Going Native: Palma

There really isn’t anywhere else Dani Rotstein would rather be than Mallorca. He loves the landscape, the people, the food... The only thing the Palma Pictures producer could ask for is a little less sunshine

What’s the best thing about working in advertising in Spain?

Sun and fun. It’s no wonder so many people love shooting in sunny Spain and the Balearics. Mix in the local culture of celebrating anything at any time, and it’s a fantastic formula for shooting great work and having fun doing it.

And the worst thing?

In summer we get more than 15 hours of sunshine, which can make for some pretty long days. It’s great for clients but tough when you want to make up some time to train for a triathlon.

What advice would you give to a visitor?

Mallorca isn’t just Palma! Many people don’t realise what the island has to offer. Go for a mountain drive to Formentor Lighthouse, eat lamb on top of a mountain in Alaró, and go visit one of the most beautiful coves you will ever see in your life… Caló des Moro. Rent a car, grab a bike… and explore!

If you were booking a hotel in Palma, where would you choose?

Hotel Tres or Nakar Hotel  – they’re in the city centre and walking distance to all the restaurants, night life and landmarks. Both have pools and roof decks that command incredible views of the harbour and our 700-year-old cathedral.

What is the best Spanish ad you’ve seen in the last year?

Estrella Damm Mediterraneámente. Music video-esque spots that show the beauty of the islands with great local talent and catchy music.

Who do you love to work within the industry?

Traktor. There’s a reason why they’ve been at it for so long. They invite the service team to collaborate and find the best solutions to get the best creative; and they always keep the family feeling on each project. The crew wrap party is on their production calendar from the get-go.

What do you miss when you are out of the city?

The people. Hailing from New Jersey, I grew up in a multi-cultural area. However, people in NYC tend to stay in their own neighborhoods. Here in Palma it’s one big international potpourri. It’s amazing to go out at night and meet yachties from around the world, mixed with numerous Euro expats, all enjoying the customs and traditions of the local Mallorcan community. Everyone has an interesting story to tell of how they arrived on the island.

What’s Mallorca’s favourite pastime?

Cycling. It is a biker’s paradise, with the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range never far away. Grab a bike, get lost. It’s the best way to see the city and the island.

Where’s the best place to eat in Mallorca?

Sa Foradada. Not only is the paella awesome but you simply cannot beat the view. You can only arrive via boat or a 45-minute hike.

And the best place to have a drink?

If you like beer then go to Molta Barra on a Tuesday night. In Palma they do ‘Tapas Tuesday’, where locals go from bar to bar paying €2 for a tapa and a glass of wine or beer. Or if you’d prefer a cocktail, the rooftop of the Cuba bar has stunning views of the whole of the Bay of Palma.

One table, four places. You and who?

Pedro Almodóvar, Ernest Hemingway, Don Quijote… and my favorite tapas from all over Spain.

What’s your one-line life philosophy?

You can’t buy happiness, but you can move to Spain, and that’s pretty much the same thing.

If Palma were a product, what would it be?

A snow globe. Being THE city on the island, it feels like we’re inside a magical bubble filled with turquoise coves in the summer, snowy mountains in the winter, and a rich history that dates back to the fifth century. Shake it up and the image is beautiful.

If you could have one question answered, what would it be?

Who shot Tupac?