MAN IN SAN AN by Martin Makepeace

This week I am celebrating 26 years on the island. On the 15 May 1991, a group of fresh faced wannabe holiday reps including myself arrived in Ibiza with very little money and big attitudes. The irony is that I wanted to be placed in Corfu but they sent me here, fate plays a big part in my story.

The Ibiza of 1991 was different from today in many ways. People seemed to be a lot more humble and you never saw any big cars on the road (a Renault 5 was the norm). Displays of wealth were frowned upon and money was important but not the driving force that it is today. 

Apart from holiday brochures (remember those), Judith Chalmers and word of mouth the White Island was a mythical destination that many only stumbled across by chance. Families went to Santa Eulalia and Playa den Bossa and the youngsters that came on holiday to San Antonio weren’t bothered about the beauty or spirituality, it was all about the West End and the nightlife.

The big clubs weren’t as accessible, they were for cool foreigners or the London set, the youngsters stayed in the bars for a week rarely venturing out of San Antonio. It was only after the explosion of nights such as Manumission, Clockwork Orange and Cream in the mid to late 90’s that bought mass tourism and SuperClubs together. 

Another irony is that in 1991 I was told that Ibiza ‘wasn’t the same anymore’ and that it had ‘lost its soul’. These words are repeated every year by those who have been tossed aside by the increasingly hard nature of the island especially with the arrival of new money. It ain’t easy to live and succeed on the white Isle and when I say succeed I mean make a reasonable living so you can live the life you choose.

It took me a few years before I viewed Ibiza not just as a place of work but also to a place to live. Winters weren’t easy but I was one of the lucky few who was able to settle down, buy a house, have a family and lead a fairly normal existence (normal in Ibiza terms anyway).

So from a small, relatively untouched backwater Ibiza has grown into the corporate animal it is today where every 3rd car is a Range Rover Evoque, the default vehicle for new or 3rd generation money. 

The forefathers may have been horrified but you can’t stop ‘progress’ and before you start scowling please remember that the Ibiza of 1991 had constant power cuts, didn’t have air con in ANY hotels, the untreated roads were death traps and most of the excursions involved sangria and sausages.

It’s been an interesting experience to witness all the changes over 26 years filled with amazing memories, great friends and more sunsets than you can shake a stick at but as I hear that Ibiza ‘isn’t the same anymore’ and ‘has lost its soul’ I keep smiling because in my opinion nothing has changed but everything has changed.

The nature and beauty, the open armed hospitality (especially of the pioneering older generation), the 9 euros ‘menu del días’, the street markets, the tapas and vino payes, the atmosphere, the friendships and the raw spirituality is still here in abundance.

But in a world obsessed with social media, selfies and wannabe celebs this wonderful island isn’t an exclusive, well kept secret anymore and because many want a piece of the action the simple life in Ibiza now comes at a cost that some can’t afford.

San Antonio Town Hall’s pedestrianisation plan will become effective as of Monday 15 May which will see some areas completely closed to traffic whereas others will be closed from 8pm-6am.

The new measures aim to ‘boost commerce’ in the urban nucleus of the town, ‘improve accessibility and road safety’ as well as ‘promote pedestrian accessibility to the places of cultural heritage’.

After listening to local business people there has been some last minute tweaks to the original plans, mainly to facilitate supplies to the area including 3 new loading points in the West End.

FULL PLANS

Church Area

Bisbe Torres: Between Rosell and Passeig de ses Fonts will be pedestrianised but vehicles will be allowed from 6am-12pm hours for loading and unloading only. 

Partial pedestrianisation from 8pm-6am:

Ample: From Sant Antoni to Rosell

Antoni Riquer: From Ample to Progrés

Rosell: From Progrés to Ample

Ignasi Riquer: From Progrés to Santa Agnès

CHURCH AREA TO BE COMPLETELY CLOSED TO VEHICLES ON SUNDAYS 

West End Area

It will be prohibited to drive:

Between Progrés and Calle del Mar. 

Santa Agnès: From General Balanzat to Antoni Riquer

Bartolomé Vicente Ramón: From General Prim

Vara de Rey: From calle del Mar to Progres and Sant Mateu

Source: Periodico de Ibiza

On Saturday morning (29 April 2017) at 10am, 34 year old cyclist Daniel Viñals was tragically killed on the San Antonio-San Jose road by a 23 year old driver who later tested positive for alcohol and drugs.

