Renting a holiday villa in Ibiza only has advantages. And the island, besides offering beach and party, has a lot of attractions: magical spots, sunsets, an excellent climate 365 days a year and the charm of its people. Do you want to know more?
The advantages of renting a holiday villa in Ibiza
The island is one of the most in-demand places for visitors from around the world, a magical place, thanks to its combination of avant-garde and tradition. What advantages does renting a holiday villa in Ibiza have?
Its beaches
First of all, Ibiza is characterised by its wonderful nature. Coves and dreamy beaches of turquoise and transparent waters. Among the most popular coves are Cala Saladeta or Cala Gració, in the San Antonio area. Cala Molí, Cala Carbó or Cala Bassa, in the San José area.
And in the Santa Eulària area you have Cala Martina, Cala Llonga or Cala Lleña. If you want to enjoy the most natural area of the island, Cala Xarraca or Cala Xuclar in the San Juan area ideal for snorkelling and Diving.
Its hippy markets
In addition to its wonderful coves, Ibiza is known for its hippie markets. The most important ones are the Punta Arabímarket in Es Canar andLas Dalias in San Carlos. The island also has many traditional markets with artesan products and local vegetable and fruit produce..
Open-air film screenings are held, such as the Movie Nights in Amante at the Amante Beach Club or the Cinema Paradiso Ibiza, with projections in the Baluarte de Sant Pere. Highlights include the showings of classic films that take place in the town of Sant Jordi. You can also enjoy a traditional cinema at the Multicines in Ibiza Townor the Cine Regio in San Antonio.
Its music and theatre
If you are a lover of music and theatre, enjoy live music at Sa Questió or in the Can Jordi Blues Station, the events organised by the Can Ventosa Cultural Centre, the shows of the Palacio de Congresos de Ibiza or the Teatro España. If you are renting a holiday villa in Ibiza, do not miss some of these activities.
Do you need more encouragement to visit Ibiza? What are you waiting for to rent your villa in Ibiza? Contact us today to help you plan your perfect holiday.
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Prestige Properties: your best real estate option in Ibiza
Living in the countryside, surrounded by nature, and incorporating a more sustainable lifestyle has never been a more desirable life choice, than this year 2020, since the start of the pandemic.
From the summer of 2020 and onwards, the media have been reporting the consistent interest of the general population to escape from the globe’s busiest cities and to return to the countryside, whether in the short or long-term. People have been actively fleeing overcrowded cities, noise, and pollution, and alternatively seeking a drastic change, with life out in the open, in quiet and sparsely inhabited spaces; all to be as far away as possible from the adverse effects of the virus.
One of the main benefits of living in the countryside is the purity of the air. The reason is very simple, the low volume of vehicles and environmentally damaging components mean air pollution is low. In fact, a study by the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs reveals that people living in the countryside have fewer respiratory problems due to this very reason.
Personal well-being and the practice of "Slow Living" is also a key benefit of countryside living. A lifestyle that invites individuals to become more aware of themselves, achieving a greater connection with Mother-Nature, and ultimately appreciating all that is good and beautiful in their surroundings and daily lives.
Imagine the scent of a wild rose… Or the sound of goldfinches singing and fluttering around at sunset… In practicing mindfulness, we learn to appreciate the beauty of nature and the multiple benefits of the rural world, developing an inherent sense of gratefulness, which is said to increase happiness and general well-being. Through slowing down and developing awareness, we ultimately improve our mental health and prevent disorders such as stress and anxiety.
Adapting to a "slower" lifestyle can initially feel difficult and the change quite abrupt. However, when considering our sensory dependence on the over-stimulation generated through contact with the city, initial ‘teething-periods’ and uncomfortable feelings are to be expected. Research demonstrates adaptation is usually quick and brings about very positive long-term changes, including an increase in energy due to the improvement of the quality of sleep, and its effectiveness in repairing and restoring cells to optimal health. In fact, in the United Kingdom and Ireland, doctors have begun to integrate into their prescriptions the idea of going for walks in nature as a measure to alleviate stress and improve mental and physical health.
In July of this year, Esquire Magazine talked about ‘The New Ibiza’, in which it drew parallels with the Ibiza of the ´80s, where visitors flowed with the breeze and to the rhythm of the New Age sound of Sade, connected with nature and its artistic sensitivity. Maybe some of you still remember?
