Il-Bizzilla February 2023

THE AIR MALTA IN-FLIGHT MAGAZINE

# 12 2 F E B RUA RY 2 02 3

8 Visit the quaint village of Siġġiewi.

33 Come dance with us.

45 Meet Malta's Prince Charming.

contents 8

8 VISIT A VILLAGE Get seduced by Siġġiewi. Resident Maria Muscat takes us around her locale.

12

SIX TOP IDEAS Get some ideas for things to do and places to go to celebrate love and friendship.

14 AIR MALTA DESTINATION: NICE Take a walk around one of Air Malta’s new destinations with Eric Tenin.

22 A COLLABORATIVE EXHIBITION Christine Cassar reviews the exhibition of a collective of architects.

26 INSPIRATIONAL ARTISAN Take a look at this month’s artisan, Ebru Cinar Erdogan; she embroiders photographs.

32

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS Clouds in art and literature are featured in this month’s magazine.

33

COME DANCE WITH US Love dance? See how one woman’s passion has inspired and still inspires people in Malta to learn a multitude of genres.

ISSUE 122 FEBRUARY v6.indd 1

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56

MUSICIAN OF THE MONTH

ROTARY IN MALTA

Dylan Debono is our musician of the month - hear about his new tracks.

Read about what local Rotary Club Malta are doing at home and overseas.

40

OPERA THIS SEASON The national theatre is home to a different version of Tosca in March, see how the opera has been reimagined.

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60

A TASTE OF THE PAST When chocolate was introduced to Malta, by ColourMyTravel.

62

CARNIVAL!

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD!

Carnival is on! Celebrate with colour and music in the capital.

Restaurant round-up and our monthly seasonal recipe.

45

MEET MALTA’S PRINCE CHARMING Meet Malta’s Prince Charming Citoyen Port; historybounder extrordinare.

68 AIR MALTA NEWS

A round-up of this month’s events and news.

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48

DESTINATION INFORMATION

HERALDRY AND HISTORY

See our route map with new destinations.

Palazzo Falson opens up more of Olof Golcher’s collection.

50

EVENTS CALENDAR Current and upcoming events and book releases detailed here.

54

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

76

A SPECTACULAR SPORT

ELECTRONIC DEVICE INFORMATION

Kiteboarding gets put under the spotlight by sports writer, Deirdre Farrugia.

Information with regards to phone, laptop and tablet usage on board.

24/01/2023 08:09

ON THE COVER

One of the biggest events in the Maltese calendar is Carnival which this year runs between the 17th and 21st of February.

MEET THE TE AM EDITORIAL AND DESIGN TBWA\ANG

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Frank Kirchner

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Monique Chambers

PHOTOGRAPHERS Alpaca Walks Gozo Connect2Gozo Dancel Eric Tenin Frank Kirchner Joseph Caruana Kenneth Galea Peter Bartolo Parnis Rachel Micallef Somerville Sarah Cachia Falzon (White Noise Malta) Sebio Aquilina Visit Gozo

SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG CONTRIBUTORS Air Malta Christine Cassar Colour My Travel Deirdre Farrugia Duncan Barry Eric Tenin Festivals Malta Finesse Group Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti John de Giorgio Lauren John Maria Muscat Monique Chambers Nicole Parnis Thames Parnell Visit Gozo

ILLUSTRATOR Bryan Wolfgang Reiter

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 Monique on editor@il-bizzilla.com

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.

ISSUE 122 FEBRUARY v6.indd 2

24/01/2023 08:09

Bizz

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

FIFTY NINE REPUBLIC

St George’s Square, Valletta T: +356 79264613 fiftyninerepublic.com

@59republic

W ELC OM E

FROM THE CHAIRPERSON...

FRO M THE ED ITO R...

Merħba,

Dear travellers, There’s so much to love about Malta at any time of year, and in this edition, we are sharing some fabulous spots and ideas to celebrate Galantine’s – the relatively new unofficial day of celebration for friendships on February 13th, and for those wishing to celebrate their romantic relationship, St Valentine’s which falls on February 14th with you too.

A warm welcome on-board to all our passengers.

As we enter the month of February, are seeing some clear early indications of booking trends emerging for 2023. During the period April to December 2022, Air Malta carried 1.4 million passengers. Early bookings for 2023 are already significantly ahead of the year prior and all indicators suggest we are going to beat 2022 and the post-COVID demand for travel is likely to continue into Summer 2023.

To gain points for an unusual date, try a trek with a gorgeous family of alpaca’s in Gozo, take a picnic to a secluded or stunning spot from our list, or have your cake and eat it from a plate you design and fire, in a rural setting!

In addition to the routes operated in 2022, four new destinations have already been added to the Air Malta network, these being Naples, Nice, Palermo and Tel Aviv. We are now pleased to announce that we are further expanding our network to include Portugal, by adding Lisbon as our fifth new route for Summer 2023.

Effective as from Monday 26th June, Lisbon will operate twice weekly on Monday and Thursdays, through until Thursday 26th October.

There’s Tosca at the Manoel Theatre – even a tour is a treat, and Valletta comes alive with colour, music and performances with Carnival from the 17th-21st of the month.

If you haven’t planned anything and want to do something special, why not take a look at Nice? We explore this new Air Malta destination with a man that knows it well and takes us to corners of the city that your average guidebook misses. It’s worth a trip on its own merit – and it screams elegance and romance without the kookily dressed youngsters mimicking a certain Paris-based TV show!

This expanded growth in Summer scheduled operations will see Air Malta increase its network to an average of 157 rotations (314 flights) per week, linking Malta with 23 major cities across Europe and the UK. We will continue to remain focused on serving key European cities which provide strong connectivity links with our wide range of codeshare partner airlines, facilitating onwards connectivity to other parts of the world.

We continue our series on locals’ passions; this month with a dancer who has won many a competition and now teaches over 140 children various disciplines of dance. We also meet Malta’s very own Prince Charming; Citoyen Port, a wonderful young man who creates and wears historically accurate, incredibly beautiful clothing from the 1750’s to 1800, and a young woman who is transforming old photographs with her imagination ad embroidery skills.

This month we are pleased to be launching our new Buy-on-Board programme. This supplement can be found in your seat pocket, featuring new jewellery items by Maltese designer Bijou Michiko, gifts and perfumes, as well as an extensive variety of menu options. In addition to reserving your preferred seat choices and booking additional baggage, you can also pre-order your preferred meal selection on airmalta.com. Value and comfort are at the centre of our commitment to you and we strive to be your natural choice of airline to the Maltese islands.

We look back at the introduction of chocolate to Malta and celebrate food with a seasonal recipe and restaurant listings to satiate your appetite. Check them out for yourself with brunch, lunch or dinner…

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 offers directly in your inbox. Every few weeks we come out with exciting promotional offers and you need to be registered to our newsletter to be able to get notice of our promotions.

Wishing you a wonderful trip!

I hope you have a great flight!

David G Curmi

Monique Chambers

EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, AIR MALTA

EDITOR

4

123, St. George’s Road, St. Julian’s, Malta

Oracle Casino and Portomaso Casino are owned and operated by Tumas Gaming Ltd and licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority License number MGA/B2C/103/2000. A minimum age of 25 years for Maltese citizens and 18 years for non-Maltese citizens is required. First time registrations must present a vaild document.

Gambling can become a problem. PLAY RESPONSIBLY. For assistance visit www.rgf.org.mt or call helpline 1777.

PLAY RESPONSIBLY

Oracle Casino and Portomaso Casino are owned and operated by Tumas Gaming Ltd and licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority License number MGA/B2C/103/2000. A minimum age of 25 years for Maltese citizens and 18 years for non-Maltese citizens is required. First time registrations must present a vaild document.

Gambling can become a problem. PLAY RESPONSIBLY. For assistance visit www.rgf.org.mt or call helpline 1777.

PLAY RESPONSIBLY

D E S T I NAT I ON

Xaqqa Cliffs

8

D E S T I NAT I ON

WORDS MARIA MUSCAT

SECLUDED SIGGIEWI

SIĠĠIEWI IS ONE OF THE LUCKY ONES - ONE OF THE LUCKY FEW VILLAGES IN MALTA WHICH THANKS TO ITS GEOGRAPHY AND ITS PEOPLE’S ENDURING TIES TO THE SURROUNDING LAND, HAS REMAINED RELATIVELY INTACT IN ITS LOOKS AND IN ITS PRINCIPLES. BUT I ERR IN CALLING IT A VILLAGE - SIĠĠIEWI IS ACTUALLY A CITTÀ.

Grand Master Ferdinand Von Hompesch elevated the village and

after and untouched spots on land and sea, its beating heart of a

bestowed it with the honour of his name in 1797 and who are we

village core still revolves largely around its unmarked square which

to take it up with a Grand Master of such calibre. On this island

sprawls downhill from an elegant Baroque church and porticoed

of villages adjacent to towns and overlapping another couple of

parvis built in honour of the patron saint, St Nicholas. To this day,

villages, Siġġiewi remains buffered by stretches of land owned

a statue of him stands proudly across from a fuel station, his back

primarily by its locals and passed on from one generation to the

to the outside world, his eyes feasting on so grand and towering a

next. This humble città stands a kilometer and a half (tops) from

gesture in his honour.

its closest neighbours, doing its thing and persevering in its ways because, quite frankly, it could and still can.

Every 6th of December, a procession of children leaves the village school and walks to this very square accompanied by the local band

Not much has been written about this yellowed-hued village. I

clubs and a firework display. This is, as any local will proudly tell you,

haven’t seen it listed in any top 10 things to do in Malta clickbait

but a taster of the more popular June appointment celebrating the

lists; and what an absolute blessing! On an island so tiny and so

beloved saint.

historic, every nook and cranny has had so much written about it, its beauty exalted to a fault, and its excursion-worthiness splayed

Vantage points of choice (and we suggest the kampnar if you’re

across the pages of travel sites and guidebooks.

lucky enough to get access) give you 360° lookouts onto the imposing and stylishly lit-up old capital of Mdina; the Laferla Cross,

To this day, Siġġiewi has thankfully managed to exist happily in a

atop a hill scaled yearly by candle-lit pilgrims during Holy Week;

liminal space of sorts. Surrounded by some of the most sought-

and Verdala Palace, an official residence of the President’s overlooking

9

D E S T I NAT I ON

View across crop fields towards Siġġiewi

Saint Nicholas statue at the main square

Siġġiewi parish church

Buskett - one of the few woodland areas on the island. A short drive –

having the space to roam freely, are too happily occupied with their

or – scratch that, make it a pleasant hour-long stroll out of the village

own lives to be interfering in yours.

core gets you to Għar Lapsi – the locals’ favourite summer spot for a quick dip or a more Mediterranean-paced Sunday by the sea.

Architecturally speaking, compromises have been made along the years – there’s no denying or glossing over these – but Siġġiewi

By way of a disclaimer, I do not hail from here. Siġġiewi adopted me

is one of the lucky survivors. Its core has survived relatively

the second time I ever visited. I had only been once before - hard to

untouched, its Parish still active by contemporary standards, its

believe on an island so small. Siġġiewi’s charm won me over when I

square still alive thanks to charming watering holes and regular

came to check on a quaint (read: tiny) house I had come across on

fairs and appointments, its traditions practiced and passed on

a badly designed property site. I fell in love instantly and decided to

with pride by its residents - natural, adopted or otherwise. The

make it my home. The more I thought about it the more I realised

small shops still stand to serve the residents - very few travel

that what I had actually fallen in love with was not the house’s

here to run errands or do business. Siġġiewi is quiet and those

potential (or its attractive price tag – Siġġiewi property prices

who come do so explicitly as the village itself is not exactly on

remained relatively stable for a long time after prices everywhere

anyone’s route to anywhere else. What can I say? Do drop by,

else skyrocketed). What I fell in love with was a place and a people

explicitly or otherwise, and I promise you’ll fall in love in small as well

that, blessed with what I’ve always considered to be the luxury of

as in big ways.

10

LOCAL

WE'VE PICKED A HANDFUL OF LOVELY PLACES AND EXPERIENCES TO SHARE THIS GALENTINE'S AND VALENTINE'S - ACTUALLY - THEY ARE WONDERFUL ANY TIME!

