Passaggi, February 2025

The KM Malta Airlines In-Flight Magazine

ISSUE 04

February 2025

PG 10

Nadur’s spontaneous Carnival PG 40

PG 54

Farm life and organic fare

Married in Malta

in collaboration with

BEHIND ????????

PASSAĠĠI

ON THE COVER Nadur Parish Church, also known as the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul

MEET THE TEAM DESIGN TBWA\ANG

PHOTOGRAPHERS Agustina Gavagnin Brandon Bonett Daniel Cilia Giola Cassar Jonathan Borg Saviour Mifsud

EDITOR Fiona Galea Debono

SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG

CONTRIBUTORS Adriana Bishop Alexandra Alden Ally Wybrew Daniel Cilia Din l-Art Ħelwa Heritage Malta inkontru.app KM Malta Airlines Thomas Camilleri Vanessa Macdonald

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE FEATURED IN PASSAĠĠI? For advertising opportunities, get in touch with TBWA\ANG on passaggi@tbwa-ang.com or (+356) 2131 0608 Abigail: abigail@tbwa-ang.com or (+356) 9929 0518

HOW TO PRONOUNCE PASSAĠĠI

/pasˈsadʒi/ Here’s the breakdown: • /p/ as in pass • /a/ as in art • /sˈ/ as in sun (with stress on the following syllable) • /dʒ/ as the sound of the j in 'judge' (geminated or doubled sound) • /i/ as in eat The word passaġġi means 'passages' in English.

The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied by any means without the written consent of the publisher. Editorial features and opinions expressed in Passaġġi do not necessarily reflect the views of KM Malta Airlines, the publisher, or the editorial team. Both KM Malta Airlines and the publisher do not accept responsibility for commercial and advertising content. Although the authors and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this magazine was correct before going to print, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result f rom negligence, accident, or any other cause. Special thanks to KM Malta Airlines and VisitMalta for the provision of photographic material.

Printed in Malta by Gutenberg Press. All magazine rights are reserved by KM Malta Airlines.

TBWA\ANG, 3rd Floor, Professional Building, Sliema Road, Gżira GZR 1633 Malta \ (+356) 2131 0608 \ tbwa-ang.com

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Welcome to The KM Malta Airlines In-Flight Magazine

David Curmi

Executive Chairman KM Malta Airlines It is hard to believe that we are already into February, the second month of the year. By now, everyone will have returned to base following the festive period breaks, and the focus will shift to booking business travel requirements in the immediate months ahead or planning the next holiday break over Easter or during the summer months.

Whatever the reason for travel, we are pleased to remind everyone that KM Malta Airlines offers an extensive range of fares, including discounted rates for booking 30 days or more in advance of travel in our business class cabins.

This creates an excellent opportunity for those planning their dates to treat themselves to our gourmet meals, an extra empty seat beside them for extended comfort, and priority services.

Our Summer 2025 schedule is open and entirely on sale, serving our 17 airports across Europe, and our Winter 2025/26 is now open and on sale for many of our planned routes. Log onto kmmaltairlines.com to find your favourite destination and secure your early booking.

With our flights regularly operating at above 80% capacity, there is also the opportunity to pre-reserve your preferred window or aisle seat for only €6 through our ‘Manage Your Booking’ facility on our website. With online check-in opening 24 hours before departure, we encourage all to utilise this to ensure secured preferred seating, either as an individual or as a party travelling together.

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In the meantime, our teams are hard at work developing and planning for new initiatives, many of which will coincide with the operational start of our Summer 2025 flying programme in April. I look forward to sharing more details with you on these exciting items in our March edition of Passaġġi Last but certainly not least, do not forget that this is your personal copy of Passaġġi; you are free to take it away with you for your perusal and read it in your comfort.

Fiona Galea Debono Editor

Love is in the air… And although we did not necessarily want to fly on Cupid’s wings and be guided by his arrow this month, the annual feast that celebrates romance and friendship has inspired and sweetened several stories in the February issue of Passaġġi.

From events and activities designed around couples, to genuine, artisanal, local creations that could make ideal out-of-the-box Valentine’s gifts; from destinations that mended a broken heart and were experienced in the light of transient but meaningful and intimate encounters, to going all the way and getting hitched in Malta for a dream destination wedding in the Med, it could be nicknamed ‘love island’ this month.

But other things are going on in February too, and while we are in the coldest period of the year, it is also not only the greenest, but – thanks to Carnival at the end of the month – also the brightest and most colourful.

game of Brilli. It’s played nowhere else in the world except the narrow streets and alleyways of these villages.

And if all the islands’ festivals, feasts and street parties are just that bit too hectic for you right now, and you are still in hibernation mode, you can always reconnect with nature on a working farm. Experience the therapy of cutting off in the countryside and sample zero-km organic produce instead of the outrageous sugar bombs of Carnival – although those only come once a year, so you can always close an eye.

Stay local, loud or low-key, or fly off in your imagination to destinations near and far – from Catania to Copenhagen – as you enjoy your flight to Malta or away. Why not start thinking of your next holiday… even if it’s before you start this one!

Traditional Carnival treats like Prinjolata and Perlini also make it into Passaġġi as part of the magazine’s monthly culinary journey into Maltese cuisine through the island’s talented chefs and foodies.

Explore Nadur in Gozo, our chosen local destination this month – and rightly so as its popular spontaneous Carnival takes to the streets and is the perfect hook to highlight the town’s many other festivals and attractions throughout the year.

While in Gozo, move on to Għarb and Kerċem, and learn the rules of a unique

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Contents 30

ISLANDS 10

On a high Fun-filled activities in Nadur

TRAVEL 18

Arancini for breakfast Catania blends the familiar and the new

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Songs of love and longing in Copenhagen: An intimate portrait How this Danish city fixed a broken heart

40

HISTORY 26

A victory for heritage Valletta’s first church

CULTURE 30

This month’s cultural calendar A wealth of shows, concerts and exhibitions to enjoy

ENTERTAINMENT 36

What’s up?

Things to do if you’re landing on ‘love island’

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Say “I do” in Malta Destination weddings in the memorable Med

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GOZO 46

Brilliant Brilli A game from Gozo’s alleyways

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HOME 50

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There are gifts… and there are gifts Your local Valentine’s Day guide with a difference

ENVIRONMENT 54

Reconnecting with nature Get a taste of farm life and organic produce

ACTION 60

Girl power Powerlifter goes from strength to strength

PEOPLE 62

Putting your best foot forward

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66

Shining a spotlight on unsung heroes

FOOD 66

Flavourful, diverse and vibrant Tales from a home cook and caterer on the side

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An exuberant tower of sweetness The Prinjolata sugar bomb is a once-a-year Carnival treat

AIRLINE NEWS 76

Flight, company and destination information All you need to know about flying with KM Malta Airlines

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ISLANDS ????????

Words by

Ally Wybrew Ally is a travel writer who's been living in Gozo for two years. When not exploring the depths of its coastline in her newfound passion for scuba diving, you'll find her seeking out rock-climbing locations or unknown corners of the island's beautiful landscape.

On a high

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suggests

Nadur crams its calendar with exciting events, including its spontaneous Carnival this month. But even without its fun-filled, year-round activities, the Gozitan locality remains an attraction unto itself.

A tiger, a pirate and an inflatable pig walk into a bar. No, believe it or not, this isn’t a joke; this is just one of many memorably bizarre scenes you’ll see at Nadur’s legendary Carnival. Every year, in the third week of February, the streets of one of Gozo’s most prominent towns transform into a kind of Halloween–Glastonbury hybrid; its serene squares becoming a heady mix of music, dancing and unfettered expression.

Of Malta and Gozo’s many celebrations, Carnival (or ‘spontaneous Carnival’ as it is more accurately known) is easily the most anticipated, and it’s a worthy headliner for a locality now famous for its entertainment events.

Organised by residents and with no supervisory committee, this near week-long homage to revelry is a Gozitan favourite.

Local DJs fill the streets with music while topically-themed stalls, floats and costumes make bold statements on Malta’s political climate, news and controversies.

Nadur village.

A festival of this size has naturally earned itself many names, but the popular alternatives of the ‘grotesque’ and ‘macabre’ Carnival are well-suited. Over the years, I’ve watched zombies scull Cisks, venetian-masked men dance on cobbled streets and an unidentifiable (but undoubtedly political) character drag papier-mâché penguins across the ground on a string. I saw aliens lounge against buildings, chowing down on crispy ftira, and fake construction workers ‘lay cement’ between dancers.

In the face of all this, perhaps Carnival’s most distinctive characteristic, however, is its humour. Stalls and costumes poke fun at local authorities, enjoying a freedom of expression that is no doubt partly responsible for its popularity: the locality’s modest population soars from around 4,500 to almost 50,000 during Carnival’s five-day foray.

Walking any stretch of Nadur’s coastline is immensely rewarding, but competent hikers should consider trekking its length from Daħlet Qorrot to Ramla Beach: > Climb uphill from Daħlet, past the supremely pretty San Filep Beach, and follow a path that leads off along the base of a steep cliff, winding through fallen boulders and beneath the searching fingers of dangling carob pods. > Stop by Sopu Tower (a defensive fortification built in 1667) and skirt farmland overlooked by ancient caves until you reach the steep road down to San Blas Beach, a small, rocky cove often quieter than others thanks to its challenging entryway (the road descends some 91 metres).

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Photos: Daniel Cilia. Nadur Carnival.

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ISLANDS

Carnival, however, is just the start of Nadur’s year-long event schedule. In the run-up to Ash Wednesday, a five-day celebration of parades and processions fills the square, while later in April, oenophiles gather in the beautiful Ġnien il-Kunsill to taste the very best Maltese tipples at the annual wine festival. Visitors are stuffed with wine, pizza and live music in a tradition that’s been running for more than 20 years.

Only a week later, fireworks factories from all over the world congregate to light up Gozo’s skies with jaw-dropping pyro performances in the country’s famous fireworks festival.

Summer is a party unto itself. At the end of June, Nadur’s local feast, L-Imnarja, lasts a full week, ushering in the new season with parades and processions in celebration of the town's patron saints, St Peter and St Paul. Then, between July and September, there’s live music every Saturday, with local artists such as D Capitals and Upper Lip performing to friends and families (who let their children stay up late to dance the night away).

Even if Nadur wasn’t cramming its calendar with exciting events, it wouldn’t matter, because the locality is an attraction unto itself. Perched on one of Gozo’s ‘three hills’ (a term sailors used hundreds of years ago to identify the island from the sea, the others being Xagħra and Victoria), Nadur has held a prominent place for centuries. Its name derives from the Arabic ‘nadara’, meaning lookout, which reflects its position 161 metres above sea level.

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It’s the perfect place to take in Gozo’s renowned beauty. To the south, views sweep down to Mġarr Harbour and across to Comino and the fringes of Malta. To the northeast, a deep valley sweeps down to Ramla Bay and its stunning red beaches. The views are so spectacular that when running the Nadur Garmin 10K last December, it was hard not to stop and admire the basin’s staggered green slopes, which burst with orchards of orange, apple and lemon trees, clustered prickly pear bushes and intermittent spots of yellow from the endemic Gozo hyoseris.

Head all the way down the valley to the coastline to see some of the islands’ most beautiful vistas.

At its easterly edge, the tightly enclosed inlet of Daħlet Qorrot bay is backed by colourful boathouses formed of natural caves and overhanging limestone ledges. It’s one of the best snorkelling spots on the island, particularly for seeing crabs and crustaceans.

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Nadur’s list of attractions continues with one of Gozo’s most photogenic wonders: Tal-Mixta Cave. Easily accessible from the main road down to Ramla (take a right onto Triq l-Għassa tal-Maħraġ), this naturally hewn cave forms a stunning rock window framing the expanse of the bay some 68 metres below. I can’t count the number of times I’ve sat in its open mouth contemplating the pure colours of the cobalt ocean and rich, rust-coloured sand.

picks

Afterwards, either pick your way down the slope from the cave mouth until you join a path leading directly onto the beach, or head there via the main road. When you're done, it’s an easy bus ride back to Victoria.

If all this is sounding somewhat like exertion, don’t worry – tasty refuelling spots don’t come better than in Nadur. This elevated town is famed for its bakeries and boasts some of the best in the country. Fill up at Maxokk or Mekren’s, two family-run, stone-oven equipped bakeries bursting with flavourful ftiras. Go all in on Gozo and order the ftira ġbejna, which comes packed with local sheep’s cheeselets, eggs, parmesan and potatoes.

A smattering of other eateries should put Nadur on the map for foodies, including Casa Gringo and The Fat Rabbit, which serve up unforgettable Latin American and Mediterranean fare. If sitting and watching the world go by is what you’re here for though (and what could be more Gozitan?), do it with a pint at Gebuba, which has one of the best selections of beer and cider on the island.

Nadur Parish Church With 365 churches in Malta and Gozo, standing out is hard, but Nadur’s place of worship is one of the best. The entrance cuts a fine figure thanks to the iconic statues of St Peter and St Paul, which were brought over from Marseilles in 1882.

(See PG 17 for more Instagrammable spots in Nadur.)

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ISLANDS

Words by

Must-see sites

Heritage Malta The national agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage, it is the guardian of over 8,000 years of history.

If this is your first visit to the Maltese Islands, you cannot leave without ticking these sites off your list.

The Inquisitor’s Palace Birgu

The Inquisitor’s Palace is both a historic house museum and the National Museum of Ethnography. Built in the 1530s, it was the powerhouse of the Holy Roman Inquisition that dominated Malta for over 224 years. After the French abolished the Inquisition in Malta upon their arrival in 1798, the building served French and British rules, as well as the Dominican Order for a period of time after World War II. The Inquisitor’s Palace also houses the National Textiles Collection.

