Guide Me April/May 2018

APRIL/MAY 2018 €3 The official visitors’ guide of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association

A SHOWCASE OF MALTA

VALLETTA

Take a tour of Valletta’s stunning squares

CUISINE

The art of cultivating delicious strawberries

FASHION

Three local designers talk fashion and being inspired by the Med

Discover the many music festivals, events and shows taking place this spring

your guide to events | fashion | eating & drinking | shopping

INSIDE

April/May 2018 EDITOR Martina Said PUBLISHERS Content House Group ADVERTISING Head of Advertising Sales Matthew Spiteri Advertising Sales Executives Jean Mark Meli, Matthew Sciriha Advertising Sales Coordinator Lindsey Napier Art Direction & Design Antoinette Micallef Box Design – T: +356 7969 1212

page 17

Earth Garden

14 Calendar of Events

29 Valletta

The major events taking place in Malta and Gozo throughout April and May 2018.

Valletta’s sensational squares – Valletta is full of stunning open spaces, each with a different and fascinating story to its name, as Rebecca Anastasi discovers.

17 Cover story

8

Triton fountain Photo: Jan Zammit

For the love of music – Jo Caruana charts the many music events, concerts and festivals taking place this spring across the Maltese islands.

page 29

Photography A Maltese Mouthful; Anna Peftieva; Darren Agius; Inigo Taylor; Jan Zammit; Justin Mamo; Katja Ruge/Decca; Kris Micallef; Kurt Arrigo; Malta Tourism Authority; Octopus Garden Diving Centre; Ryan Galea; Steven; Tom Doms

Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel, BKR3000.

T: +356 2132 0713 E: info@contenthouse.com.mt W: www.contenthouse.com.mt Guide Me is published every two months in Malta.

This issue covers the period April/May 2018. The magazine is the official visitors’ guide of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association. The publication is distributed free of charge in the individual rooms of three, four and five star hotels. Guide Me is also distributed for free from MTA offices in Malta and Gozo and at the La Valette Club within the Malta International Airport (MIA). It is also sold at leading newsagents in Malta and Gozo, including those at The Valletta Waterfront and at MIA.

Cover picture:

Andreas Ottensamer will be performing at the Malta International Music Festival on 1st May 2018 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta.

For more information refer, to pages 14 & 17.

Photo: Katja Ruge/Decca

Editorial opinions expressed in Guide Me are not necessarily those of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association or of Content House Group and both organisations do not accept responsibility for editorial or advertising content.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited.

INSIDE

April/May 2018 page 89

Photo: Ryan Galea

page 75

43 Things to do

Taking the plunge – From underwater caves and marvellous reefs to sunken wrecks and statues, Marie-Claire Grima delves into the islands’ diving offering.

75 Fashion

Putting Malta on the fashion map – Martina Said chats with three local designers whose creations have risen to local and international heights.

61 Cuisine

Malta Eurovision 2018: Not a taboo – Ahead of her performance in Lisbon for the Eurovision Song Contest 2018, Maltese hopeful Christabelle Borg brings Jo Caruana up to speed with her latest plans and future prospects.

page 61

The art of farming – Marie-Claire Grima heads to the famed farming village of Mġarr to meet one of its very own farmers, Anthony Sammut, and finds out what it takes to make a living off the land.

69 Eating & Drinking Find the perfect place to wine and dine on the islands with our handy restaurant guide.

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89 Nightlife

Photo: Inigo Taylor

FOREWORD

Welcome to the Maltese islands!

ISSUE

78 April/May 2018

Photo: Casper Tybjerg - viewingmalta.com

A

s the days get longer, the weather warmer and our appetite for heading outdoors indeed greater, the Maltese islands are replete with cultural activities and events to enjoy. Those with a penchant for music and live concerts are in for a real treat this season. The cover story on page 17 delves into the wealth of music events taking place over the coming months, ranging from classical concerts and musicals to indie as well as rock festivals.

If you intended to visit the Maltese islands particularly for their sun and sea offering, turn to page 43 for an informative

read about the local diving scene.

Whether a beginner or advanced diver, or simply curious to have a go at it, you’ll find out all about the islands’ underwater caves, wrecks, reefs and hidden treasures. Of course, there’s more to the Maltese archipelago than its climate – with a history spanning millennia and a rich cultural heritage, there’s plenty to discover on land too. Flip to page 29 for a tour of the capital’s stunning squares, ranging from the grand to the discreet, and, in line with Valletta’s role as European Capital of Culture for 2018, there are also plenty of events and activities to attend in the city in April and May.

If you’re curious to find out about the islands’ agricultural heritage, you can read all about it on page 61 through an interview with a local farmer, who tells us all about the art of cultivating strawberries, while the fashion feature on page 75 delves into the creations of three talented local designers who are putting Malta on the international fashion map. Last but not least, meet Malta’s Eurovision hopeful on page 89, and find out about her top tips for visiting the Maltese islands in spring.

Martina Said EDITOR

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2018 Until 17 July The Schranz Family of Artists: A Journey of Rediscovery – Heritage Malta, in collaboration with the Schranz family, is holding an exhibition to mark the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the Schranz family of artists in Malta.

The exhibition explores the output of four generations of Schranz artists, their various styles, techniques and artistic entrepreneurship. Venue: Fort St Elmo, Valletta. www.heritagemalta.org

1 April Jesus Christ Superstar Live Musical – Jesus Christ Superstar is a 1970 rock opera with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. The production will take place in Gozo’s Teatru Astra, under the artistic direction of London-based Hugh Wooldridge, and the musical direction of Mro Sigmund Mifsud. www.ticketline.com.mt

1-29 April Gaulitana: A Festival of Music – Hailed as Gozo’s main classical festival, Gaulitana will feature a diverse programme of events in various genres and styles. The highlight will be Bellini’s opera Norma, which will be held at Teatru Aurora on 28th April. The opera night will be part of the Opera Weekend – an intensive programme of events concluding the festival. www.gaulitanus.com

4 April Għanafest – Għanafest celebrates Malta’s folk music heritage within a Mediterranean context. A six-hour programme is arranged per day in three different sections: għana – Maltese folk

song; local bands and artists; and foreign bands from Mediterranean countries, who all participate in celebration of the Mediterranean identity. The first event will take place on 4th April at St Gregory’s Gardens in Żejtun. www.ghanafest.com

6-14 April International Spring Orchestra Festival 2018 – The 12th edition of the International Spring Orchestra Festival is running from 6th to 14th April at various venues around Valletta, featuring, among others, the European Union Chamber Orchestra, Aquilon Trio and Somogyi String Quartet (Budapest). www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

8, 15, 22, 29 April 6, 13, 20, 27 May In Guardia Parade – In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays an authentic event that took place inside Malta’s major fortifications – the inspection of Fort St Elmo (Valletta) and its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St John in charge of military affairs. Some 50 actors kitted-out in their uniforms perform their military drill to demonstrate to the Grand Bailiff its state of readiness. The show begins at 11am and lasts 45 minutes.

15 April-1 May

Picasso & Miró Exhibition – Throughout spring, the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta will open its doors to a remarkable collection of works by two major Spanish artists of the 20th century – Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró.

The exhibition consists of a selection of 100 etchings from the Collection Suite Vollard that belongs to Fundación Mapfre, and 40 paintings of Miró belonging to the Espacio Miró exhibition in Madrid.

Malta International Music Festival – For two weeks in April, the European Foundation for Support of Culture (EFSC), in collaboration with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, will be presenting the Malta International Music Festival 2018, featuring highly-acclaimed worldfamous musicians, including Ray Chen, Andreas Ottensammer, Narek Hakhnazaryan, David Aaron Carpenter and Julia Zilberquit, among many others.

Venues: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta and Robert Samut Hall, Floriana. www.maltafest.eu

8 April

21-30 April

Festa Frawli – The annual strawberry festival, now in its 11th year, takes place in Mġarr, an agricultural village on the north side of the island known for its deliciously-sweet strawberries.

In the main square outside the village’s parish church, stalls are set up selling all kinds of fresh products, preserves and delicacies featuring freshly-picked strawberries. www.mgarr.com.mt

Malta International Fireworks Festival – 2018 will mark the 17th edition of the Malta International Fireworks Festival, celebrating an essential component of local village feasts. Year after year, the festival is an opportunity for fireworks factories around the island to show off their skills with more gusto than ever. Venues: Xagħra (Gozo), Marsaxlokk and Valletta. www.maltafireworksfestival.com

7 April-30 June

For the full online Malta Calendar of Events please go to: www.visitmalta.com/events-calendar 14

27 April, 25 May

4-6 May

Changing of the Guard – The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is held every last Friday of the month at St George’s Square, Valletta. The parade commences at 10.30am, with the AFM Band marching down Republic Street onto St George’s Square. Here, the new guard marches out from the Main Guard in order to replace the old guard who marches out from The Palace. Following the exchange of ‘duties’ the AFM Band conducts a marching display in the same square.

Land of the Big Word Factory – Performed by Theatre Anon, Land of the Big Word Factory is an English adaptation of the album La Grande Fabrique de Mots written by Agnes de Lestrade and illustrated by Valeria Docampo. The performance, with beautiful puppetry, music and live projections, presents an imaginary land where all words are produced in a huge word factory, and words must be bought to be spoken. Venue: Teatru Salesjan, Sliema. www.tsmalta.com

28 April

5-6 May

Science in the Citadel – This one-day festival held within Gozo’s magnificent Citadel will be celebrating the best of science and technology innovation, research and practice on the Maltese islands. It's free, fun and for all the family. You can take part in the exciting experiments and demonstrations on display at the science fair, experience virtual reality, take a coding workshop, watch science comedy or let your brain make music, among many other fun and fascinating activities.

Mdina Medieval Festival – Two days of re-enactments and pageantry that evoke Malta’s late medieval period (1200-1500 AD) will take place over two days in May. Several re-enactment groups perform various battle scenes and other actions in different parts of this ancient city. www.mdinacouncil.com

4-6 May Valletta Green Festival – The Valletta Green Festival transforms one of the largest open urban spaces in Valletta, St George’s Square, with its colourful signature feature – a huge floral carpet composed of some 80,000 potted plants.

A yearly programme of family-friendly activities has established this weekendlong festival as a fun and accessible platform for initiatives promoting environmental consciousness on the Maltese islands. www.valletta2018.org

15 May Star of Strait Street – Based on a true-life love story from World War II, this new musical by Philip Glassborow takes us back to the wild days of Valletta’s most infamous street. Singer Christina Ratcliffe arrives in Malta to entertain the troops in The Gut at The Morning Star when she meets the dashing RAF air-ace, Adrian Warburton. It will be staged at the Phoenicia Hotel – the daily view that greeted Christina from her apartment in Floriana. www.valletta2018.org

Festival, which celebrates the beauty of cultural diversity through the expressive medium of music. For the second edition of the festival, expect another great line-up of local bands and a number of highly-acclaimed international world music acts. Venue: Fort St Elmo, Valletta. www.maltaworldmusicfestival.org

20 May Irkotta Fest – The village of Ħal-Kirkop will be hosting the annual Irkotta Fest from 10am onwards on 20th May. Sweet and savoury irkotta dishes will rule the day in a festival aimed at raising awareness about this traditional local delight. www.kirkop.lc.gov.mt

20 May Valletta Concours d’Elegance – Set within the walls of the historic baroque city of Valletta, this event will host a selection of fine automobiles. The artistic engineering of both the city and the vehicles will be coming together to create a unique event, which will be judged by internationallyrenowned experts in the field. www.vallettaconcoursdelegance.com

28 May-2 June Malta Fashion Week & Awards – 2018 marks the 20th edition of the Malta Fashion Awards and the 8th Edition of Malta Fashion Week. The capital will be a platform for unveiling Malta’s top talent and all that the local fashion industry has to offer. www.fashionweek.com.mt

18-19 May Malta World Music Festival – The Maltese islands are an ideal meeting point for an event as diverse as the Malta World Music

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COVER STORY

For the

Love of Music

Earth Garden

As winter turns to spring, the island comes alive with countless musical events – from outdoor festivals to classical concerts, there is something for everyone. Jo Caruana outlines her favourites for April and May.

