Majorca Mallorca

In this episode, Vicki McLeod welcomes food writer and Mallorca restaurant reviewer Jan Edwards back to the studio for a wide-ranging conversation about food, restaurants and life on the island.Jan begins with the new edition of the Chefs(in) guide, a restaurant and cocktail bar guide covering Mallorca and the Balearics, before she and Vicki dive into chef culture, why the restaurant industry can still be difficult for women, and how changing dining habits may make the industry more family-friendly in future.The conversation moves through new and notable restaurants, including El Bandarra, Selvacha, Shima at Hotel Formentor, Brusca brew pub in Manacor, Blanca Terra winery restaurant near Montuïri, Molí de Sant Rafel in Llubí and Ponderosa Beach.Jan also explains how she approaches restaurant reviews, why she usually pays for her own meals, and why honest, unannounced reviewing matters.There is also time for wine fairs, the Mallorca 312 traffic problem, Books Uncorked, literary dinners in Valldemossa, restaurant gossip, chef moves, Protur Chef, Reserva Rotana and a mention for Bhukkad Boca.It is a warm, funny and food-filled episode for anyone who enjoys eating out in Mallorca, or simply likes hearing two women talk honestly about restaurants, real life and where to find the good stuff.Suggested chapters00:00 Introduction 00:20 Jan Edwards returns to the studio 01:30 The new Chefs(in) guide 03:50 Chef culture and restaurant associations 04:40 Why are most chefs men? 07:20 Lunch, dinner and changing dining habits 08:55 Restaurants Jan wants to try 10:45 Shima at Hotel Formentor 11:30 Where to find the Chefs(in) guide 12:10 Sóller restaurants and Tuesday night closures 14:15 Brusca brew pub in Manacor 17:30 Eating out, balance and cheese 18:30 Beer tasting and flights 20:00 Traffic, cyclists and the Pollença wine fair 22:50 Blanca Terra winery restaurant 25:00 Terra Gust and farm-to-table food 27:40 Molí de Sant Rafel in Llubí 28:15 The bee museum in Llubí 30:00 Beef, barbecue and family restaurants 32:35 Why paella is a lunchtime dish 34:30 Ponderosa Beach 36:10 How Jan reviews restaurants 39:30 Books Uncorked 41:00 Literary dinners in Valldemossa 44:25 Andrés Benítez leaves Botànic 46:40 Protur Chef competition 51:30 Reserva Rotana 53:20 Aethos Mallorca in Peguera 55:00 Where to find Jan’s reviews 56:00 Bhukkad Boca recommendation 57:15 Closing thoughts

In this episode, Vicki McLeod sits down with long-time Mallorca resident Justin Jones for a moving and deeply human conversation about life before and after the accident that changed everything.Justin originally came from George, South Africa, before moving to the UK and later to Mallorca after visiting his brother on the island. What began as a weekend visit soon turned into a new life, first through Balearic Adventures, then through metalwork and Balearic Coating Solutions.The conversation covers the reality of building a business in Mallorca, the importance of reputation, word of mouth and community, and why the island can be such a rewarding place for people willing to work hard and show up properly.Justin then speaks openly about the catastrophic car accident that left him with life-changing injuries. He remembers the crash, the rescue, the weeks in a coma, the operations, the hallucinations, the medical decisions, and the people who fought to save his limbs and his future.He also talks about the emotional aftermath: depression, isolation, dependency, pain, family changes, and the people who kept turning up when he needed them most.The episode also looks forward. Through a specialist hand trike, Justin has found a new way to move, train and experience Mallorca again. With the support of friends, physiotherapist Tracy Evans, Oliver Neilson and the Six Points community, he is now preparing to take on the Six Points Challenge, raising money for local charities and proving, in his own way, that life can still open new doors.This is a story about survival, friendship, Mallorca, sport, mental health and the stubborn decision to keep going.Suggested chapters00:00 Introduction 00:20 Welcome to Justin Jones 00:45 Growing up in South Africa 01:40 Moving to the UK 03:20 First visit to Mallorca 04:30 Moving to Mallorca with Marie 05:00 Balearic Adventures and the Zorb years 06:00 Why Mallorca felt familiar after South Africa 07:40 Raising children in Mallorca 10:50 Life and business on the island 12:20 Balearic Metal Projects and Balearic Coating Solutions 14:00 Starting small and building a business 15:15 Reputation, marketing and word of mouth in Mallorca 16:40 The car accident 18:10 Son Espases, coma and life support 19:15 Remembering the impact 22:30 The alternate reality during the coma 25:20 Operations and medical miracles 28:40 What Justin has lost and what may still be possible 31:00 Fighting to keep his limbs 33:30 Tracy Evans and the physiotherapy journey 35:30 Coming home during Covid 36:10 Gratitude, positivity and perspective 37:30 Life after the accident 39:40 Insurance, court and the Spanish system 42:50 Depression and isolation 44:00 Getting out again 45:45 Discovering the hand trike 47:00 Cycling again for the first time 49:00 Meeting Oliver on the road 50:30 Six Points and charity cycling 52:50 Sport, fitness and mental health 55:30 Raising money for local charities 59:30 Advice for anyone struggling 01:00:45 Closing thoughtsSign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/

Oliver Neilson talks to Shirley Roberts of Sollerweb about life in Sóller, changing seasons, local fiestas, tourism, traffic, housing, restaurants and the communities that keep the valley alive.Here is a link to the agenda for the firo on SollerWeb, and make sure you visit back, she writes about life in the valley every day. https://l1nq.com/sr9k8q0...and if you can't get a wristband for access to the plaza for the final moors and Christians battle, you should be able to watch it on IB3, the Balearics TV channel, here is there YouTube account. https://www.youtube.com/IB3In this episode, Oliver Neilson is joined by Shirley Roberts, the writer behind Sollerweb and a long-standing voice of the Sóller Valley.The conversation begins with the change of season in Mallorca, from winter calm to the early signs of summer, and the welcome news that rainfall has helped ease water concerns for the months ahead. Shirley and Oliver discuss why Sóller becomes so busy early in the year, especially with day trippers arriving by train, tram, bus and hire car.They also look at the practical realities of life in a popular destination: traffic through the tunnel, parking changes, residents’ zones, the role of the Consell, increased bus services and why visitors are best advised to leave the car behind where possible.The conversation moves through Deià, cycling season, Mallorca 312, the pressures on housing, the realities behind second homes and empty properties, and the often misunderstood relationship between tourism, employment and local life.A major part of the episode is dedicated to the Firó de Sóller, one of Mallorca’s most dramatic and emotional traditional fiestas. Shirley explains the story of the Moors and Christians, the beach battles, the final battle in the square, the role of the Valentes Dones and the newer children’s Firó, which she describes as unmissable.Finally, Shirley shares her thoughts on the changing restaurant scene in Sóller and Port de Sóller, from local food and traditional dishes to late lunches, private chefs, takeaways and the island-wide shift in how people are eating out.Suggested chapters00:00 Introduction00:20 Shirley Roberts returns to the podcast01:00 Water, rain and the start of the season02:00 Shirley’s work with the Majorca Daily Bulletin03:00 Sóller, Port de Sóller, Fornalutx, Biniaraix and Deià04:00 English-speaking communities and the Anglican Church in Palma05:30 Winter in Mallorca and the George Sand myth06:40 Why Sóller is such a popular day trip08:30 Traffic, the tunnel and the main road into Sóller10:30 Parking changes, green lines and blue lines13:00 Port de Sóller improvements and pedestrianisation15:00 Mallorca 312 and cycling season18:30 Deià, buses, taxis and getting around21:30 Second-hand markets and the reality of local incomes23:00 Housing, second homes and empty properties28:30 La Huerta, family homes and local life30:30 The Firó de Sóller explained33:30 The children’s Firó35:30 Smoke, gunpowder, pirates and tradition37:30 Summer changes in Sóller39:30 Restaurants, late lunches and private chefs43:30 Local Mallorcan food and where to eat46:30 Shirley’s restaurant recommendations49:00 Where to find SollerwebSign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/

