Archive for October, 2009

Majorca Unveils An Historic Estate

Saturday, October 31st, 2009

Vacationers looking for something new to see need look no furthur than the Spanish island of Majorca, where a grand estate is being opened to the public. The Raixa country estate is the newest addition to Majorca’s many attractions, and it will soon be a hot spot for holiday travelers. The estate will give both foreigners and locals a glimpse of Majorca’s interesting past, as well as a close-up of the flora of the island.
The Raixa country estate will offer vacationers a beautiful view of an historic estate. The estate was remodeled in the eighteenth century by Cardinal Antoni Despuig i Dameto, who converted the farm buildings that once graced the land into the architectural wonders that exist today. It’s the tale of a pauper’s house becoming a palace.
The Council of Majorca plans to have the estate open to the public by September. The property was purchased by the council in 2002. Even then, the Council planned to make the estate available for vacationers. Most renovations and preparations will be done by the Oxigeno Project, a program to help former prisoners find a meaningful role in society. Among many of its uses, the estate will serve as a center for environmental studies, according to the council.
Because of its abundant water supply, the Raixa estate is one of the most prosperous fincas on the island. Many films have been shot near the property, the most significant one being Evil Under the Sun. The estate carries a lot of historical significance to Majorcans, and it is one of the most treasured places on the island. The council feels that it is necessary to let the public see the estate and understand the story behind the buildings.
Majorca is already well-known for its natural wonders and architectural glories. The Bellver Castle is an old Spanish castle that was used as a prison during Spain’s more violent times. Now it’s a tourist destination for those who want to see Spain as it once was.
If castles and estates aren’t your cup of tea, try one of the beautiful port towns of Majorca. Porto Cristo provides solace for vacationers looking to enjoy a quiet holiday. The center of the island’s pearl industry, Porto Cristo uses a unique method of combining glass and pulverized fish scales to produce artificial pearls that are nearly indistinguishable from real pearls. While accommodations in Porto Cristo aren’t four-star, their old-world charm makes staying in town worthwhile. At night, the streets of the city are quiet and peaceful, unlike many of the more popular destinations in Majorca. Porto Cristo is popular with middle-aged couples looking for solitude and quiet romance.
The island of Majorca offers a wide variety of attractions besides historic estates, castles and port towns. Whatever you’re searching for in a vacation, this Spanish island is sure to have it. From the glorious beaches, solitary villas and thriving nightlife, Majorca has a little something for everyone needing a change from the daily grind. Take a plane towards Spain, then head east and find yourself in an island paradise.

Santa Ponsa – The Unsung Majorca Holiday Resort

Saturday, October 31st, 2009

So you want to book a hotel in Majorca, don’t want to be a part of the wall-to-wall partying of Magaluf or Palma Nova, but still want to be within easy reach of the south’s attractions? That’s understandable, but where’s the best place to go? You may want to consider Santa Ponsa. Hundreds of holiday makers choose this wonderful resort each year for their family holidays to Majorca, and it’s not short of reasons why:
Clubbing’s Just Around the Corner
Magaluf (and to a lesser extent Palma Nova) is very much a clubbing Mecca for the island, and if that’s your thing, then you’ll be delighted to know that you’re not too far from it’s internationally known clubs and bars. In this part of the island, it’s not uncommon for clubs to stay open until the very early hours (no kicking out at 2, like in some UK establishments!) so it’s good to know that a warm cosy Majorca hotel bed isn’t too far away – even if you’re staying in Santa Ponsa. A taxi will take you all of 10 minutes to get between the two, and if you’re not completely exhausted, the early morning walk can be truly invigorating!
It’s Family Friendly
Away from the noise and debauchery of Magaluf and Palma Nova, Santa Ponsa is the ideal location for a family holiday in Majorca. It’s within easy reach (10 minutes) of the clubbing towns’ daylight attractions (Aqualand, the Pirate Show, Go Karting and Golf Fantasia to name just a few) while having many of its own to shout about. Western Park is a relatively new one – a cross between a wild west theme park and a water park, with some impressive live shows for good measure. Then there are the golf courses – sadly only one of which is open to non-members, but you can forgive it for being well designed and offering a damned good game of golf. The area also has some excellent diving opportunities for the brave, allowing you to see the life that lies beneath the blue waves.
Its Beautiful Beaches
Santa Ponsa boasts three outstanding beaches. The main one has had its white sands extended to make more space for the huge influx of tourists, though in high season this sometimes isn’t enough and it can be a little overcrowded. Fortunately there are two others – a smaller beach within its own cove off the Avda Rei Jaume I, and Castellot which is not really known to the tourists. Those on a family holiday in Majorca should be happy with the safety – the beach has shallow, gentle waters with few strong currents, though be sure to watch the flag system for updates on safety.
Even for clubbers, Santa Ponsa isn’t a bad choice. Just 10 minutes away from the bright lights of Magaluf, it’s a great choice for those who want a Majorca hotel somewhere that bit more sedate before the all night party begins. And for a family holiday in Majorca’s south, it’s hard to imagine you doing better with the facilities and charming beaches – all the advantages of Magaluf with few of the downsides – to me, it’s an obvious choice.

