Where exactly is it?
Named for Bez (not that one), the Greek god of music and dance, Ibiza (Eivissa in Spanish) is in the Mediterranean. The island was discovered over 3,000 years ago. Since then, it has welcomed Romans, pirates and ravers.
How do I get there?
Aer Lingus and Ryanair operate regular flights from Dublin to Eivissa Airport throughout summer. There are also ferries from mainland Spain and the other Balearic islands.
What language do they speak?
Eivissenc is Ibiza’s native dialect of Catalan. Catalan and Spanish are the official languages. English is widely spoken.
What’s the local beer like?
Isleña, the island’s only authentic beer, is a self-proclaimed mixture of ‘spirit and style’. Other Spanish brews worth sampling are Estrella Damm and Cruzcampo. They’re stronger than lagers served in Ireland. Be warned!
Other drinks?
As on the mainland, Sangria is ubiquitous. It’s fruity, refreshing and inexpensive. Cocktails are also popular and range in quality and price from high-end mojitos on the Sunset Strip to simple no-frills drinks along the West End. Jelly shots are a favourite on the West End and San Antoni. Playa d’en Bossa tends to be more upmarket, with vodka served by the bottle at sky-high prices in the likes of swanky new destination hotel Ushuaïa. Hierbas is a locally-produced 26% ABV digestif, which tastes like a less rocket-fuelled absinthe and has achieved cult status among visiting DJs.
What’s the transport like?
The island is extremely easy to get around. A highway connects San Antoni de Portmany to Ibiza town. Here you’ll find many of the island’s famous super-clubs including Pacha, Amnesia and Privilege. Word of advice; bargain hard with club reps for discount deals. Taxis are relatively cheap. Avoid the illegal hackneys.
What’s the food like?
Seafood is extremely popular. In general, eating out is much cheaper than in Ireland. Traditional Spanish dishes such as paella and tapas are popular. For authentic Ibizan dishes, try sofrit pages, greixonera and flao – a local cheesecake served with herbs and honey. Local foodies reckon on Es Boldado in Cala D’Hort being the island’s best eatery, with a €45 tasting menu that will knock your socks off! restauranteboldado.com
What’s the nightlife like?
A mecca for youth, freedom and hedonism, Ibiza is one of those places where you go in order to leave the world behind. Even the most relentless clubber should be prepared to have his/her stamina tested. San Antoni was the original hub of Ibiza’s nightlife. In recent years Playa d’En Bossa has stolen its thunder. Some of the island’s top spots such as Space and DC10 are minutes from Bora Bora beach.
Why should I go?
Ibiza is one of those places everybody should visit at least once. There really is something about the island which sets it apart and gives it its own unique identity.
What are the touristy things
to do?
Watersports are popular, from scuba-diving to sailing. Large parts of the island are UNESCO heritage sites, including the Ses Feixes lands north of Ibiza town. Ibiza also has a thriving fashion, arts and crafts culture.
Anything else?
From outdoor yoga on the pristine beaches to cocktails on the Sunset Strip, the island has something for everyone. It boils down to whatever you want from your stay.
Anything to avoid?
Illegal hackney cabs are rife and notorious for overcharging tourists.
What should I bring home?
Branded clothes from the various different clubs are popular keepsakes. Particularly sought after is merchandise from super-club Pacha and the Ibiza Rocks Hotel.
When should I go?
Summer in Ibiza begins with the opening parties in early May and finishes on a high note with the island’s famous annual closing shindigs in September. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, temperatures reaching an average high of 30 degrees.
What’s my challenge?
A quick trip off the beaten track reveals a whole other side to the island beyond the clubbing scene. Ibiza has a rich cultural heritage which the locals strive to keep alive with festivals such as the Eivissa Medieval Fair in May and the historic San Joan festival in June.
What’s the currency?
The Euro (€).
Something to remember…..
Watching the sunset is a popular daily ritual for both tourists and locals and an absolute must for any visitor.