As the temperatures are rising and the long-awaited months of summer are finally getting closer and closer, it's time to start planning and searching for the perfect place to enjoy our days of rest. If there are those who think of avoiding the popular vacation spots because they are too crowded, overrated, or mainstream, well, think twice, because the way you enjoy your trip depends on how well you plan it, and picking the right place to stay can change the way you view a city in its entirety. Ibiza has rightfully gained the status of the quintessential summer escapade spot, and The Standard Hotel is the perfect match for the high expectations we may have of the island. With the reopening of its stunning rooftop, Up, and an experience that feels as comfortable as being at home, there's no doubt this is the right place to be.
No one is surprised that the weather has been very unusual these last few months. Wearing winter clothes in the middle of spring was not in our plans, yet here we are. However, as soon as you land at Ibiza’s airport, the air feels different and the vibe changes. Not heavy clothes in sight, arriving with just a light jacket feels out of place, but it makes sense considering the time of year we are at; our origin places are the ones that have the temperatures messed up; here, the weather is the right one. Our destination is The Standard Ibiza, the Mediterranean branch of the worldwide company that has locations for all tastes and preferences, from the city-oriented New York and London hotels to the heavenly seaside placement of their resorts in the Maldives of Hua Hin.
The location in Ibiza couldn't be better. The proximity to the beaches and the port is greatly appreciated, while at the same time being in the heart of the old town, with all major stores and landmarks such as the emblematic Castle of Ibiza and its fortified streets on Dalt Vila within walking distance. The building itself exudes Mediterranean vibes in an elegant and sober way, all white, with just a few pops of colour coming from the bright yellow chairs placed strategically on every balcony, both functional and decorative at the same time.
Right from the entrance, the value given to the design and the aesthetic is evident, with colourful and fun contemporary pieces giving a unique personality to the lobby, one that translates not only to the mobiliary but also to the staff. With very stylish attire and uniforms that look far from it, the employees are encouraged to be themselves even at their workplace, with the philosophy “come as you are” applying to everyone that makes part of The Standard experience, not just the guests.
We are here to celebrate the return of the rooftop Up, a relaunch accompanied by a brand new look of the space on the last floor that has unbeatable views of the best sides of the White Island, as well as the presentation of the new menu of their restaurant. Despite the hotel being one of the few to never close its doors no matter the season or time of the year, the opening of this space signifies the official start of the summer calendar, one that will be full of never-ending activities hosting local and international DJs from late afternoon into the evening to entertain not only guests but also locals and tourists. With the lift that communicates the entrance to the hotel directly to the last floor, everyone is welcome to enjoy the best energy, food, and music at Up.
For such a moment, the celebration had to match the excitement, and so it did, with the rooftop comfortably crowded by important and influential names of the island, special invitees, and friends of the house. The evening was accompanied by a great selection of bites that gave us a taste of the new menu at Up, created by Chef David Ruano, a fusion of Latin and Japanese flavours that feels fresh but incredibly tasty, all with products directly brought from farm-to-table. With alternatives for everyone, from vegetable-based dishes to meat and fish options, all of them equally delicious, we highly recommend the Wagyu Burger or the Salmon Teriyaki, although you will do no wrong no matter what you pick. A good selection of cocktails is also available and will complement your experience with a sweet or savoury taste; the choice is yours, but remember, Ibiza is well known for its salt mines, for your consideration.
A very chill and vibey live performance by the British musician Nabihah Iqbal, with the cinematic view of the castle of Ibiza at night adorned by the moon and the constant flow of aeroplanes on their way to landing at the local airport, it was the perfect Ibiza night and a perfect way to open the space that will host many new moments and memories for whoever makes part of its experience. Up at The Standard Ibiza is already open and fully functional, with the open-air pool adding to the wide list of benefits you can find at the hotel, like the well-equipped gym or their other restaurant at floor level, Jara, just as good as everything else.
