Il-Bizzilla - March 2014

Issue 15

MARCH 14

LOCAL FEATURES PlaceS FOOD

Bay Street • Gozo • Malta InternatIonal aIrport • St JulianS • SlieMa SeaFront

Issue 15

MARCH 14

Contents Local

p. 12

p. 8

Maltese Infographica – Interesting quirky facts about Malta that you may not have known.

p. 10

Malta life – Spring is here bringing with it perfect walking weather and the delicious honeyed pastries to mark the feast of St. Joseph.

p. 12

Gozo Life – Gozo’s particular identity has always been eco-orientated making the island extremely attractive to foreign residents, tourists, day trippers and the outdoor activity seekers.

p.18

Things To Do In Malta – With so much to choose from, Il-Bizzilla rounds up a few essential things to see and do when visiting the islands.

p. 68

Made in Malta – A glance at products that are part of the islands' heritage.

p. 86

Air Malta News – The lastest news as well as general flight information about Malta's national airline.

Places

Issue 15

MARCH 14

p. 7

Around The Globe – Irish around the world prepare to celebrate St. Patricks day and rowing crews get ready for the famous London Head of River race.

p. 17

Travel Hot Spots – Beautifully bestriding the Vltava river, Prague has more than a semblance of a peaceful and prosperous city.

p. 50

Destination – Explore the various beguiling faces of the magnificent city of Venice.

p. 59

Events – Enrich your stay in Malta with just a few of the most happening events on the island.

p. 66

Map – An island with a character as colourful and busy as its people, Malta is dotted with landmarks and must see places.

p. 69

Places to Visit – A long and rich history has left its mark on the Maltese islands – each site has a story to tell.

FOOD

LOCAL FEATURES PlaceS FOOD

Cover – A typical Maltese doorknob

p. 14

Food – Liver and bacon give our resident chef an opportunity to take a trip down memory lane.

p. 80

Restaurant Guide – Malta has countless great restaurants catering to every taste. Here’s our listing of some of the best.

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Sustainable Malta p. 34-37

Features

p. 27 - 29

p. 20

Walking Tours – Walking in Malta is great for discovering some of its best nooks and crannies.

p. 23

St Joseph – The story behind one of the most important saints whose feast is celebrated this month.

p. 27

Seasonal Food – This is a beautiful month on the island with the beginning of spring showcasing crops at their very best.

p. 30

Waiting for Spring – Malta may come into its own in summer but Sacha Staples is bewitched by this season.

p. 34

Sustainable Malta – The Wheat and Rye Grass project is one local example among many of how farmer and foodie are working together.

p. 38

Lenten Dishes – Lent brings with it a host of delicious traditional Maltese dishes.

p. 40

Malta at War – Robert Weatherburn on the role of the three cities in wartime Malta.

p. 47

Bella Vistas – If you’re out walking Malta or Gozo’s coastline, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to views.

Property p. 53

Frank Salt Real Estate – With Forbes listing Malta among the top 15 countries to retire to this yea,r property in Malta is booming.

p. 54

Tigne Point Q1 – Enjoy the pick of Malta’s luxury apartment crop and take a look at the equisitly finished Tigné Point’s Q1 seafront residences.

p. 55

Belair – Whether you are looking to buy or to rent in Malta the bespoke service offered by Belair will definitely help you find a home.

Business

p. 40 - 45

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p. 56

Medical Tourism – Malta is fast becoming a popular destination for those seeking high quality well priced dental services.

p. 57

McDonald's – This year marks McDonald’s sixth as a FIFA World Cup sponsor.

p. 58

Business Profile – In just over a decade, the gaming industry has boomed in Malta.

w w w. h o q . c o m . m t BECAUSE YOUR HOME M AT T E R S

A FABULOUS DESIGNER FINISHED APARTMENT ENJOYING GLORIOUS VIEWS OF MALTA’S CAPITAL REF: 912175

l

€950,000

l

TA’ XBIEX

A fabulous 7th floor 280 sqm APARTMENT in this prestigious development. The property enjoys the most glorious views of the bastions of Valletta and the yacht marina from its south facing terrace. Accommodation comprises a large open plan kitchen/living and dining room, 3 double bedrooms (main having walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom), main bathroom, guest toilet and a laundry room. The apartment is finished and furnished to a very high standard and includes top of the range kitchen, furniture and intelligent lighting.

Included in the price is a two car side by side lock up garage.

LOVINGLY CONVERTED HOUSE OF CHARACTER HAVING POOL AND TWO BEAUTIFUL COURTYARDS REF: 911871

l

€1,100,000

l

QORMI

Lovingly converted, very spacious HOUSE OF CHARACTER, located in the heart of Qormi and offering a multitude of traditional features, whilst at the same time having been converted to the highest of standards. Energy efficiency was a key element in the design of this house with most apertures are finished in top quality double glazing, insulated ceilings, around 20 PV cells for electricity generation, solar water heating used for water supply of the house and also for heating the floors of the house and the pool. One enters the house through a lovely old arched ‘remissa’ entrance leading onto a bright courtyard. The house itself, has all of its rooms leading onto the two courtyards and the garden. The main accommodation comprises a large fully fitted kitchen and breakfast room with pantry, guest toilet, very unusual arched living and dining room, arched cellar which is currently being used as games room followed by an old war shelter, another second cellar and a beautiful old mill room converted into a second living room. Upstairs there are 4/5 bedrooms 3 of which are en suite, dressing room off the main bedroom, separate bathroom, laundry room and spacious study. This property must be seen to be truly appreciated.

Also available is a large one car street level garage. Freehold.

Through Homes of Quality, we find great satisfaction in providing a uniquely personal property service to clients, both local and overseas. As part of Frank Salt Real Estate Group we have access to perhaps the largest property and client database in the Maltese Islands, while operating independently to facilitate the extremely high level of personal interface with clients. At Homes of Quality we are equally proud of the smallest designer apartment as a grand palazzo… the defining factor which ensures that a property is to be found on our listings is quite simply… quality!

Grahame Salt Director

Недвижимость, проживание и бизнес на Мальте. Сервисная поддержка от А до Я. Мы говорим по-русски! Звоните нам 00356 23421614

Homes of Quality, 201, Tower Road, Sliema Tel: +356 2342 0000 UK Tel: +44 (0) 871 711 8994 Mob: +356 9947 4340 Email: info@hoq.com.mt

Il-Bizzilla.

Literally the most captive audience you'll ever have.

Editor Sarah Kennard

Air Malta media gives you the opportunity to deliver your message to 1.7 million passengers.

Project co-ordinator Renata Vella Design TBWA\ANG Senior graphic designers Jeff Fabri Richard Agius Graphic designer Rebecca Bullock contributors Liz Ayling Miranda Brown Victor Calleja Monique Chambers Lea Hogg Adam Jacot de Boinod Deborah Ratcliffe Melanie Vella Sacha Staples Julian Sammut Charlotte Stafrace Official Photographer Robert Camilleri

BLUE MEDIA MARKETING LTD Managing directors Bertrand Attard Chris Mifsud WebSite www.bluemedia.com.mt e-mail info@bluemedia.com.mt Address 3rd Floor, Professional Building Sliema Road Gzira, GZR 1633 MALTA Tel +356 2131 0608 Fax +356 2131 0998

Il-Bizzilla is published monthly in Malta for Air Malta by Blue Media Marketing Ltd. The magazine is free to passengers on Air Malta flights worldwide. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission.

Requests for permission should be made in writing to: Il-Bizzilla Magazine 3rd Floor Professional Building Sliema Road Gzira, GZR 1633 MALTA Editorial material and opinions expressed in Il-Bizzilla do not necessarily reflect the views of Air Malta or the publisher. Air Malta and the publisher do not accept responsibility for the advertising content.

Special thanks to the Malta Tourism Authority and Air Malta for use of their photographic material. Products and services mentioned are subject to change without prior notice. Š Blue Media Marketing Limited 2013 Printed in Malta by Progress Press Co. Ltd., Mriehel.

For information about advertising and restaurant listings in Il-Bizzilla or on other Air Malta media kindly contact our sales team: Renata Vella Mobile: (+356) 7999 5959 Or e-mail us on: sales@bluemedia.com.mt

For information about advertising and restaurant listings in Il-Bizzilla or on other Air Malta media kindly contact our sales team: Renata Vella Mobile: (+356) 7999 5959 Or e-mail us on: sales@bluemedia.com.mt

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Around the world

Around the world in...

MARCH Fat Tuesday 4th March Stockhom, Sweden Fat Tuesday was traditionally the last opportunity to stuff yourself before Lent and in Sweden a tradition developed of eating buns, called "fastlagsbullar" or ”semla”. The semla is usually made up of a cardemom bun filled with sugary almond paste and topped whipped cream. Some also like to soak it in warm milk.

St. Patrick’s Day Around the world 17th March St. Patrick's Day in Berlin St. Patrick's Day is the National Holiday of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

It is celebrated in honour of Saint Patrick, a Christian missionary born in the 4th century and the primary patron saint of Ireland.

Originally, St. Patrick's Day was a church celebration but it has since turned into a celebration of Irishness in many countries around the globe.

The Head of the River Race

Even non-Irish nationals like to join in on the celebrations that day.

29h March London UK Every spring, 400 crews from around the globe take to the waters of London's famous river Thames to compete in this historic boating event which is one of the London's longest running sporting traditions.

The race was started in 1926 by Cambridge and Tideway oarsman Steve Fairbairn. It was conceived as a way for crews to practice long rows during winter, in preparation for the summer regatta. The annual event now sees hundreds of boats, each manned by eight men, row over the 4.25 mile (6.8km) championship course from Mortlake to Putney. The race sees crews from all over the world competing, from Australia to Austria.

St Patrick's Day Parade 16th to 17th March London, UK Celebrate St Patrick's Day on and around 17 March with a parade through Central London, a free festival in Trafalgar Square and many more special events.

Every year London hosts a St Patrick's Day Parade with marching bands, floats, street theatre and more. All 32 Irish counties are represented, dressed in their traditional county colours. Other parade participants include members of London's Irish community and other Londoners. This year the parade takes place on 16 March, the day before St Patrick's Day.

Festival of Modern Design 26th to 30th March Paris, France More than 40 galleries from France and around the world take over a sixstorey building on the Rue du Général Foy during Paris' annual festival dedicated to contemporary design.

Website www.drawingnowparis.com

Air Malta flies to all three destinations 7

MALTESE Infographica

Interesting facts

ABOUT MALTA 01

A predominantly Roman Catholic country, Malta has over 360 churches – that’s roughly one for every 1,000 residents.

02

316

03

sq km Size of Malta

04 A traditional form of Maltese music is known as Għana. It is comprised of folk guitar music, usually men, taking it in turns to debate in a sing-song voice.

The lyrics are improvised, and debates are usually friendly yet challenging.

05 The earliest evidence of human habitation in Malta was found in the Għar Dalam Cave.

Malta's capital city, Valletta, is named after Jean Parisot de La Valette, a Grand Master of the Order of Knights of St John.

The beautiful and elegant Pharaoh Hound Dog is Malta's National Dog. In Maltese, the breed is called Kelb tal-Fenek.

11

Malta was earlier known as Melita, meaning the island of honey, by ancient Greeks and Romans.

8

08

09

In 2008, the Euro became the Maltese currency, following the island's accession in the E.U. in 2004.

The Temples at Gġantija trace back their foundations to a time period before the Egyptian pyramids.

07 The flag of Malta is a simple red and white flag with the George Cross in the top left hand corner.

06

10

If you're looking for some interesting books with the Maltese Islands as a backdrop, consider reading the following...

- The Kappillan of Malta by Nicholas Monsarrat.

- The Sword and the Scimitar by David Ball.

- The Jew of Malta by Christopher Marlowe.

12

13 In 1942 Malta was awarded with the George Cross, by King George VI (UK) for bravery.

14 Malta's Grand Harbour boasts of being one of the best natural deep-water harbour in the world.

The two main symbols that are synonymous with Malta and its people are the Maltese Cross and the Maltese boat. The Maltese cross was used by the Knights of Malta.

A F F O R D A B L E O N

T H E

I S L A N D

L U X U R Y O F

M A LTA

TA MON ITA RES I DE N C E

A N EXC LUS IV E N EW A D DRESS

This newly completed residential complex overlooking Marsascala Bay has set new standards for development in the south. Covering 16,000sqms Ta' Monita offers 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses, a swimming pool, piazza and underground parking. Most apartments command excellent sea views. Being a Special Designated Area foreign purchasers buy under the same rights as Maltese Nationals. Prices from €98,000 for 1 bed, €119,000 for 2 bed and €158,000 for 3 bed.

Visit our site sales office.

Triq San Guzepp, Marsascala, Malta, Europe Mob : (+356) 79 497 504 Tel : (+356) 27 116 116 Email : info@tumasdevelopments.com

Web : www.tumasdevelopments.com

Malta LIFE

The month of

MARCH The Maltese refer to March as ix-xahar ta' San Ġużepp, talLunzjata u tar-roħs (St. Joseph, the Annunciation and Sales' month) with three separate feast days dedicated to each one. Do look out for ‘zeppoli’ the delicious honey laced pastries traditionally sold and served on the feast of St. Joseph on March 19th. These ricotta filled doughnuts originally hail from Italy and are now a regular local delicacy too.

Spring in Malta offers the perfect climate to walk the contrasting and rich Maltese countryside. Gentle hillsides, dramatic cliffs, isolated seaside inlets and secluded pathways just begging to be explored. Coastal towers, wayside chapels, indigenous wild fauna along typical rubble walls and rugged garigue with sweeping coastal views are a gratifying way to explore Malta and Gozo.

Visitmalta and the Ramblers Association are just a couple of excellent sites which will point you in the right direction.

10

Did you know this?

Lace making is one of Malta’s most precious traditions. Originally associated with nobility, it is now considered a highly valued commodity with rarer examples of the craft fetching excellent prices at auction. Following a decline and subsequent revival of the art during the British period, lace-making became sought after by locals as well, further spurring demand. Today this ancient tradition is alive and well in Malta and Gozo. A stroll through the streets of any small Gozitan town will likely bring with it the sight of local women on their doorsteps engrossed in this beautiful tradition. Dating back to the time of the Knights of St John, ornamental lace was introduced as a fashion accessory, to embellish the clothing of nobles and the aristocracy. The Maltese quickly became deft at this craft and produced fine examples of lace, used by high society and the clergy. As with other local crafts, the motif of the Maltese Cross was added to the lace to make it uniquely Maltese. Lace in Maltese is called Bizzilla. (source http://www.airmalta.com/ destinations/malta/best-of-malta/ culture/malta-customs-and-traditions) Image: www.viewingmalta.com

Investing in Malta Kevin Buttigieg CEO RE/MAX Malta

“Malta” has been hitting the International news lately for its Citizenship by Investment Scheme.

There are a number of other reasons why Malta has become the Mediterranean hub for investment and this recent scheme is just one.

You may be applying for residency, starting a new company, simply retiring to our Islands or you may have found a job in one of our thriving industries. The common denominator in all the above mentioned scenarios is that you are going to require the assistance of a real estate agency in Malta or Gozo.

RE/MAX Malta has just come out of their most successful year recorded in their ten year history. Merely reaching the astounding €200 million mark in property sales, by far the most sales recorded in a calendar year by any one real estate company. As an authority in the real estate Industry in Malta, we’d like to provide you some further market knowledge.

Firstly, Malta is one of the few European countries to enjoy financial stability throughout the Global Recession. In fact, due to this the real estate market has continued to flourish throughout the last five years.

During 2013, just over 7400 residential “Promise of Sales” were recorded in Malta and Gozo of which approximately 12% of these properties were bought by foreign nationals. More than half of the properties bought by foreign Nationals were apartments, whereas the other property types, sorted by preference, were; character homes, maisonettes, penthouses, terraced houses, airspace and villas.

Malta is currently experiencing a buyer’s market.

During this period of time, prices tend to regulate and become more realistic whereas the well-kept homes on the market are the first to be sold. A good indication that – there’s shouldn’t be a better time to invest in brick and mortar.

⋅ Ta’ Monita Residence, Marsascala, Malta;

Although our property market does fluctuate from time to time, the prices of Maltese properties are extremely affordable by most European standards. With the current high demand from foreign investment, coupled with the strong belief in the real estate market from the locals, prices will continue to rise.

⋅ Kempinski Residences, San Lawrenz, Gozo.

As with any other country, Malta has certain localities that can offer a higher return on investment and better rental yield – which is particularly attractive for those who intend to purchase a property and/or rent it our during the periods that they will not be in Malta. Foreigners may rent properties that are bought out within the Special Designated Areas. A rental return on investment of between 4% - 6.5% may be achieved in these areas:

Being the largest real estate company on the Maltese Islands we have the largest database of properties and over 150 associates that are specialised in every type of property and location available.

⋅ Portomaso Development, St. Julians, Malta; ⋅ Cottonera Development, Cottonera, Malta; ⋅ Tigne Point, Tigne, Malta; ⋅ Tas-Sellum Residence, Mellieha, Malta; ⋅ Madliena Village Complex, Malta; ⋅ SmartCity, Malta; ⋅ Fort Cambridge Zone, Tignè, Malta;

⋅ Pender Place, St. Julians, Malta; ⋅ Metropolis Plaza, Gzira, Malta; ⋅ Fort Chambray, Ghajnsielem, Gozo;

The Special Designated Areas are Life Style Developments that are located in High-End Luxury areas. If you are not interested in having the option to rent out your property, you may be interested in other areas of Malta.

It is of utmost importance that you work with a professional real estate agent who specialises in the kind of investment you’re looking to make.

The downfall to any miscalculation would be a serious amount of repercussion that may affect your pocket negatively. If you need more information on investing in property in Malta, please do feel free to contact me. My team and I will easily guide you through the ins and outs and ensure your investment in Malta is your soundest one yet.

Our Featured Property is located in Tigne Point, one of the Special Designated Areas. This property is Exclusively Listed with RE/MAX and can be viewed by calling +356 99663322.

Featured Property

Duplex penthouse in tigné point enjoys spectacular sea views • internal area of 280m² • outdoor area totalling 293m² • Four outdoor terraces • swimming pool with deck area • Roof terrace • 4 bedrooms (3 with ensuites) • 3 car spaces included

Mls: 240171006-351

www.remax-malta.com For more information call: +356 99663322. Regional office: 76a, Gorg Borg Olivier Street, St. Julian’s STJ 1081, Malta.

price: €3,950,000

gozo life

Gozo

GOES GREEN Miranda Brown

Places are like people: each has its own vocation.

Gozo is going green and becoming the first sustainable Mediterranean island by 2020. That’s what the Minister of Gozo has announced.

