AUTUMN 2020 OCTOBER 2021 After the blaze of summer, autumn is here and with a refreshing dip in temperature, the season allows for versatility in activities. It is the perfect time of the year to engage in outdoor activities without being burdened with too high or too low temperatures. Autumn in Malta offers temperatures that favour both swimming and even exploring the land without suffering of the excessive summer heat. In this issue, we make our way to some of the best outdoor picnics spots where visitors can relax, unwind and enjoy nothing but fresh air. We can’t forget the sister Island of Gozo, where travellers can explore the picturesque villages, be adventurous, follow hiking trails and even cycle around the island. One of the island’s hidden assets, apart from the beaches, is the local cuisine, which anyone can find all over the place. During a trip to Malta, don’t forget to taste the islands very own seasonal specialities like Lampuki and prickly pears… it’s a must! With travel restrictions being lifted, Oh My Malta always strives to strike the right balance of information and inspiration by promoting travel to the Maltese islands while advocating that it be done responsibly.
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Considering the challenges of kickstarting a tourism industry that was hit by the worst crisis in history, the travel health regulations that needed to be adhered to in order to safeguard the health of residents and visitors alike was just the top of the iceberg.
different air routes as well as flight frequencies as well as to keep the operation of tourism investments, like hotels and other accommodation establishments, catering establishments, museums, venues and attractions feasible and profitable.
Challenges also included the time needed to overcome the fear of travelling that instilled into the mind of many, as well as the fact that families could not travel to Malta and Gozo because some members had not received two doses of the vaccine.
It is crucial that this is inflow pursues to keep multiple direct and indirect service providers to the industry in employment all year round.
There was also the fact that big competition from competitor destinations were all vying for the precious tourist, and therefore it can certainly be said with gratitude that tourism traffic to the Maltese Islands progressively improved week after week.
Despite being far from 2019 touristic levels, in the long term we need to balance volumes with higher yield per tourist.
Numbers are growing still even though the traditional peak of summer has now passed. This a perfect example of turning challenges into opportunities. Results progressively became better than expected as traveler confidence grew and health travel regulations became clearer and standardized. Volumes are needed to guarantee air connectivity, the
Also, they are of paramount importance for the retail sector, particularly in the main tourism zones.
We must aim to offer higher value, even better experiences for the tourist, that shall induce the visitor to pay and spend more in the Maltese Islands. Our plan needs to be based on a diversified strategy that is useful enough to spread tourism inflows throughout the year. In the coming weeks we will continue working hard to develop the markets, niches and segments that will edge us closer to our vision of making Malta a home of tourism excellence.
CLAYTON BARTOLO Minister for Tourism and Consumer Protection
CONTENTS Issue 11 • October 2021 Oh My Malta is a B2B publication, published quarterly in partnership, with the Malta Tourism Authority. It promotes Malta and Gozo as a destination and treats readers to different aspects of Maltese life, culture, culinary delights and business
Published by
WHAT'S HAPPENING Coordinating Editors Amy Micallef Decesare Philippa Zammit Sales Coordinator Marisa Schembri mschembri@mediatoday.com.mt Design Amy Micallef Decesare Philippa Zammit Photography James Bianchi Registered Address Vjal ir-Riħan San Gwann SGN9016 Malta Email mschembri@mediatoday.com.mt Contact Number +356 2138 2741 Cover by James Bianchi
6 Events happening
around Malta and Gozo
ADVENTURE TIME 14 Smashing records on sail boats
20 Outdoor activities in Gozo
24 Picturesque picnics 26 Spotlight on St Julian's
40
HISTORY AND CULTURE
44
32
YOUR STAY
LOCAL TALENT
16
Villa Bighi: the historical venue
30 Elegant hospitality
40 Interview with:
18
Guarding the Grand Harbour
32 Top food spots in St
44 X Factor Malta:
Julian's
36 Launching lampuki season
artist Tina Mifsud Meet the judges
WHAT'S ON 1-2 October
LUV Concert St George’s Square, Republic Street, Valletta, Malta | 20:00 - 23:00
Festivals Malta proudly presents the LUV Concerts. Don't miss out on an unforgettable evening featuring Versatile and Brass House Unit as they rock the stage on day one. Day two will feature Tribali and ManaTapu as they perform some of their greatest hits! The event is free of charge.
Ġulja Holland’s third solo show in Malta and marks her return to the local art scene following her move to London in 2019. Thematically, the exhibition links to her previous solo exhibition which was reflected upon man’s impact on the natural environment. In her new body of work, the artist offers a more intimate and localised interpretation of a global crisis.
1-14 October
iMprint V Art Galleries of the Malta Society of Arts, Palazzo de La Salle, 219, Republic Street, Valletta
When Your Voice Shakes Solo Exhibition 1-6 October
This exhibition, curated by Jesmond Vassallo, is the only exhibition of its kind in Malta that focusses exclusively on excellent works in the language of intaglio printmaking. By now, iMprint has become a staple in Malta’s art calendar. In past editions, iMpint exhibited works by stalwarts Frank Portelli, Horst Janssen, Marino Marini and Chagall. The aim of the exhibition is to enhance awareness about the art of original printmaking, particularly intaglio processes. We are pleased to announce that this year’s edition of iMprint will feature a retrospective section consisting of works made by the well-known Carmelo Mangion.
will be tastings of French products, cocktails, and more. There will also be a raffle draw with a prize featuring products of the market, coupled with other great surprises!
5 October
Masterpieces in Miniature Church of St. Anthony of Padova, Ghajnsielem | 20:00
This chamber concert as part of GauLive feature three of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra’s principals in a varied recital full of and enchanting tone colours. The programme presents original works and transcriptions that celebrate the intrinsic links between masterpieces for winds. Johann Sebastian Bach’s friendship with Georg Philipp Telemann is reflected in the presentation of his Solo Partita for Flute with Telemann’s Canonic Sonata wheareas Mozart and Bizet’s mutual melodic gifts are also evidenced. French composers Ibert and Saint-Saens give a taste of impressionism as Vella’s ouvre pays homage to Debussy. For more information regarding tickets visit maltaorchestra.com/
8-9 October
When Your Voice Shakes - Solo Exhibition
3 October
Street, Sliema, Malta | 15:00 – 20:00
Spazju Kreattiv Theatre, St James Cavalier,
Studi 87, Liesse Hill, Valletta | Weekdays
Embark on a journey through Mediterranean culture embracing the art of artisans on the Islands of Malta and Gozo! During this event, there
Eyes to Argus released their new album ‘in habit’ this summer. The band will perform ‘in habit’ in its entirety
15:00-19:00, Saturday 10:00-13:00
‘When Your voice shakes’ shall be
6
OH MY MALTA
Frenchy Market AX Palazzo Capua, George Borg Olivier
Eyes to Argus – in habit | Live Castille Place, Valletta | 20:00
at Spazju Kreattiv on the 8th and 9th of October to celebrate the album being out in the world. ‘in habit’ is about the spaces the band grew up in, the spaces that changed throughout the years, and the people within and around those spaces. The stage has been designed with Late Interactive to visualise the core themes, colours, and moods of the album. The event will be opened by Aidan Somers on Friday and Bennie Blue on Saturday. Get your tickets from www.kreattivita.org.
9 October
Opera in the City The Three Tenors
Enjoy a programme of explosive vocal fireworks, filled with sparkle and operatic extravaganza, starring Nico Darmanin, Alan Sciberras and Cliff Zammit Stevens accompanied by Sofia Narmania at the piano. Seats are limited. Please send an email to info@vca.gov.mt or call on 21242018 to reserve your seats.
9 October
Eroica: A Symphonic Finale Teatru Aurora, Victoria | 20:00
St. George's Square, Valletta | 20:30
The MPO closes the 14th edition of Gaulitana: A Festival of Music in a concert marking the orchestra’s return to symphonic concerts in Gozo since 2019.
Experience the magnificence, elegance and power of three tenor voices in a beautiful outdoor setting at St George's Square in Valletta. An evening of world famous operatic tunes that will be sure to leave you humming and buzzing.
