First December 2018

CHRISTMAS ISSUE | DECEMBER 2018

LOOKING BACK AT 2018 EMMA MUSCAT, STEVE MERCIECA, NEIL AGIUS, LEANNE BARTOLO HOW TO MAKE NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS...

AND KEEP THEM

UPCYCLED WRAPPING DECREASE YOUR WASTE THIS CHRISTMAS DAVID PISANI THREE DECADES OF PHOTOGRAPHING VALLETTA FESTIVE IDEAS A GUIDE TO GIFTS AND HOME DECORATION

Editor’s note

JOANNA DEMARCO Editor

Editor JOANNA DEMARCO jdemarco@independent.com.mt Advertising Manager SEAN ELLUL sellul@independent.com.mt Advertising Executive ILARIA MOUSU ialmousu@independent.com.mt Designer CONRAD BONDIN cbondin@independent.com.mt Production manager ANDRE CAMILLERI acamilleri@independent.com.mt Publisher STANDARD PUBLICATIONS, Standard House, Birkikara Hill, St Julian’s.

Tel: 00356-2134-5888 Printer PRINT IT E-mail first@independent.com.mt Online www.independent.com.mt Facebook firstmagazine.

Cover details: Mira wearing Blazer and top from Marks & Spencer. Skirt from Karen Millen. Corset from Aldo Shoes & Accessories.

Photography by Matthew B Spiteri.

First is published as a complimentary magazine with The Malta Independent on Sunday and is not to be sold separately.

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Follow us on Instagram @firstmagazinemalta Want to be a contributor? Email us on first@independent.com.mt

nd, just like that, it’s December and another year has passed. It has been an intense year for Malta in many respects: politically, environmentally, culturally – the list goes on. As always, here’s to hoping that 2019 will be a better year in many ways.

Focusing on the more uplifting instances, in this issue we speak to four individuals, for whom 2018 has been significant for one reason or another. From teenager Emma Muscat, who shot to stardom in a matter of months, to swimmer Neil Agius who raised awareness about marine pollution by swimming all around Malta and, before doing so, spent a good part of the year training for it.

Being more aware about the footprints we leave behind us, and making the world a little bit better by starting with ourselves, is the recurring theme throughout this issue which, I would like think, ends the year on a positive note.

In our ‘Upcycled Wrapping’ feature we offer some idea for upcycling material around your home to reduce waste this Christmas.

Dorianne Mamo also puts the spotlight on the brand Monsoon, renowned for the positive social impact it creates. Gabriel Schembri writes about his latest trip to the Galapagos Islands in this issue’s Travel Diary, a place which demonstrated to him the benefits that are reaped when we care for our natural environment.

Don’t miss our interview with life coach Claire Bugelli, who gives advice on how to slowly, slowly turn well-intentioned New Year resolutions into reality. Finally, Christmas time is a season for caring, whether it is by respecting ourselves and others on the road, looking out for those for whom this season may be a struggle or by sharing a warm meal with our nearest and dearest; subjects which are touched upon throughout these pages.

I hope you enjoy this issue, and wish all of you a lovely Christmas and a great start to the New Year.

Contributors

MARTIN CALLEJA URRY Martin is a freelance writer and researcher with a particular interest in social sciences, who has been contributing to local publications for the past eight years and running

MATTHEW SPITERI Matthew is a local, award-winning fashion photographer. Find him on his ‘Matthew B Spiteri photographer’ Facebook page.

LAURA SCHEMBRI Laura is a wordsmith, bookworm and dog enthusiast. She takes pride in carefully curating her dog’s Instagram account @the_nelly_diaries

DORIANNE MAMO Dorianne is a content creator and a fashion stylist. She’s interested in all things fashion, travel and beauty and blogs on whatever she finds intriguing on www.askdorianne. com

DAYNA CLARKE Dayna is a senior speech and language therapist working in Malta. Having traveled around Europe extensively, she has fallen in love with Malta and its people.

When she is not in the clinic, Dayna enjoys writing, painting and learning Maltese.

GABRIEL SCHEMBRI Gabriel is a journalist and book author currently gaining inspiration whilst travelling the world.

WE ARE GIVING AWAY

Nina Ricci Bella Christmas coffret containing a 50ml Eau de Toilette and a Nina Ricci lipstick courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery.

FOR A CHANCE TO WIN, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION: OTHER THAN THE THREE ALREADY MENTIONED, IN WHAT OTHER WAYS CAN WE WRAP OUR GIFTS THIS CHRISTMAS IN ORDER TO DECREASE WASTE? Like First magazine on Facebook and send your answer the good, old-fashioned way, by post, to: FIRST COMPETITION, The Malta Independent on Sunday, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s, by 31 December.

WINNER FROM THE NOVEMBER ISSUE Maria Mercieca from Sliema has won a Prada Candy EDP Set 50ml courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery.

CONTENTS [T HE C HR IST MAS ISSUE 201 8 ]

12.

47.

76.

David Pisani’s upcoming exhibition Vanishing Valletta

CONVERSATION WITH

UPCYCLED WRAPPING

TRAVEL DIARY

Steve Hili

Ideas for more sustainable & thoughtful gift-wrapping

The Galapagos Islands

16.

LOOKING BACK AT 2018 Emma Muscat, Leanne Bartolo, Neil Agius & Steve Mercieca

26.

FASHION The Countdown

50.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

41.

GIFT GUIDE Ideas of where to shop this Christmas

66.

YOUR HOME THIS CHRISTMAS

VALLETTA

84.

TRADITIONAL FOOD

...and how to keep them!

Ideas for home decor this festive season

Perfecting the traditional mincemeat

58.

73.

86.

Battling the holiday season blues

Chicken Roulade by The Mediterranean Culinary Academy

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY The photographers’ favourite shot

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62.

AWARENESS

FOOD

INTERVIEW

CONVERSATION WITH Steve Hilii

FIRST SPOKE TO LONDON-BASED COMEDIAN STEVE HILI, WHO WILL BE FLYING DOWN TO MALTA LATER THIS YEAR TO PERFORM IN THE ANNUAL COMEDY KNIGHTS SHOW

Interview by Joanna Demarco. Photography by Victor Patrascan YOU SEEM TO BE INVOLVED IN MANY THINGS, STEVE, SO I’M CURIOUS TO KNOW WHAT A TYPICAL DAY IS LIKE FOR YOU AT THE MOMENT. A typical day doesn’t really exist! I try to do a bit of writing in the mornings, which might be some stand-up comedy for myself, or someone else, or scripts for projects such as Comedy Knights, and then I’m usually off performing some stand-up somewhere in the evening. Early in the week I might be working through new material or trying out some ideas, and at the weekends I might be gigging anywhere in the country. I’m also working with a director on a new Stand-Up special, and am doing a lot of preparation for a couple of new projects that should launch in the new year. So that takes up most of my time. Apart from that I always try to take at least a day off a week to just chill out, meet friends and generally enjoy London life.

IS YOUR MOVE TO LONDON SOMETHING RECENT? IF SO, WHY THE MOVE? AND HOW HAS LONDON BEEN FOR YOU SO FAR? I moved to London almost four years ago because the work I wanted to do – mainly stand-up – was not sustainable in Malta. And it’s gone well.

Obviously, it’s tough – you have to try to be on top of your game all the time.

Plus, London is notoriously expensive but I’m managing to make a living as a professional comedian and that is what I wanted to do! I do miss Malta, though: especially my friends and family. But doing projects like the Adult Panto in summer or Comedy Knights at Christmas really helps me scratch my Maltese itch.

YOU HAVE BEEN CREATING WORK FOR NETWORKS SUCH AS THE BBC AND SKY. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THESE AND DO YOU HAVE ANY EXCITING PROJECTS COMING UP? I’m very proud of the work that I create, be that comedy performing or writing. In fact, I’ve still got the first envelope that my first-ever BBC cheque came in. I’ve written for comedy shows and, surprisingly to many people, I’ve been shortlisted for some CBBC stuff too! A very special production was Scared of Santa in which American and UK-based comedians dissected Christmas and how it is celebrated. Not only was I one of the featured comedians on that but my material was used as well – and that was awesome!

YOUR RECENT SHOW HOW TO BE A LONDONER IN AN HOUR HAS BEEN DEEMED SUCCESSFUL, AND IS, MOST PROBABLY A SHOW TO WHICH ALL MALTESE CAN RELATE. BRIEFLY, WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE TIPS ON HOW TO BE A LONDONER IN AN HOUR? How to be a Londoner in an Hour is a show that I wrote and directed and coproduced with David Persiva and fellow Comedy Knight Chris Dingli (who came over to London for it). It was a lot a fun and we have some big plans for it going forward. Three tips on surviving London would be: Don’t smile on the tube, learn to be passive aggressive and enjoy how amazing it is!

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THIS YEAR’S COMEDY KNIGHTS THAT IS PERHAPS DIFFERENT FROM PAST SHOWS, AND WHAT TOPICS WILL YOU BE COVERING? Everything and anything! When it comes to material that we can spoof, Malta is the gift that keeps on giving. What is great about Comedy Knights is that we can, if needs be, change things to respond to current events. As the writers of the show, Chris and I know that our work is not really done until the curtain call on the last day, so everything is always very fresh.

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PROMOTION

CONSERVING THE GALLARIJA IN MARSAMXETT THE PLANNING AUTHORITY IN COLLABORATION WITH THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY FOR EU FUNDS AND SOCIAL DIALOGUE HAS LAUNCHED A €2 MILLION BALCONY GRANT SCHEME FOR RESIDENCES ON THE MARSAMXETT OF THE CAPITAL VALLETTA. The scheme seeks to help alleviate the financial cost of restoring and maintaining traditional balconies, especially those made out of timber, in order to encourage their continued use.

The grant scheme is being made available for open and closed balconieswithin properties that are used as residences.

Residents who are interested in benefitting from this scheme need to engage the services of a Perit.

The scheme will close on the 31st January 2019 or earlier if the funds are exhausted.

INSIDE

LOOKING BACK AT 2018, LOOKING FORWARD TO 2019 FIRST spoke to four people for whom 2018 has been significant in one way or another, and asked them about what they have learnt, the challenges they have faced and their plans for the coming year.

Words by Laura Schembri

Neil Agius, #waveofchange campaigner and swimmer he idea of swimming around Malta had been on the mind of swimming champion Neil Agius for the last six years. “It was something I had dreamt about, talked about and visualised for a long time and finally it happened,” he told First.

In 2018, he teamed up with swimmers Gilbert Bartolo and Richard Zerafa to support the initiative #WaveForChange and turn his dream into a reality. The swim around Malta was to be used to shed light on the growing plastic pollution problem around the world.

Neil’s training began five months before the actual swim around Malta, with a typical week of training consisting of four sessions of approximately two-and-a-half hours at the National Pool and then an additional two

“SWIMMING ROUND MALTA HAS TAUGHT ME THAT, WITH A POSITIVE MINDSET, YOU CAN OVERCOME ANYTHING AND THAT YOUR BODY IS CAPABLE OF DOING ANYTHING, AS LONG AS YOU BELIEVE YOU CAN” 16

Photo by Joanna Demarco

INSIDE

sessions in the sea, which would amount to around eight hours each. An essential part of the preparation was the night sea swims: because the total swim would take an estimated 24 hours, it was important that they experienced swimming at night.

Success is often described as 90 per cent mental and 10 per cent physical and for Neil this could not have been more accurate, when it came to taking on this challenge. As the day turned to night, his biggest problem was focusing his attention not on the hours that still lay ahead but rather on finding appropriate distractions – such as the tune of a song or the patches of glowing plankton that got caught on his arms.

“Sunrise was another special part of the swim,” he recalled. “It meant we were more than half way through. It meant that I could finally take in

and actually see my surroundings. As the first rays of light came over the beautiful towering cliffs, a wave of energy, motivation and appreciation came over me. During the long hours of training I had always said that if we could get through the night, nothing would stop us from completing the 70km loop around the Island.”