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LOCAL

SIX TO P THINGS TO D O WHY NOT TRY ROMANTIC PL ACES AND EXPERIENCES?

GARDJOLA GARDENS

XEWKIJA, GOZO

DINGLI CLIFFS

Gardjola Gardens is at the end of the promontory of Senglea in the Three Cities. The ‘gardjola’ itself is from the period of the knights and is adorned with the sculpture of an eye, ear and a crane bird in the stone. With views of Valletta and Vittoriosa, this has to be one of the most special gardens in Malta.

Arrive by ferry from Valletta for extra points!

Get the awwww factor with this all 5-star review Airbnb Experience. Head to Ix-Xewkija and make time for an afternoon with Gozo Alpaca Walks, a memorable and surely instagrammable event which neither of you will forget!

Dingli Cliffs really are spectacular; a few benches give those who make the effort to go there, privacy to enjoy the peace and spectacular views of the sea. Stop by the St Mary Magdalene Chapel and on the way back, stay have dinner at one of the quaint village’s restaurants.

GHAJN TUFFIEHA

GOZO

TOP OF THE WORLD

Għajn Tuffieħa, known as Riviera by locals, has the best vantage point for sunset. Walk to the tower for seclusion or down the steps to the sandy beach which is said to be the most beautiful in Malta. The whole area is quite spectacular with a nature reserve behind the hotels in the next bay.

Instead of buying flowers for that next special occasion; why not try out painting using their pigments?

Connect2Gozo offers classes at their secluded outdoor studio or you can even choose to raku fire a plate and eat your dessert from it!

Top of the World is a dog walkers’ paradise; up in the wilds of Għargħur, it is as close to nature as it is to the bustling nightlife of St Julian’s. It has been known as a romantic spot for decades. See the beginning of the Victoria Lines and perhaps plan to walk them another day.

13

T R AV E L

Giuseppe Garibaldi statue at Place Garibaldi in Nice

14

T R AV E L

WORDS ERIC TENIN

WA LK W ITH M E TH RO U G H N I CE

EX-PARISIAN, ERIC TENIN FELL IN LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT WITH NICE. AFTER LIVING THERE FOR SOME TIME, HE GLADLY ACCEPTED TO SHARE THE REASONS WHY HE LOVES THIS CITY SO MUCH. Being a typical Parisian, I have to confess that I didn’t think

elegant Art Déco buildings, or to the seaside, you will never grow

much of Nice and the Riviera. I was convinced that it was

tired of it. Neither do the locals who run, bicycle, walk their dog,

a place for retirees and jet-setters and that there was

enjoy the sunrise or sit on one of the many benches and chairs

nothing to get so excited about. And then I spent some

that are at the disposal of passers-by.

time there… Never in my life have I been proven so wrong!

Nice is a stunning city, with a fascinating history, beautiful

I love the promenade, but my favorite place is undoubtedly the

architecture and a very active cultural life. Today, the city is a

old town of Nice, Le Vieux-Nice, or simply “Le Vieux”, as the

cosmopolitan blend of French, Italian, and Russian influences,

locals call it. This enchanting neighborhood that started as a

with a vibrant arts scene and a rich culinary tradition. No

Greek trading post called Nikaïa (yes, you guessed it right, that’s

wonder it is now the most visited city in France, after Paris, with

where the city got its name from!) is now a bustling area filled with

about 5 million visitors per year.

narrow, winding streets, colourful houses, and some of the city's best restaurants, bars, and markets - don’t miss the Cours Saleya

You will have heard of La Promenade des Anglais, the walk

and its Marché à la brocante (flea market) on Mondays and flowers

named after the English tourists who helped to popularise the

and food the rest of the week. Even if I’ve walked down these streets

city in the 19th century. This iconic seven-kilometer stretch of

dozens of times, I always enjoy strolling Le Vieux and its notable

road and pavement running proudly between the Mediterranean

landmarks, like the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, a beautiful

Sea and the city deserves its fame and popularity. Whether you

Baroque-style cathedral, and the Place Rossetti, a lively square

look to the city side where your eyes will undoubtedly spot some

lined with outdoor cafes and street performers.

15

T TR R AV AVE EL L

Promenade du Paillon

Don’t go thinking that Nice is only about the past. It’s also a

a glimpse of his unique Biblical-themed paintings, drawings,

living city, always reinventing itself and turning the old into

sculptures and stained glass… of this multi-talented artist.

new. Hence the recently created Promenade du Paillon,

I personally love the inside as much as the outside of this venue;

a magnificent park that separates the old town from the

a true spiritual journey.

modern one. Here young couples like to amble hand in hand and parents play with their children right in the middle of

If you’re more of a modern art person, plan a visit to the Musée

the city. I love it in every season, but most particularly during

d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain, also known as the MAMAC.

Christmas and a bit later, in February for Carnival when this area

A stunning collection of modern and contemporary art awaits

turns into a magical and festive ground where everybody meets

you there, including works by artists such as Yves Klein, Andy

for a moment of joy.

Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, in addition to the temporary exhibitions of course.

Likewise, the Port area, once considered rough, is now a new upand-coming place to hang out and enjoy a drink or two among

Last, but not least, another great advantage of Nice is that it is

the young crowd. On the way back to town, I never miss the

the perfect gateway to neighbouring hot spots such as the highly

magnificent Place Garibaldi, a square built in 1773 surrounded

perched village of Èze, the incredible Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

by ochre facades, beautifully renovated - including incredibly

in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the superb Saint-Paul-de-Vence village,

realistic trompe-l’oeil that adds to the magic of the place. Beauty

the cute town of Menton or even Monaco. All this is very easily

is everywhere in Nice… In the streets, but also in the museums.

accessible by bus or tramway for a very affordable price…

If you enjoy indoor activities, head over to the magnificent Marc Chagall National Museum. As colourful, but quite different from

These are just some of my favourite things to see and do in Nice,

the ceiling of the Paris Garnier opera house, here you will get

but there is so much more... Oh wait, did I mention the food?

Air Malta operates regular flights to Nice.

More information on www.airmalta.com

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GOZO

WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

TOP LANDMARK SITES IN GOZO: EIGHT SPOTS YOU SHOULD NOT MISS OUT ON WHILE ON HOLIDAY IN GOZO

EVEN WHEN COMPARED TO MALTA, GOZO’S A TINY ISLAND. THE APPEAL OF THE SMALLER HOLIDAY DESTINATION IS NOT OVERRATED, ESPECIALLY WHEN ONE KEEPS IN MIND THAT WHEN IT COMES TO LANDMARKS, GOZO OFFERS A VARIETY OF WORLD-KNOWN SITES LIKE THE CITADEL AND ĠGANTIJA, ALONG WITH A SET OF UNIQUE SPOTS THAT MAKE THE VISIT TO THE ISLAND MEMORABLE. Here’s a list of 8 extraordinary sights to visit

300-year-old octagonal structure that

relaying messages from Gozo to Valletta.

and explore while you’re on holiday in Gozo.

comes complete with sails. Stopping by

This tower was in direct line of sight of

Make sure your list of things to do in Gozo

to explore the recently-restored inside is

the signalling stations of Selmun and Ħal

includes some of these ideas.

another experience as you will get a glimpse

Għargħur in Malta. The colonial times are

of an engineering feat, and you might also

an important part of Gozo’s history, and

get a feel of Gozitan folklore.

the semaphore, along with the Aqueducts,

HIDDEN BEACH – BEMBERIN If you’re up for a rough walk along the

the lighthouse and other structures,

coast, you can take a trip to Bemberin

A PERFECT HUB –

beach, located off an arduous path that

IT-TOKK SQUARE IN VICTORIA

dating back to that time.

starts at Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay. Trudging

There’s no denying that the hub of the

to the inlet, which has its own cave and

island is Independence Square. Its Maltese

THE CLIFFS OF TA’ ĊENĊ

pebbly beach, requires proper footwear,

name, It-Tokk, means meeting place, as

Ta’ Ċenċ cliffs which keep stringing and

but it is one of those views that few ever

this was the de facto place where the

rumbling onto Sanap cliffs, eventually

set their eyes on. If such walks are too

islanders met. At the foot of the Citadel,

leading to Xlendi bay, are a favourite haunt

stressful, you can opt to check out the

this square was also the marketplace in

of many. Nature lovers, photographers,

more accessible hidden beach San Filep.

Rabat. Marked also by the Christ the King

adventure enthusiasts and poets on

These hidden and remote Gozo beaches are

memorial honouring the Gozitan victims of

holiday in Gozo should all take time to

amazing things to see while on the island.

World War II, this square remains the perfect

visit. The plateau is like an unreal place

spot for a coffee or catching up with friends.

where land, sea and sky meet, and it has

MEDIEVAL TIME CAPSULE –

SO MANY DIFFERENT FACES –

a vibe that changes according to the

LUNZJATA VALLEY

FOLLOWING THE ARCHES – THE AQUEDUCTS

weather and time of day. The stillness of

It’s easy to miss the fertile Lunzjata Valley

The way to Ta’ Pinu is undoubtedly marked

daybreak, the insect hum at noon, the

especially if this is your first holiday in Gozo.

by the aqueducts that are standing today.

occasional screech of the seagulls and the

Nestled between Victoria and the village

They are the remains of a channel that

various bird calls culminate at sunset when

of Kerċem, Lunzjata Valley was originally

transported freshwater from the hill of Għar

the fiery red sun fizzes into the sea.

a hunting spot for the Knights of St. John.

Ilma to reservoirs in Victoria. The aqueduct,

The valley has an arched entrance, quaint

a British engineering feat, is earmarked

chapel and water fountain where farmers

for restoration, and in the meantime, the

THE LIGHTHOUSE

wash their produce for the market. On

arches provide the perfect backdrop for the

A short but steep walk leads to the recently

the right-hand side of the valley, a steep

Gozitan countryside snapshot!

restored lighthouse on Ta’ Ġurdan Hill,

staircase leading to the village of Kerċem

A COLONIAL CONSTRUCTION -

where the lighthouse that was built by the

chiselled out of the rock gives the place the

THE LORE OF THE SEMAPHORE –

British colonial government still operates.

feeling of looking at times gone by.

TA’ KENUNA TOWER

The 21 kerosene lamps, which beamed out

If you’re keen on capturing views, head

to more than 60 kilometres, are today

A WINDMILL ADVENTURE –

to Ta’ Kenuna Tower in Nadur. Like other

replaced by modern technology. Still,

EIGHT-POINTED WINDMILL

towers of its era, the tower is built on a

it testifies to Malta’s strategic location

Since the Xewkija windmill is planted on

vantage point. The semaphore tower was

serving as a Mediterranean naval hub and

a main road, it is impossible to miss the

once part of a mechanical system for

trading post.