I cannot describe quite how much the Maltese love music.

From village bands parading through the streets during festa time to the typical għana (sung poetry) on summer evenings, music and merriment feature every step of the way.

The springtime calendar is no different and there’s a huge variety to choose from, whether you’d like to be outdoors under the stars listening to an indie rock band, or indoors in one of Malta’s most beautiful venues enjoying something classical.

This is our pick of the music events to look out for this spring season – many of which are part of the Valletta’s ongoing role as European Capital of Culture for 2018.

Festivals As the sunshine returns to Malta, festivals quickly become one of the most popular outdoor pursuits available on the island. And there are a few to look forward to over the next few weeks.

One of the biggest is Gaulitana: A Festival of Music (www. gaulitanus.com), which will take place in various locations around Gozo throughout April. Labelled ‘a major festival of classical music’

by Musical Opinion Magazine, the 12th edition of this festival promises a multifarious programme of events in various genres and styles. It will open with a semistaged adaptation of the musical Mary Poppins and will present

evening recitals, lunchtime concerts and a fully-fledged educational programme. This edition will also commemorate American composer, conductor, author, music lecturer, and pianist Leonard Bernstein’s birth centenary. A key highlight will be the opera Norma, by Bellini, at the Aurora Theatre on 28th April.

If you enjoy accordion music, then you are certainly in luck as the 2018 Accordion Festival comes to the Corinthia Palace Hotel in Attard on 3rd and 4th April. In it, the Santa Maria Accordion Band, with the support of festival founder Dr Philippe Agius, will bring together local and international musicians for two large-scale accordion concerts. ➜ 17

COVER STORY The Santa Maria Accordion Band will be joined by the Akki Harmonists Orchestra, as well as numerous soloists.

Next up is another major event – the Malta International Music Festival (www.maltafest. eu) from 15th April to 1st May. Organised by the European Foundation for Support of Culture (EFSC) in collaboration with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and with the support of the Valletta 2018 Foundation, this festival is considered one of Malta’s most notable classical music festivals. The varied programme will feature neardaily concerts at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta and Robert Samut Hall in Floriana, ranging from piano recitals to symphonic orchestral concerts. It will welcome many internationallyacclaimed musicians, including legendary concert pianist Grigory Sokolov, Grammy-award winning violinist Maxim Vengerov, cellist and Tchaikovsky Competition

Gaulitana: A festival of music

gold medallist Narek Hakhnazaryan, violist David Carpenter, violinist Ray Chen, conductor and violinist Dmitry Sitkovetsky, pianist Denis Kozhukhin and the Khachaturyan Trio. A full programme is available on the website.

For something entirely different, head to Rock the South (www.rockthesouthmalta.com) in Marsascala from 20th to 22nd April. This event, which is now in its sixth edition, has become a staple on the alternative local music

scene. Those interested can expect to see over 30 bands and artists in performance on two stages, across this jam-packed weekend of music.

Rounding up the selection of festivals is one of the biggest of them all – Earth Garden (www.earthgarden. com.mt) from 31st May to 3rd June at Ta’ Qali National Park. Considered one of Europe’s best-kept festival secrets, this is an annual open-air non-mainstream music festival that’s now in its 11th edition. ➜

Earth Garden

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COVER STORY Earth Garden features five different music stages, namely: Roots Stage, Enchanted Forest, Electronic Sphere, Strawberry Hill and a live Jamming Area, as well as two naturally-shaded campsites, showers, an ethnic market, healing fields, world cuisine and a kids’ area. Focusing on its green footprint and eclectic music styles, it features over 40 international acts and the music styles played vary from world music, blues, jazz, funk, ska, dub, reggae, psychedelic and alternative rock, to gypsy punk, psychedelic trance ‘n’ dub, techno, acid, house, ambient, electro, drum ‘n’ bass and more. Among the many brilliant performers this year, festival-goers can expect to experience Gentleman’s Dub Club – a world-renowned dub band from

the UK, Australian drum ‘n’ didge band Wild Marmalade, Britishbased band Lakuta, and Turbans.

Musical Theatre Fans of musical theatre are well taken care of this season, with two lively events to look forward to – all performed by talented local singers, actors and dancers.

The first will be Mamma Mia (www.mcc.com.mt) at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta from 13th to 15th April.

Known to be the eighth longestrunning musical in West End history, this musical includes Abba hits such as Super Trouper, Lay All Your Love on Me, Dancing Queen, Knowing Me, Knowing You, Take a Chance on Me, Thank You for the Music, Money,

Money, Money, The Winner Takes It All, Voulez-Vous, SOS and the title track, Mamma Mia. Aside from a hugely-talented local cast, it will also feature West End leading lady Charlotte Gorton, who is flying down especially for the occasion.

Then, for something a little more intimate, join the cast of Star of Strait Street for a oneoff performance of this original musical on 15th May. Based on a true-life love story from World War II, this is a new show by Philip Glassborow and it will take you back to the wild days of Valletta’s most infamous street. In it, a beautiful singer – Christina Ratcliffe – arrives in Malta to entertain the troops in ‘The Gut’ at The Morning Star bar. ➜

Mamma Mia - Photo: Justin Mamo

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COVER STORY There she meets the dashing RAF air-ace, Flying Officer Adrian Warburton – and the rest is history!

Fondly remembered as ‘Christina of George Cross Island’, Ratcliffe was awarded the British Empire Medal for her services to the RAF. The play stars Polly March, Larissa Bonaci and Geoff Thomas, and features wartime standards like I’ll Be Seeing You, alongside original songs such as Welcome to Valletta.

Staged at the Phoenicia Hotel – the daily view that greeted the show’s heroine from her apartment in Floriana – it promises to be a feast for theatre and music lovers, enthusiasts of Maltese history, and anyone looking for a good show.

Classical Music Classical music events in Malta are as varied as they are numerous, as you can see from this exciting selection.

We’ll begin with A Night With Bernstein (www.mcc. com.mt) at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta on 7th April. In this very special concert, music from Bernstein’s celebrated musical West Side Story, a retelling of Romeo and Juliet in a multi-ethnic, working class New York City neighbourhood, will be performed along with his choral work Chichester Psalms and the overture and suite from the operetta Candide. It will be led by Wayne Marshall, one of the world’s most renowned interpreters of works by 20th-century American composers.

Then, on 5th May, Bacchus restaurant in Mdina will come alive with Guitarra de Tierras Imaginarias, an event which promises ‘an exquisite journey 22

Conductor and violinist Dmitry Sitkovestky

Violinist Ray Chen - Photo: Tom Doms

into the fascinating world of the classical guitar’. Apart from an opening performance by local band Tact, the concert will feature Maestro Carlos Eduardo Bojarski, an accomplished Argentinean musician of international repute with an interest in contemporary sounds. He will also perform two major guitar compositions by the contemporary Maltese composer Maestro John Zammit Pace, including the world premiere of his brand new Third Sonata.

On the same evening, 5th May, Scheherazade (www.teatrumanoel. com) at the Manoel Theatre in Valletta will show how stories and fairy tales have inspired music throughout the ages. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of Greek conductor Michalis Economou, has chosen to tackle three of the most notable examples of this through Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet, a symphonic retelling of Shakespeare’s timeless tale. ➜

COVER STORY In it, the legendary heroine of One Thousand and One Nights inspired Rimsky-Korsakov’s symphonic suite, Scheherazade, which was later adapted into a controversial ballet.

The concert will also feature an unusual composition: a concerto for accordion and orchestra.

Rounding up the classical offering is Tchaikovsky’s Fifth at the Mediterranean Conference Centre on 19th May. Under the direction of Armenian conductor Sergey Smbatyan, the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will perform a piano concerto from Alexey Shor together with another Armenian musician, pianist Nareh Arghamanyan. The concert’s highlight, however, will be Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony, which was actually his sixth if his unnumbered Manfred Symphony is taken into account. The composer was particularly enthusiastic about this work, only to end up deeply dejected by a muted public reaction to it. But the symphony,

a four-movement cyclical piece with a recurring main theme evoking the idea of fate, has since grown immeasurably in stature.

Electronic Music, Clubbing & Everything Else If you prefer house and electronic music to classical affairs, there are alternatives. These include Circuits – an electronic music conference and concert at St James Cavalier, Valletta, on 7th April. This annual conference is led by the voluntary organisation Electronic Music Malta and it showcases a mix of arts, music and technology related to electronic music performance and production, including installations, talks, workshops, challenges, equipment, expositions and a final performance. This year, Circuits will also host an interactive music installation, a series of talks by two international electronic music artists, and a performance on modular synthesisers.

In a somewhat similar vein, Accordian Festival 2018 band

Circuits makes way for the Apocalypse Trio on 20th April at Sir Temi Zammit Hall in Msida.

This event is the brainchild of three Apulian musical navigators who, with their experience and vision, explore new musical worlds by combining acoustic and electronic instruments to create new electrojazz with a contemporary feel.

The trio, made up of Vincenzo Deluci, Camillo Pace and Giuseppe Mariani, tirelessly strive to look for music that breaks with the past while expressing their electric roots – namely rock, jazz, contemporary and ancient music – in an unprecedented fusion. This isn’t set to be your average performance. It’s a musical mosaic that’s built on sound-based architecture: broken rhythms, interventions, a schizoid trumpet, bass and electronic elements.

Next up is Stephen Bodzin in performance at Gianpula in the outskirts of Rabat (www. gianpulavillage.com) on 27th April. Bodzin has been a hugely influential figure within the global techno scene for years. He is known to be an impressive live specialist who creates mesmerising, high-impact soundtracks on the fly – and this performance promises to be exactly that.

Over in the capital, between 2nd and 16th May, artists will present Sonic Structure. This project will be a series of sitespecific sound interventions that completely derive from Valletta’s sonic environment. In each of a variety of locations, artists will make a new sound composition that is site-specific using a number of small loudspeakers. ➜ 25

COVER STORY The result will allow for a highquality artistic experience that combines natural and abstract sounds of Valletta.

Meanwhile, on 4th and 5th May, Transition by Tricia Dawn Williams will transform the traditional idea of a piano recital into an interdisciplinary performance featuring motion capture technology, video-art, electronic music and extended piano technique. The programme, which is part of Modern Music Days (www.modernmusicdays.eu) presents a portrait of the avantgarde piano that stretches almost one hundred years of repertoire.

Each work breaks new ground as the composer navigates through uncharted waters to depict a new profile for the instrument.

Finally, on 28th May, book

Rock the South

your tickets for Amalgama (www.valletta2018.org/events/ amalgama), at the City Lights Cinema in Valletta. This innovative piano and audio-reactive visual performance – a collaboration between pianist Gabi Sultana and visual artist Mark Dingli – explores minimalistic works by international contemporary composers, such as John Cage,

Philip Glass and Benjamin Van Esser, among others. During the performance, Sultana’s piano sound will be fed through Dingli’s visuals, creating a homogeneous experience that brings a visual aspect into what is usually a purely listening environment. The result promises to be an immersive experience for music, art and experimental-sound enthusiasts.

