Thursday 21 August 2008

Majorca - One Size Fits All

Majorca is known for many things. World renowned beaches, shopping, historical attractions, traditional Spanish cuisine, an ardent love for partying... These are but a few of the aspects which Spain's largest island boasts of, for many of its visitors. Also, when thinking of a holiday, the sun, sand and sea in Spain; Majorca and all that it offers are one of the first things which come to mind!

The Hotels in Majorca are numerous and offer a variety of accommodation to cater to numerous classifications of travellers. From students and families, to singles and groups of friends, all the bases are pretty much covered. Majorca Hotels are also well spread to ensure that accommodation is available within easy reach of its main attractions.

A vacation to Majorca ensures that there is a lot to see, do and hear. Travellers will find that through the years and the expanding tourist industry, most of the towns have earned themselves a unique reputation. Majorca is divided mainly into around six regions; Serra de Tramuntana (the mountain range along the north west coast of the island), Palma de Mallorca (area around Palma), Pla de Mallorca, Raiguer, Migjorn and last but not the least, Llevant (famous for its beaches).

Bird watchers should note sites like S'Abulfera as it is home to varying species of heron, waders and ducks, along with the cliffs of Fortmenor where the rare Elenora's Falcon is sighted occasionally. Those interested in nature will also enjoy a visit to the drive-in safari park, historic gardens and the tropical park Jumaica. Quirky family attractions on the other hand include water theme parks such as Marineland and the House of Kathmandu. The shopping opportunities offered in the islands are also one of the most coveted aspects of a trip to Majorca!

For most of Majorca's tourist crowd which arrive during the summer, beaches are of utmost importance. The island's more famous beach stretches are to be found on the southern and eastern coast, and are a major hit with tourists. There are also several lesser known beaches which can be found-- minus a few amenities, such as parking. Some of the beaches come with water sport facilities as well and these include water sports such as diving, submarine trips, snorkelling and the likes. Notable beaches include the Magalluf Beach, the Illetes Cove and the Cala Mayor Beach.

Those not content with kicking back and catching up on their tans on the pristine beaches of Majorca need not worry. Sport enthusiasts will find many different recreational activities to keep their adrenaline pumping, such as cycling which is a popular sport. During spring, professional teams are known to frequent the island and it also hosts pro cycling events like the Euro Peloton. Majorca has also built itself a reputation for being home to world renowned golf courses, which are built to put both professional and amateur skills to test. Meanwhile, travellers looking for a more physical sort of challenge can try their hand at hiking the Serra de Tramuntana Mountain Range or opt to experience rock climbing above deep water.

The most appetising aspects of travelling to Majorca can be the authentic and deliciously unique cuisine the island offers. The main components of the islands traditional fare include; pork, seafood, garlic and olive oil. In most places, fresh ingredients are used to create gastronomic delights. Famous courses include seafood Paella, 'Tumbet' a mixture of vegetables and 'Frit Mallorqui'. Local sausages are also found in abundance and are made in many different ways. One dish in particular is a must have for desert and this is 'Gato de Almendras' which is almond cake served with toasted almond ice-cream.

The party life of Majorca is talked about the world over. Magalluf, which is also dubbed the 'British capital' of the island, is also the islands nightlife hub. That being said Palma de Mallorca has now raised itself to offer Magaluf some competition, in terms of attracting the partying crowd.

Drinking is not only restricted to the younger crowd. A lot of wines are consumed and those interested in wine tasting can visit a bodega for tours. The best known vineyards are found in the Binissalem region, between Palma and Inca. Spanish coffee is also tasty, with 'cafe solo' which is drunk like a shot of espresso to 'cafe con leche'-- coffee with milk.

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