FIRST May 2016

MAY 2016

UNDERGROUND VALLETTA I TALK ABOUT BREXIT .I SONGWRITER CHESS GALEA I CAMPING IN FRANCE I SAILING I ARTIST GOXWA I KARL LAGERFELD I BARONESS OF TABRIA AND DAUGHTER JUSTINE PERGOLA TIPICO I HEALTHY SKIN I HEALTHY EATING I FASHION I BODY IMAGE

Photograph by Alan Carville

It’s how you look at it Just as we have to step out of our comfort zone if we are to flourish, simply having a look from the outside in gives us a different perspective. In this issue, Prof. Paul Sant Cassia explores whether the Maltese artist Ġoxwa is more Parisian or Maltese and why she left Malta (page 21), and Claire Bugelli offers advice on how to feel confident in our own body, whatever our shape, and to wear a smile (page 54).

Our own happiness depends on how we look at things, but it is also about surrounding ourselves with what and who we love – and doing what we enjoy, at least some of the time. Dini Martinez does what she loves most, travelling, and explores France with her husband and children in a campervan, venturing through the terrain at their own pace (page 16) and she also sails through the Mediterranean and offers her top five destinations for this summer (page 39).

Ingrid Mercieca prepares another scrumptious meal (page 58) and the Baroness of Tabria and her daughter Justine Pergola share their memories of childhood, and discuss their relationship as mother and daughter, travel companions and business partners (page 68).

Albert Delia ventures underground, to discover what’s really under Valletta, with architect Edward Said (page 10) and Colin Fitz asks a few Brits for their opinion on whether or not the UK should exit the European Union (page 56).

Today – being Mother’s Day – has the potential for being a ‘nurturing’ day, one to be with, or to remember, your own mother or perhaps to spend with your child(ren). However it is spent, I hope it’s an easy Sunday for you and that you find some inspiration inside this issue. And last but not least I would like to congratulate our dear travel writer Dini Martinez, who gave birth to her third child back home in Australia last week!

EDITOR LILY AGIUS LAGIUS@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT ASSOCIATE EDITOR COLIN FITZ ADVERTISING & ADVERT PLACEMENTS CLAIRE BONDIN GAFA CGAFA@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT DESIGNER CONRAD BONDIN CBONDIN@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT ARTISTIC DIRECTOR SEAN ELLUL PRODUCTION MANAGER ANDRE CAMILLERI ACAMILLERI@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT ARTWORK COORDINATOR CHRISTINE SPITERI CMIFSUD@INDEPENDENT.COM.MT CONTRIBUTORS ALBERT DELIA, CLAIRE BUGELLI, COLIN FITZ, DINI MARTINEZ, FEDERICO PELTRETTI, INGRID MERCIECA, MICHAEL CAMILLERI, PAUL SANT CASSIA, PETER MARK MERCIECA. 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 THE MALTESE ARTIST GOXWA IN HER PARIS STUDIO. PHOTO BY JO ZHOU (WWW.JOZHOU.COM) ORIGINALLY TAKEN FOR ELLE CHINA. FIRST IS PUBLISHED EVERY MONTH AS A COMPLIMENTARY MAGAZINE WITH THE MALTA INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY AND IS NOT TO BE SOLD SEPARATELY.

56

39

Inside 8 FIRST WORD

With singer and songwriter Chess Galea

54 DEAR CLAIRE

Being confident in your own body

11 SUBTERRANEAN VALLETTA

56 BREXIT DILEMMA

16 CAMPING IN FRANCE

58 RECIPES

Albert Delia goes underground Dini Martinez gives us the lowdown

20 LEAVING IS IMPORTANT FOR AN ARTIST Prof Paul Sant Cassia explores the movements of an artist: Ġoxwa

24 BY THE SEA

This issue’s fashion feature by Federico Peltretti

39 ON THE SEA

5 top sailing destinations this summer

44 STYLE INTERVIEW

Interview with Rene Farrugia, after discovering Etnia Barcelona

47 LOVE YOUR SKIN

5 tips for healthier skin

52 HOMAGE TO CHANEL

Karl Lagerfeld exhibits his photographs in Cuba

36

Colin Fitz asks Britons who live in Malta for their thoughts Ingrid Mercieca makes Salmon Fish Cakes and Frozen Strawberry Pops

60 A BRILLIANT PARTNERSHIP

Tipico’s Brand Manager tells us about their latest collaboration

66 SOCIAL WHIRL

A hot trot at Malta’s company events

68 LAST WORD

With Christiane Ramsay Scicluna, Baroness of Tabria, and daughter Justine Pergola

52

8

WINNER from the APRIL ISSUE 6

68

CONGRATULATIONS!

Jake Pisani from Birkirkara won a collection of Man Cave products courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd.

first word

It is a great achievement for anyone to release a debut album at the age of 24, and musician, songwriter and performer Chess Galea has done just that. She will be performing her album – which she wrote and co-produced – in Malta on 6 June after a gig in London, where she has been living in the beautiful Surrey Hills for the last five years, studying and honing her craft of music.

I would like to learn how to fly plane, and paint pictures.

a

The book I am reading is My Last Duchess by Robert Browning. a dance space called Woking Dance Space where I’ve started to dance again – including ballet and, soon, jazz!

My most recent find is

The website I will often browse is

Bodireel.com workouts.

for

all

my

The most beautiful building in the world is the Chateau de Chambord – one of many.

The most spectacular city in the world is Venice, without a doubt.

The object I would never part with is my grandmother’s necklace. It is a chunky gold Maltese cross on a chain that she passed on to me when I was about 12 years old. It’s very old, and I cherish it.

An indulgence I would never give up is chocolate, and The Spice Girls – sorry!

The thing you will always find in my fridge is Yoghurt.

Alpro

If I could get away for the day it would have to be to Paris.

One thing I never get round to doing and wish I did is to practice playing the piano more.

My favourite space in my house is my bed. It’s a

If had no choice but to change my line of work I would love to start my own fashion line.

futon.

The most inspirational person in my life is my friend Vlada.

She is exceptionally inspirational… Go girl!

The most unforgettable place I have visited is New York City.

The last place I visited is The Dominican Republic.

8

The last thing I added to my wardrobe is a white Max My most luxurious habit is... I don’t think I have one – I’m

Mara dress and pink Biba shoes.

The best gift I have received recently is a

copy of my album for my birthday.

pretty sensible!

framed

The last song I listened to is One Dance, Drake: I’ve just filmed a cover for it!

Chess’s album, 1869, will be launched in Malta on 6 June at Razzett L’Ahmar. Admission is €8 or €5 if you buy a single off iTunes. You can find out more at www.chessgalea.com or follow her social media page @chess_galea on twitter, instagram, facebook and snapchat.

SUBSTRATUM SUPERBISSIMA Delving Deep under the City of Valletta. By Albert Delia.

I

t is common knowledge that beneath Valletta lies an urban enigma. The city itself is a feat of engineering which, at its peak, was capable of accommodating over twenty thousand inhabitants. Since its initial construction in 1566 – approaching almost half a millennium ago, an area of less than a square kilometre has, time and time again, managed to adapt to the needs of the times. In order to achieve this an unseen network spreads across the city, beneath the slabbed streets and ageing dwellings, still humbly carrying out the duties for which it was originally designed.

This city is the place I now call home and despite it undergoing another revival, there is a grossly underestimated aspect of this space that is sadly still going unnoticed. Underneath the capital rests a labyrinthine weave of functional structures hewn and constructed over centuries for a myriad of purposes. However, a recently formed organisation intends to remedy this lacuna in people’s knowledge of the underlying fabric beneath the city.

Valletta Underground wants to bring to light the knowledge and information that has so far remained in almost complete darkness.

To find out more about what lies beneath, I met up with one of the founding members of Valletta Underground – a person who might arguably be considered the foremost expert on the subject. Over the years, architect Edward Said has gained the reputation as the go-to-guy on information about the city’s dark underbelly. As we sat down at my dinner table with a drink, I couldn’t help cutting straight to the chase with the one question that had been bubbling inside me ever since the idea of writing this article first popped into my head. “It seems that everyone has their own idea of what lies beneath the city – it is a topic seeped in urban legend. How much of it is myth and how much of it is real?”»

10

11

Photograph by Michael Camilleri

Above: Looking upwards inside one of Valletta’s hundreds of private water cisterns Below: A public reservoir dating to the first years of the city close to St John’s Cathedral

Above: Beneath St George’s Square inside one of the small vaults once serving the Wignacourt fountain above.

Below: Subterranean passage-way close to the President’s Palace.

«Edward immediately addresses the elephant in the room by bringing up the biggest claim of all which is that underneath Valletta lies a subterranean city. He assures me that this is not the case and that some accounts of escape passages and underwater tunnels are also somewhat exaggerated. However, what there is down there might be said to be equally fascinating – in fact you might even call it another reality.

The most amazing thing one learns when exploring the space beneath the city is the amount of forethought, ingenuity and practicality employed by the engineers, architects and planners during the city’s construction. These people really thought ahead and, as an architect, is it abundantly clear that Edward appreciates the forethought that went in to the designing of the city. This is especially relevant when one considers the surveying tools and equipment available at the time, not to mention the fact that the population of Malta was less than thirty thousand when the construction of Valletta began.

Valletta was the response to the Great Siege, a preventive measure aimed at ensuring a higher likelihood of victory, should the country be attacked again. In this respect, it has to be kept in mind that although the planners of the time were in a hurry to build the city, they did not skimp when it came to implementing measures to ensure its sustainability: the structures beneath the capital are testament to this. The site for Valletta offered particular challenges and opportunities, from both the topographical and geological points of view. The planned entrance to the city, for example, was already the highest part – a definite plus from the defensive point of view – as well as consisting of good quality stone.

This afforded the opportunity of using the stone excavated from the dry moat at City Gate to increase the height of the bastion walls as well as possibly building St John and St James Cavalier on either side of the gate with the same stone. It is even rumoured that the first city gate was, in fact, a tunnel hewn through solid rock.

