Archives: Culture

Let's go to an Ibiza market!

Lots of things are considered not to be missed in Ibiza: crazy parties, fabulous beaches and amazing sunsets. Another important thing you can ad to you list would be to visit an Ibiza market. There are several of them since the Island is known for having strong artistic roots. During the 60's, painters, artisans and designer came to find the inspiration among the unique atmosphere of the island. That's why today, if you come for holidays in an Ibiza hotel or in an Ibiza apartment, you will be able to buy some nice handmade souvenirs like clothing, jewellery or artefacts.

ibiza market .jpegThe most famous and original Ibiza market is the Hippy Market which takes place every Wednesday from April to October and from 10:00 am to 6:30pm at Punta Arabi, Es Cana. It is considered as one of Ibiza's top attractions for holidays makers. In this market, you will be able to buy handmade items from all over the world.

ibiza market bongo.jpgIf you prefer to go by night, you will appreciate the Las Dalias night time market in San Carlos. This Ibiza market takes place from June to September and from 8:00 pm to 1:30am. The atmosphere is really nice and you can enjoy live music during your shopping. The market is still a reference today for the modern Hippies and you will find there a lot of handmade clothing and jewelleries.

If you want to meet the locals and be a part of their traditional activities, then go the the San Jordi Car Boot Market in the morning (9:00 am to 2:30pm). The market is really loved by locals since you can find a lot of 2nd hand products (book, clothing, jewellery). You will also be able to enjoy a drink or a snack at the market's bar. Bongo players also come on midday to entertain the spectators which really creates a nice atmosphere.

Romantic holidays in Mallorca

The sunny island Mallorca offers avariety of landscapes, beaches and, of course people that settled down here. Especially couples love the island for its romantic atmosphere and beauty.

ferienwohnung_sestanyol_w-est-1116008.pngThose of you who like a cosy apartment in Mallorca to enjoy the first sunbeams, should take a trip to Mallorca as of April/May. Those of you who like it more vivid have also the choice to book a Mallorca hotel in larger villages or cities. This is the perfect start point to explore the night life!

The South of the island is characterized by gorgeous beaches, that you could enjoy with a bottle of wine during a mild summer eve with your partner. Also, there are plenty of leisure activities to do. You can decide for scuba diving, boat trips, or simply swim in the warm Mediterranean sea.

Whatever you will decide to do, living in a Mallorca apartment might be one of the most romantic places to stay in Europe.

Mallorca Art Galleries: Internationally oriented

Since time immemorial, Mallorca has been a destination for thousands of visitors. It has also developed as a major destination for European and international artists. Meanwhile, the artists belong to the island like summer, sun and the sea.

tour_04.jpgWhen you are planning to take atrip to beautiful Balearic island and you have already arranged a Mallorca hotel or a Mallorca apartment, you can look forward to explore the art culture of the island.

Especially during the last 30 years, numerous artists have settled down in Mallorca. A lot of them have established galleries or exhibition halls across the island. Palma and the surrounding area is a very popular place to find such galleries.

One of those is the Sailer gallery in Santanyi. Beside contemporary art, there can also be found sculptures as well as glass art. An important place for exhibitions in the capital Plama de mallorca is the Centro Cultural Contemporani Pelaires.For years, it has been developed to a major exhibition hall for Spanish as well as international artists that live and work on the island. 

Mallorca boat tours

Spending your holidays at the sea does not only mean to rest on the beach. There ist much more to do. For instance by exploring the landscape from the sea or the under water world and its sea dwellers.

sunsailing_19.jpgMallorca visitors have numerous possibilities to use such journeys around the beautiful island. From your Mallorca apartment or your Mallorca hotel you will be able to explore several destinations on and around the island by boat. Discover lonely beaches and hidden bays. Also, with a glass-bottom boat you can even explore sea dwellers.

An example for such a boat trip is a trip to Sa Dragonera - dragon island. Only 700m from the Mallorca south end, the island can be reached within 20 minutes. There, you can explore the (protected) nature, as well as three lighthouses up on the hills.

those of you looking for something special, should not miss a trip with the submarine "Nemo". If you are interested, you should proceed to the Nemo Magaluf. After being informed about the technical backgrounds of the submarine, your sub is ready to start. While exploring the depths of the Mediterranean Sea you will be able to explore the flora and fauna. This trip takes approx. 45 minutes and ends with the awarding of a certificate.

Interested in more boat trips? Here is are some options:

Bahía de Palma

  • From Palma right around the bay
  • From Palma to Portals Vells and Cala Figuera
  • From Palma to Sant Elm or Camp de Mar

 

Northern coast

  • From Port 'Alcúdia through the bay
  • From Port de Pollença through the bay

 

Ostküste

  • From Cala Ratjada to Canyamel
  • From Cala Millor to Porto Cristo (dragon caves)
  • From Cala d'Or to Cala Llombards

"LOST" in Tenerife

The American TV series "LOST" has more in common with Tenerife than you would think. Used as a setting in one of the former broadcasts, it is also place of birth of one of the "LOST" actors.

lost_tv_show.jpg"LOST" has become a TV series with a cult status not only in the United States but also in Europe and around the globe. It is noteworthy that Tenerife has been chosen to be a setting in one of the former episodes. With 10.5 million viewers in the US, even the vice president of the "Cabildo Insular de Turismo", José Manuel Bermúde took notice of the turning operations and invited the producers to Tenerifa.

