Get Rock Star Ready this Valentine’s Day

by Charlotte Ashton France

So who is fortunate enough to own a private island? Well rumours are rife but unless you are Richard Branson and want to rent out your island paradise then you are likely to try and keep it a secret.   Pirate of the Caribbean, Johnny Depp is said to own an island in the Bahamas; Steven Spielberg reportedly took a shine to the Portuguese island of Madeira and Mel Gibson chose Fiji as his location of secret seclusion.

Where would you choose? And what could you afford? Well perhaps not the whole island but you can have your very own slice of the Cacao Pearl – a pristine and private heart shaped tropical island laying in warm waters and home to coconut palms, papaya trees, rainforest, turtles and rare birds. With 3 km of dramatic coastline and coral reefs, located within the world-renowned Palawan archipelago, Cacao Pearl boasts four marine reserves and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. You and your loved one can chose from eight different beaches or disappear into a hidden cove for a romantic picnic, sunbathing and a swim in the tropical waters. 
Cacao Pearl is one of 1,780 islands that make up Palawan, an island province in south west Philippines and is one of the most romantic spots in the world. Imagine a white glove service, beyond-eco boutique resort community, sensitively developed to retain its natural, tropical charm whilst also offering the upmost in comfort, relaxation, and adventure. The chic residences have been designed exclusively for Cacao Resorts by former film art director Antonio Calvo (Love Actually, Pride & Prejudice) and built to exceed LEED standards for ecologically responsible construction. It is a carbon neutral resort and utilizes renewable energy sources; uniquely all net profits from the resort are invested in philanthropic projects through a Foundation which has been specifically set up to aid local community projects.
Where else in the world could you walk out of your home and pick mangoes and orchids for your breakfast tray. Then perhaps a dip in the hand crafted sunken deck tub followed by a relaxing hour or two in the Cliff Edge Spa where they will create bespoke oils and masks to suit your taste. And perhaps now a trip to the Chocolatier might seem in order – set in a tropical fruit orchard.

So don’t leave it to the likes of Mel Gibson and Johnny Depp – live your own celebrity dream on this ‘rock star ready’ island of love. The island residences are delivered in 1 or 2 bedroom configurations each with its own private nature-scaped garden estate of 800-1500 sqm. Bespoke residences are available to anyone with specific ideas or room plans. Prices from US$300,000 fully furnished, ready-to-rent. For more information contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858, visit http://www.cacao-pearl-island.co.uk/ or follow us at http://twitter.com/experience_int.

Everybody loves a Nice carnival

by Charlotte Ashton France

Many a town and city is rightfully proud of its annual carnival – the celebration of all things local attracting residents as well as visitors from further afield. However, not many people understand the origins of this well known event and even less so its historic association with some of the most glamorous and sunny holiday destinations in the world. One of those destinations is the southern French city of Nice on the Cote d’Azur.

Taking place during two weeks in February leading up to Mardi Gras, the city explodes into lively activity and colourful celebrations. The carnival processions, prestige soirées, rock and techno concerts, entertainment and fireworks attract approximately 1.2 million people each year to the Mediterranean city. It is the biggest winter festival along the French Rivera.
The carnival is also a very flowery celebration, characterized by the Battle of the Flowers (Batailles de Fleurs). Twenty huge floats parade up and down past the public along the famous Promenade des Anglais that overlooks the sea. Each float has a team of men and young women who throw 80-100,000 flowers out to the watching locals and tourists, before the celebration comes to a crescendo in the Place Masséna in the plush city centre. 90% of the Carnival de Nice flowers are grown locally and include gladioli, tokyos, mimosa, gerberas, roses, carnations and daisies. By night the flower laden floats give way to spectacular illuminations and on the last night an incredible fireworks display.
The history of the carnival is intertwined with the history of Nice itself. The word carnival originally means ‘carne levare’ or ‘away with the meat’ and is based on the tradition of fasting or living on a restrictive diet during Lent. The practice of large Lenten celebrations and street parties with spectators wearing huge masks dates back several centuries, with the earliest records in Nice dating back to 1294.
Before fasting for forty days according to the Catholic tradition of Lent, the inhabitants of the city enjoyed rich, plentiful cuisine typical of this bountiful region of France. The people used carnival as an excuse to eat, drink and make merry before undergoing an austere 40 days deprived of all carnal pleasures. Despite this heritage however, the practice was in danger of dying out around 200 years ago when Napoleon banned such events in 1797. The modern Nice carnival dates back to 1873.
The Nice Carnival has a history of influence across the world. It can be credited with the birth of the giant model, which has cropped up in other carnivals and festivals such as in the burning man festival held in Arizona. Such huge figures, which caused consternation when they were first introduced, have been a regular feature at the Nice Carnival for over one hundred years.
‘The Blue Planet’ is the green theme for this year’s celebration (which starts on the 12th February), with more than a million people expected to participate including many of France’s most avant garde artists and designers. The warm Mediterranean climate allows the early timing of the event and ensures that visitors to the city are spread more evenly throughout the year. This means February, March and April become a popular time to visit as just before and after the carnival the city isn’t so crowded.
Kirkor Ajderhanyan, Owner of Agence 107 Promenade says, “The Nice Carnival really is the most wonderful celebration. Not only is it a hugely impressive and spectacular event, it also serves to remind visitors of the numerous attractions associated with Nice and the Cote d’Azur, such as its bustling markets, charming narrow lanes, art, museums, food, beaches, harbours, baroque churches and stylish buildings. All these things can be found within walking distance of the Place Masséna, a beautiful and palatial part of the centre of Nice where the crescendo of the carnival happens right in front of your very eyes. And where better to enjoy the carnival than from your very own apartment? A beautiful and modern 2 bedroom apartment overlooking the Place Masséna with a 35sqm terrace costs €560,000, an excellent price for such an historic location.”
Mr Ajderhanyan continues, “If sea views beyond the festivities are what you’d prefer then the Promenade des Anglais is the place to live; apartments and penthouses here are hugely desirable and attract the attention of buyers across the world. Events such as the Nice Carnival further add to the appeal of living and owning property in Nice, especially along the famous ‘Prom’. Currently on the market is a modernised and affordable 1 bedroom apartment for €365,000; this apartment makes an excellent investment purchase, accommodation demand increases dramatically around the carnival so you stand to earn an income from your seafront property too. Or for bigger budgets €680,000 will get you a spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with priceless panoramic Mediterranean views.”
For more information please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.

