1EXECUTIVETRAVELLER

NOV/DEC2013

THE MALTESE ISLANDS – PROSPECTS FOR A FLOURISHING TOURISM INDUSTRY • PARTYING IN STYLE

GULFSTREAM’S G650 VS DASSAULT’S FALCON 5X • BUSINESS AVIATION - A PILOT’S PERSPECTIVE

AVIAPROS.COM/ETM

MAG

AZIN

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The launch of the Executive Traveller Magazine in June 2013 was received with great interest by our high profile readers. In just a couple of weeks, 1500 copies of the magazine were posted and distributed

by hand to selected local and international company CEOs, VIPs, government officials, business aviation entrepreneurs, aircraft owners, brokers and a database of high profile business people.

The magazine was the official local media partner at the 2nd Annual Mediterranean Business Aviation event organised by Aeropodium at The Palace Hotel in Sliema last September. It was distributed to all conference attendees and promoted internationally at

EDITORIAL

Executive Traveller – Malta’s outlook on luxury living, tourism, executive travel and business aviation

Andrea Trapani publishing editor

annual business aviation trade events and air shows. It is regularly available for free at the La Valette Club lounges at Malta International Airport, within the Executive Aviation Malta’s crew and executive lounges, on board the company’s executive vehicles and business jets, at numerous other high profile venues and locations including on request during high profile local events.

This is our second publication and features fresh articles, content related to business aircraft brands and analyses on the executive aviation industry, exclusive interviews and eye-opening features on tourism in Malta, photography, food and of course executive travel and luxury living. In this issue, we emphasise the prospects of the local tourism industry; and we introduce and welcome real estate and property catering for the high-end visitor of our islands which may well be looking at investing and residing here in Malta.

publishing editor Andrea Trapani/ atrapani@aviapros.com

features editor Roberto Benetti/ rbenetti@aviapros.com

advertising executive Rebecca Pace/ rpace@aviapros.com

design 88/ www.88.com.mt

printing Presta Print/ www.prestaprint.com

publisherAviapros International Ltd

ContributorsSpecial thanks for the production of this second edition goes to Dassault Aviation, Gulfstream Aerospace, The Hon Minister Karmenu Vella, MEBAA, EBAA, Sunseeker Malta, HubAir, La Vallete Club, Savina Clinic, The Hilton Malta, Executive Aviation Malta, Fino, Rene Rossignaud, EMD, Captain Dag Spanoghe, NM Corporate Services, Engel & Volkers – Sara Grech, Talbot & Bons, Sessa Marine, Jo Caruana, Veronica Stivala, Rebecca Pace and Aviapros International for their contribution to content and financial support. Without these individual and entities’ input, the production of this magazine would not have been possible

AdvertisingTo advertise in our next issue, email Ms Rebecca Pace on marketing@aviapros.com or you can also contact us on +356 99441432, +356 79884888, or +356 79896450

SubscriptionExecutive Traveller Magazine is distributed for free to top hotels and venues, and is available at local and international business aviation conventions, conferences and events, at the Hilton Malta Lobby, Portomaso Business Tower, SkyParks, within Malta International Airport business lounges, Executive Aviation Malta’s airside lounge and the company’s executive vehicle fleet, on board business jets visiting Malta together with a range of business jet operators including international clients seeking investment and relocation to Malta. The magazine is published three times a year in partnership with top local and international brands.

If you would like to subscribe, email marketing@aviapros.com including your Name and Surname, Company name (if any), address and contact telephone number. The publication is also available online at www.aviapros.com/ETM

EXECUTIVETRAVELLER

EXECUTIVETRAVELLER

We also look at the future of international business aviation as well as the entities which attract high profile travellers to this island.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue.

“Founded in 2011 with the prime objective of providing a variety of uniquely dedicated services tailored for the aviation industry with a particular focus on business aviation.”

www.aviapros.comT: +356 99441432

Aviapros International prides itself in delivering discreet and efficient response to any kind of aircraft charter request together with a variety of aviation tailor-made services facilitating aircraft operations.

Based on the island of Malta with offices located airside at Apron 3, Aviapros International is a dynamic company providing dedicated professional services and logistics to General and Business Aviation globally. Services range from Aircraft/Business Jet Charter solutions, Operational Flight Support, Aircraft Management and coordination of worldwide handling and fuel logistics

"Connecting the world, through business aviation"

www.aviapros.comT: +356 99441432 / +356 79896450

“Founded in 2011 with the prime objective of providing a variety of uniquely dedicated services tailored for the aviation industry with a particular focus on business aviation.”

54 CONTENTSEXECUTIVETRAVELLER

Driven with Pride, Aiming for ExcellenceThe only dedicated service provider boasting 100SQM of unique airside facilities at Malta International Airport.

Comfortable, spacious brand new crew lounge and a separate executive passenger lounge located adjacent to the airport’s dedicated general and business aviation Apron.

Restroom & shower facilities, free Wi-Fi, crew briefing and snooze area.

Dedicated and professional staff with extensive experience in business aviation ground handling, flight support, aircraft charter, aircraft management and flight dispatch.

The only fully equipped, independent and dedicated service provider with an in-house fleet of luxurious vehicles consisting of 2 executive BMWs and a new Mercedes Viano limousine configured to attend to VIPs and VVIPs.

Executive Aviation Malta is able to guarantee full discretion and transparency with any operator’s passengers and VIPs since it is the only dedicated business aviation ground support service provider in Malta which does not simultaneously own or operate an aircraft fleet. This also makes Executive Aviation Malta, the service provider who is most likely to promote any operator’s aircraft for ad-hoc charter brokerage business whilst on the ground in Malta.

Executive Aviation Malta Ltd.Apron 3, Malta International Airport, Luqa 4000, Malta, Europe

Tel: +356 999 00 747 (24/7)Email: ops@executivefbo.com | www.executivefbo.com

Rebecca Pace speaks to the Hon Minister of Tourism Karmenu Vella about the future of the islands’ biggest resource.

Celebrity performances? Decadent menus? Whirlwind tours? We take a look as some of the most extravagant parties in history, and detail how you, too, could party like the great J Gatsby himself!

The Maltese Islands – prospects for a flourishing tourism industry

Partying in style: When no expense is spared

06-07

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15

Not every 24-year-old owns a private jet. Actually practically not many 24-year-olds can afford to own a house, let alone a private jet. But this is no ordinary 24-year-old we’re talking about. Having signed her first contract with Sony aged 14, American TAYLOR SWIFT became the youngest songwriter ever hired by the company.

