Band clubs and political parties aside, summer is easily one of the most polarising topics of discussion in Malta.

Many wait eagerly for the first heatwave of the year to come round, urging them to spend a full day cooling off at one of Malta and Gozo’s countless idyllic beaches. Others, however, resort to locking themselves up at home for months at a time, savouring the sweet, cool gusts of air blown by their air conditioners.

For the latest entry of this year’s MaltaCEOs.mt summer interview series, we caught up with Vassallo Group CEO Pio Vassallo and Talexio Founder-CEO Mark Camilleri Gambin. Their attitudes towards this season couldn’t be more different.

Pio Vassallo (left) & Mark Camilleri Gambin (right)

Are you a summer or winter person? Why?

PV: I’m a summer person for sure. Days are longer with more time to fit in training and fun-filled activities especially in, on, or by the sea.

MCG: Winter – we love cosying up at home with our cats, having a warm cup of tea, watching a movie, or playing games online with our friends.

What’s your favourite summer activity? Why?

PV: Swimming and boating are my favourite summer activities. It is a great way to keep cool in the hot summer months.

MCG: Barbequing with friends and family.

What’s your dream summer getaway? Why?

PV: I would love to sail the Greek Islands; exploring quaint villages while appreciating nature and, of course, savouring the flavours of fresh fish paired with local wines.

MCG: Oddly enough, during summer we like to escape to cooler weather just to have a break from the heat.

Will you be going abroad this summer? If yes, where to and why?

PV: Yes, I will soon be visiting Greece. I am looking forward to catching up with some old friends.

MCG: We’re not travelling this summer, but we’re keeping up our yearly stay at a Gozo farmhouse.

What’s your best holiday experience?

PV: There are many trips that come to mind, however, the one that stands out the most is when I visited the Whitsunday Islands in Australia.

MCG: Relaxed, no stress, strolling around and sightseeing.

What’s your worst holiday experience?

PV: I always try to see the positive side of things; however, my worst holiday experience was a skiing trip to Livigno when there was no snow!

MCG: Having a packed schedule which is tiring and hectic.

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