18

OEZ X OT H E R E I N S E R TG T

Aqueducts

Xewkija Windmill

Lunzjata Valley

19

GOZO

WORDS VISITGOZO / MINISTRY FOR GOZO

A HOLIDAY IN GOZO – MORE THAN JUST A DAY TRIP

MANY AGREE THAT GOZO IS MALTA’S BEST-KEPT SECRET. IF YOU’RE PLANNING TO HOLIDAY IN MALTA, MAKE SURE THAT GOZO IS NOT JUST A ONE-DAY TRIP ON YOUR ITINERARY. WITH SO MANY THINGS TO DO, IT’S EASY TO UNDERSTAND WHY YOU NEED TO STAY FOR AT LEAST 3 NIGHTS. IT’S ABOUT THE CALM VIBE OF ISLAND LIFE

inlets of Wied il-Għasri or Mġarr ix-Xini, one has to factor a stay-over

Some decades back, the Gozo post office had a stamp that said “Gozo

of at least a couple of nights. Furthermore, activities like a visit to an

- the island where time stood still”. While that might no longer be the

eco-farm, boat trips, kayaking, abseiling, and Segway tours cannot be

case, and the island has moved on and embraced modern times, there

condensed into minutes. Naturally if you’re visiting Malta to dive or to

is something about the island that is still not rushed. Today the island

hike or bicycle around the countryside, then there’s no doubt that you

is busy and the hum of modern society is part of the fabric, but this is

need to make Gozo the base of your holiday.

an island where in summer people return home after a day’s work and then head off to the beach to spend the late hours of the afternoon

A VIBRANT CALENDAR OF EVENTS

with their friends at the water’s edge. Gozo is an island where escaping

Spread across the seasons, Gozo is a destination where culture,

to the countryside or the beach is always literally two minutes away….

music and art are part of the scene. This can be easily verified by

If you’re coming on holiday to the island and you want to absorb the

having a quick look at the typical Gozo event calendar. Whilst

calm vibe immersed in serenity, then this means that you cannot

musical concerts, art exhibitions and shows are always present, the

follow an itinerary where everything has been crammed and dotted

seasons and special feasts pile on extra pizzazz. The summer season

down to the last minute. If you’re staying on the island for at least a

is notorious for the village feasts and the vibrant celebrations,

couple of nights, there’s the bonus of witnessing the ethereal sunrises

autumn is the opera season whilst winter is associated with a wide

and sunsets. There’s magic in waking up to the dawn of the island and

array of Christmas activities and the revelries typical of Carnival

if you’re not an early riser, make sure you capture the fiery aura and

(celebrated between 17 – 21 February 2023 – visit www.visitgozo.com

energy of the sunsets from vantage points like Dwejra or Xlendi.

for more details). Gozo’s calendar of events also has a dedicated Easter programme. Other regular events such as wine fests and

AN OVERFLOWING TREASURE CHEST OF PLACES TO VISIT AND

the honey festival are intrinsically tied to the agricultural year. This

THINGS TO DO

means, that whatever time of year you visit the island, you need to

Gozo is a like a treasure trove of historic and interesting places, all

check what’s on in Gozo and you’ll have the opportunity to mingle

waiting to be discovered. Take time to research the places you’d like to

with the local crowd and get an authentic taste of the island’s fare.

visit or ask your guide for more information as this will make the whole experience more enriching. It’s crucial to make specific plans about

Don’t be beguiled into thinking that Gozo’s just a stopover!

what to see in Gozo and things you want to do while on the island.

Visting centres like Ġgantija, the Citadel and the city of Victoria, the

You cannot be satisfied by a day trip or a breezy walkthrough. That

old windmill of Xewkija along with places like Ta’ Ġordan lighthouse

is only for those who want to see one aspect or just get a taste of

and Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary cannot be done in one morning or afternoon.

what Gozo is all about. The best way to holiday in Gozo is by living

These are among few of Gozo’s must see. If one adds beaches and

the island life and finding one’s inner inspiration and muse that is

coastal zones like Ramla l-Ħamra, the inland sea of Dwejra and the

revitalising. After all, this is the island where the Greek hero Ulysses

jaw-dropping Ta’ Ċenċ cliffs, the salt pans of Xwejni and magical

lingered not for 7 nights but for 7 years...

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I NSERT T EX T H ER E

Explore Malta and Gozo by Bus

Pay as you go with Explore Flex card starting from €6 www.publictransport.com.mt

Get your Explore Flex card from our ticket office in the Airport Welcomers’ Hall

A RT

22

I N S E R T ART TEXT HERE

WORDS CHRISTINE CASSAR

A COLLABORATIVE EXHIBITION EXPERIMENTS IN ENTROPY

EXPERIMENTS IN ENTROPY IS AN EXHIBITION THAT COMBINES THE COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS OF 11 ARCHITECTS WHO FIRST CROSSED PATHS AT UNIVERSITY, 10 YEARS AGO. Whilst their practices differ, Maria Azzopardi, Andrew Borg Wirth,

media works, installations, everyday objects, flat works, design

Isaac Buttigieg, Lucia Calleja, Jean Ebejer, Suzi Mifsud, Tracey

experimentation, datascapes, as well as a soundscape.

Sammut, Feliċ Micallef, Matthew Scerri, Nick Theuma, and Mike Zerafa investigate their role as architects and how they are forging

Experiments in Entropy is divided into five sections; Prologue:

the future of their careers during a time when construction, climate

Notes on Entropy, Elsewhere, On Our Gaze, An All-Encompassing

adaptation, planning, real estate, and monument-making have

Sameness, Artifice and Edifice, and A Cosmic Opera. I felt that each

taken centre stage.

artwork displays a deeply personal experience that the architects witness on the job. Some of these include the dilemmas and choices

As described by Borg Wirth—who is also the curator of this

they dwell on, how our values have shapeshifted over time, our

exhibition—entropy is most commonly associated with chaos,

heritage, how the sounds from construction sites have become

uncertainty, decay, waste, and a state of disorder. To put this into

part of our lives, the loss of time, and how the world is constantly

the context of this exhibition, we see how the role of the architect is

manipulated by man.

challenged and how it is juxtaposed in an art space such as the one where it is being held—Valletta Contemporary.

From the eyes of a spectator, I feel I am able to relate to most of the work that is presented by the architects. For starters, you cannot

Although all architects taking part in this exhibition have presented

ignore Maria Azzopardi’s soundscape which most certainly makes

individual works, they are intertwined. Spectators are instantly

its presence known throughout the whole duration of the tour. The

transported into the architects’ minds whilst they interpret

noise only gets louder and louder as time goes by, thus showing how

their reactions and personal experiences with entropy through

impactful the chaos is.

23

A RT

I was also quite intrigued by Isaac Buttigieg’s Reveal your Modus

marks inscribed on the exhibit, he explores how the stone was

operandi, Perit! comic strip. Here the dilemmas mentioned

once such an important substance, that has now been reduced

previously are presented in such a way that allows us—the

to a layer of cladding.

spectators—to question the choices architects have to make.

In turn, this leads to an even bigger discussion regarding

Spectators are also invited to dwell on the subject of taste and the

the anxieties they are faced with due to their values and the

fundamentals of beauty. In Edifice, Jean Ebejer’s mirror allows room

complexity that comes with this practice. This is somewhat

for discussion on the aforementioned topic and its role in today’s

echoed in Borg Wirth’s exhibit; Monuments to Sleep On. The red

ever-changing culture. Stories are framed within the walls of the

glass pane and the words “This is not a nightmare” detail Borg

gold aluminium. In this respect, the architect is interested in the

Wirth’s experiences, his blocked vision, and how he often finds

way spectators react to them, and in turn proposes an exploration

himself in a helpless position.

of the self through the mirror. Similarly, Nick Theuma’s Training Data, World System creates a space that explores how as humans,

Lucia Calleja’s Postcards of Progress is both a documentative

we generate so much data through our biases.

and performative piece that enacts her thoughts about preservation and depletion. The postcards present architectural

Finally, the Cosmic Opera room presents “the tale of two acts.”

fragments; the beautiful, the problematic, and the ever-changing,

As I step on Matthew Scerri’s exhibit of sifted dust in Synthetics 3/3,

creating a juxtaposition.

Borg Wirth explains how the architect’s intention was to showcase how as spectators, we take it elsewhere and how we play an

Alongside Calleja, Mike Zerafa’s installation dwells on the loss

important role in its repositioning. Scerri’s work sharply contrasts

of time. As its title suggests, Everything not saved will be lost,

that of Tracey Sammut. Her Excavations from Our Well explores the

outlines thoughts of the discomfort of the responsibility that

soul gaze in being human. Through the clutter unearthed from an

comes with the role and how our heritage’s legacy is either built or

excavation in Żabbar, Sammut makes an important point on how

left behind.

we are also creating a new landscape through our manipulation.

Bearing this in mind she wants to reposition us and in turn, separate

Moving on to the next sections of the exhibition, Suzi Mifsud’s

the two worlds.

Vessels showcases four plastic containers that have now been concealed with a new exoskeleton of pigmented limestone dust,

The individual thoughts unpacked in this body of work, present

gypsum cement and acrylic binder. Through this exhibit, Mifsud

the architects’ mutual understanding of “where and how entropy

raises the point of how plastic continues to negatively affect

persists - and when and why architecture needs to perform”.

our environment. By concealing the plastic in the chosen media, Mifsud gives them a new life, whilst highlighting a society’s cultural development.

In ARKA, Feliċ Micallef not only pays homage to the triumphal

Experiments in Entropy, curated by Andrew Borg Wirth, is on at

arch but also to Malta’s infancy as a nation. Through the chisel

Valletta Contemporary until 18th February 2023.

24

Tickets from

festivals.mt

ARTISAN

WORDS MONIQUE CHAMBERS

SEW RELAXING

TURKISH-BORN EBRU CINAR ERDOGAN, HAS A BACKGROUND IN SALES AND MARKETING, BUT, TO RELAX AFTER WORK, SHE TOOK UP EMBROIDERY AND DRAWING WHICH SHE HAD ALWAYS HAD AN APTITUDE FOR. “I started embroidery in 2016. I was living in Istanbul at that time.

wonderful that the embroidery adds dimension to the picture,

The fatigue from working and the city life forced me into reflecting

and contributes to the overall aesthetic and feeling of the

back to the handicrafts taught by my mother when I was little.

photograph, and enhances its integrity.

Since then, I have come this far by improving my skills mostly in the sphere of embroidery.

Sometimes I get energy from a photograph and I can start by designing it with my eyes. Colours can also be a starting point. I

Everything inspires me. It's just what you look at that matters. If I'm

am interested in colour and I want to base my composition on it.

just looking at something, without even realising it, I only see what

The material can also affect my process too. When I start thinking,

exists superficially, but if I stop and think, and dig deep, I find what

pictures pop up in my head after another. I get carried away and

gives meaning and emotion to me and what excites me.

the show ends with me. Each of my objects gives birth to another object, and each series gives birth to another series and this

I usually choose artists who were in black and white movies and

interaction has a great place in my works.

embellish photographs of them. By combining nostalgia with the art of nostalgia, I bring life to pieces in a modern

Each piece goes through different stages. For example, I choose

form. The combination of my embroidery and photography

a picture, then I choose the pattern, then I decide on the thread

makes me feel as if that photograph is being renewed. It is

colours and what kind of embroidery I will do. Sometimes I

26

I N S E RARTISAN T TEXT HERE

@byebrucinar

27

ARTISAN

@byebrucinar

add beads and acrylic paint. If the

this, I first have to melt the ceramic and

I have a group of artist friends and

collaboration I made is not

then combine the two. It's not easy at all,

whenever we get together, we get crazy

good for me, i.e., if I don't like it, I

but I like the challenge.

ideas. We are constantly trying to

remove it and focus on something

experience the untested and to gain

different. The work that I create must

I generally work on female characters,

clarity in the details of the project. It

first satisfy and impress me.

but I don't know why, the aesthetics and

is a great feeling to be together and

beauty attract me more. In the future,

support while producing. At the moment,

First, I embroidered on fabric, paper,

I want to work with male artists and

we are trying to lay the foundation of

canvas, wood, and tulle. Next is to

have people look at them from a different

the business rather than the production

combine ceramics and embroidery. But for

perspective.

phase. Watch this space.

28

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

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.

I SL A N D H IG H L IG H T S

DRAGONARA CAVE (CORAL LAGOON), L-AHRAX POINT, MALTA One of Malta’s best-kept secrets. Venture off the beaten track to discover one of Malta’s natural wonders, located in the limits of Aħrax and Little Armier Bay.

UPPER BARRAKKA AREA, VALLETTA, MALTA If you’re into architecture, this is the perfect spot to snap some pictures of some of the traditional Maltese balconies, and capture spectacular views of the Grand Harbour.

30

I NTSOEPR L TOTCEAT X TI ON H ESR E

MDINA, MALTA Interested in taking a journey through time? Mdina has it all - a long history, medieval and baroque architecture, and prestigious treasures that are part of our cultural heritage.

NADUR BELVEDERE, NADUR, GOZO One of the best spots in Nadur to experience the sun rising.

XWEJNI SALT PANS, MARSALFORN, GOZO The distinct Xwejni salt pans are truly a must-see. Sea-salt production is one of the oldest Gozitan traditions that has been passed down from one generation to another.

TA’ PINU SANCTUARY, GHARB, GOZO An architectural masterpiece that must be seen to be believed. Dedicated to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu, the sanctuary is visited by both locals and tourists alike, who wish to pray or simply admire the art, architecture and magnificent designs.

