I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Actually, maybe I should keep this one to myself. Or maybe not. But then again, that would be completely selfish of me wouldn’t it?
Oh OK, here goes. While Ibiza may be famous for parties, beautiful restaurants and beaches there’s a special event that in-the-know islanders look forward to as the season reaches its peak each year – and no, it’s not the arrival of thousands of Italian tourists in August (Italians are always so beautifully well-groomed and styled, don’t you think?), it’s the beginning of the retail sales season.
There. I’ve said it. From the last week in July, retailers – from high fashion to high street - in Ibiza get out their big black marker pens and start dramatically reducing the prices of their summer stock in order to make way for the winter collections. Thankfully for us, this means huge discounts on summer fashion, right in the middle of summer and all the more reason to flex the plastic fantastic!
So today, Miss W got out her trusty diary and made a hit list of stores – Revolver, for that See by Chloe silk blouse I’ve had my eye on; Arias, for those Barbie pink aviator sunglasses that have been calling my name from the window display for weeks; Mayurka for, well, anything I can get my hands on really and then I plan to spend the rest of the strolling through the old town (and then venturing into the new) looking for those wardrobe updates I so desperately need. I mean, a girl can’t possibly be seen wearing the same frock twice in one season these days, you know?
Oh, and the reason I want to guard this secret so fiercely? Well, apart from the fact that nabbing the best pieces and the most bargains myself is of the highest priority, I love the fact that the Ibiza sales are a totally civilised shopping experience – there are no elbows digging into you as you reach for that leopard print bikini and no queues as you head towards the cash register and I fear that once my secret is out, those days will be long gone and we’ll see sales hysteria like the UK or the states reach our fair shores. So promise me you’ll keep this just between you and me?
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: Up to 70 per cent discount on summer collections in the middle of the season is sensational. Anywhere else in the world you’d be looking at winter already but no so in sunny Ibiza…
THE BAD: When the one item of clothing you’ve been lusting after for weeks is on sale at a dramatically low price but isn’t available in your size – talk about depressing!
THE GOSSIP: Retail activity is currently down on the island and Miss W seemed to feel as though the sales weren’t quite as good value as previous years – perhaps the penny pinching means store owners can’t offer as big a discount in order to make up for lack of profits this year?
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
30/07/08: El Ayoun CD launch
Celebrating their tenth birthday this year means El Ayoun have the perfect excuse for a summer-long season of parties and tonight marked the launch of their very own signature CD as part of the celebrations.
The usual suspects were on hand for an exclusive pre-release listening party, with El Ayoun’s resident DJ Angel Cielo on hand to man the decks and get the dance floor grooving, proudly playing tracks from his brand new creation, a glossy CD with El Ayoun’s signature luxe black and gold adorning the cover – now on high rotation on Miss W’s car stereo and iPod playlists thank you very much!
As always, the service at El Ayoun was exceptional, with the super-attentive bar staff working overtime to ensure their guests never went thirsty and although Miss W didn’t book a table for dinner this evening, the restaurant seemed to be humming and buzzing with activity before diners moved from dinner to drinks - you know the drill. Delicious cocktails followed by dancing til dawn is El Ayoun’s speciality and tonight certainly did not disappoint.
Owner Charles seemed to be schmoozing and socialising wherever Miss W and the White-ettes went, from Privado to the crowded terrace and through to Miss W’s new favourite part of the venue, the uber-cool Club Sushi lounge (where Miss W also spied German techno king Sven Vath tucking into some late-night snacks) – one thing I can say is that the man certainly knows how to host a party. Have you ever heard of anyone not having a good time at El Ayoun? I rest my case.
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: Seeing El Ayoun’s outdoor terrace completely packed on a balmy summer’s night, just the way we like it!
THE BAD: Finding parking in San Rafael is getting to be a bit of a nuisance now summer is in full swing – navigating the walk from the car to El Ayoun in heels is not a joy unless you manage to swing a space in the carpark next door…
THE GOSSIP: Miss W heard whispers that a printing errors and late courier deliveries were responsible for the lack of CDs being given away in El Ayoun on the night, but luckily still managed to get her hands on one of the hotly anticipated pre-release copies…
The usual suspects were on hand for an exclusive pre-release listening party, with El Ayoun’s resident DJ Angel Cielo on hand to man the decks and get the dance floor grooving, proudly playing tracks from his brand new creation, a glossy CD with El Ayoun’s signature luxe black and gold adorning the cover – now on high rotation on Miss W’s car stereo and iPod playlists thank you very much!
As always, the service at El Ayoun was exceptional, with the super-attentive bar staff working overtime to ensure their guests never went thirsty and although Miss W didn’t book a table for dinner this evening, the restaurant seemed to be humming and buzzing with activity before diners moved from dinner to drinks - you know the drill. Delicious cocktails followed by dancing til dawn is El Ayoun’s speciality and tonight certainly did not disappoint.
Owner Charles seemed to be schmoozing and socialising wherever Miss W and the White-ettes went, from Privado to the crowded terrace and through to Miss W’s new favourite part of the venue, the uber-cool Club Sushi lounge (where Miss W also spied German techno king Sven Vath tucking into some late-night snacks) – one thing I can say is that the man certainly knows how to host a party. Have you ever heard of anyone not having a good time at El Ayoun? I rest my case.
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: Seeing El Ayoun’s outdoor terrace completely packed on a balmy summer’s night, just the way we like it!
THE BAD: Finding parking in San Rafael is getting to be a bit of a nuisance now summer is in full swing – navigating the walk from the car to El Ayoun in heels is not a joy unless you manage to swing a space in the carpark next door…
THE GOSSIP: Miss W heard whispers that a printing errors and late courier deliveries were responsible for the lack of CDs being given away in El Ayoun on the night, but luckily still managed to get her hands on one of the hotly anticipated pre-release copies…
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
29/07/08: Quantum Yoga
Recently a certain White-ette mentioned to Miss W that there were some all-new drop-in yoga classes being held on the terrace at the divine Macao On The Rocks and suggested we try it out, being bikini season and all. She also happened to mention this fact to me during one of my short-lived detoxes (yes, oddly Miss W is prone to starting a health kick during the silly summer season in Ibiza) so it seems I have agreed to get out of bed at silly o’clock (that’s just actually before 10am) today and head to the pebbly shores of Es Codolar to test out Quantum Yoga with expert instructor Lara Baumann.
Not being much of an exercise bunny at the best of times (I mean seriously, we live in Ibiza. Isn’t dancing enough?) meant I was plagued with the same old question I deal with each and every time I leave the house – whatever am I going to wear?
Now let me say this about that. Dressing for seaside yoga is not an easy task when your wardrobe consists of frocks, tops, kaftans, bikinis, an assortment of denim and a plethora of sandals, flip flops and cowboy boots – all I can say is thank god yoga is a barefoot sport (though I’m not sure that you should call it a sport?) since I REALLY couldn’t have fudged the footwear. I managed to dig out a pair of cute stretchy hotpants – left over from my days as a wannabe Manumission girl – and teamed it with a lovely yellow smiley face promo t-shirt courtesy my good friends at We Love Space (THE current must-have tourist item on the island at the moment BTW) to help me start feeling the positive vibes then my trusty White-ette and I jumped into the White-mobile and away we went!
From the minute we pulled into Es Codolar I was overcome with a sense of calm – the turquoise water and glossy grey pebbles are like something straight out of a movie set (and we all know how much Miss W loves a starring role) and the fact that the beach is virtually empty at this hour meant my self consciousness about doing yoga in public completely dissipated. Facing the sea, on the wooden terrace of Macao were our mats, and with the sound of the water lapping the shore along with the twittering birds and crickets, it really was enough to make me feel like Gwyneth Paltrow before I’d even attempted a downward dog!
According to the press material, Quantam Yoga is ‘a flowing dynamic form that supports the creative construction of vinyasa yoga sequences ideally suited to the individual.’ According to Miss W, it’s a really enjoyable free-flowing series of postures (that are as relatively easy or as strenuous as you choose to make them) combined with a special breathing technique that inspired me to want to continue with the practice in order to be able to contort myself into the peak pose, the ‘King Pigeon’ – which looks a whole lot more elegant than it sounds – just like my new guru, Lara had demonstrated with ease, grace and a smile on her face.
But judging by my aches, pains and grimaces as I sit at the computer now, looks like I have a long way to go just yet…
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: Jumping in the sea directly after finishing the class and swimming straight out to the trampoline like pontoon just off shore for a sneaky sunbathe before heading back to the office. Oh - and did I mention that the classes are followed by a divine breakfast at Macao? Heavenly!
THE BAD: My total lack of flexibility – ouch! Looks like I’ll need to work on that a little if I want to become a yogi like Lara…
THE GOSSIP: Lara is about to release the third in her series of Quantum Yoga CDs, in conjunction with some amazing Ibiza DJs including Sven Vath, Bushwacka! and Rob Marmot. But can techno and yoga really go hand in hand? Only time will tell – that’s if the eagerly awaited delivery of CDs arrives on the island in time for her launch party on Saturday night! Fingers, arms and legs crossed (in a yoga-fied manner of course) for you Lara…
Not being much of an exercise bunny at the best of times (I mean seriously, we live in Ibiza. Isn’t dancing enough?) meant I was plagued with the same old question I deal with each and every time I leave the house – whatever am I going to wear?
Now let me say this about that. Dressing for seaside yoga is not an easy task when your wardrobe consists of frocks, tops, kaftans, bikinis, an assortment of denim and a plethora of sandals, flip flops and cowboy boots – all I can say is thank god yoga is a barefoot sport (though I’m not sure that you should call it a sport?) since I REALLY couldn’t have fudged the footwear. I managed to dig out a pair of cute stretchy hotpants – left over from my days as a wannabe Manumission girl – and teamed it with a lovely yellow smiley face promo t-shirt courtesy my good friends at We Love Space (THE current must-have tourist item on the island at the moment BTW) to help me start feeling the positive vibes then my trusty White-ette and I jumped into the White-mobile and away we went!
From the minute we pulled into Es Codolar I was overcome with a sense of calm – the turquoise water and glossy grey pebbles are like something straight out of a movie set (and we all know how much Miss W loves a starring role) and the fact that the beach is virtually empty at this hour meant my self consciousness about doing yoga in public completely dissipated. Facing the sea, on the wooden terrace of Macao were our mats, and with the sound of the water lapping the shore along with the twittering birds and crickets, it really was enough to make me feel like Gwyneth Paltrow before I’d even attempted a downward dog!
According to the press material, Quantam Yoga is ‘a flowing dynamic form that supports the creative construction of vinyasa yoga sequences ideally suited to the individual.’ According to Miss W, it’s a really enjoyable free-flowing series of postures (that are as relatively easy or as strenuous as you choose to make them) combined with a special breathing technique that inspired me to want to continue with the practice in order to be able to contort myself into the peak pose, the ‘King Pigeon’ – which looks a whole lot more elegant than it sounds – just like my new guru, Lara had demonstrated with ease, grace and a smile on her face.
But judging by my aches, pains and grimaces as I sit at the computer now, looks like I have a long way to go just yet…
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: Jumping in the sea directly after finishing the class and swimming straight out to the trampoline like pontoon just off shore for a sneaky sunbathe before heading back to the office. Oh - and did I mention that the classes are followed by a divine breakfast at Macao? Heavenly!
