Impressions: Ibiza
Before visiting Ibiza, I used to think of beaches and partying when I thought of the island.
I'm sure the partying is quite spectacular - the road from the airport to town was plastered with billboards promoting parties and clubs - and the beaches for sure are among the most picturesque in the world.
But I was surprised by what a charming the old town Ibiza was.
Sure, the parts outside of the old town area look like any other Spanish city, but Ibiza town is remarkably well-maintained, even outside of the Dalt Vila (upper town) UNESCO-protected area.
There are lots of narrow streets to wander around, and catch a glimpse of everyday life with clothes hanging outside. They say that because it's so humid in Ibiza, the clothes must be left out on the street for any chance of drying.
Of course, it helps that I went in late April, just before the clubs opened and partying season began. Yes, the clubs have official "opening parties" to inaugurate the season! That's why even the more touristy streets were left mercifully crowd-free.
Besides the charm of the old city, there's just a different quality of light on Ibiza, even though it's just 100 miles away from Valencia.
And the multi-hued water, (almost!) as crystal-clear as the waters of Croatia, invited a swim even though it was still rather cold at this time of year.
