Why Do We Give Chocolate On Valentine’s Day?

Feb 13 2024

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From being well known stimulating aphrodisiacs to just being so damn good, here are a few reasons why we give chocolates during the lovey-dovey period of Valentine’s.

With traditions going back to Victorian England and even all the way to the Aztecs, it seems as though chocolate has always had a special place in our hearts – and mouths!

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It is a well known aphrodisiac – i.e. a food that stimulates sexual desire!

Many believe the Aztecs influenced European royalty in using chocolate as a romance stimulant! In the Victorian Age, people exchanged Cupid-themed cards and gifts. Many popular chocolatiers produced different chocolates packaged in heart shaped boxes with rosebuds.

It’s also just very tasty! – a way to show another person how happy they make you!

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New Marine Fire Station Inaugurated: Here’s A Look!

Feb 13 2024

Prime Minister Robert Abela inaugurated the Maritime Section of Malta’s Civil Protection Department, emphasizing its transformation into a highly equipped and efficient entity.

With an investment nearing €500,000, this section now stands at its highest operational level, equipped not only for sea rescue but also for land emergencies.

The new facilities include advanced telecommunications systems, enhancing communication and response capabilities. The Prime Minister highlighted discussions with Civil Protection officials, noting their pride and dedication to service.

Minister Byron Camilleri underscored ongoing investments in infrastructure and personnel, ensuring a safer Malta. These investments include new firefighting vehicles, facilities for hazardous material response, and enhanced training for personnel.

Collective agreements prioritise workers’ rights and welfare, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to security. The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with sectoral agreements signed with all disciplined forces, fostering better conditions and career prospects.

The new facilities and initiatives aim to strengthen community resilience and ensure prompt emergency response, fostering greater peace of mind for citizens.

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Over 465,000 Travellers Through Malta Airport In January 2024

Feb 13 2024

In January 2024, Malta International Airport experienced a notable surge in passenger traffic, welcoming 465,482 passengers, marking the first time since 2020 that January’s numbers surpassed 400,000.

Passenger movements soared by 22.7% compared to 2023, peaking on January 6th, when 151 flights transported 23,923 passengers.

Although aircraft movements reached 3,511, up 23.4% from January 2023, the load factor dropped by 2.8 percentage points to 74%.

Italy led the traffic with a 24% increase, followed by the UK, Poland, Germany, and France. Notably, the Polish market showed significant growth, becoming the airport’s third-largest.

Additionally, Malta International Airport ranked fourth among European airports in 2023 performance, surpassing peers in Spain and Italy.

In 2023, Malta achieved its highest-ever tourist numbers, with over 3 million visitors spending 20.2 million nights and €2.7 billion in the country.

Despite Europe’s recovery to 96% of pre-pandemic levels, Malta surpassed its 2019 visitor count by 9%. Major markets included Italy, the UK, France, Germany, and Poland.

Minister Clayton Bartolo, speaking at a seminar titled ‘Writing History Together,’ stressed the need for continuous improvement in tourism quality.

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ITS Pastry Students Showcase At Pastry World Cup 2024

Feb 12 2024

ITS students showcased Malta’s culinary expertise at the prestigious Juniores Pastry World Cup held in Rimini, Italy, organised by SIGEP. Led by ITS Lecturer Jimmy Aquilina and managed by Mr. Andrew Farrugia, the team included students Abigail Micallef, Henrica Galea, and Nirvana Falzon. Mentoring the team were ITS Lecturers Steve D’Anastasi and Martin R. Cutajar.

Competing against renowned pastry teams, this year’s theme was ‘Myths and Legends.’ Teams were tasked with creating various desserts, including artistic chocolate and sugar showpieces, street food desserts reflecting their country’s cuisine, a modern chocolate cake, vegan sorbet, and a coffee-flavoured plated dessert.

Our students crafted a dessert showcasing local flavours, weighing within the specified limit. They also prepared vegan sorbet using local ingredients.

Despite challenges, such as incorporating coffee creatively and meeting weight restrictions, our students impressed the judges with their innovative approach and meticulous execution.

Their presentations earned high praise, particularly from MasterChef Italy Judge Roberto Rinaldi, who invited ITS for the next year’s event.

Months of rigorous training and collaboration with partners like the Malta Tourism Authority and CP Trading Co Ltd ensured our students’ success. We express gratitude to the Ministry for Tourism and Public Cleanliness for their support in this culinary endeavour.

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