Food & Drink
The varied local cuisine includes rabbit, a wide selection of seafood and pork dishes, Mahón cheeses from Menorca, numerous locally grown fruits and vegetables. Dishes include Mallorcan ensaimada (light, sweet pastry roll), Ibizan flao, graixonere de peix, tumbet, escaldums of chicken, sobresada, Mallorcan soups, and mayonnaise, the famous culinary invention from Menorca.
The islands have plenty of good wines and aromatic liqueurs, such as palo, which is made from locally grown St John’s bread (carob beans) and frigola. Imported alcoholic and soft drinks are also widely available throughout the islands.
Nightlife
There are numerous nightclubs and discos, especially on Ibiza, some with open-air dancefloors overlooking the sea, floorshows, live bands and orchestras. There are also many cinemas, theatres, concerts and art exhibitions.
Approximately 18km (11 miles) west of Palma, in the town Magaluf, there is an elegant casino with a very large restaurant.
For the very latest news on the local nightlife, and details of current events, artistic and cultural, consult the local English-language newspaper, The Bulletin.
Shopping
On the Balearic Islands, there is a strong tradition of craftmanship. Purchases include furniture, hand embroidered works, handpainted ceramics, carved olive-wood panels, wrought ironwork, glassware, items made from raffia and palm leaves, handmade shoes, the famous pearls made in Mallorca and other costume jewellery from Menorca.
Shopping hours: Monday-Saturday 0900-1300 hrs and 1630-1930 hrs.
Social Conventions:
Spanish life has undergone rapid change in recent years and many of the stricter religious customs are giving way to the more modern ways, particularly in the cities and among young women.
Nonetheless, many old customs, manners and traditions have not faded and hospitality, courtesy and chivalry remain important. Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed when visiting someone’s house. If invited to a private home, a small gift is appreciated. Flowers are only sent for special celebrations.
Conservative casual wear is widely acceptable. Some of the hotels and restaurants encourage men to wear jackets. A black tie is only necessary for very formal occasions and is usually specified if required. Outside resorts, scanty beachwear should be confined to beach or poolside.
Smoking is widely accepted. The evening meal is taken late, generally 2100 hrs-2200 hrs. The Spanish have two family names, in conversation only the first should be used.
Tipping: Service charges and taxes are usually included in hotel bills, however in addition, a tip should be left for the chambermaid and porters should be tipped per bag. It is also customary to leave a tip for the waiter. Restaurants often include service in the bill so a tip is discretionary. In cafes and bars, it is 5 to 10 per cent. Tip taxis 10 to 15 per cent when metered. |