There, they can spend their holidays in Tenerife lodging in one of the fabolous hotels in Tenerife. Also, one of the characters was born on the island. Richard Alpert is one of "the others" in "LOST". Therefore, Bermúdez is keen on keeping Tenerife part of one of the most popular TV series in history.

"LOST" deals with the survivors of a plane crash that strand on an lonely island. Later, through mysterious events this island seems to be more than unusual. The tension is kept through new secrets and new disclosures. All the characters, for example, have a connection to each other and especially to the island. "LOST" is a worldwide success that is worth watching. 

Art Foundation Mallorca

Those of you who are interested in art and live in a confortable Majorca hotel or Majorca apartment are welcome to visit one of the most interesting exhibitions on the island. This exhibition shows artwork of several international artists.

116-tobias_l.pngThe exhibition takes place in the CCA - arts centre Andratx, approx. 30 Min drive from Palma. This exhibition is dedicated to the origination of contemporary art from around the globe. Founded in 2001 by Jacob and Patrica Asbeak, the CCA offers around 4000 m² installation surface. Therewith, the CCA is the largest arts centre on the island and in Europe.

The current exhibition is called "Art Foundation Mallorca" and has already started in November 2009 and leads up to the middle of March 2010. So, there is enough time left to discover the numerous artworks. In addition, this exhibition aims to potential investors that are interested in supporting the artist's work.

More than 50 contemporary artists can be found at the Art Foundation Mallorca. Beside paintings, there are also sculptures, installations, graphics and photographers by the (inter)national artists. There are also single exhibition by one particular artists present.

The CCA arts centre can not only offer you arts at its best but also a cafe and a restaurant. Moreover, the CCA is a center for general event and congresses.

The art gallery is open from Tuesday to Thursday 10:30am to 4pm. There are no entry fees to the art gallery. However, for curated exhibitions, there is a price of 5 Euro to be paid.

Visitors interested in fine arts can take some unique photos from the numerous contemporary masterpieces that are offered  until the middle of March 2010.

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Majorca's Carnival Party

February is usually a cold and dark month with a lot of rain. It is also the month of carnival. In many European destinations, such as the Balearic Islands, carnival plays an important role in the agenda.

carndevils1.jpgMajorca is one of these destinations. many tourists come to Majorca to experience the great party as well as enjoying some sunny days during the cold and rainy months. In generals, Majorca is a very popular destinations for tourists. But, have you thought that even in winter, Majorca can offer you so much? You are free to choose from one of the great Majorca hotels and enjoy the first sunny days of the year. Especially for those who do not like the crowd of people during summer time will be impressed.

For those of you who like to party on the one hand but would like to have a restful holiday on the other, Mallorca can be the perfect place for you. This is why not only the people celebrate, also the nature does. Especially the almond tree blossoms during that time. Its pink blooms contribute perfectly to the carnival time.

mandelbaum.jpgThese are perfect conditions for a carnival party under the Majorca sun. In Palma de Majorca will be the biggest carnival party of the island. More than 20 000 people are expected to take part in the parades. Children are very welcome to part or at least to have a look at the beautiful costumes.

So, whether you would like to spend some restful days or you want to take part in the carnival parties: Majorca awaits you!

 

Celebrations of the Saint Sebastian

saint-sebastian-01.jpgIf you think that after Christmas the celebrations are over that you are totally wrong. In fact the biggest festival will take place on Majorca directly in January. At the 20th of January 2010 is the saint´s day of the holy Sebastian which is the patron of the city Palma de Mallorca.
So if you are spending your Majorca holiday in this period of time then you shouldn´t miss this event. Or just book one of our cheap Majorca hotels and combine this attraction with relaxing days and take a break from the workday life. It definitely worth it! Every year a large number of people enjoy this festiveness.
The Saint Sebastian is the patron of the city in which 1524 the pest raged. But the deadly disease suddenly stopped when the people brought a relic of Sebastian to Palma. Since then the San Sebastian protects the city.
The feast itself was first celebrated at 1977. Since the people celebrate it every year and the effort is increasing from year to year. Nowadays is will be prepared a lot weeks before January.
During the 20th of January you could attend several different spectacles. For example several bands will play on different places. It will be played all kind of music. From the really traditional once up to Jazz or Classic. Furthermore, you will find pyres everywhere. Here you can get for little money churizzo and wine. But the highlight of the whole day is the firework at the end! It is accompanied from a "correfoc". Dressed up devils and demons have torches and other things with fire with them and stage a breathtaking fire show.
So come to Majorca to attend this unforgettable happening and enjoy a few free days at the beginning of the year!
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Christmas in Majorca