Living in the countryside: The village of Buscastell, Ibiza
Today, we wanted to introduce you to one of the "healthiest" and most natural villages on our island: Buscastell. This small village of about 1,000 inhabitants, located between San Antonio and San Rafael, in the center-west of Ibiza, is the picture-perfect setting for those interested in the benefits of living in a rural setting.
Buscastell is an agricultural area with five square kilometers of fertile and cultivable land, distributed across beautiful Ibicencan terraces on different levels, and, not to mention, where the spring of es Broll resides, the most important aquifer of Ibiza. The feeling here is one of absolute peace and tranquillity.
Amongst the orchards, the murmur of the water coming from the torrent follows its course with small rises, passing pools, and numerous canals and ditches whose origins date back to the period of Arab domination.
It is here in Buscastell, where the prestigious architect Jaime Romano, created one of his most renowned projects: Villa Natura Buscastells. The property is the perfect blend of an authentic estate with all the modern comforts for contemporary living.
This property for sale has a fertile 80,000 m2 plot of land, with enough space to have your own vegetable allotment, and even start a new business venture, using the area’s natural resources in a sustainable way.
The gardens are filled with flowers, plants, fruit trees, and a large vineyard as well as boasting an impressive 20-meter infinity pool, with plenty of chill-out spaces and outdoor showers.
The 450 m2 house is located in the southern part of the plot. From the main room and all of the bedrooms, the views overlook the wondrous valley in front. The spacious living room and dining room linked with an open-plan approach and huge sliding glass doors connecting the internal and external areas. The kitchen is certainly one of your favourite spaces, perfectly equipped for authentic Ibicencan and homemade cooking.
Villa Natura Buscastells also has a total of four spacious and luminous double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The Master is an outstanding room with views over the valley and sliding glass doors that can be hidden into the walls, creating a unique open and infinite feeling with the great outdoors.
If your dream is to be able to live with your family in Buscastells, don’t forget that the small village also has a public rural school for Infants and Primary School. And if you want to practice sport, there are also many routes and paths for hiking and cycling in the area.
We want to promote the continuous journey of improving health and quality of life! Everything can start with a simple step; exchanging your busy city lifestyle for a country home on the wonderful island of Ibiza could be the first one to take.
Interested in knowing more about the Municipality where Buscatell resides, San Antonio de Portmany? Then check out our in-depth guide and property article here.
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All against the fire in Ibiza!
Prestige Properties with the Campaign for the Prevention of Forest Fires 2018
According to sources of the "Conselleria de Medi Ambient, Agricultura I Pesca", in 2017 there were 95 forest fires that burned 168.1 hectares in the Balearic Islands; of which 71% in Mallorca, 17% in Formentera, 11% in Ibiza and 1% in Menorca. Negligence and accidental causes have caused 58% of the claims, while intentional fires have been approximately 20%.
This 2018, the Government has reinforced the Fire Protection System for this summer season in Ibiza. This campaign began on May 1st and will continue until October 15th due to the high risk of fires throughout the Balearic Islands, Ibiza and Formentera will see their capacity to prevent and fight fire increased.
Therefore, Prestige Properties has proposed to participate in the prevention of forest fires of our beloved island with this announcement of prevention and self-protection of forest fires:
In addition, we want to offer a Forest Fire Prevention Guide addressed to the owners of the Fincas within the forest or near them, which you will find in the following link: Forest Fire Prevention Guide
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Blakstad architectural history: The Traditional Ibicencan Finca
The traditional "Casa Ibicenca" essentially conformed to a broad room [porxo] that has an entrance on one long wall and a succession of rooms opening off the other three walls. The porxo was used as a living room and work place. Little chairs were lined up against the walls and a table set on one side. If needed, the table was moved to the centre of the room and chairs set around it. This gave the room adaptability for various activities. Windows in ancient Ibicencan houses were very small and did not contain glass. They were not used primarily for light, but for air; light, and warmth generally came from the south-facing front door. Here you could see farmwomen shelling almonds, embroidering or spinning wool. The farms themselves differed from those on the other Balearic Islands, in that they were generally smallholdings. Although these were self-sufficient, the families on them relied on the help of their neighbours for the olive harvest, or on matanza day.
These houses were built and rebuilt well into the mid-twentieth century, using the biblical ‘long cubit’ [approximately 52.5cm], a unit of measurement introduced along with the architecture by the Phoenicians. There is virtually no evidence of Hellenistic, Roman or Islamic influences of any importance in the basic design elements of a rural Ibicencan house.
The cultural invasion of the island has changed the agricultural-based economy to one of tourism, making continuity with the past next to impossible. Basically, it has rendered many traditions irrelevant today."
