Malta Enterprising Spirit of an Industrious Nation

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WWW.IMAGEDIPLOMACY.COM An InDEPEnDEnt fEAturE bY IMAGE DIPLOMACY DIstrIbutED bY thE DAILY tELEGrAPh - JuLY 2011

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A glorious past. A promising future.With a multi-national legacy and a historic tapestry of events andachievements, Malta has evolved to become a unique nation, possessingan impressive track record and a robust ambition for the future.

Vision 2015+ sets out Governments plans for Malta to become a centre of excellencein the Mediterranean in seven core areas: nancial services, ICT, manufacturing,tourism, health, education and establishing sister island Gozo as an eco island. alta

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BY SORCHA HELLYER & GABRIELE VILLA Malta, despitebeing a resilient success story in the EU, rarely makes the global

headlines. So when the tiny island nation became the ocus o

the massive evacuation eort rom troubled Libya, the inux

o international journalists who descended on the islands was

quite remarkable. Suddenly images o reporters standing against

the stunning backdrop o Vallettas bastions, a UNESCO World

Heritage Site, were being beamed around the world. Maltas role

as a humanitarian hub, or those escaping the turmoil in Libya,

was being positively lauded and the country received some well

deserved recognition.

Prime Minister David Cameron spoke with warm gratitude

about Maltas instrumental contribution to the repatriation o UK

citizens, I thank the Maltese Prime Minister personally on behal

o the country and, not or the rst time in our history, we should

pay tribute to Malta and her people or the role they are playing.

When Cameron welcomed Gonzi to Number 10 in May this year,

there was a strong nod o acknowledgement about the critical role

Malta plays in the region. Apparently keen to explore with Gonzi

what the two countries, Can do to help make progress in North

Arica and the relations we have with the countries o North Arica,

Cameron explained, I think your experience, knowledge and

relationships will really help us to understand that region better.

This is important recognition or Malta, a country that, because

o its status as the smallest EU microstate and its distance rom

Brussels, has oten seemed sidelined.

As Dr John C Grech, a prominent economist and Maltese

businessman, points out, We are examining how we can

increasingly make Malta a location which oreigners look to when

they want to do things regionally and when they want political

accessibility. We use diplomacy to get our point across and we

do this despite our limitations; using our geography, the spirit o

the Maltese to survive and our ability to be dexterous, in order to

actually deliver value.

Grech, also an academic who teaches Economic Diplomacy at

the Mediterranean Academy or Diplomatic Studies at the University

o Malta, holds true the belie that diplomacy is the essence o the

way that we manage our relations with other people worldwide;

conrming that, In reality we are living in a period where,

particularly in the Mediterranean, Maltas role is very central. We

ght or our humanitarian role because we believe it is exactly this

kind o role that our size and our location lends itsel to. However,

I also eel that we can take a number o political and business

Harrds tFly Malta Flag

I you still havent made it

to Malta then you are in

or a treat closer to home

next year. Joseph Zammit

Tabona, in his capacity o

High Commissioner o Malta

in the UK, is spearheading

a massive undertaking to

launch a 4-week Malta

event at Harrods rom 5-31

March 2012. Harrods, the

quintessentially luxury department store will be ying the

Maltese ag and will have six shopront windows dedicated

to showcasing Malta, with a urther 360 square metres on

the third oor displaying Maltese products and goods. Top

Maltese ches will be cooking up a storm and the exhibition

will be promoting not only Maltese cuisine, oods, wines and

beers but also the countrys legendary welcome, cultural

heritage and tourism oerings. The idea is to start with

our ancient history, bringing visitors right up to modern day

Malta emphasising the enduring link between the past

and present. The exhibition will also be an opportunity to

highlight the 70th anniversary, on 15 April 2012, o Malta as a

George Cross Island, explains Zammit Tabona.

However, the initiative will go beyond simply exhibiting

the delights o visiting Malta. Zammit Tabona envisages

corporate events being held by, Malta Enterprise,

FinanceMalta and the MFSA; key players rom the banking

and real estate sectors will likely be involved in the B2B

meetings I will be organising. The idea is or accountants,

lawyers, bankers and hedge und managers to host breakast

meetings, lunches or receptions in Harrods or their UK

clients.

Nonetheless, while the Malta showcase at Harrods will

denitely give visitors a taster o what the nation has to oer,

there can be no substitute or taking an actual trip to the

archipelago - whether it is or business or pleasure.

initiatives that could make a dierence. Malta as a springboard to

the MENA region is a theme that is increasingly being elaborated

upon by both government and business leaders alike.

Given its nite local market, Malta has always been outward

looking. It enjoys excellent relations with neighbouring countries

and has lent its expertise to those nations. Maltas positioning, as

the southernmost EU member, with a sophisticated economy also

makes it an attractive destination rom which to launch activities

into North Arica. Stability in the region is a must, but current

incumbent Gonzi believes that, These are countries that have

enormous resources and all this potential. I we are there, i we

have a long-term vision and we partner with them, I am quite sure

its a win-win situation or all o us. He is quick to point out that,

despite what the scaremongers might say, Developments in North

Arica may not have a negative impact on Malta - quite the contrary

in act. I believe there is an excellent opportunity or the region to

grow using Malta as a logistics hub.

The stability o Maltas political and economic climate play an

important role in drawing both leisure visitors and business to the

islands. Alan Richards, CEO o HSBC Malta, judiciously points out,Malta has had a good crisis in the sense that there hasnt really

been one. Malta has had no housing crisis, no banking crisis and

no sovereign bond crisis. The Maltese economy has perormed

relatively well and showed much greater resilience than we might

dared have hoped or when the

global troubles began in late

2008. Malta is in an enviable

position, as Gonzi said at the

end o the rst hal o 2011,

With a growth rate o 3.7%,

the country has surpassed

both European and euro area

averages and is one o the ront

liners.

The Prime Minister is

candid in saying, Probably now

the challenge will be to keep

this growth sustainable. Many

perceive that Maltas unique

selling point is the availability o

highly skilled or highly qualied personnel at an appropriate cost

or all areas o the expanding economy. The month o April 2011

registered Malta as having the 5th lowest unemployment rate within

the EU; standing at 6.2% compared to the average o 9.4% recorded

in the EU27. Gonzi qualies this by saying, The challenges we ace

now are actually the challenges aced by success stories. Thus ar

the key element o all the burgeoning sectors has been our ability

to provide the adequate numbers o highly qualied personnel and

human resources.

However, success in attracting big businesses to invest in

operations in Malta, in sectors as diverse as nance, IT, aircrat

maintenance and tourism means that there is mounting pressure

or the government to address both current and uture needs with

vision. Demands or the provision o the right level o stafng are

Leveagig regioal Apide

I thank the MaltesePrime Minister

personally on behalo the country and,not or the rst timein our history, we

should pay tributeto Malta and her

people or the rolethey are playing

David Cameron - British PM

Under a canopy o stars, the rousingly passionate, yet somehow velvet voice

o Joseph Callejarings out against the backdrop o the lantern-adorned

church o Floriana in Malta. To experience an open-air concert on a balmy

July evening, is already quite a treat; but to eel yoursel uplited by the ardour

and intensity o this impressive maestro o song is another experience altogether.

Born in Malta in 1978, Calleja started singing as an altar boy at the age o six

and released his rst solo recording or Decca, Tenor Arias, when he was only 26.

Chosen by Edward Fenech Adami, the then President o Malta, Calleja perormed

a private concert or Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip on the eve o the

Commonwealth Heads o Government Meeting held in Malta in 2005.Today, aged 33, Calleja has already established himsel as one o the most

promising tenors o his generation. Genuinely proud o his native land Calleja

such, that the government has created a Highly Qualied Persons

scheme oering a avourably low tax rate o 15%, designed to

entice expatriates, who qualiy or the incentive, to make the move

to the job market in Malta.

Keen to prepare the ground or what may well open up to be

an entirely new area o the economy (which will eed other sectors)

- that o post-graduate education - Gonzi says, I think there is

enormous potential or the country to provide an opportunity or

oreign educational institutions to come and set up a campus in

Malta. We are moving in that direction and I am quite condent

that we will be also successul there. Maltas location in a strategic

position - with the quality o lie we oer - is ideal or major

universities to consider Malta as a campus rom where to provide

specialised courses especially post graduate ones.

Undoubtedly there will be UK universities interested in this

prospect given the low-cost base that Malta oers. In addition, Malta

and the UK have always enjoyed what Gonzi describes as, A highly

special relationship that is about our shared culture, psychology, our

common language and understanding. It is evident in the common

ground ound in our democratic institutions, our parliament, our

schools, our public service and our health system. Ater Malta

joined the EU there was a development o certain areas; nancial

services, IT and specialised manuacturing, and we ound more

British investment coming into Malta because we provided an ideal

location or oreign investors. It is an environment which welcomes

UK investment and where every Englishman eels at home.