31

GENERAL INTEREST

WORDS MONIQUE CHAMBERS

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS

WHILST RESEARCHING THIS PIECE FOR OUR SERIES ON CLOUDS, I LOOKED UP ‘SONGS WITH CLOUD IN THE LYRICS’ AND GOT A LIST OF OVER 105,000 SUGGESTIONS. KATE BUSH, ZACH SOBIECH, LSD, THE TEMPTATIONS AND LIL’ WAYNE, STING AND MORRISSEY HAVE ALL TOPPED THE CHARTS WITH THEIRS. Composers like Mozart and Debussy have used them to create big,

the fleeting nature of life when he sees clouds ‘race by’ in the sky.

sweeping pieces that evoke a sense of awe and wonder. Often,

This image is often used to remind us that life is short and that we

clouds are used to create a feeling of longing and melancholy. But

should make the most of it.

it’s not only in music that clouds make an appearance.

One early example is the painting ‘The Hay Wagon’ by American Literature is rich with references and one that repeats itself is

painter Andrew Wyeth, which features a wagon filled with hay bales

that of the ‘threatening cloud’. This image often appears in works

under a cloudy sky. ‘Cloud Gate’ by Anish Kapoor, which is a large,

that deal with themes of danger or menace, such as Jules Verne's

concave sculpture made from stainless steel that reflects the clouds

‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’, in which a giant squid attacks the

and sky above it, is a more recent homage.

submarine Nautilus. In this case, the threatening cloud represents the danger lurking beneath the surface.

Clouds have always been a popular subject for visual art, from the classical masters of painting to the more modern digital illustrators.

Clouds also often appear in works of fantasy and science fiction,

Artists often capture the beauty and mystery of clouds in their work

where they can take on a variety of different meanings. In J.R.R.

by playing with light and color. From Monet’s dreamy Impressionist

Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, for example, the dark clouds that gather

canvases to Hokusai’s iconic ‘Great Wave off Kanagawa’ to

over Mordor are a sign of the evil forces that are gathering there. In

the surrealist landscapes of Salvador Dali, clouds often provide

contrast, the white clouds that surround the island of Numenor in

atmosphere and can even be seen as part of the composition itself.

Tolkien's work represent the hope and purity of that place.

Whatever the emotion, artists have long been inspired by these Clouds are also be used to represent the transitory nature of life. In

majestic formations in the sky. So slide up the blind, and be inspired

Shakespeare's Macbeth, for example, the title character reflects on

or just explore the beauty of nature from this enviable angle.

32

L OTCEAXLT H E R E I NSERT

WORDS THAMES PARNELL

DANCING DREAM

WHILST STRICTLY COME DANCING IS HEADING TOWARDS IT’S 20TH YEAR, DANCING IN MALTA IS A PASTIME AND PROFESSION THAT HAS BEEN ENJOYED BY MANY FOR DECADES. CELAINE BUHAGIAR OF DANCEL DANCE STUDIO, TELLS US THE STORY OF HOW HER PASSION IS FUELLING DANCE IN YOUNG PEOPLE “I started dancing at age 4, with ballet and moved on to modern

My dance partner decided to sell the studio and so at the about

and tap too and by the age of 12, was selected to attend a month-

the same time as Strictly hit the screens for the first time, I was

long series of workshops, intensive training and competitions at

opening my own school – which I converted from a toy factory

a school in Biggin Hill in Kent, to eventually take part in the group

back in 2005. I had over 100 students at the time, and my

formation teams for Ballroom and Latin American in Blackpool and

parents really supported me, so that I could continue to teach

Wales. After this experience I took up Ballroom and Latin American

them in the highest level of facilities.

professionally and by the year 2000, my dance partner and I were the local Latin dancing champions and took the next step in our

At the same time, I was graduating and from my studies and

journey, opening a school.

had secured a job at Campus FM, as the Malta University Broadcasting station as a junior producer. I worked my way

We continued to dance and I went to Kuala Lumpur-Malaysia

through various roles over the years, became programmes

twice to compete in International Dance Championships – all

coordinator and today I am a professional voice over artist for

whilst I was studying communications at the University of Malta.

corporate entities and Station Manager. It’s a busy job with

33

LOCAL

34

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

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

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We have worked with dancers from Disney’s Aladdin and Mamma Mia to mention a few, and this month, we are heading to DanceWorks in London for a 4-Day dance camp. three recording studios and a full schedule of programmes to broadcast; but after my day job is finished, I head to my other studio, the dance studio, to teach along with my dance assistants who have been training within the school since their early years, and are now involved in choreographies and teaching kids.

The school is open from 4pm each day and at weekends, and there are 140 students aged from 4 to 30, quite a handful but it gives me incredible satisfaction!

We have a varied range of practice and troupes perform modern freestyle for television and theatre and we put on a number of shows too. Every year, we take selected students overseas to places like Pineapple Performing Arts Centre in Covent Garden in London, to have workshops.

We have been to San Remo and performed at Teatru Ariston, during RAI’s production Un Bosco per Kyoto, a festival of music , literature and dance. We were also the opening acts for Malta’s song for Europe, the local Sports Awards, The Malta Television Awards, choreographed work for Gold at Teatru Manoel and also performed in various occasions during Malta’s EU Presidency.

We have worked with dancers from Disney’s Aladdin and

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Mamma Mia to mention a few, and this month, we are heading to DanceWorks in London for a 4-Day dance camp.

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Over the years the demographics of the students have changed, the age range is wider and we have a number of nationalities too. Dancing is enormous fun, but it takes and teaches discipline, technique and with it comes an appreciation for music and set design; in fact, my husband Pierre is a lighting producer so the school has an invaluable asset and the students understand the importance of this aspect of performing.

Already qualified?

Running the school is more than just teaching dance though,

Sign up for one of our day trips to dive locations spread all over the island. If you love wrecks, then Malta is the number one destination for wreck-diving!

you get really involved with the students and you can tell if they are passing through something difficult as when you dance, your emotions are completely transparent, and whilst the show must go on, we pride ourselves in our relationships and two-way trust we have and that we are there to help them through these moments. It really is like having a family!

Mosta Road, St Paul’s Bay + 356 2157 1111 | + 356 2157 2558 | + 356 9957 1111 dive@maltaqua.com www.maltaqua.com

My next goal is to take the Masters in Dance Studies – well, I am not sure, but that would be strictly for me though, for my own self-satisfaction!”

35

M USIC

WORDS LAUREN JOHN

ELEC T RO POP GOES GLOBAL

‘THERE’S A LOT OF NOISE OUT THERE, AND YOU HAVE TO BE REALLY ORIGINAL TO CUT THROUGH.’ DYLAN DE BONO TALKS ABOUT HIS DEBUT ALBUM ‘LOOSE WIRE’, AND THE ADVENTURES HE HAS PLANNED FOR 2023.

“There’s something so inspiring about just packing your bags, and

Although Dylan is about to tour as a solo artist, his music career

leaving everything behind to dedicate 100% of your energy to your

in Malta started as one half of a duo called ‘Royals’. After building

art, and seeing people’s reaction to it.” This is exactly what Dylan

something together, his friend eventually moved away from music,

De Bono plans to do in 2023, with musical adventures planned

so a solo career seemed the logical next step, although it wasn’t an

across Europe, and hopefully the US and Asia in the works. Is

easy one. “To tell you the truth, I was very insecure about starting

this something of an impulse, or more a shift in priorities for this

a solo career and representing myself with my name, but I do feel

qualified doctor and singer-songwriter? With his debut album

more comfortable now as a solo artist, and of course, it has its

and its singles gaining recognition, I asked Dylan about achieving

advantages. For example, more artistic freedom to explore a vision

balance in his life, and what bought about the decision to dedicate

which is personally yours.” Dylan may be the one out there on stage,

all his time and energy to his music.

but he freely gives credit to his co-writer, who plays a big part in this solo project. “Though I call myself a solo artist, that does not mean

“For a long time, I’ve managed to balance work, music, and life.

I work in solitude. I work very closely with my partner in this project

Of course, the more ‘life’ you have, the more inspired you are to do

David Vella. He’s worked with some of the greats, and let’s face it,

music. So, it’s important to experience life, go out, make mistakes,

he’s a genius producer. Everything he touches is golden.”

and have adventures. I love my job and for a long time, I’ve been very dedicated and motivated about it. However, at the moment

Dylan says that “there’s something special when two creative minds

I have reached the point where it is no longer possible to strike the

come together”, and he is excited about the album he created with

balance, and music has taken over my priorities. So, this is why I

David, and the response to it so far, particularly when it comes

came to the hard decision of leaving everything behind to hit the

to its first single ‘Feeling So S*** Right Now’. “This was released

road for 2023.”

at the height of the COVID pandemic, so I think a lot of people

36

I NS E RM T U TS EIXCT H E R E

“There’s something so inspiring about just packing your bags, and leaving everything behind to dedicate 100% of your energy to your art, and seeing people’s reaction to it.” believed the song had something to do with this situation. It’s

Wire’. Artists reflected in his sound include Chic, David Bowie,

a track about being down, yet at the same time celebrating

Marvin Gaye, Prince, and Tears for Fears. Whether you listen to

with the acknowledgement that being sad is a universal human

the ‘Loose Wire’ album and classify it as retro pop, or as Dylan

emotion. Although initially never earmarked as a single, it has

says “electro pop, alternative pop, dream pop, dark wave

been a commercial success and one that has helped Dylan gain

pop, or acoustic pop”, he is just “trying to write the most

international attention. Dylan comments that Youtube and

infectious, catchy, and hooky pop music while giving some

his “curiosity-provoking” music video were instrumental in this,

individual twists”.

adding that “people from all over the world started commenting on the song and video. You know how Youtube is, you get both

2023 looks set to be an exciting year, as Dylan confirms his

good and bad comments, but the bottom line is it started to gain

European and global gig dates, and he may even showcase

attention. So, from there the radio stations started to take notice. I

some of the new material he has been working on with

was interviewed by radio stations in Italy, and the song was put into

Macedonian musician Kristjan. In the meantime, Dylan De Bono

regular rotation in several European countries.

very much has a home on his mind. “Malta and the Islands are very dear to my heart. I love this place, the people, the scenery, and the

Dylan loves music from the ’70s and ’80s and says listeners can

lifestyle. I love that Malta is a very international place, and you

expect to hear those influences throughout his album ‘Loose

meet people from all around the world here.”

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C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

“Fancy a McDonald’s?” #RaiseYourArches

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

Order, pay ahead and collect just outside Malta International Airport

C U LT U R E

WORDS LAURA BONNICI

O P E R A , I N NOVAT E D

MALTA’S TEATRU MANOEL WILL SOON STAGE PUCCINI’S TOSCA – WITH A DIFFERENCE. LAURA BONNICI SPEAKS WITH OPERA STAR JOSÉ CURA TO FIND OUT HOW THE PRODUCTION PIONEERS AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO OPERA DESIGN. Rebooting a much-loved annual tradition on Teatru Manoel’s

a decorated curtain. The resulting nearness of the actors to the

almost 300-year-old stage, a new production of Giacomo Puccini’s

audience will create such a sense of intimacy that people will

Tosca will be a turning point both for Malta’s national theatre and

have the impression they are part of the story.”

operatic home, and the world of opera.

This innovation has nevertheless posed logistical challenges, as Starring, directed and designed by Argentine tenor José Cura, Tosca

Cura highlights: “First among many, the fact of not being in direct

marks the Manoel’s first full opera since the pandemic and the

contact with the conductor, who we see through monitors, while he

genesis of a new operatic stage design.

hears us through a speaker system. The conductor is the connecting ‘fuse’ between the stage and the pit, so this is an issue we must

“Tosca involves an orchestra of no less than 60 musicians. The

get used to. Another challenge has been the necessary technical

Manoel’s pit fits a maximum of 40. Adding the fact that the stage

preventions to smooth out the set changes that cannot take place

is narrow – limiting the number of performers to the minimum –

behind the intimacy of a closed curtain.”

then something ‘drastic’ must be done to increase the Manoel’s operatic offering,” explains Cura. “There are only two solutions.