The Grand Master’s Palace Valletta

Newly restored and proudly dominating St George’s Square, the Grand Master’s Palace invites you to wander along its 450-year history as a centre of power and the symbol of a nation.

Presently the seat of the Office of the President of Malta, the palace grants visitor access to over 85 per cent of the building’s footprint, including the magnificent Armoury. Its restoration project was partly financed via the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The National Museum of Archaeology Valletta

With artefacts dating back from Malta’s Neolithic period (5900 – 2500 BC) up till the early Phoenician period (8th – 6th century BC), the National Museum of Archaeology is definitely your first step to understanding the richness of the land you tread on, its people and their ancestors. Its ground floor is dedicated to the Neolithic period, while the upper floor currently houses the Bronze Age and the Phoenician period sections. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.

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ISLANDS

MUŻA – The National Community Art Museum Valletta

The acronym MUŻA refers to the mythological Muses of Classical Antiquity and to the Maltese term for artistic inspiration. Through a varied collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, silver pieces, works on paper and objets d’art, MUŻA’s main focus is to show artistic developments in Malta impacted by its Mediterranean context, as well as the cultural influences resulting from the governance of the Order of St John (1530 – 1798), the British Empire (1800 – 1964), the post-Independence period (from 1964) and the overall impact of the Church.

Ġgantija Gozo

The Ġgantija Archaeological Park complex is a unique prehistoric monument listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Situated in Xagħra, it consists of two structures built between c.3600 and c.3200 BC. Notwithstanding its age, the monument survives in a considerably good state of preservation. Entrance to the Ġgantija Archaeological Park is through an interpretation centre, which houses a selection of the most significant artefacts discovered at various prehistoric sites in Gozo.

The Malta Maritime Museum Birgu

A stroll along the beautiful Birgu waterfront is not quite complete without a visit to the Malta Maritime Museum, housed within the Old Naval Bakery and charting 7,000 years of Malta’s maritime history, from prehistory to the present day. The museum partly reopened its doors in February 2024, having been closed for some years for a major rehaul, partially supported by the EEA Norway Grants. Presently, it houses a one-of-a-kind exhibition titled An Island at the Crossroads.

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Wied il-Mielaħ Window

Salt Pans

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25 ‘Kappar’ Capers

Żebbuġ

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Għasri

Tal-Mixta Cave 27

Għarb

23 Xagħra Victoria

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Qala

Nadur

‘Bużbież’ Wild Fennel

Għajnsielem Sannat 22

Sanap Cliffs M

COMINO

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GOZO

KEMMUNA

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Crystal Lagoon

Passenger Ferry

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Vehicle & Passenger Ferry

Ċirkewwa

Red Tower

S T P A U L’ S ISLANDS

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Mellieħa

01 Popeye Village

‘Bajtar tax-Xewk’ Prickly Pears

16 St Paul’s Bay

09 ‘Frawli’ Strawberries 08 Mġarr 05

Mos ‘Merill’ National Bird

Rabat

Valletta

Nadur 40.4km

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02

Dingli

B

BEACHES 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15

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Anchor Bay Armier Bay Balluta Bay Delimara Point Fomm ir-Riħ Għadira Bay Għar Lapsi Ġnejna Bay Golden Bay Marsaskala Bay Marsaxlokk Bay Paradise Bay Pretty Bay Salina Bay St George's Bay

Dingli Cliffs

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

St Paul's Bay St Peter's Pool St Thomas Bay Wied iż-Żurrieq Xrobb l-Għaġin Blue Lagoon Santa Marija Bay Daħlet Qorrot Dwejra Bay Marsalforn Bay Ramla Bay San Blas Bay Xlendi Bay Xwejni Bay ~ Salt Pans

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‘Lampuki’ Dolphin Fish

INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOTS IN NADUR

Nadur Carnival.

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M A LT A Pembroke 15 St Julian’s

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Tal-Mixta Cave.

Naxxar

Upper Barrakka Gardens 01

‘Ħobża tal-Malti’ Maltese Bread

Birgu Qormi

Żebbuġ

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Buskett

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Marsaskala

Luqa 20

Marsaxlokk

Qrendi

‘Qarnita’ Octopus

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Żurrieq

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Sopu Tower.

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San Filep Beach.

KM Malta Airlines Airbus A320neo

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sponsored by

FILFLA ‘Luzzu’ Traditional Fishing Boat

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TRAVEL ????????

Words by

Alexandra Alden Alexandra is a Maltese singer/songwriter and former X Factor Malta judge, based in the Netherlands and Malta. Her life spent touring as a musician has allowed her to explore many corners of the world.

Arancini for breakfast A Maltese musician's guide to Catania – a vibrant city nestled in the shadow of Mount Etna, at once familiar and all new.

As a musician, I've had the privilege of touring through Sicily twice, first with my pianist and later with my bassist. Our return trip is a testament to the incredible experience we had the first time around. But it wasn't until my second visit that I finally had the chance to explore Catania, the vibrant city nestled in the shadow of Mount Etna.

Although I performed and stayed outside the historic centre in tiny local venues, I still had the opportunity to discover the bustling centre during the day.

Presenting my songs and sharing stories in Italian was an interesting challenge (I relied heavily on a translator app), and having a grasp of the language definitely comes in handy as you venture further from the tourist hot spots.

For travellers from Malta, Catania offers a fascinating blend of the familiar and the new. The city's stunning baroque architecture, crafted from local limestone, bears a striking resemblance to the ornate buildings found in Valletta and Mdina. Catania's churches and

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palazzos are adorned with decorative flourishes and grand façades, similar to every Maltese village centre.

Unsurprisingly, Sicily and Malta share a rich culinary tradition rooted in Mediterranean flavours and ingredients. Foodies won't want to miss local specialities like Pasta alla Norma, with its subtly sweet and acidic combination of fried aubergine, tomato sauce, basil and ricotta salata.

Arancini, the gateway drug into Sicilian street food, are crispy rice balls filled with various ingredients – choose from pistachio, simple pesto, Bolognese sauce, or classic Norma ingredients. And of course, one can't overlook the cannoli, sweet ricotta-filled pastries that are a staple in every confectioner, including the famous Pasticceria Savia, a Catania institution since 1897. These irresistible treats also grace every Maltese Christmas table. It's also interesting to compare Sicilian versions of familiar dishes like bragioli (beef olives) or pasta with rabbit sauce to their home-cooked counterparts.

At the Castello Ursino, a 13thcentury fortress turned museum, and the sprawling Monastero dei Benedettini, visitors can uncover chapters of this shared narrative.

Timing your visit to coincide with the feast of St Agatha in February can add an extra layer of familiarity and excitement. The celebrations in honour of Catania's patron saint, with their processions, fireworks and street food, may spark memories of similar festas back home in Malta.

Roman Theatre.

Beyond the pleasures of the palate, Catania offers a peek into the vast, intertwined histories of Sicily and Malta. From ancient times to the more recent past, these two Mediterranean islands have been shaped by many of the same influences, from Phoenician traders and Roman rulers to Arabs, Normans and the Knights of St John.

Ursino Castle.

Cathedral and Elephant Fountain in Piazza del Duomo.

TRAVEL ????????

As I wandered the streets of Catania, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to this humble city. The echoes of our shared history and familiar atmospheres and aesthetic all combined to create a similar but still quite novel experience.

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Via Etnea.

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Top 7 Must-See Attractions in Catania > Piazza del Duomo and Catania Cathedral: the city's main square and stunning baroque cathedral > La Pescheria: vibrant, bustling fish market > Castello Ursino: 13th-century castle housing the Civic Museum > Teatro Romano: impressive ruins of a 2nd-century Roman theatre > Monastero dei Benedettini: magnificent 16th-century Benedictine monastery, now a UNESCO World Heritage site > Via Etnea: the city's main shopping street, lined with baroque buildings, shops and restaurants > Chiesa della Badia di Sant'Agata: beautiful baroque church with a panoramic rooftop terrace overlooking the city and Mount Etna

Cosy Areas for Accommodation > Via Gemmellaro and surrounding streets > Piazza Federico di Svevia (near Castello Ursino) > Via Santa Filomena > Borgo-Sanzio neighbourhood

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KM Malta Airlines operates regular flights between

Malta International Airport (MLA) and Catania (CTA) kmmaltairlines.com

Alexandra Alden in Catania with her arancina.

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Scacciata, Sicilian stuffed flatbread.

facts and figures

Catania is built on top of ancient lava flows from Mount Etna (pictured above).

The city has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Catania is the birthplace of famous Italian composer Vincenzo Bellini.

The symbol of Catania is a smiling elephant statue made of lava stone.

Catania is home to the oldest university in Sicily, founded in 1434.

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Night skyline panorama of Copenhagen.

TRAVEL

Words by

Alexandra Alden

Songs of Love and Longing in Copenhagen: An Intimate Portrait In the month of love, it is apt to talk about Copenhagen as a city that cured heartbreak. Denmark’s capital taught the author that love exists in moments of pure, unexpected connection. It's not about the quantity of time you have, but the quality; some encounters are meant to be brief, but it doesn't make them any less inspiring.

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TRAVEL ????????

Copenhagen revealed itself to me in moments of unexpected curiosity – both musical and romantic. The city, with its soft winter light and cobblestone streets, became a backdrop to a story of fleeting connection and artistic discovery after a few forlorn months spent wallowing in the wake of a tumultuous heartbreak.

Before I went on tour, I couldn't eat, I barely slept, and I wandered the streets at home until late at night, only to return and fall asleep on the sofa to the sounds of crooning jazz ballads from my wonky laptop speakers, seeking some kind of comfort.

The Night at Blagards Apotek

Blagards Apotek in Copenhagen was my first stop on my tour of Denmark and Sweden. I entered this sanctuary, having only heard about its reputation as a refuge for wayward souls and wandering musicians.

The evening unfolded with a sense of intimate discovery – I listened to other performing artists and had brief chats with audience members, including one whom I had apparently inspired to take up the project of building a baritone ukulele from scratch.

The open mic night felt like an intimate gathering. Each performance felt like a vulnerable conversation. As I took to the stage, my fingers trembling slightly on the guitar strings, I found myself performing to a crowd that listened with the kind of attentiveness reserved for true storytellers.

An Unexpected Connection

He appeared like a character from one of my songs – a travelling songwriter from a small Californian town. His eyes reflected an all-toofamiliar language, speaking of endless highways and folk melodies. The night dissolved over multiple beers and hurried conversations about travel, folk songs, career changes, guitars and literary heroes.

Copenhagen wrapped around me and dizzied me with its potential – should I start anew? What if this is a new path calling out to me? I sank further and further into my thoughts and felt my young and eager heart ignite with a brighter spark than I had felt in a long time.

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Nyhavn.

Botanical Garden pyramid glasshouse.

Houses in a quiet street in the Humleby district of Vesterbro.

Culinary Wanderings and Hygge

The morning before my concert, I wandered through the city's streets, sampling the culinary landscape and indulging in one of my favourite treats – cardamom buns. At Andersen Bakery, cardamom rolls eased the bitter taste of past heartache.

You can reach Copenhagen with KM Malta Airlines via Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Dusseldorf, London, Munich, Paris, Vienna or Zurich, connecting on one of our airline partners (Air France, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, Scandinavian or Brussels Airlines).

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> Barr: serving generous portions of Scandinavian food, using fresh local ingredients > Møntergade: to lunch on outstanding traditional smørrebrød (Danish open sandwiches)

Botanical Garden Paths

The concept of hygge is perhaps more mainstream now – that uniquely Danish sense of intimate comfort that transcends physical warmth. It's evident in all the interiors of the cafés and restaurants. It's important to feel cosy and at home, even when you're outside your familiar comforts, and I felt very safe and at ease navigating the city alone.

In Denmark, love is about moments of genuine connection, away from superficial, grand gestures. Surrounded by delicate snowdrops, these white flowers symbolising hope and the promise of spring provide a touching remedy for heartbreak. Gardens became a metaphor for my own fleeting connection – beautiful and transient. But it’s also worth appreciating how they continue to stand the test of time – like real love.

Havens for Food and Music Lovers

Must-Visit Spots

> Coffee Collective: where coffee is an art form > Andersen Bakery: cute corner café selling artisanal buns > Juno the Bakery: cardamom rolls that taste like poetry > Democratic Coffee: a space that transforms from café to wine bar

> Tivoli Gardens: a magical space blurring reality and fantasy > Christiansborg Palace: where history and romance intertwine > Nyhavn: the colourful canal that becomes the backdrop for many a photo > The Little Mermaid statue: a powerful symbol of longing and transformation

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Christiania.

notes

> Literary legacy: Hans Christian Andersen, one of the grandfathers of fairy tales, called Copenhagen home. > Culinary innovation: the original home to Noma, repeatedly named the world's best restaurant, revolutionising Nordic cuisine. It is now relocating to Asia.

The Little Mermaid statue.

Romantic Neighbourhoods

> Vesterbro: trendy and intimate > Christianshavn: canal-side charm > Nørrebro: multicultural and vibrant

Copenhagen's Rebel Soul: Christiania

In the heart of Copenhagen lies Christiania, a fascinating microcosm of alternative living that defies conventional urban existence. What began in 1971 as a social experiment – when a group of free-spirited activists occupied an abandoned military base – has evolved into a controversial yet captivating free town that challenges traditional societal norms.

Copenhagen in Whispers .....

Alexandra Alden.

The happiest capital in the world More bicycles than people

More than just a neighbourhood, Christiania is a living, breathing testament to collective living and alternative lifestyles. Colourful, quirky houses stand alongside improvised art installations, while murals and graffiti tell stories of resistance and freedom.