THE BAD: My total lack of flexibility – ouch! Looks like I’ll need to work on that a little if I want to become a yogi like Lara…
THE GOSSIP: Lara is about to release the third in her series of Quantum Yoga CDs, in conjunction with some amazing Ibiza DJs including Sven Vath, Bushwacka! and Rob Marmot. But can techno and yoga really go hand in hand? Only time will tell – that’s if the eagerly awaited delivery of CDs arrives on the island in time for her launch party on Saturday night! Fingers, arms and legs crossed (in a yoga-fied manner of course) for you Lara…
Friday, July 18, 2008
18/07/08: Nassau Beach Club
Have I ever mentioned how much I love Ibiza? No sooner have you come home from a day on the beach at Blue Marlin with the White-ettes than a Very Special Friend invites you to spend the following day with them at the island’s hottest new beach bar slash restaurant, Nassau Beach Club. Quite frankly, Miss W thinks it would be rude not to, so off to Playa D’en Bossa she went!
Now, before I get too carried away raving about how fabulous my day was, let me start by telling you that I had a few pre-conceived notions about Playa D’en Bossa, most of which involved a certain beach club that had always put me off visiting the area - to each their own, but it’s just not Miss W’s taste. So it was with hesitation that I selected my outfit for the day, my latest splurge, a Missoni bikini combined with a gorgeous Antik Batik kaftan and the piece de resistance, a HUGE black Jackie O style oversized floppy hat, intended to hide my identity rather than risk being discovered in the PDB hood.
But no sooner had we been escorted to our plush sun loungers in the white sand (so far away from That Other Place it was practically another world) than I whipped off my hat, flicked my hair back into place and couldn’t wait to see who might spot me sitting (oh, ok I was totally posing) in this prime position - I can tell you right now that Nassau is seriously THE new place to be seen. Yes folks, Playa D’en Bossa has a new player in town and Miss W wants to be on their team.
Or at the very least, be a member of the cheer squad!
From the minute I started to feel peckish, freshly made wan-tans seemed to magically appear on the table by my sunbed and no sooner than my throat felt parched than an icy and spicy Bloody Mary materialised for my sipping pleasure (though to tell you the truth, I suspect my Very Special Friend may have been in cahoots with the waiter to ensure the drinks and the food kept a-coming! Either way, I was in heaven!). The only extra thing I could have asked for was a good looking lifeguard to come and fan me down when the temperature started to rise - though I suspect that would probably be a tad excessive, especially when crystal clear water like this is just metres in front of you!
After a few hours spent working hard at our tans, we relocated to the ibiza restaurant to indulge in a late lunch - the goat’s cheese salad is simply out of this world - followed by my favourite pastime, a spot of retail therapy.
Nassau’s boutique managed to put a serious dent in Miss W’s credit card - most notably with a sheer black paisley jumpsuit from Reina & Roses and a beautiful bronze necklace that seems to perfectly accentuate my hard earned tan - before she managed to drag herself back to the sunbed.
Would it be wrong of me to come back tomorrow wearing them both?
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: The delectable ice creams served at Nassau are (almost) better than a frozen dacquiri as a way to beat the summer heat. Actually, the entire dessert cabinet gets my vote - yummo!
THE BAD: The fact that the day beds are completely booked out before the sun has even reached its peak - it’s just not good for the skin to be out in the sun during those hours but then again, missing out on one of those plush, comfy beds seems like a fate worse than sunburn!
THE GOSSIP: Eyeing off the staff at Nassau is a little bit like watching fashion TV - all exceptionally good looking and incredibly well dressed, however Miss W couldn’t fail to notice the lack of Roberto Cavalli uniforms in the house… perhaps today was casual Friday?
Now, before I get too carried away raving about how fabulous my day was, let me start by telling you that I had a few pre-conceived notions about Playa D’en Bossa, most of which involved a certain beach club that had always put me off visiting the area - to each their own, but it’s just not Miss W’s taste. So it was with hesitation that I selected my outfit for the day, my latest splurge, a Missoni bikini combined with a gorgeous Antik Batik kaftan and the piece de resistance, a HUGE black Jackie O style oversized floppy hat, intended to hide my identity rather than risk being discovered in the PDB hood.
But no sooner had we been escorted to our plush sun loungers in the white sand (so far away from That Other Place it was practically another world) than I whipped off my hat, flicked my hair back into place and couldn’t wait to see who might spot me sitting (oh, ok I was totally posing) in this prime position - I can tell you right now that Nassau is seriously THE new place to be seen. Yes folks, Playa D’en Bossa has a new player in town and Miss W wants to be on their team.
Or at the very least, be a member of the cheer squad!
From the minute I started to feel peckish, freshly made wan-tans seemed to magically appear on the table by my sunbed and no sooner than my throat felt parched than an icy and spicy Bloody Mary materialised for my sipping pleasure (though to tell you the truth, I suspect my Very Special Friend may have been in cahoots with the waiter to ensure the drinks and the food kept a-coming! Either way, I was in heaven!). The only extra thing I could have asked for was a good looking lifeguard to come and fan me down when the temperature started to rise - though I suspect that would probably be a tad excessive, especially when crystal clear water like this is just metres in front of you!
After a few hours spent working hard at our tans, we relocated to the ibiza restaurant to indulge in a late lunch - the goat’s cheese salad is simply out of this world - followed by my favourite pastime, a spot of retail therapy.
Nassau’s boutique managed to put a serious dent in Miss W’s credit card - most notably with a sheer black paisley jumpsuit from Reina & Roses and a beautiful bronze necklace that seems to perfectly accentuate my hard earned tan - before she managed to drag herself back to the sunbed.
Would it be wrong of me to come back tomorrow wearing them both?
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: The delectable ice creams served at Nassau are (almost) better than a frozen dacquiri as a way to beat the summer heat. Actually, the entire dessert cabinet gets my vote - yummo!
THE BAD: The fact that the day beds are completely booked out before the sun has even reached its peak - it’s just not good for the skin to be out in the sun during those hours but then again, missing out on one of those plush, comfy beds seems like a fate worse than sunburn!
THE GOSSIP: Eyeing off the staff at Nassau is a little bit like watching fashion TV - all exceptionally good looking and incredibly well dressed, however Miss W couldn’t fail to notice the lack of Roberto Cavalli uniforms in the house… perhaps today was casual Friday?
17/07/08: B.For Planet Sushi opening
It seems to Miss W that Ibiza has really been growing up lately. Not in a coming-of-age way - she did that years ago, with the advent of the VIP and concierge culture. No, this time I mean it’s more like a girl in her late twenties suddenly realising that she no longer wants to wear boob tubes and cowboy boots and swapping her glitter eyeshadow for stylish-yet-understated Chanel eye make-up. I think what I’m trying to say here is that I’m really loving Ibiza’s recent style makeover.
We’ve seen dated old buildings become stylishly rendered apartment blocks, simple beachwear shops become sophisticated and in demand designer labels and dodgy old cafes morph into stunningly restored restaurants and none achieving this last feat better than Ibiza’s newest addition to the great sushi lounge invasion of 2008, B.For Planet Sushi.
Taking what was once a non-descript café-cum-restaurant dominating the ground floor of a dated white apartment building on a pretty boring stretch of road famous only for its resident super club, the infamous high-end sushi train (excuse the pun!) and converting it into an ultra-modern restaurant and lounge bar that wouldn’t be out of place in New York, London, Sydney or Tokyo, it looks like Planet Sushi are on a roll.
All jokes aside, you won’t find any tacky sushi trains here - Miss W was pleased to note the striking wooden decks, complete with sparkling-yet subtle lights on the open air terrace, with a slick and streamlined interior including a softly illuminated bar area, following in the footsteps of its predecessors around the world.
Who was there? Who wasn’t! Another occasion for the social butterflies of the White Isle to catch up - all in the name of work for Miss W - though thankfully now the season is in full swing, conversations have turned to how summer is progressing rather than what our winter adventures were like and what the summer has in store - about time!
THE GOOD: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. A girl can NEVER have too much sushi. Welcome to the neighbourhood Planet Sushi, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship…
THE BAD: The invite only event may have had free flowing wine but wasn’t so generous with the main event - and yes I’m talking about sushi! While Miss W is no freeloader, it does seem a little strange to invite Ibiza’s A-List for a tasting and then ask them to cough up for the bill, don’t you think?
THE GOSSIP: The talk (in conspiratorial hush-hush tones of course) of the evening was just how a certain very famous nightclub that happens to be just a few hundred metres down the road and boasts it very own sushi bar would deal with the shiny new kid on the block as competition. Miss W says just wait and see - she believes that certain nightclub never misses a trick! Oh - and whatever is that name all about anyway?
We’ve seen dated old buildings become stylishly rendered apartment blocks, simple beachwear shops become sophisticated and in demand designer labels and dodgy old cafes morph into stunningly restored restaurants and none achieving this last feat better than Ibiza’s newest addition to the great sushi lounge invasion of 2008, B.For Planet Sushi.
Taking what was once a non-descript café-cum-restaurant dominating the ground floor of a dated white apartment building on a pretty boring stretch of road famous only for its resident super club, the infamous high-end sushi train (excuse the pun!) and converting it into an ultra-modern restaurant and lounge bar that wouldn’t be out of place in New York, London, Sydney or Tokyo, it looks like Planet Sushi are on a roll.
All jokes aside, you won’t find any tacky sushi trains here - Miss W was pleased to note the striking wooden decks, complete with sparkling-yet subtle lights on the open air terrace, with a slick and streamlined interior including a softly illuminated bar area, following in the footsteps of its predecessors around the world.
Who was there? Who wasn’t! Another occasion for the social butterflies of the White Isle to catch up - all in the name of work for Miss W - though thankfully now the season is in full swing, conversations have turned to how summer is progressing rather than what our winter adventures were like and what the summer has in store - about time!
THE GOOD: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. A girl can NEVER have too much sushi. Welcome to the neighbourhood Planet Sushi, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship…
THE BAD: The invite only event may have had free flowing wine but wasn’t so generous with the main event - and yes I’m talking about sushi! While Miss W is no freeloader, it does seem a little strange to invite Ibiza’s A-List for a tasting and then ask them to cough up for the bill, don’t you think?
THE GOSSIP: The talk (in conspiratorial hush-hush tones of course) of the evening was just how a certain very famous nightclub that happens to be just a few hundred metres down the road and boasts it very own sushi bar would deal with the shiny new kid on the block as competition. Miss W says just wait and see - she believes that certain nightclub never misses a trick! Oh - and whatever is that name all about anyway?
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
14/07/08: Miss W’s birthday!
Well, darned if I wasn’t just thinking that I was getting a little too old for clubbing and then my very own birthday rolled around yet again - it doesn’t feel like a year since the last one and yet I’m POSITIVE I still don’t look a day over 27! Wouldn’t you agree?
Miss W is certainly not one to let a birthday pass quietly or unannounced so an extra special fiesta was organised in my honour - for which a very big thank you goes out to My Very Special Housemate - at one of my favourite beachside locations, S’Estanyol.
There’s nothing better than a l-o-n-g, leisurely late lunch with about 30 of your closest mates, all digging into the mouth-wateringly delicious paella and drowning jugs of delicious sangria followed by the ceremonious verses of ‘happy birthday to you’ sung in unison with ‘cumpleanos feliz’ - a treat for all your senses.
And you know, Miss W does love the ritual of unwrapping a present (or two)!
Once the sun went down, My Very Famous DJ Friend jumped behind the decks - though sadly they wouldn’t play any Kylie Minogue for me, even though it was my very special birthday request - until around 2am, when it was time to relocate the party, just a hop, skip and a bumpy car ride down the dirt road to Pacha, where Roger Sanchez’s Release Yourself was in full swing.
The highlights? A White-ette doing her very best Pacha dancer impersonations (though thankfully she refrained from climbing into the life-sized champagne glass on the roof!), a Certain Club Promoter doing their best to try and sweet talk one of Pacha’s resident DJs to play at a rival club and a White-ette’s Wonderful Boyfriend saving the day (or night) and driving Miss W home when there were no taxis to be found - thank you ever so much!