Equally the Maltese eel at home in the UK. A surprising

number o high-ying Maltese executives have made a name

or themselves in the City, including Paul Manduca, Chairman

o Aon Insurance UK and a Non-Executive Director o Prudential

Assurance, Martin Scicluna, ormer Managing Partner o Deloitte

and now a non executive director o Lloyds Bank. Lord Chie

Justice Igor Judge and Cameron Mackintosh (theatre mogul)

both have Maltese mothers and there is also Claire Gerada who

is President o the Royal College o General Practitioners. It is

proessionals like these, and people working at the Bank o

England, UBS, CitiBank, Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, JP Morgan as well

as various hedge unds, insurance, law, tax and accounting rms

among others who attend the newly ounded Malta Business

Networking group in London. The brainchild o Joseph Zammit

Tabona, High Commissioner o Malta in the UK, the group was

established with the aim o providing opportunities, maximising

synergies and pooling ideas on how to take Malta orward. The

concept received such a phenomenal response; with numbers

swelling rom 20 to nearly 100 members in 3 months, that the

criteria (originally intended only or those o Maltese descent) had

to be rethought to include UK entities that have invested in Malta.Eventually it is hoped that the group will evolve into a think-tank

that will strategise, on both a corporate and diplomatic level, or

the betterment o Malta.

asserts, Malta is very rich in history and culture. I am very proud o my nation and

my nation is very proud o me; I always try not to disappoint the people o Malta.

No matter how many times I go abroad, I always eel very happy when I come back

home. Calleja has undoubtedly placed Malta on the map o classical music and

his latest recorded recital, appropriately named - The Maltese Tenor - is bound

to be the source o even more national pride. Upon release in May it became an

instant bestseller in Germany, debuting high on its classical chart as the top vocal

recording. Calleja undoubtedly hopes his new album will wow his UK ans in much

the same way when it is released here on 25 July.

Maltas Parliamentary Secretary or Tourism, the Environment and Culture, Dr

Mario deMarco commends Calleja, dubbing him, A Maltese icon who symbolises

Maltese creativity. Dr de Marco believes this new album will help market Malta

abroad, remarking, Joseph Callejas numerous achievements overseas, and thehigh regard in which he is held within international classical music circles, make

him one o Maltas greatest ambassadors.

Malta,s Musical Ambassadr


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Small in size, big in reach.Malta oers foreign investors the security and ease ofoperating within EU borders yet within easy reach of emergingmarkets in the Euro-Med region and the Middle East.

A scally ecient and reputable jurisdiction with over 55 double taxation agreementsin place, a fully-edged trans-shipment facility, and an excellent communicationsinfrastructure, Malta is the ideal business hub in the Mediterranean.

For over 7,000 years Malta has been a place o respite or

daring explorers mapping the seas, travellers traversing the

globe, sherman reeling in Mediterranean delights and even

local armers nurturing olive groves and grapevines. Situated at

the apex o the East-West maritime crossroads, successive waves

o civilisations, rom the Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs to the

recently departed British, have all sought claim to this discrete land

mass. Despite having no natural resources to speak o, Malta has

long captured the imagination o new arrivals with its sparkling

azure waters, vibrant bougainvillea, not to mention its naturalharbours which oered reuge rom the tumultuous mainland in

times past. Today, visitors continue to ock to the archipelago -

composed o Malta, Gozo and Comino - to soak up the glittering

sun, uncover the jewels o the sea, experience the unheralded

hospitality o the Maltese and, o course, to take in all that seven

millennia o recorded history has let behind.

Maltas unique topography takes visitors breath away rom

the moment they set oot on the islands. A microcosm o the

Mediterranean, the seascape is a rugged coastline interspersed with

quiet coves and pockets o red and golden sand. With the plethora

o wildowers in spring, the rocky countryside is a botanists delight;

rom the stunning Dingli Clis that drop o dramatically, remote

and ar removed rom the madding crowds, to the terraced terrain

that gently rolls away into the astonishing blue seas, teeming

with wildlie. Under a hot summer sun the translucent waters are

enticingly inviting to swimmers and water sports anatics alike. For

those who shy away rom balmy, sun-drenched destinations in the

height o summer, there is the year-round possibility to savour the

mottled blue waters and Maltese rays. Thanks to the temperate

climate that does not oscillate wildly with the seasons but is

moderated by the surrounding sea; even in the middle o winter,

the water temperature hovers around 15 degrees celsius, pleasant

enough or an open water, wreck or cave dive at Cirkewwa or

another o Maltas premier sites. Whats more, this year St GeorgesBay in St Julians and Bugibba Bay in St Pauls were awarded the

prestigious ull Blue Flag or supreme quality water. Malta now

ofcially has the second cleanest bathing waters in the EU.

Even with strikingly pristine waters and 90 superb bathing sites,

Malta is more than simply a summer holiday destination; it is an

island nation that lives and breathes 365 days a year. During the

so-called shoulder seasons (outside o the main summer months),

Malta welcomes visitors with open arms and is perectly equipped

to cater or them quite unlike a number o its Mediterranean

Ecaig i Evey seaotOurIsM

Highly desirable location within a 2.5-hour ight o

London? Warm welcome in an English-speaking

European country? Delightul inusion o old world

charm and modern amenities? An ideal year-round climate

with 300 days o sunshine a year - balmy, exotic summers and

temperate winters? Pristine turquoise waters oering abulous

yachting, snorkelling and diving opportunities? Fabulously

ascinating coastline o over 150 miles? All sound too good to

be true?

Its not...its Malta the so-called best kept secret in the

Mediterranean - just waiting to be nautically explored by you!

Maltas maritime industry has in act developed to the

extent that the country constantly eatures on the map o a

number o the most elite super yachts rom the Mediterranean

and beyond. The geographic positioning o Malta means

that it is within one or two sailing days rom most rivieras in

mainland Europe and just a one or two-hour ight away rom

most European airports. This has established the country as a

popular destination or all those boat owners who seeking a

quiet, private holiday within a discreet environment which, at

naically Yothe same time, oers all possible amenities and services - be it

or work or pleasure.

Across the world Sunseeker endeavours to oer excellence

to all its clients, be they charterers or new boat buyers.

However, this experience takes on a whole new dimension

in Malta because boating and the maritime environment are

instilled within the nations DNA as much as its history and

cultural heritage are. Clients o Sunseeker Malta can thereore

enjoy all that the Sunseeker brand oers them, in terms o

value and service, imbued with the passion that these seaaring

islands exude.

Being located in the Maltese archipelago also means that

Sunseeker is ideally placed to strengthen its brand within the

Mediterranean region. The quality o its portolio o boats

means that Sunseeker has exceptional chartering operations

to cater or your yachting needs. Moreover, it is poised to

attract interest rom the North Arican region. A proessional

and dedicated team o twelve operate Sunseekers ofces in

Malta, oering an enticing opportunity to explore the beautiul

coastline o the islands.

at. A veritable treasure trove o heritage and culture, Malta, over the

past 10 years has also become a main stop on the cruise circuit. The

island is brimming with breathtaking spectacles or disembarking

passengers. With more historical and cultural monuments per square

mile than any other country, Malta boasts no less than three UNESCO

World Heritage Sites or its diminutive 121 square miles. Grand

Harbour alone welcomes approximately 700,000 cruise passengers

annually who arrive in the capital Valletta. Its not hard to see why

this ortress city has become a regular stop on Mediterranean

itineraries: originally constructed to deter the Ottomans, the citysimpregnable walls reveal some o Europes most exquisite palaces,

gardens and numerous churches. In a one-day excursion rom the

ship, visitors encounter countless cultural wonders, including the

16th century St Johns Cathedral. An apogee o magnicence, and

one o the islands 365 sites o worship, it houses priceless treasures

such as Caravaggios masterpiece The Beheading o St John the

Magnicent. Another perect specimen o noble architecture is the

Grand Masters Palace; inhabited by the Grand Masters until 1798

and now occupied by the President o Malta, this building is one o

many indelible links between the countrys past and present.

Outside the capital, the historical oerings are just as abundant.

At every turn, one can walk amongst well-preserved Roman temples,

Christian catacombs and British

orts, all the while imagining

how history has reinvented

itsel with each new occupier.

Many o the most intriguing

architectural sites date rom the

presence o the Knights o St

John, who retreated to the island

rom Jerusalem in 1530 and

became the Knights o Malta.

The ourishing trade that grew

up under their watch nancedthe splendid Baroque palaces

and rened settings; many o

which are now used by both

local and international clientele

as venues or upscale events

and weddings.