Swiftly does it

08

Business Aviation - a pilot’s perspectiveRebecca Pace interviews Captain Dag Spanoghe and finds out what it is like to be in the driving seat of a business jet.

26 Foods that fly best

30 Events

31 Aviation Events

34 Executive destination

Gulfstream’s G650 vs Dassault’s Falcon 5X

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Stars in his eyes

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The red carpet at the European Music Awards is an amazing event. We go behind the scenes with photographer Rene Rossignaud who reveals all.

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The Hon Minister of Tourism Karmenu Vella says this will be a record year for tourism but there is still much more to be done.

The Maltese Islands – prospects for a flourishing tourism industry

Interview by Rebecca Pace

You have been in the driving seat as Tourism Minister since only March 2013. What practices did you inherit from your predecessor at the ministry? What changes have you already implemented?

Tourism is an aspect of Malta’s economic policy on which there should be a level of general consensus. This would be of benefit to the industry as it ensures continuity in spite of changes in administration or ministers. There is no doubt that I inherited a tourism industry whose main indicators, namely the number of tourists, nights stayed and expenditure have grown. Still, the industry still faces a number of challenges in terms of operating cost, profitability, a lack of investment and re-investment, levels and quality of employment, new market penetration, and a seasonality issue. My predecessor left a functional setup at the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) which still needs to be strengthened and empowered further to be able to meet modern and future tourism trends and demands. Together with the ministry we have to play a more proactive role in the development of new products, the search for new markets, and must work towards better accessibility.

What is the good that you intend building on and what approach will your ministry be taking in order to attract more tourists to our islands in the coming years?

It looks like this year will be a record year in terms of arrivals, bed nights and revenue. These are very positive results and we will continue to strengthen them. However, tourism is not only about attracting more tourists. This should not be our only and final objective.

We need to convert the low season months from loss making to profitability. We need to reduce industry operational costs to achieve higher return on investment and subsequently re-investment. We need to create more full-time employment opportunities for our workforce to increase its participation rate. We need to go beyond lip service on the tapping into new markets and segments and we also need to dissect the bigger picture into a number of smaller ones so that we

will be able to address those elements which have not benefited as much as others. What is the government doing to further promote quality tourism in Malta? Are there any imminent innovative plans high-end quality tourism? Do you feel that enough attention is being given to this particular sector?

There is a long way to go before we even understand what quality tourism is all about. Quality tourism is a phenomenon that needs to be understood in terms of a wider definition than what we have been accustomed to in the past years. Until recently it was generally assumed that quality tourism is the realm of five star hotels. To attract more quality tourism we need a better quality and a top quality product. And accommodation is only a part of that product. We need “a five star product” and not only “five star accommodation”.

It is becoming increasingly evident that today’s sophisticated traveller seeks a quality offer which goes beyond such a narrow definition. Today’s tourist wants quality and authenticity in a wider number of offers ranging from transportation to wellness, from culinary experiences to exclusive accommodation and from quality shopping to personalised tours.

These are all the complete opposite of the one-size-fits-all model of the recent past. While parts of the Maltese tourism industry have been very quick and fast to recognise these changes, others

do not seem to have noticed. Government’s role is to help the industry become aware and be more proactive and innovative to tap into such growing segments for the benefit of the same industry and the economy at large.

Apart from the good work by the MTA does to promote our beautiful islands, what kind of promotion do you intend to focus on?

The MTA is the main vehicle through which the major promotional activities take place and I shall ensure that the authority continues to receive adequate funding to sustain its wide range of marketing activities whilst ensuring that Malta and the tourism sector get the best possible return from the public funds spent.

In recent years, Malta has registered records in visitor numbers. Do you expect the numbers to keep on rising in the years to come?

The numbers can keep rising as long as we spread the seasonality. We need to improve our seasonality spread before we simply go for more numbers. More numbers during the winter months could be a blessing. More numbers during the summer months only could lead to more stop sales and more overbookings which could prove to be unhealthy for the industry. We need more tourists but we need them mostly during our shoulder and winter months where we still have a high amount of unutilised bed stock.

How do you expect to sustain such growth?

Through a more targeted approach at increasing off-peak business. We need to develop a winter product, target a number of winter markets and travellers, and convince airlines to sustain their winter operation by sustaining winter routes and frequencies that are normally reduced or stopped during the low season.

With all 3 to 5 star hotels fully booked, it is a nightmare to find a bed during peak summer seasons resulting in loss of revenue from tourism business. On the contrary, it is very easy to find rooms available during off peak periods. How does your government plan to tackle such a reality?

The reports that hotels experience a loss of revenue when full during a peak season are not necessarily correct. In fact during such periods hotels should maximise and not lose revenue to extend. Hotels lose revenue when they have low occupancy rates during the off peak periods. Additional bed stock to cope with a higher summer demand will increase the problem of a higher unutilised bed stock during the winter months. It is important to sustain the level of summer arrivals and to extend it towards the shoulder months whilst concurrently working towards an increase during the winter months. This should generate enough critical mass to convert the current break-even or outright loss-making winter operations into profitable ones.

In the recent past, we have experienced a remarkable growth in Malta’s aircraft registry. We have seen several renowned executive jet operators relocating to our islands. What is the secret for such a success and how do you plan to continue incentivising such foreign investment?

From a government’s perspective, it is important that the Maltese goverment adopts a pro-business attitude: fight bureaucracy and develop a fast track access to the main decision makers; maintain an advantageous corporate tax system, whilst reinforcing our position within the EU, continue to develop and sustain strong diplomatic and trade relations with neighbouring countries and strengthen its relations with the new emerging markets. All this will undoubtedly have a tremendous positive effect on foreign entrepreneurs and investors.

From a country perspective our unique selling points include, but are not limited to, the development of a sound economy within a politically and socially stable environment; the training and provision of a highly skilled efficient and willing-to-work workforce; the improvement of our ICT infrastructure; the consolidation of Malta as a sound international financial centre; and a guarantee of a safe and a pleasant lifestyle.

An adequate business VIP gateway for the high-end business aviation traveller is not yet available in Malta. The previous administration failed to come up with a solution in this regard. What is the government’s policy with regards to improving the airport’s facilities in order to better cater for executive jet travel?

We will address the hardware (the physical and the premises aspect) as well as the equally important software (operational) side of this issue. Discussions have already been held with the airport operator and MIA already come up with some proposals, the details of which will be discussed in forthcoming meetings.

