Welcome to Mallorca
Mallorca forms the largest of the Balearic Islands and is commonly known as the gateway to the Mediterranean.
For several years now there has been a significant change historically in who has come to settle here and also in how the business infrastructure has radically changed.
The Island itself has always been popular for its diverse scenery and multi-cultural society and never more so than now.
Opportunities are abundant whether you are deciding to come and work, trade, or simply planning to retire here.
Recently there have been enormous improvements to road networks with little of the Island now being inaccessible, which in itself has increased tenfold opportunities here. Rail development continues, including a new underground network, which again is increasing ease of travelling.
There has been a noticeable increase in blue tourism (nautical tourism) for many reasons, such as excellent climate and landscape, a good choice of recreational ports and around twenty per cent of moorings in the western Mediterranean are located in the Balearics.
The Balearics boating and yachting industry in general has a solid reputation for repairs and maintenance drawing in clients from all over the world. The quality and standard is high for associated services and, importantly, nautical investors have high purchasing power.
The nautical sector is not the only one that has continued to grow and develop, rural tourism in general has been undergoing a significant increase since the mid 90’s. It is not so much that traditional tourism is disappearing, more, that tourism, expectations and what people want has changed.
Extensive programmes now provide for many recreational activities such as golf, riding facilities are becoming more popular, there are numerous new sports and activities centres, and all of these facilities are available to everyone. These continuous investments mean the quality and standard of life here are excellent.
There is also growth in the wellness sector with an increase in spas and clubs. Single and unisex beauty facilities are also a prime growth area.
Returning to traditional tourism, again with standards being raised generally over the last few years, we are seeing even the smallest of businesses thriving and there is no reason why they should not continue to do so, given the variety of investments now being made on the island.
In the small to medium business sector there has been an interesting trend, with a significant percentage of people and investors looking at all sorts of enterprises to secure their future here.
With an excellent year round climate, spectacular scenery and being multi-cultural, Mallorca has become truly cosmopolitan and this is reflected in the many restaurants who promote cuisine from far flung countries around the globe as well as the excellent local fare.
There is something here that will satisfy most people irrespective of age, from the fascinating history of Palma to the stunning views from San Salvador. Traditions and fiestas belong to every town and village across the island and the stunning Three Kings should not be missed. Wander around the streets and squares of old Palma on San Sebastian where giant barbeques are glowing ready for you to cook your picnic, and marvel at firework displays that will take your breath away.
You will find golden sands and turquoise seas; snorkel and discover another world. Laze and read a book, go horse riding, cycling, or hill walking with organised groups, the never ending choice is yours.
The languages spoken here are Castilian and Catalan; however, you should have little problem with the language as many people and organisations do speak some English. Making an effort to learn even some basic Spanish will stand you in extremely good stead and many a good relationship has been borne by practising a new language on the locals, often with hilarious results.
You will find the level of English spoken will somewhat depend on where you decide to have your business or settle. For example in mainly foreign or English resorts most people do speak a good level including delivery people, reps etc.
The State education system here is excellent, with English being one of the languages taught, along with Castilian (traditional Spanish), and Catalan (the local language), or if you prefer you can choose to send your children to private school.
Discovering the island is a real treat and stumbling across a hidden secret is a pure delight, there is always something to be found, looked at or seen throughout the year, not least of which are the spring flowers which are a sight to behold.
So welcome to Mallorca a lovely place to live and/or work with quality of life. |