We have now left Italy and are sailing through Spain. After a fantastic day visiting La Sagrada familia in Barcelona we find ourselves in Palma de Mallorca, on the southern coast of the island of Majorca.

Palma de Mallorca is a city that effortlessly blends old-world Mediterranean charm with a fresh, fashionable energy. Set against the sparkling blue waters of the Balearic Sea, this beautiful Spanish city is full of character, from its winding cobblestone streets and historic architecture to its chic cafés, stylish boutiques, and lively waterfront. There is something wonderfully relaxed about Palma, yet it has an unmistakably sophisticated edge that made Chongae and I want to slow down, explore, and soak it all in.

One of the city’s most fascinating landmarks is La Seu, a striking Gothic castle perched on a hill overlooking Palma. Dating back to the 14th century, its unusual circular design makes it quite different from most European castles. Interestingly, Antonio Gaudi was drafted in during a restoration in 1901. Surrounded by pine trees it offers breathtaking panoramic views across the city, harbor, and coastline,

Another charming feature of Mallorca’s landscape is its traditional windmills. These iconic structures, scattered throughout the island, are a beautiful reminder of its agricultural past and add a wonderfully nostalgic touch to the scenery. They are part of the island’s identity, creating picture-perfect moments against the Mediterranean sky.

And we passed this awesome olive tree walking toward the shopping district. Its truck looked like a piece of art.

But Palma isn’t just about history and beautiful views. The city has developed a seriously cool shopping scene, with a hip, effortlessly stylish vibe that feels both European and distinctly Mediterranean. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town and you’ll discover independent fashion boutiques, contemporary homeware shops, local artisan stores, and carefully curated concept stores alongside luxury international brands. From linen dresses and leather sandals to handmade jewelry and unique design pieces, shopping here feels more like discovering hidden treasures than simply browsing

And we were very lucky to be here as for the first time in all our years of traveling, Chongae’s baggage was left behind. It never arrived in Venice, Italy from Atlanta, Georgia and after 12 days we are told that it will arrive tomorrow. Chongae got to do some retail therapy while I waited in one of the many cool cafes.

Between shopping stops, Palma de Mallorca invites you to linger over a coffee in a sun-drenched square or enjoying a leisurely lunch at a stylish terrace restaurant while watching the world go by. Palma de Mallorca has that wonderful balance of laid-back island living and cosmopolitan sophistication. Stylish without trying too hard, historic yet refreshingly modern, it is the kind of place that captured our imagination and left us already dreaming about our next visit.

Now let’s hope that Delta helps out with Chongae’s shopping spree!

Thanks for traveling with us.