We are continuously in touch with all stakeholders of the business aviation sector and meetings are held regularly. Our policy is to listen to these stakeholders and support them as much as we can. In aviation, which the government has identified as one of the growth sectors, government wants to play the role of a facilitator rather than that of a controller.

You recently, you took the initiative to set up an aviation advisory committee with the aim of formulating a Civil Aviation Policy which will lead to the formation of the Civil Aviation Authority. Where has this reached and what is your ultimate goal?

Since time immemorial aviation was the catalyst of sustainable development of this Nation in economic and social terms. It was the efficient, regular and robust links with the rest of the world that distinguished these islands from other less developed, albeit bigger slands in the

Mediterranean. Malta’s one and only international airport is already catering for some 4 million passengers and about 18,000 tonnes of freight and mail per year. Aviation contributes 2.5 per cent of direct GDP and accounts for around 5,500 direct jobs.

But aviation is not just the transportation of passengers and goods. This industry includes a host of other activities such as aircraft registration, air operating companies registration;,airworthiness checking of aircraft, maintenance, refits and overhauls of aircraft, aviation training and schools, handling of business aviation, aircraft financing, leasing and chartering, supporting aero clubs, resolving the needs and demands of private aircraft owners, air shows and aviation museums, plus a number of other related activities and services.

Government has identified aviation as one of the sectors with the biggest growth potential. But this growth can only be achieved if aviation is organised and monitored by an efficient authority, and if a direction is given and a growth plan is developed. These are the main reasons behind the need for an Aviation Policy and the setting up of an Aviation Authority. We are not aiming for an aviation sector that caters for our own needs but a professional aviation servicing setup that is capable of catering for the numerous needs and demands of other parties and stakeholders.

It is no secret that tourism is central to the country’s economy. What is the government’s biggest challenge with regards to the local tourism industry? What is your vision for Malta’s future in tourism?

Having a tourism industry which contributes greatly to a country’s economy is very positive. Having a country fully or over dependent on tourism’s contribution is not so positive. My government fully recognises this and wants to further develop and cultivate tourism not only as an end for its own sake but more so as a means and catalyst for other sectors of our economy.

Tourism is a very dynamic industry which changes almost by the hour. Every year we start from ground zero with a clean slate and without any guaranteed business. Every year we have to face different challenges, diverse competitors and changing trends and scenarios. Government’s primary role is to identify and anticipate any risks, threats and opportunities. Government has to intensify tourism’s strengths and minimise its weaknesses.

On paper, tourism in Malta will continue to have a great future. Malta has all the ingredients that cater both for the contemporary as well as for the future tourist. Our uniqueness lies in our authenticity; our rich history, culture and heritage; a wonderful year-round climate; clear clean blue seas; and above all our hospitality. In practice however, tourism’s future depends entirely on us and on how much we are prepared to nurture our unique selling points mostly inherited from our ancestors. Tourism will have a future only if we manage to utilise today’s resources in a sustainable way and possibly enhance these resources rather than depleting them for future generations.

INTERVIEW INTERVIEWEXECUTIVETRAVELLER

EXECUTIVETRAVELLER

“ We need a “five star product”

and not only“five star

accommodation””

“ Tourism is avery dynamic industry

which changes almost by the hour”

8

Business Aviation - a pilot’s perspective

9INTERVIEWEXECUTIVETRAVELLER

How long have you been flying business jets?

Just about eight years.

What was the first business aircraft you flew?

The first business jet I flew was the Hawker HS-125, a great plane indeed and very forgiving which was a bonus when compared to other aircraft where you need to be more focused and precise.

What aircraft do you fly today?

I am currently flying the Gulfstream IV, a bigger aircraft which can carry more passengers, faster and capable of reaching broader distances without the need for stopping over and refuelling.

What can you tell us about business aviation in general? What are the main differences between business aviation and commercial airliner business jet piloting?

I enjoy the more personalised service we provide in business aviation. The irregular schedule can be difficult but very satisfying at the same time. We never know our schedule in advance and this is what attracts me to this kind of flying. We cater to the needs of our passengers in a more all round way from knowing how the VIP likes his coffee to the brand of tissues he prefers in the bathroom. We tend to be more involved in all aspects of the flight. This sometimes also means we have to clean up after everybody has left the plane, something which is unheard of in commercial aviation.

How would you describe your typical passenger?

Most of our passengers are very nice. Of course, being in the flight deck does not put me in as much direct contact with the passengers as our flight attendants who may well have a different opinion. However, when flying business aviation, you tend to get to know your passengers and get accustomed to characters and the approach

one would expect from the captain. Some business travellers will expect a short and to the point greeting on stepping on board whilst others passengers may very well enjoy catching up a bit.

How do expectations and demands of a business jet passenger affect the cockpit crew?

They can affect us quite dramatically. From delayed departures to early shows. These are the two scenarios that affect the cockpit crew the most who would have to cope with coordinating the revision of flight plan to accommodating such eventualities. Most of the other issues get dealt with directly by our flight attendants who have huge job to do and sometimes very little time on their hands.

What are the most exotic places you have flown to?

I have been lucky enough to visit the beautiful Maldives, India and Pakistan and majestic cities like Moscow and New York.

What are the most common destinations you fly to? Which is your favourite destination?

The most common ones are around the Middle East, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai. My favourite... let’s just say I always really enjoy Egypt and Lebanon.

What are your aspirations, as a business jet pilot?

My wish is to experience flying different planes and visiting new destinations.

Your partner for domestic and commercial furniture

c. fino + sons ltd fino Buildings, notabile road, mriehel BKr 3000, malta, t: +356 2549 3000 e: info@fino.com.mtfacebook.com/FinoGroup

Your partner for domestic and commercial furniture

c. fino + sons ltd fino Buildings, notabile road, mriehel BKr 3000, malta, t: +356 2549 3000 e: info@fino.com.mtfacebook.com/FinoGroup

Rebecca Pace interviews Captain Dag Spanoghe and finds out what is like to be in the driving seat of a business jet.

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1312 BUSINESS AVIATIONEXECUTIVETRAVELLER

We look forward to welcoming you

Our five-star treatment doesn’t only stop at the newly refurbished La Valette Lounge. With services ranging from Meeting and Greeting, Chauffeur service, Porterage and much more, we offer a complete luxury experience to members and one off clients.

Contact us for more information.

Malta International Airport plc., Luqa LQA 4000, Malta Tel: (+356) 2369 6292 / 6016 Freephone: 8007 6666 Fax: (+356) 2124 3042 Email: info@lavaletteclub.com

www.lavaletteclub.com

A Five StarWelcome

An analysis by Andrea Trapani.

