For the first time in decades, owners in Mallorca can officially legalise unauthorised buildings on rural land (suelo rústico) – but only until mid-2027. The Balearic “building amnesty” (officially: the extraordinary legalisation procedure under Decreto-ley 3/2024) is the one chance for many finca owners to turn illegal extensions, pools or entire buildings into fully documented,
The Beckham Law in Spain – Flat Tax for Expats Explained
Few Spanish tax rules have a more famous namesake: the Beckham Law (officially Régimen especial para trabajadores desplazados) got its nickname from David Beckham, who joined Real Madrid in 2003 and was one of the first celebrities to benefit from the then-new regime. The irony: professional footballers have been excluded since 2010 – but for
Building Regulations Mallorca – What You Need to Know Before Building or Renovating
Building and Renovating in Mallorca – Key Regulations Anyone planning to build or renovate property in Mallorca must comply with strict building regulations. The Balearic Islands have their own rules that differ considerably from those in other countries. Without the correct permits, you risk heavy fines or even demolition orders. Building Permit (Licencia de Obra)
Healthcare System Mallorca – How Medical Care Works in Spain
The Spanish Healthcare System for Expats Spain’s healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) ranks among Europe’s best. As an expat in Mallorca, you can benefit from high-quality medical care – provided you understand the system and know how to access it. Public vs. Private – Which System Suits You? Spain operates both a public and
Events in Mallorca – Festivals, Fiestas & Culture
Mallorca has a rich events calendar year-round – from traditional fiestas to music festivals and sports. Traditional fiestas Sant Sebastià (January): Palma’s patron saint – concerts, correfocs (fire runs), street BBQs Carnival (February): Sa Rua parade in Palma Semana Santa (March/April): Impressive Easter processions Sant Joan (June): Midsummer beach parties and bonfires Fiestas Patronales (Summer):
Weekly Markets in Mallorca – Market Days Guide
Mallorca’s weekly markets are an institution. Fresh fruit, vegetables, olives, cheese, textiles and crafts. Market days Day Town Note Monday Calvià, Manacor, Caimari Manacor: largest Monday market Tuesday Artà, Alcúdia, Santa Margalida Artà: very authentic Wednesday Sineu, Andratx, Capdepera Sineu: oldest market (with animal market!) Thursday Inca, Ariany, S’Arenal Inca: huge, also leather goods Friday
Best Restaurants in Mallorca – Where Locals Eat
Away from tourist traps, Mallorca has fantastic restaurants frequented by locals and residents. Typical Mallorcan Celler restaurants: Traditional eateries in old wine cellars. Large portions, fair prices. Ca’n Torrat: BBQ spots where you grill your own meat. Chiringuitos: Beach restaurants with fresh fish. Menú del Día Best value! 3-course lunch + drink + coffee from
Hiking in Mallorca – Best Routes and Tips
Mallorca is a hiking paradise. The Serra de Tramuntana (UNESCO World Heritage) offers spectacular routes for all levels. Top hikes GR 221 (Dry Stone Route): Famous long-distance trail across the Tramuntana. 8 stages from Port d’Andratx to Pollença. Puig de Massanella (1,365m): Highest accessible peak. Moderate, 5-6 hours. Torrent de Pareis: Spectacular gorge to Sa
Hidden Beaches in Mallorca – Secret Coves & Local Tips
Mallorca has over 200 beaches – but the real gems are known only to locals. Here are our hidden beach picks. Northeast Cala Mesquida: Large natural beach with dunes, less crowded Cala Torta: Dirt road access – almost deserted. Crystal clear water. Cala Varques: 20-minute walk from car park. Spectacular with caves. Southeast Caló des
Mallorca with Kids – Family Guide for Expats
Mallorca is a fantastic place for families with children. Sun, beaches, nature and good infrastructure make family life here very attractive. Childcare Guardería (nursery, 0-3): Private: 300-600 euros/month. Public: cheaper but limited places Escoleta (preschool, 3-6): Part of most schools, free in public system Schools Mallorca offers international schools and a free public school system.