Calvia launches winter activities for tourists

THE Calviá town council and local companies in the tourist industry, have launched the eleventh season of “Calviá, the European winter alternative” programme. Promotion of the 2003-2004 winter season, which officially opened its doors yesterday, is part of an ongoing attempt to extend the tourist business to an all-year-round industry. The programme, in which 750'000 people have participated over the last ten years, originally embraced the period from 1 November to 31 March, but on this occasion it will extend to 30 April of 2004. The extra lease of life is due to 9'000 Austrian tourists who have reserved accommodation in the area as part of package deal holidays on Majorca organised by the tour operator Seniorenreinsen. Calviá town council will assign a total of 360'000 euros for the administration and activities of the programme.
For six years, the Palmanova-Magalluf hoteliers association has taken direct responsibility for the agenda.
Under the auspices of the agreement signed between the town council and the hotel organisations in the area, the association is committed to planning and scheduling the activity programme in conjunction with Calviá town council technical services. Other responsibilities include contracting human resources to staff the programme; directing and controlling the work teams; as well as ensuring that enjoyment of the agenda is made available to all visitors. This year, a total of 59 gymnastic activities have been scheduled; 143 involving petanca or French bowls; 101 guided mountain and beach walks; 66 sessions of tai-chi; a total of 83 cycling excursions, out of which 20 will focus on Palmanova-Magaluf, 21 on Santa Ponsa and another 21 on Illetes. Fifty-three concerts are listed on the “A winter on Majorca” programme, promoted by the tourist department of the Balearic government, as are 58 parties; 80 open-air music and dance events and 20 film shows in Palmanova and Santa Ponsa. In the past, this winter programme has proved to be very popular with visitors, as it offers a wide range of activities.
It is part of an effort to extend the season, providing an alternative to the sun and the beaches, although some of the activities, such as gym classes and tai chi are held on the beaches. Among the most popular events on the programme are the guided walks in the countryside.
Full details of the programme are available from the tourist information offices in the resorts.