It is phenomenal backdrops

like these that have undoubtedly

inspired lmmakers to chose

Malta or location lming. Playing host to oreign productions since

1953, Maltas incredibly diverse landscape and rich architectural

variety can double or virtually any other Mediterranean country.

Moreover, a long tradition o ne cratsmanship means that there is

a pool o skilled set builders who have worked in Malta on i mpressive

lms like Gladiator, Troy, The Da Vinci Code, Munich and Agora. Mo st

recently Brad Pitt, has or the second time been on location in Malta;

this time or the lming o World War Z, slated or release next year.

Despite its remarkable abundance o historical locations, Malta is

also globally recognised in the lm industry as having the largest

water tank acility in the world perect or all those underwater

shots.

To truly step back in time visitors should visit some o Maltas

prehistoric temples, some o which pre-date Egypts pyramids.

Scattered across the archipelago, they are thought to have been used

or ritualistic meetings by the worlds most ancient civilisations. One

breathtaking example, Hagar Qim, which means standing stones,

dwars Stonehenge in numbers and layout. Even more startlingly

impressive are the labyrinthine Ggantija Temples in Gozo. Perectly

melding tradition with contemporary cosmopolitanism, Maltas

varied cultural oerings are plentiul. A vibrant events calendar

neighbours. As Chairman o

Corinthia, the Malta-based

luxury hotel chain, Alred Pisani

insists, We are alive in all

respects, the country and the

atmosphere continue no matter

the season. An entrenched

maritime history is a testament

to this. For centuries, naturally

deep harbours and Maltascentral Mediterranean location

encouraged a vibrant shipping

industry. The ports themselves

are steeped in legend, having

moored at various times a range o sea crat rom various lands,

among them ancient Phoenician vessels and the Royal Navy. Today,

Grand Harbour, long noted as one o the saest natural havens in the

Mediterranean, is requently host to superyachts and cruise liners.

Seaarers rom around the world have discovered that Maltas

temperate climate, crystalline waters and central location make or

an ideal base rom which to launch a sailing holiday. While possible

throughout the year, the ideal season lasts rom April to November

when yachters can most thoroughly enjoy the 150 miles o indented

coastline dotted with secluded craggy inlets that are inaccessible

by oot. Malta has also been recognised as a perect location or

winterizing yachts, with excellent repair acilities and reasonable

rates. For those who are not airweather sailors, the natural

coastline provides enough shelter rom the open seas to enjoy a

sailing holiday no matter the season.

The pinnacle o Maltas annual yachting season is the unique

Rolex Middle Sea Race in October. Now in its32nd year, the 606-

mile course is noted as one o the most awe-inspiring in the world,

beginning and ending in the magnicent Grand Harbour. From

Malta, the racers head north towards the waters o Sicily, through theStrait o Messina, around the islands o Pantelleria and Lampedusa,

catching glimpses o Strombolis active volcano. Participants could

not ask or better breezes in and around the Maltese islands, with

year-round prevailing north-easterly Mistral and southerly Sirocco

winds to ll the sails.

Back on land, Maltese history is a east or the culture vulture.

From Mdina to Valletta the old and new capitals, and rom

Vittoriosa which hosts Birgu waterront to Rabat in Gozo which

hosts the Citadella, there are acres o architectural delights to marvel

pulses throughout the year, with both annual and one-o events

catering to all age groups and tastes. Maltaest, the yearly three-

month long celebration o the arts, attracts a wide array o talent,

while the International Jazz Festival has struck a chord in the Grand

Harbour or the past decade. Attracting youth both locally and rom

across Europe, the Isle o MTV Malta recently wrapped up, with

Snoop Dogg as the headlining act. The ree concert attracts crowds

o up to 50,000 every year and with artists like Lady Gaga and Black

Eyed Peas its not difcult to understand why Malta has become a

music magnet.Beyond all o these attractions, there remains however,

one most remarkable aspect that appeals to visitors; it is the

authentically warm welcome greeting them. In true Maltese ashion,

this hospitality also has deep-seated roots reaching back centuries

to when the islands were home to a multicultural melting pot o

traders. Nowadays the journey is signicantly shorter than the

weeks and months those traders endured by ship. Just a couple o

hours by plane rom anywhere in Europe, arriving in Malta will no

doubt somehow eel homely and yet delicio usly exotic a little like

one o the many scrumptious Mediterranean dishes that the locals

serve. Come summer, come winter, come any time o year, Maltas

astonishing myriad o oerings are on the menu.

ID Directors: Gabriele Villa & Sorcha Hellyer Copy Editor: Penelope Hellyer

Supporting Editorial Contributors: Rebecca Granato & Michele Grimaldi

Consulting in collaboration withprivate & public sector entities

Image Diplomacy produces a range o special eatures

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+353 1 443 49 73 [email protected] - www.imagediplomacy.com

Maltas uniquetopographytakes visitorsbreath awayrom the

moment theyset oot onthe islands

In true Malteseashion, thishospitality alsohas deep-seatedroots reachingback centuries

to when theislands werehome to amulticulturalmelting poto traders

Mdina Marsaxlokk Isle o MTV


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Gozo, the second largest island in the Maltese

archipelago, central to the Mediterranean basin,

is known or its sublime coastline ading into lush

countryside and its sot-paced rural character. Sufciently

developed to maintain sustainable economic activity, Gozo

is a startling masterpiece wrought by nature and 7,000 years

o cultural achievement. Driven by the desire to protect the

natural environment, the Government o Malt a has embarked

on an ambitious, yet achievable, vision to shore up the

existing values o sustainability and to transorm Gozo into

the eco-island o the Mediterranean by 2020. As one o the

governments top priorities, their initiative - Eco-Gozo - aims

to preserve the idyllic lie o Gozitans by ensuring that its

society develops responsibly; not only environmentally but

also in terms o its economy and social abric. It is thereore

tting that there is a ministry dedicated entirely to Maltas

sister island. There is a uniqueness about Gozo that merits

protecting, and as the Minister or Gozo, Giovanna Debono

claries, Progress is not being impeded, instead it is being

enabled and directed in ways that render Gozo dierent and

authentic. Our emphasis isnt on not doing, but instead on

doing it well. To that end, the initiative ocuses on creating

quality jobs or residents, developing sustainable energy, and

cultivating a tourism industry that is linked to other areassuch as agriculture, religion and health.

Since Eco-Gozos inception two years ago, the population

has responded positively. Proud to be participating in the

protection o their land, many are involved in local schemes

including the collection o rainwater and land and sea

clean-up drives. Debono encourages the interest o the

general public asserting that, Eco-Gozo revolves around

the collective identity o its people, generation-bridging and

development. Currently, the Ministry or Gozo is ocused on

implementing sustainable education programmes in schools,

awareness campaigns targeting the islands population and

encouraging residential involvement. While the programme

is centred on improving the quality o lie o inhabitants, the

ministry is also thinking beyond its borders. Debono adds

that there is, A genuine interest as to how Gozo can be more

appealing or oreigners to visit, live, and invest in.

With todays ease o travel, o-the-beaten-path places like

Gozo are ew and ar between. Only 25 minutes away

rom Malta by erry or seaplane, visitors to this hidden

gem discover a tranquillity so complete it is truly a way o lie.

With meandering country trails, valleys bursting with wildowers

and a spectacular coastline punctuated by tiny coves, red sandy

beaches and turquoise inlets; sleepy villages are home to the

islands 31,000 residents who welcome visitors as though they

were amily. Juxtaposing this rustic beauty, is Gozos abundance

o seven millennia o history and tradition. Thought to be the

legendary Calypsos isle o Homers Odyssey where he was held

captive or many years, visitors leave this mystical place wondering

i his imprisonment was actually by choice.

Markedly distinct rom nearby Malta, Gozo is greener and ar

smaller its pristine shoreline blending into unspoilt countryside.

The people are a reection o this beauty, brimming with the

warmth and character that comes rom traditions rooted in a rural

ethos. Centuries o sel-sufciency and a more agrarian existence

have let Gozitans deeply connected to the land with almosteveryone cultivating at least a small parcel o terrain. Traditional

limestone armhouses dot the picturesque landscape, a number o

which have been restored as villas so that guests can experience

the rhythms o a liestyle dictated by the seasons. Indeed, the array

o accommodation acilities rom award-winning hotels, to superb

houses o character are scattered throughout the 14 dierent

localities o Gozo; meaning that visitors can immerse themselves

in the Gozo community vibe. Gozitans, being inhabitants o an

outpost on the Mediterraneans oldest maritime trading route,

have long welcomed strangers into their land; an experience that

has made them incredibly open and impressively riendly. It is

their warm-heartedness that is at the root o what makes or a

memorable and delightul visit to the island.

The sun-drenched, rustic atmosphere is a ramblers paradise.

