Social Events & Optional Tours
Social Events & Optional Tours
Immediately following the Opening Session, this will be the first of many opportunities to meet colleagues new and old in a friendly, relaxed setting. Catch up on careers, industry trends, and the latest scientific and research advances.
Admission is by registration badge, and is included in the conference fee.
Excursion & Rustic ReceptionBoard motor coaches for the hills above Palma, first to view some typical outcrops of geologic interest. Local geologists will be along to answer questions.
The location of the reception is actually a converted manor house located near the historic town of Valldemossa, and the surrounding countryside once belonged to the Archduke Luis Salvador. Enjoy typical Mallorcan dishes, along with local wines, mineral water and coffee, as well as live musical entertainment. Buses will begin returning to the hotels at 21:00 hours for the 30-minute ride back to Palma
NOTE: The reception is included in the conference fee, but space is limited. You must register for this event to obtain a free voucher in order to board the buses.
The Cathedral of Palma is the symbol of the city. It is noted for its beauty and its location overlooking the sea. Affectionately known locally as ‘La Seu’, ‘the Gothic Temple’ rises to a spectacular height, its lofty spires and flying buttresses magnifying the sense of immensity, truly one the architectural masterpieces of the Mediterranean.
A walk through the old quarter from the Cathedral to the San Francisco Monastery reveals the magnificent ‘patios’ of the city’s private palaces. With pride, owners leave ancient grand portals open offering a glimpse of hidden glamour to the passer-by.
Bellver Castle is situated on a hill with a marvelous view of the entire city, the harbour and the coastline. The Gothic construction with its ‘round ground’ structure is unique in all of Europe. The museum houses exhibits showcasing remains of the Roman occupation of Mallorca.
In the morning you will visit the famous Gordiola glass factory in Algaida, a testimony to one of the most ancient handicraft traditions of Mallorca. The appreciation for the art rests not only in the intricate design and beauty of each piece but also in that this work is entirely hand blown, snipped and shaped by the craftsmen while still molten. You will see the fruits of their labour during your visit.
The outing continues to Porto Cristo and the Drach Caves. These caves are one of the most impressive natural sights on the island. You will spend approximately an hour under ground along a 700m path through the ‘landscapes’ formed by eons of deposition and cave building; the tour concludes with a short concert and a boat trip on an subterranean lake.
After a sumptuous seafood lunch at the quaint country inn ‘Sa Gruta Nova’ near the caves, the last stop of the afternoon will be Els Calderers. The history of this site begins in 1285; the present farmhouse occupying the land has been converted into a museum featuring the accoutrements of traditional agriculture and stock breeding and provides an accurate look back at what rural life was like on the island two centuries ago.
NOTE: Each optional tour will be operated only with a minimum of 35 people. If a tour is cancelled, you will be notified in advance and receive a full refund.
©2006 AAPG European Region