My boyfriend and I are going on our first holiday this year. I used to live in Spain and very much want to see Palma city; however, I abhor the 'Brits abroad' scene and don't want us to end up in a Mallorcan resort spending our days at the pool and nights downing shots in tourist nightclubs. Is it possible to book a fairly tasteful Spanish-style holiday in Mallorca and avoid the sunburnt masses? I'd also like to hire a car to go round the island; where should I visit and where should I avoid?

You can do loads of non-tacky things there. Palma is a great little city and if you head to the North coast of the Island it is non-touristy. A car is a great idea. You can than stay in the North and visit the south during the day when the drunks are less in evidence.
Have a good trip.
Richard

If you're booking a package, my best advice would be to go with an operator that doesn't epitomise the 'brits abroad scene'.

Such companies include Magic of Spain or Citalia do a 'Real Spain' brochure.

Of course, stay clear of Thomson, Airtours etc as they will only feature heavily commercialised resorts.

The chances are, if you've heard of a resort there, it's busy, if you haven't, it's a better bet!

Oh, if you only want a couple of hours flight, go to Italy next year.

Try the north east coast around Cala Ratjada. If it's good enough for the King of Spain it should be good enough for you! I'd be tempted to book flights and a hotel in Palma for a couple of nights then have a drive round the island. Majorca is a large island and finding somewhere relatively quiet isn't too difficult.

Muchas gracias for your help everyone.