Important visitor notes: follow the community's guidelines strictly; avoid photography, especially in sensitive areas; maintain a low-key, respectful presence; and understand that this is a living community, not a tourist attraction.

Reflections

A parting kiss at my doorstep – tender, unexpected, significant – became our farewell before I left on an early morning train to Sweden, to continue the next leg of my solo musical journey.

Copenhagen taught me that love, like music, exists in moments of pure, unexpected connection. It's not about the quantity of time you have, but the quality. Some encounters are meant to be brief, but it doesn't make them any less special or inspiring. The inspiration I found there remained with me long after.

A city that aims to be carbon-neutral by 2025 Home to the world's oldest continuously used national flag

HISTORY

Words by

Din l-Art Ħelwa

DLĦ is the National Trust of Malta, an NGO founded to safeguard the country's historic, artistic and natural heritage.

A victory for heritage Our Lady of Victory was the first church in Valletta – perhaps even the first building, while the city was constructed all around it.

Every Tuesday lunchtime, an expectant crowd files into the exquisite Our Lady of Victory Church, admiring the works of art on the ceiling, hung on the walls and in the niches, waiting patiently for the concert to begin.

The one-hour concerts are organised by the Barocco Foundation, and every Tuesday at 12.30pm, the audience is enthralled by established as well as emerging singers and musicians, either on their own or in pairs.

Dozens of people, local and visitors, young and old, see the concerts as a wonderful opportunity to soak in the serenity and beauty of the church, either after shopping in the capital city or on their way to a leisurely lunch. The church is often decorated with elaborate flower arrangements, left over from one of the weddings organised there every week, adding their fragrance to the wonderful ambiance.

Outside the church, the crowds constantly mill around; they traipse past it on their way to the Barrakka Gardens, walk up by the Auberge de Castille from cruise liners, or wander down Merchants Street, avoiding the much busier Republic Street.

It is hard to imagine that a few hundred years ago, the peninsula of Mount Sceberras was empty, except for Fort St Elmo on its tip.

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The Knights of the Order of St John realised during the Great Siege of 1565 how important this location was, controlling entrance to both the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour.

Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette decided to build a city there, facing the Knights’ base on the other side of the Grand Harbour, and the foundation stone of the new city was laid.

Our Lady of Victory Church was the first church to be built there – perhaps even the first building, while construction went on all around it. The Grand Master died two years later and was originally buried in his beloved church, although his remains have since been moved to St John’s Co-Cathedral.

By 1617, it became the parish church of the Order, dedicated to St Anthony the Abbot, with two altars being added to the original two during the latter part of the 18th century.

By 1752, the church had already outgrown its congregation, and the façade, sacristy, belfry and parish priest’s house were all enlarged.

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Photos: Daniel Cilia. Our Lady of Victory Church from the window of St Catherine's Church.

HISTORY

Over the years, its interior was embellished with paintings by Francesco Zahra, Ermenegildo Grech and Enrico Arnaux, while its ceiling was decorated with works by Alessio Erardi, creating one of the jewels of the capital. The titular painting behind the main altar depicts the birth of the Blessed Virgin and is said to date back to the first church. Successive grand masters donated icons and other works of art, adding to the overall richness of its interior.

However, once the Knights left Malta, the role of the church was eclipsed, and during World War II, its roof was damaged in the bombing, adding to the general neglect.

Din l-Art Ħelwa campaigned hard with the Valletta Rehabilitation Project to save the church, and in 2000, a joint restoration project began, with the NGO raising funds through sponsors for the skilled work required.

Eventually, it took over as guardian of the church in 2011 and started its own restoration project in 2012.

The ‘before and after’ photos detailing the work done are dramatic: the ceiling paintings were hardly visible beneath the layers of grime, while the gilt on various artefacts was also hidden. But the problems were not only aesthetic: work was needed on the roof and belfry, as well as other parts of the church – and the restoration is ongoing to this day, in spite of the millions spent so far.

The interventions are all carefully documented and the work of the past two decades was captured in a book, The First Church of Valletta: Our Lady of Victory, edited by Petra Caruana Dingli with photos by Daniel Cilia. It was published in 2023 to highlight the important role of the restorers and sponsors, as well as the hard work put in by the NGO and its dedicated team of volunteers.

Din l-Art Ħelwa, the national trust for Malta, is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year and special events are planned in which the church, one of its most important projects, will no doubt feature prominently.

Tickets for the Tuesday concert are available at the door against a donation of €10 per person, which also includes the opportunity to watch a 10-minute documentary – Grand Master de Valette and his first church of Valletta – in the underground cinema.

ŻFINMALTA Valletta Campus Theatre 21st - 23rd & 28th February and 1st & 2nd March ŻfinDays 2025 is an annual programme that brings to Malta choreographers who are making their mark in the international dance scene. It features new works by Liliana Barros (Portugal/ Germany), Simon Riccardi-Zani (France/Malta) and the recreation of Somiglianza by Mattia Russo and Antonio de Rosa from Kor’sia (Italy/Spain). spazjukreattiv kreattivita.org

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CULTURE

Words by

This month’s

cultural calendar February in Malta sees the Carnival King reign over the island’s annual festivities. But beyond all the costumed revelry, there’s a wealth of shows, concerts and exhibitions to enjoy. inkontru.app recommends the following must-attend events that are sure to brighten your winter days.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT Dear Evan Hansen When: 7th - 9th & 13th - 16th February Where: Teatru Manoel, Valletta Featuring a Tony Award-winning book and emotionally arresting songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, this local production of acclaimed musical Dear Evan Hansen showcases the incredible talent of some of Malta’s finest actors, singers and musicians.

Schubert’s Piano Sonatas When: 14th February Where: Malta Society of Arts, Valletta Give your Valentine’s Day a classical touch at this intimate recital by acclaimed pianist Francis Camilleri, who is bringing some of Schubert’s lesser-known piano sonatas to life.

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Skyfall in Concert When: 15th February Where: MCC, Valletta Relive the thrills of Skyfall, one of the greatest Bond films of all time, with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra performing the score live in sync with all the on-screen action. Choose between a casual matinee or a black-tie red-carpet evening concert.

CULTURE

Novecento When: 22nd - 23rd February Where: Teatru Manoel, Valletta

Carnival Exhibition When: Throughout February Where: Spazju Kreattiv, Valletta

Edward Pirotta Sculpture When: Throughout February Where: MUŻA, Valletta

Step aboard an ocean liner in Novecento, the moving tale of a baby abandoned at sea who grows into a legendary jazz pianist. This famous Italian literary classic comes to life on Teatru Manoel’s historic stage.

Dive deeper into the craftsmanship of Malta’s Carnival with this exhibition showcasing costumes and accessories from past festivals. Discover the talent and passion behind this cherished tradition, a celebration of artistry and cultural heritage.

Experience the timeless sculptures of Edward Pirotta, one of Malta’s most celebrated artists, reunited for the first time in nearly 60 years. This limited-time exhibition showcases the grace and emotion of the human form in Pirotta’s idiosyncratic style.

Life & Passion Revisited When: Throughout February Where: Valletta Contemporary, Valletta Artist Caesar Attard reinterprets his religious-themed etchings from some 30 years ago through a digital lens, inviting reflection on how belief, interpretation and contemporary realities intersect.

Karnival When: 28th February - 4th March Where: Valletta Carnival was introduced to Malta by Grand Master Piero de Ponte in 1535 and has remained a staple on the island’s cultural calendar ever since. Held during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, this colourful feast is a jubilant jamboree of gigantic neon-bright floats, street dances, fancy dress, ticker-tape parades and parties for all. While the official activities take place in the capital, there’s plenty more fun and festivities to enjoy in the village of Ħal Għaxaq, which has been steadily growing in popularity in recent years. While in Nadur, Gozo, things tend to take a more grotesque twist. Wherever you choose to head, be sure to dress up, get colourful, and have yourself a blast.

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TRADITIONAL FEASTS & CELEBRATIONS

TRADITIONAL TREATS Carnival in Malta isn’t just about costumes and parades. It’s also a time to indulge in some sweet seasonal treats. Keep an eye out at local cafés and confectioneries for Prinjolata, a delicious Carnival cake made with crushed biscuits, nuts and topped with candied cherries, sprinkles and marzipan. Another must-try is Perlini, pastel-coloured icing-coated almonds that even feature in an old Maltese nursery rhyme: “Maskarat tini Perlina / Għax warajk għandek xadina” (Masquerader, give me a Perlina / Because behind you is a monkey). See story on PG 70.

To explore more of the local culinary scene, consider joining a Valletta Food Tour with Colour My Travel. Led by a licensed guide, this tour offers a fun way to experience local cuisine, with delicious tastings, enough to replace lunch.

Discover hidden gems and authentic flavours you won't find on your own.

While the focus in February is Carnival, the month also features one of Malta’s most historically significant traditional feasts. For a comprehensive guide to upcoming religious celebrations and processions across the islands, be sure to visit inkontru.app.

The feast of St Paul's Shipwreck As told in the Acts of the Apostles, St Paul was en route to Rome to stand trial before Caesar when his ship was wrecked during a violent storm off Malta’s coast. Reaching shore, Paul survived a poisonous snake bite on his first night, leading the locals to regard him as a holy man. He later healed the father of the Roman governor, Publius, and converted the Maltese people to Christianity. This story continues to be celebrated every 10th February, with the Feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck in Valletta, which is a public holiday.

The main celebrations take place at the stunning Collegiate Church of St Paul’s Shipwreck on St Lucia Street, which dates back to the 1580s. Adorned with intricate decorations for the feast, the church houses masterpieces like Matteo Pérez de Alesio’s imposing altarpiece and a wooden carved statue of St Paul from 1659. Relics of the saint, including his alleged wrist bone and a piece of the column from his execution, are also on display inside.

Following a morning Mass, a grand procession takes place through Valletta’s streets, where the statue of St Paul is carried high amid cheering crowds, confetti and a lively marching band. The festivities continue into the evening, with colourful fireworks over the Grand Harbour, creating a mesmerising spectacle.

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WORKSHOPS & MASTERCLASSES Learn a fun new skill or step outside your comfort zone with these exciting workshops and masterclasses coming your way.

Cocktail Workshop When: 15th February Where: Tex Mex Bar & Grill, St Julian’s Shake, stir, and pour your way to cocktail perfection! This hands-on workshop covers all the basics to craft delicious, impressive drinks, equipping you with plenty of mixology skills to wow your friends.

Miniature Painting Workshop for Beginners When: 22nd February Where: Art Academy, Mosta Whether you’re an avid tabletop gamer or just love tiny art, learn techniques to transform plain mini-busts into colourfully detailed masterpieces.

Discover and experience more with inkontru. app, your web-based application that prioritises functionality and performance, meaning no need to download, seamless updates, no storage space taken and easy sharing. Enjoy!

CULTURE ????????

Gabriel Caruana.

CULTURAL ECHOES Upcoming Heritage Malta event Every Sunday from 7.30am to 4pm, enjoy free entry to Villa Portelli in Kalkara. Built in the late 18th century as a lavish retreat, it features Italian-style gardens and neoclassical statues. Now under Heritage Malta, it is being restored as a visitor centre dedicated to Malta’s maritime culture and colonial history with its gardens accessible to the public.

While in the area, explore the Three Cities further on a guided walking tour with Colour My Travel. Often overlooked by visitors, these historic towns offer a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with authentic Maltese culture. This tour includes a visit to the Inquisitor's Palace for a fascinating journey into the past.

INKONTRU.APP MEETS...

Late Maltese ceramicist Gabriel Caruana played a role in reviving Malta’s Carnival. His daughter, Raffaela Caruana, reflects on his contributions and their lasting impact on today’s celebrations.

WHEN DID YOUR FATHER GET INVOLVED IN CARNIVAL? He began in the 1950s, creating prize-winning costumes and innovative mechanised floats.

Then, from the 1970s, he led students, where they continued to build unique, large-scale, artistic floats that demonstrated how Carnival could be a platform for artistic innovation.

WHAT DOES CARNIVAL MEAN TO YOU PERSONALLY? For me, it represents courage and community.

I admire the bravery of artists who step out of the gallery’s safety into public spaces to share their work with thousands. My favourite memories are of dad involving students, family and friends in designing floats, costumes and dance routines. I also have fond memories of my sister and I, dressing up in identical costumes and heading to Valletta with mum, to see dad's Carnival float.

USE inkontru.app Step into Malta’s scene with inkontru.app, your personal guide to all the latest art, culture and heritage events in Malta and Gozo. More than just a calendar, this app connects you with exciting events, artists and creators, through exclusive interviews and video features. Easily find event details, get directions and purchase tickets – all in one place. Need a ride? Book a cab effortlessly through the app and share your plans with friends and family with ease.

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Wines of Malta & Gozo A

J O U R N E Y

T H R O U G H

H I S T O R Y

The Maltese Islands boast a rich history of

British Colonisation in 1814 further hampered

winemaking, deeply intertwined with their

the

evolving

of

neglect and the devastation of phylloxera in

winemaking dates back to 700BCE, in the form

the late 19th century. Despite these setbacks,

of amphorae crafted for Maltese wine which

Malta’s

were excavated off Gozo's seabed. Introduced

Independence in 1964, the islands relied on

by the Phoenicians and sustained by the

indigenous grape varieties—Ġellewża (red)

Carthaginians, winemaking in Malta faced

and Girgentina (white)—to produce wines

significant challenges often bringing it within a

amidst fierce competition from international

whisker of extinction due to shifting political

varieties.

and

cultural

economic

heritage.

landscapes

Evidence

throughout

industry,

exacerbated

wine

culture

by

endured.

agricultural

Following

its

chequered history.