neules_mallorca.jpgFinally there is once again Christmas time. But if you want to escape the whole stress at home and want to experience something new, why don´t you plan a Majorca holiday during this period of time. So just book one of our cheap and comfortable hotels in Majorca and you can relax and celebrate the time with your sweethearts.
But you have to be aware that the traditions concerning the feast are quite different then you might know it from at home. The main difference is that the real celebration takes place on the 6th of January, on the Twelfth Day. It is also the day when children will get their presents. But if you are thinking there are no presents before this day at all you are wrong. Already on the 24th of December, the holy night, the "Olentzero" comes to town late at night to drop of things for the children. He is welcomed with a special and typical song that is sung by the children of the village.
Another popular tradition is the performances of scenes of the Christmas night, for example the child murder of Herodes. You can find them in every village and city.
Also the houses are decorated. But a little bit different as you might expect it. So the Christmas tree and socks in front of the chimney are not common. A main part is the nativity set which you can find everywhere. In this time the windows are decorated with "Neules" which are made of paper and are a typical decoration on the island.
On Christmas Eve the whole family meets for dinner which can take several hours. Afterwards the typical dessert is served - the turron. It is a sweet consisting of almond, honey, sugar and eggs.
weihnachten_mallorca_gasse.jpgThe most families will go after the dinner to the holy mass where the complete town is meeting. They meet to sing and dance.
But as mentioned the main celebration takes place on the 6th of January. But the three Magi will come to town already the day before. They are welcomed by the inhabitants and there are big parades. Casper, Melchior and Balthasar throw sweets to the crowd. At evening the children prepare some water for the camels and turron for the kings. Then on the next morning it is replaced with presents.
So come to Majorca and experience a new way to celebrate Christmas! Feliz Navidad!

Ibiza Town

ibiza-town-at-night.jpgEverybody who thinks about Ibiza thinks about party and mass tourism. But this is only a short part of what is standing for Ibiza. On this Balearic Island you can also enjoy the nature and a lot of sightseeing. If you plan a Ibiza holiday you should definitely visit Ibiza Town. It is the capital of Ibiza and Formentera. If you are looking for Ibiza Hotels you should choose one in the southeast of the island where the city is located.
In the city you will find a huge Catalan influence which explains why the city is called Eivissa - the Catalan name of it. Probably the was built by the Phoenicians in 700 B C. During its history the city was conquered by several nations - the Romans, Vandals and Moors. Finally in 1256 the Catalans captures Ibiza Town and stayed.
Through the different influences of the nations you can discover a lot of interesting historical buildings and things. This is why in 1999 the city was declared as world cultural heritage.
ForbysIbizaTown_Forbfruit.jpgThe most significant thing is the defense wall which was built by the Moors. But you should also visit the old city (Dalt Vila), the Puig des Molins and the castle. Also the cathedral has survived the decades.
In this city you can experience the different cultures really close. Furthermore, one third of the inhabitants of the island are living here. Therefore this is a happening place during the whole year.
So Ibiza Town is the perfect place if you want to combine nature, culture and party.

Manacor

2146072-Manacor_gothical_church-Manacor.jpg Majorca is an island with several different faces. If you should plan to spend your holiday in one of the Majorca hotels but you want to do other things than party, you should definitely visit Manacor. This small town is indeed the second biggest on the island but is still 10 times smaller than Palma. But there you can discover several exciting things during your Majorca holiday.

Travel to the East of the Balearic Island where Manacor is located. This city that doesn´t have mass tourism yet, was already built 2000 B C. This is documented by excavations. During the history Manacor played an important role. In 1300, Jaume II granted Manacor a statue of municipality and a native Manacor was an outstanding character in medieval social conflicts.
In the past the inhabitants made their living mainly by agriculture and farming. In the 19th century this changed because of the increasing industrialization. From this day on windmills and liquor distillery dominated the landscape. Today the factory of artificial pearls is an important factor as well as construction.

esglesia-de-sont-negre-2.jpgIf you spend some time in Manacor you can visit the pearls factory which is located a little bit outside the city. The pearls are made out of fish scales and look like real ones. You can buy some on the conterminous shop and bring them home as souvenirs. But not only industry is really important to the people but also the religion. In 1236 the first parish churched was built and 1576 the convent Sant Vicenc Ferrer was founded.
Furthermore, a windmill from the 19th century and 2 other churches are remained and are worth to visit them. What you definitely should visit is the flowstone cave. Here you can find one of the biggest subterraneous lakes of the world where you can experience a classic concert every day.

You see in Manacor you can do a lot of different things and enjoy your holidays. But don´t forget to make a break and enjoy the Spanish way of life with the typical cuisine of the region.