This week on the Majorca Mallorca podcast, Vicki sits down with Glynis German for a conversation about one of life’s few certainties, death.It may sound like a heavy topic, but this episode is full of warmth, honesty, humour and practical advice. Glynis shares how her background, family life and years in Mallorca led her to become an end-of-life doula, funeral celebrant and host of Death Cafés.They talk about why death is still such a difficult subject for many people, how grief needs space rather than silence, and why planning ahead can make an enormous difference for families. The conversation also explores what happens when someone dies in Mallorca, why funerals happen so quickly here, what repatriation involves, and why understanding the system matters whether you live on the island or are simply visiting.Glynis also explains the role of a death doula, the purpose of Death Cafés, and why asking “what matters to you?” can be far more helpful than asking “what’s the matter with you?”This is a compassionate, fascinating and very human episode about grief, ceremony, community and making peace with difficult conversations.What we cover in this episodeGlynis German’s journey from Jamaica and Wales to MallorcaWhy Mallorca reminds her of WalesHer work as a celebrant, funeral celebrant and end-of-life doulaWhat a death doula actually doesWhy funerals matter in the grieving processHow families are becoming more involved in eulogiesThe cultural differences around death in MallorcaWhy funerals happen so quickly on the islandThe importance of funeral planning, paperwork and insuranceRepatriation and what happens if someone dies abroadWhat a Death Café is, and what it is notWhy talking openly about death can be a reliefSupport options in Mallorca for grief, illness and end-of-life careChapter markers00:00 Introduction00:20 Meet Glynis German01:09 Growing up Jamaican and Welsh03:11 How Glynis ended up in Mallorca05:33 Why Mallorca reminds her of Wales08:03 Life and work on the island10:53 Becoming an end-of-life doula and celebrant13:39 Holding space for weddings, funerals and families16:29 Asking not “what’s the matter?” but “what matters?”19:41 Why funerals are such an important part of grief22:01 Memorials, rituals and saying goodbye in different ways24:45 What happens when someone dies in Mallorca26:53 Funeral costs, planning and practical realities32:45 Repatriation, travel insurance and preparing ahead38:05 Why Glynis was drawn to working with death and dying42:18 Death Cafés in Mallorca and how they help47:31 Why these conversations matter for grief and loss51:01 What a death doula actually does53:16 An old role returning in a modern form56:56 Spirituality, grief and finding peace01:02:21 Advice for anyone feeling anxious about death01:05:18 How to contact Glynis and find support01:07:58 OutroYou can get in touch with Glynis here https://glynisgermanfunerals.com/Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/

A warm, thoughtful conversation with Tara Huber, creator of Deia Unpacked, about life in Deià, the stories that shape a village, and what happens when a place changes from holiday fantasy to real home. This week’s guest is Tara Huber, host of Deia Unpacked, a podcast devoted to the characters, ideas and voices that give Deià its identity. Tara first came to Mallorca in 1989 and, after years of returning, eventually began spending much more of her life in the village during Covid. Out of that period came Deia Unpacked, a podcast she created in 2021, built around long-form, lightly edited conversations with people connected to Deià and the wider island. In this episode, Tara reflects on the shock of arriving in Mallorca from late-80s Brooklyn, the beauty of the drive through Valldemossa into the mountains, and the complexity of moving from visitor to resident. She talks honestly about small-village life, the value and danger of gossip, the international make-up of Deià, and the sense that even in a place often caricatured from the outside, there is a very real and supportive community underneath it all.She also shares how the podcast grew out of grief and reinvention after Covid disrupted her long career in fitness and personal training in Washington DC. What began as a project became a grounding force, and a way of understanding not just the village, but herself.The conversation also explores the differences between life in America and life in Mallorca, from food culture and healthcare to entrepreneurship, politics and pace of life. Tara speaks with real passion about women’s health, ageing, the freedom that can come after fifty, and why art, conversation and curiosity matter more than ever.There is also a fascinating section on Regenera Deià, a regeneration project looking at how the village can restore terraces, reduce fire risk, support local agriculture and create an economy that helps people stay rooted in the community.It is a wide-ranging, funny, thoughtful episode about place, identity, creativity and what it really means to belong somewhere. You can see more about Tara and her podcast here https://www.deiaunpacked.com/00:00 Intro to Tara Huber and Deia Unpacked 02:05 First arriving in Deià in 1989 05:19 Holiday Mallorca versus living here 10:21 What village life in Deià is really like 13:45 Brooklyn, New York, and parallels with Deià 15:05 Living between the US and Mallorca 16:54 Tara’s work in fitness and how Covid changed things 17:55 Why she started Deia Unpacked 20:17 Food culture, health and America versus Mallorca 28:52 Washington DC compared with island life 31:50 Politics, entrepreneurship and life in Spain 37:24 Women’s health, HRT and getting older 43:38 Starting the podcast and learning through it 45:44 How Tara chooses her guests 48:46 Who listens to the podcast and where 52:43 Favourite episodes and where to start 54:36 Advice for Americans moving to Mallorca 57:31 “If Deià is Manhattan, Sóller is Brooklyn” 01:00:49 Regenera Deià explained 01:07:03 Why art matters and whether artists should be funded 01:13:26 What’s next for Tara

In this episode, Vicki sits down with Bronwen Griffiths, president of Cancer Support Mallorca, to talk about her remarkable life in Spain and the charity’s work supporting people affected by cancer on the island. Bronwen shares how she moved from the UK to Spain in her twenties, built a life across Menorca and Mallorca, spent decades teaching at Bellver International College, and eventually stepped into one of the island’s most important volunteer roles. Together, they discuss language, belonging, paperwork, healthcare, family life abroad, and why nobody facing cancer in Mallorca should feel they have to do it alone.What happens when you move to Spain in your twenties for love, build a life on the islands, raise a family, teach generations of children, and then find yourself leading one of Mallorca’s most important charities?In this episode of Majorca Mallorca, Vicki talks to Bronwen Griffiths, president of Cancer Support Mallorca, about her 50 years in Spain, her life between Menorca and Mallorca, and the work the charity does for people facing cancer far from home.Bronwen talks about arriving in Spain in a very different era, learning the language from scratch, adapting to island life, and spending 32 years teaching at Bellver International College. She also explains how Cancer Support Mallorca helps patients and families navigate one of the hardest experiences life can throw at them.They discuss practical support, hospital appointments, translation help, counselling, nutrition, wigs, transport, end of life planning, volunteering, and the realities of private versus public healthcare in Spain. It is a warm, honest and deeply useful conversation for anyone living in Mallorca, especially those who may one day need help, or want to offer it.In this episode:Bronwen’s journey from London to SpainLife in Menorca and Mallorca in the 1970s and 80sLearning Spanish and finding your place abroad32 years at Bellver International CollegeWhat Cancer Support Mallorca actually doesWhy paperwork matters so much in SpainThe difference between private and public healthcare in serious illnessVolunteering, fundraising and community support on the islandUseful linksCancer Support Mallorca cancersupportmallorca.comContact Cancer Support Mallorca [email protected] WhatsApp: +34 659 887 455Cancer Support Mallorca publicly lists support including patient drop-in centres, emotional support, nutrition advice, translators, transport, practical help, oncology materials and volunteer programmes.00:00 Intro 04:06 How long Bronwen has been in Spain and Mallorca 04:39 Leaving the UK at 23 after a holiday romance 05:23 Life in Menorca, hotel work and moving around Spain 07:44 Being a young British woman in Menorca in the 1970s 10:08 Learning Spanish and settling into island life 12:08 Leaving teaching in the UK behind 13:20 Family, friendship and community in Spain 16:00 Returning to teaching at Bellver International College 18:27 Retirement, daughters and grandchildren 20:00 Raising bilingual children 22:00 Why making the effort with language matters 25:00 Taking over Cancer Support Mallorca 26:14 How the group began 27:25 What Cancer Support Mallorca actually does 29:21 Nutrition, counselling and buddy support 32:42 Living through cancer and speaking openly about fear 34:00 End of life planning and practical help for families 36:34 Funding, volunteers and how the charity runs 39:53 Hospital drop-in centres and awareness 41:02 Wigs, scarves and support materials 42:11 The art group and knitting group 43:00 Fundraising and the annual walk 46:54 How many patients are being supported now 47:20 Private versus public healthcare in Mallorca 50:00 Why getting your paperwork in order matters 55:00 Helping patients navigate bureaucracy 56:51 The future of the charity and volunteering 58:38 Who volunteers and how the organisation works 01:00:34 Where to find Cancer Support MallorcaSign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Oliver sits down with Nick Brown, a regular in the Majorca Mallorca community known for translating complicated rules into plain English, to unpack what is changing at Europe’s borders.They cover the Entry/Exit System (EES) kiosks and biometrics, how the Schengen 90 days in any 180 days rule actually works, what could cause longer queues at Palma, and the practical stuff people can do to reduce stress when arriving or departing.They also break down ETIAS, why scam websites are already appearing, and a separate but related headache: the UK’s ETA rules, especially for British dual nationals travelling on non-UK passports.Key takeaways for listenersEES is the “at the border” change: biometric registration and electronic tracking replace the old stamp logic for most non-EU short-stay travellers.90/180 is rolling, no reset: it is not “90 then one day out then 90 again”, it is “are you over 90 of the last 180 days, today?”.Queues may be worse before they are better, especially at busy regional airports in peak season, because first-time registration takes longer and needs staffing.ETIAS is not live yet: the EU’s official position is that it will start in the last quarter of 2026 and travellers do not need to do anything now.UK ETA is now enforced for people who need it, and costs £16 via the official route.Beware paid “application services” and fake sites, especially for ETIAS, since it is not even open yet.Mentioned in the episodeEU official Travel to Europe pages: EES and ETIAS (what they are, and current status)European Commission explainer: EES vs ETIAS differencesUK Government guidance: Apply for a UK ETA, cost, what it does and does not doUK Government announcement on ETA enforcement (25 Feb 2026)Banco de Alimentos de Mallorca, donation options (as referenced by Nick)Brits in Spain Facebook page, run by the British Embassy in Madrid (referenced in the discussion)EU EES (official): https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/eesEU ETIAS (official): https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etiasEuropean Commission: EES vs ETIAS explainer: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/news/ees-vs-etias-main-differences-know-travellers-2026-01-29_enUK ETA apply (official): https://www.gov.uk/etaUK ETA enforcement news release: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-enforces-digital-permission-to-travelBanco de Alimentos de Mallorca (donations): https://www.bancodealimentosdemallorca.org/donativosBrits in Spain (British Embassy Madrid): https://www.facebook.com/BritsInSpain/....and some links from Nick.Work out how long you can stay with this spreadsheet. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wTSpknDO0azRvEa_JQvCTJ_W3iMBafySYi9p3i6KvYw/edit?gid=1766127169#gid=1766127169...help him to help local charities while getting a personally guided tour of Palma from the man himself. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563615153343

