More Mallorca vacationers cook for themselves — Apartments in trend

Less Buffet, More Pan: Why Mallorca Vacationers Cook For Themselves

\n

When I was strolling through the Alcúdia market at 9 o'clock in the morning the other day, I saw them everywhere: families with large shopping bags, couples with fresh herbs, and some young guests content with two peppers and a pack of pasta. The mood was clear: vacation nowadays often means self-catering rather than all-inclusive feasting.

\n

The result: In the island's northern region — especially Alcúdia and Can Picafort — self-catering apartments with their own kitchen are in high demand. Hoteliers still report solid figures: around 80 percent occupancy in the area, according to industry sources. But the balance has shifted. All-inclusive arrangements and half board are losing share, estimated more than ten percent compared to previous seasons.

\n

Why do so many cook themselves?

\n

A few reasons I picked up: prices matter, many guests travel longer and want more flexibility. Some have special dietary habits — vegetarian, gluten-free or simply “no buffet, please” — and prefer control over ingredients. Not to forget: small joys. Fresh tomatoes from the Mercat d’Alcúdia, a piece of Sobrasada for breakfast, that has something authentic about it.

\n

And then there is the feeling of living locally. In the evenings in an apartment on the Passeig along the coast, watching the laundry dry in the sun, shopping at small shops — for many, part of the vacation.

\n

Who comes — and where do they go?

\n

German guests are strongly represented: In Alcúdia they make up around 28 percent of all visitors, in Can Picafort their share approaches half. This affects the supply: supermarkets stock more familiar products, bakeries open earlier, and hosts equip kitchens with basics.

\n

For hosts, that means rethinking rather than a complete switch. Many hotels stay well booked, but offer more flexible rates and smaller rooms with a kitchenette. The mix works — as long as supply and demand align.

\n

I think: This trend brings something grounded back to island vacations. No more daily buffet queues, instead evenings with good wine, freshly chopped vegetables, and the feeling of really being here for a few days.