I Dream Of A Majorca Property

Friday, October 30th, 2009

It was around the end of May of this year that I had decided to resign from my job in London as a counsellor and take a nice weeklong holiday to Majorca, Spain. This was a starting point in me hunting for a new place to live, check out Majorca property prices and drink loads of Sangria on the beach! It would be my first trip to Spain and I have long since had my heart set on owning a property in Spain one day. Now was my chance to begin my research.
I made sure that I was packed up to the brim of my suitcase with plenty of mini-skirts, vests, flip-flops and a whole range of bikinis. Of course, I could not leave without the odd high heels and very important cocktail dresses. I had also cleverly packed a guide on Majorca and kept in mind to visit the property agencies in Palma De Mallorca, for my search for a Majorca property.
On Arrival
As soon as I arrived at the airport, I could not wait a single moment to get to Santa Ponsa (a resort in South-West Majorca). My reaction was as expected when I got to the beach! I was mesmerised by the deep blue sea and the warm white sand that tickled in between my toes. This was my first beach holiday, every bit of Majorca was so fascinating that I was like a child walking into a sweet shop. The first thing I wanted to do was swim in the salty sea and experience the waves pulling me back and forth.
Of course, I had not forgotten about my main purpose, of researching Majorca property prices. I had noticed that the properties appeared spacious, bright and airy. Some houses were large, all of them with balconies (overlooking a beautiful view of the beach) and often with exotic trees standing over the roof. Children were free to roam the streets, and were so impressively polite to passers-by. I was beginning to fall in love with this place after only 24 hours.
Santa Ponsa, comprised of many tourist bars and Irish pubs, but it also contained many of the original traditions of Spain. This particular part of Majorca catered mainly for the Irish tourists, hence the numerous Irish themed pubs. I was expecting more tourists than Spanish locals in this area, but I was surprised to see that there were many Spanish people living locally in this area speaking their native Catalan tongue.
Property searching
I caught a bus up to Palma, a very cosmopolitan, vibrant and modern city. One of Palma’s major landmarks is the large Gothic Cathedral that overlooks the sea. As soon as I arrived at the bus depot, it was not hard to spot the magnificent building intricately designed by Antoni Gaudi in the late 1800’s. I was becoming even surer of my decision to purchase a property on this island.
The main city centre was busy, but it was not like the hustle and bustle of London Oxford Circus. People looked relaxed, no one looked like they were in a hurry and best of all people were smiling. I decided to visit a very swish looking property estate agent; they were very polite to me, sat me down and offered me a cool beverage while I waited for an agent to come out.
The agent was a rather friendly middle-aged man, very well tanned, dressed in a short-sleeved shirt with the top button of his collar undone, approaching me in a friendly relaxed manner and a big smile. We chatted for a short while, he explained that properties in Majorca have risen by 18% since 2004 with the average price being 750000 Euros; depending on the area one chooses to live in, you could buy a flat for 150000 Euros.
While the agent was explaining the finer details of buying a property in Spain, I could not help but notice that his approach was unlike any other agent I had come across. He was not trying to sell the company’s services; I guess he felt that there was no need to place emphasis on making a sale on my dream Majorca property, I was sold on the idea even before I stepped into the office!
With all of the information he had given me, I decided to plan my days exploring the island, talking to locals and comparing prices with different agencies. The only thing I was disappointed with was that the properties did not come with a hunky male Spanish helper!

