Guide Me Dec 2015/January 2016

December 2015/January 2016 €3 The official visitors’ guide of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association

A SHOWCASE OF MALTA

Malta’s most beautiful countryside walks

COVER STORY The best cultural

events and social activities this winter

CUISINE Traditional

Christmas treats

A Maltese icon restored

Fort St Elmo returns to glory

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

INSIDE

December 2015/January 2016 EDITOR Isabel Depasquale PUBLISHERS Content House Group ADVERTISING Advertising Sales Manager Matthew Spiteri Advertising Sales Executives Jessica Catania Kim Gregory Advertising Sales Coordinators Lindsey Ciantar Marvic Cutajar PRINTERS Progress Press Ltd Art Direction & Design Box Design – T: +356 9949 1418 Photography Malta Tourism Authority, Heritage Malta

page 12 10 Events

A list of the major events taking place in Malta throughout December and January.

Photo: Aaron Briffa - viewingmalta.com

30 Lifestyle

Views to inspire – Artists Tonio Mallia and Jesmond Vassallo tell Marie-Claire Grima about their landscape inspirations as well as their favourite walking routes.

12 Cover Story

Making the most of your visit over Christmas – MarieClaire Grima recommends events and activities for a great winter holiday in Malta.

Guide Me is published every two months in Malta. 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.

19 Must Visit

A Maltese icon restored – Martina Said discovers Fort St Elmo’s past and highlights the sites within it that are not to be missed.

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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

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.

Cover picture: Teatru Manoel.

Photo by Luiz Rodriguez.

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

INSIDE

December 2015/January 2016

H&M

All eyes on Malta – Jo Caruana seeks to find out why the island is increasingly attracting foreigners, whether to host an event, plan a wedding, or look for the perfect Mediterranean home.

49 Fashion

Ring in the party season in style – Sarah Micallef’s holiday picks that will have you looking and feeling party-ready this Christmas.

55 Where to Spend It The best places on the island to splash that cash.

61 Cuisine

Sugar, spice and everything nice – Christmas in Malta simply wouldn’t be the same without a few spoonfuls of the sweet stuff, as Martina Said reveals.

page 41 75 Nightlife

When the night falls – Sarah Micallef selects some of the best pre-Christmas to New Year’s Eve events the island has to offer.

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

page 61

Photo: www.amaltesemouthful.com

41 In Depth

FOREWORD

Welcome to the Maltese islands!

ISSUE

64 December 2015/ January 2016

Fawwara - Photo: Pauline Dingli - viewingmalta.com

T

here’s no denying that the festive season brings with it a rush of excitement – whether you’re young or just young at heart, you’re bound to get caught in the wonderful world of seasonal merriment in the days leading up to Christmas and New Year.

Although the celebration of Christmas is similar across the world, there are some features that are specific to certain cultures and Malta is no exception. This issue of Guide Me seeks to help you immerse yourself in the local Christmas spirit, to make the most of your Christmas holiday, and to join in with the locals in their celebrations. Our Cover Story

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on page 12 in fact highlights the unmissable things to do during your stay, while the Nightlife section on page 75 sheds light on the top events and parties being organised locally after the sun sets.

There’s more Christmas cheer in our Cuisine and Fashion pages.

In the former, Martina Said whets your appetite with some local sweet delicacies that you are bound to come across during your visit, while in the latter Sarah Micallef lets you in on the fashion trends to be seen in over the festive season.

The weather at this time of year is perfect for long walks in the lush countryside. Turn to page 30 to find out about the most scenic

spots in the Maltese islands and read what landscape artists Tonio Mallia and Jesmond Vassallo had to say to Marie-Claire Grima about the rural aspects of the islands that inspire them most.

Finally culture vultures should not miss a visit to the newly restored Fort St Elmo in Valletta. It is one of the island’s most imposing fortifications and recounts the islands’ thrilling military history.

Enjoy your visit to the Maltese islands and best wishes for a serene festive season from the Guide Me team!

Isabel Depasquale EDITOR

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2015/16 December 01-06 December

1565 – The Great Siege of Malta – Boasting around 170 artefacts which are both locally and internationally based, this exhibition unravels the narrative of the establishment of the Order of St John, the religious and the political aspects of Europe and the Mediterranean which developed in the 16th century, the arrival of the Order in Malta and the consequences which eventually led to the Great Siege, the proceedings of the siege itself, and how the outcome of this epic battle acted as a catalytic event in shaping and making a modern day Malta. Venue: Grandmasters Palace, Valletta; www.heritagemalta.org

01 December-07 January

The Mdina Cathedral Contemporary Art Biennale – The theme for this year’s Mdina Cathedral Contemporary Art Biennale is Christianity, Spirituality and the Other. It will showcase works of art by local and international artists in a variety of locations across the charming old capital. www.mdinabiennale.org

01 December-10 January

Watches – An exhibition dedicated to antique watches. Over 50 watches specially loaned from private and museum collections highlight the technological and artistic qualities of antique watches. The exhibition considers their variations and functions, and takes an in-depth look at particularly important watches belonging to notable personalities. This exhibition is guest-curated by David Thompson, who occupied the role of senior curator of Horology at the British Museum until his recent retirement. Venue: Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum, Mdina. www.palazzofalson.com

04-06 December

GO Teatru Unplugged 18 – Held annually since 1998, this unique concert consists of six short acts of diverse musical genres. Within the classical setting of the Manoel Theatre, the contrast of pop, rock, folk and other genres creates a unique and fast-moving concert.

Time: 8pm. Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta; www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

05-06 December

The Perfect Christmas Gift Fair – The Corinthia Palace Hotel and Spa’s highly anticipated Perfect Christmas Gift Fair will this year be held at San Anton Presidential Palace, just across the road. After the fair, and thanks to the funds raised for the Beyond the Moon foundation, the Malta Community Chest Fund will select one seriously ill child to go on a once-in-a-lifetime trip with their family. Time: 11am. Venue: San Anton Presidential Palace, Attard.

05-06 December

The Sleeping Beauty – The Brigitte Gauci Borda School of Dance celebrates a quarter of a century with a magical ballet choreographed to the music of Tchaikovsky’s classical masterpiece.

Guests Erico Montes and Clare Calverts from the Royal Ballet will be performing in the leading roles, along with a cast of over 200 dancers.

Time: 5th at 7.30pm; 6th at 4.30pm.

Venue: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta; www.mcc.com.mt

06 December-04 January

Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem – Spread over 20,000sqm of land in the village of Għajnsielem, Gozo, Bethlehem f’Għajnsielem is a not-to-be-missed living Nativity scene complete with live animals, Roman soldiers and working taverns. www.ghajnsielem.com

07 December

Grand Finale of the Malta International Organ Festival – Having started in November, the Malta International Organ Festival will come to a close with a Grand Finale concert, featuring solo organ works and works for organ and voice. Organist Diego Cannizzaro from Sicily will play CPE Bach’s concerto in G Major, Malta’s Joseph Lia will be the baritone, and James Ham from the UK will conduct the Valletta Chamber Orchestra. Time: 7.30pm. Venue: St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Valletta.

07-28 December, 12-13 January

Abstract Rhythms in Nature – Local artist Ray Piscopo returns with a two-part exhibition featuring abstract and figurative pieces. The first part of the exhibition takes place in Victoria, Gozo, between 7 and 28 December, and the second part in St Julian’s, Malta, between 12 and 13 January. Venue: Banca Giuratale, Town House, Victoria, Gozo; Cavalieri Art Hotel, St Julian’s; www.raypiscopo.com

08 December

Feast of the Immaculate Conception – Although a national holiday, this feast is primarily celebrated in the town of Cospicua. This is a public holiday in Malta.

09 December

Gülsin Onay Piano Recital – Turkishborn pianist Gülsin Onay will serenade audiences at the Manoel Theatre with works by Bach, Mendelssohn, Beethoven and Chopin. Time: 8pm.

Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta; www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

11 December

MPO Orchestral Concert Series 1 – The Malta Philharmonic brings flautist Laura Falzon together with the orchestra for this evening of delights, which will include the Nielsen Flute concerto

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

and Sibelius symphony number 2.

Time: 8pm. Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta; www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

13 December

Republic Day – Events marking the 41st anniversary since Malta became a republic will mostly take place in Valletta.

This is a public holiday in Malta.

16-20 December

Christmas Artisan Fair – This Christmas fair promises to be the perfect festive day out, with lots of stalls selling artisanal items that will make wonderful gifts, as well as delicious food. A number of activities will be organised. Time: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 9.30am-1pm. Venue: Pjazza Jean de Valette, Valletta.

Mid December-mid January

Crafts Exhibition – This exhibition will showcase more than 60 crafts items participating in Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti 2015 competition (an annual local crafts competition). Entrance is free of charge. Venue: Ministry for Economy, Investment and Small Business, Palazzo Zondadari, Merchants Street, Valletta.

F: www.facebook.com/maltacrafts

19 December-03 January

Treasure Island – This year’s MADC panto sees young Jim Hawkins set off on an epic hunt for treasure along with his unwilling mother – the outrageous Mama Sufia Kerapestska. With generous doses of humour, magic, music, songs, dance and adventure, Treasure Island promises to be yet another memorable MADC panto. Time: 3pm & 8pm, daily (excluding 24, 25 & 31 December and 1 January).

Venue: MFCC, Ta’ Qali; www.mfcc.com

22 December-04 January

Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood – Join Robin Hood and his Merry

Men on their adventure to defeat the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, fight the evil witch, battle the ghouls of the Enchanted Forest and save the babes from certain death. This year’s FM Theatre Productions’ Christmas panto will be packed with adventure and comedy in a magical tale told like never before. Time: 3pm & 8pm, daily (excluding 24, 25 & 31 December and 1 January; Monday 4 January, 8pm only). Venue: Teatru Manoel, Valletta; www.teatrumanoel.com.mt

25 December

Christmas Day – This is traditionally a family holiday, although restaurants, cinemas and some clubs and bars are open. Mass is normally attended on the eve.

