May 20, 2013

Great Places To Shop In Palma

Whilst there are undoubtedly more places to shop on the Island, the real cream of the crop are all to be found in Palma. From well-known brands to new and one off shops, the capitol of Mallorca is the place to go.

One name that you will hear all over the island is Rialto Living, a former cinema turned lifestyle shop. With an amazing array of interior design, gifts, fashion, art, home décor and much more, as well as a charming café to recharge after a hard shopping session. Founded in 2007 by Klas Kall and housed in an iconic 15^th century building, this shop has had time to mature into a truly amazing shopping experience and a visually stunning one at that. Home décor is definitely where Rialto Living shows its excellence though, with a luxurious living room range featuring four different styles; the clean and fresh Hamptons, the elegant urban New York, the happy and brightly patterned Colourful European and finally, the natural, rustic Ethnic. The bedroom also gets a touch of elegance with a range of beautiful sheets in soft cotton, linen, cashmere and mohair. The bathroom is also treated with a glamorous assortment of accessories that will pamper and relax, such as fragrances from Penhaligon’s, Parfumeur, Byredo and Miller Harris. The décor and gifts are also fantastic, with a wide range of stylish, functional and fun essentials. With all of this and much more, Rialto Living is an incredible amalgamation of luxury brands, innovative ideas and beautiful products. If you have decided to stay in one of the Luxury Villas To Rent In Mallorca then you may find that many of the beautiful furnishings have been purchased at this fabulous store.

Set on one of Palma’s most exclusive shopping high streets, the Passeig del Borne, Hugo Boss spreads out over three floors, offering the latest collections for men and women from the brand’s three main labels; Boss Orange, casual and outdoor clothing, Boss Black, business and evening clothes and Boss Green, sports and golf clothing. The top floor is also home to a specialist tailors area ensuring you always have an immaculately fitting suit.

For a more relaxed, but no less special shop, Tree of Life is an absolute must. This exclusive boho-chic shop features brands such as Beatrice San Francisco, Spell and the gypsy collective, Charo Ruiz and Sugarhigh Lovestoned, all of which have clothes and accessories with a distinct hippie, surf and ethnic vibe, put together with the utmost taste and creativity. Not only are the products funky and eye catching, but the shop itself too, with its ethnic, beach hut atmosphere. Tree of Life is a real visual treat and a truly unique gem.

Desigual, a name everyone should know. With two shops in Palma and more spread out across the rest of the island, it’s easy to have a chance to visit this fantastic shop. Full of vibrant colours, eye-catching patterns and innovative designs, these are more than just clothes, they’re a work of art. Featuring clothes and accessories for men, women and children, there is something for everyone. Every season, the Desigual designers collaborate to create new and exciting clothing based around different concepts, the most recent of which has been the Cirque du Soleil inspired collection. This truly unique shop is a feast for the eyes and promises unique and fantastical clothing.

Loewe Gallery Palma is the ultimate showroom for Loewe and Bose home entertainment systems. The team in the showroom are experienced and dedicated, helping you to achieve the best possible combination of home entertainment systems. The powerful, intelligent and state of the art equipment ensures the ultimate television and sound experience that won’t disappoint.

All of these and more can be found in Palma, so start early to make the most of the day and shop till you drop.

Palma is clearly a place all visitors to the Island should enjoy at least once however if you have decided to opt for a Luxury Villa To Rent In Portals Nous then you are less than 10 minutes away from the capitol and could enjoy many excursions into this truly stunning city.

May 19, 2013

Eating Out In Puerto Portals

Puerto Portals is arguable one of the most glamorous places in Mallorca. With its plethora of high class restaurants, shops, bars and pubs, this stunning marina is a must see destination for the rich and famous, as well as everyone else. So for anyone looking for luxury villas to rent in Mallorca, this is one destination you do not want to miss.

Starting with Flanigan’s, an excellent Spanish restaurant, you can sample a wide and tantalizing selection of meats and fish, prepared using only the best and freshest ingredients. Favourite dishes include delicious Grilled Sea Bream (Dorada) and the succulent Veal Chop. The wine list is displayed on a large wooden board cut out of a wine box and features a variety of excellent Spanish wines as well as French, Italian and German. With all of this in its favor, Flanigan’s truly is one to visit.

Next door to Flanigan’s is Tristan’s, an absolute staple when it comes to elegant Michelin star cooking. However, it has recently overhauled its menu to focus on bistro classics set in a more relaxed vibe. This has done nothing to alter the quality of the restaurant though, and for anyone looking for a delicious meal of high quality, as well as a relaxed, elegant setting, then Tristan’s is not to be missed.