An all-star cast of local and international opera stars overcomes

Either we cut the orchestra in half, with the resulting loss of

these challenges, supported by breath-taking costumes designed

dynamic range and the orchestration palette – unthinkable

by Silvia Collazuol. The Teatru Manoel and Valletta Cultural Agency

consequences when working in a professional theatre – or we

co-production, in collaboration with Bank of Valletta, features Cura

try the solution devised for this production: put the orchestra on

as Cavaradossi, Tanya Ivanova as Tosca and Carlos Almaguer as

stage and the action in front of it, with both ‘worlds’ divided by

Scarpia, alongside top Maltese performers including Alan Sciberras,

40

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

Pietà, Malta 178, Marina Str. +35620103715 +35620102949

Floriana, Malta 31/32, St. Anne Str. +35621233715 +35621222949

C U LT U R E

José Cura, Opera star

Albert Buttigieg, Louis Cassar and Nadia Vella. KorMalta’s choir

“We do not aim to ‘preach’ about the wonders of upsetting the

with choir master Riccardo Bianchi and the Malta Philharmonic

established order. I have been a rebel as long as I can remember,

Orchestra conducted by Mario De Rose enhance Puccini’s romantic

but an honest rebellion can only take place against what’s wrong,

score in this fan-favourite.

not against what works. The Manoel is a space conceived for the representation of other styles. May the efforts of this production

“For this first experience, we needed a piece that could be designed

show that Malta needs a venue with the technical characteristics

around the technical complications, including the unwanted traffic

that permit the staging of large productions, not only in summer.

jams on the small stage,” Cura shares, shedding light on their

This would enable the Manoel to dedicate its efforts to those

choice of Tosca, with its tragic story of passion, jealousy, murder

productions that are naturally meant for such a beautiful jewel box

and political intrigue. “Of course, there are operas that do not have

that sits proudly in the centre of Valletta.”

a choir and whose number of performers is small enough to fit the Manoel, but these are not part of that handful group of pieces the public is longing to see. So, Tosca had to be the one.”

Following the recent renovation of this architectural gem, Teatru Manoel’s stage design for Tosca also opens doors for other small yet

Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca will perform at Teatru Manoel in Valletta

historic theatres worldwide to host major operas.

on 5, 8, 10 and 12 March 2023, with all performances at 7.30pm.

This production is suitable for audiences aged 14 and above. Tickets

“We humbly hope – if the result is a winner – that this will enable

are available via email to bookings@teatrumanoel.mt, telephone

the Manoel to stage other big operas in the future,” Cura concludes.

on (+356) 2124 6389 or from www.teatrumanoel.mt.

42

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

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

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Prime location! A beautifully finished VILLA perched on high grounds in a quiet road ▪ Marvellous views from its front terraces ▪ Spacious open plan accommodation leading onto a good-sized garden with a swimming pool ▪ Sitting/dining room ▪ Fitted kitchen/breakfast area & sunroom overlooking the pool ▪ Guest toilet ▪ 3 bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms (main with en-suite) ▪ Basement/flat let having a separate entrance on the ground floor ▪ Drive-in for 4 cars & 2 individual garages ▪ SOLE AGENTS

EXCLUSIVE TO PERRY

A delightful ‘House of Character’ in this sought-after village Balzan| €725,000 | Ref: HC600746

1 Bathroom

3 Bedrooms

2 Bathrooms

A newly restored MAISONETTE ▪ This stunning 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom dwelling has been fully restored to its former glory ▪ Located in a quaint alley just off the Grand Harbour ▪ Independent entrance ▪ Restroom on the ground floor ▪ Grand staircase leading up to the living quarters ▪ Bright & airy luxurious bedroom leading to a gorgeous traditional Maltese balcony offering partial sea views of the Grand Harbour ▪ Fully equipped kitchen ▪ Beautifully finished & wonderful original features ▪ Short walk to city centre, amenities, shops & transport links ▪ SOLE AGENTS

A wonderful HOUSE OF CHARACTER located in an unspoilt urban conservation area (UCA) in this sought-after village ▪ Fantastic garden & alfresco dining area ▪ Restored period features throughout ▪ Hallway ▪ Open plan kitchen/sitting/dining area leading out onto the garden ▪ Shower room ▪ 3 bedrooms (including a spacious master bedroom that overlooks the garden) ▪ 2 bathrooms ▪ Washroom & private roof area with the potential to add an extra room ▪ SOLE AGENTS

A spectacular ‘Period Cottage’ with large gardens & a pool Zejtun | For Rent | €4200 monthly | Ref: HC600545

A spacious 3 bedroom ‘Apartment’ with balconies & a garage For Rent | Swieqi | €1950 monthly | Ref: FA602741

A spectacular PERIOD COTTAGE benefitting from an abundance of character & personality ▪ Use of over 1000m2 of gardens & grounds ▪ Outstanding private swimming pool & terraces ▪ Electric gate access ▪ Paved driveway with parking for 4 cars ▪ Spacious living room with a wood burning fireplace ▪ Fully fitted & equipped kitchen/dining area ▪ 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms ▪ Beautifully designed interiors

A bright & modern APARTMENT within a smart building ▪ Recently finished & furnished to high standards ▪ Open plan kitchen/lounge/dining area leading onto a spacious front terrace ▪ 3 double bedrooms (main with ensuite & walk-in closet) ▪ 2 bathrooms ▪ Storeroom ▪ 2 front balconies ▪ Lock-up garage ▪ Close to all local amenities including the park, shopping areas & Verdala International School Malta

▪ Collect your free copy of our latest ‘Perry Magazine’ from the displays in the baggage reclaim area ▪ ▪ Our Letting department also offers a wide selection of both prime commercial & residential properties for lease ▪

perry.com.mt

LOCAL

WORDS FESTIVALS MALTA

C A R N I VA L I N VA L L E T TA – A CO LO U R F U L T R A D I T I O N

THE MALTA CARNIVAL RETURNS WITH A BANG, FEATURING A FIVE-DAY PROGRAMME BUSTLING WITH COLOUR AND CELEBRATIONS, BETWEEN THE 17TH AND 21ST OF FEBRUARY IN THE HEART OF VALLETTA, MALTA’S CAPITAL CITY. Carnival is an age-old tradition celebrated all over the world,

Organised by Festivals Malta, this year, Carnival will return in full

traditionally known for its vibrant colours, exuberant atmosphere,

force after two years of abridged editions. The programme, spread

and satire. Il-Karnival ta’ Malta (Malta Carnival) is renowned for its

over five days, between Friday 17 and Tuesday 21 February, includes

grandiose triumphal floats, and its elaborate costumes.

various float parades and dance competitions, with the main activities taking place in St George’s Square, Valletta. The carnival

Predating the Knights of St John’s occupancy, the first recorded

parades will pass through the main streets of Valletta, namely

carnival activities in Malta date back to the 1400s. With the

Republic Street, Castille Square, and Merchant Street, as well as the

arrival of the Knights of Jerusalem, particularly during the reign

Granaries in Floriana and St Anne’s Street.

of Grand Master Pierino Del Ponte, Carnival shot in popularity with the birth of ‘The Carnival Mad Days’, during which knights

As part of the Carnival celebrations, Festivals Malta will also be

and nobles hosted opulent balls in Birgu.

organising various fringe events; a costumes exhibition featuring past Carnival costumes and two live renditions of il-Qarċilla in

The commoners celebrated their own version of Carnival, who

collaboration with Spazju Kreattiv, a marching band parade in

took to the streets and dressed up in sheets, sacks, grotesque

Ħamrun, and a variety of activities at Ta’ Qali Crafts Village.

masks, and colourful clothes. Carnival evolved throughout the years and was extended to five days of celebrations around

A modern element which has been recently added to the Carnival

the streets of Valletta and Floriana, which have become a

activities is the Ballu Tritoni, which consists of street celebrations

melting pot of cultural activities. This staple event also gave

in Triton Square. These celebrations will feature the participation

birth to several traditions, some of which are still celebrated

of DJB and DJ Ryan Spiteri who will be accompanying these events

to this day, such as il-Parata; a dance representing the battle

with their music.

between the Turks and the Knights, il-Qarċilla; a farce about a fictitious wedding strongly rooted in satire, that is performed on

Make your winter stay one to remember with Carnival celebrations

the streets, and il-Kukkanja; a greasy pole challenge whereby

in Valletta.

participants try to collect as many presents as they can while they climb up a pole overcoming the obstacles they encounter – although

For tickets and the full programme of events visit:

this is no longer held in Malta, it is still quite popular in Gozo.

www.festivals.mt/karnival

44

AT R TTIESX AT N HERE INSER

WORDS NICOLE PARNIS

M O R E T H A N DA P P E R

HAVE YOU EVER HEARD OF THE TERM “DOPAMINE DRESSING”? A GOOD FRIEND OF MINE RECENTLY INTRODUCED ME TO THE PHRASE THROUGH A COMMENT UNDER A PARTICULARLY QUIRKY OUTFIT I’D THROWN TOGETHER AND POSTED ON INSTAGRAM. SHE WAS RIGHT, I DID FEEL GOOD THAT DAY. One person who’s taken the art of dressing

by the wearer himself. We’re talking

and a hat maker in Germany. It’s safe to say

well to feel good, and making others feel a

waistcoats, frocks, breeches, walking

that this Maltese maverick has an eye for

sense of joy in the process, is a gentleman

sticks and riding boots, which makes for a

detail, and his passionate planning makes

known by the name of Citoyen Port. Port,

fabulous first impression.

for a feast for the eyes.

whose preferred style of dress happens to

Nothing is bought off the shelf, instead,

In an architecturally rich capital city like

be the Regency era (circa 1795-1820 - talk

Port designs his custom glad-rags and

Malta’s Valletta, which is often described

about vintage!) and his unusual mode

has them made to measure by his trusted

by visitors as being akin to an ‘open

of self-expression is rooted in his deep

tailors. The process is a long one and takes

air museum’, Citoyen Port has ample

appreciation for the past.

months of research, sketching and sourcing

opportunity to make the most of the

of historically-accurate fabric. Everything

many photo-ops the location provides.

Once he’s shelved the nine-to-five, Citoyen

from footwear to headgear is taken into

Photographers flock to take his portrait

Port holds court in his preferred stomping

account by the wearer, and the results are

in the majestic ballrooms that once

grounds of Valletta, dressed up to the nines

head-turning to say the least. He has a

hosted aristocratic functions from the

in meticulously chosen pieces designed

button seamstress and perruquier in the UK,

very timeframe he adores, and, when

short for Portelli, is a historybounder,

45

A RTISA N

46

I N S E RATR T TIESXATN H E R E

One person who’s taken the art of dressing well to feel good, and making others feel a sense of joy in the process, is a gentleman known by the name of Citoyen Port.

sashaying down the boulevards of the

places of interest such as battlegrounds and

thankfully been kept alive and kicking

city, even strangers will stop him in his

fortifications, both in Malta and abroad. His

throughout the pandemic. In fact,

tracks, eager to find out more. He readily

many tales of backpacking and sightseeing to

solitary time has given folk even more

obliges to photo requests. Onlookers are,

far-off lands such as Uzbekistan and Sudan,

encouragement to lean into their own

on the most-part, encouraging, curious

and recently the island of Elba to visit the

interests and sartorial preferences, and

and perhaps even a little motivated by

residences of the exiled Emperor Napoleon,

platforms like Instagram and TikTok have

Port’s accomplishment to break the mould

make magnificent conversation pieces for

been of immeasurable importance for

of humdrum appearances. Citoyen Port’s

friends and tourists on his encounters in his

building a sense of belonging for people

interest in de-modernising his wardrobe

beloved city, who he relishes in meeting at

with shared interests. “I think it’s nice when

is his own way of countering fast fashion

his favourite jazz bars, frequented by similar

you brighten someone’s day up like that,

by resorting to clothing made of organic

bohemian, philosophical types.

who in turn encourage you in what you

fabrics which are durable and last a lifetime.

do,” Port says, adding: “I also receive direct

He is even currently looking into launching

Citoyen Port feels most at home on his trips

messages on my Instagram account from

an entrepreneurially-related venture later

overseas to historical costuming festivals

time to time, from people telling me that

this year!

such as Venice Carnival in February and

they enjoy my content and are inspired to do

this year’s Jane Austen Festival, which

the same- this is also a goal of mine.