One of Valletta 2018’s goals is: “to develop the concept of an ‘Eco Gozo’; an eco-island which tackles improvements in education, economic development and social progress in a sustainable, long-term manner. It aims to safeguard Malta’s sister island, home to 14 Local Councils, by protecting the island’s lifestyle, culture and resources in light of increasing visitor numbers”. Having said that, Gozo’s particular identity has always been eco-orientated. That made, and makes, the island extremely attractive to foreign residents, tourists, day trippers and the outdoor activity seekers who come here. These ‘addicts’ come, especially during spring, to practice climbing, diving, trekking, or country trail biking in a natural, safe and amazing enviroment. What’s new is the

12

increasing number of people who are choosing Gozo to discover its folklore and rural heritage, such as farms, wineries and ‘agritourisms’. In addition there are those coming here in search of remote and beautiful spots to meditate and do yoga, such as the Ġgantija megalithic temple complex, the saltpans in Marsalforn, the Azure Window near Dwejra Bay on the Inland Sea or simply Ramla Bay’s red sandy beach. These unusual and unexpected approachs have led to an innovative, international, newly formed and dedicated tour operator like Goingozo (www.goingozo.com), who works in collaboration with existing local sports and activities specialists.

Besides all this, there are initiatives that stress the importance of being a unique,

nature-surrounded location, and the Hellfire 55k Trail is one of them. After its succesful debut in 2012, the Maltese extreme race series (it includes trail runs, triathlon and duathlon races) starts in Gozo, and more precisely in the easternside village of Nadur (in April, www.hellfirevents.com), launching the island as a runner destination to test.

Meandering through the field’s spring carpets is after all the best way to explore the island, and March is the right time to begin. Some of the walks -or runs!-take you on cliffs, others to to and among the valleys, hidden caves, tiny traditional villages, churches and the old fascinating lighthouse, while others finally boast wonderful and scenic views…in blue, and, most of all, in green!

FOOD

Making

MEMORIES Liver and bacon can conjure up differing memories; bad school lunches from my childhood, or comfort food made by my mum. Luckily, in my professional life, I have been able to combine the memories of my mother's dish with my own twist which I serve at my restaurant and also to my daughter, who thankfully has a great palette, and no chance of the memory being scarred by another version.

We are lucky to have rabbit livers as part of our staple diet, which we generally eat with pasta, as stuffing ravioli is my favourite. Of course we have chicken livers which are simple to prepare, pate being the obvious one or warmed through and served with leaves.

Pig liver would make this dish overwhelming so calves liver, which is smoother, lighter and has its own distinct flavour is chosen. It's packed with protein and vitamin A, as well as all the amino acids you need. The nutritional benefits are numerous.

Lupanara is set in the cave under the bastions of Malta’s iconic Fort St Angelo in Birgu (aka Vittoriosa) in the Three Cities. The perfect location for those seeking somewhere special, slightly off the beaten track with a relaxed atmosphere.

Lupanara serves quality food which is generally inspired by Italian flavours, but always with a twist and platters with a well thought out wine selection for patrons wishing to relax on the terrace.

Reservations: T. 2180 3086 M. 9952 6500 / 9944 9086 Open for Sunday Lunches.

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Pork belly has become the ultimate comfort food and slow cooking the ultimate luxury so combining the two, is surely an indulgence. This hunk of meat is sliced on the diagonal and slow cooked to maintain the tenderness and cook through the fat, keeping it intact.

Neither piece of meat needs much fuss, a little seasoning and a lot of patience, though I do serve it with a sweet onion chutney which I make using locally picked onions which are softened with butter, pickling spices and a little sugar and slowly slowly cooked down.

A generous dollop is served with the calves liver and pork belly, Maltese bread is cut into chunks and our delicious potatoes and leaves, for those who are that way inclined. And a new memory is formed.

ESTATE AGENTS SINCE 1981 FOR SALE

MADLIENA ▪ €3,900,000 ▪ DETACHED VILLA

CALL (+356)

21 31 0800

FOR SALE

TIGNE POINT ▪ €3,500,000 ▪ PENTHOUSE

DETACHED VILLA set on a large plot of 2248m2 ▪ Malta’s best residential location ▪ Breathtaking views down through the valley to the sea ▪ Beautiful mature garden ▪ Large swimming pool with a surrounding terrace & gazebo ▪ Entrance hall ▪ Kitchen ▪ Dining room ▪ Study ▪ Large living room ▪ 4 double bedrooms ▪ 3 bathrooms (all en suite) ▪ Electric garage ▪ Laundry room ▪ Back-up generator ▪ Air conditioning throughout ▪ Alarm system ▪ Double glazing ▪ Water well ▪ Internal size 398m2 ▪ External size 2048m2 ▪ Ref: DV01353 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

Fully detached PENTHOUSE ■ Unique elevated position on the highest floor ■ Exclusive development with Malta’s finest amenities ■ Incredible views of Valletta, Manoel Island & the sea ■ Private swimming pool & large surrounding terrace ■ Luxury finish throughout ■ Modern kitchen ■ Large dining room ■ Sitting room ■ Living room ■ 3 double bedrooms (main with bathroom en suite) ■ Main bathroom ■ Utility room ■ 2 underlying car spaces ■ Spectacular communal pool ▪ Internal size 360m2 ▪ External size 250m2 ▪ Ref: PH00619 ■ SOLE AGENTS

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

SLIEMA ▪ €349,000 ▪ HOUSE OF CHARACTER

MELLIEHA ▪ from €220,000 ▪ SEAFRONT DEVELOPMENT

TOWNHOUSE (built in the 1930’s) ▪ Fantastic location ▪ Close to the seafront & popular promenade ▪ Art Deco inspired features ▪ High ceilings ▪ Front garden ▪ Maltese balcony ▪ 3/4 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms ▪ Sitting & dining room with fireplace ▪ Living room ▪ Fitted kitchen ▪ Backyard ▪ Laundry room ▪ Roof terrace ▪ Air Conditioning ▪ Optional lock up garage ▪ Internal size 220m2 ▪ External size 55m2 ▪ Ref: HC03088 ▪ SOLE AGENTS

Tas-Sellum Residence ▪ Spectacular seafront position ▪ Highly regarded luxury development ▪ Selection of new APARTMENTS & PENTHOUSES ▪ 2/3 bedrooms ▪ Quality finish throughout ▪ Sea & country views ▪ Close to Malta’s finest sandy beach ▪ Built on a 17,000m2 plot ▪ Very well maintained development ▪ Landscaped grounds & gardens ▪ 3 communal swimming pools ▪ Underlying car spaces ▪ Ref: FA07690

TO LET

TO LET

SLIEMA ▪ €1300 monthly ▪ APARTMENT

IKLIN ▪ €5500 monthly ▪ LUXURY VILLA

Modern furnished APARTMENT ▪ Luxuriously finished throughout ▪ Excellent location ▪ Close to all amenities ▪ Short walk to seafront & popular Sliema promenade ▪ 2 bedrooms ▪ Living room with flat screen TV ▪ Open plan kitchen / dining / living area ▪ Study ▪ 2 bedrooms ▪ 2 bathrooms (shower room en suite) ▪ Laundry room ▪ Also includes a 1-car garage ■ Internal size 125m2 ▪ Ref: FA05857

Luxurious & contemporary design ■ Lots of natural light ■ Outdoor & indoor swimming pools ■ 5 minute drive from all amenities in Naxxar ■ Hallway ■ Formal sitting / dining room ■ Open plan modern kitchen & living area overlooking the indoor pool ■ 3 double bedrooms (main having en suite bathroom) ■ Back yard & patio area ■ Air conditioning ■ Smart house technology with light & entertainment control on a smartphone app ■ Includes 2 car garage ■ Internal size 300m2 ■ External size 150m2 ■ Ref: DV01346

▪ Collect your free copy of our leading Real Estate publication from the exit of the arrival lounge ▪ ▪ The Perry Letting department offers a wide selection of both prime commercial and residential properties for lease ▪

Malta’s newest property website - www.perry.com.mt

Residential Sales, Lettings & Commercial Property ▪ Office: 197 Tower Road, Sliema ▪ Email: perry@perry.com.mt ▪ Mob: (+356) 9944 4373

TRAVEL HOT SPOTS

Adam Jacot de Boinod

PRAGUE What a stunning city. Beautifully bestriding the Vltava river (Czech for ‘wild water’), Prague has more than a semblance of a peaceful and prosperous civic paradigm.

Historically a city placed at the crossroads of Europe, she enjoyed a golden age in the Middle Ages, especially during the reign of the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles 4th, who founded a university (the Carolinum) and built many fine churches and monasteries. After the ‘Velvet Revolution’ of 1989 Prague is today on the threshold of a new era.

She is a city of palaces and gardens; I was lucky (as the weather was fine) and was able to enjoy fully the Royal Garden, the South Gardens, the Wallenstein Gardens and the tranquil waterside park on Kampa Island, which was created so effectively after the destruction of the original during the 2nd World War.

amazing astrological clock which is well worth seeing: when it strikes the hour there is a procession of the twelve apostles.

The figure of death gives a pull on the rope and also holds an hourglass. On the last strike a cook crows. The clock also demonstrates the movement of the sun and moon through the twelve signs of the Zodiac. This clock is a must for all to see!

One thing I really recommend is to take the boat along the river; there is a jetty in the Little Quarter and by boat one gets a true sense of the glory of Prague: the National Theatre, the ‘Ginger and Fred’ modernist, quirky and tilting building and the stunning neo-Gothic steeples of the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul.

My other favourite was the Charles Bridge, which is similar to the Ponte Sant' Angelo in Rome, adorned with beautifully carved statues of respective saints. Until 1741 it was the only crossing over the Vltava and it must have been very impressive not-to-say awe-inspiring for those entering the city. It still is!

The classic attractions include the Old Town and its square, where I managed to put my feet up and enjoy the architecture while being served with local snacks from a friendly café.

The Old Town Hall Tower has a gorgeous gothic door and an

Adam Jacot de Boinod is the author of The Meaning of Tingo and Other Extraordinary Words from around the World, published by Penguin Books, and the creator of the iPhone App Tingo, a quiz on Interesting Words.

Air Malta offers regular flights to Prague

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THINGS TO DO IN MALTA

Things to do in MALTA there is so much to do on this small island of ours that visitors often fee l like they must be missing out on something. We’ve rounded up a few of the things to do and see that are such an intrinsic part of our daily life.

04

Organise a 'Fenkata' and sample the very traditional dish of fried rabbit.

09 Explore Valletta, one of the most historic cities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and wonder at the magnificent St John’s co-Cathedral.

10 01

Take a walk along the Sliema and St Julian’s seafront and enjoy a wonderful Mediterranean meal at one of the many restaurants along the way.

02

Visit the Ggantija temples – said to be the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

03

Browse for traditional delicacies and local crafts at the Victoria Market in Gozo.

05

Organize a boat trip, and enjoy the views of the islands rugged coastline from out at sea.

Buy Maltese pastizzi – a local pastry delicacy and eat them in the sun.

06 Explore the tiny island of Comino and swim in the stunning Blue Lagoon.

11 Explore the nightlife in Paceville

07 Go swimming at Golden Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in Malta.

08

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Take in the view from Calypso’s Cave above Ramla Bay in Gozo.

12 Catch a play at the Manoel Theatre, one of the oldest working theatres in Europe.

THINGS TO DO IN MALTA

The Malta Experience

13 Pay a visit to the Mosta Church, famous for having one of the largest domes in the world.

Located in Malta’s Capital City, Valletta, housed within what was once the Sacra Infermeria of the Knights of Malta is “The Malta Experience”. This audio-visual spectacular is one of the largest attractions in Europe in terms of duration, system and language commentaries. It is also the only show that retraces seven thousand years of Maltese history. The forty-five minute presentation can be listened to in one of seventeen languages.

18 14

Take in the views of the breathtaking Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Go to Marsaxlokk quaint fishing village for markets, fresh fish and authentic fishing.

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15 Look out for village Festas ( the season begins in May), when the whole town organises parades and fireworks extravaganzas and a good time is had by all.

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Visit the atmospheric underground chambers at the Hypogeum, which were created thousands of years ago.

Shows are every hour on the hour as follows: Monday to Friday: 11:00hrs till 16:00hrs Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays: 11:00hrs till 14:00hrs (Closed on Good Friday & Easter Sunday).

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Hop onto a ferry to Gozo and head to Dwejra to admire the Azure Window which is undoubtedly one of Malta’s highlights.

Malta is one of the best places in the world to go scuba diving offering fantastic diving courses and the opportunity to see some incredible underwater wildlife during your holiday.

In a purposely built auditorium, with a panoramic screen, sensational vision and a gripping commentary, The Malta Experience brings 7000 years of history back to life. The show is undoubtedly worth a visit for anyone interested in Malta’s unique history. Moreover it is an ideal reference guide to the island’s places of interest. So why not make it your first stop and let Malta’s treasures unfold before your eyes.

www.themaltaexperience.com

20 Trek along the rugged coastline which provides a backdrop to Malta’s beautiful beaches and crystal clear seas.

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WALKING

MALTA IN THE QUIET SEASON Charlotte Stafrace

In summer, Malta’s attractions are very obvious – sun-drenched beaches; warm, clear seas; hot, lazy afternoons; outdoor clubbing.

All forms of entertainment abound – for families with kids or for youths seeking more excitement. But what do you do, where do you go if you happen to be in Malta during the ‘ low season’. Just get a pair of walking shoes on and go explore. You will get to the very core of what Malta is and see how its history has shaped it.

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Malta is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine on average throughout the year. Even when it rains, you can rest assured that it rarely lasts long enough to dampen anyone’s holiday spirits. So heading to the outdoors in the winter months is probably an enviable truth when most of our European neighbours are freezing at this time of the year.

Walking in Malta is a sure way of discovering some of its best nooks and crannies. Try to explore some of the island’s fantastic coastline, where, on a clear day, you will be rewarded with sharp lines ?? of the rugged cliffs, and you might even be able to spot Sicily on the horizon. A good place to start planning a walking tour is to get hold of the Malta Tourism Authority’s information on the topic via their website, or through a visit to one of their tourist offices where you can get maps outlining some of the best walks around.

A lot of the planned walks are marked.

You can get to your destination either by public bus or better still hire a car during your stay. There are various interesting walks dotted around, encompassing the north and south of the island. To get the most of the island, one should try to plan an itinerary which includes a chunk of the countryside, villages and churches. Here are some of my personal favourites.

To the North of the Island, where the best sandy beaches lie, you can start a walk from Mellieha Bay. The walk includes an area of around 15 kilometres. Some of the routes’ highlights include the following : Uphill from the Mellieha Bay road is an interesting feature – St. Agatha’s Tower with its red ochre painted walls. You can then keep walking towards Armier Bay where you come to a ridge with good views of Mellieha Bay as well as the island of Comino. Other features you should spot along this route include

WALKING

the cliffs of Our Lady, garigues, other secluded bays (which you can revisit during your summer holidays), defence posts and boathouses. You can also include the lovely Mellieha village where you might want to stop for a spot of lunch. On the way back to your starting point, you might want to include the Ghadira Natural Reserve.

A shorter walk (around 8 kms) which focuses on the islands’ centre is one which starts at the woodland area known as Buskett and finishes in the quaint village of Siggiewi. I would recommend doing this walk during the week, as Buskett can get rather busy on Sundays.

It is after all one of the main picnic areas for Maltese families and is a great place for the kids to run around. After you leave Buskett, you can visit ‘Clapham Junction’ where you can find a whole network of criss-crossing prehistoric cart ruts, and small punic tombs. A must see of the area is Girgenti Palace. This is the Prime Minister’s country residence and you can see its splendour rising above the Girgenti Valley. Another Palace in the vicinity, and one which can also be seen from Buskett, is Verdala Palace.

A good place to stop and rest and take in the verdant views is the point where you come to sign-posted Laferla Cross.

Further on, you come to Siggiewi’s village core, where you can just wander around and take in the beautiful

architecture of some of the palazzos and farmhouses dotted in and around the main square. You can also admire the craftsmanship of the imposing façade of the Parish Church dedicated to St. Nicholas of Bari. Or stop for a refreshing beer or a glass of wine at the small bars by the church and chat to the locals.

A coastal walk in the south of the island is one that includes the villages of Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk, St. Thomas Bay and Delimara’s coast. During the summer months, the latter is a popular swimming bay. During a winter walk, you can admire the crashing waves and take in the smell of the sea. If you end up in Marsaxlokk, you can feast your eyes on the days’ fish catch and even have some fish for lunch at one of the many restaurants on its promenade.

On this route, you can see a coastal battery as well as salt pans, abandoned churches, British fortifications, and St. Thomas Tower dating back to the 17th century. On a slight detour, and if time permits, you can also include the Xrobb l-Ghagin Nature Park. This side of the coast includes beautiful views of both seascapes and countryside.

These are only some of my personal favourites, but there are many other routes to be explored in Malta’s optimal light conditions, which make the surroundings glisten against its bright

winter blue skies. So head out and see Malta in the best way possible… on foot.

You will come across indigenous plants along the trails and smell the most aromatic of wild thyme and fennel. Just watch out for the occasional shepherd with his flock of sheep or goats trying to manoeuvre the country lanes! With its myriad of beautiful sights, Malta glows in the winter time too.

Some useful tips for the road : • When you come upon a sign saying

RTO – This means ‘Riservato’, or a

piece of land earmarked as private

property (or for private hunting).

• Make sure you use a good pair of

walking shoes and adequate rain and

windproof gear.

• Allow enough time to complete the

walk in daylight.

• There are signposts along the way,

but if you’re lost don’t hesitate to ask

your whereabouts.

•

Cliff areas don’t always have a marked path and there are no guard rails. Strong breezes and winds are common along the cliff tops so when the wind is blowing, keep well back from the edge.

• Malta’s Emergency number is: 112

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St jOSEPH

Feast your eyes

On March 19th, Malta, along with many other countries, celebrates the feast of St Joseph.

St Joseph is celebrated as the patron of families, fathers, expectant mothers, travelers, immigrants, craftsmen, engineers, working people in general and house sellers and buyers; indeed, it is said THAT if you are selling your house and you plaCE a statue of him, you will be successful.

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St jOSEPH

To identify St Joseph in religious art, look for a bearded man, always with a flower in bloom which signifies he is a chosen one. The story goes that he was chosen as he was a kind man who was elderly and therefore his relationship with Mary was platonic, there would be no question that she was not a virgin when the time came for her to give birth to Jesus. Often, St Joseph is shown working with his tools as his trade was a craftsman more than a carpenter and he is usually only seen with Jesus as an infant. Later see scenes have him in the background, but after Jesus was 12, there is just one mention of him, and that is his death.

The feast is a public holiday and while some establishments close, it is

usually offices and banks that benefit from such events. The village of Rabat (close to Mdina) celebrates the saint as their patron; food stalls, fireworks and a procession will be enjoyed by the villagers and all are welcome to attend.

Feasts are taken pretty seriously with a mass, bands marching around the village, and a statue of the saint carried through the streets by those who are lucky enough to get a turn.

Some feasts have special sweets, though nougat is present at all. There's a great atmosphere and this is a perk of Malta that is well worth experiencing.

Though every village has a saint or two when a public holiday is celebrated, somehow, the celebrations are that little bit more special.