The future of business jet production and the business aviation industry

A growth of between 4 and 5 percent is projected for the next 10 years in the business aviation industry. The demand is always for bigger, wider, large-cabin business jets, hence, the overall value predicted for the sales of business aircraft is definitely on the increase.

According to Honeywell, a key player in product innovation related to the aviation and aerospace industry, the total number of new business jets delivered throughout 2013 will be somewhere between 600 and 625, which is down on the 672 business jets that were delivered in 2012. However, Honeywell attributes this decline to programme delays rather than falling demand. As with 2014

projections, the company predicts a better picture for the industry and deliveries are anticipated to be up modestly, reflecting recovery in supply side constraints and some gains linked to the projected pace of global economic recovery.

Aircraft operators plan to replace around 28 per cent of their fleets with new business jets in the next five years and large cabin business jets are expected to make up 75 to 80 per cent of all new business jet purchases in the short term, the majority of sales accounting to more than 50% being made in North America.

Bombardier’s Global Express was once again the

most utilised business aircraft to date during 2013 and one can also notice a significant increase in flight activity for the Phenom 300, the King Air 350 and also for the Citation CJ4 aircraft.

The business aviation industry in general has registered rough times in the recent past especially with regards to the European market and with special reference to small - and medium - sized jets. A decline of 3.5 per cent was registered in overall business jet charter, however, the trend is that larger jets are becoming more and more popular with business jet travellers which is considered as positive for the international business aviation industry.

The Global 6000

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Not every 24-year-old owns a private jet. Actually practically not many 24-year-olds can afford to own a house, let alone a private jet. But this is no ordinary 24-year-old we’re talking about. Having signed her first contract with Sony aged 14, American TAYLOR SWIFT became the youngest songwriter ever hired by the company.

Swiftly does it

CELEBRITY FEATUREEXECUTIVETRAVELLER

The golden voiced artist is known for her narrative songs about her experiences as a teenager and young adult. As a songwriter, she is already won seven Grammy Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, 11 American Music Awards, seven Country Music Association Awards and six Academy of Country Music Awards. Album sales have passed the 26 million mark and her music has been downloaded over 75 million times.

When you’re this big, you can afford a private jet, however old you are. Unless you are John Mayer, Harry Styles, Jake Gyllenhaal or Conor Kennedy, the chances that you will get to see the interior, or even the exterior of Taylor Swift’s private jet are admittedly close to none. So we’ve done the work for you. Here’s some interesting trivia in numbers about the singer’s costly wings:

40 The jet is a Dassault-Breguet Mystere Falcon 900 reputed to be worth $40 million. Swift bought her little toy in 2011 when it had been around for just two years. While the rest of us can only dream of saving up such sums, Swift bagged over $45 million that year, so for her, this was a steal.

12 Inside you’re find the jet has 12 seats meaning this is no poky plane. Swift can easily take a group of her closest buddies for a little trip to the Bahamas, or perhaps just for tea at the Ritz.

13 This is the singer’s favourite number. She even goes as far as to draw the number on her hand before she goes on stage. So it comes as no surprise to learn that on the nose of the jet you can see a clearly printed number ‘13’ in between the blue and red ribbons that adorn the jet’s façade. The number has particular significance for the singer who was born on the 13 December, turned 13 on Friday 13, had her first album go gold in 13 weeks. Her first number one song had a 13-second intro and every time she has won an award she was sitting in either the 13th seat, the 13th row, the 13th section or row M, which is the 13th letter of the alphabet.

8 On December 8 of last year, Swift’s former boyfriend Harry Styles, of One Direction fame, performed with his band at London’s Jingle Bell Ball. Swift wouldn’t entertain the idea that her beau travel with the rest of the band for this gig and flew him from New York to London. We wonder who will be next to receive the Swift treatment…

898 N898TS is the aircraft’s registration. What does TS stand for? Taylor Swift, of course!Taylor Swift may be rolling in copious amount of money few of us will ever see, but as a philanthropist she also supports arts education, children’s literacy, natural disaster relief, LGBT anti-discrimination efforts, and charities for sick children.

Taylor Swift

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Mdina – Citta Nobile

HERITAGEEXECUTIVETRAVELLER

AIL global res adv 135x210 executive.indd 2 19/09/2013 15:08

Mdina is reputed to have been built more than 4,000 years ago. Lamp lit by night and referred to as “the silent city”, Mdina is fascinating to visit for its timeless atmosphere as well as its cultural and religious treasures. Known also as Città Notabile or Città Vecchia, Mdina is the old capital of Malta, a medieval walled city situated on a hill right in the centre of the island. Punic remains uncovered beyond the city’s walls suggest the importance of the general region to Malta’s Phoenician settlers.

The city today is still confined within its majestic walls, and has a population of about 320 residents. It was home then, as now, to Malta’s noble families; some are descendants of the Norman, Sicilian and Spanish overlords who made Mdina their home from the 12th century onwards. Impressive palaces line its narrow, shady streets. Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city and extraordinary in its mix of medieval and baroque architecture.

Attractions include a vast number of beautiful squares, churches, palatial residences and also convents, as well as its unusual combination of

architecture from different periods, which dates back to the Norman and Baroque era s, some of which are still in private hands and are considered to be priceless. One of this city’s most special

attributes is that very few residents live here, and the majority of the families who do, has done so for many generations. Mdina is without doubt an incredible attraction, not to be missed.

1918

Stars in his eyesRene Rossignaud has photographed the stars at the European Music Awards for the past five years. These shots were taken on the red carpet or backstage at various EMAs in Liverpool, Madrid, Berlin, Belfast and Frankfurt.

This photographer and MTV go a long way back: It all started when Rene was asked to be their house photographer in Malta, his home town, and to cover any MTV events, TV recording or the Isle of MTV concert. From there their relationship grew, and today he is invited on a yearly basis to shoot the red carpet and backstage photo room for the international and local media.

Speaking about the experience, Rene says: “The red carpet is such an amazing event, and one has to live and experience it to be able to explain it well. It’s very different from how you see it on TV, and the atmosphere is vibrant! World class singers and actors walk past you and stop to pose and smile for a few snaps.”

He notes how he gets much more Interaction at the events in Malta, since everything is on a smaller scale and things usually flow easier. He’s chatted with celebrities such as Jared from 30

Seconds to Mars, David Hasselhoff, Enrique Inglesias, Rita Ora, Snoop Dog and the Black Eyed Peas.

