We docked in Ibiza and had breakfast this morning on the back deck. it was the coolest morning of the trip and windy with overcast skies.
We are now in Spain and on the island of Ibiza, the third largest island of the Balearic islands. Historically, the town was founded by the Phoenicians 2,500 years ago. Over the years it was controlled by the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, and the Romans. More recently, this island gained a huge influx of “flower” people in the 60″s from all over the world. At that time, a large German contingent came and, to this day, there is much German spoken. We left the ship and took a bus into Ibiza town (or Eivissa) – a 15 minute ride.
Notice the fortress on top of the hill – you will see this later in the day
We decided on a taxi north to the town of Sant Carles de Peralta, called San Carlos by the locals. San Carlos became famous as a hippie colony in the 60’s, and many there still live a minimalist, communal lifestyle. We arrived first at Las Dalias, about 1 km south of San Carlos, after 30 minutes of driving north on the island. It is very dry here as it was in other areas on our trip. Even the Queen Anne’s Lace is brown. Everywhere, Italy, France, and here oleander and bougainvillea are the flowers that we see the most. Today I saw my first hibiscus. In Las Dalias is the Hippie Market, held every Saturday there. The market was fabulous- the most unusual and largest local market I have ever been too! We saw many colorful characters – unusual people and also some unusual crafts – locally hand-crafted jewelery, clothes, yard art, leather goods, and more…
More yard art for you, Tom. Can you find the flamingo?
One of several outdoor eating places
In addition, during the week Las Dalias is a very active music scene, drawing people from all over the island to concerts and festivals.
The coolest thing we saw was a handcrafted, very creative merry-go-round. Those who know me know that I love a merry-go-round! There was a man that handcrafted it from tires and then powered it with his bicycle. When he pedaled faster, the children squealed with laughter. It was the longest ride ever!
Rudi Rudini and his amazing bicycle-powered merry-go-round. Notice his variety of horses made from tires!
I really would have loved for the grandkids to be here! I think this is the best idea ever for Jeff’s retirement. He needs to make one and set it up somewhere in Greenville.
After winding our way through the crowded market, we walked 1 km to the town of Santa Carlos.
Located here is the famous restaurant, Bar Anita. This bar became a local gathering place back in the 60’s because it had the only phone, a pay phone, in the village. It is still a popular gathering place for the locals.
Then we had lunch at Restaurante Sargenta. Another delicious local lunch. Jeff had grilled pork chops and I had grilled prawns. Most importantly, we were able to upload and finally bring our blog up to date!
Deb intently keeping up with her “peeps”
We walked around the small town a bit and then taxied back to Ibiza Old Town.
The Old Town is made up of a fortified citadel (castle) called Dalt Vila, high atop a hill, and the old fishing village, called Portal de Ses Taules, just below and around the main drawbridge. Our driver dropped us off at the top which was a very good idea (we had walked up enough steep hills recently). We had amazing views of the port, the sea, and the town.
Cathedral at the castle
We are posting multiple views from the top. It was such a beautiful day to marvel at God’s creation:
Very unusual trees – not good for shade or bird’s nests
Then we walked the narrow streets down into the town.
A local perro espanol (Spanish cousin of Lucy?)
Along the way, we stopped for helado (ice cream) at a shop with wifi and were able to video chat with our kids and grandkids! What a double treat! Modern technology is amazing.
We got back to the ship too late to join our usual group, so we had dinner with some new interesting people from England, Ireland, and northern California. Then after strolling on the deck and watching the sunset, we retired for the night (after working on the blog, of course).
Buenas noches