This same extremely pragmatic thinking is pervasive throughout all the city’s design. One reason why niches were built at the corner of housing blocks, is that niches generally hold lamps or candles and could therefore illuminate all four roads at which they intersect. Not only were the people at the time rational thinkers, they also implemented such measures while retaining a sense of the aesthetic. » 12

Left: Below Merchants Street Above: The Valletta terminus serving the Malta Railway as seen in the early 20th century (Courtesy of the Richard Ellis Collection) Below: One of the cavernous vaults below the Archbishop’s Palace

THESE TUNNELS WERE ABOUT THREE OR FOUR FEET WIDE, OBVIOUSLY WIDE ENOUGH FOR A PERSON TO PASS THROUGH SINCE THEY WERE EXCAVATED BY HAND AND PEOPLE HAD TO BE ABLE TO PASS THROUGH THEM IN ORDER TO GET THE JOB DONE 14

«There were about 12 regulations at the time of Valletta’s construction by which anyone wishing to live within the city had to abide, and about four of these concerned underground Valletta. The stone used to for building inside Valletta had to be sourced from within the city.

This was partially due to practical and logistical considerations since it did away with the need to transport stone to the site. In fact, quite a few houses have quarries beneath them: once the stone needed for building had been excavated, these holes were then either simply vaulted over, or turned into cellars, water cisterns or crypts and the houses built over them.

Valletta’s uneven contours may also be said to have contributed to the unique nature of the city’s underground. Foundations had to be level in order for buildings to be erected on them and this was achieved either by digging until an appropriate gradient was reached or – perhaps more commonly – by constructing wedge-shaped foundations on which the buildings were then constructed. These spaces were hollow, turned to tenements.

The sanitation and infrastructure regulations employed at the time were truly state-of-the-art. Each house had to be connected to a main drain and the design of a system using gravity for effluent was impressive – as was the system for the supply of water.

These tunnels were about three or four feet wide, obviously wide enough for a person to pass through since they were excavated by hand and people had to be able to pass through them in order to get the job done.

The exit points for this drainage system was straight out of the bastion walls. There are, in fact, some pretty repugnant descriptions from the time of the British that

refer to sections of the bastions being covered in slurry.

As a result, one of the first major projects carried out by the British was an overhaul of the Valletta’s drainage systems – adding further tunnels to the network beneath the city to catch any run-off as well as constructing intricate high chimneys to allow for the escape of noxious gasses. Edward points at one of them just outside my balcony calling it a ‘beaut’. When World War II necessitated the creation of air raid shelters, the easiest option was to map out the location of existing subterranean structures and simply connect them – thus adding another function to these spaces, not to mention the building of additional shelters. It is these numerous layers of superimposed functions within such a confined space that makes what is down there truly amazing.

When asked what he considers the most impressive thing he has seen so far, Edward replies that it has to be the massive reservoir beneath Great Siege Square. Since his interest in this area first started, he has been consulted on all sorts of things – from sewage problems to National Geographic wanting to know more on the subject.

Edward hopes that Valletta Underground can start serving as the primary contact point on the subject, dispelling the myths through documented research, facts and activities where people see such things for themselves.

The organisation hopes that, one day, it will be able to have a site open to the public that demonstrates all the unique features described above. Until then, anyone interested can visit Underground Valletta‘s Facebook page to find out more about forthcoming events. The organisation can be contacted on vallettaunderground@gmail.com

All-New Renault KADJAR Start living.

Starting from €24,500

AUTO SALES LTD - KIND’S

Reg. No. S063

Mosta Road, Lija LJA 9011.

Tel: 23311126 / 23311131

Mgarr Road, Xewkija XWK 9012.

Tel: 99874301 / 99486417 / 21550962

www.renault.com.mt

FRANCE

A CAMPER’S PARADISE Have you ever thought about a holiday which allows you to explore several magnificent places at the same time, combine cultural with culinary and scenic highlights, be close to nature and enjoy not one or two but many prime locations with sunrise views without the added price tag of fancy Cote d’Azur seashore resorts? Travelling through France in a motorhome makes all of this possible and more. Dini Martinez, who spent several months with her family in a motorhome in France, reports.

16

M ost welcoming for motorhomes

There are thousands of campsites all around France, spreading through mountain villages, over castle regions and river valleys to innumerable and diverse

Route de Napoleon coastal destinations. Many of them are free and offer BBQs, showers and toilets, laundry facilities, discharge availability, water recharge and more. Whether you are going on a longer trip and intend on purchasing your own motorhome, or prefer to rent one for a week or more, there are many companies all around the country offering competitive prices.

Direct flights from Malta to France get you started in Lyon, Marseille or Paris. If you add a stop-over, you can start pretty much anywhere you want.

Route de Napoleon

On our last visit in late spring, we entered France through Switzerland.

Slowly making our way down the ‘Route de Napoleon’, we passed one quaint village after another. Typical of them all was the irresistible charm of fresh

croissants with café-au-lait to start the day, watching the older generation eagerly discussing politics and the latest gossip while fetching their steaming baguettes and local markets selling the most delicious fresh produce. There were hidden little historic gems at every corner, few tourists and the most rustic, romantic and typically French restaurants without seaside prices.

Some days we woke up in solitude amongst nothing but the natural sounds of the lower Alps with everything we needed right there with us, from food and comfortable beds to clothes for any and every occasion. Staying in a home with wheels means you can enjoy new scenery every day and stop at any beautiful lake, charming spot, inviting river or picturesque off-the-beaten-track tavern you come across on the way.

Côte d’Azur

The glittering Mediterranean Sea first came into sight in Port Cogolin near St Tropez, where the exhilarating hustle and bustle of fancier and fanciest yachting life was in stark contrast to our days in the much quieter mountains. We scored a spot on a free, beach-front parking area where the gate had broken, there were no signs of parking or camping limitations and no-one seemed to care less about our presence. Once you are parked happily, your motorhome will naturally attract fellow campers, as if it was a blinking lighthouse shouting out ‘It’s safe, legal and worth staying here for a while’! Most campers we encountered were French nationals enjoying their retirement. The generation gap didn’t change the mutual companionship which seems to be an unwritten law» 17

«for people choosing the same way of transport (ie yachties help yachties; campers help campers, etc).

Along France’s Mediterranean Coast, the choice of camping spots – as in most of the rest of the country – is almost overwhelming. Given our explorative quest of the region, we generally preferred free and secluded spots to the full-on resorts, so it didn’t bother us much that the latter tend to be booked up quickly in the summer months. However, this is something to bear in mind if hopping from pool to resort bar and organised morning yoga is your way of camping on your next French holiday.

We enjoyed the diversity of places in which we ended up, from simple parking spots near old fishing villages like Seyne-Sur-Mer and glamorous harbour towns such as St Tropez to hidden away hinterland low-key forest sites such as Camping Le Fondespierre.

Atlantic coast

Fast-forwarding our summer months in Spain and Portugal, we turned the corner and headed up France’s Atlantic coast. After unforgettable wine and cheese tasting near Rochefort, we stopped for a few days in La Rochelle, marvelling at the thousands of sailing boats in one of Europe’s biggest harbours. The charming downtown area also happened to have one of the best boulangeries in a country of top-end boulangeries and we weren’t going to move on without having tried the whole menu. This meant having to forget more of the highlights along this rugged coastline, such as Belle-Isle.

But sometimes less is more – especially with children on board. The weather getting colder reminded us of a long-standing autumn date with friends in Paris.

AFTER UNFORGETTABLE WINE AND CHEESE TASTING NEAR ROCHEFORT, WE STOPPED FOR A FEW DAYS IN LA ROCHELLE, MARVELLING AT THE THOUSANDS OF SAILING BOATS IN ONE OF EUROPE’S BIGGEST HARBOURS Camping in Paris

Taking a seven-metre motorhome – although small compared to most – to the centre of France’s capital is nothing short of totally crazy. There are, of course, a few official campsites in the city. And yet, somehow, we 18

Top: Côte D’Azur Bottom left: La Rochelle Above: Port de Rochefort ended up in a simple roadside parking spot around the block from our friends’ apartment and spent an unforgettable few days in the very heart of the world’s most beautiful and romantic city – until the adjacent cafes and restaurants pretty much kicked us out for blocking their views… into the busy streets. Navigating the narrow lanes on our way out of town almost ended us at the mechanics several times. But even had we needed it, we could rest in peace knowing that camperfond France would be the best catered-for place in which to need a fix. In six months of living and travelling in a motorhome ‘en famille’, we only needed a mechanic once to fix a broken gas valve that had kept us from cooking for a few days.

Managing your budget

Another great advantage of motorhomes and campervans is the ability to reduce costs, especially if you have enough time on your hands. You can easily skip expensive tolls for using new highways by pottering along the adjacent, more rural roads. These give you the added opportunity to explore and get to know every region at its best rather than merely racing through it.

Another stress-free way of managing your budget when camping is having full control over how often you allow yourself to indulge in the numerous varieties of breathtaking French cuisine, and how often you content yourself with simple home-cooked meals, having stocked up at the local markets, enjoyed by a local river at sunset. Overall – and carbon emissions aside – there really is nothing bad to say about camping in camperfond France. So why not join us on the road soon?

Taste More

.

GOXWA: WHY LEAVING IS IMPORTANT FOR AN ARTIST

By Prof. Paul Sant Cassia »

21

Previous page: Marilyn Monroe Above from the Top: White Dove, Fresco, and Gharghur.

Centre: Sleeping Girl. Right page: Flowers.

22

F

ew Maltese art cognoscenti may know of Ä oxwa, and even less our luminaries. Yet this Maltese artist has long been established in Paris where she has been exhibiting regularly for many years – and indeed is one of the most expensive and sought-after contemporary artists currently exhibiting there. In this contradiction lies an important lesson about art and artists: that a young and aspiring artist must often leave his or her natal home and travel to the metropolis to seek inspiration, challenges and above all, risks.

Risk is probably the single most important challenge facing an artist: the risk to innovate, to discover one’s inner voice, and above all to discover oneself. In art, to

discover oneself is as challenging – and often as painful – as psychoanalysis. One does not discover oneself in a serendipitous self-indulgent exploration of whims and fantasies, nor in some extended touristic search for visual stimulants. That can come later. But to begin it is sometimes essential to “be away”, to be stripped bare of the psychic comforts of one’s environment where every self-indulgent artistic fantasy or shallow exploration of some visual theme is welcomed with gushing admiration, and which does as much damage to the recipient in its cloying adulatory suffocation as it demonstrates the insecure undiscriminating provinciality of the person praising it.