He comments how inspirational it is to both look at and even talk to these artists. “Talking to a few of them has changed my perspective on many of these artists,” he confides. Rene was lucky enough to talk to Lady Gaga before she became the mega star she is today. “Now it’s hard to even snap her, let alone talk to her,” he exclaims.

Enrique Inglesias, Slash and Rita Ora were “amazing” to talk to but Jessie J has too big an ego, according to Rene. “I think she thinks she is bigger than life, and I hate that attitude in artists,” he notes.

Explaining the story behind the EMAs, Rene says those belong to 30 Seconds to Mars (grey t-shirt) and to Psy and Justin Bieber (blue t-shirt), who let him take some shots with their awards.

Rene was back snapping the stars at this year’s EMAs which took place in Amsterdam on 10 November.

PHOTOGRAPHY EXECUTIVETRAVELLER PHOTOGRAPHYEXECUTIVE

TRAVELLER

Rene Rossignaudat the EMAs

Miley Cyrus

Pitbull

PSY

Rhianna

Rita OraTaylor Swift

Carly Rae Jepson

Jack Ass Crew

Justin Bieber

Katy Perry

Kesha

Lady Gaga

Jessie J

Shakira

The red carpet is an amazing event. Photographer Rene Rossignaud takes us behind the scenes of one of the most famous events in the world.

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Hub'Air is a leading European Aviation Academy. The Company was established and licensed in 2001 in Belgium as a flight training organization that covers all aspects of pilot training. It has since grown rapidly and today provides its services internationally with presence namely in France, Malta, UK and USA.

Hub'Air has always been ahead of the others simply because it is driven by Aviators that practice rigorous training programs that go beyond normal requirements but that brings about the licensing of top aviators and not mere machine operators; practical training plays a significant role In the Integrated AB-Initio training. The majority of are experienced airline pilots and industry professionals, aerobatic champions and top gun pilots from Patrouille de France.

The Integrated AB-Initio training course was developed for those individuals who aim to become first class aviators. But, we must warn you, not everyone can make it in this course, so one has to be ready for real challenge. During the participation of Integrated AB-Initio course we will combine theory and flying from the very beginning and will consist of different phases, each of them followed by an official exam. The phases comprise:

| Aviation English course A new course in English communication skills for pilots and air traffic controllers, helping you to achieve and maintain a level 4 according to the ICAO language requirements. Hub’Air has developed a range of language programs to help you accelerate English learning.

| Skills assessment

We determine your potential to become an Aviator, which is not an easy task and is divided into two levels, the first level is evaluation and training of candidates while the second level is dealing with the ability to understand, read, write and speak the English language.

| Registration

You will be able to continue the course only if you obtain an Initial Class 1 medical certificate and if you passed the aviators skills assessment.

| Grading

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has identified pilot handling as a major cause of global airline accidents, accounting for 30% of all accidents. Pilot ‘handling’ has been highlighted for the first time. It differs from pilot ‘error’ in that sense, that it also includes judgment and procedures. Even if modern airliners require the use of automation, it sometimes still requires the handling flying skills of a pilot. That is exactly why Hub’Air Aviation Academy will focus on the basic skills that make top gun pilots, and this from the very beginning. This phase of flight training will also be a grading phase to evaluate if you have the ability to follow a learning curve required to become an aviator.

For more information please send an email tosales@hubair.be or call +356 22 48 51 00 / +356 79354754.

| Flying Fundamentals

This is probably one of the most exciting and challenging moments of the course. The flight fundamentals are conducted over a period of 6 months in our EASA approved Airline training center located in France, next door to Lyons International Airport. Aerobatics champions, famous military French aerobatic team leaders and test fighter pilots will act as instructors and the student will be asked to perform solo flights and aerobatic maneuvers in the presence of professional experts. Accurate navigation flights and precision landings will be tested.

| ATPL theory

After the basic flight training in France, the ATPL theory takes place in Malta, for 4 months. The course includes traditional training manuals integrated with state of the art computer based training and electronic testing. All lessons must be completed and progress tests must be passed before one will be eligible to get signed off for the examinations.

| Advanced flight training

The advance training takes place in Malta for approximately 5 months. This course is split into two phases. The initial phase is performed in the simulator DA42 and the second phase will be in the real aircraft DA 42. At the end of the training, a final exam will take place in order to issue your commercial multiengine instrument license.

| Multi-crew training

This course is an essential requirement for airline pilot employment. The purpose of this course is to teach you the concepts of multi-crew cooperation and not the actual crew procedures required for a specific aircraft type. The Turbofan FNPT-2 simulator is used for this course. This simulates jet-like handling and has a full Electronic flight instruments system cockpit.

| Jet Automation transition

The purpose of this course is to teach the systems of a sophisticated airliner such as the A320. This is one of the most automated aircraft ever built and will give you confidence in managing the autoflight procedure and how to solve non normal events.

The next Integrated Ab-Initio course will take place in April 2014. Do not miss the chance to become a Top Aviator and book now. Keep in mind that no other academy provides you with so many added values in an integrated course. This includes:

• 15hrs on CAP10 Aircraft• 92hrs on new Tecnam with Garmin 675• 10 hrs aerobatics on Cap 10 trained by international champions or military test pilots• 40hrs of DA42 simulator combined to 65 hrs of DA42 twin aircraft• More than 750hrs ground course plus all multimedia courses in collaboration with Bristol Ground School• MCC simulator and Airbus training on MFTD

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Integrated AB-InitioTraining Course

2322 BUSINESS AVIATION EXECUTIVETRAVELLER BUSINESS AVIATIONEXECUTIVE

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Gulfstream’s G650 vs Dassault’s Falcon 5XThe Gulfstream’s G650

The Gulfstream six is an ultra high speed and long range business jet, a flagship of the Gulfstream fleet which can fly faster, farther, and more comfortably than any other business aircraft in its class.

For the past fice years since its introduction in the market, the G650 has been regularly flying around the globe. With a TOB of eight and a crew composition of four on nonstop legs of 7,000 nautical miles this aircraft can link the UAE with the United States and the UK with the Americas. With high performance Rolls-Royce BR725 engines, the G650 will cover shorter distances at a speed of Mach 0.925 which is quite impressive for a business jet of its size and scale.

The G650 is presently considered as the most technologically advanced business jet in the sky which can deliver excellent takeoff and landing performances. It comes standard with many advanced safety features with a fully equipped cockpit including Triplex Flight Management System, 3-D weather radar, Automatic Emergency

Descent Mode, Advanced Flight Controls – a full array of sophisticated technology to improve pilot situational awareness and enhance safety.