Accession to the European Union in 2004 removed

market

protections,

intensifying

Under Roman Rule, Malta thrived as part of the

competition

Mediterranean Wine Trade. However, Arab

quality regulations. The introduction of DOK

Rule reduced wine production significantly,

(Denominazzjoni

with focus shifting to other crops. Christianity’s

standards in 2007 marked a turning point,

resurgence and commercial ties with Sicily

enabling Malta to compete with Europe’s

reintroduced viticulture, while the arrival of the

esteemed wine regions.

but

also

introducing

ta’

Oriġini

stricter

Kontrollata)

Knights of the Order of St. John in 1530 ushered in an opulent era of wine appreciation.

Today, Malta and Gozo host around a dozen

The Knights indulged in fine European wines,

wineries,

sidelining

annually. Such limited volumes mean that the

local

ones

compete with imports.

which

struggled

to

producing

1.5

million

bottles

best way to experience these unique wines is to visit the islands, where Mediterranean sunshine and rich history create a truly exceptional wine culture.

@VisitMalta

Fu n g u s R o c k , G o z o

Discover the breathtaking coastal walks that our islands have to offer. Prepare to pass along picturesque shorelines, where you will soak in stunning views!

@VisitMalta

What’s up?

ENTERTAINMENT

Words by

Alexandra Alden

The Maltese love an excuse to celebrate, even if Valentine’s may not be a priority.

Here’s what you can aim to do if love is in the air, you’re landing on ‘love island’ and want to be sure Cupid’s arrow hits the spot.

Valentine's Day, celebrated annually on 14th February, is a time to honour love, affection and the bonds we share with others. The holiday has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome, but today, it is observed in many countries around the world as a day to shower loved ones with gifts, cards and special gestures of appreciation.

Let’s face it, the Maltese love an excuse to celebrate, even if Valentine’s may not be a priority. And this romantic occasion takes on a particularly magical quality here, thanks to the islands' natural beauty, wealth of events and activities, and that additional touch of Mediterranean passion.

The mild weather and picturesque landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway, while the local culture's emphasis on family, friendship and hospitality ensures everyone feels the love.

From intimate candlelit concerts to lively folk music performances, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

PRACTICAL LOVE NOTES Book events in advance Respect local customs Embrace spontaneity Create memories, not just moments Experiences can be the best gifts

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Gozo events

ED AK

OT FR N

D IE

GĦAŻIŻA TIEGĦI INĦOBBOK (MY BELOVED, I LOVE YOU) A heartwarming evening featuring the Tal-Fuklar Folk Group, blending traditional music, storytelling and poetry.

Date: 3rd February Time: 6 - 10pm Location: Xewkija Windmill

B

This smaller, more intimate island transforms into a canvas of dreamy experiences with a whole programme created in anticipation of Valentine’s. Unlike the bustling energy of Malta, Gozo offers a more tranquil, almost poetic, approach to the day.

LOVE UNDER THE STARS An enchanting outdoor event combining live music, poetry and performances in a romantic ambiance. Enjoy drinks and nibbles while experiencing the magic of love under a starlit sky. It’s free!

Date: 13th February Time: 7.15 - 10.30pm Location: Visitation Square, Għarb EXPRESS YOUR LOVE An interactive workshop-style event where participants can explore creative expressions of love. Engage in hands-on activities, crafting unique tokens of affection and celebrating emotional connections.

Date: 14th - 15th February Location: Ta' Dbieġi Crafts Village, Għarb INĦOBBOK – CARDS ET AL An emotional exhibition showcasing artistic interpretations of love. View unique cards, artworks and creative expressions that celebrate affection in its many forms.

Date: 14th February Time: 9am - 5pm Location: Il-Ħaġar Gozo Museum, Victoria GĦAWDEX INĦOBBOK CONCERT A vibrant musical celebration of love featuring local performers. Experience a night of romantic music, dancing and community spirit in the beating heart of the capital.

Date: 15th February Time: 8:30pm Location: Independence Square, Victoria

Email: info@strand.com.mt Tel: +356 21441768

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ENTERTAINMENT

Photo: Jonathan Borg.

Malta events THE VOICE OF LEDA A contemporary art exhibition reinterpreting the ancient Greek myth of Leda and the Swan. Artist Wioletta Kulewska Akyel explores themes of feminine strength, power and emotional experience through large-scale paintings and installations.

Date: 6th February - 16th March Time: 9am - 5pm (closed Tuesdays) Location: MUŻA, Valletta CANDLELIGHT CONCERTS An intimate musical experience featuring a string quartet performing beloved love songs in the soft, romantic glow of candlelight; a multi-sensory journey through classic romantic melodies including songs by The Righteous Brothers, Elton John, Elvis Presley and more.

Venue: The Phoenicia Malta, Floriana Duration: 60 minutes Age requirement: 8+ (under 16 must be accompanied by an adult) Dates/times: To be selected by ticket holders VALENTINE'S IN THE AQUARIUM A unique romantic dining experience set among marine life. Couples can enjoy an intimate four-course dinner, with special tank-side seating and surrounded by fascinating underwater creatures for an unforgettable Valentine's evening. Definitely a story to tell!

Date: 14th February Time: 8pm Location: Malta National Aquarium, St Paul’s Bay

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ENTERTAINMENT

COASTAL ADVENTURES AND ROMANTIC BEACH WALKS Take an intimate stroll along northern Malta's most picturesque beaches: > Golden Bay for dramatic sunset views and golden sands; > Għadira Bay for gentle waves and secluded spots; > Armier Bay for pristine waters and romantic isolation; > Għajn Tuffieħa Bay for scenic cliffs and breathtaking landscapes.

Stop at a secluded spot overlooking the sea, spread your blanket, and transform a simple walk into a celebration of love, local flavours and the raw beauty of the Maltese countryside.

Pack easy to nibble bites like traditional ħobż biż-żejt, pastizzi, ġbejniet, dried figs, almonds and a bottle of local Merlot, and you’re all set to cosy up and watch the sunset.

VALLETTA WATERFRONT Triq il-Vittmi Furjaniżi tal-Gwerra, Floriana Discover this hidden gem within Malta's Grand Harbour, where history meets modern indulgence. Immerse yourself in panoramic views, exciting activities and delectable dining experiences along this promenade. Savour the taste of Chinese, American, Mediterranean, sushi, or local cuisine within the 1752-built stores, tastefully refurbished into indoor dining areas or al fresco dining by the water's edge. Experience moments of fun and relaxation away from the crowds, within walking distance from the capital, Valletta. vallettawaterfront vallettawaterfront.com/christmas 39

ENTERTAINMENT

Words by

Adriana Bishop Adriana is a former news journalist and travel PR executive, now a freelance writer based in Switzerland, with her heart and eyes always set on her forever home Malta.

Say “I do” in Malta More than just a holiday destination, the island is the perfect place for couples to seal their love for each other with a special wedding to be remembered for a lifetime.

When I first met Oliver at a friend’s party in London, he had never come across a Maltese person before, let alone visited Malta. I soon redressed that by inviting him to my home country for a whirlwind tour where he not only fell in love with the island but also decided to propose to me.

Despite the fact that he was English, his family was scattered across the UK and France and I was not living in Malta anymore, there was one fact that was never in any doubt – our wedding would be held in Malta. For me, of course, it was a natural choice, but for Oliver, I realised later, it was more than just a romantic gesture.

As we prepare to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary (we were married the day after April Fool’s, make of that what you will), I decided to ask him what it meant to him to get married in Malta. “It was more than just a wedding,” he tells me. “It was also about embracing your culture and everything that shaped you as a person. The wedding brought our

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Maltese and British roots together and it also meant I had to accept and meld our respective cultures and backgrounds.”

For Irishwoman Diana Cacciottolo, getting married in Malta was even more exciting because by the time she and her half-Maltese boyfriend got engaged, they already knew they were going to move to the island. “I had always liked the glamour of a destination wedding, and the fact that if people made the effort to come, it made those attending all the more special. It was also a way of introducing my family and friends to my new ‘home’.”

Diana and Mario were married in the elegant gardens of Villa Bologna, an opulent 18th-century private stately home, on a September evening, surrounded by 95 of their relatives and friends who had flown in from Ireland, England, Switzerland and the US. “Malta is spoiled with beautiful places to marry, with Villa Bologna being top in my view because of its privacy,

Weddings planned by Sarah Young Luxury Weddings and Events.

ENTERTAINMENT

history and beauty,” continues Diana.

“The fact that they have a restaurant now means we can go back at least once a year and remember that special time.”

At the time of my wedding in 2005, Malta was still establishing itself as a wedding destination for foreign couples and any non-residents tying the knot here often had a familial connection with the island. I somehow managed to organise everything on my own within three months over the phone from London, but then I had the advantage of already knowing the location and suppliers.

We chose the jaw-droppingly gilded ballroom at Palazzo Parisio for our wedding dinner, a setting that made us feel like royalty and left our foreign guests speechless. I still remember the thrill of flying over to Malta carrying my wedding dress as hand luggage and feeling like the eyes of all the other passengers were on me and my silly beaming face.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Just a few years earlier, Sarah Young had launched what was then considered a ground-breaking business idea – to market Malta as a wedding destination. With a Master’s degree in planning and business and years of experience in the marketing industry under her belt, not to mention a fair few stints as a bridesmaid, Sarah adapted her knowledge and expertise to set herself up as a professional wedding planner.

Almost 24 years and countless weddings later, Sarah is now a veritable expert in all things weddings in Malta.

Today, couples fly over from as far afield as the US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, India, Jordan, Sri Lanka and the Philippines to tie the knot in Malta. But what brings them here, of all places? “The 300 days of sunshine,” answers Sarah. And yes, that is a major factor because, never mind the Italian saying, a wet bride is never a happy bride. Plus,

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the idea of hosting an outdoor party at a time of the year when Northern Europe is shivering will forever be a winner.

Apart from the warm sunshine, Sarah points out Malta’s vast history as a huge attraction, especially for American couples, and the fact that it is an English-speaking country so communication with wedding planners and suppliers is never a problem.

There is a fourth factor that Sarah highlights and which would be top of the list for any couple: money. “Malta is still a very well-priced destination for an international wedding.”

And once on the island, it’s not just the wedding couple who are having fun. “Most clients do not do a one-day event.

Most of them have a three-day wedding because guests have

flown over for them. We usually have a welcome party by the sea on the first day, then explore the history of Malta on the second, with the actual wedding in a historic venue such as a villa or a palazzo, and on the third day, the guests can experience Malta from the sea,” says Sarah.

And there is no shortage of historic and unique venues to choose from. Palazzos are just the tip of the iceberg, with Heritage Malta opening a number of its properties for weddings, including centuries-old forts and museums.

Malta is not a beach wedding kind of desintation because there are barely any private beaches, but there are plenty of venues by the sea, which do not require you to spoil your pedicure with sand.

Of course, dressing up a historic site for a wedding requires meticulous planning and creativity, which is were the expertise of a wedding planner comes in. “When you have a site that is historic but a blank canvas, that is the biggest nightmare because you have to turn it into a wedding venue; you have to bring in a kitchen, bathrooms, electricity, a generator. Usually these projects are very painful to put together but very fulfilling because then you are in extraordinary beauty,” explains Sarah.

For one particular wedding at the 18th-century Fort Manoel on Manoel Island, she brought in 25 olive trees, each 15 metres high, to embellish the site. “It was stunning. The backdrop from Manoel Island is Valletta,” Sarah reminisces, with a gleam in her eyes, but quickly adding that venues such as Fort Manoel are not always available and do require a hefty budget.

The wedding planner’s job is to ensure everything is plain sailing on the day for the couple so they can simply “enjoy the preparation, turn up on time and look pretty”. Behind the scenes, Sarah and her team work tirelessly to make sure that magic happens as planned.

And in a career spanning over two decades, Sarah has had more than her fair share of misadventures that required quick reactions and a dose of creativity, not to mention philosophical calm.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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ENTERTAINMENT

She remembers the time when the zip on the wedding dress broke at the last minute. “I called a good seamstress, sent a taxi over for her and she came to sew the bride into her dress. We started 45 minutes late, but we still had an amazing wedding.”

Another time, the venue decided to change the entrance from where suppliers could set up for the wedding, forcing them to walk 2km with all the equipment on their shoulders. “Thank goodness we had an amazing team. I changed the set-up slightly, gave extrra champagne to the guests in one area while we were still finishing off in another, and the couple never knew what was going on.”

That last-minute nail-biting set-up was the subject of one of her TV programmes Flip the Venue. “I watched it once but I cannot watch it again because I get all anxious,” she admits.

Destination weddings might be pereceived as something of a luxury, but Sarah points out that should not refer to the price tag alone; rather it should be about the experience. “Anyone can afford anything, more or less, if they put their time or money towards it, but when you bring your friends and family to your wedding overseas, that is an experience in itself. It is luxurious.”

And what greater luxury than to seal your love in the Mediterranean sunshine, surrounded by your loved ones.

Wedding Do’s Getting married in Malta? Here are a few things you’ll need to sort out before you choose the colour of your bridesmaids’ dresses. But fear not, the legal requirements are very straightforward: > There is no minimum residency required, so you can simply arrive in Malta just a day or two before the wedding as long as all the paperwork is in order. > The ceremony and the marriage certificate are in English. > Complete the Marriage Application Form and send it to the Marriage Registry in Valletta with a copy of both passports, birth certificates and other documents six weeks before the big day. > On arrival in Malta, present your original documents to the Marriage Registry to finalise all details. > For non-EU citizens, you can also opt to get married on paper back home and simply host a ‘symbolic’ ceremony in Malta that looks and feels like a normal wedding. > Check identita.gov.mt for further information.

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Photos: Daniel Cilia.