27 December, 03 January

In Guardia Parade – The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays the inspection of the fort and its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of St John in charge of military affairs. During the re-enactment, actors are kitted out in their uniforms to perform their military drill to demonstrate to the Grand Bailiff the fort’s state of readiness. The show begins at 11am at Fort St Elmo, Valletta, and lasts 40 minutes. www.visitmalta.com

31 December

New Year’s Eve – Many islanders celebrate New Year’s Eve by heading over to Floriana or Valletta for the official celebrations. Several private parties, as well as paid events at various hotels, clubs and bars, are also held.

January 2016 01 January

New Year’s Day – Maltese people tend to spend this day with their

family, but some restaurants, clubs and bars are open all day.

10 January

The Great Russian Nutcracker – Artists from The Crown of Russian Ballet of Moscow, along with soloists from Bolshoi Theatre and myriad talented young dancers, will be taking to the stage in Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Time: 4pm.

Venue: Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta; www.mcc.com.mt

16-30 January

Valletta International Baroque Festival – The Valletta International Baroque Festival has been conceived purposely as a celebration of Valletta’s baroque identity. For two weeks, between 16 and 30 January, Valletta will resound with music from the period when Valletta was built. www.vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt

29 January

Changing of the Guard – This ceremony is symbolic of the formal handing over of responsibility from one guard to another at the Presidential Palace in Valletta. The Armed Forces of Malta hold the Changing of the Palace Guard Ceremony at St George’s Square, Valletta, at 10am. The guard, led by the AFM Band, initiates the ceremony from Republic Street in the vicinity of Palazzo Ferreria and proceeds towards St George’s Square through Republic Street.

COVER STORY

Making the most of your visit over

Christmas

Malta is a wonderful place to spend the Christmas holidays, with temperate weather and a cultural calendar packed chock-full of activities for you to enjoy.

Marie-Claire Grima presents the lowdown on the events that you just can’t miss.

If you’re visiting the Maltese islands over the Christmas period, you’re in for a treat. As the days get shorter, the nights get longer and the layers get thicker, Malta becomes a flurry of activity, and the season to be jolly has something for everyone to enjoy.

A VERY BRITISH CHRISTMAS Malta was a British colony for nearly two centuries, and the colonial influence in Malta can be seen in several Christmas traditions on the island, including the beloved annual Christmas pantomime.

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Each year, two major performances take place – this year FM Theatre Productions’ Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood will be running from 22nd December to 4th January at the Manoel Theatre in Valletta (booking.teatrumanoel. com.mt), while MADC’s Treasure Island will be running from 19th December to 3rd January at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali (booking2.madc. com.mt). The Maltese version of the panto is said to be more political than the British one, and combines an adaptation of a wellknown fairytale with a very heavy

dose of satire. Populated by a cast of heroes, villains and everything in between, and featuring plenty of singing, dancing and jokes aimed at different ages, it is an entertaining afternoon or night out enjoyed by young and old alike.

Britain’s influence also spread to the Maltese Christmas Day table – most families and restaurants now serve a roast turkey at lunch, rather than the rooster which is more typical of Mediterranean Christmas lunches. However, there are plenty of typically Maltese seasonal treats to be enjoyed, including the

imbuljuta tal-qastan, a traditional drink made with chestnuts, cocoa and orange rind, and the qagħaq tal-għasel (honey rings), a sweet treat made with treacle and semolina. Read about more local seasonal delights on page 61.

MALLS AND MARKETS The Maltese love shopping and during the Christmas season, starting in early November, shops start closing later than usual. Many shops also forego the custom of keeping their shutters down on Sunday and start opening all throughout the

Christmas Artisan Fair

weekend as well, to make sure that everyone gets their gifts purchased, wrapped and delivered on time.

The main shopping districts can be found in Valletta and Sliema, which have very busy high streets and a number of modern shopping malls including the Embassy in the former and The Point and The Plaza in the latter. There you can find shops selling anything from clothes to accessories to electronics to furniture, as well as a vast variety of food and refreshments.

However, smaller shops and malls can be found in towns and villages up and down the island.

Still in town when the New Year rolls around and brave enough to face the rampaging hordes? Make sure to check out the January sales and snap up an amazing deal – prices are generally slashed to rock bottom to clear shelves and make way for new stock.

If you’re up for a spot of bargain hunting, Malta’s numerous open-air markets can also turn up some Christmas crib - Photo: Clive Vella - viewingmalta.com

Photo: Aaron Briffa - viewingmalta.com

COVER STORY

“The Maltese love shopping and during the Christmas season, starting in early November, shops start closing later than usual.” interesting discoveries if you’re feeling slightly adventurous and more inclined to avoid crowds – Valletta’s is the biggest on the islands, Marsaxlokk’s is famous for its freshly-caught fish as well as locally crafted items, while Victoria in Gozo has a daily market where you can buy souvenirs and accessories. There are also several seasonal markets to enjoy, including a five-day Christmas Artisan Fair at Pjazza Jean de Valette in Valletta, from 16th to 19th December, between 10am and 6pm, and on 20th December from 9.30am to 1pm. Here you can find artisans selling textile works, filigree, paintings, macramé, woodworks, ceramics, costume jewellery, agricultural produce and more. For more information visit www.facebook.com/maltacrafts.

ART AND CULTURE The Mdina Cathedral Contemporary Art Biennale, now in its 21st year, has evolved into a highly prestigious and accomplished event, bringing together a wide range of local and international artists working with different media including ceramics, installations, painting and prints. It is open throughout December to 7th January and is being held in a variety of locations across the beautiful old capital. For more information visit mdinabiennale.org. ➜ 13

COVER STORY

Voca Choir

“Most of the churches in Malta are repositories for incredible works of art.”

The 40-strong Voca Choir, directed by Nathalie Camilleri and assisted by Stephen Ferrito, will be performing at a gala dinner on 11th December to raise funds for the restoration of the medieval triptych in Rabat’s stunning Augustinian priory. The concert will include a special one-hour set list ranging from Christmas carols to contemporary covers to Gospel pieces, performed live by the choir, band and its soloists. Visit vocachoir. com for more information.

An exhibition worth visiting is being held at the Ministry for Economy, Investment and Small Business, at Banca Giuratale, 197, Merchants Street, Valletta, from mid-December until the

Collegium Musicum Concert

begining of January. It brings together a number of craft products that participated in the Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti 2015 competition (an annual local crafts competition). Entrance to the exhibition is free of charge.

January brings with it the fourth edition of the highlyacclaimed Valletta International Baroque Festival, with an extensive programme of events spanning from 16th to 30th January. This year’s edition features performances from global baroque superstars including Jordi Savall, Philippe Herreweghe and Mahan Esfahani.

For further information, visit vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt.

However, the cultural calendar is abuzz throughout the Christmas

season, and there’s something on nearly every day. An extensive calendar of events can be found on pages 10 and 11 of Guide Me, and it’s definitely worth checking out the calendars of a few of the main cultural hubs in Malta, including the Manoel Theatre (teatrumanoel.com.mt), the Mediterranean Conference Centre (mcc.com.mt) and St James Cavalier (sjcav.org).

CHURCHES AND CAROLS Even if you’re not particularly pious, churches in Christmas are a real delight. Decked out in their finest damask and their most polished silverware, they are a feast for the eyes. Most of the churches in Malta are repositories for incredible works of art, and Christmas is the perfect opportunity to showcase their finest pieces, so you’re very likely to stumble upon a hidden masterpiece as you tour the many places of worship on the islands. ➜

COVER STORY

Betlehem f'Għajnsielem

Betlehem f'Għajnsielem

Don’t skimp on a visit to St John’s Co-Cathedral – besides taking in the spectacular baroque architecture and artwork, you can also enjoy the Collegium Musicum Concert taking place on 18th December at 7.30pm.

Details can be found at facebook. com/collegium.malta On Christmas Eve, anyone can enjoy the sudden transition from darkness to light as the clock strikes midnight during midnight mass, and revel in the exultant hymns and the palpable sense of goodwill and community. It’s also a sweet Maltese tradition for the midnight mass sermon to be delivered by one of the parish’s youngest members – they spend weeks ahead of the ceremony learning it by heart, and it’s heart-warming to see them pull it off successfully.

CHRISTMAS CRIBS Another religious Christmas tradition is the building of nativity cribs. The practice has a long history locally, with the first ever crib in Malta dating back at least to the first half of the 17th century. Until the 19th century, however, having a crib was seen as strictly for the wealthy, and many sophisticated mechanical cribs

were set aflame by impoverished Maltese peasants. A more palatable crib was introduced by a Franciscan friar from Sicily named Benedetto Papale, who copied elements from the Sicilian countryside in his cribs, which the Maltese found that they could relate to more easily.

The Maltese started building cribs featuring local traditions, costumes and buildings – in fact, Maltese countryside features such as farmhouses and flour windmills are still highly visible in many a locally-built crib. Exhibitions and competitions for the best crib are held all over the island, and many of them show remarkable craftsmanship and skill. Just look out for makeshift signs in several of the island’s towns and villages to

view some of these works of art.

If you’re heading down to Gozo, make sure you stop by Betlehem f ’Għajnsielem, open from 6th December to 4th January, which sees the area close to the village square five minutes away from Imġarr Harbour transformed into the backdrop for several Biblical scenes with over 100 actors doing live re-enactments. Besides getting a taste of life in a small village in Judea 2,000 years ago, you can also try some typical Gozitan produce, cross the ‘river’ on a traditional boat and watch the farmers tending to their animals. Visit ghajnsielem. com/bethlehem to find out more.

PARTIES AND NIGHTLIFE Looking to let your inner party animal loose this festive season? Turn to page 75 for a comprehensive guide to the exciting Maltese nightlife scene over December and January.

Panto - Photo: mfcc.com.mt

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MUST VISIT

Maltese restored

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A visit to the Maltese islands is incomplete without a tour of the capital, Valletta, which is steeped in history and teeming with worldrenowned heritage sites. Among them is the newly restored Fort St Elmo in lower Valletta, which offers visitors an enriching insight into the islands’ military history. Martina Said discovers the fort’s past and highlights the sites within it that are not to be missed.

It is one of the island’s most imposing fortifications, enriched with an impressive history marked by endurance and courage. This is why the recent public unveiling of the newly restored Fort St Elmo is great news. Its redundancy as a military base after the end of World War II meant it was left in a state of neglect for many years, but it has now been given the stellar treatment it deserves.