Majorca Hotels Win Quality Awards

Friday, October 30th, 2009

No less than 3 hotels in Majorca have received Excellence and Leisure Nominations and Awards, further proving that the popular Spanish island is the perfect holiday destination year round.
Winter holidays in Majorca are more peaceful and relaxing than their summertime counterparts. With winter temperatures often 15 degrees Celsius (nearly 60 degrees Fahrenheit), even wintertime walks on Mallorca’s white sand beaches can be amazing.
The Hotel Aimia in Puerto Soller on the northwest coast of Majorca received a nomination as one of four contenders in the Most Excellent European Value for Money Award.
Many of the Aimia Hotel’s rooms face the Puerto de Soller and offer breathtaking views of Majorca’s white sand beaches. Nearby Port De Soller is the only commercial seaport in the Serra De Tramuntana.
Porto Petro Beach Resort Hotel, opened three years ago in 2005, is neatly tucked into two beautiful, sandy coves along a half mile stretch of Mediterranean coastline in Porto Petro. This 300 room waterfront resort was nominated for the Most Excellent European Value for Money Award.
Porto Petro Beach Resort offers the Blaudi Club for Kids. Kids ages 2 to 17 can play all day in age-appropriate playgroups, play in the pool and other sports in an area especially designed with kids in mind.
In nearby Lake Martel, the Caves of Drach offer visitors the opportunity to take boat rides or enjoy classical concerts in one of the inside chambers of the cave. Lake Martel is one of the world’s largest underground lakes.
Another one of the hotels in Majorca, La Residencia, received second place in Best Leisure Hotels in Europe, Asia Minor and the Russian Federation via the Conde Nast Traveller Magazine. In addition, La Residencia also received:
* #34 in the 2007 Conde Nast World’s Top 100 hotels
* #2 Best Hotel in the Travel and Leisure’s 500 Best Hotels in the World
* #4 Best Hotel Spa in Europe in the Conde Nast Traveller’s Best Spas in Europe
* El Olivo Restaurant, La Residencia’s Restaurant, Best Restaurants in Spain in the Restauradores Awards
* Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in the Wine Spectator Awards
La Residencia, set in 30 acres of citrus groves, offers 59 rooms and suites housed in two manor houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The La Residencia hotel, elegantly furnished in Majorca antiques, houses three restaurants including the award winning El Olivo Restaurant.
Majorca has been a major summer holiday destination for several years.
Many people don’t realize the magnificent deals to be taken advantage of during the winter months. Winter visitors can stay at the same beautiful, award-winning hotels and resorts for a fraction of the summer price.
Winter time is also the season when you can enjoy newly ripened citrus fruit from the local groves. Holiday packages can be booked for as little as 325 euros in the off peak seasons.
Many people prefer the slower paced winter holidays to the hustle and bustle of the busy summer holiday season.
Temperatures in the winter season range from 6 degrees Celsius (42 degrees Fahrenheit) to 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit). These mild temperatures help make Majorca the perfect wintertime destination for those who enjoy cooler temperatures and mild winter weather, so if you’re planning a New Year or winter holiday – think of Majorca and just how good the hotels in Majorca are!

Have a Great Spanish Adventure With Cheap Holidays Majorca

Thursday, October 29th, 2009

Right from the local airport, a short journey can quickly take you to the center of the beautiful island of Majorca. Besting other island vacation destinations with its promenade of museums, local shops, restaurants and street cafes, Majorca has become Spain’s hub of local as well as foreign tourists. In offering the best of what Spanish islands offer, spending cheap holidays Majorca surely rewards visitors with the best of both worlds. However, do not be fooled by the value at which this vacation package is offered. As a relatively cheaper cost, Majorca holidays packages offers comfort and excitement in experiencing Spain at a whole new level.