Conducted by the festival’s Artistic Director Colin Attard, the programme belatedly commemorates the 250th birth anniversary of Beethoven with a performance of his majestic Eroica. The work’s nickname provides also a fitting
Joseph Calleja and Andrea Bocelli
tribute to all frontliners who were crucial as the world dealt with the pandemic. For more information regarding tickets visit maltaorchestra.com.
9 October
MET Live: Boris Godunov Spazju Kreattiv Cinema, St James Cavalier, Castille Place, Valletta | 18:55
Bass René Pape, the world’s reigning Boris, reprises his tremendous portrayal of the tortured tsar caught between grasping ambition and crippling paranoia, kicking off the highly anticipated 2021–22 Live in HD season. Conductor Sebastian Weigle leads Mussorgsky’s masterwork, a pillar of the Russian repertoire, in its original 1869 version. Stephen Wadsworth’s affecting production poignantly captures the hope and suffering of the Russian people, as well as the title ruler himself. Get your tickets from kreattivita.org
XFactor Chair Challenge 9,11,12,13 October
XFactor Chair Challenge MFCC - Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre, Attard, Malta | 19:00
X Factor Malta returns with a bang for its iconic Chair Challenge filming. Join the Overs on the 9th, the Girls on the 11th, the Boys on the 12th and the Groups on the 13th October. This is a seated event, limited to 500 seats per event, in line with local Covid-19 rules and regulations and admittance shall be exclusively on presentation of a valid vaccination certificate and is required for entry to the event. Tickets are available for the special price of €10 and €25. Get them from showshappening.com
serve as a testament to the resilience of both a budding singer-songwriter in search of her own voice and a reinvigorated woman seizing control over her life and creative powers. Book your table on www.chitzo.com
11 October
Noah Fabri Live Hole in the Wall, High Street, Sliema | 20:00
Musician and author Noah Fabri will be performing new songs in Maltese at Sliema's oldest cafe bar. Tickets are only 2euro and you can get them at www.chitzo.com.
14 October
Save the Earth Pub Quiz The Anvil Pub, Upper Ross Street, St.
Cher Camilleri 10 October
Cher Camilleri Live Storeroom, 7, ix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, Ta’ Xbiex | 20:00
Seeing her picking up where her young self left off, Cher's unassuming, intimate songs also
Julian's
Expand your knowledge about food waste or just enjoy the atmosphere and a drink (or few). A free round of drinks for the first place team.A small donation of 2 euro would be appreciated. Each Team should be between 3-6 people. For more information send an email on extinctionorrebellion@gmail.com.
15 October
Glass & Class: Wines of the Loire Valley Masterclass Villa Bighi, Kalkara, Malta | 19:30
Malta’s leading wine educator Aaron Rizzo will be guiding this masterclass session. During the session Aaron Rizzo will help guests understand what’s in that glass, what went behind it, who made it, where it came from and why it’s so good. The wine tasting experience is a 2-hour event where guests have the opportunity in one night to try a selection of wines from the Loire Valley, located in the middle stretch of the Loire river in central France which includes: Muscadet Sevres & Maine Sur Lie Cuvee Prestige: Domaine Menard – Gaborit; Vouvray: Domaine Du Margalleau; Pouilly Fume’ Biodymanic: Domaine Pascale Kerbiquet; Chinon: Domaine De Clos Godeaux. Matched with Gourmet Nibbles - selection of cured meats, cheeses, fruit, bread and vegetable sticks. The session will be a seated event respecting Covid-19 measures issued
Birgu by Candlelight
The Grid Sprint his apathy gradually turns to anger, Żepp looks for a way to break this vicious cycle. Get your tickets from showshappening.com.
by the Public Health Authorities. In this respect each guest is required to present a copy of their vaccination certificate including identification upon entering the venue. Get your tickets from showshappening.com
16 October
15, 16, 17 October
Banda Trakadum
‘Zepp’ Valletta Campus Theatre - University of Malta | 20:00
Teatru Salesjan presents ‘Żepp’, a new play in Maltese written and performed by Anton Saliba and directed by Chris Galea. Performances will be held this October 15th, 16th, and 17th at the Valletta Campus Theatre (ex-MITP). ‘Żepp’ is a multidisciplinary theatre performance, a collaboration between writer/performer Anton Saliba, director/dramaturg Chris Galea, light designer Moritz Zavan, sound designer Niels Plotard, and production designer Abigail Agius. It is a captivating, deeply personal, and political thriller that tells the story of Joseph Ellul, aka Żepp. Żepp is tired. He has been working in the same office for the past decade. He has not been with his friends for a long time, and he is not on the best of terms with his family. The world around him has completely changed and he feels as if there is little room left for him. As
Peach
Ivy House, Triq Tunis, St. Julian’s | 20:00
Banda Trakadum is musical project where the beat and rhythm is the aim. The Band is a multicultural project formed of four percusionist,( Spain,France, Latvia and Holand) a bass guitar player(Japan), a guitar player(Italy) and two singers (Uruguay and Chile). Mixing and fusion folk music from Brazil, Caribe, Latino América and Africa with some spirit of reggaes and warm music like cumbias, rumba and rock.
16 October
The Grid Sprint Golden Bay, Mellieha
The Grid is Malta’s largest growing outdoor sports event that has taken the island by surprise with numbers doubling every event. The Grid Sprint is a fast, fun and challenging obstacle course race, involving a six-kilometre courseJoseph including obstacles such as Calleja and Andrea Bocelli hurdles, mud pits, rope climbs and sand crawls. Want a rewarding course that
you and your friends won’t stop talking about? Then take on the challenge. Register on https://thegridmalta.com/
16 October
Midnite Snack: Peach Liquid Club Malta, Limiti tal-Balal, San Gwann
Peach needs little to no introduction. After her memorable Midnite debut, she has gone from strength to strength. Her reputation for fast, melodic, electronic, trippy house and techno, combined with her precise layering and mixing has led her to become an industry favourite. Getting booked at some of the best clubs and festivals in the world. Her sounds have graced dance floors at Berghain, Circoloco, De School, Nowadays, Dimensions festival, Love Festival, Melt Festival, Primavera sound, and many more. Peach is an industry star after being pushed and supported by some of the biggest DJs, clubs, and festivals. Supporting Peach on the night will be Midnite Residents Dave Space & Budg. Get your tickets from midnitesnack.mt/
Breathtaking When
meets
A.D
The historical Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta offers you a vast range of venues where you can celebrate your special day - be it inside or outside. Choose from our centuries-rich indoor venues, steeped with character and beauty, or opt to go for the lavish novelty of our rooftop terrace - a stateof-the-art outdoor space with unbeatable views of the Grand Harbour. Either way, you would have certainly selected the perfect venue for your wedding.
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MEDITERRANEAN CONFERENCE CENTRE VA L L E T T A
Photo: Paul Herrera
Beautiful
M A LT A
T: +356 2559 5215 • sales@mcc.com.mt • www.mcc.com.mt
Middle Sea Race 21 October - 11 November
Xlokk Kahlani Art Galleries of the Malta Society of Arts, Palazzo de La Salle, 219, Republic Street, Valletta
‘Xlokk Kaħlani’ unfolds through an intensive documentative research project highlighting a life in Birżebbuġa experienced by the artist, Kamy Aquilina. The “camera”, being used as the main artistic tool, enables the artist to develop experimental works blending photography, light and sound installation, and alternative drawing approaches. These eventually lead to the experienced narrative being exhibited. Through this same personal approach, the artist is also interested in creating a dialogue with the viewers’ own experiences where tangible realities are continuously and rapidly being defined by the beauty and contrasting uglification of many other villages around the island. This project thus aims to resonate in its audience a multisensory experience curated by Carmen Aquilina. Entrance is free.
23 October
Middle Sea Race Ta' Xbiex Seafront, Ta' Xbiex
A true challenge for skippers, the race is blessed with unsurpassed scenery taking competitors close to a number of islands, which form marks of the course. Over the years, the Rolex Middle Sea Race has attracted many sailing greats whose names elicit awe and respect in the sailing community. Famous boats such as Stormvogel, Pen Duick III, War Baby, Mistress Quickly, Riviera di Rimini, Zephyrus IV, Sagamore, Alfa Romeo, Rambler and Maserati. Over 125 yachts from 25 different nations have registered for the 42nd edition! All in all, the 2021 Rolex Middle Sea Race looks likely to be another cracking year.
