Using ATM machines
by dlytle
If your ATM card is linked to the PLUS or CIRRUS networks, you have the option of using it to obtain cash in over 135 countries worldwide. The CIRRUS Network currently has over 780,000 ATMs worldwide; and the VISA/PLUS has over 750,000.
The biggest advantage of exchanging money with your ATM card is that cash withdrawals, regardless of size, are exchanged based on wholesale exchange rates which are usually reserved only for large interbank exchanges. This rate is often 2-5% better than what you get from exchanging traveler's checks at a local exchange counter. Also, local banks or money change bureaus will add on transaction fees which can easily eat up another 2% of your money.
I use my ATM card, at a Citibank location where possible, to exchange money in foreign countries because I get the best exchange rate doing that. Sometimes, however, I have been in cities that do not have a Citibank location.
I've attempted to use ATM machines from some of the major banks in a foreign country, but without any luck. Then I discovered what I had been doing wrong and why they had not worked for me.
The secret is making sure to use an ATM machine that displays the PLUS or HONOR logos (usually near the keypad) on the machine you are using. If it does not have those logos prominently displayed then it is a machine that probably cannot tie into those networks.
If there are a number of ATM machines grouped together, for instance at an airport, look them over carefully for the machines displaying those logos before you try to use them.
See www.citibank.com and their ATM locations for more information.
For those who need larger amounts of currency when using ATM cards overseas, talk to your bank about raising your daily limit. Most limits tend to be about $200.00. But you can ask to have this limit raised to say $400.00 daily and just explain the reason for the increase—you’ll be traveling overseas. Should be no problem. Then you can have it lowered again when you return home.
Rent a bike or just walk
by russian_yaz
Mallorca city is flat so biking is not a big problem. There are some places where to rent bikes so go ahead and rent one, U'll not regret it. I bought one only 1 month ago and I'm really enjoying the rides.
In the picture, my bike and in the background the "Toro Island" near Andratx and Paguera.
Some usual tips before going outthere:
1- Keep to the hard shoulder of the roads wherever possible. If you go out in a group, go in single file. Don't make any risky manoeuvres and comply with all trafic requlations for your own safely.
2- Do not leave litter behind and do not light fires in the woods. Respect the natural surrounding because the ecological balance is very fragile.
3- Do not enter private property without the express permission of its owners.
4- In the summer, it is advisable not to cycle during the time when the sun is at its hottest. Take water and a hat on excursions.
5- Before leaving on an excursion, make sure your cycle is in good condition. Make sure you have lights if you are thinking of going out at night or returning late.
6- Before setting off, make sure you let someone know where you will be going and when you think you are likely to get back to your setting point. Inside the city, just use a helmet and a usual bike, don't need any professional stuff.
The best way to get to Palma...
by fax
The best way to get to Palma is to fly. Good connections to all major Spanish and European cities. BEWARE- please allow plenty of time when you clear security to get to your boarding gate...it takes ages! If you struggle when walking distances, advise airport information to get you some assistance.
The other alternative is the ferry to the mainland (8 hours) or the catamaran (2.5 hours). Good links to the other islands of Ibiza (Eivissa) and Menorca (Mahon).
By foot, or if going a distance the bus is the best way to get around. Taxis are also reasonable.
Palma Nova's beaches
by toontraveller
The beaches at Palma Nova, although busy in summer are a wonderful place to spend time. The water is usually very calm and quite shallow at the shoreline. It was almost sheet flat when I was last there. It is also crystal clear. The beach it's self has beautiful golden soft sand and is cleaned every day.
Find your spot early and you can relax in the sun on a good beach or why not sit under a palm tree and read a book.
Great views on the journey to Cap de Formentor
by Tricky_Dicky69
The Cap de Formentor is situated at the north east side of the island. It is a very winding road that leads to the lighthouse which is at the end of the peninsular. If you don't have time to do the full journey to the lighthouse you can get excellent views from the Mirador de Colomers which is just a few miles from Port de Pollenca. Everyone seems to stop there and it has a well worn track that leads out to a large viewing area.