Palma and beyond

In July my husband and I ticked another destination off our travel must-do list, spending five days in Palma, Mallorca. This city seems to be a favourite among many people we have spoken to, and somewhere I would now recommend. Sun, sea, stunning scenery and spectacular sights - the perfect destination for a relaxing city break. Just a short drive from Palma airport, we knew we had arrived when the amazing view of the cathedral was upon us - a famous sight in the city. Driving along with the cathedral on our right and the shimmering sea and spectacle of boats in the marina to our left, I knew I was going to like it here. We stayed at the Melia Palma Marina, which, not surprisingly, had prime position opposite the marina! It had an excellent location by the Paseo Maritimo with outstanding marina views, within walking distance of the city sightseeing tour departure point, amid many varied restaurants (our favourite was The Boat House) and close to boat tour departures. It is also an easy 10 -15 minute taxi ride to the city centre, where there is an array of shops, restaurants and the place we headed for on two days of our stay, Palma Intermodal Station at Plaza Espana. On our first day in Palma we were typical tourists on the hop on- hop off bus. Very enjoyable, and usually our first activity for getting our bearings when somewhere new. Particularly enjoyable was the stop at Castillo de Bellver - set high with fabulous views of the city, and a good place to stop off for a short break. The cafe was nice - well stocked with drinks and ice creams - just what we needed in the hot weather! While Palma was beautiful, we like to see as much as we can and chose to also travel independently to resorts further north on the island. One day, starting from the Intermodal Station we took the local bus to Puerto Pollensa - absolutely stunning, especially along the Pine Walk with its abundance of restaurants. The next day we took the narrow-gauge Vintage Train through the Mallorca countryside to Soller, and tram on to the beach at Puerto de Soller. Tickets can be bought at the station, just beside the main rail station. but there is limited space, and only a few departures so good to get there early or book in advance. Definitely two days out worth doing! I'm studying Spanish and enjoyed the buying of the tickets, finding our way and the journey as much as the destinations. When seated at a waterside restaurant once we arrived, I did though very much enjoy ordering our drinks and snack - the local Pa Amb Oli, literally bread with oil, and served with a variety of toppings including ham, cheese and tomatoes. Each day was busy, and it was great to come back to our hotel to enjoy the last of the sun by the pool. By Friday we gave in and spent the whole day there! I would highly recommend the Melia Palma Marina. Staff outstanding, the refurbished lobby and breakfast area stunning and the relaxing pool area overlooking the marina an added extra, considering we were in a city. Rooms great - we were fortunate to stay in a marina view room with balcony - to enjoy the location at its best I would highly recommend the same to my clients. We could have sat there all day just watching the views, the marina, the sea and the visiting cruise ships, but we would have missed everything else that the area has to offer. Fabulous time, beautiful city and will definitely be going back!