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TRAVELLERS’ NEEDS
ENTERTAINMENT IN THE BALEARIC ISLANDS Ibiza is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s most entertaining place. This is no doubt due to the number of nightclubs, bars and pubs packed into this small island. The other islands of the archipelago also have plenty of entertainment on offer and there are many clubs, concerts and shows to choose from. The range of entertainment
available to visitors is much wider than this, however. At the height of the holiday season, the larger resorts open up casinos, concert halls, cinemas and theatres and also organize folklore, theatre and cinema festivals. On top of this, and perfect for the kids, are the many aquaparks and other amusement parks found on the islands.
and guided tours often require advance booking, too. The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting a ticket. However, in many cases, tickets are only sold a short time in advance. If you are unable to book tickets in advance, and are staying in a hotel, the reception will often be happy to do the booking for you. Admission to many open-air events is often free. Shelves of the many liqueurs on offer in a shop
Information It is a good idea to find out what is on offer before you leave, as local tourist information offices may not always have details of forthcoming cultural events, particularly if they are held in another town. The Internet has a wealth of information on concerts, amusement parks and festivals and may sometimes include first-hand accounts of particular attractions. Current details may often be found in the local press. Keep your eyes peeled, too, as many events are advertised on posters. Other valuable sources on what is happening are hotel reception areas.
Earlier in the evening you can visit bars and pubs. For those people who do not fancy the nightclubs, there are also casinos and many venues that put on artistic programmes.
Music and Theatre
Despite appearances, the cultural life on the Balearic Islands is not limited to pubs, clubs and religious festivals. Classical music, opera and theatre Nightlife are all very popular with the Nightlife flourishes locals, particularly on the islands. on Mallorca and Ibiza is particularly Entry ticket to Jardines d’Alfàbia Menorca. Theatres famous for it (see and opera houses pp124–5), but can be found in the larger towns. Mallorca also has many Their repertoire includes mainly nightclubs (discotecas). The modern Spanish drama and clubs usually open their doors there are frequent performances between midnight and 1am by visiting theatre and opera and many remain open all companies from mainland night. Admission to the most Spain, as well as from other famous and fashionable places in Ibiza and Mallorca is relatively European countries, including Germany, Italy and the UK. expensive. Lesser-known The leading theatres are the venues tempt guests in with various gimmicks or free drinks. Teatre Principal in Palma and
Booking Tickets Tickets to some of the major nightclubs in Ibiza, such as Amnesia and Privilege, can be booked before you go on holiday, over the Internet or by telephone. The same applies to concerts and music festivals,
Tourist information office in Sant Antoni de Portmany, Ibiza