And, indeed, complete it he did. His favourite part of the whole journey – apart from the overwhelming satisfaction of completing the swim – was the impact it had on environmental awareness through the campaign #WaveForChange.

“Swimming round Malta has taught me that, with a positive mindset, you can overcome anything and that your body is capable of doing anything, as long as you believe you can,” he said. ▶ 17

INSIDE

“I HAD TO OVERCOME FEARS, BE INDEPENDENT AND BE STRONG” Emma Muscat, singer This year has seen Emma Muscat emerge as a force in both the Maltese and Italian music scene, after successfully taking part in the Italian competition show Amici.

From there she went on to sign a deal with Warner Music Italia and in July she released her first album, Moments, which she wrote and composed herself, based on her own experiences. She looks back at these two moments as her favourites in this jampacked year – a year she considers both rewarding and challenging.

“I had to overcome fears, be independent and be strong”, she told First. “I discovered a new person inside me that I would have never known if Amici hadn’t happened. My life is definitely more hectic than it was before, because I am constantly travelling to Italy for various occasions. I have responsibilities, expectations and deadlines that I must achieve and all this is very testing. However, no matter how busy my life is, I take every challenge in my stride as long as my focus is music!”

Having also had the opportunity to promote her album in Italy during the summer, at the same time meeting hundreds of fans, she finds the fact that she can “reach out to so many people through music immensely rewarding.” She credits the several messages of love and support she receives daily, for inspiring her to continue to follow her dreams.

Despite plenty of highs, the year has not been without its obstacles. Emma told First how she felt homesick while she was performing on Amici and had trouble understanding and communicating in a foreign language while on the show. As a result of having to deal with criticism, she learnt how to use it as a tool for motivation. Her newly-found fame also introduced Emma to a more hectic lifestyle, with her constant travelling back and forth to Italy to honour work commitments.

She says she learnt three things in 2018: “Giving up will never get you anywhere. Always go with your gut feeling, otherwise you may have regrets, and always believe in yourself because dreams can come true,” she said.

Emma has managed to navigate the often turbulent waters of Pop stardom, effortlessly performing with some of the biggest names in the business such as Laura Pausini, Eros Ramazzoti and our very own Joseph Calleja.

So what is next for the young star? Having just released the Christmas edition of her debut album, which includes all the original tracks as well as some of her favourite Christmas carols, she is now already hard at work on her second album, composing and writing music in English as well as in Italian. ▶ 18

INSIDE Bikini Fitness PRO Title, an honour she says she will “cherish for life”. She continues to keep her feet on the ground, dividing her time between teaching at St Martin’s, her classes at Warehouse and competing internationally.

“Something that 2018 has taught me is that there is never the right time to do things. You just have to grab the bull by the horns and go for it. Risk, tweak things around and make it happen. I’ve also learned not to be my own limitation and to challenge my fears. There are no regrets in trying, irrelevant of the result. Winners are doers!”

“I GOT TO FINALLY DO WHAT I HAD BEEN PUTTING OFF FOR YEARS AND YEARS. I TOOK THE PLUNGE AND OPENED MY VERY OWN FITNESS STUDIO AND THEN ONE THING LED TO ANOTHER. 2018 HAS BEEN A YEAR OF PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH” Leanne Bartolo, teacher, trainer and WFF European Bikini Champion For WFF European Bikini Champion and schoolteacher Leanne Bartolo, 2018 was a year of professional and personal growth. She competed for – and won – the PRO title internationally, was chosen to judge prestigious international competitions and opened her fitness studio, Warehouse. In three words, she described 2018 as having been ‘productive, successful and fulfilling’.

“It was by far my most productive year yet,” she said. “I got to finally do what I had been putting off for years and years. I took the plunge and opened my very own fitness studio and then one thing led to another. 2018 has been a year of personal and professional growth.”

Her journey to becoming a professional athlete at international level began only a year-and-a-half ago, when nutritionist Susan Borg encouraged her to compete locally. Not only was this a physical challenge but also a personal one, as it pushed Leanne out of her comfort zone and forced her to overcome the limitations she had put on herself years before. She now trains all year round, up to twice a day for 12 weeks before a competition, 20

combining strength and cardio training to support shredding the fat and building some muscle.

This year has taught Leanne that there is no better time to chase your dreams and pursue ambitions than the present. She also believes that there are “no regrets for trying”. After all, it is trying that allowed her to win gold in the European Championships in June and the unbelievable opportunity to hold the PRO card and the Malta flag along with more than 60 other countries.

Next year, Leanne wants to continue making Malta proud by winning more international titles.

She credits the constant support she has received from different entities as her driving force and motivation to work harder than ever. One of these is Malta International Airport, which has made it possible for her to compete in three up-coming, highly prestigious, competitions in Shanghai, Mexico and England. Away from the sports scene, Leanne also has plans to start reading for a Masters degree in Psychology.

Life has not changed much for Leanne since becoming the first Maltese woman to win the WFF

Photo by Alenka Falzon

INSIDE

Steve Mercieca, co-founder of Quicklets and Zanzi Homes or Steve Mercieca, co-founder of Zanzi homes and Quicklets, 2018 could be described as an ‘extremely exciting’ year.

Almost five years ago, Steve built his business model with the idea of disrupting the real estate industry through the introduction of new technology, having a diverse work environment and, most importantly, embracing sustainability.

As Steve expressed it, they wanted to put their profit to good purpose.”

Today, Steve reflects that, as time goes by, this very idea is becoming more and more in-sync.

“We now have people who have been with us for years,” he said. “They have attracted more awesome people and we are all in tune with the same orchestrated purpose.”

When it comes to consumer social responsi-

22

bility, Steve maintains that his business goes beyond the standard duty: “The message is not only delivered but actually acted on,” he said. He believes that getting involved, and understanding which areas of the environment need attention plays an essential part in deciding where to

“THEY HAVE ATTRACTED MORE AWESOME PEOPLE AND WE ARE ALL IN TUNE WITH THE SAME ORCHESTRATED PURPOSE”

focus their energy. This led to the launch of their foundation, the QLZH Foundation, at the beginning of 2018, through which they have hosted many events, planted 2,000 trees and organised 12 clean-ups.

This year, the company has also gone on to win a European Business Award in Poland and an International Property Award in London. Asked about what the year has taught him, Steve laughed. “It has been a rollercoaster,” he said, going over the year on both a professional and personal level. “I’ve learned a lot from our team and experience at work. We have had a lot of hands-on sessions together, both on the field and in the office.

“I also learned a lot when I was in Bali with my family. It’s incredible what a Yoga-instructor wife can teach you both about peace of mind as well as posture! My daughter, India, taught me to be more patient. You’d think it would be the other way round but it’s not with me! And then there was our boxer dog, Jackie, who died at the age of nine. I believe I learnt the most from her – above all she taught me to never give up.”

Steve said that he found it difficult to choose his favourite moment of the year. “It’s too hard to pick one,” he said, “but there was one extremely special moment in 2018... the results of which will have to wait until 2019, though!”

He looks forward to 2019 as being possibly the biggest year yet for the company, marking their fifth year in business.

PROMOTION

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PROMOTION

1 MILLION LUCKY & LADY MILLION LUCKY THE NEW FRAGRANCES BY PACO RABANNE

2008. The international financial crisis hits. Paco Rabanne comes to the rescue with a scandalous gold bar, triggering instant global pandemonium. An arresting design conceived by prodigy Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance, a designer who overturns the fragrance world with his cult take on a gold ingot. An object that doubles as artwork, as desirable as the fragrance inside.

2010. Boy meets girl. Our audacious hero is joined by his female companion, the seductive Lady Million. Sensual white-floral meets carnal woody warmth in the prism of a shimmering diamond. An addiction to danger, led by a fearless femme fatale. Driven by inherent confidence, nothing stands on her path to indulgence.

Ten years later. 60 million gold ingots produced. A Gold Vault that puts the Federal Reserve to shame. But the Gold Fever doesn‘t stop there! To celebrate the 10th Million anniversary, an intoxicating wave of addiction rolls in. 1 Million Lucky and Lady Million Lucky is here to redefine luck as you know it. Bold and unexpected, it empowers you to seize control of your luck — and your destiny. You only have one life, so dare to enjoy it as the LUCKIEST person alive!

(Traditional) luck is often left to chance. But what about luck as a feeling? That euphoric high that liberates you from within? That delirious sensation when the world is suddenly your ally? With Million Lucky, you have the Lucky Touch. Your fate is in your hands and you better take advantage. Life is a game. It‘s time to be its LUCKY winner!

When you have it all, you want more. When you have gold, you want platinum. With Million Lucky, iconic gold is upgraded by the rarest of metals: platinum. Pure, dense, and extraordinary. An ode to Paco Rabanne, the rebellious metallurgist who embodied the Million fantasy.

No vision was too ludicrous, no metal too precious. Fun fact: he once used 9 kilos of gold and 300 carats of diamonds to design a dress for Francoise Hardy, which she could hardly walk in. Casual. Practical.

Unforgettable.

1 Million Lucky is an exhilarating rush that grips the senses. Biting you with zesty green plum. Captivating you with masculine woodiness.

Jolting your desires with luscious hazelnut. All at the same time. One inhale and the world is yours for the taking. Long live the LUCKY ones!

Lady Million Lucky is a rose revolution that collapses your boundaries, making room but for pure sensation. A burst of raspberry rushes in, teasing you with its delectable gourmandize. Voluptuous sandalwood pushes the limits. In euphoric alchemy, an addiction to LUCK is born.

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FASHION

THE C

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FASHION

COUNTDOWN

STYLING: JEANDOR FARRUGIA PHOTOGRAPHY: MATTHEW B SPITERI HAIR: LUANA CASSIBA MAKE-UP: KIM BAJADA MODELS: MIRA CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES: ALDO SHOES & ACCESSORIES, MARKS&SPENCER, KAREN MILLEN

Dress from KAREN MILLEN 27

FASHION

Fur jacket from KAREN MILLEN 28

FASHION

Suit from KAREN MILLEN 29

FASHION

Coat from KAREN MILLEN Necklace and cap from ALDO SHOES & ACCESSORIES 30

FASHION

Blazer and top from MARKS & SPENCER Skirt from KAREN MILLEN Corset from ALDO SHOES & ACCESSORIES 32

FASHION

Top and skirt from MARKS & SPENCER 33

FASHION

s time goes by, people are becoming increasingly aware of the source, journey and impact of the clothes they are wearing, preferring to spend more on items that are ethically made. We all aspire to be the best people we can in all that we do, and perhaps that is why ethical fashion is so attractive: leaving behind a positive social impact and benefiting communities, the environment and the world in general.

Learning the honest story of a brand can affect your decision as to whether you should wear something with which you agree – or not. It was

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pleasantly surprising to learn the story of Monsoon, a brand which, although a global name, has remained true to its roots, not merely creating beautiful items of clothing but, at the same time, keeping itself affiliated with progressive ethics and giving back to communities in more ways than one.

The story of Monsoon begins in the early 1970s, when founder Peter Simon embarked on what turned out to be a life-changing road trip around Asia. Following this trip, Simon launched the first Monsoon boutique in London, sharing the colours, inspiration and marvels he had discovered on his travels. The clothes were bo-

hemian in nature, created in Indian villages with hand-loom-made cotton fabrics, organic vegetable dyes and artisanal block-printing techniques.

From that day on, this precious hand-crafting technique has become intrinsically linked with the brand, through its nature arguing that – like a breath of fresh air – conscious fashion produced with love is still appreciated. By purchasing Monsoon clothing, especially its Artisan brand, the customer is helping to sustain age-old hand-craft techniques and traditions, intrinsic to skilled craftspeople throughout the Asian continent.