In the history of art, painting, literature and even science, we know that natal environments are little islands – literally or metaphorically reassuring, but deadly to the artist. Most artists had to travel, that is to lose themselves to discover themselves. Easier said than done: few people manage to lose themselves and even fewer “find themselves” for finding is making, not some opening of a Russian Doll or the peeling of an onion. And this is as true in today’s globalised world as it was in the sixteenth century where most artists were known by their geographical origins which they abandoned never to return: from Merisi (i.e. “da Caravaggio”) to Poussin, from Cezanne to

Picasso and Antonio Sciortino yesterday, and to Marina Abramovic today. That is what made them world artists in contrast to local or provincial ones.

Few, indeed, of their natal communities actually possesses any examples of their work. Art is movement, but movement outside the mover. And in its modest way, the story of Ġoxwa is part of that pattern.

Disappointed with the local art scene and intuitive that had she to remain here she risked losing herself for her doppelganger, she left Malta years before the pearly gates of the European Union opened for Maltese, to study at St Martin’s School of Art in London, and then at Emerson College, Boston. After a number of years in the US she moved to Paris. That city of art was not easy for a young woman. Many artists dream to find good galleries to exhibit in, but the Gallerists have seen it all before. The good ones have their hands on the pulse of the art-loving cognoscenti: they are sophisticated, sometimes blasé; but always acutely discerning. Yet Ġoxwa persisted; she worked hard and seriously often in straightened circumstances; slowly developed her vision and technique (using encaustic and recalling the Fayyum portraits) and eventually a perceptive Gallerist in the 6th Arrondisement (where many of the top Art Galleries are located) saw her potential and offered her a show. As Olivier Renault notes, when people pass by her work, they stop and look – and in a city where visual stimulation is the currency of existence.

Since then Ġoxwa has been sought out by Art Galleries in Paris as well as in New York. Her exhibitions are normally sellouts: an average price for a small canvass is in the region of 15,000 Euros. But let us leave the ostentation of monetary prices for those who think that art is an auction of supply and demand, or even for those provincials who might be impressed by high prices as an indication of value and therefore of investment. One purchases works of art because one likes them, because they say something to one. Not a mere illustration, but a narration or a reflection.

Is Ġoxwa Borg a Maltese artist or a Parisian one?

She is neither but she belongs to both. She has transcended one to make herself, and is therefore not a hyphenated identity. She has her own vision but she approaches her sources from her own perspective. She leaves from her sources, including Valletta her natal city, but does not inhabit her natal land. Yet perhaps her island is still there, its walls and contours seen from the sea in the mists of her memories and in the sketches she makes on her yearly visits to transform them into “something rich and strange….” Ġoxwa is represented by Lily Agius Gallery in Malta.

For more information about the artist and her work you can visit the gallery at 54 Cathedral Street, Sliema, and contact Lily Agius by phone on (+356) 99292488 or 20992488 or email info@lilyagiusgallery.com. You will also find updates and available artworks on the website Lilyagiusgallery.com and the Lily Agius Gallery (exposed art) Facebook page.

23

BY THE

SEA PHOTOGRAPHER, STYLIST AND ART DIRECTOR: FEDERICO PELTRETTI MAKE-UP AND HAIR: ALICE SURAEVA MODEL: MARIA MARKOVA

24

Catsuit from Principles by Ben Lisi at Debenhams; hat and shoes from Accessorize; bag by Red Herring from Debenhams; glasses

by Jimmy Choo from O’hea Opticians; two bracelets by Stamerra from Porto; ring by Lola Rose from Porto.

25

Clothes and shoes from 1-2-3; bag

by D-Madera from Porto (made with teak wood from Ferretti Yatch); glasses by Prada from O’hea; jewellery by Nour from Porto

26

Dress by Betty Barclay from Mei; shoes from Accessorize; bag by Ripani from Porto; glasses by Dolce & Gabbana from O’hea Opticians; jewellery by Nour from Porto.

27

Dress from Karen Millen; shoes from Accessorize; glasses by Dior from O’hea Opticians; two necklaces worn as bracelets by Squadra Blu from Porto; ring by Nour from Porto.

28

Dess from Monsoon; bag by Chiara P. from Porto; glasses by Marc Jacobs from O’hea; shoes and hat from Accessoize; two rings by Lola rose from Porto; bracelet by Stamerra from Porto.

29

Dress by Betty Barclay from Mei; bag by Tosca Blu from Porto; bracelet

by Stamerra from Porto; shoes from The Collection at Debenhams.

30

Dress from The Collection at Debenhams; bag and shoes

by Red Herring at Debenhams; glasses by Jimmy Choo from O’hea Opticians; black ring by Lola Rose from Porto; two bracelets, necklace and earrings by Nour from Porto; silver ring by Coeur De Lion from Porto.

31

All clothes from 1-2-3; Carl Laich bag from Porto; Lola Rose ring from Porto; Tutti & Co multiple bracelet from Porto; Ukwenza earings from Porto; shoes from The Collection at Debenhams; Gucci glasses from O’hea Opticians.

32

Monsoon dress; Chiara P. dress from Porto; shoes from Accessorize; Gaby necklace from Porto; Nour ring earrings from Porto.

33

Dress, belt and bag from Karen Millen; two Dunsk Smykkekunst bracelets from Porto; Dyberg/Kern earings from Porto; Nour ring from Porto; Gucci glasses from O'hea; Faith shoes from Debenhams.

OUTLETS FEATURED 1-2-3, Westin Dragonara Resort, St Julian’s.

Tel. 23745031.

MEI, Westin Dragonara Resort, St Julian’s.

Tel. 21376690.

Porto, Portomaso Shopping Complex, St Julian’s.

Tel. 21372079.

O’hea Opticians, 191 The Strand, Gzira. Tel. 21315590.

Karen Millen, Old Theatre Street, Valletta. Tel. 99897642.

Debenhams, The Point Shopping Mall, Tigné Point and Main Street Shopping Complex, Paola. Tel. 22472000.

Accessorize, Bisazza Street, Sliema, and Republic Street, Valletta. Tel. 21346080, and The Duke Shopping Complex, Gozo. Tel. 21552540.

34

NEW COLLECTION

NEW OPENING HOURS Monday - Saturday: 10am - 7pm Westin Dragonara Resort, St. Julians T: 23745031

www.1-2-3.fr

Elegant, contemporary and stylish… fine Italian gemstone jewellery including earrings, bracelets and necklaces from HENRI. Unique gift ideas, or a well deserved treat for yourself.

Hold on to

this beaded

clutch bag

from 1-2-3

fashion street Head-turning style for all budgets

Choose from vast selection of Etnia Barcelona sunglasses and spectacles from O’hea

The new spring/summer collection from Betty & Co, Betty Barclay and Vera Mont is available at Mei

70 psuit ¤2

oral jum

fl Tropical len ren Mil from Ke

Stand out from the crowd in handmade jewellery by the popular Italian company Ottaviani, from La Bottega.

Fun and elegant backpacks for summer nights available in a great range of colours, exclusively from Porto

OUTLET DIRECTORY: 1-2-3 Paris, Westin Dragonara, St Julian’s. Henri Luxury Gift Boutique, Pjazza Tigné and Mdina (next to Palazzo Falson). Tel: 2010 6306. Mei Boutique, Westin Dragonara, St Julian’s. Tel: 2137 6690. O’hea Opticians, 191 The Strand, Gzira. Tel: 2131 5590. Karen Millen, Old Theatre Street, Valletta. Tel: 9989 7642. La Bottega, 200 Merchant’s Street, Valletta.

Tel: 9949 0456. Porto, Portomaso Shopping Complex, St Julian’s, Tel. 2137 2079.

36

BAGS BY: BRACCIALINI. TOSCA BLU. RIPANI. FRANCESCO BIASIA. LUPO. RADLEY. TULA. JEWELLERY BY: DANSK. COEUR DE LION. NOUR. SQUADRA BLU. GABY’S. STAMERRA. LOLA ROSE & TUTTI & CO.

PORTOMASO SHOPPING COMPLEX, ST. JULIAN’S. TEL: 2137 2079 WWW.PORT OMALTA.C OM

THE TOP FIVE

SUMMER SAILING DESTINATIONS Here are some sailing destination ideas, to glide through the deep blue sea this summer... by Dini Martinez Âť

39

Top left: Port Cogolin, France Above: Zakynthos, Greece Left: The Valley of the Temples, Agrigento Centre: Marmaris Harbour, Turkey Istanbul and gathers speed until well past Crete. In its strongest months of July and August it can regularly reach 40 knots and more. If this doesn’t scare you, then one of the world’s most stunning island paradises is all yours to discover. Across hundreds of diverse islands you can find anything from glamorous Santorini and partyland Mykonos, secluded Astipalia and volcanically peculiar Simi to history-ridden Rhodes, almost inaccessible Karpathos and more.

Even with a whole season at hand, it is impossible to see it all, so reading up beforehand about the different areas will make sure you chose the one that most suits your dreams and capabilities. In a nutshell, the eastern side of the Peloponnese Peninsula and the Saronic Gulf offer many charming local town quays, numerous wellequipped marinas and boatyards and several picturesque bays and anchorages, including ones suitable for hiding away from the Meltemi.

The Cyclades are full of contrasting islands and – weather permitting – can offer a diverse and unforgettable sailing holiday. The 24 main islands forming the Sporades Archipelago lie further north, slightly off the beaten track, and will enthuse nature lovers with their dense forest walks, expansive olive groves and monk seals (one of the Mediterranean’s largest seal species). The Dodacanese hug the Turkish Coast and even some of the smaller, uninhabited islands boast a rich history, including Byzantine churches and mediaeval castles. To the very south, more remote Crete seals off the Aegean Sea and, culturally and geographically, almost feels like a country on its own to which only a few experienced sailors seem to venture.

I

1. Cote d’Azur (France)

f budget is an issue, this destination is not for you. If it’s not, then France’s south-eastern Mediterranean coast offers the most glamorous harbours and towns you’ve ever seen. Because it is busy with the rich and famous throughout the summer, all the way from Nice through Monaco to Saint-Tropez and beyond, booking marinas in advance is a must. And so is mariners’ etiquette and a certain dresscode – influenced, if not dictated, by the innumerable fashion shops lining the French Riviera alongside uncountable seafood restaurants, stylish cafés and glittery night-clubs.