Any visitor who reaches the shore of Palma will be greeted with the beauty of Majorca’s rich culture and museums. Guided walks are strategically placed along the island’s roads and popular tourists spots so visitors can have a great time immersing into the island’s beauty at their own pace. Along the pathways, people can take the pleasure of witnessing the breathtaking picture of the gothic cathedral Le Seu. Aside from that, the island also offers a photo perfect opportunity. As the guided walks lead you on top of the hills you can enjoy the majestic beauty of the bay villages and city areas. Surely, spending cheap holidays Majorca with your partner, friends and family offers a memorable interlude with the island’s exotic beauty.

Just like other Balearic Islands, Majorca is known to offer package tourisms so as to promote the island as the ultimate island getaway. In collaboration with the local tourism projects, offering cheap holidays Majorca has made Majorca synonymous to mass tourism. Offering great vacation experiences at relatively lower rates, cheap holidays Majorca is not known to compromise the level of Spanish discovery that guests will enjoy with the packages’ value. As opposed to exclusive accommodations, cheaper holidays may be cheap but it offers great value in spending precious moments in experiencing Spain at its finest.

Majorca In August – Be Prepared!

Thursday, October 29th, 2009

August is one of the busiest and best holiday months in the Balearics. According to a report by the Majorca Daily Bulletin, 4,600 flights are scheduled to arrive in the Balearic Islands this summer. More than 3,000 of those flights are scheduled to arrive at Palma airport in Palma, Majorca.
Majorca Attractions
Usually when people think of Majorca, they think about beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal blue waters and a tropical drink in one hand. While the ideal “perfect holiday” is great for those who daydream about it, families with children often look for theme parks and excitement. Majorca doesn’t disappoint families with children either.
The Palma Aquarium in Playa de Palma is a 55-aquarium marine park that helps introduce viewers to many species of marine life. They have included a turtle beach, a rain forest and species of marine life from the Indian and Pacific Oceans as well as the Atlantic. One of the biggest attractions is The Big Blue, the deepest aquarium in Europe. This aquarium houses more than 200 species of marine life.
Other theme parks include Aqualand, Western Water Park, Marineland and House of Katmandu. Some parks offer dolphin shows, nature reserves, safari parks and historic gardens. Activities in Majorca include a variety of options like open-air markets, casinos, water sports and bike tours.
Historic Majorca
Majorca is rich in culture and history as is evident when tourists visit the Cathedral in Palma and any of several churches and museums. Many architectural ruins and buildings date back to the early 100 BC era. Historic botanical gardens lend an air of historic reverie to the older places of the city. Several times during the year, tourists may bear witness to some of Majorca’s cultural celebrations, plays, concerts or operas.
Almudaina Palace is a must-see for anyone interested in seeing first-hand Majorica’s historic architecture. The palace, just outside the city walls, was built by the Moorish governors. It served as a citadel with a solid outer wall and sheltered rectangular building. Protecting it were five towers from which archers could defend.
The 25th Annual King’s Cup
Many boating competitions may be enjoyed in Majorca throughout the year. The most popular regatta for 2008 is projected to be the 25th Annual King’s Cup in August. The competition will begin in Palma and will last for seven days. A variety of competitions will test the skills of sailors and yachtsmen, each winner receiving prizes from the King of Spain, Juan Carlos. This year, to help celebrate the 25th anniversary of the King’s Cup, King Juan Carlos and his son Prince Felipe will be competing in the regatta.
Palma Prepares for the King’s Cup
In effort to gear up for the August 2008 festivities, Palma is preparing to receive more inbound flights than normal. Inexpensive airfare to and from many points in Europe makes the possibility of attending this year’s regatta much more of a reality to many Europeans. Several hotels and resorts have reported being booked for the week of the King’s Cup.
August may be one of the busiest months for tourism in Palma. August 2008 is already promising a wide array of exciting boating events, festivals and celebrations. Even if boating does not interest you, August is quite possibly the perfect time to schedule the ideal island holiday. Diving, boating, shopping, dining or relaxing on the beach are just a few of the activities that await.