Yet another place on the “must visit” list is the famous Wellies. Owned by the larger than life actor Geoff Kenion, Wellies is an upmarket pub that offers excellent British classics including a full English breakfast in an all day dining setting. Wellies is an instant favourite to most who visit and the story on the menu is highly recommended reading, as it will explain the pubs logo and tug at the heartstrings.

If a totally casual atmosphere is what you’re after, then Diablito is the perfect option, with its fun, relaxed vibe and excellent food. Diablito is a pizza restaurant serving thin, crusty dough with a variety of delicious, fresh toppings. It also serves salads and tasty nibbles such as the fantastic nachos served with spicy chili and cool guacamole. The combination of great food and a relaxed, funky atmosphere makes this restaurant a favorite and one that definitely needs a visit.

Looking for something completely different? Then Victory is a great Shanghai restaurant on the second line of the port. With very reasonable prices and first class service, this is an excellent choice for those fancy some outstanding Chinese food. The classic crispy Peking duck with pancakes and hoisin sauce is a must have and won’t fail to satisfy.

And finally, no review of Portals would be complete without mentioning the unmissable Cappuccino, a Portals classic since the early days of the port. As you might guess from the name, Cappuccino serves truly excellent coffee, as well as a varied selection of wines, spirits and cocktails. Cappuccino is also a cafe/restaurant and serves wonderful salads, burgers, sandwiches and much more. The main selling point however, is the atmosphere. Relaxed and classy with first class service, Cappuccino will never fail to impress.

It is hard to imagine but this is only a fraction of the delights that Puerto Portals has to offer and this is really somewhere you have to experience for yourself. When it comes to accommodation there are numerous options with fine hotels and some fantastic apartments to rent. For those who demand more then there are a selection of Luxury Villas To Rent In Portals Nous and so I feel it is safe to say that Portals has something for everyone.

May 8, 2013

Best Restaurants and Tapas Bars in Mallorca

If it’s one thing Mallorca is known for, it’s great food, and the whole island is chock full of amazing restaurants and tapas bars that cater to all tastes.

One such place is the Son Moragues terrace and bar at the La Residencia hotel in Deia. Open to guests and non-guests, the restaurant is relaxed and serves food and drink all day, with a varied menu for lunch and a great gourmet tapas menu throughout the day as well as for dinner. With the choice of eating in the cosy dining room or on the pretty terrace that overlooks the sculpture gardens and the Tramuntana Mountains, the view is just as good as the food. Their afternoon tea is also a real treat, especially when taken out on the pretty terrace full of fragrant flowers and subtle lighting. The service is also impeccable and no matter whether you have lunch, drinks, tapas or a large meal, you will be well looked after and enjoy every minute. Anyone who has chosen a Luxury Villa To Rent In Puerto Andraitx are within striking distance of this wonderful restaurant.

Ummo is a great little restaurant and tapas bar in the shabby-chic areas of Santa Catalina in Palma which has won the main prize of TaPalma three years running, which should speak well of how good this place is. It’s small and personal atmosphere greatly helps the overall experience and is the perfect place for diners looking for a quick snack and drink before moving on to another place in traditional Spanish style. The tapas offered here are a far cry from typical patatas bravas, instead they are much more elegant and creative, whilst also being utterly delicious. The food is staggered, ensuring you always have something on your table but are not over faced and the service is fantastic. Ummo comes exceptionally recommended and with its amazing food and great atmosphere, it makes for an excellent meal. For those that have decided against a stay in one of the many fabulous hotels close to Palma and have instead chosen a Luxury Villa To Rent In Portals Nous then Ummo offers a truly memorable addition to the millionaire lifestyle.

For a touch of absolute luxury, Il Paradiso is a perfect choice. Nestled between the Bay of Palma, and the Marivent Palace, it exudes elegance. Valet parking starts off your visit before you are led into the stunningly ornate dining room, where you can either choose to remain for your meal or move out onto the terrace. The view this offers is wonderful and is easily one of he best dining terraces on the island, set high on a cliff with unrivalled views of the sea and the tranquil sounds of waves crashing against rocks. The food itself is not to be understated, focusing on Italian cuisine and doing it with the utmost success. The service is first class and you are always made to feel relaxed and welcome. Il Paradiso is simply stunning and provides an experience that is fit for a king.

In Placa Espana, where most of Palma’s buses and trains begin their journey, including the traditional wooden train bound for Soller, there is a fantastic modern restaurant called Tasca de Blanquerna. Owned by the Michelin-stared chef Marc Fosh, this chic bistro styled restaurant creates excellent local gourmet dishes. Eat outside on the pavement terrace or sit inside near the counter or open kitchen and watch as the chefs prepare your meal. Open from 1.00pm to 4.00pm, it is the perfect place to escape the mad hustle and bustle of Placa Espana, and then later from 8.00pm to 10.00pm, for a fantastic evening meal and drink. With great atmosphere, great food and great prices, this is definitely a restaurant to visit.