In 1956 Rolf Blakstad came to Ibiza from Canada and was so impressed by the city he found when arriving at the port that he barely left the island since then. The little houses in Dalt Vila, the people in the street, the nearness of the manners… As he himself said:
"The whole city, even the streets, had the informal air of a living room shared for everyone. We did not feel as foreigners"
Once Ibiza was established as his permanent residence, Blakstad started to study the rural houses and the traditional building techniques while he developed a deep respect and fondness for the Ibizan culture and its natural environment. It’s in Ibiza where he starts his work in the field of architecture, restoring rural houses and, lately building new ones inspired by the millenarian "casa payesa" (traditional Ibizan rural house). Soon, his sons became part of his projects and, nowadays, they are the ones that keep running the architecture studio in Ibiza.
Ibiza, November 2017
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5 Romantic restaurants in Ibiza : Prestige Recommends
Ibiza, often hailed as the island of love, undoubtedly offers an enchanting setting that has all the ingredients for a romantic escape, making it an ideal destination for couples. If you’re seeking to surprise your partner with a magical evening, Prestige Properties has curated a list of five of the most romantic restaurants in Ibiza that will undoubtedly leave you both spellbound.
Although some of these charming establishments may close during the winter, fear not, as others such as Sa Capella, La Brasa, and Can Berri Vell provide the perfect ambiance for a romantic winter night.
La Brasa. For those seeking a romantic setting, this restaurant is an absolute classic. With a carefully chosen and varied menu boasting a huge emphasis on Mediterranean cuisine, you’ll find this lovely restaurant in the old quarter of Ibiza. Worth booking a table on the terrace even in winter, as its heaters always keep you warm. – Ibiza town
Can Berri Vell. Feel more ibicenco in Can Berri Vell. A place wrapped with tradition, charm and typical delicacies elaborated with innovative techniques. Do not forget the camera. We assure you that the first thing you want to do when you arrive is to immortalize the beauty of the place. – San Agustin
Restaurante Amante. Locked away in the stunning natural setting of Sol d’en Serra bay, Amante is another of those restaurants on the pricier side which deserves at least one visit, so as to enjoy that which surrounds it. Open during the winter and summer months, it’s the perfect restaurant to celebrate any occasion. – Cala Llonga
L’apéro. Exquisite cuisine, quality raw materials and the know-how of its owners make l’apéro one of the best restaurants in Ibiza. Exquisite French and market cuisine in an intimate restaurant where good taste and authenticity breathe as soon as you enter through the door. – Ibiza town
Sa Capella. Of all the restaurants on this list, Sa Capella is probably the most visually stunning for those who pass through its doors. The main dining area is found in the Romanesque chapel of St Agnes (XVIII Century). On it’s menu you’ll find meat, fish and vanguard dishes which do not disappoint. – San Antonio
Ibiza, September 2017
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APIBIZA – Don’t be led astray, choose the safe way
In this blog we would like to introduce you to APIBIZA: a recently established Association of Real Estate Professionals in Ibiza, of which Prestige Properties is proud to be one of the founding members. The goal is to combat the increasing activity of so-called "real estate pirates" on the island and to minimise fraudulent, unprofessional and disappointing experiences amongst first-time buyers in Ibiza.
Trust only in real professionals
APIBIZA is the new Association of Real Estate Professionals made up of 20 PIMEEF (Association of small and medium business in Ibiza and Formentera) members doing realiable, long-game work in the field. APIBIZA real estate agencies have got the quality assurances to ensure a happy ending whatever the endeavour- buying, selling or renting property. Our mission is your peace of mind, so our accredited agents are here to work with you year-round, from dedicated offices and with minimum five years experience. Trust, credibility, honesty, legal savvy, commitment and dependability…these are the core values that each one of our members embodies and your guarantee for professionalism and security.
Ibiza’s most on-point team of real estate experts, at your service
APIBIZA services:
Personalised advice and legal compliance.
Counsel on land-use and legal aspects of every transaction.
Estate agents guaranteed to possess all required acceditation and professional insurance.
Not fully satisfied? We take client complaints very seriously.
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What do you feel like doing today? Activities to enjoy Ibiza island
Discover Ibiza´s fantastic natural environment while working out your body or learning and practising a new, fun activity. It´s time for some fun in the sun!