Mallorca Restaurant Week is live, and despite the name, it’s five weeks long.We’re joined in the studio by Anna Ruiz Alvaro and Mia Narpta, the team behind Mallorca Restaurant Week, to share what’s new for this edition, why the event focuses on the low season, and how it brings together restaurants, producers, hotels, and partners across the island.We talk about:When it runs, and why the timing mattersHow restaurants are chosen, beyond Michelin starsThe local produce commitment, and why it’s part of the pointWhat you can book, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktailsHow feedback leads to end of event recognitionsA few suggestions to get you started, from Japanese spots to veggie picksBook through the official site and explore the list of restaurants and menus. Links are in the show notes.Show notesGuestsAnna Ruiz Alvaro, Mallorca Restaurant WeekMia Narpta, Mallorca Restaurant WeekWhat you’ll hearMallorca Restaurant Week starts now and runs until 31 March, with a closing party on 30 March at TabanaOver 50 restaurants participating, with more joining during the runWhy it’s designed for low season, to support restaurants and extend the seasonThe focus on local produce and the island’s food ecosystemHow booking works, and how feedback is collectedNames mentioned in conversation include Mark Fosh, Voro, DINS Santi Taura, Adrián Quetglas, Andreu Genestra, Aromata, and othersMentions from the conversationRestaurant Week website: restaurant-week.esInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantweekes/MallorcaRestaurantWeek, RestaurantWeekMallorca, PalmaDeMallorca, MallorcaFood, MallorcaRestaurants, MallorcaLife, EatLocalMallorca, Km0, SlowFoodMallorca, VisitMallorca, FoodiesMallorca, PalmaFood

Happy New Year, and welcome back to the Mallorca Mallorca Podcast. This week, Soller Shirley joins Vicki in the studio for a wide-ranging winter chat, starting with festive downtime, sea walks, and why the quiet season can be the most grounding time to live in Mallorca.From there, we dive into one of the island’s most loved winter traditions, Sant Antoni in Sóller, from bonfires and barbecues to demonis, the blessing of the animals, and the surprisingly surreal horse races that take place right in the middle of town.Along the way, the conversation moves into something deeper too, the difference between the postcard version of Mallorca and the year-round reality, the cost of living, subsidies, and the voices we do not always hear, especially from the immigrant communities who keep the island running.And yes, there’s a delicious detour into Bhukkad Boca, the new Punjabi and South African-inspired neighbourhood bar in Palma.What you’ll hear aboutThe joy of the “between Christmas and New Year” quiet daysWinter rituals, sea walks, slow season routines, and the comfort of familiarityWhy Repic and Port de Sóller feel like a safe placeWhat belonging really means when you live here year-roundSant Antoni in Sóller, what happens, when, and whereBonfires, demonis, barbecues, and why it still feels joyful and freeThe blessing of the animals (and why you should wear red)Horse races in the town car park, and how surreal that feelsThe bus culture of fiestas (and why younger locals love it)Cost of living, subsidies, and what a “voucher world” looks likeA personal story that brings the conversation back to gratitude and perspectiveDesi pubs in the UK, and how communities reshape culture over timeBhukkad Boca in Palma, a new opening with big neighbourhood energyPlaces and mentionsSóllerPort de SóllerRepicLa Huerta (Sóller)Sant Antoni (Mallorca)Sant Sebastià (Palma)Bhukkad Boca (Son Armadams, Palma)Merchants (Palma)Tom Brown’s (Palmanova)Quote highlights“I love that week where you don’t know what day it is, you can just mooch about in your pyjamas.”“The sea is definitely my safe place.”“Everywhere you go in the next ten days, you’ll find a celebration of some kind.”“It’s not spicy, it’s spiced up.”“Mallorca has so many layers, the holiday version, the resident version, the international version, the working version.”If you loved this episode…If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the Mallorca Mallorca Podcast wherever you listen, and share this episode with a friend who loves Mallorca in the quieter season.And if you’re spending January on the island, this is your sign to get out and experience the winter fiestas, even if you watch from a safe distance with a warm drink in hand.

Vicki sits down with Maya Flynn, a Poland-born health practitioner who lived in Ireland before moving to Mallorca. Maya shares how her own health journey, from low thyroid and fatigue to digestive issues, led her into naturopathic nutritional therapy and functional medicine.Together they unpack why symptoms are often signals, not the real problem, why the body is individual, and how lifestyle, environment, digestion, and stress all shape how we feel. They also discuss the difference between folklore wisdom and modern science, and why the best results often come from using both.Vicki brings a real-world question to the table too, a skin antioxidant test result that made no sense on paper. Maya explains how nutrients are prioritised in the body, why absorption matters as much as intake, and why context always wins in nutrition.Finally, Maya shares details of her new Mallorca workshop series, Food as Medicine, starting 24 January, a ten-session community experience designed to cut through misinformation, build food confidence, and help people understand their own bodies with practical tools, not perfection.What you’ll hear aboutMaya’s move from Poland to Ireland, then MallorcaWhy “healthy” diets do not work the same for everyoneFunctional medicine, what it is, and why people seek it outCommon issues clients bring, acne, bloating, itching, allergies, hormone shifts, perimenopauseWhy symptoms are not the disease, they are signalsAncient wisdom vs modern science, and why both can be usefulTime, routines, and why simple, repeatable meals matterThe updated US food pyramid and what it could mean in practiceAntioxidants, beta-carotene, absorption, and why fats matterHow Maya works with clients, questionnaires, photos, consultations, tests, and support optionsOrganic vs non-organic, and the “level up, not perfection” approachMaya’s Food as Medicine series in Santa Catalina, Palma, and what each module coversFood as Medicine series, key detailsStarts: 24 JanuaryFormat: 10 Saturdays (you can join single sessions, or bundles of 5 or 10)Session length: 2.5 hours, with a brunch breakLocation: Santa Catalina, Palma (at Cintina)Language: EnglishSign-up: via Maya’s website (Food as Medicine tab)Modules mentionedNew Year Reset (mindset, health audit, cutting through misinformation)Food confidence (shopping in Mallorca, labels, avoiding marketing traps, Yuka app pros and cons)Reading bloods and symptoms (how to interpret patterns, what you see in the mirror)Stress resilience (thriving in stress, not pretending you can remove it)Gut health (microbiome, parasites, ecosystem balance, symptoms beyond digestion)Hormones and perimenopause (why symptoms are so intense, lifestyle factors)Fitness and immunity (autoimmune conditions, histamine issues, sensitivities vs intolerances)Places and mentionsMallorcaSanta Catalina, PalmaCintinaMercadonaYuka appQuote highlights“There is no such thing as one healthy diet.”“Symptoms are not the disease, they’re the expression of what’s happening deeper.”“Sustainable health comes from consistency.”“Embrace the routine.”“Improve life without turning it into a project.”If you loved this episode…If you’re feeling confused by conflicting nutrition advice, or you want practical steps that fit real life in Mallorca, this conversation is a great starting point. Follow the Mallorca Mallorca Podcast wherever you listen, and share this episode with a friend who’s trying to feel better without making life more complicated.