Cap Formentor

When people think of Majorca they always think the only thing one can do there is party. But Majorca is a lot more than just this cliché. There is a lot that you can visit and a lot of nature that you can discover. So just book a Majorca hotel and enjoy this unique island. If you want to go in the nature during you Majorca holiday go to Cap Formentor. 4274336_l.jpg
It is on the northernmost point of the Balearic Island and from which you will get a breathtaking view. Not just only above the landscape but also about the roaring sea 300 meters beyond you. Along the whole way, which is 13 kilometers long, you have several viewpoints where you can even recognize Menorca. Furthermore, the ragged cliffs are astonishing and you will find every time new forms in it.
cap-formentor-klein.jpgThe peninsula is also called the Meeting point of the winds because the winds are really important for the inhabitants of the island. They always lived from fishing and agriculture and therefore it was essential for them to know the winds. They even gave the winds names: Tramuntana, Ponenet, Migjorn and Llevant. Today lots of landscapes are named after them.
If you go down, the street will lead you through a pinewood which finally will end on one of the most beautiful bays on Majorca. Here you could make a break, enjoy the rest of the day and watch the sunset.

A holiday in Palma de Mallorca

In 1983 Palma de Mallorca became the capital of the newly established Balearic Islands autonomous community. It is the cosmopolitan hub of over 300.000 people. The new self-confidence is plain to see in the city center, a vibrant urbane place that is akin to the big cities of the Spanish mainland-and a world away from the heaving tourist enclaves of the surrounding bay. There's still a long way to go, but the bild_3_kathedrale_palma_de_mallorca.jpgcenter now presents a splendid ensemble of lively shopping areas, mazy lanes and refurbished old buildings, all enclosed by what remains of the old city walls and their replacements boulevards.

You will not regret visiting this island of Mallorca, and especially its capital, Mallorca where the magnificent cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudi can be found. The building is essentially gothic, with massive exterior buttresses.
You should also visit the museu de Mallorca, occupying one of the many 15th or 16th patrician mansions, and some exceptionally fine medieval religious paintings. The Basilica de Sant Francesc is the finest among the city's host of worthy medieval churches, and don't miss also the Santa Eulalia, the first church to be built after Jaume's arrival. Close by, the ajuntament is a debonair example of the late-Renaissance style, with a grand and self-assured foyer.
To eat, you have inexpensive cafés and tapas bars distributed around the city center. Xou can also palma_de_mallorca.jpgfind several Mallorca hotels and Mallorca apartments in central and popular areas of Palma.

Palma is a perfect destination for holidays; the city remains beautiful and impressive, with the grand bulk of the cathedral towering above the old town and the remnants of the medieval walls. In high season, finding an accommodation in Palma de Mallorca is not easy. So you should plan your trip in advance and book your Mallorca holiday home early.

Menorca, the Pearl of the Balearic Islands

There is a quality found on the Balearic Island of Menorca that comes from the fact that it is the smaller gem of land of the Spanish islands in the Mediterranean Sea. While boasting the same number of wonderful beaches as its larger neighbours, Mallorca and Ibiza combined, it has largely been spared the growth and development that occurs in places of such beauty. You can experience that beauty by visiting the island and live in a nice Menorca Hotel or Menorca apartment.

menorca1.jpgAs is the case with most islands of the Mediterranean, there is a sense of historical significance that seeps from the earth. A collection of Megalith stone monuments marks the evidence of a prehistoric, human influence and throughout the centuries, various civilizations have laid claim to the beautiful island.

People from the ancient Isle of Crete are thought to have influenced the early inhabitants of Menorca and the Romans and Iberians warred with pirates who pillaged along the trade routes of the warm sea. In the 16th century, Turkish warships decimated the cities of Mao and Ciutadella.

The British eventually laid claim to the island in 1708 during the War of Spanish Succession and for a turbulent century, the King of England counted Menorca as part of the empire. British influence can still be found in the architecture and in the local love of gin.

The modern culture on the island carries a traditional quaintness. The people are extremely hospitable and they have a passion for summer fiestas. Several Menorca accommodations invite visitors for a stay. Locally bred black horses and their riders often parade through town during these events and provide visitors with a unique view of tradition that goes back centuries. Music festivals also abound and visitors are treated to international opera week in Mao and the Summer Music Festival and the Capella Davidica Concerts in Ciutadella.

esel-auf-menorca.jpgThe island also offers numerous museums of cultural significance, notably the Museo de Menorca and the Museo Hernandez-Sanz in Mao and the Museo de la Natura in Ferreries.

Of course, the natural beauty of the island is one of its greatest attractions. There are countless beaches to enjoy and the snorkeling and scuba diving are considered by many to be some of the best in the Mediterranean Sea. Along the beach you can find numerous Menorca hotels which guarantee you a great closeness to the sea.

Menorca truly is the Pearl of the Balearic Islands with something to offer everyone. One of its greatest traits, however, is the relaxed atmosphere that can only be found in island living! To spend a Menorca holiday there is definitely worth it.

Sightseeing on Ibiza

The beautiful Balearic Island Ibiza offers much more than just beach, sun and the nightlife. Fantastic small towns where you can find the typical spanish houses invite you to spend your holiday in Ibiza.