There are few anchorages and even fewer less glitzy, more down-to-earth marinas, such as Port Cogolin or Port de Menton, in the event that Monte Carlo, Cannes and the like won’t let you in if your last name is not Cruise, Branson or something similar. As a contrast to the exhilaration and fervour of the many charming mainland cities, visit attractive islands such as Porquerolles, Port-Cors or St Honorat, all of which offer a wealth of beautiful beaches, fascinating history, natural parks and more relaxed, quirky towns.

2. Sicily (Italy)

Sicily is arguably southern Italy at its best – if this can be said of a country full of highlights and an island which considers itself Sicilian long before Italian. It is wise to carry the Sicilian courtesy flag when sailing to Malta’s closest neighbour. The people are friendly, the food delicious, the history breath-taking, the culture unparalleled and the geographic highlights plentiful, including active Mount Etna to the east, the pristine Aeolian Islands to the north and the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento in the south. Less plentiful are weather-safe anchorages which is why hopping from marina to marina in the summer months can crank up your summer sailing budget considerably.

Sicily is often merely passed in transit from the eastern to the western Mediterranean or vice versa, but it definitely offers enough to fill an incredible sailing holiday on its own. If you plan to circumnavigate, take at least four weeks and be aware of the Traffic Separation Scheme, cross-strait ferry traffic, tidal currents and the whirlpools off Scylla and Charibdis in the Messina Strait. In the mustvisit, incredibly unique, volcanic Aeolian Islands you should be prepared to move if winds shift swiftly, unless you’ve laid a running mooring or forked out an eyewatering amount to tie up to one of the few town-quays.

40

3. The Ionian Islands (Greece)

One of the Mediterranean’s most popular flotilla destinations, it isn’t for those who love peace and quiet.

But if herds of young and inexperienced party-sailors, together with tween Italians set free on fast inflatables and jet-skis can’t shock you, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most accessible island paradises in the Mediterranean Sea. Each island has its own trademark: Zakintosh to the south with its famous turtle colonies, Meganisi between Lefkas and the Gulf of Corinth with its innumerable most picturesque fjords and renowned Corfu further to the north with its Tuscany-style wavy, lush hills and olive groves. What they all have in common makes all sailors happy: bountiful anchorages, accessible marinas and often free town quays. Add to that the rustic taverns, ever-flowing Greek wine, immaculate swimming and snorkelling spots and low-key tracks leading to pictureperfect sunset locations and you’ll understand why thousands of Brits, Germans, Dutch, Italians and more chose this region as their yearly summer destination.

A little insider tip to make your cruising more enjoyable: no matter which bay, quay or marina, it is always wise to arrive not much later than lunch-time to ensure you get a spot before the flotillas and charter armies arrive. Moreover, for the safety of your boat you might want to stay on board between 4 and 6pm when these usually get in and, not uncommonly, rip your anchor out or bump into your sides.

4. The Aegean (Greece)

The Aegean in summer is not for sailing novices, due to the Meltemi, a strong wind which picks up near

5. The Turquoise Coast (Turkey)

If the Greek Islands made you think you’d found paradise, then wait until you’ve spent some time sailing along Turkey’s Riviera. Basically, it has equally stunning and diverse inlets, jetties and harbour towns – but often at half the price and double the hospitality. The area around Marmaris rivals the Ionian Islands in business, but the further east you head, the quieter it gets. Also, possibly due to the stricter environmental regulations (watch out for the Blue Card and pump-out requirements for your holding tanks!) the waters and beaches are less polluted.

In general, the Turks are incredibly friendly and forthcoming and will go out of their way to offer you the requested services. The presence of Islam is mainly apparent through the calls to prayer five times a day, which gives an exotic feel to your cruise. Add to that unique cultural experiences such as visiting a town’s local Hamman, driving out to one of the many totally amazing archaeological sites, or letting your sense of smell and taste go crazy at one of the many spice and fresh produce markets and you’ll feel like you’ve properly landed in a fairy land far, far away.

In summary, the Mediterranean Sea will spoil you with its terrific sailing destinations, and the Top Five above are only the tip of the iceberg. Choosing your favourite spot according to budget, sailing competency and time constraints will ensure that you have an unforgettable season on the water, no matter where – even if it means this year staying in local waters and exploring Malta and Gozo’s beautiful sailing grounds on your own or on a friend’s or a charter boat.

oceanisyours No need for a reason to travel. The voyage is a reason in itself: setting off on an adventure, following unknown routes, and putting off that moment when you make your way back; knowing that there are many seas still to be explored and that you can certainly reach them on your Oceanis – The Ocean is Yours.

Forth Mansions, Ta’Xbiex Sea Front, Ta’Xbiex XBX 1027, Malta.

T: +356 2134 6461 l F: +356 2133 2234 l M: +356 7949 2096 email: info@medyachtsales.com l Web: www.medyachtsales.com

THE NEW COLLECTION FROM TRAVEL INSURANCE: SUNBRELLA THE CHEAPEST MARINE YET MOST VALUABLE EXPENSE OF A HOLIDAY

®

T

V

ery often, we plan our holidays well in advance. We spend endless weeks going through brochures, analysing flights, choosing interesting sightseeing tours and accommodation.

Sadly, more often than not, people tend to forget all about insurance. The probability is that the travel insurance policy is the cheapest expense of one’s holiday!

A travel insurance policy is important to have once any travel tickets are issued or any deposits for accommodation and the like are paid. This will ensure that in the event of cancellation of a trip, the policy will refund any deposits and other amounts which the policyholder legally has to pay in respect of unused travel and accommodation. There may also be situations where a policyholder may have to curtail their holiday and also in this case, they will be refunded accordingly.

In addition, a travel insurance policy incorporates various additional protection including: Cover for 42

emergency medical and associated expenses, for loss of money and baggage, for your personal liability whilst overseas, for Personal Accident, incurred for delayed and missed departure, to re-issue a passport if this is lost or stolen, for payments of reasonable additional travel and accommodation expenses necessarily incurred following adverse weather conditions or other natural disasters.

A Travel Insurance policy provides you with the peace of mind and serenity during your holiday, allowing you to focus on fun and relaxation in the knowledge that in the event of most unexpected events, you are insured.

GasanMamo’s policy offers three tiers of cover: Basic, Standard or Executive varying in the level of cover provided with an option to waive the policy excess. This will ensure that insurance protection is available to suit everybody’s individual budgets.

For full details of the policy cover, benefits, and pricing visit www.gasanmamo.com/support/ downloads.

he Imagine collection, offering 169 references, shakes up the traditional yachting codes and draws its inspiration from interior decor and the luxury sector. With a bold, striking design, this new Sunbrella® Marine collection features original options including denim, contemporary and chic jacquards and updated sailor stripes. Featuring 11 lines with superior technical performance, this collection of fabrics is now the widest and most attractive on the market.

Designed to protect crews and boats from the elements, the new Sunbrella® Marine collection fulfils every need when it comes to on-board protection for all types of boats, including power and sailing boats. It is structured around nine ranges with specifically adapted properties for each type of equipment. Offering complete protection and optimal durability, Sunbrella® Marine fabrics are the

preferred choice for making hoods, biminis, tarpaulins, protective covers and rear closures but also for decorating and boat furnishings.

With new woven effects, a wider range of colours and various textures, Sunbrella® Marine fabrics enhance living spaces to create classic, stylish, even sophisticated on-board ambiences. Thanks to the 146 references in this exceptional range, custom fittings can be made to rewrite the style guide for the boating world.

With a look and feel similar to that of natural fabrics, Sunbrella® Marine fabrics contain advanced technology that enables them to stand up to the harshest marine world conditions. UVresistant and particularly hard-wearing when used at sea, they remain stunningly vibrant year after year, whether used indoors or outside.

For more information visit O’Flaherty: 385 St. Joseph High Road, St. Venera.

Tel. (+356) 21487468, info@oflaherty.com.mt. www.oflaherty.com.mt

ROCKIN’ AWAY

39 year old Rene Farrugia, otherwise known as Hades, is an organiser of both the Malta Tattoo Expo and rock events. We catch up with him on his tracks… after a shopping spree at O’hea Opticians.

If you could take a caravan trip, where in the world would When did you get your first tattoo and what do they it be to? Why? With whom? And what would you hope to mean to you? And do you have any more planned? experience?

I had my first tattoo done in 1997. Tattoos are a very

I

’d go to Japan, with my girlfriend Sabrina, to visit this beautiful country from north to south. Japan has a mix of old traditions with a very rich history, intertwined with the most advanced technology. It is one of the most modern cities in the world and for sure it will be the country for my next road trip!

Are you a fashionista? Or a get-up-and-go type of guy?

It depends on the mood really. I love my three-piece suits and I’ve been wearing them for years. But yes, sometimes I feel a bit lazy and wear something to go, but it’s always something tattoo or rock-related.

important part of my life, and I’m one of the organisers of the Malta Tattoo Expo. I already have two sleeves done and a full back piece. Later this year I’ll be starting to tattoo my legs, which I tend to complete by next year.

How do you choose your sunglasses for the day? Do you have a lot at home to choose from?

Yes, I have a lot! I choose the right pair depending on where I’m going or what I’m wearing, however all my sunglasses have a retro/vintage style. Now that I have discovered Etnia Barcelona from O’hea Opticians, I know that my collection will continue to get bigger!

Jet-ski or sailing boat?

Neither, to be honest. I’m not a big fan of sea-sports.

I would prefer staying on the beach cooking on a BBQ.

Thailand or Sicily?

Thailand.

Picnic in the countryside or steakhouse and beer?

Picnic in the countryside.

ALL MY SUNGLASSES HAVE A RETRO/ VINTAGE STYLE. NOW THAT I HAVE DISCOVERED ETNIA BARCELONA FROM O’HEA OPTICIANS, I KNOW THAT MY COLLECTION WILL CONTINUE TO GET BIGGER!

Burger or steak tartar?

Burger, with lots of bacon, obviously.

When you sit back and relax, what is in your hand(s), and where are you most likely to be?

A Victorian-era novel or story, some good rum and my smoking pipe.

If you could have three wishes, what would they be?