The hand-crafting is completed in a number of ways: through factories, where the brand oversees codes of conduct, in small local workshops and even in the homes of the workers themselves. A designated ethical compliance team monitors the pay and working conditions of the staff, in order to guarantee fair trade.

That firm belief in ethics has led the Monsoon Accessorize brand to become a founding member of the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) that has been the driving force behind sustainable improvements in working conditions and liveli-

FASHION

WEARING A BEAUTIFUL DRESS, CREATING A POSITIVE SOCIAL IMPACT

hoods in the countries where they do business.

In addition, two decades ago the company formed a trust called the Monsoon Accessorize Trust, supporting projects for more than 150,000 women and children in Asia in income-genera-

tion, healthcare, and education. The initiatives include a programme of healthcare provision in the remote villages of Rajasthan (India), special support for a Delhi hostel sheltering homeless children and an initiative to help rebuild the silk

FIRST LEARNS HOW ETHICAL FASHION BRAND MONSOON CREATES CLOTHES WHICH ARE FEELGOOD NOT ONLY FOR THEIR QUALITY AND LOOK BUT ALSO BECAUSE OF THEIR REGARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND PROACTIVENESS

Words by Joanna Demarco

cultivation industry in Afghanistan, amongst others.

In 2018, in a socially-conscious world, it is not only about wearing a gorgeous dress but also who and what we are supporting by buying it.

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FASHION

36

CLOTHES: MONSOON MALTA ACCESSORIES: ACCESSORIZE MALTA PHOTOGRAPHER: GEOFFREY ZARB ADAMI SPECS & SUNGLASSES: TUA CO OPTICIANS LOCATION: INHAWI HOSTEL ST JULIANS MAKEUP: GRAZIELLA USING REVLON MODEL: AMY ZAHRA @SUPERNOVA MODEL MANAGEMENT

It's the

MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! DO SPARKLE!

COLLABORATION WITH MONSOON

t’s the season to be merry and bright and to look forward to all the Christmas events and festive celebrations. Where there is celebration there is radiance, so it is also the season when we start hunting in our wardrobes to plan what we’re going to be wearing to all those dinners, staff functions and cocktail parties.

December has to be the perfect time to take it up a notch and glam even more than usual. It’s the time when everyone feels like sparkling, (and I’m not just speaking about the bubbly here.)

Monsoon is definitely the fashion outlet which, I find, perfectly caters for all type of events throughout the festive season, be it an indoor function with colleagues, a dinner party or a great night out!

Velvet is huge this festive season. And that’s great because whilst the two-warp fabric keeps us warm during the colder winter period, it adds a touch of elegance to our outfits. The fashion designers and gurus at Monsoon know all about this leading trend in the 2018-2019 Autumn/Winter season and made sure to stock their outlets with some stunning velvet numbers. You can easily go for a stylish velvet top to keep you warm and comfy during a sit-down dinner with your workmates or you can opt for velvet

maxi dress for evening dos which look so chic! It all depends on your style and the mood you’re after for that particular function.

Another trend which is in-vogue during the festive period is certainly related to all-things-sequin! We’re usually big on shimmer and glitter, and Christmas is the perfect excuse to shine this festive season! Monsoon’s statement pieces from The Sequin Collection are garments which will definitely get you noticed, and there’s so many styles to choose from! Dress up a simpler piece with statement earrings, glasses, or even a wintery hat.

Whether you prefer shift dresses, embellished tunics or widelegged jumpsuits there is something for every occasion, and the garments have this luxurious feel to them, as well as that precision with handcrafted detail, which always comes as a great bonus, really.

I’d say we’re spoilt for choice this Christmas with dazzling outfits to wear throughout the festive season. Monsoon went ahead and made sure we’re covered when it comes to the detail, the fabric, the sparkle, the distinctiveness and the comfort of the autumn/winter stock in stores. Right in time for the most wonderful time of the year.

Follow Dorianne on her Facebook page 'Dorianne at AskDorianne'.

FASHION

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PROMOTION

VISION D’ASIE:

l’art du détail CHANEL SPRING SUMMER 2019 COLLECTION "YOU CANNOT LIVE WITH A LIMITED HORIZON. IT IS STIFLING." GABRIELLE CHANEL A photographic expedition to Japan and South Korea has introduced new territories and spectacular new effects of light to Lucia Pica’s ever-expanding beauty landscape at CHANEL. From a glimmer of fish scales captured at a market in Tokyo to a nest of wires shot suspended over a side street in Seoul, Pica has immersed herself in the intimate minutiae of everyday life to which East Asian culture accords sacred value to. Such a close-up appreciation of quiet beauty and the elevation of the humblest of objects has inspired a richly nuanced makeup collection.

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n this SPRING-SUMMER 2019 COLLECTION, VISION D’ASIE: L’ART DU DÉTAIL, depth and refinement is expressed in Pica’s signature play on light and the luminous architecture it builds. The translucent, new product BAUME ESSENTIEL creates a dewy, “wet” glow on the skin that brings life to the face through gentle sculptural effects. These are enlivened by strokes of pearly luminescence that add definition without a hint of heaviness.

The eyes shimmer with vitality as a dynamic match between the textures of OMBRE PREMIÈRE CRÈME and LES 9 OMBRES lies at the heart of VISION D’ASIE: L’ART DU DÉTAIL. The creamy, metallic OMBRE PREMIÈRE CRÈME Patine Bronze fascinates on its own but also acts as a transversal shade to be worn under LES 9 OMBRES to intensify their shades. They chime against the powerful, lush matte ROUGE ALLURE VELVET and ROUGE ALLURE LIQUID POWDER lip colours, and the provocative LE VERNIS shades.

Through these captivating vibrations of light, colour and texture, VISION D’ASIE: L’ART DU DÉTAIL comes alive in the wearing. “I like to give makeup the freedom to travel,” Pica said.

“I never want to restrict women to conventions or clichés of perfection.”

Lucia Pica has made travel central to her creativity at CHANEL; her annual photographic trips are a rich well from which to draw.

Whereas previous excursions have concentrated on beloved panoramas, in her SPRING-SUMMER 2019 COLLECTION Pica’s discerning gaze shifts from the grandeur of the iconic to the wonder of the commonplace, and finds beauty in the most ordinary of objects and places.

“I didn’t want to just document,” Pica explained. “We were exploring real life, capturing fleeting color and textures and then elevating them into something precious.”

Thus, VISION D’ASIE: L’ART DU DÉTAIL is a subtle and luminous collection that takes inspiration from the photographic act of capturing details and elevating their textures and color using light.

“Zooming in and out for the photographs is like applying makeup,” Pica said. “I go in close to apply, take a step back and then zoom in again for more. The layering of light and color makes things so much more impactful.”

As balmy, glowing skin teams with intriguing shades, modern patinas and arresting metallic sheens, this is sophisticated makeup, suffused with the easy elegance of modern East Asia.

For Lucia Pica, the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi – the act of seeing preciousness in imperfection – gives rise to a freer attitude to beauty that is without restriction; one that is open to the

PROMOTION

pleasure of the moment.

Elegant textures and poetic colour come together in the SPRING-SUMMER 2019 COLLECTION that finds resonance in the ordinary and the sublime in the apparently uninteresting.

“The beauty of imperfection makes sense to me in terms of what I do – I want something that feels alive.” – Lucia Pica 39

IDEAS

GIFT GUIDE FIRST is a big fan of local businesses that make and sell beautiful products. Here is our gift guide for this Christmas season, in which we suggest places that will guarantee you hand over a special gift, while at the same time supporting local entrepreneurs

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MVintage

Tettiera

MVintage has a collection of meaningful jewellery from which to choose.

The pieces are original, simple and distinctive and combine stainless-steel and semi-precious stones, hand-crafted faceted glass, enamel and zirconia stone. The jewellery can be made with a more personal touch, giving you the ability to choose a variety of zodiac signs, birthstones and engravings.

MVintage is the place to buy a lovely present for any female in your life.

Created around the ritual of a pot of tea, Tettiera products are perfect for tea-lovers, and we know there are many. It has a range of premium artisan loose-leaf teas sourced from renowned plantations across the most popular tea-growing regions. The packaging design is also produced locally by designer Stephanie Borg, whose work plays with the patterns of traditional Maltese tiles.

Kotba Calleja

Que

Kotba Calleja is the home of delightful hand-made books. With a variety of beautiful paper, Kotba Calleja offers all types of creations, including notepads, sketchbooks and photo albums. Its products make a thoughtful gift for anyone who, in one way or another, makes use of a paper product – in other words, everyone.

Are you looking for a unique, playful yet meaningful gift? If so, then Que is your go-to place. Describing themselves as ‘bringing an element of fantasy to comfort and utility’, and specialising in limited edition designs, Que is full of beautiful, playfully-shaped and unique hand-made jewellery pieces made with artistic workmanship techniques.

IDEAS

Sue Mifsud Ceramics

The Leather House

We just love Sue Mifsud’s treasures, made out of clay, that will brighten up anyone’s table. Her ceramic treasures include vases, plates, mugs and bowls: items that are raw, experimental and unique.

Based in Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village in Gharb, Gozo, The Leather House offers an impressive selection of leather goods, including wallets, belts, briefcases and diary covers.

No.me

Saz Mifsud

No.me is a contemporary up-cycling design studio that creates decor objects and fashion. It is a little haven of original ideas and special items, lovingly made. Its products include concrete clocks, sculptures and lamps, among plenty of other items.

Bags, scarves and headbands, Saz Mifsud products certainly make ‘youcan’t-go-wrong’ gifts. Each hand-sewn item is created out of beautifully-printed silk, fusing painting and fashion together. Saz Mifsud also has a collection of pocket squares and ties for men.

Yana’s Jewellery

Te fit-tazza

Yana’s jewellery offers bespoke costume jewellery that has a very distinctive style. Their pieces are unique, creative and exciting, combining vibrant coloured stones, beads and the intertwining of various wires and chains and buyers may customise their own pieces, making them that bit more special.

The designer duo Te fit-Tazza have created the most charming, modern illustrations depicting all the nostalgia-inducing, relatable Maltese elements that we know and love. From the old milk carton to a minimalist landscape of Ta Ġurdan Lighthouse, the simplistic designs would look great on anyone’s wall.

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IDEAS

Diar il-Bniet Kekstor

Diar il-Bniet has a huge selection of homemade, typically Maltese, food including olive oil, honey and jam, hampers full of goodness and other artisanal gifts.

This is a local, online collection of carefully- sourced, design-conscious toys for your children, with free next-day delivery. Kekstor offers a selection of toys that they hope will inspire creativity and the imagination.

Visit www.kekstor.com

The Floating Project A haven of lovingly-made wooden items, The Floating Project is full of innovative products that would make special gifts. It creates clocks, wooden containers, pocket wallets, ear-muffs, desk boxes and even cactus pots.

Soap Cafe The ethically-motivated store which takes the name of ‘Soap Cafe’ creates over 50 different handmade soaps, lotions, balms and scrubs. In addition, most of its products are made on a daily basis, from local ingredients and seasonal fruit, infused together in a traditional way. How is that for an original gift?

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Sef Farrugia Having recently opened her first shop in Rabat, Sef Farrugia’s brand is all about accessories, soft furnishings and wearable items designed in beautiful patterns and prints. These include tote bags, ties, eye-masks and scarves, to name a few.

IDEAS

EGG CUPS. Unique gift ideas for friends and family (or just for yourself) at HENRI Luxury Gift Boutique... like these eggcellent egg cups and matching trays and saucers.

SCENTED CANDLEHOLDERS. Handmade scented candleholders by Mdina Glass make a perfect Christmas gift and look as good as they smell. They are available in a range of shapes, sizes, colours and hand-blended fragrances. See the range in-store or www.mdinaglass.com.mt.