Fort St Elmo’s history is as rich as its fabric, and its real value can only be understood through

the role it played in Malta’s military history. Fort St Elmo in fact reflects the evolution of a complex of buildings rather than a single group of buildings, and is a marvellous tapestry displaying the development of military architecture in Malta.

Its origins date back to the 1400s, when a watch post was built on site by the Maltese, and, around 70 years later, the Aragonese went on to build a tower there too. After the Muslim raid of 1551, with the Order of St John then firmly established on the island since 1530, grandmaster Juan

Photos: Steven Psaila - Heritage Malta

D’Homedes (1536-1553) ordered the building of a fort. This was to replace the tower with a star-shaped construction that incorporated a nearby existing chapel within its walls – which is the oldest structure on the peninsula – that was later re-dedicated to St Anne.

Fort St Elmo was captured by the Turks during the Great Siege of 1565 but the Order swiftly began reconstructing it after the Siege ended, and set about implementing plans to build the city of Valletta.

Subsequent grandmasters, together with their appointed military engineers, modified and enlarged the fort according to the military requirements of the time.

Alterations to the fort continued to be made under British rule even after World War II. ➜ 19

MUST VISIT

One pre-World War II intervention was the installation of a strategic command/observation post and fire control in and on top of the cavalier, intended to spot enemy ships and direct gunfire towards them. Later on, in this same area, six Maltese Royal Malta Artillery anti-aircraft gunners were killed on 11th June 1940.

Until recently, only a small area of the vast expanse that is Fort St Elmo was being used – a section maintained by the Malta Police Academy, and the huge powder magazine had been housing the National War Museum since 1975. The rest of the site remained abandoned. In 2004, Heritage Malta, the national agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage,

proposed the taking over and eventual restoration of the fort, with the intention of enlarging the National War Museum to include new sections relating to Malta’s military history starting from prehistory till recent times.

Local and European funding made the dream a reality.

Works on site began in 2012, when the Police Academy was relocated from the fort, and were divided in two major phases: the restoration phase and the subsequent design, finishing and outfitting of the new National War Museum. The project was unveiled to the public in May 2015.

Emmanuel Magro Conti, senior curator of Heritage Malta’s Maritime and Military collections, of which the fort is just one large artefact, believes that the site is a definite must-see for its military architecture, the contents of the historic artefacts displayed within as well as for its open spaces and seascape views.

“You can admire both the Grand Harbour and the port of Marsamxett from the fort – it is one of the best vantage points in Valletta, but definitely the only spot from where one can admire both harbours simultaneously, particularly from above the cavalier. ➜

“Among the many interesting artefacts at the museum is the large table on which the French General Vaubois signed the French capitulation to the British in September 1800.”

MUST VISIT

“From an architectural perspective, it is a marvel of bleak and stark military architectural concepts.”

“From an architectural perspective, it is a marvel of bleak and stark military architectural concepts – any décor that typically gives a historic building its ‘wow’ factor is near non-existent. It is a functional, multi-period military complex intended to serve its specific purpose, with huge and high thick walls, a deep ditch and a high isolated cavalier, among others. All components of this ‘machine’ acted as a deterrent to the would-be foe.”

The biggest bonus, he adds, is that the National War Museum is housed within the fort, where for the first time, the islands’ military history is told and displayed in its entirety, starting with prehistoric times all the way to Malta’s role in the Libya crisis. “Half of the

museum is dedicated to the two World Wars, but there are numerous representative items from prehistory, the classic and medieval periods, the Order of St John era, the French interlude as well as from the British period, just before World War I broke out.”

Some of the museum’s highlights include bronze daggers from the Bronze Age, red and black figure vases from the classical period, and several coins dating back to mediaeval times, among other artefacts which highlight Malta’s different historical eras.

“There are also a number of interesting artefacts from the 1565 Great Siege and from the tenure of the Order of St John such as medals, which were issued in commemoration of the laying of the foundation stones of various forts; a large table on which the French General Vaubois signed the French capitulation to the British

in September 1800, as well as items spanning the first 100 years of the British in Malta, including Victorian female attire and other items associated with the ‘fishing fleet’.” Emmanuel elaborates: “during the mid to late Victorian periods, it became a custom for British mothers to come over to Malta with their marriage-eligible daughters in search of a suitable future husband among the scores of young Army and Navy officers stationed in Malta. The all-important ‘meetings’ would be held during social events either organised by the Army and Navy themselves or staged by the well-wishing mothers in their rented temporary furnished homes. Many found the love of their life here in Malta and hopefully lived happily ever after.”

Charles Debono, curator of the National War Museum within the Maritime and Military section at Heritage Malta, believes the most ➜ 23

prominent sections of the museum are those relating to the Great Siege of 1565 and the Order, the French interlude and, more recently, World War II, which is still a vivid memory in the minds of those who lived through it. “Three of the most significant objects are reminders of World War II, namely the Gloster Sea-Gladiator plane N5520 nicknamed ‘Faith’, the original George Cross bestowed to the Maltese people by King George VI in April 1942 and the Willys Jeep, ‘Husky’: used by General Eisenhower before the invasion of Sicily in Operation Husky in 1943, and by then US president Theodor Roosevelt during his visit to Malta.”

Highlights of Fort St Elmo do not stop at the museum, however. Emmanuel explains that visitors should walk around the site and discover how the fort was conceived and the alterations made to it. “Be sure to visit the chapel dedicated to St Anne, which is a relic of the Great Siege and full of historic significance. Another on-site church, which was constructed in the 1720s, is being converted into a memorial and will be open to the public in early 2016. The cavalier is also a definite must-see with its various displays and which still shows scars in the form of shrapnel marks that caused the first Maltese military casualties in 11th June 1940.”

Fort St Elmo, Valletta. T: 2123 3088. Open: daily 9am5pm (last admission 4.30pm – closed 24, 25, 31 Dec & 1 Jan). On Sundays, Fort St Elmo hosts the In Guardia Parade – when scheduled to take place, the museum opens at noon. Tickets: Adults (18-59 yrs) €10; Youths (12-17 yrs), senior citizens (60 yrs+) and students €7.50; Children (6-11 yrs) €5.50; Infants (1-5 yrs) free.

PLACES TO VISIT

Valletta Living History Valletta Living History is a high definition multi-lingual audio-visual show depicting the history, culture and lifestyle of Malta and the Maltese, showing everyday at the Embassy Complex in the heart of Valletta. Relive the Great Siege between the brave Knights and fierce Ottomans, the French and British rule, and World War II till today. Many recommend it as the best first stop when visiting Valletta.

Open seven days a week with shows at 10, 10.45, 11.30am, 12.15, 1, 1.45, 2.30 and 3.15pm.

Valletta Living History, Level 2, The Embassy Complex, St Lucia Street, Valletta.

T: 2722 0071; www.maltaattraction.com

MDINA EXPERIENCE Take an unforgettable 30 minutes to experience Mdina’s fascinating journey through time. Relive Mdina’s 7,000 years of tragedy and triumph. The cult of the mother goddess, the shipwreck of St Paul, the medieval city half destroyed by an earthquake and gloriously rebuilt, Mdina defended by the fighting spirit of the Knights of St John – The Mdina Experience traces the fascinating story, thousands of years back.

Open seven days a week from 10am to 4.30pm.

Available in 12 languages.

Mdina Experience, 7, Mesquita Square, Mdina.

T: 2145 4322/2145 0055; E: info@themdinaexperience.com

KNIGHTS OF MALTA The Knights of Malta is a unique series of expertly captured scenes from the original tales of the life and times of the Crusader Knights. Discover how in 1530, Grand Master L’Isle Adam entered the gates of the fortified city. An extraordinary achievement that depicts the energy of those who lived, fought and died in bygone centuries.

Open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm.

Available in 13 languages.

14/19, Casa Magazzini, Magazines Street, Mdina.

T: 2145 1342; E: info@themdinaexperience.com

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CULTURE

Valletta

International Baroque Festival

2016

Teatru Manoel is very pleased to be introducing the fourth edition of the Valletta International Baroque Festival between 16th and 30th January 2016. Since its inception in 2013, the Baroque Festival has leapt from strength to strength, attracting strong support locally, as well as an international audience happy to spend a week or two in the inimitable atmosphere of Valletta, our tiny but impressive capital city.

This year’s edition features an internationally-recognised galaxy of star performers; household names within the baroque world and without, including Jordi Savall, Philippe Herreweghe and harpsichord wizard Mahan Esfahani. These stars of great repute have delighted audiences for decades with their inimitable interpretations of the baroque idiom.

This festival, like the previous ones, incorporates an eclectic variety of music including pianistic transcriptions and 20th century orchestral music ‘inspired by the baroque’, Respighi and Stravinsky being cases in point. Two Requiems – one by Bonaventura Rubino and the other by Niccolo Jommelli – have strong Maltese

connections as the manuscript of the first was found in the Cathedral Museum Archive at Mdina while that of the Neapolitan Jommelli incorporates responses

by Maltese composers that have been researched by Ghislieri Musica in the same archive.

Two weeks of gorgeous music that elicit visions of periwigged grandmasters, swashbuckling knights and ladies in the latest fashions from Naples and Palermo plying the grid-iron streets of Valletta in calèches and sedan chairs dodging traders from the East, water sellers, herds of goats and vendors of karawett (peanuts) in a harmonious cacophony of sound that sadly has for the most part been obliterated by the revving

of car engines and the hooting of car horns. The tinkle of the harpsichord, the gentle reverberations of the theorbo and the sonorities of the viola da gamba will surely conjure up, for two short and precious weeks, the unique atmosphere of Valletta’s golden age of elegance.

The festival also has events specifically designed for children including a treasure hunt around the theatre. The festival ends with the very popular Baroque Festival Ball when the Manoel is transformed into a ballroom and everyone has the opportunity to dress up and dance to music provided by a string quartet and band.