You can admire the oldest town on the island which is called "Dalt Vila" by the locals. There you can find an impressive fortress with an ancient ibiza-g.jpgcity wall from the 16th century. You can also find a cathedral there which is from the same time as well as the well known " Sant Domingo" church. What is also quite interesting to see are the typical white houses of the fishermen which are situate outside of the city wall.

In Ibiza city you can visit several museums. The most important ones are the archeaological museum, the cloister museum and the museum of modern art. The marina, the "Necrópolis" and the Plaza de la Vila are also worth a visit. Book a room in a nice Ibiza hotel and enjoy the city as well as its beautiful surroundings.

The second biggest town on Ibiza is Santa Eulia. This city is situated at the shore of the Balearic islands only river. It is known for its beautiful churh which can be found on the top of a mountain.

ibiza_es_vedra.jpgThe town Sant Antonio is a very popular tourist destination. From this town you can do boat tours where you can experience what is going on underwater, through the help of a glas pane on the bottom of the boat. You can also just sail to the beautiful Cala Bossa beach.

If you are looking for a quiet location, then you should visit the small inviting village Es Cubells. It is situated in the South of the Balearic Island on a hilltop from where you have an amazing view on the sea.

As Ibiza truely is a tourismparadise, it offers its visitors a large number of Ibiza accommodations. You have to choose from one of the many cozy Ibiza hotels.

The history of olives in Ibiza

Olives have been one of the most valuable ingredients in the Mediterranean diet for thousands of years - since people discovered how to extract the valuable olive oil from the small bitter fruit of the ancient olive trees.
art_00267_img_01.jpgIt is unlikely that the early harvesters of the olive were privy to this much information, but the humble olive tree can certainly claim to be one of the main pillars of the renowned 'healthy Mediterranean diet'.

Olive trees of all ages are abundant all over Ibiza and many are reputed to be over 1,000 years old. However, they are not a crop that offers a quick return and were traditionally planted to provide for the next generation. Their most productive years are considered to be between 25 and 100 years during which time they can produce between 30 and 50 kilos of olives each year. You can taste one of the purest olives in the world during your Ibiza holiday.

Traditionally the olives that had dropped during the night were collected each autumn morning when the peasants took their sheep or goats to pasture. If it was a windy day on the Balearic Island, they would take a second tour of their trees expecting more fruit to have fallen. Nowadays, as the flocks of sheep have largely disappeared, you are more likely to see the farmers beating the trees with long sticks and oliven.jpgcatching the olives with nets spread on the ground beneath.
Since each family would have only a few trees, they would then take their precious fruit to a neighbouring finca that possessed an olive press.

There are two main components to an olive press; the first is the horse drawn millstone with its huge stone trough into which the olives are tipped and crushed into a pulp by the millstone, as it is interminably dragged around by the blinkered horse. The resultant pulp is then crammed into big wicker baskets a metre across, which are piled under the business end of the press.

Come to Ibiza, not only for clubbing or dancing, but also to enjoy the Ibiza nature life. So that enjoy your stay in one of the numerous Ibiza hotels and Ibiza apartments.

Mallorca´s Art and Culture

The Balearic Islands have a long and interesting history and many different kinds of people have inhabited Mallorca and Ibiza. This diversity has left its traces in the Islands' cultural heritage.

big_palma_palaumarch.jpgIn the cities on Mallorca alone you can find a magnificent selection of museums and complexes. Many museums accommodate unique collections of interesting artifacts and pieces of art. Many exhibitions take place in Mallorcan museums, differing in importance and size from large to small and local to international. Most museums are located in some of Mallorca's most beautiful buildings. The art galleries on Mallorca display many wonderful collections of art with paintings by world famous as well as by local Majorca artists, both modern and traditional in style.

In the old part of the capital of Mallorca, Palma, you can find many patios and old houses that are definitely worth a visit. Besides that many plays 2134426-Pollenca_church-Pollensa.jpgand concerts take place in the city, often with excellent acoustics because of the perfect venues between the many historical buildings. It's a delight to take a walk along all the galleries and museums here during your Mallorca holiday.

Another town on Mallorca where you will encounter many art works and historical museums is Pollensa. This village has been a preferred destination of many painters and artists for over a hundred years. Some local Pollensa artists are Hermenegild Anglada Camarasa, Dionís Bennàssar and Joan Miró. During nearly all the year you can enjoy a variety of musical events among which the most famous ones are those which take place in the Santo Domingo Cloister. Other sights in Pollensa that are worth a visit are the three churches, the stations of the cross El Cavari and the Roman Bridge. If you do now feel like visiting all these interesting places, then do not hesitate to visit this beautiful island and live in a traditional Mallorca apartment or Mallorca hotel.

Wine in Majorca

mallorca01%20300pkt%205j.jpgMajorca is the largest island of the Balearic Islands and offers a total of 2.000 hectare vineyard area. Most of the Majorcan wines are red, approximately a third of the Majorcan wines are white wines. Don't forget to make to trip to the fantastic vineyard areas during your Majorca holiday!