Outlets at Pjazza Tigné & Mdina (next to Palazzo Falson). Tel: 2010 6306 or facebook/henrimalta. Visit HENRI until 16th December for 15% off all items at the Pre-Christmas Sale.

Visit Mdina Glass during the Pre-Christmas Sale until 16 December, for a range of discounts on all glassware. For more info Tel: +356 2141 5786 or find Mdina Glass on facebook.com/mdinaglass

CUPS & SAUCERS. Check out the wide selection of fun and stylish porcelain mugs, tea and espresso cups and saucers that make for great Christmas gifts at HENRI Luxury Gift Boutique.

PRADA BLACK Prada Luna Rossa Black is like a vivacious hub full of possibilities and dangers.

Sweeter details fizz over woody Amber for a mesmerizing, almost disorienting effect.

Energetic upon introduction—topped with Bergamot and Angelic—a Patchouli Coumarine heart gives way to a moody base.

L’EXTASE Nina Ricci embraces the dreams of a woman in tune with her most intimate desires. An erotic feminine dream, an imaginary and sensual journey. The fragrance opens with a Barely Rose accord shaped around a bouquet of white petals, lit by natural Roses with a hint of Pink Pepper, like a caress of satin. At its heart, a Musky Shadow unfolds notes of Siamese Benzoin and Virginian Cedar, before settling on Amber and a whisper of Musk.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd., Tel: 2133 1553

Exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd., Tel: 2133 1553

PURE XS FOR HER, PACO RABANNE A wildly provocative – and wildly untamed – floral that bottles the essence of an orgasm, an explosion of the senses brought within reach with a distinctive Paco Rabanne flair. Feel the heat with ylang-ylang. Radiant, with hints of jasmine. Petals unfolding into leather-hot vanilla. Audacious-deliciousness! With a daring popcorn bite, desire goes wild. Musk and milkwood notes in multitude ignite the skin and set the senses alight.

Desire-on-fire.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd., Tel: 2133 1553 44

Outlets at Pjazza Tigné & Mdina (next to Palazzo Falson). Tel: 2010 6306 or facebook/henrimalta. Visit HENRI until 16th December for 15% off all items at the Pre-Christmas Sale.

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER CHRISTMAS COLLECTOR The annual Jean Paul Gaultier Christmas Collector is back! This year, Le Male and Classique wear a couple of dashing Christmas jumpers which no other fragrance bottle can pull off with such style and panache. The bottles are encased in a magical Christmas snow globe making it the ornament to have on your mantelpiece this season.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd., Tel: 2133 1553

IDEAS NEW BAUBLES. Mdina Glass has just created a new range of baubles that have been designed to add fun to your festive décor. They join the large collection of bauble, angels, cribs, sculptures and Christmas trees.

See the range in-store or www.mdinaglass.com.mt.

Visit Mdina Glass during the Pre-Christmas Sale until 16 December, for a range of discounts on all glassware.

For more info tel: +356 2141 5786 or find Mdina Glass on facebook.com/mdinaglass

THE JEWELLERY REVOLUTION BY CHRISTINA DESIGN LONDON. Christina Watches have come up with a remarkable idea, the “Christina Collect” concept: a revolutionary way of giving a watch an extra dimension by turning it into a piece of jewellery. You can transform your beautiful Christina watch, from the cool basic model into a luxury timepiece. Now women across the globe are able to change the look on their Swiss Watch wrists to their favourite piece of Jewellery within seconds, with a New Face, Trendy Bracelet Cords also adding this special Charms to personalise it completely. You can get your Christina Collect watch from only E139 (including Certified diamond) or Christina Jewellery Watch from E259. Christina Design Jewellery & Watches are exclusively available at 202 Jewellery in Valletta (St.Lucy Street), Mosta (Pjazza Rotunda), Fgura (Zabbar Rd), Mellieha (db Seabank Resort) and Victoria, Gozo (F.Mizzi Street).

LIVE IN THE MOMENT WITH EMOZIONI. Emozioni is an Italian inspired brand designed by Hot Diamonds. Hot Diamonds is a UK Brand of the Year Winner that takes current trends and transforms them into delicate and interchangeable pieces of jewellery, updating and changing along with the fashion seasons. Choose your Emozioni Coin keeper, Chain and Coin to build your Emozioni style from only E119.

Emozioni is exclusively available at 202 Jewellery in Valletta (St.Lucy Street), Mosta (Pjazza Rotunda), Fgura (Zabbar Rd), Mellieha (db Seabank Resort) and Victoria, Gozo (F.Mizzi Street).

Buy the gift of sound this Christmas from Klikk. Different models and colours available. With long-lasting battery life and Bluetooth technology, JBL portable wireless speakers are the best way to enjoy your music away from home. Not only will you be the ultimate gift-giver, but you’ll also be in with a chance to WIN a dream holiday for two to Paris including four night accommodation and return flights on Air Malta, in collaboration with ROCS. (Terms and Conditions Apply).

GO Connect Kids Watch. Have you ever been at a busy shopping mall or out and about and lost sight of your child? Worry no more! GO has got you all covered with the new GO Connect Kids Device – a comfortable, easy to use watch with a handy GPS tracker that shows your kids’ real time location, a two-way calling system using a GO Sim Card, an instant SOS button that work anywhere in the world, and so much more! This device retails at E99.99 but GO’s Home Pack or Freedom Plans customers can enjoy this device for just E29.99 (excluding €6.99 monthly subscription). Give your loved ones, peace of mind this Christmas! Terms and Conditions apply.

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IDEAS

Upcycled wrapping Think of the presents you give – and receive – during the Christmas season, all (or, at least, most) wrapped in printed paper that is ripped apart in seconds and quickly becomes part of our avalanche of waste Words and photography by Joanna Demarco

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IDEAS In addition, not all wrapping paper is recyclable: if it has glitter, or lots of sellotape on it, or is plastic-based, it cannot be recycled. So here are three alternative ideas for a more sustainable Christmas which, through upcycling, will not only reduce the amount of rubbish produced, but will potentially be cheaper and will give your presents more of a thoughtful touch.

1. Old book pages Instead of being thrown away, or left fading in a corner somewhere, unused book pages can be turned into pretty wrapping paper, creating a charming and sentimental look.

The same can be done with other types of unused paper, such as old maps, magazines, or even crossword puzzles.

2. Fabric/Furoshiki Wrap presents in pieces of material, bandanas or headscarves, which can then be reused for future presentwrapping. Avoiding sellotape, the wrapping can be secured by tying the material in a simple knot. This is actually a traditional way of wrapping gifts in Japan, where it is known as ‘furoshiki’. The furoshiki tradition considers both the colour and design of the fabric as having a meaning and significance, so the choice of material should not be taken lightly. In this traditional act, it is the giver who keeps the fabric, able to reuse it for the next giftgiving opportunity.

3. Brown paper packages Brown paper grocery bags or packaging are another way of reusing and upcycling items already available at home, reducing waste and creating something pretty in the process.

Brown paper is also a simple material that looks great when decorated with drawings, magazine clippings, photographs or even flowers and leaves.

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INTERVIEW

HOW TO MAKE NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS AND KEEP THEM FIRST SPOKE TO LIFE COACH CLAIRE BUGELLI ABOUT NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS AND HOW WE CAN MAKE SURE WE STICK TO THEM IN THE COMING YEAR Words by Dayna Clarke. Photography by Joanna Demarco. he ancient Babylonians are said to have been the first people to make New Year’s resolutions, some 4,000 years ago, a tradition which, to this day, many of us

50

still embrace.

Sadly, research shows that 50 per cent of us will have thrown our resolutions out of the window altogether by the end of January. Why, exactly, is it so hard to

stick to our personal goals? First caught up with life coach Claire Bugelli to explore the concept of New Year’s Resolutions and, more importantly, how to stick to them. ▶

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INTERVIEW

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Claire, why do so many people make New Year’s resolutions?

What are the most common themes you come across?

Many people consider the end of one year and the beginning of the next as a great time to take stock of their situation and make any changes they need to improve themselves and/or their personal issues. It is an opportunity to set in motion the process for a new beginning.

New Year’s resolutions allow people to move into the year with a more positive attitude, with the prospect of being more successful in any area they feel needs their attention.

Resolutions are very personal and vary according to a person’s age and circumstances, as well as the priorities they may have at that point in their life. I would definitely say that, after all the food and drink during the festivities, the most common resolution involves losing weight and getting back into shape. However, some people resolve to give up bad habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, gambling or compulsive shopping. ▶

INTERVIEW ◀ Financial resolutions are also very popular. These may include discharging a debt or starting a savings plan.

Resolutions may involve changes in relationships or work.

Essentially, they can involve any aspect of a person’s life with which he or she is unhappy and which, once altered, could help that person feel more content.

Why do so many people break resolutions in a few weeks?

Making resolutions and wanting to change is not enough, and breaking them after a few weeks can be demoralising. Instead, this should be an exercise of self-reflection and analysis. Resolutions should be well considered and well planned if there is to be any hope of maintaining them and achieving the objective.

What can we do to stay on track with our resolutions?

If you are planning to make some resolutions this year, then you should make some ‘me time’ and identify the areas in your life you would like to change; understand why you want this change and how it will affect you; determine how you are feeling with yourself now, and how you believe this change will make you feel. Once you decide to go through with it, make a list of pros and cons and think how it can or will affect other aspects of your life. Additionally, being convinced that the change is for the better will help you to stay focused and to overcome any initial challenges. Ultimately, self-motivation is the key.

Does it help to be more specific?

“WE, HUMANS, ARE RESILIENT AND CAN RISE TO ANY OCCASION. THE IMPORTANT THING IS TO ALWAYS EMPOWER ONESELF.”

It is absolutely critical that, although resolutions must be challenging, they should also be achievable. Otherwise, they will only lead to frustration and a sense of failure. This can be done by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable, steps, the completion of which will encourage you to reach your ultimate goals. Be specific as to what you want to achieve and establish a time-frame. In this way, you can devise a step-by-step plan towards it. A resolution should look like a map leading you to your final destination that allows you to celebrate the small victories along the way. You can then monitor your progress and reward yourself accordingly.

What are your top tips for staying on track?

• Find a ‘resolution buddy’ who can help you stay on track: someone who has the same ambition as you and with whom you can work and discuss. This gives you a sense of support and accountability, as well as a healthy dose of competition.

• Depending on the nature of the resolution, you may opt to engage a professional for further advice and specific direction.

• Sharing your resolution with those around you can also be motivating, provided that these are people who will encour-

age you along the way rather than discourage or dissuade you. In this case, a sense of pride and wanting to prove you can do it, comes into play.

Can making a resolution actually work?

Resolutions do work but you must also keep in mind the fact that life comes in cycles and that situations evolve. Circumstances change and certain issues may need to be tackled differently. Naturally, things may not always fall into place when or how we would like them to, but in most instances we will reach a point where we can move on with our lives. The process may be hard and often painful, but you will certainly come out as a different, more mature individual. You must look at any situation as a learning experience: a stepping stone to something greater and more meaningful.

We humans are resilient and can rise to any occasion. The important thing is to always empower oneself. The festive season will soon be over and the lights and the decorations will come down. Yet, ultimately, for each one of us it is neither the end nor the beginning. For everyone it is a continuation of our journey through life. Each day is a new opportunity to improve and unveil an even better version of ourselves.

Claire Bugelli is one of Malta’s leading life coaches and director of Bounce Life Coaching Malta, she has helped numerous people to improve their quality of life and achieve their goals. She specialises in relationship coaching and transitions, as well as lifestyle.