GOZO

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GOZO

Words by

Daniel Cilia Daniel is a Gozitan photographer, who, through his photography, design and occasional writing, has created more than 150 books focusing on the Maltese Islands’ natural beauty, culture and history.

Brilliant Brilli Unique to Gozo, Brilli is not played in Malta or anywhere else in the world. Believed to have medieval roots, this game is now played exclusively on specific streets and alleys in Għarb and Kerċem.

In the village of Għarb, Gozo, early Sunday mornings or afternoons see groups of men – nowadays occasionally also joined by women – enjoying a game called Brilli. Played for small amounts of money, cents only, an ideal group consists of six people using a set of nine wooden brilli (skittles), placed upright on the ground, and also a wooden ball.

This game differs significantly from the more popular Maltese game of Il-Boċċi, which is similar to boules. In the Maltese Islands, Il-Boċċi is played with metal balls, each team using different coloured ones to distinguish. The boċċi balls are spherical and fit comfortably into the palm of an adult’s hand, much like a heavy lawn tennis ball. The game is played on a purpose-built pitch, approximately 2.5 metres wide by 25 metres long, featuring a hard surface covered with coarse grained sand. Unlike Boċċi, Brilli is an outdoor game played in the streets and doesn’t require a specialised designed pitch.

ago, during the warm summer months, the game was played between the boathouses at Dwejra’s Inland Sea. Now, it is exclusively played on Triq San Pietru in Birbuba, Għarb, and Kerċem, though to a much lesser extent.

Each game can last several rounds, with each one consisting of two throws. Many players can participate simultaneously, but a minimum of five is required.

In Għarb, since the game is played on a public street, the local council has painted white lines along the pavement and installed street signs indicating that Sundays are a noparking zone, leaving space for Brilli. If the heavy wooden ball – slightly larger than a baseball – bounces off the street and accidentally hits a passing or parked car, it can cause serious damage.

Unique to Gozo, Brilli is not played in Malta or anywhere else in the world. The game is very old, believed to have medieval roots dating back to before the arrival of the Knights of St John.

Brilli involves nine tapered pegs, reinforced with an iron rim along their bottom edge to prevent wear and tear. These pegs are arranged in three rows. The central peg, known as is-sultan (the king), features a ball-shaped top. The corner pegs are called qriemeċ, and those between the sultan and the qriemeċ are referred to as sekondi.

Originating in Għarb, Brilli later spread to neighbouring Gozitan villages, especially those on the west side of Gozo, including San Lawrenz, Kerċem and Għasri. Some decades

The most popular Brilli game is called It-troffa (which can be loosely translated as ‘a lock of hair’) where everyone plays individually. It begins with a finger count

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C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

to determine who gets the first throw. A stone is set about six metres away as the starting point from where the players make their first throw. This is called il-messa. Then they have another go from il-battatura, the spot where the ball settles after the messa throw.

rounds until someone gets as close as possible to this target number. Sometimes, players agree beforehand on different scoring patterns, but usually, after the second throw, the player still in the game with the highest score under 24 wins.

Each player takes turns throwing the same wooden ball at the brilli. Hitting different pegs yields different scores: striking the central sultan earns 18 points, the sekondi six points, while the qarmuċ, in the four corners, gains just one point. The aim is for a player to achieve exactly 24 points or the closest highest score.

If players exceed 24 points, they are eliminated from the game – a situation referred to as għadda (meaning ‘passed’).

Another version is known as il-partita (the game), where players compete in pairs, and the game is won by the pair that reaches exactly 24 points. Scoring one point over results in losing the game.

If, after both throws of the first round, none of the players manages to score 24 points, the game continues with additional

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In October 2018, Brilli was added to Gozo’s official list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, placing it on Malta’s National Inventory. The government then nominated Brilli for Unesco’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage as a social practice under Article 2.2 (c).

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HOME

Words by

Thomas Camilleri Creative director by day and actor by night, Thomas also founded Lazarus Tiles, a project through which he saves and documents Malta's cement tile heritage.

THERE ARE GIFTS… AND THERE ARE GIFTS Here’s a Valentine's Day gift guide with a difference. Think something uniquely Maltese, but not clichéd. Think activity, not necessarily object. Think flowers, but not red roses. From writing a love postcard to keeping a diary à deux, it doesn’t get much dreamier.

Welcome to February in Malta! Crisp winter sunshine and the occasional shower await.

The island is simply wonderful at this time. Far from the madding crowds of the summer bucket-and-spade brigade, winter on the islands offers a delightful mix of delicious food, rich history and verdant countryside.

With Valentine’s Day and Carnival being two defining features of the month, here are some ideas to make sure you don’t come across as a jester with your significant other. Souvenirs and gifts are always great if you manage to hit the right tone, but there are gifts and there are gifts.

Traditionally, silver filigree and lace were the mainstays of our local crafts and no Shein or Temu could ever recreate the delicate and time-consuming arts that they are. At the same time though, newer generations of artisans have sought to leave their mark via beautiful objects that are truly made in Malta. As the yin to this yang, visitors have also searched far and wide, hoping to take home something that is more meaningful than a fridge magnet or a baseball cap – both of which would definitely be made overseas.

Even better, don’t just buy something for your partner – do something thoughtful with it!

Do it together…

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HOME

Write a love letter

German interpreter Stefan Mogalle was living in Brussels when the pandemic hit. As we might remember (and try to forget), places with strict lockdowns were hard to weather, so Malta seemed pretty appealing to him. After moving here and re-discovering his love of photography in this new landscape, the expat turned his lifelong passion into a constantly evolving collection of postcards.

Pick your perfect picture from a portfolio that ranges from Bla Tmiem (Timeless) to Siluwetti (Silhouettes), L-Essenzjali (The Essentials) and Għawdex fi Ħsiebi (Gozo on My Mind) – all portraying dreamy and romantic undertones. Once written, visit one of the many post offices for stamps and pop your postcard into any of the traditional red letterboxes – many dating back to the Edwardian era. That way, there’ll be a surprise for your lover once they get home.

Visit bonheur-sur-mer.com for a list of stockists.

Keep a diary of your romantic visit

While many paper items, whether books, diaries or cards, claim to be made in Malta, you’ll often find that they tend to be designed locally and printed overseas, where larger outfits help keep costs low. Not for Kotba Calleja though! Every piece is truly Maltese and a gorgeous piece of local craftsmanship.

Take it a step further and bind your own notebook! The studio offers courses on bookbinding from the experts themselves.

Visit kotbacalleja.net for product and course information and studio contact details.

Photo: Giola Cassar.

For extra points, keep it in one of Kotba Calleja’s handmade creations. Located in the ancient town of Rabat nearby Malta’s old capital, Mdina, this small bindery is dedicated to producing handmade notebooks and paper goods of outstanding quality.

Pick up a piece of history

When you think of antiques shops, packed to the rafters with bric-a-brac, dusty heirlooms and oddities galore, you usually picture a wizened, scruffy man behind a desk piled high with junk.

While Jacques-Paul Mifsud might be able to offer the former, he certainly isn’t the latter. Twenty-five years young and magically able to be everywhere in the capital at once, this young man has a love of antiques and treasure hunting that belies his age.

Like all good (or bad) antiques dealers, he’s often loath to part with his best finds, so drop by Sailor’s Paradise on Strait Street for a drink in his bar-cum-museum, bursting with curios and interesting finds. Definitely not your traditional Valentine’s material – but oh so much fun!

You’re likely to find him at St Paul’s Store on St Paul’s Street, City Antiques on Zachary Street or, more excitingly, at his stall at the Sunday morning flea market in Birgu. Head there early (any time after 6am) for the best steals.

Search for City Antiques on Facebook.

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HOME

Give a helping hand

Or rather, sculpt one! As you walk off the main drag in Valletta, opposite the Parliament building, and head left towards Hastings Gardens, you’ll spot a glorious red door under a traditional wooden balcony and a chorus of curious onlookers. Look closer and you’ll see that they’re a group of heads sculpted in clay.

Just as intriguing and colourful is the sculptor Amelia St George, who lives through that door and hosts sculpting classes for all levels and ages. Go with your partner and enjoy a couple of hours of messy hands and invaluable guidance from an internationally renowned artist. Book for the start of your stay so that you’ll have enough time to take your artwork home with you after firing.

Visit ameliasaintgeorge.com for contact details.

Florals for Valentine’s Day? Groundbreaking!

The way to anyone's heart is through their stomach

And the Mediterranean Culinary Academy has this covered.

Based in the heart of Malta in Naxxar, it is the place to discover new culinary skills and then enjoy eating the fruits of your labour together with your better half.

If you’re lacking confidence in the kitchen, but still want to treat your love to a romantic meal, have fun cooking it together instead.

Under expert guidance, things simply cannot go wrong.

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OK chill Miranda, these aren’t any old flowers! Dear friends, Stephanie and Vivienne came together to launch The Blooming Bunch, a floristry brand that is committed to sustainability, both through its sourcing and via the materials used. Without the use of floral foam and by using recyclable wrapping paper, their plastic consumption is heavily reduced, and while we may be used to ordering all flowers at all times of the year, their availability is based on seasonality, further enhancing the sustainability of their product.

February is looking as delicious as ever with a variety of couple’s classes on offer, including a Pumpkin Ravioli & Baked Cheesecake lesson, a course in Wellington & Panna Cotta for the meat lovers, or perhaps a Duck à l'Orange & Citrus Tart session for the traditionalists.

This February, they’ll be going bold with their No Roses campaign for Valentine’s Day, highlighting the often unethical practices used to cope with the increased demand around this time of the year.

So, treat yourself or your loved one to a bespoke bouquet of flowers that’s also better for the planet.

Visit mcamalta.com for more details and to book your class.

Visit thebloomingbunch.com for contact details.

Serving the Maltese Islands since 1995

ENVIRONMENT

Words by

Adriana Bishop

Get a taste of the good life with some R&R on a working farm and rediscover the simple joy of learning how to grow your own fruit and vegetables, sampling zero-km organic produce and the therapeutic grounding back with Mother Earth.

If you’re reading this, then you have already taken the decision to hit the brakes on your daily life and take a holiday in the sun. Good idea! Once you’re done with the sightseeing (so much history in little Malta), the café life and the obligatory seaside stroll, a visit to a local farm could be the antidote you are looking for to relieve any lingering stress.

At first glance, Malta might strike you as one continuous bustling city-island, towns and villages merging seamlessly into each other, bound by a ribbon of concrete and limestone, local residents busily buzzing around from one end to another. But this rock in the middle of the Mediterranean that bakes ochre dry in summer and regenerates into a green oasis in winter, still hides pockets of peaceful countryside, as precious

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as gemstones, where even the locals flock to reconnect with nature and dial back their frenetic pace of life to a time when simplicity ruled and the seasons dictated the menu.

One of our favourite quick weekend getaways is to escape to Malta’s sister island Gozo, still a haven of tranquillity, and rent a self-catering ‘farmhouse’. Featuring all the earthy charm of its previous function as a humble abode for working peasants, it would be souped up for city dwellers with all the mod cons, including a swimming pool that would have been beyond any farmer’s wildest dreams.

While I don’t deny the R&R benefits of a weekend chilling poolside, there is something fulfilling and yet ever so relaxing about getting your hands dirty

Thrive Community Garden.

Reconnecting with nature

ENVIRONMENT

Photo: Saviour Mifsud. Tuta Agrotourism.

refers to the mulberry trees (tuta in Maltese) that once grew abundantly in that region.

“From day one of the project, we have focused a lot on sustainability, a well-abused word but something that is really difficult to achieve 100%,” explains Stephan. “We are adopting all the alternative ways and means of being as sustainable as possible. For example, we use solar panels, we treat water to use second-class water for irrigation, and all of our organic waste is used partly as compost and the rest to feed our animals. Even the outdoor hot tub in our superior rooms is heated using wood-burning stoves not electricity.” with soil. Not many of us still have the luxury of living in a house with a garden so the chance of playing farmer or gardener for the day is a happy treat and even a scientifically proven boon to our mental health.

Tuta Agrotourism (tuta.mt) in Kerċem, Gozo, is a working dairy farm and agrotourism that combines all this beautifully in one estate, offering stylish accommodation, hands-on farming, farm tours, educational talks on farming and agriculture, and delicious farm-to-fork meals framed by panoramic views of the sister isle.

It is run by the Tabone family, with Jochem at the helm, tending to the cows and running the estate, and his brother Stephan, who focuses on food preparation and the culinary arts in general. Their younger brother Fritz Patrick supplies the milk and meat for authentic farmto-table dishes from his own sheep farm nearby.

The estate takes its name from Għajn Tuta, a natural spring water well that has existed forever and has been serving the surrounding five villages for generations. It

The 10-room estate only accepts children from age 11 upwards “to preserve the peace of the place”. It will be adding a spa, gym and indoor pool in future.

In another peaceful corner of Gozo, Alexandra Cachia has created Thrive Community Garden (thrivemalta.com) in Nadur “to bring people together to connect with nature and with one another”.

Alexandra highlights that “we live in such a fast-paced world… A lot of us are yearning for simplicity. We try to create spaces and events that are educational, teaching people how to grow their own food, about foraging and the healing benefits of plants, but we also support their wellbeing, using dance and music as a healing experience on the farm,” she says.

The garden is managed using permaculture principles, an innovative framework for creating sustainable ways of living, “working with, rather than against, nature”. It is based on three ethical principles: earth care, people care and fair share and can be applied to any space, no matter how small; even to a window box in a city apartment.

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ENVIRONMENT

Thrive Community Garden.

Alexandra Cachia from Thrive.

Tuta Agrotourism.

