Il-Bizzilla, August 2019 by Air Malta

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

# 8 0 AU G U S T 2 019

SUM M E R S PECI A L E D ITI O N Step into the warmth of the Maltese Isles.

DI SCOVER TH E UN IQ UENESS OF M A LTA’ S NO. 1 CASIN O TH IS SUM MER .

Discover the experience that only the Dragonara Casino can provide you. Enjoy our unparalleled selection of Live Table Games, Slots, Poker, Live Music and Fine Dining as well as the most distinguished VIP room on the island.

D I SC OV E R T H E D R AG O N AR A CAS INO.

DRAGONARA CASINO, ST. JULIAN’S MALTA. FOR MORE INFO CALL: +356 99538586

Maltese citizens must be over 25 years old & foreign nationals must be over 18 years old to enter the Casino. Proof of ID/Passport will be required on ﬁrst visit. The Dragonara Casino is operated by Dragonara Gaming Limited as duly licensed by the MGA – MGA/B2C/181/2010 KNOW YOUR LIMITS. PLAY RESPONSIBLY. FOR ASSISTANCE VISIT WWW.RGF.ORG.MT

For your private beach Price on Request | Seafront Villa, Mgarr | Property ID : 302002 | +356 9949 5552

For your urban oasis €1.700.000 | EXCLUSIVE Townhouse with Seaviews, Valletta | Property ID : 202004 | +356 9910 8070

For your piece of paradise Price on Request | EXCLUSIVE Extravagant Palazzo, Birgu | Property ID : 200343 | +356 9906 4864

maltasothebysrealty.com Only---200, Tower Road, Sliema, T. (+356) 2010 8070, M. (+356) 9910 8070, E. sliema@sir.com.mt

Malta Sothehy's INTERNATIONALREALTY

Portomaso Marina, T. (+356) 2010 8077, M. (+356) 9949 5552, E. portomaso@sir.com.mt

oea o

maltasir.com | info@sir.com.mt

Each Ofﬁce is Independently Owned & Operated

contents # 8 0 AU G U S T 2 019

26 12

MALTA & GOZO IN NUMBERS

A PLACE IN THE SUN

Facts and figures about the Maltese Islands.

Samuel Casha explores revered artist Victor Pasmore’s affinity with the isles.

DISCOVERING ST JULIAN’S AND PACEVILLE

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Step into the seaside town of St Julian’s, in this month’s star destination.

From religious, cultural, wine to music, the Maltese islands have a festival for every occasion.

48 AIR MALTA DESTINATION: IBIZA

WHY I CHOSE GOZO

Get a feel of Ibiza’s unique spirit.

Patricia and Giuseppe Piazzi share what Gozo means to them.

26 A TALE OF FIRE AND FLAME Sarah Chircop describes the ground fireworks in the village square, during the feast.

54 THE PEOPLE OF MALTA In our new collaboration with The People of Malta, we meet Benny and Salvu.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MALTA

DID GOOGLE MAPS KILL THE CARTOGRAPHIC STAR?

A selection of events, to keep you in the loop throughout August.

Delve into Malta’s poignant maps, their secrets and stories.

MELODY MAKERS

60 SECONDS WITH JOSEPH CALLEJA

Helen Raine describes the fascinating story of Malta’s traditional musical instruments.

We caught up with the celebrated tenor to see what the rest of 2019 has in store.

SIX TOP SIGHTS In keeping with our destination, this month’s local insight takes us to St Julian’s, Malta.

ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS Here’s what not to miss while visiting the Maltese Islands.

72 PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST Renowned artist, Debbie Bonello, describes her remarkable creative process.

80 EXPAT MALTA Bizzilla meets Turu Paris, a Maltese expat living in Australia.

88 TRAVELLING TECH Looking for some nifty apps and tech to make travelling easier? Then look no further!

92 RECIPE Locally renowned chef, Ramona Preca, talks us through her fried rabbit dish.

94 RESTAURANT & BAR GUIDE Hungry? Here are this month’s top restaurant and bar picks.

98 AIR MALTA NEWS A round-up of this month’s news.

106 FLIGHT AND COMPANY INFORMATION All you need to know about flying with Air Malta.

108 DESTINATION INFORMATION Planning a trip? Take a look at all of Air Malta’s flight routes and code-sharing routes here.

110 ELECTRONIC DEVICE INFORMATION All the information you need with regards to phone, laptop and tablet usage onboard.

YEARS OF REAL ESTATE

1 9 6 9

2 0 1 9

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS LUXURY PENTHOUSE WITH POOL

SOLE

enjoying stunning views of Spinola Bay

AGENCY

344sqm PENTHOUSE, finished to the highest specifications. Property consists of an entrance hallway, open plan living area leading to a large terrace with good-sized pool, from where one can enjoy panoramic views of Spinola Bay and beyond. Further accommodation includes a study/TV room, guest cloakroom, 3 bedrooms and main bathroom. The master bedroom has a large walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom. The property comes with 3 car spaces. The apartment benefits from under-floor heating, air conditioning, intelligent lighting, double glazing throughout and is eco-friendly with insulated walls and ceilings.

Ref 851775 | Price on Request | St Julians

PENTHOUSE WITH A MASSIVE TERRACE

SOLE

ideal as a holiday home or rental investment

AGENCY

Charming penthouse situated on a high ridge, boasting of ample natural light and enjoying stunning countryside views from its large terrace. The property has been finished to very good standards and enjoys accommodation in the form of an open plan kitchen, dining and living, bathroom and 2 bedrooms (one with en-suite shower). Finished and furnished to high standards.

Ref 111547 | â&#x201A;Ź295,000 | Munxar (Gozo)

---------------------- -----------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

CONTEMPORARY-DESIGNED VILLA WITH GARDEN expertly finished to exacting standards Stunning villa enjoying magnificent panoramic country and sea views, centrally located yet in private rural setting and having an abundance of natural light. Designed for outdoor living, the easily-maintained garden of c.2,000sqm has a chill-out/dining area complete with infinity pool. The Villa has been stylishly decorated and includes kitchen and dining area, spacious sitting-room with fireplace opening onto a central terrace overlooking the sea, study, 4 bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms plus walk-in wardrobe in master bedroom, sauna and laundry room, two garages for up to four cars plus external parking.

Ref 318211 | Price on Request | Gharghur

Local. Experienced. Personal. Frank. Since 1969. BUYING

SELLING

+356 2379 4794

LETTING

COMMERCIAL

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

www.franksalt.com.mt

HOME INTERIORS fs@franksalt.com.mt

Mosta’s unique rotunda by night illuminates the sky, during the feast of Santa Marija.

MEET THE TE AM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG EXECUTIVE EDITOR Dayna Clarke SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG CONTRIBUTORS Abhishek Chatterjee Air Malta Alessia Caruana Christine Cassar David Baker Dayna Clarke Gadgets Giulia Privitelli Helen Raine Joseph Schiró Michael Zammit Maempel Ministry for Gozo Patricia and Giuseppe Piazzi The Marigold Foundation Team The People of Malta Rebecca Cachia Rebekah Cilia

Robert Spiteri Paris Sarah Chircop Samuel Casha Stephen Gauci Writemeanything Visit Gozo PHOTOGRAPHERS Adrien Daste Anna Borg Cardona Daniel Cilia Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti Isaac Bonello Josef Awad Lisa Attard Lisa Farrugia Palazzo Falson COVER PHOTO Josef Awad OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHER Justine Ellul OFFICIAL AIR MALTA PHOTOGRAPHER Daniel Balzan

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE FEATURED ON IL-BIZZILLA?

For advertising opportunities and restaurant listings, get in touch with TBWA\ANG on sales@il-bizzilla.com or (+356) 2131 0608. For anything related to editorial or photography, contact Dayna on editor@il-bizzilla.com

Delicata Classic Wine Festival 2019

ON THE COVER

UPPER BARRAKKA GARDENS,

VALLETTA 8, 9, 10 11 AUGUST &

7PM TILL MIDNIGHT

GNIEN IL-KUNSILL

NADUR, GOZO

23, 24, & 25 AUGUST 7PM TILL MIDNIGHT

• More than 20 wines by Malta’s award-winning Delicata winery for you to try. Purchase a souvenir glass, and a purse of 24 wine coins for €16.00 to taste wine.

• Pop-up cooking stalls serving popular Maltese and international dishes. • Live music every night by local talent and top bands. No alcohol will be served to anyone under 17, and the last pour is strictly at 11.30pm. Enjoy responsibly; never drink and drive.

The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied by any means without the written consent of the publisher. Editorial features and opinions expressed in il-Bizzilla do not necessarily reflect the views of Air Malta, the publisher, or the editorial team. Both Air Malta and the Publisher do not accept responsibility for commercial and advertising content. Although the authors and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this magazine was correct before going to print, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Special thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority, Air Malta, Shutterstock and ViewingMalta.com for the provision of photographic material. Printed in Malta by VelPrint Ltd. All magazine rights are reserved by Air Malta PLC.

II /DelicataWinery

delicata.com

‘The best name in Malta property’

~Perry ESTATE

AGENTS

SINCE

HEAD OFFICE (+356) 2131 0800 ST.JULIANS (+356) 2131 0088 VALLETTA (+356) 2131 0714

1981

EXCLUSIVE TO PERRY

A converted ‘House of Character’ in this sought after village Balzan | €649,000 | Ref: HC600414 4 Bedrooms 1111

3 Bathrooms

Optional

Internal: 165m2

A unique ‘Detached Villa’ with outstanding gardens & sea views Gharghur | €5,300,000 | Ref: DV600114

External: 45m2

A meticulously converted HOUSE OF CHARACTER in this sought after residential area ▪ Contemporary finish with restored authentic features ▪ Close proximity to local amenities ▪ Entrance hall ▪ Open plan kitchen/dining/living area leading onto a courtyard with a swimming pool ▪ Guest toilet/shower ▪ 4 bedrooms (master en-suite) ▪ 3 bathrooms ▪ 2 roof terraces - ideal for entertaining ▪ This property includes many extras & is ready to move into ▪ An optional 5-car garage is also available ▪ SOLE AGENTS

4 Bedrooms

4 Bathrooms

Yes

Property Area: 3000m2

A unique DETACHED VILLA in a magnificent elevated position ▪ Panoramic sea & valley views ▪ Secluded location with one of the finest private gardens on the island ▪ Living room ▪ Bespoke kitchen/dining room leading onto sun terraces ▪ 4 bedrooms ▪ 4 bathrooms (all en-suite) ▪ Infinity pool & outdoor entertaining area with kitchen facilities/shower/WC ▪ Vegetable garden ▪ Children’s play area ▪ Air-conditioning & central heating ▪ Jacuzzi ▪ Sauna ▪ 2-car garage & ample parking facilities

EXCLUSIVE TO PERRY

A magnificent elevated ‘Apartment' with spectacular sea views Fort Cambridge | €1,300,000 | Ref: FA501290 3 Bedroom

2 Bathrooms

2 car spaces

Internal: 175m2

EXCLUSIVE TO PERRY

A 500-year old converted ‘Farmhouse’ with a wealth of features Mosta | €765,000 | Ref: HC600420

External: 35m2

A contemporary APARTMENT in this sought after residential development ▪ Prime location in Sliema ▪ Spectacular sea views ▪ Close to all amenities including the seafront promenade & fashionable shopping areas ▪ Open plan kitchen/living/dining leading out to a large terrace ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms ▪ Laundry room & drying area ▪ 2 underlying car spaces ▪ Communal gym & swimming pool facilities ▪ SOLE AGENTS

4 Bedrooms

3 Bathrooms

A 500-year old converted FARMHOUSE with magnificent original features throughout ▪ Quiet location ▪ Traditional arched hallway ▪ Fitted kitchen/breakfast ▪ Dining room ▪ Sitting room ▪ 4 bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite) ▪ Study ▪ Laundry room ▪ Large internal courtyard ▪ Mature garden with an original tower that could be converted into an independent 1-bedroom annex ▪ Space to add carport & swimming pool ▪ Close to the town centre & amenities ▪ SOLE AGENTS

EXCLUSIVE TO PERRY

A double fronted ‘House of Character’ with a large garden Gharghur | For Rent | €5000 monthly | Ref: HC600365

Luxurious fully furnished ‘Seafront Apartments’ Sliema | For Rent | €3650 monthly | Ref: FA600185

A truly outstanding double fronted HOUSE OF CHARACTER ▪ Situated on the outskirts of the village with approximately 2400m2 of land ▪ Large rooms throughout with an open plan layout ▪ Arched hallway ▪ Sitting room ▪ Dining room ▪ Fully fitted & equipped kitchen/breakfast ▪ Living room ▪ Study ▪ 4 bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms ▪ Guest toilet ▪ Laundry & store rooms ▪ Landscaped gardens & lawned area ▪ Impressive swimming pool & sun terraces ▪ Ample car parking facilities

‘The Adelaide’ - a selection of luxury SEAFRONT APARTMENTS in a prime location on the “sunny side” of Tower Road ▪ Chic rental apartments - close to all amenities ▪ Exceptional interior design & cuttingedge technology ▪ Open plan kitchen/sitting/dining room leading onto the front terrace with spectacular sea views ▪ 3 double bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (master en-suite) ▪ Separate laundry room including washer/dryer ▪ Air-conditioning throughout ▪ Underlying parking ▪ SOLE AGENTS

▪ Collect your free copy of our leading real estate publication from the exit of the arrival lounge ▪ ▪ Our Letting department also offers a wide selection of both prime commercial & residential properties for lease ▪

perry.com.mt

W ELC OM E

FROM THE CEO...

FRO M THE ED ITO R...

Merħba and welcome onboard.

Welcome to glorious August!

Summer is at its peak and what’s better than spending holidays on a Mediterranean Island with clear blue seas? This summer we will connect Malta to another beautiful Mediterranean Island; that of Ibiza in the Balearics, with scheduled services starting on the 16th August.

The dog days of summer are officially here. As temperatures and humidity levels rise across the islands, it’s easy to lose our cool, especially when we burn our ourselves for the umpteenth time on a hot car seat or spill ice cream on our white T-shirt. But, as the wise saying goes, you have to keep calm and Bizzilla on. (Kidding-but that has a nice ring to it, yes?). Fortunately, in Malta, it’s a given jumping into the crystal-clear waters or catching an unforgettable sunset will elevate your spirits instantly. I still can't believe we have passed the first half of the year already. Where did it go? At least I know where we are going next!

Next month we will also start scheduled services to another beautiful - yet diverse - Mediterranean country, that of Egypt, with flights to Cairo starting on the 1st September. These two new Air Malta destinations follow the recently introduced new services to Tbilisi in Georgia and Warsaw in Poland. At Air Malta we are making sure you have a great selection of routes to established and up and coming destinations. Apart from the introduction of new routes and point to point destinations, our team is identifying opportunities to also enhance our code share and interlining agreements with larger network airlines. These arrangements will help us increase our footprint and facilitate travel to and from Malta.

This month's edition takes us to the bustling seaside town of St Julian’s (page 14). St Julian’s or “San Ġiljan” as it is known locally, is situated north of Valletta and it is renowned for its thriving nightlife and touristic activity. The former fishing village is now a hub for new and luxurious hotels, as well as restaurants offering the best in local and world cuisine. Not to mention plenty of bars to while away an evening, mostly centred in an area known as Paceville.

Summer on the Maltese Islands is not just about sun and sea. During this time of the year the traditional Maltese village festas are at their peak, while Santa Marija celebrations organised in seven different localities offer a unique cultural experience which cannot be missed. Another interesting festivity in the local cultural and events calendar is the Summer Carnival happening in the seaside towns of St Paul's Bay, Marsascala and Buġibba whilst a spectacular annual pyrotechnic display during the Notte Di San Lorenzo will illuminate the skies against the fortified historical backdrop of Valletta’s Grand Harbour. The sister Island of Gozo offers a multitude of different events ranging from a ceramic festival to traditional agricultural exhibitions and cross-country marathons.

Elsewhere, this issue takes on a strong emphasis of all things 'festa', as we look into the plethora of festivals on offer in Malta, as well as the humble village feast. On page 26 Sarah Chircop describes entering the village square as the highlight of the festa evening commences - groundfire works! There’s no shortage of events on offer in the Maltese Islands, check page 34 for our top picks not to mention mouthwatering food. (See head chef Ramona Preca’s recipeon page 92).

For more information about Air Malta and our flight schedules please visit www.airmalta.com and www.facebook.com/ AirMalta and join our newsletter mailing list to receive great offers directly in your inbox.

We also bring you our first-ever summer supplement 'Ix-Xemx' - the Maltese word for sun, packed with ideas on how to spend your days on the Maltese Islands, designed in mind for those that love the buzz of adrenaline!

At Air Malta we are customer driven and are always keen to know what we could do better to improve your Air Malta flight experience. Visit www.airmalta.com/wearelistening to answer a few short questions about your flight with us and you can win one of 10 free return Air Malta flights we are offering every month. It really only takes 2 minutes!

Sit back, relax and enjoy your flight!

Thank you for choosing Air Malta. As our welcomed guest we hope to see you on-board another one of our flights soon.

Dayna

Clifford Chetcuti AIR MALTA CEO

EDITOR 8

w w w. h o q . c o m . m t HOMES OF QUALITY A Member of !he Fronk Salt Real &fate Group

B E C AU S E YO U R H O M E M AT T E R S A SPECIAL HOME UNLIKE ANY OTHER REF: 915145 | P.O.R | BAHAR IC-CAGHAQ Rare opportunity to acquire this one off residence that is regretfully for sale. This beautifully converted farmhouse enjoys a truly idyllic location that is very close to St Julians and yet is situated in the middle of countryside and also enjoys magnificent views of the sea and countryside. The property sits on approximately 9 tumoli of land (over 9500 sqm) and enjoys landscaped gardens, a large swimming pool, stables, a poolside gymnasium, horse paddock and much more. The spacious internal accommodation comprises a lovely old entrance hallway, sitting room, dining room, two further tv rooms, guest toilet, a very large kitchen and breakfast room, study, and five bedrooms all having ensuite facilities. The internal designer finishes are all to extremely high standards and no expense was spared. Just off the main sitting room and the kitchen are outdoor lounge and dining areas enjoying total privacy and a gorgeous setting with views over the whole property. An ideal family home. Must be seen to be truly appreciated.

SPACIOUS, BRIGHT, MODERN PENTHOUSE REF: 915131 | â&#x201A;Ź 930,000

| SWIEQI

First time on the market is this unique and one of a kind Penthouse finished to very high standards, situated only minutes away from Portomaso. Upon entering, one finds a welcoming entrance hall leading to a comfortable open plan kitchen/living/dining area and taking you straight out to a corner terrace of 125sqm with a private pool area making it the perfect spot for entertaining or dining al fresco whilst enjoying the sunset. This penthouse also has three double bedrooms, two of which lead directly onto the terrace, main bathroom, shower en suite and walk-in wardrobe with main bedroom and a laundry room. Property enjoys a squarish, comfortable layout and is flooded with natural light. Finishes include surround system and intelligent lighting system both internal and external, solar water heater, fully equipped kitchen and concealed air conditioning units. Complementing this corner penthouse is a two-car interconnecting lock-up garage.

Through Homesof Quahty, we find great sat,sfact,on in provid ing a uniquely personal proper ty serv,ce to chents, both local and overseas. Aspart of FrankSaltRealEstate Group we have access to perhapot he largest property and dient database in the MalteseIslands,whileoperating independentlyto facilitate the extremelyhigh level of personal interface with clients. At Homes of Quality we are equa lly proud of the smallest designer apar tment asa grand palazzo... the defining factor which ensures that a prope rty isto be found on our listingsisquite simply... quality! H eABi,t)Kl'IMOCTb, np0>1<11BaH11e116H3HeC Ha ManbTe . CepB11CHaR nOAAe~Ka

OT AAO

Grahame Salt Director

ll.

Mbt roeopMM no-pyccKMl 3BOHKTe HaM0035623420645

Homes of Quality, 211, Tower Road, Sliema | Tel: +356 2342 0000 | UK Tel: +44 (0) 871 711 8994 | Mob: 9947 4340 | Email: info@hoq.com.mt

With 300+ associates and 30+ offices covering the Maltese Islands, RE/MAX Malta is at your service. With an extensive property database, we also have a vast range of RE/MAX Exclusive listings - guaranteeing you’ll find your perfect match.

Visit Malta’s largest property database at remax-malta.com

IBRAĠĠ TOWNHOUSE

€895,000

ID: 240331004-101

This beautiful penthouse is 230 square meters and is being sold fully finished to high standards. It comprises of an open plan Kitchen, Living, Dining leading to a 50 square meter terrace with splash pool. There are three large bedrooms, two with en-suite, one guest bathroom and a Pantry/Box room. A two-car interconnecting Garage with 50 square meter storage included. Freehold & Full Airspace.

Call Steve on +356 9940 1515

GĦARB, GOZO FARMHOUSE

€1,400,000

ID: 240031008-3036

This expertly restored Farmhouse spread on 430 square meters includes south-facing views of Ta’ Pinu shrine and the Gozitan countryside. The property enjoys a mixture of authentic character and modern amenities. The farmhouse also comprises of four bedrooms, a large living area, formal dining area, a separate kitchen, a pool and a garden.

Call 2015 6800 Emall info@remax-malta.com

Call Kevin on +356 9945 9426 remax-malta.com

XEMXIJA APARTMENT

€685,000

ID: 240041046-33

Situated in a very good area within walking distance to the sea, this property comprises of a bright, welcoming large open plan kitchen/living/dining area, three double bedrooms, main with a spacious en-suite. A main bathroom, a large back yard with pool and air-conditioned throughout. Sold luxuriously finished and furnished. A one-car lock-up garage is included in the price.

Call Kevin on +356 9966 3322

ŻEBBUĠ HOUSE OF CHARACTER

€1,100,000

ID: 240121099-81

Hard to come by: an impeccable House of Character. Property has a welcoming entrance leading into a large living room, separate kitchen and dining room leading onto a large courtyard with pool and entertaining area. Around the courtyard one finds 5 double bedrooms; all with ensuite showers and terraces. Property makes an excellent home and excellent business venture as is currently also used as a Boutique Hotel. Must see!

Call Kevin on +356 9966 3322

ŻURRIEQ TOWNHOUSE

€520,000

ID: 240081083-34

The layout at ground level includes an open plan kitchen / living / dining room and a guest bathroom. On the first floor one finds three double bedrooms and a main bathroom. A washroom and a well sized terrace ideal for entertaining with panoramic views is found at roof level. Freehold.

Call 2015 6800 Emall info@remax-malta.com

Call Kevin on +356 9966 3322 remax-malta.com

---~~------~---~~'~.. T H E M A LT E S E I S L E S

IN NUMBERS IT HAS BEEN SAID THAT NUMBERS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS. WE'VE PUT TOGETHER A FEW TO GIVE YOU A BETTER IDEA OF WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR SMALL MEDITERRANEAN GEM.

TRAVEL DISTANCE TO CROSS THE ISLAND BY CAR

LONG

14.5

~ Â· O

LETTERS IN THE ALPHABET

WIDE

OVER

AROUND

365

TOWERS ON THE MALTESE ISLANDS

1 2 OF

CHURCHES ON THE MALTESE ISLES

INDEPENDENT ISLAND NATIONS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

1-3 DAYS TO START A BUSINESS

DECLARED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

BOV FAMILY BUSINESS SUCCESS

BUILDING FUTURE SUCCESS STORIES

COM 2111

Family Businesses are the backbone of the economy. At Bank of Valletta we can facilitate the transfer of businesses between family members to ensure businesses flourish in the future. Visit one of our branches or business centres to discuss the best financial package for you. The BOV Family Business Success benefits from a guarantee provided by the Malta Development Bank.