23, 24 October
XTERRA Malta Majjistral Nature Reserve, Golden Bay
One of the most beautiful venues for a race in the Mediterranean. Experience the natural beauty of the three Maltese Islands with XTERRA Malta! The 23rd and 24th October hosts the XTERRA Malta Triathlon weekend in a beautiful nature reserve. The crystal blue waters of Golden Sands, the breathtaking cliff-edge trails and the family atmosphere that the organisers bring to this tough challenge make this one of the most talked-about multi-sport races. A sprint distance and a team relay make the experience accessible to all. The weekend also includes a kids Event and a fun 6K trail run on the Sunday.
23 October - 31 October
Children's Halloween Wooden Craft Workshop Triq San Giljan, Birkirkara
Get ready for some spooky fun with a Halloween-themed craft event for children aged 5-8 years. Price €12. This one hour event consists of painting and decorating of wooden Halloween masks and wands . All
supplies will be provided and each kid will also get a free goody bag ! Spaces are limited to just five children per class to ensure COVID safety and distancing so kindly message us on facebook to book your space in advance. Send a private message to the @bekscreations Facebook page to book your space in advance.
24 October
Halloween Chocolate and Potion Making Class Malta Chocolate Factory, Bugibba
Looking for something for the little one to do for Halloween? How about
XTERRA
Cuttlefish have an amazing variety of colours and patterns
Travellers a Halloween Chocolate and Potion Making Class.... Only €15 per ticket with very limited seats due to Covid Compliance. Each child will have their own work station where they will fill in two scary chocolate shapes with chocolate then proceed to decorate with some special scary chocolate decorations. The Potions Teacher will then display a scary potion which changes colours. Get your tickets from www. maltachocolatefactory.com.
25 October - 7 November
Taralalla Spazju Kreattiv Theatre, St James Cavalier, Castille Place, Valletta
tracks have a realistic undertone and are based on real life situations of the constant struggle, happiness, challenges and achievements found in everyday life, hence the title: Inżul u Tlajja’. Get your tickets from www. showshappening.com
29 - 30 October Taralla is a drama that explores the utmost complicated web of political phenomena of construction, hectic life and immigration. These themes are the talk of the town but each and every single individual thinks of it differently and affects them differently as well. Cali has had it! Karmni is freaking out with the noise. Martha is exploring a better future with all of this. Taralalla attempts to view each one’s personal perspective. But after all, everyone has to die thus everyone asks for a better life.
29 October
The Travellers Concert : Inżul u Tlajja' MCC, Triq l-Isptar, Valletta
Inżul u Tlajja’ is a conscious effort for The Travellers to write about life experiences. Most of the inspiration of the various tracks found in the album are based on experiences of the writer, on his interpretation of events and about social issues that are affecting the younger generations. A substantial proportion of the
Spaces in Suspension Spaces, St James Cavalier, Castille Place, Valletta
Spaces in Suspension is a collaboration between two photographers. Joe Smith and Therese Debono, both documentary photographers based in Malta, took up the role of contemporary archaeologists in this project which aims to document and preserve one of the most iconic hotels in Malta in the 70s. The Grand Hotel Verdala stands as an architectural ruin and serves as an allegory of Malta’s transition towards progress. Yet even though left in in a state of abandonment and decline the hotel still stands proudly awaiting its new fate. It is now in the process of demolition but the photographers managed to obtain the necessary permits to shoot whilst some furniture and other artefacts where still on site. In some places nature has also started its reclamation process. The collection also includes on-site portraits of some of the ex staff of this once iconic landmark.
All October
Malta – Tunis – Marseille Space A, St James Cavalier Castille Place, Valletta
Katel Delia’s Malta-Tunis-Marseille exhibition is based on a true story. It explores a Maltese family’s complex journey of migration that started one century ago, in its search for a better life. It is about looking for a space to inhabit that feels like home, and being pushed out again because of external issues. As it echoes the life-story of many migrants, the exhibition asks: Where can you find a shelter when your native country does not accept your return? Malta-Tunis-Marseille cuts across the Mediterranean Sea and its restless roads of migration. It is an immersive exhibition, and is made of photographs, videos, sound installations and archival documents from the archives. Raphael Vella is its curator. For more information call on +356 21223200
Spaces in Suspension
Rolex Middle Sea Race, 2012, Photo: Kurt Arrigo
SMASHING RECORDS ON SAIL BOATS The Rolex Middle Sea Race is a highly rated offshore classic, which kicks off in the Grand Harbour in the waters opposite the saluting battery in Valletta, and Fort St Angelo in Birgu, as thousands of people gather on either side of the imposing harbour, to enjoy the sailing spectacle. In the beginning, the race came to fruition due to a sporting rivalry between friends Paul and John Ripard and a British yachtsman who was residing in Malta, named Jimmy White, all of whom were members of the Royal Malta Yacht Club (RMYC). In the early 1950s, it was rare to find people racing competitively, anyone other than British servicemen who were stationed in Malta. Even the boats themselves had military connection, as they were old German training boats, captured by the British during World War II. At the time, the RMYC only had a few Maltese members, including Paul and John Ripard. In the early 1960s, Paul and Jimmy, together with a mutual friend named Alan Green, who went on to become the race director of the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC), set out to map a course, designed to offer an exciting race in different conditions to those prevailing in Maltese coastal waters. They also decided that the course would be slightly longer than the RORC’s longest race, the Fastnet and the resulting course, is the same as is used today. The Rolex Middle Sea Race has been running since 1968, with the first being won by John Ripard. Since then, the race has attracted many prestigious names in the world of yachting, many of which have gone on to greater things in life, such as the late Raul Gardini, who won line honours in 1979 on Rumegal, and spearheaded the 1992 Italian Challenge for the America’s Cup with Moro di Venezia. Another former line honours winner (1971), who has since passed, is French Eric Tabarley, the winner of round the world and transatlantic races on Penduik. Before his passing, he was in Malta again for the novel Around Europe Open UAP Race, involving monohulls, catamarans and trimarans. The guest list for the Middle Sea Race has included VIPs of
the likes of Sir Francis Chichester, who in 1966 was the first man to sail around the world single-handedly, making just a single stop. The list of the top yachting names goes on, with many of them being Italian. These include Navy Admiral Tino Straulino, Olympic gold medalist in the star class and Cino Ricci, well-known yachting TV commentator. Also on the list is an Italian competitor who in 1999, finally beat the course record set by Mistress Quickly in 1978. Top racing skipper Andrea Scarabelli beat the record so blatantly, that he knocked over six hours off the total time and remained unbeaten for 20 years. World famous round the world race winners with a Middle Sea Race connection include yachting journalist Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and Les Williams, both born in the UK. In fact, the Maxi Class has a long-standing relationship with the race. From the early days, personalities such as German Herbert Von Karajan, famous orchestra conductor and artistic director of the Berliner Philarmoniker, competed with his maxi Helisara IV. The course record was held by San Francisco-based Robert McNeil, on board his Maxi Turbo Sled Zephryrus IV. In 2000, he smashed the course record, which stood at 64 hours, 49 minutes and 57 seconds. Zephyrus IV is a RechielPugh design and in recent years, various maxis such as Alfa Romeo, Nokia, Maximus and Morning Glory have all tried to break the record, but have, as of yet, never accomplished this goal. Years later, George David came along on board Rambler in 2007, and demolished the course record that was established seven years prior. It now stands at 47 hours, 55 minutes and 3 seconds. In 2001, a new committee was elected and injected new blood and ideas into the organising committee. In 2002, Rolex SA came on board as the title sponsor and since then, the event has witnessed a record number of entries every single year. This year, the Rolex Middle Sea Race will be taking place on the 23rd of October, 2021 in Valletta. The race will kick off at 11:00am.