One of them is already happening and that’s seeing the Malta Tattoo Expo growing year by year. Another is to own a house with a big yard or garden, where I can live with my partner Sabrina and lots of Jack Russell dogs. And the third is that I and my loved ones have good health all of our lives.

44

Etnia Barcelona is exclusively available at O'hea Opticians, 191 The Strand, Gzira. Tel. 21315590. www.oheaopticians.com

LOVE YOUR SKIN DULL SKIN VERSUS THE LOOK OF LIFE It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to say that we all want the youthful skin we had in our twenties. The fact is, it isn’t possible, unless we actually are in our twenties, and worship the sun and have other bad habits that contribute to tired and aging skin. There are, however, ways to look and feel more healthy – and here they are.»

47

F

Throw away those cigarettes

rom experience, the only way to give up smoking for good is to throw away the packet(s) you have within reach – or anywhere else. That definitive moment of throwing them away can give you strength and a moment to say ‘enough is enough’. Walking up those stairs or that hill will be easy-peasy, the nasty smell of smoke in your hair and on your breath will be gone, and that lack of living colour to your skin will be a thing of the past.

Drink water.

I know you have heard it before, over and over again, but it really is the only way to keep hydrated – which means a clearer mind and clearer skin. By quenching your thirst, you’re also washing away toxins, fightingoff illnesses, avoiding water retention and drinking for a clearer complexion.

Wear sun-screen.

Sun-screen is not just for babies and children: men and women need to wear a good factor on their face,

and body (if exposed to the elements) every day, regardless of the season. During pregnancy, take extra care to avoid sun pigmentation by staying out of direct sunlight and wearing a high-factor sunscreen all over and, whoever you are, get into the routine of wearing sun lotion every day. Save yourself from unnecessary age spots and wrinkles: the days when lathering ourselves in baby lotion or olive oil in the midday sun was a ‘good idea’ are long-gone.

BY QUENCHING THIRST, YOU ARE ALSO WASHING AWAY TOXINS, FIGHTING ILLNESSES, LOSING WATER RETENTION, AND DRINKING FOR A CLEARER COMPLEXION Manage your stress

Stress is a killer – literally. When work is a struggle, the bills are piling up, or your self-esteem or patience is at stake – it’s time to take time out! Book that massage, take a long walk or bath, meet a friend over a bottle of wine, book a weekend away… do anything but make matters worse for yourself and your health.

Oh – and don’t reach for that cigarette: it is proven not to help, but to actually make matters worse. Some of us may even experience an outbreak of spots or a rash when stress levels rise, so avoid it or kick start some emergency stress relievers and perhaps take a look at your lifestyle to see how you can make it work better in the long run.

Eat a healthy diet

It can sound so boring to some, while it’s so normal to others. Choosing a salad over a burger isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but the choice doesn’t need to be so drastic. However, cutting out the fast-food burger for a home-made, quality one is a lifestyle change that will have great effects on your body, and mind. In addition, a well-balanced choice of nutritious and naturally-sourced foods will give your skin a healthier colour and occasional glow.

If all else fails, good make-up, perfume, vodka and burying your head in the sand, so to speak, will be effective – but only for so long.

The Editor 48

BE COOL THIS SUMMER

BLOCK THE SUN

W

here would we be if the sun did not exist? The simple answer is – we would not have existed.

There would not have been the solar system, and planet earth would have been shrouded in darkness, and it would have been too cold to support any form of life. Plants would not have been able to photosynthesise their food. Modest doses of sunlight are also essential for the body to build adequate stores of vitamin D in order to help build and sustain healthy bones. Sunshine helps to alleviate one’s mood, and a sunny climate could be effectively exploited to boost the tourist industry.

But all is not so bright as far as the sun is concerned.

Ultraviolet rays from the sun cause sunburn if one overstays in the sun especially around springtime or 50

early summer, when the skin might not have yet adapted to the sunny weather. Long term repeated sun exposure causes irreversible biological damage to the skin, giving rise to premature skin ageing and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Fair-skinned individuals and children are especially vulnerable to the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays. The incidence of melanoma skin cancer has progressively risen at an alarming rate in most white-skinned populations in recent decades. This has given rise to worldwide public awareness campaigns to highlight the damaging effects of the sun, promote sun protection and encouraging early skin cancer detection. The latter is especially important in view of the fact that survival of melanoma victims is directly linked to catching the cancer in its early stages.

Sun-awareness campaigns are especially directed at youths, not because melanoma is common in this

age group, but because substantial sun-damage occurs at this age due to a care-free attitude, which translates into unpleasant consequences in later years. Combating the notion of invulnerability commonly perceived by most youngsters is a tall order indeed. A lot has to do with cool trends, fashion, and culture. Repetitive clever advertising and conditioning strategies, perhaps with the collaboration of popular role models as well as the fashion and glamour industry, could however go some way towards modifying trends and bringing about behavioural changes among youths. So why not start from now? Be cool this summer – block the sun.

Dr. Lawrence Scerri Chairman, Department of Dermatology & Venereology, Sir Paul Boffa Hospital Senior Lecturer, University of Malta

HOMAGE TO CHANEL Fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld shows off his photographic skills

A

s part of the month of French culture in Cuba, the House of Chanel is holding the exhibition “Obra en Proceso/Work in Progress”

by Karl Lagerfeld at the Factoria Habana in Cuba till the 12th of May. French fashion house Chanel presented its cruise 2017 collection in Havana, Cuba on the 3rd of May. Chanel’s selection of Cuba as the setting for its annual cruise presentation aligns with the brand’s practice of traveling to a different destination each year, with previous cities including Seoul, South Korea and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The exhibition is divided into three sections representing the designer’s main interests – fashion, architecture and landscapes – brings together more than 200 of Karl Lagerfeld’s photographs. It explores the great diversity of subjects, approaches and techniques that define the very personal and subtle interpretation that makes Karl Lagerfeld’s photography. All works have been taken by Mr. Lagerfeld and underscore his use of different camera types and printing techniques.

As creative director of Chanel, Mr. Lagerfeld often photographs and directs the campaigns created for the house.

52

N O I T C E L L O C R E M M U S / G N I R P S

Your

westin dragonara resort, st. julians – tel: 21376690 – opening hours: mon to fri 10am - 7pm, sat 10am - 6pm

DEALING WITH A DILEMMA

Dear Claire

I feel exasperated. In general, I tend to succeed in most things I set my mind to doing. I always give any project my very best and achieve positive results. I have a rewarding career and a lovely family. I understand that you cannot have everything in life but, despite all my efforts, diets and hunger strikes, I cannot achieve a normal body shape. I have a school reunion coming up, but I’d rather not go since most of my friends are slim and beautiful.

T

his is a classic example of seeing the glass half empty, rather than concentrating on one that is half full.

There is no harm in trying to get as close as possible to the body shape and weight you want and you can do this by adopting a healthy diet and exercise routine, possibly also followed by a professional in the field. I used the word ‘want’ as opposed to ‘normal’ because what is NORMAL? Fashion and the media portray all women as thin, 54

perfumed and impeccable which, let’s face it, in real life most women are not. Most of us work, clean and tend to our kids and cannot go around made up as though we are walking down a red carpet. So there is an inconsistency between what we read about or watch and the actual reality.

Unfortunately, some people may actually believe that 'normal' is the photo-shop fantasies in the media.

At the same time, TV shows – and especially advertising – are deliberately designed to make the viewer yearn to achieve what he or she is watching, enticing him or her to continue watching the show or buy the product. The media takes us to a dreamy state

where we perceive whatever it is that it is trying to sell to us as perfection within our reach. This is all the more apparent with cosmetics and beauty treatments, but not these alone.

Research indicates that only a very small percentage of women actually consider themselves beautiful. A large percentage admit that the media has a considerable influence on what they consider to be beautiful, despite acknowledging that it sets unrealistic standards which most women cannot achieve.

‘Normal’ encompasses a wide range of body shapes and is influenced by age and ethnicity, as well as by genes. We must refrain from idealising what we are

being brainwashed by through the media and embrace our own normal. This can be done through a process of self-acceptance. Irrespective of what your scales might say, you will not be comfortable in your own skin unless you really want to be.

When we look in the mirror we are inclined to concentrate on our defects rather than on our assets.

The trick lies in working to change this negative attitude. No one is perfect, but we all have parts of our body with which we are happier than others. It may be difficult at first, but stand in front of your mirror and learn to look at those bits of you that you do like, and admire them. Repeat to yourself that you are awesome, even if at first you are not convinced! This will initiate a process that will help to improve your confidence.

Body image expert Leslie Goldman suggests that we should treat ourselves as we would treat others, implying that just as we should never mock anyone for their body size or how a dress fits, neither should we do it to ourselves. Needless to say, there is no harm in trying to enhance yourself or working to improve your figure, but in the end what is important is being healthy and content. It is ironic that while women of normal weight want to shed some pounds, those who are genetically skinny do not necessarily like the way they look, with some even hoping to develop some curves.

Rather than being so critical, consider women of different sizes as being examples of various types of

WHEN WE LOOK IN THE MIRROR WE ARE INCLINED TO CONCENTRATE ON OUR DEFECTS RATHER THAN ON OUR ASSETS. THE TRICK LIES IN WORKING TO CHANGE THIS NEGATIVE ATTITUDE. NO ONE IS PERFECT, BUT WE ALL HAVE PARTS OF OUR BODY WITH WHICH WE ARE HAPPIER THAN OTHERS beauty: it will help you to accept yourself better.

Dress according to your body type, accentuating those parts that you consider beautiful.

It would be such a pity to miss out on your school reunion just because of your perception and negative body image. Whether you acknowledge it or not, you are beautiful, you are loved and you have a lot to be proud of. I assure you that if only those who consider themselves beautiful were to turn up at this reunion, there would probably be no one there at all.

The friends you consider slim and beautiful do not

necessarily see themselves as such. So make this reunion a memorable and fun night out. Wear a pretty outfit in which you feel comfortable and attractive. Dress it all up with lots of confidence and a great smile – and enjoy!

Claire Bugelli Bounce Life Coaching Tel: 7957 9813 claire@bounce-life-coaching.com www.bounce-life-coaching.com Facebook: Bounce Life Coaching Malta 55

BREXIT DILEMMA First investigates the Brexit conundrum by asking a number of Britons who live in Malta for their thoughts on the referendum on the UK’s continued membership of the European Union, due to take place on 23 June.