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AWARENESS

HOW MANY GLASSES OF WINE CAN YOU HAVE IF YOU ARE GOING TO DRIVE? HARDLY ANY, ACTUALLY! DECEMBER IS USUALLY A MONTH NOT SHORT OF POST-WORK GATHERINGS AND BOOZY LUNCHES. IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON DRINKING ALCOHOL AT ALL, IT IS A GIVEN, BE SURE NOT TO DRIVE. FIRST LOOKS AT THE UNITS OF ALCOHOL IN COMMON DRINKS, KEEPING IN MIND THE NEWLY-SLASHED ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION LIMITS IN RELATION TO DRIVING his article can be summarised very concisely: do not drink – at all – if you are intending to be the driver. Bear in mind that drinkdriving and driving while drunk are not the same thing. Alcoholic beverages have an impact on motor skills – along with other skills – regardless of the amount consumed. In order to drive safely, your vision, reaction time and hearing abilities need to be up to scratch – and alcohol affects all three.

According to local reports, approximately 15 people die on Malta’s roads every year because of vehicle collisions involving people who were over the legal alcohol limit while driving, not to mention all the non-fatal accidents caused. From being the amongst the least strict, Malta’s new laws, approved last month, have now put Malta’s drinkdriving laws on a par with the EU average.

The recently-launched National Alcohol Policy has reduced the limit of alcohol consumption for most drivers from 0.8 g/l to 0.5 g/l. What does this mean exactly? To understand better, 0.8g/l is more or less equal to one unit of alcohol, meaning that 0.5g/l constitutes half a unit.

In addition, people riding motorcycles, people who have been driving for less than two years, taxi drivers and where the drivers of vehicles that either weigh over 3.5 tonnes, are carrying eight or more passengers or are carrying dangerous goods are concerned, the limit has been reduced to 0.2 g/l – in other words a mere sip of alcohol.

So let’s take a closer look at exactly how many units are in a range of alcoholic drinks. One unit 56

Source NHS

of alcohol is 10ml or 8g/l of pure alcohol. The amount that a motorist may drink depends on many factors, including age, stress levels, metabolism and the strength of the drink.

However, according to reports on the subject, on average, 0.5 g/l equates to half a pint of beer or a small glass of wine.

ALTERNATIVES If you expect to have an alcoholic drink when you are out, it would make sense to either designate one of your group – who would be happy not to touch alcohol during the event – as your driver or else get a taxi home.

Give Santa a Break!

Visit our newly revamped website www.ShipLowCost.com To find out how with our unique delivery solution you can buy your Christmas gifts online and have them delivered to your door.

And now, with ShipLowCost you can also send your gifts to ANYWHERE in the world!

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WEDDINGS

THE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER’S FAVOURITE WEDDING PHOTO Brian Grech Brian Grech photographs a variety of subjects in his work, but people remain his primary focus. When it comes to weddings, he tends to document the special day of people to whom he is close: friends, or friends-of-friends, so the event becomes more personal. His eye for detail is the result of his background in fashion photography, which means that what people are wearing, such as earrings, and other perhaps more trivial aspects that catch his eye, often make their way into his shots and keep him entertained throughout the wedding day.

Brian’s chosen shot is from the wedding of Carissa Cilia la Corte and Chris Griffins and depicts a candid scene with tenderness and realism.

“There is always one favourite photo (or sometimes more) from every wedding,” he told First.

“However, I thought this photo was quite unique. It was taken on the bastions in Mdina, just behind the Cathedral and what I like about it is the movement of the people photographed. As you can see, it was very windy, but hot and humid.

The maid-of-honour is trying to reach out to the dress, while the bridesmaids are trying to put themselves together for the photo, giggling as the wind blows away.

The bride is the only one who is ready for the shot, holding the bouquet tight and looking directly at the camera. I think the composition, clouds and tone make it quite a unique shot.”

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WEDDINGS

THE FAVOURITE SHOT OF THE MARRIED COUPLE IS ALWAYS THE ONE TO GET FRAMED AND MAKE ITS WAY ONTO THE MANTELPIECE, BUT IT IS USUALLY NOT THE ONE THE PHOTOGRAPHER WOULD CONSIDER THE BEST FROM THE DAY. FIRST ASKED THREE LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHERS WHO SHOOT WEDDINGS ABOUT THEIR FAVOURITE PHOTOGRAPH AND THE STORY BEHIND IT. Words by Joanna Demarco.

59

WEDDINGS

Inigo Taylor Inigo Taylor, a British photographer living in Malta, began taking photographs enthusiastically in 2005.

By 2006 he was hooked, in that same year he went on to win the Young Black and White Photographer of the Year Award. His favourite type of photography is documentary photography and he fuses this approach with his wedding photography, allowing the wedding day to tell its own story.

Inigo’s chosen wedding shot is a visibly sentimental one from his sister’s wedding. “Of course, all wedding days are very special, but photographing my sister’s was a little bit more special,” he told First.

“It is far from a perfect picture, but it is very special to me and it reminds me that we can spend thousands (of euro) on equipment or practice our technique over and over again, but sometimes the best pictures are not defined by pictorial perfection, but instead by emotion.”

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WEDDINGS

Giola Cassar Giola Cassar has been working as a photographer for the past five years. She is drawn to the way in which photography presents her with the possibility of exploring ordinary, everyday subjects and anomalies, and portraying them through a different angle, hopefully providing room for posing a different meaning. She channels this approach both in her studio work and during her daily interactions with nature, odd happenings and people.

“As much as I get satisfaction from this approach, nothing beats meeting new people and photographing faces and emotions,” she said. “The raw emotions on display on a wedding day give a photographer a dream of a canvas to work on. The pure love and tenderness between the couple provides a source of inspiration.”

Giola’s chosen wedding shot is a fun, energetic one. “This year, I was lucky enough to photograph a small and intimate wedding. It was on a Friday afternoon and the bride and groom opted for a ceremony and celebration that

reflected their characters - simple, natural and going with the flow. With them both being designers, the planning that went into this wedding was down to the last detail.”

“My favourite photograph is the one where the couple is swaying together,” she continued. “To me this photo evokes a sense of playfulness, romantic yet fun-loving, just like the couple. The setting gave an enchanted feel that set the mood, along with the natural elements used for the wedding, with a combination of fresh flowers and playful details that provided a good contrast between elegant and eclectic.”

“Photographing small intimate weddings allows me to bond not just with the couple, but also to blend in with the guests, embracing the setting and working with it to provide the couple with a set of photos that evoke everything that they tried to portray on their special day. When setting out to photograph such weddings, my mind frame is one where I set out to capture the moment and take photos that speak of the time, place and details.”

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TRAVEL DIARY

THE

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS WHEN PROTECTED, NATURE GIVES BACK IN ABUNDANCE

For this month’s travel diary, Gabriel Schembri writes about the wonders of the Galapagos Islands, an idyllic travel destination and nature haven.

Words by Gabriel Schembri

here are very few places on earth that offer a genuine sense of untouched wilderness and jaw-dropping natural beauty and one of them is the Galapagos Islands, which still promise – and manage – to provide an unforgettable experience for those who love free-roaming animals and virgin wildlife.

The Galapagos archipelago lies almost a thousand kilometres off the coast of Ecuador and its unique settlement, cut off from the rest of South America, provides shelter for animal diversity like nothing ever seen in any other parts of the globe. The islands are home to hundreds of different land and marine species and that is why geologist and physicist Charles Darwin was left sufficiently inspired to write his famous Theory of Evolution.

To this day, even after years of exploitation from pirates and empires who tried to tame this beautiful landscape, 97 per cent of the islands’ land is still protected as a national park by the Ecuadorian authori62

ties. The Galapagos archipelago consists of no fewer than 20 islands but it is estimated that no more than 25,000 people actually live on the main islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz and San Cristobal, which is where visitors usually base themselves. These are, however, not the only islands one can visit and they all offer a unique and diverse list of attractions.

In this article, we will be looking at what you can explore in this Mecca for wildlife lovers and providing you with useful tips on how to make the most of your days in the Galapagos.

Getting to the islands The best way to reach the Galapagos Islands is by flying through mainland Ecuador. Flights usually leave from either Quito, the capital of Ecuador, or Guayaquil – the latter being the more popular option.

Round tickets for the Islands will usually cost you around €350 but, having said that, it is important to note that money in the Galapagos Islands evaporates

Photo by Gabriel Schembri

Photo by Gabriel Schembri

Photo by Gabriel Schembri

TRAVEL DIARY

quickly. Bearing in mind that it is a natural reserve and a protected area, and also because the island is so cut off from the mainland and provisions need to be shipped in, visiting the Galapagos Islands is an expensive treat.

And yet, even for backpackers, trips to this dreamland can be made possible if you act wisely. Just to put you in the picture, a pint of beer in the Galapagos is followed by a hefty bill of $9 or sometimes more.

Eating out is not cheap either – unless you find some corner street vender who sells empanadas (pies) for a dollar or two. But these are not easy to spot. We quickly realised that the best way to stretch your money is to buy groceries and cook something in your accommodation. If you can afford to pay for a decent hotel that also serves food, you will find various options on the main islands without much trouble.

For those who are not freelance writers like me, and who can afford to spend an extra dollar or two, a lot of tour operators in the Galapagos main islands offer cruise excursions of up to eight days, or even longer. They are, of course, expensive but, as I’m going to divulge in the next part, the true gems of the Galapagos lie in its waters.

The Galapagos’ secret is under water Don’t get me wrong. The islands offer pristine natural beauty. It is, after all, an archipelago surrounded by enormous volcanoes and wild vegetation. But to truly explore the beauty of the Islands, you have to immerse yourself in its waters.▶ 63

TRAVEL DIARY

◀ For a glimpse of incredible submergible fun in the Galapagos, you will need to take a tour. There are day tours, which you will be able to find on the three main islands, and there is no need to prebook, unless you visit the Islands at the peak of the tourist season. Prices will range quite a lot: it depends on the boat offered, the food and the time but prices are, in most cases, negotiable. If the demand is not that high, the tour prices can be reduced considerably, especially if you promise the same agency to take more than one of their tours. Usually, companies will offer only minor extras which are different from those of their competitors, but these are things that often make or break a deal. For instance, some tours will offer you a wet-suit and snorkelling equipment, others will not. This is something to consider because renting snorkelling goggles adds an extra $15 or more to the cost if it is not included in the list of items provided.

What to see for nothing and what is truly worth the cost Even though a visit to the Galapagos will put you back a couple of hundred euros, there are things to do that are completely free. Observing the animals that roam the land is one such example. Once you land on one of the three main islands, you will realise immediately that animals rule most areas – especially sea lions, which are, quite literally, at every corner. You will find some sleeping on public benches, others taking a slow stroll around the port and you might even find a couple sleeping just behind your hostel door. So, just to put your mind at rest, watching sea lions in their natural habitat is one of the major attractions you can enjoy without spending a cent.

Make sure, however, that you respect these wonderful creatures. Going further into the islands, you will be told that, according to the law, you must stay at least two metres away from the animals that roam around. Do not take this advice lightly. The islands’ residents have learnt to respect their natural habitat by keeping a safe distance. And here, even the guides – who are usually very open to your close approach to animals – will tell you to keep back and stick to the rules. Every animal on the islands is, after all, protected and fortunately the locals take this principle seriously.

Apart from sea lions, iguanas and huge lizards can easily be found on practically every beach on the islands. These animals are used to people and taking pictures of these beautiful creatures will not be an impossible task. If you are lucky, by getting a snorkel and immersing yourself in the sea off one of the public beaches you can also see some sting rays, white tip sharks and even sea turtles. Remember, the Galapagos Islands are bustling with wild sea life and when nature is protected, it gives back in abundance.

If there are two particular snorkelling tours that I would suggest, I would say go for the Los Tuneles Tour from Isabela island and the Kicker Rock tour from San Cristobal island. They were by far

the best marine life bonanza we experienced in the whole of South America. Also, the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island is worth a visit. You will get to see the famous giant tortoises and learn, even if it’s only a bit, about Charles Darwin’s inspiration.

