Majorca And All That Jazz

Popular holiday island Majorca, the largest and most densely populated of the Balearic Islands, is an island rich in culture. As one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean, Majorca attracts over a million visitors every summer.

Included among celebrities on the island this summer enjoying a holiday has been Stella McCartney. Beach lovers everywhere seem to be drawn to the crystal blue waters, white beaches and intense cultural celebrations.

In recent years, the Sa Pablo Jazz Festival has been the highlight of many holidays. The 2008 jazz festival takes place from March through December. The 10-month fiesta offers performances by some of the greatest jazz performers in the world. Several venues will be open for the festival. Performances take place in the Palma Auditorium, Vellver Castle as well as free concerts in Palma's - Majorca's capital - main square. The island's 300 and sometimes more of sunshine make it the ideal place for an extended festival of this sort.

Jazz saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis lends his soothing sounds to the festival this year. Kenny Barron, in trio with Kiyoshi Kitagawa and Francisco Mela, will also be appearing. The Mississippi Mass Gospel, Portea Jazz Band and Barbara Hendricks also have scheduled performances for the 2008 festival. The former bandleader of Return to Forever, Chick Corea, has a scheduled performance on November 11. Bassist Stanley Clarke, also formerly of Return to Forever has already taken his turn to delight the audiences. Former Miles Davis sideman Lee Konitz and free jazz bassist Charlie Haden also have scheduled performances for the jazz festival.

Diana Krall, recently named Best Female Vocalist at the 4th annual Canadian Jazz awards ceremony, will also be performing. The International Sa Pobla Jazz Festival also presents free jazz concerts in Palma during the two-week Alcudia Jazz Festival. Music enthusiasts from around the world will enjoy the wide array of performances throughout the year.

November sees the beginning of the opera season in Majorca. Three large opera performances will be held at the Teatre Principal in Palma, including Madam Butterfly. Young opera enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enjoy a concert and discussion session with the performers.

In addition to the variety of musical performances throughout the year, Palma has more art galleries than many other cities of a similar size. The third Thursday in September is a very special time for Palma's art enthusiasts. Every gallery, museum and cultural center will remain open until late evening to offer a unique experience for art lovers.

Low cost airfares from many points in Europe to Majorca make it very convenient to attend your favorite performances. Planning your Majorcan holiday or arts-filled weekend has never been easier or more convenient. Many of the low-cost airlines offer multiple flights into Palma daily.

Locating hotels in Majorca and the capital Palma is simply a matter of taste. In historic Palma, visitors will find self-catering apartments and townhomes. Beach lovers will likely head for the hotels and resorts near one of Majorca's many beaches. Those who are looking for a truly unique experience and privacy should look into renting an apartment or villa in rural Majorca. Many people visit Majorca for the beaches alone.

Rural Majorca offers an entirely unique holiday experience. The island's interior is comprised of rolling hills and gently sloping valleys. Accommodation in rural Majorca include private villas and farmhouses. If you choose to find accommodation inland, renting a vehicle for the duration of your stay is highly recommended to get you out and about.