Jazz It Up in Majorca

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Majorca, the largest and most densely populated of the Balearic Islands, is a nation rich in culture.
As one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean, Majorca attracts over a million visitors every holiday season. Beach lovers everywhere seem to be drawn to the crystal blue waters, white beaches and intense cultural celebrations.
In recent years, the Sa Pablo Jazz Festival has been the highlight of many holidays. The 2008 jazz festival takes place from March through December. The 10-month fiesta offers performances by some of the greatest jazz performers in the world. Several venues will be open for the festival.
Performances take place in the Palma Auditorium, Vellver Castle as well as free concerts in Palma’s main square. Majorca’s 300-plus days of sunshine make it the ideal place for an extended festival of this sort.
Jazz saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis lends his soothing sounds to the festival this year. Kenny Barron, in trio with Kiyoshi Kitagawa and Francisco Mela, will also be appearing. The Mississippi Mass Gospel, Portea Jazz Band and Barbara Hendricks also have scheduled performances for the 2008 festival.
The former bandleader of Return to Forever, Chick Corea, has a scheduled performance on November 11, 2008. Bassist Stanley Clarke, also formerly of Return to Forever, has already performed to great acclaim a former Miles Davis sideman Lee Konitz and free jazz bassist Charlie Haden also have scheduled performances for the coming festival.
Diana Krall, recently named Best Female Vocalist at the 4th annual Canadian Jazz awards ceremony, will also perform in August. The International Sa Pobla Jazz Festival also presents free jazz concerts in Palma during the two-week Alcudia Jazz Festival in September. Music enthusiasts, young and old, from around the world will enjoy the wide array of performances throughout the year.
November sees the beginning of the opera season in Majorca. Three large opera performances will be held at the Teatre Principal in Palma, including Madam Butterfly. Young opera enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enjoy a concert and discussion session with the performers.
In addition to the variety of musical performances throughout the year, Palma has more art galleries than other cities of comparable size. The third Thursday in September is a very special time for Palma’s art enthusiasts. Every gallery, museum and cultural center will remain open until late evening to offer a unique experience for art lovers.
Low cost airfares from many points in Europe to Majorca make it very convenient to attend your favorite performances. Planning your Majorcan holiday or arts-filled weekend has never been easier or more convenient. Many of the low-cost airlines offer multiple flights into Palma daily.
Locating accommodation in Majorca or even in Palma is simply a matter of taste. In historic Palma, visitors will find self-catering apartments and townhomes.
Beach lovers will likely head for the hotels and resorts near one of Majorca’s many beaches. Those who are looking for a truly unique experience and privacy should look into renting an apartment or villa in rural Majorca.
Many people visit Majorca for the beaches alone. Rural Majorca offers an entirely unique holiday experience. The island’s interior is comprised of rolling hills and gently sloping valleys. Accommodations in rural Majorca include private villas and farmhouses. If you choose to find accommodation inland, renting a vehicle for the duration of your stay is highly recommended.