Transportation Beach-hopping on the islands is made easy thanks to bike rental agencies, which can be found in the main tourist areas. However, travelling between one island and another can get a little bumpy. To travel from one main island, for example Isla Isabela, to Santa Cruz, you will need to take the ferry. The journey is no less than two hours long and the sea is choppy, to say the least. What makes matters worse is the fact that the majority of these ferry boats are almost entirely enclosed,

and bumpy rides with little air to breathe can make you seriously sick.

So here’s a couple of tips. First, take an anti-seasickness pill and take it 30 minutes before your ride. It might make you feel sleepy but at least you won’t feel like a bursting volcano. Second, try to fly into one island but leave from a different one. For instance, fly to the Galapagos to Isla Isabela airport but when you leave the archipelago, get a ticket for a flight that leaves from San Cristobal airport. This way, you will at least save yourself from an extra two-hour ordeal to travel to the next island from which you have to fly out.

Whatever you choose to do, make sure you soak in as much of nature’s wonder as you possibly can from the Galapagos Islands. Experiencing nature in its untouched beauty is the most rewarding adventure you can embark on.

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DECOR

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

SEASONAL DECORATION IDEAS TO READY YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS FIRST HAS TRAWLED THE SEASONAL AISLES TO COMPILE A LIST OF ECLECTIC HOME DÉCOR ITEMS THAT WILL TASTEFULLY BRIGHTEN OUR ISLAND HOMES THIS CHRISTMAS. t’s the most sociable time of the year, a time when we all excitedly (or begrudgingly) pull our glad rags on and invite personal and public retrospection on another chapter gone by. As the holiday period approaches, we symbolically ready ourselves to be our own seasonal ornament, putting our achievements, lifestyle, and evolving tastes on display. And, yes, some of it is a symptom of keepingup-with-the-influencers, but the rest is about taking stock and celebrating wherever we are in life, and the joy we’ve managed

Twinkle, Twinkle ▶ For some homemakers, Christmas décor needs to be subtle – otherwise it won’t happen at all. In such instances, lighting is crucial to creating a Christmas atmosphere that’s charming without being cheesy. If understated opulence is the style of choice, then the simple sophistication of an arched, metal candelabra will elegantly whisper the spirit of Christmas to home-owners and guests alike.

Alternatively, for those who only take their décor with a healthy dose of sumptuousness, a collection of lux scented candles is certain to deliver the radiant ambient lighting so merrily craved – especially if they’re made by the oldest candle makers in the world and come housed in a richly gilded glass vessel. Each of these lighting solutions will deliver a delicate dose of seasonal warmth, without any unwanted bells or whistles, and without detracting from a home’s original spirit.

Metal two-branch candlestick, Ç22.99, at Zara Home (zarahome.com) Candles by Cire Trudon, starting from Ç70, exclusively at Camilleri Paris Mode (camilleriparismode.com)

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to amass and surround ourselves with. Nothing tells this story better than the way our home looks at Christmas – the time of year when we’re best braced to invite our loved ones to gather around our real or imagined fire.

But like our lives, our Christmases are distinctive to each of our households, and our décor should take the opportunity to luxuriate in that uniqueness. So, here’s a selection of seasonal decoration ideas that traverse a variety of trends and tastes, each in earnest pursuit of pushing the holiday joy up a stylish notch.

DECOR

Merry and bright ▶ Christmas doesn’t have to be all about red, green and gold; and for those décor enthusiasts who do enjoy Christmas ornamentation but are bored to Bethlehem with traditional decorative schemes, there are other options. Deep berries, magentas, emerald greens and peacock blues can make for a gratifyingly alternative Christmas palette. Tableware is a perfect place to experiment – swap out your plain porcelain for some twenty-four-karat gold plated malachite dishes if you’re ready to go gloriously bold. And to take that fearless flair up a notch, use clever combinations to assert your renegade approach to designing your home. Pairing a highpolished, hammered metal stool with a set of delightfully kitsch hanging ornaments might not sound like a match made in heaven, but it will look like one.

Add in a flourish of coloured glassware and you’ll have achieved the contemporary Christmas you never knew you needed. So what if it’s not your regular silver bells?

It’s your home, your Christmas.

Hammered iron stool, Ç99.99, at Zara Home (zarahome.com) Assorted Christmas tree ornaments, starting from Ç2, at Flying Tiger Copenhagen (flyingtiger.com) Tableware by L’Objet, starting from Ç30.00, exclusively at Camilleri Paris Mode (camilleriparismode.com) Gold metal appliqué vase, Ç35.99, at Zara Home (zarahome.com) Bubble-effect wine glass, Ç5.99, at Zara Home (zarahome.com) 68

DECOR

◀ Crème-de-la-Christmas Some home-owners are all about embracing the visual joys of Christmas and enjoy nothing more than decking out their beloved nest with the best of Yuletide finery. For that particular group, densely rich colours and materials are what it’s all about, with iridescent metals, opulent velvets, and shimmering gilding begging to take centre stage. Nothing says Christmas more insistently than holiday ornaments designed to look as chic as the furniture that surrounds them; miniature tree-statuettes made from marble, brass and oak will be an instant triumph for design-savvy decorators.

Likewise, a one-of-a-kind sculptural art work can work to both enhance a room’s design qualities and serve as a conversation piece for nights of jubilant entertaining soirees. And statement pieces can come in all shapes and sizes – an earthenware chalice with hand-painted spikes is just one example. Velvet Christmas stockings is another. Shining golden cutlery also works to turn festive heads.

Brass, oak, marble Christmas tree ornaments, Ç70, at Eclecticist (eclecticist.eu) Gold Pastizzi by Kane Cali, Ç50 each, at Camilleri Paris Mode (camilleriparismode.com) Celestial bowls by L’Objet, starting from Ç430, at Camilleri Paris Mode (camilleriparismode.com) Christmas velvet stockings by Ferm Living, Ç50, at Eclecticist (eclecticist.eu) Gold-plated engraved cutlery, from Ç6.99, at Zara Home (zarahome.com)

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WHISKY

OUR GUIDE TO WHISKY FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON FIRST asked whisky aficionado Andrew Abela which five whiskies he would recommend for the coming festive season.

hisky is a fitting festive drink throughout the winter season. It is warming, rich, and classy in nature, meaning even if you do not drink it yourself, it makes a thoughtful gift that is bound to be appreciated. Whisky aficionado from Frank’s Gentlemen’s Essentials Andrew Abela guides us by providing five recommendations for whisky-lovers. Enjoy, and remember to drink responsibly.

Glenmorangie 10 Year Old Original Whisky This whisky is a ten-year-old single malt, produced by marrying the delicate spirit that emerges from Scotland’s tallest stills, with first and second fill American white oak casks. The spirit is a mature spirit that is soft, fruity, mellow and creamy.

Ardbeg 10 Year Old Scotch Whisky This whisky has a peaty and smokey taste, which is balanced with the natural sweetness of the malt. It was named the World Whisky of the year in 2008.

Springbank 15 Year Old Scotch Whisky Springbank 15 is described as ‘dark and ominous, yet delicious’ and is recommended to be best enjoyed following dinner. The whisky promises a palate with a taste of sherry, spice, nuts and dried fruit.

Kilchoman Machir Bay Whisky Made in the Isle of Islay, this whisky is a single malt Scotch matured in both bourbon and sherry kasks. The whisky has a balanced flavour of citrus fruit, layered vanilla and butterscotch.

Laphroaig 10 Year Old Scotch Whisky Laphroaig 10 is a smokey whisky which has a hint of seaweed and surprising sweetness. This whisky is made by drying malted barley over a peat fire, the smoke of which gives the whisky a rich, lasting flavour.

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AWARENESS

BATTLING THE H LIDAY SEASON BLUES In light of raising mental health awareness, Martin Calleja Urry spoke with Karen Bishop about dealing with depression during the holiday season. Karen is a family therapist who works with the Institute of Family Therapy Malta and runs her own private practice.

Words by Martin Calleja Urry

ehind the ubiquitous flashing lights and exuberant atmosphere, the festive season can be an emotionally draining period for people struggling with depression. While everybody else cheerfully soaks up the Christmas spirit, the troubled mind is left to ruminate over the failures and mishaps of the past year, the glass seemingly half-empty now more than ever.

To those preoccupied with the hustle and bustle of juggling between social events and purchasing the perfect presents – the concept of staving off the holiday season blues is practically incomprehensible, but it’s a reality many will face in the upcoming weeks.

If you’re stuck in the vicious cycle, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness become an everyday reality intensified by the burden of the holidays. As if regular interaction with others didn’t induce

enough anxiety, the troubled mind is now faced with the prospect of the extra social pressure Christmas time brings.

It may have the best intentions, but the Christmas season’s added expectations inevitably stir-up feelings of inadequacy in people whose life story doesn’t quite match the picture-perfect families presented by the barrage of media advertisements.

Whether it’s a single parent struggling to buy presents for their children, an elderly man who has just lost his wife – Christmas is an emotional roller coaster for many of us.

“These occasions tend to amplify our emotions, so if you’re generally satisfied with life, you’ll feel happier, but if you’re in a bad place you’ll feel worse, because Christmas is an open celebration of family, wealth, and success,” said Karen, who is quick to confirm that her workload around this time of the year increases significantly.▶

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AWARENESS

◀ Although the mere thought of awkwardly socializing with family, friends and colleagues is enough to cause emotional distress in a person already feeling low, on the other side of the coin are those stuck with being alone for the holidays.

“Loneliness is a real killer, and it’s actually a predisposition for depression. Many clients have told me it’s like torture for them. One of the most protective factors for a person’s mental health is the people around them. When people are alone for too long, they begin to feel abandoned and rejected – indirectly they get the message that they aren’t valued. On the other hand, people surrounded by friends can also be prone to loneliness, if real connections aren’t made,” said Karen.

It’s important to note that despite the way we use the word, depression is not a term thrown around sparingly on a professional level. There’s a stark difference between a person with depression and those dealing with a great deal of pain – everybody experiences varying degrees of sadness, grief, and regret when losing a loved one for example – but depression is significantly different.

It takes a seasoned expert to spot the distinction and make the diagnosis, but it’s our responsibility to our friends and family to keep an eye out for their mental health, even though they may try their best to hide it from us. Once a person masks their pain for years and becomes adept at disguising their emotions from others, how can the untrained eye spot that something is amiss?

“The major symptoms to look out for are apathy, isolation, a divergence from normal behaviour for an extended period of time, the feeling of helplessness and hopelessness, a lack of satisfaction, disconnecting from others and withdrawing from life in general,” said Karen.

While the symptoms can manifest themselves in different ways, it’s important to strike first in the mental health war, regardless of the case. Prevention is the ultimate weapon against depression, but Karen admits that most of her clients only accept help once their problems have grown significantly.

With regards to the more severe cases, Karen highlighted the importance of taking a person very seriously if they ever mention suicide at all.

“Unfortunately, in Malta people often downplay and minimize the issue when it’s brought up. There’s a common myth

that if you talk about it, you don’t actually want it to happen.

I’ve heard lots of people say that the person is just trying to attract attention, which can be true, but for others it’s a serious cry for help and we can never take it too lightly," said Karen.

In fact, Karen says that research indicates most people who eventually commit suicide had previously told somebody else they were going to do it, so preventing it may be possible.

More often than not, Karen agrees that people actually want to be helped and tend to accept assistance when they’re pushed in the right direction, but the idea of starting such a difficult journey may seem like a daunting task to handle alone. Some people simply aren’t capable of verbalizing how they’re feeling, while others hesitate to share their troubles for fear of being stigmatized.

“It’s hard to reach out to people without making them feel uncomfortable. I’d recommend taking an interest in that person by offering your company, and most importantly, following up on that request and making yourself available. Show them that you’re there for them, but if you’re really concerned, talk to the professionals first. Speak up and do something about it,” said Karen.