Walks through the countryside retrace the steps o ancient pilgrims,

ollow shepherds paths and pass by Baroque churches and isolated

shrines. While steep hills and rocky paths dip down to hidden

beaches and jutting promenades. For cyclists, the open roads and

winding lanes are almost entirely empty o cars and trafc lights.

Lined as they are, with blossoming owers, shrubs and traditional

drystone walls it makes or an inviting undulating landscape.

Although riddled with trails, the island is small enough to traverse

in just 15 minutes, lending itsel to a sense o cosy security and

welcome amiliarity. O course there are comortable, less strenuous

ways to see the island; you can go on a delightul journey savouring

the sights with the improved public transport system and the hop-

on-hop-o buses or alternatively you can take a taxi or rent a car.

Gozos only city, Rabat - the tiny capital is also known by its

British colonial name, Victoria - is aglow with honey-coloured

limestone buildings. Perched on the citys hilltop is the imposing

Cittadella, behind the walls o which the entire population slept

until the 13th century or ear o attack by pirates and slavers. From

the ramparts it is clear that layers o history are deeply embedded

in this dramatic location; evidenced by the temple dating back

to Roman times, the Knights o St Johns impenetrable walls andthe grafti scrawled in the sot stone by idle soldiers hundreds o

years ago. The Cittadella is also the keeper o deeply evocative

stories, such as the Turkish invasion o 1551, which led to an

almost complete enslavement o the population. This conuence

o cultures - reected in the Cittadella - is equally apparent in the

citys rich and varied cuisine. Delicious dishes which make up the

rich local cuisine reect the inuences o every civilisation and

occupying power to have touched the shores o Gozo, rom the 8 th

century Moors to the recently departed British.

A striking testament to Gozos primordial past, the hulking

Ggantija temples are the oldest ree-standing structures in the

world, predating Stonehenge by a millennium. Constructed entirely

out o limestone, the islands only natural resource, each megalith

weighs approximately 50 tons. In an amazing eat o advanced

engineering, ancient Gozitans are said to have mobilised the entire

population to create this complex labyrinth as a site or celebratory

Mala, hidde Gem Awai Dicovey

GOZO

EcoGozoA Commimetowad abee fe

Giovanna Debono - Minister or Gozo

and mourning rituals. As i this alone were not reason enough to

visit Gozo, the islands 28 miles o sparkling coastline oers some

o the most stunning, undeveloped beaches in the region. Tourists

regularly come rom Malta to swim in the shallow waters o

Ramla Bay, or to brave the difcult but colourul hike down to the

deserted San Blas Bay. An abundance o sheltered coves and well-

preserved beaches, inaccessible by oot, await the sea kayaker; as

does the rare pleasure o exploring caves and gullies once used by

raiding pirates and smugglers. Moreover, the translucent waters

surrounding Gozo are noted or some o the best scuba-diving in

the world, with visibility in excess o 40 metres and a plethora

o diving spots accommodating all levels o experience. For the

most vibrant species o sh, daunting underwater chimneys, and

startling drop-os, divers head or Dwejras Azure Window, the

iconic arches recognisable rom recent appearances in eature

lms. The more adventurous might take advantage o the three

wrecks sunk a short boat ride away rom Gozos southern coast.

As ar as Gozo is rom the clambering tourist trade, Maltas third

island, Comino, is even arther. A sanctuary or birds, the islandhas a permanent population o only our. The islands buildings

are ew, but include a tiny chapel in which a priest, who travels

daily rom Gozo by boat, celebrates mass during the summer

months. Although the island is the picture o tranquillity, summer

tourists oten crowd the Blue Lagoon - one o the archipelagos

most popular snorkelling spots - beckoned by the loveliness o the

amazing turquoise waters.

Besides the sea, the colours o Gozo are painted in the smiles

o its inhabitants, in the rolling landscape and arm produce that

is savoured at the tables o its local restaurants. It is a portrait o

community spirit, rich in its diverse history and shared values. It

is all this that has long attracted the neighbouring Maltese as a

getaway rom the hustle and bustle o their more metropolitan

island. As mainland Europeans begin to truly discover the pleasures

o Maltas sister island, this haven welcomes them to share in the

peaceulness o the Gozitans - the prevailing spirit o the land.

alta

A deerminaion for success.Ideas do no grow on rees and before you know i someone else mighdo i. So if you wan o discuss business, you wan o do i fas.

Wih a single poin of conac for invesors, easy access o decision makers,readily available human resources and an atracive operaional cos srucure,Mala is poised o be nimble. Doing business in Mala gives you an edge.

The Blue Lagoon San Blas Bay The CittadellaCliveVella

DanielCilia

GeorgeScerri

s-kied Weddig Day

It goes without saying that everyone wants their big day to goperectly. There is undoubtedly one thing wedding couples

pray or more ervently than anything. It is something

beyond catering needs and their capacity as a couple to love

and honour and that is or the sun to shine. So i you are

planning to get married - and you have not yet decided the

location - it might interest you to know that, not or the rst

time, Malta has been voted as having the best climate in the

world according to International Living Magazine. With 12

hours o sunshine a day in mid-summer, you are pretty much

assured o a blissul wedding under the azure blue, sun-kissed

skies o the Mediterranean islands o Malta, Gozo and Comino.

365 sites o worship one or every day o the year

and innumerable locations or civil ceremonies ensure you

are spoilt or choice. In a country bursting at the seams with

thousands o years o history, you will not be let wanting

when it comes to the venue or your reception. Around the

island modern hotels with their multiple cascading pools and

seaside locations can obviously cater or larger groups and

The UK is undoubtedly ond o Malta as a tourism destination

and given its incredible climate, its hardly surprising. Over

30% o the 1.3 million tourists that visit the islands are rom

the UK and the average stay is 8.5 nights. The number o repeat

visitors is steadily increasing and the variety o dierent holidays

including romantic getaways to enjoy one o the stunning

outdoor concerts and a stroll along the balmy searont, citybreaks to explore the cultural oerings o the island and amily

holidays to spend some sun-drenched quality time together is

a denite draw.

Despite being an island nation at the limits o the

Mediterranean, Malta is extremely accessible with direct air links

making it less than three hours away rom London and Brussels.

Malta itsel is an ideal destination or can be used as a regional

hub or a multi-destination holiday. Once you land in Malta, the

journey rom Malta International Airport (also known as Luqa) to

anywhere on the main island is an absolute dream. The diversity o

tourism oerings is astounding but or those who love nature and

serenity, a visit to Gozo is a must.

A pleasant 25 minute-erry ride takes you to Maltas sister

island or you can charter a yacht and make your own way there.

O course you could always day-trip to Gozo but to ully relax and

appreciate its beauty a stay

in one o the abulous ully-

converted houses o character

or armhouses is a luxury you

can aord. Baron Holiday

Homes, the main brand o

Baron Group, is synonymous

with excellence in upmarket

holiday rentals o this kind. The

group pays special attention to

maintaining the magnicent

architectural inheritance o all

the elegant properties in its

A Lxy Yo Ca Aod

in their own way these are magnicent. However, or the

understated elegance o a 17th century restored palazzo there

can be no better place than the amed medieval city o Mdina.

Named the silent city or its demure untouched charm and

quiet streets steeped in history, the ormer capital o Malta,

eels more like a movie set and is the perect location or a

memorable wedding. Oering a rst-class service that caters to

your every need, The Xara Palace Relais & Chteaux - Maltas

only 5-star boutique hotel - has a choice o venues which can

host exquisite intimate seated receptions or 70 guests or

grand stand-up receptions or up to 500.

The de Mondion Restaurant, situated on elevated terraces

that orm part o the original ortications o Mdina, makes

guests eel like they magically hold the beautiul island

o Malta in the palm o their hands. With its breathtaking

180 degree view across the countryside and the deep blue

Mediterranean sea clearly visible on the horizon, it is an idyllic

venue to host a wedding party and guests will be urther

wowed by the creations o the che. Alternatively, or those

who preer to have their eet on the ground there is The

Piazza, the majestic square situated directly outside the ront

o the hotel. The splendid old buildings that orm this square

provide an impressive backdrop or that special wedding with

a dierence.

International clients choose Malta as their wedding

destination not only or its picturesque venues, its riendly

hospitality which is world renowned or its excellent climate;

but also because the country oers the opportunity to extend

the celebrations either side o the event. Wedding preparations

take on a whole new dimension as do post-ceremony activities;

with antastic beaches, colourul landscapes and the rich

cultural heritage to explore and enjoy. Essentially wedding

parties come to Malta to celebrate the joining o the happycouple and end up getting happily swept o their eet by the

beauty o Malta.

portolio so that guests can enjoy an authentic experience, while

at the same time providing all the amenities and conveniences

modern lie requires. It oers a concierge service that caters to all

your needs; Baron can organise everything to ensure that your stay

is the epitome o comort; rom a personal butler, che, beautician

or masseur to chartering limousines, helicopters, seaplanes and

yachts on your behal.O course no visit to Malta would be complete without the

requisite visit to the enchanting cities o Mdina and Valletta.

