Covid-19 in Ibiza – Interview with Prestige Properties Ibiza

Interview with Victor, Partner & Sales Director of Prestige Properties Ibiza about Covid-19 and the effect on the Property Market

What has been the overall impact of Covid-19 in Ibiza?

Ibiza has seen relatively low figures of Covid-19 in comparison to the rest of Spain and Europe.  The healthcare system on the island has been stable and we are very thankful to all our health care and key workers during this difficult time.   Their impressive work and dedication towards the public is sincerely appreciated and acknowledged by all.  Without their passionate commitment the outcomes of ill-health could have been quite different.

At the point of publication, a total of 163 positive cases have been recorded in Ibiza and Formentera for Covid-19, with 120 fully recovered and 31 active cases, of which 24 are still in hospital.

There have been few new cases reported in recent weeks and zero positive cases over the past 5 days.

Ibiza is a small island.  This fact alone has helped the government implement closures and restrictions at a quick and smooth pace. Since the state of alarm was declared on March 14th travelling by air and sea has been fully restricted to essential activity only.

Unfortunately, the crisis has had an impact both socially and economically for the residents of Ibiza.  However, the recent plan of deconfinement and the current low risk of infection, hopefully means we will soon be able to ease restrictions and welcome tourists for the summer season 2020. 

4-steps-deconfinament covid ibiza 2020

We think it is fair to say, many feel the island and mother nature has received a well deserved rest and we are only reminded to be truly grateful for the paradise we live in.

Global Property Market

Has Covid-19 had an impact on Global Real Estate and what changes are we seeing so far?

Whilst some buyers are adopting a wait and see approach, many others have maintained the same drive to buy with some even increasing in their pursuit during this period.

Sales numbers on a global scale are down due to social distancing, travel restrictions and closures of businesses, where viewings are not able take place as usual.   However, we have noticed client interactions are consistent and have even increased in Ibiza. Many are aware of the level of competition within the Ibiza property market and want to take full advantage of using every opportunity to buy now or as soon as the restrictions will be lifted.

One thing is for certain, the new adaptation of virtual viewings are very current.  Aside from professionally produced virtual tours of housing, many agents are adapting and attracting buyers with real-time video tours. In turn, this is leading to on-going interest and even offers and sales still being made.

Poolside View of Villa in Ibiza

Ibiza Property Market

Has Covid-19 had an impact on the Ibiza Real Estate to date?

It is still too early to fully measure and calculate the impact of Covid-19 in the real estate market in Ibiza.  There is always a delay between the event of any crisis and subsequent economic and industry related statistics emerging.

What we have evidently seen to date has been very encouraging. The online interest and activity has remained very strong with an increase in interactions (requests, website visits) from potential and future clients.  It appears many are utilising their quarantine time to research and pursue buying their desired property in Ibiza.

Buyers are far from changing their mind, they want a place in the sun more now than ever before.

As with any crisis, there will always be new opportunities that follow.  Sadly, some are foreseeing they may be obligated to put their property on the market in order to recuperate financial losses and face some personal situations.

We are generally not expecting the property market to have a drop, mainly because the demand is high and the supply is always very low in Ibiza.

How is tourism in Ibiza being affected and how do we anticipate it will affect those with tourism licenses throughout the season?

Spring season has unfortunately been lost.  Small businesses in Ibiza are perhaps at the highest risk of being affected by the pandemic due to the restrictions that have taken place.

We hope the Summer will receive international clients from July onwards and clients from mainland Spain will be able to travel for tourism from the end of June (22nd if all goes as per deconfinement plan).

Individual situations for those with tourism licenses will very much depend on the needs of each owner, their mortgages, general income and their dependency on tourism rentals as a main source of income.

Important Information for Property Sellers in Ibiza

What is the best advice you could offer sellers during this important time?

Remain calm and ask your agent for advice.  Depending on each individual situation, we can plan a good strategy to succeed in the sale of your property in Ibiza

Should sellers keep their property on the market and take a ‘wait and see’ approach? or should clients wait until this pandemic is over?

Keep your property on the market. We are all working remotely from home with up to date technology. The notable rise in online activity we are currently experiencing means now is the perfect time to catch the attention of clients ready for their future visits.