Food writer and Restaurant Week organiser Mia Naprta joins Vic and Ollie for a fast, funny, very hungry catch up on what she’s been eating around Mallorca, plus the places she’s most excited about right now.They talk winter comfort food, Croatian Christmas traditions, Palma’s stand out lunch menus, tapas worth the splurge, and why first impressions matter so much when a new venue opens. You will also hear about a few lesser known neighbourhood favourites and how Mallorca’s food scene is expanding far beyond the classics.In this episode, we coverWhy some Croatians celebrate Christmas on 7 January, and what a Croatian Christmas table looks likeThe dishes Mia misses and the soups she is cooking at home this winterAdrian Quetglas (Palma), a lunch menu that feels like a treat without going overboardBazar (Palma) for elevated tapas and generous set menusA “vermouth show” bar, and why Palma is at its best when it gets a bit weirdMerchants (Palma) and their winter afternoon tea experienceA new opening: Bhukkad Boca, an Indian inspired cafe near Bellver CastleMango Beach, Colombian comfort food and a sugar cane based drink worth tryingRestaurant Week Mallorca, and how restaurants can get involvedA birthday spa day at La Residencia, including an ice bath momentPlaces mentioned Adrian Quetglas, PalmaBazar, PalmaMerchants, PalmaBhukkad Boca, Palma (near Bellver)Mango Beach, Palma (Son Gotleu area)Iroko, Palma (near Hotel Zel)La Residencia, DeiàConnected Mallorca (events)People and projectsMia Naprta, food writer and organiser of Restaurant Week MallorcaRestaurant Week Mallorca (end of February to end of March)Croatian phrases from the episodeHappy New Year: Sretna Nova (or Sretna Nova Godina)Merry Christmas: Sretan BožićSign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this episode, Vicki speaks with Imke, a life coach and counsellor based in Mallorca, about what it really means to change direction in life.Imke spent almost 25 years working as a cardiologist in Germany before moving to Mallorca. What she expected to be a continuation of her career became a moment of deep questioning, leading her to step away from medicine and retrain in counselling and coaching.Together, they discuss:Leaving a secure and respected careerWhy courage is not the absence of fearThe difference between functioning and livingWalking the Camino de Santiago aloneCoaching versus counsellingWhy New Year’s resolutions so often failMental health in Mallorca and the expat experienceMidlife as a powerful turning point, especially for womenThe Dare To Be You coaching programmeThis episode is for anyone who feels restless, disconnected or quietly asking themselves, “Is this really it?”https://www.thegapcounselling.com/Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Vicki McLeod and Oliver Neilson kick off the year from their “stationery cupboard studio” to recap 2025 with three standout moments each, a mix of uplifting local stories, celebrity chaos, and one beloved Mallorca project that did not quite survive.In this episodeA new “studio” setup, and why January in Mallorca feels like a long, lovely exhale, thanks to puente days and slow returns to work2025 pick 1: Otillie Quince, transplant athlete and relentlessly positive force, expanding her bike shop and winning again at the Transplant Games2025 pick 1: Justin Bieber in Port d’Andratx, the reality of fame, crowds outside Nacra, and Vicki’s accidental viral “Beliebers” moment2025 pick 2: Kanye West and Pueblo Espanyol, and the scramble to help Drag Brunch find a venue after a sudden complex takeover2025 pick 2: The Disgusting Food Museum in Palma, what it was like to try the samples, why it was a great idea, and the disappointment of its closure2025 pick 3: Nick Brown, the Palma walking tour expert who refuses tips and encourages donations to local charities instead2025 pick 3: Luna Fluxà Cross, Mallorca’s rising motorsport talent, her Mercedes programme, and the step up into Spanish Formula 4A quick note on 2026 intentions: consistency, community, and staying focused on what’s good about MallorcaNames and places mentionedOtillie Quince, OQ Service Course (Pollença), Port d’Andratx, Nacra, Cala Llamp, Gran Folies, Poble Espanyol, Disgusting Food Museum (Palma), ABTA conference (Magaluf), Simon Calder, Nick Brown (Palma walks), Luna Fluxà Cross, Spanish Formula 4Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this episode, Vic is joined in the studio by Jan Edwards from Eat Drink Sleep Mallorca, (https://eatdrinksleepmallorca.com) writer and restaurant reviewer, for a lively catch-up on what’s worth booking right now across the island.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast app. You can also find links and references in the show notes.This episode was actually recorded before Christmas, but all of the info is still relevant now.HighlightsLittle Jarana (Palma): Jan’s latest restaurant-of-the-week, a small, intimate spot built around sharing plates and a counter view of the kitchen. Chef-owner Abraham Artigas keeps things Mediterranean with playful international touches, and it is one of those places you will want to book ahead. https://www.littlejarana.com/Mallorca’s Michelin conversation: A quick, friendly breakdown of what the latest guide recognition means on such a small island, and why you do not always need to dress up, even in star territory.Terrae and the rise of zero-waste dining: Jan talks sustainability, “use everything” cooking, and why zero-waste restaurants are so compelling right now.Can March (Manacor) turns 100: A centenary celebration for a long-running family restaurant, plus a newly published book covering the story and recipes (with more languages expected). https://www.canmarch.com/en/Tomeu Caldentey in Sa Coma: Jan shares a packed-room tasting menu experience, the appeal of chef-counter dining, and why some chefs choose freedom over the “golden shackles” of constant awards pressure. https://tomeucaldentey.com/en/Restaurant discovery and marketing: Instagram rabbit holes, why character-led marketing works (including a shout-out to Annabelle’s), and why “book ahead” is the best stress-reducer in Mallorca dining season.More links!https://fincacanbeneit.com/en/gastronomy/https://www.brutrestaurante.com/https://nuspalma.com/https://mesquidamora.com/es/https://www.instagram.com/canmel_casconcos

This episode of the Majorca Mallorca podcast is your friendly guide to Christmas and New Year on the island. Vicki is joined in the studio by returning guest Nina Moons, founder of The Calendar Mallorca, to talk about how to navigate the busiest, sparkliest time of the year without missing the good stuff.Nina shares how The Calendar Mallorca has become a curated hub for events across the island, and why she created a special “Festive Moments 2025” category to keep Christmas programmes manageable. Together they talk through family friendly highlights in Palma and beyond, artisan markets and gifting ideas, and the local traditions that make a Mallorcan Christmas feel different from anywhere else.You will hear about belen routes and restored nativity scenes, Santa Lucia in the cathedral, the Festa de l’Estendard on New Year’s Eve, fancy dress runs in Calvià, cold water swims, hotel afternoon teas and the magic of the Three Kings parades. Along the way, Vicki and Nina also touch on women’s health events, the importance of shopping local and why experiences often make the best presents.In the final part of the episode, Vicki and Ollie catch up on island life, from a new smoking ban proposal and invasive horseshoe snakes to house prices and the challenges of finding somewhere to live in Mallorca.Guest bioNina Moons is the founder of The Calendar Mallorca, an online platform that curates events, markets, workshops and cultural happenings across the island. Passionate about community and supporting local businesses, she sifts through hundreds of listings so that locals and visitors can find the best of what is on, without the overwhelm.LinksCHECK The Calendar Mallorca website https://thecalendarmallorca.com/ and Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thecalendar.mallorca/ for weekly event listings.Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

This episode dives into the story behind Food Tours Balearics, the self guided food tour company reshaping how people experience Palma. Vicki speaks to Michelle about her journey from St Maarten to Mallorca, how the business began almost by accident, and why the island’s food scene is the perfect backdrop for curated culinary experiences. The conversation covers entrepreneurship, Palma’s evolving gastronomy, the importance of local partnerships and the joy of discovering the island through food.Michelle is the co founder of Food Tours Balearics, a Mallorca based company offering self guided and group food tours across Palma, Santa Catalina and, most recently, Ibiza. With a background in large scale events and a passion for connecting people through food, she has built a concept that blends local insight with modern technology, giving both residents and visitors a fresh way to explore the Balearics.Mallorca Food Tours https://foodtoursmallorca.com/ discount code at checkout MM10Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Writer and creative coach Arizona Bell joins Vicki in the studio to talk about how an American from Arizona, with a German mum and a life scattered across Ireland, Italy and Mexico, eventually found home on the island of Mallorca. Arizona shares the story behind her upcoming book, The Griever’s Dictionary, a creative non-fiction work that explores grief, spirituality and culture through a series of lyrical vignettes.We talk about what it really feels like to lose a parent, how grief can also accompany joyful changes like moving country or children leaving home, and why our culture often does such a poor job of acknowledging loss. Arizona explains how writing became her way of alchemising pain into meaning, why she chose a dictionary structure for her book and what she has learned from years of ghostwriting for other people.There is also plenty of island life: her finca in Santa Maria with two well travelled rescue dogs, plans for “Books Uncorked” literary and wine evenings at Babel in Palma, and a new writing and yoga retreat in the Tramuntana. If you have ever felt stuck in your grief, or unsure how to start writing your own story, this episode will give you comfort and a gentle nudge.Arizona on Instagram: @_arizonabellMallorca Food Tours https://foodtoursmallorca.com/ discount code at checkout MM10Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this episode we sit down with Rafa Winckelmann , the driving force behind Fundació Handisport in Mallorca. He talks about the growth of adaptive sport on the island, how the foundation creates real access for people with physical, sensory and cognitive disabilities, and what it means to build a community where everyone can take part. Rafa shares stories from the athletes, the impact of outdoor activity on confidence and independence, and the challenges of running a project that relies on skilled instructors, specialist equipment and steady funding. It is a clear look at the work being done to make Mallorca a place where sport belongs to everybody. This episode focuses on the mission and work of Fundació Handisport. Rafa Winckelmann talks through the origins of the foundation, the sports they offer, and the real world impact on participants and families. He discusses accessibility on the island, the importance of trained staff, and the emotional and social benefits of sport for people with disabilities. The conversation offers insight into how Mallorca can continue to grow as an inclusive and accessible destination.