More information is available from www.bov.com or contact 2131 2020. Issued by Bank of Valletta p.l.c., 58, Triq San Ĺťakkarija, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1130. All loans are subject to normal bank lending criteria and final approval from the Bank. Bank of Valletta p.l.c. is a public limited company regulated by the MFSA and is licensed to carry out the business of banking in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta).

llo'"s

MALTA DEVELOPMENT

BANK

BOV Bank of Valletta

D E S T I NAT I ON

ST JULIAN’S OR SAN ĠILJAN IN MALTESE, IS A HUB OF ACTIVITY; THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON OR SOMETHING TO DO. OVER THE YEARS, IT FLOURISHED WITH VARIOUS TOURISTIC ACTIVITIES, RESTAURANTS, AS WELL AS BARS AND NIGHTCLUBS IN THE AREA KNOWN AS PACEVILLE. BEING ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR DISTRICTS IN MALTA, IT IS ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER AREAS ALL YEAR ROUND.

WORDS CHRISTINE CASSAR

DISCOVERING ST JULIAN’S AND PACEVILLE

INTERESTINGLY, ST JULIAN’S KNOWS ITS ROOTS AS A QUAINT FISHING VILLAGE. AT THE TIME, THERE WAS AN ABUNDANCE OF LATIN ARCHITECTURE SUCH AS THE DISTINCT, 1688 SPINOLA PALACE, AS WELL AS THE OLD PARISH CHURCH AND A COUPLE OF FISHERMEN’S HUTS AND FARMHOUSES IN THE COUNTRYSIDE. DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE NORTHERN COASTAL AREA WAS AN EASY TARGET FOR ANY PIRATICAL ATTACKS, IT REMAINED UNDEVELOPED UP UNTIL THE GREAT SIEGE. IN FACT, IT IS THOUGHT THAT THE SPINOLA PALACE IS WHAT PAVED THE WAY TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ST JULIAN’S, AS WE KNOW IT TODAY. Although this seaside village may now harbour numerous restaurants,

to design it in a way that allows people to read it from its reflection

hotels and shops, St Julian’s still retains some of its traditional

in the water. There were many conflicting opinions about this,

characteristics. Kickstart your day with a jog or take an evening walk

since there were many who pointed out that they couldn’t see the

along the Spinola promenade to get a glimpse of the magic. For

reflection every day. But then again some may say this, this also

starters, you can’t miss the unmistakable Maltese fishing boats, known

applies to the concept of love.

as luzzus. The blue, green, yellow, red and brown colours certainly stand out, along with a set of painted eyes on each side. Referred to

Moving on to Balluta Bay, this part of St Julian’s is known for its

as the Eye of Horus or the Eye of Osiris, these eyes are linked to ancient

fascinating Art Nouveau buildings, the Neo-gothic Carmelite Parish

Phoenician customs. Not only are they a symbol of good health, but it

Church and terraced Georgian-style townhouses. Whether you’d like

was also believed that these eyes warded off evil spirits and protected

to stop for a coffee or avail from the snorkelling and diving facilities

fishermen at sea. On top of that, luzzus are painted in the same colour,

located nearby, this is also a lovely spot that should be on your

after they are inherited from one’s father and grandfather, due to more

bucket list for St Julian’s.

superstitious beliefs. Malta is also well-known for its traditional parish feasts. While every We would also recommend you to get your cameras ready to snap

town and village has its own traditions to uphold during its own

a couple of pictures near the LOVE sculpture or during a boat ride,

local feast, St Julian’s is one of few places that host a traditional

along Spinola Bay. Designed by local artist, Professor Richard

competition known as Il-Ġostra. Bear in mind that this is not for the

England, this monument sits right in the heart of St Julian’s - you

faint-hearted! Participants will have to walk along a greased pole that

can’t miss it. Since the artist chose to invert its spelling, it might

is suspended right above the sea, as they try to grab one of the three

seem unusual at first glance. However, the artist purposely decided

flags in to claim their prize. ►

D E S T I NAT I ON

But apart from the entertainment side, Paceville also has quite a fascinating history before it came to be as we know it today. It dates back to the 1910s and 1920s, during a time when a handful of seaside residences were being built. During the two World Wars, these residences were further extended for both the British servicemen and locals to rent out. The more modern side of Paceville only started being developed during the 1960s. Nowadays, it is renowned as one of Malta’s best party places that is home to various clubs, bars and casinos. Whether you fancy dancing to some smooth, R&B tunes or perhaps some traditional, upbeat, latino music, we’re positive you’ll find something that suits your preferences from the huge selection of clubs and bars. If you’re not looking for anything crazy, you can also go for a pint or two, at one of the many Irish bars surrounding the area. Some of them even have a karaoke machine. There’s no denying that St Julian’s became one of the most populated towns on the island due to the recent developments carried out during the last few years. Nevertheless, we’re glad to see that it still retains many of its traditional aspects and offers some of the most stunning Mediterranean views to all those who pay a visit.

WHERE CHILDREN LEARN THROUG H

ACTIVE PLAY

Walking towards the PLAYMOBIL castle, you will enter the PLAYMOBIL FunPark Malta. The PLAYMOBIL FunPark encompasses an indoor play area which is divided into two sections – A 123 baby and toddler area and the 4 + play area; as well as a Pirate Themed outdoor play area set up in a safe, friendly and stimulating environment suitable for all the family. Indoor & Outdoor Play Area Playmobil Shop

Cafeteria

FAMILY! AGES FOR ALL THE SPECIAL ENTRY PACK n BENEFIT FROM OUR atio rge for ticket inform Ask your hotel concie

nday: 10am-6pm nday – Thursday & Su Opening Hours: Mo am-10pm Friday & Saturday: 10

Playmobil FunPark Malta, HF 80, Industrial Estate, Hal Far, BBG 3000

(+356) 2224 2445

www.playmobilmalta.com

LIVE • EXPLORE • SHOP • DINE

SHOR SM ART CIT Y

RICASOLI

LIN M A LTA

TO GE T H ER W H EN YO U ’ R E CLO S E TO A L L T H AT M AT T ER S , YO U H AV E A L L T H E T I M E I N T H E WO R L D.

The Shoreline is a premier destination with a unique blend of luxury residences and upscale retail. Contact us today for a detailed, no-obligation presentation on +356 2180 8895 / 9949 7518 or email us on sales@theshorelineresidence.com THESHORELINERESIDENCE.COM

GOZO

WORDS PATRICIA AND GIUSEPPE PIAZZI

WHY I CHOSE GOZO W O R K , L I V E , P L AY

WHY I CHOSE GOZO IS A SERIES OF PERSONAL RECOUNTS FROM PEOPLE WHO CHOSE GOZO TO GIVE GREATER SENSE TO THEIR LIFE. SMALL, YET FULL OF OPPORTUNITY, THERE ARE OFTEN RECURRING WORDS ABOUT GOZO FROM THOSE WHO ARE STRUCK BY AN ISLAND THAT CATCHES THEM BY SURPRISE - RUGGED, BEAUTIFUL AND SIMPLE. CAN LIFE GET BETTER THAN GOZO?

When I look back in time and realise all the years that have flown

and perfect tranquillity one can come taste the simplicity and

and all the emotions that this little rock called Gozo has brought

uniqueness that Gozo has to offer. The perfect blend. We have much

us, I cannot be filled with anything but happiness.

pride to enchant guests from all over the world and share our passion for this little island that has brought us awe, passion and new friends every week and many smiles to share.

Our journey startedâ&#x20AC;Ś. Years ago, a surprise weekend filled with curiosity and rain fall that did not stop my husband from exploring the island under grey clouds and thunderstorms till he found what

Gozo is unique, and her beauty is stunning, her simplicity is

I call the diamond in the rough: one of the three farmhouses that

addictive, and her colours will woo your senses. Cliffs tower from

would start a long adventure of laughter and tears. The emotion I

the waves like a fortress guarding beauty. Things come and go,

felt when on that Sunday night I was handed over a dangling key

the Azure Window left us so silently that we still are in awe and

on a string as a birthday present will still always mesmerise me, I

ask each other if it was there or painted in our minds, the scent of

still did not know that we would be grounded with a passion and

wild thyme on our walks, but all this can be regrouped into a few

fervour to restore these buildings. We were lured into spending

words: Gozo is unique.

more moments on the little enchanted island the isle of Calypso, a Thirty-Seven is today made up of three farmhouses impeccably

fertile oasis in the desert of the ocean.

restored with honey-coloured limestone that reflects the Odysseus stayed for seven years and it took God to make him

Mediterranean sun everywhere, with walls that keep us cool in

leave. This is a place filled with calm, its name, Gozo, given by the

summer and warm in winter. Each stone was laid with a reason and

Aragonese, means joy.

order and chipped with craftsmanship that if she could speak would tell you a tale that would bring you more enchantment.

A place as described by painter Edward Lear, 'no more words can We have hosted Hollywood stars, artists, musicians,

describe its magnificence'.

philanthropists, fashion designers, stylists, yogis, holistic souls, As time passed, we decided to leave our hectic pace of life in the

photographers, models, chefs, journalists, writers, families and

fashion world of Milan, and create behind these old stone walls 'Thirty-

children and they all have been able to share the awe of this island

Seven' - a home hotel and haven of luxury - wherein comfort, elegance

that we so love much.

GOZO

WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

6 R E A S O N S W H Y YO U MUST SPEND MORE THAN A D AY I N G O Z O

Gozo is a unique island to discover, with

SUNSETS, SUNRISES AND STARRY SKIES

its status as one of the Mediterranean’s

charming bays and beaches, astounding

Any island visitor can admire the beauty of

top diving resorts. Plus, our award-

architecture, passionate people, rich

the landscapes and buildings – yet witness

winning clean coast (Gozo is a Quality

culture, sensational cuisine and more

these bathed in the intimate light of a sunrise

Coast destination) hosts many water-

importantly a relaxed and laid-back vibe

or sunset and you’ll be transfixed by this

based sports activities from swimming,

which positively influences all visitors.

transcendental experience. Plus, once the

snorkelling and kayaking to stand up-

sun sets and darkness falls look upwards to

paddle-boarding, water-skiing and

The island is also home to world-renowned

gaze in wonder at our star-laden skies. Dwejra

even freediving.

dive sites, a Neolithic temple older than

on our western coast has Dark Sky Heritage

Egypt’s Pyramids and transfixing dark skies

Status and is celebrated for spotting stars, the

FREE CONCERTS AND EVENTS

attracting stargazers from far and wide.

annual Perseid meteor showers, eclipses and

Throughout the year, Gozo is alive with

Day-trippers take the short ferry trip here and

even the Milky Way. You’ll be able to see The

music and celebration. Fom Gaulitana

endeavour to see as much as possible during

Milky Way here in a way which hasn’t been

Festival of Music to Gozo Alive, Gozo Rocks

a whistle-stop tour of Gozo’s attractions;

possible in many capital cities for decades.

and Pops, Opera Festivals, Folk and Jazz festivals. Many of these free events bring

often exasperatedly claiming “I’ll be back” as they rush to catch the boat back to our sister

FESTAS AND FIREWORKS

music to Gozo’s theatres and open spaces,

island. Here are six reasons why you should

Summer festa celebrations are an easy

so whichever genre of music you may love,

spend more than one day in Gozo:

way to immerse yourself in Gozitan culture

join the beat!

and tradition. Most Gozitans love fireworks THE BEACHES

and Festas and these events are steeped

PACE OF LIFE

Gozo has a diverse selection of popular

in history and tradition. Watch brightly

We couldn’t finish without adding this

and lesser known beaches, bays and

decorated villages and churches brim with

entry. It’s hard to put into words the ease

coves. Ramla is renowned for its vibrant

locals as they celebrate their saints through

at which our island de-stresses you. Gozo

red sand whereas Marsalforn and Xlendi

religious ceremonies, marching parades and

has a relaxed pace of life and its own kind

are very popular among visitors. Yet, lesser

elaborate firework displays.

of rhythm. It can sometimes take a day or two before you start to fully de-stress, relax

known and more remote beaches such as Ħondoq Bay, San Blas, Mġarr ix-Xini and

WATERSPORTS AND DIVING

and to get in synch with our island’s laid-

Daħlet Qorrot are equally idyllic havens for

Gozo’s calm crystal blue waters attract

back nature and rhythm. Simply breathe,

sunbathing, swimming or snorkelling.

diverse marine life, ensuring it upholds

relax and enjoy!

You, your family & your business

L I F E I NS U RA N C E

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CALAMATTA CUSCHIERI INVESTMENT SERVICES LTD (CCIS) IS AN ENROLLED TIED INSURANCE INTERMEDIARY UNDER THE INSURANCE DISTRIBUTION ACT, CAP 487 OF THE LAWS OF MALTA FOR MAPFRE MSV LIFE P.L.C.. MAPFRE MSV LIFE P.L.C. IS AUTHORISED BY THE MALTA FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY (MFSA) TO CARRY ON LONG TERM BUSINESS UNDER THE INSURANCE BUSINESS ACT, CAP 403 OF THE LAWS OF MALTA. BOTH ENTITIES ARE REGULATED BY THE MFSA. TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. ISSUED BY CCIS. THE PROTECTION PLANS DISTRIBUTED BY CALAMATTA CUSCHIERI INVESTMENT SERVICES LTD (CCIS) ARE PRODUCTS OF MAPFRE MSV LIFE PLC.

BUSI N ESS

GROWING A " L I D L" AT A T I M E D AY N A C L A R K E C AT C H E S U P W I T H R E G I O N A L D I R E C T O R M A R K FA R R U G I A

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LIDL CELEBRATED 10 YEARS IN MALTA LAST YEAR. WHAT DOES IT

WHAT GROWTH/LANDMARKS HAVE YOU SEEN OVER THE LAST

MEAN TO YOU TO BE PRESENT ON THE ISLANDS?

11 YEARS?

Lidl is a world-class retailer. Our presence is widespread in 30 countries,

In 2008 when Lidl first opened its doors in Malta we brought a new

with over 10,800 stores and more than 287,000 employees. It is highly

shopping experience; high quality products at convenient prices. Whilst

significant that Lidl is present on the Maltese market and we are very

retaining our core business model, there is no doubt that we have

enthused that the Maltese operation plays an important role, not only

effected great changes in terms of product range, physical presence,

when considering the local market, but also as a prominent player in the

store layout and shopping experience. Today our stores have a slick

Lidl rankings worldwide. Today we employ around 400 people and operate

and modern appeal to them with the biggest difference being the

8 stores with further growth in the pipeline. Lidl Malta is now a household

sense of space. The first three stores averaged 1000 sqm. These have

name and we have successfully positioned the brand as the supermarket

gone up to 1200 sqm, with the latest addition, our store in Mosta,

of choice on the Maltese islands.

growing to 1600 sqm. Over the years we have also grown our product

BUSI N ESS

range, particularly Maltese products, very significantly. The last 11 years

introduced a number of staple items in our fresh, ambient and frozen

have given us some groundbreaking results. We opened a further four

ranges and we are now working with local suppliers to introduce a

stores in Malta and one in Gozo. Lidl Mosta, which has now been open

number of new national items to our bakery, meat selection, and

for three years, was the biggest store of its kind at the time, and it was

possibly also fruit and vegetable range. We hope to open our 9th

built and operational in just 14 weeks!

store soon. This will allow us to offer a seamless experience to our loyal customers by positioning ourselves in another key area on the island.

The past year has been possibly the most rewarding. In September 2018, on behalf of the Lidl Malta Team, I picked up the Chairman’s

Going forward, we will intensify our efforts to become more eco-

Award at the Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. This prestigious

conscious and environmentally sustainable. We are in the process of

award recognises Organisational Standard, Excellence & Outstanding

replacing instore equipment which, despite not being obsolete, will

Achievement, clearly summing up the Lidl Malta Team’s achievements.

be replaced with more efficient, modern equipment and reduce our

In January 2019 Lidl Malta brought home Malta’s first ever Top

carbon footprint substantially. We have discontinued the sale of single

Employer Europe Award, an unparalleled achievement that is

use plastic items from our assortment (such as plastic cups, cutlery,

testament to the standards we are setting internally through our

straws and other disposables), and we are looking into introducing

human resources strategy and the ethos we try to instill in every one of

solar paneling in all stores (where feasible and possible). We will also

our employees: ‘Passion for Success’.

be providing free electric car charging ports in our new stores and we are working closely with the authorities for the implementation of

WHAT ARE THE DEVELOPMENTS/ANY PLANS FOR LIDL IN MALTA

reverse vending machines for bottles. We have agreed with our staff

THIS YEAR?

members to stop the use of single use plastic during their shifts. We

We operate in an extremely dynamic market and in a small country

have distributed free water dispensers and reusable bottles, and our catch

with a very diverse client mix. One needs to be able to process a large

phrase is: ‘If you can’t reuse it, refuse it!’ – we estimate that this simple

amount of data in a short time, but one must also take decisions and

initiative could save over 200K plastic bottles or cups per year from being

stand behind them. Agility is the name of the game. Retail, particularly

used and disposed of internally.

discount retail, thrives on innovation and the ability to move fast. We need to be on the forefront constantly and endeavour to give a

Finally, we will continue to be extremely active through our corporate

sustained one-stop-shop experience. We will continue to upgrade our

social responsibility efforts. Last year alone we supported various

current stores and expand further in strategic locations. Following

NGOs with the donation of funds or products. We will continue

on the success of our Vegan, Organic & Gluten-free product ranges,

working hand in hand with various NGOs with a special focus on

this year we will be focusing on Maltese products. We have already

animal shelters in the coming months. >

BUSI N ESS

WHAT’S THE RELATION OF LIDL WITH MALTESE PRODUCERS?

On the social side, a number of events are organised throughout the year

WHAT SHARE OF THE PRODUCT OFFERING CONTAINS

both at store level and at company level. Staff are given vouchers during

PRODUCTS MADE BY LOCAL PRODUCERS?

festive periods. All employees who become parents are also given an

At Lidl Malta we foster strong, long lasting relationships with our

attractive gift pack. A number of internal fun competitions with fantastic

suppliers and distributors. We have a dedicated team that manages

prizes are organised throughout the year. Lidl Malta also organises football

all aspects of the trading relationship from agreement on pricing ,

and volleyball tournaments which see a number of teams participating

specification setting, volume securing etc. We try to empathise with

locally, with the winners going on to a tournament on an international level.

our suppliers on the business issues that they face. Being an international company, Lidl offers a number of graduate Today, we work closely with several Maltese suppliers from whom we

programs for a two-year engagement. This will afford them the

source a part of our product range. As we continue to open new and

opportunity to learn all aspects of the trade locally or abroad, learn

well-positioned outlets we will widen our reach and be in a position to

different languages and appreciate different cultures.

widen our range of national products. We also actively involve our employees in our CSR efforts. All stores carry ARE THERE ANY WAYS IN WHICH LIDL GIVES BACK TO

out a number of CSR events in the localities they are situated in. For all

ITS EMPLOYEES?

CSR events, staff participation is fully funded by the company.

Our employees are amongst the most talented and hardworking in the industry. We truly believe this, and more importantly, we appreciate it.

WHAT’S YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF LIDL IN MALTA

Leadership is about empowering people, actively allowing them to grow

AND GOZO?

by putting their talents to use in the running of the business.

Lidl Malta will keep on growing by looking to increase its outlets in the near future and making itself more accessible to everyone. “Quality Costs

KPI achievement is good, but this will result in any case through sharing

Less” is ingrained in our DNA, and we will continue acting on our motto.

as much knowledge as possible with direct reports and cleverly pushing

In other words, we will always offer excellent quality products at the best

them towards excelling in their careers. Self-development and career

prices. Our aim is to move away from an essentially functional shopping

growth is therefore the number one focus of our management style.

experience and focus on one which is welcoming, paying particular

One of the proudest moments happened in our Safi outlet where one

attention to freshness and quality. We will also be focusing more on

of our team members, who had entered the organisation as a sales

delivering not just a good but also unique in-store shopping experience,

assistant, was promoted to store manager in less than three years.

perhaps best described as contemporary, comfortable and enjoyable.

The company tangibly rewards hard work and this moment further

By broadening our customer appeal we will not only consolidate but

highlighted this.

also incrementally improve our already strong market presence.

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

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LOCAL

AND ON THE ELEVENTH HOUR, THE PEOPLE BEGAN TO GATHER IN THE SQUARE.

WORDS SARAH CHIRCOP

A TALE OF FIRE AND FLAME SLOWLY AT FIRST, THE MORE EAGER PERHAPS, EAGER TO SECURE A GOOD SPOT OR MAYBE JUST EAGER TO SEE THE NIGHT’S END, EAGER LOCALS WHO WAIT ALL YEAR TO SEE THE SPECTACLE, EAGER TOURISTS WHO’VE BEEN PROMISED A SHOW.

The rest of the crowd lingers on, the more knowing, knowing that it

game, to ask questions we already know for the sake of striking a

will be a while till everyone gets organised, knowing that the night

conversation with your neighbour.

sky’s fireworks need to conclude their charade before anything more sinister can begin, knowing that nothing really ever starts on

But what’s wrong? Why hasn’t anything happened yet? The

time does it?

excitement slowly descends into a restless annoyance as the crowd begins to check wrist watches and mobile phones to see how long

They stand tall in the village square. In the darkness, there not

they’ve been complaining for. Tourists are shocked at the hour

there, they wait for flame and fire. Haunting metal frames of

delay, unspeakable and unacceptable, which it is I suppose, but

different shapes, name and destiny; waiting to be proudly martyred

good things come to those who wait.

all in the name of tradition and entertainment. The square is swarming with people now, children sitting up on the An art as much as a craft, the use of pyrotechnics in Malta as a

patron saint’s plinth ready with the best view of the night, elderly

form of entertainment, both in the air and on land, go back to the

folk stationed on benches around the periphery of the action

arrival of the Order of St John in 1530, so it’s no wonder an air of

and the rest of the young and the old in and around the sleeping

antique ritual hangs above our heads tonight.

dragons, the dragons who’ve now got one eye opened…

But what is really behind the success to any spectacle? It’s not solely

Suddenly, a commotion begins to unfold. The men who spend all

based on the visual but rather in something much more hidden,

year creating and nurturing these beasts are now amongst the crowd,

blind to the eye but prisoner of the soul – the art of anticipation, the

proudly bolstering their armour that consists of Mr Patron Saint printed

thrill of suspense - it’s about knowing your crowd, knowing how it

on a white t-shirt, protecting them from themselves as they bravely

functions, how much it can take and how long it can take it for, only

enter the arena smoking cigarettes, ready to set the night alight.

to push it a little longer after that. He walks up to the first hand-made monster, a long rod in his hand, Looks of confusion are exchanged amongst the faces of the

like a knight with his joust. We can’t really see but its tip suddenly

gathering crowds, looks that are impatiently transformed into

lights into a brilliant red and we gasp in excitement. We follow the

verbal inquiries. And so the detective work begins. Again, this is not

flame up to the dragon’s heart and then a silence washes over the

so much about finding out answers as it is about the thrill of the

village. Seconds that seem eternal, we wait one final wait…

LOCAL

And then we’re off, it’s off - in one brilliant explosion of light everything starts to come together, packets of explosive powder, all intrinsically connected slowly give life to the wheel of fire. And then we’re off, it’s off - in one brilliant explosion of light

the rush, living in the moment, for it’s all in this moment. And the

everything starts to come together, packets of explosive powder,

crowd themselves are sensational of course. A nun watches the

all intrinsically connected slowly give life to the wheel of fire. Smoke

action through her sunglasses and then quickly runs to congratulate

spits out on the crowd but we don’t care much for our health at

the boys after their biggest success which sees a wheel firing

this point because we are finally given what we came here for.

flames synchronised to music. Children are utterly bewildered, some

Clapping and cheering sees the whole square moving around one

cheering on the shoulders of their parents, others cowering behind

wheel after the next, like a swarm of bees who the police can only

legs but never enough to completely miss the action - curiosity

hope to safely control. Mechanism after mechanism sees a new

devours any fears tonight. The elderly wear slightly unamused faces,

complex magic trick of light and fire feed the imaginations of all

they’ve seen this a thousand times before but yet if you look close

and ‘Catherine’ smiles down on the entertainment. Team members

enough, they’re thrilled to be seeing it all over again, for it is pure

cheer with each success, embracing each other verbally as much

magic. And then we get to what they call it-tapit – the carpet –

as physically, young enthusiasts follow the action carefully with

the magic carpet of light, a horizontal row of gunpowder-licked

their cameras and tripods, each hoping to capture a split second

contraptions – this is the last of the show, one final hurrah, and they

that the other hasn’t yet managed to capture, whilst the more

are to be set off all at once. I can’t even tell you what this does to

adventurous camera people snake in and out of the action, riding

your senses. Perhaps I’ll leave you here with images instead.