D.O. (Denominación de origen)

D.O. is the certificate of origin of Spanish products, especially of the wine. At the moment their are approximately 66 DO's. I would like to present you the two vineyard areas Binissalem and Plà i Llevant. Stay in a comfortable accommodation in Majorca and taste the fantastic Majorcan wines. There are numerous great Majorca hotels and apartments in Majorca.

Binissalem:
7577_big.jpgThe area, covered by the DO, is located in the centre of the island, northeast of the town of Palma. Benissalem mostly uses the both grape varieties Manto Negro and Moll. It offers a total of 400 hectare vineyard area. The red wines are very alcoholic and harmonic. The area includes the borderlines of five communities: Santa Maria del Cami, Consell, Binissalem, Sencelles und Santa Eugenia. In the late 20th century there was a revival of the wine industry due to the demand for quality wine by tourists. It acquired its DO status in 1991.

Plà i Llevant:
wein.jpgAmong the grape varieties are Callet, Fogoneu, Tempranillo, Manto Negro, Monastrell, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot und Syrah. The vineyard area contains 340 hectare. In 1991 the area was classified as Vinos de la Tierra and in 2001 it acquired its DO status.

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Shopping Centres in Palma, Majorca

shopping-logo-tss.jpgMajorca, especially Palma, is a shopping paradise. Stores in Palma offer handicrafts, elegant leather goods, Majorcan pearls, and fine needlework. Stay in a Majorca hotel in Palma or Majorca apartment and enjoy this great shopping paradise! The best shopping streets in the city are: San Miguel, Carrer Sindicato, Jaume II, Carrer Platerí, Roman and Passeig des Borne. The shopping centres are easily accessible from any Majorca accommodation.

shopping-san-francisco3.jpgHere are some shops you absolutely have to visit during your Majorca holiday:

Casa Bonet
Majorca is known for its neddlework and Casa Bonet has some of the finest examples of textured neddlework. The sheets, tablecloths, napkins, and pillowcases are made in Majorca from fine linen or cotton.

Address: Placa Federico Chopin 2
Tel.: +34 97-172-21-17

Shopping.jpgFestival Park
The shopping centre Festival Park looks like an old Spanish Town. Shoppers are catered for by a wealth of factory outlets. The shopping centre is open from 10 am to 10 pm.

Address: Autopista PM - 27
Tel.: + 34 971 14 09 25/971 22 68 22

El Corte Ingles
El Corte Ingles is one of the largest shopping centres in Palma. The Corte Ingles shopping centre also has a small boutique in street Jaime III.

"Es parla català" - One speaks Catalan


The Catalan language is a Romance language. Catalan is connected to the Italian, French and Spanish languages. It is the national and official language of Andorra and the co- official language of the Balearic Islands, Catalonia and Valencian Community. On the Balearic Islands, Catalan is mainly spoken. You should absolutely keep this in mind when you spend your holiday in Majorca or your Ibiza holiday!

The language was created between the 8th and 10th Century. Today about 11,6 million people speak the Catalan language; in Spain (Balearic Islands, Catalonia, Valencian Community and Aragon), Italy (in the city of Alghero in Sardinia), France (in the Pyrenees) and Andorra. Every region has its own dialect. In Majorca one speaks Majorcan and in Valencia one speaks Valencian.

The Catalan language in Majorca:
Catalan and Spanish are the official languages of Majorca. Typically, young Majorcans are bilingual in Catalan and Spanish. In Majorca the dialect is called Majorcan.

Hiking in Menorca


"Cami de Cavalls" is a medieval coastal- and country path around Menorca, created in the 14th century. The main function was the defence and the control of the Balearic island. On foot, horseback or bike, this ancient coastal trail offers the chance to come into contact with one of the island's most important allures: its nature. "Cami de Cavalls" is considered historic heritage and an asset of cultural and environmental interest. This great path can be visited from any Menorca accommodation.

The path is a total of 180 km long and offers beautiful impressions. Solitary bays and beaches, stone pines and oak trees, idyllic villages expect the Menorca holiday- maker. "Cami de Cevalls" can be reached without problems from any Menorca hotel or Menorca apartment. If you are interested in Spain, I can recommend to you the Spain holiday blog!

Myths and legends at "Es Vedra"

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Es Vedra is a stone's throw away from the southwest coast of Ibiza. It's a rock with an altitude of 382 m. The rock is surrounded by many myths and legends. For some the rock is the visible part of Atlantis. The island is a nature reserve and is uninhabited.


The tower "Torre del Pirata" offers a beautiful view of the island.The tower was build in 1763. It became famous by the novel "Los Muertos Mandan" written by Blasco IIbañez.





fiestadontoni.jpgThere are beautiful Ibiza hotels and Ibiza holiday homes on the island. The island offers Ibiza accommodations for each taste whether you would like to spend family vacation or rather you would like to make sporty active vacation. On the web page of Perfect Sun Travel you can find for example the comfortable Fiesta Club Don Toni hotel Ibiza. The air- conditioned 3- stars hotels lies just 50 m from the Playa d'en Bossa.


