Ibiza dubbed the ‘sleaziest island in the world’

Ibiza dubbed the ‘sleaziest island in the world’

12 November, 2007 | 11.11AM

• Written by: Terry Church
• Filed under: Music News:

National Geographic magazine has branded clubbing capital Ibiza one of the sleaziest islands in the world, and has said British clubbers have ruined the island.

In National Geographic’s annual top island guide published in its Traveller magazine 522 travel experts placed Ibiza second from bottom out of 111 selected islands.

One travel expert wrote: “Ibiza is not Spanish anymore. Or Balearic.

“It is a colony of Europe and, at times, seems more like a colony of British ravers.

“Half the island is still ‘natural.’ The other half has been lost completely to the party circuit.”

He continued: “Ibiza cannot get rid of the vicious circle it went through a few years ago. Booze, partying, and drugs are a big part of an increasingly sleazy scene.

“Culture and environment take a back seat to development. Little to no consideration for ecological, social, or cultural preservation.

“Some might argue that Ibiza has been despoiled, but a closer inspection reveals much that is still appealing: centuries-old defense towers and churches; walks from beach to beach on largely unspoiled stretches with rocky outcrops; and beautiful views of Es Vedra rock off the southwest coast.”

Pacha’s Danny Whittle, himself a Brit who has relocated to Ibiza to help run the club, told inthemix.com.au that the poll was a waste of time.

“Who cares what these people think; if your thing is counting sheep then Ibiza probably isn’t the ideal destination, but then if you like nice beaches, cool hotels and great social life then the Shetlands is probably not ideal either,” said Whittle.

“Have they been to Ibiza recently?

“Ibiza is what it is, there is no need for excuses. If people look beyond the clubbing, social element (which is the best in the world) they’ll also find an amazing island with fantastic local people.

“This island hasn’t become famous because it’s a hell hole but because millions of people love it and enjoy its reality.”

“In a way Ibiza has become like a superstar as a destination and some of the press just look for the negatives to get column inches.

“Then you see the same reporters jumping around the Space terrace having a ball.”

The Shetland islands and Isle of Skye topped National Geographic’s islands poll.

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