PALMA de Mallorca is the best place in the world to live, according to a feature by this week's Sunday Times.
In Best places to live in the world: Earthly pleasures, writer Helen Davies says: “Our overall winner for 2015 is Palma de Mallorca, one of the most picturesque Spanish cities – we think it has it all.
“The choice of where to live - be it permanently, at the weekend or for months at a time – is increasing as fast as Brits ditch their inhibitions in the sunshine,” writes Ms Davies, who says the world has opened up to even non-retirees moving to wherever they want because of our now living in 'a globalised world with a burgeoning digital economy'.
Every year, The Times publishes its list of the top 50 best places in the world to live, based upon weather, attractiveness of the area, and quality of life.
And this year's describes Palma's historic quarter as 'picturesque' and walking distance from the beaches (including the Arenal beach, pictured), with 'exceptional' weather, putting it ahead of Berlin – voted the best large city for those on a restricted budget, Toronto – best destination for 'city people', Auckland – best port city, and Hoi An in Vietnam for its cuisine.
The article highlights the connections between Palma and the British culture, as well as its delicious local cuisine and the facilities and infrastructure that make it easy to live in.
It does not mention mass tourism on the island of Mallorca, given that, contrary to popular belief, this is limited to a small number of resort towns on the east coast.
Magaluf and Palmanova – part of the town of Calvià – are quiet and pleasant out of season, but with plenty to do for holidaymakers of all ages from children to the elderly, although those seeking to avoid mass tourism would be better off staying elsewhere in June, July and August.
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