Ibiza Prestige Properties office

What is Prestige incorporating as an agency to ensure the marketing and sales are maximised during these uncertain times?

We have stayed open throughout. All our agents are active. We have been spending more time than ever preparing our website and the presentation of our properties, as well as setting up our new virtual viewings service.  Potential buyers are still able to get a closer feel for properties on the market and can continue with their buyers journey.

We have also been closing a few deals over the past weeks, mostly with clients who have been looking with us for some time, where we already really understood what they required.

Important Information for Property Buyers in Ibiza

What is the best advice you could offer buyers during this important time?

Use this time to effectively research the current property market in Ibiza.  We are here to help you with your buyer’s journey.  Take the time to get to know your agent and allow for your agent to better understand your vision and goals in purchasing your dream property.

There’s plenty to focus on in the meantime before you can visit the island to set up viewings.  Learn about finance, legalities, be fully prepared for the purchase.  When the time is right you will be ahead of all the finer details and can start viewings immediately, ready for the perfect opportunity.

Should buyers continue to seek a property on the market and take a ‘wait and see’ approach? or should clients be more cautious?

Now is the time, everyone is available. Learn as much as possible and plan a good selection of properties to see for your next visit.   Be sure that your agent is ready and understands your requirements and contacts you as soon as a new suitable deal comes up.

Are international buyers able to proceed with purchasing a property during this time?

Yes, we have been able to work with the help of lawyers and other advisors. Notaries are open, and we can sign everything from a distance with POA.

Important Information on Mortgages in Ibiza

Will applying for a mortgage be affected by Covid-19?  Will current mortgage applications be delayed for processing until the pandemic is over?

Initially banks were required to hold off processing new mortgage applications during the beginning of the state of alarm.  However everything is back running again as normal. Processes might be a little delayed but everything is back on track and operating like before.

Ever since Ibiza entered the first phase of deconfinement, viewings to properties are available again and experts can continue with valuations as well.

If your personal financial situation is not affected then you should be able to proceed with your mortgage application.

Mortgage approvals

I have a mortgage offer but will it expire if I don’t proceed to buy during this crisis?

The state of alarm normally postpones contract deadlines.  However, each case should be reviewed and confirmed with your lending bank.  To proceed at a later date should be possible due to the unusual circumstances.

Will there be any long-term consequences of coronavirus on getting an international mortgage?

This question is difficult to answer at the present time.  We need to see the overall outcome in a couple of months relating to the financial world. Interest rates might vary. However, everyone is eager and intending to restart the economy as soon as possible.  We will pass this crisis as we have done in the past.

Banks like many other businesses will need to adjust their working protocols to ensure mortgage applications are effectively being processed during such uncertain times.  We expect to see better and improved technology and more online flexibility in this industry, just as much as we will see in Real Estate, where systems and e-working will become faster and more efficient to apply for mortgages.

Future Outlook

Do you think Covid-19 will have an impact on European and Ibiza’s Real Estate in the long-term?

It is still very early to predict the level of impact in the long-term. There will inevitably be changes and marked impressions on a global scale.  However, until we understand the length of time it will take to return to ‘the new normal’, we are unable to further analyse the future of the property market. 

It ultimately depends how clients are financially affected and their capacity to spend. This crisis is multifaceted and will affect the economy and individuals in many different ways.

General expectations foresee a drop between 5 and 10%.  However, this is a variable figure and the impact will vary from one area to another. Recent studies show clients are now looking for more space instead of proximity to city center. This can affect the property market in cities. From this study alone, you can see some markets will suffer whereas others are more likely to benefit.

In Ibiza, as we have shown in our 2020 Market Report, the low supply versus high demand can predominantly predict sales on the island are less likely to be affected.

We are also noticing an increased interest for quieter and safer environments.  It would appear the crisis has only reminded people that it might be time for a change and the island can offer their desired environment.

Exclusive places will always remain strong in difficult times. There will be some likely opportunities for buyers in the short-term, but in the long term we expect the market to recover quickly.

When will the property and tourism market start to truly see its effect of the pandemic?