Even though it was technically a school night, I managed to skip home through the cobbled streets of Dalt Vila just in time to catch the views of the stunning sunrise from my balcony (a view which never ceases to amaze me), while getting plenty of birthday love from my (most likely just hungry) new kitten and my beautiful (but grumpy) old cat.
Aren’t birthdays in Ibiza just fabulous? I may have to make like Alice In Wonderland and throw myself an ‘un-birthday’ party next week so I can do it all again!
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: All my wonderful extravagant gifts… errr, I mean, all my wonderful generous friends!
THE BAD: Well, though I am loathe to complain about anything on my birthday, I must admit that the art of the birthday cake seems to be lost on the Spanish bakeries. It’s fruit flan or fake cream all the way here in ibiza - but all I really wanted was a batch of Magnolia Bakery style cupcakes!
THE GOSSIP: All eyes were on Miss W’s Kind Of Boyfriend tonight in anticipation of the gifts he would bestow - but Miss W will have to report on that later as he turned up to my soiree empty handed… I’m presuming he’ll be making up for it later?
Miss W is certainly not one to let a birthday pass quietly or unannounced so an extra special fiesta was organised in my honour - for which a very big thank you goes out to My Very Special Housemate - at one of my favourite beachside locations, S’Estanyol.
There’s nothing better than a l-o-n-g, leisurely late lunch with about 30 of your closest mates, all digging into the mouth-wateringly delicious paella and drowning jugs of delicious sangria followed by the ceremonious verses of ‘happy birthday to you’ sung in unison with ‘cumpleanos feliz’ - a treat for all your senses.
And you know, Miss W does love the ritual of unwrapping a present (or two)!
Once the sun went down, My Very Famous DJ Friend jumped behind the decks - though sadly they wouldn’t play any Kylie Minogue for me, even though it was my very special birthday request - until around 2am, when it was time to relocate the party, just a hop, skip and a bumpy car ride down the dirt road to Pacha, where Roger Sanchez’s Release Yourself was in full swing.
The highlights? A White-ette doing her very best Pacha dancer impersonations (though thankfully she refrained from climbing into the life-sized champagne glass on the roof!), a Certain Club Promoter doing their best to try and sweet talk one of Pacha’s resident DJs to play at a rival club and a White-ette’s Wonderful Boyfriend saving the day (or night) and driving Miss W home when there were no taxis to be found - thank you ever so much!
Even though it was technically a school night, I managed to skip home through the cobbled streets of Dalt Vila just in time to catch the views of the stunning sunrise from my balcony (a view which never ceases to amaze me), while getting plenty of birthday love from my (most likely just hungry) new kitten and my beautiful (but grumpy) old cat.
Aren’t birthdays in Ibiza just fabulous? I may have to make like Alice In Wonderland and throw myself an ‘un-birthday’ party next week so I can do it all again!
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: All my wonderful extravagant gifts… errr, I mean, all my wonderful generous friends!
THE BAD: Well, though I am loathe to complain about anything on my birthday, I must admit that the art of the birthday cake seems to be lost on the Spanish bakeries. It’s fruit flan or fake cream all the way here in ibiza - but all I really wanted was a batch of Magnolia Bakery style cupcakes!
THE GOSSIP: All eyes were on Miss W’s Kind Of Boyfriend tonight in anticipation of the gifts he would bestow - but Miss W will have to report on that later as he turned up to my soiree empty handed… I’m presuming he’ll be making up for it later?
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
08/07/08: Carl Cox Opening Party
What do you mean there are more opening parties? Don’t these people know it’s July already? Seriously, how many new outfits can a girl continue to buy? Actually, now that I think of it, there are seven clubs, each open seven nights, each of which will be having an opening party - you do the math!
Looks like Miss W had better start saving her euros for the closing party wardrobe pretty soon then!
OK, so I may have gotten just a little off topic, but the fact of the matter is, the opening parties just keep on coming. Tonight marks the opening of everyone’s favourite techno DJ’s legendary party at Space, and I’m talking about none other than the big man himself, Carl Cox. With just a few of his very favourite friends (tonight, Green Velvet and James Lavelle) on hand to help out behind the decks - so very kind of them.
What I love most about Carl’s party is that you get the chance to experience Space in all its glory, without missing out on any of the musical action, thanks to the fact Mr Cox plays two sets - one on the sunset terrace before midnight and another - the most highly anticipated on - inside the packed discotek much later on. There’s no freaking out about rushing between rooms or stressing about set times - this really is the clubber’s party.
As in previous years, when the main room has reached its peak, a giant white sheet is thrown across the heads (more likely, the raised arms) on the entire dancefloor, enveloping them in a parachute like cocoon bubble. If Miss W didn’t have her Kind Of Boyfriend on hand to keep her protected she may have gotten a little claustrophobic, but as it stands, managed to get into the spirit of things and scream and cheer enthusiastically as it was whipped off!
Of course, after all the excitement (and the slight moment where I almost panicked in sheer terror), I needed to retire to the comfort of the VIP area and sip on a champers whilst having my shoulders massaged to calm my nerves.
Maybe Miss W is getting just a tad too old for all this clubbing malarky?
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: While Carl has plenty of famous friends gracing the decks, he’s also supporting a lot of fresh talent. Miss W was particularly impressed with a young lad going by the name of Mr Doris, spinning the wheels of steel on the Premier Etage all night long. The guy has a seriously amazing music collection and will be playing here every week so be sure to check him out.
THE BAD: The fact that the party only goes for nine weeks. What’s wrong with playing an extended summer like everyone else?
THE GOSSIP: The hype surrounding Carl Cox’s ‘friends’. Is it really possible that each and every one of those ultra-famous DJs is actually a good mate or is it simply a gimmick to promote the amazing line-ups? Miss W hears from her Very Reliable Source that it is indeed the truth, and all DJs mentioned on the flyer have at some point been round to Carl’s place for tea! Bless…
Looks like Miss W had better start saving her euros for the closing party wardrobe pretty soon then!
OK, so I may have gotten just a little off topic, but the fact of the matter is, the opening parties just keep on coming. Tonight marks the opening of everyone’s favourite techno DJ’s legendary party at Space, and I’m talking about none other than the big man himself, Carl Cox. With just a few of his very favourite friends (tonight, Green Velvet and James Lavelle) on hand to help out behind the decks - so very kind of them.
What I love most about Carl’s party is that you get the chance to experience Space in all its glory, without missing out on any of the musical action, thanks to the fact Mr Cox plays two sets - one on the sunset terrace before midnight and another - the most highly anticipated on - inside the packed discotek much later on. There’s no freaking out about rushing between rooms or stressing about set times - this really is the clubber’s party.
As in previous years, when the main room has reached its peak, a giant white sheet is thrown across the heads (more likely, the raised arms) on the entire dancefloor, enveloping them in a parachute like cocoon bubble. If Miss W didn’t have her Kind Of Boyfriend on hand to keep her protected she may have gotten a little claustrophobic, but as it stands, managed to get into the spirit of things and scream and cheer enthusiastically as it was whipped off!
Of course, after all the excitement (and the slight moment where I almost panicked in sheer terror), I needed to retire to the comfort of the VIP area and sip on a champers whilst having my shoulders massaged to calm my nerves.
Maybe Miss W is getting just a tad too old for all this clubbing malarky?
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: While Carl has plenty of famous friends gracing the decks, he’s also supporting a lot of fresh talent. Miss W was particularly impressed with a young lad going by the name of Mr Doris, spinning the wheels of steel on the Premier Etage all night long. The guy has a seriously amazing music collection and will be playing here every week so be sure to check him out.
THE BAD: The fact that the party only goes for nine weeks. What’s wrong with playing an extended summer like everyone else?
THE GOSSIP: The hype surrounding Carl Cox’s ‘friends’. Is it really possible that each and every one of those ultra-famous DJs is actually a good mate or is it simply a gimmick to promote the amazing line-ups? Miss W hears from her Very Reliable Source that it is indeed the truth, and all DJs mentioned on the flyer have at some point been round to Carl’s place for tea! Bless…
08/07/08: Beach Azuli @ Sol Den Serra
After an impressive debut in June, Beach Azuli returned to Sol Den Serra for the second in their series of not-so-secret beach parties and Miss W was on hand for the duration of the event in the interests of quality control of course.
From the 4pm kick-off time it was clear that Azuli weren’t going to have any problem filling the venue, with streams of cars and taxis making a beeline for Cala Llonga to make the most of the afternoon sunshine. There were sparkling kaftans aplenty, enough camera crews to feel like you were at Ibiza’s equivalent of the Cannes Film Festival and the odd local celebrity or two thrown in for good measure.
Miss W was particularly pleased to see White Ibiza’s favourite winemaker Laurent Fresard (with his family flown all the way from France for the occasion!) had managed to secure his very own wine bar on the sand, with the Ibizkus flowing thick and fast to quench the thirst of the many partygoers. And what a pretty sight all those sparkling champagne flutes filled with the striking pink vino made, glittering in the sun! Photo opportunity anyone?
So as for my quality control checks? It was simple. Stunning venue? Check. Beautiful people? Check. Icy mojitos, chilled vibes and the luxury of dancing on soft sand in the sunlight? Check, check and checkmate! When you’re onto a good thing…
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: Picture perfect weather at a picture perfect venue with a picture perfect crowd - this was an event that could have been featured in the latest edition of Vogue!
THE BAD: The music. While I don’t make any claims to be a music critic, I know what I like and let’s just say the music embellished with live vocals in the late afternoon wasn’t to my taste! Top marks go to to Italian hottie Alex Neri for steering it back on course later on.
THE GOSSIP: Miss W had to wonder why the Sol Den Serra restaurant wasn’t open for the duration of the event and why the gourmet barbeque from the first event had turned into the equivalent of a pricey sausage sizzle? Just because we’re dancing on the sand doesn’t mean we don’t want to nibble on sushi…
From the 4pm kick-off time it was clear that Azuli weren’t going to have any problem filling the venue, with streams of cars and taxis making a beeline for Cala Llonga to make the most of the afternoon sunshine. There were sparkling kaftans aplenty, enough camera crews to feel like you were at Ibiza’s equivalent of the Cannes Film Festival and the odd local celebrity or two thrown in for good measure.
Miss W was particularly pleased to see White Ibiza’s favourite winemaker Laurent Fresard (with his family flown all the way from France for the occasion!) had managed to secure his very own wine bar on the sand, with the Ibizkus flowing thick and fast to quench the thirst of the many partygoers. And what a pretty sight all those sparkling champagne flutes filled with the striking pink vino made, glittering in the sun! Photo opportunity anyone?
So as for my quality control checks? It was simple. Stunning venue? Check. Beautiful people? Check. Icy mojitos, chilled vibes and the luxury of dancing on soft sand in the sunlight? Check, check and checkmate! When you’re onto a good thing…
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: Picture perfect weather at a picture perfect venue with a picture perfect crowd - this was an event that could have been featured in the latest edition of Vogue!
THE BAD: The music. While I don’t make any claims to be a music critic, I know what I like and let’s just say the music embellished with live vocals in the late afternoon wasn’t to my taste! Top marks go to to Italian hottie Alex Neri for steering it back on course later on.