There truly are an uncountable number of great restaurants and tapas bars on the island, these being but a few, and there will always be one that’s just right for what you’re looking for.

May 6, 2013

Nightlife in Mallorca

Along with beautiful beaches and great history, one of Mallorca’s other most well known attractions is its nightlife. Ranging from the classy and sophisticated to the wild and reckless, the island certainly has no shortage of great places to spend a night out.

Probably one of Mallorca’s most famous nightclubs is Tito’s. Set in Palma just on the edge of the marina and established in 1950’s, this place has seen the likes of Liza Minelli and Frank Sinatra, as well as many other Hollywood greats. But alas, the days of these glamorous stars have passed, but it still sports amazing views of Palma’s bay and features famous DJ’s, dancers and even circus acts, as well as a fun glass elevator. Open until 6am, this bouncing club makes for a unique and exciting night out.

Many people stay in hotels when they visit the Island and often take advantage of the in house entertainment however if have chosen a Luxury Villa To Rent In Bendinat then Tito’s or indeed this next venue would be perfect for a visit.

Set in Son Caliu in Palma Nova, Pacha is three floors of VIP areas, terraces, restaurants and rooms of funk, house and chill-out music. Open every day until late and with a calendar scattered by a variety of parties, this club always has something to do and provides a great spot for dancing till dawn.

Barracuda is a long established club in Port d’Andratx, right by the harbour. This cool and classy club features a mix of national and international DJ’s who entertain the masses who congregate there. Whilst it focuses more on classic music from the 80’s and 90’s as opposed to brand new releases, this doesn’t stop people dancing the night away. It also hosts theme nights so those wishing to visit should always check their calendar. It opens every Friday and Saturday night from 11.00pm till 6.00am.

The Sunset Club is a brand new and exciting club in Palma, with originality, top service and fantastic premises. This new sensation isn’t just a club though, it is also a restaurant, both of which make it the newest hit meeting place. With amazing terraces that overlook the sea and a wide variety of music, this has a fresh, modern feel to it and those visiting should take the chance to dress to the nines. Open from Thursday to Saturday, 7.00pm to 6.00am, the décor, music and atmosphere make this an all round amazing experience.

It is utterly impossible to talk about Mallorca’s nightlife without thinking of Magaluf, the unrivalled party central of the island. This area of Mallorca is packed with clubs, bars and pubs, but the biggest name is undoubtedly BCM Planet Dance. With the ability to hold over seven thousand people over its two floors, the magnitude of this nightclub is not to be understated and you get to experience the ultimate clubbing atmosphere. To enter you are required to pay a one of fee that grants you access to the club and fifteen all-inclusive bars all night, as well as some free BCM gifts. In the main dance arena you will find Europe’s largest and most impressive 3D Tarm laser show with FX and sexy dancers on podiums, which coupled with the pounding music, creates an unbelievable and euphoric clubbing atmosphere. They also hold a huge variety of these nights such as the famous Foam Party, Water Party, UV party and the crazy Washing Machine Party. With all of this and more, BCM Planet Dance is a night of clubbing you will never forget.

Abraxas is one of those places where the setting and design of it really make it a privilege to visit. Set at the end of the Paseo Maritimo and overlooking Palma’s bay, this super glamorous nightclub seems to blend in with the rock it’s set against, stone steps leading to labyrinths of outdoor space. This beautiful club features waterfront terraces for chilling out, a VIP garden with Balinese beds and the main room, where light shows, go-go dancers and podiums can be found, set to a mix of trance, techno, house and funk music. The whole club as a whole is amazing, but if worth checking out simply for it’s setting and design.

These are just a few of the amazing clubs that are available and if anyone has chosen a Luxury Villa To Rent In Mallorca then it is important to venture out and try some of these great venues.

May 4, 2013

Best Golf Courses In Mallorca

One of the favourite past times on the island has got to be golfing. It allows players a chance to relax and unwind in beautiful settings, and allowing for players with all levels of experience to have a great time.

If you are looking for a Luxury Villa To Rent in Sol De Mallorca and are a keen golfer then you may be interested in the course at Andratx. Andratx Golf Course, opened in 2000 and designed by the famous Gleneagles, is one of Mallorca’s most difficult and challenging championship courses, with its eighteen holes that take you through the hills of South West Mallorca. The course has sixty bunkers full of the finest quality sand, seven lakes and fairly narrow fairways, making for a very interesting game. The marvellous location of the course allows for excellent views of the landscape and sea as you play and is well maintained. Buggies are included in the green fee and the clubhouse features a highly rated and recommended Italian restaurant.