There a persistent theme running throughout society at every level that says that we shouldn’t discuss unpleasant things, whether it’s at the dinner table with family, or on social media.

We’ve almost created an alternative reality for ourselves in which we sweep the negativity under the carpet, but contrary to what our irrational mind may have us believe, there is no shame in sharing our troubles with one another, in fact, it can act like a catharsis. Once the weight is removed from our shoulders, we may just find that everybody else is carrying around the same monkey on their backs.

Anybody seeking out help for themselves or others should start by contacting with mental health professionals available at the Richmond Foundation, Crisis Resolution Services, Appoġġ or through a private practice. Karen wants the public to know that no matter how dark the days might seem now, it’s never too late for someone to walk along the path of positivity.

Throughout this holiday season, make a proactive effort to extend a welcoming hand to anybody you think might be struggling, because even small gestures can go a long way.

“LONELINESS IS A REAL KILLER, AND IT’S ACTUALLY A PREDISPOSITION FOR DEPRESSION. MANY CLIENTS HAVE TOLD ME IT’S LIKE TORTURE FOR THEM. ONE OF THE MOST PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR A PERSON’S MENTAL HEALTH IS THE PEOPLE AROUND THEM. WHEN PEOPLE ARE ALONE FOR TOO LONG, THEY BEGIN TO FEEL ABANDONED AND REJECTED – INDIRECTLY THEY GET THE MESSAGE THAT THEY AREN’T VALUED. ON THE OTHER HAND, PEOPLE SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS CAN ALSO BE PRONE TO LONELINESS, IF REAL CONNECTIONS AREN’T MADE.”

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VALLETTA

Pinto Stores January 2000

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VALLETTA

DOCUMENTING THE CAPITAL OVER THREE DECADES AFTER THREE DECADES OF DOCUMENTING THE CAPITAL, MALTESE PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID PISANI IS EXHIBITING THE LARGEST AND MOST EXTENSIVE COLLECTION OF HIS WORK YET. FIRST CAUGHT UP WITH HIM TO GET A MORE INSIGHTFUL LOOK INTO THIS IMPORTANT PROJECT. Words by Joanna Demarco. Photography by David Pisani.

David Pisani

he destruction of City Gate in 2011 marked the end of an era for photographer David Pisani.

After taking photographs of the capital for 29 years, he felt that the physical demolition of the gate was also the metaphorical destruction of the Valletta he knew.

Acting as a visual record, especially when constant over time, photography can provide us with a significant insight into the alteration or transformation of a subject – be it a place, a situation or a person.

It was in 1982 that photographer David Pisani began taking photographs of Valletta, a city to which he has always felt somehow intrinsically connected. The grandson of the former owner of Valletta’s iconic Wembley Store, it is no surprise that David spent a large part of his childhood in and around Valletta, despite not actually living in the city. ▶

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VALLETTA

138, Strait Street October 1998

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St. Joseph Street October 1991

Vanishing Valletta is endorsed by Valletta 2018 and Pafos 2017 European Capital of Culture as joint partners under the project title “A Tale of Two Cities� and is part of the Spazju Kreattiv program.

The exhibition is sponsored by ZETurf, Computime Ltd, APS Bank, Express Group and Corinthia Group. It will be open at Spazju Kreattiv between the 21st of December 2018 and the 27th of January 2019.

More information on www.vanishingvalletta.com

VALLETTA

Albert Town February 1993

Demolition of Freedom Square October 2010

◀ “I always thought the place was amazing. It was falling to pieces, but it was an erotic place for me: the light, the buildings, the people.

You could say that I had an ongoing platonic relationship with Valletta,” he said. “I used to love just being there and would use any excuse to go to Valletta. I think many people have felt like this about the city.”

David’s first photographs of the city were taken when he was about 17 years old, a collection of images slowly built up from 1982 to today. Taking the title ‘Vanishing Valletta’, the entire project will be exhibited for the first time at Spazju Kreattiv between 21 December and 27 January.

Many people remark on how much our capital city has changed in just a few years, let alone over several decades, but David has actually caught that transformation on camera, having been an active observer throughout those changes. Having studied the city closely for more than three decades, I wonder what David has noticed in particular during that time and what differences he has perceived between 1982 and 2011 – the date when the project ended.

“In 1982, Valletta was in a state of semi-abandonment,” he said, “although hidden parts of it were still alive. In the morning there would be a bustle of people going into offices and then by the evening, the place would seem totally quiet. If you stayed on, however, you could witness real life in Valletta, the daily realities of Manderaggio, the lives of the people who lived in Valletta. In reality, this does not really exist any longer, as the vast majority of these people have moved out of the city.”

In itself, the word ‘vanishing’ implies movement, time and dynamics. For David, the realisation of this movement came 18 years after the initiation of the project. “I started seeing the changes in around the year 2000, and that was when I coined the name ‘Vanishing Valletta’. Part of the collection was first exhibited in Paris under the title ‘La Valette et le Grand Port – Portrait d’une Capitale Maritime’ (La Valette and the Grand Harbour – a Portrait of a Maritime Capital).

The emphasis was very much about the harbour area, which is where it all started.”

One part of Valletta that really intrigued the photographer over the years, and indeed has a strong link with the maritime aspect, is Strait Street. “Strait Street was where you could really experience Valletta,” he says. “For all its bad reputation, the street was very much alive and there was something very unique there.”

For David, what he captured in the early stages of his project has indeed vanished. The feel of the city, which he found so strong back then, is not the same today. “I am not against evolution,” he assured me. “Cities always evolve. What I documented was something that has been lost. To me, it was this atmosphere that I don’t feel today as I walk through Valletta. Certain elements have disappeared, not just architecturally but also demographically.

“Despite all the criticism you can throw at Valletta, it still retains a lot of its architectural character, unlike many other cities in the world. I feel that we are doing a good job of restoration, but a city needs residents, not just the day-trippers. A city changes a lot when the residents move out and are replaced by ‘Airbnbers’, who do not have the same relationship with it as the residents used to have. The last few remaining residents are literally the ones who are brave enough to stay.”

The exhibition Vanishing Valletta will consist of 192 original, handprinted photographic prints toned by the artist in his darkroom and will provide not only a memorable glimpse into the history of our capital, but also an intriguing journey through the rapid transformation of a place, and a starting point that will cause visitors to think about where we are now and where our beloved capital is heading.

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CHILDREN

CHILDREN’S CLASSICS Great stories never grow old! This holiday season, we have created our list of children’s classics that continue to fascinate and inspire generations of children and parents. Whether you’re discovering Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory or learning about the joyous gift of giving with The Giving Tree, here is our choice of books that have withstood the test of time.

Words by Laura Schembri 81

CHILDREN THE LITTLE PRINCE BY ANTOINE DE SAINT-EXUPÉRY “Only the children know what they are looking for.”

The Little Prince tells the story of a young boy who travels the universe, gaining wisdom from a series of extraordinary encounters. The simple tale, famed as a moral allegory masked as a children’s book, is the most translated book in the French language, with unrivalled universal appeal.

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

BY ROALD DAHL

ing powers of children’s imagination, taking them anywhere they want to go.

THE GIVING TREE BY SHEL SILVERSTEIN “Once there was a tree ... and she loved a little boy” The Giving Tree is a moving parable that offers an affecting interpretation of the gift of giving and the unconditional love in return. The story tells the relationship between a young boy and a tree, as the protagonist’s needs and subsequently their relationship, change over time. The story exudes a unique brand of simplicity, fuelling every line with emotion.

“We are all a great deal luckier that we realize, we usually get what we want - or near enough.”

This fantasy fiction tale follows Max, a mischievous young boy who has been sent to bed without dinner, where he sets sail across the sea of imagination on an adventure to the place where the wild things are. Famed for its honest portrayal of children’s emotions, especially anger, Sendak’s story demonstrates the wonderful heal82

PRESS HERE BY HERVE TULLET “press here and turn the page”

“It was late summer when the stranger came to live with the Baileys”

“Things may happen and often do to people as brainy and footsy as you”

“There should be a place where only the things you want to happen, happen”

This light-hearted cautionary tale tells the story of a forest-dwelling creature and the greedy developer who destroys his natural habitat. Speaking through his character ‘the Lorax’, Dr Seuss chronicles the plight of the environment and warns against mindless progress. The rhyming text also highlights the impact one individual can have, no matter how young.

THE STRANGER BY CHRIS VAL ALLSBURG

Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE BY MAURICE SENDAK

“I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues.”

Described as one of the most innovative children’s books published in recent years, Press Here invites readers on an interactive journey of imagination. From the title onwards, readers are given specific instructions such as ‘press the yellow dot’. For every action the child takes, the book responds with the turn of a page and the magic begins.

Arguably Roald Dahl’s best-known story, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory follows Charlie Bucket as he finds a golden ticket that allows him to tour the famous Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, along with four other children. Originally published in 1964, this cultural phenomenon went on to inspire two film adaptations, an opera and a musical.

Oh, The Places You’ll Go is a tale of hope and optimism, acknowledging the challenges of life that recent graduates may face when leaving the university bubble. Filled with unique illustrations and Dr Seuss’ synonymous rhymes, this inspirational book continuously encourages readers to not sit around and wait for something to happen but to go and make it happen.

THE LORAX BY DR. SEUSS

MADELINE

BY LUDWIG BEMELMANS “In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines the smallest one was Madeline.”

Set in a Catholic boarding school in Paris, Madeline is centred around the fearless character of the title as she goes into hospital for an operation. The combination of Bemelmans’ whimsical drawings and cheerful humour has cemented Madeline’s status as one of the most beloved characters in children’s literature.

Allsburg’s straightforward writing brings this somewhat melancholic tale to life. It tells a story about a stranger who loses his memory when he is hit by Farmer Bailey with his truck, and is brought home by the farmer to recuperate during the autumn. The stranger appears to have a mysterious relationship with the weather and the mood and suspense of the book make it a compelling read for all ages.

THE STORY OF BARBAR, THE LITTLE ELEPHANT BY JEAN DE BRUNHOFF “In the great forest a little elephant is born” After a hunter kills his mother, Barbar flees to the city where an old lady befriends him. The story follows the little elephant’s transition as he works hard to learn the behaviour of the humans amongst whom he lives, becoming educated and cultured and eventually returning to the great forest to be crowned King of the Elephants. Brunhoff ’s distinctive illustrations that accompany the moving story, have made The Story of Babar a favourite with children and adults alike.

TRADITIONAL FOOD

PERFECTING TRADITIONAL

MINCEMEAT

THIS CHRISTMAS

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TRADITIONAL FOOD

Mincemeat is the staple sweet Christmas flavour, however, it can sometimes be a bit tricky to perfect. We got our hands on an old, simple mincemeat recipe which does not include any sugar or suet. Originally, mincemeat contained meat, however it has adapted over the years and whilst many recipes still contain beef suet, this recipe is completely meat-free. The mincemeat needs plenty of time to stand, so it takes a couple of days to be perfected.

You will need approximately four cup-sized jars to store the mincemeat once ready.

INGREDIENTS: 1kg mixed fruit (sultanas, raisins, candid peel) The grated rind and juice of 1 lemon, 1 tangerine and 1 orange 3 tbsp brandy 1 grated apple 1/2 tsp nutmeg

METHOD: Mix all the ingredients together. Cover the mixture and leave to stand for about three days.

Mix it once a day. Blend half the mixture and put it into sterilised jars.

Once the mincemeat is collected and stored, you can use it for a variety of Christmas recipes.

Make traditional mincepies, mix it in a fruit cake or pudding, or use it to fill a larger Christmas tart.

