Opodo have reported on some tours that might be of interest for those visiting the island between mid September and mid October:

People planning an autumn break in Mallorca this year will be able to learn more about their destination on two new guided tours.

The Balearic Tourist Board announced that it would be offering the itineraries in Palma from mid September to end October.

Visitors will be invited to see 29 different courtyards in the capital city, which are recognised for their architectural and historical importance.

The tours will feature ancient manor houses and other important buildings that are rarely open to the public, such as Can Bordils, which was rebuilt in the 13th century and boasts a number of renaissance elements.

Can Frontera was once a palace and now serves as a five-star hotel, while Can Berga features a courtyard that is accessed by a portal arch decorated with works by sculptor Joan Deya Berga.

Guided tours will be available six days a week and will start from Plaza de Cort and Casal Sollerich.

For hotels in Mallorca visit yourmajorca.net - they also have a Majorca map online.

Plaza de Cort

euroweeklynews.com report on more gay tourists holidaying on the island this year:

More than half a million gay tourists are expected to visit Mallorca this year reports reservasgays.com. This could have a positive effect on the island’s economy as the average gay tourist spends up to fifty euros a day more than a heterosexual one, and their visits are not limited to the peak summer seasons.

Juan Manel Ordinas, co-owner of the Pegasus Hotel, does not think that the figures are correct, “It’s certain that the numbers of gay visitors are increasing, but I think the numbers have been inflated.”

Gay tourism has seen a growth in popularity in Mallorca, and subsequently the island has seen an increase in the amount of specialist Mallorca hotels and services.  However the owners of Kfé cafe in Gomila in Palma have not seen a higher demand this year from their clients.

“There is less business than in previous years” said Tito, one of the owners of the cafe, although he doesn’t know if this is due to tourism or the fact that to be gay has become more socially normal “The reason why people go to specialist gay bars is because it feels less aggressive and more protective of values, to be gay is more acceptable these days and for this reason they do not need to go to specialist bars and clubs so much, they can diversify more”, explained Tito.

‘Gay Friendly’ bars don’t always need the rainbow flag to identify them, it’s the individual gay person who decides where they are comfortable and it doesn’t matter to them if the premises have been labelled ‘Gay Friendly’ or not”.

Kristin Hansen, the creator of Mallorca Gay Map is adamant that Mallorca has enormous potential as a destination for gay tourists. “Mallorca has a great choice of hotels from basic to luxury standard, as well as being on the routes for many airlines”, however Mallorca is yet to match popular gay tourist destinations Sitges, Ibiza and Mykonos.

“The problem comes from the mentality of the local people. They are not prepared to see men or women walking hand in hand in the street or kissing. Many homosexuals in Mallorca are still ‘in the closet’ for fear of not being accepted”, he said. Kristin believes that “The future of gay tourism in Mallorca lies in leaving behind the segregation of gay from straight in order for everyone to mix and not just using the specialist hotels, bars and clubs”.

Juan Manel of the Pegasus Hotel was not so sure. “It’s clear that there are tourists of every sort, and some would prefer to go unnoticed in regular hotels, but others actually prefer a homosexual environment”. A report stated that the majority of gay tourists preferred to go to places which were sympathetic to their sexual orientation. “If someone belongs to this group, and there is a specialised service for them, it’s the normal thing to choose it”. Juan Manel did not think that specialising in gay tourism created a ghetto either, “It creates a comfortable atmosphere for the client, that’s all. Religious, political and social factors will always exist that will make gay people feel uncomfortable, and we are many years away from a society where everyone can feel equal in establishments which are not specialised”, concluded Juan Manel.

For a Majorca map visit yourmajorca.net

The Balearic Islands of Mallorca and Ibiza are the best places for a fling, if you’re looking for holiday romance, according to a condom company.

Euroweekly news report:

MALLORCA is the second best summer destination to find holiday sex, with 35.9 per cent, while Ibiza took first place with 71.3 per cent. The study carried out by a condom company involving 2,000 men and women in Spain aged 18 to 25 reveals a general preference for the islands with Tenerife and the Canary Islands taking third and fourth position for favourite summer sex destinations with 29.7% and 26.7 respectively.

Top of the list also feature Valencia (23.3%), Cadiz (23.3%), Alicante (21.8%) and Cataluña (18%). But hard to get people from Málaga, Cantabria, Murcia and Almeria forced the lowest scores in Spain.

Contrary to popular belief 77.6 per cent of Spaniards admit that they have as much (or as little) sex in the summer months as they do in winter.

Sixty per cent admitted having had sex with someone they met while on holiday. Of these 7.3 per cent – the majority of these men – say they have done this with more than five people.