We have only recently started deconfinement.  The next weeks determine how quickly we return to normality. This is an unprecedented situation and we can only see in the short term at this time.

The European Union is currently discussing how to proceed with the reopening of the frontiers. Tourism accounts for about 10% of the European economy and about 25 million jobs and is therefore the interest of all parties to reactivate tourism as soon as possible.

We hope to be able to welcome you again in July, but until we know for certain let’s stay safe and keep positive. While we wait, we have adapted our way of working and you can see this on our new web page: Real Estate Virtual Technology.

Zoom Video Meeting - Virtual Viewing

We are available to advise you anytime, whether you are curious to learn more about Ibiza and its market or if you would like to do a virtual tour of one of our villas.

Here at Prestige the whole team is working everyday in preparation for when we can meet our clients. We are really impressed and motivated by the amount of messages that we receive from all of you, full of positivity and the will to pursue the dream holiday or the perfect new home in the sun.

If you are considering buying a property in Ibiza, then why not take a browse at our current Ibiza exclusive properties available.  

Our team is always ready to help you along your buyers journey and ensure you discover your dream home with Prestige Properties Ibiza – contact us today

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Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!

    Gay tourism in Ibiza: a growing trend of colour and freedom

    The rise of gay tourism in Ibiza is thanks to the tolerant environment on the island. The members of the hippie culture who made their home there in the 60s began the "live and let live" attitude. Later, in the 80s, the LGBT community was incorporated into the cultural environment of the island.




    Photo by El Confidencial

    LGBT attractions in Ibiza

    The growing supply of tourist attractions covers all kinds of services oriented to the gay community. Therefore, the scene establishments are not confined to certain areas, as in many cities: the whole island is gay friendly.

    Beaches

    Some very beautiful sandy areas are gay tourism favourites. Es Cavallet, a nudist beach, is also known throughout the Mediterranean for its gay scene, with signs of tolerance that can be seen even in establishments such it’s famous Chiringay.





    Photo by Chiringay.com

    The part of Ses Salines known as Sa Trinxa has the most transparent water and is also a gay-friendly and nudist area.

    Bars

    Another great LGBT attraction is the bars, which are usually painted with the colours of the gay pride flag. They are located mainly in Calle Alfonso and Calle de la Virgen, in Ibiza city. Unbridled hedonism is the norm in these areas of extreme freedom and tolerance. Mad Bar, Dado, Bar 22 and Mona Lisa are some of them.

    Clubs

    In these places there are legendary meetings of beautiful people, full of creativity and debauchery with impressive shows. Great artists, dancers, Drag Queens and lots of skin are some of the attractions of the theme parties held in these places.

    The only gay club on the island is Lola’s. There are also polysexual clubs like the famous ones Anfora, Babylon, Amnesia and Privilege. The latter has hosted SuperMartXé, an incredible show with dazzling special effects, choreography and crazy fashion shows.





    Photo by Spotlight

    Hotels

    The Purple is an exclusively gay hotel which has a fantastic bar with the same name. It is located in San Antonio and focused exclusively on this segment of the market. With its bold but elegant colouring, and designed to offer a sensation of space, it also has an excellent restaurant service with a select sample of Ibizan cuisine.

    There are many other gay-friendly establishments like Cenit, Boutique Hostal Salinas and Marigna.

    Ibiza Gay Pride

    This "full colour" event takes place in different spaces where theatrical performances, cultural events, conferences, book presentations and musical performances are held, involving well-known personalities. In 2019 it will take place between 12 and 15 June. On the closing night of the event there are theme parties in the most famous gay clubs.





    Photo by Welcometoibiza.es

    The development of gay tourism in Ibiza makes this island a successful place to offer the growing gay market an alternative accommodation option. Contact us for more information.



    Ibiza, June 2019



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      Rural tourism and agrotourism in Ibiza

      Agrotourism in Ibiza is an example of how touristic activities continuously introduce innovations to extend traditional ‘sun and beach’ tourism.

      Agrotourism and rural tourism in Ibiza

      Agrotourism refers to leisure and recreation activities that take place in ecological production centres dedicated to agricultural and livestock pursuits. This service is managed by the local workers themselves.