You will find many interesting information about Ibiza at the Ibiza Majorca Travel Guide in web. The Travel guide serves you with information about the gastronomy and the historical culture. You will find general information about Spain in the blog "Apartment Barcelona" and "Spain holiday".

Menorca Travel Guide

Menorca holidays should include visits to the museums and cultural heritages of the Balearic Island.

Ciutadella

Casa - Museo del Pintor Torrent:
c/ Sant Rafel, 11
Ciutadella (Menorca)

The museum exhibits drawings and paintings by the famous painter Torrent. Open on request.

catedral.jpgCatedral de Menorca:
c/ Plaça Catedral, 42
Ciutadella (Menorca)

The cathedral is located in the heart of Ciutadella's Old Town. Open from 9:00 - 13:00 and from 18:00 - 21:00.

Parc Rubió i Tudurí:
c/ Plaça Claustre Del Carme
Ciutadella (Menorca)

The park has an area of 10.000m2 and is located between an industrial estate and a suburban district. Open Monday - Friday from 10:00 - 13:00.

Mahon

Museum Sanz-Hernandez Mora:
c/ Claustre del Carme, 5
Mahon (Menorca)

The collection of the philologist and of the historian Dr. Hernández Mora contained in the property of the city shows numerous paintings and stitches, old cards of the island, old piece of furniture and a small library. Open Monday - Saturday from 10:00 - 13:00.

Alaior

alajor church.jpgEsglésia de Sant Diego:
c/ Correos 127
Alaior (Menorca)

Impressions of the life on Menorca. Open Tuesday - Sunday from 18:30 - 21:30.



Spend your holiday in Menorca and stay in a comfortable Menorca apartment or Menorca hotel.
The Menorca Hotel Audax Spa & Wellness is located just 150 m from the beach and set on a cliff. It's a fantastic choice for people who simply like to relax.
Another great choice is the Barcelo Hamilton Hotel in Menorca. This hotel is located on the beautiful natural bay and harbor of Mahon.

Sightseeing Ibiza



The beautiful Island of Ibiza has more to offer than just beach, sun and nightlife. Fantastic cities with nice cultural buildings invite you to a holiday in Spain.

old town.jpgAdmire the Old Town of Ibiza, called "Dalt Vila" by the locals. It accommodates an impressive 16th century fortress, antique city walls, a cathedral and the "Sant Domingo"- church. The typical white fisherman's houses just outside the city walls are also a delight to see.

In Ibiza Town you can visit many museums, like the archeological ones, the convent or the modern art museum. The marina, the "Necrópolis" and "Plaza de la Vila" are also well worth a visit. Book an Ibiza Hotel in the center of town and enjoy the city as well as its beautiful surroundings.

The second biggest town in Ibiza is Santa Eulalia. It is situated on the shores of the only river of the Balearic archipelago. It's especially known for its pretty hilltop church. Below the church you can visit the small ethnological museum located inside an ancient farm.

The town of Sant Antonio is a very popular tourist destination. From this harbor town you can take nice boat trips to watch the submarine life through a glass bottom or to sail off to the beautiful sandy beach of Cala Bossa. Being a true holiday paradise Sant Antonio offers plenty of Ibiza accommodation. There is also a wide range of Ibiza hotels in Santa Eulalia and finding a lovely Ibiza apartment in both towns shouldn't be any problem at all.

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If you prefer something smaller you can visit the visit Es Cubells, a charming small village in the South of Ibiza. It's situated on top of a cliff from where you have an amazing view over the coast. Not far from Es Cubells you can visit Ses Salines, an interior salt-water lake where one can spot thousands of seabirds. Ses Salines is a unique ecosystem bigger than a thousand hectares.

For more information about Spain visit these blogs:
Holiday in Spain
Holiday in Barcelona

Easter in Majorca

Cathedral Mallorca.jpgThe Easter week begin traditionally with Palm Sunday, it always fall on the first Sunday before Easter. It marks the end of Lent, a period of fasting and penitence in preparation for Easter. The Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus Christ's entry in Jerusalem. Locals carry the olive and palm branches which are kept in homes to ward off evil. An afternoon mass takes place at Majorca's Cathedral in Palma. The mass will be attended by many priests from all over Majorca as well as the bishop.
From Monday to Friday a series of processions continue e.g. "Brotherhood of the Blood of Christ" on Maundy Thursday and the 'Holy Burial' on Good Friday.ostern.jpgThe procession on Maundy Thursday in Palma de Majorca is one of the most spectacular due to the vast amount of people who take part.
On Easter Sunday when the Procession of the 'Meeting' is celebrated the week of celebrations comes to a closing.
Come to Majorca and experience this religiously tradition. Stay in a comfortable Majorca hotel or Majorca apartment.


If you want more information visit the Ibiza Majorca Travel guide in web. You will find information about the gastronomy, the culture and the history of the Balearic Islands.

