Waohhhwe’re going to Ibiza…. This Venga Boys song from the late 90’s kept playing on my mind from the time I made a plan with me girlfriends to go to Ibiza. One always thinks of night-life and electronic dance music, which was supposed to have originated on the island and the summer club scene when the place Ibiza is mentioned. But interestingly it’s also the old town of Ibiza that is fascinating with magnificent views and terraces, meriting to be a UNESCO world heritage site.
Ibiza really does have something for everyone. The buzzing nightlife is legendary with the world-class restaurants and a great selection of bars. Ibiza has been in the forefront of Europe’s dance music and clubbing scene for at least 25 years now. You will also find a myriad of small boutiques, high-end fashion stores, shoe shops and all kinds of novelties. There are also art galleries, history museums and the pretty ancient citadel of D’Aalt Vila is a history lesson in itself. In the summer months, it is a great place to do some celebrity spotting. I guarantee you will be never be stuck for something to do.
Where
It is an island in the Mediterranean sea off the coast of Spain. It is part of the Balearic islands, which is an archipelago of more than 50 islands, mostly uninhabited. Its pristine waters and picture-perfect scenery make it one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
How to get there
The best way to get to Ibiza is through flight from Europe. It has an international airport and usually numerous flights from Barcelona or Madrid. It can also be reached by ferry from Majorca, Valencia, and Barcelona.
Weather
Ibiza has a hot summer Mediterranean climate. The temperature during the year varies from 15 to 30 degrees, mild throughout the year. The climate is typically warm, sunny and dry, with minimal variations between highs and lows.
Best time to visit
The best time, of course, is spring and summer(May to October) when there are no rains and the sea is warm and inviting. November to April are the rainy months, but not very heavy and the coldest month is January, again extreme temperatures are rare because of the influence of the sea.
Shop For
Ibiza is famous for its markets, craftwork as well as cosmopolitan and multicultural character. Ceramics, pottery, clothing, souvenirs, gifts, and handicrafts are the most popular things to buy. Hippie markets are also the in-thing here, most famous ones are in Santa Eulalia. Being an island holiday destination, beach-wear is very popular too, especially the Adlib fashion; the hippie- boho style of skirts and maxis (mostly in white) is the unique fashion and clothing of the island.
Eat Here
Both local specialties and international favorites are popular in Ibiza. A pork delicacy unique to the Balearic islands is well worth trying, Sobrasada is a kind of cured sausage akin to chorizo, made with soft ground pork seasoned with paprika. For a delicious and authentic main course try bullit de peix, a fish stew served at local restaurants around the island.
Although the island is relatively small, it is packed with attractions and things to do for everyone, one could be a lone traveler ora romantic couple or a group of friends or a family or part of the LGBT community or a follower of art and culture, you can always find what you are looking for in Ibiza.
It is tranquility before the sun goes down and post that whatever party frenzy one can imagine.