      Rural tourism develops in small and isolated communities. The accommodation usually consists of old houses adapted to receive visitors, and they are attended to by families.

      Both activities are framed within the principles of sustainable tourism of the World Tourism Organization. They include respect for nature, support for communities, sustainable use of resources and the use of biodegradable products.

      Rural tourism areas in Ibiza

      With the help of real estate in Ibiza, you can find accommodation for rural tourism there. Near the heights of Els Amunts and Pla de Corona, the almond trees bloom during the spring, which is a spectacle that’s worthy of being photographed.





      Photo by Prestige Properties


      In the most secluded area of the island, the northeast
      , lie Sant Joan de Labritja and Santa Eulària des Riu. It is also an ideal region for hiking or cycling.

      Sant Rafel de Sa Creu is full of artisan ceramic workshops that produce unique pieces inspired by ancient Carthage.

      San Juan, to the north, is the municipality that has benefited most from rural tourism. On Sundays, the people there bring the usually tranquil place to life with their artisan market.

      The Mercada de Forada, open during Saturdays on Sant Rafel-Santa Agnes road, sells locally sourced agricultural products. You will find nuts, preserves, honey, oil, wine and even perfumes and natural cosmetics.

      Countryside activities in Ibiza

      In Ibiza you can find farms, plantations and vegetable gardens that all follow the agrotourism trend. Some of them grow fruits like watermelons, melons and peaches. The vegetable gardens produce tomatoes, courgettes, aubergines, cucumbers, lettuce and peppers.








      Some of the most famous agrotourism establishments are Talaia, Can Curreu, Atzaró, Can Arabí and Can Jaume.

      The animal breeding activities are based on animals recognised as indigenous, such as the Ibizan hen, the sheep and the goat. The porc negre, a breed of pig, and the Ibizan rabbit are in the process of being approved.





      Photo by Can Curreu

      Ibiza’s natural side

      Far from the beaches, coves and the bustle of nightlife, there is another Ibiza: that of the small towns in the island’s interior. Country houses, in addition to their unique architectural features, are dotted around the fields and are sometimes grouped into small communities. This quiet and rustic region maintains its ancestral way of life.

      Agrotourism in Ibiza is an alternative that gives you new experiences, very different from the ones you already know. Get going and try them!





      Photo by Prestige Properties


      Ibiza, May 2019



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        Celebrity villas in Ibiza

        Celebrities in Ibiza are already legends. Millionaires, actors, footballers and aristocrats have chosen Ibiza as the ideal place. Many come to visit Ibiza frequently, live here permanently or spend a season here every year to relax as couples or families.

        The great offers and high quality of the real estate market in Ibiza allows luxury homes to be obtained at (comparatively) affordable prices.

        Celebrity villas in Ibiza

        The luxury celebrity homes, with their comfort, their many rooms, their swimming pools and large gardens are wonderful. In them the artists, millionaires and footballers seek privacy and all the comforts imaginable.

        Each celebrity looks for different styles according to his or her tastes. Antonio Banderas and Juio Iglesias prefer more complex architecture. Guti or Fernando Hierro prefer mansions designed with cutting-edge trends in mind. Kate Moss and Jade Jagger, on the other hand, prefer the traditional Finca style home in the bohemian North of the island.

        Other football players who have made the island their sanctuary are Zidane, Gerard Piqué, Carles Puyol, David Villa and Pepe Reina.





        Other celebrities with properties in Ibiza include Pepe Martínez, Eugenia Martínez de Irujo, the Goyanes-Lapique family and Blanca and Borja Thyssen. Vladimir Doronin, the Russian millionaire ex-husband of Naomi Campbell has a mansion in San Jose.

        Areas with more Ibiza mansions

        Many of those seeking luxury homes in Ibiza are interested in constructions with local and traditional architectural features that are unique to the island. These houses are rare and distinctive, and they are often located in the countryside.





        These homes are mostly in the north of Ibiza, such as Santa Eulalia and San Miguel, where there are a large number of mansions, as well as San Juan.

        The south and southeast areas of the island also offer luxury homes. There are two main styles of Ibiza mansions in the north of the island: avant-garde villas or traditional buildings.

