Spain's far flung island territories aren't as well known to American tourists, although 15 million people (many from Europe) visit every year. In this entry from the Globe Trekker travelogue video series, Brit host Alex Riley gads about some of the most popular Spanish islands—which combine the allure of East, West, and the counterculture scene—where he discovers fascinating history, magnificent architecture, gorgeous nature…and really great parties. Mallorca is a famed millionaire's playground, where visitors can spend $12,000 per day (not counting tips) to charter a yacht, while Ibiza is a world famous party destination for young people, with the action beginning around midnight and continuing well past dawn (however, visitors to Ibiza can also enjoy a peaceful yoga retreat). The island of Formentera boasts a beach with a reputation as a hippie hangout (some brief full frontal male and female nudity is on display here), while the island of La Palma is the site of a "super volcano" with trench-like fault lines—the eruption of which might trigger a tsunami that could swamp New York City. In spite of this grim forecast, this travelogue is mostly lighthearted, informative, and nicely photographed, with additional attractions including whale watching, a "goat rodeo," and religious festivals. An offbeat program that should be popular in travel collections, this is recommended. [Note: also newly available is Ultimate Scandinavia, priced at $34.95.] Aud: P. (S. Rees)
The Spanish Islands
(2007) 60 min. DVD: $19.95. Pilot Productions. PPR. ISBN: 1-932702-87-3. Volume 23, Issue 2
The Spanish Islands
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