“We designed the spaces, the land and the way we grow food in a way that incorporates nature. We are creating a cycle of symbiosis – instead of taking from nature, the output goes back in as different input, using nature as the teacher,” Alexandra explains. You can join this thriving community while staying at its self-catering eco-friendly farmhouse Dar ix-Xemx (the house of the sun), or participate in any of their garden activities.

While her garden in Gozo has been blooming for around five years, you’ll also find Alexandra in St Paul’s Bay in Malta, where she is creating a permaculture wellness and education farm, with space for well-being events, including the monthly Thrive Earth Dance and the Thrive Festival, an immersive four-day retreat. Thrive also organises custom retreats designed for couples emphasising compassionate communication. Set on the farm, these retreats provide a unique natural lifestyle and a serene environment to nurture and strengthen relationships.

Thrive is also developing a food forest, a sustainable agricultural system that mirrors the structure and diversity of a natural forest while producing food and other resources. “The space will feature a rich variety of endemic species, fruits, nuts, spices and medicinal plants,” Alexandra continues. “Designed as a thriving ecosystem, it will provide a habitat for wildlife and offer people an opportunity to connect with nature and deepen their understanding of the natural world.”

Perched on the southernmost tip of Malta, Tulliera Farm Deli (tulliera.com.mt) is “partly a rehabilitation project of degraded land in Delimara, partly a farm-to-fork concept … and partly a vision for sustainable agritourism”.

It is named after the resilient native flowering plant Maltese Fleabane, which blooms abundantly in that area in arid conditions. “This plant symbolises our vision of being the first meaningful project on the Delimara peninsula, thriving against the odds,” says Kenneth Abela, one of the founders.

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ENVIRONMENT

“The farm’s mission extends beyond agriculture. It aims to serve as a national educational platform, providing hands-on learning opportunities about sustainable farming, regenerative practices and food sovereignty.”

Its shop, open only on Saturdays and Sundays, is stocked with premium, sustainable, homemade products mainly of organic origin, including sea salt that is hand harvested from the Delimara salt pans, honey produced by a Maltese breed of bees, and goat’s cheese made by Maltese goats, which are being revived from near-extinction.

Tulliera is also a conservation centre, breeding indigenous Maltese species such as the Maltese ox, black hen, goat and bee.

Guided farm tours are available, and from next year, you will be able to stay on site too as they are currently creating an ecofriendly “landscape” hotel, which will “blend harmoniously with nature”.

History is never far from anywhere in Malta and Vincent’s EcoEstate (vincentecoestate.com) organic farm sits on the doorstep to the megalithic remains of Skorba temples on the outskirts of Mġarr. In fact, their pretty, two-bedroom, self-catering farmhouse is named after its next-door neighbour.

Set on 120 tumuli of land, the estate is the legacy of its founder Vincent Camilleri and holds a long-term self-sustainability plan, advocating “against activity which alters nature’s harmony such as soil erosion and salinity in the water table”.

Tulliera.

Its organic produce shop is open daily, and it also organises regular events such as its Mindfulness Drumming and Breathwork, full moon celebrations and the annual three-day Vortex “gathering in nature”, as well as farm tours and tastings.

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Tuta Agrotourism.

ACTION

Words by

Passaġġi

Girl Power

Ema-Sinéad Zammit may be the Ancillary Revenue Manager at KM Malta Airlines by day, but she also has a record-breaking sports life under her belt, and the young powerlifter is going from strength to strength.

When Ema-Sinéad Zammit is not busy with the daily management of all ancillary revenue streams for KM Malta Airlines, she is committed to her training for the competitive strength sport of powerlifting and has been pushing above her weight.

Last November, the 24-year-old competed in the Malta Powerlifting Nationals that took place in St Julian’s and managed to secure a place on the national team.

“The way it works is that the more kilos you lift at a lower body weight, the more points you have,” she explains.

Competing as an under-69kg female athlete, Ema-Sinéad placed first in this category and ranked third among all the female groups.

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So, how does it feel to weigh under 69kg and lift more than your own weight? “It is satisfying to have hit the milestone of being able to bench press a weight higher than that of your own body because it is a clear strength feat,” Ema-Sinéad states. “However, I definitely have higher targets for my bench press,” she adds.

Her weight category lies in the middle division for females, and it is also one of the most stacked and competitive internationally, she explains. “Personally, I also feel like I am one of the taller lifters in this category, which puts me at a disadvantage because it doesn’t allow for much hypertrophy should I wish to remain in the same class.”

With a 78kg lift, she also managed to break a national record on the bench press – one of the three lifts, including squat and deadlift, of the competitive strength sport, which consists of three attempts at maximal weight.

The Malta Powerlifting Nationals were a success for EmaSinéad, but it does not stop there. They were also a qualifier for the European Open Classic Powerlifting Championship that will take place in Malaga, Spain, in March, and she is now in preparation for her next challenge, “with big plans to set new NRs”.

Apart from this, Ema-Sinéad also holds the deadlift national record for two consecutive years for the junior category in the same weight class.

She has been training seriously since December 2022, but was already interested in the sport in 2017 and had practised powerlifting on and off. It all began when she

ACTION

was a sixth form student: “I started to train at a local commercial gym to tone up and decrease body fat. I really enjoyed resistance training and especially deadlifts. All I wanted was to have a strong deadlift and I soon discovered the sport of powerlifting through that,” she says about what drew her into it.

Apart from powerlifting, Ema-Sinéad also does Olympic weightlifting around once a week “to target other aspects of my fitness goals, practice technique, mobility, speed and overhead movements”. But at the moment, she is only committed to competing in powerlifting, which allows her to enjoy weightlifting as a ‘relaxing’ hobby that complements her dedication to the intense sport.

Powerlifting has been steadily gaining popularity in Malta over the years, Ema-Sinéad maintains. “I remember the local scene at its early stages back in 2016; the lifters I followed and admired are now veterans in my eyes. There weren’t as many new lifters joining the sport as there are now,” she says.

“Mostly dominated by men, we can, however, see a number of women across all ages and weight classes taking it up seriously too.”

The truth is that men are biologically more advantaged than women in strength sports and, therefore, more inclined to practice and compete in them, she admits.

A day in the life of a powerlifter Meanwhile, in her other more sedentary life at KM Malta Airlines, Ema-Sinéad’s role involves a high degree of revenue reporting, review and analysis, benchmarking and the development of new ancillaries to support the airline’s growth and success. These ancillaries include excess baggage, pre-reserved seating, in-flight catering, pet travel and business upgrades, she lists, just to name a few.

With all this on her plate, Ema-Sinéad, nevertheless, still manages to dedicate about 12 hours a week to training at a gym with specialised powerlifting equipment and also

at a commercial gym to benefit from the resistance and cardio machines. And if that were not enough, she is also in the process of setting up a home gym.

About finding a balance and juggling between training and work, Ema-Sinéad says she has learnt that “you can find time for anything and, therefore, I manage my time very efficiently. I like to keep my professional life separate from my sports life and give my all to both.

So far, the two have never clashed.”

It is “nothing out of the ordinary”, Ema-Sinéad says about a day in her life. “I have a full-time office-based job, which means I am sat at a desk for at least eight hours a day during the week. After work, I go straight to the gym and spend about two to three hours there. It’s generally a balance of doing the session of the day and socialising with my friends.

Afterwards, I drive home and eat dinner straightaway, have a shower, and prepare my meals for the next day.”

At the weekends, Ema-Sinéad likes to sleep in and will start her training in the late mornings, taking her time with it. She sometimes throws in other activities like going for a long walk or a swim right after.

As to following a very rigid and healthy lifestyle regime, that depends on whether she is far away from a competition. Then, she will eat whatever she wants so long as she is consuming enough calories and getting an appropriate mix of nutrients.

Closer to a competition, Ema-Sinéad may have a more restricted diet depending on whether she needs to cut down some weight.

“For strength sports in general, it is important to eat a decent amount of carbohydrates and protein to sustain energy levels for heavy lifting and recover quickly between training sessions,” EmaSinéad advises.

Asked if she ever breaks the rules, or is very regimental, she believes she is very disciplined when it comes to her training and reaching her nutrition goals. “In general, many people think of me as being hardcore and I like it that way,” she says.

The importance of building muscle cannot be underestimated, especially as people advance in years, Ema-Sinéad acknowledges, recommending starting slowly and under professional guidance if you have never trained before. “Focus on perfecting technique and form before loading up on the weight to avoid injury,” she advises.

So, how does her physical fitness and strength come into play – and use – in her everyday life? “I am definitely the preferred choice when it comes to changing water tanks in the office and carrying grocery bags!”

But more than that, Ema-Sinéad feels the mental fortitude that she has developed from the sport over time also plays a larger role in her work and social life.

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PEOPLE

Words by

Vanessa Macdonald

Vanessa is a former journalist who knows there is still so much more to discover about her country.

Putting your best foot forward Turning the spotlight on unsung heroes: former professional dancer Natalie Muschamp is behind dance sessions for people with Parkinson’s.

As the notes of the song drift across the room, the couples on the dance floor look at each other expectantly and start to move in sync. They are a mixture of mainly middle-aged and older people, with one thing in common: they are having a great time.

Well, perhaps two things. They also have Parkinson’s.

A former professional dancer, Natalie Muschamp is behind these sessions through the non-profit organisation that she founded, Step Up for Parkinson’s.

They are an important way to keep these people mobile and flexible, and to ensure they socialise in an environment where they feel comfortable.

Natalie’s outreach does not only involve the people with Parkinson’s but also their partners or caregivers, many of whom also come to the dance sessions.

“Parkinson’s doesn’t affect just the person living with it; it ripples through families, impacting caregivers physically and mentally. At Step Up for Parkinson’s, we have always recognised this dynamic and

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have placed the caregiver at the heart of our work,” she says.

“The dance sessions – at one point we had 10 a week – allow some 100 people to reconnect and bond in a fun way, beyond the day-to-day of coping with Parkinson’s.

Some people come a few times a week!

After all, the sessions are free...”

So how did a British-Dutch woman living in Malta get involved with this extraordinary and demanding initiative?

It began in a personal way. Her aunt’s partner had Parkinson’s, and when he passed away, she set off on a remarkable pilgrimage, walking from Amsterdam to Rome to honour his memory. The book she wrote about the trip, Ineke Loopt Naar Rome (Ineke walks to Rome), raised funds for the Dutch Parkinson’s Foundation.

In 2016, Natalie and her sister Rachelle decided to dedicate time to this cause and establish Step Up for Parkinson’s, offering services not only to the patients but also to their caregivers.

“I saw how walking for three months helped my aunt cope with her grief.

PEOPLE

I realised how little support there had been for her during the time that her partner had the disease,” Natalie says.

“When you care for someone for such a long time, and then they pass away, this is when you need support.”

At the time, there was another organisation in Malta offering care to Parkinson’s patients. Unfortunately, it has since closed its doors, but it was based more on support than on movement.

“Together with Malta Parkinson's, we did the first dance for people with Parkinson's in Malta. After that pilot project, I realised it should be free of charge. Former President of Malta, Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, helped me set up Step Up for Parkinson's – she became a patron – so that I could apply for funds and host these classes free of charge, which we still do till this day.”

Indeed, the dance sessions Nathalie introduced are an important part of the holistic strategy adopted, which eventually expanded to a Parkinson’s Therapy Centre in Naxxar. Opened a year ago, it offers integrated personcentred care, including a specialised Parkinson’s coach, occupational therapy sessions provided by Revive, speech therapy and a Parkinson’s nurse.

Natalie also tapped into her Dutch roots and collaborated with ParkinsonNet in the Netherlands, a pioneering organisation founded by neurologist Bastiaan Bloem and health scientist Marten Munneke. The Dutch care model set up in 2004 focuses on providing integrated

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and specialised care for people with Parkinson's through a network of trained healthcare professionals. A team of ParkinsonNet specialists, in fact, came over to Malta and trained 56 healthcare providers, from occupational to speech therapists, physiotherapists and nurses, to become specialised in Parkinson’s.

The positive impact of the NGO’s work has received recognition in different ways. Natalie was decorated in the Republic Day Honours in 2019 and had a private audience with Pope Francis during a visit to the Vatican with a group of community and board members.

But the mother of two toddlers would be the first to admit that running Step Up for Parkinson’s has been incredibly challenging, with many bleak moments spent trying to secure enough resources to keep the organisation afloat.

As a result, she has had to step back and hand over her work, driven by the hope and determination that Step Up for Parkinson’s will continue to thrive and support the community into the future.

Always the optimist, however, Natalie continues to draw courage and inspiration from the happy faces that are testament to the difference the NGO has made in their lives.

“I am proud of what we have accomplished, but there’s always much more to do,” Natalie concludes.

Ch ur ch of St Do m in

Located just outside of Mdina, this fortress-like construction, boasts an impressive cloister with sundials adorning its ambulatories. Surrounded by lush gardens, regarded as one of the most beautiful convents on the Maltese Islands.

@VisitMalta

ic , Ra ba t

FOOD

Words by

Passaġġi

Flavourful, diverse and vibrant Home cook Matthew Curmi recalls sitting on his nanna’s kitchen counter, watching her cook from a very young age. His passion for fresh, homemade food runs in the family and was passed down from her through his mother… so much so that he now has his own niche catering company, Carne E Contorni, on the side.

YOUR FIRST BRUSH WITH CATERING FOR A PARTY... HOW DID IT START AND HOW DID IT GO? I had already been making fresh jarred products for a while, and was always thinking of how I could grow this into something bigger, but I wasn’t sure how to go about it. Then a friend of mine asked me to cater for about 100 people for the opening of a new theatre. I still remember I was at the airport in Paris when he called. I immediately said yes, without knowing what and how to go about it. It was certainly one of the more stressful events as the whole team was new and had to learn the way I work, but everything went well and the guests liked the food, which is the most important thing.