Dani was a well known local cyclist/athlete and his death has shocked the island especially as it happened on a Saturday morning, one of the peak times for local cyclists to take to the roads. The large outpouring of grief has been coupled with anger towards the driver who was subsequently released on bail.

The local cycling community has come together as one saying that they aren’t given enough protection and that Dani isn’t the first cyclist to be killed on Ibiza’s roads and won’t be the last. Juanjo Planells, President of the San Antonio Cycling Club, said that cyclists are “being killed like flies” 

Planells also called for more measures to help reduce deaths of road cyclists by “trying to make more hard shoulders and more bike lanes” as well as “much tougher penalties for road infringements”.

The Balearics has become very popular for cycling due to its geography and climate. Team Sky host a training camp in Mallorca and Ibiza now has several large annual cycling events but as usual it’s Mallorca that has taken the lead with cycle safety as I witnessed first hand over Easter with their fantastic bike lanes running parallel but seperately to the main roads.

Unlike Mallorca, Ibiza has very few dedicated bike lanes which means that bikes and cars inhabit the same carriageways and as most people know Ibiza drivers aren’t known for their snail-like pace and patience. Road cyclists by definition use the road but Ibiza’s planners never seem to take this into account when updating the carriageways.

Ibiza’s local government spends thousands going to all the major travel shows in an an attempt to boost low season tourism putting forward outdoor pursuits as a viable option.

There’s no legislating for a drunk driver but after this tragic death surely now is the time to put a definitive plan in place to make the White Isle more cycle-friendly with enlarged hard shoulders, dedicated bike lanes and the safety of cyclists as a priority. There could be no greater tribute to Dani Viñals. 

It's time for the European football season to start again as the Ibiza summer is in full swing, here's a fun blog about the similarities and blurred lines between two of my favourite topics.

Hï Ibiza: Manchester City

Rich owners who want overnight success and have spent serious money by signing the biggest names. High expectation on every level. Inherited home ground which has been fully reformed to a world class level with excellent neighbouring facilities. Lots of young fans that don't know any better

Es Paradis: Aston Villa

Once the best in Europe but have been on a slow decline for the last 25 years despite impressive home ground and support from a local area that craves success. Hampered by 2 clubs in the same vicinity and relies too heavily on local talent or veterans with no big name signings in the pipeline. Long way back to the top but not insurmountable with the right owners and investment.

Eden: Liverpool FC

Massive in the 80s. Former kings of Europe who have fallen down the pecking order but recent managerial change has people predicting success. Big local support especially amongst the working class. Future glory not too far away if recent major signings play to their potential.

Pacha: Manchester United

Proven pedigree since the 60s bringing with it a worldwide fan base. Could be accused of putting too much emphasis on merchandising and VIP seats although not afraid to flash the cash when a quality name becomes available. Were dominant until recent arrival of new money which has upped the competition. Wealthy owners will want to maximise their investment but will also be careful not to devalue the brand.

Ushuaïa: Chelsea FC

Mega-rich owners stay in the background and leave it to their bright young manager who plays to his strengths with his expensively assembled squad. Impressive home ground in a much sort after area with excellent facilities but pricey refreshments. Afternoon kick off specialists.

DC-10: Stoke City

Not the easiest ground to get to, right next to a busy main road. Doing it their way with no compromise and a no-nonsense manager who knows how to get his club firing on all cylinders. Only play twice a week as no real interest in mixing it with the European big boys. Some hard edged performances in front of a dedicated and loyal support. No massive names although the odd superstar can appear from time to time joining some young talent.

Lío: Arsenal FC

Talented young squad but eye-wateringly expensive to watch. Brand new home ground is a real wow and arguably the best venue in the area but can be uncomfortable for the traditionalists. Introduced new methods and changed the game in many ways but now others have copied so having to work harder to stay ahead. Older, wealthier crowd than their neighbours.

Privilege: FC Barcelona

Biggest Club in the world. Massive home ground but only full for the big occasions. Have brought through major talent over the years but some big names have failed to settle and have been moved on quickly. Big new signings most seasons but form can be up and down with the habit of relying on one major player.