Almost one in two women claim they have never had holiday sex, while only a third of men concur.

More than a third of Spaniards have had sexual relations on the beach, but 15.2 per cent haven’t for fear of being seen.

http://www.trivago have recently revealed the top island holiday destinations so far for this summer, and Majorca is one of them. Trivago is worth visiting to check out hotel prices.

Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife, the number one destination for British travellers, is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, and also Spain’s busiest resort – the island receives 10 million visitors each year. The island’s crowning glory is the Pico del Teide, the third largest volcano in the world, which rises 3718 metres from the base of the island. From its peak, travellers have a remarkable view of the island’s 350km of coastline, tropical vegetation, volcanic craters and lava formations. Tenerife’s wild nature is undoubtedly the island’s best feature, but the island is also well known for its beautiful beaches. The island has a rich birdlife, and many travellers consider the bird park ”Loro Parque“ a mandatory stop. The Carnival of Santa Cruz – one of the world’s largest carnivals – takes place every year in February.

Cyprus
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and while many associate its name with historical and political divisiveness, millions of tourists visit the island each year for its spectacular sights and attractions. As a result of its turbulent history, Cyprus has evolved into an intriguing and alluring blend of Greek and Turkish identities. The Tomb of the Kings, a network of underground tombs dating back to the 4th Century BC, are one of the island’s most prominent attractions, and the island’s many medieval forts and citrus groves are beautiful to behold. The Karpas Peninsula is also renowned for its breathtaking beaches.

Majorca, Spain
Majorca is part of the Balearic Islands archipelago and is one of Europe’s most popular island destinations. The island is well known for its nightlife and numerous clubs and bars, particularly in the town centre of Playa de Palma and El Arenal. Visitors are drawn to the island’s turquoise blue bays, pristine sandy beaches, antique ruins and historical buildings, such as the Cathedral La Seu and the Palacio Real de la Almudaina in Palma. It pays to escape the island’s touristic heart and venture out into the wild, however; those who do will discover the true essence of Majorca, in the form of idyllic villages, local markets and the traditional Majorcan way of life.

Gran Canaria, Spain
Located 125 miles off the coast of West Africa, the Spanish island of Gran Canaria is often referred to as a mini continent, due to its many different climates. In the south, the climate is tropical and dry; in the north, it is subtropical and dry. The result is a glorious diversity of plant and animal life, giving nature enthusiasts plenty to explore during their stay. Hikers will also appreciate the 2,000 metre high Pozo de las Nieves mountain in the centre of Gran Canaria, which attracts climbers from around the world. Another of the island’s main attractions is the dune beach, located near Maspalomas, a town in the south of the island. Culture lovers should visit the capital Las Palmas in the north of Gran Canaria which has magnificent buildings, such as the Cathedral Santa Ana. Another highlight is the old fortress Castillo de la Luz that is currently used as a museum.

Lanzarote
Lanzarote is the fourth largest island in the Canary Island chain, and was the first of the islands to be settled in 1100 BC. At first glance, Lanzarote’s sparse, volcanic landscape may seem bleak, but for those willing to look a little closer, many amazing attractions are to be found. Lanzarote’s beaches are particularly well noted, and visitors to the Timanfaya National Park can witness the otherworldly beauty of the island’s volcanic craters and lava fields. Unique experiences abound; guests will certainly enjoy the park’s El Diablo restaurant, where food is cooked directly over a volcanic vent, or a trek through the ‘Tunnel of Atlantis’ – the world’s largest submerged volcanic tunnel.

Crete
The island of Crete is probably best known for its legends ties to Greek legends such as the Minotaur and the tragic tale of Icarus and Daedalus. The ruins of the Minoan palace of Knossos, of Venetian fortresses and former trading ports all point to the island’s rich history and cultural legacy. Yet this ancient island has much to offer the modern world as well: Cretan art, literature and music styles (typically performed with a lyre) are very distinct, and have contributed greatly to the diversity and evolution of Greek culture. Visitors to Crete would be remiss if they did not explore the island’s many ruins and heritage sites, and the island’s fresh produce and Mediterranean cuisine will provide a tantalizing treat for the senses.

Palma Majorca - Some Great Tapas Bars Are Here

The Guardian in the UK recently reviewed the best Tapas Bars in Palma - to see their top ten click here

The Tapas Club

Fifteen minutes’ stroll out of the centre of town lies the Portixol area; a once run-down fishing quarter that has been spangled up with renovated fishermens’ cottages, a smart hotel and a cluster of excellent restaurants around a small beach. In a prime spot at the far end of the beach, the Tapas Club offers cocktails and plates of tapas arranged artfully on the gleaming bar. If it’s too hot outside, lounge on the cushioned area inside, while ordering up mojito and mejillones (Spanish mussels) combos.