YOUR ALL-TIME FAVOURITE INGREDIENT AND HOW YOU USE IT BEST… It’s a tough one, but I would say lemon is potentially my favourite ingredient. It can be used to enhance the flavour with its acidic nature, but can also simply freshen up a dish. It’s also extremely versatile, and can be used for both savoury or sweets. I love making my own limoncello with locally grown lemons, and I love using it as part of the dressing when making ceviche.

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YOUR FAVOURITE COMFORT FOOD… Definitely pizza!

WHO COOKS AT HOME? We both do, though I would say Alexia (my wife) actually cooks more often. If I’m cooking, I am usually trying and testing something new, which usually means making a mess in the kitchen.

WHEN YOU EAT OUT, WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR? For me, eating out is an experience; I look for different things depending on the restaurant and the company. While the food is important, to be able to enjoy the full experience, you need to have great service and a great ambiance. I would say I am quite relaxed when I go out to eat and just look forward to tasting new things.

DO YOU PASS ON DESSERT? I would rather have a starter and a main than a main and dessert, but my wife has a sweet tooth, so we often end up sharing a dessert.

WHAT WOULD YOU NEVER SAY NO TO (FOODWISE)?

I don’t think I’d say no to anything, but if I really had to choose, I would never say no to pasta.

BRUNCHES, LONG LUNCHES, BBQS, BOOZY DINNERS, PICNICS, TAPAS, TEATIME, PARTY FOOD? WHAT TYPE OF MEAL TICKLES YOUR TASTE BUDS MOST? That depends on the company and the occasion. A boozy lunch/dinner with friends is always fun, but I also enjoy fine dining with my wife and trying different food.

COMPLICATED HAUTE CUISINE, OR ALLA BUONA HOME COOKING? Again, it is dependent on the occasion, but I love good home cooking.

Photos: Agustina Gavagnin. Matthew Curmi.

FOOD

HEALTHY OR SINFUL, DECADENT AND RICH? I would definitely choose a sinful and rich meal.

THE IDEAL CUSTOMER PROFILE AND EVENT… Someone who leaves the menu in my hands; no allergies or intolerances as this makes things a lot less stressful. I enjoy catering for all types of events, but I do prefer cooking a tasting menu for a sit-down meal.

WHAT’S THE MOST BIZARRE CATERING REQUEST YOU EVER GOT? Thankfully, my clients have been relatively easy and haven’t asked for anything weird so far. But requesting something bizarre could only make it more challenging, which I enjoy.

WHO DID YOU LEARN MOST FROM IN THE KITCHEN? Most definitely my nanna and my mother. Cooking (and eating) runs in the family, and from a very young age, I used to sit on the kitchen counter and watch my grandmother cook.

YOUR IDEA OF QUINTESSENTIALLY MALTESE FOOD… Fried rabbit.

WHERE WOULD YOU TRAVEL TO EAT, AGAIN AND AGAIN? Peru. The amount of fresh local produce is incredible, and the cuisine is so vast, you could never get bored of eating.

YOUR BEST-KEPT CULINARY SECRET… I don’t think it’s a secret, but always use the best, freshest and preferably local produce and keep it simple.

YOUR OWN TAKE ON A LOCAL DISH… I confit rabbit legs in pork lard, rather than the traditional way, and it is actually one of my dishes everyone loves.

WHAT DO YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WITH NO CONFIDENCE IN THE KITCHEN? Just try and test new things and taste everything. I have tested things countless times and they have not worked out, but the most important thing is to not give up and keep trying.

THE CUISINE THAT HAS INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST… Italy, and specifically Tuscany. The simplicity of Italian food, and the fresh ingredients are something I live by.

THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE THE MALTESE CULINARY SCENE… Flavourful, diverse and vibrant.

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FOOD

How to make Matthew’s

Poached Pear in Port Wine and Lemon Custard SERVES 8 INGREDIENTS For the poached pears: 2 bottles of port wine 8 pears 1 cup sugar 2 cinnamon sticks For the lemon custard: 2l milk 170g cornflour 114g sugar Peel of 2 lemons 4 egg yolks METHOD For the poached pears: Peel the pears. Pour the wine, sugar and cinnamon sticks into a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to simmer and stir until all the sugar melts.

Add the pears to the pot and leave simmer for 20 minutes. They should be fork-tender; if not, leave them in for a further five minutes.

For the lemon custard: Remove the peel from the lemon. Add the milk, sugar, lemon peel and egg yolks to a pot. Place it over a low heat, stirring constantly.

When the mixture has heated up and the sugar dissolved, sift the cornflour in while still stirring.

Continue to stir until thick. Remove from the heat and plate.

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Valletta

Nestled in the heart of Valletta, the Grand Master’s Palace, constructed by the Knights of the Order of St John, once stood as the Governor’s Palace and the site of the island's first parliamentary assembly.

@VisitMalta

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Words by

Adriana Bishop

An exuberant tower of sweetness Dentists and nutritionists, look away now. This sugar bomb is the once-a-year treat that defines Carnival in Malta and it is as outrageous as the festival itself.

If the word ‘preposterous’ were a dessert, it would be Prinjolata. Christmas may be known for its gluttonous excess, but it pales to insignificance next to this towering crazy concoction of sweet indulgence, as absurdly grotesque and outrageously fun as Carnival.

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with records showing it was even served to patients in hospital in the 1500s.

It is a last hurrah before the abstinence and fasting of the Catholic Lent that starts on Ash Wednesday, the day after Mardis Gras, or Fat Tuesday, the last of the four days of revelry and merriment of Carnival.

During the time of the Knights of the Order of St John (1530-1798), the festival featured tournaments and pageants in which the knights participated somewhat too enthusiastically for the Grand Master’s liking, and the Carnival floats literally floated as they consisted of the Order’s decorated ships sailing across Grand Harbour.

In fact, the word ‘Carnival’ comes from the Italian carne vale, which means that meat is allowed, in direct reference to the sacrifice people were expected to make during the ensuing 40 days leading up to Easter at a time when religion dictated people’s diet.

It was not until 1730 that the Carnival parade landed in the streets and took the form of colourful papier-mâché floats we know today – when the city “built by gentlemen for gentlemen” turns into the city of “fools”.

Records show that Carnival has been celebrated in Malta for over six centuries with the Università – not the academic one but the government of the day – issuing directives in the 1400s on the price of meat to be sold during Carnival – meat being a rare expensive treat for most people in those days. Lasagna was the most popular dish during Carnival,

The extravagance of Carnival could not be better expressed than in the extraordinary Prinjolata cake, bursting with sugar, nuts, buttercream, frosting and bright colours. It is not the only overly sweet treat associated with Carnival. Sugared almonds, Perlini, are still as popular as ever, not only at Carnival but

Photo courtesy of: Camilleri tal-Ħelu.

FOOD

also a staple of any baptism, Holy Communion or wedding souvenir.

Grandparents would remember when clowns would go around Valletta in horse-drawn karozzini pelting passers-by with Perlini in a mock battle.

They would also have fond memories of xkunvat, deep-fried pastry ribbons covered in honey and decorated with hundreds and thousands, similar to Italian Carnival fritters.

But the queen of Carnival is most definitely the Prinjolata. Shaped into a towering pyramid, covered in white frosting or Italian meringue and decorated with as many glacé cherries, pine nuts, almonds, hazelnuts and drizzled melted chocolate as you can possibly fit in. It is believed the dessert originated during the time of the Knights of St John when sugar became a trading commodity,

and may be an adaptation of the Sicilian pignoccata, which is made in Messina at Christmas time. The Sicilian version consists of baked rich dough balls heaped into a pyramid shape and decorated with icing and chocolate.

The Maltese Prinjolata features pine nuts, and its pyramid shape gives a nod to a pine cone, but the tower is built of sponge fingers or crushed biscuits, or sometimes both, then folded with buttercream and packed with nuts, glacé cherries and candied peel. The whole mixture is then covered with white Italian meringue. One small slice probably delivers 40 days’ worth of sugar, but hey, Carnival comes only once a year.

As always with traditional recipes, every family has their own version, even though the end result looks the same. Some use orange blossom water or a splash of booze, like almond or hazelnut liqueurs or vermouth in their mix. As it’s Carnival, anything goes, so just have fun creating your own exuberant tower of sweetness.

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How to make

Prinjolata This recipe, courtesy of Aceline.media, uses homemade biscuits, but you can also use shop-bought plain butter biscuits to speed up the process.

INGREDIENTS For the biscuits: 300g plain flour 300g self-raising flour 300g unsalted butter 200g sugar 2 eggs 1 tbsp baking powder 1 tbsp vanilla essence For the buttercream filling: 250g unsalted butter 300g icing sugar 2 egg whites 100g caster sugar Grated zest of an orange and a lemon 1 tbsp vanilla essence

METHOD To make the biscuits, beat the sugar, butter and vanilla together until creamy.

Lightly beat in the eggs. Gently fold in the flours and baking powder until a soft dough is obtained. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Roll into a thick cigar shape and cut into 1cm thick discs. Place the discs onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper and bake at 175ºC for around 15 minutes. Allow to cool completely.

Also for the filling: 200g roasted almonds 200g roasted hazelnuts 100g roasted pine nuts 200g halved glacé cherries 100g candied peel 2 tots Vermouth

Meanwhile, make the buttercream. Beat the butter and icing sugar with the vanilla and citrus zests until light, creamy and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites with the caster sugar until thick. Next, fold the whites into the buttercream. Chop the cooked biscuits into uneven pieces and put in a large enough mixing bowl. Add the buttercream and the rest of the filling ingredients and combine. Turn the mixture onto a serving plate and mould into a dome shape. Allow the Prinjolata to set for a couple of hours before decorating.

To decorate: 4 egg whites 100g sugar 100ml water Melted chocolate Almonds, pine nuts, hazelnuts Glacé cherries

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DID YOU KNOW? Carnival was so popular in Malta in the 15th century that the word ‘Carnivali’ was used as a Christian name for men.

To make the frosting, whisk the egg whites until a stiff peak is formed. Cook the sugar and water over a low heat until it reaches a temperature of 120ºC on a sugar thermometer. Carefully pour the hot sugar over the meringue, whisking constantly. Keep whisking even after the sugar syrup is all poured in, until the meringue has cooled down. Cover the Prinjolata with the meringue frosting, drizzle with melted chocolate and garnish with nuts and cherries.

Uncover centuries, in a moment.

FOOD

MUŻA RESTAURANT Merchants Street, Valletta If you're looking for an extraordinary dining experience in the capital city, book a table at MUŻA Restaurant. Situated in the picturesque courtyard of an old auberge, MUŻA provides a cosy, laidback ambiance, perfect for a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends. The menu is bursting with fresh, local ingredients, and the knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect wine to complement your meal. (+356) 7979 0900 MUZARestaurantValletta

muzarestaurant

OSTRICA 66, Church Street, St Paul’s Bay Discover Ostrica at Gillieru, where tradition meets innovation on the shores of St Paul’s Bay. Located within the iconic Gillieru Harbour Hotel, a landmark with over a century of history, it celebrates the finest local ingredients from fresh fish to dry-aged meats, prepared with a modern twist. Its talented chefs craft each dish with care, offering an unforgettable dining experience.

With stunning views of the bay and a tranquil atmosphere, Ostrica invites you to indulge in Malta’s rich culinary heritage. (+356) 7902 2371 ostrica.mt ostrica

ostrica

BOTTEGIN PALAZZO XARA Triq San Pawl, Rabat Tucked away in the heart of Rabat, just a short stroll from the historic Mdina, Bottegin Palazzo Xara offers an authentic Maltese dining experience. Situated within a local band club, the cosy bistro provides a welcoming atmosphere, while the peaceful Mediterranean Courtyard offers a tranquil setting for al fresco dining. The extensive menu features everything from hearty breakfasts to pizzas, pastas, grills and traditional local dishes. With soft jazz music and a vibrant, social atmosphere, it's the perfect place to dine like a local. (+356) 7945 4538 bottegin.com.mt

botteginpalazzoxara

botteginpalazzoxara

GROTTO TAVERN Misraħ Ii-Paroċċa, Rabat The Michelin-recommended Grotto Tavern restaurant offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Rabat. Nestled in a cave, the ambience is enchanting and romantic. Grotto Tavern’s chefs expertly craft tasting menus that showcase their passion for local and seasonal ingredients. Guests can sample innovative dishes by indulging in its fiveor seven-course experience. A visit to Grotto Tavern is a must for those seeking fine dining with a twist. (+356) 7945 3258 grottotavern.net

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grottotavernrestaurant

thegrottotavern

ELEVATE YOUR JOURNEY WITH AIRPORT EXCLUSIVES

LAND YOUR MOMENT

????????

Welcome!

Merħba!

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AIRLINE NEWS

Time to meet!

Charmaine Pace PA to the Chief Operations Officer

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR ROLE? My favourite aspect of my role is having oversight of the company’s operations. I play a crucial role in enabling the COO to concentrate on the airline’s operational strategy and leadership, which requires me to be efficient, reliable and proactive.

WHAT DOES YOUR DAY USUALLY ENTAIL? Managing the COO’s calendar is a priority, ensuring appointments, travel and deadlines are optimised.

I handle communications, reports, presentations, agendas and follow-ups, while adapting to the dynamic, high-pressure nature of operations. I also support the operations team, maintaining discretion and integrity in unexpected situations.

My extensive aviation experience has helped me build key industry relationships, facilitating smooth communication and operations.