Amnesia: Tottenham Hotspur

Vastly improved over the last 10 years, Varied squad with some big signings mixed with youth and the odd veteran. Known to take a punt and sign the odd prima donna but this home crowd love diversity and a drama. Knocking on the door to become the very best which was hard to believe a few years ago although they did achieve European success in the 80s which opened up the club to a whole new audience.

Sankeys: Leicester City

Finally mixing it with the big boys after years of mid table obscurity. One dimensional at times but plenty of heart and passion. Journeymen at other clubs seem to come alive in this arena although emerging superstars at risk of being stolen by moneybags big clubs. Inspirational leadership should ensure prolonged top flight status although a few blips can be expected.

The fallout from the 2016 noise study in San Antonio continues with the local government set to introduce more measures this week to control the decibels by setting up “Zones of Special Acoustic Protection”. 

In a warning to the West End and other high noise areas the council will set up a clear and defined process for the regular measurement of noise. If an area exceeds the legal limits by 15 decibels or more then the area will be designated for ‘special sound protection’ which will make it easier for the council to punish persistent offenders. 

The council has been in contact with municipalities in Mallorca and Valencia that have similar problems and have also contracted a company to take regular noise measurements during the summer which will also see if changes, such as the removal of terraces at midnight, are working.

The irony of this strict stance won’t be lost on those residents who were kept awake until 3am this past Friday and Saturday by a Rock Concert on Arenal Beach in San Antonio. The ‘Libertad de Sueños’ festival saw a massive stage erected on the sand and live music played until the early hours keeping many in the town awake. 

Most residents weren’t questioning the value of having a major concert in the heart of San An but nearly all decried the fact that it went on until 3am with some local bar owners saying it only highlights the double standards and hipocrisy of the current San Antonio town hall.

I’m currently staying at a friends place in Mallorca for a short vacation and loving every minute.  Don’t get me wrong Ibiza is, and always will be, my first love so I’m not being unfaithful but this trip has emphasised how things change in the tourism world. Let me explain.

15 to 20 years ago you could argue that the 4 inhabited Balearic Islands were all similar bucket and spade resorts for those of varying budgets. 70s, 80s and 90’s families only had to choose which one to visit every summer. As a kid my own family alternated between Ibiza and Mallorca.

Now in 2017 the 4 islands couldn’t be any more defined in style and profile. The western world has become wealthier and as tastes have changed so have the individial Balearic resorts to accommodate the paying tourist, reacting to market forces. Darwin’s theory of evolution is apparent for all to see, or as I prefer to say “The market dictates”. 

Playa den Bossa is a prime example. Little more than 10 years ago it was the main family resort in Ibiza with hotels specially designed around kids. Nowadays it’s a cosmopolitan mecca rivalling Las Vegas as the best adult-only resort in the world. 5 star hotels are opening all over the island: Hilton are now in Ibiza Town and Nobu are just finishing their luxury hotel in Talamanca with Robert De Niro rumoured to be doing the honours at the opening party on 30 June. Ibiza may be hippy at heart but there’s no prizes for guessing which direction it’s rapidly moving in.

Ibiza’s smaller sibling Formentera has always been more exclusive and now the local government has pushed through reforms that has made it more eco friendly, keeping with tradition but also making the place even more beautiful and seemingly untouched. Having the best beaches in the world obviously helps but the island is now near the top of the tourist food chain with prices at eye-watering levels but try getting a room in the summer, nearly impossible.

Menorca rivals Formentera for amazing beaches and is still regarded as a family destination. Also like the 4th Balearic island it’s flat so ideal for outdoor pursuits and is home to Menorca Cricket Club who play at arguably the most beautiful cricket ground in Spain  Everyone who visits is usually surprised by the island’s quiet beauty and many return. It’s debatable whether the Menorca government wants mass tourism as their infrastructure isn’t huge and they seem happy with their niche in the market so if it’s not broke then why fix it but you can’t help thinking they they may need a new PR company to fully realise their potential.

