diving what PADI is place is unfortunately no longer so famous for marine life which has been taken away those past HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO LEARN ? years. However, underwater photography lovers Audrey - A try dive requires about half a day will still enjoy a range of macro life and groups of including the diving equipment presentation and dentex, tunas, barracudas, groupers depending the practical session. A first level certification on the season. such as PADI Open Water or CMAS* shall require As a technical diver and depending on my mood, about 4-5 days depending on the number of I love to go and explore the south wrecks of students and each student’s ability to cope with Gozo with an adapted configuration and gas this new environment. The training includes both mixes so as to extend my bottom time there. I am a theory part and practical applications first in also keen on Inland Sea which offers an amazing shallow water (5m maximum)which are then visibility down of the drop offs and a variety of mygozo magazine Page 58 repeated during open water sessions (max cracks to explore. One of my favourite places is

One of the main advantages of diving in Gozo is that many of the dive sites are accessible from the shore. The dive schools on the island are generally led by well-qualified multilingual instructors who have many years experience of diving around the shores. If you are new to diving there are a few legal

requirements that have to be taken into consideration. The youngest age that you can dive is 10 years old and under 18’s will require written a parent or consent. Most of the courses on the island offer beginners courses which generally consist of 1 to 2 hours of actual classroom based teaching on equipment and safety procedures, you will then normally be introduced into shallow waters were you will practise breathing in the water and you would then usually dive for around half an hour in the sea. Expect to pay about €45 for a beginner's lesson, although cost will vary from school to school. All diving schools also offer more advanced and longer courses, including CMAS, BSAC and PADI qualifications and also the opportunity to rent equipment for more experienced divers who hold the relevant qualifications to dive unaccompanied.

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If you're reading this then the chances are that you are attending one of the many diving schools that are available on the island. Gozo is a very popular destination for many European, and in fact global divers and is known throughout the world as an excellent diving location with many caves, reefs and wrecks to explore. There are some excellent diving schools throughout the island and all of the diving schools on the island of Gozo adhere to the highest safety procedures.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver there are courses available for all levels.

Diving is possible all year round and underwater visibility is more than 30 metres.

Gozo has some excellent dive sites these include Billinghurst Cave, the Blue Hole and Chimney, Coral Cave, Crocodile Rock, Double Arch Reef, Fessej Rock, Fungus Rock, Reqqa Point, San Dimitri Point, Ta’Cenc, Wied-IlGhasri, Xatt l’Ahmar and Xlendi Cave and Reef.

Over the past 15 years several ex Gozo Channel Ferries have been scuttled around Gozo and provide an excellent artificial reef for divers.

The MV Xlendi was originally scuttled in 1999 in the waters off IX-Xatt, just to the West of Mgarr. The MV Xlendi sits on the bottom of the ocean, some 40 metres deep and what makes it fascinating to divers is that it is positioned up-side down. In 2006, MV Xlendi

TOTAL GUIDE WATERSPORTS

was joined by two more ships, The Comino Land and The Karwela.

If you don't fancy donning a wet suit there are some excellent snorkelling sites located throughout the Islands and we highly recommend the Blue lagoon on Comino, Mgarr-IXXini, The Inland Sea and San Blas Bay. A great way to see the island is by hiring a self drive motorboat. It is possible to go around the island in a day, and is a great way to spend a day in the sun, take a picnic and enjoy the scenery. Xlendi pleasure cruises offer self drive boats out of Xlendi Bay. They have various boats available is available, booking is available on the pier in Xlendi as well as at their booking office in Marsalforn . They also offer boat trips to Comino and around the Island, The Gozo Princess, please see www.xlendipleasurecruises.com or contact them on 0035699478119/2155 9967 for further details. Canoes, pedalos and trips on a banana boat can be booked via Lewis, once again at the pier in Xlendi. Lewis can be contacted on 0035699427917. A stay on Gozo would not be complete without a trip to the blue lagoon on Comino.

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It may be Dark ...

It may be Deep ...

... but It does not have to be on Air

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO: ......................................

Underwater Photography

UNDERWATER SHOTS

Have you always wondered what it’s like to take the perfect shot beneath the surface ? expert Pete Bullen has all of the answers...

It's easy to take photographs underwater; taking good photographs is harder but it still isn't rocket science. Even "cheap point and shoot” compact cameras are capable of taking good shots within their limitations. The more expensive/bigger the cameras are, the fewer the limitations. Of course this is a big generalisation but it broadly holds true, especially when added to a large budget, but the basic skills are the same regardless of the size of the camera and all over the world, people are taking award winning shots with relatively inexpensive compact camera setups. Most people who take cameras underwater periodically get good or even great shots, the problem is that they rarely understand what they did differently on that occasion to the poor or mediocre results that they usually get. In consequence they keep 5. Taking photographs clicking away underwater in the hope that a few RAW or JPEG, white balance or post processing ? of their shots will be good enough.