Triton Square - Photo: Jan Zammit

VALLETTA

Valletta’s Sensational Squares Whether you’re looking for a peaceful alcove, away from the hustle and bustle, or a vibrant open area where the kids can run around to their heart’s content, Valletta is brimming with stunning open spaces which pump life into the cityscape. Rebecca Anastasi explores these pedestrian paradises to find out what they offer.

Valletta was made for walking: its 16th-century urban planners made sure that the design which established the city’s street grid also incorporated open spaces where the community could come together, move, breathe and cool down on a hot summer’s day. Public space was not only a concept; it was a philosophy and a way of life.

And, today, the capital’s ambitious squares form part of the fabric Triton Square - Photo: Darren Agius

which make up its identity and allow locals and visitors alike to enjoy a little piece of urban paradise.

Triton Square After months of anticipation – and of public works, during which this square remained hidden from view – the curtain was recently raised on this wide, open public space which crowns the entrance of Valletta. Standing imposingly in

the centre of it, the newly-restored Triton Fountain, has become an iconic symbol of the capital and of its regeneration. Consisting of three bronze Tritons holding a bronze platter over their heads, this landmark, which stands as testament to the city’s indomitable spirit, was created by one of Malta’s most acclaimed Modernist artists, the celebrated Vincent Apap, while Victor Anastasi was entrusted with its technical layout.

In its previous life, and up until quite recently, this pedestrianised urban spread was filled with the deep rumblings, black exhaust fumes and frantic commuters which characterise any typical bus terminus. ➜ 29

VALLETTA

Malta's Parliament building in Freedom Square

The fountain was switched on in 1959 (though never inaugurated due to the political unrest of the time) and, over the years, blackened till it became nothing more than a husk of what it could have been.

After painstaking work, consisting of an intensive seven-month stopover at the prestigious Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli of Florence, and with the public transport hub having been moved further along, the three sea figures have now returned to their pride of place. Gleaming and ready to start afresh, the fountain, with its aquamarine water flowing into the pristine basin which cups the sculptures, is enjoying the attention of a celebrity as young and old dip their hands.

This new lease of life has also been injected into the square itself: The Phoenicia five-star hotel, an architectural gem consisting of glorious gardens and art-deco detailing on the façade, also reopened last year.

It has hosted luminaries from the music industry, stage and 30

screen, and continues to attract those looking for a taste of the past on the doorstep of the 16th-century capital. Moreover, the lush gardens surrounding the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial, right in front of this prestigious lodging, rest the body and mind.

In front of the fountain and The Phoenicia hotel, there lies a strip lined with fanned palm trees and wooden benches, an area known as ‘il-Biskuttin’ in Maltese. This avenue, flanked by wide shaded streets, anticipates the grid design of the capital and is similar to the linear perspective afforded by the Tuilleries Gardens in Paris which overlook the Champs Élysées.

Indeed, its composition cuts a straight line through the fountain and to the spectacular new entrance to the city, designed by internationally-acclaimed architect and artist Renzo Piano (of the Pompidou Centre fame).

Freedom Square The former Freedom Square arcade, a relic of the 1970s

Jean de Valette Square - Photo: www.flyingfourchette.com

which was more reminiscent of Communist architecture than reflective of the style and tone of a Mediterranean island, is long gone, but, in its stead stands the ambitious Parliament building.

This dominates the smaller tract of open space, officially still known as Freedom Square, just inside of City Gate, and was the subject of much controversy when initially designed by Renzo Piano.

The final result, however, has transformed the area and given it back to the man and woman in the street, despite the shadows cast by its monument to the powerful. The pedestrianised area now commences from the foot of the imposing steps flanking the entrance to the capital, and spreads right to Palazzo Ferreria, built in the 19th century but recently restored to its 21st-century glory. Its green timber balconies overlook Pjazza Teatru Rjal, which houses an open-air theatre that rose from the ashes of Malta’s National Opera House, bombed during World War II, and which has now become the pumping heart of culture in the area. ➜

VALLETTA visitors the opportunity to experience a different view of Maltese art and culture.

Castille Square - Photo: Emma Tranter - viewingmalta.com

The Squares of the Governing Walking up from the open-air theatre, past its fractured limestone colonnades, the new Jean de Valette Square, after the eponymous founder of the capital, pays tribute to the legendary Grandmaster, who never lived to see the city he envisioned become reality. His statue adorns the small enclosure, situated besides the 16th-century church, St Catherine of Alexandria, which sits on the crossroads with Merchants Street. Make it a point to stop inside: the grey and gold ornate cupola was painted by famed Italian Baroque artist Mattia Preti, as was the titular painting which depicts the final moments of the saint.

Fanning out from the tip of Merchants Street, Castille Square overlooks the majestic Grand Harbour and is the site of the Auberge de Castille, a dignified building situated at the highest point of the capital, and which, today, is the seat of the Prime Minister’s office. Its ornate windows and curved crevices imbue the public space with a sense of drama, emblematic of the ebb and flow of history on these islands.

St James Cavalier, the city’s most accessible and innovative artistic space, also known as Spazju Kreattiv, also sits along the cobbled square and affords

St John’s Square This bustling part of town, with its outdoor lounge bars offering cocktails at great prices and casual dining joints, seems to encapsulate

what Valletta has come to mean to locals and tourists: great food, relaxed drinks, and a lot of history.

The square is home to St John’s CoCathedral, formerly the conventual church of the Knights of Malta, and its plain, yet imposing façade tells stories of a military might with a religious soul. ➜

As European Capital of Culture in 2018, Valletta is bringing life back into the squares and buildings of Valletta. Here are some of the bigger events which can be enjoyed throughout April and May. 1. Dal-Baħar Madwarha Curator Maren Richter brings Valletta 2018’s major visual arts exhibition to our European Capital of Culture, with large installations, performances and public interventions taking place in both traditional and unexpected locales across the country. The exhibition is open until 27th May. 2. Il-Festa l-Kbira Il-Festa l-Kbira is a one-off event in which the capital’s four main feasts and its two band clubs come together for the first time ever as part of the Valletta 2018 Cultural Programme. Festivities will take place from 4th till 7th April in Valletta and the Grand Harbour.

3. The International Spring Orchestra Festival 2018 The 12th edition of the International Spring Orchestra Festival will be taking place between 6th and 14th April, and promises to be a breathtaking nine-day musical journey, led by local and guest artists in Valletta.

For the full programme, visit www.iso-festival.com/program.html 4. Malta International Music Festival 2018 The 2018 edition of this renowned festival will take place between 15th April and 1st May, with a varied programme of near-daily concerts at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta and Robert Samut Hall in Floriana, ranging from piano recitals to symphonic orchestral concerts. For more information, visit www.maltafest.eu 5. Valletta Green Festival Each year, the Valletta Green Festival transforms St George’s Square with its colourful signature feature – a huge floral carpet composed of some 80,000 potted plants. Happening between 4th and 6th May, the festival also offers visitors rare glimpses into some of the capital city’s little-known historical treasures.

6. Ex Libris This exhibition of metal art, created by Danish artist Marie Louise Kold, centres on inspiration which comes from the metal, metallurgy, chemistry and alchemy themed, centuries-old books at the National Library in Republic Square, Valletta. It runs between 7th May and 2nd June.

For more information, visit www.valletta2018.org/events

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VALLETTA

St John’s Square - Photo: viewingmalta.com

The arcade which frames the square shelters stores selling anything from jewellery, to shoes, to medicines.

Frequented by residents, professionals who come into the city on a daily basis and tourists, the people who can be found in these establishments represent a cross-section of all those who congregate on these little rocks in the middle of the Mediterranean.

A sense of reprieve from the lively square can also be found here as trees cast their shade over the bitumen, which has experienced the pounding of thousands of tourists who walk up the smooth steps and disappear into the dark annals of the Co-Cathedral.

Independence Square - Photo: Alex-397 on Flickr

Independence Square This small, charming square is one of the prettiest spots in the capital. Situated just behind the Manoel Theatre, and to the side of St Paul’s (Anglican) ProCathedral, its abundance of terraces and traditional Maltese homes has created a little haven away from the chaos of the main thoroughfares.

It’s a bit of a difficult find at first, but well-worth the effort, despite the cars which are frequently parked right within it. Indeed, it is the fully-functioning quality of the square which gives it its charm, for it is here that some of the city’s better-heeled residents live, and where you can find lawyers’ offices and carpenter workshops existing side by side.

Nothing overshadows it more, however, than the Palladian exterior of St Paul’s, a Pro-Cathedral (that’s a church possessing cathedral status though not being the main one) commissioned by the Dowager Queen Adelaide during a visit to Malta and a relic of the days when Malta was part of the British Empire. Its cool interior contrasts greatly with the Baroque St John’s, just five minutes’ walk away: a juxtaposition of artistic styles which represents the palimpsestic nature of the city.

Republic Square Yet another British dowager benevolently lords over Republic Square, just in front of the National Library, though with all the activity going on here, it’s easy to miss her. Queen Victoria – or, rather, a statue representing the monarch – sits bang in the middle of this busy, vibrant space, dominated by the chairs and tables of some of Malta’s most famous watering holes and cafés.

Prime among these is Caffe Cordina, a family business founded in 1837, and bound to be on every route map, guide book and tourist information brochure that has ever existed about Malta. ➜

VALLETTA But, this is not only a place for tourists: their more-ish pastries and luscious ice-creams ensure there is always a crowd of locals wanting an extra bite.

And, tucked away under the arcade (look up for some of the

Arcade fronting Republic Square Photo: www.maltauncovered.com

most beautiful ceilings you’ve ever seen), the National Library is the pride and joy of many a bibliophile.

Valletta’s early founders knew a thing or two about construction, and the absolute silence of the hallowed book-lined halls inside the library are a striking contrast to the energy outside in the midday sun.

St George’s Square Gastrobars, bistros and burger joints may flank this grand urban space, but it’s the stately Main Guard, which formerly housed the guards of the British Governor of Malta, and the magnificent Grandmaster’s Palace, which command the most attention.

Both are still working buildings: the former is now the office of the Attorney General while the latter is the office of the President of the

St George’s Square - Photo: Clive Vella - viewingmalta.com

Republic, and also houses some of the most impressive tapestries and armoury on the island.

Moreover, a changing of the guard ceremony takes place here every last Friday of the month (see p14).

However, the centre of the square is what will grab the attention of the young and youngat-heart, with water jets spurting up, soaking whoever dares run across them, and proving that you don’t need to go to the beach to cool down in summer in Malta.

PROPERTY

Fiscal considerations

when buying or selling immovable property Shanice Finch, a consultant with Erremme Business Advisors Limited, breaks down the fiscal issues you should know about before buying property in Malta.

Malta is experiencing a high demand for vacant property and as a result, property prices are skyrocketing. Whether one is planning to buy or sell property, it is recommended that the individual is informed about one particular area which everyone is fond of: tax. In the 2014 Budget, Government announced major changes with respect to new tax rates as well as exemptions on sale of property. On 1st January 2015, these changes commenced.

The current tax rate on the sale of property is a final withholding tax of 8 per cent on the transfer value. However, the final withholding tax is at the rate of 2 per cent if residential property is sold by an individual within three years of acquisition, and if the individual does not own any other residential property at transfer date.

On the other hand, there will be no final withholding tax on your main residence if the property had been owned for at least three consecutive years immediately before the date of property transfer.

In order to be eligible for this tax exemption, the law also allows a maximum of 12 months for an individual to vacate and sell the old property, even if a new residence is purchased before the old residence is sold.