Searching for Property in Majorca

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009

Majorca And All That Jazz

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Popular holiday island Majorca, the largest and most densely populated of the Balearic Islands, is an island rich in culture. As one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean, Majorca attracts over a million visitors every summer.
Included among celebrities on the island this summer enjoying a holiday has been Stella McCartney. Beach lovers everywhere seem to be drawn to the crystal blue waters, white beaches and intense cultural celebrations.
In recent years, the Sa Pablo Jazz Festival has been the highlight of many holidays. The 2008 jazz festival takes place from March through December. The 10-month fiesta offers performances by some of the greatest jazz performers in the world. Several venues will be open for the festival. Performances take place in the Palma Auditorium, Vellver Castle as well as free concerts in Palma’s – Majorca’s capital – main square. The island’s 300 and sometimes more of sunshine make it the ideal place for an extended festival of this sort.
Jazz saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis lends his soothing sounds to the festival this year. Kenny Barron, in trio with Kiyoshi Kitagawa and Francisco Mela, will also be appearing. The Mississippi Mass Gospel, Portea Jazz Band and Barbara Hendricks also have scheduled performances for the 2008 festival. The former bandleader of Return to Forever, Chick Corea, has a scheduled performance on November 11. Bassist Stanley Clarke, also formerly of Return to Forever has already taken his turn to delight the audiences. Former Miles Davis sideman Lee Konitz and free jazz bassist Charlie Haden also have scheduled performances for the jazz festival.
Diana Krall, recently named Best Female Vocalist at the 4th annual Canadian Jazz awards ceremony, will also be performing. The International Sa Pobla Jazz Festival also presents free jazz concerts in Palma during the two-week Alcudia Jazz Festival. Music enthusiasts from around the world will enjoy the wide array of performances throughout the year.
November sees the beginning of the opera season in Majorca. Three large opera performances will be held at the Teatre Principal in Palma, including Madam Butterfly. Young opera enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enjoy a concert and discussion session with the performers.
In addition to the variety of musical performances throughout the year, Palma has more art galleries than many other cities of a similar size. The third Thursday in September is a very special time for Palma’s art enthusiasts. Every gallery, museum and cultural center will remain open until late evening to offer a unique experience for art lovers.
Low cost airfares from many points in Europe to Majorca make it very convenient to attend your favorite performances. Planning your Majorcan holiday or arts-filled weekend has never been easier or more convenient. Many of the low-cost airlines offer multiple flights into Palma daily.
Locating hotels in Majorca and the capital Palma is simply a matter of taste. In historic Palma, visitors will find self-catering apartments and townhomes. Beach lovers will likely head for the hotels and resorts near one of Majorca’s many beaches. Those who are looking for a truly unique experience and privacy should look into renting an apartment or villa in rural Majorca. Many people visit Majorca for the beaches alone.
Rural Majorca offers an entirely unique holiday experience. The island’s interior is comprised of rolling hills and gently sloping valleys. Accommodation in rural Majorca include private villas and farmhouses. If you choose to find accommodation inland, renting a vehicle for the duration of your stay is highly recommended to get you out and about.

Travel Guru Guide to Majorca Holidays

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Guide to Majorca HolidaysLocation of Majorca

The Spanish Island of Majorca in the Mediterranean has been inhabited for many millennia, with inhabitations evident from as early as between 6000-4000 BC. The island was occupied by the Romans in 123 BC, and though hotly disputed by many countries in the intervening years, eventually came to Aragonian (Spanish) rule in the 11th Century, where it has mostly remained for almost 800 years. Island History

Because of the rich history of the island, there are many historical attractions on Majorca, such as Bellver Castle, Santueri Castle, Palma Cathedral, and El Diablo Castle, each with their own history and their own place in the stories that make up the past of the Island of Majorca. Not all of these castles are places of historical importance with a lack of modern perspective, however. The Spanish Royal Family has a summer palace on the island, and it is not unusual for them to spend their summer holidays in Majorca. Flying To Majorca

The main tourist airport on the island is Son Sant Joan, and it is a very modern airport on the southern side of the island near the capital city of Palma. Flying in, you can even see the incredible Palma Cathedral from the air, which is a sight that is not to be missed! The Island of Majorca is full of incredible sights and lots of great things to do, and has been one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world since the 1960’s because of the wonderful climate and the many attractions to suit all kinds of people. Attractions & Activities

There are all kinds of things for all kinds of people to do on a Majorca holiday, so if you are looking for lively and active adventures, check out the south coast of the island, where there is a hot nightlife and plenty of things for young people to become engaged in. Families might prefer venues like the Marineland dolphin and sea lion shows and the children’s beach.

Beach lovers will adore Majorca, as there are plenty of places to boat, surf, or just sunbathe all over the island. Get from place to place in cars or bikes, or check out the antiquated train that runs still from Palma to Soller and back again. There is no lack of historical interest on the island, either, and those who are interested can spend their entire vacation in museums and at historical points of interest. Majorca is a wonderful destination for people of all types.