Judy Falzon (self-employed — married to a Maltese): Jill Pisani (former engineering draughtswoman I have lived in Malta since 1989 but last lived in married to a Maltese): I have been living in Malta England in 1976 and am no longer on any electoral register there. Although I can’t see myself ever living anywhere other than in Malta – I have joint British/Maltese citizenship – my English half is bothered about whether or not the UK stays in the EU. If I were able to vote, I would vote for leaving. The reasons are myriad but start with the fact that the UK is a net contributor and I am tired of reading about cut-backs in the country of my birth’s police forces, the NHS, schools – it’s a long list – when membership of the EU costs the UK £8.5 (€10.6) billion a year: the difference between the £13 (€16.3) billion paid and the £4.5 (€5.63) billion received.

Another reason is all the applications the UK makes for exemption from certain pieces of EU legislation – such as being required to allow offenders in prison the right to vote – with something like 30 exemptions being allowed of the 140 applied for.

I also find it quite astonishing that the auditors of the EU’s annual accounts have refused to sign off the accounts for, I think, 18 years.

Then there’s the Common Agricultural Policy, which I believe is in the process of being changed but which has, over the years, hammered the UK’s farmers (I come from a farming county and two of my uncles were farmers).

I think the UK will do very nicely on its own – as it has done in the past – and that the dire warnings about trade, etc., are simply scare-mongering because I believe the rest of the world, including the EU, will continue trading with the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland!

56

since the 1980s and as such it is irrelevant to ask me my opinion on this referendum since I have been denied the right to vote in it. I am one of the many Britons, almost a million, who live in the EU who feel betrayed by the government’s failure to reinstate their voting rights ahead of the referendum.

There is something called the ‘15-year rule’ that prevents us from participating in UK elections. The Conservative party had pledged in their 2015 manifesto to get rid of the rule, but the promised bill entitled ‘Votes for Life’ has yet to materialise. A court case to try and rectify this was instituted in London’s High Court recently that objected to the fact that a vote in the referendum was not given to us but was given to members of the House of Lords, as well as to Irish and Commonwealth citizens who are resident in Gibraltar, even though none of these are allowed to vote in UK general elections.

The people it arbitrarily excludes are UK citizens who are among those most likely to be affected by the decision taken by voters in this referendum over things such as health care and pension rights.

Unfortunately, it seems that the court has ruled against in this case.

Trudy Kerr (British media producer and director):

Until I lived outside the UK I probably shared the opinion of most of the UK’s island mentality citizens: the UK is the UK and separate from Europe. Europe was nice to visit, but it was good to get home to England.

I had a stint living in the US before moving to Malta, but it was moving to Malta 10 years ago that changed

my thinking. The UK has never felt part of Europe, but I certainly do. I feel more European than I do English to be honest.

Living in a different country and culture keeps me alive and is a great antidote to stagnation. We all have much to learn from taking a chance and living out of our comfort zone. Unfortunately I cannot see a change in the mentality of the British people with regard to this referendum: the media has generated a storm over immigration and fear, and I do believe that most think closing borders will make life safer.

However, I believe that the current situation is above and beyond border controls, and that more strategic media activity and reporting will have a far greater effect. I don’t want to leave my home here, and am greatly concerned as to what this referendum holds for the UK, for Europe and for me personally.

Paul Bennett (Half-Maltese former radio engineer):

My feelings on EU membership are split, in that on one side I don’t like the seemingly unaccountability of the EU, and the lack of democracy that many have witnessed over the years of being a member. Often, the EU is primarily only about business and has a goal of homogenisation of society in a way that may not be good for people.

On the other side I have always preferred a more European association culturally: this reduces the fear we have of other cultures. No one wants another world war with our European cousins. I have felt this association to be a more healthy model as against the insular ‘Little Britain’ more nationalist idea, which is backward looking and related to a long-dead history!

I would like a close association with Europe as some other countries have, like Norway, not a morphing

into a single European monolith. Britain and other European countries should be free to make their own decisions be they political, commercial, and every other way also.

So the answer to your question is: I am really still split on this matter!

Helen Osborne (British doctoral researcher, The Shakespeare Institute): I’m very concerned about the

referendum, and I’ll be voting for Britain to remain in the EU. From a purely selfish perspective I (and hundreds of thousands of expats like me) am worried about the effect a Brexit would have on our right to freedom of movement. No one seems to have any idea what would happen to those of us who have chosen to live abroad.

The best-case scenario seems to be that Britain would renegotiate rights for its former citizens with their adoptive countries, which sounds like a tedious exercise in red-tape manufacture that could take a decade to resolve.

Of course, Brexit’s a stupid idea for plenty of other reasons. It would weaken the UK economy, put its security at risk and strip British citizens of a vast safety net of human rights protections. You don’t need to be a flag-waving fan of every aspect of the EU project to recognise that isolationism is a bad thing and, to be honest, the whole debate makes me profoundly ashamed to be British.

The referendum makes Britain look like the spoilt brat of Europe, stamping its feet and threatening to run away from home every time it’s told that it can’t stay up all night and eat cake for breakfast. No one likes that kid.

H.E. The British High Commissioner, Rob Luke The UK Government’s position is clear: the UK will be stronger, safer and better off in a reformed Europe than we would be out on our own. We will be better off because British businesses will have full participation in the free trade single market, bringing jobs, investment, lower prices and financial security.

We will be safer because we can work closely with other countries to fight cross-border crime and terrorism, giving us strength in numbers in a dangerous world. We will be stronger because we can play a leading role in one of the world’s largest organisations from within, helping make the big decisions that affect us.

This follows months of negotiations, culminating in a deal secured by Prime Minister Cameron at the European Council on 19 February, which agreed a new settlement for the UK in a reformed EU. The deal is good not just for the UK, but the whole of the EU. It will boost EU competitiveness by completing the European Single Market, prioritising international trade agreements, and cutting the burden of EU regulation. This will boost growth and jobs across the EU, benefiting all Member States.

There are still many ways in which Europe needs to improve. The task of reforming the European Union does not end with this agreement. If the British public votes to remain, the UK Government will play a leading role in one of the world’s largest organisations, and continue to press hard for further

reform which will benefit all EU Member States, to better meet the challenges and opportunities of a competitive global economy.

It is now for the British public to decide on 23 June whether they want to ‘Remain’ in the European Union or ‘Leave’ in the first referendum on this in over 40 years.

57

THAT LITTLE PINK PA Ingrid Mercieca entertains the little ones’ taste buds with some healthy and delicious treats. Photography by Peter Mark Mercieca.

Salmon Fishcakes INGREDIENTS: makes 12 small cakes 300g fresh salmon 2 medium potatoes 2 small eggs 1 small onion 1 clove of garlic 1 tbs fresh dill, chopped 1 tbs tomato ketchup 1 tsp English mustard 4 tbs breadcrumbs Pepper and salt to taste

58

Herb Dipping Sauce

Recipe

Dipping Sauce

½ cup Greek yoghurt 1 tbs mayonnaise (optional) 1 tsp each chopped parsley, mint, dill and basil Juice and zest of half a lemon

Grill salmon, allow to cool, remove any fish bones and flake well. Boil and mash the potatoes and finely chop the onion and garlic. Combine all ingredients and refrigerate for an hour before shaping into small patties and either shallow frying or baking.

Place all ingredients in bowl, combine well and serve on the side.

PARCEL‌

Ingrid Mercieca offers catering services and individual orders for all occasions. You can also choose from cakes, jams and chutneys and special occasion goods. She can be reached via her Facebook page Gooding Real Food

by Caring Hands or via e-mail on ingsol@onvol.net.

Frozen Strawberry Pops Recipe INGREDIENTS One large punnet strawberries, washed and hulled One tub strawberry yoghurt 1 tbs runny honey A few grapes

Blend the strawberries with the yoghurt and honey.

Slice the grapes in half and push a few halves into the bottom of each lollipop mould. Fill them half full, then add another couple of grape halves, fill to the top, insert the stick (if required) and freeze for a couple of hours .

59

A BRILLIANT PARTNERSHIP

Tipico Careers, the recruitment arm of the German online gaming company based in Malta, has forged a very fruitful relationship with the University of Malta’s Student Council, KSU, that has manifested itself with a very noticeable presence on campus. Colin Fitz asked Tipico Careers brand manager Thomas Mahoney about the reasons behind this collaboration.

I

t all started because we felt that, as a brand, we needed to start instilling our identity with the employees of the future. We want young people to know about us not when they’ve already started working, but to start thinking about what they need to learn and which areas they need to focus on in order to work in the iGaming industry. So the idea of investing in younger talent at the University is all about making students understand who we are, what we do and what we stand for before they start looking for a career,” Thomas Mahoney began.

60

One of the most visible fruits of the collaboration is the one-year sponsorship by Tipico of the University common room, which has been redesigned using Tipico corporate colours and refurbished in a way which will help students get the most out of this popular area.

A high-definition, laptop-compatible projector and high quality sound system have been installed and the furniture is designed in a way that makes it comfortable for students to be able to plug in their electronic devices and study or do their course work.

Another popular Tipico Careers-KSU collaboration

was the business breakfast held at the Cavalieri Hotel, where Tipico Careers Brand Manager Thomas Mahoney and Talent Acquisition Manager Manuela Abela gave presentations to students about how to submit notable and correct job applications, particularly for online gaming companies. The Tipico team spoke about CV-building and the opportunities that exist in the industry as well as the skills that are needed.

“The business breakfast was a brilliant session of interaction with students and on the day we realised that many of them need this kind of activity so that they can learn about the opportunities we offer. Many of them also needed to be guided towards the sources available to find out more about the industry,” Mr Mahoney remarked.

Tipico Careers also reached out to students at the campus Careers & Research Fair which, said Mr Mahoney, resulted in a lot of follow-up student enquiries to the talent management team and recruiting manager. “We brought over representatives from Tipico’s different departments to interact with students and answer any questions they had. For example, bookmaking department employees forged a good relationship with students studying statistics, and these students were interested in being shown practical applications of what they were studying,” he explained.

“We took it one step further and showed students some of the day-to-day experiences of what happens in our offices, the atmosphere and little details which

THE KSU VIEW Colin Fitz spoke to KSU President Becky Micallef and KSU Vice President Andrew Borg Wirth about the KSU-Tipico collaboration.