Distinct in their own ways, Mdina or its stunning inland views and

nigh-deserted medieval streets; Valletta or its melding o history

with modernity and its vibrant buzzing atmosphere, they will both

leave their mark on you. Some believe, however that there is

more collective work yet to be done to urther raise the prole o

Maltas capital city. Paul Simmons, easyJets Director o UK Market,

champions the repositioning o Valletta as a destination in its own

right or the city break market. He says, When considering a city

break (which are oten in the shoulder seasons and booked at

short notice) Im sure Valetta would most likely not be considered

alongside more traditional options such as Venice, Rome,

Amsterdam etc. But we all know that Valletta is a great city break

venue with an excellent range o hotels, restaurants and cultural

heritage it just happens to

be on an island! Coupled with

the Malta Tourism Authoritys

drive to promote the islands,

Simmons is happy or easyJet to

do its part to, Make the most o

Maltas airlit connectivity and

great hotel and conerencing

products. As with city breaks,

most o the potential o MICE is

in the o season market, and so

we just need to put Valetta into

the consideration set.

Baron Holiday Homes, Zebbug

The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Mdina - Malta

www.xarapalace.com.mt


4/8


te ipiig

spii o

Coiia

Becoming a hotelier may not have been Alred Pisanis chosen vocation as a young

man; but a twist o ate set him on the road to where he is today. Surprisingly

this has never hampered his innate ability to invest himsel wholeheartedly

and dedicate himsel to the mantle he has taken on. Pisani is nothing i not

passionate and determined in his attainment o every goal he sets himsel and the

Corinthia Group. His aptitude to turn his hand to the hospitality industry, whereas

he once dreamed o a lie o science, is evidenced in the incredible rise o the

Corinthia Group, its award-winning properties and global operations. Corinthia is

undoubtedly the very best example o the internationalisation o a Maltese brand;

seeing the ag o his native land now uttering in the London breeze must surely

be a great source o pride or a man who started with almost nothing but debt. Atrue entrepreneur o our times, Pisanis vision, strong work ethic and exacting desire to

triumph against all the odds is the kind o success story we all need to hear about.

Ater years o physical labour - in his characteristic

hands-on ashion Pisani rolled up his sleeves and mixed

concrete working as the contractor or his rst hotel - and

through an evolving aesthetic vision, the doors to the Corinthia

Palace Hotel and Spa were opened in 1968 by HRH the Duke

o Edinburgh. It was Maltas rst luxury hotel and, prescient in

recognising the promising uture o Maltas tourism industry,

Pisani then went on to open a second hotel at St Georges Bay.

Corinthia is now denitively Maltas agship hotel chain, making

many Maltese proud. Next year will see Corinthia hosting the

triennial Forum o the International Award or Young People

(ormerly known as the Duke o Edinburgh Awards). It is tting

that Malta, a ormer British protectorate which will be celebrating

70 years as a George Cross Island in 2012, should be the setting

or this royal occasion that promotes accomplishment in young

people. Certainly Pisani imbued the Corinthia brand with the

same qualities rom a very young age.

Its short and somewhat recent history as an independent

nation belies the incredible amount o progress that has taken

place in Malta since the British Navy withdrew. That said, the

limited opportunities aorded by the tiny island nation were

the necessary impetus or launching the

global division o Corinthia in the 1980s. Since

then, the Corinthia Group has expanded its

international presence by ocusing on city

centres in emerging markets, including: the

Czech Republic, Hungary, Portugal and Russia.

Rightully proud o his groups achievements,

Pisanis philosophy is that individuals, working

as a team, must subscribe to hard work and

dedication to ideas. Pisani insists, I we all

believe that the world can be a better place and

work towards it, then one day it will happen.

Although Corinthia consults with local

rms to help with establishing structures in

new locations, the core team is always present,

exuding the central tenets o the company.

While each property reects the local traditions

and architecture, every member o Corinthias

extended amily is wholeheartedly committed

to honest, discreet and luxurious hospitality.

Still very much involved in the day-to-day

management o the business, Pisani leads by

example, believing that success comes to

those who, as he puts it, Face reality, have

principles and are sure that they have donetheir very best each day. He ensures that

standards are maintained by emphasising

the human aspect o operations and

undamentally believes that the physical and emotional

investment people make in work is by ar the most

productive. By ocusing on individuals, both sta

and guests, the Corinthia brand sets itsel

apart rom other trophy hotels.

Despite its growing global presence

Pisani strives to keep the groups

international general managers

connected to the heritage and

hospitality o Malta through what he

reers to as the Spirit o Corinthia.

The island, he says, Is an idyllic

and unique place; not only is year-

round tourism possible as a result

o the temperate Mediterranean

climate, it is also packed with

historical treasures. It is

unsurprising then that the Malta

properties are thriving, with business

increasing yearly and already up 8% rom

2010. By having the general managers visit

the island and experience the agship

locations, Pisani insists, We try to bring out

in our people bonding, commitment and

allegiance which ultimately gives the true

character o what the company is. It is this soul that we then

put into our hotels around the world. Pisani recognises perectly

that it is not the attractive building that makes the hotel it is the

warmth o the welcome, the service and the overall experience

that the guest is given.

While Pisani has a meticulous eye or detail, rom the design

to the management o Corinthias international properties, he

has also expanded the business considerably. Three separately

created companies handle various development aspects,

including a construction management company, a development

rm and a management company which oversees partnerships

such as those with Wyndham Hotels and Ramada Hotels in

Europe, Arica and the Middle East. Just over 10 years ago the

Corinthia Group went public as International Hotel Investments

(IHI). Since then IHI has achieved signicant capital appreciation

with a balance sheet that now stands at 1.1 billion (c1bn).

In spite o the recent global downturn, Pisani condently

asserts that the company, Sailed through this difcult economic

period o three years quite comortably. Always concerned with

ensuring that business practices are ethical and in line with

promises made, Pisani says, My conscience is sound as ar as

the shareholders are concerned, knowing that

the company has more than doubled what

they have put in. IHI intends to launch a public

oering o 150 million (c137m) on the London

Stock Exchange by the end o 2011 in a bid to

restore its ree oat to 25%. With more liquidity,

the group plans to invest in major European and

international capitals.

A major challenge IHI aces is the crisis in

Libya, which Pisani acknowledges impacted the

groups perormance in the rst hal o 2011. The

relationship between Corinthia and Libyan Arab

Foreign Investment Company (LAFICO) dates

back to 1974 when Pisani sought institutional

investors to oset his large bank loans. Since

its establishment, Corinthia Hotel Tripoli, has

been known as the best perorming hotel in

the group and was recently complemented

by the Palm City 413-unit residential complex.

Further developments are planned or late

2011 i the crisis cools. Until then, the groups

Tripoli properties remain operational despite

the repatriation o the majority o its oreign

sta. Although Pisani notes that a prolongation

o the turmoil will more than likely necessitatea postponement o the London oering, he

expresses sincere hope or a peaceul end to

the strie soon. He poignantly remarks, I was

seeing so much progress taking place in Libya, with so much good

construction and inrastructure being developed. Meanwhile,

the company has reassured trading partners and suppliers that

doing business with IHI does not inringe on UN or EU sanctions,

since LAFICO is a minority shareholder in a Maltese-registered

company which has over 4,000 shareholders.

Pisanis determination to grow his Malta-based business

has certainly paid o, as evidenced by Corinthias emergence

as a leader in the luxury hotel market. Recently the group was

the recipient o the Award or International Achievement or

innovative expansion, at the Arabian Business Achievement

Awards ceremony in Dubai. Pisani is certainly no stranger to

accolades, this one being just the latest in a string o awards

that the company has received. 2010 saw its newly extended

and reurbished ve-star Corinthia Hotel St Petersburg being

declared the citys Best Meetings, Incentives, Conerences and

Events Hotel at the Russian Business Travel & MICE awards. It

is the rst time a hotel in St Petersburg has won this prestigious

title. The same hotel was also awarded the coveted title o

Europes Leading Meetings and Conerence Hotel by the World

Travel Awards. Closer to home this prestigious body also gave

Corinthias ounding property, the Corinthia Palace Hotel and

Spa, Maltas Leading Hotel award or the second year in a row.

One thing is or sure, the group - headed by Alred Pisani - seems

unstoppable in its pursuit o global excellence in hospitability.