Mallorca is still top of the tree when it comes to mass market, popular tourism. It’s easy to see why the largest Balearic island holds so much appeal. It’s organised and confident, has great beaches, beautiful mountains and activities for families, couples, sports people and thrill-seekers alike. Even the much maligned Magaluf has more facilities than the other 3 islands put together and in Palma it has one of the most spectacular cities in Spain. Like Ibiza, Mallorca has been a victim of its own success but much of the 1400 square miles is still undeveloped, and if you head out to the more rural areas you can enjoy a far more traditional island escape.

The Siblings 

Ibiza: The noisy yet cool renegade, a new age hippy dressed in the latest expensive fashions. 

Formentera: The chic bohemian, a natural beauty who always looks the part. The star pupil who doesn’t need to shout loud. 

Menorca: The quiet thoughtful one that rarely lets you down. Dependable and humble, doesn’t like to boast.

Mallorca: The confident big brother you look up to and who sets the standards for all to follow. Often have to ask his permission before doing anything.

With these siblings there are no losers, only winners. 4 islands, 4 different flavours, 4 to choose from. The main winner is the hard working tourist who only has to select which beautiful island to visit. That’s sibling rivalry but not as we know it.

Note: it’s my ‘Man in San An’ 2nd anniversary. Thanks to all who follow, read and comment. 173 blog posts so far and counting. 

Michaella McCollum, half of the infamous ‘Peru 2’ is back on the White Isle this week. We know this because it was plastered all over everyone’s favourite rag in a highly choreographed photograph ensemble most likely negotiated by her PR company. 

You may remember that Ms McCollum was arrested in Lima airport along with Melissa Reid, they were both subsequently found guilty of trying to smuggle several kilos of cocaine from South America to Europe and served time in a Peruvian prison. They aren’t the first gormless wannabe’s to think they are untouchable and they definitely won’t be the last but for Ibiza people this story was hard to swallow.

What was almost unforgivable is the tale they concocted to try and cover their tracks. Talk of mafia, guns, being ‘kidnapped’ and a notorious ‘cockney’ made Ibiza and more specifically San Antonio sound like an episode of a violent TV series. Those that live and work on the island listened to their story in disbelief especially those that knew the real one.

Ibiza has always had an edgy reputation but the pure fabrication put forward by the ‘Peru 2’ only served to put the fear of god into thousands of parents all over Europe as their children prepared to go on holiday to the hedonistic capital of the world. Their story played on all the usual stereotypes that people genuinely believe, that is until they actually take the time to come to the island and realise that it’s not at all like it’s depicted in the press. 

So Ms McCollum & Ms Reid without even realising it became the flag bearers for all the haters who enjoy doing the Island a disservice, this time only to cover up their own shortcomings.

Ms McCollum was young, naive and stupid and she has served her time. Everyone deserves a 2nd chance but you get the horrible feeling she is making a play for fame in our celebrity obsessed culture. To even give her the chance to make money out of her situation would be wrong in my opinion however it’s a twisted world we live in. 

Ms McCollum is now free to drink cocktails on the sunset strip but don’t expect us to be happy about it. The people of Ibiza deserve an official apology at the very least before we can even start to forgive.

San Antonio Council has created a special team of police officers to patrol the busiest parts of the town at night during the busy summer months. 

The Special Summer Night Team or ‘ENEV’ will have 7 agents, 2 officers and a dog with a handler and will work on a shift system that allows 4 to patrol every night from 1 May to 30 September. These agents will be additional to the existing local police force. 

The team will operate from 9pm-6am from 1 May to 31 August then 10pm-6.30am in September. Their main job will be to enforce local laws with regards to coexistence, noise control, illegal street sellers, bar closing times and security. 

The creation of this new group is in direct response to the proposals made by residents and business groups whilst developing San Antonio’s new strategic plan. 

Source: Nou Diari

San Antonio council has maintained it’s ban on ‘dynamic publicity’ (public relations or PR’s) for the 2nd year running. 

There was a rumour that the authorised coloured jackets were coming back however this has now been quashed with news that fines will be intensified will penalties from 6,000 to 30,000 euros. 

During summer 2016 the Local Police issued 89 ‘denuncias’ for PR’s, 3 for posters, 2 for leaflets and 3 for parades.

The council say that the PRs cause a negative impact to the environment and the right of citizens to move freely without being hassled.  They did not comment on illegal street sellers. 

Source: Nou Diari