This week Vicki is joined by her “events bestie” Nina Moons, the founder of The Calendar Mallorca, to talk about winter on the island, Christmas build up in Palma and how to make the most of the quieter season.Nina shares what she has been up to lately, from local concerts and village fairs to family hikes, lazy lunches and discovering new boutique fitness and wellness spots. She and Vicki chat about the famous Palma Christmas lights switch on, the charm and chaos of the city centre that night, and how to navigate the Christmas markets, from Plaça Major to Passeig del Born and village fairs in places like Alaró.They also dive into community, language and lifestyle. Nina explains how The Calendar Mallorca helps people plug into island life, why experiences make the best gifts, and how her own family is growing up multilingual and very outdoorsy. Expect lots of practical ideas for winter days, from cultural events and kids activities to cosy brunches, jazz nights and spa sessions.Winter rhythm on Mallorca after the summer seasonPalma Christmas lights switch on and how the city celebratesChristmas markets in Palma and in villages such as AlaróWhy experiences make great Christmas gifts on the islandHow The Calendar Mallorca connects different communities and interestsRaising multilingual children and family life in MallorcaBoutique gyms, wellness spots and ways to stay active in winterComedy, theatre and live music as part of the off season sceneEvent and lifestyle resourcesCHECK The Calendar Mallorca website https://thecalendarmallorca.com/ and Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thecalendar.mallorca/ for weekly event listings.Palma Christmas lights switch on in November, an evening in the centre with street performers, music and the first big taste of the festive season.Palma and village Christmas markets, especially:City centre markets around Plaça Major, La Rambla and Parc de la MarHotel and boutique markets, including Es Baluard and similar spacesVillage markets, for example Alaró, with a strong community feel.Wellness, fitness and languageRdy Studios in Palma, an indoor cycling and music focused spin studio with themed classes and community runs.Balu in Santa Catalina, a boutique Pilates and yoga studio that hosts creative community events.Haslap, a locally founded running app that lists runs, clubs and events across Mallorca.Spanish by Living (Tia’s Spanish speaking club), weekly conversation meet ups in Palma plus special activities such as hikes with lunch or boat trips, all aimed at helping people improve Spanish in real life settings.Food, drink and going outGrun restaurants in Fornalutx and Deià, open all year with charcoal grilled dishes, fish of the day and family friendly options, ideal after a hike.Palma jazz lounge at Plaça de la Reina area, a small, intimate venue with live jazz and themed evenings, perfect after dinner.Family and kidsPalma Aquarium “Yo También” charity days, with reduced entry for residents, extra workshops and activities for children, and a donation from each ticket to a local children’s charity.Year round family hikes and nature time, especially around Deià, Fornalutx and Sóller, combined with lunch at local restaurants.Wellness and spaWild Spa sauna truck in the Sóller mountains, a mobile sauna experience with community sessions and private bookings, ideal for colder months.Infrared and recovery style sauna sessions in Palma, as a gentler alternative to traditional very hot saunas.

A conversation with two of Madrid’s leading English-language comedians. Xavi Jallois is from Chile, Abdullah Ozturk is from Turkey, and together they tour a split-hour stand-up show exploring what it means to arrive in Spain and feel like an outsider. They talk about learning to be funny in a new language, finding community in Madrid’s growing comedy scene, and why humour often begins where frustration lives. We also discuss touring logistics, small venues, audience differences across the country, and the joy of shared laughter when you have lived between cultures.Included:• How the show We Are Not From Here began• The Madrid Comedy Lab scene• Performing comedy in your second or third language• What it feels like to be new, foreign or misplaced• Turning culture shock into material• Touring across Spain and audience reactions• Xavi Jallois on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xavi_jallois/• Abdullah Ozturk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benabdullahozturk/• Madrid Comedy Lab https://www.instagram.com/madridcomedylab/If you enjoy the episode, share it with someone who has ever felt like an outsider.Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorca.mallorca/You can email us at [email protected]

Food lover and broadcaster Jan Edwards returns to talk winter on the island: staying at La Residencia in Deià, why Peccata Minuta is worth tracking down, the tapas trail TaPalma, Port Adriano’s Food Passion weekends, and a clutch of great value places from Palma to Felanitx and Son Ferrer. Expect practical tips, price-savvy picks, and how to actually find out what is on.A birthday stay at La Residencia, Deià. What makes the service special, Miró artworks, and choosing between El Olivo’s tasting menus and Restaurante Miró’s à la carte.Quiet-season culture in Deià and why small exhibitions and concerts are part of the charm.Peccata Minuta by Chefs(in): how the token system works, why it draws local food lovers, and how to keep an eye out for dates.Inca in autumn: cloister venues, fairs and why the train beats driving on big festival days such as Dijous Bo.How to navigate TaPalma when information is sparse, plus the case for neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood routes.Port Adriano’s Food Passion weekends in November and why fixed-price menus help you try new kitchens.Palma fine dining: Izakaya and the “date-night” test.Finding out what is on: The Calendar Mallorca for daily listings, SóllerWeb for Sóller valley updates.Seasonal chat: Thanksgiving options, the challenge of booking Christmas lunch in Mallorca, and why private chefs can be a smart solution.La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Deià — belmond.com/hotels/europe/mallorca/deia/belmond-la-residenciaEl Olivo and Restaurante Miró — Dining at La ResidenciaChefs(in) Mallorca — Peccata Minuta — chefsins.com/peccataminutaTaPalma tapas route — tapalma.comPort Adriano Food Passion (weekend set menus in November) — portadriano.com/en/events/food-passion-port-adrianoIzakaya High Japanese Cuisine, Palma — izakayamallorca.comAsador La Cumbrecita, Son Ferrer — facebook.com/asadorlacumbrecitaProtur Naisa Palma, cafeteria set lunch — proturnaisapalma.com/gastronomiaEstragon La Plaça, Felanitx — restaurant-estragon.comPAX Gastrobar, Felanitx — pax-gastrobar.comBatec Restaurant, Felanitx — batecrestaurant.comSon Bascós, Montuïri (quail and grill) — sonbascos.comThe Calendar Mallorca — thecalendarmallorca.comSóllerWeb — sollerweb.com

Shirley Roberts is a beloved voice in the Sóller Valley, known for her daily letters and meticulous fact finding on SóllerWeb. In this conversation we look at social inclusion in Mallorca’s cultural scene. Why was the Rocky Horror Show playing to half empty rows in Palma. What could venues do to fill seats without alienating paying audiences. We discuss tried and tested theatre tools such as papering the house, community partnerships and using the back rows first, plus the value of pay-what-you-can concerts that still fairly compensate artists.Shirley also paints a vivid picture of autumn life in Sóller. Tardeo at the covered market, free jazz in the Escorxador cultural centre, the annual buñols, All Saints, winter opening patterns, young drummers in parades, and the new children’s Firo. We touch on cyclists, car park debates and drainage aggregates, bonfire smoke inversions, and the wave of older newcomers choosing Mallorca for its social fabric as much as its climate.It is a generous, grounded hour about belonging, access, and keeping local culture alive all year.00:00 Intro and mic-check chaos02:0 Who is Shirley Roberts and SóllerWeb06:10 Empty seats and pricing. Papering the house 10113:45 Pay-what-you-can concerts and artist pay18:40 Autumn in Sóller. Market tardeo and free culture24:10 Hotels, seasonality and what stays open28:55 Car parks, aggregates and drainage gripes33:30 Cyclists, courtesy and living together39:20 Teachers as culture makers and role models44:15 Children’s Firo and young drummers49:00 Bonfire season and air quality concerns53:20 Buñols, All Saints and street life57:00 Inclusion ideas and next steps59:30 Wrap up and December previewSóCovered market tardeo, live music and family-friendly afternoons.Free or donation-based concerts at local cultural centres.What typically closes in November and who stays open through winter.Culture and communityTeachers as the bridge into arts and sport.Children’s Firo, young parade drummers and keeping traditions alive.Car park expansion, aggregate choice and drainage.Cyclists, courtesy and seasonal rhythms.Bonfire smoke inversions and health concerns.Food and folklore Buñols for All Saints, why October feels like Mallorca’s best month.SóllerWeb (events and local info): https://www.sollerweb.com/Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this episode we sit down with Berlin gallerist Johann Nowak, the driving force behind Art District Palma in La Soledad. Johann has spent the past few years acquiring former workshops and houses in this overlooked neighbourhood, and transforming them into a growing cluster of galleries, studios, bakeries, and public cultural spaces.We talk about how he first discovered La Soledad, why the area’s everyday life matters just as much as the art, and the importance of keeping the neighbourhood accessible to locals rather than shaping it into a tourist zone. Johann shares the long-term philosophy behind building a cultural district: patience, infrastructure, and meaningful relationships between artists, curators and communities.We also hear stories from the street paella festivals, the independent radio station broadcasting from the barrio, and the early days of Berlin-Mitte that helped shape Johann’s approach. This is a conversation about art as community, place-making, and the slow, deliberate work of bringing something new to life in Palma.Visit artdistrictpalma.comPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esMallorca Insider Mia Naprta on food, parties and local flavoursInsider Intro Mia Naprta is a food, culture and lifestyle columnist based in Mallorca, originally from Croatia. She writes for publications including Mallorca Bulletin, Última Hora and The Islander Magazine, and shares regular updates on Instagram under @mianaprta. In this episode we cover her recent holiday in Greece, where that enviable tan came from, her take on the end-of-season party scene in Mallorca, her favourite value lunch spots, and how local Mallorcan cuisine is evolving.Mia’s break in Greece — what she did, how it compared to Mallorca.The party season in Mallorca: multiple venues in one night, what it’s really like, and the old-school insider access (Lamborghinis welcome!).The food scene:Value menus (“menú del día”) and the shift towards more cost-conscious dining.The value vs glamour of gourmet burgers.Local Mallorcan food (mallorquín cuisine) vs the international expectation of paella everywhere.Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

