Ibiza clubs remain shut despite Spain's nod to reopen businesses amid coronavirus
For those looking to hit the nightclub scene in Ibiza, you may need a change of plans. President of the Balearic Islands in Spain, Francina Armengol, has issued a decree which orders nightclubs and discotheques to stay closed as Spain prepares for phase three of reopening after the Covid-19 lockdown. The order was published in the Official Bulletin of the Balearic Islands. The Balearic Islands have been in phase two since May 25, which prohibits nightclubs from opening throughout Spain. Spain, with a population of at least 45M, currently has the sixth-highest coronavirus death toll globally, at 27,136.
The Balearic Islands are home to the resort island of Ibiza, the international dance club destination popular among tourists for its riotous nightlife. The nightlife is centered on two areas — Ibiza Town, the island's capital on the southern shore, and Sant Antoni to the West. Some of Ibiza's most popular clubs include Amnesia Ibiza, DC-10, Destino, Eden, Heart and Ushuaia. Another well-known destination is the long-standing bar, Café del Mar, where many tourists traditionally view the sunset made famous by José Padilla, who has released more than a dozen eponymous album compilations of ambient music played at the location. That and other bars nearby have become hot spots for club pre-parties after sunset, hosting popular DJs and many international artists such as Patrick Topping, Carl Cox, Green Velvet and Jozeff.
On June 8, Ibiza will join more than half of Spain in phase three of reopening. During this time, the country's national government has authorized nightclubs such as Amnesia and Pacha to reopen during phase three of their lockdown de-escalation with considerable restrictions. The clubs opening during phase three should operate with no more than a third of their maximum capacity. Dance floors should be removed and converted into space for tables and masks are required when social distancing cannot be practised. The government, however, left the implementation of these rules up to the local provinces. This is why Armengol decided to keep the clubs shut, citing nightlife-related outbreaks in other countries. The extended lockdown has threatened the island's seasonal businesses. As a result, many local business owners are protesting against Armengol's decision, suggesting that the continued shutdown would promote unlicensed entertainment and botellones (street parties).