Sarmenio Saliba, 28
Post-doctoral research scientist, Switzerland
What is your earliest memory of summer in Malta?
The very first time I stepped on a boat and went fishing. As a small boy, that was probably one of my most exciting experiences, also because I was very proud of myself for catching my very first fish.
When do you miss the Maltese summer most?
On dull and rainy summer days when I look out of the office window and just wish I could teleport myself to Golden Bay with an ice-cold Maltese brew in my hand.
Which Maltese summer food do you miss most?
There’s nothing like a massive juicy Maltese watermelon or a ripe summer tomato that actually tastes of tomato. Then I can’t leave out ħobż biż-żejt after a swim at Għar Lapsi and mum’s delicious stuffed calamari.
Krista Degaetano, 32
Founding director of Contemporary Dance Dubai, Dubai
What is your earliest memory of summer in Malta?
Being at the saltpans in Baħar Iċ-Ċagħaq with my mum and brothers munching away on mum’s incredibly tasty ħobż biż-żejt.
When do you miss the Maltese summer most?
When I smell barbecued food. It takes me right to Għajn Tuffieħa with friends sitting in the dark with a few fjakkli, barbecued sausages and chicken, my brothers playing the bongos and the fresh breeze from the sea.
Which Maltese summer food do you miss most?
I definitely miss ħobż biż-żejt. I know I could technically go and buy the ingredients and make it at home, but it never tastes the same. I would need to be in Malta, on a Maltese shore with family or friends to enjoy such a delicious snack.
Lucienne Hensel, 44
Island Bay Parish secretary, New Zealand
What is your earliest memory of summer in Malta?
For me, summer always meant Gozo, because we used to spend two months in Marsalforn every year from the age of three till I was about 13. We loved Gozo. We used to rent a flat just above Il-Kaptan on Marina Street. Our days were spent swimming, reading and sunbathing, with late-night walks with friends from Il-Kartell at one end, to the Calypso Hotel at the other. We had so many friends in Marsalforn. It was our summer paradise.
When do you miss the Maltese summer most?
I miss the Maltese summer every single year during the Wellington summer, from December to March. There really is no comparison. I miss the constant good weather, the certainty that every day is a beach day. Of course: I don’t miss the intense heat, but I miss the warm windless days. I miss diving off the rocks into the deep blue sea. The walk along the seafront, or the late night dinners. I miss the way that life seems to take on an easier pace in the summer months, and you spend hours at the beach no matter how busy life is.
Which Maltese summer food do you miss most?
Ħobż biż-żejt and Kinnie. The memory that comes to mind is swimming in Sliema and then stopping for a ftira and a Kinnie before going home. They taste amazing, especially on a hot day at the beach.