According to the local income tax law, residences also include a

garage of not more than 70 square metres situated no further than 500 metres from the same residence and sold together with the residence as one contract of sale.

If the property is transferred within five years of acquisition, then the tax rate is of 5 per cent if the seller is not a property trader and the property is not part of a project complex. The sale of property situated in Valletta is charged a final withholding tax of 5 per cent if the property is acquired before 31st December 2018, renovated and sold by not later than 31st December 2023.

Schemes and Exemptions The Planning Authority (PA), formerly known as MEPA, introduced a new scheme with respect to transfer of property, grade 1 or 2, which had been restored and is situated in an urban conservation area. For transfer of such property after 1st January 2015, tax is chargeable at 7 per cent final withholding on the transfer value. A 10 per cent tax charge is incurred on the transfer value if a notice of promise of sale had been made to the Commissioner by 17th November 2014.

The reform from 1st January 2015 also brought along exemptions. One such exemption from tax liability includes the transfer of property

"In the 2014 Budget, the Government announced major changes with respect to new tax rates as well as exemptions on sale of property." to the Government of Malta in terms of the Land Acquisition Ordinance as part of a Public Purpose agreement. Other exemptions include the transfer of property between group companies, sale by court order in case of winding up or judicial auction and transfer between spouses upon separation, divorce or property received by heir of a deceased spouse. ➜ 39

PROPERTY The transfer of property by a company to its shareholders in the course of winding up through a scheme of distribution is also exempt from tax.

Furthermore an exemption is also allowed on property which had been held by a business for more than three years and is subsequently replaced by another property within 12 months for the business’ similar operational activities.

No tax shall be payable if an immovable property is given as a donation to the spouse, descendants and ascendants in the direct line.

In the absence of descendants, the exemption is allowed if the property is transferred to brothers or sisters and their descendants, or donations to philanthropic institutions approved by the Commissioner of Revenue. On the other hand, as a tax abuse provision, if the property is transferred again or disposed of by the individual or entity receiving the immovable property within five years, the person who had received the donation shall be charged 12 per cent tax on the excess if any, of the transfer value over its acquisition value.

Barters For tax purposes, any transfer of immovable property by means of a deed of exchange shall be considered as if separate deeds of transfer were taking place between the parties of the deed. A deed of exchange is when two properties are exchanged.

In simpler words, for tax purposes, these are considered as the sale of two properties and the amounts cannot be netted off against each other, but a final withholding tax shall be paid on each property sold.

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Inheritance Tax on transfer of property from inheritance, referred to as causa mortis, is charged at 12 per cent final withholding tax on the gain made on the sale, deducting the property value declared in the causa mortis document for property inherited after 24th November 1992. In the case of property inherited before 25th November 1992, the rate of tax is of 7 per cent final withholding tax on the transfer price. In the 2017 Budget, the 7 per cent final withholding tax was extended to both transfers of property acquired causa mortis pre-1992 and also post1992 in case of property which is sold by judicial auction.

Stamp Duty on Transfer of Property in Malta Duty in Malta is paid by the buyer of the property, charged at a rate of 5 per cent on the higher of the immovable property value or purchase price. One should be aware that no death tax or duty is payable in Malta. On the other hand, duty on documents and transfer costs are to be paid by the heirs of the deceased.

The first time buyer’s scheme was also extended during the 2017 Budget, allowing individuals who will be purchasing their first residential property to be exempt from stamp duty on the first €150,000 of the property transfer price.

A new exemption was implemented during the 2017 Budget with respect to duty on transfer of immovable property used for family businesses. If

a commercial property has been used by a family business for at least three years, prior to a transfer of such property to a close family relative, duty will be charged at a reduced rate. In the case of individuals applying for this reduced duty, they will not be eligible to claim any other exemptions or relief from duty. The reduced rate applies for transfer of property on or after 1st April 2017 and prior to 1st April 2018, but if the relative receiving the property transfers such property again within three years, the exemption is forfeited and the 5 per cent basic rate should be paid in total. Lastly, the said property shall be used again for commercial purposes for at least three years subsequent to the transfer between family members for the exemption to apply.

The reduced stamp duty rate for eligible family businesses amounts to €1.50 on every €100 value of the commercial property transferred between eligible family members.

Another initiative resulting from the 2017 Budget reduces the stamp duty from 5 per cent to 2 per cent on residential property purchased in Gozo. The eligible criteria include that the promise of sale had to be registered by the Inland Revenue Department by 31st December 2017, and most importantly, the contract shall be concluded by the end of 2018 for the reduction to be eligible.

Contact Shanice Finch directly on sfinch@easl.com.mt for further information.

THINGS TO DO

Taking

THE PLUNGE

Consistently rated as one of the top diving destinations, not just in Europe but worldwide, Malta has a lot to offer underwater enthusiasts. Marie-Claire Grima finds out what hidden treasures can be found beneath the blue.

When people think of a holiday in Malta, the first thing that springs to mind is usually the stunning blue sea surrounding the islands – and there are many people who believe that these waters are best enjoyed wearing a scuba suit and armed with an oxygen tank. Diving season starts officially towards the beginning of June, and keeps going until the end of October, when the sea still retains its residual warmth. However, spring in Malta can bring on scorching heat, and there are plenty of rewards to be reaped by those brave enough to don their wetsuit in April and May. The sea around the Maltese

islands is a diver’s dream; in fact, Malta’s place among the top European diving destinations has been well and truly cemented.

Reefs, caves and submerged wrecks make for a fascinating underwater experience, and the chances of encountering dangerous or aggressive marine life are very low – you’re more likely to see a languid octopus or a shoal of pretty parrot fish zooming past.

It’s the perfect place to try out scuba diving for the first time, or even to build confidence. However, even the most experienced divers will find something to test and enchant them over here. ➜

Photo: viewingmalta.com

“The sea around the Maltese islands is a diver’s dream.”

Handheld guide Download the free iMalta app to help you find your way around the islands by suggesting the best places to visit and sights to see.

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THINGS TO DO “There are a number of fantastic dive spots in Malta, depending on your taste,” says Udo Türscherl, who has been diving since 1986, and started the Octopus Garden Diving Centre in St Paul’s Bay in 1990.

“We have a lot of wrecks around Malta, such as the Um el Faroud, south-west of Wied iż-Żurrieq, the MV Rozi and P29 in Ċirkewwa, P31 off Comino, HMS Maori in Valletta’s Grand Harbour and MV Imperial Eagle in Qawra. In Gozo, there are also MV Cominoland and MV Karwela. The islands are also known for grotto diving, in sites such as the Comino Caves. The quality of the water is good, with visibility up to 30 metres and more.”

Jane Weber, from the Seashell Dive Centre in Mellieħa, believes all diving spots have character, but her favourite one is Ċirkewwa, which is good for both total beginners as well as those who are already experienced divers. “The depth in Ċirkewwa can start from six metres and go down to 36 metres.

The reef there is fantastic, full of

“I love the Santa Marija caves, with interconnecting grottos and tunnels.”

Comino - Photo: viewingmalta.com

Photo: viewingmalta.com

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colourful Mediterranean rocks and marine life. For advanced divers, there are two excellent wrecks – the MV Rozi, which was scuttled in 1992, and can be found at around 32 metres deep and the P29, a minesweeper for the East German navy which was scuttled in 2007, and can be found at 34 metres deep.

Then, in Comino, you have lovely dives which can be done from our own boats. I love the Santa Marija caves, with interconnecting

grottos and tunnels. When you start descending, you’re immediately welcomed by a cloud of sea bream!”

If you’re trying out diving for the first time, you need to be at least 12 years old, generally fit with no medical issues, and a certificate to prove it, and a competent swimmer.

Dives range in price from €30 to €50 per person, depending on your level of expertise – the price includes all equipment, tanks, weights and the instructor’s guidance. ➜

THINGS TO DO Your first dive will be at a controlled dive site such as a pool or a shallow bay, and at least one area of the dive site will be shallow enough to stand up in. What’s more, before even entering the water, a scuba instructor will explain to new divers how all the dive gear works, and will familiarise them with safe-dive techniques.

One of the best parts of scuba diving is the feeling of weightlessness.

Scuba divers can fly up, down, left and right, moving easily in three dimensions. The trick is to relax into the weightless feeling of the water and let the water and your buoyancy compensator support you. Don’t fight the water – instead, try to be as still as possible and enjoy the freedom from gravity. It’s like being an astronaut! However, keep in mind that water is denser than air, and if you try to move too quickly, you’ll feel resistance to your movements from the water, and exhaust your energy quickly. Focus on making slow and controlled swimming and arm motions, and lean into the enforced relaxation.

Here are three diving spots you can try out depending on your level of experience. Make sure you always follow your diving school’s tips on where it’s safest to dive that day.

BEGINNER – SANTA MARIJA CAVES These interconnecting grottoes and tunnels are located close to Santa Marija Bay in Comino. They lie adjacent to each other within an inlet, and host a large number of friendly sea breams (kaħli) that are used to being fed by divers. Start with the left-most cave within the inlet, which is connected to the adjacent grotto on the right – the sandy bottom rises almost to the surface. While in this cave, it is always possible to surface as it is semi-submerged. Once out of the first cave, the next cave leads to a number of connecting passages leading out to the open sea. As

soon as the passages are explored and the clear open sea is reached, you may want to check out the area to the left of the exits, with a maximum depth of around 20 metres, before returning to the boat.

INTERMEDIATE – THE AZURE WINDOW AND THE BLUE HOLE While the collapse of the famous Azure Window sea arch in March 2017 was met with distress, divers believe it’s one of the best things to have happened to Gozo, creating a complex underwater structure with canyons and narrow passages.

The depth ranges from five to 52 metres, so divers of all levels should find something to do. ➜

Marine life - Photos: Octopus Garden Diving Centre

47

THINGS TO DO Right next to it you can find the Blue Hole, a cave without a roof, with underwater surroundings and gorgeous light falling through the water. Although the site reaches a maximum depth of around 60 metres, the best opportunity to discover fish life is between 10 to 30 metres.

ADVANCED – MV IMPERIAL EAGLE AND KRISTU TAL-BAĦĦARA The wreck of the MV Imperial Eagle is located off Qawra point, and can be found 40 metres deep. It’s a spectacular dive that requires at least deep course training. You can actually go inside the ferry wreck, but this can take up a lot of your precious bottom time – you may opt

to stay on the flying bridge instead.

The bottom is rich with red algae, and octopi abound over here too. If you navigate well, you can also check out the nearby statue of Jesus raising his arms to the sky – it’s called Kristu tal-Baħħara (The Sailors’ Christ) and was commissioned to honour the visit of St Pope John Paul II to Malta in 1990.

Photo: Markus Kirchgessner - viewingmalta.com

If you like the idea of diving but can’t quite commit to it just yet, you could also consider snorkelling.

Snorkelling can be enjoyed freely in almost any bay in Malta; highlights include Żonqor Point in Marsascala, which has a rather magnificent reef; Għar Lapsi in Siġġewi, with deep waters below an imposing coastline; Dragonara Cave at Aħrax Point

in Mellieħa; Gozo’s Ħondoq irRummien, and of course, Comino, with deep and clear water, and small caves at water level. A word of warning – watch out for the undertow currents, pay attention to the flags on the beach indicating the level of safety, and always snorkel and dive with a companion.

