UNESCO Recommends Venice To Endangered List

Aug 2 2023

Venice is facing a perilous situation as the UN’s cultural agency, Unesco, calls for its inclusion in the list of world heritage sites in danger.

The iconic Italian city is confronting multiple threats, including overwhelming tourism, overdevelopment, and the rising sea levels attributed to climate change. Unesco’s report highlights the urgent need for better preservation to safeguard Venice’s future.

The Venice municipality’s response to the proposal is one of cautious consideration, indicating a willingness to discuss the matter with the Italian government. Unesco criticises the authorities for lacking a strategic vision to tackle the issues plaguing this picturesque city, which is often referred to as “La Serenissima,” meaning “very serene.”

Past attempts to include Venice in the danger list were thwarted by emergency measures, such as the ban on large ships in the San Marco Canal. However, these measures alone have not been enough to secure the city’s safety, and a comprehensive conservation plan remains elusive.

Rising sea levels, exacerbated by climate change, pose a severe threat to Venice due to its location surrounded by water. Additionally, the influx of approximately 28 million tourists annually leads to urban expansion projects that further endanger the city’s integrity.

Unesco’s report suggests that high-rise buildings should be situated away from the city center to mitigate their negative visual impact. The lack of a strategy to address climate change-induced risks further highlights the need for immediate action.

Unesco currently lists 55 World Heritage sites in danger, with 204 more under active monitoring due to potential threats.

While Australia’s Great Barrier Reef narrowly escaped inclusion this year, it remains under “serious threat” from climate change and water pollution, subject to further review in 2024. In the case of Venice, urgent and effective measures are essential to protect its irreplaceable cultural and environmental significance for future generations.

#MaltaDaily

Air Malta Chairman’s Controversial Salary Revealed Amid Financial Struggles

Aug 2 2023

In a recent revelation, The Shift has somewhat exposed Finance Minister Clyde Caruana’s statements about Air Malta Executive Chairman David Curmi’s salary. Despite Caruana’s claim that Curmi was not being compensated for his role, documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act tell a different story.

According to The Shift’s findings, Curmi’s three-year contract with Air Malta is worth a staggering €774,000, making him the highest-paid local consultant. His annual salary amounts to €258,000, and he receives an additional €3,500 a month to cover VAT, totalling a monthly pay of €21,500. This breaks down to a substantial €124 an hour for leading Air Malta, who is a company that is facing financial problems.

Caruana has consistently avoided divulging the financial details of Curmi’s appointment, refusing to answer parliamentary questions and rejecting freedom of information requests. However, after legal challenges by The Shift, the contract was finally obtained, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability.

The former Chamber of Commerce president was tasked with turning around Air Malta’s financial woes and leading it toward profitability. Despite his efforts, quite the opposite has occurred and attempts to shed loss-making departments, including ground handling operations, failed to yield positive results, resulting in continued losses.

In a press release, the Nationalist Party said that the Maltese people should not accept that a Government Minister of “blatantly lies to the highest political institution of this country.”

The PN has asked the Commissioner of Standards to investigate the integrity of Clyde Caruana as Minister of Finance.

#MaltaDaily

Maltese Pools & Lidos You Need To Check Out Before Summer Ends

Aug 2 2023

When the sun’s rays intensify, and the Mediterranean beckons, Malta’s enchanting lidos and pool areas come alive, offering the ultimate summer escape. Picture yourself lounging on plush sunbeds, sipping cool cocktails, and immersing yourself in pure bliss. Let’s explore the must-visit destinations that will make your summer in Malta an unforgettable experience.

Café Del Mar in St. Paul’s Bay

Café Del Mar needs no introduction, with the iconic destination effortlessly fusing music and the sea. The legendary pool area invites you to embrace the rhythm of life as world-class DJs set the tone. Unwind on comfortable sun loungers, bask in the Mediterranean breeze, and let the music carry you away.

MedAsia Playa in Sliema

Nestled in the heart of Sliema, MedAsia Playa is a haven of chill. This lido boasts a gorgeous pool that seems to blend seamlessly with the azure waters of the Sliema coast. With its lush sunbeds, exotic cocktails and delectable Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, make the most of what remains this summer at MedAsia Playa.

Surfside in Sliema

For those seeking a relaxed, beachfront paradise, Surfside in Sliema delivers the perfect setting. Situated on the rocky coastline, this inviting lido offers direct access to the sparkling Mediterranean waters. Lounge on the sunbeds, take refreshing swims, or indulge in beachfront dining at the adjacent restaurant. Surfside embodies the laid-back spirit of summer, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

1926 La Plage in Sliema

Experience a touch of vintage charm at 1926 La Plage, a chic lido with an old-world allure. Tucked away in Sliema, this stylish pool area exudes elegance and sophistication. The classic decor, coupled with modern amenities, creates an inviting ambiance that transports you to another era.

The Embassy Valletta Hotel Roof Deck Pool in Valletta

Elevate your summer experience with a visit to The Embassy Valletta Hotel Roof Deck Pool. Perched atop a luxurious hotel in Valletta, this rooftop oasis offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the sea. Unwind in the elegant pool, sip on handcrafted cocktails, and revel in the chic atmosphere.

As summer approaches, Malta’s lidos and pool areas beckon you to embrace the essence of Mediterranean leisure. Each venue offers a unique experience, from luxury and music to beachfront charm and vintage elegance. Whether you’re a local or a traveller, immersing yourself in the allure of Malta’s poolside paradises promises a summer filled with unforgettable moments. So, pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, and prepare to dive into bliss at Malta’s premier lidos and pool areas!

#MaltaDaily

Netflix, But Space: NASA To Launch Free Streaming Service

Aug 2 2023

You’ll soon be saying ‘NASA and Chill’ as the organisation announced that it will be launching it’s own streaming service – Nasa+.

The organisation announced it is launching a beta for the platform, with the service being ad-free and available to watch on the new beta site and the NASA app.

The content will be, well, space related. It will update the current NASA TV output which features livestreams of rocket launches and other events.

With no paid subscription yet, NASA+ aims to put space on demand at people’s fingertips.

It will also include a lot of educational content such as documentaries, to make science communication even easier to mass audiences.

“Modernizing our main websites from a technology standpoint and streamlining how the public engages with our content online are critical first steps in making our agency’s information more accessible, discoverable, and secure,” said NASA chief information officer Jeff Seaton.

#MaltaDaily