This summer, my Ibiza adventure was a whirlwind of experiences. From the unrivalled energy of world-famous super-clubs to the intimate charm of hidden beaches and restaurants, the island exceeded all my expectations.
However, while my social media feed might have painted a picture of sunshine and alcohol-fuelled nights, the journey behind the scenes wasn't always plain sailing...
I hope that by reflecting on my experience, I can provide some insights for others considering a similar adventure.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained: a less-than-ideal start
This may come as a surprise, but the start of my Ibiza summer was a pretty miserable endeavour.
I put my stable corporate career on hold to pursue some music industry experience. This was a bold move, but not without risks. As a music lover, budding DJ/producer and adventurer at heart, I decided to take the leap to Ibiza - the global epicentre of electronic dance music.
I lined up a job as a ticket seller for an island-based company promoting the parties. After being promised a job and accommodation, I paid a deposit and headed straight off into the unknown. "She'll be right", or so I thought.
Turns out, it was not alright. Boy, oh boy, was I in for a mini quarter-life-crisis.
After the 27-hour journey from Sydney to Ibiza, my disappointment was real when I realised I would be living in a run down, one bathroom apartment with nine other people. Me and my fellow housemates were crammed in, sleeping on bunk beds. Personal space was non-existent.
While my accommodation left a lot to be desired, the job itself was both demanding and frustrating.
I was also growing increasingly concerned about the legitimacy of the company I was working for. Toiling the length of the beach, I averaged tens of thousands of steps a day, baking in the hot Ibizan sun, hoping to make commissions from ticket sales. After all, there was no base salary.
After two weeks, I had made a paltry €30! Subsequently, I was ready to throw in the towel.
Knackered and stressed, I was left pondering my life choices, particularly as the accommodation was tied to the job. It wasn't just me. Many of my friends felt much the same, with some having no choice but to leave the island due to finances.
My patience ran out after being reprimanded by Spanish law enforcement, who explained in no uncertain terms that what I was doing was illegal. What else was said, is not suitable for publication. Needless to say, my days selling on the streets were over.
After some overdue research, I discovered that street selling had been outlawed here since 2016. Feeling trapped and disillusioned but determined to stay on the island, I was fortunate enough to find a single room let above a pub in San Antonio.
Like many of my peers, I cut my losses and walked away from the job without looking back.
Life on the West End
It didn't take particularly long for me to settle into the West End. I got to meet many of the local workers at the various bars, many of whom were Irish, filling the void that the British workforce had left after Brexit. The whole vibe of the strip was "great craic", as the Irish say.
During the day, it was a relatively laid-back area with plenty of places to eat, drink, shop and relax.
Beaches weren't far away either, so it was very easy to duck out for a quick swim. It was also a short walk to the famous Café Mambo - a place which would often have big name DJs perform, where you could dance by the waterfront for free.
After nightfall, the West End transforms into an entirely different beast. Crowds of people flock to the strip to crawl from bar to bar, chat nonsense, get smashed and have a boogie.
For me, one of the most memorable aspects of living in the West End was the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life.
The area attracted a diverse crowd, whether it be fellow season workers, tourists or locals. There was always something happening and it was easy to strike up conversations and meet new people.
The sunsets, found only a stone's throw away, were also something else.
Enter: Ibiza Spotlight
Without a doubt, the turning point of my season came after I connected with Steve from Ibiza Spotlight, who offered me a trial to review one of the residencies at Eden nightclub. I jumped at the chance to put my reviewing skills and knowledge of the clubbing scene to the test.
I submitted my review of the party, which was then published to the online magazine. I was in!
After my initial set-back, I had secured work for, not only a reputable company, but an island institution! It allowed me to pursue my passion for music and experience the island's nightlife from a completely different perspective.
I had gone from Ibiza's worst ticket seller, to a freelance music journalist.
Not gonna lie, I was pretty chuffed.
Summer highlights
Working with the Ibiza Spotlight team was undoubtedly a highlight of my summer. Team outings, "dancefloor dashes", villa parties and rides on the slingshot were just some of the things we got up to.
