The cost of Christmas

By Jason Moore I don't want to be a kill-joy, because I have thoroughly enjoyed the festive period, but I thought this year it has been more commercial than ever on Majorca. The bad habits from Northern Europe have certainly arrived with local businesses both large and small doing everything they can to squeeze the last euro out of the festive shopper, eater or reveller. It's been a major feat getting through the three week festive period from Christmas, to New Year and then Three Kings and still have money in the bank. Some of the prices being charged for New Year's Eve dinner by restaurants on the island were outrageous. Dinner for four could easily cost 1'000 euros; for those who need reminding, that is more than 150'000 pesetas, which four years ago was considered to be a good monthly wage. Shops were desperately trying for the clean-sweep; Christmas and Three Kings presents. A recent survey suggested that on average people would be spending in excess of 800 euros over Christmas, that is the average so for some people it will be far more. If people can afford it well best of luck to them and hope all goes well. But those who can't will have a nice shock when the credit card bill comes through the post. And with that thought in your mind may I remind you that the sales start today and the shops will all be open on Sunday!