THE GOSSIP: Miss W had to wonder why the Sol Den Serra restaurant wasn’t open for the duration of the event and why the gourmet barbeque from the first event had turned into the equivalent of a pricey sausage sizzle? Just because we’re dancing on the sand doesn’t mean we don’t want to nibble on sushi…
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
07/07/08: Tiesto @ Privilege opening
While Ibiza seems to be the centre of the dance music universe, Miss W has to admit that the idea of heading to a venue packed full of 10 000 clubbers raving to trance music is not her idea of a good time. In fact, I’d rather poke myself in the eye with a blunt fork to be honest.
Oh sorry - did I just get off on the wrong foot?
What I meant to say was, it was with trepidation that Miss W headed to the World’s Biggest Club, Privilege for the opening party of the award winning ‘Best Global DJ’ Tiesto’s brand spanking new residency. It’s called in search of sunrise, but I’ve got to say, with all the lasers, light shows and visuals going on, it seemed pretty clear to me that this was a NIGHT club in full swing - full to its 10 000 person capacity in fact.
Of course, Miss W had reserved herself a seat in the plush Privilege VIP section, mainly to avoid her toes being trampled on by the hordes - a good pedicure doesn’t come cheap in Ibiza these days you know - and upon arriving at the club just a tad after midnight, I was very glad I had done so. The place was literally packed to the rafters, meaning the VIP was really the only place you could get a little breathing (and dancing) space.
Tonight I have to say, Privilege felt more like a rock stadium than a club to me, thought the music - a cross section of trance, house and chunky techno - was certainly not rocky in any way. I’ve got to admit, combined with the cinema-sized screens, the amazing visuals and the enthusiasm of the crowd (not to mention Tiesto himself), I even got quite into it!
Guess they don’t call him the best for nothing! Apparently it takes an entire day to dismantle the production, so Privilege is closed on Tuesdays. Do you think this means Miss W can take the day off to recover as well?
THE GOOD: Wow. How impressive is Privilege when she’s all dolled up and ready to impress? Seeing Tiesto utilise the venue to its full capacity really turned my opinion of the ultimate super club on its head. I think it’s safe to say I’ll be back!
THE BAD: What to wear? With so many people in one place, it’s almost certain you’ll see someone wearing the same thing as you! Though then again, it’s so huge the chances of running into your fashion twin is quite slim too…
THE GOSSIP: Getting one’s name on a guest list for Tiesto is virtually impossible. Perhaps the massive scale of the production means that every euro is needed to cover costs? It’s certainly something the island’s VIP set are not used to…
Oh sorry - did I just get off on the wrong foot?
What I meant to say was, it was with trepidation that Miss W headed to the World’s Biggest Club, Privilege for the opening party of the award winning ‘Best Global DJ’ Tiesto’s brand spanking new residency. It’s called in search of sunrise, but I’ve got to say, with all the lasers, light shows and visuals going on, it seemed pretty clear to me that this was a NIGHT club in full swing - full to its 10 000 person capacity in fact.
Of course, Miss W had reserved herself a seat in the plush Privilege VIP section, mainly to avoid her toes being trampled on by the hordes - a good pedicure doesn’t come cheap in Ibiza these days you know - and upon arriving at the club just a tad after midnight, I was very glad I had done so. The place was literally packed to the rafters, meaning the VIP was really the only place you could get a little breathing (and dancing) space.
Tonight I have to say, Privilege felt more like a rock stadium than a club to me, thought the music - a cross section of trance, house and chunky techno - was certainly not rocky in any way. I’ve got to admit, combined with the cinema-sized screens, the amazing visuals and the enthusiasm of the crowd (not to mention Tiesto himself), I even got quite into it!
Guess they don’t call him the best for nothing! Apparently it takes an entire day to dismantle the production, so Privilege is closed on Tuesdays. Do you think this means Miss W can take the day off to recover as well?
THE GOOD: Wow. How impressive is Privilege when she’s all dolled up and ready to impress? Seeing Tiesto utilise the venue to its full capacity really turned my opinion of the ultimate super club on its head. I think it’s safe to say I’ll be back!
THE BAD: What to wear? With so many people in one place, it’s almost certain you’ll see someone wearing the same thing as you! Though then again, it’s so huge the chances of running into your fashion twin is quite slim too…
THE GOSSIP: Getting one’s name on a guest list for Tiesto is virtually impossible. Perhaps the massive scale of the production means that every euro is needed to cover costs? It’s certainly something the island’s VIP set are not used to…
Friday, July 4, 2008
03/07/08: BE @ Space opening
After two very successful practice runs late last season - and yes, Miss W was there to witness them both - there was much speculation as to whether Danny Tenaglia would return the island to begin his own residency at Space this year, and luckily for us, the rumours turned out to be true.
So Thursday nights it is - just when you thought there couldn’t be any more opening parties for Miss W to go to!
So in preparation to see one of New York’s finest, I got dressed up in my New York finest - a super-cool BCBG (but Missoni-esque) poncho purchased in the big apple a few years ago - hailed a cab and then hightailed it over the Space.
(Note to self: ENOUGH with the New York references. Think this may be a sign I’ve watched one too many episodes of Sex And The City this week. Need to get out more. Hmmm, I wonder whether the SATC film will EVER be shown in its original language here in Ibiza? I mean, I’m still learning Spanish, but I certainly don’t think I could keep up with Carrie’s relationships without subtitles to say the least!)
So where was I? That’s right, Space. I was expecting the usual six room extravaganza so was pretty surprised to see only the new terrace in operation when I arrived, but then again, when half the island is turning out simply to see one man, there’s no point trying to program music in the other rooms is there?
While Miss W has been known to linger around DJ booths in her time, there were way too many hangers on around DT tonight - looking like he'd brought his very own New York style entourage - which meant I made a beeline for the VIP area in order to have enough space to dance (quite ironic there was no space on the dance floor, given the name of the club), speedy table service for my drinks and a bird’s eye view of all the action.
The music? Classic Danny Tenaglia, a long and detailed journey through house-flavoured techno (does that make sense to anyone except me?), guaranteed to get you dancing and quite possibly inspire you to snap up DT’s latest album Futurism (Miss W currently has it on high rotation in the car!). The atmosphere? Electric. The punters wanted Danny, and it was pure Danny all the way. All the way down to his dorky cap and toy rave glasses - bless…
THE GOOD: Finally seeing Space building their very own flagship night - and the fact that DT is taking up residency in Ibiza of course!
THE BAD: Oh Danny. Those billboards. Those glasses. Need we say more?
THE GOSSIP: The dancers in the beach and pre-party parades looked suspiciously like a bunch of moonlighting Manumission girls… doesn’t anyone have any loyalty these days?
So Thursday nights it is - just when you thought there couldn’t be any more opening parties for Miss W to go to!
So in preparation to see one of New York’s finest, I got dressed up in my New York finest - a super-cool BCBG (but Missoni-esque) poncho purchased in the big apple a few years ago - hailed a cab and then hightailed it over the Space.
(Note to self: ENOUGH with the New York references. Think this may be a sign I’ve watched one too many episodes of Sex And The City this week. Need to get out more. Hmmm, I wonder whether the SATC film will EVER be shown in its original language here in Ibiza? I mean, I’m still learning Spanish, but I certainly don’t think I could keep up with Carrie’s relationships without subtitles to say the least!)
So where was I? That’s right, Space. I was expecting the usual six room extravaganza so was pretty surprised to see only the new terrace in operation when I arrived, but then again, when half the island is turning out simply to see one man, there’s no point trying to program music in the other rooms is there?
While Miss W has been known to linger around DJ booths in her time, there were way too many hangers on around DT tonight - looking like he'd brought his very own New York style entourage - which meant I made a beeline for the VIP area in order to have enough space to dance (quite ironic there was no space on the dance floor, given the name of the club), speedy table service for my drinks and a bird’s eye view of all the action.
The music? Classic Danny Tenaglia, a long and detailed journey through house-flavoured techno (does that make sense to anyone except me?), guaranteed to get you dancing and quite possibly inspire you to snap up DT’s latest album Futurism (Miss W currently has it on high rotation in the car!). The atmosphere? Electric. The punters wanted Danny, and it was pure Danny all the way. All the way down to his dorky cap and toy rave glasses - bless…
THE GOOD: Finally seeing Space building their very own flagship night - and the fact that DT is taking up residency in Ibiza of course!
THE BAD: Oh Danny. Those billboards. Those glasses. Need we say more?
THE GOSSIP: The dancers in the beach and pre-party parades looked suspiciously like a bunch of moonlighting Manumission girls… doesn’t anyone have any loyalty these days?
03/07/08 KM5’s 14th birthday
No sooner had one birthday bash finished then an invitation arrived in Miss W’s inbox for another - only this time the invite in question was for one of the island’s most established, well, establishments, KM5, celebrating 14 years of glitz, glam and all-round-gorgeousness.
You have to admit, KM5 looks pretty unassuming from its position on the road to San Jose - the building itself is practically camouflaged by greenery and the faded white sign declaring its existence could almost be a road sign declaring your location - well, a hippy-fied and pretty road sign, but you get my drift.
Perhaps that’s why it’s so popular with the locals - it’s almost like an ultra chic hideout from the madness of the island during the tourist season, a place where you can catch up with friends and actually HEAR them speak over the music while your having a conversation - but then when you feel like taking it up a level there’s the dance floor inside so you get the best of both worlds.
But I digress. With a White-ette and her Wonderful Boyfriend in tow, Miss W donned her finest Jade Jagger-esque ensemble (I know it’s a bit of an Ibiza cliché but she really is one of my style icons - just roll with it) of gladiator sandals and a flowing bejewelled kaftan, complete with wavy locks and a spritz of Stella McCartney’s divine rose-scented fragrance just to keep the celebrity association going and hotfooted it to KM5 for a glass or three of celebratory bubbles before heading to Space for the opening of the one and only Danny Tenaglia’s new night.
Once again, the restaurant was completely booked out, each and every tent, lounge and cushion covered space was awash with Ibiza’s beautiful people all getting into the festive spirit. Miss W chose to linger by her favourite part of the garden - right beside the kitsch killer whale bar of course, the perfect spot for people watching as they revolve in and out of each entrance - before heading inside to quickly warm up her dancing shoes before the clock struck midnight (oh OK, I’ll admit it was a wee bit later than that) and she had to make her exit.
So many parties, so little time…
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: The beautiful, balmy Ibiza weather. The last time Miss W was at KM5 it was blowing a gale, but tonight you couldn’t have sold your soul for a more perfect evening to spend amongst the lush garden settings and under the stars.
THE BAD: Why is it that KM5 events always fall on the same night as another major event on the island? Is it a matter of bad timing or the fact that there’s just too much going on in Ibiza and always something great at KM5 for that matter? Either way, Miss W is looking forward to the next time she can head to KM5 and settle in for the night without having to worry about dashing off to her next engagement!
THE GOSSIP: According to Miss W’s sources, certain restaurant diners were getting just a tad raucous after finishing their meals and rather than give up their seats and move to the crowded bar areas, chose to party at their table. While Miss W is never one to spoil the party, she’s also not one to spoil someone else’s five star meal - a little consideration for those around you is not too much to ask?
You have to admit, KM5 looks pretty unassuming from its position on the road to San Jose - the building itself is practically camouflaged by greenery and the faded white sign declaring its existence could almost be a road sign declaring your location - well, a hippy-fied and pretty road sign, but you get my drift.
Perhaps that’s why it’s so popular with the locals - it’s almost like an ultra chic hideout from the madness of the island during the tourist season, a place where you can catch up with friends and actually HEAR them speak over the music while your having a conversation - but then when you feel like taking it up a level there’s the dance floor inside so you get the best of both worlds.