For more details and to book visit www.vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt 29

LIFESTYLE

VIEWS to inspire

Although Malta is becoming more urbanised day by day, there is still a lot of beautiful countryside to be seen and experienced, and it is at its best in the colder months. Marie-Claire Grima talks to artists Tonio Mallia and Jesmond Vassallo to find out what it is about the rural aspects of the islands that inspires them to create.

Venture outside of Malta’s built-up urban centres and you’ll find a rugged, varied and starkly beautiful terrain to explore, from scrubland which turns abruptly into a swathe of jagged cliffs, to lush valleys tumbling through the fields. Malta’s countryside is dotted with structures left standing from another time, from prehistoric temples to medieval chapels to colonial battle posts, emerging 30

from the wilderness as if they came from nature itself. And winter is the ideal time to make the most out of Malta’s landscape: by midNovember, the arid heat will have died down, allowing the carpets of green to flourish luxuriantly for the following six months or so.

It’s not hard to imagine how this wild and picturesque terrain could inspire many of Malta’s artists.

“When you paint outdoors,

Tonio Mallia

“When you paint outdoors, the elements control and challenge you.”

LIFESTYLE

Ta' Ġurdan by Tonio Mallia

Wied iż-Żurrieq by Tonio Mallia

the elements control and challenge you,” says Tonio Mallia, a painter whose career spans 40 years, and who spends much of his time painting outdoors. “You have to paint fast, almost automatically – it makes the whole process a lot more spontaneous.” His favourite medium is watercolour, which is highly versatile and dries quickly.

His painting process involves stretching the paper, fixing it onto a tripod, preparing a quick thumbnail

sketch, creating an outline in pencil and then daubing on the colours, usually dark, moody tones.

Tonio is an avid walker. A typical day involves waking up at seven in the morning, heading to Rabat, making his way to Ġnejna, going for a swim and then catching the bus back to his home in Siġġiewi at around two in the afternoon. “I just love being in the countryside. To me, it is where you really find the fundamental expression of the character of a nation, and I loathe the fact that in some areas, the beauty of nature is being parcelled off in favour of steel and glass and concrete. That’s a loss of our identity.” He lives in Siġġiewi, a village which is still close to Malta’s urban sprawl but retains a lot of its rural charm and character, thanks to its proximity to the valley of Wied Qirda. He enjoys the closeness to the natural environment that this affords him.

“I feel like I’m highly attuned to nature, and I enjoy it even more when it doesn’t look ‘pretty’. The bleakness and the remoteness

that you find in some areas of the Maltese countryside really speak to me, and you find pockets of this even in Siġġiewi.”

There are several walking routes which Tonio highlights as favourites. These include Rabat, Lunzjata and Mtaħleb; Dingli and Baħrija; Fawwara and Qrendi; Selmun, l-Aħrax and the Majjistral Nature and History Park in Mellieħa; as well as the unspoilt northern coast of Gozo. “Due to the fact that we are surrounded by the sea, we have a very unique landscape. I’ve travelled a lot and I’ve never seen anything quite like it. When tourists come to visit us, they are astonished and they set out to explore and enjoy it any way they can – but the Maltese are not an outdoorsy people, and there’s a tendency to take what we have for granted.

“We have to be very careful to preserve the precious little countryside we have in its wild, untamed state – otherwise, we’ll be sacrificing a part of Malta’s soul.” ➜ Salina by Tonio Mallia

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LIFESTYLE

Wied il-Għasel by Jesmond Vassallo

Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq by Jesmond Vassallo

Wied il-Għasel by Jesmond Vassallo

Jesmond Vassallo

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“As a landscape painter, you can’t compete with photography,” says Jesmond Vassallo, a Mostaborn painter whose brightly-lit studio overlooks the town’s deep valley. “It is more important to observe and take it all in, rather than try to get all the details in as you see them. Only then can you use it as a point of departure to tell a more personal story.”

Jesmond’s work is highly abstract – with half a smile, he

“It is more important to observe and take it all in, rather than try to get all the details in as you see them.” points to a painting and says, “Many people don’t recognise this as a landscape at all.” He rarely completes a painting while he is in the great outdoors – instead, he applies the spontaneous approach to his sketches, and then works them into a more polished narrative later at home.

“When I have a theme I want to develop, I go on site and make studies. Sometimes I’ll set the studies aside and return to them later, after some of the details have faded ➜

Mtaħleb - Photo: Stefan Stafrace - viewingmalta.com

LIFESTYLE

Suggested walking routes Experience: Adventures and More regularly organise hiking and trekking excursions around the Maltese countryside. “Hiking is suitable for all family members and you don’t need any expensive equipment to get going. All you need is a bottle of water, trainers, and a hat and sunblock if it is hot,” explain founders Kim Agius and Mario Scerri.

“It gives you the opportunity to explore areas which very few people know about and which can only be accessed on foot. You only truly realise the beauty this little country has to offer when you’re on a trek.” Below are three of their favourite routes.

Beginners – Starting from Buskett, head towards Misraħ Għar il-Kbir/Clapham Junction area. Walk down to Ta’ Żluta quarry through the valley. Follow the signs to Laferla Cross and spend some time enjoying the spectacular 270-degree views of Malta. Then head down towards Siġġiewi but take a left towards Madonna tal-Girgenti open air chapel.

Follow the route to Buskett via the Girgenti Palace and loop back to the beginning.

Intermediate – Starting from Mistra Bay, walk toward St Paul’s islands, hugging the coast, a route that offers spectacular views all along. Take the path down the clay slopes, crossing between bamboo sticks and follow the trail to Mġiebaħ. Spend some time on this lovely beach and then take the path up to the pillbox overlooking the bay. Follow the asphalted road up to Selmun Castle. Walk past the castle and take the steep downhill path on the right with stunning Mistra Bay views and terraced fields back to the starting point.

from memory, which allows me to keep the elements which are truly important to the painting. It compels the viewer to engage with the scene more thoroughly – the landscape acts as a metaphor.”

Many of Jesmond’s paintings use the Mosta valley as a starting point, but he has many other favourite scenic spots, including Mġarr, Bidnija, Żurrieq, Fomm ir-Riħ, St Peter’s Pool in Marsascala and Qbajjar in Gozo. Like Tonio, he laments the fact that so much of Malta’s beautiful countryside has to compete with the spill of concrete encroaching from urban areas into the wilderness.

“It’s becoming more of a struggle to find places in Malta where concrete isn’t a key component of the landscape itself.

It’s a shame because Malta has so much to offer, including the fact that the weather remains beautiful all throughout the year, and people have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors whenever they want to.

And what an outdoors it is – we don’t realise how lucky we are to be able to drive not more than 15 minutes and find ourselves looking out to sea. After all, not everywhere in the world has the privilege of a horizon.”

Verdala Palace - Photo: viewingmalta.com

Advanced – Start from Paradise Bay and take the trail behind the restaurant. Eventually you will find yourself in between boulders and you have to make your own way across boulders and shrubs, where you will encounter beautiful coves and secluded beaches along the way. Keep walking along the coast till you arrive to some strange rock formations and fallen rock boulders. Walk over the fossilised white rock surface known as il-Qammiegħ. An uphill path will lead you to a narrow trail; take a sharp left up some really steep steps to the cliffs above. Once up on the cliffs, you will find yourself on the asphalted road where you will take a left turn. Eventually you will get to a beautiful cave which is very worth exploring. Then make your way back to the starting point.

E: experience.adventures@gmail.com; F: Experience: adventures and more

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TAKE NOTE

A story in every stone a personal account

Calypso Cave - Photo: viewingmalta.com

We spend most of our holidays in this charming, understated, wonderful little island and have done so since the 70s. We are under the impression that each brick, stone, nook and cranny in Malta has an interesting story to tell, some of which are recent, and others which go back millennia.

This year Malta has hosted CHOGM (the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting) for a second time; the first time was in 2005 and it was a resounding success. This tiny island state in the Mediterranean has worked tirelessly throughout history to be a bridge between North Africa and Europe, and continues to do so unabated. We have timed this year’s trip to coincide with this milestone, since we like to think of ourselves as locals these days and want to do ‘our bit’ as it were.

We realised in ’76 that one trip would not be enough to learn the whole story, but figured that we would be quite savvy after the third or fourth trip. Well here we are in 2015 and still coming to Malta, and the funny thing is we still discover something new on every trip.

Last year we discovered that Calypso Cave, located

in a cliff overlooking Gozo’s most sought-after sandy beach, Ramla Bay, is said to be the cave that Homer wrote about in The Odyssey. So saying that Malta is steeped in history would be an understatement.

Over the years we have made many friends in Malta, both local and foreign. We have our favourite haunts, and we are welcomed like family each time we go there.

One of the most attractive things about Malta is the Maltese themselves – some of the most friendly and welcoming people we have ever encountered, and in our line of work we encounter a few. Perhaps it is this little fact, above all others, that has kept us coming back for more, year in, year out, for the past 39 years and shows no sign of waning despite our advancing years.

Arrigo Group Ltd, 248, Tower Road, Sliema. T: 2349 2349.

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TAKE NOTE

7,000 years of history brought to life

Located in Malta’s capital city, Valletta, housed within what was once the Sacra Infermeria of the Knights of Malta, is The Malta Experience. This audio-visual spectacular is one of the largest attractions in Europe in terms of duration, system and language commentaries. It is also the only show that retraces 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

Delicata’s Golden Reds

Photo: courtesy of Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation

three gold medals for Delicata red wines

Three of Delicata’s red wines have won gold medals as well as a Press Prize at the 2015 Emozioni Dal Mondo Cabernet e Merlot Insieme held in Bergamo last October.

Two of the gold medals were awarded to the company’s premium reds, the 2014 Gran Cavalier Barrel Matured Merlot D.O.K. Superior Malta, and the 2014 Grand Vin De Hauteville Cabernet Sauvignon D.O.K. Superior Malta.

A further gold was awarded to the incredibly good value 2014 Classic Collection Marenzio Merlot I.G.T Maltese Islands.

The 2014 Gran Cavalier Merlot was also awarded the coveted Press Prize, a special award commended by a select commission of wine journalists to the highest-scoring wine from each country.