Paseo del Portixol, +34 971 248 604, Tapas from €3

Bodega Bellver

Tucked up a side street around the corner from the theatre, Bellver is about as far away from Palma’s gleaming 21st- century tapas bars as it’s possible to imagine. Dark and shadowy, with shelves lined with dusty bottles and wine barrels, and rickety wooden tables scattered around the small space, it is steeped in history, atmosphere and the smell of spicy pork frying on the tiny grill beside the bar. Order up icy beers and pinchos and settle into a slice of unchanged Mallorquin life.

• Calle Serinya 2, +34 971 247 96, Pinchos from €5

Bon Lloc

A veggie institution in Palma for 20 years, eating at Bon Lloc is also about what’s fresh and available on the day. The set menu is created according to what is available from the market in the morning, with three main choices and two desserts. Chef Juanjo Ramirez uses organic ingredients where possible to create dishes such as spelt and seaweed spaghetti, and polenta with tomato, rocket and coriander. Reservations essential.

• Sant Feliu 7, +34 971 781 617, lunch only, two courses, €13.50.

Tast

Popular with locals and always busy, this is an ideal place for a quick refuel if you’re on a shopping trip in the centre of town. Plates have coloured rims according to price and you can help yourself to the cold tapas on the bar, or order from the very reasonably priced menu of pintxos, tapas and raciones. Pintxos (small kebabs) are particularly good and the patatas bravas are crispy, hot and smothered in a chile-tomato sauce that is delicious.

• Calle Union 28, +34 971 72 98 78; tapas from €2

For a Majorca map including Palma visit yourmajorca.net

The tourist board have been busy promoting Majorca and the other Balearic Islands for mid August to end September holidays, with Opodo reporting:

People considering a late summer break this year have been offered a number of reasons to choose Spain’s Balearic Islands as their destination.

The tourist board representing the archipelago pointed out that one of the region’s main advantages is its weather, with 300 days of sunshine every year.

Beach lovers will be spoilt for choice in the Balearics, with Salines in Ibiza, Cala Pregonda in Menorca and Es Trenc in Mallorca among the seafront hotspots being recommended.

People who enjoy a bit of celebrity spotting will be in with a good chance of seeing some famous faces on the Spanish islands, according to the tourist board.

Michelle Obama recently visited Mallorca, while Kate Moss regularly enjoys breaks in Ibiza and Formentera and both Claudia Schiffer and Elle Macpherson own villas in the region.

Travellers who enjoy outdoor activities were encouraged to try some of the sports on offer in the Balearics, with both Majorca and Ibiza boasting an extensive network of cycling routes and most islands providing facilities to go scuba diving.

If you’re off on holiday to Majorca soon and it’s the first time with a toddler, we’ve found the airlines to be helpful and understanding.

Thomas Cook Holidays have come up with a guide that’s pretty good, and the Daily Mirror reported on it yesterday.

Flying with very young children can be a challenge - it’s frustrating for parents and other passengers when little ones play up.

Cabin crew at Thomas Cook Airlines have come up with the following tips to help families taking Majorca flights this summer…

COMFORT

When taking off and landing, give your baby a bottle or a dummy as this will help stop their ears from popping.

Be prepared if you’re travelling on a night flight. Some parents think their child will sleep but this often isn’t the case as the child is not in their usual environment.

Take a small blanket in case your child gets cold, as some Majorca flights don’t provide them for short-haul trips.

Nappy-changing facilities are in the aircraft toilets and there isn’t much room - dress your baby in clothes that are easy to get on and off.

Consider getting a baby sling for your journey. That way you can carry your tot and have two hands free for luggage.

Pack your child’s favourite snacks so you have food to hand if they want something to eat quickly.

If your child is having an inflight meal, be prepared with alternatives in case they don’t like what they’re given.

If you want to give them milk while flying, pick up some once through check-in/security as this is not often available on board.

Entertainment On Majorca Flights

Crayola’s Colour Wonder paper pad and markers are a great way to keep kids entertained. The pens only work on the special pad so you don’t have to worry about your child marking the seats or the walls of the aircraft.

Kids love presents, so wrap up lots of small surprises you can give to your child throughout the flight to keep them entertained.

Bring toys out one by one so that you can keep children entertained with each toy individually.

For more information about holidays with Thomas Cook Holidays visit their site.