CASSAR & COOPER

FRANCHISE

www.cassarcooper.com

PROPERTY SALES, LETTING & MANAGEMENT

Pietá

€995,000 NEW PRICE

Żebbuġ

ESTABLISHED SINCE 1964

€895,000

Pender Gardens

€795,000

Ref: 226647

Ref: 226618

Ref: 226596

EXCLUSIVE AGENTS! Built on approximately 312m², not overlooked and all main rooms have an un-obstructable view of the Marsamxett harbour, Pietà creek and the Msida Yacht Marina (having interesting and beautiful nights when the bastions are floodlit). Includes an impressive 26-metre front terrace, layout consists of open plan kitchen/living/dining and study overlooking the terrace, three master bedrooms with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, main bathroom, spare toilet, back terrace and a conveniently located 50m² garage on the ground floor (easily accommodates two cars, has utilities and includes a remotely operated, automatic roller shutter door). Penthouse has full ownership of its airspace and the possibility of building two penthouses above.

EXCLUSIVE AGENTS! Set in a quiet street, this house of character has a good finish and attention to detail. It is accessed via a front door on the street and side alley door on the pool area. All rooms offer a welcoming space with original vaulted ceilings. master bedroom with balcony and ensuite, two other guest bedrooms and bathroom on upper level, sitting room, dining, fitted kitchen, spare toilet, shower and cellar on ground level. Includes two outdoor areas, courtyard with dining facilities perfect for breakfasts and evening barbeques, whilst the door from the kitchen leads out to the spacious pool area ideal for entertaining enclosed by high walls for your privacy.

EXCLUSIVE AGENTS! One of the largest APARTMENTS in the Pender Developments measuring 340m² being sold furnished enjoying large terraces with communication ready for Hydro-pool. Layout comprising of hall, fitted kitchen/dining/sitting, three double bedrooms one of which has bath/shower ensuite and large terrace overlooking the pjazza, guest bathroom, laundry room, study room and spare toilet. Property includes very well-situated underlying car space, private facilities such as 24-hour security, 2400m² of private gardens, use of the communal swimming pool, fitness centre and an underlying supermarket. FANTASTIC RENTAL INVESTMENT!

54, Mensija Street, St. Julians STJ 1960 Tel: 2134 3730 MOB: 9949 4494

FRANCHISE OWNER: ALESSANDRO ALOISIO

Email: s.aloisio@cassarcooper.com

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BUSI N ESS

MALTA: AN INVESTMENT LOCATION FOR THE FUTURE Considered one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, many are still amazed to discover the plethora of benefits associated with investing and living in Malta.

CITIZENSHIP-BY-INVESTMENT GOLD STANDARD Developed by the Government of Malta in partnership with Henley & Partners, the Malta Individual Investor Program (MIIP) is considered one of the most successful and credible citizenship program in the world. The minimum capital contribution for a single applicant is approximately EUR 1 million, which consists of a donation to the country’s development fund, a real estate purchase or rental, and an investment in government-approved financial instruments.

Situated just off the European coast beneath Sicily, the small island of Malta has established itself as a leading financial centre, offering foreign investors stability, security, and innovation. The Mediterranean island has experienced above-average economic growth in recent years, as investors and travellers alike tap into the island nation’s enormous potential. During the first half of 2018, Malta had the fastest growing economy in the Eurozone, boasting an economic growth rate of more than 5%. Considering this exponential growth and Malta’s incredible lifestyle benefits, an increasing number of people are looking to make greater investments in the island. Malta’s acclaimed citizenship-by-investment program offers investors the opportunity to obtain citizenship in exchange for a substantial economic contribution to the country and forge genuine links with the island.

The MIIP has set the industry benchmark in terms of application processing, applying the world’s strictest due diligence standards and vetting of applicants. Each applicant and their included family members have to pass a strict four-tier due diligence process to ensure that all individuals entering Malta through citizenship-by-investment have no association with any criminal activities or form of corruption.

Growth of real gross domestic product (GDP) in EU member states in the 3 rd quarter 2018 (compared to the same quarter of the previous year) 3.6%

Malta 1.9%

Romania Latvia

1.7%

Poland

1.7%

Slovenia

1.3%

Hungary

1.3%

The Maltese passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 destinations worldwide, including Australia, the USA, the UAE, Hong Kong, Japan, and all the countries in Europe’s Schengen Area. As a full member of the EU, the country also enables settlement in any other EU member state.

1.0%

Greece

0.9%

Ireland

0.8%

Cyprus Denmark

0.7%

Bulgaria

0.7%

With its strategic location, this small island nation has also established itself as an important shipping hub, granting easy access to Eastern and Western Mediterranean ports. Malta also boasts excellent flight connections and has a number of direct daily flights to Europe and North Africa. London is a short threehour flight away, while the business hub of Dubai can be accessed in five hours.

0.6%

United Kingdom 0.0%

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Malta is situated in the very heart of the Mediterranean ocean yet close to the European mainland, providing a perfect bridge between a secluded lifestyle and international access. Residents of Malta can enjoy the island lifestyle, surrounded by spectacular natural beauty, while still being within close reach of top business destinations.

0.5%

1.0%

1.5%

2.0%

2.5%

3.0%

3.5%

4.0%

Source:https:l lwww.1totim.c:oml.stotistic.s/263008lgdp-9rowth-in-eucountries-compared-to-same-quarter-previous-yeorl

BUSI N ESS

MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE Malta is often referred to as an open-air museum and has a history that dates to 5,000 BCE — the island’s skyline is dominated by 16th-century architecture. The country is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them, its capital, Valletta, donned the illustrious crown of ‘European Capital of Culture’ in 2018.

The Maltese government understands that a healthy private sector and an overall pro-investment climate contributes to the country’s sustainable development. To this extent, Malta Enterprise was created with an objective to support private businesses operating in the country, and its services are priceless to new investors entering the market. It provides assistance in data analysis, helps with identifying potential partners and clients, and guides investors through the legal system.

Along with its rich history, Malta offers 300 days of sunshine, seasculpted shores, and azure waters. The island’s lifestyle is modern and welcoming, and the influences of its location are evident in local food. Dishes feature a mix of Mediterranean cuisine with strong influences from Italy, created from fresh ingredients from the local land and sea. A SECURE HAVEN FOR YOUR FAMILY An EU member since 2004, Malta provides its residents with the same benefits afforded to European citizens, such as access to the world’s best educational and medical facilities and security under the protection of the region’s strong legal system. Malta is considered one of the safest countries in terms of natural disasters and crime. According to the 2018 edition of the World Risk Report, the island nation ranks as the second safest in the world behind Qatar on the 172-nation ranking of disaster risks. The crime rate on the island is also almost non-existent.

FUTURE-FACING INVESTMENT DESTINATION In 2018, Malta became the first country in the world to establish a regulatory framework for blockchain technology. The island nation has also long been a front runner in the iGaming and fintech industries.

The country has earned a reputation for being highly familyoriented — many of its public places and establishments are welcoming of and cater to children. Malta has excellent local and international public and private education, with all schools teaching in English. The standard of health care in Malta is among the highest in the world, with a wide network of clinics and the renowned private Saint James Hospital servicing residents.

The country’s online gaming industry has shown impressive growth over the past few years, supporting local employment and bolstering revenue for the island. The sector accounts for a substantial part of Malta’s economy, contributing over 12% of the country’s overall GDP.

THRIVING REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY Malta’s real estate market has shown outstanding resilience during the 2008 global recession and continues to grow in sales. The purchase of real estate on the island archipelago is at an alltime high. During the first half of 2018, property prices in Malta increased more than any other country in the world.

THE GLOBAL LEADER IN INVESTMENT MIGRATION Henley & Partners is a global leader in residence and citizenship planning. Our highly qualified professionals work together as one team in over 30 offices worldwide. With a local office in Malta, our experienced global team is best-placed to guide you through your citizenship-by-investment journey.

The increasing number of buyers looking to purchase real estate in Malta is driven by various factors, including the opening of branches of some of the world’s most influential financial institutions, online businesses, and reinsurance companies. Malta offers an abundance of property options, including apartments, maisonettes, ‘houses of character’, palazzos, villas, and bungalows.

The firm also runs a leading government advisory practice that has raised more than USD 8 billion in foreign direct investment. Trusted by governments, the firm has been involved in strategic consulting and in the design, setup, and operation of the world’s most successful residence and citizenship programs.

AN ATTRACTIVE PLACE FOR BUSINESS A flexible and highly trained multilingual workforce is one of Malta’s principal assets and helps to ensure the country’s competitive edge through high-quality production at costs that are highly competitive in relation to the rest of Europe. Investors operating in Malta also benefit from easy access to European and Middle Eastern markets and the EU’s free trade agreements. Further bolstering Malta’s business appeal is its membership to the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the World Trade Organization, and the International Labour Organization.

~ Henley & Partners For more information on acquiring alternative residence or citizenship, call +356 2138 7400, e-mail malta@henleyglobal.com, or visit henleyglobal.com 31

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EVENTS

AUGUST IS UPON US AND THROUGHOUT THE MALTESE ISLANDS. THE SOCIAL CALENDAR IS PACKED WITH THINGS TO EXCITE AND DELIGHT. HERE'S A SELECT FEW EVENTS TO CHECK OUT THIS MONTH.

WHAT'S HAPPENING? 2nd August and 9th August

THE FRIDAY AFFAIR

Café Del Mar, St Paul's Bay Café del Mar has the most amazing sunsets with incredible panoramic views. Luxury collides with a blatant disregard for anything that doesn't resemble a good time. Experience your Fridays to the sounds of our special DJs and good vibes in a sleek and modern atmosphere. Friday Affair welcomes you to a world of elegance, class, and perfect ambience this summer. Now, this is the real Malta experience. For table bookings kindly send us a private message on our official Facebook page or call Lucienne on +356 9994 4445

TICKETS FROM TICKETARENA.COM.MT

19.07 / 26.07 / 02.08 / 09.08

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'THE'BALL Of

Tickets available from www.ticketarena.com.mt

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4th August

3rd August

GRINGOS PRESENTS: MARCO CAROLA

AUGUST MOON BALL

UNO MALTA, Crafts Village, Ta' Qali

Verdala Palace, Siggiewi

Marco Carola is a global ambassador of techno. From Napoli in the south of Italy, he was instrumental in the development of the electronic scene in the early 90s. Over twenty years later and Marco is still one of the most respected artists amongst the techno scene. Tickets available from www.ticketarena. com.mt for table bookings kindly send us a private message on the official FB page or email bookings@unomalta.com

The August Moon Ball has become an elegant annual event held at the historic Verdala Palace and organised in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund. Guests will be able to enjoy a nighttime view of most of the island in an enjoyable evening setting while also supporting a noble cause. Tickets are available on www.augustmoonball.com and for further information you may call 21226226. www.augustmoonball.com

Tickets available from www.ticketarena.com.mt

I N S E RETVT EE NXTTS H E R E

VIDA Loca – VIDA Loca – Inflight Magazine 85x55mm PRINT.pdf

18/06/2019

16:24

7th August

VIDA LOCA

Uno Malta, Crafts Village, Ta' Qali

The hottest Hip Hop, Pop & Reggaeton Party has arrived in

Malta. Vida Loca is the travelling event of Hip Hop, RnB and

Reggaeton, which has long been aflame all over Italy and

beyond. Vida Loca is a super fun, colourful mix of different sounds that are becoming the real pop of this period. For table

bookings kindly send us a private message on the official FB

CMY

page or email bookings@unomalta.com

Tickets available from www.ticketarena.com.mt

9th August

11th August

THE GREAT VEGAN & VEGETARIAN EVENT

GRINGOS PRESENTS: THE MARTINEZ BROTHERS

Ramla Bay Resort, Mellieha

The Ramla Bay Resort once again will welcome guests to its summer

Uno Malta, Crafts Village, Ta' Qali

Great Vegan and Vegetarian Event, right at the water’s edge at

The Martinez Brothers, an American DJ duo, are two of the most

Mojitos Beach Terrace. Serving a lavish buffet including pasta, Indian,

recognisable global stars in house, techno, and club culture. Since

barbecue, Maltese, street food, desserts and even vegan ice-cream.

first hitting the road at ages 15 and 17, they have gone on to sell out

Definitely the best spread on the Island. A must-try for non-vegans or

some of the world’s largest venues, performing regularly in hotspots

non-vegetarians... Nourish your senses, relax under the stars on the

like Ibiza quickly rising to become leaders within dance music's new

beach while enjoying Nadine Axisa Quartet’s smooth jazz. The event

guard. For table bookings kindly send us a private message on our

starts at 20:00hrs.

official page or email us on bookings@unomalta.com

•

Tickets available from www.ticketline.com.mt

•

Tickets available from www.ticketarena.com.mt

18th August

GRINGOS PRESENTS: DEBORAH DE LUCA

UNO MALTA, Crafts Village, Ta' Qali

In a short few years, Deborah De Luca's music became a highquality brand, a good fusion of hard techno and minimal sounds without ever being common. Today, Deborah plays in many major clubs all over the world: From France, Spain, Germany to America. She continues to produce fresh and innovative music, although she doesn't belong to any musical trend, but always appeals to a range of different tastes. For table bookings kindly send us a private message on our official page or email us on bookings@unomalta.com Tickets available from www.ticketarena.com.mt

EVENTS

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JOSEPH CALLEJA & ANDREA BOCELLI

30th August - 1st September

The Granaries, Floriana

MALTA CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL 2019

Home-grown leading and grammy-nominated lyric tenor Joseph Calleja will once again join musical forces with world-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, famed for having one of the most beautiful voices on the planet. Bocelli has recorded 15 solo studio albums, three greatest hits albums, and nine complete operas, selling over 90 million records worldwide. Combined with Joseph Callejaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Goldenage voice and the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual staple concert promises to be another unforgettable celebration of music under the stars.

Fort St. Elmo, Valletta

The beer fort opens its majestic gates to welcome you to three days of the finest brews, delicious food and sweets, awesome live music from top local bands, informative beer workshops and a new pop-up shop with beers and merchandise to take home. The second edition of the Malta Craft Beer Festival is happening from Friday 30th August till Sunday 1st September. For tickets and information www.craftbeerfestival.mt

Tickets for the show from www.showshappening.com

CreamfieldsA

11th to 17th August

SUMMER DAZE

Ta' Qali National Park Join us for the second edition of Summer Daze Festival. We bring you 5 days of sun-drenched sounds taking place over 7 days! The opening party kicks off with the amazing Martinez Brothers. Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th are FREE festival events! On both nights, a host of local and international artists including huge names such as David Guetta, Paul Kalkbrennar, James Arthur, Tyga and many more will keep you dancing through the night! Can't get enough? DJ Bobo Vieri will take to the decks at the Summer Daze Sunset Pool Party at Omnia, Med Asia on Friday the 16th, and it's not over till it's over. So... save some energy for the closing party at UNO Malta on Saturday the 17th where Roger Sanchez and Kristen Knight will wrap up the festival. For tickets and information on the FREE event www.summerdazemalta.com

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

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

M A D E I N M A LTA

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A KEEP-SAKE, A TOKEN FROM YOUR LAST MALTA HOLIDAY OR WANT TO TREAT SOMEONE LIVING OUTSIDE OUR ISLANDS, THEN WHY NOT TAKE SOME GENUINE MALTESE PRODUCTS HOME WITH YOU?

MADE IN

MALTA

MDINA GL ASS Visit Mdina Glass at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village and see the glassmakers at work. No fee and no bookings required. While you’re there, check out the wide range of practical and decorative handmade glassware on show – including a variety of tableware that’s great for indoor and outdoor living. Options include various bowls, jugs, carafes, tumblers and oil & vinegar bottles. There is a vast selection of small items that will fit easily in your luggage and Mdina Glass will be delighted to ship larger items to your door back home. For more info tel: +356 2141 5786. You can shop at any of the 7 outlets throughout Malta and Gozo or online with worldwide delivery at www.mdinaglass.com.mt Tel: +356 2141 5786 Facebook: /mdinaglass

WELCOME TO MALTA

KINNIE

Simonds Farsons Cisk plc is synonymous with a beer brewing tradition rooted in quality. At the base of this tradition are long-established skills of selecting nature’s best ingredients coupled with the expertise of skilled and dedicated brewers that ensure that a high standard of quality is maintained at every step in the brewing process. Over the years, this dedication has contributed to creating award-winning brews that so many have grown to appreciate. Cisk Lager, launched in 1929, is a golden-coloured, bottom fermented lager with a distinctive and well-balanced character with an alcohol content of 4.2%. The range also includes Cisk Export – a smooth, well-balanced and exceptional beer with a 5% alcohol content, Cisk Excel – a low carbohydrate beer, Cisk Chill – flavoured beer available in three flavours, Cisk Pilsner – a premium pilsner with an alcohol content of 5.5% and Cisk Strong – an outstanding extra-strong premium lager with a 9% alcohol content.

Kinnie, Malta’s own favourite soft drink, is a unique tasting bitter-sweet soft drink with orange flavouring and aromatic herbs. Kinnie is best enjoyed ‘neat’, with a slice of orange and lots of ice. Highly refreshing, it is also an excellent mixer. These distinctive characteristics have made Kinnie a Mediterranean classic since 1952, loved by the local population and tourists. Over the years, in keeping with evolving trends in lifestyles and health awareness, a zero-calorie version, Diet Kinnie, was introduced, as well as Kinnie Zest – a sugar-free variant with an intense orange flavour. The Kinnie range is available online at: amazon.co.uk kinnie.com

Buy Cisk on amazon.co.uk

C U LT U R E

WORDS HELEN RAINE

THE MELODY OF HISTORY TAKE A LOOK ON THE MAP AS YOU FLY INTO MALTA AND YOU’LL SEE WHY THE ISLAND HAS SUCH A RICH MUSICAL HISTORY. FOLK SONGS FLOATED OVER FROM SICILY; EXOTIC TUNES CROSSED THE MEDITERRANEAN FROM NORTH AFRICA; AND INSTRUMENTS CAME FROM ALL OVER EUROPE AND WERE INCORPORATED AND REINVENTED IN MALTESE MUSIC.

IN THE PIPES The Maltese bagpipe is called iż-żaqq. It was originally made from the skin of a premature calf and consequently looked rather extraordinary; the head was replaced by a large cattle horn attached to a ‘chanter’, two pipes with holes that allows the notes to be played. The limbs were tied off so that the skin could inflate, and another pipe inserted for the musician to blow into. The tail was kept, presumably for decoration. It’s more like the Greek tsambouna than the Scottish bagpipe, although the sound is reminiscent of the Highlands. The melody was created by blowing into the pipes, one of which had five fingerholes, the other just one. The music was complex and difficult to play, although the upper classes looked down on iż-żaqq as a peasant’s instrument. The tradition had pretty much died out by the 1970s, and the last player died in 2004. Our researcher desribed this as ‘equivalent to the loss of a priceless ancient monument’. To avert that, local bands like Etnika have been exploring the potential of iż-żaqq and bringing the unique Maltese sound back into the 21st Century. WIND POWER As you might guess from the Maltese word, the qarn is a horn. More than just an instrument, the qarn would often be found hanging over a house door to ward off evil. They were usually cattle horns and could be blown as is, or with a reed inserted. Some even have a full pipe fitted to allow the musician to change note through the fingering. The ‘bedbut’ is a simple stalk of Arundo donax reed; one hole transforms it into an instrument in the right hands. These look a bit like panpipes, relying on different lengths of the stem to produce a different note. Almost everyone would have given this a go in the old days and children would play their reed for an afternoon and then leave it in the field, to create another one the next morning. Another variation was the żummaru, which was a length of reed with a flute-like hole at one end and paper tied around the other.

C U LT U R E

It functioned a bit like today’s vuvuzela and the player would hum

GĦANA

into it. A related instrument, the flejguta, had fingerholes for a

The tradition of għana contains the voice of countless generations

more complex sound and looked like a recorder.

of Maltese singers. The lyrics of this ballad style from music were filled with the details of everyday life; people sang as they worked

DRUMMING UP

in the fields, ambled through the streets or fished and marketed.

The ċuqlajta is an incredibly ancient instrument, dating back

Today’s radio jingle has its roots in the għana, as market stall

to Roman times and still used by some folk bands, especially in

holders would belt out ditties extolling the benefits of their products

Gozo. It looks a bit like a modified breadboard but is essentially

to tempt customers. It was often accompanied by the guitar and

a wooden clapper, the size and shape of which makes different

perhaps the violin.

tones. Similarly, with, singers would beat the tanbur (a Maltese tambourine) in time to the bagpipes or later, the accordion. The Maltese also discovered that if you strike a large limestone block in just the right way, especially if there is a hole beneath it,

If you want to hear some snippets of Maltese traditional music,

the sound can carry for miles. One such instrument still remains at

Anna Borg Cardona has a collection at www.musicallegacy.com.

Ta Ċenc, sitting above a depression. It would have been used to call

For a more modern twist, try to catch Etnika in concert or failing

worshippers to church, as a bell warning of invasion and going even

that, on YouTube; you can buy their innovative album at

further back, as part of ancient ceremonies.

www.etnikamalta.bandcamp.com/releases

G AO RT ZO S

WORDS SAMUEL CASHA

A PLACE IN THE SUN

Nicholas Watkins (interviewer, September 1995):

warm climate that first attracted Victor Pasmore to the island as

What made you go and live in Malta?

he and his wife, Wendy, had been searching for “a place in the sun” – a Mediterranean refuge for frequent getaways. The prevalence

Victor Pasmore

of the English language made Malta the ideal candidate. Having

Oh, I don't know, by accident really, no reason at all. We had been

become enamoured with the island, along with the obligation they

going there for years and eventually we thought we would like

felt towards the stray cats and dogs that they quickly amassed, the

to have a place in the Mediterranean, go for summer holidays.

Pasmore’s took the decision to settle in Malta permanently in 1966.

But when we got a place there, in the country, we got so many

For Victor Pasmore, one of the foremost abstract painters of the

animals, dogs, cats and birds that we can't leave for long. I am

century, the Maltese phase would be his final chapter; he remained

glued to Malta. Why I like it is that it has got this tremendous

on the island until his death in 1998, at the old age of 90. The artist’s

history, going right back to Neolithic times. It has a great

Maltese period is best represented in an intimate collection at the

history, Arab, Roman, Greek, Italian, Baroque - Valletta is a

Victor Pasmore Gallery in Valletta; a few minutes' walk from MUŻA,

Baroque city - and British. And all this tremendous history is there

the national community museum of art, which also houses some

in a small space.

works by the artist.

The country of Malta, with its uniquely fascinating history, has

Naturally, Pasmore was to leave a mark on the local artistic

so much to offer. Yet, for so many visitors - among them quite

scene, and Malta too would reciprocate in leaving its own

possibly you, dear reader - the first thing that catches their

mark on Pasmore’s artistic output. Although Pasmore himself

attention is, quite simply, the weather. It was essentially the

largely denied such an influence, critics, even in his own lifetime,

G AO RT ZO S

observed how “the colours of Malta... its stones and walls and

Within this corpus of work, some have observed forms that

its blue sea, seem to re-emerge in a new form” in his Maltese

seem to, perhaps somewhat subconsciously, recall the forms of

work, as evinced by pieces such as Green and Indigo (1969, Victor

Malta’s Neolithic structures. Pasmore himself stated on numerous

Pasmore Gallery).

occasions that the shadow of Malta’s unique prehistoric past, which includes the eldest known man-made free-standing structures in

There was, however, one influence that Pasmore did admit to.

the world, greatly inspired him. Shortly after settling on the island,

According to the artist, the renowned Apollo Pavilion in Peterlee,

Pasmore claimed that within this incredibly historic atmosphere,

Durham County, which was designed and built shortly after

“metamorphosis” was now the key word for his artistic philosophy.

