Joanna Lumley lends her velvety voice to Channel 5’s latest travelogue, “Majorca: Jewel of the Med.” Prepare for sweeping vistas of turquoise waters, sun-drenched beaches, and the inevitable shots of Lumley looking effortlessly chic while sampling local delicacies.
This isn’t just about pretty pictures, though. The program aims to explore the cultural heart of Majorca, from vibrant local festivals to the ancient craft of salt-making. We’ll witness the preparations for the Fisherman’s Fiesta in Port d’Andratx, learn about the unique Flor de Sal harvested from the Es Trenc lagoons, and observe artist Joan Aguilo at work on a mural in Petra. The challenges faced by local restaurants during the tourist season will also be examined, offering a glimpse beyond the postcard-perfect façade.
The program will undoubtedly highlight the island’s natural beauty, boasting 300 days of sunshine a year and a diverse landscape that includes the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and the plains of Es Pla. It will probably remind us all that Majorca attracts some 10 million tourists each summer.
Will Lumley unearth any real insights into Majorcan life, or will it be all sunshine, beaches, and enthusiastic pronouncements about the deliciousness of local olives?
“Majorca: Jewel of the Med” airs Thursday, 9 January, 2025, at 8:00 PM on Channel 5.