OH MY MALTA
15
VILLA BIGHI: A HISTORICAL VENUE The 17th century neo-classical Villa Bighi is located in the Malta's South Eastern village of Kalkara and is steeped in historical allure and breath-taking views
With breath-taking views of the Grand Harbour, charm, majestic architecture and spacious event settings, Villa Bighi is a unique venue. It is also one of the finest examples of 17th to 19th century neo-classical buildings in Malta. Located in the southern coastal village of Kalkara and perched on a promontory, Villa Bighi has been given a new lease of life as one of the most popular event venues in Malta. Its spirit of grandeur and unbeatable views are highly sought after for memorable weddings, private functions, conferences, tailored and corporate events, as well as impeccable gala dinners. The main palace was designed in 1675 by renowned Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafa. It was originally intended to be the summer residence of the Italian Knight of the Order of St John and Prior of Capua, Fra Giovanni Bichi, who was the nephew of Pope Alexander VII. Upon his death, it passed to his nephew, Knight Fra Mario Bichi. Henceforth , it had a succession of owners until, in the early 19th century, it was taken over by the Government after the British took over. The Palace is said to have housed Napoleon Bonaparte, in 1798, before his triumphal entry into Valletta. In 1827, King George IV gave permission to the Royal Admiralty to transform the building into a state-of-theart naval hospital. The construction of two extra wings, on the left and right hand side of the palace, started in 1829 and Royal Naval Hospital Bighi started operating in 1832 For years, it contributed to the medical care of most of the British casualties in major Mediterranean campaigns in the Crimean War, World War I and World War II – amongst other major conflicts. This earned Malta the reputation of being the ‘Nurse of the Mediterranean’. Today, Villa Bighi features an impressive array of event spaces - including meeting rooms and conference halls - as well as indoor and outdoor areas. These can cater for a wide range of group sizes, be it for sit-down or stand-up events. Capacities vary depending on the choice of venue, with some areas - such as the Plaza accommodating up to 1000 standing and 600 seated. With the restrictions imposed over the past year due to the global pandemic, Villa Bighi was still able to host large events due to its ample outdoor space. The package also includes the latest in audio-visual technology. In addition, the dedicated Villa Bighi Team are always prepared to ensure that meetings run seamlessly and on schedule. At Villa Bighi clients will find a superior level of quality service coupled with an exclusive venue. Timeless elegance, guaranteed.
GUARDING THE GRAND HARBOUR The Gardjola Gardens are located in the south of Malta, in Senglea (also referred to as Isla). The gardens are perched on the bastion with stunning panoramic views over Marsa, Valletta, the Grand Harbour and Fort St Angelo. The gardens were planned by order of Grandmaster de la Sengle in 1551. They were constructed on a grid pattern and the foundation date for the gardens is noted as 1/1/1551. Claude de la Sengle was the 48th Grandmaster of the Order of Malta, from 1553 until his death in 1557, with his successor being Jean Parisot de Valette. A native Frenchman, de la Sengle, then Bailli of the French tongue of the Order, was heavily involved in the battles of the Knights of St John, against the Turkish corsair and Ottoman admiral Turgut Reis in the Mediterranean and in North Africa. De la Sengle had considerable impact on the military strengthening of Malta, notably by initiating the development of the city of Senglea, which was later named after him and even bears his coat of arms. He went on to expand Fort St Michael into a major bastion, and completed Fort St Elmo, which was started by his predecessor, Grandmaster Juan de Homedes y Coscon. De la Sengle passed away in Mdina on 18th August, 1557, and was buried in the chapel of Fort St Angelo. When developing the city of Senglea, even De la Sengle’s original plans of the Gardjola Gardens included a guard tower, which was to be built on the tip of the bastions. The guard tower, also referred to as ‘il-Gardjola’, has a number of symbols sculpted onto the stone, including an eye, an ear and a crane bird, which represents guardianship and observance, protecting the Maltese shores. Il-Gardjola epitomises the role of the fortifications
around the harbour and even features an inscription in Latin, which assures the inhabitants of the area to rest at ease, as the tower stands guard against any hostile force that may attempt to approach the Maltese shores. Though the main focal point of the gardens is the guard tower, the rest of the gardens offer visitors ample area to sit back and relax in the shade of large palm trees. Senglea, which is also known by its title Citta Invicta, is a fortified city in the south, eastern region of Malta. It’s the smallest of the Three Cities, which are all located in the Grand Harbour area. During the time of the Knights of St John, Senglea was also used as a hunting area, and was known as Isola di San Giuliano. In 1311, St Julian’s church was founded in Isola, which was the first building to be constructed on what later became the city of Senglea. On 8 May 1552, the foundation stone of Fort St Michael was laid, which was designed and completed in 1553. Within the next decade, the construction of the fortified area of Senglea took place. The area, which until the 1550s had been known as Isola di San Giuliano, was given city status by De la Sengle. Senglea played a vital role in the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, and remained unconquered. The city was given the title Civitas Invicta, meaning unconquered city, by De la Sengle’s successor and by 1581, Senglea became a parish dedicated to the Nativity of Our Lady. In truth, the donation of the statue of Our Lady, popularly known as Il-Bambina, is believed to have taken place in 1618. Today, the city has a population of around 2,700 people and though it is the 52nd most populated locality on the island, due to its incredibly small land area, it is also the 2nd most densely populated locality after Sliema. OH MY MALTA
19
5 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN GOZO
Photo: Paul Herrera
Choose a stress free holiday, away from busy roads and into the peace of country lanes. Surround yourself with nature, choose a cultural event or dine at your favourite restaurant. G ozo is so different, yet just a 5km ferry trip away from Malta
Visitors to the island of Gozo often remark that it is more rural, greener and moves at a slower pace of life when compared to mainland Malta. First impressions last, and the welcoming Mġarr Harbour, your first stop in Gozo, is a taste of the beauty that lies within the island. Autumn is a great time to visit Gozo for anyone wishing to enjoy the island without the summer crowds and with mild weather that allows for various outdoor activities. Indeed, this is the time when the summer’s scorching heat ebbs to welcoming warmth and the island’s climate and geography combine to create an ideal playground for those seeking the thrill of the outdoors. This season offers visitors the possibility of experiencing the laid-back island life as well as the cultural aspect of Gozo. With warm temperatures, beaches here are frequented well into November when water temperature averages a soothing 23C(73F) and coastal areas are blissful havens of unspoilt nature and crystal clear waters. Indeed, the outdoor summer life lingers on as winter seems to be willingly postponed. Patrons still eat out enjoying the open terraces of the various dining places spread around the island, or on beaches where delicious local snacks of fresh bread, tomato paste, pickled onions and goat cheeselets, tempt the senses. Whilst Gozo’s tranquility still provides a charm for every visitor to the island, slumber is surely not a word to be associated with Gozo, where outdoor activities are aplenty; whether it’s abseiling, climbing, rambling, boat trips, segway tours, horse riding experiences, boarding, or biking, the island of Gozo has something to tickle anyone’s fancy and to keep every member of the family entertained in the place that matters most – the great outdoors. Here are some of the best activities you can enjoy when on the island of Gozo this autumn.
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SEGWAY TOUR
RIDE A BIKE
Going on a segway tour is a relatively new way to discover Gozo’s hidden treasures. This two-wheeled, self-balancing scooter is easy to use and especially comfortable if hiking is not your thing. There are several routes that have been prepared especially for this ecofriendly mode of transportation.
The island offers a variety of bike routes that cater for novices and can also challenge the most experienced of riders. . One of the best ways to really sample what the island is all about is to get off the beaten track, rent a bike and follow the signs of the SIBIT project. The SIBIT route in Gozo runs around the entire coast, through as many as 14 villages, and takes in most of Gozo’s main sights, both natural and historic.
BREAK IN YOUR HIKING BOOTS Gozo is just 14kmX7km yet the visitor is rapidly rewarded with an unspoilt, rugged landscape, from pretty villages to rural countryside to prominent hills and dramatic coastlines. The combination of this provides the rambler many wonderful experienes. From peaceful country and
hill walks to rambles along cliff-tops with panoramic views; from coastal paths past extraordinary natural features to heritage trails through the alleyways of the Knights of St John or the unique prehistoric landscape, Gozo offers a unique experience.
GO FOR A SWIM
ROCK CLIMBING ACTIVITIES
Gozo’s mild winters mean that the sea temperature is warm for most of the year. This makes water-sports practicable throughout the year. There are several ways in which you can make the most of Gozo’s beautiful sea in autumn diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding are perhaps the most popular activities, for a true experience of the beautiful Mediterranean sea surrounding the island.