From Reykjavík to Palma: Reginn Tumi Kolbeinsson is reshaping Mallorca’s creative scene with fearless theatre that asks the big questions: identity, belonging, and the human condition.In this episode of the Majorca Mallorca Podcast, we talk with Icelandic playwright and director Reginn Tumi Kolbeinsson, a creative force who has made Mallorca his stage.Reginn shares his journey from Iceland to the island, his love for storytelling that pushes boundaries, and his latest productions that challenge audiences to think differently about culture, connection, and emotion. We discuss the evolution of the theatre scene in Mallorca, the importance of creating original work in English, and how island life fuels his creativity.This is a fascinating conversation about art, community, and courage and what it really takes to bring bold theatre to a Mediterranean audience.🎧 Tune in for insight, inspiration, and a glimpse behind the curtain of Mallorca’s emerging performing arts scene.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.🎙 Majorca Mallorca — the sound of the island.Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Legendary DJ Des Mitchell has sound-tracked Mallorca for decades, from the golden age of Magaluf and BCM to his residencies that defined the island’s nightlife. In this episode, Des talks about the highs, the near-misses, and the passion that’s kept him behind the decks long after the lights come up. A conversation full of rhythm, humour, and heart from one of Mallorca’s best-loved entertainers. If you’ve danced anywhere on the island in the last 30 years, chances are DJ Des Mitchell was behind the decks. From his early days on British radio to becoming a household name in Mallorca, Des’s story is built on community, connection, and an undeniable love for music.In this episode, he joins Vicki McLeod in the studio to talk about:🎧 How he first arrived in Mallorca and became part of the island’s nightlife history🏝 His favourite memories from the glory days of BCM, and beyond🎵 The new generation of DJs carrying the sound of the island forwardFunny, open, and unmistakably real, Des Mitchell is more than a DJ, he’s a storyteller with a soundtrack.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.🎙 Majorca Mallorca — the sound of the island.Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Meet our newest Mallorca Insider, Erica Lay — veteran crew agent and author of Superyacht Life: How to Start, Succeed and Stay Sane. Erica lifts the lid on the real superyacht industry in Mallorca: what counts as a superyacht, why TV shows like Below Deck skew expectations, and how hiring really works for deck, interior and engineering roles. We cover the starter essentials (ENG1 medicals, STCW modules, dock-walking), realistic entry salaries and seasons, plus the culture on board — tiny cabins, long hours, big teamwork — and why mental health, boundaries and diversity matter at sea. Erica shares straight-talking advice for “green crew”, what captains actually look for, and how women are carving paths on deck and in the wheelhouse.Got questions for a follow-up Q&A with Erica? Send them in and we’ll put them to her on air. Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

What happens when a life in theatre collides with a love of horses and the rhythms of the land? In this episode, we meet Katja Lebelt, founder of Can Cavall Blau, an ecological farm and creative space tucked between Inca and Lloseta.Katja shares her remarkable journey from designing costumes and sets for opera houses across Europe to building a sustainable farm in Mallorca, where she now lives with her family and a herd of polo horses. We explore how her artistic background influences everything she creates on the farm, from the way the land is shaped to the artisanal products that come from it — bitter orange aperitif Amargéro, natural wines, pomegranate vinegar, lemonade, and more.Listeners will hear:How an injured polo horse named Cumbia changed Katja’s life.The challenges of starting a sustainable farm on rocky Mallorcan terrain.The evolution of Can Cavall Blau into a hub for horses, natural products, and intimate tastings.Why Katja sees the farm itself as her new “stage.”How arena polo is bringing a fresh, sustainable twist to the sport in Mallorca.Can Cavall Blau is more than a farm — it’s a living performance, rooted in authenticity, connection, and creativity.👉 Learn more or book a tasting: www.cancavallblau.comSign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

This episode of Mallorca Insiders brings back our resident foodie, Mia Naprta, with a special guest, Anna Ruiz Alfaro, organiser of Mallorca Restaurant Week. Together they share the stories behind the island’s buzzing dining scene, from the much-talked-about opening of Annabelle’s in Palmanova (and its infamous €64,000 bill) to the international concept of Restaurant Week — now making its mark in Mallorca. Discover how this initiative showcases top restaurants, celebrates local products, and offers residents and visitors the chance to enjoy high-end dining at accessible prices.

Writer and community voice Shirley Roberts joins us from Sóller to talk rain after the storm, water restrictions, and why the island’s hospitality lives or dies on the welcome. We dig into her Table for One mission for solo diners, the reality behind “anti-tourism” headlines, and the charm of the Sóller tram. Shirley also shares true insider tips: the Habaneras music nights on Repic beach with special train and tram options, when Palma and Sóller switch on the Christmas lights, and why church halls, events calendars, and third-age centres still knit local life together. Warm, candid, and very Mallorca.Rain, leaks and water talk: post-storm relief, how Sóller and Deià handle shortages, and why some towns import water in summer.Tourism reality check: busy days, traffic, and why headlines miss the nuance.The tram, the square and daily rhythm: how locals and visitors share space.Table for One: Shirley’s call for restaurants to welcome solo diners and allow one-person online bookings.Service matters: staff training, student hospitality programmes, and the difference a proper welcome makes.Big insider tip: Habaneras on Repic beach, Port de Sóller (two evenings in September). Tradition, burnt rum, handkerchiefs, and production by Truï. Special transport: train from Palma, tram to the beach, late return bus on the same ticket.Dates to note: Palma Christmas lights late November; Sóller early December. Tram pause mid-Dec to Jan, with special runs on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.Community threads: SóllerWeb’s events calendar, blood donation drives, third-age and cultural centres, and the Anglican Church in Palma and Pollença.Faith and belonging: why church still matters for some, and where community now gathers.Resources and mentionsSóllerWeb (events and local info): https://www.sollerweb.com/Historic Sóller tram and train: https://trendesoller.com/Anglican Church Mallorca (Palma and Pollença): https://anglicanchurchmallorca.org/Truï (event production) and Truï Teatre: https://trui.es/ & https://truiteatre.es/Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this episode of Majorca Mallorca, Oliver sits down with Sergio García, the creator of Expat’s Walks. Sergio shares his love of exploring Mallorca on foot whilst teaching Spanish to the international community on the island, the history and hidden gems he uncovers along the way, and the challenges (and humour) of learning Spanish as a Brit living on the island. From his own journey to the community he’s built, this is an inspiring look at how walking together can open doors, spark conversations, and create connections across cultures.Discover more about Sergio and his walks: https://quecuando.com/ Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this Mallorca Insider episode, Vicki sits down with Becky Bellafont Evans, founder of Mallorca Solutions and the island’s go-to problem-solver for paperwork, residency, taxes and more. Since 2008, Becky and her team have been helping Mallorca’s international community cut through the bureaucracy and get things done — from NIEs and TIEs to visas, car registrations, insurance and council taxes.Expect practical tips, stories from the frontlines of Spanish admin, and a candid conversation about why good customer service makes all the difference. Whether you’re relocating, renewing documents, or simply trying to make sense of life admin in Spain, this episode is packed with essential insights.Show NotesIn this episode:Becky’s story and how Mallorca Solutions began back in 2008The difference between NIE, residency, and TIE (and why so many get it wrong)Renewing your TIE card five years after Brexit — what you need to knowCouncil taxes (IBI and bin): deadlines, fines, and how to avoid nasty surprisesWhy Spanish bureaucracy can be so confusing and how to navigate itThe importance of customer service and speaking your languageHandy tips on ID, the DGT app, driving licences and ITVsUpcoming Mallorca Solutions events, including coffee mornings on family protection, tax, and setting up a businessHow to access helpful blogs and resources on the Mallorca Solutions websiteLinks & Resources:Mallorca Solutions WebsiteEmail: [email protected] Mallorca Solutions on social media for updates and useful remindersSubscribe to the Majorca Mallorca newsletter at majorca-mallorca.esSign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this episode we sit down with Saloua Sfar, the creative force behind A Ma Maison, one of Palma’s most personal restaurants, and Muse Palma, a multi-purpose cultural and events space. Originally from Tunisia, Saloua shares how Mallorca captured her heart, why her restaurant feels like “coming to her home”, and the challenges and joys of building businesses on the island. From her unique menus to belly dancing at anniversary parties, Saloua’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and passion for hospitality.Show NotesThis conversation with Saloua Sfar dives into:How a holiday to Mallorca turned into a lifelong home.The philosophy behind A Ma Maison — a restaurant run with love, where every guest feels like family.Keeping dining affordable while offering a full experience.The balance of creativity and sustainability in cooking.Her Tunisian culinary roots and the influence of her mother.The story behind Muse Palma, a flexible cultural and events venue.Thoughts on hospitality in Mallorca and the importance of service, kindness, and training.Why dreaming, adapting, and building a community of support keeps her moving forward.Whether you’re passionate about food, hospitality, or the entrepreneurial spirit, Saloua’s journey will inspire you to keep dreaming and create with heart.https://www.tiasaloua.com/ https://muse-palma.com/Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Carlos Pons, managing director of Respiralia, joins us to share how a Mallorca-based foundation is changing lives for people with cystic fibrosis. We talk about life-extending treatments like Kaftrio, why modern respiratory physiotherapy has moved on from clapping to autogenic drainage, and how strength training is boosting lung capacity. Carlos explains the famous Swimming Tour around Formentera that funds hundreds of treatment sessions each year, and he lifts the lid on their pioneering phage therapy research that targets dangerous bacteria without antibiotics. He also reflects on life in Mallorca, housing pressures, and his own journey from Spanish Air Force search and rescue pilot to charity leader. If you care about science, community and real Mallorca stories, this one is for you.Listen now and find links to Respiralia, the Swimming Tour and how to support their work in the show notes.https://www.respiralia.org/ Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]:00 Who is Carlos Pons and what Respiralia does 07:30 Kaftrio and how it changes day to day life for patients 12:00 Screening at birth in the Balearics and early intervention 16:40 From clapping to autogenic drainage 20:30 Why strength training improves lung capacity 24:30 Incidence in the Balearics and what daily management looks like 30:40 The Swimming Tour around Formentera and how it funds treatment sessions 37:30 How to get a place, timing, and the Respiralia spirit 42:00 Palma fun run and inclusive community events 46:00 Carlos’ SAR pilot years and the leap into the third sector 52:00 Phage therapy research to target bacteria without antibiotics 59:30 Regulation, funding, and why they seek grants over investors 1:06:00 Community projects, forests in the Serra de Tramuntana, and support for Ukrainian families 1:12:00 Housing pressures, legal insecurity in rentals, and balanced debate 1:18:00 The future for people with cystic fibrosis and why outlooks have changed