I we allbelieve thatthe worldcan be abetter placeand worktowards it,then oneday it willhappenAlred Pisani,

Chairman & CEO o

Corinthia Group &International Hotel

Investments

Since its humble beginnings in Malta nearly 50 years ago, the Corinthia Groups portolio hasexpanded to include ten individually designed ve-star hotels in Europe and North Arica.Alred Pisani, Chairman and Chie Executive Ocer o International Hotel Investments ando Corinthia since its inception in 1962, has been the driving orce leading the business roma one-hotel company to a diversied group; redening, on his journey, the very meaningo luxury, hospitality and exclusivity especially in the markets Corinthia has operated.

Above: (top, let to right) Corinthia Kharthoum, Corinthia Lisbon, Corinthia Hotel St Petersburg and Corinthia Tripoli.

Above: (below, let ot right) Corinthia Prague, Corinthia Hotel Budapest and Corinthia London.

Right: Mr Alred Pisani, at the Arabian Business Achievement Awards in 2010

alta

A bedrock o sabiliy.Invesmen decisions are risky maters. Sabiliy secures invesmenyields over ime, a minimal risk. Repuaion, efciency andreliabiliy will allow you peace o mind even in imes o urmoil.

Since independence in 1964, Mala has enjoyed poliical, economic and socialsabiliy. Fully inegraed in he European single marke, i is no only a repuablenancial jurisdicion, bu a well perorming economy wih sound undamenals.

The Corinthia San Gorg Hotel, Malta

Below let: the main restaurant (let)

and the lobby (right)

The Corinthia Palace Hotel, Malta

Below let: the old Villa entrance (let)

and the lobby (right)


5/8

For its rst oray into a highly sophisticated, well-established

hospitality market, Corinthia could hardly have chosen a

more challenging location. London, as home to one o the

most discerning luxury audiences in the world, is a market that is

rarely orgiving should you all short o its expectations. Lucky then

that Corinthias select ingredients or appealing to this exacting

clientele are pleasing the palate o its guests, which include

Hollywood A-listers and the London jet-set alike. It is no accident

o nature however. The careully crated combination o the

supremely elegant exterior has been married with a thoroughly

modern take on the original architecture inside, striking the

perect balance o resh avours; ideal or the impeccable taste o

the esteemed clientele o Corinthia Hotel London.

With the 2012 Olympics just around the corner, the nations

capital has seen a slew o prestigious new openings all vying or a

slice o the luxury pie. That said, Corinthia Hotel London has been

long in the making, as nding the perect location and premises

that would meet all the criteria tting or this high-end property

was no easy task. Since his childhood, Alred Pisani, Corinthia

Groups ounder, has had a certain ondness or and awe o the

buzzing, inspiring capital which he terms the Coolest City on

Earth. No surprise then that London should be the ocus o his

much anticipated and ambitious debut into the highly developed

hospitality market. Besides the Olympic spotlight that will be

shining on the metropolis next year, it is an appropriate choice or

Corinthias continuing expansion. At the inception o the group, way

back in the 1960s, UK unding was, in part, what allowed Pisanis

growing aspirations to ourish and become a reality. While Pisani

has the National Bank o Malta (now Bank o Valletta) to thank or

the lions share, one third o his initial loans came rom unding (the

provenance o which was the UK government) disbursed by the

post-Independence Maltese government, to promote diversication

o the economy and support tourism in Malta.

For ve years, Alred Pisani personally scouted spaces around

London that would accommodate his vision o adding modern

architectural air to traditional grandeur. Having ound an

unbeatable location - perectly situated in Whitehall Place, near

Traalgar Square, with commanding views across the Thames -

Corinthia Group bid against 30 other companies or the ormer

Victorian-era Metropole Hotel, originally constructed in 1885.

Upon decommission in the 1930s, the Ministry o Deence took up

residence until the building went up or auction in 2007. The Crown

Estate awarded Corinthia the rights to this important property -

testament to Pisanis evident passion or the sympathetic yet

modern redevelopment that evokes the sites heritage and at the

same time also stunningly draws the premises very much intothe 21st century. Taking on such a signicant project in 2008 -

during the global economic turndown - proved challenging,

but Pisani is rarely, i ever, deterred rom achieving his goals.

As the group turns its attention to the more established

metropolitan hospitality market, its sights are now set

on Paris, Rome, New York and beyond. A culmination

o decades o growth, the London agship hotel

opened in May to much anare and acclaim so

much so that it had already garnered the group the

Award or International Achievement beore the

Corinthia Hotel London had even been inaugurated.

As one o the world class capitals o luxury, London

may well have taken a hit recently but, as Pisani notes, even

when the upscale market suers, The moment the economy

recovers, people will once more be looking or luxury. The

spirit o us humans is tremendous, and very oten it comes out

stronger ollowing moments o difculty, because suddenly all o

our inventiveness, all o our energy surges again to the oreront.

What is true is that Corinthia Hotel London is striving to oer the

very best holistic experience available in London to date. Any

initial teething problems o the launch have been ironed out with

meticulous care and no expense, or attention to detail, has been

spared in the completion o the 340 million (c300m) hotel, as

it seeks to set itsel apart in this highly competitive environment.

One inspired guest candidly commented in a recent review o

Corinthia Hotel London that, This not stuy London luxury, its a

breath o resh air or the contemporary luxury traveller. The same

guest went on to point out that, While the Corinthia brand may

be a lesser known player, the quality o the hotel and sta already

appear to be giving the London luxury scene a serious run or

its money. Shunning both the aristocratic style characteristic o

many o Londons ve-star hotels and the oten overstated modern

minimalism o deluxe designer properties, Pisani has not orgotten

the importance o aesthetics. The beauty o Corinthia Hotel London

is curiously difcult to categorise; but it has been captured in the

high-vaulted ceilings and windows that have created public spaces

ooded with natural light, in the spacious harmony o the rooms

and suites and the striking white marble bathrooms, in which

traditional touches like monogrammed chrome taps are coupled

with in room high-tech entertainment.

Specially-commissioned signature art pieces adorn the lobby

and reception; rom the stunning Full Moon 1,001-crystal Baccarat

chandelier designed by Chak Gasmi which shimmers almost

explosively in the lobby, to the unique Based Upon bronze works

eaturing the meandering River Thames on the reception desk and

the bespoke lit doors whose delicate design was created using

leaves collected in the nearby park. You get the distinct impression

that this opulent yet quiet modern chic - which seems so eortless

- actually conspires to seduce you and make you all in love with

your surroundings. Indeed, the group undoubtedly has high hopes

that guests will be so overwhelmed by the Corinthia Hotel London

Experience that it will become the place to see and be seen. A place

to take high tea in the Lobby Lounge or to revel in the Bassoon

Bar complete with its abulous grand piano innity bar. A place to

enjoy the sumptuous oerings o the two restaurants The Northall

and Massimo Restaurant & Oyster Bar or to host a Charity Gala in

the spectacular ballroom. A place to be pampered in ESPAs global

agship premises the capitals largest spa and wellness acility or

to rest in the privacy o one o the amazing themed suites.

In the short months since it opened, Corinthia Hotel London

is certainly well on its way to achieving this goal having already

played host to a myriad o high-prole guests including Colin

Firth, Cuba Gooding Jr, Laura Bailey, Hugh Grant, Rene Zellweger,

Johnny Depp, Kirsten Dunst and Deputy PM Nick Clegg, to name

but a ew. The hotel is certainly THE up and coming place to visit i

you wish to be enveloped in luxury and tended to with the discreet

but attentive service that is the Spirit o Corinthia.

2 e me y wice oom iveoywa c i ode oecoige e ieio

294 e meo amaziglypacio oom ceaed ye alo ew deig

300 e amoi millio opod elig pe o e

eime o e oel

45 e aveage izeo e oomi qae mee

e me ompo ie

commadig ig

view e rive tame,taalga sqae adWieall Palace

A Taste oThings to Come

The UK may not be well known or its indigenous

cuisine, but that hasnt stopped London becoming

what is likely the worlds restaurant capital or its

divinely vast choice o delectable eateries. A highlight o

the new Corinthia London Hotel - Massimo Restaurant

& Oyster Bar - is Che Patron Massimo Ricciolis stroke o

genius. World renowned as long-time owner o La Rosetta

in Rome, his new incarnation brings Mediterranean warmth

and vigour to ne dining in Central London.

Created by interior designer David Collins, the space

mixes English architectural reerences with classic Italian

inuences, delivering a simultaneous eeling o grandeur

and intimacy. The soaring ceiling, wall mosaics, iridescent

grey-and-white-striped Corinthian columns and retro-

modern chandeliers, dominate the symmetrically arranged

dining area. Rich abrics and ne marble evoke an eclectic

yet harmonious mood and are oset by the cosiness o theleather seating reminiscent o old-style banquettes.

