HELLO SAILOR...

I have very rarely stumbled upon a European gay that hasn’t yet made a pilgrimage to Ibiza – and you’ll hear stories from “I visited it once in the 90s when house music was de rigueur” to “I go every year, without fail”. This hedonistic mecca where ‘anything goes’ has been pulling the crowds for decades, some say even centuries.

It’s hard to sum up Ibiza in a ‘3-minute blog’, as getting an overview of the place is easier said than done. Everyone has their fond memories, from al-fresco nightife overlooking the medieval walls of Ibiza town, to pie-eyed dancing at Space, to watching the sun set in San Antonio whilst listening to one of the ubiquitous chill-out albums mass-produced in the 90s, to having the best paella ever at a secluded beach restaurant.

 Most boys will stay in the vicinity of Ibiza old town, a charming collision of medieval and Moorish, with narrow cobblestone streets, 16th century architecture, a castle, cathedral and watchtowers – like something out of a movie about knights and the crusades, complete with ancient draw-bridge. It’s a truly historical place and for our American readers - this is the very town that Christopher Columbus was born in. And within this maritime history, come stories of sailor-on-sailor love and a chilled out, party-island vibe, dating back to the 17th century. It seems that over the course of history, sailors would stop off on the island (a strategic port in the Med) to sample its wild nightlife, fine food and grog, and bluntly, each other. Some things just don’t change.

But of course, Ibiza is far more than just that. It’s a fantastic and beautiful island to explore, especially on the North shore. Today, most tourist activities happen in the South and it is much overlooked. I suggest you rent a car and set off on the islands impeccable roads. Travel up to the beautiful town of San Mateo and you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges. Further north, you’ll run into Santa Agnes, which also offers sunning views its beaches below.

And whilst you’re up North, you must check out the hottest new gay clubnight, launching tonight and every Monday throughout the season at Aura. The island’s worst kept secret is Room Service, the London-based clubnight that everyone is talking about. Launched originally in London, this is the New York style party where according the the press release “the boys are hot, the beats are banging and every night is not just a disco, but a whole new adventure”. Its London nights see guests including Debbie Harry, the Pet Shop Boys and Roisin Murphy – so who knows who you’ll spot at its Ibiza holiday home.

 And the venue is a new, exciting destination for connoisseurs. Effortlessly chic, you can eat in its gardens, drink under the stars and party with the trendy set. Last year, Kylie headed here to relax and party after playing the club circuit down south. Entry to the club is free, but dinner reservations are highly recommended.