In this episode of Mallorca Insiders, Vicki sits down with veteran journalist and broadcaster Jan Edwards, who swapped early mornings at the BBC for a rural, off-grid life in Mallorca back in 2004.Jan shares her journey from London hotel PR to BBC radio, to finca life between Manacor and Colònia de Sant Pere, where she and her partner Richard care for a family of cats and run on solar panels, water deliveries, and sheer determination.Along the way, Jan has built a reputation as one of the island’s most trusted voices on food, wine, and rural living. She runs the blogs Eat, Drink, Sleep Mallorca and Living in Rural Mallorca, writes regularly for radio and magazines, and is the author of the Daughter of Deià series — her third novel and a memoir are on the way.We talk candidly about:How Mallorca has changed in the last 20+ yearsHer favourite authentic places to eat (from vineyards to Michelin-star chefs who gave back their stars)Off-grid life and the joys/challenges of rural MallorcaThe discipline of writing and publishing books (and how to market them)Insider tips for where to eat, drink and stay if you only had 24 hours on the island👉 Tune in for a warm, funny and very real conversation with a woman who’s seen Mallorca transform, plate by plate and page by page. You can see all of Jan's previous articles about gastronomy in Mallorca here https://eatdrinksleepmallorca.com/Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

What do you do with the kids when it is too hot or pouring with rain in Mallorca? How do you find out about the best art shows, open-air films, polo days and food tours before anyone else? Nina Moon has the answers.In this episode of the Majorca Mallorca Podcast, Vicki chats with Nina Moon, founder of The Calendar Mallorca, about the island’s cultural scene and family-friendly activities. Nina shares why she started the platform, how her time away in Austria gives her a fresh perspective, and her best tips for summer events, from hidden art spaces to vineyards and open-air cinema.Whether you are a parent, a visitor, or a culture lover, Nina’s advice will help you make the most of the island all year round.What you will hear in this episode:Why August is the trickiest month for families on the islandNina’s favourite rainy day activities and art exhibitions in PalmaThe story behind The Calendar Mallorca and how it started at Port AdrianoHighlights to look forward to: Nit de l’Art, Cinema a la Fresca, food tours and moreWhy donating blood is one of the most important community acts you can doVisit www.thecalendarmallorca.com for all the tea. Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Meet Catrin and Sebastian, the creative couple behind Pamboli Palma, a fashion brand inspired by the island they love. From quiet village life in Moscari to photo shoots in Berlin, their story is full of colour, creativity and a deep connection to Mallorca.What you will hear in this episode:How a first holiday to Mallorca led to a life-changing proposalWhy Moscari became their home and museTurning backgrounds in journalism and film design into a fashion labelThe challenge of producing colourful garments in small batchesThe spirit behind Pamboli Palma and what makes it uniqueWhether you love fashion, travel or just a good story about following your passions, this episode is for you.Listen now on the Majorca Mallorca Podcast and discover why this brand is making waves on and off the island. Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

..... in which Oliver selflessly chomps his was through ants, crickets legs, very stinky cheese, durian fruit, fermented shark, and somewhat surprisingly Marmite, at Palma's latest attraction The Disgusting Food Museum...yes much of it was disgusting, and all of it educational.Click here to book, tickets, we've negotiated a 5% discount for Majorca Mallorca listeners via the link. https://disgustingfoodmuseum.es/?trackingCode=a59e58552a334c6eb67d239ebda54c5a at the checkout add promo code 'MM5' ...enjoySign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

Nick Brown knows Mallorca like few others, especially when it comes to getting around without a car. In this episode, we talk about his journey from life in France to settling in Palma, why learning Spanish is essential, and how he became the go-to expert for bus and train travel on the island. From hidden first-class seats on the Sóller train to insider tips that can change your holiday, Nick shares practical advice and fascinating stories about life here.Show NotesIn this episode of the Majorca Mallorca Podcast, Vicki sits down with Nick Brown, a long-time European resident who moved to Palma in 2020 and quickly became the person everyone turns to for public transport advice.Nick shares:His path from the UK to the Netherlands, Belgium, Bahrain, France, and finally MallorcaThe challenges and rewards of learning Spanish later in lifeWhy Palma offers the perfect balance of city life and island charmInsights on housing, tourism, and political realities on the islandHow he helps visitors navigate the EMT and TIB bus systemsHis favourite transport hacks, including how to score first-class seats on the Sóller trainWhy small details, like parking zones and low-emission areas, matter to residents and tourists alikeWhether you live here or are just visiting, Nick’s advice will help you explore Mallorca more easily and understand the island beyond the holiday brochures.Listen now and find out:Why the “free” buses are not quite as simple as they soundWhich mistakes could land you with multiple fines in PalmaHow public transport can change your experience of the islandYou can read up about Lindsay and Craig Foreman here https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c74dzk744nvo You can join Nick´s group for transport questions here https://www.facebook.com/groups/3028730957433776Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]

In this lively and laughter-filled episode, Vicki is joined once again by the unstoppable Nina Moons, founder of The Calendar Mallorca and a beloved Majorca Mallorca Insider. From cultural legends and flamenco nights to rooftop cocktails and late-night beach parties, Nina shares her insider knowledge of what’s happening across the island this summer.They dive into parenting in the heat, raising multilingual kids, and what it really takes to build a successful events platform from scratch. Nina opens up about the huge growth of her website—now attracting over 24,000 monthly views—and how her passion project became a full-time mission.Together, they unpack:How to gently raise bilingual kids in MallorcaSecret venues, local legends and new cultural installations (yes, including that crocodile!)The best summer events and why you should buy tickets in advanceAmok, Es Jardí, Cap Rocat, Son Net, Aethos brunch and moreWhy Verbenas are the heart and soul of Mallorcan summerFestival culture, the real VIP life, and that surreal German paparazzi sceneYou’ll hear about jazz nights, opera stars, brunch with dried ice, and dating games in nightclubs, all wrapped in Nina’s authentic take on what makes Mallorca magical.Links & Mentions:Visit https://thecalendarmallorca.com/ for all of the following: 🗓️ The Calendar Mallorca📍 It List, insider events, and curated business listings🎟️ Festival Cap Rocat (1–3 August)🎶 Deya International Music Festival (ongoing)🧁 Aethos Brunch – review & birthday surprise🐊 Palma’s floating crocodile installation🌆 Amok Mondays & Es Coliseo Tardeos⚽ Evolution Mallorca Film Festival x Real MallorcaSubscribe & Support💌 Sign up for the Majorca Mallorca newsletter: www.majorca-mallorca.es❤️ Like, share, and send content from The Calendar Mallorca to support local creatives🧢 Grab a cap – 10% goes to Mallorca PreservationPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE FACEBOOK GROUP INSTAGRAM You can email MM on [email protected] SIGN UP for our monthly newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