P29 wreck, Ċirkewwa - Photo: Octopus Garden Diving Centre

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THINGS TO DO

Fun and edutainment at Mediterraneo Marine Park Mediterraneo Marine Park offers entertainment alongside a learning experience which is unique in its kind. Mediterraneo Marine Park is a great way for adults and children to understand marine life through edutainment – you can spend a fantastic and unforgettable day at the marine park by swimming with dolphins and visiting sea lions, exotic birds, reptiles and more.

As Malta’s only marine park, Mediterraneo is a leading island attraction among tourists and locals alike. Boasting an enviable coastal location, the park promotes interactive participation with a selection of marine mammals, including dolphins and sea lions, as well as parrots and reptiles.

Thanks to Malta’s sunny climate, The Mediterraneo Marine Park remains open all year round,

Mediterraneo Marine Park advocates animal welfare through an interactive learning environment. and is conveniently located just off the main coast road, which provides good transport links from visitor accommodation.

Part of the Costa Edutainment group since July 2012, Mediterraneo Marine Park advocates animal welfare through an interactive learning environment inspired by their motto: Education, Emotion and FUN. Visitors may participate in various animal interaction programmes which provide superb entertainment whilst increasing awareness and conservation responsibilities. The park has three main programmes which are held daily: The Dolphin Presentation, The Sea Lion Presentation and the Parrot Presentation. All of these 50

presentations offer an amazing experience which offer a better understanding of the animals and an appreciation for their individual characteristics. The highlight of any visit to Mediterraneo Marine Park has to be the Dolphin Swim Programme – a truly unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience that is not to be missed!

Some of the other species that visitors can also expect to see are green wing macaw, amazons, snakes, tortoises, turtles, frogs, toads, spiders, scorpions and lizards.

Mediterraneo Marine Park.

T: 2137 2218/2137 6519; E: info@mediterraneopark.com; www.mediterraneopark.com

TAKE NOTE

Culture and heritage

Located in the traditional Maltese village of Siġġiewi, this familyrun and award-winning tourist attraction which celebrates Malta’s vibrant history and its unique stone resource offers a fun-filled day for all the family with plenty to see and do.

Immerse yourself in the islands’ 22,000,000year history through various attractions at Limestone Heritage, while children can enjoy the farm animal park, or attend stone-sculpting demonstrations which are fun for all. The Limestone Heritage also hosts special events for groups such as the farmer's lunch at the Country Lane Cafe, olive tasting and limoncello-making.

The Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens, Mons.

M Azzopardi Street, Siġġiewi. Bus Number 62 from Valletta. T: 2146 4931; www.limestoneheritage.com

Take in the beauty of Gozo’s countryside and coasts

At Gozo Quad Hire, we offer half-day or full-day guided tours around Gozo’s countryside and coastline areas. One can enjoy panoramic views which can only be experienced by means of a quad bike, and drive through the farmers’ passages in some of Gozo’s most stunning valleys. Our team at Gozo Quad Hire looks forward to planning your fun-filled day of adventure and sightseeing in Gozo, where we aim to give you a unique experience of our island, allowing you to discover Gozo’s natural hidden treasures. Individual hire also available.

Triq Borġ Għarib, Għajnsielem, Gozo.

T: 2156 4031; www.gozoquadhire.com

HERITAGE

The Schranz Family of Artists A Journey of Rediscovery

Heritage Malta’s Fort St Elmo is hosting an exhibition entitled The Schranz Family of Artists – A Journey of Rediscovery to mark the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the Schranz family of artists in Malta.

The exhibition explores the output of four generations of Schranz artists, their various styles, techniques and artistic entrepreneurship. It also outlines the context of the various views they captured in Malta and abroad during their travels. This includes landscapes, natural and political events.

The exhibition brings together for the very first time around 190 works from public and private collections on display. The Schranz Family of Artists – A Journey of Rediscovery is another hallmark in the series of high standard exhibitions organised by Heritage Malta, in collaboration with the Schranz family and the Schranz Bicentenary Committee.

It will remain open till mid-July 2018 and

admission is included in Fort St Elmo’s regular ticket price. The fort opens daily between 9am and 5pm, last admission at 4.30pm. As from 1st April the fort will remain open till 6pm, last admission at 5.30pm.

Visit www.heritagemalta.org for more information.

7,000 years of history brought to life

Located in Malta’s capital city, Valletta and 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 7,000 years of Maltese history.

The 45-minute presentation can be listened to in one of 17 languages. In a purposely-built auditorium, with a panoramic screen, sensational vision and a gripping commentary, The Malta Experience brings 7,000 years of history back to life.

Shows are every hour on the hour as follows: Monday to Friday from 11am to 4pm; Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 11am to 2pm.

After the show one can also enjoy a tour of the Sacra Infermeria, the old hospital of the Knights of St John. Today, this beautiful building is known as the Mediterranean Conference Centre, but you can still step back in time and visualise its revolutionary past on a guided tour, and visit the

longest ward in Europe measuring 155 metres in length and holding 247 beds.

Quote ‘Guide Me’ at the ticketing counter to claim your 15 per cent discount on the entrance fee (not valid with any other offer). Ask for a combined ticket which also includes a guided tour of The Sacra Infermeria – The Old Hospital of the Knights of St John.

The Malta Experience St Elmo Bastions, Mediterranean Street, Valletta.

T: 2124 3776; www.themaltaexperience.com 53

TAKE NOTE

The Twin effect

This summer, Malta will see double

Twin, one of the most ambitious iGaming companies in Malta launched six months ago, has won one of the industry’s most prestigious awards for Best Affiliate Newcomer Programme at the iGB Awards in London last month.

The company’s CBO, Marcin Jablonski, has a strong vision for Twin, which is already putting the company firmly on Malta’s iGaming map. The company’s highly-recognisable Twin logo has been seen a lot locally, and this summer, it will be even more so. “We are sponsoring about 54 events and initiatives in Malta this year,” says Marcin Jablonski.

“This island has become home to many of us, and it's a joy for us to be a part of local happenings.”

The award for the Best Affiliate Newcomer Programme is the result of the hard work of a fantastic team that has a shared passion for Twin. “It is an honour and privilege to work with such wonderful people.

While winning prizes is not an objective in itself, I hope that this is just the beginning of our winning streak,” says Marcin.

The Twin team is based on a pool of industry professionals who have extensive experience in online entertainment, betting and gambling. It is no wonder that Twin members are considered leading experts in the industry – they have gained expertise by working for the most

recognisable companies in the gaming world. They have now joined forces at Twin to create the new, hi-tech and dynamic casino that they always dreamed of.

Line Peteri, the newlyappointed Affiliate and Marketing Manager for Twin, has high hopes for the online casino operator in 2018. Formerly at Betsson, Line recovered from a bout of illness to join a company that remains small in numbers, but has now secured its place firmly on the iGaming map.

Describing her introduction to the Twin team in Malta as a “baptism of fire”, Line says “after taking the job, I went straight to London to meet the team at ICE and LAC, before flying to New York to finish a project for a client. While I was there, the team picked up the award in London, which set the bar high right from the beginning.

The pace in the office is fast and typically entrepreneurial; everyone knows how to juggle several things at once! We have big ambitions for the future – it’s a privilege for me to join a company where so much has already happened, at such an early stage. I can safely say that 2018 is going to be a wild year.”

Line Peteri

"We have big ambitions for the future – it’s a privilege for me to join a company where so much has already happened, at such an early stage."

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CULTURE

Culture and history at Wignacourt Museum

The Wignacourt Museum is now open after an extensive restoration project. The complex includes St Paul's Grotto – the cradle of Christianity in Malta.

On site are rock-cut rooms which provided shelter to families during World War II. These lead to an intricate

labyrinth of catacombs which date back to Roman times. Upstairs is the Church of St Publius and the beautiful Baroque building inaugurated by Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt for the chaplains of the Knights of St John, who looked after the grotto. It now houses a magnificent collection of paintings, silver, vestments and other unique artefacts.

Open Monday to Sunday 9.30am to 5pm.

T: 2749 4905; E: info@wignacourtmuseum.com; www.wignacourtmuseum.com

FASHION

step into Spring with

Charles & Ron

Charles & Ron is a contemporary lifestyle brand of high-end clothing and bags with a distinct Mediterranean flair and a dedication to superior quality.

Maltese culture is an integral part of the Charles & Ron design ethic, and the brand’s vision is to inspire customers to be part of the ‘love affair’ with the brand’s instantlyrecognisable Mediterranean style.

Mediterranean identity “Malta has always been of enormous inspiration to our work, and throughout the years, we’ve enjoyed designing with inspiration from the Mediterranean and all it offers. For us, it’s important to incorporate certain aspects of culture, architecture and tradition, and show them in a different and

unexpected way. We’ve incorporated these references into our brand since the beginning – they define us as a brand, and it’s important to embrace and appreciate your heritage.”

Celebrities and feminine shapes “In the past year, we’ve had the pleasure of dressing many international celebrities, including singer Jessie J, Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones), singer Ashanti, Ally Brooke (Fifth Harmony) and Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child).

These moments have been very satisfying for us as designers, however, we take pride in designing for all kinds of women. The Charles & Ron woman does love statement pieces with a feminine silhouette and is never afraid to stand out in a crowd.”

The importance of accessories “Key items in our range are our Malta-inspired luxury scarves and our leather bags. Our handbags are made from the finest Italian leather and hand-crafted in Malta.

By taking home one of our bags and/or scarves, you will truly be taking home the spirit and beauty of the Maltese islands!”

Charles & Ron, 58D, Republic Street, Valletta. T: 2124 0184.

Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, Attard. www.charlesandron.com 59

CUISINE

THE ART OF FARMING Maltese fruit and vegetables are renowned for their flavour and goodness, but farming in Malta is a specialised skill that’s increasingly under threat.

Marie-Claire Grima meets Anthony Sammut, President of the Mġarr Farmers Cooperative Society, to find out more about making a living off the land.

Anthony ‘Toni’ Sammut’s grandfather was one of the first farmers to grow strawberries in Malta, back in the late 1800s.

“Back then, the fruit was tiny, the size of a bead, and so sweet. My grandfather would spend a whole

day picking them out in the fields and not yield more than four kilos,” Toni says. “He would collect them in a hollowed-out gourd, so as not to crush them, and then pour them into little baskets made of cane, which would be woven in a specific pattern, according to which farmer they belonged to.”

The days of the miniature strawberry have long since passed, but the strawberries Toni grows are no less fragrant and delicious. Just one whiff of the punnet he presents me with on the visit to his house and fields is enough to make you think of sugar, cream and jam, but trust me – their sweet, summery flavour doesn’t even need any garnishing.

Although he grew up in a

Photos: Inigo Taylor

farming family and married into one too, Toni got into full-time farming quite late in life. “My uncle was a builder. When I left school at 14, I went to work with him, and I took over the company when he died. My wife, Vanna, and I inherited some fields from our parents, and we would work the land after my business hours were over. Then, in my 40s, I decided to throw myself wholeheartedly into farming.”

Vanna is lively and outgoing but very camera-shy; she participates in our interview, but refuses to have her picture taken. The two will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this year, but Toni still refers to her affectionately as l-għarusa (my bride). ➜ 61

CUISINE Vanna’s father was one of the founding members of the Mġarr Farmers Cooperative, back in 1947. However, participation had dwindled. “When I married Vanna, we started talking about bringing it back to life – so I joined the committee and a group of us started planning how to get the organisation back on its feet.” Toni now serves as the president of the Cooperative, one of the largest of its kind in Malta. It counts among its members around 180 active farmers, nearly all of whom work the fields full-time. Toni also built and opened the Cooperative’s well-stocked retail outlet, which sells items essential to farming at decent prices – from fertilisers, to plastic sheets, to seeds and plants, to protective and rainproof clothing for stormy days.