I. Pilon / Shutterstock.com

Magnificent Cathedral Described as the first complete example of the high Baroque anywhere, St. John’s Cathedral epitomizes the role of its original patrons, the Knights of St. John. The Cathedral is testimony to the talent of Maltese military architect Gerolamo Cassar, with Mattia Preti’s intricately carved stone wall designs, as well as the painted vaulted ceiling and side altars with scenes from the life of St John. The Cathedral also houses one of Europe’s most impressive and famous art works – Caravaggio’s Beheading of St. John the Baptist.

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The Cathedral was a shrine to the Knights, as many sons of Europe’s noble families from the 16th to 18th centuries lie buried here. Their intricate, marble-inlaid tombstones form a magnificently crafted pavimento. Also a resting place to the founder of Valletta, Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vallette, his tomb lies in the crypt, a quiet sanctuary and place of contemplation away from the busy streets outside.

Information supplied by visitmalta.com

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Seasonal FOOD

A Kitchen Garden in the Heart of the capital Lea Hogg

The six weeks of Lent, well observed on the island, make it one of the best countries in the world to be in at this time in March as we wait for Easter to approach.

I write my piece this month from an extraordinarily large city centre kitchen garden. What a luxury to have seasonal cauliflowers, broccoli and cabbages with the added bonus of some citrus now at the end of its season, all in the heart of the capital city.

This is a beautiful month on the island, the beginning of spring, the promise of the summer yet to come, the crops at their very best. As I walk around the windy paths of the seven acre garden, something which i do very often these days, I feel no different to being in the fields in the middle of the Mediterranean countryside. With the city bustle of a very busy morning all happening right on the other side of the garden wall, I am looking at rows of cabbages peeping through beautifully fanned leaves, the color of jade. They are like giant rose petals wrapped around cabbage hearts, tucking them away under their protection, keeping them firm. This is nature in its true form, perfect almost from the apparent imperfections of pesticide-free crops.

Since I have been coming here, I have learnt so much about the right time to harvest vegetables and fruit, to capture them at the best time of their growth cycle, at the peak of their flavour and goodness. The surest way to know the authenticity of your organic food is to grow your own as they do here. Broccoli is gathered when the buds are still compact just before the florets begin to open. This is when the small tender leaves around them can be eaten, when their texture is perfect, just on the brink before the toughness starts to take over. Each vegetable and piece of fruit is checked everyday and here,

broccoli for example is cut at exactly six and a half inches below the flower head.

One of the gardeners explains to me that at some point before the cabbages are harvested, a few of the roots are broken to prevent overwatering and excessive maturing and this guarantees a balance of moisture and crispness.

And on the island during Lent, the absence of meat on Fridays, and for some on Wednesdays, is still observed. The British influence is still evident in some homes with pancakes on Shrove Tuesday.

On Ash Wednesday, people emerge from churches with ashes on their heads. This is a devout island seeped in deep-rooted traditions with strong ties to the family nucleus. Lent is the time for preparation with the climax being Easter Sunday lunch. Much planning and preparation is made for this family gathering with the usual abundance of food in private homes, so typical of the generous spirit of Mediterranean hospitality, the huge portions and the feast after the fast.

And after the cutting comes the cooking and today I am cooking with Saul Halevi who is preparing a special Lenten dish using a local Mediterranean fish, Malta rockfish, (cippulazza) and the vegetables we have just picked.And while Saul prepares the ÄŠippulaz and a broccoli veloutĂŠ, I make some infused waters using herbs from the kitchen garden and the traditional lenten almond cakes of KwareĹźimal with Luke and Ayrton, two wonderfully helpful and able final year students from the Institute of Tourism Studies.

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Seasonal FOOD

I am sharing our Lenten recipes and you can find step-by-step photo instructions on: www.goodfoodeveryday.wordpress.com And for Saul's Ċippulaz in a Broccoli Velouté, this recipe serves 4.

To make it, you will need: 400 g broccoli A pinch of nutmeg 1 fresh onion 600g Ċippulaz, deboned with skin on 6 olives 2 beetroots, cooked and blended to a smooth purée.

I love refreshing infused waters and I take advantage of all the wonderful Mediterranean herbs and flavours. I refrigerate the infusion overnight to let all the flavours come out. This is a totally natural drink and a natural source of Vitamin C. To make it, you will need: 2 lemons, squeezed 1 orange, peeled and cut up A pinch of cloves 1 teaspoon rosé peppercorns A pinch of fresh thyme leaves 1 tablespoon thyme honey 2 litre bottle of still mineral water A few flat leaf parsley leaves Squeeze the lemons. Chop the other citrus into small segments with the skin on. Crush a few rosé peppercorns to extract the full flavor and leave a few of them whole. On the island they grow abundantly but you can find them in most stores. Tear the herbs and parsley leaves roughly. Do not chop up with a knife as they will discolour and cloud the water. Fill up a jar with mineral water and stir everything into it. Cover with a lid and put in the fridge overnight if possible, or for at least for 6 to 8 hours.

I usually top up the jar twice during the day with water and keep two jars in the fridge at any one time so that I always have the infusion available to drink.

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time consuming to do it at home and you can add some finely chopped olives to it before serving. Another interesting thing is that Saul uses minimal butter and oil when he cooks and virtually no butter.

Score the skin of the fish and steam it for exactly 11 minutes and this should be perfect.

Steam the broccoli with chopped up onion and some nutmeg. Leave to cool and blend it until very smooth.

For serving, reheat the velouté and pour into a large soup plate. Place the steamed fish in the centre and garnish with puréed beetroot, either piped or spoon it on.

Chop up the olives and keep aside. Saul dehydrates his own olives and mixes two teaspoons on the velouté but this is too

The beetroot purée should also balance the acidity of the broccoli.

The combination of flavour is fantastic.

And finally, the KwareĹźimal. The word derives from quaresima for the 40 days of lent and the ingredients in this sweet reflect repentance and giving up the luxuries of eggs and fat. I always like to use Helen and Anne Caruana Galizia's recipe from their book The Food and Cookery of Malta, which I feel is the island's cooking bible. I make mini KwareĹźimal as I find them more practical and appealing in bite size. I also reduce the sugar by half and use local thyme honey and carob syrup as additional sweeteners.

To make it, you will need: 200 grams ground almonds 200 grams sifted plain flour 150 grams sugar 1 tsp cinnamon 1 spoon Orange flower water Grated rind of 1 lemon, 1 orange and 1 tangerine 5 tablespoons thyme honey 1 tablespoon carob syrup Chopped Pistachios to decorate and grated orange zest Mix all the ingredients together and add just enough water to make a stiff dough. Knead lightly and shape into small bite size ovals. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 190 C for about 10 minutes.

While they are still hot, brush them with thyme honey and sprinkle chopped pistachios and orange zest.

www.goodfoodeveryday.wordpress.com Photography: Svetlana Pandolfino Saul Halevi is Executive Head Chef at the Phoenicia Hotel

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WAITING FOR SPRING

Waiting for Spring Sacha Staples

“No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.”

—Proverb

30

WAITING FOR SPRING

Whether you are living in Malta or just passing through, you will quickly learn that the topic of weather is of critical importance to the locals. Malta is incredibly small; the total land mass of the three islands in the Maltese Archipelago (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) is a mere 316 square kilometres. Surrounded by deep Mediterranean sea, far enough from Sicily to the north and Tunisia to the west, the islands are decidedly isolated; embraced entirely by sea and air and thus subject to the capricious whims of the weather.

Although Malta is known for the long hot summers, I have been bewitched by the winter weather this year — crisp air, deep cobalt sea, and skies filled with sun ray clouds. This winter in Malta is similar to how Charles Dickens once described the spring season: “It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”

Malta winters, however, are not always so beautiful — sometimes there are harsh rainstorms that flood the streets and the air

becomes damp. The Tramuntana wind from the North whips like ice and you cannot escape it. The Xlokk wind from Libya, known locally as the Gibli, rare in winter, but occurring nonetheless, transports the Northern African sands to Malta, covering the entire island in a thick layer of dust. In winter, the sun can hide behind grey clouds that roll in off the sea and settle over the island for too long. The days are too short, darkness when you rise and darkness again too soon; but this is true of other places, not just Malta. Winter is generally, at least for countries north of the equator, the less favoured of the seasons.

Although the Maltese are known for their passionate love of summer, I wonder if perhaps spring — the mezzo tempo — is the superior season. The change of temperature, usually occurring in March, always yields the possibility of renewal and rebirth.

Similar to the change of year in December, the first hints of spring mark the start of something new. After the feasts of Christmas, there is a quiet interlude, a hibernation period of January and February and then March arrives and the sun becomes brighter and stronger and there is an awakening.

31

WAITING FOR SPRING

The sea is at its best in spring, I am told — clean and crisp, calmed after the roughness of winter and before it becomes tainted by summer sun lotions.

The Horticultural Society organises the Spring Show, showcasing the best of local flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

The International Fireworks Festival takes over the Grand Harbour in Valletta for three days, reminding tourists and locals alike of the intricate history of fireworks on the island. The forty days of Lent draw to an end, the traditional figoli almond cakes are prepared, and Easter is celebrated; most notably a commemoration of the resurrection, but also for the return of springtime.

Spring has always been deeply connected to the agricultural community. New animals are born, the land is ploughed, and the winter crops are lifted. Perhaps the most delicious springtime crop in Malta are the strawberries. The village of Mgarr boasts the best strawberries on the island and hosts the annual Festa Frawli (or Strawberry Festival) held in April. If you have the pleasure of attending this feast, you will taste every possible strawberry confection that your imagination can conjure. What began as a small gathering in the local square to celebrate the harvest, has thrived each year, nearly outgrowing the village limits.

"Spring has always been deeply connected to the agricultural community.

New animals are born, the land is ploughed, and the winter crops are lifted."

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Recently, while driving through the village of Mgarr one afternoon, I spot a small stand at the side of the road. My eyes are immediately overcome by the colour — the bright glowing red something on top of the small wooden table. There is a sign, marked simply in red lettering with a single word: Frawli. Malta is full of beautiful things, hidden gems, and charming views to be sure, but at this moment, I am in awe of the glory of this small collection of fruit. This chance encounter with the first pickings of the season is my first evidence of spring. I pull over and gather the courage to test my limited Maltese language abilities, asking the proprietor, Kemm? Two Euros, she replies in English. I buy four small boxes and bite into one of the giant specimens immediately — the taste is incredibly sweet and dense; I can taste the brilliance of the colour, I can taste spring.

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Sustainable MALTA

A Hop in the Green Direction Melanie Vella

The green revolution is the full integration of ethical and eco-friendly practices into our daily lives, so as to build a more sustainable future.

Peppi Gauci

The Grassy Hopper wheatgrass shot

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Peppi Gauci, founder of The Bahrija Oasis and Permaculture Research Foundation, and Yasmin Degiorgio, founder of The Grassy Hopper vegetarian cafes, are trying something new for Malta. Together they have vertically integrated two projects which are proving to be game-changers within the agriculture and food. Peppi and Yasmin are going beyond the business as a usual paradigm and choosing to apply permaculture principles into every aspect of their lives and businesses.

Permaculture is a system that coordinates the whole structure of growing food in a natural, sustainable way. It creates a holistic system that provides for needs such as food, water, shelter, energy and health in a way that has a positive impact on the environment. The Bahrija Oasis farm, which overlooks some of Malta’s most picturesque views, has been transformed from a dry and arid landscape, into a thriving eco-system

designed using permaculture principles.

The Permaculture Research Foundation is a self-reliant eco-education centre where hands-on educational workshops are held. Visits to the farm are coordinated to inspire people, communities and companies to improve their green performance. From weekend retreats to internationally accredited six-day Permaculture Design Courses building activities include gardening and harvesting produce, feeding the animals and more.

Permaculture means returning to an understanding of how food can be grown in order to yield the most nutrient efficient benefits and what food is supposed to give to the body. The quality of soil is deteriorating as fertilizers and modern farming techniques are damaging the soil. ‘Nutrient deficiency in soil and food plays a large part in the food and health crisis we are experiencing,’

Sustainable MALTA

The Bahrija Oasis

explains Peppi. The nutrient content of the food we eat is highly dependent on the quality of the soil it is grown in. The deficiency of a single nutrient within the human body can cause serious health issues.

Food is the starting point. ‘A transformation could start with eating food full of nutrients, energy and cleansing properties. This is one of the core daily elements which will boost people’s energy to do what they love,’ says Yasmin.

Geodesic Dome

The Grassy Hopper food truck

Wheatgrass at the Grassy Hopper

The Wheat and Rye Grass project is one example of how farmer and foodie are working together. Peppi grows supergrasses, using permaculture techniques ensuring the grasses grow with the highest nutrient and oxygen content possible. The Grassy Hopper serves daily shots of wheatgrass, known by their Facebook followers as the #wheatgrassrevolution. Many are replacing their afternoon espresso with a shot of wheatgrass juice, which nourishes and detoxifies the body, boosts the immune system, aids in weight-loss and clears skin conditions.

‘There is no need to convince people to introduce healthier food into their lifestyle, once they taste the food and feel the reaction their body has to it, the cravings for junk-food give

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Valletta | St Julian’s | Sliema | B’Kara | MIA | Bugibba | Gozo | Bay Street | Tigné

Sustainable MALTA

way to cravings for healthier options,’ comments Emmeline, one of the Grassy Hopper team.

This new food culture spills over into a new mentality where conscious ethics are cultivated in every step and aspect of the business. For example, the Hopper team uses eco-friendly packaging that is sustainably sourced and 100% compostable. All the packaging and organic waste is disposed in a compost bin. It is then collected by Alexandra Cachia, head of the ‘Garbage to Garden’ program, who utilises all the waste as compost at the Creativity Vortex organic permaculture farm in Mgarr. The whole process goes full circle.

This group of young, inspiring Maltese entrepreneurs are leading the way to setting new standards for businesses.

As conscious businesses, they aim to show that a successful business does not have to compromise on values to respect the environment and others, in order to cut costs to maintain commercial success. Committing to sustainable strategies is ultimately good for business, and although sometimes it requires a good initial investment, the cut of running costs in the long term make it financially sound.

Top: GrassyHopper - Smoothies & Juices | Bottom: Beetroot & Bean Burger

The Grasshopper and Permaculture are inspiring their customers by encouraging them to throw their waste in the compost heap. Mariella was the first to bring her own plastic container to the mobile café to put her lunch in and save packaging. The customer of the week at The Grassy Hopper became a trend on social media.

Increasingly, customers are inspired by the #tupperwarerevolution photos they see on Facebook, and many show up for their daily dose of goodness, lunchbox in hand.

To follow Peppi and Yasmin’s success visit www.permaculturemalta.org, check out The Grassy Hopper’s Facebook page or visit the cafes in Ta’ Xbiex and Valletta.

37

Traditional food

A selection of fritters including cauliflower fritters and tuna cakes from Gululu Restaurant

Ir-Randan, food and fasting during lent in Malta "To break the fast was considered a mortal sin and woe betide any miserable soul caught breaking it."

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Generation ago most adults and many minors observed the century-old tradition of fasting during the forty days of Lent. That period of abstinence and penitence between the end of the Carnival festivities and midnight on Holy Saturday, when the bells of a hundred churches would peal with joy, announcing the news of the risen Christ.

During this period of Randan, as lent is called in Maltese, all believers would abstain from the consumption of meat, eggs and dairy products. To break the fast was considered a mortal sin and woe betide any miserable soul caught doing so.

During the days of the feared Inquisition which wielded its power in Malta for just over 200 years, from the late 16th century till 1798, and the arrival of Napoleon, many citizens were reported and brought before its court. One poverty stricken fellow was absolved of eating cat stew as it was all he had to eat. Three bon viveurs on the other hand after already having been reprimanded and handed down a mild sentence for having eaten cheese, salami and ham, and for having fried food in butter, were on their second arraignment, tortured, beaten in the square at Vittoriosa and condemned to row on the Order’s galleys for two years.

Traditional food

So, what did we eat? Vegetables, pasta and rice and in more recent times, olives and of course fish. Now despite being surrounded by sea, fresh fish was almost considered a luxury. Means were limited and seasonality played an important and limiting role, so to feed the masses, fish caught in season like Tuna was cured and stored whilst other species mostly anchovies, herrings and cod were imported in barrels, salted or smoked, from around the Mediterranean and the North Sea. Ta’ l- imluha, street vendors of salted and cured food pushed their carts around village streets and also from village to village selling fish by weight, wrapped in grease proof paper.

Lent kicks in on Ash Wednesday, in Maltese Ras ir-Randan, when the faithful flock to mass and have ashes rubbed into their foreheads. Before that however comes Carnival, meaning “to put away meat”, these few days of feasting and

making merry are celebrated with gusto in Malta and Gozo in the streets of Valletta and Floriana, and Nadur respectively. The typical Carnival sweet is the pine shaped Prinjulata made from broken biscuits, cherries, nuts and covered in a snow-like cream with drippings of chocolate and coloured cherries. This year Carnival festivities begin on Friday 28th of February.

Gululu in St. Julian’s, a casual Maltese diner on the water's edge at Spinola bay, prepares meltingly delicious salt cod and anchovy fritters, tuna cakes and traditional pasta dishes. Gululu is also a Ftajjarija where ftajjar – not dissimilar to Italian pizza – are baked in a wood burning oven and during lent a ftira include special toppings – pumpkin, anchovy , potato and olives - are prepared through the forty days. Fresh fish more plentiful than in centuries past is always available too.

Ftira tar-Randan from Gululu Restaurant

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History

MALTA AT WAR Robert Weatherburn

In 1530, when the Hospitaller Knights of the Order of St John arrived on Malta to establish their new power base in the Mediterranean, the people of the islands already had a long and colourful history. Forged and fashioned first by the sea, and then by the various peoples, cultures and empires that had developed – in peace and at war, it spread around the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding countries. The Maltese are a seafaring people born of the sea, and the great harbour on the main island of the archipelago – Grand Harbour, as we know it today – afforded shelter in the most strategic position between the Eastern and Western basins of the Mediterranean Sea. 40

HISTORY

The Knights must have been cock-ahoop to have this gift from the King of Spain, albeit that the presence of the Knights and their fleet of galleys in such a strategic position was part of the overall struggle of Christian Europe to check the expansion of the Islamic empire of the Ottoman Turks. The armies of Islam had already defeated and expelled the Knights from the Holy Land, and from their base on Rhodes – but Christian Europe knew the worth of the maritime expertise of the Knights of St John. From Malta, the galleys of the Knights could prey upon and control the shipping of the Mediterranean as never before. The Turks knew that, too.

Once ashore, the Knights began updating and extending the fortifications of Grand Harbour. The city of Birgu – one of the old Three Cities at the heart of Grand Harbour – stands to landward of the great Castle known today as Fort St Angelo. There had been a huddle of houses here, probably since Phoenician times, for the peninsula of Birgu affords the best sheltered water in Grand Harbour. The village became the first maritime town founded by Spanish soldiers and seafarers when the Aragonese occupied the islands in 1283, after a great galley battle between the Angouvins and the Aragonese during the territorial wars known as The Sicilian Vespers. This shambling settlement – Il Borgo, as it was known – grew in the shelter of the walls of one of the great castles of the Mediterranean – and of the European medieval Courts of Love: Castello del Mare... the castle the Spanish took from the Arabs in 1091: Castrum Maris, – as the Romans knew it after they took it from the Carthaginians.