Longer, wider and taller than any other cabin in its class, the G650 living environment provides comfortable accommodations, for up to 18 people and a choice of 12 floor plans to configure the aircraft in order to meet your specific mission requirements. The cabin can be configured with a four-place conference table with two additional seats across the aisle for meals or meetings for up to 6 people. Enjoy wider seats, more aisle room and a large stateroom option for resting up between world capitals.

The G650, listed in the C-1.l class (takeoff weights of 77,162 to 99,208 pounds), offers the longest range, fastest speed, largest cabin and the most advanced cockpit in the Gulfstream fleet. For Gulfstream, the G650 represented not only a new airplane design but a new way of building airplanes. Besides building an impressive new plant at the Gulfstream campus in Savannah, Georgia, with the G650, Gulfstream created a new and more efficient way of building business jets.

Dassault’s Falcon 5X

Recently, unveiled at the National Business Aviation Association’s annual convention in Las Vegas, the Falcon 5X is being hailed as the biggest innovation in business aircraft production. The aircraft offers the largest cabin cross section and fuel efficiency when compared to any competing aircraft of the same scale.

The Falcon 5X will cater for 16 passengers and has a range of 5,200 nautical miles (9,630 km), connecting all main USA airports to the United Kingdom, South Africa or China with any Central European country. Functionality and modern style blend in the cabin. The company conducted extensive research into new cabin technology and styling techniques that will greatly enhance passengers’ sense of spaciousness and comfort.

The Falcon 5X represents an important addition to the Falcon product line which is renowned for relatively smaller sized business jets, expanding its portfolio in the large-cabin segment. This new

business jet has a cabin height of six feet, six inches (1.98 m), an important consideration for passenger comfort on long haul flights exceeding 10 hours.

The digital flight control system within its cockpit plays a major role in making this business aircraft an easier jet to fly accompanied by a better in-flight control and improved safety features. It comes with an additional control surface called a ‘flaperon’, a feature which allows steep approaches at slow and safe speeds. It also integrates nose wheel steering for safer runway handling in strong crosswind conditions and on wet or slick runways. Having pioneered digital flight control technology on jet fighters four decades ago, Dassault Aviation is today, a leader in digital flight controls. The Falcon 7X was the first business aircraft released in 2007 featuring such hi tech.

The Falcon 5X’s cockpit, Honeywell’s state of the art digital cockpit will include advanced radar capability, with the ability to detect turbulence at greater distances than its ancestor. The new HUD

will combine “enhanced vision” and “synthetic vision” for unrivalled situational awareness even in complete darkness or very low visibility. Infrared sensors enable an improved display of terrain at night time or during reduced visibility. Synthetic vision uses a global terrain database for the same purpose. In the 5X, both above mentioned new vision features will come together for the first time on the head-up display providing the cockpit crew with reliable visuals at practically zero visibility.

The Falcon 5X will be powered by two Silvercrest engines from Safran Snecma. These new generation engines are engineered in a way to communicate in real time with the cockpit while in the air, and at the same time, with the maintenance team on the ground. This will provide a more efficient response time for the aircraft engineers should a fault crop up whilst in-flight.

The Falcon 5X is expected to make its first flight in the first quarter of 2015 and be certified to be produced and sold before the end of 2016. It is to be priced in the region of $45 million dollars.

© Dassault Aviation - Ph. Stroppa

© Dassault Aviation

© Dassault Aviation - Ph. Stroppa© Dassault Aviation

© Gulfstrem.com

2524

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}Through its highly educated English speaking workforce Malta has developed technical expertise in i-gaming, financial services and the pharmaceutical industry. Stemming from its stable political environment and ideal geographic location Malta has positioned itself as a centre of excellence in Europe and has been used by many as a gateway to the European market.

Malta adopts an attractive tax system where the effective and final tax rate for companies owned by non-resident persons is of just 5%. Other schemes, incentives and benefits are also available such as the High Net Worth Individuals' Scheme, the Global Residents Program and the Highly Qualified Persons' Rules where personal income tax rate can be as low as 15%. With its accounting, advisory and tax expertise, NM Corporate Services is well placed to deliver a comprehensive and integrated package of services to its clients, including company formation, tax planning, asset structuring and transfers.

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LUXURY PARTIESEXECUTIVETRAVELLER

For as long as anyone can remember, a lavish party has been the best way to let loose, spoil your friends, and celebrate everything from birthday to anniversaries in style. It’s all about throwing a little caution to the wind and letting that hair down, with the right entertainment, scrumptious food and, if you’re into that sort of thing, lots of boozy toasts and tipples.

Throughout history, though, there have been some parties that really took the prize when it came to all-out opulence and unabashed revelry. These are some of our favourites:

Paris Hilton’s 21st Birthday

With a budget of over $75,000 per guest, Paris took her nearest and dearest to five different locations – London, New York, Tokyo, Los Angeles and Las Vegas – for a party in five different time zones. Guests included Donald Trump and Kris Jenner, while the food was catered for by Le Cirque’s renowned Sirio Maccioni.

Steve Schwarzman’s 60th Birthday

As the chairman and CEO of the Blackstone Group, Steve Schwarzman is used to the finer things in life, and that’s especially true on his

birthday. His 60th was a high-class affair with 500 guests at the Park Avenue Armory in New York. Highlights included marching bands, a 50-foot silkscreen recreation of his own apartment, and the $5 million party price tag!

Elizabeth Brook’s Bat Mitzvah

It’s not every 13-year-old that gets a $10 million party to celebrate this important date in their lives, but Elizabeth Brooke did! Funded by her dad David Brooks, who made his money producing defence weapons for the US, the party at the Rainbow Rooms included performances by Aerosmith, 50 Cent and Stevie Nicks, as well as $1,000 party bags bursting with MP3 players, cameras and other gadgets.

The Sultan of Brunei’s 50th Birthday

And now for the most extravagant of them all – the Sultan of Brunei’s 50th! This incredible party, held in 1996, still gets talked about and no expense was spared. The entertainment included renditions by Michael Jackson (in a concert worth $16 million), while the guests wined and dines on champagne and caviar. The total bill for one night’s celebration? A whopping $27.2 million!

Partying in style: when no expense is sparedCelebrity performances? Decadent menus? Whirlwind tours? We take a look as some of the most extravagant parties in history, and detail how you, too, could party like the great J Gatsby himself!

Planning a brilliant bash all of your own? Well, this year’s most popular theme is definitely The Great Gastby. Here are a few tips on how you can really make your event pop!

