It’s easy to think of the places you’d like to go on vacation. Sipping on a daiquiri on a beach in Thailand, hiking through a rainforest in Costa Rica - these are the sorts of images that our minds naturally conjure up at the slightest inkling of taking time off from work. But what if you’re not necessarily taking time off from work, but you still want to experience breathtaking vistas and cultural activities during your down time? Well, that’s what this new series is all about. Each month, we’re going to highlight a destination that is sure to satisfy your need for adventure (or relaxation) without cutting into your productivity. Some might be an obvious choice, some less so, but each of the locations we feature are great options for you to live, work and play...whether you choose to stay for a few weeks or a few months, is totally up to you.

Up first: Palma de Mallorca

I first fell in love with Spain while on the Camino de Santiago - and when I say I fell in love, I mean one of those unhealthy middle school crushes where you obsess and plan and fantasize endlessly...I know that you know what I mean. Ever since that fateful journey, returning to Spain - dare I say, permanently - became a top priority. So it's only natural that since then I’ve gone on to explore different regions in hopes of finding the ‘right fit’ for me. For a city girl like me, Barcelona was it - but after spending this past summer in Palma de Mallorca, I can admit I’ve been thrown for a loop.

Everyone will tell you: Palma is like a mini Barcelona. And with its very own Passeig del Born, beaches, and efficient public transportation system, it really is! And much like Barcelona, Palma is home to coliving and coworking spaces, on top of being home to a large, international community.

Before arriving in Palma, I had only heard of it as a popular vacation and yachting destination. But I am here to tell you, that as a working/traveling professional, Palma is hands-down one of the best places you can go. Perhaps it’s the perpetual warm weather or the walkability of the city, but networking and developing professional relationships in Palma proved more effortless than in any other city I’ve been in. Add solid Wi-Fi available in most cafes, and you have the makings for a productive extended stay. Compared to other parts of Spain living in Palma can be a bit more expensive, but it’s still a more affordable option than many major European cities, and it’s worth every penny if you’re looking for the sort of place where you can feel at home with ease.

But the beauty of Mallorca isn’t just in the work-friendly infrastructure, the city of Palma itself is stunning, seeped in Moorish and Spanish history but with an identity all its own.

When you’re ready to escape the city, just a short bike or car ride away await the bluest beaches you’ll ever see, breathtaking mountain trails and quiet vineyards. The island has something for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to Palma de Mallorca, here’s what I recommend:

Join an online community before you go, they can help you sort out logistics like where to rent an apartment and how to manage day to day life.
Grab breakfast at Santina while you’re there and hop on their Wi-Fi to do some work.
If you work better out of a proper coworking space, check out Wohaby, Coworking Casa Planas, or Nidus 39.
BednDesk offers coliving if you prefer to work and play in the same space.
Have the Menu del Dia at Basmati Indian Restaurant. Trust me on this, it will be one of the best meals you’ll have.
Buy groceries, sip wine and snack on local delicacies at Mercat Santa Catalina.
You’ll find the most buttery, flakiest croissants at Lluis Perez Pastisser.
Of course, visit the Cathedral and if you happen to be around in the summer, the city puts on weekly movie screenings on the cathedral lawn for free.
If you’re into the yachting scene, all of the yachties tend to hang out at the bars around Carrer de Sant Magi and Avenguda de l’Argentina, like Havanna Bar and LAB Cocktail Bar.
There are countless festivals and events happening year round, so be sure to check out this city guide when making plans.
Pay a visit to the northern port city of Soller for some spectacular hiking and views.

Have you been to Palma? Leave a comment and let us know your favorite things to do and see in the city.

Travel Spotlight on Palma de Mallorca

Up first: Palma de Mallorca