But I digress. With a White-ette and her Wonderful Boyfriend in tow, Miss W donned her finest Jade Jagger-esque ensemble (I know it’s a bit of an Ibiza cliché but she really is one of my style icons - just roll with it) of gladiator sandals and a flowing bejewelled kaftan, complete with wavy locks and a spritz of Stella McCartney’s divine rose-scented fragrance just to keep the celebrity association going and hotfooted it to KM5 for a glass or three of celebratory bubbles before heading to Space for the opening of the one and only Danny Tenaglia’s new night.
Once again, the restaurant was completely booked out, each and every tent, lounge and cushion covered space was awash with Ibiza’s beautiful people all getting into the festive spirit. Miss W chose to linger by her favourite part of the garden - right beside the kitsch killer whale bar of course, the perfect spot for people watching as they revolve in and out of each entrance - before heading inside to quickly warm up her dancing shoes before the clock struck midnight (oh OK, I’ll admit it was a wee bit later than that) and she had to make her exit.
So many parties, so little time…
THE LOWDOWN
THE GOOD: The beautiful, balmy Ibiza weather. The last time Miss W was at KM5 it was blowing a gale, but tonight you couldn’t have sold your soul for a more perfect evening to spend amongst the lush garden settings and under the stars.
THE BAD: Why is it that KM5 events always fall on the same night as another major event on the island? Is it a matter of bad timing or the fact that there’s just too much going on in Ibiza and always something great at KM5 for that matter? Either way, Miss W is looking forward to the next time she can head to KM5 and settle in for the night without having to worry about dashing off to her next engagement!
THE GOSSIP: According to Miss W’s sources, certain restaurant diners were getting just a tad raucous after finishing their meals and rather than give up their seats and move to the crowded bar areas, chose to party at their table. While Miss W is never one to spoil the party, she’s also not one to spoil someone else’s five star meal - a little consideration for those around you is not too much to ask?
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
01/07/08 Aura’s 3rd birthday
Miss W was quite taken aback when she received the invite to Aura’s third birthday bash - to be honest, I feel like I’ve been going here practically forever - from good old English style Sunday roasts in the winter to its latest inception as a cosmopolitan tapas and cocktail lounge - who’d have thought this all could have happened in such a short space of time?
Just goes to show that time flies when you’re having fun - especially in Ibiza.
To make up for the fact that she couldn’t really buy a fabulous birthday gift for Aura in honour of the event - I mean really, what do you give the venue that already has everything? - Miss W simply compensated by buying herself a little present for the occasion, in the shape of a fabulous new white cheesecloth maxi-dress straight off the rack in Antik Batik - very Ibiza if I do say so myself!
Resident DJ Nima Gorji - who is one of my all-time favourite local DJs by the way - manoeuvred the wheels of steel to ensure the perfect blend of smooth house grooves and underground sounds, getting not only toes tapping but bodies moving and booties shaking and creating a real party atmosphere from the minute you walked through the door. Special guest Pacha Recordings DJ Mass hopped behind the decks to lend a helping hand and provide his own soundtrack to the event - a move that had me swishing my layers of cheesecloth as if I were a flamenco dancer. Well, a wannabe flamenco dancer if nothing else!
Many guests made the most of the balmy night and lingered outside on the gorgeously lit terrace, while others practically mobbed the bar to get a taste of the fresh new cocktails exclusive to Aura - yes, they are that good! You know I don’t like to play favourites with my beloved bars… but I am almost ready to admit that Aura could well boast the very best cocktails on the island!
Many happy returns indeed Aura from Miss W, the White-ettes and the Token White Male - and may there be many more like it to come!
THE GOOD: The tasty gourmet tapas menu. Miss W must admit she was sad to say goodbye to Aura’s previous menu, but upon sampling the delectable char-grilled duck with peach brochettes - my new all-time favourite food on the island - I can safely say that the all-new Aura is even better than before. Three cheers to executive chef Javier Massetani!
THE BAD: The difficulty in getting home from the north of the island when you don’t have a designated driver. Why do taxis find it so difficult to respond to calls on the island, particularly given the fact they must know there are hundreds of revellers stranded at a venue at the end of an evening?
THE GOSSIP: A certain long-time Aura staffer and a very well-known restaurant manager seemed to be making eyes at each other across the bar all night long, which didn’t go unnoticed by most of the local crew. It’s been all over the rumour mill for the past few years - completely unfounded Miss W might add - however now it seems the timing might be right for these two… Ohhhh, Miss W hopes so indeed!
Just goes to show that time flies when you’re having fun - especially in Ibiza.
To make up for the fact that she couldn’t really buy a fabulous birthday gift for Aura in honour of the event - I mean really, what do you give the venue that already has everything? - Miss W simply compensated by buying herself a little present for the occasion, in the shape of a fabulous new white cheesecloth maxi-dress straight off the rack in Antik Batik - very Ibiza if I do say so myself!
Resident DJ Nima Gorji - who is one of my all-time favourite local DJs by the way - manoeuvred the wheels of steel to ensure the perfect blend of smooth house grooves and underground sounds, getting not only toes tapping but bodies moving and booties shaking and creating a real party atmosphere from the minute you walked through the door. Special guest Pacha Recordings DJ Mass hopped behind the decks to lend a helping hand and provide his own soundtrack to the event - a move that had me swishing my layers of cheesecloth as if I were a flamenco dancer. Well, a wannabe flamenco dancer if nothing else!
Many guests made the most of the balmy night and lingered outside on the gorgeously lit terrace, while others practically mobbed the bar to get a taste of the fresh new cocktails exclusive to Aura - yes, they are that good! You know I don’t like to play favourites with my beloved bars… but I am almost ready to admit that Aura could well boast the very best cocktails on the island!
Many happy returns indeed Aura from Miss W, the White-ettes and the Token White Male - and may there be many more like it to come!
THE GOOD: The tasty gourmet tapas menu. Miss W must admit she was sad to say goodbye to Aura’s previous menu, but upon sampling the delectable char-grilled duck with peach brochettes - my new all-time favourite food on the island - I can safely say that the all-new Aura is even better than before. Three cheers to executive chef Javier Massetani!
THE BAD: The difficulty in getting home from the north of the island when you don’t have a designated driver. Why do taxis find it so difficult to respond to calls on the island, particularly given the fact they must know there are hundreds of revellers stranded at a venue at the end of an evening?
THE GOSSIP: A certain long-time Aura staffer and a very well-known restaurant manager seemed to be making eyes at each other across the bar all night long, which didn’t go unnoticed by most of the local crew. It’s been all over the rumour mill for the past few years - completely unfounded Miss W might add - however now it seems the timing might be right for these two… Ohhhh, Miss W hopes so indeed!
Monday, June 30, 2008
29/06/08 Blue Marlin Sunday Sessions
To be honest, though the opening parties are over, Miss W is (shhhhhh!) absolutely shattered. Tired. Needs some time to escape. Wants some secret hours in the sun. So the minute the wonderful team at Blue Marlin mentioned that there was a vacant sun bed on a Sunday, I literally leaped at the offer!
And considering the fact Miss W was responsible for entertaining a couple of Australian journalists for the weekend, it seemed there was no better place to pull up pew (and show off just a little) than Blue Marlin - it’s like maximum effort minimum gain - fun, sun and games all round. So to speak!
Today, Miss W and her crew couldn’t have been more impressed - Ibiza turned on her charm, to incorporate crystal clear warm waters and the sunniest skies imaginable, not to mention the most attentive service from the Blue Marlin crew… all the way down to ensuring my beach umbrella covered my face but not my shoulders. Way to tan guys, thank you!
With a new menu courtesy of Planet Sushi, Miss W was in heaven - sushi is my favourite food in the world you know - and continued to graze all day on the tuna and salmon sashimi on offer, whether in a roll, as part of a tartar salad or simply raw. There’s just something about the beach that pairs so well with sushi, no? Not too heavy, not too light… I almost felt like the Ibiza Goldilocks… juuuuuust right!
Of course, once the sun goes down, Blue Marlin starts to heat up - many of Miss W’s friends seemed to be arriving by the minute to sample the delectable dinner menu, while others were taking note of the Balearic beats supplied courtesy of none other than island Flamenco fave Paco Fernandez - joined on the PA by his son, an experience Miss W was ever-so-happy to have witnessed - make sure you head down there and check it out for yourself next week!
For me, Blue Marlin is the ultimate day out - beach, sunbathing, dining, dancing - what else could a girl want? My journalist friends left the venue with raving reviews (and in fact, one of them was contemplating changing their flight just to come back the next day) and I am 100% in agreeance - this my friends, is A-list Ibiza at its best.
THE GOOD: Location, location, location. Need we say more?
THE BAD: The number of girls who think it’s appropriate to dance topless at a beach restaurant. Maybe Miss W is too much of a prude, but while I’m all for no tan lines, there’s something about jiggling breasts on a dance floor (complete with long beaded necklaces as an accessory) that doesn’t agree with my sangria. Bikinis are a fabulous tw- piece fashion item after all…
THE GOSSIP: There were whispers that a ‘very famous international DJ’ was going to grace the decks today, however it was not to be. Perhaps the PR staff need to tone it down just a notch?
And considering the fact Miss W was responsible for entertaining a couple of Australian journalists for the weekend, it seemed there was no better place to pull up pew (and show off just a little) than Blue Marlin - it’s like maximum effort minimum gain - fun, sun and games all round. So to speak!
Today, Miss W and her crew couldn’t have been more impressed - Ibiza turned on her charm, to incorporate crystal clear warm waters and the sunniest skies imaginable, not to mention the most attentive service from the Blue Marlin crew… all the way down to ensuring my beach umbrella covered my face but not my shoulders. Way to tan guys, thank you!
With a new menu courtesy of Planet Sushi, Miss W was in heaven - sushi is my favourite food in the world you know - and continued to graze all day on the tuna and salmon sashimi on offer, whether in a roll, as part of a tartar salad or simply raw. There’s just something about the beach that pairs so well with sushi, no? Not too heavy, not too light… I almost felt like the Ibiza Goldilocks… juuuuuust right!
Of course, once the sun goes down, Blue Marlin starts to heat up - many of Miss W’s friends seemed to be arriving by the minute to sample the delectable dinner menu, while others were taking note of the Balearic beats supplied courtesy of none other than island Flamenco fave Paco Fernandez - joined on the PA by his son, an experience Miss W was ever-so-happy to have witnessed - make sure you head down there and check it out for yourself next week!
For me, Blue Marlin is the ultimate day out - beach, sunbathing, dining, dancing - what else could a girl want? My journalist friends left the venue with raving reviews (and in fact, one of them was contemplating changing their flight just to come back the next day) and I am 100% in agreeance - this my friends, is A-list Ibiza at its best.
THE GOOD: Location, location, location. Need we say more?
THE BAD: The number of girls who think it’s appropriate to dance topless at a beach restaurant. Maybe Miss W is too much of a prude, but while I’m all for no tan lines, there’s something about jiggling breasts on a dance floor (complete with long beaded necklaces as an accessory) that doesn’t agree with my sangria. Bikinis are a fabulous tw- piece fashion item after all…
THE GOSSIP: There were whispers that a ‘very famous international DJ’ was going to grace the decks today, however it was not to be. Perhaps the PR staff need to tone it down just a notch?
Thursday, June 26, 2008
The PBF, shopping and the new addition to Miss W's family
So…. Miss W has been sooooo busy of late heading to all the club openings that she’d almost forgotten to blog about anything other than a dance floor - my most sincere apologies! However a certain White-ette made a point of pointing out - so to speak - that my Potential Boyfriend seems to have escalated up the ranks to be officially a Boyfriend (ahhh - the term makes me so nervous) and that I seem to have spent my entire salary on fashion items between Vara De Rey and the Croissant Show - which basically mean I’ve got some explaining to do!