The more advanced cameras generally offer a choice of formats and if so I always choose RAW Rules are there to be broken; but you have to and sort out white balance on the computer understand what the rules are before you can afterwards, this gives me one less task underwabreak them successfully so if you would like to ter to worry about. If the camera I'm using take more good shots and fewer poor ones then doesn't have a RAW option then I white balance here are a few of my rules/tips to get you started. every time I ascend or descend more than a couple of metres or move from a well lit to a 1. Set your camera up in a clean dry area darker area or vice versa. before you get to the dive site or onto the boat. Wind, waves, dust and other people can all 6. Choose your subject and stick with it, if you contribute to a kinked or contaminated Do ring find a cooperative cuttlefish for example, why just seal that will cause a flood and ruin your camera. take a couple of quick snaps and move on ? Take I almost never open my camera again after your time, approach it slowly and gently and setting it up until the end of the day when I've keep taking photographs until you are confident finished diving. that you've got the best shot you can air, buddy and safe diving conditions allowing.

2. Enter the water carefully. Wherever possible I get someone to hand me my camera once I'm 7. Remember your buddy. It's easy to get so in the water, or I clip it off to the boat hanging in wrapped up in taking photographs that you the water and collect it once I'm in and safe. If forget/neglect your buddy so plan the dive that isn't possible then I try to protect the camera accordingly. I've found the best way is for two by raising it up as I enter with a giant stride so photographers to dive together and share the that the camera's impact with the water is as load, while one is taking photographs the other gentle as possible. I also keep lens caps in place can be observing, modelling, keeping an eye on until I'm ready to descend. the photographer's fin tips and even lifting them off any innocent coral, looking for other subjects 3. Always get yourself sorted before checking in the immediate area, acting as safety diver etc. the camera. Far too often I see people jump then they swap roles. into the water and as they bobble back to the surface their heads are in the water checking the 8. Be aware of the environment. Whether you camera for leaks. A leak can ruin your day but a are taking photographs of reefs, wrecks, fish or kit problem that sees you unable to control your macro subjects, they look best if they are as you buoyancy can ruin much more. found them, knocking coral off, kicking up the So get yourself buoyant and stable, finns on and vis, disturbing an animal to get the perfect shot is safe before worrying about the camera. not only unforgivable but it's self defeating, for example many fish like to sit close to the bottom 4. Negative, positive or neutral ? This is always facing into the current, so getting a close up shot a matter of personal preference but I like my including the eyes generally involves being camera to be slightly negative, however, the upstream of them. Any sand or debris that you important word there is “slightly”. Whilst I always kick up through careless fin positioning or poor have my camera secured to a D ring on the left buoyancy control will drift down to the fish and side of my chest, if I let go of my camera I don't ruin your shot. So if you can't get the shot want it floating up in front of my face or behind without doing some damage move on, there will my head but I do want it only slightly negatively always be other chances. weighted so that holding it isn't going to give me wrist strain by the end of the dive.

9. Control your buoyancy. A good diver doesn't need to lie on the bottom or reef to get the shot, be prepared to invert, hang upside down and shoot from that angle, it's easy to turn the photograph back the right way once it's on the computer but you need good dive skills to achieve this.

10. Shoot upwards, getting below the subject and shooting upwards is key to getting good shots of most subjects, off the top of my head I can only think of a couple of subjects that look best shot from above but in the main, whether you are photographing a wreck, a fish or a nudibranch being below the subject works best.

11.Think about what you want your photograph to say, are you trying to show a fish in it's natural habitat ?, create a piece of art for your wall ? or illustrate the natural colours of something for an article? In other words tell the story!

12. Get the background right. Always think about the composition of your shot and this starts with getting the background right. The best shot in the world of a well camouflaged scorpion fish will just be a blurred mess if you have failed to separate the fish from it's background unless you intended the shot to demonstrate how well some fish hide themselves.

If you would like help with your underwater photography then please contact me. I could write pages on each of the points above and many more besides. I'm happy to offer my thoughts on equipment and problems just drop me a line through my web site www.oceanfoto.co.uk or by email pete@oceanfoto.co.uk. You can also find me at The Captains Table, Moby Dives in Xlendi Pete Bullen is a professional underwater photographer who lives on Gozo where he shares his passion for the undersea world and coaches and guides underwater photographers. If you would like any professional photographs then do not hesitate to contact Pete at the email above.

mygozo magazine Page 60

Kayaking is a great way to explore Gozo’s diverse and varied coastline with its caves, hidden coves and picturesque bays and beaches. With Comino only a ten minute paddle away it is the best way to see the islands taking your time to enjoy the water from a different perspective.

Gozo is naturally rocky and is a hidden treasure for climbers with its numerous inland crags that are rarely visited by tourist to it's stunning sea cliffs offering long multi-pith climbs for the more experienced climber. There are bolted sport climbs that are suitable for beginners up to experienced climbers and the island now boasts the longest roof climb in the world, bouldering, traditional climbs and deep water soloing in the summer months are also well developed.

Making Gozo a destination that can only grow in popularity for climbers.

Gozo’s national symbol is the three hills

and even though the highest point on the island is no greater than 450 meters above sea level there are a great number of cycling routes that offer a wide range of challenges.

They lead through quaint villages, along quiet roads, peaceful hills, rough seaside tracks, picturesque valleys and historical sites.