Working as press on the island, my privileges included free entry to clubs, drink tokens and even the occasional VIP or backstage pass. I really couldn't complain.
I particularly enjoyed our Wednesday workday in the office at theHUB, where the team would get together, collaborate and discuss our upcoming plans for the week ahead.
Through Spotlight, I had the opportunity to experience most of the island's clubs. Each offers a unique experience and draws their own clientele. However, in my humble opinion, 528 Ibiza stood above the rest.
Situated just outside San Antonio, 528 was the ultimate daytime sesh. It boasts two large stages, has a brilliant atmosphere, a great sound system and there was always room to dance. Without a doubt my favourite party of the season was Brunch Elektronik's gig, featuring artists Innellea and Ben Böhmer.
Another one of my discoveries was Melbourne Street Coffee - a local gem run by my fellow countryman, Jason. This was a great place to meet other Australians. So much so, it almost felt as if I hadn't even left the land down under.
Unsurprisingly, Melbourne Street ended up being my daily ritual - a favourite place of mine to sit down, drink an excellent flat white (possibly the best on the island), chat to other Aussies and work on content for Ibiza Spotlight.
The other side of Ibiza
When one thinks of Ibiza, naturally, the sprawling super-clubs like Hï Ibiza and Amnesia and famous day party locations such as Ibiza Rocks and O Beach come to mind. However, beyond the bustling nightlife and party scene, Ibiza offers something far more.
The island boasts a stunning landscape, beautiful beaches, great restaurants and a rich history.
Want to take a break from the nightlife? Check-out one of the many hiking trails around the island and you'll see what I mean.
Get off the beaten track and take a visit to the magnificent Es Vedra, a rock formation off the island's west coast, or go swim in the stunning crystal-clear waters of Cala Salada, Cala Carbó or just about any other beach for that matter.
Perhaps a trip to the fortified Dalt Vila Old Town - a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, which provides a fascinating glimpse into Ibiza's ancient (and sometimes chequered) past.
These are just a few examples, but I stress, there is more to Ibiza than a stereotypical party destination.
Some advice from somebody who was put through the ringer
Rounding things up, I’ve left a few pieces of advice below.
- Take it from me, do your own research before embarking on a similar adventure. Promises that seem too good to be true, probably are. The street promoter job I initially took was little more than a scam. If I had dug deeper, I would have given it a wide berth. Similar opportunities found on Ibiza are just as illegitimate, seeking to exploit young people who want to work abroad. Avoid like the plague!
- Network and build relationships. If I hadn't reached out to anyone after quitting my initial job, not only would I not be writing this, but my summer would've looked very different (probably not for the better). Chat to as many people as you can, use social media, send emails and build connections with locals, travellers and industry professionals. I landed my first DJ gig just by chatting to a friend of a friend. My parents even came to watch me play! Whether you are looking for jobs, gigs or accommodation, put yourself out there as word of mouth can be a powerful tool. Why not sign-up to our online forum and connect with fellow Ibiza lovers?
- Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the journey. Focus on having a good time and enjoying the experience, rather than solely chasing after a specific goal. I came over to pursue music industry experience, but I didn't know exactly what that would look like and I certainly didn’t see myself landing a gig as a music journo.
- It's worth stressing that Ibiza can be darn expensive! Bring enough money to support yourself, especially if you plan on sticking around for the full season. I had many conversations with friends who were working but still struggling financially. Don't find yourself in this situation.
- Look after yourself, drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, eat some healthy food and get some sleep. A well-rested mind and functioning body will help you make the most of your time on the island.
Final thoughts
At the end of the day, your time on the island will be whatever you make of it.
Remember to be open-minded, embrace the unexpected and try to make most of every opportunity. I strongly believe stepping outside of your comfort zone will ultimately be one of the best things you can do for your own personal growth. Nothing ventured, nothing gained!
Be flexible and adaptable. If things don't always go according to plan, that's okay. Hang in there and take it day by day. If you have the drive to succeed, you'll figure something out. Good luck!
WORDS | by Luke Botting
Do you have the minerals to survive a season on the world's number one party island? We're always looking to hear from budding writers and electronic music enthusiasts.
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