Pasmore’s move to Malta, was greatly inspired by the architectural

He became increasingly preoccupied with the idea that his abstract

elements of the traditional Maltese farmhouse. In the Apollo Pavillion,

compositions do not represent real objects, people or landscapes

these features were reinterpreted in concrete. This was a direct result

that have been abstracted beyond recognition, but rather are the

of his acquisition of his Maltese home, Dar Ġamri, an old farmhouse in

“original” object themselves, created from within the artist and by

Gudja which he remodelled in his own artistic idiom.

the artist alone; it is an independent, autonomous image.

Pasmore also remarked that the island’s atmosphere removed any

It was Malta’s sunny nature which first brought Pasmore to our

metaphorical shackles and invigorated within him a burning desire

shores; it was the cats and dogs which “glued” him here; it was

to experiment, which led to a sudden increase in his production of

our extraordinary history which made him fall in love with the

prints. In his own words, the expendable nature of paper “dispelled

Island. In a correspondence with Ben Nicholson in 1968, Pasmore

inhibitions and released new energies”. This can also be observed

asserts that even if the island was (already back then) overbuilt,

in his paintings, which increasingly make use of cheap materials

“there is still much of the scenery which retains the spirit of

easily found in the common ironmonger store. Wooden boards and

Homer’s descriptions in the Odyssey... Melita is still with its

plywood are perhaps the pre-eminent materials found within the

honey-coloured walls, its brown earth and pearl cliffs”. Perhaps

Victor Pasmore Gallery, with several works also consisting of the use

these elements, if any survive the ongoing madness of replacing

of electric tape and common spray paint. For Whom the Bell Tolls

our own heritage with more profitable projects, will in the future

(1974-1975, Victor Pasmore Gallery) interestingly combines these

once again act as catalysts for bringing another artist of Pasmore’s

two materials with oil paint, all on wooden hardboard.

calibre to Malta’s shores.

Rf>IIND 'TRIP Ac:cess a car frcm the street any time you need It, and pay by the hour or by the day. Ideal fer longer trips such as sightseeingor shopping. Standard CarShamg Pricng (€7/hour or €56/day) + €0.05/Km

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BUSI N ESS

WHATEVER YOUR REASON IN VISITING THE MALTESE ISLANDS WE HAVE A WEALTH OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR YOU.

B US I N E S S O R PLE A S U R E?

SICILIAN TASTE ON A PLATE Imagine a restaurant without paper menus. That’s what Sciacca Grill is – and more! Named after the Sicilian village which inspired its creation, this unique eatery offers a display section with fresh meat and seafood for customers to choose from. From ribeye steaks and Rubia Gallega beef to fish and lobster, no two days are ever the same, apart from the golden standards of quality and service. Find us in Valletta or in St. Julian’s!

... ...

St Julian’s +356 2133 1310 Valletta +356 2123 7222

SAILING CHARTERS MALTA Spend a day or more on one of our sailing yachts in a private setting. Just relax, explore and indulge whilst our professional and friendly skippers take you to the most captivating locations, lagoons and secluded coves. We will tailor your day according to your preference. Sailing, swimming, snorkelling and sun bathing, we promise you an exceptional service and a truly memorable experience. www.sailingchartersmalta.com info@sailingchartersmalta.com + 356 7981 1811

I N S E RBTU S TIENXETS S HERE

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Captain your very own speed boat and see the historic sights and beautiful beaches of the island of Comino, Malta and Gozo. We provide you with full safety briefing for safe family fun and a chance to sight see and anchor at any secluded beaches, accessible by boat only, where you can spend time relaxing on the boat, wading in the clear blue waters, or snorkelling along the coastline. Terms and conditions apply. For bookings and reservations – Contact us and we will get back to you right away with details and confirmation.

Various flavours of soft ice-cream, Yogurt and Italian Gelato to choose from that can be topped up with loads of toppings We also offer; • WAFFLE STICKS • PANCAKES AND CREPES • BUBBLE TEA • MILKSHAKES • SLUSHES Find us at Pioneer Road, Bugibba (Opposite Primera Hotel)

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SOUVENIRS THAT DON'T SUCK On a mission to make souvenirs great again; Souvenirs That Don't Suck is situated at the top of Manuel Dimech Street in Sliema. It is a haven of local creativity, weaving local charm and humour with fresh designs to create a selection of products that gives a new take on the concept of souvenirs. An array of fresh souvenirs, coupled with the store’s in-house art studio, Te fit-Tazza, will definitely result in an insightful visit to a side of Malta that is not commonly experienced. All of the products are designed in-house and produced within Malta and the EU to keep logistics short and quality high.

•

www.souvenirsthatdontsuck.com hello@souvenirsthatdontsuck.com \. +356 7907 2313 IJ souvenirsthatdontsuck

C U LT U R E

NO MATTER WHAT TIME OF THE YEAR, THE SOCIAL HEART OF MALTA BEATS TO THE SOUND OF FESTIVALS.

WORDS REBECCA CACHIA

O F F T H E B E A T E N T R A C K M A LT E S E S U M M E R F E S T I VA L S E V E R- E V O LV I N G A N D A LW AY S A G O O D T I M E ! THIS IS NEVER TRUER THAN DURING THE SUMMER WHEN THE ISLANDS LIVE AND BREATHE CELEBRATION. FUELLED BY VITAMIN D AND THE REFRESHING MEDITERRANEAN SEA, SUMMER IS WHEN MALTA AND GOZO SPRING TO LIFE – YOU’LL BE HARD-PRESSED TO FIND A MOMENT YOU COULDN’T FILL WITH ENTERTAINING ACTIVITIES AND NIGHTTIME FESTIVITIES.

C U LT U R E

Malta has lived a long tradition of religious and cultural celebrations

renowned music festivals now call Malta home and continue to be

that continue to take place year in and year out. Its rich social

more and more popular every year. Among these are the upcoming

calendar has been boosted over time by fresh and innovative events

Glitch Festival and Summer Daze for dance music, electronic music

across the islands that showcase both local and international

and body glitter; the colourful Full Moon Med Fest; The Farsons Beer

-created productions. On the back of events such as the Malta

Festival that is free to enter and teeming with live music; the vibrant

International Arts Festival and the Malta Jazz Festival held in July,

and joyful Malta Pride; and, The Bubble to support humanitarian

we now look forward to the second half of the year that’s brimming

and environmental causes.

with highly anticipated festivals. Sprouting out of the Maltese desire to celebrate its Mediterranean Speak to anyone in Malta about festivals on the islands, and

heritage at every turn, the country’s wine and beer festivals

probably the first thing that comes to mind is the Maltese festa. In

have evolved into annual summer highlights. Winemaking has

August, Mediterranean summertime is at its zenith and the festa

long been a Maltese tradition, and local wineries continue to

(village feast) season is in full swing. The festa is at the heart of

create world-class products. Winning international awards

life in every town in Malta and Gozo because it commemorates the

and always offering vintages that radiate a distinctly Maltese

feast day of the locality’s patron saint. The traditional celebration

vibe, local vineyards also throw wine festivals to allow people

has been around since the 16th century – and not a year has since

the opportunity to taste their wines as well as have a fantastic

passed in which the Maltese have held back on their parties!

night out. The Delicata Wine Festival, held in August at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, is not to be missed because

What started as a fundamentally religious festivity has since

the spectacular view of the Grand Harbour is genuinely unique

developed into a merrymaking occasion for all, locals and tourists

among festivals in Malta.

alike. Streets are decorated in rich, colourful banners, dazzling lights, festoons and pavilions; religious processions and marching

Just like most of the rest of the world, over recent years Malta

bands are supplemented by psychedelic firework displays and

has been nurturing the craft beer scene, culminating in the Malta

parties that last all night; and, the food – the food is, of course,

Craft Beer Festival. Even if beer isn’t necessarily your thing, the

everywhere. Now is the time to set aside diets and gorge on dessert

festival has become synonymous with tasty food and great music,

bonanzas, from traditional sweets like nougat and imqaret (date-

too. This year marks the festival’s second edition that follows in

filled pastries) to deep-fried doughnuts and Sicilian granita (semi-

the footsteps of its immensely successful first showing in 2018. The

frozen icy treat).

festival brings together Maltese and Gozitan craft beer along with sought-after imported craft beer brands from across the world.

If the food isn’t to your liking, the music in Malta is sure to be. The The yummiest food, multidimensional wine and beer, and musical

local music scene is booming.

delights to please everyone, Malta’s small size belies its thriving festival scene. We recommend following the locals to some of the

found peppered across feasts in Malta, but you’re far more likely to

summer’s most highly anticipated events – because what else is the

find yourself surrounded by something more contemporary. Malta

Mediterranean about if not the long summer days and even longer

has become a hub for music lovers around the world. Internationally

summer nights?

AUGUST

The traditional marching bands and ghana (folk singing) can still be

~ [CO MA~K[f

Friday 16 - Saturday 17

6pm to 11pm at Mellieha Square

The Eco Market presents you with a carefully curated event focused on all things good for people and planet. We are a community of change-makers who aspire to make ethical consumption the norm and present a purposeful shopping experience in Malta! Visit the Eco Market and discover handmade crafts, fashion items, beauty products and the best healthy & guilt-free food on the island! View the schedule of activities: www.ecomarketmalta.com #ecomarketmalta #bethechange

SPONSORS:

VIV.\CITY

■ I. I

C U LT U R E

WORDS GEORGES MEEKERS

D E L I C A T A’ S W I N E F E S T A C O M E S T O G O Z O

You know it’s that special time of summer

Drinking good wine with good food in

Classic Wine Festival is organised in close

when the excitement about the new grape

good company is one of life's most civilized

collaboration with Nadur Local Council,

harvest spreads like wildfire from vineyards

pleasures. And, with that in mind, the

from 23 to 25 August.

and cellars to public gardens in Malta for

organisers have laid on plenty of fare to try

wine celebrations to begin.

too. A tempting variety of both traditional

As is the case at the Valletta festival,

Each year in August, as soon as the first

Maltese and international dishes prepared

entrance in Gozo is also free. To sample the

lots of grapes roll in, wine enthusiasts from

by Maypole, Gate of India, Noodle Box and

wines there is a fee of €16 for a souvenir

far and near get ready to party at Malta’s

Il-Kċina will tease and please a wide range

wine glass and a wine purse filled with 24

grape crush festas organised by the nation’s

of palates.

wine coins. The wine coins are exchangeable for several 150ml glasses of a wide selection

foremost winemaker, Emmanuel Delicata. And, why not dance the night away? Every

of Malta’s award-winning wines, served

Their first port of call is of course in Malta

evening there is a double-bill of top local

from stalls spread around the stunning,

at the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta,

talent performing live music, including

starlit gardens.

home to the Delicata Classic Wine Festival

Airport Impressions on Thursday, The

from 8 to 11 August, every evening from 7pm

Crowns on Sunday and other great bands.

With more than 20 Delicata quality wines to try, whether you join in the fun at the

until midnight. Don’t miss the Classic Wine Festival in

Malta or Gozo edition, either event is just

The wines are the real stars here. Malta’s

Valletta. But, if you really can’t make it,

another perfect occasion to clink glasses

most iconic Grand Vin de Hauteville and

then save - or savour - the dates of the

this summer.

Gran Cavalier labels are on show alongside

Gozo edition.

other delicious DOK and IGT boutique wines such as Medina and Victoria Heights as well

Delicata’s annual wine fest will cross the

as the super rare Girgentina and Ġellewża

blue Mediterranean waters to the Gozitan

Frizzante, just to name-drop a few of

heartland of grape-growing, namely the

Delicata’s award-winning labels.

quaint village of Nadur. Here the Delicata

More festival details at www.delicata.com

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T R AV E L

GET A FEEL O F I B I Z A’ S U N I Q U E ‘S P I R I T ’ WORDS DAVID BAKER / AIR MALTA

WITH HEAD SPINNING SCENERY, FASCINATING MARKETS AND PRISTINE BEACHES OFFERING SECLUDED SPOTS BY THE SEA, IBIZA IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ISLANDS YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE. AND THERE’S PLENTY MORE TO EXPLORE AND DISCOVER THAN THE INSIDE OF A CLUB, INCLUDING EXCEPTIONAL RESTAURANTS, STYLISH BEACH CLUBS AND WONDERFUL PEOPLE. While the foundations of Ibiza’s fame are largely built on its

You’ll find that once you ‘get’ Ibiza it stays with you, for a special

clubbing roots, how aware are you of the many more faces the

energy exists – which some say comes from Es Vedra, the rock

island has to offer? There are many.

formation just off the coast which, extraordinarily, is the third most magnetic point on the planet.

It’s not all expensive bottles of water, sticky dancefloors and sunsets (though you can never really have too many of the latter). Indeed,

The focus of this article is on the new Ibiza, so if you really want to

to unearth the real charm of this fair Balearic isle requires getting

steer fully clear of the party scene it’s best to avoid San Antonio and

off the beaten track where lush, rolling green hills and pine forests

Playa d’en Bossa. These areas can get quite hectic – although the

alive with the song of cicadas quieten the mind and ease the soul.

latter still has some great spots to eat at the far (most southerly) end of the beach.

Ibiza is not a big island – you can drive across it less than an hour – so nowhere is out of reach. Crudely speaking, the north of the island

Before escaping to the countryside or out on to the crystal clear

is the most untouched and hippyish – and most of the well-known

waters, find your way to the ancient drawbridge that takes you

nightclubs and activity are contained in the southwest.

inside the walls of the incredible Dalt Vila, otherwise known as Ibiza Upper Town, a walled acropolis overlooking the rest of the streets,

While there is no denying the island has indeed spent a few decades

which has UNESCO World Heritage Site status thanks to a history

partying and losing itself on an unsustainable path to sheer over-

spanning more than 2,500 years.

indulgence, inevitably its coming of age moment has arrived. A rejuvenation in more recent years has brought a marked shift from

This is the biggest city on the island and well worth spending some

partying playground to paradise hideaway.

time in.

In addition to its natural beauty, savvy travellers are also now

Do with some yacht spotting down by the marina and wander

visiting Ibiza for some of the world’s best nutritionists, trainers and

through a maze of sleepy side streets and quaint little bars. Trekking

all-round health experts to get a healthy reboot, as well as a tan.

to the top of the fort will seem like a bit of a task at the time

In essence, Ibiza is what you want it to be – which is one of the

(especially after a few stops at the afore mentioned bars), but the

many things that makes it magical. You can have any holiday you

view from the top will make it all worthwhile. Time your ascent with

want there, from a week of high-end relaxation to a self-indulgent

sunset and have a tapas bar-crawl on the way back down to reward

dance-til-dawn weekend.

yourself for the climb. >

T R AV E L

HIT THE ROAD….

but what greets you will be so worth it. Take a cool box, beers and

As equally tempting as the tapas and bars are the shops, galleries

rest assured that you'll be tan line free - you'll be totally alone, so be

and absurdly picturesque restaurants.

at one with nature!

Hiring a car – or better still a 4x4 - in Ibiza is an absolute must-do if you

The beaches here will leave you daydreaming and invoking a feeling

want to see a side of the island that you'll never forget and to be able

that you’ve been abandoned somewhere in the Caribbean.

to navigate some of the roads down to the lower lying beaches are

Chirringuitos (beach bars) can be found on most beaches, each

pretty steep and where things can become a bit hairy if you don’t have

one with its own distinct character and atmosphere. With over

the right wheels!

sixty beaches to choose from, you will be sure to find your perfect holiday paradise.

Ibiza is an island, therefore, it’s no secret that you’ll find a huge selection of beaches to bask your days away on. What may surprise

GO ON A BOAT TRIP

you, however, is the diversity and breathtaking beauty that can be

Nowhere is the lure of the sea more powerful in the Balearics than

found across the coastline. In the rugged north you will find natural,

here, where frost-white slithers of sand are smoothed by water in

rocky coves such as Cala Xaracca, which are great for snorkelling and

unbelievable shades of azure, turquoise. And there's nothing like

inducing a feeling of being deeply secluded in nature. The south and

getting out on the water to get a unique feel for a place and see it

east coasts provide long sandy beaches, like Cala Nova, adorned with

from another perspective and literally a different angle.

loungers and golden sand which slopes gently into the crystal clear sea. Dangling off the south coast of Ibiza, a mere half-hour away by fast The majority of the main beaches are easy to access but for

ferry, the 20km-long island of Formentera (population 12,120) is a

the more adventurous (and their 4x4s) , there are many ‘secret’

beautifully pure, get-away-from-it-all escape. Formentera's pace of life

beaches and coves to be discovered at the end of winding dirt roads.

is blissfully languid, designed for lazy days spent lounging on some of

The surrounding Mediterranean is crystal clear and always inviting.

most exquisite beaches you can find.

The tiny cove of Calla Llentrisca is only accessible by foot and offers

An alternative to the ferry is a group boat excursion from San

one of the most picturesque and secluded beaches on the island.

Antonio of which there are many. But for a completely deluxe

Head for the village of Es Cubells and follow directions. You'll need

experience, why not push the boat out (pun intended) and go for a

to park up and walk approximately 1km along a cliff coastal path,

private charter?

T R AV E L

In essence, Ibiza is what you want it to be - which is one of the many things that makes it magical. Back on the mainland and if you have any money left if you took the deluxe trip to Formentera – try out the shopping on offer. As well as the fantastic markets, the shops are plentiful with wellknown chain brands and individual designers. Head to Eivissa for some serious shopping, within Dalt Vila you can find antiques, modern art and some Ibizan style clothing. Although not known for its designer shopping, the Island has a very laid-back style that makes shopping more of a pleasure. This experience is enhanced by the various markets around the island. The Las Dalias hippy market in San Carlos and the Punta Arabi market in Es Canar might both appear to be overly touristy, but they are actually great places to spend the day and to spend your money. Often with live music, they’re worth a visit just to soak up the atmosphere – as well for unique and inspired shopping opportunities where clothes, jewellery, leather accessories, are top purchases. Go hungry and share food with a friend so you can try something from each spot. Rastrillos’, or flea markets, are also plentiful, with a Saturday one at the Hippodrome. Another key element in Ibiza’s transformation as a holiday destination is that it is becoming just as famous for its lifestyle retreats as it is for its hedonistic mega clubs. Thanks to the island’s micro-climate, you can work out outdoors and dip your toes in crystal clear waters almost year-round. This free-thinking island welcomes all and offers everything from world class luxury to down and dirty bootcamps and an abundance of yoga classes. Most people who visit Ibiza will tell you that there is a ‘special something’ about the island. A unique spirit. This isn’t a thing that can be itemised, it’s something to be discovered and experienced on a very personal and individual level. It can be found in the warm and welcoming, international community of inhabitants. It’s clearly apparent in the awe-inspiring natural beauty and it will tickle you on the spine when you watch the most colourful and spectacular sunsets you’ve ever seen.

Air Malta will start a twice weekely service to Ibiza as from the 16th August with flights every Tuesday and Friday. Visit www.airmalta.com for more inforamtion. 51

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PROPERT Y

WORDS ROBERT SPITERI PARIS

AN ENCHANTING GEM IN THE HEART OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PERRY ESTATE AGENTS APPOINTED EXCLUSIVE AGENTS OF A UNIQUE HARBOUR FRONT HOUSE OF CHARACTER IN THE HISTORIC CITY OF SENGLEA

An entertainer’s delight. Minimalist contemporary elegance

heating throughout ensure a perfectly temperature-controlled

combined with an abundance of traditional features in a

environment complemented by ambient and natural lighting.

magnificent location. Commanding unobstructed and stunning

This elegant spacious home comprises a large sitting room,

views over the sparkling azure waters of the Grand Harbour

separate wine cellar, fully fitted and equipped chefs’ kitchen, 3

toward the majestic capital city of Valletta, Perry estate

luxury bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms and a guest bathroom.

agents are proud to present as exclusive agents, a dream home

The rooftop sun deck is accessed via a designer built, wide

for the discerning buyer in search of an idyllic Mediterranean

tread timber and iron spiral staircase and comes complete

lifestyle. Perched on the tip of the peninsula behind the guard

with kitchenette and private swimming pool. The various levels

tower bastion and manicured Gardjola Gardens (European

and rooftop deck present captivating scenery and a bird’s eye

Destination of Excellence site) in the historic neighbourhood of

view of the many fireworks displays and events abundant to

Isla (The Three Cities), lies a striking, uniquely restored house

the area. The thoughtfully designed layout is versatile as a

of character. The impressive architectural design features of

home for an executive, a family or a luxury rental. Senglea is

this edgy restoration are immediately apparent on entering

one of the historical three cities in the grand harbour area, the

the five level home - these include double volume floor levels

other two being Cospicua and Vittoriosa. The city’s title “Citta

with traditional stone ceiling slabs, exposed limestone walls,

Invicta” was given because it managed to resist the ottoman

the preserved original stone staircase, recessed and double

invasion during the great siege of Malta in 1565. The name

glazed windows with exterior timber shutters and exposed

Senglea comes from the grand master who built it, Claude de

timber and metal beams. Ventilation grills, AC’s and underfloor

la Senglea.

Robert Spiteri Paris Managing Director T: +356 2131 0800 E: rsp@perry.com.mt W: www.perry.com.mt

~Perry ESTATE

AGENTS

SINCE

1981

LOCAL

THE PEOPLE OF MALTA IS AN ARTISTIC PROJECT TO SHARE EMOTIONS, STORIES, PERSONALITIES, MOODS AND CONTRASTS DEPICTED IN PICTURES AND IN CITATIONS OF THE MALTESE PEOPLE.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHEN BUHAGIAR AND RODERICK VELLA

TH E PEO PLE O F M A LTA B E N N Y A N D S A LV U, M Ġ A R R M A LTA

"We were both born and bred in the fields. Back in those days, school was not obligatory: we had two hours in the morning one week, then two hours in the afternoon the following week and then we alternate. Life has dealt us so many heavy blows. We are especially saddened when customers do not appreciate our hard work. There are few youths left in this sector. Nowadays, the young generation only cares about having a good time and earning money without any hardships or pain.” Benny and Salvu “I always carry a handkerchief. If I take it off, I put it somewhere where I can find it. I have one regret about the day I met the Queen - I gave her a bouquet of flowers but we didn’t take a photo together because there was no photographer.” Salvu

www.facebook.com/thepeopleofmalta

THE KINDRED STORY Over the last 20 years, Kindred Group has brought together 11 of Europe's most successful online gambling brands - forming one of the largest online gambling companies in the world. We offer 25 million customers a great form of digital entertainment, fine-tuned to present an unforgettable experience in a safe and fair environment every day. And while our best years are still ahead, it's important to remember how far we've come.

Our Past In 1997, from his Londonflat, ourfounderAndersStromset outto changethe way playersgambleandofferthem an experiencesuited to the moderndigitalworld.Thisdesireledto the launchof Unibet, a businessthat wouldtap intothe suddenexplosionof sporton satelliteTV in the late 1990's,andquicklygaina loyalcustomerbase. As a seasoned betting expert, Anders had a unique understanding of the average player's betting needs. And by 2001, Unibet was now offering on line services to 200,000 customers in 12 languages across BOcountries. The small and highly talented team behind him helped drive the transformation of an entire industry, and our heritage as a pioneer of online gambling in Europe continues to shape the way we operate today. In 2004, Unibet listed on Nasdaq Stockholm, signalling a new era that would help take our business to the next level. And with further expansion by acquiring the Belgian Casino operator Mr Bookmaker, we were now in a place to get ahead of the on line gambling industry and succeed where others couldn't.

of handling customer transactions from numerous devices, in multiple jurisdictions, across all our brands. This saw the beginning of our unrivalled tech architecture - a development that enabled us to scale up fast with zero disruption to our customers. Even to this day, our world-class tech platform is extendable, resilient and the envy of our competitors. In 2016, with a truly multi-brand strategy and 11 consumer brands in our portfolio, we rebranded and Kindred Group was born. This paved the way for expansion into new and exciting markets, such as the US. As a leading online gambling operator, we acknowledge our position and take compliance seriously. We believe in exceeding regulatory standards wherever possible and setting the benchmark for player safety practices - as this is the only way to ensure sustainable growth over time. We're proud of who we are, where we come from, and what we do.