He counts this outlet as one of his proudest accomplishments, and one which is rare to find, even in larger farming communities. ➜

EAT LIKE A FARMER

Vanna and Toni have a largely vegetable-based diet that makes use of many of the crops they grow. Here are two of their favourite recipes.

Photo: www.plantfoodfabulous.com

Cauliflower and cheese pie

Photo: A Maltese mouthful

Broad bean soup with fresh cheeselets Ingredients 1kg fresh broad beans, peeled well, or 500g frozen beans 1 small cauliflower 2 onions 1 tbsp kunserva (tomato paste) A pinch of seasoning 6 fresh ġbejniet (cheeselets) 200g kusksu (pasta beads) Vegetable oil 2ltrs water 2 vegetable stock cubes Method Chop the cauliflower and onions into small pieces, and shallow-fry them in a pan. Add the seasoning and stir until the cauliflower browns. After around 8 minutes, put the mix into a large pot and add the water, the stock cubes, the kunserva, and the beans and bring to the boil before reducing to a simmer. Let it stew for around 30 minutes or until the vegetables are soft. Add the pasta beads and stir until cooked through.

Add the cheeselets one by one and stir gently, so as not to crush them. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture sit for another 20 minutes. Serve hot.

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Ingredients For the dough 250g flour 8tbsp olive oil 1 egg 1tsp bicarbonate of soda 1tsp salt Water

For the filling 2 large onions Half a head of cauliflower A few handfuls of beans and peas 2 fresh ġbejniet 1 dry ġbejna 100g Parmesan cheese 50g Grana Padano cheese 2 tbsp nutmeg 6 eggs 1 cup of milk

Method To make the dough, mix the flour, salt and bicarbonate of soda in a mediumsized bowl. Add the egg and olive oil gradually, working it until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add 4 tablespoons of water and work with your hands until the dough comes together. If the dough is still crumbly, add more cold water, a tablespoon at a time (up to 4 more tablespoons). Do not overwork. Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour.

For the filling, chop and fry the onions until they brown. Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam. Butter a dish, then roll out the dough and line the dish with it. Beat the eggs and milk, and add the crumbled cheeselets to the mix. Add nutmeg. Pour in the cooked onions, cauliflower, beans and peas, and mix well.

Pour the contents into the pastry dish, and leave the top exposed, topping it with the grated cheese. Bake at 180˚C for around 45 to 50 minutes until golden.

CUISINE Toni also oversaw the opening of the Mġarr Farmers Bar – “a place where the farmer can go and be amongst his own people.” The bar has since become a very well-known spot, even amongst non-farmers, for its hearty, wholesome and inexpensive fare, but Toni has made sure that it’s always a spot for farming folk, first and foremost. “In the evening, after the working day is over, there have to be at least four tables reserved just for farmers.” The Cooperative built another storey on top of the bar, which serves as an educational resource centre for farmers, where they can learn about pesticides, vehicle licences and other issues. It is often leased out to other farming groups for a small fee.

Farming in Malta has changed radically in just 50 years. Vanna says that the only crop her father ever used to grow was potatoes, and sometimes a small crop of melons in summer. She recalls watering the fields by hand with her brothers and sisters, patiently, square by square.

FESTA FRAWLI – THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

The village of Mġarr will once again host Festa Frawli – the annual Strawberry festival – on Sunday 8th April. Now in its 12th edition, this event is a muchawaited fixture in the Maltese calendar. Freshly-picked strawberries are on sale throughout the day, ferried regularly to the square by the farmers themselves. You’ll also be able to sample strawberry-based treats such as ravioli, arancini, home-made strawberry wine, jams, conserves and other typical products, all made with fresh Mġarr strawberries. Folk and ethnic music performed by leading Maltese artists provide the entertainment for the day, while a dedicated team of animators will keep the little ones busy!

To get to the Strawberry Festival, take bus 44 or 238 from Valletta, or the 101 from Ċirkewwa. A Park and Ride shuttle service will be provided from the open-air gym at Ta’ Qali and parking areas in nearby fields to facilitate accessibility.

She also remembers the first time she saw a mechanical water pump.

Nowadays, Toni, who has several acres of farmland, grows all kinds of crops – from potatoes, cabbage, and garlic to courgettes, cauliflower, and of course, strawberries – no matter what time of year it is.

And watering is now done with the flick of a switch, thanks to the drip irrigation system installed in the fields. “Back in the day, you’d be hard-pressed to grow something out of season. But with different seeds suited for different

times of year, we can grow crops almost all year round,” he says.

Despite the advances in farming science, the life of a farmer is still a difficult one. “You’re almost a slave to the fields,” Toni says. “We’re out there from Monday to Sunday.

And there are so many variables to take into account. You could have a beautiful crop growing, and overnight, a bout of hail will kill it all. You’ll have to throw it all away.

Or else a pest or a disease might strike your crops, and it’s as if you never had anything growing.” ➜ 65

CUISINE “If you didn’t grow up in a farming family, it’s difficult to understand how much work it involves,” Vanna adds. “I know a lot of older bachelor farmers who can’t find a wife, because few women who aren’t used to the farming life would want a man who’s married to the fields, and has to get up at three in the morning every day to go sell his wares at the Pitkalija (farmer’s market). And I don’t know whether many young people, Maltese or foreign, will want to work as farmers in future, although I really hope they will. It would be much better than seeing all our fields swallowed up by nettles and brambles.”

Another disadvantage Maltese farmers are facing is the glut of cheap foreign produce that has flooded the market in recent years.

While high-quality Maltese fruit

and vegetables are still very much in demand, many are content to settle for less for the sake of convenience. Nevertheless, the joy that comes from having the skill to grow something from a tiny seed to a perfect piece of produce that can be taken to the market is one that is unique to the job, and that keeps many of the farmers going.

“We had a strawberry plant that we brought over from Italy. It was a cultivar that had originated in the United States. It’s a good strain; it flowers early and it is plentiful, and you can sell the fruit at a good price, but it’s delicate – it can die just like that. And in fact, it often does. We brought the cultivator over from the United States, to see if there’s any solution to the problem, and he told us that it’s nothing to do with the quality of the soil or

the water, because cases of sudden death have been reported all over the world. It’s all a question of skill – whether you have what it takes to keep it alive or not.” Toni allows for a small moment of pride.

“We had a bumper crop that year and very few of my strawberry plants died. There’s a lot to the art of farming that has been lost, but I’ve managed to hold on to it.”

EATING & DRINKING

La Sorpresa La Sorpresa is a family-run restaurant and pizzeria where customers are welcomed like friends and family. Colin and Doreen pride themselves on making consistent, high-quality food and service a priority. La Sorpresa restaurant offers both a Mediterranean-based à la carte menu, as well as a variety of set menus designed to suit every guest’s preferences. Our à la carte menu includes pasta dishes, mouth-watering steaks and other carvery dishes, fresh local fish, homemade pizzas, traditional Maltese dishes and other special dishes which change frequently.

Our little guests have their own kids menu and gluten-free options are also available.

Open Monday to Saturday 6-11pm; Sunday 11.30am-3pm, 6-11pm.

La Sorpresa, Tourists Street, Buġibba.

Contact Nicholas Farrugia on T: 2157 7301; M: 7925 4324.

Maltese Mama Maltese Mama serves authentic Maltese and Italian cuisines complemented by great service in a relaxing atmosphere. To start, patrons are offered a complimentary plate of traditional Maltese antipasti, served with fresh bread and galletti (water crackers).

Starters include home-made soups, octopus, scallops, clams, the speciality shellfish platter and pasta dishes. A variety of main courses is also available, with specialities including fish and traditional Maltese dishes such as rabbit and braġjoli (beef olives).

Maltese Mama, 19/2, Paceville Avenue, St Julian’s.

T: 2737 7024; M: 7780 5312; E: eltonspiteri@hotmail.co.uk

Palazzo Castelletti Palazzo Castelletti restaurant is a fusion fine-dining restaurant without too many formalities. It is set within a unique 400-year-old palazzo, converted to high standards within Rabat’s village core. It offers patrons a charming yet elegant setting, both indoors and outdoors, and the opportunity to view various old features of the palazzo, namely cellars, dungeons, Roman ruins and spectacular village core views. You can also expect seriously good food and top-in-class service by a team of multi-lingual staff.

Palazzo Castelletti is open every day for lunch and dinner.

T: 2145 2562; M: 9910 9911; www.palazzocastelletti.com

Rabokk Pizzeria & Snack Bar Located in Nadur’s village square, right opposite the parish church, Rabokk is renowned among locals for its food and friendly atmosphere. Particularly popular is Rabokk’s famous pizza – choose from a wide variety of toppings, or tuck into one of their many dishes, ranging from pasta and meat to sandwiches, wraps and English breakfast. Kick back with a cold beer or bottle of wine, and enjoy watching a live match or event being screened in this welcoming and laid-back hangout.

Open Monday to Sunday 6-12pm.

Pjazza San Pietru u San Pawl, Nadur, Gozo. T: 2155 8337.

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EATING & DRINKING

Shakinah – Indian Cuisine Situated on the St Julian’s seafront in Balluta Bay, Shakinah presents Indian tastes, scents and flavours in an interesting selection of exquisitely prepared, Halal-Certified, colourful dishes. The fresh ingredients, oriental spices and interesting flavours are carefully handpicked by our native-born Indian chefs. Great emphasis has been placed on the décor, mood and general ambience to ensure a true Shakinah special experience. Allow yourself to be transported on a magic carpet ride to the exotic orient in the heart of St Julian’s.

Open Monday to Sunday 6-11pm; Thursday to Sunday 12.30-3pm.

Shakinah, 5, Ġorġ Borg Olivier Street, St Julian’s.

T: 2731 8000; M: 7731 8000; E: booking@shakinahmalta.com; www.shakinahmalta.com; FB: facebook.com/shakinahmalta

Ta’ Kris Restaurant and Maltese Bistro Right in the heart of Sliema lies Ta’ Kris Restaurant and Maltese Bistro, serving wholesome home cooking at unbeatable prices. Chef patron Chris uses the freshest ingredients to create tasty Maltese dishes like Dad’s Famous Braġjoli, thick beef stew, veal escalopes and rabbit, and for those with a sweet tooth, the deliciously crunchy imqaret – a musttry date-filled pastry. Patrons are also spoilt for choice with the daily specials ranging from fresh fish to beef fillet and various pasta dishes. Everything at this price-worthy restaurant is served in the unique setting of a former bakery. Ta’ Kris is one of the best-rated restaurants by the Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants. Booking is recommended. Set menus for special occasions can also be arranged upon request.

Open Monday to Sunday from 12.30-11pm.

Ta’ Kris, 80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema; T: 2133 7367; M: 7933 7367; www.takrisrestaurant

Ta’ Marija Celebrating 50 years of excellence, Ta’ Marija restaurant offers the ideal venue for colleagues, friends and family to celebrate any occasion with sumptuous food in welcoming surroundings, complemented by our exceptional service and merry-making. Enjoy our all-inclusive carvery buffets on Saturday evenings and Sunday lunches for just €27.50 per person, or indulge in a Maltese extravaganza every Friday evening with a spectacular traditional folk dancing show and our mandolin and guitar duo!

Ta’ Marija Restaurant, Constitution Street, Mosta.

T: 2143 4444; E: info@tamarija.com.mt; www.tamarija.com.mt

Terrone Terrone is a restaurant in the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk that combines rustic charm with contemporary regional cuisine. Focusing on southern Italian and local Maltese cuisines, and hand-picking the best local and organic produce, we aim to recreate a healthy and enjoyable way of dining.