How the collaboration came about

ABW: The first of its kind, this was an event aimed at those students interested in the opportunities available and wanting further information. Through a casual morning of activities, the different dynamic available at Tipico was explained to the students who were able to become familiar with what one can achieve when working there.

BM: Corporate sponsors like Tipico Careers help us very much to sustain the council’s work throughout the year. It is through such contributions that we succeed in offering the projects that we plan for each year.

BM: We enjoyed preparing for this event because it was something new to offer students.

In working with such partners, our primary aim of representing students is facilitated and given a new dimension. The event helped us bridge the gap between theory and practice: everyone who needed to know more about what to do at an interview received first-hand experience from their fantastic Human Resources team.

The benefits for students

ABW: Tipico Careers offer diverse work opportunities for students, and working together helps to connect more students to them. It is through these events and promotional activities that our collaboration is exposed.

BM: The ability to network with potential employers at events like Freshers’ Week and our Careers & Research Fair is a great opportunity for students. We also worked on a number of innovative projects like a business breakfast and the newly refurbished common room.

Tipico at KSU Freshers Week

normally people don’t focus on in terms of job atmosphere. I think that our presence at the Careers Fair was extremely beneficial to both parties,” he added.

Tipico Careers was also present with a stand at the KSU Freshers’ week in the beginning of the academic year. “This was our first time, and probably the first time in recent years that an iGaming company has been there. At that point, unlike now, many students hadn’t heard of Tipico – it was a strange experience for us to meet many students who didn’t know about us. But that experience, and the awareness about us now, has proved that teaming up with KSU was a good choice because we want to get the brand out there, we want to teach people about the company and the industry.

“Personally, I think the way our education system is set up is a bit too traditional and there is a need to start looking at diverse ways of promoting the new careers and job opportunities that exist in Malta,” explained Mr Mahoney.

“With what Tipico Careers is doing, the students are getting an insight into how international companies work. We are a non-traditional company which is set up in a different way to traditional companies, so I believe that – from the student point of view – there is a lot of insight to be gained from the activities we are organising and our presence, physically and in branding, on campus,” he summed up.

The Tipico-KSU business breakfast

ABW: Tipico Careers and KSU came together at the beginning of the academic year in a collaboration aimed at attracting further Maltese talent to the fantastic working environment that Tipico has to offer. This is a great opportunity for students and we work towards bridging the gap between university life and the students’ eventual careers.

ABW: In organising this year’s Freshers’ Week, I worked alongside a number of entities that use this time to meet students on campus and let them know what they’re offering. Tipico Careers came on board offering a fun environment for students to find a career. It was inspiring to hear of the fun and rewarding experience of working in their offices.

BM: Fresher’s Week is all about fun and exciting new things. This was in line with the work environment Tipico Careers was offering which meant they were very well received on campus that week. This was just the beginning of a great collaboration for 2015-16.

Tipico at the KSU Careers & Research Fair

ABW: This is one of the events aimed at students looking at their next step as graduation approaches. Set in the second semester, it is a corporate event where Tipico Careers could explain better what roles they had available and what talent they were looking for.

BM: Careers and research are both very important spheres for us as a council. In creating an opportunity on campus for students to meet potential employers, the students look forward to making new connections and meeting potential employers. This was a great occasion for Tipico Careers staff to meet students face-to-face.

The KSU-Tipico Careers common room

ABW: This was by far one of the biggest projects of the year and I’m very glad to see how successful it has been. A project for which our Secretary-General assumed responsibility, this took a whole year’s work, and today we offer a space with state-of-the-art facilities. After changing the room’s orientation, investing in new projection and sound facilities, refitting the floor and purchasing new furniture, today this is a versatile room that can adapt to the needs of any student or organisation.

BM: The common room has always been an important destination on campus as it serves so many different purposes. Organisations, students and even external entities use this space because of its versatility and ability to lend itself to any purpose. Whether it serves as our KSU nighttime study area, where students can study in a space available for 24 hours, or an organisation is holding an informative event, it was important that this space remained versatile. Through the collaboration with Tipico Careers, the branding of the room allowed the corporate sponsor to be an integral part of student life on campus.

Feedback from students so far

ABW: Feedback after events like the business breakfast, Freshers’ Week and the Careers and Research Fair was great. Tipico was not a company that students had considered up until then and it meant we established a number of relationships. We really look forward to seeing this flourish! In seeing the support that KSU has received from Tipico Careers, students understand how Tipico invests in its people.

BM: With projects like the KSU Tipico Careers common room, a venue at the heart of all students’ journeys on campus, the students have taken to this collaboration very well.

Collaborations like these are what help KSU in its mission, and students are interested in finding out more about what Tipico has to offer.

61

Enhance your indoor or outdoor ambience with a wide range of vibrant, handmade lanterns by Mdina Glass, available in various colours, shapes and sizes for you to mix and match. Visit Mdina Glass outlets or the online shop www.mdinaglass.com.mt. There is free delivery to Malta on orders of ¤30 or more. Call 2141 5786 or email onlinesales@mdinaglass.com.mt and follow facebook.com/mdinaglass

Stylish outdoor living this spring and summer with handmade glassware by Mdina Glass including jugs and tumblers in various shapes and colours. The wide range also includes various bowls, goblets, drink dispensers and much more. Visit Mdina Glass outlets or the online shop www.mdinaglass.com.mt.

There is free delivery to Malta on orders of ¤30 or more. Call 2141 5786 or email onlinesales@mdinaglass.com.mt and follow facebook.com/mdinaglass

hothouse Spruce up your home

Distinctive decorative sculptures, figures and figurines from HENRI Luxury Gift Boutique. Unique gift ideas, or a well deserved treat for yourself. HENRI Luxury Gift Boutique at Pjazza Tigné and Mdina (next to Palazzo Falson).

Call 2010 6306 or visit facebook.com/henrimalta or www.henri.com.mt.

Fun and style for your little one, with an Eames designer Elephant chair by Vitra in ice grey and other colours, available from Calligaris.

Calligaris, Valley Road, Msida. Tel. 2278 6000 62

Cook up a storm and serve it to perfection with Jamie Oliver’s collection of kitchen and tableware, now available at Debenhams Tigné. This acacia cheeseboard with five stainless steel cheese markers is a must-have for any cheese lover, and with everything you need to serve, and put a stamp on, your spread.

TIME TO FEED THE DRAGON! Western auction houses await the impact of 20 million Chinese buyers as Barnebys launch in Hong Kong

Barnebys, the world's largest search engine for fine art and antiques auctions, launches in China this week. Barnebys arrival in China means that Western buyers will now be able to access Chinese auction house catalogues when searching for an object and conversely millions of Chinese buyers will be able to access Western auction house catalogues to search for treasured item, without trawling through hundreds of auction house catalogues, and instead, by simply entering what you are looking for.

As the world increasingly becomes one big marketplace, Barnebys, the leading search service for fine art and antiques, is taking the first step into opening up the Asian market to the world’s buyers and sellers. The Chinese art market remains the second largest behind the U.S, accounting for 30.19% of the market total. In 2015 more museums were opened between 2000 and 2014 than in the previous two centuries, with the Asian market having the greatest share of the the 700 new museums opened.* Barnebys Hong Kong launch includes a website in Chinese, as well as dedicated newsletters, a Facebook page, Twitter and Weibo. Globally the company offers buyers and sellers access to some 1,500 auction houses and 500 art dealers. Pontus Silfverstolpe, Barnaby’s Founder and Head of Content, says: “’The auction market is global and Barnebys intends to be a pioneer of new markets. So we believe that it is time to focus on China, as it is one of the world's largest markets for art and antiques. Our experience of entry into other markets in Europe and the USA tells us that we can expect to have 20 to 25 million Chinese buyers and sellers within the first five years. It is time for Barnebys to feed the Chinese dragon with the worlds collated art, design, antiques and collectibles.”

“China has enormous purchasing power. In recent years, Chinese buyers have been behind many of the

64

American and European auction houses' most successful sales.

This can be said, in particular, about the most expensive objects, but also objects from the lower price segment. In the beginning, the Chinese were mainly buying back their heritage, but in recent years we have seen more and more buying of ever wider categories,

for example: Rolex watches, handbags, chandeliers, silver and 18th century painting.’’

With young Chinese artists emerging into the spotlight in the world’s art capitals: London, New York and Paris, Chinese art is being brought to the West in the same

way Chinese and European antiquities are in demand in the East. Recently we saw the Fondation Louis Vuitton exhibition dedicated to contemporary Chinese art and London’s Marlborough recent solo exhibition of Song Yige’s works.”

Christopher Barnekow, Barnebys Founder and CEO, says: “Our future is written in Chinese. So, as a natural step in Barnebys mission to open up the global art, antiques and design market, we are now expanding our operations to the East, beginning with Hong Kong. South Asia’s middle classes are at a turning point, ready to explore the West’s art and antiques market. Barnebys offers a fantastic opportunity as a mechanism of discovery.

From top notch high end items from Europe, to Chinese antiquities and fine Danish designed furniture at a bargain price, this marketplace is accessible and transparent thanks to Barnebys.’’

The mission of the launch in Hong Kong is to reach an ever more diverse market. In the past five years, Chinese collectors have grown in their buying and presence at European auctions.

The Barnebys Hong Kong launch serves this ever growing market demand from the Chinese market to be able to reach European sellers, and vice versa, for these sellers to reach out to a huge potential of Eastern clientele. *Figures according to Artprice market report for 2015.

AS THE WORLD INCREASINGLY BECOMES ONE BIG MARKETPLACE, BARNEBYS, THE LEADING SEARCH SERVICE FOR FINE ART AND ANTIQUES, IS TAKING THE FIRST STEP INTO OPENING UP THE ASIAN MARKET TO THE WORLD’S BUYERS AND SELLERS.

Above: Eddie of Molecular Fusion, Sean Xeureb Conti of Jus Dine & Wine, the artist Goxwa and Lily Agius.

.

GOXWA AT JUS Thermal Spring Water event Pharma MT recently held an event to launch Avène Eau Thermal spring water, at Villa Arrigo, which is bottled directly from the source of the spring in the village of Avène.