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 The competition, which celebrated its 11th anniversary, only judges wines made from three red grape varieties – Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc – which in this year’s edition, came from 17 different winemaking countries. Delicata was amongst other gold-medal winning prestigious winemakers from Tuscany in Italy, Chile, and Bordeaux in France.

Earlier this year Delicata, the 4th generation family-run winemaking company, achieved a noteworthy milestone in its long history by being awarded over 100 international wine awards (1995-2015). These latest gold medals now bring Delicata’s total international wine award count up to an impressive 110 awards, 26 of which (six gold, two silver, nine bronze, eight commendations and a press award) were won in the past two years alone, all under the direct stewardship of Matthew Delicata, the company’s chief winemaker.

Through this last accomplishment Delicata has further strengthened its place as Malta’s foremost and most internationally acclaimed family-run winery.

To see the complete list of 110 international awards and the wines accredited visit www.delicata.com/awards or www.facebook.com/DelicataWinery.

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IN DEPTH

All eyes ON

MALTA

Whether to host an event, plan a wedding, or look for the perfect Mediterranean home, Malta is the island everyone is talking about. Jo Caruana finds out why.

Malta has long attracted people from all over the world.

In fact, throughout its exciting history – from pre-historic times, to its time as the headquarters of the Knights of St John, to the British era – people have flocked here for a variety of reasons.

Today it is no different. In 2015, the islands are expected to attract 1.8 million tourists – up from 1.5

million in 2014 – and that number is only expected to rise further in the years to come. Meanwhile, statistics show that nearly 25,000 foreign nationals from an incredible 151 different countries are now living on the island.

It is easy to see why. Located right in the heart of the beautiful Mediterranean, Malta has so much to offer to many different types of

people – it is a safe haven to raise a family, a cosmopolitan base for entrepreneurs and businesspeople, an ideal meeting point for those planning conferences and events, and a tranquil home for retirees. It is also a very popular spot for international couples to tie the knot, and one such couple is Ben and Charlotte Glover from the UK, who got married here in September 2010. ➜ 41

Photo: viewingmalta.com

IN DEPTH

joined us, which I was overjoyed about. He sadly passed away a year later, so my memory of him laughing during the speeches, in the beautiful outdoor venue that we chose, is something I will treasure forever. That, coupled with the wonderful weather we had and how beautiful my wife looked, made it one of the most unforgettable days of my life.”

Asked about why he thinks Malta has become such a popular wedding destination in recent years, Ben says it is because the venues are second to none and the weather is pretty much guaranteed, especially during the summer. “Malta’s picturesque landscape promises great photo opportunities, and the

“We wanted to share our special day with our friends in a place we really loved and Malta was the obvious choice; plus it worked out to be a lot cheaper to organise the wedding in Malta than it would have been in the UK.” – Ben and Charlotte Glover 42

prices definitely compete well with the UK wedding market. In fact, we loved the experience so much that Charlotte and I moved to Malta six months later and stayed for three very happy years, before I took a job working for the ambulance service on the south coast of England. We now plan to return for holidays as regularly as possible and even plan to retire here,” Ben adds. ➜

Ben and Charlotte Glover

“Malta has always been our choice of holiday venue, because we love its quirky style and delicate beauty,” explains Ben, who is the co-creator of Glove Box Media, as well as a member of the ambulance service. “We wanted to share our special day with our friends in a place we really loved and Malta was the obvious choice; plus it worked out to be a lot cheaper to organise the wedding in Malta than it would have been in the UK.” Looking back on their day five years later, Ben and Charlotte have so many wonderful memories of it.

“It was fantastic to have so many people we loved with us, including my mother who had never been on a plane before! My granddad also

IN DEPTH

Fiona Lyndley

“The island has helped us to rebalance our lives in terms of work and play in a community, and we have finally achieved that elusive work/life balance, so we are very grateful.” – Fiona Lyndley And Ben and Charlotte aren’t alone in their desire to move here in their twilight years. A recent article by Forbes magazine positioned Malta among the very best places in the world to retire to. Aside from the exciting history and culture which is a delight to learn about and explore, the article also praises the island’s climate, hospitality and health care system – the latter is ranked as the world’s fifth best by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The island’s small size also makes it easy for retirees to get around and create a social life for themselves. Seafront apartments are especially sought after, and Sliema is still the most popular destination for that alluring café culture that is so admired outside of the Mediterranean.

The easy-going aspect of life in Malta is also very attractive to entrepreneurs and businesspeople who are eager to leave the rat race behind and embrace a slower pace.

The island has proven to be very popular with this demographic, and thousands of foreign residents have set up businesses in Malta or chosen to work here remotely in recent years. To aid this, the government has put several incentives in place to attract foreign residents and international companies, and this has really boosted the number of businesses setting up shop here, creating an exciting global community that has been simultaneously beneficial to large organisations, dynamic start-ups and even sole traders and professionals.

One such professional is Fiona

Lyndley, who moved here with her husband a couple of years ago.

“We both hit our 40th birthdays and though we had created a lovely life in the UK, we felt empty,” she says. “As a mediator, I found I had to work really hard to achieve the material level of living that we thought we wanted and that wasn’t right for us.”

So, the couple decided to experiment and headed off on an adventure. They set sail for British Columbia, and travelled down the western side of North America, through Canada, Seattle, Portland, Maine, Oregon and down to San Francisco. “We only had one saucepan, two mugs, two forks, two plates and five suitcases to our name but we had a blast for three months. After that, we decided to settle somewhere close to home.”

The couple chose Malta because they wanted to be somewhere warm, while still being able to pop back to the UK to take care of their relatives when needed.

“Malta was ideal because of its proximity to the rest of Europe and although we didn’t quite know what to expect, we were excited by the chance to live here.”

That was three years ago and Fiona says she hasn’t looked back since.

“The island has helped us to rebalance our lives in terms of work and play in a community, and we have finally achieved that elusive work/life balance, so we are very grateful. I would highly recommend Malta to anyone considering a change in life and pace – it is a truly wonderful, innovative and exciting home in the Mediterranean.”

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SHOPPING

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

Ring in the party

FASHION Getting glammed up in your party best is one of the best parts of the festive season.

Sarah Micallef brings you her holiday dressing picks that will have you looking and feeling party-ready this Christmas.

season

It will soon be the season to be jolly, and what better way to show our joy than in the way we dress? With the festive season right around the corner, all sorts of parties and excuses to get dressed up are likely to present themselves. From showstopping dresses to sequinned separates and beautifully tailored pieces, it’s the perfect time of year to embrace a little excess. Here are the trends to look out for, and be seen in, this festive season.

H&M

in style

White Fancy yourself a bit of an ice queen? Topto-toe white is sure to make a statement this party season, and can look incredibly luxe and high-end. Top pieces to look out for include delicate white shift dresses, white diamonds, white spiked pumps, a crisp white blazer or if you’re feeling brave, a standout white mohair coat.

Peplums Thought the peplum had had its day?

Not quite yet! This festive season, it’s all about drawing attention to the waist, and a peplum will do that beautifully. A classic way to add volume and style to an otherwise basic silhouette, peplums on blouses and dresses are flattering and chic. Go for the demure look in a single colour, or make a statement in different block hues. ➜

Edie Parker

Hitting the sales

While some shops begin discounting items earlier, the January sales in Malta begin in earnest during the first week of the new year. Generally lasting into February, prices continue to be slashed as the sales progress, making it the perfect time to bag yourself a bargain during your holiday.

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French Connection

FASHION

and pair with sharp separates like a leather biker jacket for a rock ‘n’ roll vibe or streamlined blazer for a refined contemporary look.

Shine If there ever is a time to sparkle and shine, it is the bright festive season.

From sequins and paillettes to shiny patent and metallic fabrics, you’ll be the belle of the ball in these brilliant reflective fabrics – just beware not to go overboard and play them down with simple accessories to avoid looking garish!

Lace Lace pieces are a festive season staple, but if you Dolce & Gabbana fancy modernising this tried-and-tested trend, neon lace is the way to do it. Guaranteed to help you stand out from the crowd, keep the neon to one item

Nude There’s something so beautifully feminine about a nude slip dress, which makes it a very worthy alternative to the ever-popular LBD. Channel a tall champagne glass in a simple yet elegant nude sheath as you toast to the new year – after all, you don’t need to be covered in glitter to get noticed. ➜

Valentino

Where to shop

Keen on picking up the perfect party outfit or bagging a bargain in the sales? Here’s where to head to!

Valletta Aside from its beautiful architecture and rich history, Valletta is also great for a spot of shopping. Get swept up in the Christmas spirit as you explore the mix of local outlets and foreign brands that line its decorated pedestrian streets before stopping for a warm drink and a spot of people-watching at one of the numerous cafés.

Don’t miss: Republic Street, Merchants Street and The Embassy Complex

Sliema The top place to shop in Malta is undoubtedly Sliema.

Boasting both high street and designer brands along its main shopping streets, as well as two of the island’s largest shopping centres, you’ll be spoiled for choice here, and could even get some Christmas shopping done while you’re at it!

Don’t miss: Bisazza Street, Tower Road, The Plaza Shopping Centre and The Point Shopping Mall

St Julian’s Across the road from the highend Portomaso, St Julian’s is home to various designer shops targeting the more exclusive shopper – perfect for finding that special party frock. There is also a large shopping mall, comprising a number of both high street and more upmarket brands.

Don’t miss: Bay Street Shopping Complex and Portomaso

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Needle & Thread

FASHION

Ted Baker

complete wardrobe. Many fashion observers believe it a rule of fashion that every woman should own a simple, elegant black dress that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. You can visit N-tice Boutique in St Julian’s for a great selection of dresses. T: 2701 9962.

N-Tice Boutique

Crop A flash of toned midriff is not the skin you may expect to see on display at this time of year, but it’s a gorgeous and modern take on sexy. Be careful not to overdo it by balancing out your exposed abs with a conservative neckline or hemline for a polished take on the trend.

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Black Whether you’re going to a black tie event or Balenciaga out on a hot date, a black cocktail dress is always the right choice. The little black dress is considered essential to a

Shorts I know what you’re thinking. Wearing shorts during the colder months may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but seeing the season’s inspiring shapes in a festive and monochromatic colour palette will win you over – they’re unexpectedly chic, and give off a fun and youthful vibe at the same time.