Our Future With so manyproudachievementsto look back on, our future goal is simple - to be the numberone operatoracrossall our markets.And to get there, we will continueto transformgamblingby investingin new technology,excitingproducts,and aboveall else, our people.

Our Present Two years beforeApple launchedthe first iPhone,Unibet had becomeone of the first operatorsto go truly mobilean innovationthat disruptedthe entire gamblingindustry. This broughtcustomerscloserto live actionand gavethem the abilityto place betswheneverthey saw an opportunity. It was this understandingof what customerswantedthat cameto define Unibetforeveras 'By players,for players'. 2007 saw more strong acquisitions for Unibet, with Maria Bingo and Casino helping to further grow our product in Europe and strengthen our position in the Nordics. With additional acquisitions in Denmark and Australia, as well as further expansion into the Finnish and UK markets - over the following years Unibet was fast becoming a group. With the continued growth of mobile and the increased product offering we had gained, our tech team now had the challenge

Without the diversity in our worldwide team, we would not have got to where we are today. Over 1,500 employees, representing more than 50 nationalities work together to deliver the best & safest possible gambling experience for our customers every day - with major hubs in London, Malta, Stockholm and Gibraltar, as well as country teams based in Antwerp, Milan, Paris, Copenhagen, New York and Sydney. One global team, united by five shared values, all having a part to play across each of our unique brands. As the online gambling industry changes, we constantly keep up with new market dynamics and regulations - ensuring a sustainable and profitable business today, tomorrow and beyond. As we look forward, our heritage of 'offering players a better & safer way to gamble' remains crucial. Innovation in technology, marketing and data offers huge opportunities to get even closer to our customers, providing world-class digital entertainment.

We will continue to transform gambling by investing in new technology, exciting products, and above all else, our people.

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H I S T O RY

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE A COLLECTOR OF ANTIQUE MAPS, THEN PERHAPS THE COUNTRY TO CHOOSE FOR A VARIED AND UNLIMITED SUPPLY OF MAPS WOULD BE THOSE OF THE MALTESE ARCHIPELAGO.

WORDS JOSEPH SCHIRÒ

DID GOOGLE MAPS KILL THE CARTOGRAPHIC STAR? THE MALTA MAP SOCIETY

of a cycle of fresco paintings found in the Council Chamber Hall of the

The Malta Map Society was founded on 14 November 2009 to support,

Grand Masters’ Palace.

encourage and disseminate the study and preservation of maps, and since this year it is celebrating its 10th anniversary, several activities are

MALTA AND ST PAUL

being planned.

However, Malta was already on the world map before the arrival of the Knights, mainly because the cult of St Paul had found broad appeal in

After I told my friends on Facebook of the forthcoming activities of the

Christian Europe. One such early map is that executed by Sebastian

Society, I was sent a tongue-in-cheek taunt by a good friend of mine

Münster in 1540. It shows the dramatic scene of St Paul’s shipwreck

that we didn’t need conventional maps anymore, now that we have

which has been given large prominence in the map.

Google maps. This reminded me of the song by the Buggles released in A MAP CONNECTED WITH A MURDER

1979 titled Video killed the Radio Star.

One manuscript site plan bears an particularly interesting story, it is GOOGLE MAPS

a 1691 map which was used as a visual representation of what was

Google Maps is a web-based service that provides very detailed and

written in a report of an on-site investigation into the death of Lippu

very accurate information about geographical regions and sites

Fenech, a local criminal. It shows the plan and prospect of the church

around the world. It is interactive and has proved to be very popular

of the Assumption of Our Lady in the hamlet of Ħal-Muxi on the

when travelling.

outskirts of Żebbuġ, Malta, where Lippu Fenech had sought sanctuary after killing a man during a robbery.

The problems associated with Google maps is that it depends on the useability of the hardware and on power and internet connection.

THE DE ROSSI MAP

Moreover, Google maps permits very little legibility on the limited

This is a truly beautiful map of Malta, which also shows the temporal

dimensions of the screen. After zooming in, one immediately loses

and the military strength of the religious Order of St John in Malta,

all sense of space and orientation. But the biggest disadvantage of

drawn by Giovanni Giacomo de Rossi and published in Rome in 1686.

Google maps is that no records are kept and consequently they have

The map of the Maltese islands is in the upper half of the sheet,

no history. Without a history, Google maps contain no narrative, unlike

while an extensive plan of the harbour area showing the mighty

printed or manuscript conventional maps.

fortifications defending Valletta and the three cities of Vittoriosa, sits in the lower half of the sheet.

CONVENTIONAL MAPS The explicit goal of conventional maps is to educate the user on

A 1959 TOURIST MAP OF MALTA

distant and familiar locations and territories. But maps reach more

THE ALDO CIGHERI MAP

than geographical education. They encompass history, information on

This brightly-coloured pictorial map of the Maltese Islands was

climates, crops, trade, military information, notations, dedication, as

illustrated by Aldo Cigheri and was produced as an attractive souvenir

well as images of dwellings, people, animals, and all sorts of curiosities,

for tourists to take with them after having visited Malta. It was

such as the following maps.

published in 1959 and it proved so popular that it can still be bought in souvenir shops after 60 years.

THE GREAT SIEGE OF 1565 The arrival of the Knights of Malta in 1530 and after the defeat of

ALL IN ALL

the Ottoman Turks in the Great Siege of 1565, Malta became the

As much as video did not kill the radio star when the song came out in

Propugnaculum Europae, the bulwark of Europe.

1979, the same applies for printed maps. I would venture to add that the production of printed maps has increased rather than decreased

One of the Siege maps of Malta executed by Mattia Perez d’Aleccio in

because Google maps have brought cartography closer to the people.

1576 describes several episodes of the Great Siege of 1565. It forms part

Will you still be asking for a map as soon as you arrive at your hotel?

I N S E RHTI STTEOXRY T HERE

Giovanni Giacomo De Rossi, ISOLA DI MALTA GOZZO COMINO E COMINOTTO, 1686

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JOSEPH CALLEJA THE MALTESE TENOR WHO MADE HISTORY Operatic tenor Joseph Calleja needs no introduction. He is a world-famous and a highly sought-after singer. Joseph is said to have discovered his calling for singing when he walked the boards as a second tenor in the chorus of Verdi’s Rigoletto at the Manoel Theatre. “And when I heard the prelude, something inside me changed forever.” Calleja does not come from a particularly musical family, but even as a youngster, he used to try out his voice, singing the pop songs of the day. When he was 13 years of age, he saw Mario Lanza in The Great Caruso – “and when he opened his mouth I thought maybe there is other music than Metallica and Iron Maiden!” adds Joseph. It was an aunt who upon hearing him imitate Pavarotti suggested he follow music. He was advised to study with Paul Asciak, who was a regular singer at Covent Garden in the 1950s. The experienced Asciak not only identified Calleja’s potential as a light-lyric tenor, and began developing his voice, but also played him recordings of some of the great tenors of the past, giving Calleja a stylistic awareness of the possibilities of tenor singing. The rest is history. Blessed with a golden-age voice that routinely inspires comparisons to “legendary singers from earlier eras: Jussi Björling, Beniamino Gigli, even Enrico Caruso” (Associated Press), Maltese-born Joseph Calleja has quickly become one of the most acclaimed and sought-after tenors today. His expansive discography and frequent appearances on the world’s leading opera and concert stages prompted NPR to hail him as “arguably today’s finest lyric tenor,” and led to his being voted Gramophone magazine’s 2012 Artist of the Year. A Grammy-nominated recording artist for Decca Classics, he has released five solo albums for the label. This season brings Joseph Calleja to the Metropolitan Opera (Tosca), the Bavarian State Opera (Norma/Carmen), the Vienna State Opera (Rigoletto) or the Festival in Aix-en-Provence (Tosca), amongst others. He sings at the BBC Proms, at Wimbledon’s No. 1 Court Celebration, concerts in Aalborg, Vilnius and Budapest and gives recitals at the Vienna State Opera and the Naples Opera in Florida. Joseph profoundly loves his country Malta and misses it too. Every year he performs at the Floriana Granaries, an annual event since 2009. He makes it a point to return to Malta and bring over famous international singers for an unforgettable classical concert. Il-Bizzilla caught up with Joseph in between his travels for a 60-second insight into the world of the star prior to his highly anticipated concert on the 24th August.

60 SECONDS WITH JOSEPH CALLEJA DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 3 WORDS Good-hearted, generous and impetuous. IF YOU WEREN’T AN OPERA SINGER, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING? Probably a job in wine-making. WHAT’S YOUR DREAM TRIP? Somewhere with clear blue seas, diving with my children and girlfriend. WHAT’S YOUR MOST TREASURED POSSESSION? I treasure nothing material to that extent.

now... take the right path

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PERFORMANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN? Definitely Tosca. TELL US YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT TO DATE Most recently, singing at Wimbledon to around 25,000 people. WHEN YOU ARE AWAY WHAT DO YOU MISS ABOUT MALTA? Home life – children, kids and my dogs.

We have the expertise and the experience to take you and your business on the right path to Malta’s tax, residential and business opportunities, backed by a reliable and efficient service. This is why we are your best guide to your success in maximising on Malta’s great potential.

WHERE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SPOTS ON THE MALTESE ISLES? Mellieħa and Gozo in general. They are still relatively unspoilt and its always a joy to rediscover them again and again.

Discover Malta’s advantages in Corporate Taxation|Setting up a Company|Taking up Residence

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT RETURNING TO THE STAGE IN THE ANNUAL FLORIANA CONCERT WITH ANDREA BOCELLI? Bocelli is a great artist, a friend and it's always a pleasure and honour to share the stage with him. WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THOSE ATTENDING? A night of beautiful, timeless music!

St. Julians, Malta Tel: (+356) 2137 8672

Victoria, Gozo Tel: (+356) 2155 9202

Email: info@act.com.mt www.act.com.mt

BUSI N ESS BUSINESS

MALTA MRVP RESIDENCE APPLICATIONS HIT RECORD HIGH

According to the Malta Residency Visa Agency, Malta’s Permanent

in Malta for at least 6 months in each year, MRVP permanent

Residence applications have hit an all-time high, exceeding 1,600

residents may apply for long term residence rights under the

applications since the inception of the Malta Residence and Visa

European Union’s Long-Term Residence Directive, which allows

Programme in 2014.

any third-country nationals living in any EU member state for at least five years to gain freedom of movement and work , as well as to take advantageous of other social benefits across the European Union’s member states.

FLEXIBLE BUT PERMANENT RESIDENCE IN EUROPEAN MALTA The programme allows affluent families to settle permanently in Malta at any time, without requiring any minimum presence. This means that the Maltese Permanent Residence permit allows

WHAT’S IN IT FOR MALTA?

family members to stay out of Malta if tied up in schooling, work

The programme attracts investors, business families, professionals

or business, and to visit as often as convenient, but it allows them

and other successful, economically self-sufficient persons to the

to move for long stays or even permanently when required.

island by permitting them to enter and stay in Malta according to their global lifestyle. If they settle in Malta, they pay and enjoy the quality of life that Malta has to offer in food, entertainment, schooling and education, business and investment. This

FACILITATING EXECUTIVE TRAVEL TO SCHENGEN COUNTRIES

contributes to the economy in no small way.

Since holders of Malta's Permanent Residence permit enjoy visafree access to the 26-member states forming the Schengen Area,

Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms, Citizenship and

this is particularly popular with executives and entrepreneurs

Simplification of Administrative Processes, the Hon. Julia Farrugia

who make frequent business trips to Europe. Likewise, academics

Portelli praised the work of the Agency and stated: “The benefits

and professionals can attend conferences and lectures in Europe

of the Malta Residence and Visa Programme are diverse. Apart

without the bureaucracy of prior visa applications that often

from attracting high quality, talented people to the islands, the

render such travel rather stressful if not impractical. Investors

programme contributes to the economy in no small way.” Being a

have taken a liking to Malta for its pro-business approach and

geographically small territory with exceptional economic growth

favourable tax system.

and healthy finances, Malta isn’t seeking volumes of investors and can afford to maintain standards to attract only the most reputable of investors.

ELIGIBILITY FOR EU LONG-TERM RESIDENCE RIGHTS For those who make Malta their home, after 5 years of living

60 4

BUSI N ESS BUSINESS

••

THE MRVP GRANTS ELIGIBLE INVESTORS PERMANENT RESIDENCY FOR LIFE FOR ALL THE FAMILY.

NOT A PROGRAMME FOR EVERYONE The Malta Residency Visa Programme achieves this by setting a minimum threshold for the financial standing of applicants, requiring proof of either an annual foreign income of at least €100,000, or ownership of assets worth at least €500,000. Applicants must also possess valid travel documents, a clean police conduct from the applicant’s place of birth and from any country where he has resided for longer than 6 months in the past 10 years. Dr Jean-Philippe Chetcuti advises some of the world’s most

The programme also requires the family to hold health insurance

affluent business families and has contributed to the shaping

covering all risks in Malta. Applicants must also undergo a health

of residency and citizenship programmes around the world

check at a reputable clinic or hospital proving that he and his

through his government advisory work.

dependents are of good health and do not pose an unreasonable burden on the national health system.

Dr Jean-Philippe Chetcuti Senior Partner, Global Residency and Citizenship Direct Tel: +356 2205 6604 Email: askjpc@cclex.com

THE MALTA RESIDENCE VISA PROGRAM'S COMPETITIVENESS

r&;

The MRVP enjoys competitive advantages over Portugal and Greece’s Golden Visa Programmes. Upon approval, applicants

CHETCUTI CAUCHI

in Malta receive a certificate of permanent residence for life. This means that after the 5 years of keeping the approved investments, Maltese residence permit holders do not require any further action, investment or payment to continue to benefit from permanent residence. On the contrary, Portugal and Greece withdraw investors’ residence permit the moment they dispose

A MULTI-PROGRAMME RESIDENCY PROVIDER SPECIALISING

of their property. In Portugal, another ground for termination of

IN THE MAJOR RESIDENCY & CITIZENSHIP PROGRAMMES

residence is the failure to spend at least 7 days in Portugal during

An international firm, Chetcuti Cauchi is a multi-programme

the first year, 14 days in the next 2 years and a further 14 days

provider with Governmental licences to represent applicants

in the following 2 years. Malta does not require any minimum

for citizenship and residency programmes with the

presence during the year.

governments of various countries including Malta, Cyprus, Portugal, Greece, Saint Kitts, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica and Moldova. Accordingly, the firm guides families, investors

AN INVESTMENT ROUTE TO MALTESE CITIZENSHIP

and entrepreneurs in understanding the various residence

Under the Individual Investor Programme, investors are offered a

and citizenship options and the advice given is always

12 month path to citizenship by investment. Reputable investors

objective and solely based on the clients' best interests.

undergo a 4 tier due diligence process over 4-6 months that

Chetcuti Cauchi also takes on mandates to advise investors or

leads to an in principle approval of the whole family. This is an

their advisors on eligibility for the various programmes and

invitation to make a non-refundable contribution to the state

to receive very confidential information within the context of

of €650,000 with other investments in Malta to demonstrate

our strict professional secrecy and lawyer-client privilege.

a genuine link with Malta, resulting in the grant of Maltese citizenship within a further 6 months.

61 5

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A GUIDE TO THE LITTLE

MALTESE ISLANDS

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LOCAL

WITH SO MANY CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES ON OUR LITTLE ISLANDS, IT’S HARD TO DECIDE WHAT TO SEE AND WHERE TO GO. THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WE’LL BE HIGHLIGHTING OUR TOP LOCATIONS FOR THE SEASON. THIS MONTH IT'S ST JULIAN'S, MALTA.

LOCAL

SIX TOP SIGHTS

ST GEORGE’S BAY

PACEVILLE

LOVE SIGN

St George’s Bay is known for its beautiful promenade and sandy beach that is certified by Blue Flag, an organisation with stringent standards for seawater and environmental standards for a beach and its surrounding area.

Surrounded by five-star resorts, cinemas, iGaming companies, casinos and clubs and pubs, by night this sleepy neighbourhood transforms into a lively party district that never sleeps. If you are a party animal don’t forget to explore what Paceville has to offer!

This statue by Richard England is quite intriguing, the letters “Love” are inverted and seem odd at first glance. That’s because it was designed to be appreciated on the reflection of the waters in the overlooking bay especially during sunsets where you appreciate the magic of this statue.

DRAGONARA PALACE

SPINOLA PALACE

SPINOLA BAY

A former palace that’s more than 150 years old is located in Dragonara Point. The palace is included as part of the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands. The Maltese Government opened the first casino in the palace before Dragonara Casino Ltd acquired and renovated it.

This palace was built in 1688 by Fra Paolo Rafel Spinola, a knight of the Order of St John. The palace served as Military hospital between 1860 and 1922, as a homeless shelter during the Second World War and Museum of Modern Art and the Ministry for Tourism until 2007.

This bay in St Julian’s is just south of Paceville and is best known for its high-end restaurants that specialise in Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine offering an al fresco dining experience overlooking this quaint bay where traditional Maltese Luzzu fishing boats bob gently in the waters alongside sleek modern yachts.

T O P L O C AT I ON S

DESPITE ITS DIMINUTIVE SIZE, THE MALTESE ARCHIPELAGO IS BURSTING WITH HISTORIC SITES, IDYLLIC SPOTS, CULTURE AND TRADITION. THE MALTESE ISLANDS ARE LIKE NOWHERE ELSE. HERE YOU’LL FIND FOSSIL-STUDDED GEO FORMATIONS, PREHISTORIC TEMPLES, INTRIGUING DIVING OPPORTUNITIES, AND A RICHLY WOVEN HISTORY OF REMARKABLE INTENSITY. HERE’S A HANDY GUIDE ON WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR DURING YOUR STAY.

ISL A N D H IG H LIG H T S

PACEVILLE, ST JULIAN’S, MALTA Swarming with clubs and bars, Paceville is the party area that will have you dancing till the early hours of the morning. If you’d rather a more relaxed evening, then a pub or restaurant in the area could even hit the spot.

GOLDEN BAY, MALTA Golden Bay is a beautiful sandy beach set within a cliff face in North West Malta and is the first and most popular sandy beach in Malta. It is located along pristine Maltese countryside. The blue sea and the cliffs surrounding the bay provide excellent snorkelling. 68

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THEAUDIO VJ5lJAl_ SPECTACUlAK . This small fortified city is also known as the Citadel and can be found in the heart of Victoria in Gozo. With all its fortifications, including the medieval epicentre which is intact, this historic area hosts a number of prime locations which are a must-see.

BUSKETT, SIGGIEWI, MALTA Malta’s greenest spot formed by a combination of green woodland and a fertile valley. Ideal for picnics, bike rides and family fun. Buskett is a great area to enjoy a sunny afternoon.

Few places have a

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history as turbulent and "'~ ---inspiring as the Maltese islands. Its gripping story is that of a country buffeted by world events, in which the bravery and resilience of its people have been tested to the limit. Through beautiful authentic imagery and a gripping commentary the show covers 7000 years of history in 45 minutes. From the early settlers of the temple period to the Knights of the Great Siege through to the destruction of World War 2, The Malta Experience chronicles the events that have shaped the islands history.

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DINGLI CLIFFS, MALTA A romantic spot where the sun and sky meet and the ever-crisp air grazes against your cheeks. The majestic sight that the cliffs provide gives an unobstructed view of Filfla, a protected islet.

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WHEN YOU FIRST MEET DEBBIE BONELLO, IT IS IMMEDIATELY APPARENT THAT HER LOVE FOR ART OOZES OUT OF HER EVERY PORE.

WORDS DAYNA CLARKE

PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST DEBBIE BONELLO

FOR DEBBIE BONELLO, ART WAS ALWAYS A DEEPLY INGRAINED PART OF WHO SHE WAS: AS A YOUNG GIRL, AS AN EXEMPLARY ART TEACHER, AND NOW AS A MOTHER WHO HAS SEEN HER TWO SONS GROW, LEADING TO A RECENT RETURN TO THE BRUSHES, AND CREATING OUTSTANDING WORKS.

As we meet in her studio in Balzan, in central Malta, it’s clear that

Through painting in oils, seascapes aren’t Debbie’s only oeuvre,

Debbie is living her dream. A large conservatory is surrounded by

in fact, a quick browse of her collections and one will readily note

beautiful gardens - truly a heavenly spot for any painter. Works

absolutely any subject can be featured in one of her works, from

adorn the walls, and a half-finished painting of Modica sits by the

panoramic views to intricate portraits. “It’s both a blessing and

entrance. A beautiful Bassett Hound sleeps blissfully on a cushion

a curse, in my mind absolutely anything can make a fabulous

in the corner; the place is the definition of tranquil. “This studio

painting!” Debbie remarks. She is also not one to step away

is my bolt-hole,” adds Debbie. “For me, it was important to have

from painting en plein air, becoming one of the many artists in

a separate art space, to come and connect with the pieces and

Malta rediscovering the delights of painting outdoors despite the

step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life."

challenges faced.

Debbie is originally from Mellieħa, a charming coastal village

The notable success that Debbie has ascertained in just three

on the rugged northern coast of the island. “I guess, ultimately

years comes as a consequence of her utmost devotion to her art.

it was growing up in Mellieħa which led me to produce such

There is no fast and easy route to becoming an acclaimed artist

seascapes.” Debbie is renowned for her sweeping sea landscapes

with a readily identifiable style. Hours and hours of practice and

and coastal imagery. She speaks with a deep fondness for the

endless labour are pivotal, as are her natural talent and ability to

picturesque village, opting to go back and visit family when her

compose such striking pieces. It’s this relatively quick time-frame

busy schedule allows. “The contrast of colours, the sharp coast,

that has made Debbie all the more remarkable. “I was thinking to

the alignment where the sea meets the sky to the towering

return to work after having my children, then I thought I would just try

church looming over the village, I do adore Mellieħa.”

out being an artist as if I didn’t do it then, I wasn’t sure when I would;>

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well I guess I still am trying out!” Debbie’s laugh is infectious; the woman exudes positivity; it is very hard not to smile when she is around discussing her art. Her mentors have included some of Malta’s most revered artists, such as Debbie Caruana Dingli, Andrew Borg and Tonio Mallia, for which she expresses her urmost gratitude. When it comes to her hallmark style, Debbie’s art is characterised by what she terms ‘loose brushstrokes’ which in reality are heavy, energetic, vigorous and dynamic strokes that convey an élan vital and joie de vivre. The source of her expressionistic tendencies is most likely Impressionism. “I do occasionally find it hard to know when to stop painting, and sometimes I take a break then revisit it after painting another picture.” Glancing around her studio, it can be seen that Debbie often works on rotation around her pieces, flitting between one and another. What’s also clear is her love for the Maltese islands. When it comes to her top location for tourists to visit? Well, Mellieħa of course.

Debbie’s works are held in private collections, both locally and internationally. Debbie also participated in the ‘Inspired in China Fine Art Exhibition by Maltese Artists, exhibition earlier this year, with works displayed in Parliament. To view Debbies art and for further information visit www.debbiebonello.com

“This studio is my bolt-hole,” adds Debbie. “For me, it was important to have a separate art space, to come and connect with the pieces and step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”

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SG POR ZO TS

WORDS REBEKAH CILIA

AN ATHLETE'S MISSING LINK - STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING NIGEL MCCARTHY IS SHOUTING INSTRUCTIONS, HIS VOICE AUTHORITATIVE BUT ENCOURAGING. HIS ATHLETE WANTS TO STOP, SWEATING AND VISIBLY TIRED, BUT HE WILL NOT LET HIM. HE KNOWS HE HAS MORE IN HIM.