As a person, Citoyen Port is an avid music

will be held in Bath, England, come

lover, activist and a non-conformist. Even

September. These opportunities to meet

By sharing this hobby I hope to engage

his other hobbies are out of the ordinary,

like-minded people have been waited

others and encourage them to take it up,

and include archery, horseback riding

on with bated breath by the historical

and not necessarily fashion of this era.”

and adventuring out of town to historical

costuming community, which has

Baroque-on, Port!

47

LOCAL

WORDS ANTHONY AZZOPARDI

HERALDRY AT PALAZZO FALSON MUSEUM, MDINA

Sketch in Archives Portfolio

Coat of Arms painted in the Sale Nobili at Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum

PALAZZO FALSON HISTORIC HOUSE MUSEUM IS SPONTANEOUSLY IDENTIFIED WITH MDINA. YOU CANNOT MISS THIS GEM OF A MUSEUM AS YOU WALK ALONG THE NARROW STREETS OF THE OLD CAPITAL CITY OF MALTA. On my first visit to this House Museum I was immediately impressed

There are sixteen coats of arms each one with the Order’s flag at

by the mosaic of cultural magic that Olof Gollcher bequeathed

the top. Three of them are authentic in design and these belong

to the Maltese people. The seventeen rooms in the Palazzo are a

to Richard Shelley – a diplomat and last grand prior of the

showcase of Olof’s versatility as an avid collector of objets d’art,

knights in England; Oliver Starkey – Latin Secretary to Grand

jewellery and furniture. Philanthropy and painting were second

Master de Valette; and William Weston – last prior of the Order

nature to Olof as an individual with a strong civic sense.

in England before the dissolution of the Langue of England in mid-16th century. The rest can be classified as a combination of

However, my main interest regarded Olof Gollcher’s decision to

Olof’s knowledge of the basics of heraldry and, at the same time,

decorate the friezes of the Sale Nobili – comprising the Drawing

of his fertile imagination and talent for painting. They represent

Room, the Sitting Room and the Dining Room on the first floor

a mixture of parts of authentic coats and of parts indicating the

– with coats of arms and colourful designs of flowers, fruit and

importance of colour and shape of the shields.

foliage. His flair for painting and sketching and his affection for Malta’s history in connection with the period of the Knights of

Delving into the museum’s archives I came across a file containing

the Order of St. John of Jerusalem came to the fore in this area.

a series of paper cuttings, sketches and decorations. Following a

48

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

process of identification and categorisation each item was then wrapped in acid-free paper for conservation. It eventually turned out that most items were replicas of what I saw in the Sale Nobili.

Paper cuttings of lions and eagles, and carbon cuttings of coats of arms together with handwritten notes revealed the connection that emerged between items in the public eye and those behind the scene.

However, Olof Gollcher’s colourful life does not end with his ability to paint and to collect. Before purchasing part of the Palazzo in 1927, he had distinguished himself in the British Army having served in both World Wars. He had a particular interest in Underwater Archaeology and the preservation of Maltese historical sites.

Olof was also attracted to Freemasonry. A collection of Freemasonry regalia showcased in the Small Collections Room is evidence to this. It can be revealed from his diaries held in the Archives section of the Palazzo that he was also a philanthropist extraordinaire.

In view of the diverse items of interest and attraction, there are enough good reasons for a visit or two to the Palazzo.

Anthony Azzopardi was the founder and first Head of the Department of Youth and Community Studies at the University of Malta. He is also a research volunteer at Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum.

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00pm (last entrance at 4:00pm).

Audio guided tours are available in the following languages: Maltese, English, Italian, French, German and Spanish.

For inquiries please contact us on +356 21454512 or email bookings@palazzofalson.com.

We recommend that you visit our website and read our health and safety guidelines before visiting the museum: http://www.palazzofalson.com/ Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is managed by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, a non-profit heritage foundation aiming to spread awareness about our heritage through museums, publications, exhibitions and events.

A space where creativity meets craft to highlight the local charm

Find Us in Sliema and Valletta!

108, Triq Manwel Dimech, 8, Misraħ San Ġwann, Sliema, Malta Valletta, Malta souvenirsthatdontsuck.mt

maltasouvenirs

EVENTS

FEBRUARY IS UPON US, AND THE SOCIAL AND CULTURAL CALENDAR CONTINUES WITH GUSTO! PERUSE OUR TOP PICKS FOR THIS MONTH'S DIARY.

E VENTS BABY SERIES: OPERA BITES VENUE: Teatru Manoel Studio Theatre, Valletta DATE: 10th - 11th February 2023 ONLINE: www.teatrumanoel.mt The second in a four-part Baby Series, Opera Bites introduces opera to young children, with experienced operatic Mezzo Soprano Clare Ghigo leading this playful journey from Mozart all the way to contemporary writing. Ages 0-4

CHECK OUT THESE EVENTS HAPPENING IN MALTA THE NEXT FEW MONTHS! MARCH 4 - 5 TOI TOI KIDS Meet Cute - A jukebox musical for ages 8+ www.teatrumanoel.com.mt MARCH 24 - APRIL 6 ORDER OF MALTA NATIONAL ART EXHIBITION The exhibition shall feature both established and upcoming artists. www.orderofmalta.mt APRIL 1 XTERRA MALTA Start training now for the most picturesque off-road triathalon in Europe. www.xterraplanet.com APRIL 9 TOI TOI KIDS Easter Family Show Teatru Manoel, Valletta. www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

MISERY VENUE: Blue Box, M Space, Msida DATE: 18th -26th February 2023 ONLINE: www.masquerademalta.com MISERY follows the successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash by his “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes, and wakes up captive in her secluded home. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favourite character, Misery Chastain… This spine-tingling stage adaptation traps you in the room with Paul as he must outsmart Annie if he hopes to escape. Based on Stephen King’s best-selling novel, the tense cat-and-mouse game will grip you until the very end. Misery by William Goldman, based on the book by Stephen King, stars Alan Paris, Isabel Warrington and Victor Debono, and is directed by Stephen Oliver.

APRIL 21 -23 DARK MALTA FESTIVAL Celebrating all that is Gothic, Industrial and Metal. www.darkmalta.com

Even the most ordinary life can be stirred by encounters with extraordinary people.

'Strangers I'll Never Forget' (MJ Camilleri, 2021) is a fascinating portrayal of some of the remarkable events, mishaps and adventures experienced during three decades of the author's journey through life. This kaleidoscope of anecdotes captures memories in short, enjoyable stories from the sunny island of Malta, and beyond. Available in paperback from Ede Books and BDL Books (Malta) and as an ebook from Amazon.

APRIL 21 - 30 WONDERLAND WIVES MADC Playhouse, Sta Venera A hilarious take on the lives of fairy tale favourites including Cinderella, Prince Charming, Snow White and Belle. www.madc.com.mt

50

I N S E RETVTEENXTTS H E R E

“WHAT’CHU LOOKING AT? WHO YOU SPEAKING WITH?” A GAZING ALL ROUND

AN EXHIBITION OF CONTEMPORARY ART FROM AN INTRICATE ENTITY

VENUE: SPACE A, SPAZJU KREATTIV, Pjazza Kastilja/ Castile Place, Valletta DATE: 21st January - 5th March 2023 CONTACT: +356 2122 3200, +356 9984 4653 ONLINE: https://www.kreattivita.org/events/ The continent known as Africa is a complex, intricate and unfathomable entity. There has always been this futile quest, particularly in the west, to tentalise Africa. We are adequately informed, especially through the work of the multitude of creatives that operate from Africa and her Diaspora, that it is impossible to do so. So, in what ways are contemporary African artists expressing their many lived realities across a continent made up of 54 countries in this current experience? With what materials, media, techniques and technologies are their ideas being wrought into objects, situations and complex aesthetic propositions?

What, in terms of globality, constitutes our collective becomingness and imagination in the recent experience of the world? This exhibition proposes an investigation of some of the possible responses to the above stated questions in a variety of novel and audacious forms. This exhibition with 10 participating African artists and curated by Dr Bernard Akoi-Jackson will open from the GS-Bizzilla-Half_Magazine-190x133mm-V2.pdf 1 in12/01/2023 27th January to 5th March 2023 at Spazju Kreattiv Valletta. 14:54

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Oracle Casino, Isle Promenade Qawra. SPB 2508.

Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours.

For info and free transport contact us on (+356) 2157 0057 www.oraclecasino.com

02

Portomaso Casino, Level -1 Portomaso Business tower Portomaso, St Julian's.

Free Transport. Free Parking.

Free Wi-Fi. Open 24 hours.

Contact us on (+356) 2138 3777 www.portomasocasino.com

03

THE SHORELINE Suite 407, Level 4, Block SCM01, Smart City, Kalkara, Malta.

Contact us on (+356) 2180 8895 Email: sales@theshorelineresidence.com www.theshorelineresidence.com

Illustrations are the artist’s impressions only and cannot be regarded as representations of facts or accurate locations.

04

HAVE AN

BLE

UNFORGETTA DAY AT

WINTER PACKAGE

Entrance to Popeye’s Film Set A variety of Animation Shows Scavenger Hunt Access to Popeye’s Comic Museum Entrance to the Cinema (15 minutes Documentary of the Film Set) Silver Smith Demonstrations Use of Nine-Hole Mini-Golf course Free Postcard Free Popcorn

01

olf

Mini-G 02

03

Anima

tors

set

Film OURS

OPENING H

November - May: 10.30 - 16.30

Bus Number: 101 +356 21 524 782

www.popeyemalta.com Popeye Village Malta Popeyemalta79

SPORT S

WORDS DEIRDRE FARRUGIA

K I T E B OA R D I NG I N M A LTA

MALTA’S CRYSTAL-CLEAR WATERS ATTRACT THOUSANDS OF VISITORS TO OUR ISLANDS EVERY YEAR. A PERFECT NATURAL ELEMENT, THE WIND, OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES TO ENJOY THE SEA IN A VARIETY OF WAYS Being an island in the middle of the mid-latitude depressions

bar with lines. The kite is inflatable and is connected to the rider via

path, in a band of pressure difference means that wind in the

a set of power and steering lines attached to ‘the bar’. The bar is,

Maltese Islands is very common. On average, 92% of all days

in turn, hooked onto a harness worn across the rider’s waist. Most

experience winds of at least Force 2. The predominant wind

of the kite’s power is handled by the harness, with the arms only

direction is the Northwest, whilst the windiest months of the year

controlling power and steering.

are between early October and late February, when gale force winds are quite common.

Kiting conditions in Malta are not the easiest. Ideally the sport is practiced with a side-shore blowing wind, but this requires wide

One of the few wind water sports practiced in Malta are kite-

open beaches, where the wind blows cleanly and unobstructed

boarding, and kite-surfing. Also known as kiting, this exciting sport

across the bay. Our beaches are all located in semi-enclosed bays,

is a blend of wakeboarding, surfing, windsurfing, snowboarding,

which means that kiting is always practiced with an on-shore wind.

paragliding, and skateboarding.

This means that should something go wrong, the rider is blown towards the shore. Kite boarders get to practice their adrenaline-

Seasoned local kiteboarder and adrenaline junkie, Kenneth Galea,

pumping sport in a number of beaches across Malta and Gozo.

explains. Harnessed to a large hand-controlled kite and powered by

The beach used is always determined by the wind direction.

the wind, the kiteboarder uses a surf or twin-tip board (similar to a snowboard, wakeboard, or skateboard) to ride and glide across the

Ġnejna Bay, Golden Bay, MellieħaBay, Little Armier, White

water. The basic kite gear used is a board, a kite, a harness, and a

Tower Bay, St Thomas Bay, and Ir-Ramla l-Ħamra in Gozo are all

54

I N S E RSTP T OE RX TS T HERE

frequented by kiters during the winter months. All the spots with

rougher conditions. Some riders prefer wild conditions created

favourable conditions are closed off as swimming zones in the

by strong force 6-7 winds. Launching and landing the kites usually

warmer months, so unfortunately, there is not really anywhere

requires the assistance of an acquaintance, as it is not safe to self-

close to shore where one can set-up, launch, and land the kite

launch and self-land.

safely during the Summer season. Colder water temperatures and windchill factor during the winter months means that a wetsuit

As yet, no official kite boarding association has been formed, and

needs to be worn. Kites vary in size, and different sizes are used for

the small community of locals usually know where and when to go

different wind conditions. A smaller kite is used in stronger wind

to kite. Kite equipment is not locally available for rent, but there

conditions, while a larger kite will provide more pull in the lighter

are a few local suppliers that sell the equipment. There are also few

winds. Rider weight, rider ability, and board size also determine

certified instructors that teach the art of kite boarding. The best

what size kite would be ideal for the conditions presented.

months to practice the sport would be between October and May,

As opposed to kite boarding, kite surfing is more of a wave riding

but visiting tourists would need to bring their own equipment due to

style. The largest waves are usually formed across Riviera Bay,

the absence of gear rental spots.