Yet love had little to do with it – or at least it was a passion forced quickly into a back seat – for Birgu was destined to be slap-bang in the middle of two of the greatest conflicts of European warfare.

Fanatical and highly trained, those monastic Christian Knights were only too aware that their ongoing conflict

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HISTORY

with their arch enemy – the equally fanatical religious burgeoning power of Islam led by the Sultan of Turkey – meant that an inevitable and furious attack would be made to expel them from their new base.

And it came....

The Great Siege – by some 40,000 troops of the army of Islam – took place in 1565 and is generally known as The Great Siege of Malta. Against all odds, the Knights – vastly outnumbered, but with the help of the Maltese people – repulsed the siege and were only dislodged from the islands in 1788 – along with the iniquitous tribunal of the Roman Inquisition – by Napoleon Bonaparte. Bonaparte was on his way to Egypt at the time, and his huge force made it clear to the Knights – no longer the fighting force they once were – that they could not win that one.

No siege necessary.

In 1800, British ships appeared on the horizon, and then the French – unpopular with the Maltese – did a runner. Nelson was loose in the Mediterranean – and the French didn't win that one.

Like all the occupying powers before them, the Brits wanted these islands because of their strategic position in the Mediterranean, and they set about turning Grand Harbour – in particular – into a state-of-the-art Naval base, complete with dockyards and new fortifications for Grand Harbour.

The next siege took a while coming, but when it did – in 1940 – death and destruction rained from the skies.

From June 1940 until October 1942, the people of Malta defied this siege, and the islands became known – collectively – as Fortress Malta. Had Malta fallen, the course of the war – and the perverted march of Fascism – may have been very different.

During World War II, Malta endured the fearsome concerted onslaught of the Axis powers' aerial bombardment – by aircraft of the German Luftwaffe and the Italian Regia Aeronautica – flying from their bases on Sicily. Not only were the towns and cities of Malta bombed in an attempt to cow the people and destroy all facilities that might be used to defend the islands from the many-faceted fanatical rampaging madness of Fascism: the convoys of ships that set out to carry food and supplies to the islands were also attacked from the air and the sea. If the Maltese could not be beaten into submission by the bombing, the Axis sought to starve them to death or to surrender. It was the age-old tactic of siege warfare, and it was nothing new to the Maltese.

Some of Birgu's ancient fortifications now house a museum that commemorates the bravery of the Maltese people during the siege from June 1940 until October 1942, and the appalling horrors they endured from the aerial bombardment.

Being on the spot – it happened right here – the Malta At War Museum displays the conditions suffered by the Maltese

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HISTORY

people: guided tours take visitors into the air raid shelters and the warren of tunnels dug deep under the ancient fortifications of the city.

From the museum one can walk across the bridge and through the Couvre Port to explore more of the town.

There is much to see, apart from the great fortifcations:– auberges and the armoury and first hospital of the Knights; the palaces of the Bishops and the Inquisitor; churches and chapels; – even a Norman house from the time of Count Roger of Sicily who captured Malta from the Arabs in 1091.

The first Auberges in Birgu were not as large – or grand – as those the Knights built in their new and much grander and better fortified city – Valletta – in the aftermath of the Turkish siege of 1565.

But dates aside, Birgu retains the feel of a medieval town or city, in contrast to the flamboyant styles of the later Renaissance and High Baroque of Valletta.

The English Auberge in Birgu still stands on Majistrall Street, and is now used as a regional library. You won't, however, find

an English Auberge in Valletta. After King Henry VIII of England's rift and break with the Pope and Roman Catholicism, and the establishment of the Church of England, he began the suppression and dissolution of the monasteries in 1540. This was completed by his daughter, Elizabeth, in 1559 – six years before The Great Siege of 1565. English Knights of the Order, had, however, already played an important role in defending and securing the islands from repeated attacks by the Ottoman Turks.

In World War I the Maltese fought with the British and British Commonwealth forces against the Germans and their allies, the Turks. In World War II the Maltese fought again with the British and British Commonwealth forces, but also – this time – with the armed forces of the United States of America – against the greatest threat the world had ever known: the madness of the Axis powers of Germany and Italy.

The world owes a great debt to the bravery of all the people of Fortress Malta, and King George VI of England recognised this and awarded the George Cross for Bravery to all the people of Malta.

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HIDDEN GEMS AND HISTORICAL BEAUTY Built in 1745, Villa Bologna’s Baroque splendour has been lovingly brought back to life. From classic facades and towering fountains to sunken ponds and garden statues this Grade 1 listed National Monument is yours to discover.

VILLA BOLOGNA WORKING ESTATE & GARDENS

30, St Anthony Street, Attard, Malta ATD 1282. Tel: 2141 7973 Open: Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5pm. Saturday 9.00am - 1pm

www.villabologna.com Operational Programme I – Cohesion Policy 2007-2013 Investing in Competitiveness for a Better Quality of Life Project part-financed by the European Union European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Co-financing rate: 42.5% EU Funds, 7.5% National Funds, 50% Private Funds Investing in your future

PANORAMIC LOCATIONS

Bella Vistas visited Liz Ayling

If you’re out walking Malta or Gozo’s coastline, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to views.

Some panoramas are must-sees if you’re on holiday here but even for locals, the view across Grand Harbour from Upper Barrakka Gardens never fails to impress. The beauty of coastal scenery is the ever-changing play of light on the water and the

myriad cloud formations that frame your view. Here are some choice vistas but we’re sure you’ll find your own favourite given that even the same view on consecutive days can be a totally different experience.

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PANORAMIC LOCATIONS

1. The Islands from the sea The ultimate way to experience the Maltese Islands’ coastline is from the sea. Nothing comes close to the up close and personal perspective of Malta’s imposing cliffs and bastions than seeing them from the waves.

Cruise liner passengers often have the best views on arrival and departure into Grand Harbour at sunrise and sunset, which are the photographer’s dream zones to shoot in. Hire a dhajsa for a harbour jaunt or hop aboard one of the many pleasure boats to enjoy wave-height vistas.

2. Grand Harbour from Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens, Valletta Classic views, the stuff of picture postcards, Grand Harbour will leave an indelible memory even if you can’t do justice to the capturing the view to take home. The upper gardens give you the history – views across the Three Cities, Fort St Angelo, and to the dockyards; the lower gardens give you the harbour breakwater and the endless horizon.

Both are great spots for cruise liner spotting; try early evenings as they exit Grand Harbour.

3. Dingli Cliffs This stretch of coastline is where sheer cliff meets sea at a drop of some 300 metres in parts. Tourist excursions stop at the little chapel of St Magdalen almost mid-way along the cliffs, but try to walk the entire stretch if you’ve time. Early evenings in summer (mid afternoons in winter) give you wonderful sunsets and light. Glimpse little Filfa, a rocky islet just off shore, that’s a nature reserve and home to a unique sub species of lizard as well as bird life.

4. Mgarr Harbour - Gozo Walk up past the Grand Hotel and along the road to Nadur/Qala, and look out and over both Comino and Malta, tracking with your eye the route the ferry takes.

Again, sunset is the time to see it at its best. The landscape blurs a bit, and somehow you get a sense of vastness and distance – a moment to treasure away from the bustle and hustle of Malta and Gozo’s towns.

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PANORAMIC LOCATIONS

5. Dwerja Bay & The Azure Window All Gozo is view upon view, but this is one not to miss.

Again, early and later in the day make for more interesting photography. It’s fun to zoom in and snap pictures of people walking up and over the window itself! Their diminutive figures put the rock arch into perspective.

6. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay across to Gnejna Bay Walk the bay and climb up on the bony, eroded ridge that juts out between the two bays. The views either way are spectacular, and all the more so for the weird, lunar-like, golden landscape of the peninsula itself. This ridge is a spectacular sunset spot that makes for amazing photos.

7. Tigne’ Point, Sliema The place to snap a classic photo view of Valletta with the Catholic and Anglican Cathedrals vying for attention on the city skyline. Head around the point, wending around base of the deluxe apartments right to the small Tigne’ Fort area to get uninterrupted views.

8. St Agatha’s Tower (the Red Tower), Mellieha You’ll see this landmark standing proud on the Marfa Ridge as you head north to catch the Gozo ferry. Built by the Knights in 1649, it has open views over Mellieħa Bay and across to Comino and Gozo. It is a robust, large structure designed to hold a garrison of 30 men and to enough ammunition and supplies to withstand a 40-day siege. The tower is run by

Malta’s National Trust, Din-l’Art Helwa, and is open to the public Monday-Sunday from 10.00 to 13.00 hrs. Tuesdays open from 10.00 to 16.00 hrs.

9. Bugibba / Qawra Seafront A touristy walk if ever there was one as you’ll pass lots of holiday makers getting some air. Not strenuous to walk and served along the route with plenty of refreshment kiosks.

The attraction here is the open view across St Paul’s Bay, over to St Paul’s Island – a tiny rock with a statue on it. Said to be where St Paul was shipwrecked in A.D.60, so legend has it.

The seafront has lots of seating so you can simply sit, read, sunbathe and enjoy the views.

10. Walled Cities – Mdina (Malta) & Cittadella (Gozo) Last but not least come the two walled, medieval cities that dominate the centres of Malta and Gozo, respectively. They both have spectacular views and walkways on the bastion walls, though at Cittadella you have 360 degree views. Mdina’s perspective gives you most major landmarks – the Portomaso Tower at St Julian’s, Valletta’s skyline, the Mosta dome and more are all visible from this ancient landlocked vantage point.

This article first appeared in Maltainsideout.com - a popular site on visiting, living and working in Malta. The author has written extensively on the culture, heritage and lifestyle of Maltese Islands, Liz also cooks and photographs food for her blog, TheRedBistro.com, creating recipes inspired by Malta’s seasonal produce.

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Destination

Venice Deborah Ratcliffe

Venice, assails the senses with its intense beauty. Wherever you look, the magnificence can be almost overwhelming - Churches, Palaces, Museums, stately Mansions, each more striking than the last. If time is short then joining an escorted tour will allow you to check out all the main highlights. Seriously don’t miss: St. Mark's Square filled with tourists and pigeons. The superb St. Mark's Basilica - built as the Reliquary for the Saint - lavishly endowed with treasures donated by the fabulously wealthy merchants during the peak of Venetian mercantile/trading power. Do visit the Doge's Palace where until 1797, the Doges ruled the Venetian Empire. Politics reigned supreme and life was essentially controlled by elite families whose names were in the ‘Golden Book’.

One of the main attractions of any visit to Venice is, of course, a gondola ride on the majestic Grand Canal. It’s a magical experience, passing under ancient bridges, gliding by the magnificent historical buildings with their reflections dancing in the shimmering waters. An amusing aside is a delightful experience friends of mine had in Venice, whilst sitting in a gondola, exploring the glorious Venetian canals. Chatting away to the Gondolier, Sylvie let slip it was their wedding anniversary. To her blushing embarrassment the Gondolier burst into a medley of love songs! If you want a really different experience then why not take a lesson in becoming an iconic Gondolier? Not sure if singing lessons are thrown in!

Gondolas can be expensive so look out for the Vaporetti- a Venetian ferry - much cheaper and the views are still the same!

Take to dry ground, stand on the Rialto Bridge and watch the

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different faces of Venice meander pass by - tourist boats, family runabouts, cargo boats - the canals buzz with life. Don’t forget to explore the labyrinth of narrow passageways and alleys, graced by delightful bridges, imposing houses and hiding real family run cafes patronised by the locals.

March visitors catch the last remaining few days of the fascinating Carnival - naturally celebrated with panache and flair in Venice. Check out the web site: www.carnevale.venezia.it/programma.php to see what’s on highlights include watching ‘The Best Masked Costume Contest’ or participating in the ‘Walking Theatre ... Secrets of Venice".

Finally, in March opera lovers can immerse themselves in La Traviata at the Teatro La Fenice - once again fully restored after another catastrophic fire It was originally commissioned by the Nobile Societa, a group of wealthy nobles and citizens.

Destination

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PROPERTY

Mad for Malta A Frank Salt Real Estate client recently touched base to check about the value of a property his mother had bought in the 1980s. He was pleased to find out that her three-bedroom apartment in Mosta, situated in the centre of the island, which she had originally bought the property for just €15,000, was today valued at €185,000, after the addition of two Italian style bathrooms and new modern kitchen. Not a bad investment at all.

In a recent survey, Forbes has listed Malta among the top 15 countries to retire to this year, particularly for Americans.

The survey comes hot on the heels of another survey, the 2013 edition of the World Risk Report, which placed Malta as the second safest country. Forbes said it had teamed up with International Living.com’s newly-released Annual Global Retirement Index 2014 - now in its 23nd year - which ranked the best international retirement destinations on the basis of data from its team of experts on the ground in the most popular countries among US and Canadian expat retirees.

Editors assessed factors ranging from the price of groceries and average temperature, to utility costs and the friendliness of locals. The survey also considered real estate, benefits for retired people, healthcare, entertainment and amenities and ease of integration.

In a separate online exercise Malta placed an amazing third in a list of the best 25 cities for young people to live in. It is surpassed only by New York (second) and Vienna (first). The entire list can be found on list25.com. The poll introduces the list by saying: “Young people can be dynamic, free-spirited, idealistic and carefree as well as goal-oriented, driven and practical. Some prefer to leave their hometowns to study in other cities or even other countries and perhaps move around again after obtaining a college degree. It normally depends on their financial capability or just their need to be independent and less restricted.” As regards Malta, the list says: “Yes, we know it’s not a city but rather an archipelago

in the Mediterranean. Than why is it on this list of best cities?

Nicknamed the “Land of Honey”, Malta might as well be just one city given that it's one of the smallest states in the world.

Here’s a cool fact though: According to various studies they have the most generous inhabitants in the world.”

This positive sentiment towards Malta is also reflected in Russia, where Malta has been voted as “The Best Island Resort 2013” by travellers and tourists of www.travel.ru. Over ten thousand people participated. The travel.ru information portal is one of the most popular internet tourist resources in the Russian market. In 2012 Malta achieved a 31 per cent increase from the Russian market to reach the all-time high of almost 32,000 Russian tourists visiting the islands. Figures for 2013 are not out yet but sources have already confirmed another considerable jump in tourists from Russia.

It is thus no wonder that Malta is such a hot relocation and property investment option! Healthcare, education, accessibility and costs all play a key role and Malta passes all tests with flying colours,” he explains. Another significant factor is Malta’s positive disposition towards foreign nationals visiting the island. The Maltese are friendly and helpful by nature, making it so much easier for those relocating to the islands to settle in.

Nick Bilocca is Marketing Manager at Frank Salt Real Estate ltd – www.franksalt.com.mt

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PROPERTY

Exceptional Seafront Homes With Stunning Views Breathtaking views, exquisite finishes and state-of-the-art technology make Tigné Point’s Q1 seafront residences the pick of Malta’s luxury apartment crop.

Only a handful of apartments, including two penthouses, are still available to purchase. The rest have been snapped up since their October launch.

The interiors of the new Q1 residences were crafted by leading Maltese architect/interior designer Martin Xuereb using a combination of glossy, matt and reflective surfaces, rich timbers and luxurious flooring.

“We thought the uniqueness of the site merited an equally unique design worthy of its clientele,” he says.

Q1 is the newest addition to the awardwinning Tigné Point development, a carfree, self-contained enclave equipped with walking-distance facilities that would rival most larger towns for choice and convenience.

At a glance, Q1 distinguishes itself from the rest of the complex by its sheer proximity to the shore and its wide frontage of panoramic sea views. Many

of the Q1 living quarters are directly on the water’s edge while enjoying bird’s eye views of Valletta’s skyline.

Yet for all its seclusion, Q1 is nonetheless literally a stone’s throw away from all the amenities at Tigné Point, including a fabulous shopping mall, a host of popular restaurants and caféterias, and Pjazza Tigné, the heart of the development and the largest public square in the Sliema district.

Over 30 per cent of the development is reserved for landscaped open space, allowing residents and visitors to stroll freely or relax, shop and dine in the piazza without the inconvenience of noise, fumes and traffic congestion.

Tigné Point’s heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems are underpinned by the latest in green

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technology that is both cost-efficient and sustainable. Using sea water sourced onsite as the constant cooling agent, the HVAC system offers considerable energy savings bolstered by a computerised Climate Control System that ensures maximum efficiency and almost negligible wastage.

Apart from gorgeous views, Q1 properties come equipped with a holistic package that includes access control, fire detection, climate control, under-floor heating in bathrooms and smart lighting.

A stunningly designed show apartment is fully complete and available for immediate viewing.

For more info please visit : www.Q1.com.mt

PROPERTY

Malta is the right Move!

I often sit on an aeroplane and flip through the pages of this magazine trying to kill time, and looking for something to read which is of interest to me. This time it's my turn to try and keep you from flipping the page.

Chances are that if you stopped on this page, property is something you're interested in.

Then again, the fascination with property is that almost everyone you meet has some opinion or conspiracy theory or other, and more often than not, an exciting 'bargain'. The truth is, we all evaluate 'bargains' in different ways. One man's 'bargain' is another man's 'junk'. Who's to judge? I for one have seen property sell, which at some point or other thought was not worth the effort. As with any profession the important factor is that you take personal experiences on board and learn from them and use that experience to the benefit of your clients. At Belair Property this is why we feel we stand out. Offering good advice, creating relationships and turning our clients into long term friends.

If you are a foreigner considering the Maltese property market for residence or investment purposes, you are probably weighing up whether to buy or rent.

The honest truth is no agent no matter how succesful, can answer that question for you. That's a question you'll have to answer for yourself, assuming you get the facts right. People buy property for different reasons. Personally, whenever I thought of buying a property I always bought the one I felt a connection with.

You either have it or you don't and as a foreigner the decision of whether to buy or to rent should be that simple. You're not just buying a property in Malta, you're buying a lifestyle and a way of life. If you connect with this way of life then your decision is easy. Go ahead. Go for it. Find a person you can trust, a person you can connect with and you are sure to find the property that fits for you.

If on the other hand, you haven't quite made that connection just yet, give it some time. Perhaps it's best to consider renting a property first and if this little island grows on you, then you can always buy a property

at a later date. There are plenty of good rental properties on the market, but here too one has to work with the right agency.

It's not about numbers, it's about service, access to the right properties, personal attention and about getting it right. At Belair Property we believe our personalised set-up can deliver just that. We don't just believe in the property we will offer, we believe in Malta and its vibrant lifestyle.

This is a place where you don't simply have to buy/rent a property, but where you can find a home. Give us the opportunity to prove it, after all 'We've been Putting People in Space Since 1967' .

And if you have the time, visit our website (www.belair.com.mt) and check out our two minute video promoting all that Malta has to offer.

