Floating out in the Meditrranean Sea, the Balearic Islands consist of the islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera and a few smaller ones. Although the Balearics are flooded yearly by an enormous amount of party animals and sunseekers, they still manage to maintain their unique atmosphere. The only thing that is necessary is to escape the crowds. Leaving behind the most popular tourist resorts you discover astonishing beauty of landscape, the spirit of the past centuries trapped in Stone Age ruins and exuberant almond, orange and olive groves.

Palma de Mallorca is the Balearic`s capital and presently the islands` only true comercial and cultural center with all the advantages of a big, modern city. It is also the main port of the Balearic Islands. The city is set on the south coast, at the center of the wide Bay of Palma and surrounded by the Tramuntana and the Pla moutains.

The official languages are Castilian and Catalan, spoken commonly in the local dialect called Mallorquín, although of course all inhabitants are bilingual and speak Spanish fluently.

The long, intricate history of Mallorca and remnants of different civilizations that dominated this area are still written in the old quarter, which is surrounded by ancient city walls. Palma`s center is a striking medley of Gothic churches, restored buildings and bustling commercial centers, and a wide, modern boulevard and maze of narrow cobbled lanes. It is also a stirring background for a lively arts scene and a boiling nightlife. The unusual charm of Palma de Mallorca enticed Chopin and George Sand who chose to live and enjoy the island's idyllic setting and excellent weather.