Right. Well. Where do I start? The PBF? Well, yes, it seems since the special secret Azuli Beach Party a few weeks ago that we have indeed been seeing a lot more of each other exclusively. Dinners, drinks, VIP rendezvous at club openings, strolls along the beach - aaaah! Yes folks, I think it is time to finally admit that Miss W is off the market. Though I cannot reveal the name of my beloved - you’ll find some subtle references to him in some past entries and I’ll give a prize to anyone who can guess his identity, I can say that I am liking the transition thus far. Keep you posted, I promise!
But apart from that HUGE announcement, the only other thing that seems to been occupying my time between 'actual' boyfriend and club openings is… well… shopping! Well, with this many opening parties, I couldn’t possibly be seen in last season’s frocks!
Speaking of which, but have you checked out Ibiza town lately? Fringed suede sandals, cheesecloth white playsuits, denim vests - it’s like Kate Moss came into town and emptied out her wardrobe. By the way, did you hear that Kate was here last week? In the Rock Bar no less, holding court at the bar with fabbo owners Nick and Bev all night. Why she didn’t call me to catch up for a drink I’ll never know!
Oh that’s right - there’s just one more thing. Miss W has become the proud parent of a 12-week old Ibicencan kitten. She looks like a miniature white tiger, with the most amazing blue eyes - ALMOST enough to make me stay home at night. I’m sure you’ll be hearing more of her…
But then again…. You know Miss W! So what are we doing tomorrow night?
Right. Well. Where do I start? The PBF? Well, yes, it seems since the special secret Azuli Beach Party a few weeks ago that we have indeed been seeing a lot more of each other exclusively. Dinners, drinks, VIP rendezvous at club openings, strolls along the beach - aaaah! Yes folks, I think it is time to finally admit that Miss W is off the market. Though I cannot reveal the name of my beloved - you’ll find some subtle references to him in some past entries and I’ll give a prize to anyone who can guess his identity, I can say that I am liking the transition thus far. Keep you posted, I promise!
But apart from that HUGE announcement, the only other thing that seems to been occupying my time between 'actual' boyfriend and club openings is… well… shopping! Well, with this many opening parties, I couldn’t possibly be seen in last season’s frocks!
Speaking of which, but have you checked out Ibiza town lately? Fringed suede sandals, cheesecloth white playsuits, denim vests - it’s like Kate Moss came into town and emptied out her wardrobe. By the way, did you hear that Kate was here last week? In the Rock Bar no less, holding court at the bar with fabbo owners Nick and Bev all night. Why she didn’t call me to catch up for a drink I’ll never know!
Oh that’s right - there’s just one more thing. Miss W has become the proud parent of a 12-week old Ibicencan kitten. She looks like a miniature white tiger, with the most amazing blue eyes - ALMOST enough to make me stay home at night. I’m sure you’ll be hearing more of her…
But then again…. You know Miss W! So what are we doing tomorrow night?
Saturday, June 21, 2008
20/06/08: MANUMISSION OPENING PARTY
Manumission has long been considered a bit of a travelling sideshow - though they’ve never really strayed far from the fair shores of our island - so this year’s theme of Coney Island Review seems rather apt, considering team Manumission is made up of a cast of the weird and wonderful. Not my words by the way, that’s how they describe themselves.
It was also the first party Miss W ever attended when she arrived in Ibiza many years ago, so she has a bit of a soft spot for the antics of Mike and Claire - not to mention a not-so-secret desire to become a Manumission girl (a goal that is very unlikely to be fulfilled in this lifetime)! Which meant there was no way she was going to miss a minute of the 2008 debut.
Having made the permanent and official move to Amnesia and with the terrace being reconstructed over the winter in order to accommodate the spectacular shows, all eyes were on the stripey circus style posters that kept popping up all over town to try and decipher just what tricks Mike and Claire would pull out of the bag this year.
Of course, we weren’t disappointed with four acts telling a tale of Coney Island and it’s fabulous freaks and misfits set in the ‘20s with a modern Manumission twist. As per usual, Mike and Claire were kidnapped - this time with the intent to be cloned by the evil Fraudster and the Dandy Doctor, while they were trapped in a dangerous drag room full of transvestites.
Sound confusing? Miss W has to admit that she was glad she’d read the press release before watching the shows, as the relevance of some characters may have been lost on her otherwise. While the sets, costumes, styling, make-up and dancing were - as always - amazing, Miss W couldn’t help but wonder if the audience missed the point.
But does it really matter? By all accounts, everyone in the venue had a fabulous time, particularly those being entertained by the Jezebel clad hostesses in the VIP area, and even moreso, those lucky enough to still be on the terrace towards the very tail end of the night when Mylo dropped his Ibiza classic anthem, Drop The Pressure.
The fact that Manumission is and always will be one of my favourite parties means I’ll be going back week after week - stay tuned for further reports of the Coney Island ‘Freak Of The Week’ a band of guests including Lucky, the World’s Most Tattooed Man, Baby with her Extraordinary Acrobatic Vagina (yes, you read correctly), The Amazing Sculpted Bodies of the Dynamite Boys and many many more.
See you at the front of the stage next Friday!
THE GOOD: It was goodbye Pacha and hello Amnesia for Jade Jagger and her Jezebel brand, who played host on the exclusive VIP area on the terrace, giving Manumission an extra burst of Ibiza cool factor.
THE BAD: While the new home of Amnesia is more than adequate for the Manumission girls (and boys!) it’s sad to see the end of the infamous Coco Loco room and legendary back room sets from the much-loved resident Colin Peters.
THE GOSSIP: Sir Richard Branson’s name was at the very top of the guest list, but it remained questionable as to whether he actually came to the club - Amnesia is notorious for it’s secret VIP entrances and mirrored private VIP rooms, and not even Miss W could find out the answer to this one!
It was also the first party Miss W ever attended when she arrived in Ibiza many years ago, so she has a bit of a soft spot for the antics of Mike and Claire - not to mention a not-so-secret desire to become a Manumission girl (a goal that is very unlikely to be fulfilled in this lifetime)! Which meant there was no way she was going to miss a minute of the 2008 debut.
Having made the permanent and official move to Amnesia and with the terrace being reconstructed over the winter in order to accommodate the spectacular shows, all eyes were on the stripey circus style posters that kept popping up all over town to try and decipher just what tricks Mike and Claire would pull out of the bag this year.
Of course, we weren’t disappointed with four acts telling a tale of Coney Island and it’s fabulous freaks and misfits set in the ‘20s with a modern Manumission twist. As per usual, Mike and Claire were kidnapped - this time with the intent to be cloned by the evil Fraudster and the Dandy Doctor, while they were trapped in a dangerous drag room full of transvestites.
Sound confusing? Miss W has to admit that she was glad she’d read the press release before watching the shows, as the relevance of some characters may have been lost on her otherwise. While the sets, costumes, styling, make-up and dancing were - as always - amazing, Miss W couldn’t help but wonder if the audience missed the point.
But does it really matter? By all accounts, everyone in the venue had a fabulous time, particularly those being entertained by the Jezebel clad hostesses in the VIP area, and even moreso, those lucky enough to still be on the terrace towards the very tail end of the night when Mylo dropped his Ibiza classic anthem, Drop The Pressure.
The fact that Manumission is and always will be one of my favourite parties means I’ll be going back week after week - stay tuned for further reports of the Coney Island ‘Freak Of The Week’ a band of guests including Lucky, the World’s Most Tattooed Man, Baby with her Extraordinary Acrobatic Vagina (yes, you read correctly), The Amazing Sculpted Bodies of the Dynamite Boys and many many more.
See you at the front of the stage next Friday!
THE GOOD: It was goodbye Pacha and hello Amnesia for Jade Jagger and her Jezebel brand, who played host on the exclusive VIP area on the terrace, giving Manumission an extra burst of Ibiza cool factor.
THE BAD: While the new home of Amnesia is more than adequate for the Manumission girls (and boys!) it’s sad to see the end of the infamous Coco Loco room and legendary back room sets from the much-loved resident Colin Peters.
THE GOSSIP: Sir Richard Branson’s name was at the very top of the guest list, but it remained questionable as to whether he actually came to the club - Amnesia is notorious for it’s secret VIP entrances and mirrored private VIP rooms, and not even Miss W could find out the answer to this one!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
18/06/08: EL AYOUN 10TH BIRTHDAY
Nothing beats an invite to an exclusive birthday bash in Miss W’s book, and when the exclusive birthday bash takes place at El Ayoun - nothing less than their very own tenth birthday soiree thank you very much - well, this means a new outfit and hairstyle are in order for the occasion.
No sooner had I finished at the salon (boho-style wavy locks courtesy of the ultra cool Antonio B in Ibiza’s old town if you must know) than I was whisked off to San Rafael for the amazing invitation only dinner at El Ayoun - and boy was I glad I’d made that early appointment, because I would not have missed a minute of this event, even if you had paid me!
I must admit that even I had to gasp as I walked through the infamous entrance, as the legendary bronze camel on the red carpet had been replaced by THE REAL THING (yes folks, I mean real live camel), flown into Ibiza specially for the occasion (and yes I pinched myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming!). It seems all the stops were pulled out for this auspicious occasion.
The theme for guests was to wear black and white, so the restaurant, bar and dance floor were a veritable stylish chess board of monochrome - Miss W would like to note that most of the (über-tanned) female guests had opted for an LWD (yes, that’s little white dress as opposed to little black dress) and the guys were feeling very comfortable with their choice of open necked white shirts.
But down to business… Each time one of exceptional wait staff lingered by my seat with a tray of delectable entrees, I had to hold myself back from helping myself to more than one - no this is not a Miss W weird diet tip, it’s simply a manners thing. This is how good the new El Ayoun sushi lounge really is - proof is in the pudding as they say… or sashimi as the case may be.
But it wasn’t just the entrees that tickled my tastebuds - Moroccan flavoured lamb chops, chicken cous cous and sensational desserts were an also an absolute hit. After a very cold spell in spring, El Ayoun finally threw open the doors to their divine terrace - alfresco is back baby!
THE GOOD: Angel Cielo - can the ever-faithful El Ayoun resident DJ put a foot wrong? We think not.
THE BAD: A huge birthday cake was wheeled out into the club however it seemed revellers were slightly too self-involved to sing the obligatory ‘cumpleanos feliz’ to El Ayoun’s Charles and crew. Hmmmm….
THE GOSSIP: For VVVIPs (and yes, this includes Miss Miss W) a special wristband meant drinks were free flowing and a plenty all night… and special privileges like these aren’t to be abused - you know who you are!
No sooner had I finished at the salon (boho-style wavy locks courtesy of the ultra cool Antonio B in Ibiza’s old town if you must know) than I was whisked off to San Rafael for the amazing invitation only dinner at El Ayoun - and boy was I glad I’d made that early appointment, because I would not have missed a minute of this event, even if you had paid me!
I must admit that even I had to gasp as I walked through the infamous entrance, as the legendary bronze camel on the red carpet had been replaced by THE REAL THING (yes folks, I mean real live camel), flown into Ibiza specially for the occasion (and yes I pinched myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming!). It seems all the stops were pulled out for this auspicious occasion.
The theme for guests was to wear black and white, so the restaurant, bar and dance floor were a veritable stylish chess board of monochrome - Miss W would like to note that most of the (über-tanned) female guests had opted for an LWD (yes, that’s little white dress as opposed to little black dress) and the guys were feeling very comfortable with their choice of open necked white shirts.
But down to business… Each time one of exceptional wait staff lingered by my seat with a tray of delectable entrees, I had to hold myself back from helping myself to more than one - no this is not a Miss W weird diet tip, it’s simply a manners thing. This is how good the new El Ayoun sushi lounge really is - proof is in the pudding as they say… or sashimi as the case may be.