We are open every day for lunch and dinner, as well as breakfast on weekends (8-10.45am). The restaurant is situated on the Marsaxlokk seafront.

Open Monday to Friday noon-11pm; Saturday 8am-11pm; Sunday 8am-10pm.

Terrone, 1, Wilġa Street, Marsaxlokk. T: 2704 2656; E: info@terrone.com.mt; www.terrone.com.mt

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EATING & DRINKING

Art in every dish The newly-renovated restaurant at Portomaso Casino has recently welcomed a new Head Chef, Daniel Farrugia. Although still young, Daniel has gained a vast amount of experience. He has worked overseas alongside renowned chefs such as Jamie Oliver, as well as at restaurants such as the UK’s double AA Rosette Restaurant, Zodiac, located at the Marriott’s Hanbury Manor in Hertfordshire. Back on the sunny shores of Malta, Daniel has also worked at prestigious venues such as Palazzo Parisio. “My priorities are to deliver finesse, art, as well as flavours. Each individual ingredient is handled with care and with a passion that comes from the love I have for cookery. My vision is to taste every ounce of that passion in every dish I create,” says the Head Chef.

Get 20 per cent off your meal! Offer available from Monday to Thursday. Call to book your table on T: 2138 3777 and quote GUIDE ME in order to redeem your discount (excluding beverages).

Visit Portomaso Restaurant at Portomaso Casino, Level -1, Portomaso Business Tower, St Julian’s.

FASHION

Putting Malta on the

fashion map

Despite its tiny size, the Maltese islands are brimming with talent, not least in the industry of fashion and design. Martina Said chats with three local designers who are making their mark.

CHARLES & RON

Designer duo Charles Borg and Ron Van Maarschalkerweerd, the masterminds behind designer label Charles & Ron, helped place Malta’s fashion scene on the local and international maps back when there was barely a scene locally to begin with. The designers have been working together for almost 25 years, and began their business with a made-to-measure design

studio that specialised in evening and bridal wear. “We still give this service today,” says Ron, “but we also focus on our ready-to-wear clothing and accessory collections. Malta, its culture and its heritage have always been an important part of our design ethic, and we take pride in being the pioneers of bringing Malta-inspired fashion to an international audience.” ➜ 75

FASHION and memories of Maltese summer days by the beach. The new fall/ winter 18/19 collection, which we just launched in New York, was inspired by the beautiful Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar, while our use of colour is also very much inspired by our Mediterranean surroundings.”

From a business that started out with a single studio, the Charles & Ron empire now also includes a shop at the Corinthia Palace Hotel in Attard, as well as a flagship store in Valletta. The pair are also regular

Charles & Ron is a contemporary lifestyle brand, featuring high-end clothing and bags with a distinct Mediterranean flair and a dedication to quality.

From collections featuring prints of emblematic Maltese balconies, vibrant luzzi (fishing boats) and wrought iron patterns, Maltese culture is an integral part of the Charles & Ron design ethic.

“Our brand’s vision is to inspire our customers to be part of the ‘love affair’ and the instantlyrecognisable Mediterranean style,” says Ron. “We are in love with the Med and Malta, which is visible in every collection we design, and this season is no exception.

For instance, the starting point of our new spring/summer collection began with a set of Charles’ childhood photographs 76

participants of international fashion weeks. “At our shops and studio, we strive to give an excellent customer service and encourage people to be part of the love affair we have with Malta and the Mediterranean.

From made-to-measure bridal and evening gowns, ready-to-wear collections of women’s clothing, handbags and scarves, our range of products truly reflects this love!” ➜ View Charles & Ron’s latest collections on www.charlesandron.com

Charles and Ron recommend Something to take home: “Our silk and chiffon iconic scarves are a perfect item to take home and wear while reminiscing about the Maltese islands. Our hand-crafted leather bags are also unique in design and quality.”

Local experiences you shouldn’t miss: “You must visit our beautiful capital city, Valletta, which is also European Capital of Culture this year, and pay a visit to our flagship store in Republic Street while you’re there. We also recommend visiting the 19th-century Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar – the gardens are beautiful in spring-time.”

FASHION

SEFFARRUGIA

Sef Farrugia has been interested in the arts and design for as long as she can remember, and fashion design is a path she instinctively followed since the very beginning of her education. “There was nothing in particular that led me towards this career,” says Sef,

“however, for sure there were many influences which aided me on.”

Her brand, SEFFARRUGIA, has textiles and illustration at its core, and reflects the designer’s personal experiences, observations, identity and references which she’s picked up along the years and

have left a mark on her life. “It is a brand which keeps reinventing itself as it grows and develops.

I believe as human beings, we keep evolving, and so does the work we produce,” says Sef. ➜ 79

FASHION

The brand offers a variety of luxury products, from silk scarves, ties and lavender-scented eye masks to cushions, bespoke clothing services, as well as soft furnishings, the latter being the newest addition to the brand. “We’ve been focusing on custom-made clothing as well as accessories for the past few years, however, we will be producing full clothing collections again in

the near future,” says the designer.

“Furthermore, every item offers a piece of my imagination! All of our products are either one-offs or limited in production number, and are made in our studio.

We’ll also be launching a shop in Rabat in the coming months.”

Sef says she cannot single out a specific source of inspiration – she likes to keep an open mind and

Sef Farrugia recommends Something to take home: “I would say an eye mask. It makes for a fun gift for oneself, or anyone, and is also a great travel companion. Our eye masks are lavenderscented and feature a silk front as well as velvet back, with satin straps and binding.

Otherwise, a silk scarf is always a good idea!”

Local experiences you shouldn’t miss: “You should definitely pay a visit to what is left of our beautiful countryside, such as in Selmun or Mistra. I personally also love a couple of hours spent at the Birgu flea market on a Sunday morning, but having said that, a walk through the city of Mdina never fails during spring-time.”

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welcome any influences that come her way. “It could be anything from poetry and architecture to roadworks – I like to absorb everything around me and then merge it all together and, most of all, find its relevance in today’s society.” ➜ Follow SEFFARRUGIA on Facebook.com/Official.Sef.Farrugia and on Instagram @seffarrugiashop

FASHION

CARLA GRIMA ATELIER

Photo: Ryan Galea

Designer Carla Grima began her journey in fashion design at the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), during

Photo: Anna Peftieva

which time she was exposed to different design disciplines and was inspired to experiment with fashion photography and textiles.

“Experimenting with the two and researching their possibilities influenced me to read for a degree in fashion,” says Carla. “I graduated with a BA (Hons.) in Fashion Innovation Management, a course that introduced me to the world of fashion all the way from design, production and sleepless nights, to technical pattern cutting. Through this, I moved on to work with international designers and later moved back to continue growing

my passion on an island that I love.”

Over the past three years, the brand, Carla Grima, has evolved into a resortwear brand, a niche that caters for holiday-inspired clothing. “This is an emerging market in the fashion industry and also very season-driven. We create premium items of clothing that are fit for dreamy summer holidays and beachside occasions. Ranging from swimwear to silken kaftans, we make sure that everything we create is colourful and comfortable. It’s a brand inspired by a Mediterranean story, with a focus on lifestyle over trends.” ➜

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FASHION

Photo: Anna Peftieva

Carla says that one of her greatest sources of inspiration is that distinctive Maltese, Mediterranean feeling: “time spent by the sea, the rich orange hues in the sky when the sun is setting, the atmosphere during long weekend lunches with

friends and family, Maltese flora and fauna – these are all natural elements that continuously serve as inspiration for my brand.”

The designer works out of her studio, a space filled with rolls of printed fabrics, featuring large glass doors covered in mood boards and colour references, rails of clothing, serene music, a few sewing machines and paper patterns. It also houses a range of the brand’s collections. “Past and present collections can always be found in the studio,” she says. “We also stock a selective range of items in concept shops or summer pop ups around Malta. You can also find our brand in Mykonos, Thailand, Antigua and St Barth’s if you’re on holiday there, where we now stock our latest ranges in a few resorts.

Our website, www.carlagrima.com, offers an easy and relaxing way to view our current collections which we update every May.” Follow Carla Grima on Facebook.com/carlagrimastudio and visit www.carlagrima.com

Photo: Ryan Galea

Carla Grima recommends Something to take home: “This would have to be our classic kaftan in silk georgette. Its minimalist cut, knee length, boat neckline and pleated side seams make it a perfect blank canvas for our colourful Mediterranean prints which always have an element of the Maltese islands.”

Local experiences you shouldn’t miss: “A walk around Comino followed by a swim (April and May are the best months to visit the tiny island when it’s still quiet before the summer rush); a Friday night in Valletta – catch a show at one of the theatres followed by a walk around the city and a visit to a wine bar; and a weekend lunch in the fishing village of Marsaxlokk.”

Photo: Kurt Arrigo

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Photo: Anna Peftieva

WHERE TO SPEND IT

Your Shopping

destination of choice

Since its inception in March 2010, The Point – the largest shopping mall in Malta – has succeeded in firmly establishing itself as the shopping destination of choice on the island. The Point has been innovative and bold in its strategy and marketing campaigns, giving customers an unprecedented shopping experience and becoming a popular destination for all the family. The wide variety of top brands, comfortable ambience, ease of access and ample availability of parking spaces are only some of the components that helped The Point to achieve its success.

Always customer-centric, the team at The Point manages to put together a vast calendar of events targeting various age groups and tastes. Competitions and offers are also available from various outlets and the mall itself on a regular basis. The Point Shopping Mall offers an experience like no other for customers who are looking for a good mix of outlets within any budget!

For a full calendar of events visit www.thepointmalta.com and The Point’s Facebook Page www.facebook.com/ThePointShoppingMall

NIGHTLIFE

Malta Eurovision 2018:

Not a Taboo

As she prepares to take to the Eurovision Song Contest stage for the 63rd edition of this popular international event, Malta’s winning performer Christabelle Borg chats to Jo Caruana about her passion for singing and love for her island home.

Photo: Steven

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NIGHTLIFE Many would argue that Malta is Eurovision mad. For decades now, the island has been desperate to win the coveted top spot in the contest – although it has never quite achieved its dream (instead it placed second twice, in 2002 and 2005, and third in 1992 and 1998). But despite this, the islanders still hold out hope and, every year, parties are held across the country on Eurovision night in the hope that, this time, we will be successful.

Flying the flag for Malta this year is songstress Christabelle Borg, who wowed audiences at the Malta Eurovision Song Content a few weeks back with her rendition of her own song, Taboo. She’ll be performing in the second semi-final in Lisbon on 10th May, while the grand final will take place on 12th May. Interestingly though, Christabelle’s career actually started on television. “I spent a few years hosting two shows (not simultaneously) and I’m quite proud of the fact that they were both nominated for a Malta Television Award,” she smiles.

“But my passion has always been music, and I got back into it by taking part in a few contests, including the Junior Eurovision Song Contest here in Malta.”

Christabelle then studied music at Mount St Mary’s College in Hollywood, and returned to Malta to continue working on her career around six years ago. “Since then, I have been working with American and British producers on my songs, and I’m very grateful to have had several songs reach the number one spot on the local charts. The highlights are quite difficult to pinpoint, though! I try to enjoy every 90

Photo: Steven

“For me, the Eurovision is a way of getting my music – and, of course, the message my music aims to pass on – to tens of millions of people.” process and competition as much as I can. Of course, winning the Malta Eurovision Song Contest this year was amazing. But, apart from that, I have definitely enjoyed performing with Gigi D’Alessio and Laura Pausini on separate occasions, and singing at the Isle of MTV in 2017 in front of a crowd of 50,000 people.”