David Aquilina - Director Belair Property For more information contact Belair Property: Tel:(+356) 2011 8000/2014 8000 Email: info@belair.com.mt Web: www.belair.com.mt www.facebook.com/BelairProperty

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Advertorial

MEDICAL TOURISM

Here is an often requested dental to-do list:

High-Flying Dentistry

TO-DO list

Congratulations! You are soon to be married. Your to-do list seems endless and is growing by the day. Your teeth seem to be the last thing on your mind…or are they? You have been procrastinating all your life to fix your teeth and now that the wedding photos are in discussion your smile springs to mind!

It is common for the bride and groom as well as for the in-laws to want to fix their teeth and have their smile look its best for the big day. Whereas before they had all the time in the world to do so, now that the question has been popped they only wish they could blink and have it all ready before the party begins.

1.

Hygiene session: Teeth may be scaled and blasted with bicarbonate of soda to remove old thick stains.

2.

Tooth whitening: Laser tooth whitening is the quickest way of doing this. Following a hygiene session, teeth can be whitened with carbamide peroxide synergised by a strong lamp offering time saving and excellent results.

Whitened teeth can also be maintained with home trays to occasionally boost their whiteness and remove stains which are a result of consumption of daily food and drink

3. Straighten teeth: A typical scenario of a repeatedly

advised patient to wear braces but never who did and now

wishes to have straight teeth in a few months. Braces

are the book standard way of straightening your teeth

however they are very time consuming lasting up to

24 months. This is a no-go option for the majority of

these patients. Out with the braces, in with veneers!

Porcelain veneers will straighten, whiten and even out

your teeth in a few days with long-lasting results. For

example by just veneering your upper and lower front

teeth, the results are highly rewarding.

4. Missing teeth: Replacing your long-lost missing teeth

with dental bridges, implants or dentures.

5. Eliminating all visible metal in your mouth: Old

crowns, fillings and visible metal around bridges may

be replaced with highly aesthetic ceramic restorations.

Computer-aided dentistry is utilised to produce very

high quality restorations in a very short time. This kind of

technology will work wonders on your smile.

This level of care, however, can only be achieved with everyone on board. First the dentist must evaluate all treatment options and present the advantages and disadvantages to their client.

Once the plan has been agreed on, a second and more thorough consultation is held together with the dental technicians and patient. Time allocation is crucial for the patient’s well being and the treatment needs as well as the dentist’s efforts to tick all the boxes off the patient’s wish list. For further detail on how you may revolutionise your smile just ask your dentist.

Dr Jean Paul Demajo Dental and Implant Surgeon Trained in London working in private practice in Malta.

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BUSINESS ROUND UP

The McDonald’s Player Escort Programme 2014 Imagine what it must feel like to walk into the pitch of the largest football event of the year, holding the hand of an international footballing star. The McDonald’s Player Escort Programme is now offering this unique opportunity to a boy or girl aged six to ten.

Over the years, McDonald’s has played an active role in giving children a once in a lifetime opportunity! Imagine what it must feel like to be part of the FIFA World Cup activities entering as a Player Escort! This unique sporting programme sponsored by McDonald’s brings together the stars of today, walking alongside the stars of the future.

This year marks McDonald’s sixth FIFA World Cup as a sponsor, and throughout this participation, McDonald’s have offered children worldwide the unique opportunity of participating in the Player Escort programme.

Do you have a young footballer of your own and want him to experience this event? Then submit your application online via our website www.mcdonalds. com.mt and fill in all necessary details.

You will then be asked to participate in a small football-related quiz. The first 100 participants to get all the questions right in the shortest time possible will make it to the finals!

they walk onto the pitch,” according to David Grinberg, the Head of McDonald's Brazil for the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013 and 2014 FIFA World Cup.

The Player Escort winner will be announced during a Football Fun day activity on the 23rd April, where all finalists will gather for a day of sports, fun, and the opportunity to meet players from the National Maltese football team.

McDonald's has supported football worldwide for more over 25 years, and has a long-standing tradition of giving back to the host community by creating bespoke legacy programmes that make a real difference and will leave a positive impact for several years to come.

The McDonald’s Player Escort Programme has been described as “a magical moment for the children when they finally see the players come into the tunnel and take hold of the hands of their heroes. They are literally living their dreams! It's an unparalleled moment for any sports fan and their parents are nearly as emotional as they are when

Also, as of this year, McDonald’s has also announced an additional incentive, this time allowing adults to win big too!

This includes flights, accommodation and stadium tickets to this year’s World Cup Finals in Rio, Brazil! For further information about this programme, we invite you to visit our facebook page www.facebook.com/McDonaldsMT

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Business profile

Internet Gaming just got smarter!

The cerebral association of Malta, a tiny island-nation in the middle of the Mediterranean basin with history going back Millennia and the Gambling Industry, has been nothing but fruitful. In just about a decade, the gaming industry has flourished on the isle: more than 500 IGaming Operators have found home here, with many of them relocating all but completely - offering the locales and foreigners great career opportunities, innovative products to work on, and international markets to target.

The possibility of having a national workforce hobnobbing with international, experienced folks, working on products with international market focus (read 'outer world'), with big budgets, has given the necessary perspective to the local talent to dare.

Albeit risk-tolerance is still in its infancy (Malta has no Seedinvestment culture, or Venture Capital ecosystem to speak of), one company hell-bent on making a dent in the Universe (or at least, becoming the top Software Platform of choice in the Industry), is Bit 8. This young, fledgling company, founded in 2010 is aiming to re-write the 'book' of possibilities for local home-grown companies.

Brian Fenech (CTO), Angelo Dalli (CEO) and Keith Galea (CPO) founders of Bit8 The slogan of the company, Infinite Possibilities, bodes well with their mission and for what they have achieved in so little time; their mission, Angelo Dalli states with his characteristic zeal is, 'to become the Industry's top platform, not just technologically - which we are - as all our clients have made clear to us that we are years ahead of all our competition and that is the reason why these brands have switched over to us but also to be the number one commercially'.

Can they get there?

Indeed, the 40-strong enterprise is going places. In less than half-a-decade, Bit8 has acquired 10% of the top 50 Casinos in the world; and the future is bright. Through the use of highly innovative technology - so innovative in fact that Bit 8 was chosen as a finalist in the Innovator of Year (the top category) at the International Gaming Awards of this year - with many of the competitors being billion-dollar companies (a.k.a Technology Dinosaurs) with global funds and resources.

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Angelo is very optimistic, ‘If you look at what we have achieved so far, and who we have working with us, not just in terms of employees - where we fundamentally shine through with one of the best teams in the Industry - and hence we are constantly looking for people to join us in our journey! - but also folks who have invested in us, advise us, and work with us in the wider sense of the term'.

Events

Colourful Gozo

Gozo is the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago. Though separated from mainland Malta by a mere 5km stretch of sea (25 minutes by ferry) Gozo is distinctly different. The Island is one-third the size of Malta, more rural and much more tranquil. Gozo means joy and a visit to this relaxed island should evoke this sensation.

Developed just enough but not too much, Gozo is a masterpiece wrought by nature and shaped by 7000 years of culture.

Myth and reality meet here on what is believed to have been the Isle of Calypso in Homer’s Odyssey, where the sea nymph held Odysseus (Ulysses) under her spell for seven years.

The people of Gozo, still numbering just 30,000, have nurtured Calypso’s

Island into the beautiful place we know today where the picturesque scenery, pristine coastline and untouched country trails blend with the imposing baroque churches which rise from the heart of small villages and towns.

Gozo boasts some of the oldest freestanding stone buildings in the world, the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ggantija Temples, as well as the stunning baroque architecture inherited by the Knights of St John. Another important legacy of the Knights are the mosaic of salt pans which dot Gozo’s coastline. The cuisine of Gozo is a testimony to the confluence of various cultures throughout the centuries.

From Knights’ watchtowers to mythical caves, tiny chapels to the towering Gozo Citadel, nineteenth-century aqueducts to timeless hills and valleys, Gozo has plenty of sights to see both natural and historic – and all conveniently packed into a small island that is easy to get around and is always welcoming.

Between autumn and late spring, Gozo’s countryside bursts into life, revealing an incredible wealth of flora and fauna – particularly colourful wild flowers and scented herbs. With a temperate Mediterranean climate where sun and warmth are the norm even in winter,

Gozo is perfect for an out-of season walking, biking or horse riding holiday.

Adventure is also synonymous with Gozo.

Climbing and abseiling make the most of Gozo's natural dry and rocky landscape without the need to alter it in any way.

The limestone rock formations and the mild climate provide Gozo with a natural adventure playground ideally suited to these sports.

Gozo’s culture and way of life are rooted in tradition and yet open to the future; an island of charm and joy. Gozo has an incredibly active year-round cultural life, quite remarkable for such a small place.

Gozo’s vibrant calendar of annual events includes its own opera festival, distinct carnival, Holy Week and Easter celebrations and numerous summer festas, tied to its intrinsic religious culture.

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EVENTS

The Commonwealth Wealthy in Numbers and Rich in Spirit On 10 March 2014, two billion people across 53 states and five continents will celebrate Commonwealth Day. On this day Commonwealth member celebrate understanding on global issues, international co-operation and the work of Commonwealth organisations, which aim to improve the lives of its citizens. This tradition brings together people from across the globe cutting through social, cultural and economic barriers and connects people together as a team. The theme for Commonwealth Day 2014 is Team Commonwealth. This theme is meant to reflect the

spirit of friendship and motivation that we cherish and which enables us to achieve our goals and nourishes our values.

The Commonwealth is one of the world’s longest serving political associations of states, originally rooted in the British Empire. Over the years the Commonwealth grew as winds of change helped shape its course. Though ‘mature’ politically, the Commonwealth is also a young and diversified community where over 60% of its people are under the age of 30. This element of youth brings about a young, dynamic and trend setting global community that through its work and attitude can change and improve our living space, our world and that of the Commonwealth at large.

The Commonwealth experiences on a daily basis the social, economic and political currents and realities of so many youth and adults alike. It enables the Commonwealth team to receive a snapshot, a collage of these different global dynamics that are constantly shaping our world. It enables the Commonwealth and its organizations to be active across a number of fronts through its outreach work.

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This year, the Commonwealth team spirit will be showcased in Glasgow, at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. This will be an excellent opportunity for governments to encourage a healthy competitive mindset, which is motivating and which helps us grow as a community.

On 10 March children from various schools and backgrounds will be invited to share thematic paintings about their views for this organization. They will also express their wishes for the future of the Commonwealth. Malta’s history has been closely associated with that of the Commonwealth for the last fifty years. Malta has been a proud and proactive member of Commonwealth and following the successful experience of hosting the meeting of Heads of Government in 2005, Mata is gearing itself for hosting yet another successful meeting of Commonwealth Heads of Government in 2015.

Events

Dates to remember in...

MARCH

Carnival in Malta and Gozo Valletta, Floriana and Nadur Gozo 28th Feb – 4th March Carnival is long-embedded in Maltese folklore. Expect a weekend of explosion of colour, merriment, silliness and unmasked fun.

The Malta Council for Culture and Arts organize the official Carnival festivities that take place in Valletta, Malta and Rabat, Gozo. Massive and intricately detailed carnival floats parade through the streets accompanied by weird or funny costumes with tiny legs belonging to people hidden inside them, others perform traditional dances known collectively as parata. Indulge in traditional carnival food like prinjolata, which is a towering mix of sponge cake, biscuit, almonds and citrus fruits, topped with cream and pine nuts, and perlini, multi-coloured, sugar-coated almonds. On the last day, a big Carnival parade ends in the main street of Floriana with a fireworks display.

For an alternative, spontaneous carnival, catch the ferry over to Nadur in Gozo. Once a well-kept secret, the charm of this carnival stemmed from the anonymity as the game was about disguise –men, women and children would roam the streets wearing grotesque masks, make-up, wigs, makeshift costumes and even livestock – a silence parade of absurdity and bizarre.

Now, organised chaos fills the streets of the typical Gozitan villageas erily masked and hooded ‘creatures’ take part in the event that provides a window into stranger days of Medieval mysticism. Maltese youths flock to the sister island in hundreds to participate in the edgy ‘Nadur’ affair.

So, bright and colourful or weird and wonderful – take your pick.

Viva Viva il-Karnival!

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EVENTS

Xebgħa Nies Collective Art Exhibition St. James Cavalier, Valletta 21st February - 30th March Who are these people? From February 21st until March 30th, St. James Cavalier, Valletta will be hosting Xebgħa Nies, a collective exhibition of nine Maltese artists. From pen and ink to watercolour and oil paintings, the exhibition will also feature three dimensional works in ceramics, mixed media and bronze.

As the title implies (Xebgħa Nies loosely translates to a throng

Moira Zahra The Praying Mantis Walker

Kenneth Zammit Tabona Adoration of the Cross

of people), the general subject is portraiture, however what can be expected is a unique take on an assorted set of interesting characters. From the man enjoying a pastizz and sips of Kinnie at Joe’s Bar to the mustachioed twins and everyone in between, you definitely won’t resist falling in love with this crowd.

As one would anticipate, a religious element is not missing from the works on display, and whilst Saviour Baldacchino explores Christian iconography, Kenneth Zammit Tabona’s colourful watercolours depict fleeting glances amidst opulent Maltese ecclesiastical scenarios. The darker side of things is left in the hands of Debbie Caruana Dingli, whose wicked witches will stir more than a mere bubbly cauldron. Whilst Steve Bonello returns to the exhibition scene after a hiatus of almost two decades with his unmistakable pen and ink drawings, this will be the first time Mark Scicluna and Moira Zahra will be exhibiting. Keep an eye out for Scicluna’s first Maltese man on the Moon and Zahra’s not-so-cuddly assortment of six-legged pets. Paul Scerri

Marisa Attard Pastizz

Andrew Diacono

and Andrew Diacono will be the only two artists presenting sculptures. Whilst Scerri’s mastered medium is ceramics, as betrayed by his complex glazes, for this show Diacono chose to exhibit bronze and mixed media works. The final word rests with Marisa Attard whose illustrated sweethearts add a breezy touch of humour to the whole.

Participating Artists: Andrew Diacono, Steve Bonello, Marisa Attard, Debbie Caruana Dingli, Kenneth Zammit Tabona, Paul Scerri, Mark Scicluna, Moira Zahra and Saviour Baldacchino. The exhibition was made possible with the support of: Halmann Vella Ltd, Lovage Bistro, Ecco, wearegoat.com and St. James Cavalier Centre for Creativity.

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Events

The Lunchtime Concerts at the Oratory of St. Francis Republic Street in Valletta Tuesdays and Fridays in March The exquisite Baroque Oratory of the St. Francis Church in Republic Street in Valletta is hosting weekly lunchtime every Tuesday and Friday at 12:30 pm. These high-caliber performances offer a variety of performances, highlighting some of the best musicians found on the island.

The programmes for March feature ” Sacred Arias” by tenor Frans Mangion, “A Flute and harp duo”, “Timeless Classics” by soprano Christabel Formosa, and “Exquisite Classics” by a violin and cello duo, amongst others. The recitals usually last about 50 minutes and they are fund raising events in aid of St. Francis Church. Tickets are at 8 euro and can be obtained from the venue just before the concert.

For more info phone: +356 79680952

In Guardia Parade

www.viewingmalta.com

St John’s Cavalier (close to Couvre Porte), Birgu Vittoriosa 2nd, 9th, 23rd March from 11:00-12:00 A perfect reason to add the old town of Birgu to your travel agenda, the In Guardia Parade is the re-enactment of an authentic military drill that took place regularly inside important military fortifications across Malta and Gozo. Go back in time to the infamous Knights of St.John and witness the 55-man garrison of Maltese soldiers and knights as they demonstrate a state of readiness in the event of a military threat to the Grand Bailiff in charge of military affairs. The event takes place outside St. John’s Cavalier fort which can be visited prior or following the re-enactment. We suggest you check the weather forecast before making you plan, as bad weather could lead to cancellation of the event without prior notice.

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EVENTS

DIVAS – The Dance Show!

MFCC, Ta’ Qali 28th-31st March YADA’s eagerly anticipated dance show this year pays tribute to the

Composer Conducts Teatru Manoel, Valletta 7th March

DIVAS who sparkle in glitz, class, voice exuberance and regal stage presence. Under the direction of Felix Busuttil, the performance promises to get the audience singing and dancing its way down FABULOUS memory lane with the sizzling sounds of Barbara Streisand, Whitney Houston, Beyonce and many other forcefully fabulous voices. Also in the line-up are live performances by

The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra presents resident composer Joseph

Malta's very own DIVAS - Ira Losco, Chiara and Mary Spiteri. With a

Vella’s latest orchestral work in memory of Maria Ghirlando. The piece

majestic cast of over 250 dancers, dancing to all genres of music,

is a work for piano and orchestra featuring pianist Natasha Chricop.

from classical to jazz to Spanish and also Latin, local and foreign

Complementing the work of Joseph Vella is Bottesini’s virtuoso

performers, circus acts, in new costumes, new repertoire, new

Concerto for Double Bass featuring MPO Principal Double Bassist

technological magic and a myriad of innovations, DIVAS promises

Gjorgji Cincievski.

to be one show not to miss.

For more information please visit www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

For more information please visit www.yada.com.mt

Freedom Day War memorial, Floriana; Grand Harbour, Lascaris Wharf (and other various viewpoints), Valletta 31st March Freedom Day is a public holiday in Malta commemorating the withdrawal of the last British troops from the island on 31st March

Le Salon Malta: ‘As the Dust Settles’

1979. A ceremony is held at the War memorial in Floriana. The

Villa Bologna, Attard 9th March

drink stalls line the harbor adding to the celebratory feel

‘A theatre of food, the art of conversation and the exchange of ideas.’

Le Salon/ is-Salott is an animated café on the move, that aims to recreate the traditional 18th and 19th century French and Italian open salons as an intimate platform for social interaction and artistic expression. This year’s Le Salon is inspired by Tepsichore, the muse of Dance, with the Baroque backdrop of Villa Bologna to accentuate an afternoon of theatre, tango, poetry and prose all inspired by movement and harmony.

For more information please visit www.facebook.com/LeSalonMalta

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traditional regatta accentuates the historical importance of this day as rival teams paddle it out across the waters with the Grand Harbour as a picturesque backdrop to this festive day. Food and

SPOTLIGHT ON:

An artist’s studio in Valletta It goes without saying that the merits of having a studio in the heart of Valletta are indeed great. To start with the Museum of Fine arts is within easy access and St James Cavalier nearby means that all the exhibitions held there are stone’s throws away.

Madeleine Gera is one of Malta’s leading painters. She opened her studio in 2006 and has worked and taught there ever since. An accomplished portraitist, Madeleine works on her favourite genre on a regular basis. Among her sitters were President Emeritus Dr Edward Fenech Adami, The President Dr George and Mrs Abela, the first full length double portrait of head of state since Edward Caruana Dingli. She has also painted Brigadier Arthur Gera, M.B.E. and Colonel David Mifsud and her work can can be found in both private and public collections in Malta and overseas.

Madeleine also teaches painting and drawing in her studio and method offers training in the naturalistic tradition of drawing and painting from life. Fundamental to the training is the sight-size technique, a practice which stems directly from the leading ateliers of nineteenth-century Paris.