        Where to buy a house in Ibiza and at what price

        The purchase of houses on the island is booming and that has determined some of the prices as we’ll explain below.

        A detached house facing the sea in Santa Eulalia can have a value of up to 12,000 euros per square meter. On the seafront, the price of a two-bedroom apartment fluctuates around 7,000 euros p/m2.

        There are luxury homes for 10 million euros or more, but the vast majority of them are around 2 or 3 million.

        The redevelopment of the old town has given a new rising value to luxury villas and the proximity of VIP beach clubs has raised the average cost of a luxury home around Ibiza Town to more than 3.5 million euros.

        Celebrities in Ibiza add another touch of glamour to island life, enjoying their Ibiza villas with style. However, Ibiza is not just for the rich and famous; anyone with a dream can come here and try their luck. We would be more than happy to help you in fulfilling your dream of a new home in Ibiza.



        Ibiza, April 2019



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          Ibiza’s Gourmet Cuisine

          Ibiza’s gourmet cuisine is one of the reasons why those who know how to live well visit the island. From the most sophisticated and original avant-garde to intimate and romantic restaurants, Ibiza offers the most refined possibilities.

          Gourmet Gastronomy in Ibiza

          In this article, we’ll tell you about a number of restaurants on the island that are included in the Michelin guide, and why they deserve this distinction.

          Ca n’Alfredo

          A traditional family establishment that has been offering traditional yet refined Mediterranean and Ibizan dishes since 1934. Its creations are presented perfectly paired with local wines. One of its most famous dishes is its fish stew.

          Re.Art

          This tapas tavern is run by the Catalan chef David Reartes, whose mission is to make the island’s products more well-known and appreciated. He’s committed to the "Ibiza’s Flavour" brand, promoted by the Consell d’Eivissa.

          From the irreverent and lively atmosphere of his open kitchen, he serves traditional tapas and unique creations such as Café de París smoked pork loin.

          The Gaia

          This establishment features japeruvian cuisine or a blend of Japanese and Peruvian cooking, and is headed by the chef Henrique Sá Pessoa.

          With absolute respect for local Mediterranean produce, he has incorporated its virtues into this trend to offer patrons creations such as lobster anticucho with mojo, coriander and lime or nikkei chocolates.

          Mar a Vila

          Located in the center of Eivissa (Ibiza Town), this is the place where Pablo del Castillo prepares a cuisine that is varied but focused on Ibizan and Spanish gourmet gastronomy. Among its specialties are ravioli foie and tuna glazed with soy.





          They also offer signature tapas and pinchos prepared with creativity that reflects the team’s youthful approach. Tuck into some violet potatoes with mustard and toasted garlic, or black pudding and apple rolls with almond sauce.

          It

          With a highly creative Mediterranean style and headed by chef Massimo Larosa, it is located in Marina Botafoch.

          Here they work with a blend of local products and Italian specialities such as pizzas, pasta, and starters, in creations with superb results.





          In addition to an international wine list, you’ll be delighted with dishes such as beef sirloin with hazelnut, crunchy cod cannolis or cuttlefish with black olives and cauliflower.

          El Cigarral

          Run by the Ortiz family, this restaurant specialising in homemade Spanish cuisine with a touch of versatility offers a variety of options. Locally caught fish, game from Toledo, and Asturian livestock shine in their creations.

          These include asparagus stuffed with seafood au gratin with alioli, red partridge a la Toledo-like mother-made, and Asturian T-bone steak.

          You have to eat in Ibiza, and this is the moment to do so. If you’d like to experience the delights of gastronomic tourism in Ibiza and sample Ibiza’s gourmet cuisine, be sure to plan a visit soon.


          Ibiza, January 2019



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            Ibiza with kids: a place to have a great time

            A holiday on the Balearic island is always a good idea, but living in Ibiza with children
            is an even better one.

            For those who don’t know the island, it may seem an excellent place for a vacation aboard a luxurious yacht or in a magnificent villa, however it’s also a perfect place to live with children.

            In addition to numerous homes to rent or buy for a stable life on Ibiza, the world renowned Mediterranean island offers numerous services for the youngest members of the family.