WHERE TO SPEND IT

Armani Jeans The name Armani has been synonymous with unrivalled Italian style all over the world for over 30 years, and Armani Jeans brings the casual line of the prestigious Armani label to Malta. You can shop Armani Jeans at two dedicated monobrand stores in Malta stocking the latest collections together with a range of footwear and accessories.

The Point Shopping Mall, Tigné, Sliema.

Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 7.30pm.

Baystreet, St George’s Road, St Julian’s.

Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm.

Mexx Kids Mexx Kids are smart, comfortable and fun. The new collection boasts an array of sweaters, tees, dresses, jackets and pants that will warm up your little ones now that it’s getting colder. The right layering pieces will save you headaches and keep your kid comfortable throughout the day. Mexx Mini features pieces that only seem to get cuter the more you look at them, with the same wearability as Mexx Kids. Mexx Kidswear and Mexx Mini the autumn/winter collection 2015 are available from Mexx Baystreet and Mexx Tigné.

Mexx Baystreet,: Level 1, Baystreet Complex, St George’s Bay St Julian's. T: 2202 1111; Mexx Tigné: Pjazza Tigné, Tigné Point, Sliema.

T: 2202 1101.

SARTO Carry your essential technology in the most stylish cases Sarto picked for you – and let them make a statement. Find a range of colourful iPhone cases and leather iPad holders from the must-have labels of the moment like Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry and Valentino, exclusively available at Sarto.

Sarto Store, 2 Ross Street, St Julian’s. www.sarto.gift; F: Facebook.com/sarto.luxury

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WHERE TO SPEND IT

Diesel

Diesel is an innovative, international lifestyle company, producing a wide range of jeans, clothing and accessories.

Diesel is a pioneer in denim, always moving ahead of industry trends.

Diesel’s autumn/ winter collection takes inspiration from the military with camouflage prints, rough leather and ‘Rock and Roll’ leather and studs. Diesel is perfect for iconic and edgy pieces that will stand the test of time.

Diesel Kids

Urban cool style and easy-to-wear staples characterise Diesel’s autumn/winter 2015 collection. Perfect for active kids this winter and autumn; watch out for light down jackets, JoggJeans and practical coats. They’ll simply love running around in Diesel’s casual wear.

Available at The Diesel Store, St Anne’s Square, Sliema – T: 2258 4434.

Available at The Diesel Store, Merchants Street, Valletta – T: 2258 4447 and St Anne’s Square, Sliema – T: 2258 4434.

Fred Perry

Fred Perry is the first British heritage brand to blend sportswear with streetwear to create some of the most iconic styles of the last century.

Autumn/winter 2015 boasts beautifully soft Merino wool sweaters and cardigans, classic tartan shirts, warm jackets and the iconic Fred Perry sportswear pieces.

Fred Perry shoes, bags and accessories are classic staples in any wardrobe.

Available at The Fred Perry Store, Merchants Street, Valletta – T: 2258 4441 and St Anne’s Square, Sliema – T: 2258 4432.

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Levi’s

Levi’s has been making great denim since 1873, capturing the imagination and loyalty of people for generations. Levi’s specialises in finding cuts and shapes to fit any figure in any style. The classic 501 jean is one of Levi’s most iconic products along with the 511 and trucker jackets. This season Levi’s introduces the new female fits with a style to suit everyone.

Find your fit at The Levi’s Store, Merchants Street, Valletta – T: 2258 4444 and St Anne’s Square, Sliema – T: 2258 4431.

EATING & DRINKING

Luna – the restaurant at Palazzo Parisio

Palazzo Parisio’s Luna restaurant combines a variety of culinary concepts set in a historic building.

Every corner emanates femininity, luxury and a taste of history. In the morning, the Luna restaurant serves breakfast, snacks and lunch. In the afternoon you may enjoy the superb traditional English afternoon tea, with the possibility of purchasing a variety of fine teas from around the world for you to enjoy at home. You may choose from the sublime interior or the shaded tables on the garden terrace beside orange blossoms and bougainvilleas.

In the evening (note that evening dining is limited – contact us for more information), relish a kaleidoscope of tastes via the impressive ‘Menu Degustazione’ with some of the most creative and stylish food interpretations enhanced by a vast selection of wines. The heavenly desserts are impossible to resist. The lounge offers relaxation and understated luxury amid the trendy Parisian-style interiors. Sit and sip exquisite aperitifs along with some

tasty bar bites or enjoy the wide selection of vintage wines, champagnes, vodkas and a variety of innovative cocktails.

Comment devotees praise “the varied and stylish menu,” and the “excellent service” in a “magnificent setting”.

Open every day from 9am to 6pm. Book your table on T: 2141 2461 Ext 2 or E: fb@palazzoparisio.com 29, Victory Square, Naxxar. www.palazzoparisio.com

CUISINE

Sugar, and Spice everything nice Christmas is certainly a time for giving, but there’s no mistaking that it’s also a time of sheer food indulgence, when we find ourselves loosening our belts far more often than we’d like to admit. The extensive range of sweet delicacies available at this time of year is partly to blame for this, but, as Martina Said discovers, Christmas simply wouldn’t be the same without a few spoonfuls of sugar.

One of the best ways to experience a foreign land is through its food, and given Malta’s affinity for all things tasty, hearty and flavourful, I’d say you’ve come to the right place.

While most of our savoury Christmas lunch traditions are borrowed from

nearby countries, such as the omnipresent turkey with vegetables and roast potatoes, there are a handful of local sweets that are Maltese through and through – and you couldn’t possibly leave here without having tried them.

Qagħaq tal-għasel - Photo: Mario Galea - viewingmalta.com

Sweet as honey Stroll past any cafeteria, sweet shop or confectionery at this time of year, and you’re likely to spot trays of aromatic honey rings, or qagħaq tal-għasel, that pair beautifully with a hot glass of tea (or, as the Maltese refer to it, te fit-tazza). Mark De Gray, food production manager at C Camilleri and Sons Ltd – the oldest confectionery trading company on the islands, established in 1843 in Merchants Street, Valletta – says this particular delicacy is a staple in homes and shops across the island around Christmas time, its origin dating back to the 15th century.

“Nowadays, many confectioners prepare honey rings with efficient machinery, because these ➜ 61

CUISINE

Pastini tal-lewż - Photo: amaltesemouthful.com

delicious treats require lots and lots of patience to prepare. However, we still prepare them all by hand.

The process begins with making the dough and allowing it to rest, after which the filling is made, comprised of rough semolina, black treacle, honey, cloves and mixed spice, all of which come together to create this flavourful traditional sweet. The filling also needs to be left to rest, and once both are ready, they are combined to form rings, which are then baked and enjoyed at any time of day.”

All things almond Almond is a popular ingredient in many a Maltese sweet. At Easter time, figolli are the traditional sweets of choice, consisting of 62

pastry cut in an Easter-themed shape, filled with almond paste and covered in icing. At weddings and baptisms, the cake of choice is almond cake, covered in decorative icing, usually followed by bite-sized almond cookies (pastini tal-lewż) topped with a green or red candied cherry. At Christmas time, you’ll come across torta tal-pastini, which is a pure ground almond cake made with almond paste and orange rind, and garnished with candied cherries. “We pride ourselves in using only the finest, pure ground almonds to make this popular cake,” says Mark, adding that while this recipe has been tweaked by others over the years to include walnuts and other ingredients, he prefers to stick to the original recipe which has stood the test of time.

Chestnuts and chocolate If you come across imbuljuta anywhere, be it at a restaurant, café or flea market, stop and order a helping of it – you will not regret it. There’s nothing not to love about

this smooth chocolate chestnut soup, traditionally prepared around Christmas time and served after midnight mass or on New Year’s Eve. It is made using chestnuts, available on the island around the Feast of Saint Martin in November, which are cooked in liquid together with cocoa powder, local orange rind, spices such as cloves and a few blocks of dark chocolate, all of which are left to simmer on a low fire, producing the heartiest of drinks. ➜

Imbuljuta Photo: Eatmania.com

CUISINE

Christmas log - Photo: sbs.com.au

Save the date Just like almonds, dates have also made their way into a number of local sweets, and the most popular type of these is imqaret.

The word derives from its singular version maqrut, meaning ‘diamond shape’, which refers to the way the sweet used to be cut (nowadays, they’re most commonly cut into rectangular bites). The sweet is made using dates combined with aromatic spices such as bay leaf and aniseed for the filling, which are then enveloped in sweet pastry and deep-fried for a few minutes. You’ll come across this tasty dessert which pairs excellently with vanilla icecream or with a mug of hot tea at any time of year – vendors at street markets or village feasts are very common. If all else fails, you can always rely on the one stationed at the entrance of Valletta, which has been selling nothing but imqaret for a respectable number of years.

Christmas-only desserts Mark says there are many other tantalising desserts that are not to be missed during your stay here, even if they are not indigenous to the Maltese islands. “The most popular items during Christmas time continue to be mince pies, Christmas log and cake, as well as the almond pastini. In fact, we are currently busy preparing Christmas cakes which require lots of time to make, as we first need to allow

the fruits and spices to simmer, after which the cake is put together and left to rest to ensure the delicious flavours fuse together.”

Asked to recommend his favourite sweet Maltese delicacies, Mark singles out honey rings as well as almond cakes as the top contenders, “but I’d also suggest trying imbuljuta, which is unique in flavour and a definite winter warmer.”

Imqaret - Photo: Richard Muscat Azzopardi

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EATING & DRINKING

Brookies Restaurant Brookies Restaurant, now open under new management, is located in Victoria, Gozo, on the way to Żebbuġ. Set within a restored 300-year-old farmhouse with a unique wine cellar that’s been converted into a lounge area, we offer Mediterranean/ grill cuisine with a high standard of service. Brookies also offers live music, a perfect accompaniment to a refreshing drink for the late-comers.

Open Monday to Sunday 6-10.30pm. Sunday also open for lunch noon-2.30pm. Tuesdays closed all day.

T: 2155 0924; M: 9955 2473; E: brookies.gozo@gmail. com; www.brookiesgozo.com; F: brookies.