For viewings of her works and more information please visit www.madeleingera.com

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01 Valletta 61 02 Attard 57 Victoria 24 58 Għajnsielem 03 Balzan 04 Birgu 59 Għarb 05 Birkirkara 60 Għasri 06 Birżebbuġa 61 Kerċem 71 07 Bormla 62 Marsalforn 28 08 Buġibba 63 Mġarr 09 Cirkewwa 64 Munxar 10 Dingli 65 Nadur 11 Fgura 66 Qala 12 Furjana 67 San Lawrenz 13 Għargħur 68 Sannat 14 Għaxaq 69 Xagħra 15 Gudja 70 Xewkija 16 Gżira 71 Xlendi 17 Ħamrun 72 Żebbuġ 18 Iklin 19 Isla Islands 20 Kalkara 21 Kirkop 73 Comino 22 Lija 74 Filfla 23 Luqa 75 Manoel Island 24 Marsa 76 St. Paul's Islands 25 Marsaskala 26 Marsaxlokk Beaches 27 Mdina 28 Mellieħa 01 Anchor Bay 29 Mġarr 02 Armier Bay 30 Mosta 03 Balluta Bay 31 Mqabba 04 Delimara Point 32 Msida 05 Fomm ir-Riħ 33 Mtarfa 06 Għadira Bay 34 Naxxar 07 Għar Lapsi 35 Pembroke 08 Ġnejna Bay 36 Pietà 09 Golden Bay 37 Qawra 10 Marsaskala Bay 38 Qormi 11 Marsaxlokk Bay 39 Qrendi 12 Paradise Bay 40 Rabat 13 Pretty Bay 41 Raħal Ġdid 14 Salina Bay 42 Safi 15 St. George's Bay 43 San Ġiljan 16 St. Paul's Bay 44 San Ġwann 17 St. Peter's Pool 45 San Pawl il-Bahar 18 St. Thomas Bay 46 Santa Luċija 19 Wied iż-Żurrieq 47 Santa Venera 20 Xrobb l-Għaġin 48 Siġġiewi 21 Blue Lagoon 49 Sliema 22 Santa Marija Bay 50 Tarxien 23 Daħlet Qorrot 51 Xemxija 24 Dwejra Bay 52 Xgħajra 25 Marsalforn Bay 53 Żabbar 26 Ramla Bay 54 Żebbuġ 27 San Blas Bay 55 Żejtun 28 Xlendi Bay 56 Żurrieq 29 Xwejni Bay

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Made In Malta

made in

Malta

VOLCANIC STONE TABLES MADE IN MALTA Mediterranean Ceramics manufactures volcanic and lava stone table and counter tops that are produced exclusively at our Malta studio located in the Ta' Qali Crafts Village. Our products are available in a variety of patterns inspired by Malta and the Mediterranean or we will be happy to work with you to customize a design that meets your needs. Stop by our open studio to watch our artists at work and browse our large selection of ceramic products all "Made in Malta" with local and worldwide delivery available. Additional gift shop location on the Valletta Waterfront.

Visit www.MediterraneanCeramics.com or call +356 2010 5552 David Grima: 99201055 or Brian Grima: 99440922

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Places to visit

Places to isit ...the best way to describe what you can discover while strolling down any of the charming lanes of Malta and Gozo’s towns and villages.

Here’s a look at what you’re likely to find...

For a more comprehensive look at places to visit and for opening times, go to www.visitmalta.com As opening times may vary, phoning ahead of scheduled visit is advisable.

Valletta

Located on the northeastern shore of Malta, Valletta was built by the Order of St John, after the Turks of the Ottoman Empire invaded the island during the 1565 Siege of Malta. With its old world splendour and magnificent baroque architecture, it is no wonder that Valletta is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Valletta got its name in 1566 from the Grandmaster Jean Parisot de la Valette, the year the city was founded. It was one of the first cities in Europe to use a grid street system. After the war, much of the economic development occurred in the suburbs, leading to a population drain that has left Valletta with a population of around 7,000 today. The small city remains the capital and administrative centre of the island.

The small city remains the capital and administrative centre of the island 69

Places to visit

St John’s Co-Cathedral The simple, sober façade of St John’s gives no hint of its lavish interior. It was built as the conventual church of the Order and the Knights spent enormous sums of money embellishing the chapels of their langues. The Co-Cathedral was built between 1572 and 1581 by Geralomo Cassar, and his training as a military engineer accounts for the sober exterior. Nearly a century later, the prolific Italian artist, Mattia Preti, transformed Cassar’s severe interior into a glowing showpiece of Baroque art. His greatest task, which occupied him for five years, was the decoration of the vault.

St John’s Co-Cathedral Museum and Oratory Of all the artistic treasures in the church, the piece-de-resistance is generally considered to be Caravaggio’s painting of The Beheading of St John. This huge, vigorous work of art dominates the oratory.

Auberge de Castille The Auberge de Castille was the official seat of the Knights of the langue of Castille, Leon and Portugal.

Today it serves as the office of the Prime Minister.

Palazzo Ferreria Palazzo Ferreria is found opposite the ruins of the Royal Opera House. Its façade resembles that of a Venetian St John’s palace.

Auberge D’Italie The Auberges of the Knights are the inns (or officers’ quarters) where knights of a particular ‘langue’ used to reside.

Sacra Infermeria Valletta’s Sacra Infermeria, built in 1574, was the best-equipped hospital of the Order. In its day, it counted among the finest hospitals in Europe. The Infermeria had six wards; the largest measured 161 metres and is still the longest, and one of the most impressive halls in Europe.

Casa Rocca Piccola This small palazzo, built in 1580, was the private home of the 9th Marquis de Piro. It contains over 40 rooms and a delightful courtyard giving you the opportunity to see how a patrician household lived.

Fort St Elmo Fort St Elmo guards the entrances to both Grand and Marsamxett Harbours. It was the scene of a heroic defence during the Great Siege of 1565.

Hastings Gardens Hastings Gardens, in Windmill Street, has splendid views of Manoel Island and Msida Creek.

Lower Barrakka Gardens This garden commands a superb viewpoint of the harbour mouth, and over to Fort Ricasoli, Bighi Palace, Fort St Angelo and the creeks of Vittoriosa and Kalkara.

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St James Cavalier As a millennium project, St James Cavalier was transformed into a Centre for Creativity, adapting internal spaces for modern use, providing a backdrop for numerous exhibitions, recitals, concerts, festivals and cinema shows.

The Casino Maltese Originally used ad the Treasury of the Knights of St John, today the exclusive Casino Maltese retains most of its original 16th century features. A truly outstanding venue with a history of noble visitors.

National Museum of Archaeology Housed in the Auberge de Provence - the museum contains the more important finds from the many prehistoric sites across the islands.

The Great Siege of Malta This walk-through show is an irresistible, entertaining spectacular on the four month long Ottoman siege of Malta in 1565, a siege that shaped and changed Malta for ever. This 30-minutes audio-visual journey, quality assured

by MTA, is located at Republic Square (Piazza Regina).

National War Museum Located at Fort St Elmo this museum has a permanent exhibition of relics and personal memorabilia of World War II including Gloster Gladiator - christened Faith - and the George Cross.

The Manoel Theatre and Museum The Manoel Theatre, built for the `honest entertainment of the people’, by Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena in 1731, is one of the oldest theatres in Europe, still in use.

The National Museum of Fine Arts This splendid palace, known as Admiralty House during the British period, was originally erected in 1570 and restored in the 1960s.

The Saluting Battery The old Saluting Battery, at Upper Barrakka, was originally established to provide in-depth defence of the Grand Harbour. It is also doubled as a ceremonial platform providing artillery salutes to visiting dignitaries and shipping. A noon-day gun is still fired daily, recreating the age-old tradition.

The Siege Bell Memorial Inaugurated in 1992 by Queen Elizabeth II, the Siege Bell Memorial is a monument to the fallen of World War II. The bell is rung each day at midday.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens The Upper Barrakka Gardens are situated near Auberge de Castille offering visitors unrivalled views across one of the world’s largest and deepest natural harbours, Grand Harbour, and over to the Three Cities.

Toy Museum Located in Republic Street, it showcases toys from the 1950s onward.

Valletta Living History This innovative 35 minute audiovisual show, at The Embassy Complex in Valletta, chronicles Valletta’s major milestones taking you on a journey through time and history revealing the facts and figures about Malta’s capital city.

Places to visit

Places to visit

Valletta Waterfront The Valletta Waterfront is an award-winning landmark on the Island of Malta. There are nineteen beautifully restored 18th century warehouses built during the Baroque period, stretching along the water’s edge with a backdrop of historic bastions and fortifications.

The gemstone buildings were originally constructed by Grandmaster Pinto to be used as stores by the Knights of St. John. Today, ushering in a modern era, the iconic doors have been revived with an artistic impression of colour, representing the storage of goods from days past, with blue for fish, green for produce, yellow for wheat and red for wine. The heritage buildings have been transformed into a variety of lively restaurants, retail outlets and office space as well as a host of services ranging from banks to tax-free shopping, Wi-Fi connection to a tourist information service and various transport services.

The iconic doors have been revived with an artistic impression of colour 71

Places to visit

The Three

Cities On the other side of the Grand Harbour, opposite Valletta, lie the historical fortified towns referred to as the three cities. Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea, built by the Grandmaster Fra Nicholas Cottoner, have a unique charm and character that distinguish them from all other towns in Malta, including Mdina and Valletta. Older than Valletta, the three cities were home to the first knights. Fort St Angelo, which was built around 12th century AD, was the headquarters of the Knights until Valletta was built.

Fort Rinella Kalkara

Maritime Museum Vittoriosa

The fort was built by the British in 1878 to

The museum is housed in the former British na­val

protect the eastern flank of the Grand Harbour.

bakery, built in 1842 over the site of a slipway

It is home to the world’s largest cannon – the

where the Order of St John repaired their war

monstrous Armstrong 100-ton. The fort was

galleys. On show are exhibits of expertly-made

built very low to protect it from bombardment

model ships, paintings, nautical instruments,

The Malta at War Museum Vittoriosa

from sea. It consists of many underground

weapons and traditional Maltese boats.

The Malta at War Museum entails a rich exhibition of original war time artefacts and

chambers and galleries all of which are Fort St Angelo Vittoriosa

memorabilia from a civilian perspective, a 40

Fort St Angelo is the jewel in the crown of Malta’s

feet deep wartime underground air raid shelter

Inquisitor’s Palace Vittoriosa

military heritage. According to tradition, it stands

and an interesting wartime documentary –

The Inquisitor’s Palace was erected in the 1530’s

on the site of a fortified Roman settlement. In

‘Malta G.C’ completes the visit.

as the civil law courts of the Order of St John. This

medieval times, the fort was occupied by the

architectural gem is now home to the museum of

Aragonese and the Angevins. In 1530, when the

Safe Haven Gardens Senglea

Ethnography. Careful historical reconstructions

Knights arrived on the islands, the fort became

Safe Haven Gardens are at the tip of the

of the palace display areas such as the tribunal

the seat of the Grand Master of the Order. It was

peninsula of Senglea. From here one can enjoy

room and the prison complex, as well as a

to play a heroic role in the Great Siege of 1565,

wonder­f ul views of Valletta and the Grand

permanent exhibition on the impact of the

when, against all odds, it managed to repel a

Harbour. The watchtower in the gardens is

Inquisition on Maltese society.

formidable Ottoman army.

known as the Gardjola.

accessible for the public to see daily.

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Places to visit

Northern

MALTA

Malta Classic Car

The Sanctuary of Our Lady Mellieha

Selmun Palace Mellieha

Collection Museum Qawra

This is considered to be the oldest

The majestic 18th century Selmun Palace is the

A museum featuring a ‘living’ collection

sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady. According

largest and the last castle built by the Knights

of a large selection of automobiles

to tradition the apostles Paul and Luke

of St John, in 1783.

spanning over 50 manufacturing years.

visited this sanctuary.

The Red Tower Mellieha

Sweethaven Village Mellieha

Wignacourt Tower St. Paul’s Bay

Grand Master Jean Paul Lascaris built St

This is where the musical Popeye, the story of

Wignacourt Tower, serves as a small

Agatha’s Tower, popularly known as the Red

the much-loved sailor starring Robin Williams,

museum dedicated to Malta’s rich military-

Tower, in 1647. It served as a signal post for

was filmed in 1980.

architectural heritage.

communication with Gozo.

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Places to visit

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum Previously known as ‘The Norman House’, Palazzo Falson is one of the very oldest medieval buildings in Mdina dating back to the 13th century. It contains a remarkable collection of antiques, including paintings, furniture, jewellery, armour and much more and is open for public viewing.

Mdina Mdina is one of the few great architectural treats in Malta that did not result from the activities of the Knights of St John. The oldest city on the island, going back to pre-historic times, the word Mdina derives from the Arabic word ‘medina’ which means ‘city’. Mdina was fortified in medieval times, but its protection in early times must have been its high location on a rocky crag. It is certain that either during the Byzantine or during the Arab occupation of Malta, the fortifications were retracted to the present proportions, perhaps for better defensibility. It is during this time, when the city was refered to as the ‘medina’, that Mdina got its name. The Arab legacy continued even though the Arabs were officially expelled from Malta in 1250, when the islands were under Christian rule.

Thus the name ‘Mdina’ survived even though the city was referred to as Civitas (city in Latin) or Citta Notabile.

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Vilhena Palace Vilhena Palace has a fine Baroque façade and an impressive entrance courtyard, both of which one notices on the right when entering Mdina, through Notabile Gate. In 1973 this beautiful palace was converted to host the Natural History Museum. The most interesting of the exhibits is a chip of the moon given to Malta

by President Nixon in 1979.

Casa Testaferrata This house was the seat of the old noble family Testaferrata.

Historians believe that in Roman times on the site of this building there was a temple dedicated to Apollo.

Carmelite Church and Priory Museum The Carmelite Church and Priory Museum offers a unique and innovative experience as the only monastery in Malta that has opened its doors to the general public. This 17th century priory has recently been restored back to its former glory. Walking around the cloister, one is led into the different areas of the priory, which now form part of the museum.

Places to visit

Xara Palace The Xara Palace is a small Relais & Chateaux hotel. The history of the late 17th century Xara Palace is inextricably linked to that of Mdina, its walls forming part of the city walls that make up its impressive bastions.

PALAZZO DE PIRO The magnificent 18th century Palazzo de Piro, located in Malta’s silent city, Mdina, has been restored to create a unique venue of cross-cultural, artistic and social dialogue. Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, operated

by Infinitely Xara, features a program of various collections held by the

Mdina Cathedral Museum

Metropolitan Cathedral Museum, offering an outstanding setting to

Originally a seminary, the museum today is one of the most outstanding religious museums in Europe. A small chapel is found on the second floor exhibiting church vestments. It also exhibits an impressive cross-section of sacred art, famous paintings, a coin collection, Roman antiquities and original documents from the time of the Inquisition.

with panoramic views over Malta, also includes the Xpresso Cafe by Infinitely Xara which works with local producers to provide visitors with local dishes.

Cathedral of St Paul

Palazzo Gatto Murina Palazzo Gatto Murina, one of the earliest ‘Siculo-Norman’ structures (i.e. built between 1100 and 1530), was erected during the latter part of the 14th century. An audiovisual show “ Tales of the Silent City” is housed inside the Palazzo.

showcase, promote and sell independent contemporary art. The venue,

The skyline of Mdina, with its Baroque cathedral, bastions and palaces, is an imposing landmark visible throughout central Malta. The Cathedral is the archi­t ectural heart of this elegant, walled city, and lies on the site of a much earlier Norman church destroyed by a violent earthquake in 1693.

Rabat Howard Gardens Howard Gardens are one of the biggest public gardens in Malta. These gardens form a natural border between Rabat and neighbouring Mdina.

St Paul’s Catacombs The Maltese islands are rich in late Roman and Byzantine burial sites. St Paul’s Catacombs are a typical complex of interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries that were in use up to the 4th century AD. St Paul’s Catacombs represent the earliest archaeological evidence of Christianity in Malta.

Casa Bernard in St. Paul's Street A late 16th Century historical Maltese Palazzino, a hidden gem recently restored to its former grandeur now open for guided tours daily Monday to Saturday from 10.00a.m. to 16.00p.m. Step into the past and enjoy the experience of visiting this Europa Nostra award-winning house still lived-in today.

The Roman Domus The mosaic pavements in the `Roman house’, rank among the finest and oldest mosaic compositions from the western Mediterranean, alongside those of Pompeii and Sicily. They were discovered in 1881 just outside Mdina in the remains of a rich and sumptuously decorated town house of the Roman period.

Attard

Villa Bologna Attard Situated in the heart of Attard, across the street from the grand San Anton Presidential Palace, Villa Bologna is a Grade 1 Listed National Monument. It has known many distinguished residents, foremost among which, Prime Minister Sir Gerald Strickland, the only Maltese politician to have been a member of the House of Commons and later the House of Lords. Positioned within a large working estate, Villa Bologna offers its visitors a number of small distinctive ‘secret’ gardens with enchanting characteristics and provides a feeling of a calm and welcoming Mediterranean oasis as they stroll through vast expanses of flowering beds into shady niches around tinkling fountains or sparkling ponds. Opening hours 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am - 1pm Saturday.

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Places to visit

Gozo &

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Places to visit

Comino

With a coastline of 43km, Gozo is the second largest island of the Maltese archipelago.

Forever immortalised as The Island of Calypso, this name originated from the Greek mythological location of Ogygia referred to in Homer’s Odyssey. In this epic poem, the fabled island was controlled by the nymph Calypso, who had detained the Greek hero Odysseus for seven long years as a prisoner of love. Gozo’s history is entwined up in the general story of its sister island of Malta. As a result, Gozo shared the same influences of cultures bestowed on by the number of dominators and events that touched the Maltese islands during the last seven thousand years.

The Blue Lagoon Comino The Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet of shimmering aquamarine water, is the main attraction on the tiny island of Comino and popular for day trips. The Lagoon and the isle’s other bays with their crystal clear waters, make Comino the ideal choice for most kinds of water sports, especially diving and snorkelling.

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Places to visit

Gozo & Comino

Dwejra Dwejra is perhaps the archipelago’s most spectacular natural landmark. Here, geology, time and sea have worked together to produce some of the most remarkable scenery on the islands - The Azure Window, the Inland Sea, Fungus Rock, sheer cliffs and a rocky coastline yielding fossilised remains of sea creatures dating from the Miocene period.

The Citadel Victoria Gozo’s Citadel rises steeply above the surrounding countryside, its impressive bastions commanding a superb view of the island. The Citadel owes its roots to the late medieval era.

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Museum of Archaeology Victoria Housed in Palazzo Bondi, this museum showcases archaeological finds from the 11 phases of prehistoric Gozo, as well as the Classical World to the Middle Ages. A section of the museum includes items discovered at sea, off the Gozitan coastline.