From Luton to the Lycra capital of Port de Pollença, Ottilie Quince has lived one hell of a ride—kidney transplant recipient, world champion cyclist, business owner, physiotherapist, and self-confessed Cero F*cks entrepreneur.In this episode, Ollie sits down with Otty in the sunshine of Port de Pollença to talk about life, health, sport, and the hustle of building a meaningful life in Mallorca. With brutal honesty and endless humour, she shares:How she grew up playing football with the lads and discovered women’s sport in the USThe shock kidney diagnosis at 24 that changed everythingCompeting (and winning) at the World Transplant GamesThe creation of OQ Service Course and her bold new clothing brand, Cero F*cksWhat it's really like to build a business, a life, and a support system on this islandThis is a story about survival, reinvention, and having the guts to do things differently. Whether you're into sport, Mallorca life, or just love a great story well told, you’ll want to hear this one.OQ Service CourseWorld Transplant GamesCero Fucks ClothingCLICK HERE FOR THE DISGUSTING FOOD MUSEUM. TO GET YOUR DISCOUNT USE MM5 Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected] up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

In this episode, we chat with journalist and novelist Jan Edwards about her second Mallorca-based novel, The Mallorca Cat Café. Jan shares the inspiration behind her feline-filled fiction, what it’s like writing in retirement, and how her love for cats found its way into the heart of her storytelling.We discuss the real-life sanctuary that sparked her plot, the challenges of self-publishing, the importance of editing, and what it means to find community through writing groups. Jan also opens up about life with her husband Richard, her early BBC career, and why she’s passionate about writing feel-good fiction.Whether you're a cat lover, aspiring author, or just someone who loves a happy ending — this episode is for you.📚 The Mallorca Cat Café is available now on Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and Kindle Unlimited. https://mybook.to/M3pgPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected] up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esGuest: Jan Edwards – journalist, radio presenter, and author of The Mallorca Cat Café and Daughter of DeiaTopics covered:The story behind Jan’s latest novelHer lifelong love of cats (and the eleven she once cared for!)Transitioning from journalism to fiction writingThe power of professional editingSelf-publishing via Kindle Direct PublishingThe role of Mallorca Writers & Readers in her creative journeyBalancing writing with personal challengesRestaurant reviews and working with Sunshine RadioHints at her upcoming memoir and a third Laura London book

Struggling with education choices in Mallorca? This week, we’re joined by Julie Holdsworth of the Mallorca Tutoring Academy for an essential chat on navigating the Spanish system, supporting multilingual kids, and setting them up for success on the island. A must-listen for parents thinking of making the move.Episode OverviewThis episode of the Majorca Mallorca Podcast features a deep-dive conversation with Julie Holdsworth, founder and director of the Mallorca Tutoring Academy. Julie shares invaluable advice for international families moving to Mallorca, with practical tips on choosing schools, supporting multilingual learning, and helping children thrive in a new environment.What We Talk About:Why Julie and her family moved to Spain, and how that led to founding the Mallorca Tutoring Academy (MTA)The difference between teaching and tutoring, and how MTA supports individual learning styleMaking the tough decision between Spanish state schools and international schoolHow tutoring can bridge gaps in language learning and curriculum changeThe realities of moving older children into the Spanish system – and why support is vitalLong-term mentoring vs quick fixes: the approach MTA takesThe new Manacor campus and what it offers (including blended learning and life skills education)Advice for families planning the move: from language integration to social activitieHighlights:The importance of investing in tutoring early – especially for writing skills in multiple languagesHow the Spanish education system handles testing, IB, A-levels, and special learning needThe new partnership in Manacor for families looking for alternative but accredited British curriculum pathwaysReal stories of helping kids adapt – from language shock to university planningLinks & Resources:https://www.mallorcatutoringacademy.comPlease follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected] up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

This episode of the Majorca Mallorca Podcast welcomes back a favourite Mallorca Insider, Mia Naprta – local food journalist, writer for the Majorca Daily Bulletin, and all-round expert on where (and how) to eat on the island.Recorded on a scorching summer’s day with the studio air-con bravely switched off, we chat about the season's big opening parties – from beach clubs in Magaluf to elegant hotel soirées in Santa Ponsa. Mia shares what it's like to be on the invite list for the island’s coolest summer events, from white parties to jewellery launches in Port Adriano.We dive into her latest recommendations for eating out in Mallorca, from South African grills to authentic Balkan barbecue, local brunch spots, and surprisingly affordable late-night kiosks. Expect a lively, insider's guide to places both fancy and cheap-and-cheerful, with tips on where locals really go.We also talk about the art (and etiquette) of booking restaurants in high season, how the island's food scene has become more international over the years, and where to find a perfect menu del día if you know where to look.Join us for a warm, funny and delicious conversation that will make you hungry for your next Mallorca meal – whether it’s on a beachfront terrace or a 4am burger stop.Sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.esCheck the show notes for links to all the places Mia recommends in this episode.Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected] talk about: Karibu Beach Club @karibu.beach MagalufBCM @bcmmallorca Magaluf Kimpton Aysla Hotel @kimptonayslamallorca Santa PonsaPuro Beach @purobeachilletas IlletasNikki Beach @nikkibeachmallorca Magaluf Crow’s Nest @thecrowsnestpalma Cala MajorBalcanico @balcanico_mallorca Can PastillaSantina @santina_brunch Palma & Puerto Portals Bacan @acancafeteria PalmaCan Na Sisy @canasissy Palma/Sindicat areaMax’s Garden @maxgardenrestaurant PalmanovaThai Tapas @bangkok_portadriano Port AdrianoAethos Mallorca @aethosmallorca Paguera Sa Illeta @estauranteilleta Camp de MarCalvia Beach House @calviabeachhouse MagalufSiso Beach @sisobeachmallorca Palma NovaBlackbirds@/blackbeardsmagaluf  Magaluf Maria Maria @mariamaria.portandratx Port AndratxKiosko / San Matias Burger PalmanovaHotel Portals Hills @portals_hills Portals Four Seasons at Cap Formentor @fsrmallorca Formentor

Hear how Shirley swapped North London for the Soller valley and brought the family with her.Some great tales and insider tips to get the most out of the beautiful Soller valley.Shirley is the founder of a local news website dedicated to the life and times of the valley, its been going for ever, its worth a look, often. https://www.sollerweb.com/Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]... sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

Hey everyone! This episode features Aina, a family photographer who was born and raised in Mallorca before moving abroad to study and work. We chat about her life and what brought her back to the island. You can contact Aina @photoshootinmallorca on Instagram. ...as mentioned, the Palma low emission zone comes into force on July 1st, details of the restrictions, a map, and how to register your car here. https://mobipalma.mobi/informacion-zona-bajas-emisiones-zbe/Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]... sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

How Nina Moon Built The Ultimate Events Guide to Mallorca This week on Mallorca Insiders, we’re joined by Nina Moon, the founder of The Calendar Mallorca – the go-to guide for what’s on across the island. From fiestas to food festivals, Nina has her finger on Mallorca’s pulse and a beautifully designed way of sharing it with the world. https://thecalendarmallorca.com/ Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]... sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

In this episode, Vicki visits Rancho Fino, an animal sanctuary born from pain and built on purpose. Stacey van Tichelt opens up about her difficult childhood in Holland, her health struggles, and how they led to her life’s mission: rescuing Mallorca’s abandoned, abused, and disabled animals.Stacey shares the raw truth about the post-lockdown wave of irresponsible adoptions, the emotional cost of animal rescue, and why she refuses to look away.⁠This isn’t just a story about animals – it’s about resilience, and love, and the lengths one woman will go to in order to protect the voiceless.Listen now and consider how you can support Rancho Fino. https://www.ranchofinomallorca.com/ Please follow Majorca Mallorca on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]... sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

Welcome to the second episode of Mallorca Insiders – the new series from the Majorca Mallorca podcast!In this fresh new segment, we sit down with people who really know this island — the experts, creatives, and local legends shaping Mallorca from the inside out.Charles Nutter drops into the studio – It's 30 years since he left Blackburn and arrived in Pollenca, in those three decades there isn't much he hasn't done, and not much he hasn't learned about his adopted home, that's adopted him too. Local gossip, history and fiestas, and a passion for the island, and its football team. We learned a lot, and we hope you will to. You can also catch Charles on his sports show on English Radio Pollenca, see the links below. All the latest from Real Mallorca, and no doubt the occasional update from Blackburn Rovers. Cheers Charles.https://www.englishradiopollensa.com/https://www.facebook.com/EnglishradiopollensamallorcaSo grab a coffee, pull up a sun lounger, and enjoy episode one of Mallorca Insiders.Please follow MM on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]... sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es

We're pretty sure he's not a naughty boy, nor the Messiah, but he's a delightful chap. Bryan Visser is the Founder of 6Points Cycling Challenges, raising lots of money for some great causes in Mallorca, so he's ok by us. ............and a round up of the latest gossip from the biggest of the Balearics.Everything you need to know about 6Points you can find here. https://6pointschallenges.comPlease follow MM on Social Media:FACEBOOK PAGE https://www.facebook.com/MajorcaMallorca.esFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/MajorcaMallorcaINSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/majorcamallorcapodcast/You can email MM on [email protected]... sign up for our free newsletter here. https://majorca-mallorca.es