Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Spain / Balearic Islands / Ibiza
 |  | Destination Guide : Ibiza |
|
| | | Sunshine isle |  | Why go on holiday to Ibiza?
Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands, off the east coast of Spain. Most people choose to visit for the brilliant weather, fine beaches, Spanish culture and, of course, the nightlife.
But despite its reputation, tourism hasn't completely taken over the island; you'll still find reminders of the past - Gothic cathedrals, Stone Age ruins, olive and orange groves and unspoilt fishing villages, especially if you go off-season.
How much does it cost?
Prices fluctuate a great deal on this popular island. As a guide, self-catering deals are from around £250 for a week, risings to £400 or more in summer. A week's half- board in a hotel in July is around £600.
Flights only are from £130 and it's relatively easy to find accommodation in hostels on arrival off-season (average price £30 per night for a basic double room), but advance booking is always advised in the height of summer.
When should I go?
Summer is silly season, when crowds of Europeans descend on Ibiza to enjoy the beaches, bars and clubs. At this time of year temperatures can reach 86F (30C).
So if you don't mind crowds or if you're there for the nightlife, then July and August are the times to go.
However, if you arrive in May-June and September-October you'll find the weather is still good and you won't have to deal with crowds of drunken holidaymakers.
Most hotels and other tourist-oriented businesses close down from November to April, but if you can find somewhere to stay, winter is a good time for relaxing and exploring the countryside, although the weather won't be fine enough for the beach.
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Party till you drop |  | What should I do when I'm there?
Go clubbing. Ibiza is renowned for its nightlife and is the home of outrageous "superclubs" which stay open till dawn and where punters can dance naked, romp around in foam and enjoy bizarre stage acts.
Of course there are also lots of more run-of-the-mill clubs and bars and thanks to the diversity of the venues on offer, this island attracts a huge mix of hippies, gays, straights, fashion victims, nudists and package tourists.
What are the beaches like?
Beaches on the islands are beautiful, but many are spoilt by high-rise hotel developments. It is possible to find off-the-beaten-track beaches, especially off-season, but in the height of summer you won't be doing much solo swimming.
What if I want to soak up a bit of culture?
Near D'Alt Vila, the old walled town with its arched gateway, is the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, which features changing exhibitions of contemporary art. Also in this area is the cathedral which dates from the 14th century.
Anywhere else I should see?
Sa Penya, the old port, is one of Ibiza's most interesting areas as there's always something going on, day and night. Crowds promenade along the harbour and narrow streets and it's a great place for hanging out and people-watching.
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Warm welcome for kids | | Where's good for nightlife?
During the summer, Ibiza is a continuous party and the Sa Penya district is packed with bars which stay open till the early hours. If you're still standing you can go on to clubs which stay open till dawn and beyond - check out Pacha, Kiss and Space.
You might have to save up though, because the entrance charges are between £10-£25 and drinks don't come cheap either.
What's the food like?
Full English breakfasts and fish and chips are hard to avoid in the more touristy areas, but if you venture further afield you'll find delicious local food such as seafood, paella and tapas on offer.
What should I buy?
Sa Penya, in Ibiza, is crammed with dozens of funky clothes shops, and is also home to the hippy market where you can pick up anything from cheapo T-shirts to local arts and crafts.
What is there for children to do?
Spanish culture is child-orientated, so there is no problem taking children into bars, restaurants, etc (as long as they behave themselves!).
Some tour operators provide children's clubs in the bigger hotels where parents can deposit the kids and head off out for the day. Otherwise, there is an endless supply of beaches, parks and festivals in most towns where children can amuse themselves.
Tourist office
Spanish National Tourist Office, 22-23 Manchester Square, London W1M 5AP. Tel. 020 7486 8077. Brochure line: 09063 640630 (60p per minute).
|
|
|
|
|
| | Available rental properties in Ibiza |
|
| |  | | Casa Alegria
5 Bed House nr Sta Eularia Ibiza,sleeps 12 max,air-con,pool,gardens,2 beach's 300 mtrs. NEWLY REDUCED PRICES ON AVAILABLE WEEKS
|  | | Casa Alegria-Apartment(included if renting 3523)
2 Bed/ 2 Bath Air-con Apartment.Sleeps 4..Large roof terrace/BBQ oven.Shared pool & gardens,Niu Blau/Cala Pada beach location.Sta Eularia 2km.NEWLY REDUCED PRICES
|  | | The Beach House (formally Es Figueral)
Beautiful 4 bed/ 2 bath house in Ibiza nestled in a nature reserve 3k from San Carlos. Fantastic sea views.Walking distance to 2 magnificant beaches.
|  | | Can Guillem
4 bedroom fully renovated country house sleeping 8,in glorious countryside nr Sant Carles/Sta Eularia. Large pool and private grounds. Air-Con.
|  | | Casa Noria
A beautiful two-bedroom house with pool, set in peaceful pine clad hills with colourful mature gardens.Close to Cala Llonga beach and village.
| | Click here for more properties... |
|
|
|
|
|
|