Dolci Peccati At Dolci Peccati we are renowned for both our savoury and our sweet Sicilian/ Italian delicacies. We are particularly sought-after for our variety of ricotta, pistachio, almond and orange-based delights – and our cassatelle, cannoli and artisanal and organic ice-creams in a wide choice of flavours are not to be missed! We also cater for people on the go, offering a choice of sandwiches, arancini (fried rice balls) and a selection of starters of the day. If you happen to visit early, try our delicious breakfast and excellently blended coffee.

Dolci Peccati, 55, St John Street, Valletta.

T: 2122 2012.

Il-Mitħna Restaurant Il-Mitħna Restaurant offers simple yet creative dishes, ranging from doublebaked truffle soufflé and USDA hanger steak to our signature dark chocolate fondant. Free pick up and drop off service is also available from all Mellieħa areas upon request. Call on the numbers below for details and to reserve a table.

Il-Mitħna Restaurant, Triq il-Kbira, Mellieħa.

T: 2152 0404; M (Manuel Attard): 7947 8896; www.mithna.com; F: ilmithna

Le Malte Le Malte, distinguished by great service, excellent value and authentic dishes, specialises in Maltese and Mediterranean dishes including rabbit, horsemeat, beef olives (braġjoli) and snails, all cooked in the traditional way.

Wine lovers are spoilt for choice with a selection of local wines. All those presenting this advert will be entitled to a free bottle of wine.

Open from Monday to Sunday between noon and 11.30pm.

Le Malte, Tower Road, Sliema (next door to Europa hotel).

T: 2134 2242; M: 9987 8699; E: lemalterestaurant@gmail.com

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EATING & DRINKING

Maltese Mama Maltese Mama serves authentic Maltese and Italian cuisines complemented with great service in a relaxing atmosphere. To start, patrons are offered a complimentary plate of traditional Maltese antipasti, served with fresh bread and galletti. 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 Preca Restaurant Palazzo Preca Restaurant is repeatedly awarded highly as one of the best restaurants in Malta and Gozo. It is situated in one of the most well-known historic streets in Valletta, within a beautiful 16th-century palazzo in Strait Street. An extensive and creative menu provides mouthwatering choices of food and fine local and foreign wines – and do not miss out on our delicious home-made desserts! Professional, dedicated, attentive staff will help you to ensure that your visit is a completely enjoyable experience. Wednesday is our special night when the lights are turned off and the restaurant is entirely lit by candles, creating an intimate and romantic ambience. Open Sunday lunch. Mondays closed all day. Bookings are recommended and are to be confirmed by phone. Palazzo Preca, 54, Strait Street, Valletta; T: 2122 6777; M: 9986 6640; www.palazzoprecarestaurant.com

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, colourful dishes. The fresh ingredients, oriental spices and interesting flavours are carefully hand-picked 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. So allow yourself to be transported on a magic carpet ride to the exotic orient in the heart of St Julian’s.

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

T: 2731 8000; M: 7731 8000; E: booking@shakinahmalta.com; www.shakinahmalta.com; F: 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 must-try 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.

Ta’ Kris, 80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema.

T: 2133 7367; M: 9984 7713; www.takrisrestaurant.com

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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 merriment in the making. Enjoy our all-inclusive carvery buffets on Saturday evenings and Sunday lunches for just €25 per person, or indulge in a Maltese extravaganza on Wednesday and Friday nights with a spectacular traditional folk dancing show and our mandolins and guitars duo!

Ta’ Marija Restaurant, Constitution Street, Mosta.

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

Ta’ Pennellu Ta Pennellu is a family-run restaurant, owned by the eldest son, Anthony, affectionately known as Pennellu after the family nick-name and for his artistic abilities (‘Pennellu’ is a derivative of ‘pennello’, which means brush). By combining his artistic talents with the art of cooking, Pennellu has found his niche, passionately cooking various dishes inspired by the culinary experience he garnered over the past 15 years. Ta’ Pennellu specialises in fish and outdoor cooking such as grills and flambés. While wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year, Ta’ Pennellu Restaurant would like to inform patrons that it will be closed over winter and will reopen in the Easter period.

Ta’ Pennellu Restaurant, Marina Street, Gozo.

T: 2155 9730.

Ta’ Rita Lapsi Restaurant The menu at Ta’ Rita is varied, and special requests can also be accommodated, offering flexibility especially for groups and events. Maltese rabbit is probably the most popular dish; however you can also enjoy other specialities including grills, pastas, pizzas, snacks, platters, burgers, and other changing dishes. We also have a vast selection of local and foreign wines. Our delicious desserts can be savoured at the end of your meal or simply with a cup of tea or coffee.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Take-away service is available.

Ta’ Rita would like to wish a Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year to all its clients.

Ta’ Rita Lapsi View Bar Restaurant & Pizzeria, Għar Lapsi, Siġġiewi.

T: 2164 0608.

Ta’ Victor Restaurant Ta’ Victor Restaurant in Marsaxlokk specialises in traditional Maltese cuisine. Chef patron Victor Aquilina has been in the catering business for the past 24 years, and his experience has led to an unrivalled selection of traditional Maltese dishes, using the freshest of local ingredients to tantalise your taste buds. Specialty dishes include the Maltese platter, fried rabbit, ravioli with Gozitan cheese, braġjoli (beef olives), stuffed marrows, snails, lamb, home-made beef stew, fresh fish and traditional sweets.

Winner of TripAdvisor’s Best Restaurant in Marsaxlokk Award 2013 and 2014.

Ta’ Victor, 36, Pjazza Madonna Ta’ Pompei, Marsaxlokk.

T: 2164 1003; M: 9947 4249; E: info@tavictorrestaurant.com; www.tavictorrestaurant.com

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EATING & DRINKING

Tal-Majjistra Eat House Located a couple of metres away from the main church and imposing square in the rural village of Mġarr, Tal-Majjistra is set within a charmingly converted traditional house. The cosy eatery provides a great atmosphere for some tasty local cuisine including delicious rabbit, horse meat, fresh fish, snails (bebbux) and beef olives (braġjoli), as well as typically Mediterranean dishes.

Tal-Majjistra Eat House, Triq il-Kbira, Mġarr.

T: 2703 5098; www.tal-majjistra.com

The Boathouse Restaurant The Boathouse Restaurant in Xlendi, Gozo, is a stunning seafront restaurant which offers a unique culinary experience. Acknowledged as one of the Top 40 Restaurants on the Maltese islands for the past four consecutive years and ranking among the Top 20 in 2015, it specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, offering fresh fish and seafood, and a variety of meat and poultry dishes accompanied with an excellent list of local and international wines.

The restaurant opens daily, serving the full menu, and caters for late lunches.

Open: 1 April-31 October daily noon-10.30pm (last orders). In the Shoulder Season (1 November- 31 March) check our Events Section on our website www.theboathousegozo.com for detailed opening hours. Booking is highly recommended. Reservations – T: 2756 7207, 2156 9153, 2155 7661.

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 for coffee, lunch and dinner, as well as late-night drinks and sharing plates on the Marsaxlokk seafront.

Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am till late.

Terrone, 1, Wilġa Street, Marsaxlokk.

T: 2704 2656; E: info@terrone.com.mt; www.terrone.com.mt

Trattoria Da Pippo Trattoria Da Pippo has been serving the freshest lunches for almost 40 years, feeding Valletta’s business community as well as a number of celebrities including Brad, Angelina and Tom Hanks. At Da Pippo there is no such thing as a menu – ingredients are sourced locally wherever possible, with divers bringing in fresh fish, prawns and vongole. Owner Francesco, better known as Ċikku, will come to your table and recommend whatever he thinks is best. So whether you’re on Hollywood’s A-list or not, you can be sure to get the same warm and friendly service together with the very best local ingredients.

Open Monday to Saturday between 11.30am and 3.30pm and for private dinners in the evening.

Trattoria Da Pippo, 136, Melita Street, Valletta.

T: 2124 8029; M: 7947 4474; E: trattoriadapippo@gmail.com

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NIGHTLIFE

When the

nightfalls Malta’s nightlife scene is fit to bust during the festive season, from traditional Christmas pantomimes to musical concerts and a wealth of clubbing events. Sarah Micallef selects some of the best pre-Christmas to post-New Year’s events the island has to offer.

The Sleeping Beauty Ballet The Sleeping Beauty is a full-length ballet with music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by Erico Montes from The Royal Ballet. The event will mark the 25th Anniversary of the Brigitte Gauci Borda School of Dance, and along with many renowned and talented local ballerinas, the cast will also feature Erico Montes and Claire Calvert from the Royal Ballet in the principal roles. The Sleeping Beauty will take place on 5th and 6th December at the MCC, Valletta. www.mcc.com.mt SNTS Live Hosted by XPOSE, SNTS, a producer from Germany with a gritty, headsdown style of techno and a focus on vinyl will be performing live on 7th December at The Playground, St Julian’s. Tickets: €10 at the door.

Collegium Musicum Choir Christmas Concert The Collegium Musicum Choir and Chamber Orchestra will be presenting the annual Christmas Concert on 18th December at St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta, with works by Handel, Bach, Buhagiar, Rutter and traditional and international carols. www. collegiummusicummalta.com

Treasure Island This year’s MADC Christmas pantomime sees young Jim Hawkins set off on an epic hunt for treasure along with his unwilling mother – the outrageous Mama Sufia Kerapestska. The show will feature a cast made up of some of Malta’s theatre greats. The show is written and directed by Malcolm Galea and runs from 19th December to 3rd January at the MFCC, Ta’ Qali. www.madc.com.mt Malta Philharmonic Orchestra Christmas Concert The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will be holding a Christmas Concert at St George Basilica, Rabat, Gozo, on 19th December at 9pm and another at St Julian’s parish church on 21st December at 8pm. Marking

the 40th anniversary of Chorus Urbanus, this programme is a choral offering in true celebratory Christmas spirit. Featuring works

by Gozitan composer John Galea, including a world premiere of his Ave Maria, the concert also includes a delightful selection of Christmas carols and Handel’s rousing Hallelujah chorus. www.maltaorchestra.com

Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood A magical tale told like never before, produced by FM Theatre Productions. Join Robin Hood and his Merry Men on their adventure to defeat the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, fight the evil witch, battle the ghouls of the Enchanted Forest, and save the babes from certain death, whilst having enough time to fall in love with Maid Marian and dragging along Nursey, the Dame. A traditional Christmas panto that will run from 22nd December to 4th January at the Manoel Theatre, Valletta. www.teatrumanoel.com.mt XMAS EVE at THE VILLA GET IT presents another Christmas Eve party at The Villa in Balluta Bay. You can expect jazz ➜ 75

NIGHTLIFE on the terrace by The Carlo Muscat Trio (featuring Carlo Muscat on the sax, Joe Debono on keys and Joe Bibi Camilleri on the drums), funky disco in the parlour by Swillmott, Golly P and Louie G, as well as a three-hour vinyl house session by MATO. Early bird tickets: €10. www.showshappening.com

NEW YORK Christmas Eve Special Soak up the great atmosphere at this year’s NEW YORK Christmas Eve Special at Sky Club, Paceville.

