Mallorca Up Close: How Vacationers Are Experiencing the Island Right Now

Between the Beach, Tapas, and Surprises: Voices from Playa de Palma

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It's early morning, the promenade smells of coffee and sunscreen, and at Playa de Palma you meet a colorful mix of first-time visitors and regulars. I sat in the shade of a palm-lined strip and asked people: How is the vacation going so far?

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Duygu, who is visiting Mallorca for the first time today, is still laughing as she tells the story. \"We just arrived from Dublin, only a layover—and now I want to see more than just the beach,\" she says, while Katharina nods beside her: \"I’ve been here before, but the real Mallorca is much quieter than the clichés on TV.\" Both plan to spend a few days in the island interior with a rental car; Alcúdia and small coves are on the list.

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Christian from North Rhine-Westphalia has been coming for years. For him Mallorca is like a reliable friend: \"There’s something new to discover every year,\" he says. This time he’s showing a friend around who wants to try the bar at Balneario 14 for the first time. Such small meetings belong here—a mix of routine and curiosity.

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First Impressions, Clear Plans

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In the shade of an umbrella, Joshua and Nico from the Saarland recount their first days in Can Pastilla. \"It’s really awesome here,\" Joshua says without beating around the bush. They don’t have a strict program yet, but want to try the classic beach-and-city mix: Palma in the evening, a day trip to the mountains during the day.

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Kiki and Tina, who visit the island more often, come across as relaxed: \"For us it’s like a little homecoming,\" says Tina, who regularly stops here as a flight attendant. They know the best cafés on Passeig Marítim and appreciate the variety: quiet sunbathing spots, but also one or two lively corners.

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From France come Étienne, Élise and Simon-Pierre – keen to speak a few phrases of Spanish, excited by the old town and the relaxed beach atmosphere. \"No stress, good food, nice walks,\" sums up Élise.

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In the end comes the realization I hear often: Mallorca is for many a place with options. Some want to return, others discover new favorite spots, and some spontaneously change their plans: stay one more day. Whether Ballermann or a quiet cove, for most the rule remains: one visit rarely suffices.

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Side note: Those coming in autumn should plan a rental car—the small villages and sunsets are worth it.