Enjoy Gozo’s unique landscape the adventurous way. Cliffs, caves, coves – the island’s geology is unique and spectacular and if you are the adventurous type, you will be definitely entertained as you climb or abseil one of the natural rock formations, against the backdrop of the beautiful Mediterranean sea.
PICTURESQUE PICNIC SPOTS Autumn is well and truly upon us and yet, the heat has yet to have dissipated completely. In spite of this, we thought it fitting to compile a list of some of our favourite picnic spots, which you should really make time to visit, should you be up for a relaxed afternoon in the sun
Photo: Paul Herrera
SELMUN Location: Mellieħa The warm, Autumn sun welcomes you to enjoy the northern regions of Malta, and what better place for a relaxing picnic with a couple of friends or family, than the stunning area of Selmun? Selmun is a countryside hamlet in the village of Mellieħa, which is primarily known for the baroque 18th century Selmun Palace. The area offers the combination of a calming nature walk, as well as a spot called Selmun Bay, in case you're on the search for a place to cool off should the afternoon sun be burning your neck. Whether its lush green countryside or clear blue water you're looking for, Selmun has it all
BUSKETT GARDENS Location: Siġġiewi Originally planted by the Knights of Malta as a hunting ground, Buskett now holds strong ecological, historical and cultural significance. It is the only semi-natural forestland with a total area of 47 hectares and one of the few green zones in Malta. Initially, the gardens were used as a hunting ground and then were supplemented by Verdala Palace, which became a summer residence of the Grand Master. The gardens are called “the lungs of Malta” since they happen to be one of the few woodlands in this country. Today, the area is one of Malta’s greenest with fruit-bearing trees and unique wildlife
TOP OF THE WORLD Location: Għargur Soak up the scenery at this stunning picnic spot with plenty of tables and bins situated at the edge of Għarghur along The Victoria Lines and leading towards Madliena Heights. This beautiful spot offers magnificent views of the open countryside; Birguma Valley and connected agricultural Valleys of Magħtab and Burmarrad. If you have a pair of good hiking boots and feel the urge to walk off your lunch, you could follow the Victoria Lines down the nearby valley Wied il-Faħam. For some quiet, quality time with friends or family, away from the chaos of daily life, with the bonus of some superb panoramic views, look no further than this beautiful spot
TA' QALI NATIONAL PARK Location: Ta' Qali Ta Qali National Park was once a part of the Royal Air Force’s land but since then has become a great countryside area perfect for a family picnic. The Ta’ Qali recreation complex offers a recreational spot known as the Picnic Area for all the family. It is situated between the BOV Adventure Park and the Formal Garden area within the Ta’ Qali National Park. This area is surrounded by sheltered trees and offers an open space of approximately 6 hectares for the public to enjoy and relax in the natural countryside shade. In the picnic area one can also find the dog park with a range of equipment from tunnels to hoops in an enclosed space so dogs are able to run free
Saint Julian’s, or as the locals refer to it, San Ġiljan, is a town located in the central region of Malta and as of mid-2020, is home to almost 14,000 people. The town is mostly known for being a hub for nightlife, new and luxurious accommodation locations, restaurants and nightclubs. For this reason, St Julian’s is popular with both locals and tourists alike, especially during the busy summer months. The town is named after its patron saint, Julian, who is widely known as Julian the Hospitaller and Julian the Poor, whereby he is the patron saint of hunters. Before the reform to the calendar of saints, the memorial to St Julian was on 27 January. Today, however, it’s celebrated on the 12th of February and an additional feast is celebrated on the last Sunday of August. History tells us that people dwelled within the town of St Julian’s many years ago. In fact, in the 20th century, Roman tombs were discovered in Balluta, where one may find the chapel of the Sacred Heart Convent today. In 1693, a large earthquake on the Maltese islands caused considerable damage to a number of buildings, one of which was the Lapsi Church, originally built during the time of the Knights of St John. The earliest documentary evidence of the Old Parish Church in the town is of the pastoral visit of Bishop Tommaso Gargallo of 1601, which he claims was built in 1580 and was dedicated to Saint Julian. In 1736, when Monsignor Alpheran de Bussan revisited St Julian’s, he noted that the locality was known as Portus Sancti Juliani, meaning ‘after the patron saint’. At the time, the town was a small fishing village, surrounding Spinola and Balluta bays, with very few buildings apart from Spinola Palace, the old parish church, a few fisherman’s huts and some farmhouses scattered around the area. In fact, around the year 1845, there were just 50 families living in the area; a number that increased to approximately 1000 during summer. In 1854, the 600 or so residents appealed to the church authority, in order to have it made into a Parish. The chapter at Birkirkara protested strongly against the application, and consequently, the application was denied. They did not lose hope, however, as it was granted re-application in 1891 and Dun Gużepp Scerri became the first parish priest. The town then grew considerably and a new church was built in 1961. St Julian’s is now divided into four informal districts: Paceville, Ta’ Ġiorni, Tal-Għoqod and St Andrew’s, as well as the regions surrounding St George’s Bay, Spinola, Balluta Bau and il-Qalliet cliffs.
Folk Festival
CHECK OUT THESE SPOTS IN ST JULIAN'S
SPINOLA PALACE
PORTOMASO MARINA
Spinola Palace was built in 1688 by Fra Paolo Rafel Spinola, a knight of the Order of St John. It was occasionally the summer residence of the Grandmaster, generally for the celebration of the Ta’ Lapsi feast, a tradition that went on till the expulsion of the Order. The palace was adaptively converted to a military hospital, serving between 1860 and 1922, and was known as the Forrest Hospital. It later served as a post-World War II shelter for the homeless, a museum of modern art and From late 2007 till the today, the building hosts the headquarters of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean
Portomaso Marina has been operating since 1999 and is an eco-friendly complex, with several high-end hotels, casinos, restaurants and apartments, overlooking its three basins. The marina, a luxury residential and business complex, has around 110 stern-to-berths, which regularly service luxury yachts throughout the year. The marina is around a 10-minute walk from several landmarks including Spinola Palace and the Portomaso Business Tower. The marina also offers a relaxed and sheltered walk, with beautiful views of the sea and berthed yachts. Should hunger strike, the marina boasts a number of cafes and restaurants, offering both indoor and al fresco dining
CHURCH OF OUR LADY
PACEVILLE
The church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, or as referred to by the locals, Carmelite Church, is a neo-gothic Roman catholic parish church, located in Balluta bay. The church, which is a prominent landmark in the town, dates back to the early to mid 20th century. The original Carmelite church was constructed in 1859, based on plans by Giuseppe Bonavia, a Maltese draughtsman and architect. The church was rebuilt by Emanuele Luigi Galizia in 1877, who kept the two towers on the front elevation, a favourite feature of the traditional baroque Maltese church. The result harmonised perfectly with the low terraced buildings on either side, while its polychromatic touches complemented the waterfront scene it overlooks
Paceville is a small district in St Julian’s, known for its bustling nightlife and several clubs. The area traces its origins back to the 1910s and 20s, when prominent lawyer and developer Dr Giuseppe Pace built a handful of seaside residences in the area now known as Il-Qaliet, the small bay between Portomaso and the Dragonara Pensinsula. Today, Paceville offers a great selection and variety of bars, nightclubs and restaurants, as well as a bowling arena, cinema complex, shopping complex, several hotels and even a beach called St George’s Bay. Looking for great nightlife and entertainment? Paceville is, without a shadow of a doubt, the place to be on a Saturday night OH MY MALTA
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ELEGANT HOSPITALITY AT INTERCONTINENTAL MALTA
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InterContinental Malta has been proudly welcoming its diversified clientele for nearly two decades. Be it a newlywed couple on their honeymoon or a family travelling to Malta for leisure or even corporates and celebrities travelling for work, the hotel has always been successful in satisfying all their needs. When it comes to exemplifying modern and elegant hospitality with unmatched professionalism, InterContinental Malta has always been the apogee in the hotel industry. It is centrally located in the posh area of St. Julians with a 20-minute drive from Malta International Airport and is 15 minutes away from Valletta, the historic capital city of Malta. The hotel’s interiors are tastefully designed with clean lines, angled planes, pale wood, and natural colours to give the guests a serene feeling. All the bedrooms and suites are furnished in a chic and stylish yet elegant manner, keeping all the comforts in mind. Whether it is a refined deluxe room or a specially tailored superior room or even an exclusive club room, with a variety of sophistication and finesse to choose from, one is certain to find what they’re looking for. For InterContinental Malta, luxury is not just a mindset, it is the core of our beliefs and central to every aspiration and desire in serving our clients. Keeping that in mind, each Highline Suite is uniquely and elegantly designed to offer uninterrupted transitions between its indoor and outdoor settings, enabling the guests to experience the innovative luxury which is enhanced with panoramas. The guests, when booking one of these suites, are entitled to a range of premier services at InterContinental Club Loung along with unrestricted access to SKYBEACH, the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool. InterContinental Malta is also known for its corporate amenities with a total of 6000 square meters of uninterrupted pillar-free meeting space. The high ceilings are perfect for any display
or lighting requirements. One of the largest indoor venues in the Mediterranean, the InterContinental Arena Conference Centre is praised for its huge capacity and ample foyer space for exhibitions and other corporate events. Additionally, the vehicular access also makes it perfect for car displays or launches. With 24 separate meeting rooms, the hotel also provides for a variety of arrangements and capacities.