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FOOD

’TIS THE SEASON FOR ROASTS

By The Mediterranean Culinary Academy

Chicken Roulade (Serves 2) As the holiday season approaches we turn our attention towards the comforting roasts for which this time of year is known. This recipe is easy to make and the roulade can be rolled and wrapped two days in advance to save you the trouble of preparing it on the day you will be serving it. For an even quicker version, feel free to replace the stuffing with your favourite sausage meat.

INGREDIENTS: 2 whole chicken legs 200g minced pork 8 dried prunes 8 walnuts 6 sprigs of fresh thyme 2 sprigs of rosemary 2 cloves of garlic Zest of a lemon

METHOD: 1. Begin by deboning the chicken leg or asking your butcher to do it for you, ensuring that as you remove the bone you keep the skin as intact as possible.

2. For the stuffing, chop the prunes and walnuts into small pieces and place into a mixing bowl with the minced pork, lemon zest and the leaves from four sprigs of thyme. Season generously with salt and mix to combine.

For a quicker alternative, remove the skin from 200g of your favourite sausages and use that instead.

3. Season both sides of your chicken legs well with salt, then lay them out flat, skin side down, over a large length of cling film. Divide your stuffing mix evenly between the two legs and form into a sausage-like shape along the centre of the chicken meat. Roll the chicken around the stuffing, ensuring that as much of the skin covers the meat as possible. Lay a sprig of rosemary and a crushed clove of garlic on top of the roulade. This will infuse the roulade with flavour as it cooks.

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4. Roll up each roulade well in cling film and secure each end by tying a knot as close to the meat as possible. Wrap the entire package in aluminium foil and cook in a preheated oven at 200ºC for 30 minutes.

5. Carefully remove the foil from the roulade and collect the cooking juices in a mixing bowl. Dry the surface of the roulade well using a paper towel and preheat a sauté pan over a medium high heat.

6. Once the pan is hot, add a generous splash of sunflower or similar neutral oil and cook the roulades, turning every minute so that they are evenly browned. Remove from the pan and allow to rest. Alternatively, if you are entertaining guests and cooking a number of roulades, lay them, uncovered, on a lined baking tray with plenty of space between them and cook in an oven set at 220°C /200C fan, until golden brown.

7. Slice the roulades and serve immediately.

Photo by Joanna Demarco

FOOD

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FOOD

Roast potatoes By pre-cooking the potatoes in salted boiling water with a touch of bicarbonate of soda before roasting them in the oven, you create beautiful soft, creamy cooked potato with a beautiful crust.

INGREDIENTS: 200g potatoes 30ml olive oil 2 cloves of garlic 2 sprigs of Rosemary 2 sprigs of thyme ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda Salt to taste METHOD: 1. Peel the potatoes and cut into equally sized pieces and place in a container of cold water.

2. Bring a saucepan of water to a rolling boil, add salt and bicarbonate of soda.

3. Add the potatoes to the boiling water and cook until they are breaking very slightly from the outside – about 20 minutes.

4. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the water, ensuring that the water is still boiling while the potatoes are being removed, and place them onto the j-cloth to absorb excess moisture.

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5. Let the potatoes cool to room temperature. Once cool, coat with olive oil.

6. Preheat the oven to 200°C and add to the tray, add the oil and preheat for about 10 minutes 7. Once hot, add the potatoes to the tray in the oven and cook for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes turn the potatoes over, add the rosemary, thyme and garlic and leave to cook for a further 20 minutes.

8. Remove the potatoes from the oil and serve.

FOOD

Sauteed brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts are often looked down on as unwelcome additions to the dinner table. This is solely because this humble vegetable is often poorly prepared. They require quick cooking over high heat to bring out their nutty, savoury flavour. Don’t be afraid to really blacken the outer layers of the sprout as this lends to wonderfully complex flavours.

INGREDIENTS: 150g Brussels sprouts 30g butter Salt to taste

METHOD: 1. Remove the dark outer layers of the sprouts and discard them. Cut the sprouts in half.

2. Place a pan on a medium-high heat, and when it is hot, add the sprouts, cut side down, and roast for three minutes.

3. Turn the sprouts over and add the butter to the pan. Cook on the rounded side for another two minutes.

4. Serve immediately.

For more information about The Mediterranean Culinary Academy’s courses, workshops or private events, visit their website www.mcamalta.com, facebook page: Mediterranean culinary academy or Instagram account: Mediterranean_Culinary_Academy 89

PROMO

MAGNIFICENT MALEFICENT

With the classic fairy-tale of Sleeping Beauty soon to be staged at the Teatru Manoel as this year’s legendary Christmas panto by FM Theatre Productions, we speak with TEZARA CAMILLERI about playing one of the most iconic villains of all time, the wonderfully evil Maleficent. here aren’t many actors who hope to be booed by the audience every time they enter the stage. For local household name, actress, radio DJ, drama teacher, wedding singer and mountain-climber Tezara Camilleri, however, this is exactly how she’ll know she’s succeeded in bringing to life one of the world’s most famous baddies.

“Maleficent is a dream role for me,” says Tezara. “I’ve wanted to play the villain in a panto for a very long time and the fact that this year’s villain is her just makes it all the more exciting. Most children grow up wanting to be the princess, but I always wanted to be the baddie, so this is definitely one off my bucket list. I can’t wait to hear the crowd booing me!”

There’s one other unique part of playing Maleficent that Tezara is particularly looking forward to – wearing the villain’s signature horns. “Maleficent’s horns play such a vital role to the image of such an iconic character - the second the make-up and the horns are on there’s no mistaking who she is. Her costumes are just fantastic and scream evil, which really helps me get into character.”

Beyond her fantastical couture, Maleficent also has a pivotal role to play in the classic story of Sleeping Beauty. At the christening of the baby Princess Aurora, Maleficent curses the child, and many years later the beautiful Princess falls into an eternal sleep under the evil fairy’s wicked spell. It is then up to the dashing Prince Charming, played by Gianni Selvaggi, to fight Maleficent and break the spell, ably assisted by Dame Nanna Kola, played by panto veteran Edward Mercieca, and Muddles, the hilarious comic sidekick played by Chiara Hyzler, along with a talented supporting cast.

“Joining the amazing cast of Sleeping Beauty feels quite surreal! Sometimes we’ll be at rehearsals and I just look around and I say to myself, wow! I can’t believe I’m actually part of this!” laughs Tezara. “I’m so grateful to be working alongside Edward Mercieca too. I always learn so much from him, and since he has played the villain before, he has really helped me find my own version of Maleficent. Also, Karen Decelis and Rambert Attard, who are playing her henchmen, are doing such a good job - they help complete the whole villain 90

package. I’m so impressed by our chorus too – they are absolutely top!”

Sleeping Beauty marks the second time this year that Tezara will be joining the cast of a FM Theatre Productions show, having also performed in the company’s recent sell-out, smash-hit musical Mamma Mia. “I love that there are so many familiar faces from Mamma Mia in Sleeping Beauty, as well as many new ones who I’m so glad to be getting to know and to be working with.”

Her role in Sleeping Beauty couldn’t be more different, however. “Maleficent is the polar opposite of Lisa, the character I played in Mamma Mia,” Tezara points out. “The whole team has been extraordinary is helping me to play such a challenging role. Our director Chris Gatt has been guiding me on how to build her up and layer her – Maleficent is a lot more complex than one would think. Abigail Brown and Kris Spiteri have been so encouraging with regards to my song and our choreographer Warren Bonello has managed to capture that ‘baddie’ element needed for a number like mine.”

If playing such a plum role as Maleficent is considered by Tezara to be the ultimate Christmas gift, the chance to play her on the stage at Malta’s national theatre is the veritable velvet bow on top. “The annual pantos at Teatru Manoel mean Christmas to people in Malta,” she says. “So many people consider it unmissable over the festive period. It’s the chance to share a good laugh with your loved ones, boo at the baddies, sing along with the songs and experience the spectacular scenery and special effects. And there’s just something about our national theatre. I can’t believe my luck that I’ll be able to perform as Maleficent there! Maybe it was the three good fairies working their magic…”

FM Theatre Productions proudly presents Sleeping Beauty at the Teatru Manoel, Valletta, with performances at 3pm and 8pm on 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 December and 2, 3, 5 January, at 8pm only on 4 January, and at 3pm only on 6 January.

Tickets are priced from €20 and are available from www.teatrumanoel.com.mt.

An early bird discount of 10% is available until 30 November.

PROMOTION

PANTO IN THE DARK ritten and directed by Marta Vella and Vikesh Godhwani GAWGAW a Panto in the Dark, is certainly going to be a treat to all those who are tired of the conventional and are looking to experience something completely different to anything that's been done not just for Christmas but in Malta. You read right, this is a national first that's happening in complete darkness and together with the endorsement of Her Excellency the President of Malta Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, we're honored to announce that this production will focus on the inclusion and involvement of the visually impaired, because Panto is everyone's to enjoy. The Maltese myth of the GawGaw is brought to life through the 92

This Christmas you're in for a treat, a treat in the dark that is!

Close your eyes and open your ears because between the 19th and the 23rd of December the GawGaw is coming to the Esplora Planetarium Hall. This will be TEATRU MALTA’s final production for 2018, one which they'll be closing off with an audio sensory bang!

Bartolo as Dame, Samuel Farrugia as Principal Boy and Davinia Hamilton and Joseph Zammit who will all be performing live, even though you won't be able to see them, so it's up to the audience to make out whose who. More fun for everyone!

This Christmas prepare to see nothing and feel and hear everything! Seating is very limited so think ahead, and be aware that this production is one-hour long and will be staged in complete darkness. GAWGAW is supported

by CRPD, Esplora, Il-Premju tal-President, Arts Council Malta and LESA.

sound design of Mario Sammut as well as the voices of its stellar cast including Chucky

For bookings visit teatrumalta.org.mt or call 21220255 for more information about evening shows and matinees.

PROMOTION

HEY JACK!

CELEBRATING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF YEARLY PANTOS he MADC is the longest-standing drama club in Malta. Founded in 1910, it has been at the forefront of the Maltese theatre scene ever since.

This year, the club is celebrating another milestone in its acclaimed history – the 40th anniversary since taking on the production of a Christmas pantomime on an annual basis, with a production of Jack and the Beanstalk at the MFCC in Ta’Qali.

One of the MADC’s most popular and acclaimed annual events, the Christmas panto has been a highpoint of the theatrical calendar for decades.

Although the Club’s first ever production was actually a pantomime - Aladdin in 1911 – and it produced Sinbad the Sailor in 1951,it was the Ariel Players (a Royal Air Force theatre group) that used to produce panto annually. In 1978 the Ariel Players left the island when the last military base closed down, and the MADC stepped in with

aplomb, with Cinderella that same year, and continued to produce it on an annual basis without fail.

Over the 40 years since, the Club has produced numerous ‘traditional’ pantomimes such as Aladdin,Dick Whittington and Mother Goose, as well as quite a few original spins on popular stories such as Merry Poppins and The Wizard of Oz, playing to packed houses year after year at the Manoel Theatre, and, since 2008, at the MFCC in Ta Qali.

This year’s offering is Jack and the Beanstalk, written and directed by Malcolm Galea, one of Malta’s most prolific comedy writers. He brings his trademark sense of humour to this version of Jack,

first produced by the club in 1981 and again in 1993, and now celebrating 40 years of one of the most popular pieces of entertainment on the island.

Jack and the Beanstalk will be performed at MFCC Ta’ Qali at 7.30pm on 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 December 2018 and 3, 4, 5 January 2019, with matinee performances at 3pm on 26, 29, 30 December 2018. Booking is now open at www.madc.com.mt. Tickets start from €10! Tickets also available at €18, €23 and €26, with reduced rates for children aged 3-11. Children aged 2 and under enter FREE with a toddler ticket but must have a reserved seat with parents/guardians.

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Baħar Iċ-Ċagħaq, Malta | +356 2137 2218 | +356 2137 6519 | info@mediterraneopark.com | www.mediterraneopark.com