Ggantija Temples Xaghra The Ggantija Temples (“place of giants”) are thought to be the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

They are among the best-preserved temples on the Maltese islands. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the complex comprises two Neolithic temples dat­ing from the third millennium B.C (3600 to 3000 B.C.).

The Xewkija Rotuna Xewkija Xewkija village is dominated by a huge rotunda church built in 1971. It is Gozo’s answer to Malta’s Mosta Rotunda. The dome is larger than that of St Paul’s Cathedral in London. The church has capacity for a congregation of 3000 - the entire population of Xewkija.

Gharb Folklore Musuem Gharb This privately-owned museum in the village’s main square depicts depicts the past daily life in Gozo. This museum is a showcase of traditional life and includes the printing press used for Gozo’s first newspaper plus a collection of old tools and clothes.

Places to visit

Gozo Cathedral Museum Victoria This museum has more than 2,000 items on display including the Cathedral’s archives, some magnificent paintings, clerical vestments and a silver vault.

Among the paintings are several by well-known local artists Giuseppe Hyzler, Michele Busuttil and Tommaso Madiona.

Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary Gharb The origins of the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu go back to a day in June 1883, when a peasant woman heard the voice of the Virgin Mary in an old chapel. In 1931, the church (as it is today), was consecrated and a year later Pope Pius XI raised it to the status of Basilica. The original 16th century chapel was fully integrated into the new church.

Gozo Cathedral Victoria The Cathedral, built early in the 17th century, is small but graceful. Its floor is made up of a mosaic of marble tomb­stones and ecclesiastical emblems, while its ceiling has a remarkable trompe l’oeil painting depicting the interior of a dome that was never built.

Folklore Museum Victoria The museum, housed within the Citadel, contains a wide range of exhibits depicting the domestic, rural and traditional ways of life in the agrarian economy of the Maltese and Gozitans.

Pomskizillious Museum of Toys Xaghra This museum of toys is an Aladdin’s cave full of whimsical treasures. Some toys on display are 200 years old.

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Restaurant Guide

In the best Mediterranean tradition, the Maltese Islands are packed with fabulous restaurants. With everything from Maltese traditional fare to Japanese sushi, from Italian pizza to Korean kimchee, served in a variety of beautiful settings, dining out in Malta is an experience not to be missed.

BUGIBBA

Granny’s Fusion Triq il-Korp tal-Pijunieri, Bugibba T: 2157 5501 Situated in Bugibba’s main square, Granny’s Fusion is a quaint, family run restaurant that focuses on continental and Maltese traditional dishes. Granny’s Fusion offers a truly authentic experience with original Maltese cuisine, served by friendly hospitable staff in a warm atmosphere. Some of the traditional dishes are rabbit, bragioli, stuffed calamari, fresh fish and charcoal grilled prime cuts of fillet, all fresh and prepared by our local Maltese chef. This accompanied by a crisp bottle of local wine creates a wonderful dining experience at a great price. We serve fresh fish daily. Granny’s Fusion also offers Indian dishes prepared to perfection by our Indian chef. Both exterior and interior dining available.

Paulus Restaurant Plajjet Bognor, Bugibba M: 7755 1102 • E: info@paulusdining.com • W: www.paulusdining.com A fish-lover’s haven, Paulus is situated in the most picturesque area of Bugibba. At Paulus, we believe that “if you give love to the food, you will get it back”. This is certainly evident in our choice of only the freshest catches, prepared exclusively using seasonal ingredients. Boasting a menu dedicated to the freshest seasonal offerings, we offer typical local favourites with a twist – look out for the likes of the Cioppino, a Tuscan version of our fish soup, our Calamari Fritti, and especially the chef’s take on the daily fresh catch of fish. Meat-lovers need not worry, as they will find something to suit their tastes too. Paulus prides itself on its Mediterranean-style cuisine that gives more than a nod to Malta, with your local hosts, Luke and Byron making sure your dining experience is a memorable one.

MDINA

Ciappetti Restaurant 5, St Agatha’s Esplanade, Mdina T: 2145 9987 Grapevine covered courtyards, home-grown herbs, multi-coloured lights and myriad chimes give a flirtatious wink of what’s to come. Your hosts, Peter and Mary Louise, have created a “classic with a twist” menu of intense flavours and textures which hint at their sublime ingredients, yet are still based on traditional local dishes. Dining beneath the orange trees to the sound of running water transports clients to a peaceful place – something that we easily forget still exists in Malta. As for costs, they are very reasonable. Ciappetti’s motto is “Quality, Character, Consistency”. Definitely worth a visit! We cater for a gluten-free diet.

Booking recommended.

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Restaurant Guide MDINA

de Mondion Restaurant The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina T: 2145 0560 • E: info@xarapalace.com.mt • W: www.xarapalace.com.mt or www.demondion.com Set atop Mdina's centuries-old bastions, within the Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, awarded the runner-up for the best boutique dining hotel in the world, the de Mondion offers a unique fine dining experience, enhanced by truly spectacular panoramic views of the island from the terraces and charming features served in elegant surroundings. Consistently rated amongst the top restaurants in Malta for its cuisine, refinement and excellence, the de Mondion promises discreet yet impeccably attentive service allowing patrons the time and privacy to savour the cuisine, the company and the view. With an exquisite cuisine combining the finest seasonal produce with innovation and expertise to create tantalizing dishes, the ‘award winning’ Kitchen Brigade have and continue to delight the palate of a multinational clientele. Group Lunches are available on request. We also welcome enquires for Private Functions and Special Celebrations. Bookings recommended.

Palazzo De Piro – Xpresso Café And Bistro Address: Palazzo de Piro, 3 Triq is-Sur, Mdina MDN 1131 T: 2010 0560 • E: events@palazzodepiro.com • W: www.palazzodepiro.com Set within the magnificent 18th century Palazzo de Piro Cultural Centre, located in Malta’s Silent City, Mdina, Xpresso Café and Bistro is an elegant spot for casual dining, snacks , coffee, afternoon tea or simply a get together with friends. Our talented Brigade of Chefs makes use of the fresh produce from nearby valleys and slopes when producing our seasonal menus. Through close co-operation with local growers and producers, Xpresso Café and Bistro seeks to showcase the freshest and best the region has to offer through a menu of healthy dishes. With magnificent views of the Maltese Islands, fine architectural heritage and a passion for culture and art, Xpresso Café is the perfect place to enjoy the history of Malta, its rich culture and its culinary delights.

Trattoria AD 1530 The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misrah il-Kunsill, Mdina T: 2145 0560 • E: info@xarapalace.com.mt • W: www.xarapalace.com.mt The Trattoria AD 1530 at The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux in Mdina is a charming eatery that prides itself in serving traditional and tasty food typical of the word ‘Trattoria'. Strategically situated in one of the old squares of the Silent City, with the beautiful and imposing Vilhena Palace directly opposite and the magnificent 17th Century Palazzo of The Xara Palace on the other side, the Trattoria's idyllic location is simply perfect for indoor or al fresco dining. The Trattoria AD 1530 is the ideal restaurant for every occasion and is open for coffee, lunch, dinner, snacks and afternoon tea.

MELLIEHA

Rebekah’s Restaurant 12, Triq It-Tgham, Mellieha Malta T: 2152 1145 • M: 7947 8896 • E: info@rebekahsmalta.com • W: www.rebekahsmalta.com Rebekah’s Restaurant is a converted house of character that welcomes diners to an evening of fine cosy dining any time of the year. During the colder months, diners are kept toasty thanks to fireplaces that crackle merrily throughout the evening, while when the heat descends in the hotter months diners can enjoy a relaxing evening beneath the stars, seated in the establishment’s airy internal courtyard. Only the freshest local ingredients make it into Rebekah’s typically Mediterranean cuisine – all presented in a vast array of different chef’s specialties that keep the restaurant’s clientele enthusiastic and always coming back for more. Open from Monday to Saturday between 19:00 - 22:30 hrs.

MOSTA

Ta’ Marija Restaurant Constitution Street, Mosta T: 2143 4444 • F: 2141 8181 • E: info@tamarija.com • W: www.tamarija.com Ta Marija has been awarded Best Maltese Restaurant for the last 9 years. A stone’s throw away from the majestic Mosta Dome is the superb Ta’ Marija Restaurant, run by a charming family who hasn’t just got the recipes in the kitchen right, but has also succeeded in concocting and mastering a unique recipe of running a top-notch eatery. Every Friday night, Ta’ Marija organises a Maltese traditional extravaganza night. Maltese singers and musicians entertain patrons with roving mandolins and guitars, singing traditional songs and encouraging patrons to join in. After dinner, a Maltese folklore show with six dancers in traditional 18th century costumes starts. Following dinner, most evenings also offer live music by the resident DJ where one can also dance the night away on the unique dance floor. Transport from and to your holiday accommodation can be arranged directly with Ta’ Marija. By the way, the Ta’ Marija smile is infectious...you’re sure to leave Ta’ Marija with a full, satisfied stomach and a broad smile. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.

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Restaurant Guide

GOZO

Chez Amand Seafront Qbajjar Bay, Qbajjar T: 2156 1188 / 2155 5179 • M: 9942 3775 / 9949 2970 • E: cactus@link.net.mt • W: www.chezamand.com The renowned “CHEZ AMAND” is located in a unique spot on Qbajjar Seafront and the must seen Roman Saltpans. The restaurant lays beyond the hustle of Marsalforn. Its cosy, laissez-faire atmosphere invites you to linger on. Try a little bite of the Bistro menu or the specials of the a La Carte. During winter game platters are a must to sample. The fresh Lobster nights are a gastronomic delight, [every Friday & Saturday] booking recommended. Belgian beers available. Your Belgian Hosts Amand & Caroline look forward to spoiling you and make sure you will want to return! Official restaurant for the Alliance Francaise de Malte on the island of Gozo. Open daily for lunch & dinner [always check in the low Winter season]. Closed on Wednesday.

QAWRA

The Plum Tree Bar & Restaurant Triq l-Imhar, Qawra T: 2157 5970 • W: www.the-plumtree-malta.com Established since 1995, John and Joan Mc Bride have strived to make The Plum Tree a place where mouth-watering food, value for money and a friendly service combine into a single venue. The bar area is a cross between an old Maltese wine bar and a British pub, while a separate dining area has a Mediterranean feel to it. There is also a patio for dining al fresco, especially during the summer months. The menu contains breakfast, lunch and dinner sections so one can opt for an English breakfast or a scrumptious dinner meal. Caters for small groups. Opening hours 10:00 - 00:00 from Tuesday to Sunday October - June and from July - September daily from 17:00 - 00:00.

SLIEMA

Il Galeone Tigné Seafront, Sliema T: 2131 6420 • E: Galeone@maltanet.net Il Galeone, located on the Tigne Seafront, is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Sliema. This quaint, family run restaurant, established in 1983, borrows its name from the ‘King’ or ‘Queen’ Galleons that proved their worth in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. A beautiful array of naval memorabilia together with friendly staff, helps create a wonderful and cosy dining experience. The chef is fervent about his use of only the freshest ingredients ensuring that patrons receive nothing but the highest quality dishes. The chef and proprietor, Victor Bezzina, welcomes you to IL Galeone for an unforgettable dining experience.

Ta’ Kolina 151, Tower Road Sliema T: 2133 5106 • M: 9942 4877 • E: takolina@gmail.com Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots) and has been opened since 1974. Ta’ Kolina is a typical Maltese restaurant with its traditional Maltese limestone interior and décor. A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of local (5) starters; (5) main courses; dessert & coffee etc. for €20.00. A unique a la carte’ menu with some 20 starters from €4.50 to €7.50 & 20 main courses from €11.00 to €24.00 to choose from. Ta’ Kolina offer a variety of fresh fish, rabbit, steak and many more traditional dishes. A wide selection of best Maltese wines are available ranging from €6.50 to €25 per bottle. All in all this restaurant provides its guests with the true taste of Maltese cuisine at a reasonable price.

Ta’ Kris Restaurant & Maltese Bistro 80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema T: 2133 7367 M: 9984 7713 Tucked away in a quite narrow street of Sliema, Ta’ Kris is the perfect location for a tranquil evening, in a warm atmosphere.

Specialising in Maltese dishes, Ta’ Kris offers genuine food at very reasonable prices. The menu boasts a variety of meat dishes including rabbit, pork, chicken, veal and beef, as well as authentic Maltese dishes such as ‘bragioli’ (thin slices of beef rolled and stuffed with minced pork, ham and seasoning, seared in tomato and wine sauce). Sea bass stuffed with a tuna risotto, covered in Maltese caper sauce, is yet another delicious item which Chef Kris graces his patrons with. With an excellent service, dish selection and atmosphere, Ta’ Kris Restaurant & Maltese Bistro offers a unique culinary experience.

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Restaurant Guide

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Restaurant Guide

ST JULIAN'S

Chapter One 9, Church Street, St Julian’s T: 2138 0000 Chapter one is a relatively small and cosy restaurant situated in St Julian’s just down the road from the Hilton andPortomaso. Owned and run by Hiram Cassar, a young talented chef, whose passion and love for food led to the opening of his first venture, Chapter One. His main training took place in a well known prestigious Michelin starred restaurant in Paris where he was able to learn, not only the art of cooking but discipline and perseverance. An emphasis is made on the use of local products and simplicity. The cuisine is local and Mediterranean with a French flair. Rabbit, duck and other meats feature on the menu, fresh fish and seafood are always available.

The Avenue The Avenue, Gort Street, Paceville, St Julain's T: 2135 1753 / 2137 8731 • W: www.theavenuemalta.com This award-winning restaurant has been a household name for over a decade and remains a regular favourite. Its versatile menu, friendly service and well-pitched prices all contribute to The Avenue’s strong appeal. Best known for pizza, freshly prepared pasta or grill or maybe opt for succulent poultry and fresh fish – the menu is not only versatile but portions are generous. The Avenue started off 20 years ago as a snack bar and today encompasses three different sections, all with different character and décora rustic-styled room, the elegant ‘Valentino’ section and the more informal and colourful segment. This venue is popular with locals as it’s good value for money. In fact, looking through the large, glass windows, one can see the place is always bustling with people and life. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Includes two hours free parking at the Portomaso car park all week. Delivery service to the surrounding areas.

Dubliner Bar & Restaurant Gorg Borg Olivier Street, St Julian’s T: 2136 7106 This cosy, traditional Irish pub in St Julian’s, invites all to a casual and friendly atmosphere to kick back and enjoy a jovial treat straight from the green lands of Ireland. The weekday menu served on the second floor restaurant boasting exceptional views of the bay, covers everything from traditional Irish and British pub food to international cuisines. Alternatively, visit The Dubliner simply to enjoy the atmosphere of the surrounding bar whilst indulging in a hearty pint of Guinness with friends. The Dubliner provides patrons with a haven from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area, where one can sit back and have a great meal or simply relax with friends.

Waterbiscuit Intercontinental Malta, St. George’s Bay, St Julian's T: +356 2376 2225 • E: info@waterbiscuit.com.mt • W: waterbiscuit.com.mt Waterbisuit is at the forefront of the Maltese culinary experience with delicious and innovative dishes for all to enjoy.

Waterbiscuit, stylishly set on two floors, offers a gastronomic experience that will delight all with healthy, delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners. It is a truly contemporary location ideal for a business rendezvous, social gathering, casual dining or a night out. Breakfast promises to provide a wakeup call with a creative à la carte menu boasting six different types of Egg Benedict, the signature dish of Waterbiscuit, ideal for those who wish to indulge in a truly unique breakfast experience. Waterbiscuit also allows patrons to lounge at the bar throughout the day and night with a variety of coffees, cocktails and wines that will tease the senses; the atmosphere is relaxed and offers a delightfully glamourous feel. For reservations, kindly give us a call.

Zest Hotel Juliani, 25, St George’s Road, St Julian’s T: 2138 7600 • E: Info@zestflavours.com • W: www.zestflavours.com Zest... where east meets west in both dining and décor. The chic restaurant is a point of encounter between Continental and Asian cuisine in a contemporary ambiance, oozing relaxed elegance. The menu boasts a selection of dishes from Thai curries, Indonesian noodles, Singaporean seafood laksas, continental pan fried lamb to Japanese teppanyaki. Attractive features include an open wine cellar and a sushi bar on the restaurant floor, where patrons can sit around the chef and enjoy the art of preparing Japanese sushi.

Located on the first floor of the Hotel Juliani, using the transformed town house’s original entrance and external staircase, the restaurant enjoys the added bonus of an open-air, terrace bar, overlooking romantic Spinola Bay and ideal for pre-dinner drinks.

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Bars & Nightlife

Malta is known for its vast number of bars and clubs catering to all ages and to all tastes in music.

Try out one of the following for a great night out.

ST JULIAN'S

Saddles Pub & Wine Bar Main Street, St Julians W: www.saddlesmalta.com Situated in the heart of St.Julians, Saddles has been established for over 38 years. Considered as a central meeting place.

Start your evening on a perfect note in a friendly atmosphere. A big screen is available for sports and enjoy an ice cold pint of GUINESS in the terrace. The first floor is a cosy wine bar popular for organised parties and enjoy a tasty cocktail or a genuine glass of wine in the balcony with views. Welcome to MALTA...Saddles always ready to PARTY! Open all day long. Wi-Fi available all day!

PORTOMASO

Club Twenty-Two Level 22, Portomaso Business Tower, Portomaso T: 2310 2222 • E: Info@22.com.mt • W: www.22.com.mt Already the mecca for Malta’s most discerning and hedonistic crowd, Twenty-Two has also managed to attract a big number of international VIP’s and celebrities from the world of music, film, television, fashion, sports and business. Twenty-Two established itself from day one as Malta’s only real exclusive venue with its stunning surroundings and breathtaking views with impeccable VIP table service found nowhere else on the island – Twenty-Two is luxury and comfort found only in the major fashion capitals around the world! Twenty-Two combines the comfort and exclusivity of a stylish wine lounge and is situated on the 22nd floor of the Portomaso Business Tower – Malta’s tallest building!Open from Wednesday to Sunday, caters for private events.

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air malta news

airmalta

NEWS Events and news about Malta's national airline

Introducing Algiers Summer Route Air Malta will restart its flights to Algiers on March 19th, following the encouraging results of last summer’s venture to the Algerian capital.

in both directions. The schedule is designed to also offer connectivity to and from Air Malta destinations beyond Malta in both directions.

Flights will follow a twice weekly schedule, on Mondays and Thursdays, throughout summer. While supporting and promoting commercial links between the two countries, Air Malta’s operation will stimulate the movement of tourism

Algeria is the largest country in Africa and will soon have a Maltese consulate general which will offer efficient visa facilities.

Day Dep Malta

The schedule will be as follows:

Arr Algeria Dep Algeria

Arr Malta

19-26 March Wednesday 2345 0135 0235 0415 Sunday 2305 0055 0155 0335 31 March-23 October Monday 0005 0055 0155 0435 Thursday 0020 0110 0210 0450 (all times local)

Mzab Ghardaïa located at M'zab or Mzab, northern Sahara, in the Ghardaïa wilaya, is located 600 km (370 mi) south of Algiers.