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The hotel’s highly skilled team with a polished approach and ample knowledge is always ready to cater to all the client’s needs, from conception through to the realisation of the event. At InterContinental Malta, with seven bars and restaurants, guests can enjoy various international and local Maltese cuisines throughout the day including indoor, seaside and Al Fresco dining.Adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea, the Sicilian-inspired Paranga restaurant is set on teak decking with a superb menu offering an array of diverse and stimulating Sicilian flavours interpreted from a contemporary or traditional style. When it comes to creative and innovative culinary skills with a contemporary yet charming ambience, Waterbiscuit’s gastronomic experience is here to delight the guests. All the accomplished cuisines in this in-house restaurant are prepared with the most pristine Mediterranean ingredients. Adding to the luxurious comfort, SKYBEACH, on the 19th floor with rooftop infinity pool not only serves unique cocktails with delectable snacks but also boats the unrestricted striking island views. To cater to every guest’s leisure inclination, InterContinental Malta’s premises include a heated indoor pool, a lagoon-styled outdoor swimming pool, a kids club and Malta’s biggest fitness and gym centre, Cynergi which also has an aerobics studio and two squash courts. Adding to leisure and luxury, the Club InterContinental Lounge is an elegant space that offers a wide variety of premium services with unmatched comfort and stunning views of the Maltese islands.
THE BRASS BAR
MALTA WASHINGTON
The Bars Team at InterContinental Malta are continuously seeking ways to push boundaries and challenge the beverage culture status quo locally. When entering the bar area one is awestruck by the jaw-dropping bar backdrop stocked with priceless bottles of the finest spirits, all tended to by the award-winning bars team. Here the team, have prepared a menu with a wide selection of hot chocolates, coffees and classic cocktails given a unique and classy twist.
NEW YORK LONDON PARIS DUBAI BANGKOK SINGAPORE BEIJING SHANGHAI SYDNEY
Live the InterContinental life.
TOP FOOD SPOTS IN ST JULIAN'S Discover our hand-picked local restaurants that serve genuine food. Regardless of your taste or budget, there's a restaurant on our list to suit you. Here's where to find them
KUYA Kuya is an energetic melting pot of Asian food, good vibes, and real smiles – every day of the week! This place is all about intense flavours and tastes, and from Thai to Vietnamese, you can find it all. We will forever rave about their Bang Bang chicken, which contains tender pieces of grilled chicken, rice and peanut butter and sweet chilli
sauce. They also stock a vast selection of the best craft beer available to accompany their amazing food or to be enjoyed on their roof terrace with some friends
+356 2713 6517 | 20, St. George's Road, St Julian's
TWO BUOYS
WATERBISCUIT
Everything at Two Buoys is an Aussie affair. Combining a beautifully crafted shack-like vibe and an extensive menu with Jesse’s cheerful service, this place is just a cracker. The line-up includes a huge selection of treats from acai bowls, and bagels to kangaroo steak and wild boar burgers. Be it for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, this place has got you sorted
Waterbiscuit offers a gastronomic experience with a charming and contemporary atmosphere and enthusiastically accomplished cuisine, using the freshest Mediterranean ingredients. Each item on the plate is a delight in its own right, and considering that this is a fine dining place, the portion sizes are actually quite generous
+356 2122 2221 | 106, Spinola Road, St Julian’s
+356 2137 7600 | Intercontinental, St Julian’s
DON ROYALE
SUSURRUS
A central dining location close to Malta’s buzzing nightlife, but still away from the hustle and bustle. The menu is accessible to all, with a humble offering of the finest Italian dishes inspired by sourcing fresh quality ingredients. The dishes are prepared to order and the wines are specially curated to match the dishes. For an authentic Italian experience, this is the real deal
At Susurrus, the menu offers dishes from all over the world but is focused on Mediterranean and South American cuisine, offering dishes like Peruvian seabass ceviche, Argentinian prawns and even Mexican beef tacos. You can also opt for the popular seven course degustation menu to get a taste of all, which even includes an optional wine pairing
+356 7952 7007 | St. George’s Bay, St Julian’s
| +3567728 3342 | Corinthia St.George's Bay, St Julian's
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LE MAJOLICHE
SURUCHI
Foodie? Looking for quality Italian food? Then you won’t be disappointed here. The attention to quality at this little gem of a restaurant is hard to find. The pasta is homemade and the seafood is simply marvelous. When opting for pasta, be it the black squid ink pasta or even the lobster, you cannot go wrong with anything. Time for dessert? The deconstructed cannolo is a must!
Looking for the perfect spot to indulge in Indian cuisine? Visit Suruchi for some of the best curries you’ll ever have. They present Indian cuisine in an interesting selection of exquisitely prepared, colourful dishes. Chicken tikka tandoori, butter chicken, beef vindaloo, lamb rogan josh, king prawns karahi… you name it, they’ve got it!