Featuring 150 seats in the main dining room and an

oyster bar that can accommodate 50, the space manages to

maintain a hushed ambience while creating an atmosphere

o intimacy. Set apart rom the main restaurant, an 18-seat

private room oers bespoke dining where you can watch

the spectacle o Massimo creating an array o lavish dishes

in the adjoining state-o-the-art kitchen.

Che Ricciolis menu is based on what he calls sh

integralism, or the use o every single part o the sh rom

tip to tail. His philosophy is admirable, as is his belie in

sustainable sourcing and the use o seasonal ingredients.

With the reshest o sh he composes selections o crudo

delicacies, luscious yet simply-cooked sh dishes and

oers up a rotating choice o oysters. A quintessential yet

unbeatable daily homemade pasta rounds out the creations.

Complimenting the antipasti, piatti and contorni is the

world-class wine list and an expert sommelier to help guests

perect their pairing. Just recently opened to the public, the

restaurant has already proven such a hit with a certain top

Hollywood actor that he dined there an impressive our

times in 7 days.

Massimo Restaurant & Oyster Bar is located in

the Corinthia London Hotel and has a dedicated

entrance on Northumberland Avenue

For reservations call 020 7998 0555

Crinthia Htel Lndn,s

Desirable Digits490 e ize iqae meeo e lage ie

40 e me ofeai yo coldpak i te royal sie

3,300 e izei qaemee o loo pacededicaed o pampeigge i e mli-

level lxy pa

12 e meo excliveCoiia eidecelocaed eide e oel

929

e icedileize o e

loo aea i qaemee o e apamei 10 Wieall

Star StuddedG.R.E.A.T

EventIn May Corinthia Hotel

Londons majestic

ballroom hosted a

sell out charity gala

evening in support o

the Gender Rights and

Equality Action Trust (the

G.R.E.A.T. initiative). In

attendance were trustees

Mariella Frostrup, Jason

McCue, Karen Ruimy and Marc

Carter with international and

UK celebrities, inuencers

and philanthropists including

Colin Firth and Livia Firth

(both pictured), Deputy

Prime Minister Nick Clegg,

Chris Evans, Jemima Khan,

Cuba Gooding Jr and Laura

Bailey. The charitable night is

reective o Corinthia London

Hotels core values o warmth

and hospitality, which are the

basis o its exceptional service.

Capial o Lxy Welcome Coiia...

alta

A propensiy for alen.We have long discovered he secre of apping human capial. Juslike a litle sapling, alen is honed wih ime, paience and hepouring of resources, maximising he power of echnology.

As a business person, in Mala you will nd aordable, available and malleablehuman resources and world-class educaion faciliies for your children. I is alsohe reason why so many invesors have made Mala home for over 40 years.

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7


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As a seaaring island nation whose maritimeDNA courses through its veins, it is nosurprise that Maltas uture relies on itscrystal clear waters as much as the pastdid. A prime regional hub, Malta is an ideallocation or cruising the Mediterraneanand continues to garner a reputation as the

jurisdiction o choice or ship registry.

The Malta Register is the second largest in the EU and is

among the leading ship registers in the world. It enjoys a

reputation o good-standing not only among international

ship owners who are under the Maltese ag but also in the

International Maritime Organisation, the International LabourOrganisation and the competent EU institutions.

Certainly the government has sought to oer nanciers, ship

owners and charterers numerous operating and tax advantages

when they register a vessel under the Maltese ag. Regarding

such oerings, Dr Ann Fenech, maritime and mercantile law

guru, says, We recognise that clients need to be assured o a

rst-class service and value or money, irrespective o the act

that we are talking about major ship owners and persons whose

net worth runs into billions. It is imperative that we continue to

oer an optimum service at a competitive cost. Malta is well

poised to do this with perks which include registration as an EU

vessel and taxes based on tonnage rather than income.

Since 2006, Malta law provides or the registration o yachts

and superyachts, under the auspices o Transport Malta - the

authority responsible or regulating all transport in Malta. The

Commercial Yacht Code and the countrys growing status, has

made it a desirable location attracting luxury vessels.

As Maltas economy expands,

so the challenges o recruiting

qualied personnel augment. The

growing sophistication o the country as

a nance centre and a knowledge-based

service economy, necessitates increasing

numbers o highly qualied sta.

Among Maltas multiple competitive

advantages and key selling points today,

there is, however, one aspect that makes

it stand out rom the crowd; and that is the exceptional quality o

lie that the country oers. Imagine your working day begins with

the sun shining and your drive (or walk) to work taking a matter

o minutes rather than a rain-sodden hour. Imagine the view

rom your modern ofce overlooks the dazzlingly blue sea and is

perectly located or you to enjoy a delicious light lunch bursting

with Mediterranean avours; or to stroll along the coast as you take

a break rom your corporate environment. Imagine, that as your

workday ends, you have time to go down to the marina and take

out a yacht to enjoy the sunset casting its orange rays across the

bastions o Valletta, creating a surreal honey glow while you sip

your avourite tipple. All sound too good to be true? All sound like a

million miles away rom the lie you live now? Well it is the reality o

lie in Malta its a liestyle choice - and thats without mentioningthe weekends that eel like a mini vacation.

There is a buzz surrounding these islands that is difcult to

pinpoint but easy to be seduced by; to such a degree that many

o HSBCs sta, seconded temporarily to Malta, oten request an

extension to their stay or resort to buying a property so that they

can return or a regular x. Choosing Malta as your next career

move could be the best move you ever make. A vibrant sense o

community which champions amily values and an envious social

lie o open-air pursuits and dining out awaits. Given its excellent

educational establishments and low crime rate Malta is also an ideal

environment to raise a amily.

So you may ask yoursel what you are waiting or. Opportunities

abound in the nance and IT sectors in particular, as big names set

up operations in the island nation. The rapid and consistent growth

registered throughout the nancial sector over the last ew years

- up by 30% in 2010 alone - and the consequent springing up o

brokerage rms, asset management companies, und administrators

and insurance companies, has uelled the demand or skilled and

internationally-minded proessionals to unprecedented levels.

As Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi points out, The nancial

services sector is ast becoming a key motor o employment growth

or Malta. The industry relies on a quality workorce o nearly

10,000 proessionals; o those, 1,000 have joined the market over

the last three years - a clear indicator o the rate at which the sector

is growing.

With a 413,000-strong population - 170,000 o which are

active workers - the small nation is thus aced with the dual

challenge o managing the brisk pace o economic growth and

saegicMove oMala -A LieyleCoice

YAChtInG & AVIAtIOn

a cosmopolitan vibe permeated

by old world charm that ew

other countries can boast. Once

you have experienced it you will

come back or more.

Natural attributes aside, the

government creating the right

climate or registration has been

a must. Essentially any vessel canbe registered under the Maltese

ag provided it is owned by a

Maltese registered company or by a person habitually resident

in Malta. Malta boasts low company ormation and ship

registration costs, complete tax exemption or private yachts

and ships over 1,000 gross tons and an eective tax rate o

5% and VAT exemption or the chartering o commercial yachts.

There are also no restrictions on the ollowing: the nationality

o the ship owner, the nationality o the master, ofcers and

crew. Moreover the sale or transer o shares o a company

owning Maltese registered ships and the sale and mortgaging

o Maltese registered ships are subject to neither restrictions

nor taxation. Another advantage is that there are no trading

restrictions and Maltese ships enjoy preerential treatment in

certain ports.

Building on the success o its shipping register, and its

growing reputation as a centre o aviation excellence, Transport

Apart rom the countrys

oerings including naturally deep

harbours, state-o-the-art marinas,

well-outtted repair acilities and

sta with generations o maritime

expertise behind them; there

are also the inherent aspects o

Maltas climate, legendary warm

welcome and cultural heritagewhich undoubtedly add to the

appeal.

In the words o one industry expert rom Camper and

Nicholsons Marinas Kurt Fraser, whose passion or the country

is palpable, Malta is an ideal destination or the international

superyacht raternity and any old perceptions about the country are

quickly dispelled once visitors have an opportunity to experience

it rsthand. Fraser is not mistaken Malta may not enjoy the

same glitzy reputation as Monaco, Cannes and other jet-set

locations but what it does oer is a discreet yet thoroughly

breathtaking environment in which the rich and amous can,

and do, nd sublime relaxation under the azure blue skies o

these Mediterranean islands. The beauty o the enchanting

architecture and culture, which is bound up in millennia o

history, coupled with the most pristine waters in Europe are

complemented by modern amenities, entertainment and

personnel that will cater or your every need. Maltas liestyle has

Malta is now cultivating the countrys standing or aviation

registration. Spurred on by soaring aspirations and through

nancial incentives, the creation o superior structures or

administration, training and supervision; Malta is aggressively

targeting companies specialising in business jet services. One

key result o this drive is a three-year partnership with the

Swiss company Comlux Aviation, an aircrat management and

VIP charter company. As Andrea Zanetto, CEO o Fly Comlux,

explains, Malta has been chosen as an operating base or anumber o reasons, including the countrys high standards o

regulation, being an English-speaking country and its strategic

position between Europe, the Middle East and Arica. Malta has

a ast developing expertise in aircrat maintenance as well as

other services like banking and legal support. With its robust

and exible legislation ramework, in addition to an extensive

network o double taxation agreements, Malta also oers

potential partners various registration possibilities, even or

not-in-use aircrat.