But it wasn’t just the entrees that tickled my tastebuds - Moroccan flavoured lamb chops, chicken cous cous and sensational desserts were an also an absolute hit. After a very cold spell in spring, El Ayoun finally threw open the doors to their divine terrace - alfresco is back baby!
THE GOOD: Angel Cielo - can the ever-faithful El Ayoun resident DJ put a foot wrong? We think not.
THE BAD: A huge birthday cake was wheeled out into the club however it seemed revellers were slightly too self-involved to sing the obligatory ‘cumpleanos feliz’ to El Ayoun’s Charles and crew. Hmmmm….
THE GOSSIP: For VVVIPs (and yes, this includes Miss Miss W) a special wristband meant drinks were free flowing and a plenty all night… and special privileges like these aren’t to be abused - you know who you are!
Monday, June 16, 2008
16/06/08: COCOON OPENING PARTY
‘This is the year 2008, and what once was called Science Fiction has now arrived in the present. The Amnesia pyramid continues sending out its signal, and the signal says Disco Invasion! We will travel through the Techno universe, in order to bring you the revolution - the Disco Invasion, that blends everything together and leaves behind old categories. 'The sky is the limit' on planet Minimal Techno Funk, Ibiza is our International Spaceport and Sven gives us the command for take-off!’
At least, that’s how the promotional material described it to Miss W, and when that much effort goes into hyping up what was easily last year’s techno success story’s return to the island, well it would be rude not to slip into my disco shoes, sequinned hotpants and get into the spirit right?
While DJs Sven Vath and Ricardo Villalobos (aka Commander Darth Vather and DJ Chebaca) weren’t in their Disco Invaders finery (to be fair, those head pieces would make DJing just a little difficult) as seen in the promotional trailer, there were plenty of stunning Cocoon dancers - complete with amazing diamante encrusted face paint and Barbarella style ponytails - on hand to wield Light sabers a lá Star Wars as they grooved to the decidedly non-disco sounds of Cocoon!
The Cocoon terrace has long been the place where the island comes together after a long week of work, play and anything in between and the opening party was no exception. With a decidedly Spanish and Italian crowd on the terrace, while the club kids stuck to the thumping laser-filled main room, Miss W was happy to bump into old friends, new acquaintances, visiting DJs and ex-workers who’d made the trek back to the island specifically for this party.
My favourite element of the evening though? Checking out the amazing costumes worn by the dancers, mainly the platform sequinned 70s style knee high boots. For next week’s disco extravaganza, I plan to get myself a pair somehow! While they’re not exactly the type of thing you can pick up at Las Dalias, I’m thinking I might be able to customise something from the Sant Jordi car boot sale on Saturday morning!
It might not be very techno, but if Sven and co can get into the spirit then Miss W doesn’t see why she shouldn’t be allowed to sparkle too!
THE GOOD: The way the Cocoon crew throw themselves wholeheartedly into their Disco Invader theme - who’d have thought the über serious German techno brigade had a sense of humour like this? To get a glimpse behind the scenes, check out this clip before heading to the club next week!
THE BAD: The guest list queue. While Miss W is lucky enough to be on a first name basis with the door staff and can waltz straight to the front of the queue, many of her friends were stuck in a pushing, heaving queue and waited for up to an hour to get inside. Surely VIPs and invited guests are entitled to a speedy and trouble free entrance?
THE GOSSIP: The renovations to the Amnesia terrace have certainly opened up the area and allowed plenty more room to manoeuvre the floor - and dance of course - but we couldn’t help but notice the many people - including one famous DJ and a costumed-up Cocoon dancer - tripping over the large bronzed camel statue sitting on the floor. In a darkened club environment, surely this is a bit of a hazard?
At least, that’s how the promotional material described it to Miss W, and when that much effort goes into hyping up what was easily last year’s techno success story’s return to the island, well it would be rude not to slip into my disco shoes, sequinned hotpants and get into the spirit right?
While DJs Sven Vath and Ricardo Villalobos (aka Commander Darth Vather and DJ Chebaca) weren’t in their Disco Invaders finery (to be fair, those head pieces would make DJing just a little difficult) as seen in the promotional trailer, there were plenty of stunning Cocoon dancers - complete with amazing diamante encrusted face paint and Barbarella style ponytails - on hand to wield Light sabers a lá Star Wars as they grooved to the decidedly non-disco sounds of Cocoon!
The Cocoon terrace has long been the place where the island comes together after a long week of work, play and anything in between and the opening party was no exception. With a decidedly Spanish and Italian crowd on the terrace, while the club kids stuck to the thumping laser-filled main room, Miss W was happy to bump into old friends, new acquaintances, visiting DJs and ex-workers who’d made the trek back to the island specifically for this party.
My favourite element of the evening though? Checking out the amazing costumes worn by the dancers, mainly the platform sequinned 70s style knee high boots. For next week’s disco extravaganza, I plan to get myself a pair somehow! While they’re not exactly the type of thing you can pick up at Las Dalias, I’m thinking I might be able to customise something from the Sant Jordi car boot sale on Saturday morning!
It might not be very techno, but if Sven and co can get into the spirit then Miss W doesn’t see why she shouldn’t be allowed to sparkle too!
THE GOOD: The way the Cocoon crew throw themselves wholeheartedly into their Disco Invader theme - who’d have thought the über serious German techno brigade had a sense of humour like this? To get a glimpse behind the scenes, check out this clip before heading to the club next week!
THE BAD: The guest list queue. While Miss W is lucky enough to be on a first name basis with the door staff and can waltz straight to the front of the queue, many of her friends were stuck in a pushing, heaving queue and waited for up to an hour to get inside. Surely VIPs and invited guests are entitled to a speedy and trouble free entrance?
THE GOSSIP: The renovations to the Amnesia terrace have certainly opened up the area and allowed plenty more room to manoeuvre the floor - and dance of course - but we couldn’t help but notice the many people - including one famous DJ and a costumed-up Cocoon dancer - tripping over the large bronzed camel statue sitting on the floor. In a darkened club environment, surely this is a bit of a hazard?
Sunday, June 15, 2008
15/06/08: WE LOVE OPENING PARTY
Celebrating their tenth year this year are Ibiza stalwarts We Love… And the team behind the island’s most successful party have asked themselves why throw one birthday party when you can throw 16? That’s one per week for the duration of the season and today marks the beginning of the festivities - and Miss W plans to be on hand for each and every one of them so she doesn’t miss a second of the action.
Gone was the car park arena and stilt-walking entertainers of the Space opening party and in their place, a plethora of acid house themed décor adorning the club, from enormous oversized smiley face balls hanging from the roof to illuminated flashing fluoro lights and even t-shirts declaring ‘We Love… Acid House’. We Love… have been notorious for steering clear of pomp and ceremony over the years and focusing solely on the music, but when thousands of smiley faced yellow balloons were dropped from the ceiling, we couldn’t help but get even more carried away in the moment.
For Miss W, again it was all about the Discotek. With house-master DJ Pierre at the helm of the DJ booth, banging out an amazing two-hour set packed with acid house classics, rave anthems and futuristic techno beats, it was no surprise that the room was packed to the rafters - one entire corner was packed full of the island’s finest DJ talent paying homage to the legend - from We Love’s very own David Phillips to Manumission’s Colin Peters and the Underground’s Justin Field, plus a posse of the Ibiza Rocks crew and local audio visual producers FR4M3 and last but not least, a handful of influential bar, restaurant and local business owners from across the island, it felt like the whole population was feeling the ‘We Love…’
In the new terrace (also packed to the rafters by all accounts) however, Miss W heard whispers that Ben Watt was giving DJ Pierre a run for his money, with those on hand to witness his set calling it awe-inspiring. Followed by mash-up heroes 2ManyDJs, it definitely felt like no one was using the exit doors until the lights went up at 6am,
But for Miss W, it was fantastic to note a lot of up and coming talent being given a chance to shine - the funky El Salon room was treated to an amazing two hours of funk-house meets percussion with Mr Doris, the rooftop Premier Etage played host to local deep house legend Jon Howell, the Sunset Terrace moved to the beat of Café Mambo’s own Andy Baxter and London’s Chew The Fat! crew returned to give the Red Box and injection of their classic breakbeat sound - all in all, combined with the masters working the two main arenas, the perfect mix of music across all six rooms, with something to suit everyone. Which is what We Love are renowned for really… We’ll be seeing you again next weekend!
THE GOOD: This year sees We Love… go green. Using recycled paper for all of their promotional flyers, posters and even CD covers, along with vegetable based ink to reduce their impact on the Ibizan environment. Miss W encourages other clubs on the island follow suit so our beautiful island can continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.
THE BAD: Everyone’s favourite 22-hour party marathon has now been cut to 13.5 thanks to the new laws regarding daytime clubbing. When a promoter such as We Love… have successfully been running daytime parties for ten years, surely there should be some exceptions to the rule?
THE GOSSIP: After the DC10 terrace being incredibly empty upon opening at 4.30pm the previous week, many speculated that the Space Sunset Terrace would suffer a similar blow. With queues outside before the club had opened, this proved not to be the case and it was business as usual, with Andy Baxter delivering a superb set that got punters straight onto the dance floor the minute they stepped through the doors.
Gone was the car park arena and stilt-walking entertainers of the Space opening party and in their place, a plethora of acid house themed décor adorning the club, from enormous oversized smiley face balls hanging from the roof to illuminated flashing fluoro lights and even t-shirts declaring ‘We Love… Acid House’. We Love… have been notorious for steering clear of pomp and ceremony over the years and focusing solely on the music, but when thousands of smiley faced yellow balloons were dropped from the ceiling, we couldn’t help but get even more carried away in the moment.
For Miss W, again it was all about the Discotek. With house-master DJ Pierre at the helm of the DJ booth, banging out an amazing two-hour set packed with acid house classics, rave anthems and futuristic techno beats, it was no surprise that the room was packed to the rafters - one entire corner was packed full of the island’s finest DJ talent paying homage to the legend - from We Love’s very own David Phillips to Manumission’s Colin Peters and the Underground’s Justin Field, plus a posse of the Ibiza Rocks crew and local audio visual producers FR4M3 and last but not least, a handful of influential bar, restaurant and local business owners from across the island, it felt like the whole population was feeling the ‘We Love…’
In the new terrace (also packed to the rafters by all accounts) however, Miss W heard whispers that Ben Watt was giving DJ Pierre a run for his money, with those on hand to witness his set calling it awe-inspiring. Followed by mash-up heroes 2ManyDJs, it definitely felt like no one was using the exit doors until the lights went up at 6am,
But for Miss W, it was fantastic to note a lot of up and coming talent being given a chance to shine - the funky El Salon room was treated to an amazing two hours of funk-house meets percussion with Mr Doris, the rooftop Premier Etage played host to local deep house legend Jon Howell, the Sunset Terrace moved to the beat of Café Mambo’s own Andy Baxter and London’s Chew The Fat! crew returned to give the Red Box and injection of their classic breakbeat sound - all in all, combined with the masters working the two main arenas, the perfect mix of music across all six rooms, with something to suit everyone. Which is what We Love are renowned for really… We’ll be seeing you again next weekend!
THE GOOD: This year sees We Love… go green. Using recycled paper for all of their promotional flyers, posters and even CD covers, along with vegetable based ink to reduce their impact on the Ibizan environment. Miss W encourages other clubs on the island follow suit so our beautiful island can continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.
THE BAD: Everyone’s favourite 22-hour party marathon has now been cut to 13.5 thanks to the new laws regarding daytime clubbing. When a promoter such as We Love… have successfully been running daytime parties for ten years, surely there should be some exceptions to the rule?