+356 2137 6212 | Pendergardens, Triq Sant' Andrija, St Julian's
+356 27515000 | 35, Ball Street, Paceville, St Julian’s
LA MALTIJA This cosy restaurant has been serving traditional local cuisine since 1991. La Maltija offers everything from fresh seafood like lobsters and oysters, to the very traditional oh so tender rabbit, which we cannot recommend enough, and succulent steaks. A great find,
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especially if you’re on the hunt for some traditional Maltese food… and wine
+356 2135 9602 | 1, Church Street, St Julian’s
LAUNCHING
LAMPUKI SEASON
Follow along with this column by Emily A Francis, as we explore further into the culture and cuisine of the Maltese Islands, starting off with fresh foods as a single item, grown and harvested locally
Wo rds by Emily A F ra nc is
Palm leaves on board the luzzu
Lampuki season is finally upon us and the locals are celebrating with lampuki pie and fried lampuki served with a number of side dishes. The tourists might be just catching on to this marvellous fish and trying it out and wondering what this light, flaky, mild tasting fish is and what the best ways to prepare it are. If you’re in search of fresh-off-the-boat lampuki, look no further than Malta’s fishing village, Marsaxlokk. Much like the way lampuki itself is caught is passed down through family traditions and teachings among local fishermen, so too are the recipes that accompany the treasured fish. The classic lampuki pie recipes vary from home to home but all are passed along through the family lines. The fish is also great on the grill, fried up in a pan, covered in flour and pan fried in oil. Any way it goes, this light and delicious fish does not need much to be enjoyed. Men working on limestone bricks
Tal-Mixta Cave
WHAT DOES LAMPUKI MEAN? Lampuki is the Maltese name for Dorado. Mahi Mahi would be the name for this fish, in the United States specifically. By the time our young, local lampuki have migrated over to the Atlantic Ocean and are caught by Americans, the fish itself is very large in size. I have always enjoyed Mahi Mahi though I have to say now that I’ve had the younger version of the same fish, I love Lampuki even more. I don’t actually recognise them as the same fish in terrms of its taste and texture. Lampuki tastes fresher, lighter and milder. I think this might have more to do with the fact that in Malta, it is caught right here and put into the shops to buy within hours of catching it. If Malta has taught me anything, it is that local and fresh are my two new favorite words when it comes to food. FISHING FOR LAMPUKI In order to do this fish justice, I knew it would take more than just one visit down to Marsaxlokk, as lampuki season doesn't begin when the fish migrate into Malta’s waters. I was told by a friend that the preparations for catching lampuki were a crucial part of the process. The months of work beforehand were really incredible, too. We took a few trips down to Marsaxlokk to learn how the fishermen prepare for the season. Lampuki fishing is a sacred trade, handed down from generation to generation. With huge patches of palm leaves, to wrap around their JABLO, which is the Maltese term for what Americans refer to as Styrofoam, the JABLO is then covered by material and again, covered in palm leaves. For this part of the preparation, it quite literally takes a village. You might find several helpers wrapping the materials and pulling from the palm leaves. They pull out the nets that they will use and along with the floats they make, they bring in massive limestone blocks, in order to begin drilling holes through every single one of them, to spread
OHEmily MY MALTA 38and Andre (left)
the rope between each block. Where any boat drops the blocks in to set their space is appointed by the Maltese government and every fisherman is assigned a number where they can park their boat and cast their nets, inside that specific area. This applies to small traditional boats as well as the large boats. The large boats travel far off the coastline (around 240 kilometres) to their appointed space, while the small boats stay close by and do the same (around 10 kilometres out). Once the large stone block is dropped to the bottom, with the rope between all of them and the floating JABLO is all connected, the palm leaves begin to attract the lampuki. The fish hide underneath the palm leaves like umbrellas, both for shade as well as to hide from predators such as sharks and tuna fish. Once the fisherman notices the lampuki hiding underneath, they throw down their nets and gather the fish. FAMILY TRADITION I had the honour of meeting Natasha and Venanzio, her father, who is a lifelong fisherman who works with his daughter, his grandson Andre and the rest of his family. He wakes up on the daily at 3:30 every morning during lampuki season and gets out onto his luzzu. He then calls Natasha when he is around an hour from shore, to get them ready to meet him at the dock and start the process of getting the fish to the market. Venanzio catches the fish on a line and instead of massive limestone blocks, he uses one limestone rock attached to a line and a bucket of hooks, to which mackerel and other kinds of bait are attached, to attract the lampuki. With regards to the floating device, he uses an empty plastic container, just large enough to make the line float. When we went to visit, Venanzio was close to shore after his catch. Natasha was waiting on shore to help her father pull the boat in. At the same time, Andre was running with a cart with a pre-prepared cooler. Every single fish was immediately pulled from his grandfather’s hands, straightened out, checked and lined up tightly in rows, to be taken to the fish shop. While Andre is packing them into the boxes, Natasha is pulling up nets and placing them into burlap sacks. Everyone works with great precision and speed and this is why in traditional fishing of any kind on the island, it tends to remain a family-only business. They have worked together for years and years and know exactly what their jobs entail. Soon after his arrival, Venanzio went to bed, while Natasha and Andre finished up the fish, ready to be taken to be sold. Find Venanzio’s fish at the market square in Marsaxlokk on Sunday mornings and look for Natasha’s brother, Roman.
Venanzio (left), Andre (centre) and Natasha
INTERVIEW WITH:
TINA MIFSUD
We head over to Tina Mifsud's art studio in Sliema, to have a little chat with the talented Maltese artist, about all the exciting projects she's worked on, her artistic journey, and everything she has in the pipeline
TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY INTO THE WORLD OF ART Although I had many other things going on like University and dance, art was always there for me. Whilst working in tourism for two years, I was working in marketing and to me, that’s creative as well. After two years in the industry I wasn’t completely happy and art was something I kept turning to. So I decided to look into studios abroad, mainly in Barcelona, Spain and I got into one. It wasn’t exactly a school – I’m self-taught – but it was an open studio with mentors, who guide you in a certain direction. It taught me a great deal. I spent a year in the studio and two years in the city. After the first year, I created my Playa collection and since then, I decided to take art on full time. WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT DID YOU RECEIVE? There was one teacher who pushed me towards art. She had confronted my parents and told them: “Listen, she’s really talented and you should push for it.” Luckily, my parents were very much for it. They always tried to keep me and my sister very creative. They really followed through. They sent me to lessons and it was something I would always turn to, no matter what age. If I was frustrated, or happy, I would say to myself that I was going to just create something. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY INSPIRES YOU AND YOUR WORK MOST? I feel like my main inspiration is people, the human figure, even the characters of people. Therefore, photography is a very big part of my process. When I had created my Playa collection for example, I used to go to the beach, spend hours there and take photos of people and obviously, I would approach them before taking the photo. I would get to know them, get to know their characters and I’d try to get that out in my paintings as well. TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR PLAYA/BEACH COLLECTION With my beach collection, I was also quite selective
about the type of person I would paint. After a while, I had shown the documentation to one of my mentors in Barcelona and she said that she thought I go for these types of people because I craved their confidence, because I wanted their confidence and to feel the way they do when at the beach. This was completely true. I feel that people our age, our generation, as well as older and younger are so conscious about the way they look. I guess because I would target older people, it’s like they get to that age where they don't care and they’re on the beach just enjoying themselves. So I think my mentor was right after all - I did crave that confidence, which is why I decided to turn the lens onto myself and do the project on myself as well, because it’s kind of linked. I wanted the confidence and I had gone through some struggles with my body image, too. WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO TURN THE CAMERA ON YOURSELF? I went from documenting people to documenting myself. I started the whole process of taking photos of myself and fully exposed myself to… myself. Usually, even in certain classes, we would study the person for three hours and have a live drawing class. This got me thinking and I thought it would be interesting if I were to do this on myself, especially since there was a time in my life when I was a bit insecure. I thought it would help me, confidence-wise. At first it started off as a project, which I thought would just be a learning curve but in 2020, I decided to exhibit the work I had done on myself, which was a very emotional journey. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?
I feel like I’m in a very experimental phase in my life, where I like to work with a lot of different mediums. I first started working with acrylics and then oils, and then charcoal. I don't feel like I can specifically label my style because I feel like I’m still learning and there’s so much to learn. I want people to see a certain stroke and say, “That’s a Tina Mifsud,” because I feel like branding is so important for an artist. There needs to be connection.
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TALK A LITTLE ABOUT THE CONNECTION BETWEEN YOUR WORK AND MALTA I didn't really have a direction when I left. I left Malta and wasn't too sure when or if I would come back but I always knew that I wanted to be established in Malta because home is home and in truth, you get most of your support from home. I feel like the Maltese are very patriotic when it comes to these things so it’s nice and relieving that Maltese received my work so well. I’m not saying I made it internationally but if I’m thinking about applying to places abroad, now I have a stable foundation in Malta, which is going to help me for the next step. WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE LOCAL ARTS INDUSTRY? I feel like it's a good time to be in the industry because it’s up and coming, but there’s also a lack of understanding of the arts industry locally. There’s a stigma with art, that it’s a hobby and something you can never take on full time. It’s not necessarily wrong, I do have some small jobs that I go back and forth to but art is my main source of income right now. WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE? As an artist, I want to continue creating and mainly exhibiting, but with work that is politically engaging. I want to create work that gets people talking, makes people uncomfortable and that might not be aesthetically-pleasing. I feel like my aim is to bring something more. I’m working on a few exhibitions, I’m hoping to do more collaborative work in Malta because I really enjoyed that part of Barcelona, where I got to work with different artists, learn from each other. I feel like it’s a fruitful journey for many artists to collaborate.
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X FACTOR MALTA: MEET THE JUDGES
X Factor Malta is back for season three, with two judges returning and two judges joi ning the team. Music producer Howard Keith Debono and superstar Ira Losco have returned to their judges’ seats, whilst musicians Ivan Grech and Philippa Naudi, will be joining them on the panel. Let’s take a closer look at the four judges to find out why they’re here
IRA LOSCO Singer Malta’s very own pop queen Ira. Her career breakthrough came in 2002, when she represented Malta in the the Eurovision Song Contest with the hit song 7th Wonder, where she placed second in the competition, achieving Malta’s best ever result and thus becoming a household name. Losco has released six studio albums so far in her career, and is one of the most successful local musicians of all-time. To date, Losco has performed in over 25 countries and has won more than 20 music awards. She has appeared in front of audiences ranging from 1,000 to 80,000, and has played alongside renowned international acts such as Elton John, Maroon 5, Akon, Mel C, Ronan Keating, Bob Geldof, Tokio Hotel and Gigi D'Alessio. She even collaborated with Jason Derulo in the 2018 FIFA World Cup anthem. She excelled as one of the judges and mentors in season one and two of X Factor Malta as well as season one of Malta’s Got Talent. The artist is a dominant force on the local music scene and we don’t need to wonder why she’s returned for the third season.