Now, Christabelle is moving steadily towards her Eurovision dream – and she’s certainly proved her dedication, having contested in the local competition four times and placed second in 2014 with her song, Rush. “I’ve always been a big fan of the Eurovision and think it’s wonderful that so many countries come together to celebrate music. ➜

NIGHTLIFE

Christabelle’s Top Tip “Don’t forget to spend a day in Gozo, Malta’s sister island! The beaches there are amazing, the history enticing, and the people incredibly friendly…

Also, pop over to Nadur (a small village) for a Gozitan pizza!”

For me, the Eurovision is a way of getting my music – and, of course, the message my music aims to pass on – to tens of millions of people.”

That message makes Taboo a very personal song for Christabelle as it talks about the importance of breaking down reservations when discussing mental illness.

“I think many of us often feel trapped in our own heads, and what’s being said out there can have a real effect on whether we open up or not. As someone who has dealt with mental illness first Photo: Kris Micallef

hand, I feel it’s my duty to further the message as much as I can. I’d like to break the taboo of mental illness, by ensuring that those suffering are encouraged, both by those who have experienced it and by those who haven’t.”

This message has already proved popular with Christabelle’s many followers and she is now looking forward to sharing it with the wider European community.

“I’m so excited to get to Lisbon and meet all the other contestants… and, of course, to give it my all during the semi-final performance and hopefully make it to the finals!

I get butterflies when I remember how many people will be watching, and I can't wait to visit the many countries we have lined up before then. I feel very lucky, actually!”

But, while still at home, she has words of praise for the island’s lively music scene. “I think Malta is blessed with some incredibly beautiful voices and people who work very hard at what they’re passionate about. As a small country, audiences, sales and opportunities are what they are, but many musicians move mountains to be able to continue creating music and express themselves artistically,” she says.

Christabelle also has an interesting tip for those visiting the island: “head to the Hypogeum in Ħal-Saflieni,” she smiles. “It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, although it dates back to around 4,000BC, it has impressive acoustics! I am always impressed by it. Just remember to book well ahead, as tickets aren’t always easy to come by.” ➜

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NIGHTLIFE Asked about her favourite performance space in Malta, Christabelle stays away from some of the more well-known options – like the Manoel Theatre in Valletta or MFCC in Ta’ Qali, and instead picks somewhere a little more intimate. “My bedroom!” she grins. “It’s where I feel most free and uninhibited in my singing – and it’s been like that ever since I was a little girl.”

She does, however, have slightly more ‘accessible’ recommendations for how she would spend her perfect day on the island. “In winter, I love strolling down the streets of Valletta and stopping every now and then for a coffee in the sun or a quick visit to one of the many museums. I just love the city, and the recent face-lift it has received has truly given it a new

lease of life. In summer, I enjoy St Peter’s Pool, which is this pretty, rocky bay in the southern part of Malta. This would be followed by lunch in Marsaxlokk – fresh fish is always the order of the day here – and, finally, I’d head to the old capital, Mdina, for dinner with my fiancé. It’s very romantic there!”

Meanwhile, Christabelle is very focused on the exciting challenges she’ll be faced with in the months to come – as well as her plans beyond the Eurovision Song Content.

“I was recently appointed as the Ambassador of the President’s Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society on Mental Health by H.E. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, the President of Malta. So, once the Eurovision is over, I’m looking forward to being able to take on the role properly and do my bit

Photo: Steven

to help break the taboo. I’m also getting married in September – so I should probably start planning my wedding properly pretty soon!” she adds with a smile.

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8 0 ,8

83

204

, 303

302

323

3

Ix-Xgħajra

124

124

80

92,

124

L-Imġarr

N

302 303 323 306

322 330

312 322 303 322 323 303 322

302 303 305 306 307 308 310 311 312 313 323 330

1 2 3 4 13 13A 14 15 16 21 22 24 25 31 32 35 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 56 58 58A 61 62 63 64 71 72 73 74 80 81 82 83 84 85 88 91 92 93 94 122 130 133 238 250 260 X4 Malta International Airport 117 119 135 201 X1 X2 X3 X4 2 3 4 124 213 Il-Birgu 80 81 119 210 X4 Birżebbuġa 71 201 Blue Grotto 31 45 48 186 203 212 221 223 Buġibba / Il-Qawra 280 X3 221 222 250 X1 X1A 41 42 101 201 Ċirkewwa Ferry 56 186 202 201 Ta’ Qali 52 56 181 201 Ħad-Dingli 223 225 44 101 201 Golden Bay 1 124 213 L-Isla 213 N3 3 201 Il-Kalkara 91 92 93 119 124 135 201 204 N91 Marsaskala 81 85 119 210 Marsaxlokk 22 31 32 109 110 117 120 121 Mater Dei Hospital 122 135 181 182 204 206 201 201 209 233 238 213 218 226 201 201 210 201 50 51 52 53 56 109 181 182 L-Imdina 186 201 202 250 X3 221 222 250 41 42 49 101 201 Il-Mellieħa X1 X1A 201 44 101 213 L-Imġarr 14 120 Paceville 50 51 52 53 56 109 181 182 Ir-Rabat 186 201 202 250 X3 13 14 15 16 21 201 202 204 Tas-Sliema 201 201 222 225 201 233 X3 212 81 82 201 206 Ħal Tarxien 71 73 74 117 201 218 Iż-Żurrieq

Valletta

MALTA - Index of places served

L-Għarb Marsalforn L-Imġarr In-Nadur Il-Qala Ir-Ramla Ta’ Sannat Santa Luċija / Ta’ Kerċem Ta’ Pinu Church / L-Għasri Ix-Xagħra Ix-Xlendi Iż-Żebbuġ Ix-Xewkija Il-Munxar

Kemmunett Id-Dwejra (Cominotto)

301 309 311 308 310 301 302 303 302 305 313 308 307 306 309 301 305

KEMMUNA GOZO - Index of places served (COMINO)

Il-Qala

Ir-Rabat (Victoria)

322 323 301 303

303

303

www.freytagberndt.com

St Thomas Bay

91 92 93 119 124 135 204 93

2 32

In-Nadur

302

GĦAWDEX (GOZO)

Date: 19th April 2017 © FREYTAG-BERNDT & ARTARIA KG, VIENNA

Delimara

Marsaxlokk Market

Marsaxlokk

Pretty Bay

85

81 85

21 0

13 9, 11

5

20 4

91, ,93

92

Ħaż-Żabbar

94 120 121

94

Fort Rinella

81,119

6 84, 20

301

323

Għajnsielem

Ix-Xewkija

206 Marsaskala 84 Iż-Żejtun (Wied il-Għajn)

Tarxien Temples Ħal Tarxien

120,121

307

2

32

2,

30

302

Ramla Bay

Ta’ Kola Windmill Il-Ġgantija (Ġgantija Temples)

307

IL-BAĦAR MEDITERRAN (MEDITERRANEAN SEA)

3 Il-Kalkara

213

213 1 Il-Fgura 90,91 92,93,94

Raħal Ġdid (Paola)

2,3,4

(Cospicua)

X1A Bormla

1 124 213

(Senglea)

4

Il-Belt VALLETTA

L-Isla 2

Ta´Xbiex

3 13

305

03

1,3

30

Ir-Rabat (Victoria) 30 2 32 3

307

310 322

Marsalforn Bay

Ix-Xagħra

309 Marsalforn

Il-Munxar Ta’ Sannat

330

306,

15 21 202 203 212 222 225

0

, 11

21

1

Ta’ Kerċem

313

Tas-Sliema

6

4,1

Il-Gżira

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

0

12

Il-Marsa

,73

74

Ħaġar Qim

72

Il-Qrendi

74

64

58

56 5 Tal-Pietà 8A

L-Imsida

32

A,1

13

St George’s Bay San Ġiljan (St Julian’s)

San Ġwann

X1 X2 X3 119 201 117 Malta Int. Airport 218 72 L-Imqabba

Is-Siġġiewi

62 209

63

64

11

120

X2

22 Il-Balluta 21 0,1

University

50,54,

X1 X2 X3 X4 61 62 63 64 74 110 120 121 135 204 206 209 210 218 226

9

63

61,62 20

4

Mater Dei Hospital

2,53

Ħal Qormi

58 51,5

22

106

14

Is-Swieqi

16

Pembroke

14

233 16 25 35 2 2

Ħal Balzan Birkirkara

L-Iklin

43

202, 203

3

,10

X1

13A 14 103 110 120 121

71

Ħaġar Qim L-Imnajdra Temples (Mnajdra Temples)

109

Ras Bajjada

41-49 203, 25 0,260 280 54

,182 181

9 10

1 20

61

6

49

46 260

13

306 330

313

2

31

8,

30 31

308

L-Għasri

8

30

Santa Luċija

Ix-Xlendi Xlendi Bay

San Lawrenz

Id-Dwejra

311

312

Iż-Żebbuġ

80,82 , 85

Għar Lapsi

10

186

106 54

13

Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq

Ħal Għargħur

In-Naxxar Mosta Dome Il-Mosta

47

,5 50,52,5 3

Ta’ Qali

56

186

0

25

49

10 3

21 2 , 22 2, 2 25 X 1, X1A

Is-Salina

Tarġa Gap

Ta' Qali National Stadium

Buskett Gardens

8

Il-Bidnija

Il-Buskett 20

1B

Burmarrad

X1,X

Il-Qawra

X1 X1A X2 22 25 31 32 106 110 117 120 122 135 181 182 204 206 209 210 213 218 226 233 238 260 280

Azure Window

Ta’ Pinu L-Għarb

310

wa

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MALTA

51

L-Imtarfa

44, 2 3

103

Il-Wardija

50

Ħad-Dingli

56

Dingli Cliffs

109

Ta’ Ħaġrat

101 238

Skorba Temples

A

X1

San Pawl il-Baħar (St Paul’s Bay)

Buġibba

X3 31 45 48 186 203 212 221 223 280

Selmunett (St Paul’s Islands)

IL-BAĦAR MEDITERRAN (MEDITERRANEAN SEA)

5 17,13

Bus routes Bus routes only summer Number of bus route Place of departure/arrival Key bus stop Sales and information office Bus interchange Tourist information Heritage site Place of interest Airport Hospital Ferry Beach

1

Il-Baħrija

109

Il-Ġnejna

01

L-Imġarr

Ġnejna Bay

1

25

223, 2

Il-Mellieħa

Mellieħa Bay

44, 10

101

49

49

Għajn Tuffieħa

Golden Bay

101

L-Għadira

44 223 225

Popeye Village Il-Prajjet (Anchor Bay)

22 1

X1B

101

309

49

47

Paradise Bay

202

0

Iċ-Ċirkewwa

181, 56

54,106

31

Ċirkewwa Ferry

2 20 1, 6,18 52,5

109

25, 35

305,30 6

L-Armier (Armier Bay)

62,109

13

305

X1 X1A 41 42 101 221 222 250

,82

2

218 4

8

218

80

,8 ,85

01

73, 1

26

117

0,2

201

311 71

3

72

2, 5

3

51

,X

18

X1,X

X2

1

X3

,12

31

94

5,48,186, X3 ,42,4 ,41 31 203,250,280

120

0

21

9

0 ,25

26

206

11

2 22 103 31

4

210

1A , 260

81,8

135

ġa Im L-

,X 16 124

91

to

41,42 X1

B, ,X1

ew Ferr y to Ċirk

119

rr y Fe

2

32 303

rr

MALTA BY BUS

11 X4

9

97

valletta

98