Our visit was from Friday evening on the fast boat from Denia to Ibiza town. The crossing was smooth and although the boat was meant to cross the Med in 2 hours, it took 3 hours. The price for two returning on the slow boat on Monday evening was 225 euros, without a car, that will cost an extra 200 euros. The crossing lacks any outside seating or standing room, which makes it feel a little claustrophobic, but it saves people from falling overboard. Our host, Geoff was waiting for us on the dock side and he had invited us over for a chill out weekend away from work.
Geoff has just started a new business in Ibiza, supplying machines that dispense ‘Slush Puppies’ drinks. Those that are not old enough to remember ‘Slush Puppies’, they are a refreshing ice drink for children and adults and they make a great cocktail, once your favourite alcoholic, gin or vodka is added. The first stop was a local bar, to celebrate the start to our weekend with a few beers and gin and tonics. Geoff was accompanied by Bianca, who works with Geoff and has lived on the island a few years. We dined in a nice back street restaurant on rice dishes, lamb shoulders and two fish dishes.
Next day, we were driven around the island, by Geoff. He showed us the large discos, Space and Dimensions, they open their doors at 07.30h on Sunday, charge 70 euros entrance fee and 15 euros for a bottle of water. they hire the best DJ’s in the world and expect 20,000 clients in their first 24 hours, good money spinners.
The whole island is dotted with expensive flat roof, white villas, lovely bays with bars and restaurants, clean beaches and clear water. All of the promenades we visited, were well designed and thought out, they put Javea Arenal to shame, take note Javea town hall. Colourful paving, stylish balustrades, refreshing fountains and flower beds, made the island of Ibiza feel clean and friendly. Again, Javea counsellors, take a leaf out of Ibiza’s book and spend some tax payers money. Invest in some new materials to make the Arenal something special, something to be proud of. Its not rocket science, is it?
One of the best sunsets, can be seen from one of the many bays in Ibiza. Mambo’s bar is the place to be at 09.42h, just as the sun drops into the sea. Hundreds were gathered to witness this famous event. Para-gliders and water skiers adding to the specticle.
After the sunset we visited a local ristorante italiano, Il Vaticano, Calle Alemania5, Sant Antoni De Portmany. Tel: 971 34 17 60. I have had some mixed feelings about italian food and wines, but Il Vaticano, put my doubts to bed. The food was very, very good. The service and presentation of the food were excellent, the decor was beautifully finished. One of the many places worthy of a second visit, on our next trip to this party island of Ibiza!