The word “idò”, useful in almost any situation. A packet of Quelys that somehow always ends up in your bag or suitcase. The certainty that the tramontana wind is blowing without ever checking the forecast. And, of course, that unhurried, discreet way of enjoying life on the islands. 

If you’ve visited before, you’ve surely noticed these things — and if not, you’re about to. Because beyond the postcard landscapes and crystal‑clear coves, discovering the people and their customs is essential to truly understanding these islands.  

To celebrate Balearic Islands Day, at Zafiro Hotels we turn our attention to our Mediterranean roots. We want to share who we are, the traditions we cherish, and the flavours that are never missing from our table. So that on your next visit, you can go beyond the destination — and experience the islands like a true local, like one of us. 

Index

[index]

What they say about us 

Without falling into clichés, we may seem a little reserved at first — but you’ll quickly realise we’re warm, discreet and wonderfully calm. Why? Because our identity is shaped by the quiet rhythm of island life. 

For us, nothing compares to a slow, heartfelt conversation, inviting you to savour the scenery and the gentle Balearic climate: 

• A coffee in the village square without checking the time 
• A sunset by the sea in good company 
• A walk along a favourite mountain path 
• Long after‑dinner chats that stretch into the night 
• A trip on a llaüt, our traditional boat, gliding peacefully as we admire the island’s beauty once again 

That’s who we Balearic Islanders are. We treasure shared moments, our traditions and a serene way of life. So if you want to feel part of the island, start by slowing down — and let every corner of the Balearic Islands set the pace for you, just as it does for us.  

Words that reveal who we are 

Language says a great deal about us Balearic people. We move naturally between Balearic Catalan and Spanish, mixing expressions passed down through generations with words that are uniquely ours — often impossible to translate. 

So sharpen your ears. These are some of the expressions you’ll hear… and may even find yourself repeating.  

Most common words: 

• Idò: Our all‑purpose filler word: okay, sure, well, then, come on… Don’t worry, the context always gives it meaning. 
• Uep!: Our most spontaneous, friendly greeting — the Balearic “Hey!” Use it when passing someone on a quiet village street or entering a familiar local spot. 
• Al·lot / Al·lota: Boy and girl, but also used to refer to boyfriend and girlfriend and to the young. Always said with affection. 
• Xalar: To have fun and enjoy without complications (Menorca). 
• Xubec: A siesta. Said to come from British sailors’ references to “to the bed.” It may become your favourite word after lunch or a long morning at the beach. 
• Mem: Something like “let’s see,” used before speaking or deciding. 
• Capfico: A quick dip. You’ll hear it often in summer: “anam a pegar un capfico?” to mean “shall we take a quick dip?” 
• Berenar: More than a snack; a small social ritual mid‑morning or mid‑afternoon, best enjoyed in company. 
• Foraster: Someone who isn’t from here. Descriptive, not exclusive. 
• Foravila: the countryside. “Anar a foravila”, to go to the countryside, means to disconnect. 
• Colla: Your lifelong group of friends, especially common in Ibiza. 

Most common expressions: 

• Mos deim coses: A warm way of saying goodbye and meaning “we’ll keep in touch”. 
• Cercar na Maria per sa cuina: When someone complicates things unnecessarily (literally, “looking for Maria in the kitchen”). In Mallorca, peace and simplicity is sacred. 
• Fer sa moixa morta: To play dumb. 
• No passis pena: Don’t worry, don’t stress. One of the purest expressions of our island philosophy. Miss the bus? Plans change? You’ll hear: “No passis pena, ja en vendrà un altre.” (No worries. Another one will be along soon). 
• Sus Mallorca!: Heard at any sporting event on the island. Our own way of saying “Vamos!”