For Nigel, coaching is not about how much you can push your athlete but knowing till where they can be pushed. He believes that all coaching is, is taking an athlete where he cannot bring himself. This athlete is Thomas Borg, a 17-year-old swimmer who was born with an arm shorter than the other. Nigel says that he is an inspiration for younger athletes and can do pretty much what every other athlete can do. Nigel is training Thomas in the hope that he will represent Malta in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Strength and conditioning are essential for a swimmer who endures laps of around 10km a day. Nigel explains the dynamics behind strength and conditioning and that it is essential that an athlete has a team supporting him and not just one general coach. "You have the general coach who teaches the skills of the specific sport, and the strength and conditioning coach who gets you fit and ready for that specific sport." Different sports have different needs, Nigel says. He gives the example of a football coach, which he says is more trained and in the know of how to teach you how to move the ball and where you should be on the field and at what time. A strength and conditioning coach gets you fit enough so that you can perform those skills. Unlike a coach, a strength and conditioning coach can train a variety of athletes stemming from different sports. One common question Nigel often gets asked is how he knows to teach such a variety of sports. He explains that at university, they are not taught a specific sport, but the physics and biomechanics of sports. "There are laws of force which apply to every sport. When a new athlete comes in, trained in a sport I am not familiar with; I have to research the sport and the movements. Then I can apply the laws of physics to that sport."

SG POR ZO TS

At present, Nigel's team, NMC Sports Performance, train athletes in swimming, sailing, football, triathlon and cycling, amongst others. One particular sport Nigel coaches are golf, where one would not think much strength and conditioning is required. Nigel explains that golf athletes "are swinging the club around 300 times a session. This puts stress on their spinal cord. They need to be fit enough to take all these swings. Strength and conditioning are also used to prevent injuries." Always a keen athlete himself, while studying for his degree in London, in Sports Science, Nigel trained as a sprinter. There he competed in the university championship finals which were held as a test for the 2012 Olympics. Having finished university, Nigel moved back to Malta and noticed an unexplored niche. Back in 2014, strength and conditioning were not widely known. He started working as one of Malta's first strength and conditioning coaches. General sports coaches then started recognising the fact that their athletes were not physically ready to perform the best at their sport. "They had the skills that they needed, but they weren't physically ready for it. You stress your body in a certain way to perform the skill which would then get you injured." Nigel started working as a strength and conditioning coach full-time and went on to do a Master's in the subject. The need for strength and conditioning in Malta continued to grow, and Nigel's career reaches its highest point so far at the 2016 Olympics. Malta has come very far in strength and conditioning, with Nigel even running specific lecturers on the subject at the University of Malta. Nigel is now looking forward to the future and to the 2023 European Small Nation Games that will be held in Malta. In the meantime, he has just finished training two athletes, Alex McGonagle and Sasha Gatt, who is only 13, for the Small Nation Games. They made him proud and achieved a silver and bronze medal, respectively. He also prepared an athlete, Margaret Seguna, who participated in triathlon for the European Championships. Margaret came fourth in her category and was the first Maltese participating in this prestigious competition. Malta has great potential in the field of sports, Nigel believes. He does not go by the mentality that just because we are a small country, we have anything less than the rest. "It is about overcoming fear and never giving up."

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E X PAT M A LTA

WORDS DAYNA CLARKE

MALTA EXPAT EACH MONTH WE GO BEYOND MALTA’S BORDERS TO SPEAK TO A MALTESE EXPAT. THIS MONTH WE CAUGHT UP WITH SALVATORE “TURU” PARIS, WHO HAS SET UP LIFE IN AUSTRALIA.

“I have spent the last 12 years living in Australia. I have visited

are changing. If you visit Gozo, Ta' Pinu Church is a must and

Malta six times since I left. Right now, I am back on holiday,

Dwejra too. Festa-time is a wonderful time, to see the pride and

visiting my friends and family. I do miss Malta very much,

dedication the locals put in to orchestrating the best village feast

as soon I get back, I can’t wait to get to my home town of

party. Nowhere quite does fireworks like the Maltese islands!

Marsaxlokk, just the smell of the place is something I miss deeply. It is such a wonderful fishing village, growing up there I

I really miss the sense of community in Malta, I can go out and say

still have a deep fondness for fishing and the sea. I have a boat

hello to at least five people on the way to the shop. People stop and

and spend many hours fishing. After visiting home, I then like to

ask me how I am doing. I also miss how close everything is, in just

make the most of the traditional foods such as rabbit and catch

a short time you can cover the whole island. In Australia you can

up with everyone.

drive for eight hours and pass next to nothing. I like to fill my time in Australia camping in forests and mountains, or skiing. I

I also have a deep fondness for Gozo and make sure I spend

hope to move back in the coming years. Malta is unique, it isn’t

plenty of time there when I am back, I like seeing how the islands

like anywhere else I have ever visited.”

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T ITNAT I N SDEERST E X TI ON HERE

V A L L E T T A W A T E R F R O N T: T H E H I S T O R I C D E S T I N AT I O N W I T H THE COLOURED DOORS

The Valletta Waterfront combines food, retail and entertainment

instrument which was popular in the late nineteenth and early

within a maritime hub, which for the past years has proved to be a

twentieth centuries and Maltese games, amongst other activities.

highly popular destination. The small chapel of the Flight to Egypt

Participation in all activities is free of charge.

by the Holy Family further creates a unique ‘village’ ambience. Meanwhile little guests can enjoy free activities including: balloon For those in search of a relaxing time with good food and

modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouring-ins, meet &

entertainment, the Valletta Waterfront’s many restaurants and

greets with all-time favourite characters, puppet shows, bouncy

bars present a variety of offerings catering to different tastes,

castles and more, every Saturday and Sunday evening (from

with dining right at the water’s edge. The establishments' indoor

19.30hrs onwards).

dining areas are situated inside the tastefully refurbished, historical stores, originally constructed by Grand Master Pinto in 1752. Today, ushering in a modern era, the iconic doors have been revived with

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

an artistic impression of colour, representing the storage of goods from days past: blue for fish, green for produce, yellow for wheat

For more information visit www.vallettawaterfront.com

and red for wine. Arriving to the Valletta Waterfront destination An exquisite place at any time of the day - relax with a coffee in the

• Valletta circular bus (133) from the main bus terminal.

morning watching the small boats bobbing along, and occasionally

• Valletta Waterfront features on most hop-on hop-off buses’

the bigger cruise ships with their bustling activity; a bite to eat

routes. You will be dropped off a few metres away.

at lunchtime; or a lovely meal of whatever takes your fancy at

• The Upper Barrakka panoramic lift. It is also possible to combine

sundown, with magnificent views of the historic Grand Harbour.

the ticket for the lift with the ferry crossing across the Grand Harbour to or from The Three Cities.

Browse the shopping outlets for interesting gifts including local

• Electric cabs are available from just outside Valletta.

trinkets – from ceramics, mouth-blown glass, jewellery, to that book

• Taxis to the Valletta Waterfront are available to and from

you’ve been meaning to buy and more.

your accommodation. • Parking is also convenient. One may park on the quays at a flat

Enjoy Maltese Nights on Thursday evenings: patrons can go back in

rate, in the Atrium parking located in the middle of the

time through the Maltese Islands’ history and experience traditional

promenade, or free of charge on the road itself.

folk dancing, falconry displays, the terramaxka – a musical

• Berthing space for your boat is available at Laguna Marina on request.

The biggest flavour under the sun. WE HOPE YOU ENJOY YOUR STAY IN MALTA, AND FIND THE TIME TO DO WHAT REALLY MATTERS, LIKE DISCOVERING KINNIE MALTA’S OWN FAVOURITE BITTER SWEET SOFT DRINK WITH ORANGE FLAVOURING & AROMATIC HERBS.

KINNIE.MT

AVAILABLE ON

THEMEDITERRANEAN CLASSIC

~il1£el959

BUSI N ESS

WORDS MICHAEL ZAMMIT MAEMPEL

I S I T A B I R D ? I S I T A P L A N E ? N O, I T ’ S A N U I S A N C E D RO N E !

The first set of unified data privacy laws were rolled out in 1995, at a

Member States. One of the key features of the law is that it has

time when we all thought it was perfectly normal to wait a good 10

classified drones according to the risk they pose. Whereas hobby

minutes each time you booted up your desktop computer, and where

drones used for photography or filiming or for the monitoring of

downloading a single image on your internet browser involved watching

farmland are considered to be low-risk, other drones, particularly

the picture form, one line at a time over the course of five or 10 minutes

those that are used in aviation or for the transport of passengers

(by which time you would have invariably lost interest). Technology

or cargo are – by their nature – considered to be higher risk. In all

has galloped ahead since then, and the law has had to catch up with

cases, all drones placed on the European market need to be certified

panting breaths. The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) was

as being compliant with all health and consumer safety rules. The

brought into force last year to address many of the problems created by

reason for this is obvious, given the increasing number of injuries to

newer phenomena such as social media.

persons and to property that have occurred in recent years due to substandard products, or machines that have been roughly cobbled

It was therefore only a matter of time before the EU has moved to

together by amateur hobbyists. Products that are non-compliant

enact another piece of privacy-related legislation, this time relating to

and which do not bear the CE mark may be withdrawn or removed

the use of drones. In the last few years, drones have become a familiar

from a particular market.

feature of festivals, concerts and political events, flying above crowds and catching breath-taking images of the crowds below. On

Perhaps the most important regulation that has been introduced is

our social media feeds we’ve also become used to seeing stunning

the requirement for drone operators to be registered with national

photography of landscapes and cityscapes taken from above.

authorities who, from their end, will be able to limit or prevent the

Drones have also become extremely convenient tools in surveying or

misuse or illegal activities involving drones. Although in principle the

monitoring extensive tracts of farmland or industrial areas, or even

obligation of registration applies to all drones, those weighing under

borders, and in some places they are also used to courier small postal

25kg require minimal registration and their users are permitted to

items across difficult terrains.

fly them without requiring prior permission provided the drone is not flown above a height of 120 metres, is always kept within a direct line

But drones are not without their minus points: they are being

of sight, and that it is flown away from people. Member States also

increasingly used to invade the private spaces of individuals and to

have the prerogative of declaring no-fly-zones such as airports and

spy on celebrities, politicians and other public figures while in their

city centres. Enforcement will take place through geo-location of

private spaces. They have also been linked to security incidents

drones, and therefore there is less of a risk of rogue operators flying

leading to airports and other sensitive public spaces having to be

drones in breach of the law.

closed down due to the disruption they cause. This Regulation represents the starting point in the regulation of Where, then, does the line lie between using drones harmlessly and

a hobby or practice that was previously regulated in a somewhat

for hobbies such as photography, and those instances where some

haphazard way across the EU. It will hopefully go some way towards

public authority needs to intervene before the use of drones can

preventing unwelcome flying visitors from hovering above you

take place? In May 2019 the EU introduced a fresh Regulation that

while you sunbathe on your patio, or disrupting your holiday flight by

addresses the use of drones in a standard way across EU territory

jamming the airspace over your airport, or worse still, landing on your

and replaces the fragmented system of rules within the various EU

head because they’re poorly assembled.

Michael Zammit Maempel is a media, technology and privacy lawyer. 85

, .

C U LT U R E

WORDS SIMONDS FARSONS CISK PLC

CISK LAGER TURNS 90 to the bank to be placed in a vault and to be withdrawn as the need arose. Mistrusting bank notes and demanding bags of coins, the bank’s customers started to realise that they too could pay creditors with notes, and they agreed to operate current accounts with Scicluna’s Bank against which they could draw cheques. Very soon, semi-literate depositors coming in from various country districts, who found difficulty in pronouncing the word ‘cheques’, corrupted the word into ‘cisk’. Giuseppe Scicluna himself soon became known as Ic-Cisk (The Cisk). The Malta Export Brewery merged with Simonds Farsons Limited twenty years later to become Simonds Farsons Cisk. Cisk Lager has since become a key brand in the portfolio of the company. Mr Louis A. Farrugia, Farsons Group Chairman, commented, “We are extremely proud to be celebrating this historic milestone. Cisk is a much-loved Maltese brand and has always been throughout these years. Cisk Lager is also very well-liked by visitors to our islands and it also has a following beyond our shores.” Cisk Lager is a golden-coloured, bottom-fermented lager with a distinctive and well-balanced character, with its recipe remaining unchanged since 1929. It is brewed to the highest standards using only the choicest raw materials. “Reaching a milestone such as this is no small feat. The brand has withstood intense competition over the years, winning several international awards in the process. We have not rested on our laurels however, having introduced several innovative and award-winning brand variants that have expanded the Cisk family,” said Ms Susan Weenink Camilleri, Head of Sales & Marketing at Simonds Farsons Cisk plc.

Cisk Lager, award-winning, iconic Maltese beer and flagship brand of the Farsons Brewery is celebrating its 90th birthday this

The Cisk family now includes Cisk Excel, a low carbohydrate

year with several planned public events around Malta and Gozo

beer; Cisk Premium Pilsner; Cisk Export Premium Lager; Cisk

and limited-edition packaging marking this milestone. Cisk was

Strong Premium Lager and Cisk Chill, a range of flavoured beers,

launched in 1929 after Scicluna’s Bank took over the operations of

including Lemon, Berry and Ginger & Lime.

one of its clients who was granted a temporary exclusive licence to manufacture Pilsner and Munchener type beers. The company

The portfolio has won several major international awards over the

became known as The Malta Export Brewery.

years, with the latest coveted recognition being awarded to Cisk Strong Premium Lager just last month by this year’s edition of the

The story of Cisk however, started much earlier than that, when

International Brewing Awards. The 90th birthday limited-edition

Malta’s first privately-owned bank was established by Giuseppe

packaging is currently on sale at all outlets in Malta and Gozo.

Scicluna in 1840. In those days the average businessman, as well as the ordinary man in the street, hoarded their hard-earned cash either in a brass-bound box under the bed or concealed in various leather

Follow our Facebook page for more information: https://www.

pouches hidden in their clothes. At most, it would be handed over

facebook.com/cisk/

T E C H NO L O G Y

IF SOMEONE FROM THE NINETIES WERE TO TIME TRAVEL TO THE PRESENT, THEY WOULD SURELY THINK THAT MACHINES HAVE WON.

WORDS GADGETS

TRAVELLING TECH LONGER DAYS, SCORCHING WEATHER AND THE INCREASING URGE TO HIT THE BEACH… THERE’S NO DOUBT ABOUT IT: SUMMER IS HERE AGAIN. THERE’S NO BETTER TIME TO EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH A MUCH-DESERVED VACATION. HOWEVER, BEFORE YOU FLY OFF, SAVE SOME SPACE IN YOUR LUGGAGE, AND YOUR PHONE, FOR THESE FANTASTIC GADGETS AND APPS.

01. Travel Planner App If you’re more of a planner than a go-with-the-flow kind of person, then you need the Tripit App. This app is a neat and fun way to organize your travel itinerary. It keeps track of all your flight, hotel and travel bookings, and sends you alerts to keep you on track with your schedule. It also allows you to share your itinerary, which is excellent to keep friends and family in the know. 02. Arrival Time Notifier We all have those family members who still worry about the safety of plane travel, and demand we let them know as soon as we arrive in the country. The only problem is, it’s easy to forget with so many other things on our mind. Well, the locally created app ‘Airrived’ solves that problem. Type in your flight number and date, and add the contacts you wish to be notified. They will automatically be messaged when the plane arrives safely at its destination. Your over-protective

mum need not worry anymore.

T E C H NO L O G Y

03. The Language Teacher You can probably get by with English in most mainstream tourist spots. However, if you’re going off-the-beaten-track, or want to show respect to the locals you meet, it’s great to know some key phrases. Duolingo is an app that makes learning languages fun, even if it was never your forte at school! 04. Universal All-in-One Adapter Sure, an adapter isn’t exactly the most thrilling, sexy, or fun gadget, but it can be a real lifesaver. With different countries using different types of power-points, having one universal

adapter is a very efficient investment. The compact little beauty from JYDMIX is a great example. 05. A Pocket Camera Travel videos are fun to make and are fabulous mementoes, but making them can be a pain. A good camcorder can be a bit of a burden to carry around while using your phone doesn’t give very smooth results. Enter the DJI Osmo Pocket. It’s an incredibly small but powerful gadget, able to record 4K video. It also has a very effective stabiliser, giving you videos with a super smooth movement.

06. eReader There’s no denying there’s a pleasure to holding a real paperback, that digital tablets can’t replace. However, if you are a voracious reader, and have a bunch of books you want to bring, then an eReader, such as the Amazon Kindle, is a great option. Having countless novels on this sleek device means you can travel light. 07. A Compact Speaker If you’re hanging out with a bunch of friends at your Airbnb accommodation, or even if you’re relaxing in the bath after a long day of sightseeing, it’s always a good time to play some tunes. The Bose Soundlink Micro Bluetooth Speakers is a

very compact but powerful device that will fit snugly in your suitcase. Time to create that Vacation playlist! 08. Sunblock Applier Anyone who has ever been to the beach by themselves knows there’s a snag: it’s hard to apply sunblock on the back. The SunBuddy allows you to comfortably smother yourself and protect your skin against those dangerous UV rays. Ok, you might look a little silly, but if it saves you a nasty sunburn, then it’s well worth it.

FOOD

WORDS KEITH SEYCHELL

CAPO CRUDO - THE EPITOME OF A SUPERLATIVE DINING EXPERIENCE CULINARY EXCELLENCE, GENUINE HOSPITALITY AND IDYLLIC LOCATION

Not many places can flawlessly combine a sense of complete serenity and joy in a setting that will take your breath away quite like Capo Crudo’s view ! Proudly sitting beneath the Capital city’s protective walls, perched a few metres away from the wonderful Mediterranean sea, Capo Crudo finds itself perfectly situated to create dishes truly worthy of its ideal location nested inside Marsamxett area, an exclusive venue that can be appreciated, day and night. Capo Crudo offers a unique combination of full flavoured Mediterranean cuisine. High respect is dedicated to the menu and list of wines on offer. Only the freshest will do for crudo creations which will impress every single time, sea catch will only be served if it survives the chef’s rigorous first glance, whilst the healthiest cuts of top grade beef will be given the privilege of dry-ageing in a specially-designed glass-walled chamber for all to observe. Bacchus himself could not be happier with a wine list which has been hand-picked with expertise and constantly evolves according to patrons’ desires. Eateries come and eateries go; yet if the true marks of unforgettable gastronomic moments are those of classic surroundings, genuine hospitality and culinary excellence, then Capo Crudo is clearly here to stay.

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IX-XEMX THE ANNUAL 2019

IL-BIZ ZILL A SUM MER S U P P L E M EN T

Quench your thirst for adventure. p. 08 Discover your next adrenaline rush on the Maltese Isles.

TH E M A R I G O LD S W I M 2019

VA M O S A L A PL AYA

p. 03 Michelle Muscat’s 5th charitable swimming challenge.

p. 04 Alessia Caruana reviews Martina Cauchi’s recent summer themed art exhibition.

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FOREWORD

Summer is here!

tbwa-ang.com

Taste the Concept The Disruption® Company. For ideas that stick.

Summertime is upon us, and I for one can’t wait. While we each remember different summer scents or sounds, a different kind of light or water, we all house a special box of summertime memories locked up inside us, waiting to be opened each year. What is in that box? What does summer mean to us? Il-Bizzilla explored these questions within our summer supplement. Here are some of the answers, and the wealth of activities to embrace during our Maltese summer, so plunge headfirst and see what’s up for the taking.

Dayna SUMMER RELIC Tell me about these cracks, these relics of dried tears, tell me about the gold that gathers at your edges, white and bright, filling every crevice, salt, white gold, resisting the heat as it burns our eyes and stains our cheeks, seeps through pores as sweat-made beads, the taste of the sea on dried-out skin, salt, white gold, finely beat to just the right amount, it dances on our tongue, sprinkled to season our struggle throughout.

TBWA ANG 3rd Floor \ Professional Building \ Sliema Road

Words: Giulia Privitelli

Gzira GZR 1633 \ Malta 00356 2131 0608 \ info@tbwa-ang.com

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WORDS THE MARIGOLD FOUNDATION TEAM

THE MARIGOLD SWIM 2019 TAIL’S END JULY 13TH, ĊIRKEWWA, A TYPICALLY BEAUTIFUL MALTESE SUMMER DAY BUT THE SEA BELOW PAINTS A DIFFERENT PICTURE.

With an unforgiving and angry sea, the conditions are far from ideal

individual donors and the Radisson Blu Resort for generously

for the 14km, Tail’s End, swim challenge, which Michelle Muscat,

providing the venue. All of us at the Marigold Foundation however,

Chairperson of The Marigold Foundation and Spouse of the Prime

would like to thank Michelle Muscat for her leadership and tenacity

Minister, has embarked on.

in pushing such initiatives forward and her boundless energy in supporting and creating awareness of the physical, mental and

For the fifth consecutive year, Michelle Muscat challenges herself to

social challenges some of the Maltese and Gozitan residents face on

help others face their challenges. Armed with her months of training

a daily basis.

and strong will, anyone watching her pink clad body battling the waves as they smash around and against her, can sense her

The Marigold Foundation is now gearing up for Pink October and

sheer determination. Alternating between freestyle, breast stroke

Movember, with the aim of raising funds and awareness of Breast

and under water swimming, Michelle Muscat keeps her pace and

Cancer in October and cancers afflicting men including Prostate

steadily and steadfastly she arrives at her finishing point, marking

and Testicular Cancer in November.

her fifth swimming triumph over force 5/6 winds. The Marigold Foundation, supported by BOV, uses the funds generated by such praiseworthy initiatives to make resources available to the numerous NGOs, such as Special Olympics Malta, The National Alliance for Rare Diseases and ALS Malta, to name a few. These NGOs

To learn more about the work of The Marigold Foundation or to

are assisted in equipping their beneficiaries’ to better tackle their own

make a donation, please visit our Facebook page or:

physical, mental, intellectual and social challenges.

Call +35651702052 to donate €15 Call +35651802053 to donate €25

During the Golden White after party, Michelle Muscat thanked

Send an SMS to +35650619238 to donate €11.65

all the generous corporate sponsors, the numerous volunteers,

For BOV mobile pay, call +356 9991 2373 to donate any amount up to €500

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WORDS ALESSIA CARUANA

VAMOS A LA PLAYA IT'S SUMMER AND THE SCORCHING HEAT IS GETTING THE BEST OF US. WHAT'S LEFT TO DO? GO TO THE BEACH, SOAK UP THE SUN, GET A TAN AND DIVE ON IN TO OUR BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDING SEA OF COURSE.

Bathing is probably one of the most popular subjects ever

Barcelona is one of the most sought-out summer destinations in

tackled in the history of European art. Artists from all corners of

the world, mainly because of their scorching hot temperatures,

the world have at some point sat down and re-interpreted this

rich history, tantalising coastal beaches and paella; but we're not

otherwise mundane subject matter. Just try walking into any

here to talk about paella now are we? Its inhabitants are extremely

popular European museum without actually passing by a "bather".

Mediterranean at heart, fiery and welcoming much like the Maltese,

Impossible. So what exactly was it about this classic subject that

so it's no surprise that in this home away from her mother country

got young Maltese painter Martina Mifsud's interest intrigued?