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The Maltese Islands are a paradise for adventure lovers from Kayaking to Climbing, Biking to Hiking almost anything is possible. Spoiled by the sun surrounded by crystal clear waters and a unique landscape Gozo offers a perfect all year natural playground. With its Mediterranean climate adventure activities are possible all year round with the winter months leaning towards land based activities and the summer months water based activities.

Hiking is one of the most relaxing and rewarding activities as Gozo has a special charm. If you are looking for peace and quiet there are a number of walks that take you along the tops of cliffs and winding valleys with stunning scenery and local treasures. During the winter months the island is lush and green covered with wild flowers and scented herbs, this is also the time to enjoy the bustling life of Victoria or explore one of the most diverse histories in Europe with its temples and archeological abundance. During in the summer the island is more arid but walking along the coastline and beaches one can take the opportunity to cool down in the sea swimming and snorkeling.

If you are active the island will keep you entertained for weeks and if you take the time to explore it will reveal years of history and beautiful locations. If you are visiting for only a short period then we would recommend contacting Gozo Adventures who offer an authentic and exilerating way

TOTAL GUIDE ADVENTURE

to experience the best that the Island has to offer including activity tours, kayaking, eco tours and climbing and abseiling. Tel: +356 99994592. www.gozoadventures.com Victor Muscat horse riding offer a unique and adventurous horse riding experience through the hills and valleys of Gozo. Riding on horseback is a unique way to see the island. We advise contacting victor at least two days before you wish to ride to avoid disappointment. Victor also offers courage to most of the island we can sit back and relax and experience the hidden beauties of those are aboard one of their stylish carriages. For further details please see www.vmcarriages.com for further details.

Gozo pride Tours offer a selection of tours that will give you a good taste of what the Island has to offer. Their Jeep and Quad Bike Safari’s are able to reach places that are not accessible by coaches or mini buses, taking shortcuts through the countryside giving you the chance to take dramatic photographs and see breathtaking scenery.

Gozo pride tours run from Monday to Saturday and price includes transport to and from accommodation, ferry tickets (if coming from Malta) and lunch. They offer half day and full day packages. Please see www.gozopridetours.com for further details.

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Sea Kayaking

Paddle Gozo and Comino’s coastline by kayak and discover the islands stunning scenery from a different perspective.

Visit sea caves, secluded beaches and picturesque inlets.

Half day €45, Full day € 65 pp including a picnic lunch.

ACTIVITY - ADVENTURE - EXPERIENCE

Activity Tours

Explore areas of the island that are rarely visited by choosing from two of the following activities to try in one day: *Climbing & Abseiling *Swimming & Snorkelling * Hiking *Biking. Tour €65 pp including a picnic lunch.

Eco Tours

Discover more about life in Gozo by meeting local people at work and at play. Learn about daily life, past traditions, and sample local food. Tour €75 pp including a restaurant lunch.

Climbing & Abseiling If you are looking to climb or abseil on Gozo then look no further! Our experienced guides will take you to the best locations on the island to suit your experience and ability.

Half day €45, Full day € 65 pp including a picnic lunch.

7 Triq Sant Indrija, Victoria, Gozo, VCT 1250 Office: (00 356) 21 564 592, Cornil (00 356) 9999 4689 www.gozoadventures.com - info@gozoadventures.com

www.xlendicruises.com xlendiwatersports@hotmail.co.uk

www.xlendicruises.com

• Half Day Boat Trips Around Comino With 2 Swimmimg Stops At Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon & Caves •Boat Charter With Skipper • Half Day Around Gozo & Comino (Blue Lagoon) • Fast Power Boat Trips On All Trips Buffet Served on board (optional) Free use of masks on board Transport from your hotel/accommodation See brochure for further details

•+ 9 34 2 5 4 + 356 9942 7917 • + 356 99

• + 356 2155 190 9 0 9 1 1 1 9 356 99

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mygozo magazine Page 63

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Copyright 2012 Hancock Limited

Comino

Qala Point

ACTIVITY - ADVENTURE - EXPERIENCE

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1: Azure Window 2: Ta Dbiegi Craft Village 3: Ta’ Pinu Basilica 4: Wied Il Mielah Sea Arch 5: Ta’ Gordan Lighthouse 6: The Citadel 7: Calypso’s Cave 8: Ggantija Temples 9: Blue Lagoon 10: Ta Cenc Cliffs 11: Cart Ruts & Dolmans 12: Sannap Cliffs

Wardija Point

Dwejra Bay

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San Dimitri Point

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keeping Gozitan culinary traditions alive ! visit us to watch food in the making & free food sampling MAIN ROUNDABOUT

XEWKIJA CHAPEL

HELIPORT

GOZO FERRY GHAJNSIELEM TERMINAL

TO VICTORIA MAGRO FOOD VILLAGE

From Mgarr Harbour follow the main road to Victoria, until you reach the main roundabout.

Then follow the signs to The Magro Food Village

the magro food village xewkija, gozo - malta www.magro.com.mt visits@magro.com.mt

+356 2155 6663