Canyamel Golf course in the North East of Mallorca is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful courses on the island. Designed by Jose Cancedo, this eighteen hole course caters for all levels of player and both the stunning views and exceptional green makes this course a real delight.

Two eighteen hole courses make up the Son Antem Golf Club and are the masterpieces of one of Spain’s leading course designers, Francisco Lopez Segales. Son Antem has earned itself rave reviews from both professional golfers and those who play for fun. The par 72 layout of the East Course is set over an old hunting estate and is better suited to beginner and intermediate players. The par 72 West Course however, is much more of an exciting challenge for golfers of all levels, with tight fairways, three lakes and woodlands. Several major European golf tournaments have also been held here, including the Mallorca Cup and the Audi Quattro Cup and whichever course you play on, they will not disappoint.

10km North of Palma lies the Son Termens Golf Course, designed by Harris Group and Jose Rodriguez and opened in 1998. Very popular with the locals, this eighteen hole course has hilly fairways and small greens, as well as being noted as one of Mallorca’s more challenging courses. It also tends to be a bit quieter than some of the others on the island, so is the perfect place to play in peace whilst surrounded by beautiful scenery.

If you are looking for a Luxury Villa To Rent in Puerto Portals then another of Mallorca’s most beautiful courses has got to be the Son Vida Golf Club. Situated a few miles North West of Palma, this eighteen hole course offers breath taking views. It was also one of the first courses to be created in Mallorca by F.W. Hawtree in 1964 and renovated in 2001 by Kurt Rossknecht. With tight fairways, two water hazards, small round greens with bunkers on either side and doglegs that create a challenge for the more experienced player, this course is highly enjoyable.

May 4, 2013

Best Markets in Mallorca

When people visit the Island and stay in one of the many fine hotels then often entertainment is organised and close to hand. People staying in one of the many Luxury Villas To Rent in Mallorca need to find their own entertainment. For this reason we have decided to create a series of articles covering some of the rich history and beautiful things to see on this amazing Island.

One of the Islands greatest features has got to be its markets, with their rich, vibrant colours and bustling nature, selling everything from the freshest produce to art and trinkets. There are many markets spread all over the island and there is at least one on every day of the week, so finding one to visit is never a problem.

The market at Andratx is one of the oldest on the island and takes pride in its vast selection of fresh produce, beautiful flowers, clothes and much more. Open on a Wednesday from 8.00am to 1.00pm, it’s always recommended to get there earlier rather than later to avoid the midday heat and see the whole market. Andratx market can be found in the village rather than the port and no trip to the West of Mallorca would be complete without seeing this amazing market.

The charming market of Arta occurs on a Tuesday and a Saturday from 8.00am to 1.00pm and matches the town in its relaxed, friendly atmosphere and welcoming environment. It has an entire indoor food market selling fresh local fruit, vegetables and meats, whilst the outdoor stalls feature clothes, jewellery and local handicrafts. It may not be one of the biggest markets on the island, but its charm and character make visiting this market a great experience for anyone.

The market at Inca is another of the oldest markets in Mallorca, having held one from medieval times and with this tradition carrying on every Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 8.00am to 1.00pm. Focusing on what Inca is famous for, the market features the best leather goods, shoes, bags and belts on the island. However, there is still a huge variety of fresh fruit and veg stalls and on a Sunday, the indoor market opens up in a new avant garde building and holds stalls selling produce, spices, butcheries and bakeries.

Sineu holds a very special market every Wednesday and Saturday from 8.00am to 1.00pm. This market is the only one left on the island that features livestock being bought and sold. It also features local sourced fruit and veg from the nearby farms, meat and more, making for a really unusual and lively market.

Every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, an amazing market occurs in Llotja del Peix from 6.00am to 2.00pm where you can buy the freshest fish it’s possible to get. Every morning, the fishermen supply a huge amount of perfect seafood to the dock of Moll de Pescadors. The extensive selection available is amazing and it’s easy to see why the best fish restaurants all purchase from this market. Throughout this bustling, lively market you can see fishermen haggle back and forth with customers as they try and secure the best price for the prize catches.

There are many more markets on the Island, so no matter which day of the week or what you’re looking for, there will undoubtedly be a market perfect for you. They remain one of Mallorca’s best aspects and are places where you can really soak up the atmosphere of the Island and its people.

mallorcalifeblog

Luxury Living

Monthly Archives: May 2013