This years legislative agenda will see Malta put in place a

clear strategic vision o developing the aviation cluster business

or complete integration. Comlux, among other companies, will

be able to take advantage o the customer-ocused one-stop-

shop services handling everything rom engine maintenance and

sotware repair; maintaining the already high saety standards.

Certainly Malta seems keen to cater or jet and yacht owners,

whatever their needs.

GhM - e Jewel i Mala, Cow

securing a balance between demand

and supply. As FinanceMalta Chairman

Kenneth Farrugia says, Despite the

crisis that has wrought havoc across

the globe, the negative momentum has

not weighed at all on Malta; businesses

have kept coming in, he continues, The

challenges we ace this year arent much

dierent rom those we experienced

in 2010. We need to monitor and

manage human resources, service delivery and efciency. While

some are concerned about the uture shortall o talent and the

consequential lack o cost competitiveness that may arise as a

result, the government is committed to addressing these matters;

incentivising university courses that will provide the kind o

personnel that the burgeoning sectors require.

Enhancing the visibility o those sectors that are showing the

strongest development prospects going orward, is a challenge that is

currently being tackled by government ofcials and industry players

alike. Utilising its expertise as a leading ICT and nance recruitment

specialist in Malta, Castille Resources carried out a survey o the

local job market. In business since 2006, the company, led by

Matthew Camilleri, already boasts a rst-class portolio o both local

and international clients including the Government o Maltas ITAgency and Microsot. The survey revealed that many organisations

were having increasing difculty recruiting high-level and specialist

roles. With this in mind, Castille Resources recently launched a new

arm, Castille Executive - the rst executive-level recruitment brand

on the island. Catering specically or entities seeking to ll senior

positions with salaries over 50k (c44k) - Castille Executive places

technical specialists, executive and non-executive directors, CEOs,

COOs, CFOs as well as managers and heads o IT.

The Maltese government is condent that the reduced tax rate

o 15% (on all income arising rom specied employment contracts)

it has oered to expatriates willing to relocate to Malta, will draw

more highly skilled investment analysts and portolio managers

to the island. As Maltas need to attract resh and highly qualied

talent becomes more pressing, quality recruiting both locally

and internationally is the key to success. Castille prides itsel on

excelling at this and, as Camilleri underlines, The overall eeling in

IT and nancial recruitment in Malta or 2011 is one o optimism.

Any urther queries on Financial, ICT and

Executive stafng in Malta can be addressed to

Matthew Camilleri on [email protected]

alta

A warm and balanced liestyle.Doing business and enjoying it makes you eel so good. Itslike being good at your avourite hobby. Afer all businessis also about you and your amilys quality o lie.

Malta enjoys year-round sunshine, moderate temperatures and an interesting mix o rural andcosmopolitan eel. It is also a treasure trove to 10,000 years o history. Coupled with this is the warmthand hospitality o the Mediterranean people, a vibrant social and artistic scene and a European way o lie.

MTAC

liveVella

A prime regional hub, Maltais an ideal location orcruising the Mediterraneanand continues to garner areputation as the jurisdiction

o choice or ship registry

hma Eegy - e real

Powe beid e Ecoomy

companys aspirations or GHM and its reputation alone should

be enough to entice yet more superyachts to permanently

berth in the marina, but this is not all that Malta has to oer.

While the destination is not seeking to directly compete with

the Riviera, Sean Purdy o C&N candidly remarks, Berthing

in Malta is great because the climate is better than the south

o France and the increasing level o acilities here or doing

maintenance on superyachts is a denite plus.

Malta as a location or overwintering is an interesting

economic proposition, just as the nancial and tax advantages

o registry under the Maltese ag are benecial to yacht

owners. Fiscal benets aside, it should not be orgotten that theislands are an alluring cruising location in their own right and,

in terms o sailing time, are also ideally placed - just an hour or

two away rom other popular summer destinations. Moreover,

the positioning o GHM is astounding, Purdy claries, The

marina looks across to Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How many marinas in the world can boast

such a location? I have been to plenty

that overlook oil terminals or concrete

works and yet here in Malta your view is

o Vallettas bastions and Fort St Angelo

which is a pretty astonishing setting.

However, the marinas appeal goes

way beyond its stunning backdrop. Besides

being perectly placed to enjoy the Casino

di Venezia and Birgus divine eateries;

visitors and clients o the marina are also impressed by the

many benets GHM oers, including customs and immigration

handling. We see Grand Harbour Marina as the ideal homeport

or superyachts. The support inrastructure oering not only

practical operational benets, but also meeting the social needs

o owners, their guests, captains, crews and their amilies is

unique in the region, Kurt Fraser o C&N afrms, and he is

not alone in his assertion. Visitors to Vittoriosas picturesque

Birgu waterront proess to be perpetually wowed by the

beauty o GHM and comment that the imperative 24/7 serviceis delivered in the exceptionally warm Maltese manner, giving

them the impression that they are coming home.

The entry o world-renowned Camper & Nicholsons

Marinas (C&N) on the scene in Malta, surely heralded

a new era in the countrys illustrious maritime history.

C&N operate a number o premier luxury marinas worldwide

- owning three - all reecting the C&N tradition o excellence

in service, support, acilities, liestyle and location. The rst o

these to be ully operational was the Grand Harbour Marina

(GHM) in Malta. Home to C&Ns corporate headquarters GHM

is an appropriately prestigious location or a company that

has well-ounded aith in the huge potential Malta has to

oer the yachting raternity. The shortage o premier berths

in the western Mediterranean, and promising statistics onnew superyacht orders and launches have led to increased

interest in Malta as a homeportor superyachts, reinorcing the

prospective or growth in the country.

GHMs comprehensive local marine inrastructure

provides or the berthing needs o an increasing global eet

o superyachts. The world amous Maltese

Falcon - a regular visitor to Malta - owns

a berth in GHM; likewise the Indian

Empress and Abramovichs yacht, Pelorus

(among others), requently soak up the

sights and sounds o the islands oremost

marina. With approximately 250 berths,

thirty o which are or superyachts o 30-

100 metres, GHMs cost appropriateness

has made it a sell-out in the mid-market.

Owners are literally queuing up to berth in the marina and - a

victim o its own outstanding success - GHM is in the enviable

position o having a waiting list o about a hundred, or mid-

size yachts o up to 30 metres. As demand outstrips supply,

plans are aoot to extend GHM. I they come to ruition, GHM

would likely build a 135-metre berth, which will be one o the

biggest marina berths in the Mediterranean, i not the world.

Currently GHM has limited berth purchase opportunities

available, exclusively or superyachts. We expect a high level

o interest in the berths we have released or sale, as growingdemand or superyacht berths exceeds supply, and this will

be the case or years to come, says Kurt Fraser o C&N. The

Grand Harbour Marina

Vittoriosa Waterront


7/8

As the global economy teeters between tentative upswing

and continued uncertainty, Malta has not only emerged

rom the worldwide economic storm intact, it has also

recovered at a more vigorous pace than most o its ellow European

countries. This is quite an achievement or a country the size o

Malta, especially given the perceived vulnerability o its open

economy with its dependence on overseas markets. However, it

is evident that Maltas nimbleness and ability to adapt to the new

world order is a strength that has been capitalised on. Indeed,

Maltas Prime Minister, Dr Gonzi proudly notes, Even in the

ace o a global meltdown - that brought down not only nancial

institutions but also whole nancial markets and countries - Malta

withstood the external shock.

Today, Maltas proactive government is determined to maintain

its hard-won reputation as being transparent, efcient, adaptable

yet stringently regulated. These aspects o the countrys business

practices combined with close proximity to European and North

Arican markets, an amazingly ideal Mediterranean climate and

state-o-the-art inrastructure have enticed an inux o banks,

hedge unds and insurance companies to its shores. Not only did

Maltas nancial sector escape unscathed rom the global crisis

but the sector registered consecutive double-digit growth rates,

Gonzi continues, In 2010, the nancial services sector grew by

over 30% conrming its strong undamentals and its potential as

one o Maltas main economic drivers. This stellar perormance

Documents

Malta Enterprising Spirit of an Industrious Nation