YOUR TOP TIP TO SOMEONE TRAVELLING TO MALTA: My advice is to visit Valletta, a UNESCO-listed capital, for its baroque architecture, St John's Co-Cathedral, and the Grand Harbour views. Another interesting visit would be to the ancient city of Mdina, known as the Silent City, with its narrow streets and medieval ambiance. I would also recommend visiting the Megalithic Temples, including Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. Of course, I suggest trying the local cuisine. Don’t miss out on pastizzi (savoury pastries), rabbit stew, or ftira (Maltese bread), and pair them with a glass of local wine. Enjoy!

YOUR FAVOURITE MALTESE PHRASE/WORD: "Grazzi ħafna” (thank you very much) is a simple yet warm way to show gratitude in Maltese, and you are likely to hear it often around the island. Using it while interacting with locals can bring a smile to their faces and adds a touch of connection during your visit.

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AIRLINE ????????

NEWS

Pet-in-cabin comfort "

As a frequent traveller with my miniature poodle, Roy, KM Malta Airlines has always been my first choice as it is very pet-friendly and offers a great service. Being able to take Roy into the cabin with me puts my mind at ease and makes flying so much easier. The staff are always accommodating, making sure both of us are comfortable throughout. Whether it’s a short hop or a longer flight, KM Malta Airlines consistently delivers a smooth and stress-free experience. I fully recommend the airline for any fellow pet owners looking for reliability and friendliness.

"

Frequent flyer Ruth Zammit Debono on KM Malta Airlines' pet-in-cabin service.

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PASSAGGI #4 v6.indd 78

21/01/2025 11:01

Step into a world of rewards!

Introducing KM Rewards – the KM Malta Airlines’ loyalty programme – designed to reward its community on purchases made through the website by earning and spending SkyBux, gaining Status Points and moving through Tiers.

WHAT ARE SkyBux? SkyBux is the official currency of KM Rewards.

You can earn and redeem SkyBux when purchasing flight tickets through the website. They will be automatically earned once the ticket is used.

WHAT ARE STATUS POINTS? Apart from earning SkyBux to spend, our loyalty programme also allows you to gain Status Points, which will determine the current and future tier membership level.

You have 12 months to earn enough Status Points to maintain your tier, upgrade, or downgrade to another tier. This qualification period starts when you join KM Rewards or earn a new tier.

WHAT ARE TIER LEVELS?

Join

KM Rewards Unlock exclusive benefits and earn rewards, and so much more, each time you fly!

Scan below to register

You will begin your journey as a Member and progress through the tiers, from Traveller to Explorer, where the benefits get better.

But the ultimate destination? Pioneer status – where you enjoy exclusive rewards and privileges.

DOWNLOAD THE KM REWARDS APP

Dive into your own personalised KM Rewards dashboard, packed with everything you need to know: your Membership number, your SkyBux balance, Tier level, and Status Points earned.

Or visit kmmaltairlines.com/en/km-rewards

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FLIGHT INFORMATION

KM MALTA AIRLINES DIRECT FLIGHTS

Amsterdam

Berlin

London – Heathrow London – Gatwick Brussels

Düsseldorf Prague

Paris – Charles de Gaulle

Munich

Paris – Orly

Vienna Zurich

Lyon Milan – Linate

Rome – Fuminicio

Madrid

Catania

Malta

SUMMER SCHEDULE 2025 Mon

Tue

Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

Sun

Est. time

Amsterdam (AMS)

3hr25

Berlin (BER)

2h55

Brussels (BRU)

3h05

Catania (CTA)

0h45

Düsseldorf (DUS)

2h55

London (LHR)

3h40

London (LGW)

3h20

Lyon (LYS)

2h25

Madrid (MAD)

3h00

Milan (LIN)

2h00

Munich (MUC)

2h30

Paris (CDG)

3h00

Paris (ORY)

2h55

Prague (PRG)

2h30

Rome (FCO)

1h35

Vienna (VIE)

2h20

Zurich (ZRH)

2h25

* From 1st April until 30th May 2025. Information is subject to change.

FLIGHT????????

INFORMATION

FLIGHT AND COMPANY INFORMATION INFORMAZZJONI DWAR IT-TITJIRA U L-KUMPANIJA

Welcome on board KM Malta Airlines

Merħba abbord il-KM Malta Airlines

We’re excited to have you with us and want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable flight. Here are a few important tips to keep everything smooth and safe for everyone.

Aħna ħerqanin li inti tkun magħna, u rridu nkunu żguri li jkollok titjira komda u pjaċevoli. Hawnhekk issib ftit pariri importanti biex jinżamm kollox pinna u sigur għal kulħadd.

OUR MAIN AIRPORT HUB IĊ-ĊENTRU EWLIENI TAL-AJRUPORT TAGĦNA Malta International Airport (MLA), the main hub for KM Malta Airlines, first opened in 1958 as Luqa Airport and has since grown into a modern, world-class facility. Playing a crucial role in connecting the island to hundreds of destinations, MLA supports KM Malta Airlines’ extensive network of flights. Guided by core values, the airport ensures a seamless travel experience for all passengers. By working sustainably and collaboratively with its partners, MLA continues to enhance Malta's connectivity and deliver exceptional service to travellers worldwide.

L-Ajruport Internazzjonali ta’ Malta (MLA), iċ-ċentru ewlieni għall-KM Malta Airlines, fetaħ għall-ewwel darba fl-1958 u minn dakinhar kiber f’faċilità moderna u ta’ klassi dinjija. Bi rwol kruċjali biex jgħaqqad ’il gżiritna ma’ mijiet ta’ destinazzjonijiet, l-MLA jappoġġja x-xibka estensiva tat-titjiriet tal-KM Malta Airlines. Iggwidat minn valuri tal-qalba, l-ajruport jiżgura esperjenza ta’ vjaġġ trankwill għall-passiġġieri kollha. Permezz tal-ħidma sostenibbli u kollaborattiva mal-imsieħba tiegħu, l-MLA jissokta jsaħħaħ l-konnettività ta’ Malta u jagħti servizz eċċezzjonali lill-vjaġġaturi mad-dinja kollha.

OUR FLEET IL-FLOTTA TAGĦNA AIRBUS 320NEO

QUANTITY: 8 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 180 ENGINES: CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE OFF WEIGHT: 73.5 / 77 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: MACH 0.78 (450KNOTS, 833KM/HR) RANGE: 6,500KM, 3,500 NMI, 4,025 SMI FUEL CONSUMPTION: 1.8 LITRES PER 100KM PER PASSENGER* * Based on a 1,000NM (1,860KM) journey with 180 pax and bags.

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FLIGHT INFORMATION

A quick heads-up!

Inħejjuk bil-quddiem!

SEATBELT SAFETY

Your seatbelt is here for your protection!

Please fasten it whenever the seatbelt sign is on or while the aircraft is moving. For your safety, we recommend keeping it fastened throughout the flight. If you’re travelling with a child under two, they’ll need to be secured on your lap with an infant seatbelt, which our crew will be happy to provide.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Only alcohol served by our crew is allowed on board, and it’s only for passengers aged 17 and over. Remember, alcohol can have a stronger effect at high altitudes, so please enjoy responsibly. In line with international regulations, we may prevent intoxicated passengers from boarding or continuing their journey.

PHOTOGRAPHY ETIQUETTE

We want everyone to feel comfortable, so please respect your fellow passengers and crew. Please do not take photos or videos on board without their verbal permission.

NO SMOKING ZONE

For the safety and comfort of everyone, smoking – including e-cigarettes – is strictly prohibited at any time when on board the aircraft. If you see anyone smoking, let our crew know immediately.

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IS-SIGURTÀ TAĊ-ĊINTURIN

Iċ-ċinturin tiegħek qiegħed għall-protezzjoni tiegħek! Jekk jogħġbok aqflu kull meta s-sinjal taċ-ċinturin ikun mixgħul jew sakemm ikun miexi l-ajruplan. Għas-sigurtà tiegħek, aħna nirrakkomandaw li żżommu maqful matul it-titjira kollha. Jekk qed tivvjaġġa bl-ulied taħt is-sentejn, dawn għandhom jinżammu fuq ħoġrok b’ċinturin għat-trabi li l-ekwipaġġ ikun kuntent li jagħtik.

IL-KONSUM TAL-ALKOĦOL

Abbord huwa permessibbli biss l-alkoħol servut mill-ekwipaġġ tagħna, u dan qiegħed biss għallpassiġġieri li għandhom 17-il sena jew iktar. Ftakar, f’altitudnijiet għolja l-alkoħol jista’ jkollu effetti aqwa, għalhekk, jekk jogħġbok, ħu gost b’mod responsabbli.

Skont ir-regolamenti internazzjonali, nistgħu nipprevjenu lill-passiġġieri fis-sakra milli jitilgħu abbord jew milli jissuktaw bil-vjaġġ tagħhom.

L-ETIKETT TAL-FOTOGRAFIJA

Irridu li kulħadd iħossu komdu, għalhekk, jekk jogħġbok, irrispetta lill-passiġġieri ta’ miegħek u lillekwipaġġ. Jekk jogħġbok tiħux ritratti jew filmati abbord mingħajr il-permess verbali tagħhom.

POST LI FIH MA TPEJJIPX

Għas-sigurtà u l-kumdità ta’ kulħadd, it-tipjip – inklużi s-sigaretti elettroniċi – huwa pprojbit f’kull waqt abbord l-ajruplan. Jekk tara lil xi ħadd ipejjep, għarraf lill-ekwipaġġ tagħna minnufih.

ELECTRONIC ????????

DEVICES

USING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDs) L-UŻU TAT-TAGĦMIR ELETTRONIKU PORTABBLI (PEDs)

PEDs IN FLIGHT MODE

Any devices that can send or receive data by wireless means, such as smartphones, tablets and e-readers must be switched to flight mode before departure and can be used throughout the flight. If data transmission capability cannot be switched off while the device is operating, the device itself must be switched off completely for the duration of the flight. Bluetooth connectivity can be used during all phases of flight.

LARGER DEVICES (LAPTOPS, LARGE TABLETS)

These should be turned off and stowed away during taxi, take-off and landing, but you’re free to use them during the cruise.

Wi-Fi

The use of Wi-Fi with flight mode enabled is allowed on aircraft which are equipped with an in-flight entertainment system. Follow any crew instructions regarding connectivity.

USE OF HEADPHONES

Headphones may be used during all phases of flight, however we ask you to remove them during the safety briefing. Customers sitting in an emergency exit row must refrain from using headphones during taxi, take-off and landing.

IL-PEDs FUQ IL-MODALITÀ TAT-TITJIRA

Kwalunkwe tagħmir elettroniku li jista’ jibgħat jew jirċievi d-data mingħajr il-ħtieġa ta’ wajer, bħall-ismartphones, it-tablets u l-e-readers għandhom jinqalbu għall-modalità tat-titjira qabel it-tluq, u hekk jistgħu jintużaw matul ittitjira kollha. Jekk il-funzjoni tat-trasmissjoni tad-data ma tistax tintefa waqt li t-tagħmir elettroniku jkun mixgħul, it-tagħmir innifsu għandu jintefa għalkollox tul it-titjira kollha. Il-konnettività tal-Bluetooth tista’ tintuża tul il-fażijiet kollha tat-titjira.

IT-TAGĦMIR ELETTRONIKU TA’ DAQS IKBAR (LAPTOPS, TABLETS KBAR)

Dawn għandhom jintfew u jintrefgħu matul is-sewqan, it-tlugħ u l-inżul, iżda tista’ tużahom b’mod liberu tul il-kruċiera.

IL-Wi-Fi

L-użu tal-Wi-Fi bil-modalità tat-titjira mixgħula huwa permessibbli fuq l-ajruplani mgħammra bis-sistema taddivertiment ta’ matul it-titjira. Segwi kull istruzzjoni talekwipaġġ rigward il-konnettività.

L-UŻU TAL-HEADPHONES

Il-headphones jistgħu jintużaw tul il-fażijiet kollha tat-titjira, madankollu nitolbuk tneħħihom waqt l-ispjegazzjoni tas-sigurtà. Il-klijenti bilqiegħda f’xi filliera tal-ħruġ tal-emerġenza m’għandhomx jużaw ilheadphones matul is-sewqan, it-tlugħ u l-inżul.

DAMAGED OR OVERHEATING DEVICES

IT-TAGĦMIR ELETTRONIKU BIL-ĦSARA JEW LI JKUN SAĦAN IŻŻEJJED

We kindly ask that all passengers follow these guidelines for the safety and comfort of everyone on board. Have a fantastic flight with KM Malta Airlines!

Ġentilment nitolbu li l-passiġġieri kollha jsegwu dawn il-linji gwida għas-sigurtà u l-kumdità ta’ kulħadd abbord.

Nixtiqulek titjira fantastika mal-KM Malta Airlines!

If any device is damaged, starts to overheat or produces smoke, is lost or falls into the seat structure, please notify our crew immediately.

Do not try to retrieve it yourself if it falls between seats; we’ll take care of it. Carriage of damaged, defective or recalled lithium batteries or devices is prohibited on board our flights.

Jekk xi tagħmir elettroniku jkollu l-ħsara, jibda jisħon jew idaħħan, jintilef jew jaqa’ fl-istruttura tal-pultruna, jekk jogħġbok għarraf lill-ekwipaġġ tagħna minnufih.

Tippruvax issibu inti jekk jaqa’ bejn il-pultruni; nieħdu ħsiebu aħna. Il-ġarr ta’ batteriji tal-litju jew tagħmir elettroniku bil-ħsara, difettuż jew wieħed li ntalab jinġabar lura huwa pprojbit abbord it-titjiriet tagħna.

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Hungry for more?

Pre-order your favourite meal before your next KM Malta Airlines flight and have it delivered straight to your seat. or visit kmmaltairlines.com/inflight-catering

OVER 150

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