Theme your food and drinks with 1920s opulence and elegance. You could have Caesar salad, shrimp cocktail and grilled rib-eye, washed down by gin fizz and a fiesty ‘penicillin’ (a cocktail made from honey, lemon, fresh ginger, scotch whiskey and Islay malt). His various humanitarian work and his efforts to raise awareness of AIDS in Africa earned him the Nobel Peace Prize's Man of Peace title in 2008. He was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2003.

Request that everyone comes dressed the part – wearing dark red lipstick, a feather clutch, flapper dresses, sharp suits and art deco accessories.

Giant bottles of champagne are an absolute must, and attention to detail is key. As a brilliantly-good-fun touch, why not have a candy bar with all sorts of sweets from the era? It will be perfectly reminiscent of the good-time atmosphere of the day!

Paris Hilton

2726 FOOD

Before take off is it a good idea to tuck into whatever the departure lounge has to offer, or should you carefully pick your pre-flight fare? Jo Caruana investigates.

Foods that fly best

I’m not sure why, but my airport meal of choice has always been a ham and cheese toastie, and a hot chocolate. A combination of treat and tradition, I feel odd flying without it. But is it really the right choice ahead of a few hours at a high altitude? As it turns out, probably not.

Research quickly shows that stodgy foods (like my cheese-laden toastie) won’t be doing me any favours at 30,000 feet. Fast food options, meanwhile, are predictably worse. Recent studies have shown that items packed full of sodium and saturated fats, such a burgers, are even harder to digest in the air than on the ground, not least because of in-flight blood circulation issues.

Gassy dishes – such as onions, cabbage and beans – are also a no no it transpires. As they encourage bloating, they can make you feel uncomfortable and could even lead to awkward looks from other passengers.

And gassy items actually go hand-in-hand with alcohol, which is another top offender. Although it can help to calm you down if you’re nervous before a flight, it will also dehydrate you and get you drunk quicker than it would on the ground.

Finally, any kind of fizzy drinks should also be on the ‘prohibited’ list, as they can lead to dehydration, bloating and, even, physical pain – a triple threat that could really ruin your flying experience, and no one wants that.

But what about the flip side? Which foods and drinks could actually help you to have a better flight? We’ve listed our suggestions below.

Oranges will pack you full of vitamin C, boost your immune system and fight germs. Plus, they’ll also replace some of the hydration you lose when flying.

Water and lots of it. If your body is dehydrated, you’re more likely to feel tired, so try to drink a cupful every hour or so. If you’re not a fan of plain old water, herbal teas are also an option, though it’s best to pick the ones that are naturally decaffeinated. Alternatively, pop a slice of lemon or cucumber into your glass for added flavour.

‘Little and often’ is the ideal foodie mantra for flying time, so pack a few healthy snacks such as dried fruits and nuts. That said, both of those can be quite calorie-boosting, so a couple of handfuls spread over your flight should be plenty.

Smoothies, whether shop bought or homemade (just don’t forget the 100ml regulations), are a good option too. As they’re filled with vitamins from the fruit and probiotics from the yoghurt, you’ll be doing your body a favour on two accounts.

Finally, if you do want something more substantial, like a sandwich or wrap, then stick to lean protein (such a roasted chicken or turkey) as this is far easier to digest than deep-fried options.

EXECUTIVETRAVELLER

Yacht ServivesSUNSEEKER MALTA FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND

Sunseeker Malta has been present throughout the Maltese Islands for over 20 years. �roughout these years, Sunseeker supplied award winning motor boats ranging from 40ft to 150ft and exceptional customer service. Every year Sunseeker Malta hosts and supports numerous visiting Sunseeker yachts that cruise to Malta to register under the Maltese Flag and avail from the advantageous VAT leasing legislation. Sunseeker Malta provides service for motor boats and super yachts, to carryout warranty, winter works or servicing and repairs at recommended yacht yards.

Sunseeker Malta Limited o�ers a 24/7 personalized, transparent and competitive yacht agency services that comprise, but not limited to: berthing arrangements, customs clearance, healthcare service in conjunction with St James Hospital, Chau�eur Drive and Rent-A-Car in conjunction with AVIS Malta, VIP guided tours and many more services which one can �nd at Sunseeker Malta.

Furthermore Sunseeker Malta Limited has a proven track record in providing yacht repair, maintenance services and in the management of works with local shipyards and outsourced skilled labour. �e technical Sunseeker team is composed of quali�ed engineers and licensed RYA yacht masters all having an area of experiences in all aspects of yachting. �e yacht repair and maintenance services include, but not limited to: warranty works in general, hull treatments, polishing, carpentry works, electrical and electronics works and much more. Yacht Yards facilities include dry docks for vessels up to 360m overall length, �oating docks for vessels up to 50m overall length, mobile hoists and cranes for vessels up to 45 tons and 80 tons respectively and slip ways for vessels up to 60 m overall length.

�e Sunseeker Malta team will always work hard and give the best service for the client to have the peace of mind he deserves and a hassle free boating.

For more details please contact

Ms Victoria Meyeron 99338081 or vicky@sunseekermalta.com,

or visit our o�ces at �e Quay, Portomaso Marina, Portomaso.

Executive tip:

If you really do want to keep your body in synch when you’re flying, then the Journal of Science suggests you fast for around 16 hours before a flight to help reduce jetlag and reset your body clock. It sounds good in theory, but 16 hours without food, following by a long flight?

It sounds a bit extreme to us!

2928

3130 EVENTSEXECUTIVETRAVELLEREVENTS EXECUTIVE

TRAVELLER

Veronica Stivala’s top picks of what’s on in the way of entertainment around the world.

Catch them if you can...

THEATREThe Events Young Vic, London. 09/10/13 - 02/11/13

This play raised many an eyebrow when it was reported that Scottish playwright David Greig was writing a play about Anders Breivik and the Utoya shootings. But the fact that Greig’s play played to packed theatres at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival is proof of the play’s success. The play stars only two main characters who play a variety of roles, exploring the different facets of a psychologist, a lesbian pastor who is a choir conductor, a young man who shot innocent people, etc. Also a protagonist of this show is a choir which punctuates a touching and thought-provoking play with equally poignant numbers - Greig leaves it up to the director to choose which songs the choir will sing - and on which note The Events ends, leaving the audience to mull over a very difficult concept to come to terms with.