Golden Bay, and Ramla l-Ħamra in Gozo.

All in all, although it is quite a demanding sport in its early learning The kite boarding community in Malta is quite small. Many take

stages, kite boarding is extremely pleasurable. The adrenaline rush

on the challenge of learning this exciting extreme sport. Gearing

of gliding across the waves in such extreme conditions, hearing

up requires quite an investment. Safety gear, such as helmets,

nothing but the wind and the gliding of the board on the water is a

impact vests, and gloves, are highly recommended, especially in

feeling hard to describe!

55

LOCAL

WORDS JOHN DE GIORGIO

WITH EVERY PROJECT, ROTARY IS CHANGING THE WORLD FOR THE BETTER

ROTARY - A SERVICE CLUB WHICH ENABLES MEMBERS TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES AS WELL AS TO THOSE FAR AWAY – IS AN ORGANISATION REPRESENTED BY 1.4 MILLION MEMBERS IN ALMOST EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD. Rotary clubs are run by an annually elected board and the Malta

helps Rotary members to advance world understanding, goodwill,

clubs form part of District 2110 (Sicily and Malta) which has over

and peace by improving health, providing quality education,

3,600 members in 100 clubs. Malta has two clubs and there is

improving the environment, and alleviating poverty. Since it was

also one in Gozo. The first was Rotary Club Malta, which was

founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent

established in 1967.

more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects.

Rotarians celebrate the Foundation on February 23rd.

You may notice information boards which showcase projects which have been sponsored by the various local clubs, including

A CURRENT MALTA-BASED PROJECT

respite homes, sensory rooms, natural habitat planting, a

Hospice Malta has embarked on an ambitious project to

children’s ambulance to name but a few.

build a new in-patient care facility in Santa Venera which is being called St Michael's, to accommodate sixteen in-house

Furthermore, the Rotary Foundation transforms financial gifts

patients. Rotary Club Malta, together with Rotary Club La

and funds raised into service projects that change lives both

Valette, are working to raise the €120,000 required to equip

close to home and around the world. The Rotary Foundation

and furnish all the bedrooms. This project is being undertaken

56

I NSERT L OTCEAXLT H E R E

57

LOCAL

with the support of a grant from the Rotary Foundation, as

This is the second school the club has built and is the result of

well as the support of companies and individuals that have

an investment by the club of over €130,000, of which €72,000 was

assisted Rotary in its fund raising.

provided by the Government of Malta’s Overseas Development Aid fund, managed by the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and

ONGOING WORK

Trade and the rest was through fund-raising activities.

Dar il-Kaptan was Malta's first Respite Home for the Disabled and allows parents of children with disabilities the opportunity

The project involved the preparation of the land, the design and

to leave their children in the care of professionals for those short

construction of the classrooms and administrative block and

periods when they are unable to provide the care themselves. The

toilet facilities, as well as all the fixtures and furnishings. As a

club has funded all sorts of equipment, specialist beds and three

part of Rotary’s Empowering Girls initiative, a particular focus

equipped vans, three extensions to the existing building, and is

was also placed on the washroom facilities for girls, who would

currently working on a cold store. The home has also benefited

otherwise be disadvantaged in their schooling.

from maintenance days where volunteers from the community and local companies worked together to refurbish facilities and

WE’RE THIS CLOSE

individual members have dedicated their time by offering their

Since 1985, Rotary has led its primary project for the global

own professional skills to help with these projects and to run the

eradication of Polio which has reduced annual infections

operation on a day-to-day basis over the years.

from 360,000 to 30 in 2022. Polio is a debilitating contagious disease, usually effecting children and results in severe

HELPING COMMUNITIES OVERSEAS

disability or death but can be halted through mass vaccination

Recently, Rotary Club Malta completed a project to build the

programmes. Together with its partners, the World Health

Rotary Malta Parents Primary School in the village of Kankuji, in

Organisation, UNICEF, CDC and the Bill and Melinda Gates

the District of Luwero, Uganda which is providing education to

Foundation, nearly three billion children worldwide have

over 450 local children.

been vaccinated.

VISITING ROTARIANS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND ANY OF THE CLUBS’ MEETINGS: Rotary Club Malta: Corinthia San Gorg - Monday, 19:00hrs Rotary Club La Vallette: Intercontinental Hotel - Thursday, 19:00hrs Rotary Club Gozo: Calypso Hotel, Marsalforn - Thursday, 19:30hrs

58

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SOME GO OD

FO OD FOR THOUGHT

59

FOOD & DRINK

WORDS COLOURMYTRAVEL

H O W C H O C O L AT E C A M E T O B E I N M A LTA

BUILT BY THE KNIGHTS OF ST JOHN IN THE MID-16TH CENTURY ON THE STR ATEGICALLY LOCATED MEDITERR ANEAN ISLAND OF MALTA, VALLETTA QUICKLY BECAME A VERY IMPORTANT AND COSMOPOLITAN HARBOUR CITY, AND A PERFECT PLACE THROUGH WHICH FOREIGN CULINARY PR ACTICES AND NEW EXCITING INGREDIENTS WOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO ENTER THE ISLAND. And, through the influence and strong links that the multi-national

no wine! This highlights the fact that at the time, chocolate was

Knights enjoyed with overseas regions, some ingredients were able

a drink. The treatise provides us with a drinking chocolate recipe

to come into Malta relatively earlier when compared to other parts

that included orange peel, spices, nuts and aniseed. We also know

of Europe. One example of this was chocolate.

that in Malta, cocoa beans were used as the principal ingredient for the preparation of a cold drink, a granita, a sorbet, and even

Malta was among the pioneering countries to have introduced the

an ice cream. By the late 1700s, chocolate wrapping paper started

drinking of chocolate in Europe. Originating in Mexico, cocoa beans

to be printed in Malta, indicating that by this point, chocolate had

were probably introduced into our island by the Spanish knights. In

started to be consumed also as a solid.

the mid-1600s, a certain Francesco Buonamico wrote the Trattato della Cioccolata, claiming that “our island can truthfully boast

Due to its expensive market value and exotic nature, chocolate was

of having been a forerunner in the coffee and chocolate drinking

primarily consumed by the nobility, but despite its limited market,

crazes that swept across Europe in the 17th century”.

it continued to attract the attention of scientists interested in discussing its nutritional benefits. Although not all of them agreed

Born in Valletta, Francesco Buonamico was by profession a medical

that it had any, it was still recognised as a precious treat, and there

doctor, but as was the custom for intellectuals at the time, he

are various references where chocolate was offered to dignitaries

also specialised in other fields too: he was a botanist, antiquarian,

visiting our island. Grand Master Pinto presented chocolate as

linguist, scientist, poet, writer, theologian and enlightened traveller

a reward to a group of individuals who managed to infiltrate a

- best described as a post-Renaissance genius. Buonamico wrote

network of organised smuggling from the Order’s bakery. Grand

extensively and is best known for his travelogue, written over a

Master de Rohan had a personal chocolatier who worked at the

decade that he spent visiting 69 cities all over Europe. It was while

palace, while a number of Inquisitors of Malta are also known to

studying in France, at the age of just nineteen, that he wrote what

have treated their high-ranking guests with this sophisticated

is considered as one of the earliest treatises on chocolate.

drink. In an inventory of the Inquisitor’s Palace compiled in 1798, no less than three copper chocolate pots, among other specialised

In this eight-page manuscript, Buonamico claimed that South

equipment, are listed, with the sole purpose of satisfying the

American Indians resorted to chocolate drinking because they had

Inquisitor’s chocolate cravings!

60

I NFSO EO RD T T &EDXRTI N HE KR E

GOOD TO KNOW

You can discover more about food at the time of the Knights and in Malta in general with a food tour around Valletta which is held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am. Book at coulourmytravel.com

61

C U L I NA RY

WE BRING YOU THE BEST THAT THE MALTESE KITCHEN HAS TO OFFER WITH RECIPES INSPIRED BY MEDITERRANEAN AND EUROPEAN CUISINE.

YOUR DELICIOUS

MONTHLY RECIPE

From passionate foodies to professional chefs, Mediterranean Culinary Academy, gives students the technical abilities to excel in any culinary role. We offer a wide range of courses, workshops, private events and products. We are continuously looking into new ways to get people to learn more about the food they eat and how to cook dishes that use local and sustainably-sourced ingredients.

To see available workshops, please visit www.mcamalta.com 62

C U L I NA RY

Why not learn to cook something special together using locally sourced ingredients?

You will already see fresh frawli – strawberries, which are grown in the Mġarr region which also puts on a festival for these fine fruits later in the spring.

Shaped like a heart, strawberries have long been associated with love and romance, and here we share we share a simple, but decadent dessert with you for Galentines, Valentines or indeed any other night!

M I LL E- F E U I LL E

INGREDIENTS 1 puff pastry sheet 200g Crème diplomat 25g flaked almonds, toasted icing sugar as needed 1 punnet of fresh strawberries, diced

METHOD Roll out pastry as thinly as possible. Place flat on a tray and freeze (about 30 minutes). Using a knife cut out 6 rectangular sheets.

Dust heavily with icing sugar and bake between two baking trays (to keep them flat) for approximately 12 minutes. Allow to cool and dust with more icing sugar.

To assemble, place a layer of pastry, pipe Crème diplomat around edge working inwards.

Place another sheet on top and repeat. Place diced strawberries in centre and layer another pastry sheet on top.

Dust with icing sugar and garnish with more strawberries.

63

C U L I NA RY

SKY17

TA’ MARIJA – YOUR GASTRO MALTESE KITCHEN Constitution Street, Mosta

St George’s Bay, S Julian’s, ix-Xatt Ta’ San Ġorġ Looking for a place to enjoy shisha in Malta with stunning sea views? Look no further than SKY17, located opposite St George's Bay in Paceville. This cosy lounge has everything you need for a perfect evening out, including tasty food and cocktails, and a great selection of music to set the mood. Whether you're looking to relax with friends or celebrate a special occasion, SKY17 is the perfect spot.

Established in 1964, Ta’ Marija is one of the island’s most historically rich restaurants. Head to their Folklore Dinner shows held every Friday and other evenings for a touch of Maltese liveliness Transport can also be arranged. Their gastro menu is bursting with creativity with what is locally traditional while adding their own signature flavours of sumptuousne ss. From smallsized appetizers and platters ideal for those of you looking to experience a variety of different flavours, to traditional homemade ravioli, bringing you your favourite Maltese dishes in a way you never imagined. Mains include traditional and signature Maltese dishes ranging from popular rabbit selection, seasonal fish and shellfish in season, local meats and the famous ‘Whisper’ chargrilled steaks … also specials offered on the day. Be sure to leave room for their mouth-watering home-made desserts.

+356 7798 4704 www.sky17.com.mt sky17_malta

+356 2143 4444 www.tamarija.com info@tamarija.com

TAL-BUDELLA

TA' KRIS RESTAURANT & MALTESE BISTRO

No 6, Misraħ Awrekarja, San Ġwann

80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema

Our dishes are a mixture of genuine recipes developed and passed down from one generation to another within our family. All full of flavour and prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

At Tal-Budella we are committed to serving reasonably priced authentic Maltese food.

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 braġioli, rabbit, octopus stew, bebbux (snails), balbuljata (corned beef hash), baked lamb, daily specials, pasta dishes, a selection of fresh fish on a daily basis and mouth-watering steaks. Ta’ Kris also offers take away & delivery service and set menus can be designed for special occasions. Advance booking is recommended and may be done through our website, via email, by phone, or on Facebook. Ta’ Kris is open from Monday to Sunday, from 12:30pm till 11pm.