PHILIPPA NAUDI Si nger Philippa is half of the singing-sister duo The New Victorians. The charismatic and super energetic sister duo The New Victorians burst onto the scene around six years ago, following their success at the Alchemy Songwriting Competition in the U.S. In 2015, they launched their debut album Seeker Seeker, with singles like Keep Me In Love, and then in 2018, released Silence, the EP with-which they opened for multi-platinum artist Anastacia, on her European Tour – Evolution, and for the BBC Concert Orchestra in 2019. They have since become a household name. Apart from her performing talent, Philippa is also a songwriter and producer. In recent years, the artist also dove into the musical theatre scene together with her sister Bettina, by producing and directing original shows, some of which were also showcased internationally at the Edinburgh Festival.
IVAN GRECH Musician Ivan Grech is the front man of Wintermoods, one of Malta’s biggest alternative rock bands. Their concerts have always attracted the largest crowds in terms of local performances. Through their career, Winter Moods had to opportunity to meet and perform with some of their idols, namely Bryan Adams, Elton John, Roger Hodgson (exSupertramp), Bob Geldof, Fish (ex-Marillion), Antonello Venditti, Deep Purple and the SAS Band. Front man Ivan Grech keeps reinventing himself through his music and consistent string of hit songs and projects. Being a highly respected personality, Ivan appeals to all audiences and apart from years of experience in the music industry, this is one of the factors that makes him an extraordinary judge on X Factor Malta.
HOWARD KEITH DEBONO Music producer and artist manager Howard Keith Debono is the founder of Jagged House Music Company as well as a music producer and artist manager. He is the man behind some of Malta’s leading artists such as X Factor Malta’s very own Ira Losco and The New Victorians, and has had a lot to offer the industry for the past 20 years. A pianist from a very young age, Howard has formed part of bands since the age of 10. Practising turned into recording and this is what lead to a great understanding of leadership and dynamics. He eventually started producing his very own material as well as other artists’. Howard is involved in the whole life-cycle of his artists’ songs – from pre-production to promotion to being on the mixing desk when it is performed live. From the first two seasons of X Factor Malta, we know that Howard doesn’t beat around the bush, he says it as it is and is a demanding perfectionist, but this is what makes him excellent at picking out the very best.
TAKE ME HOME
We’re sad to see you go but to make your departure a little bit sweeter, IlLokal has created a guide for you. They are a community of local designers, artists and independent brands
PRINTED TOTE BAG This two-colour screen printed tote bag design was inspired by one of the most famous phrases we hear constantly during the Summer time on the island: ''UFF XI SĦANA!'' (Translation :- UGH IT'S SO HOT!) by Steffi Venturi
GREETING CARDS The playful use of originallycreated puns, paired with delightful illustrations make for a unique selection of uplifting greeting cards, great for any occasion, by Little Big Pie
PASTIZZI SOCKS
GALLINAR PRINT 'Gallinar' is the Maltese term for hen house. It depicts six jagged chicken silhouettes having a very loud chat and causing commotion in their coop, by 2point3
Finally, a souvenir that… Socks! These fun and ultraMaltese socks are adorned with the inconic Maltese snack, Pastizzi, and are designed locally by one of the coolest home-grown brands, Souvenirs that Don’t Suck
BIEB KEYRING The traditional Maltese door has become long-been an icon, both for locals, as well as those who are visiting. Here are your favourite Maltese doors, in miniature version. This acrylic keyring is as cute as it gets, by Que
POSTCARDS FROM PARADISE Postcards from Paradise reveals an ‘unofficial’ Malta – the story of the islands and its mutations, where time once was indefinable and events unfolded at a slower pace, photography book by Duška Malešević
HAPPYPLAY DOUGH
ENAMEL PIN Malta's favourite snack, the pastizz, beloved flaky pastry filled to the brim with fresh ricotta or mushy peas, immortalised into an adorable enamel pin, by Alexandra Aquilina, who is also known as Screengirl
This eco-friendly, non-toxic food grade dough is an outrageously fun way to feed one's imagination. Squish, mold and shape. It’s silky soft texture and fun colours are great for modelling and sensory play, by HappyPlay Co.
LOCAL CERAMICS A hand-made mug or a bowl is a fantastic gift. Take these ceramics as an example! Made by Rosella Schembri, a ceramist with over 20 years of experience and a founder of a walk-in pottery studio Space for Clay
BEACH TOWEL This quick drying and lightweight towel is made purely out of at least 14 recycled plastic bottles. Inspired by traditional Maltese floor tile patterns it's also available in several colours, by MADUMA
Visit I l- Lokal at the ir sho p o n 15 Triq it-Te atru Antik, Va l l et t a or buy online on il- lokal . c o m OH MY MALTA
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SERVICES FERRIES
PHARMACIES
CAR RENTAL
Cirkewwa, Malta – Mgarr, Gozo Operates daily Departure time: Approx. every 30 mins From 12am – 23:15pm Crossing time: Approx. 25 mins
Brown’s Pharmacy +356 2124 4366 Marina Apartments, 10, Marina St, Pietà Opening hours: Monday – Saturday from 8am – 9pm
Unicar Hire Services Ltd
Cirkewwa Malta - Blue Lagoon Operates daily Departure time: Approx. Every 30 mins From 8:30am – 5:30pm
M4 Pharmacy +356 2143 6531 Attard Road, Attard Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 1pm/4pm-7pm, Saturday from 8am – 1:00pm
3 Cities – Valletta Operates daily Departure time: Approx. every 15 mins Monday – Saturday from 6:45am – 23:30pm Sundays & public holidays from 9:00am – 23:30pm
Royal Pharmacy +356 2123 9682 271, Republic Street, Valletta Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 9am – 7pm, Saturday 9am-7pm
Sliema – Valletta ferry Operates daily Departure time: Approx. Every 15 mins Monday – Saturday from 6:45am – 11:45pm Sunday & public holidays from 8:45am – 11:45pm
MEDICAL SERVICES
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
St. James Hospital +356 2329 1000 Triq Gorg Borg Olivier, Sliema St James Square, Zabbar Opening hours: 24/7
Fexserv Financial Services Ltd Alpine House, Triq In-Naxxar, San Gwann +356 2576 2576 Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 8.30am – 6pm, Saturday from 9am - 12.30pm
66A, St. George’s Road, St. Julians +356 2576 2785 Opening hours: Monday- Sunday from 9.30am – 8pm 61, Republic Street, Valletta +356 2576 2278 Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 9am to 2pm and from 3pm to 6pm
48 OH MY MALTA
Mater Dei Hospital +356 2545 0000 Triq Dun Karl, Imsida Opening hours: 24/7
Floriana Health Centre +356 2124 3314 F.S. Fenech Street, Floriana Opening hours: Mon-Sun 24 hours Gozo Health Centre (Victoria) + 356 2215 6820 Triq Enrico Mizzi, Victoria, Gozo Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 07:00-20:00
+356 2345 8706 9 Empire Stadium Street, Gzira www.unicarmalta.com GoTo Car Sharing Car Sharing Services Malta Ltd, Mdina Road, Zebbug, ZBG 9017, Malta
TAXI SERVICES Cool Ride-Pooling +356 2014 7600 www.cool.mt
Ecabs
+356 2138 3838 Head Office, Triq Santu Wistin, Paceville St Julians – STJ 3180, Malta
HAIR SALONS Prive Hairdressing +356 21 433 072 Prive Hairdressing, Triq it- Tin, Naxxar, Malta Toni&Guy +356 2373 3420 Hilton Malta, Portomaso, St Julians Opening hours: Monday – Saturday from 9am – 7pm Shimmer N Shin Hair and Beauty Salon +356 2789 4555 128, Triq il-Qaliet, Marsaskala, Opening hours: Monday from 10am - 6pm, Tuesday - Saturday from 9am - 7pm