The variety of majorcan cuisine

The majorcan cuisine gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy marvelous traditional recipes. The Majorcans usually use olive oil for their preparation of food. The main ingrediences are bell pepper, zucchini, tomato, aubergine, garlic and fish.eating-out-2.jpg The Majorcans differentiate between three terms: "caldo" (clear soup), "sopa" (soup) and "potaje" (stew). "Sopa Mallorquin" is a solid cabbage- stew with meat, "Sopa de pescado" is a fish soup. Rice dishes are also usually used in the majorcan cuisine. "Arroz a la marinera" is a rice dish with fish and sea fruits, "Arròs brut" is a rice dish with meat of a pig, chicken or rabbit and seasonal vegetables. A famous vegetable court is "Tumbet", a vegetable- casserole with potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, aubergines and onions. The best travel season or a culinary journey is summer, when vegetables are of first-class quality. Popular meat dishes are "Costillas de cordero" (lamb chop), "Lechona" (suckling pig), "Sobrassada" (red sausage) and "Butifarron" (blood sausage). Experience the majorcan cuisine and stay in a comfortable accommodation in Mallorca. You will find further information at the Ibiza Majorca Travel Guide in web. The page has detailed information available with regard to cultur, history and sightseeing.
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Ses Salines and Es Cavallet

To the south of Ibiza Town, stetching from the airport to the sea, are thousands of acres of salts flats. Ibiza's history, and its powerful presence on ancient trade routes, was based on these salts fields (salines), a trade that was vital, above all, to the ancient Carthaginians. Indeed, salt remained an important economic ressource until comparatively recently, the Island's only rail line ran from the middle of the marshes to La Canal, a dock where an enormous container ship would arrive weekly to be loaded with the bright, pinky-white sea salt.
Even now, though tourism brigs in far more money and the rail line has been tron up, salt production continues.

There are 2 beaches aroud there and buses from Ibiza town leave regularly for the more westerly, Ses Salines whose fine white sand arcs around a bay, the crystal-clear waters fringed by pines and dunes. The Beach also has a handful of beach bars, with cool chill-out sounds at Sa Trinxa at the southern end of the sands. From Ses Salines, it's a brief walk around the rocks or along the paths that maze the sand dunes to es Cavallet, a quieter if broadly similar beach that's long been a favourite of gay visitors the dunes behind the beach are well-known cruising area.

Come admire this wonderful wealth by setting in our selection of hotels and apartments

Chopin in Valldemosa

I can imagine that people who have never visited the holiday island of Majorca before, but only heard the many stories about its excellent beaches and vibrant tourist resorts, might think that beach and nightlife is all there is on offer on this popular summer destination. Well for those who?d like to visit the island, but are more interested in a quiet and relaxed stay combined with some cultural and historical ingredients, the island also has many charming and peaceful historic towns on offer. One of the most famous is probably Valldemosa. The Polish pianist and composer Frederic Chopin spent the winter of 1838 in this village together with his lover, the French feminist author George Sand who wrote a book about their Majorcan adventure afterwards. Apparently the couple didn?t enjoy their time on the island as much as most visitors do nowadays. The weather was bad and had worsened the composer?s health, the piano they expected never arrived, and the locals of the village weren?t the friendliest either.

Today the cell in the Royal Carthusian Monastery where they were staying is open to visitors. Besides that the monastery accommodates several museums, like an old pharmacy, the monk?s library, and a modern art museum with works of several renowned artists. In the charming medieval village or in its surroundings you can find nice Majorca accommodation. You can choose for a rural holiday and stay in an authentic Majorcan countryside house, or go for more luxury and choose a comfortable stay in the cosy four-star hotel in Valldemosa. Other popular rural destinations on Majorca are Campanet and Orient in the Sierra de Tramuntana, Montuiri and Binissalem.

Art & Culture in Majorca

The Balearic Islands have a long and interesting history and many different kinds of people have inhabited Majorca and Ibiza. This diversity has left its traces in the Islands? cultural heritage. In the cities on Majorca alone you can find a magnificent selection of museums and complexes. Many museums accommodate unique collections of interesting artifacts and pieces of art. Many exhibitions take place in Majorcan museums, differing in importance and size from large to small and local to international. Most museums are located in some of Majorca?s most beautiful buildings. The art galleries on Majorca display many wonderful collections of art with paintings by world famous as well as by local Majorca artists, both modern and traditional in style.

In the old part of the capital of Majorca, Palma, you can find many patios and old houses that are definitely worth a visit. Besides that many plays and concerts take place in the city, often with excellent acoustics because of the perfect venues between the many historical buildings. It?s a delight to take a walk along all the galleries and museums here.

Another town on Majorca where you can encounter many art works and historical museums is Pollensa. This village has been a preferred destination of many painters and artists for over a hundred years. Some local Pollensa artists are Hermenegild Anglada Camarasa, Dionís Bennàssar and Joan Miró. During nearly all the year you can enjoy a variety of musical events among which the most famous ones are those which take place in the Santo Domingo Cloister. Other sights in Pollensa that are worth a visit are the three churches, the stations of the cross El Cavari and the Roman Bridge.

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