Martina drew out the subject that would evidently shape her very

Vanity. Lots and lots of vanity.

first solo exhibition "Plajja: Playa". Her brush strokes are a heavy reflection of the flesh she's portraying, with every stroke comes a hint

Martina, a Tourism studies graduate by profession, travelled to

of character and a confidence in self that Martina admires greatly. In a

Barcelona after having spent two years working in the ever-growing

day and age where all people seem to do is obsess over how they look

sector locally. Malta is surrounded by beaches a plenty, and with

on social media, it's liberating to find people who simply couldn't care

those beaches come the hundreds and thousands of people that

less about whose watching or in this case whose painting.

occupy them like dried-out sardines each and every summer. Towel decked out, umbrella up, sunscreen or tanning oil on and there they

The exhibition had been in the works for months and all canvasses

lie, bodies a plenty like some fleshy Cezanne still-life full of character

were completed after having collected a series of photographic

and soul. It was apparent to Martina that all she wanted to do was

studies of her bodysome subjects and a diary full of character

paint full-time, something she settled on doing in the flavoursome

profiles. With the resplendent crystal blue Mediterranean sea as

Spanish city of Barcelona.

her backdrop reminiscent of a David Hockney painting splashed

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straight out of the swinging sixties, Mifsud succeeded at giving audiences a salty taste of our summer landscape; a beach still life unlike any other portrayed locally. Normally you'd think a closeup of a woman's back with her hands pressing into her flesh like a slab of pizza dough wouldn't be appealing enough to hang in your walkway, but Mifsud manages to prove exactly the opposite. Her figures are still, the moment calm with a mood tranquil yet hot enough to set onlookers interest ablaze. Mifsud's subjects who she makes sure to name and treat as individual entities are as alive as they are still each embodying a stoic candour that harks back to the kitchen still lifes of a time gone by. Because really and truly what is a beachscape if not a still life? A moment captured and portrayed well enough to depict a reality that is enjoyed but so mundane it goes overlooked. In Mifsud's work nothing is overlooked, no wrinkle nor crease; her subjects are unapologetically real and I for one can't wait to see more from this talented artist whose work practically flew off the walls the first-time round. Who knows maybe next time I'll actually manage to take a piece of plajja home with me too; and if not I guess I'll just have to settle for a beach day instead.

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THE ‘WOW’ FACTOR AT A TIME WHEN MALTA’S CULINARY SCENE IS ALREADY GOING THROUGH A SUBTLE BUT INTERESTING PERIOD OF REINVENTION, ‘BEEFBAR ON THE BEACH’ BRINGS THE NATION SOMETHING EVEN MORE ORIGINAL TO DISCOVER. SOMETHING QUITE LITERALLY, BREATH-TAKING. The brainchild of restaurateur and owner Riccardo Giraudi, Beefbar breaks the tradition of formal high-end dining. By banishing the rigidity usually associated with top class restaurants, Giraudi and Monaco-based architecture and interior design firm Humbert & Poyet, have found an art form in delivering quality in both design and taste. The focus is on freshness through purity with an element of daring, by carefully crafting dishes using the most revered cuts of meat in the world.

or Italian Trattorias. There was a missing link. Something that could incorporate glamour, beef and myself. I partnered up with two friends to create the Beefbar concept." He laughs a little, ‘I can’t say we got it right at the beginning. Looking back now I realise the first menu was leaning a little too much on the classic American style steakhouse. But I was courageous and young, so I set about delivering the difference I knew we could achieve and that I knew the international audience in Monaco really wanted’.

Beefbar is a new concept for our shores. Nothing to do with the conventional American style steakhouses we automatically associate with the word ‘meat’, Beefbar’s menu is engineered to offer guests a selection of the best and rarest beef cuts in the world. Rather than simple ‘steaks’, the beef is served and cooked in a variety of ways, each one as tantalising as the next.

This is where it all changed for Riccardo. He drew inspiration from Japanese food presentation techniques. Small, delicate portions where quality could be enjoyed in every morsel of the food. Choosing substance and style over heaviness and bulk, the menu was transformed. Working with Executive Chef Thierry Paludetto, Riccardo was able to fashion a menu comprised of the purest cuts of fine beef, honoured by humble treatment – allowing the quality of the meat to shine through without being weighed down with modern, fast-food cooking techniques.

So irresistible in fact, it was hard to stay focused as we caught up with founder Riccardo Giraudi just before the launch of the Malta Beefbar concept. With our stomachs already growling, eager for a taste of the food that Riccardo was describing to us, we asked him where the idea for Beefbar first started. "After studying at University in the UK, I started working for a PR company in London that specialised in the food and beverage sector," Giraudi explains, "The truth is I was delaying my return to Monaco for as long as I could, wanting to experience more of life and different brands." The firm Giraudi is talking about is none other than Bacchus PR, a renowned brand development and creative agency dedicated to managing some of the biggest names in the international culinary arena. It was this experience that first introduced him to the food and beverage industry. This is quite the contradiction for someone who, at the time, stood to inherit one of the leading high-quality meat import companies in Europe: Giraudi Group. A business which his father started in the late 1960s and which initially focused on the importation of Dutch and French veal to Italy. But as life works out, Giraudi did eventually return to Monaco. With the experience he gained with Bacchus PR, Riccardo’s vision wasn’t concentrated solely on growing the Giraudi empire. After a few years of helping to manage the family business, he felt he was ready to try something new. To dive into the other side of the food and beverage industry: A restaurant. "I started Beefbar in 2005 because I felt there was something missing in Monaco at that time." Giraudi’s tone now quite reflective,"It seemed everywhere I looked there were only Michelin star restaurants

As the name suggests, Beefbar offers the best quality beef from around the world, with exclusive access to certified Japanese Kobe beef, as well as grass-fed Argentinian Angus beef, corn-fed American Prime Black Angus beef and Australian WX Wagyu beef. It was Riccardo’s introduction of the Street Food Menu at Beefbar just four years ago when the concept really struck a chord with the international restaurant scene. Riccardo explained, "We have 8 chefs from different countries like Japan, Malaysia, France, Italy, Mexico and India and they have provided us with a selection of street food dishes inspired by their own countries." Imagine taking the best street food from around the world and then reintroducing it in delicate portions, predominantly using the best beef in the world as the core ingredient. As delicious dishes rolled off Giraudi’s tongue, like their divine beef sliders, ribeye tataki, gyoza, tartare and bao buns, we made a mental note to ask about how far in advance we’d have to book a table. Beef, however, isn’t the only delicacy you’ll find on the Beefbar menu. Giraudi explains, "Malta’s Beefbar on the Beach concept is something special. Looking out at a view of the Mediterranean Sea, beef is great, but it’s not enough. We have a great selection of fish dishes on the menu as well. Leafbar dishes, which is a new concept I am exploring using plant-based protein instead of meat, will also be available in Malta. There’s a lot about the menu to be excited about."

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"At the end of the day nothing we do is set in stone. We’ll see exactly what works and what doesn’t and we adapt accordingly. We’re here to get to know Maltese people and what they like. We don’t come with the arrogance that we know everybody and everything. Knowing your market is how you create a name." All Beefbar destinations across the globe including Paris, Hong Kong, Monaco, Dubai, Mykonos and now Malta, have been designed by award winning design and architectural firm Humbert & Poyet. Almost all the elements for ‘Beefbar on the Beach’ are bespoke and conceptualized just for this unique space, underlining craftsmanship and detail. The result is a design both joyful and refined, that reflects the quality of the restaurant, the lounge and natural environment of Malta. The location will also offer a VIP Gazebo area, private pool and lounge area. Riccardo explains, ‘Guests are invited for lunch, dinner or simply to spend the afternoon and evening relaxing with us and tasting delicacies from our menu.’ He may already be a famous restaurant entrepreneur and connoisseur of all things related to beef, but it’s Riccardo Giraudi’s passion and determination to find the next ‘big idea’ in the culinary world that really sets him apart. Along with his never-ending quest

to keep delivering a ‘wow factor’ to every one of his customers across the globe. "We have a lot more openings planned after Malta. Rome, Athens, Saudi Arabia. Then the USA. There’s a lot going on, my team is growing as we speak. I can’t wait. The more time I have to be creative, the better experience we can offer our customers. But for now, I invite everyone in Malta to experience something different, something special and something tasty. Our Beefbar ‘wow’ factor."

Beefbar Malta Now open in St Paul’s Bay beefbar.com Instagram: @beefbar_malta Follow the ‘Beefbar on the Beach’ Facebook page for regular updates

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DO YOU HAVE A THIRST FOR ADVENTURE CLOSE TO YOUR HEART? PERHAPS YOU GET BORED OF LOUNGING AT THE BEACH ALL DAY LONG DURING YOUR HOLIDAYS? WELL, DON’T WORRY. MALTA HAS AN ABUNDANCE OF HIGH ADRENALINE ACTIVITIES FOR YOU TO QUENCH YOUR THIRST FOR ADVENTURE.

WORDS ABHISHEK CHATTERJEE

TASTE THE ADVENTURE

SNORKELLING AND DIVING Apart from its rich historical monuments, Malta has plenty of hidden treasures hiding in the sea and on its coast for you to explore. Dive into the sea to check out shipwrecks like UM El Faroud, or the P29 close to the coastline of Malta and the MV Kawela wreck that’s just off Gozo. You can also explore marine flora and fauna in cave systems in places like Fomm ir-Riħ Bay and Għar Lapsi in Malta, or the Santa Maria Caves in Comino and Ħondoq Ir-Rummien on the sister island of Gozo. SURFING The Maltese coastline is full of reefs, which makes for some good swells and surfing spots. With the right wind conditions, you can enjoy some far out “bombs”(surfer slang for amazing big waves). If you are just starting out you can practise on some “ankle busters” under the watchful of a surfing school. FLYBOARDING When you were young did you daydream about flying? Well, it’s time you got yourself strapped to a keyboard or a jetpack and lift off from the sea to the air. Most companies for this unique experience charge anywhere from €60 to €80 for a 25-minute flight while parasailing costs about €40 per person.

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ROCK CLIMBING The Maltese Islands have over 53 climbing spots that are regulated by the Malta Rock Climbing Club (MRCC) and the Malta Tourism Authority. Most of these spots are close to the sea and offer spectacular views. If you would like to go rock climbing, you can get in touch with the MRCC. Most of the local rock faces are made of limestone which can be quite slippery, that’s why if you are new to climbing you should opt for a service provider and ensure you use a reputable company. If you are a beginner, you can also choose to go bouldering. Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that is done on small rock formations or artificial walls. HIKING Malta may be a small country, but it has a lot to offer in terms of hiking trails. One of the most intriguing hiking trails is the 'heritage walk' in Xemxija. It’s not only a hike through nature but also a journey through Malta’s rich history. You can find plenty of well-preserved Roman monuments here. Other popular trails are Il-Maqluba, Dingli Cliffs and Ramla Bay in Gozo. Gozo has plenty of campsites where you can sleep under the stars after exploring the island on foot. QUAD BIKING Although Malta has several trails that you can explore on a quad bike such as Qala Belvedere and Simar Valley, Gozo again comes out on top when it comes to Quad Biking trails. You’ll come across plenty of rustic paths, rolling hills and hidden gems like the salt pans in Żebbuġ and the Għasri Valley in Gozo. Grab yourself a map, a rucksack and plenty of sun cream and hit the road!

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NEDXDTRHI N KE IFNOSO ED R TA T ER

A GUIDE TO

FO OD AND DINING

FOOD A ND DRINK

WE BRING YOU THE BEST THAT THE MALTESE KITCHEN HAS TO OFFER WITH RECIPES INSPIRED BY MEDITERRANEAN AND EUROPEAN CUISINE.

YOUR DELICIOUS

MONTHLY RECIPE

Ramona Preca

Sister chefs Ramona and Roberta Preca are known locally for their culinary prowess, being from one of Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most celebrated catering families and daughters of the late Charles Preca. Award-winning Ramona is now head chef and restaurateur at Palazzo Preca in Valletta, who talks us through her rabbit dish.

FOOD A ND DRINK

Rabbit aka fenek is one of Malta’s most famous national dishes. Rabbits were most likely introduced to Malta by the Phoenicians about 3,600 years ago. Rabbit is delicious and can be cooked in many ways (just like any other meat). So, don’t knock it until you’ve tried this classic Maltese meal, you’ll find it on plenty of local menus.

PAN FRIED RABBIT IN GARLIC SERVED WITH CHUNKY CHIPS

PAN FRIED RABBIT INGREDIENTS 1 rabbit 1.5 ltrs sunflower oil 2 fresh garlic cloves 500 ml dry white wine 1 tbsp curry powder 2 pinches of freshly chopped marjoram 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce 2 onions Salt and pepper METHOD Place the chopped rabbit in a dish; Marinate the rabbit with marjoram, white wine, garlic, curry and Worcestershire Sauce, enough to allow all pieces of the rabbit to absorb some of the marinade. Leave it to marinade in the refrigerator for a day before cooking. The next day, in a large shallow frying pan heat some sunflower oil. Prepare the marinated rabbit pieces and fry in a large frying pan. Add the chopped onions and while occasionally turning the rabbit for 30 minutes drizzle some white wine occasionally. After bake the rabbit for 30 minutes in the oven at 180ºC.

TRADITIONAL MALTESE CHUNKY FRIES INGREDIENTS 1.5 ltrs vegetable oil Potatoes cut in to 5mm thick discs Salt and pepper METHOD Place 1.5 litres of vegetable oil in a frying pan; heating it to maximum temperature. Peel the potatoes and slice into 5mm thick discs. Then place the potatoes in a bowl filled with water for 5 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, when the heat of the oil is at frying level, start adding the potatoes. Next, prepare a deep plate on the side of your cooker and line it with a paper towel, so as to absorb any excess oils. When the colour turns to golden brown, remove the potato from the oil and place in the plate mentioned above. Season with salt and pepper all over (to taste) and the rabbit is ready to serve.

FOOD A ND DRINK

A GUIDE TO

DINING ON THE MALTE SE ISL ANDS 94

FOOD A ND DRINK

CAPO MULINI RISTORANTE

TERRONE RESTAURANT

Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk

1, Wilga Street, Marsaxlokk

Capo Mulini restaurant situated in the small and picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk and is located in the South Eastern part of Malta, specialises in fresh fish, meat and pasta while also offering delicious brick oven pizza. We select our food and its source carefully to provide an exquisite dining experience. Finished to high standards, Capo Mulini caters for everyone’s needs including all dietary requirements. We are ready to serve you… Come and join us at Capo Mulini.

We could tell you about our restaurant but we think you would rather hear from our customers, so we present a small selection of headlines from recent TripAdvisor reviews: "High quality, freshly cooked food with daily menu" - "Best meal we had in Malta" - "Good food, good service and good view" "Unexpected jewel in Marsaxlokk" - "Amazing place not to be missed." - "Terrone offers art on a plate". We invite you to look us up and read the details yourself or even better: come and try it. Booking recommended. Parking available outside. Short taxi ride from most locations including Sliema /St. Julian’s / Valletta.

+356 9939 3996 info@capomulini.eu www.capomulini.eu /CapoMuliniMalta

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+356 2704 2656 info@terrone.com.mt www.terrone.com.mt /terronemt

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EAT

THE MEDINA RESTAURANT

Triq Misraħ Għonoq, Mosta

Holy Cross Street, Mdina

An antique 1961 Morris LD fully converted into a unique vintage food truck, complete with a smoker in tow. Locally sourced premium meat cuts and seasonal produce perfectly smoked and freshly made daily. A unique concept on the island popular for its genuine grub appealing to the most discerning foodies looking for a satisfying lunch that does not compromise on taste. On the menu, a selection of smoked meats such as pulled pork, turkey pastrami, and beer chicken amongst others, all served in generous portions and tucked in a traditional Maltese 'ftira' bread, baked fresh in an authentic stone oven bakery at a local village. Set on the outskirts of Mosta a few minutes’ walk from the Mosta Dome, the breath-taking view is a bonus while enjoying lunch atop the hill. Opens from Monday to Friday, from 09:30 - 15:30hrs.

Lose yourself in all of Mdina’s tranquillity and dine in the romantic surroundings in the vine clustered courtyard. The restaurant is a mixture of ingredients designed to please the most discerning clients. The foundation for our cuisine is solely based upon the sourcing of local produce, evoking the skill and talent of our chefs and to provide our clients with honest food. Open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday and open for dinner from Monday to Saturday.

+356 2145 0560 info@xaracollection.com www.medinarestaurantmalta.com /themedinarestaurant /medina_restaurant

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+356 9980 9990

n /eatmalta 95

FOOD A ND DRINK

TA’ MARIJA RESTAURANT - EST. 1964

GROTTO TAVERN

Constitution Street, Mosta

St Paul’s Square, Rabat

Awarded Best Maltese Food Restaurant for more than ten years, Ta’ Marija doesn’t just serve Maltese cuisine, but creates dishes with what is locally traditional while adding their own signature flavours of sumptuousness. Head to their Folklore Dinner shows held every Wednesday and Friday evening for a touch of Maltese liveliness. Enjoy your dinner with musicians playing mandolins and guitars, and singers belting out Maltese songs while you enjoy the culinary delights of the evening. After your delicious dinner, the charming Maria Muscat will present the folklore show in a variety of languages, featuring six dancers who lure you into a jovial story of Maltese history told through dance. Ta’ Marija is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Transport can also be arranged.

+356 2143 4444 ■ info@tamarija.com www.tamarija.com

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The Grotto Tavern is the only restuarant in Malta where one can dine in a magnificent natural Cave while enjoying a unique dining experience in a candle light setting. We offer a tasting menu serving the finest seasonal produce with developed innovation and expertise to bring forth tantalizing dishes. Grotto Tavern is situtated in the heart of Rabat, the suburb village of the old capital Mdina.

\. +356 2145 3258 / 7945 3258 info@grottotavern.net www.grottotavern.net

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HAMMETT'S GASTRO BAR

TA' KOLINA

33/34 Tigne Sea Front, Sliema

151, Tower Road, Sliema

Hammett’s Gastro Bar is a unique, city-inspired, social dining experience, with a menu composed of a colorful arrays of food. Directed by 24-time award winning Chef and restaurateur Chris Hammett, Hammett’s Gastro Bar offers a wildly innovative plates-to-share concept with influences, ingredients and imaginative cooking techniques from all corners of the world. You will never get bored with a seasonal menu changing according to fresh local produce, there is always a new favourite to discover!

a’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been open since 1974. Ta’ Kolina is a typical Maltese restaurant with its traditional Maltese interior and décor. A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of starter, main dish, dessert and coffee for €24 per person. There is also a vibrant a la carte menu and daily display of fresh local fish. Dining here is a true Maltese experience for a reasonable price. We are open for both lunch and dinner from 12:00 – 22:30hrs.

+356 2134 1116 www.hammettsgastrobar.com

+356 2133 5106 www.takolina.mt

FOOD A ND DRINK

TA' KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO

DRAGONARA CASINO BRASSERIE

80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema Set in one of Sliema’s oldest bakeries, Ta’ Kris is all about providing a genuine mix of affordable Maltese and Mediterranean dishes in a homely fashion and rustic surroundings. Ta’ Kris offers a varied menu of traditional Maltese food such as bragioli, rabbit, octopus stew, bebbux (snails), balbuljata (corned beef hash), baked lamb, two daily specials, pasta dishes, a selection of fresh fish on a daily basis and mouth-watering steaks. Ta’ Kris also offers take-away service and special menus can be designed for all occasions. Ta’ Kris opens from Monday to Sunday, from 12.30pm till 11pm. Booking is recommended.

Dragonara Palace, Dragonara Road, St Julian's Nested within the Dragonara Palace in St. Julian's, the Brassiere offers a vast selection of meat, fish and pasta dishes headed by Italian Chef Claudio Schiavone who brings to the table a variety of signature dishes to tantalise the palate of diners seeking an exquisite dining experience. Open Everyday for Lunch & Dinner.

\. +356 2092 1111 brasserie@dragonaracasino.com dragonaracasino.com/brasserie.html

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+356 2133 7367

... PARANGA

PORTICELLO

St George's Bay, St Julian's

3, Boat Street, Marsamxett, Valletta

Paranga is set on teak decking adjacent to the rippling Mediterranean Sea. The menu offers a superb array of stimulating and diverse Sicilian flavours interpreted from a traditional or contemporary style. Local fishermen deliver fresh fish and shellfish daily, which may be enjoyed with ideally selected and impeccably paired wine, aperitif or digestif.

Porticello restaurant, situated in Malta’s capital city Valletta, specialises in Fresh Fish and seafood while also caters to a variety of other mouth-watering dishes, to suit each and every customer. We select our food and its source carefully to provide an exquisite dining experience. Situated close to the water’s edge, Porticello offers a breath-taking view suitable for a romantic dinner for two or for an impeccable dinner amongst friends. Our exceptionally well-trained staff is available to address each and every need including all dietary requirements. So, if you’re looking for a remarkable dining experience… we’ve got a table for you at Porticello.

\. +356 2376 5064 malta.fnb@ihg.com malta.intercontinental.com/gastronomy/paranga

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\. +356 7723 5548 info@porticellomalta.eu www.porticellomalta.com

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MAALTA LTA N NEEW WSS AAIIRR M

EVENTS & NEWS THE FOLLOWING PAGES WILL GIVE YOU AN INSIGHT ON WHAT’S GOING ON AT AIR MALTA. THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES AND HIGHLIGHTS OF PAST MONTHS AND FORTHCOMING ONES. MALTA’S NATIONAL AIRLINE TELLS IT LIKE IT IS, ENSURING ALL AIR MALTA CUTOMERS ARE WELL-INFORMED WHILE SOARING HIGH IN THE SKY.

AIR MALTA CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SERVICE TO PRAGUE

Air Malta Chairman Dr Charles Mangion addressing guests in Prague.

Air Malta celebrated the 20th anniversary of its scheduled Malta-

The first Air Malta seasonal scheduled service to Prague started on

Prague service with the 200,000th passenger carried on this route

the 4th May 1999 with a weekly service code-shared with Czech

this summer. To commemorate this event the airline teamed up

Airlines. Over the years Air Malta not only managed to maintain a

with the Malta Tourism Authority and with Corinthia Hotels, who

continuous operation to Prague but as from 2013 onwards the route

also celebrated the 20th anniversary of the acquisition of the

registered a year-on-year increase in the number of passengers

Corinthia Prague and organised an event at the hotel for Czech Tour

carried. In line with the ever-growing customer demand, the Maltese

Operators, Travel Agents, Czech Press and other Czech stakeholders.

Airline doubled its capacity and in 2016 extended its code-share agreement on Czech Airlines when the latter commenced its operations on the route.

Present for the event were the Hon Prime Minister of Malta Dr Joseph Muscat, Minister for Tourism Dr Konrad Mizzi, Hon. Carmelo Abela Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion, Air Malta

“We really value our long-term cooperation with Air Malta and are

Chairman Dr Charles Mangion, MTA Chairman Dr Gavin Gulia,

happy that the carrier has decided to extend the operations of its

Corinthia Chairman Alfred Pisani, Air Malta CEO Capt. Clifford

Malta route to the winter season. Maltese tourist will get a chance

Chetcuti, Prague Airport representatives and other officials.

to experience the unique atmosphere of Prague at Christmas, while

A I R M A LTA N E W S

Caption from right to left: Minister of Tourism Dr Konrad Mizzi, Prime Minister of Malta Dr Joseph Muscat, Malta's Ambassador to the Czech Republic Prof. Godfrey Pirotta, Chairman and Chief Executive of the Corinthia Group Alfred Pisani, Air Malta’s Chairman Dr Charles Mangion, Malta Tourism Authority Executive Chairman Dr Gavin Gulia.

Czech tourists who want to spend the holidays abroad will be able

“Air Malta will have wonderful future following the Government’s

to use this direct scheduled connection,” Vaclav Rehor, Chairman of

vision to grow the airline,” emphasised Malta’s Prime Minister,

the Prague Airport Board of Directors, said.

Dr Joseph Muscat. He added that the Prague route has been operating for nearly half the existence of Air Malta and this is

Speaking at the event, Air Malta’s Chairman stated that Prague’s

another milestone achieved by the Maltese airline. He recalled

20th anniversary of operation is a great opportunity to celebrate

how after the restructuring process the Airline added new aircraft

milestones and demonstrate the importance of working together

and began flying to new markets and destinations and for the

to attain further success. He said that this summer Air Malta

first time in eighteen years made a profit. For years to come Dr

is aiming to carry a record of 19,000 passengers on the route

Muscat explained that Air Malta is aiming to become the ‘Airline of

and it will be extending the service for the first time for after

the Mediterranean’, offer a better service and fly to more distant

summer up to the New Year. Next year the airline plans to

destinations such as the US, India and Africa. He added that in

increase the number of carried passengers by 25%. Dr Mangion

the last half-century Air Malta made a significant contribution to

said that the islands have witnessed strong growth from several

tourism to the islands and is a key driver in the economy.

