Ibiza Insider's Guide: MistaJam

Image: MistaJam

We're in the middle of the party season in Ibiza at the moment, and there's still so much stuff coming up over the remaining weeks that we thought it was time to get another insider's guide with another set of recommendations and tips.

This time round we quizzed Radio 1 broadcasting icon MistaJam. He hosts the week night slot on BBC Radio 1Xtra, bridging the gap between genres with his broad taste and musical knowledge knowledge (check out his skills on the decks below). 

With Radio 1 celebrating 20 years in Ibiza this weekend, we thought it'd be the perfect time to get a few secrets from the biggest party capital of the world. If you want to see Jam in action, he'll playing Creamfields Ibiza this weekend and Together at Amnesia next week. 

Where do you stay on the island when you're there and why?

I think Pikes is my favourite place to stay on the island. The hotel is rich with Ibizan history and each room is unique. Just make sure you ask to stay in a room in the front of the hotel if you don’t like after parties.

What makes Ibiza so special?

There is pretty much something for every kind of person. If you like to party all through the night and all through the day – it’s covered.

If you’re a family person – it’s covered. If you’ve got £5 in your pocket and know what you’re doing you can still enjoy yourself just as much as the multi-millionaires with their yachts moored in the marina.

Where are your favourite places to eat?

Either any of the amazing eateries tucked away at Marina Botafoch or at Sa Capella. The food is amazing and the location is pretty much perfect.

And the best places to go out?

In terms of clubs, I think Amnesia (below) takes some beating. I always love playing there. I also love Ibiza Rocks hotel for their bravery in pushing the boundaries of what people think Ibiza is musically about.

Who do you think will be the star of the season this year?

I think this year is EZ’s year. The wider world is getting to know what we’ve known for years – that he’s a cut above the rest!

Where is the best place to watch the sun set and rise on the island?

Mambo really is the place to watch the sun set. The only thing that would rival it is if you had your own villa. In terms of sun rise, if you’ve left a club and the sun hasn’t risen already, you’re probably doing it wrong!

For someone about to come to Ibiza for the first time, what are the three things they must do before their time is out?

Firstly, go to a club or venue where you know absolutely none of the DJs on the bill. It could just change your life.

Secondly, if you’re over the age of 18 and can drink responsibly, try Hierbas. Personally I hate it but some people swear by it – mainly the Mambo brothers.

And thirdly, pace is everything so make breakfast in your hotel at least once during your stay.

What’s the island's greatest hidden secret?

The beach at Cala Vadella. Eat fresh fish at the restaurants and soak up the rays and the vibes on the small, almost private, beach. Highly recommended.

What is your fondest memory of your time spent on the island? 

A couple of years ago, I had a weekly residency every Tuesday in August at Space with Carl Cox so we hired out a villa for the month and the family moved over there from the UK while I was in and out each week. We all had such an amazing time as it gave us a chance to really explore the island and it proved to us just how special it was.

And finally, what one bit of advice would you give someone hitting Ibiza for the first time?

No one will judge you for wearing sunglasses inside departures at Ibiza Airport!

See MistaJam at Together/Defected at Amnesia on Tuesday 4th August.

Check out all of MistaJam's upcoming gigs.