A TRAVEL agent with decades of experience has revealed the ultimate throwback destination and says you can still get holidays for the retro pricing too.
Spain is a classic summer destination for Brits and one spot remains popular for good reason.
But Claire Watters, a First Choice travel agent, revealed that Majorca is the island that she sold more than anywhere else in the 90s.
She said: “In the ‘90s, if a family walked in wanting guaranteed sunshine, a short flight and a holiday that wouldn’t break the bank, Majorca was usually my first recommendation.
“Thirty years later, despite how much travel has changed, my advice remains exactly the same.”
Back in the 90s, a holiday to Majorca for a family of four cost around £349, which would be about £719 now.
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And holidays today could cost you the same… or even less.
A seven-night break for a family of four to Playa Moreia in Majorca, flying from London Southend on October 10 via First Choice costs £179 per person – £716 total.
When it comes to recommendations for travellers heading to the Spanish spot, Claire has loads.
She said: “Alcudia is the best area for families for me.
“It has a long, sandy beach with shallow water and a calm sea, which is ideal for younger children to paddle safely.
“You’ll find waterparks and plenty of watersports, boat trips, cycling routes, and nature parks, and there are also playgrounds, kids’ clubs, and family entertainment in many hotels.
“The all-inclusive options make things simple and budget-friendly, and you can walk around in a calmer resort that is more geared up for families.”
And for when it comes to discovering a beach spot, Claire recommends heading to the Blue Flag Playa de Muro.
She said: “The sea is very shallow for 50–100 metres, staying knee-deep for a long distance.
“The beach stretches nearly four miles, making it one of the longest beaches in Majorca.
“The water is calm, warm, and clear, with hardly any currents.
“Regular water testing, lifeguards, and rescue services keep standards very high. This makes it perfect for families, non-swimmers, and relaxing swims.”
For a day where you want to head off for a day trip somewhere, Claire says to head to Sóller and the historic railway, Caves of Drach tour & sunset boat trip.
She said: “Sóller and the historic railway is one of the best day trips for me.
“You can step back in time because the train dates from 1912, with original wooden carriages still in use.
“The scenery is incredible, as the route crosses the Serra de Tramuntana, which is a UNESCO World Heritage mountain area, with tunnels, viaducts, and views of orange groves.
“It is a unique experience because it’s not just transport, it’s a slow, scenic journey through the countryside that you wouldn’t normally see.”
Another spot is the Caves of Drach tour which “allows you to explore a huge underground cave system”.
Claire added: “It features Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world.
“The visit ends with a live classical music concert on the water, which is so lovely.”
For something a little more romantic, Claire suggests hopping on a sunset boat trip.
She said: “Sunsets over the water give clearer, more intense colours and are great for those Insta-worthy photos and stories, with golden-hour views across the ocean and coastline.
“It often includes swimming, drinks, music, or food onboard, and it is great for families and couples wanting different scenery away from the hotel.”
Another must-visit spot for Claire is Cap de Formentor – a scenic drive with lots of different viewpoints.
“Each stop reveals a completely different view, so it’s like multiple viewpoints in one trip,” she revealed.
“It is an incredible sunrise and sunset spot, and it’s one of the most photographed spots in Majorca – I get that rare feeling of standing at the edge of the island.”
In the ’90s, two properties dominated Claire’s booking screen, and both remain icons of Majorcan tourism today: Club Mac and TUI BLUE Alcudia Pins.
“I must have sent thousands of families to Club Mac and Alcudia Pins,” Claire says.
“Back then, they were the gold standard for a hassle-free family holiday, and they’re still available to book on First Choice today, although I’m glad to say they’ve been updated.”
And when it comes to places to stay Claire still recommends Alcudia Pins, costing from £421 per person in October.
“Alcudia Pins is the location is hard to beat – it sits right on Playa de Muro, which is one of the best beaches in Majorca making this an ideal and great spot for families; the beachfront access alone makes a big difference,” Claire shared.
“It’s genuinely family-focused with lots of Kids’ clubs and activities, pools and entertainment and it’s close to the resort town for trips outside of the hotel.
“Also a good overall value hotel where customers can choose a self- catering or an all inclusive option giving them the choice to decide their board basis.”
Claire added: “In the ’90s, people thought Majorca was just cheap and cheerful.
“But even back then, those of us in-the-know knew it had some of the most stunning scenery in Europe.
“Today, the island has managed to preserve its traditional charm while upgrading its offering.”