For bookings: https://bookia.mt/restaurants-malta/tal-budella-san-gwann

+356 7948 9322 www.talbudella.com talbudella talbudella

+356 21 337 367 | +356 79 337 367 www.takrisrestaurant.com takrisrestaurant@gmail.com

64

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

ANDREW’S BAR St. George’s Bay, St. Julian’s Andrew's Bar is a freshly re-opened venue where fun is not optional, good food is compulsory, and building great memories is essential! Steeped in legacy, this is, in fact, Malta's oldest bar!

The place is a go-to, and you're simply going to love indulging in the extensive menu with a great local cuisine focus with traditional Maltese dishes and modern dishes such as pizza or pasta. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or also for a quiet drink or two!

+356 2138 8031 info@andrewsbar.com

TA' KOLINA 151, Tower Road, Sliema Ta’ 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 it 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 12:00hrs – 22:30hrs. +356 2010 5590 info@beachgardenmalta.com Beach Garden Hotel, St. George's Bay, St Julian's, STJ 3302, Malta

+356 2133 5106 www.takolina.mt

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L O C A L R E S TAU R A N T S

GULULU – KCINA MALTIJA 133, Spinola Bay, St. Julian’s Gululu - Kċina Maltija is ideally located on the water’s edge in the picturesque Spinola Bay in St. Julian’s. Gululu prepares both classic Maltese dishes and more contemporary ones using only typical ingredients and sourced locally. The service at Gululu is efficient and friendly - one is assured great value for money. The mood is casual and relaxed. A tasting menu includes eight different local dishes. Malta’s national dish, the Fenkata, is a speciality of the house. Gululu has won the award for best Maltese Restaurant in 2022 - three times in the last five years. Welcome to Gululu, we promise you a great time.

St Julian's +356 2133 3431 www.gululu.com.mt info@gululu.com.mt gululumalta gululurestaurant

VINI E CAPRICCI BY ABRAHAM’S Gozitano Agricultural Village, Mġarr Road, Xewkija, Gozo Vini e Capricci by Abraham’s is the answer to every gourmand’s prayers, and an experience in its own right. A truly innovative gastrodome, home to exquisite food and award-winning wine and spirits. A concept which integrates a strong educational element, where the public not only can purchase, but will also experience products first-hand. A landmark in the Maltese Islands with constant attention to detail and a passion for the good things in life. This what makes Vini e Capricci a unique culinary destination. À la Carte, Wine & Tapas, Platters and Events. For bookings or more information on our offerings:

+356 2156 3231 www.viniecapricci.com viniecapricci@abrahams.com.mt abrahamsgozo abrahamsgozo

HAMMETT’S MESTIZO

SAMIZU

Triq Schreiber, San Ġiljan

Marina Di Valletta, Pieta

Hammett's Mestizo is a vibrant Meso-South Americaninspired fusion social dining and drinking experience, with culinary influences expanding from Central America to the Caribbean and from the Andes to Amazon and Patagonia.

The menu is constructed by a multi-award-winning team, led by talented Venezuelan Head Chef Rommer Ochoa and directed by Chef and restaurateur Chris Hammett.

+356 2779 5099 www.hammettsmestizo.com hammettsmestizo hammettsmestizo

A modern and airy bistro right by the water's edge at the foot of the majestic fortifications of Valletta and Marina Di Valletta.

SA /MI/ZU boasts a gorgeous setting for indoor or al fresco dining with a tasteful design, spectacular seasonal menus, and impeccable service. From long weekend lunches to romantic date nights and afternoon cocktails in the sun, we'll meet you at SA/MI/ZU.

+356 7972 64981 www.samizu.mt www.facebook.com/SAMIZU.MT www.instagram.com/samizu.mt/

For advertising opportunities and restaurant listings, get in touch with us on sales@il-bizzilla.com or (+356) 2131 0608

I NSERT T EX T H ER E

EVENTS & NEWS THE FOLLOWING PAGES WILL GIVE YOU AN INSIGHT ON WHAT’S GOING ON AT AIR MALTA. THE BEHINDTHE-SCENES AND HIGHLIGHTS OF PAST MONTHS AND FORTHCOMING ONES. MALTA’S NATIONAL AIRLINE TELLS IT LIKE IT IS, ENSURING ALL AIR MALTA CUSTOMERS ARE WELL-INFORMED WHILE SOARING HIGH IN THE SKY.

A I R M A LTA N E W S

AIR MALTA IS FLYING TO LISBON! A NEW DESTINATION TWICE WEEKLY FROM JUNE 2023 TO OCTOBER 2023

LISBON STARTING FROM €83 ONE-WAY www.airmalta.com

AIR MALTA MAKES TRAVELLING WITH PETS EASIER Travelling with pets on board Air Malta flights just got easier with the release of a new online function on airmalta.com that enables travel bookings for cats and dogs.

Travelling with pets has become increasingly popular with Air Malta, carrying over 2,500 pets every year, 2,000 of which are carried in the cabin.

The new online feature is one of the latest online ancillary products and services launched by Air Malta that are aimed to deliver an enhanced customer experience. The new function is available as part of the flight booking process and gives customers peace of mind that their pets are confirmed at the time of booking.

Only cats and dogs up to 10 kgs including carrier can be carried in the aircraft cabin. Larger cats and dogs and other pets can be carried in the aircraft hold. More information is available here: airmalta.com/en-mt/flight-extras/pets. Terms and conditions apply.

68

A I R M A LTA N E W S

THROUGH THE LENS OF A FREQUENT FLIER WE TALK TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER BEHIND THIS ISSUE’S COVER PHOTO

Frank Kirchner, a photographer from

Looking at Frank Kirchner’s portfolio you

the preparation work is done, giving him the

Germany, first paid a visit to Malta in 1989

will find that, besides the actual Carnival

opportunity to see the real stars of the show.

to capture images for two books; one on

events, he manages to document the whole

Valletta and one on Carnival. Ever since,

process, the activities that go on for months

He likes to capture images and shoots

“my heart is beating for this island”.

behind the scenes; tireless training units

candid shots, orientated to tell the story of

of the Carnival sessions, the logistics and

the different aspects of Maltese Carnival,

assembly and dismantling.

showing the great dedication to the the

Since 2016, he has flown on Air Malta 5 or 6 times a year and to date, has been a customer for 50 flights!

event which he believes is unknown to many.

He enjoys being an eyewitness of the hustle and bustle, the electric atmosphere, where

Inspired by the magnificient costumes,

Frank believes that Carnival, which is held

he can witness thousands of hands working

breathtaking dance choreographies and

in February, is one of the major events in

together to create the spectacle.

fantasy floats, he held an exhibition in 2022

the cultural landscape of Malta, a central

on the subject of Carnival ‘Through The

part of its heritage. “It’s more than an

His visual and emotional “journey” is

Eyes Of A Friend’, and plans one on his other

event, more than a piece of the lifestyle.

accompanied with a deep, honest

subject, Valletta, in 2023.

It’s the icon of the real world, the true

gratitude to a lot of locals who, over the

meaning of culture, with feelings

past seven years have opened their doors

Share Franks journey via

and passion.”

for him to see inside the warehouses where

www.frank-kirchner-photography.com

70

Beyond Flying Your One-Stop Shopping Destination.

A I R M A LTA N E W S A I R M A LTA N E W S

IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO STEVE C AMILLERI HEAD OF PROCUREMENT & CONTRACTS MANAGEMENT

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AT AIR MALTA AND IN WHAT ROLES? I have been employed with Air Malta for the past 28 years, with the longest contributions being in Projects Management, as Head of Crew Resources and now as the Head of Procurement & Contracts Management.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR CURRENT ROLE? Airline operations have carved in me an appetite for solving complex problems in a very fast-paced environment. On top of that, currently I have the luxury of working in a very dynamic environment, surrounded with people who aspire for continuous improvement.

AND WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT? Focus and prioritization is a key aspect of the job. One moment you are approving procurement of office stationery, the minute after you’re reviewing a multi-million aircraft leasing contract.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME? I am not generally bothered with big gatherings or complex plans. The perfect day generally is when I manage to have my wife and the kids on a long drive, stopping for lunch or a coffee along the way and having a good conversation.

WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE EUROPEAN DESTINATION AND WHY? I like travelling and simply fell in love with Sweden the moment I arrived.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE LANGUAGE? My closest and dearest will confirm that I do not believe in a quick answer for an easy question.

What I find most captivating is body language - the balance of speech with silence.

FAVOURITE MOVIE? Absolutely not a movie person and I’d rather watch a good documentary.

FAVOURITE GENRE OF MUSIC? I love all sorts of music dependent on the time of the day or the mood. Orchestra and instrumental when in need of concentration, whereas club music helps when in need of motivation.

DREAM HOLIDAY DESTINATION? I’d like to believe that one day I will have time and opportunity to travel to the Far East, the likes of the Kazakh regions and Nepal.

WHERE WOULD YOU RECOMMEND VISITING WITHIN THE MALTESE ISLANDS? Probably the west coast including Rabat, Dingli and Buskett offer the most beautiful views. For those who love Summer then, the bays in the surroundings of Mellieħa together with spots in Gozo and Comino are an absolute bliss.

PREFERRED MALTESE DISH? Mum’s pork stew.

FAVOURITE MALTESE EXPRESSION? "Insomma mela” which translates into a sort of “whatever”. Mostly used by my wife to tell me off, whenever I take more time than the ‘necessary’ to make a point!

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ISSUE 122 FEBRUARY v6.indd 72

24/01/2023 12:34

A I R M A LTA N E W S FLIGH T I N FO

A I R M A LTA D I R E C T F L I G H T S

Amsterdam

Berlin

London LHR London LGW

Brussels

Dusseldorf Prague Munich

Paris CDG Paris ORY Geneva Lyon Nice

Zurich

Vienna

Milan Rome Naples

Madrid Lisbon

Palermo Catania

Malta Tel Aviv

Routes and schedules may vary.

73

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 A I R M A LTA F L E E T

AIRBUS 320CEO

AIRBUS 320NEO

QUANTITY: 3 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 168/180 ENGINES: CFM56-5B4/P MAXIMUM TAKE OFF WEIGHT: 75.5 / 77 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 34.1M CRUISING SPEED: MACH 0.78 (450KNOTS, 833 KM/HR) RANGE: 5,200 KM, 2,800 NMI, 3,250 SMI

QUANTITY: 4 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 180 ENGINES: CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE OFF WEIGHT: 77 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: MACH 0.78 (450KNOTS, 833 KM/HR) RANGE: 6,500 KM, 3,500 NMI, 4,025 SMI

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION 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 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.

FACE MASKS The Airline requires all passengers to follow the necessary regulations pertaining to the wearing of approved medical or cloth face masks, starting from boarding, for the duration of the flight, through to disembarkation. You might also be required to wear a mask within the airport building, before and during check-in, upon arrival, when collecting baggage, and up to the point that a passenger leaves the airport building. As per the Government of Malta Legal Notice 402 of 2020, children under three (3) years of age and persons with severe cognitive, physical, mental, or respiratory impairments who have difficulties tolerating a mask as certified by a licensed medical practitioner are exempted from wearing masks. Certified individuals shall always carry the relevant medical certificate exempting them from wearing a mask. Passengers risk fines if they fail to comply.

PHOTOGRAPHY The users of Air Malta services are obliged to comply with the European Regulation 679/2016 on the protection of personal data as well as the Chapter 586 of the Laws of Malta (Data Protection Act). It is the sole responsibility of the user to comply and in any case of non-compliance for payment of any penalties arising from such non-compliance. Based on the above-mentioned laws it is strictly forbidden to take photos or videos of passengers or the crew (without their explicit consent) and uploading them to the web.

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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

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.

Visit www.airmalta.com/wearelistening

Visit www.airmalta.com for more information.

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 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

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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 mobile-phones 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.

LAPTOPS 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

YES

YES

YES

(when instructed by Flight Crew or Cabin Crew)

YES

YES

YES

YES

Taxi-out for Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

During Safety Briefing Demonstration

YES

NO

NO

NO

Take-Off

YES

NO

YES

NO

Cruise

YES

YES

YES

NO

(Cabin Crew PA)

YES

NO

YES

NO

Landing

YES

NO

YES

NO

Taxi to Stand

YES

NO

YES

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.

76

GOZO

Naturally

GOZO www.visitgozo.com