They also do Menorca flights

The Sun has been to Mallorca Rocks, and report:

YOU’RE chilling on your hotel balcony, watching the sun set after a day of sizzling pool action.

And the best is yet to come - you grab a cocktail and prepare to enjoy top seats at one of the hottest gigs of the summer as the best bands around play just below your room!

Welcome to Mallorca Rocks - the coolest way to enjoy music and more this season at bargain prices.

The original, Ibiza Rocks, has been a favourite with celebs and now creator Andy McKay has opened a new budget hotel, bar and concert venue in Magaluf to offer young Brits another option for a music-soaked sunshine break from less than £112 a week. Over the summer, acts headlining at Mallorca Rocks include Dizzee Rascal, The Courteeners and Pendulum and all will be free for hotel guests.

I was invited to the sunny isle for the opening and was pleasantly surprised.

I had my doubts about going back to Magaluf ten years after my original visit as a wide-eyed, binge-drinking teenager.

But the planners have done a great job with the hotel, creating a clean and simple near-replica of the Ibiza Rocks resort. An enormous pool sits in the middle of a square of 12 apartment blocks, with a huge permanent stage for the gigs.

Rooms are basic-but-modern cool, with whitewashed walls and pop art prints. Most sleep four with a twin bedroom and sofa bed in the lounge. There’s also a kitchenette, maid service three times a week and either balcony or terrace.

The resort is a holiday destination in its own right, with three new bars, a restaurant and fashion store.

At the opening weekend gig some fans had to be turned away as the 2,000 capacity crowd, spanning 18 to 50, crammed in to see The Kooks.

Radio 1 DJ Zane Lowe and indie band Bombay Bicycle Club warmed things up before The Kooks’ Luke Pritchard launched into an energetic two-hour set.

Later Luke said: “I was chuffed to bits to be asked to open Mallorca Rocks. I’ve really enjoyed playing in Ibiza over the years but this feels like we’re on holiday.”

Mallorca Rocks is right in the centre of Magaluf and just 300 metres from the nearest beach, but there is plenty more on the doorstep if you fancy venturing out.

After a morning of sun worshipping by the pool, we caught a taxi to Camp De Mar Beach, a 20-minute ride away, for a paella and wine feast overlooking the Med at Resturante Illeta.

From there we headed to the capital, Palma, a further 15 minutes in a taxi, to catch a sunset harbour cruise. Back on dry land, we made straight for Palma institution Abaco.

This bar in the heart of the old town is part of a beautiful old mansion and features an eclectic interior as well as serving cocktails to die for.

Feeling slightly light-headed, we soaked up the view of glorious Palma Cathedral before stumbling upon a lovely tapas restaurant called Tast.

The next day we woke up bright and early to catch a two-hour ferry to Ibiza and a date with headliners Biffy Clyro - the first of 15 weekly gigs - at the original Ibiza Rocks hotel in San Antonio.

For photographs and to read the full article click here

For a Majorca map visit yourmajorca.net

Opodo report that Monarch has announced that it will launch new flights to Majorca and introduce additional services to Sharm el Sheikh and Gibraltar this year.

The airline will open its route from London Gatwick to Majorca, offering a total of three weekly connections to the island.

It already serves the popular summer holiday destination from Luton, Birmingham and Manchester airports.

Following strong demand for travel to Sharm el Sheikh, Monarch will operate an additional weekly flight from London Gatwick to the destination every Thursday between 9 September and 28 October this year.

Customers have also shown high interest in Gibraltar, which will be served by an extra weekly service departing from Manchester every Sunday between 12 September and 31 October.

Tim Jeans, managing director of flights for Monarch, said: ‘We have seen huge demand for seats to Sharm el Sheikh and Gibraltar this summer and have responded by adding these additional services to meet this demand.’

He added: ‘We are also delighted to be launching our first scheduled operation between Gatwick and Majorca in response to a surge in demand for the western Mediterranean this summer.’

Cheapflights Canada has compiled their top ten destinations for celebrities, and includes Majorca.

To read where else they consider to be celebrity favourites for holidays click through to them here

Meanwhile, this is what they have to say about Majorca:

Majorca, Spain: A favourite with German and British vacationers for decades, stars such as Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas, Boris Becker (the German tennis champ), Julio Iglesias (the Spanish singer), Antonio Banderas and Sting all vacation here.

Leonard Cohen played a concert in Palma last summer.

This year’s Wimbledon tennis champ Rafael Nadal was recently snapped enjoying the waves with his girlfriend (he hails from Manacor).

Away from the celeb spotting, “real” Majorca is wonderfully lush and hilly and the climate is just perfect.

For more details about Majorca holidays visit yourmajorca.net