Vibrant colours, tailor-made visuals, light displays and amazing laser shows will see off Christmas Eve in style. The superb line-up includes ZIGGY, Mahoney, Filletti, D-Rey and Marko B. Tickets: €10, available from all New York Best and Springfield outlets.

Game Over 2015 Feat.

Lewis Fautzi Lewis Fautzi will headline Game Over’s Christmas Eve edition for 2015 at Liquid Club, San Ġwann.

Lewis Fautzi is prolific within the electronic music scene. Having started deejaying and producing at

an early age, Lewis recently created his own live show – a hypnotic show where techno goes deep, dark and industrial. Tickets: €15 at the door. www.shiftmalta.com

The Valletta New Year's Eve Celebration A free New Year’s Eve event in the capital city. This year various strategic spots around the capital will host a series of high quality entertainment activities. The celebrations are being organised by the Valletta local council in collaboration with G7 Events and supported by the V18 Foundation, Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Justice, Culture and Local Government. www.g7events.com Midnight in Venice – NYE 2016 Midnight in Venice promises a luxury evening complemented with pumping music this New Year’s Eve. This premium open bar event is limited to a number of guests and the ticket price includes a fine canapé menu and first-come-first served parking. Venue: Le Méridien, St Julian’s. Tickets at €60/€70 from all Toni & Guy outlets (Plaza Sliema, Gżira, Portomaso, Arkadia Gozo).

Strada Stretta NYE 2015 X-Treme Promotions once again present their yearly New Year’s Eve event in St Julian’s, this year stepping back into the era that shaped the music we know today.

Dress code is 40s and 50s, so ladies curl your bangs and pin up your hair, gentlemen shine your dancing shoes and take out your Brylcreem! M: 7777 2710. Tickets: €10 (including finger food and champagne).

LA SOIRÉE CHIC – THE NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY BAM! Events present the fourth edition of this New Year’s Eve event. This year, the party will take place at MFCC, Ta’ Qali, and will feature a top notch line-up of the finest local talent. La Soirée Chic’s set-up is that of a grand ball, with a black tie dress code.

The all-inclusive package includes four fully equipped bars offering unlimited drinks and a selection of finger food. No tickets can be purchased at the door. Tickets: €70 from Liu Jo (Baystreet/Valletta/ The Point), Liu Jo Uomo (Sliema) and Caffe Pasucci (St Venera). ➜

a good movie and leftovers from the night before. Soon after panto ends I will be addressing an international conference of the Helen O’Grady Academy in New Delhi and will take the opportunity to extend for a much-needed holiday in Rajasthan.

Alan Montanaro, Principal at the Helen O’Grady Academy and one of Malta’s most celebrated actors, who will be taking part in MADC’s Christmas pantomime, shares his experience of Christmas.

How do you spend Christmas, and the days preceding Christmas?

I’m usually neck deep in rehearsals over the Christmas period so I’ll probably be avoiding crowds and conserving energy so that I can bounce off the rafters during performances. We celebrate Christmas day the German way, so it’s usually quite a relaxed affair because we would have had the extended family for dinner the previous evening.

Christmas day is usually a roaring fire,

MIDNIGHT EXPRESS The fifth edition of MIDNIGHT EXPRESS will take place at The Laguna at SmartCity. An exclusive New Year’s Eve party featuring a premium four-hour open bar and an exquisite array of gourmet food, MIDNIGHT EXPRESS is certainly a great option this

Which are your favourite spots to visit over the Christmas period?

My time is taken up with the theatre, but the cast often descend on the band club in Balzan for some soul food after rehearsals. I plan to spend a Christmas in Prague, Berlin or New York one day. Travelling is a big passion of mine – it soothes the spirit and enriches the mind.

Is there some anecdote or past memory tied to the festive season you’d like to share?

A couple of years ago we decided to do away with Christmas presents because, frankly, there is nothing we genuinely need, and instead purchased a donkey for a remote area in Somalia.

The working animal is being used to carry water from well to village and to transport the midwife between villages.

This year, we will be contributing towards a new ‘victory kitchen’ that recently opened in Phhom Penh, Cambodia. Le Restaurant des Enfants 2, will be feeding over 300 street children and slum dwellers on a daily basis, and we want to help. We will be doing this through a local NGO that I head called Drama Outreach Project.

NYE. A limited amount of tickets will be issued and no tickets can be purchased at the door. Tickets: €55. M: 7969 6312/7926 8119/7928 7968.

SAMSARA – NEW YEAR’S EVE BY DUNCAN F This New Year’s Eve, Duncan F & Get It bring you Samsara – The Ascension to Moksha, at the National Aquarium in Qawra.

Early Bird Tickets €25 (including free drink), Early Bird Bottle

NIGHTLIFE

€55 (including one bottle/mixers – Absolut Vodka, Jack Daniels, etc), Early Bird Premium Bottle €100 (including premium bottle/ mixers – Premium Champagne, Fine Malt Whiskey, etc). www. showshappening.com

BEE NYE 2016 Local DJ Carl Bee presents his annual New Year’s Eve celebration BEE NYE 2016 at new venue Tigullio in St Julian’s. Tickets: €25/€30; VIP €45 available from Exit, Savoy Arcade, Valletta; La Krepree, Bugibba & Msida; Miss Sixty, Sliema; New York Best, Sliema, Paceville & Msida; FACT, Qormi; Mr Signs, Gozo; and Rainbow Stationery, Birżebbuġia. M: 9937 3740.

NYE MATTERS – Cassandra Fox Live TEX MEX, WhySoSerious and Grey Goose Vodka are getting together to offer an exclusive, high-quality New Year’s Eve party at Tex Mex, Sliema. Performers on the night include Mykill, El Gringo and JoC, as well as a live performance

by Cassandra Fox. The event will also feature six full hours of premium brand free-flowing open bar and tantalising finger food items specially prepared for this unique night. Early bird tickets: €80. M: 9944 2033/9949 5408. ➜ 79

NIGHTLIFE ZIGGY NYE 15 TECHNICOLOR proudly presents ZIGGY NYE for the very first time, at Aria Complex in Iklin this New Year’s Eve. Supporting DJs who will make sure your mood is set right are Nick C, Mahoney, Pillu and Panelli. M: 9982 7911/9946 8369. Early bird tickets: €25 from Exit, Valletta; Miss Sixty, Sliema & selected runners.

Tickets will also be available from www.showshappening.com THE ITALIAN JOB NYE 2015 Twisted, Lights Out and Apollo present The Italian Job NYE’15, taking place at Malta’s most prestigious club, Gianpula in Rabat this New Year’s Eve. Featuring Luc Adams, JJoy, Alvin Gee, Pocci, Pillu, Niico, Husko, Mizzi G, AudioPhoria, Neil Mifsud, Gellel and Marko B. Early bird tickets: €25. M: 9988 0271; www.showshappening.com Valletta International Baroque Festival 2016 The fourth edition of the Valletta International Baroque Festival, produced and managed by Teatru Manoel, runs from 16th to 30th January and features 25 different events in nine venues in Valletta. The festival incorporates an eclectic variety of music and 80

an internationally recognised galaxy of star performers such as Jordi Savall and Philippe Herreweghe, and harpsichord wizard Mahan Esfahani.

Local performers include the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and VIBE, the Valletta International Baroque Ensemble. The festival ends with the popular Festival Ball in Teatru Manoel. www. vallettabaroquefestival.com.mt

MPO Grand Orchestral Concert 1 – Tchaikovsky MPO’s Principal Conductor Brian Schembri joins forces with internationally acclaimed Franco-Serbian violinist Nemanja Radulovic, in a programme of two monumental works by Tchaikovsky. The melodic, breath-taking and life assertive concerto is in stark contrast to the monumental Pathetique, a profoundly personal symphonic testament of the troubled and tormented life of this giant composer. The concert will take place on 30th January at 7.30pm, at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta. www.maltaorchestra.com

Joven Grech and Cyprian Cassar, the Maltese DJ duo behind Tenishia, which has just secured a spot in the prestigious World’s Top 100 DJs list for the fifth year in a row, tell their Christmas tales.

How do you spend Christmas, and the days preceding Christmas?

Christmas is definitely party time for us! For several years we used to organise events in Malta, so the days before that we were mainly busy organising and preparing, but nowadays we’re generally abroad for shows.

Which are your favourite spots to visit over the Christmas period?

Have you ever celebrated Christmas in summer? In Australia they do, and we’ve experienced it a couple of times. It’s different... Father Christmas comes in wearing shorts and sunglasses! When we’re in Malta, we like Valletta and The Point for the Christmas shopping atmosphere, and Sky Club and Gianpula to party at.

Is there some anecdote or past memory tied to the festive season you’d like to share?

Joven: I remember I once paid this guy to dress up as Father Christmas and give my daughter a present I had bought for her. It was quite an expensive gift, and the guy didn’t say that it was from me, so my daughter thought that Father Christmas brought her a present and that I didn’t! Obviously I had to buy another present which ended my friendship with Father Christmas!

Cyprian: I remember one year, when I was very young, I wanted a toy robot which my parents bought for me, and gave to Santa for him to give to me. But what I remember most is the smell of cigarettes on Santa’s breath!

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