(Source: Wikipedia).

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The Monument of the Martyrs (Maquam E’chahid), Algiers.

(Source: Wikipedia).

air malta news

Love is in the air(plane)!

Captain proposes to cabin crew with heartshaped fly path on Air Malta’s Love Plane It was a night of true love aboard the Air Malta Love Plane on Valentine's Day. Not only did a passenger propose to his girlfriend at an altitude of 14,000 feet but the plane’s captain also plotted a fairytale proposal of his own!

Captain Charles Borg Giuliano planned the route around Sicily and Mount Etna carefully to create a perfect heart-shaped fly path. He then told his First Officer to name the last GPS coordinates Will, You, Marry and Me.

This was the second year that Air Malta organised the special flight, taking couples on a romantic round trip of Sicily and Mount Etna by night.

Due to an overwhelming demand for tickets this year, Air Malta added a second flight to the mix, aptly naming one plane Romeo and the other Juliet.

More than 100 couples indulged in sumptuous gourmet delights, enjoyed live music and gazed at the stars on what was surely Malta’s most high-flying date night.

When he decided to make his move, Cpt. Borg asked his cabin crew girlfriend, Julia Lynne Saliba to enter the flight deck and see the navigation display, which spelled out: Will You Marry Me?

The adventure began with pampering and full VIP treatment at Malta International Airport, including a red carpet check-in and a number of other Valentine’s treats along the way.

This was the second wedding proposal to happen on the same Valentine’s flight.

Air Malta’s guests were also given a Love Bag full of goodies, including a speciallydesigned pendant produced by Classic Jewellers to remember the experience.

Earlier, Claudio Barbara, 26, from Mtarfa, took to the plane’s PA system, in full view of all the other passengers, to ask Ruth Grech, 25, from Rabat, to marry him... Thankfully, and without hesitation, she said yes!

The Air Malta Love Plane was supported

by Malta International Airport, Classic Jewellers, SkyGourmet, Marsovin, Nescafe and Baci Perugina.

Do you want the Love Plane to return next year? Write to Air Malta on www.facebook. com/airmalta or www.twitter.com/airmalta to register your interest!

FACEBOOK: TWO wedding proposals during the romantic Valentine’s trip aboard Air Malta’s Love Plane http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v= 0N01pS_ rxhs&feature =youtu.be TWITTER: WATCH: TWO wedding proposals during romantic Valentine’s trip aboard http:// www.youtube.com/watch?v= 0N01pS_ rxhs&feature =youtu.be #TheAirMaltaLovePlane #AirMalta #Malta #Valentines

“Their proposals added so much romance to the Valentine’s flight, turning it into a truly unforgettable experience for everyone on board. Our passengers had tears in their eyes... It was a genuinely heartfelt moment,” said Simon Gatt, Air Malta’s In-flight Manager onboard the flight.

The proposals were filmed and included in the Love Plane video which can be viewed on www.airmalta.com.

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air malta news

Air France & Air Malta sign a code-share agreement Starting 30 March 2014, 18 weekly flights between Paris, Lyon and Malta Air France and Air Malta have signed a code-share agreement whereby Air France will place its code and flight numbers on flights operated by Air Malta between Malta and Paris-CDG and Orly, and also between Malta and Lyon.

Starting on 30 March 2014, this agreement will enable Air France to offer its customers 18 weekly services between the two French cities and Malta. The flights to/ from Paris-CDG and Paris-Orly Airports will connect with Air France’s extensive global and French domestic networks.

The flights will be operated by the Maltese airline with Airbus A319/A320 aircraft. Tickets have been on sales as from 10th February 2014.

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With this code-share agreement, the two airlines’ customers will benefit from new services, such as through check-in for passengers with connections. Air France passengers will be able to earn Miles with the Flying Blue loyalty programme.

Both Air Malta and Air France share the same reputation and commitment towards their customers, such as superior service and enhanced levels of customer satisfaction. This is yet another milestone for Air Malta on our 40th anniversary of operations”.

Commenting on this agreement Philip Saunders, Air Malta’s Chief Commercial Officer said: “We are excited with this agreement and what it brings to our customers. By combining our flight offerings between the two countries, our customers will benefit from access to many European and inter-continental destinations operated by Air France from its ParisCharles de Gaulle and Orly hubs.

"This agreement significantly strengthens our flight offering to Malta, currently served only from Toulouse. Air France is expanding its network in a region with high tourism potential and offers its customers new travel opportunities. This new agreement will also help to increase the traffic of both airlines” declared Henri de Peyrelongue, SVP Europe & North Africa Air France-KLM.

air malta news

Flight schedules (in local time) EVERY Day KM478 / AF3040: KM479 / AF3041:

leaves Malta at 6:35, leaves Paris-CDG at 10:15,

arrives at Paris-CDG at 9:25 arrives in Malta at 12:55

KM466 / AF3042: KM467 / AF3043:

leaves Malta at 13:25, leaves Paris-Orly at 17:00,

arrives at Paris-Orly at 16:10 arrives in Ă Malta at 19:35

leaves Malta at 15:50, leaves Paris-Orly at 19:30,

arrives at Paris-Orly at 18:35 arrives in Malta at 22:05

leaves Malta at 17:00, leaves Paris-Orly at 20:30,

arrives at Paris-Orly at 19:45 arrives in Malta at 23:05

leaves Malta at 7:10, leaves Lyon at 10:05,

arrives in Lyon at 09:20 arrives in Malta at 12:10

SATURDAYS KM476 / AF3044: KM477 / AF3045: SUNDAYS KM476 / AF3044:

KM477 / AF3045: THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS KM454 / AF3046: KM455 / AF3047:

For more details or to make a booking go to www.airmalta.com, call +356 21662211, go to an Air Malta sales office at Malta International Airport or contact your local travel agent.

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air malta news

Air Malta flies to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport Air Malta will soon start flying to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport after moving from Istanbul’s other airport, Atatürk.

The airport, named after the world’s first female combat pilot Sabiha Gökçen, is the world’s fastest-growing airport serving more than 19 million passengers annually.

Sabiha Gökçen airport is situated on the eastern side of the Bosphorus strait and therefore forms part of the Asian side of the bi-continental city.

This airport is only 40 minutes away from the city centre by taxi and is served also by a variety of efficient transport modes including dedicated Express airport buses and public transport.

A shuttle bus to the metro station nearby provides access to metro lines and the Marmaray tunnel that connects the two sides of the city underneath the Bosphorus.

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Air Malta’s first flight to Sabiha Gökçen Airport will be on March 31 and will follow last summer’s schedule of three weekly flights every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Connections are available to other airports beyond, primarily within Turkey.

“Sabiha Gökçen Airport serves a growing and largely untapped catchment area within the Asian side of Istanbul and other cities to the south. The airport will provide us with more operational flexibility,” said Philip Saunders, Air Malta’s Chief Commercial Officer, explaining the airline’s move.

The historical city of Istanbul is Turkey’s economic, cultural, and historical heart. Its attractions include towering minarets, underground Byzantine cisterns and steamy bathhouses.

Visit www.goturkey.com for more information.

air malta news

Air Malta voted one of Hungary’s favourite airlines

Air Malta was voted one of Hungary’s favourite airlines, placing second for best value and fifth overall, in the Favourite Airline of Hungary 2013 Award.

The award was organised by one of Hungary’s biggest booking sites, repjegy.hu in conjunction with the Budapest Airport.

Some 3,150 passengers who travelled during 2013 voted online from 114 airlines.

In the Best Value for Money category, Qatar Airways placed first, Air Malta placed second and Turkish Airlines placed third.

Qatar Airways also topped the Favourite Airline overall award followed by Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Swiss

International Air Lines and Air Malta.

Air Malta also placed fifth in the Best Schedule category.

Air Malta operates a twice weekly schedule to Budapest every Tuesdays and Fridays in summer.

Last month, Air Malta was ranked sixth best short-haul airline in the world in a Which? survey, with 69 per cent of people saying they were satisfied with the service and would recommend it to a friend.

Picture shows Lehotai Zsófia (4th from right), Sales Manager of Air Malta’s Hungarian GSA Globair at the Award Ceremony at Budapest Airport.

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air malta news

Lionel Galea

IL-BIZZILLA TALKS TO JAKE SAID Passengers Handling Agent How long have you been working with Air Malta?

As of the 5th of May , I will have been working with Air Malta as a passenger handling agent for 2 years.

What is the best thing about your job?

Its difficult to highlight one main aspect, but what really keeps me motivated is knowing that my performance directly affects the performance of the whole team, so you have to always push yourself to improve at what you do, whilst building a relationship with your colleagues, as working together as a team always provides better results.

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Do you have any hobbies?

Yes, racing has been my hobby ever since I was young, and till today, even though I practice; be it in the simulator and on karts nearly every day, as with my job, you can always improve, and you have to push yourself to the limit to achieve good results and excel at what you do. This along with the thrill of competing and racing against competitors is what attracts me to motor sport.

Three words that describe your job continuously Evolving, Diverse and Exciting.

Which is your favourite destination and why?

I might be biased due to my excessive liking to the Nurburgring nordshcleife, which is a 21km long race track situated in Germany, but everyone travels to do more of what they love.

What is the biggest challenge of your job?

The job in itself is challenging as you always have to learn to adapt to any situation that arises, as no two passengers are the same. The challenge itself is what makes the job exciting, without this challenge, there wouldn't be anything to work harder for and one would plateau and not provide the best service, be it to the company and even more so to the passengers, as they are what drives the company forward at the end of the day.

What are your favourite spots or tips for anyone visiting Malta?

This very much depends on what someone loves to do, some might prefer a relaxing day in the sun, next to a beach, to those I would recommend the beautiful ghadira bay in mellieha, to others that love to take a step into the past, the old city of Mdina, is not to be missed, or better yet, one of the numerous old temples situated in both Malta and Gozo, which are some of the oldest man made structures to be found worldwide.

air malta INFO

airmalta

INFO Flight and Company information

Alcohol consumption

Electronic devices

Smoking

Alcohol consumed at high altitude can have a stronger effect than usual. Cabin crew are legally empowered to refuse serving any alcohol to an intoxicated passenger and to anyone under the age of 18. In extreme cases, crew may also temporarily confiscate the passenger‘s own drinks so that the passenger would not become a nuisance to the other passengers and crew. Furthermore, Air Malta is bound by international regulations which prohibit embarkation or the carriage of drunken passengers.

But once 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 in-flight goes against Air Malta policy.

All electronic devices must be switched off for take-off and landing.

Smoking is prohibited from when you leave the terminal building until you arrive to the 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.

Electronic devices such as laptops, electronic games, video cameras, DVDs, etc. can be used only from the time the ‘Fasten Seat Belt’ sign is switched off after take-off until advised by the crew before landing.

Mobile phones and other devices able to transmit and receive signals must be set to Flight Mode for use in-flight.

You may ask the cabin crew for more information should you wish to use your electronic device during the flight.

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 also not allowed on board Air Malta flights.

Similarly, the use of naked flames on and around the aircraft is also prohibited.

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air malta INFO

In-Flight Bar Service We are pleased to offer you a great selection of soft and alcoholic drinks available on board your flight today.

€

£

$

CHF

Alcoholic Beverages: Teachers Whisky

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Bells Whisky

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00

Gordon’s Gin

4.00

3.00

Smirnoff Vodka

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Camus Brandy

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Bacardi Rum

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Havana Club

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Campari

4.00 3.00 5.00 5.00

Noval Port

4.00

Averna

4.00 3.00 5.00 5.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Baileys

4.00 3.00 5.00 5.00

Tia Maria

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Wines: Delicata Red Label

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Delicata Green Label

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Champagne: Drappier Carte D’Or Brut

10.00 8.50

16.00 16.00

Beer: Heineken

4.00 3.00 5.00 5.00

Cisk Lager

4.00

3.00

5.00 5.00

Minerals and Mixers:

Bar Prices We accept bank notes in Euros, Sterling, Dollars and Swiss Currencies, Coins only accepted in Euro and Sterling.

Unfortunately we are unable to accept Credit or Debit Cards. The correct change would be very much appreciated.

Safety Excessive consumption of alcohol is prohibited to the extent that the bar service may be refused, thus ensuring safety and comfort to other passengers on board.

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Sprite

2.00 1.50 2.00 2.00

Diet Coke

2.00

1.50

2.00 2.00

Coca Cola

2.00

1.50

2. 00 2.00

Fanta Orange

2.00

1.50

2.00 2.00

Kinnie

2.00 1.50 2.00 2.00

Tomato Juice

2.00

1.50

2.00 2.00

Bitter Lemon

2.00

1.50

2.00 2.00

Tonic Water

2.00

1.50

2.00 2.00

Ginger Ale

2.00

1.50

2.00 2.00

Soda Water

2.00

1.50

2.00 2.00

Sparkling Water

0.00

0.00

0.00 0.00

Still Mineral Water

0.00

0.00

0.00 0.00

Apple Juice

0.00

0.00

0.00 0.00

Orange Juice

0.00

0.00

0.00 0.00

Beverages:

Charter Flights We are pleased to offer complimentary juices and water. All soft and alcoholic drinks are against a charge.

Scheduled flights We are pleased to offer you complimentary soft drinks, juices and water with your meal, all other beverages will be charged for.

air malta INFO

AIR MALTA Fleet

DID YOU KNOW? Facts about Malta 1. Malta might be the easiest place in the world to f ind a place of worship… there are around 365 churches in Malta, one for ever y day of the year.

Enhance your Travel experience At Air Malta, we want our passengers to get everything they need to make the travel experience comfortable in one place. Here are a number of services that we offer that you might not have known about: Join the Club Upgrade to Air Malta’s Club Class for priority service. Members can make use of the special check-in counters for a more leisurely and efficient boarding, enjoy access the La Valetta Lounge at Malta International Airport, and get more privacy with a separate in-flight cabin area. Kindly ask at the check-in desk for further details.

AIRBUS 319

AIRBUS 320

Qty: 4 in fleet Number of seats: 141 Engines: 2 CFM56-5B6/P Maximum take-off weight: 73.5 metric tons Overall length: 33.84m; Wingspan: 34.1m Cruising speed: 834 kph Range: 4,815 km

Qty: 6 in fleet Number of seats: 168/180 Engines: 2 CFM56-5B4/P Maximum take-off weight: 77.0 metric tons Overall length: 37.57m; Wingspan: 34.1m Cruising speed: 834 kph Range: 4,055 km

2. During summer, the Maltese population triples with the arrival of nearly 1 million tourists from all over the world.

from different languages such as Italian, French, Spanish and A rabic, and is the only Semitic language in the world that is written in the Latin alphabet.

3. In Malta we drive on the left side of the road like the British, so if you are planning to drive, please do keep this in mind.

5. Malta is one of the 10 smallest sovereign states in the world.

4. Malta has a unique language spoken by over 1 million people worldwide. It has evolved

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!

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 2 hours before your flight.

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!

Your Air Malta boarding pass now gives you access to great discounts Find out how to make your ticket go the extra mile by visiting our website or our Facebook page. You can use your Air Malta boarding pass to get special discounts during your stay in Malta at many hotels, museums and more. All you have to do is present your boarding pass when purchasing the services listed on airmalta. com or at Air Malta Facebook page and you will be entitled to a special discount for your Air Malta boarding card. Make sure to mention that you wish to use this discount when making a booking, and have your boarding pass with you in order to redeem these offers.

Get sportive Are you passionate about a sport? We make it easy to travel and take your specialized equipment with you at very minimal cost.

Visit www.airmalta.com for more details.

Groups We also cater for large groups who want to travel together. If your group is larger than ten adults, contact our Group Bookings team for special rates that you can’t get anywhere else!

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air malta INFO

NORWAY SWEDEN • Oslo

Arlanda Stockholm

RUSSIA ESTONIA

LATVIA DENMARK

UNITED KINGDOM REP. OF IRELAND

• Moscow Sheremetyevo

LITHUANIA

• Copenhagen

• Moscow Domodedovo

• Manchester

BELARUS • Bremen • Hamburg

London Heathrow • • London Gatwick

• Amsterdam HOLLAND

• Brussels BELGIUM

• Berlin • Hannover GERMANY

• Düsseldorf • Frankfurt

Paris Orly •

• Dresden

UKRAINE

CZECH REPUBLIC SLOVAKIA

• Munich FRANCE

• Warsaw POLAND

• Zurich SWITZERLAND Linate Milan •

• Turin

• Vienna HUNGARY

ROMANIA

SLOVENIA CROATIA

• Otopani

• Verona

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

• Bologna

SERBIA

• Istanbul F.Y.O.M.

• Rome • Olbia

SPAIN

BULGARIA • Sofia

MONTENEGRO

ITALY PORTUGAL

MOLDOVA

AUSTRIA

ALBANIA

• Naples

TURKEY

GREECE • Cagliari • Athens SICILY • Catania

MOROCCO

ALGERIA

CYPRUS

• Larnaca

Malta

TUNISIA

• Tripoli

• Benghazi

LIBYA

EGYPT

VT

NH

MA

Airport

Weekly Flights Amsterdam 4 Athens 2 Benghazi 2 Berlin 2 Brussels 7 Catania 9 Düsseldorf 4 Frankfurt 5 Hamburg 2 Istanbul 2 London Gatwick 7 London Heathrow 14

Airport

Weekly Flights Manchester 4 Milan Linate 5 Moscow Domodedovo 2 Moscow Sheremetyevo 2 Munich 10 Sofia 2 Paris Charles de Gaulle 3 Paris Orly 4 Rome 7 Tripoli 7 Vienna 4 Zurich 5

NY

IRAN

CT

PA New York (Newark) • NJ wv

• Abu Dhabi

MD DE VA

SAUDI ARABIA

Intra-European Flights operated by Air Malta: Athens-Sofia-Athens (2 weekly flights) Amsterdam-Brussels (3 weekly flights) Brussels-Amsterdam (1 weekly flight) Flights code-shared: Meridiana

Lufthansa

Austrian Airlines

Code-shared Routes

Abu Dhabi Arlanda Berlin Bremen Catania Dresden Düsseldorf Frankfurt Hannover Munich New York (Newark) Oslo Stockholm Larnaca

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OMAN

Emirates Etihad Airways SN Brussels

via Heathrow, Manchester and Brussels with Etihad Airways via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich and Frankfurt code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich and Frankfurt code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich and Frankfurt code-shared with Lufthansa code-shared with Lufthansa via Munich with Lufthansa code-shared via Munich with Lufthansa via Munich code-shared with Lufthansa code-shared with Emirates

Bologna Cagliari Naples Olbia Turin Verona Budapest Otopani Prague Sofia Warsaw Brussels Copenhagen

via Catania code-shared with Meridiana via Rome and Milan code-shared with Meridiana via Catania code-shared with Meridiana via Catania, Rome and Milan code-shared with Meridiana via Catania and Rome code-shared with Meridiana via Catania code-shared with Meridiana via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared wit Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Vienna code-shared with Austrian Airlines via Catania code-shared with Brussels Airlines via Brussels code-shared with Brussels Airlines