Get some workout on the beach The Workout Club Ibiza offers a great way to get started for the day. They offer personal training sessions of Yoga, Pilates and aerobic training on the beach either for yourself or in small groups. Their workout is based on the Russian kettlebell system and will help you to quickly get rid of unwanted body fat, give you strength and energy as well as lift your mood and motivation. Additionally, they provide coaching to give you advice on how and what to eat, strength and breathing principles and on how to lower stress levels.
Surfing without waves
Paddle Surf or Stand up surf is the new way to discover the Mediterranean sea these days. This sustainable activity will give you a completely new perspective of the Ibiza coastline. Paddle surf has become quite popular in the Mediterranean in recent years, as well as kite-surfing. But while you can practise kite-surf only on a windy day, paddle surf or SUP as the locals call it here, can be practised even during the hottest summer months, when the Mediterranean sea is usually as flat as a plate. It´s fantastic to work out your body, get a healthy tan, and at the same time you go on a trip around the little idyllic coves and bays this island has to offer. SUP boatibiza provide group excursions such as the "sunset surf" and individual training. Prices start at 45 €.
Diving in the Mediterranean sea One of the best ways to get a closer look at the beauty of the Ibicencan underwater fauna and flore is by diving. Ibiza has some great natural underwater treasures, such as the Posidonia prairies, which are protected and were declared natural heritage in 1999. There are also differenty types of dolphins living around the island, which can be seen at any time of the year, especially in the southwestern part of Ibiza, around Es Vedra island. But also starfish, octopuses and flying fish are quite common around the island as well as different types of indigenous fish, which only live in the seas around Ibiza, such as the Rotja or the bigger Sirvia. There are various diving centres all along the Ibizan coast, such as Orca Sub Diving in Cala TaridaorPunta Dive in Cala Llonga and Port des Torrent.
Surfing the waves And if you are really longing for some serious waves, Bam Bu Ku Ibizalocated righton the beachfront in San Antonio Bay has the remedy. Their system of artificial waves called Flowrider allows you to surf like a Hawaïan native within an hour or so. The activity is a mix of surfing, skateboarding and wakeboarding with your exhaustion point being the only limit. Surf House Ibiza provides a personal instructor, who is monitoring at all times as well as all equipment. Children must be taller than 1,30 m to be able to practise this activity. Prices start at 20 € / hour for kids and 30 € / hour for adults. However, they also offer group and full day prices.
Ibiza, July 2017
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Overpricing – the Biggest Property Own Goal
The Playboy pad is up for sale for an incredible $200m even though realtors say it’s worth closer to $60m – $90m. Why does overpricing work against you?
5 myths that lead to overpricing & why they’re not true – for sales and lettings;
I can reduce my price as much as I need to later
Frequent price reductions are a sign of desperation in the market – making your property seem problematic &/or your situation seem desperate – not a good place to be in the property market
People will still view, offer & negotiate
Our culture is one that doesn’t embrace negotiation & offers. Most buyers will simply assume that the sellers opinion is vastly out of kilter with the market & won’t view the house.
Someone out there might pay this price
There might be someone, but more likely, there isn’t. And if there isn’t your house isn’t going to attract the right attention from the rest of the marketplace.
If that someone (see above) offers then the deal is done!
Increasingly, within our economic climate, the banks are rejecting offers made by their clients & dangerously devaluing through lower valuations. The truth is that most large purchases now are the banks, or trusts, decision.
I’ll have just as much interest in a month or two if I lower the price
Ultimately, the most interest in a property comes within the first 30 days of marketing. After that the house has a ‘history’ in the markets & buyers will be hesitant in viewing, let alone in offering.
Overpricing property often leads to;
Stagnation
Longer marketing periods
Fewer viewings
The house becoming known as a ‘sticker’ or even an unsaleable house
Lower than market price from tougher negotiation due to length on market
Your house will sell the competition – your price will make other houses look great value
Overpricing simply turns away buyers at a more realistic price point
What marketing at a sensible price leads to;
Quicker transactions
Lots of viewings
More offers
Possibly a higher than market value price if not a fair market value price
Keen realtors talking to buyers
Keen purchasers doing all they can to enact the transaction
Purchasers accepting timings & terms from the owners.
Incredulous prices are normally dictated by the owners or submitted by estate agents who want to ensure the instruction.
What to do when pricing your home;
Listen to agents & question them on their valuation
Ask for comparable evidence
Most owners have an understanding of the true value of their own home so listen to what your brain says as well as your heart
Give your agent a period of time to sell the house & then dis-instruct them, or at least add another agent to the mix. Agents know that once they have your house on their books, it’s unlikely that you’ll withdraw it from them.