THE GOSSIP: After the DC10 terrace being incredibly empty upon opening at 4.30pm the previous week, many speculated that the Space Sunset Terrace would suffer a similar blow. With queues outside before the club had opened, this proved not to be the case and it was business as usual, with Andy Baxter delivering a superb set that got punters straight onto the dance floor the minute they stepped through the doors.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
13/06/08: WONDERLAND OPENING PARTY
It’s been hyped up for months, and to Miss W, the Wonderland opening party couldn’t have come any sooner. I’d seen the posters around town, I’d glimpsed the all-new Eden at the opening party and I’d even been chatting to Mr Tong himself throughout the week about what to expect from his new extravaganza. And finally, the big night had rolled around.
Starting with a swish press dinner at the Eden-owned Kanya with visiting journalists from the UK, Miss W was wined and dined by the fabulous crew at The Shop, who have been responsible for making the Wonderland concept come to life. Complete with a performance from the Burlesque themed Wonderland dancers and a fireworks display from an almost sinister sequin-clad warrior by the sparkling pool just after sunset, it gave us an alternative - and entirely pleasant - start to our night in San Antonio.
Miss W has to admit she had just a teensy little bit of trepidation regarding the crowd heading into Eden, but from the minute she was whisked through the fairy light studded VIP entrance (complete with enormous framed pictures of Pete from the Wonderland artwork) and into the exclusive candlelit area behind the DJ booth, she knew that this wasn’t just another night at Eden.
As I sipped on chilled Moet - thanks Pete, you do know Miss W loves a glass of bubbles or two - Rob Marmot warmed up the rapidly expanding crowd in the main room, followed by a classic set from Groove Armada, who were broadcasting live for BBC Radio 1. Then it was time for the man of the hour to step up and show the world just exactly what he’d been plotting and planning for the majority of the year.
It was now that the crowd seemed to literally erupt - throngs of younger, clubby types swarmed the front of the DJ booth making it almost like a mosh pit, while the beautiful people in the VIP area - including Pete’s stunningly gorgeous wife Carolina - all got out of their seats to start dancing - a true party atmosphere.
The most amazing element of Eden’s revamp for Wonderland was the installation of a multi-million dollar visual displays, thanks to acclaimed production company Microchunk. With huge curtains made up of LED balls - which looked a little like oversized light globes to Miss W - and enormous almost cinema-like screens beaming with colourful lights, laser beams and moving projections that morphed and made the inside of the club like a giant video game, this was a whole new ball gamer for the club and certainly made it stand out from its competitors in terms of modernity and ‘wow’ factor.
Best of all, for The Looking Glass upstairs, the room hosted by local favourite promoter and DJ duo Charlie Chester and Jo Mills, these visual displays were hung from the roof of the club and backed onto the glass encased room - which meant the DJs playing in the third room had their very own visual showcase going on behind them the entire night, adding a whole new dimension to the room - in fact, we think the visuals were even more spectacular when viewed from this height - on the main dancefloor you had to crane your neck to look up at them!
THE GOOD: ‘The Looking Glass’ was jam packed all night. If they weren’t behind the DJ booth, VIPs were sneaking up here to hang out and dance with the many island faces on hand show support to Jo and Charlie - we think the old school ‘back room’ party vibe will be making a comeback in this room.
THE BAD: There’s been a lot of talk about Groove Armada making the transition from their coveted We Love Space Sundays slot to their own personal ‘Lovebox’ in the Funky Room at Eden on Fridays - sadly, the room remained quite empty for the majority of the night - we think this may have been due to the fact they also played the main room and then started in the Lovebox time as Pete hit the main floor - just a glitch in the programming, we hope!
THE GOSSIP: Apparently the VIP area behind the DJ booth wasn’t quite ready by the time the club threw open it’s doors for the 11pm curtain call, due to the fact that the über chic - and some might say very expensive - new furniture ordered especially for Friday nights had arrived in the wrong colour scheme and needed to be re-covered. So simple deck chairs stayed in place - not that anyone actually sat in them anyway, as most people were mingling and dancing!
Starting with a swish press dinner at the Eden-owned Kanya with visiting journalists from the UK, Miss W was wined and dined by the fabulous crew at The Shop, who have been responsible for making the Wonderland concept come to life. Complete with a performance from the Burlesque themed Wonderland dancers and a fireworks display from an almost sinister sequin-clad warrior by the sparkling pool just after sunset, it gave us an alternative - and entirely pleasant - start to our night in San Antonio.
Miss W has to admit she had just a teensy little bit of trepidation regarding the crowd heading into Eden, but from the minute she was whisked through the fairy light studded VIP entrance (complete with enormous framed pictures of Pete from the Wonderland artwork) and into the exclusive candlelit area behind the DJ booth, she knew that this wasn’t just another night at Eden.
As I sipped on chilled Moet - thanks Pete, you do know Miss W loves a glass of bubbles or two - Rob Marmot warmed up the rapidly expanding crowd in the main room, followed by a classic set from Groove Armada, who were broadcasting live for BBC Radio 1. Then it was time for the man of the hour to step up and show the world just exactly what he’d been plotting and planning for the majority of the year.
It was now that the crowd seemed to literally erupt - throngs of younger, clubby types swarmed the front of the DJ booth making it almost like a mosh pit, while the beautiful people in the VIP area - including Pete’s stunningly gorgeous wife Carolina - all got out of their seats to start dancing - a true party atmosphere.
The most amazing element of Eden’s revamp for Wonderland was the installation of a multi-million dollar visual displays, thanks to acclaimed production company Microchunk. With huge curtains made up of LED balls - which looked a little like oversized light globes to Miss W - and enormous almost cinema-like screens beaming with colourful lights, laser beams and moving projections that morphed and made the inside of the club like a giant video game, this was a whole new ball gamer for the club and certainly made it stand out from its competitors in terms of modernity and ‘wow’ factor.
Best of all, for The Looking Glass upstairs, the room hosted by local favourite promoter and DJ duo Charlie Chester and Jo Mills, these visual displays were hung from the roof of the club and backed onto the glass encased room - which meant the DJs playing in the third room had their very own visual showcase going on behind them the entire night, adding a whole new dimension to the room - in fact, we think the visuals were even more spectacular when viewed from this height - on the main dancefloor you had to crane your neck to look up at them!
THE GOOD: ‘The Looking Glass’ was jam packed all night. If they weren’t behind the DJ booth, VIPs were sneaking up here to hang out and dance with the many island faces on hand show support to Jo and Charlie - we think the old school ‘back room’ party vibe will be making a comeback in this room.
THE BAD: There’s been a lot of talk about Groove Armada making the transition from their coveted We Love Space Sundays slot to their own personal ‘Lovebox’ in the Funky Room at Eden on Fridays - sadly, the room remained quite empty for the majority of the night - we think this may have been due to the fact they also played the main room and then started in the Lovebox time as Pete hit the main floor - just a glitch in the programming, we hope!
THE GOSSIP: Apparently the VIP area behind the DJ booth wasn’t quite ready by the time the club threw open it’s doors for the 11pm curtain call, due to the fact that the über chic - and some might say very expensive - new furniture ordered especially for Friday nights had arrived in the wrong colour scheme and needed to be re-covered. So simple deck chairs stayed in place - not that anyone actually sat in them anyway, as most people were mingling and dancing!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
12/06/08: JASON BULL’S BIRTHDAY PARTY
When a local taxi driver WON’T take you to a venue because it’s too off the beaten track, you instantly get the feeling that the destination is DEFINITELY worth the trip, no matter how complicated the journey.
At least, that’s how Miss W feels, and when she discovered the location of Es Vive and Base Bar main man Jason Bull’s annual birthday bash - S’Estanyol - she quickly roped in the assistance of a friend with a jeep and hot-footed it to the hills behind Talamanca to get in the thick of the action.
PK2, the restaurant perched on the edge of the tiny beach cove only accessible by a dirt track has long been a favourite of in-the-know islanders, party promoters and after-hours aficionados - as much for its seclusion as its stunning surroundings. With a camouflage-net covered terrace accessorised with draping white curtains, rustic wooden furniture and amazing home-cooked food along with a powerful Funktion 1 sound system, it’s the ideal place to throw a party for a few hundred of your closest friends.
For the effervescent Mr Bull, an enormous paella was lovingly crafted to feed the masses - a predominantly English crew Miss W was quick to note - who mainly chose to linger on the sands while the sun was still high in the sky before milling onto the terrace after dark. Despite opening party week work commitments for many of the invited guests, the 4pm kick-off time was definitely not too early, and before we even knew it, it was time to relocate the party to none other than the infamous Es Vive hotel.
Who was still on hand to keep the fire burning? The who’s who of Ibiza’s party scene of course - while we won’t spill the beans on who was still hard at play once the rest of us had arrived in the office the following morning, we will say that the party lived up to its wild reputation as one of Ibiza’s finest non-clubbing social events of the year.
THE GOOD: The birthday boy of course! With that much charisma and energy to spare, it’s no surprise that guests flew in from all over the world to help celebrate Jason’s big day.
THE BAD: We love S’Estanyol but have to admit it is an absolute nightmare for transport. It’s all well and good if you have a designated driver, but when a party of this magnitude happens, we’d like the option of leaving the car behind.
THE GOSSIP: When you’re the owner of one of the island’s coolest party hotels, it’s only natural that the party kicks on in the ‘privacy’ of your establishment long after all other venues on the island have closed for the night. Miss W heard reports that a certain well known island DJ was still MIA at 4pm the following afternoon… lost in the depths of Es Vive we expect!
At least, that’s how Miss W feels, and when she discovered the location of Es Vive and Base Bar main man Jason Bull’s annual birthday bash - S’Estanyol - she quickly roped in the assistance of a friend with a jeep and hot-footed it to the hills behind Talamanca to get in the thick of the action.
PK2, the restaurant perched on the edge of the tiny beach cove only accessible by a dirt track has long been a favourite of in-the-know islanders, party promoters and after-hours aficionados - as much for its seclusion as its stunning surroundings. With a camouflage-net covered terrace accessorised with draping white curtains, rustic wooden furniture and amazing home-cooked food along with a powerful Funktion 1 sound system, it’s the ideal place to throw a party for a few hundred of your closest friends.
For the effervescent Mr Bull, an enormous paella was lovingly crafted to feed the masses - a predominantly English crew Miss W was quick to note - who mainly chose to linger on the sands while the sun was still high in the sky before milling onto the terrace after dark. Despite opening party week work commitments for many of the invited guests, the 4pm kick-off time was definitely not too early, and before we even knew it, it was time to relocate the party to none other than the infamous Es Vive hotel.
Who was still on hand to keep the fire burning? The who’s who of Ibiza’s party scene of course - while we won’t spill the beans on who was still hard at play once the rest of us had arrived in the office the following morning, we will say that the party lived up to its wild reputation as one of Ibiza’s finest non-clubbing social events of the year.
THE GOOD: The birthday boy of course! With that much charisma and energy to spare, it’s no surprise that guests flew in from all over the world to help celebrate Jason’s big day.
THE BAD: We love S’Estanyol but have to admit it is an absolute nightmare for transport. It’s all well and good if you have a designated driver, but when a party of this magnitude happens, we’d like the option of leaving the car behind.
THE GOSSIP: When you’re the owner of one of the island’s coolest party hotels, it’s only natural that the party kicks on in the ‘privacy’ of your establishment long after all other venues on the island have closed for the night. Miss W heard reports that a certain well known island DJ was still MIA at 4pm the following afternoon… lost in the depths of Es Vive we expect!
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