An Island of Contrasts - Why You’ll Fall in Love with Ibiza

[Cynthia Madison]

 

Who hasn't heard about the nightlife in Ibiza? People partying until the morning, the sun beautifully shining above the crystal-clear water – all the elements of this mesmerizing place make people add it to their travel journal in an instant. Even though Ibiza is mostly known for the wild parties that last two days and nights in a row, this island is one described by contrasts. If you’re just looking for a relaxing morning, enjoying sunbaths next to beautiful palm trees and calm waters, a holiday in Ibiza can suit all of your preferences. Because of the many activities, you can choose on this island, Ibiza is one of the most visited places in the world.

This island is located in the Balearic Archipelago, and is geographically a part of Spain. The language mostly spoken is Catalan, but since so many visitors are coming and going you’ll do just fine speaking English. The city of Ibiza is the capital of the whole Island, being the main attraction point. Not many people know that Ibiza is now protected by UNESCO, meaning that you will be surrounded by the cleanest beaches and the kindest locals. The climate is favorable during spring, summer and autumn included. Anyone who wants to visit Ibiza should first think about booking flights. Considering that it is a popular destination, there are low chances to find a last-minute plane ticket during the most crowded season.


Tourist Attractions

Of course, the very first thing that visitors want to know about would be the activities and visiting opportunities they have at a certain location. The main places you should visit in Ibiza include:

The Church of San Rafael

Taking a stroll downtown in Ibiza is inevitable. Choose a relaxed morning and visit the Church of San Rafael, one of the tourist attractions available on this island. Immediately after you’ll reach the center’s main street, you should see the wonder building – a white church built in 1786, as an order of the famous Bishop Abad I La Sierra. What’s interesting about Iglesia de Sant Rafael (the church’s original name) would be its atypical structure. It doesn’t look like any other churches you’ve seen, so seeing it in real life is surely worth it.

Café del Mar

One cannot visit the island without sipping a cocktail at this venue. It first launched around 1980 and maintained its reputation alive until today. The idea of a sunset bar was later developed by other venues in Ibiza as well, but Café del Mar remains a classic. No matter you’ve been visiting Ibiza before or you’re a first-timer, visiting Café del Mar is mandatory.

Posidonia Oceanica

Ibiza is also called The White Isle. Posidonia Oceanica is widely known as Neptune Grass and it is an endemic species that lives only in the Mediterranean Sea. It grows very slowly and is now protected by the Government. It is responsible for the amazing looks of Ibiza beaches and it would be a shame not to go scuba diving. Many scuba diving centers make swimming among the “flor de Posidonia Oceanica” possible.  It’s an experience you won’t forget any sooner.

Dalt Vila

Dalt Vila is the focal point of Ibiza’s architecture. Dalt Vila means the High Town and it is called this way because it’s placed within fortified walls, up above Ibiza’s historical center. It is also protected by UNESCO and the pictures you’ll take up there are mesmerizing. The spectacular view, along with the art and cultural details at Dalt Vila can offer you a full traveler experience. Don’t miss it by any chance!

Es Vedra

Ibiza hosts different locations that are worth visiting. One of these locations is the smaller island, Es Vedra. This place looks like a huge rock in the middle of the water, standing at almost 500 meters high. The story behind Es Vedra is that it nearly as magnetic as the Bermuda Triangle. However, Es Vedra is a safe place and you’ll start feeling magical the immediate moment you reach it.  

Es Caná

From a completely different angle, Es Caná is a lively place in Ibiza, where visitors can try daring experiences like water skiing, parasailing or windsurfing. Es Caná is the perfect location for people who want to fill their vacation with plenty of daytime activities. The sunny beaches, the clear seas, the chill-out bars and friendly locals are there to make the ambiance as perfect as possible. Es Caná hosts a relaxed beach, ideal for families or couples who are looking for a city getaway.

Accommodation and costs

The prices here are comparable to other locations in Spain. Most part of the money you’ll be spending goes on accommodation, but if you book a villa in Ibiza early enough, you are going to get some reasonable deals in exchange for great quality services. Location is very important, and it depends on your holiday’s purpose: in case you want to relax, stay away from the noisy areas of the island. Otherwise, check villas that are close to the places you want to visit frequently.

When it comes to food, the prices are a bit different compared to locations such as Valencia or Madrid. Giving the fact that it’s an island, higher prices are quite normal. You can get the menu of the day for under 10 euros while one tapas serving would cost around 10-15 euros. As for drinks, you can get plenty of beer with less than 2 euros and fancy cocktails with 5 euros. Beach-bars are even cheaper when it comes to drinks, but restaurants are more expensive. Don’t forget to book a table instead of looking for a free one, because the chances to are low. Ibiza is full of visitors, especially during summer, so prices might change, but not drastically.