Written by Ivor Campbell-Davys.
Ibiza, April 2017
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The Island of Bes
Let’s get to know a little bit more about our Ibicencan ancient culture!
Ibiza, one of the most beautiful and mystical islands in the mediterranean sea, has throughout the centuries attracted an interesting mix of people and civilisations. Ibiza has always opened her arms to the explorer and provided replenishment and rest for the weary traveller. It was in 680BC that the Phoenicians first discovered Ibiza, an island that lay in the currents of seafaring sailors and traders. These early sailors would stop in Ibiza to gather food and find fresh water to drink. The Phoenicians were well known as traders, and set up a trading post at Sa Calleta before moving to Dalt Villa, which is where Ibiza town now resides.
The Phoenicians were related to the Carthaginians and it was to their Gods and others that they worshiped. The Phoenicians adopted the god Bes from their neighbours the Egyptians, and exported his cult around the Mediterranean as they traded peacefully with different civilisations. They were famed for trading in the colour purple – a colour related to Royalty- and Ibiza shellfish provided the dye for them to obtain it.
The Phoenician term for the cult of Bes was Ibosim, which throughout the centuries gradually became I-bez-a……..the "Island of Bes".
As Bes was considered a good spirit, he became associated with sexual pleasure, dancing and good times. He was worshipped for fertility and healing purposes along with his wife Beset, who watched over women during childbirth. Along with the Goddess Tanit, the two ancient Gods are closely connected to Ibiza.
There are many references and places to Bes and Tanit on the island and here at Prestige Properties, we recommend you to discover these hidden secrets.
Ibiza, March 2017
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10 Ibiza hotels that do not close in winter
Believe us when we tell you that Ibiza in winter falls in love. During these months, when the daytime temperatures are tempered, the island offers the perfect moment to enjoy its hiking and mountain biking routes, museums, home cooking of all life and its most spectacular sunsets. A full range of plans which you can enjoy thanks to the hotels of Ibiza that keep their doors open also in low season. What do you prefer, to rest by the sea or hide in a valley ?. In our next selection you will find both options, so that you choose the one that you like most.
Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza
The first luxury accommodation on the island today is a 5 star hotel with all the amenities and details of a Hilton, the owner of the hotel. Its 33 rooms have a touch of Art Deco style and overlook the port of Ibiza or the lively promenade of Vara de Rey
Can Pujolet
Located in the protected natural environment of Es Amunts, in Sant Mateu, this charming rural hotel opened in an old farmhouse will love you thanks to the good taste of Nina, who also naturally and discreetly treat their guests. Web
Cas Gasi
Almond trees, fig trees and carob trees surround this beautiful rural hotel located in the interior of the island, just over 5 kilometers from the charming village of Santa Gertrudis. You will find excellent service, careful decoration and luxury details. Web
Hostal Parque
Other accommodation that keeps its doors open in Ibiza town, exactly at one end of the Plaza del Parque. Its rooms are not very spacious, but very nice and have all the standard amenities. In addition, some offer views of Dalt Vila.
Hostal La Torre
Its location offers spectacular panoramic views of the sea, the island of Conillera, Cape Nono and sunset. In addition, you will find beautiful Mediterranean-style rooms, some with balconies overlooking the sea. Web
Simbad Hotel & Spa
This 4-star hotel on the Talamanca beach, just a few minutes’ drive from the center of Ibiza, offers 111 rooms and a spa with a pool, hot tub and sauna, among other facilities. We recommend you book the front rooms, with sea view. Web
Hotel Ocean Drive
Another hotel in Ibiza that opens in winter. It is right in front of Marina Botafoc Marina. It has 40 rooms and suites of minimalist style and usually organizes events with artists and Djs
Ca n’Escandell
This charming agritourism opened in an old traditional house of the XVIII century is located in the north of Ibiza, a few minutes by car from beautiful coves and excellent restaurants. Its nine rooms maintain the traditional aesthetics of the island and also have a fireplace, a detail of the most welcoming for winter nights. Web
THB Los Molinos
Located on the beach des Figueretes, its rooms are modern and well equipped. If you can, book those with sea view. In addition, the facilities of this 4-star hotel include a gym, indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna and massage service. Web
Can Guillem
Set on a 14-hectare estate and situated less than 5 kilometers from the city of Ibiza, this elegant rural hotel offers six double rooms and one suite in an old mansion house. It also has a bungalow and several villas.
Ibiza, February 2017
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