The London Evening Standard is reporting that Prince William has whisked Kate Middleton off to the “party island” of Ibiza for a secret holiday with a group of friends. They are said to be mingling with thousands of tourists in the world’s clubbing capital.

What are we to make of this in light of the continuing speculation about an early wedding? We know they have rented a villa just a short drive from many of the island’s hot spots.

A source told the Evening Standard : “They just wanted to go and party in the sun like any other young couple. The Prince is on a break from military training at Sandhurst and wanted to let his hair down and have some fun. There are so many people there partying and so far they haven’t been recognized. It is amazing how you can disappear by just wearing a baseball cap, T-shirt and shorts.”

The couple are accompanied by two of William’s Scotland Yard protection officers. They will be needed. It’s estimated more than 40,000 ecstasy tablets are taken in Ibiza every night in the summer. Its main hospital treats more overdoses than anywhere else in the world.

The UK Daily Mail says : “… this time their change in destination reflects William and Kate’s new carefree style about their relationship.”

Have we been slipped another “smokescreen” here? Rumours of this couple’s vacation destinations have been rife over the past two weeks. From Teapot Cottage to the Kenyan outback, they can’t seem to get enough of airtravel — or themselves.