            Living in Ibiza with children, and everything the island has to offer

            When someone decides to settle in another city, the first thing they do is look for a place to live, either by renting or buying a property. Once this question is solved, the next step is to look for a school, should the new life be with children.

            In fact, it’s no less true that the search for housing is conditioned by the closeness to the school to be chosen, or vice versa. In this sense, as well as state schools, Ibiza offers interesting private options for educating children:

            – Morna International College in Santa Gertrudis. An interesting option, both if the children are Spanish, English or German-speaking.

            – College Francais. Situated between Ibiza and San José, this school has small-sized classes for French-speaking children who don’t speak any Spanish; a top level education to meet the expectations of the most demanding parents and also for children who require official qualifications in French.

            – Colegio Mestral. Located in the centre of the city, this private school offers classes in Catalan and Spanish as well as in English; another option available for those planning to move to Ibiza.

            Living in Ibiza requires education, but also leisure

            In addition to a unique natural environment and educational options, life on the island offers incredible leisure pursuits for children.
            Aguamar Park

            Proof of this are the companies devoted to organizing parties for children, the possibility of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, the Aguamar Water Park or the adventure-filled Acrobosc Park.

            A few examples of what life can be like for the little ones on the island known throughout the world for its climate and its beaches: two more aspects that should also be made the most of.

            Acrobosc

            It has been shown that living in a privileged environment aids children in their learning and also helps them live a healthy life. Living in Ibiza with children is an excellent idea in every sense.

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              Dreaming of a Different Christmas? Have a Magical Time in Ibiza

              Christmas in Ibiza can be a source of surprises for those for whom the island evokes throngs, boisterous parties and crowded beaches. On the other hand, you should know that peace and magic are the most characteristic features of the island at that time.

              Christmas in Ibiza with the family


              This Balearic island, its beaches and its architecture is at its best in the winter, when silence deepens any experience you may have. There will be tranquility to meditate on some cultural milestones, such as ruins of its ancient civilizations.

              To spend the winter on Ibiza is to be able to discover and explore without being disturbed, to walk through the streets listening only to your steps. It is to perceive Ibiza in a totally different way, ideal for spending Christmas in Ibiza with your family.

              Ses Salines and Es Cavallet

              Ses Salines is an extensive beach located in the national park of the same name: it has very white sand in contrast to a sea of ​​deep blue. It is limited by a dune formation on which you can walk on wooden walkways. Also, the pine and juniper forests border the beach, forming a serene contrast with water and sand.





              If you continue your walk to the left and pass through the woods, you will reach a rocky terrain and the Tower of Ses Portes, built to sight pirate ships. From there, the Es Freus strait and its islets can be appreciated.

              To complete the walk, go to Es Cavallet. There, in this stretch of sand, which is also very wide, you will find remains of Posidonia oceanica, an iconic plant of the Mediterranean ecosystem. .

              Island markets

              Another of the charms of the island and less crowded than in summer, you will have time to visit them at your leisure. Calmly choose the Christmas gifts you are going to give.

              – Las Dalias

              On Saturday mornings, from 10 in the morning until 10 pm, there is the Hippy Market. You can buy musical instruments, clothes, jewellery, crafts, books, antiques and incense.

              – Forada





              This lively market sells seasonal agricultural products from 10 am to 4 pm, but also oils, wines, jams and preserves. It also offers natural cosmetic products and crafts.

              Horseback riding

              This entertainment offers the advantage of being able to have a good trip without too much fatigue and get in touch with nature.




              The north of Ibiza and near San Juan you will find Horse Valley. The walks go through the natural park of Es Murta, so it is practically a virgin area.  The tour lasts 4 hours, and in winter the schedule is more flexible since it has no limitations due to the heat.





              Living on Ibiza and therefore being able to spend Christmas in Ibiza is possible by buying a beautiful home on the island.

              Villa India – Ref. 6246 – For sale with Prestige Properties Ibiza


              Ibiza, December 2018



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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.

                COUNTRYSIDE OF IBIZA

                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.

                Villa Natura Buscatells Ibiza
                Villa Natura Buscatell in Ibiza's countryside
                Villa Natura Buscatells Ibiza's countryside

                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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