Central and Eastern European markets over recent years, and the fact that connectivity and capacity between Malta and

Dr Muscat also referred to the Corinthia Group as an example of how

the Czech Republic is being enhanced, points to excellent

Maltese businesses can grow and establish themselves internationally.

prospects for Czech tourism to Malta in the coming years. Air

He expressed his pride that a name like Corinthia, known for its luxury

Malta’s continuous commitment to the incoming tourism and the

product offers, flies the Maltese flag in several cities around the world.

support the Airline gives to the Islands’ economic growth will remain Concluding, Air Malta’s Chairman thanked the Prime

unabated,” emphasised Dr Mangion.

Minister and Minister for Tourism for their vision and direction, In a short address the Minister for Tourism added that in the next

the Malta Tourism Authority for the continuous support and

three months the government will announce the 2025 Vision for

promotion for the islands and Corinthia Hotels for their assistance

Tourism. The Minister revealed that this strategy will aim to support

in hosting this event. He also thanked Mr Ernest Flamini, Air Malta

and spread tourism throughout the whole year and will include an

representative in Prague for the past 20 years, and last but not least

investment plan for Air Malta that the government is committed to

thanked the Czech Travel Operators for their belief and continued

discuss with the European Commission.

support for both Air Malta and Malta.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA STARTS SCHEDULED SERVICES TO TBILISI, GEORGIA ••••••••••••••

The beautiful city of Tbilisi.

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From left to right: Mete Erkal – General Manager at TAV Georgia, Nana Varshanidze – Contracts Chief at TAV Georgia together with the Air Malta crew operating the first flight.

Air Malta inaugurated its first scheduled service to the Georgian

Through Air Malta’s network of over 40 destinations, Georgians will

capital, Tbilisi. The once weekly flight every Thursday will run until

have easier access to countries like Rome, Paris, Frankfurt, London,

the 18th September with the possibility to extend this service further

and other main European cities.

in line with demand. The flight schedule is operating as follows (all times local): “This is the first time that the Maltese Airline is operating scheduled services to Georgia. The interest in this market started around a

Thursday

year ago when the airline was looking at growth opportunities to

KM 4280 . Dep . Malta . 00:40 . Arr . Tbilisi . 06:30 ...................................................... . . Tbilisi . 07:20 . Arr -·· . ..................... . 09:30 . Malta KM 4281 Dep

expand its network. This service is expected to open up new tourism

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markets to Malta and generate around 3,300 customers in both directions during the period of operation,” said Air Malta’s Chief

Air Malta offers a mix of fares from the luggage-only fares Go Light,

Executive Capt. Clifford Chetcuti.

to fares like Go Smart with a 23kg checked-in luggage.

Together with the InterCo Travel Group, the airline’s tour operating partner in Georgia, Air Malta formulated a plan to establish a direct air link between the two countries. The plan is expected to facilitate travel for Georgians to visit the islands or other European

Interco, Air Malta’s travel partner in Georgia can be contacted on

destinations through Air Malta’s European flight network. At the

http://interco.travel/

same time Air Malta is now offering the Maltese travelling public a great new destination to visit.

For more information on Air Malta please visit www.airmalta.com

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

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Air Malta’s aircraft first touchdown in Tbilisi, Georgia. a ..

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From left to right: Zurab Sharashenidze - Executive Vice-Chair at Interco Travel Group, Tea Zakariadze – Deputy General Manager at TAV Georgia, Marion Pace – Air Malta Corporate Communications Support Coordinator, Mete Erkal – General Manager at TAV Georgia, Teimuraz Buzaladze, General Manager at Discovery Group.

ABOUT GEORGIA

Make sure to take a funicular and visit Mtatsminda – Holy Mount

Georgia, a country in the Caucasus region of Eurasia, is located at the

which is home to St David’s Church and Pantheon of Georgian

crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. The country is bounded

Writers and Public figures. Mtatsminda offers panoramic views

to the west by the Black Sea and to the north by Russia, to the south

of this enchanting capital. Walk along the magnificent Rustavelli

by Turkey and Armenia, and to the southeast by Azerbaijan.

Avenue and take a tour of the Historic Parliament Building.

Tbilisi, its charming capital is where eastern and western traditions

Your visit is not complete unless you savour the mouth-watering

merge together offering a unique multicultural living experience.

traditional Georgian delights like the Khinkali and Khachapuri.

This multi religious city is the only capital in the world where

The country is one of the oldest wine regions in the world and has

Georgian Orthodox, Armenian Georgian, Roman Catholic Churches,

a unique wine culture. The fertile valleys and protective slopes

a synagogue, a Mosque and a Zoroastrian temple can be found

of the Transcaucasia were home to grapevine cultivation and

within just five minutes’ walk from each other.

Neolithic wine production for at least 8000 years.

One can start off by boarding a cable car to visit the 4th Century

Due to this rich history and its prominent economic role, the traditions

Nirkala Fortress which commands an exceptional view of the city.

of wine in Georgia are considered entwined with and inseparable from

Wander through the cobbled narrow streets of the old town of

the national identity.

Tbilisi and admire the picturesque traditional brick build homes which exudes unique character. Visit the National Museum of History and appreciate the extraordinary historic collection of pre-Christian gold artefacts and Jewellery.

Visit https://georgia.travel for more information about the country.

101

A I R M A LTA N E W S

GLITCH FESTIVAL BACK THIS AUGUST WITH THE BIGGEST LINE-UP MALTA HAS EVER SEEN! CARL COX, BICEP, BEN KLOCK, CHARLOTTE DE WITTE, HELENA HAUFF, PEGGY GOU, LEN FAKI, MALL GRAB AND PALMS TRAX AMONGST THE HEADLINERS.

Glitch Festival has quickly established itself

Village, framed against the iconic skyline of

Cox, Bicep, Ben Klock, Charlotte De Witte,

as the biggest festival in Malta as well as

Malta’s fortified city, Mdina followed by the

Len Faki, Peggy Gou, Helena Hauff, Motor

one of Europe’s major electronic festivals,

perfect sun-soaked boat-party finale.

City Drum Ensemble, Palms Trax, Paula Temple and Mall Grab. The lineup is greatly

and that’s definitely no surprise. Following 3 successful editions, Glitch Festival returns on

Hailed by Mixmag as a “House and Techno

balanced with a carefully curated list of

the 14th, 15th & 16th of August where music

paradise”, the 4th edition of Glitch Festival

hotly sought-after master selectors, live

enthusiasts from all over the world are called

will feature 6 stages – from rooftop pool

acts & rising stars from Octo Octa, DVS1,

to gather at the gates of the mystical House-

parties to secret cave raves. In 2019, Glitch

Job Jobse, Polar Inertia, Space Dimension

and-Techno fortress for three solid days on a

Festival boasts its finest roster of artists yet.

Controller, Anthony Linell, Nur Jaber, David

sonic adventure on the Mediterranean island

Dancers will be able to lose themselves to

Vunk, Voiski, Gustav Goodstuff, Jupiter Jax

of Malta. The Festival will be held at Gianpula

the sounds of industry titans such as Carl

and more.

BOILER ROOM HOSTING A STAGE AT GLITCH FESTIVAL If this year’s edition wasn’t exciting enough already, Glitch Festival have announced a partnership with Boiler Room for the very first time in Malta. The broadcasting giant will be hosting their own stage at Glitch Festival on the 14th and 15th of August. The performing artists will be streamed live and direct from the festival on all Boiler Room platforms. The line-up sees the addition of the legendary I-F, Jensen Interceptor and Smokey which will join Job Jobse & David Vunk’s highly anticipated b2b amongst others to complete the Boiler Room stage. Local heroes Cain & Jupiter Jax will both be making their Boiler Room debut and a first for any Maltese performing artist. For more information, travel & tickets visit www.glitchfestival.com This event is supported by Air Malta.

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO KURT Z AMMIT C U STO M E R R E L AT I O N S A N D B A G G A G E C L A I M S C O O R D I N ATO R

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING WITH AIR MALTA AND IN WHAT ROLES? My journey at Air Malta started two-and-the-half years ago, on the 13 March 2017. I started my career as an Operations Assistant in the Cargo Department and after a year I moved on to the Customer Experience Department as a Customer Relations and Baggage Claims Coordinator. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF YOUR JOB? Being constantly challenged is what keeps me motivated to do more and determined to become better at what I do. One of the biggest challenges is to multitask between systems and processes while making sure everything is up to standard. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? Since travelling is something that I really enjoy doing, I always try to plan a holiday and visit places that I have never been to before. Apart from that, I do like to keep myself fit and active by doing callisthenic work and outdoor activities, such as running and swimming. WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED MALTESE DISH? To be honest, I am such a foodie, so this is quite difficult for me to answer, but if I had to choose one favourite dish, I have to go with rabbit stew which is a signature Maltese dish and it is definitely something that every visitor should try when spending a few days on these beautiful Islands. WHICH IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIMES? I do like to watch a lot of movies of different genres, but my favourites are war and action movies which are based on real life stories. Having said this, my favourite movie has to be Lone Survivor, which is I think is one of the best true war story movie ever made. WHAT KIND OF MUSIC YOU LIKE TO FOLLOW? I do like to hear different kinds of music as my tastes do vary quite a bit. However, my favourite types of music are house and techno which are the genres that I have been following for quite some time now. I also do have a thing for the 70's, 80's and 90's music. WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION AND WHY? I have travelled to quite a few destinations, but I still have a long way to go. From all the places that I have visited in Europe, Paris has got to be my favourite city so far. The Parisian culture, lifestyle and the city in general has made me fall in love with it. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SPOTS AND TIPS FOR ANYONE VISITING MALTA? This island has surely so much to offer to whoever visits. I certainly recommend exploring our beautiful beaches, such as Golden Bay and GÄ§adira, and to spend a few days in Gozo which is only twenty minutes away by ferry.

103

A I R M A LTA N E W S

MALTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WELCOMES MORE THAN 3.2 MILLION PASSENGERS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2019

The first half of 2019 saw the Malta International Airport welcome over 3.2 million passengers. The mid-year traffic results, which show an increase of 5.9 per cent in passenger movements over the same stretch last year, were announced recently. The Malta International Airport is expected to register a record amount of 7.2 million passenger movements by the end of the year following this excellent performance. Record passenger numbers were registered every month in 2019 so far, with a 10.5 per cent increase in traffic, with April being the fastest-growing month for this period. This was followed by June, which registered an upturn of 8.8 per cent. Following the analysis published recently by the Airports Council International (ACI) in its Airport Industry Connectivity Report 2019, Malta International Airport’s connectivity doubled between 2009 and 2019, putting it in the lead in a group of 26 airports in the European Union. Excellent results from inbound tourism and passenger traffic reflect high quality, year-round tourism, and the Government would soon be announcing its strategy, named ‘Vision 2025 for Tourism.’ This strategy will aim to address the challenges currently being faced by the tourism sector. The objectives include attracting quality tourists; continued growth in the tourism sector; the implementation of a strategy for air connectivity; uncovering more tourism niches; and to attract new tourists from Japan, Australia, America, India and China.

MIA CEO Alan Borg stressed that these solid results stem from Malta International Airport’s constant efforts, made together with government and our main tourism stakeholders, to make sure that the islands are served by the most convenient connections all year round. The launch of three new routes this October, the extension of 17 routes from summer into the upcoming winter season, and increased flight frequencies on several routes, allow us to look ahead with confidence, whilst encouraging us to keep working on securing sustainable traffic, said Mr Borg. Minister for Tourism Dr Konrad Mizzi lauded the positive results registered in terms of increase in passenger traffic, commenting that these positive results reflect the Government’s and Malta International Airport’s strategy and efforts in enhancing Malta’s connectivity with key tourism and business markets. Minister Mizzi also commented that it is positive to note that the Malta International Airport is on track to reaching its next milestone of 7 million passenger movements by the end of this year. Malta Tourism Authority Executive Chairman Dr Gavin Gulia welcomed the positive traffic results announced by Malta International Airport for the first half of 2019, and re-affirmed the authority’s commitment to working with the airport to enhance airline connectivity to the Maltese islands with the aim of diversifying and further boosting tourism.

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A I R M A LTA N E W S

l<emm twal!' ' Landings to hugs in under 5 minutes .

BIGCITYBEATS WORLD CLUB DOME ONE OF THE BIGGEST ELECTRONIC-DANCE-MUSIC EVENTS IN GERMANY IS SET TO ADD MALTA TO THEIR GLOBAL FESTIVAL PORTFOLIO AND WILL DEBUT WITH ROAD TO WORLD CLUB DOME MALTA 2019 EVENT FEATURING DIMITRI VEGAS & LIKE MIKE, TINIE TEMPAH, LE SHUUK, CRISTIAN MARCHI AND MORE

••••••••••••• • Tipped as one of the world’s newest partying destinations, the festival debut pre-event “The Road to WORLD CLUB DOME Malta” takes place on Saturday 3rd August 2019 in Gianpulla Village - the islands paramount clubbing spot. Originally an old farmhouse, the 5,000 capacity mega club has welcomed the likes of Martin Garrix, Steve Aoki, Tiesto, Sasha, Erick Morillo, Dj Sneak, Roger Sanchez, Rui da Silva as well as the late Avicii to name a few.

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ROAOTO WORLDCLUBOOME

...•...·~ .

MALTA ,J., I

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• •• I •

CRISTIAN MARCHI • LESHWK ANDMOIIE WORLDCUIBDOMEMALTA.COM

BigCityBeats WORLD CLUB DOME is set to add another dazzling edition to their global event portfolio. The idyllic Maltese Island will lend its tropical coastline, breath-taking landscape and picturesque towns to hedonistic music lovers across the world.

The eye-watering line-up for The Road to WORLD CLUB DOME Malta includes all-round party starters Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, UK rap sensation Tinie Tempah, German hit-maker Le Shuuk and Italian DJ and producer Cristian Marchi. BigCityBeats ROAD TO WORLD CLUB DOME is hosted by G7 Events and Gianpula Village in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority and the Ministry for Tourism.

Tickets for ROAD TO WORLD CLUB DOME MALTA 2019 are available at: worldclubdomemalta.com or Burger King outlets

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FLIGH T I N FO

F L I G H T & CO M PA N Y I N FO R M AT I O N

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SURVEY

NEWSLETTER

Customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance at Air Malta and we are always looking for ways to improve your experience. Visit our website to answer a few short questions.

Subscribe to our newsletter or like our Facebook page to learn about our promotions, with fares starting from as low as €44 including taxes.

D ---I

www.airmalta.com/wearelistening

-...

www.airmalta.com for more information.

A I R M A LTA F L E E T

AIRBUS 319

AIRBUS 320

QTY: 1 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 141 ENGINES: CFM56-5B6/P MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 73.5 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 33.84M WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH RANGE: 4,815 KM

QTY: 9 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168/180 ENGINES: IAE V2500 / CFM56-5B4/P / CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF WEIGHT: 77.0 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 34.1M - 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: 834 KPH - 840 KPH RANGE: 4,055 KM - 6300 KM

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

SMOKING

Alcohol consumed at high altitude can have a stronger effect than usual. Cabin crew are legally empowered to refuse to serve any alcohol to an intoxicated passenger and anyone under the age of 18. In extreme cases, crew may also temporarily confiscate the passenger‘s own drinks so that the passenger does not become a nuisance to the other passengers and crew. Furthermore, Air Malta is bound by international regulations which prohibit the embarkation or the carriage of drunken passengers. However, since you are reading this article, Air Malta‘s Flight Safety Committee is confident that you are a law-abiding and exemplary passenger. Indeed, the cabin crew may need your assistance to restrain another passenger in the unlikely event that he or she may act irresponsibly during the flight. The consumption of one’s own alcoholic beverages inflight goes against Air Malta policy.

Smoking is prohibited from when you leave the departure terminal building until you reach the arrival terminal building. Smoking is allowed in designated areas only. Smoking is not allowed during any phase of the flight and in any area of the aircraft. Should you be aware of a passenger who has smoked in the toilet during the flight, please inform the cabin crew immediately so that they can check for any undetected fires. The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is not allowed on board Air Malta flights. Similarly, the use of naked flames on and around the aircraft is also prohibited.

106

FLIGH T I N FO

E N H A N C E YO U R T R AV E L E X P E R I E N C E

***

JOIN OUR BUSINESS CLASS

[

Upgrade to Air Malta’s Business Class for priority service. Members can make use of the special check-in counters for more leisurely and efficient boarding, enjoy access to the La Valette Lounge at Malta International Airport, and get more privacy with a separate inflight cabin area.

CARRY MORE WITH YOU Are you worried about not being able to fit everything you need into your suitcase? Stop stressing out and check out our extra baggage service. Simply book your extra baggage online and get the most out of your trip. Visit www.airmalta.com/excess-baggage-en-gb

FLY IN COMFORT 111

I 11

Enhance your comfort with extra legroom during your flight. This option gives you more space to relax in preparation for your trip. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/services-by-air-malta/seat-selection

GET SPORTY Are you passionate about a sport? We make it easy to travel and take your specialised equipment with you at a very minimal cost. Visit www.airmalta.com/excess-baggage-en-gb

GROUPS We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than 10 adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you can’t get anywhere else. Email groups@airmalta.com

WEB CHECK-IN Skip the line and check-in before you get to the airport. You may check-in online before you get to the airport, up to 24 hours prior to departure up until one hour before your flight. Visit www.airmalta.com/information/check-in

107

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D E S T I NAT I ON I N F O

D E S T I N AT I O N I N FO R M AT I O N

FINLAND

SWEDEN NORWAY

RUSSIA • St Petersburg

Oslo Stockholm

ESTONIA LATVIA

DENMARK

UNITED KINGDOM

REP. OF IRELAND

LITHUANIA

Copenhagen

• Manchester

• Hamburg Bremen • Birmingham HOLLAND London Southend • Berlin Amsterdam Bristol • Hanover London Heathrow • • London Gatwick GERMAN Y Brussels • Leipzig BELGIUM Düsseldorff Dresden

LUXEMBOURG

Paris Charles de Gaulle Paris Orly

Geneva • SWITZERLAND

Lourdes •

UKRAINE

• Vienna

Marseille •

PORTUGAL

SPAIN

KOSOVO

Olbia • Ibiza

• Tbilisi

Otopeni

BULGARIA

Sofia

MONTENEGRO NORTH MACEDONIA

• Rome

GEORGIA

ROMANIA

SERBIA BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

ITALY • Lisbon

MOLDOVA

Budapest

HUNGARY

SLOVENIA CROATIA

Venice •

Lyon •

• Kiev

Prague

AUSTRIA

Zurich

Warsaw

POLAND

CZECH REPUBLIC SLOVAKIA

Frankfurt Munich

FRANCE

Moscow

BELARUS

ALBANIA

Istanbul

TURKEY

GREECE

• Cagliari

• Malaga • Tunis • Casablanca

TUNISIA

MOROCCO

Palermo • Catania

Larnaca

CYPRUS Tel Aviv •

MALTA

ISRAEL • Cairo

ALGERIA

LIBYA

EGYPT

...............................................................• AIR MALTA DIRECT FLIGHTS AIRPORT

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Amsterdam 8 Berlin 3 Birmingham 1 Bristol 1 Brussels 9 Bucharest 1 Cagliari 2 Cairo 2 Casablanca 2 Catania 17 Düsseldorf 2 Frankfurt 7 Geneva 1 Hamburg 2 Ibiza 2 Kiev 2 London Gatwick 7 London Heathrow 16 London Southend 3 Leipzig 2 Lisbon 2

AIRPORT

(Sept)

(Aug)

WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Lourdes 2 Lyon 5 Malaga 2 Manchester 1 Marseille 2 Milan (Malpensa) 7 Moscow 4 Munich 13 Palermo 4 Paris Charles de Gaulle 9 Paris Orly 7 Prague 2 Rome 14 St Petersburg 2 Tbilisi 1 Tel Aviv 5 Tunis 3 Venice 2 Vienna 8 Warsaw 1 Zurich 7

t ...................... . INTRA-EUROPEAN FLIGHTS

Catania - Vienna

CODE-SHARED ROUTES

ETIHAD AIRWAYS BRISBANE

Abu Dhabi Brisbane Melbourne Sydney

ALITALIA

via Brussels, Heathrow and Rome via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi via Abu Dhabi

Barcelona Rome London City Frankfurt Pescara Alghero Cagliari Brindisi Ancona Bari Bologna Brindisi Cagliari Catania Florence Geneva Genoa Nice Milan Linate Moscow Palermo Paris CDG Pisa Reggio Calabria Tel Aviv Trieste Turin Valencia Venice Verona

LUFTHANSA Stockholm (Arlanda) Berlin Bremen Dresden Düsseldorf Frankfurt Hannover Munich Oslo

via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich via Munich

BRUSSELS AIRLINES

Brussels Copenhagen

via Catania via Brussels

CZECH AIRLINES

Prague

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES

Zurich

via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Milan Linate via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome via Rome

AUSTRIAN AIRLINES EMIRATES

Budapest Bucharest (Otopeni) Prague Sofia Warsaw

Larnaca

AIRBALTIC Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Riga Tallinn Vilnius Vilnius

109

via Vienna via Munich via Brussels via Frankfurt via Amsterdam via London Gatwick via Amsterdam via Munich via Amsterdam

via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna via Vienna

AIR ITALY

Olbia

TURKISH AIRLINES

Istanbul

via Rome

ELEC T RON IC DEV IC ES

U S E O F P O RTA B L E E L E C T RO N I C D E V I C E S O N B OA R D

TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

NON-TRANSMITTING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDS)

Devices that can send or receive data by wireless means, such as mobilephones and tablets, may be used during all phases of the flight provided their transmit/receive capabilities such as GSM & Wi-fi are switched off. Devices working on Bluetooth wireless connectivity are allowed. If the device has ‘Flight Mode’ capability, this must be enabled. Such devices shall be safely secured in the customers’ hand (handheld) or a pocket during taxi, take-off and landing. Larger devices (e.g. laptops) shall be switched off and stowed away safely during taxi, takeoff and landing. Accessories, such as headphones, must not obstruct access to the aisle. If the data transmission capability cannot be switched off (whilst the device is operating), the device itself must be switched off for the duration of the flight.

These could include, but are not limited to, items such as DVD players, electronic games, music players and personal cameras. Such devices shall be safely secured in the customers’ hand (handheld) or a pocket during taxi, take-off and landing. Larger devices shall be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing.

L APTOPS AND NOTEBOOKS Such devices may be used during boarding and during flight but not during taxi, take-off and landing. Any built-in data connectivity such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi must be disabled. These devices must be stowed away safely during taxi, take-off and landing since they could hinder an emergency evacuation.

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT USE MY ELECTRONIC DEVICES?

CAN I USE HEADPHONES? Personal headphones can be used during all phases of the flight. However, we ask you to remove your headphones during the safety briefing. For safety reasons, customers sitting in an emergency exit row must refrain from using headphones during taxi, take-off and landing.

Under certain circumstances, your Flight Crew or Cabin Crew may ask you to switch off all Personal Electronic Devices. This may happen during automatic landings, low visibility takeoff or landing, or during emergency situations.

I SHOULD INFORM THE CABIN CREW WHEN … your portable electronic device is damaged, becomes hot, produces smoke, is lost, or falls into the seat structure. If safe to do so, the device must be switched off immediately.

If you require more information, please refer to the table below which includes a list of Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) which can be used onboard Air Malta flights by phase of flight. Please do not hesitate to contact any member of our cabin crew if you have any further questions.

PHASE

Boarding

HAND HELD PEDS

(e.g. smart phones and tablets)

LARGER PEDS

(e.g. laptops and notebooks)

HEADPHONES

WI-FI, TEXT & PHONE CALL FUNCTIONS

YES

(when instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

Take-Off

YES

Cruise

YES

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

Landing

YES

Taxi to Stand

YES

Extended Ground Delay

Circa 10 minutes to landing

Safety Notice: The carriage of damaged, defective or recalled lithium batteries or devices is prohibited on-board Air Malta aircraft. 110

The island of Gozo, part of the archipelago of Malta,

GozoCultural Support Programme

offers acclaimed opera performances. A unique experience, for the discerning traveller seeking an intense cultural offer, against the backdrop of a beautiful island bursting with history.

www.visi1go,o .com

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