The future of tourism on this island is a subject that causes much discussion in business and political circles here. Our local newspaper, the Diario Menorca, frequently carries articles and letters expressing strong views about why and how (not if!) the traditional season from May to September with basic beach holidays should be broadened out to encourage all-year-round tourism catering for a range of interests.

This is no doubt cue for the cry: “But most of the restaurants and hotels close in the winter, and what about flights....” But experience elsewhere demonstrates that, if suppliers are eager to make a good living, they are demand-led.

The island is justly proud of its status as a biosphere reserve, which leads to much ‘discussion’ about construction on rural land, golf courses (are they a good or bad thing from the environmental viewpoint), water sports, mooring and anchoring, etc. Where tourism drives a large section of the economy, there is an inevitable tension between developments to continue to attract wealthy groups who might otherwise go elsewhere, and the need to protect many of the natural features which attracted them in the first place. This is especially true of Menorca.

This year we have decided to ask you — The Tourist/visitor — whether you would consider visiting our lovely island outside the normal ‘season’: - say, between October and end of April and if you would be encouraged to do so by focusing your break on a particular activity. If, as we hope, we have a good response and some clear patterns emerge, we will pass our findings to the appropriate local govt. officials, the local newspaper, and GOB — independent ‘watchdog’ for conservation and the environment in the Balearics.

Please tick any activity that you and your family would find interesting — if more than one, please number in order of preference.

We would very much appreciate your input. Thank you and we hope you continue to enjoy this captivating island.

Tick your choice of activities in boxes on the left, If you would like classes then please tick the boxes on the right.