DANCEHansel and Gretel Theatre Royal, Glasgow. 10/12/13 - 28/12/13, then touring

The Scottish Ballet present a tasty new winter treat in the form of Grimm’s fairy tale choreographed by Christopher Hampson. This is Hansel and Gretel like you’ve never seen it before. The surreal show takes creative twists and turns inspired by the Brothers Grimm’s famous fairy tale and the stories and imagination of the people of Scotland. The ballet is set in a 1950s town and the dancers - Hansel, Gretel and a bewitching ballerina - move to Engelbert Humperdinck’s classic music which is performed live by the Scottish Ballet orchestra. Now there’s enough reason to make you want to rush to buy your tickets...

MUSICThe Eagles Intrust Bank Arena, Kansas.07/10/13, then touring till 25/01/14

With seven number-one singles, six Grammys, five American Music Awards, and six number

one albums, the Eagles were one of the most successful musical acts of the 1970s. They’re still going strong over 40 years later and their fans are certainly letting the, know this. There has been such an overwhelming demand for History of Eagles concerts that extra dates have been added, stretching their tour dates to the end of January. So put on your best denim shirt, ruffle your hair and gear up for some good old rock music performed by principals Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit, as well as founding guitarist Bernie Leadon. This tour is promoting the band’s sprawling documentary release, History of the Eagles.

Naomi Watts plays the title role of Diana.

FILMDiana

Oliver Hirschbiegel’s biographical drama film about the last two years of Diana, Princess of Wales. The screenplay is based on Kate Snell’s 2001 book Diana: Her Last Love. This compelling portrait of Princess Di stars British-born Academy Award nominated actress Naomi Watts who assumes the leading role of the eponymous and iconic princess. Naveen Andrews, best known for his roles in The English Patient and the hit television series Lost, co-stars as Dr Hasnat Khan. Fellow Brits Douglas Hodge, Geraldine James, Charles Edwards and Juliet Stevenson round out the supporting cast.

The film is admittedly receiving mixed reviews but it still remains an intriguing insight into what went on behind closed doors of one of the world’s most loved princesses.

Hansel and Gretel poster for the Scottish Ballet.

Scene from the production ‘The Events’

Six time Grammy winning musical act The Eagles

3332 EVENTS EXECUTIVETRAVELLER AVIATION EVENTSEXECUTIVE

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3rd Annual MBAMediterranean Business Aviation 12th September 2014Sliema, Malta

Legal Aviation Workshop – LawLegal Aspects Of Aircraft Repossession7th December 2014Dubai, UAE

MEBAMiddle East Business Aviation8th - 10th December 2014Dubai World Central, UAE

EBACE 2014

May 20th – 22nd, 2014. Additional information about EBACE2014 will be available in October 2013.

3rd Annual MECASMiddle East Corporate Aviation Summit12th June 2014Abu Dhabi, UAE

Legal Aviation Workshop – LawLegal Aspects Of Aircraft Leasing And Financing6th December 2013Washington, DC, USA

3rd AnnualOffshore Aircraft Registration12th - 13th December 2013Oranjestad, Aruba

Embry-Riddle Aviation SymposiumAircraft Financing And Leasing In Asia9th February 2014Singapore

3rd International USCASUS Corp. Aviation Summit14th February 2014Miami, FL, USA

2nd Annual BBABaltic Business Aviation3rd April 2014Tallinn, Estonia

6th International Aircraft Repossession9th May 2014Miami, FL, USA

3534

A mountain in virtue of its bold design

Every city has its own distinct smell. For me, Edinburgh smells of Weetabix. Crisp, fresh mornings in this beautiful city are permeated by a perfume idiosyncratic to Scotland’s capital city. Of course this homely, nutty, malty aroma is not really Weetabix but originates from the hops being used to make beer.

Edinburgh is one of the most noted centres in the world for the export of beer in the world. Indeed beer has been produced in Scotland for an impressive 5,000 years. Interestingly, although it had long been assumed that Scottish brewers made little use of hops, trade records show that brewers in Edinburgh used hops as much as English brewers.

Beer aficionados must try The Sheep Heid Inn. Located behind the imposing Arthur’s Seat at the back of Arthur’s Seat - the main peak of the group of hills which form most of Holyrood Park, described by Robert Louis Stevenson as “a hill for ,magnitude, a mountain in virtue of its bold design” is the village of Duddingston and its deservedly famous Sheep Heid Inn.

Of course beer is not all there is to Edinburgh and in addition to its characteristic perfume, the city is distinct because of its impressive skyline, its

exhilaratingly fun festival as well as its warm and friendly people. A word about each:

Edinburgh’s iconic skyline forms an essential part of the character and appearance of the city and is a unique asset to it. The old sits comfortably with the new, creating a majestic scene that is at once awe-inspiring and breathtaking.

Key gems in this skyline include Calton Hill, home to impressive monuments such as the Nelson monument, the Robert Burns monument and the City Observatory. One cannot mention Edinburgh without speaking about Princes Street and the overpowering Victorian Gothic Sir Walter Scott monument that peaks poignantly through the city’s skyline. The tower is over 200 feet high, and has a series of viewing platforms reached by a series of narrow spiral staircases giving panoramic views of central Edinburgh and its surroundings. The ultra-modern Scottish Parliament is also noteworthy, perhaps all the more so because this over-budget construction is both loved and hated in equal measure.

One must also give due mention to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This is the world’s largest arts festival. Established in 1947 as an alternative to

the Edinburgh International Festival, it takes place annually in Scotland’s capital, in August.

The Fringe is a melange of performances from all the arts disciplines be it dance or music, with a special emphasis on theatre and comedy. In 2012, a staggering 1,418 shows had their world premiere at this festival.

As anyone who has witnessed the festival will tell you, one of the must-sees, and must-dos, is to simply walk the Royal Mile. During festival time, this road becomes home to performers doing their utmost to attract an audience. Every year, actors and comedians alike get more competitive so be prepared to see people coated in blue paint reciting an original take on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet or perhaps a Medieval Knight in full armour, dancing a jig.

Perhaps because this city is home to such theatrical malarkey and is indeed one of the top theatre hubs in the world, then it is understandable why its people are so outgoing, warm and friendly. Breaking the conventional reasoning that the further north you go, the less sociable people are, Edinburgh is home to one of the most inviting people I have ever met.

EXECUTIVE DESTINATION EXECUTIVETRAVELLER

Edinburgh’s skyline

The beautiful city of Edinburgh is marked by its special aroma, its gorgeous skyline and its vibrant annual Fringe Festival. This is why Veronica Stivala loves Scotland’s capital city.

Drivenwith pride,aiming for excellence.

Dedicated Business Aviation Ground and Flight Support Logistics

Phone: +356 99900747Email: ops@executivefbo.com

Website: www.executivefbo.com