In a world where you can shop anywhere... shop local

In these difficult times, more than ever we need to support our local businesses, but are not always sure where to start. So, after 35 years on the island I thought I would share from my own personal directory.

DENISE BEAUTY, Portals Nous
The fact that Denise Beauty will be celebrating its 31st Anniversary on Tuesday, is testament to her loyal customer’s appreciation of her long term professional service and highest standards of treatments. A place where most importantly these days, you can totally trust absolute sanitisation and cleanliness. Over 30 years they have kept up to date, offering the latest in a wide variety of treatments and therapies using only top-quality products. Denise is highly professional, herself a qualified chiropodist and only employs the most qualified therapists. For me the pampering starts the moment I walk in the door, the tranquillity and wonderful aroma of the products.

PORTALS PREMIER LAUNDRY
Since new management took over in 2017, everything I have sent to be cleaned has come out like new. (Even a much-loved silky coat I had from my late mother that I had inadvertently covered in oil.) The reason is not only staff care, but also their revolutionary state-of-the-art new machines with high-tech wash programs that can achieve virtual miracles. Also hailed as being the most eco-friendly on the market. I was especially impressed by my pillows coming back plumped up free of any lurking bugs. The wide range of cleaning services include ironing, in-situ rug and carpet cleaning and an antibacterial wash formula using highest quality products. They collect and deliver cleaning island wide, especially catering to the yachting industry, restaurants and hotels.

PALMA AIR CONDITIONING
Recommended by a friend, I shall be forever grateful that Lee found time in his packed schedule to repair my air-con during a heat wave in the height of summer! That’s the sort of guy he is. He will do his utmost to help out at a sensible cost. With over 20 years’ experience, his work carried out to the highest of standards. Looking for an installation or repair by a charming, reliable English-speaking expert then Lee is your man. www.Palma-airconditioning.com

RITA LAST INSURANCE
I have known Rita since she was the efficient manageress of a large insurance company on the island. Now with 20 years experience, she offers honest advice as she dedicates herself to each client, locating the most comprehensive insurance cover at the best price. Whether home, cars, boats or health insurance you can have total confidence in her in depth of knowledge and wise product advice.

PERAS&PEARS
This store is an absolute gem, a one-stop for all your health and nutrition needs. Not only are her fruit and vegetables exceptional quality, but she carries the most amazing variety of organic and vegan options together with gluten, lactose and sugar free products. Her delicious juice and smoothie bar a great takeaway point, offering healthy freshly prepared dishes including unusual salads, soups, wraps and tasty hot snacks. Even coffee and cakes. Particularly at this time, her home delivery is much appreciated. The highlight of my spring lockdown was her arrival, masked and sanitised, laden with fresh fruit and healthy goodies. Tucked in the corner of what I call “Portals Nous Square” it well worth a visit.

BAXTERS LIVIN
Congratulations to Graham Baxter who opened his new Estate Agent offices recently opposite the Marina Portals Hotel in Portals Nous. Graham founded Baxter Marine in Puerto Portals 30 years ago, and has been 40 years in the property business. His knowledge of local real estate exceptional, plus his enthusiasm to find the perfect property for each client whether it be renting, buying or selling. “I love the business and am very knowledgeable of the values of real estate, together with new and second-hand yachts. “I like to help people live their dreams …it’s all about LIVIN!”