Top: The Fenech Family - Percius Garage Above: Mr. Mario Xuereb, Mr. Ian Sant, Ms. Franjessica Vella, Mrs.Bernadette Bonnici Kind, Ms. Daniela Micallef, Mr. Steven Camilleri & Mr. Matthew Galea

Top: Mark Degabriele, Daniel Calleja, Elisa McKenna, Cynthia Said, Christine Cutajar, Barbora Potasova, Michael Calleja, Gayle Grech Above left: Guest Above right: Elisa McKenna (Pharma.MT), Dr Marco Ambonati (Avene France) French Embassador – HE Beatrice le Fraper du Hellen

Lily Agius Gallery and Sean Xuereb Conti from Jus Dine & Wine restaurant teamed up to give their guests a night . to remember, exhibiting works by the Maltese artist Goxwa.

The event was supported by Eddie Bonello of Molecular Fusion, Nitro Scoop, Delicata Wines, Gallery Last Touch, Sandro Zammit from G Molton, La Bottega, Mark Soler of M S fotography, and The Malta Independent.

social whirl Above left: Azure Ultra crew with Managing Director Perry Newton on Mio Amore – Photo Credit Alan Carville Above: Dana Bonello, Anthony Bernard, Donna Mercieca-Gabriele, Trudy Kerr Left: Dott. Francesco Maffia, Andrea Trapani, Dott. Jonathan De Giovanni, Jodie Quirk, Jon Grafton

NEW MEWCEDES BENZ E-CLASS AT KIND’S

Azur

Kind’s celebrated the arrival of the new Mercedes Benz E-Class with an exclusive lounge themed party at their Mercedes-Benz Showroom in Lija.

Azure Ultra hosted an event on board its fleet of luxury Sunseeker yachts to celebrate the opening of the summer 2016 charter season at the Grand Harbour Marina, Birgu.

Mural painting at St. Vincent de Paul Artist James Micallef Grimaud was approached by St. Vincent de Paul to paint a mural depicting Maltese endemic plants for their new sustainable garden. James has just completed the project, with the residents.

Not only did the residents enjoy their time painting, it has also led to the planning of more workshops with the residents painting on panels, even while in their wheelchairs... The panels have now been hung in the garden.

66

68

LAST WORD

Christiane Ramsay Scicluna, Baroness of Tabria, and her daughter Justine Pergola are also business partners and the best of friends. Ramona Portelli catches up with them while they are abroad for work, again, to find out more about their busy lives together at Palazzo Parisio, motherhood and memories. Photos by Gianmarco Chieregato.

Justine You travel together a lot. Who decides where?

Our travels together are usually governed by work, although we always try to combine work and pleasure in whichever country we’re in. We regularly travel to Rome as we have a home there, and other favourite destinations to which we travel together are Paris, London, Munich, Milan, Naples and the Amalfi Coast. We are usually going to

MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME HOW TO APPRECIATE BEAUTIFUL THINGS WHILE AT THE SAME TIME KEEPING ME GROUNDED AND, HONESTLY, WHEN IT COMES TO HER GIVING ME ADVICE I CAN’T THINK OF ANYTHING SPECIFIC. WHAT I CAN SAY IS THAT SHE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A MORAL COMPASS IN MY LIFE

trade fairs when we visit Milan and Paris and then it’s an easy hop across to London from Paris for a break from buying at the fairs.

As for where we would like to visit together other than for work, we decided that one day we would like to take a girly cruise to New York City.

How will you spend Mother’s Day?

To be honest, Mother’s Day is a regular work day for me – we are usually very busy at the palazzo, particularly at Luna, our restaurant, so I’ll be there, doing my best to make sure everyone’s mum is happy – including mine!

You live in a beautiful palace that you have designed together — do you ever argue over how to decorate it or what goes into the food menu?

Yes, we differ on certain styles and choices but we make it work by mixing and matching our different ideas together. The menu is very much my mother’s domain, but of course I thoroughly enjoy the tasting sessions when new dishes are being trialled, especially the desserts!

How would you describe your mother and what would you say that she has taught you? What’s been the best ever advice she’s given you so far?

When I read this question about how I would describe my mother out loud, we both hooted with laughter and decided you wouldn’t be able to print my reply! Truly though, my mother is many things; sometimes she’s like a volcano waiting to erupt – and not always in a negative way, as often it is her many ideas and plans that get her ‘fired up’. She is brave and courageous, bighearted, generous and always as busy as a bee and she never, ever gives up – she is tenacious and a real force of nature.

My mother taught me how to appreciate beautiful things while at the same time keeping me grounded and, honestly, when it comes to her giving me advice I can’t think of anything specific.

What I can say is that she has always been a moral compass in my life.

Christiane How would you describe your relationship with your daughter? Have you — and do you — hold back on expressing your opinions of her boyfriends, if you don’t approve?

I would describe my relationship with Justine as intense and tempestuous but very symbiotic. We have the knack of combining all the facets of our relationship – mother/daughter, friendship and business relationships all under the umbrella of love!

I never hold back on expressing my opinions and thoughts on a great many things, and that would include boyfriends. I, like most mothers, have great expectations and I always want the best for Justine in all areas of her life, not just the romantic side.

How would you describe motherhood?

For you, what obligations go with motherhood?

The greatest joy in the world with all the usual difficulties attached – it’s an adventure and as a parent you never stop discovering and learning.

Obligations? I’m not sure any part of motherhood feels like an obligation but certainly I’ve always wanted to ensure that Justine had an education and an upbringing that gave her standards for her life ahead and, of course, love. I believe it is essential to give your child the strength to face this ever-changing world.

What do you cherish most in your life?

My daughter, my husband, my dogs, my garden and, of course, my PA!

How would you describe your mother, and what are your fondest memories/tales of growing up with her?

Oh I have so many memories. My mother was the most beautiful and gentle woman in the world. She lived with us for many years and this gave us the chance to help her cope with her fragilities as she aged. Regardless of her age, however, whatever the occasion she had

such flair and such a sense of style and she was always beautifully turned out.

She had an extremely kind heart and a deep love of young people.

One abiding memory I have is travelling from Italy to Sri Lanka (Ceylon, as it was then) to join my father, who was a naval officer based there. He was due to meet HM Queen Elizabeth II who was there on a tour – I’m not sure if it was for her birthday or her honeymoon.

We sailed together on a ‘Titanic style’ ship and during our three week crossing my mother dined regularly at the Captain’s table and I befriended a beautiful white Persian cat that belonged to a ‘starlet’ who was on board.

We lived in Sri Lanka for over a year and I remember my mother walking me to school and her being horrified that I was so taken with the snake-charmers who lined the road! She was terrified of snakes, so she used to leave me sitting on my haunches watching the snakes being ‘charmed’ out of the baskets and wait for me further up the road. My father bought me a mongoose that used to break eggs against the wall of the house and sleep under my father’s pillow, but I think it was too well fed to bother chasing any snakes!

69

beauty banter Keeping your mind and body in check

1.

3.

4.

2.

5.

1. In 2015, Nina Ricci laid bare a new feminine dream: L’Extase. This musky floral oriental is an evocation of feminine desire, an eau de parfum infused with eroticism. This year, Nina Ricci is extending this intimate, skin-sensitive journey into the heart of the senses with Eau de Parfum Légère, L’Extase Caresse de Roses. Like a unique and erotic jewel, this new creation awakens an arousing femininity. It is an adornment of roses, where the carnal smoothness of Bulgarian rose essence and Turkish rose absolute whisper to the delicate freshness of peony and violet notes, enhanced with an unsettling and captivating breath of white musk.

2. Pupa White Mud Ultra Rapid Cellulite gives you all the benefits of mud, but comes in a cream. Applied 5 to 10 minutes before showering, without massaging and without the need for film wrapping, it rinses off easily leaving a pleasant scent and immediate visible results. After the first application, treated areas are more toned and legs feel lighter due to the product’s immediate draining action. After 2 weeks cellulite is already less visible and the skin is greatly toned. It contains white clay mineral to purify the skin and green tea to protect the skin from harmful free radicals. Available in selected pharmacies and perfumeries, it is distributed by Medimports, tel. 21483139 and Facebook Pupa Milano in Malta.

70

3. Dercos Neogenic by Vichy Laboratories is a hair rebirth treatment for men and women, containing 5 per cent Stemoxydine, which promotes the good functioning of the follicle stem cells. Dormant hair bulbs are awakened and the number of hair fibres increases, resulting in 1,700 new hairs in an average of three months. It is non-greasy, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, has a neutral fragrance, and is suitable for sensitive scalps.

It can be applied to wet, dry or treated hair. No rinsing required. Use Dercos Neogenic Shampoo, also with Stemoxydine, to complement the treatment. Available from pharmacies. For information or samples email vichy@prohealth.com.mt and visit Vichy on Facebook.

4. Vichy Laboratories have shown that skin recovers slower from daily aggressions as a woman ages. Liftactiv Serum 10 Supreme contains fragmented Hyaluronic Acid and 10 per cent Rhamnose, so skin is illuminated and plumped after just 10 minutes! This light, fresh serum penetrates quickly into the skin. Use a few drops on the face and neck in the morning and/or evening before using your Liftactiv Supreme day and night care creams, for a complete anti-ageing routine. Available from pharmacies. For information or samples email vichy@prohealth.com.mt and visit Vichy on Facebook.

5. Stressful lifestyles can leave your skin in need of some serious pampering! The SPAtopia Spa range encompasses mineral rich, energising Dead Sea salts and moisturising, nourishing Argan Oil for the ultimate in spa therapy. Argan oil is widely recognised for its skincare benefits – it is exceptionally rich in Vitamin E and Omega Essential Fatty Acids and therefore well known for its anti-ageing, moisturising and antioxidant properties. SPAtopia is exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd. Tel. 21446205/6

competition Answer the following question to be in with a chance of winning a Olympea Aqua (50ml) worth ¤64 courtesy of TA’ XBIEX PERFUMERY LTD.

WHERE IN FRANCE DID DINI MARTINEZ GO FOR ‘UNFORGETTABLE’ WINE AND CHEESE TASTING? Send your answer, including your full name and contact details, by Friday 20 May to First perfume competition, The Malta Independent, Standard House, Birkirkara Hill, St Julian’s. Good luck!

PHONE: 7999 9943

SHOP ON LINE www.freezeframefashion.com

CHANEL.COM