New airport terminal set to boost interest in Hurghada

by Charlotte Ashton Egypt

 

The Red Sea resort of Hurghada in Egypt is set for a boost as plans for a new terminal at the international airport are announced. The Civil Aviation Ministry has signed contracts with a Saudi Arabian development group to construct the new terminal which will increase capacity from some 6.7 million to 7.5 million passengers annually. Located 5km from downtown Hurghada, the new terminal will cover 92,000 sq.m and cost of construction is estimated at 587 million Egyptian Pounds (approx £66 million). Completion is scheduled for 2011.
 
With Hurghada international airport the primary gateway to the popular holiday destinations of the Red Sea coast the additional capacity of the new terminal can only spell good news for tourism and in turn the second property market. As Steven Worboys, MD of international property experts, Experience International, comments:
 
“Interest in the Hurghada area as a location for a second property ownership has been strong, especially as the region has developed into an established tourism destination in recent years. The announcement of the new terminal is encouraging for property owners who will enjoy greater access to their own homes as well as capitalising on the opportunity to generate rental income from additional visitors to the area.”
 
For those interested in owning a second property with guaranteed rental income in Hurghada then the Florenza Khasmin development, located only 15 minutes from the international airport, is the right choice. With studios apartments available from only £21,000 and 6% guaranteed rental income and up to 4 weeks personal usage available investors had better move fast before the 15% price increase due at the beginning of February 2010. 
 
There has never been a better time to visit Egypt with the Post Office’s latest report (Jan 2010) stating that holiday makers should consider making a visit to the non euro zone country, only five hours flying time from the UK, to take advantage of the exchange rate. Calculating which currencies have moved most in favour against sterling over the last year, Egypt was placed in the top 3 with the Pound strengthening against the Egyptian pound by 14%.

For more information please contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858, visit http://www.experience-international.com/country/egypt or follow us at twitter.com/experience_int.

Saint Tropez comes to the Turkish Aegean

by Charlotte Ashton Turkey

International marina operator Camper & Nicholson have announced the 2010 opening of a new 400-berth marina in the Turkish Aegean resort of Cesme. Located in the shadow of an imposing Genoese fort that dominates the sleepy seaside town, the new marina development will include a sophisticated waterfront arcade, designed by Atelier Xavier Bohl, creators of the world-famous Port Grimaud in St Tropez.

”The marina should breathe new life into the town’s waterfront, while promoting Cesme to a wider international audience of holidaymakers and property buyers,” says Dominic Whiting, editor of the Buying in Turkey guide ( www.buyingin.co.uk ).
The opening of the Cesme marina comes hot on the heels of the inauguration of the $70 million, 600-berth D-Marin marina in the Turkish resort of Didim in May, 2009. There is also speculation that work on a long-stalled marina in Dalaman will commence next year.
These new marinas are part of the Turkish government’s ambitious strategy to increase marina capacity along the country’s beautiful Aegean and Mediterranean coastline from 25,000 berths to over 50,000 berths by the year 2023.
“The ultimate aim is to double the country’s share of the lucrative Mediterranean yacht tourism market from its present 5 percent to 10 percent,” explains Dominic Whiting, editor of the Buying in Turkey guide ( www.buyingin.co.uk ).
 
Located outside the eurozone, Turkey is attracting boat owners with its lower mooring fees and cheaper cost of living, as well as its beautiful unspoilt coastline – factors that have been attracting foreign property buyers for some time. Indeed, property close to Turkish marinas is available at a fraction of what it would cost in France, Spain or Portugal. For example, 2 bedroom apartments in Altinkum, close to the D-Marin Didim marina start from only £45,000. Or a fully furnished 3-bedroom apartment on a small complex with swimming pool just a 5 minute’s stroll from the new Cesme marina for £87,750. It is still possible to find a bargain within 15 minute’s drive of the country’s most upmarket yachting resort, Gocek, with three-bedroom villas in the beautiful Akkaya valley from £138,000.
For more information about these properties contact Buying in Turkey, Tel 0845 351 3551, www.buyingin.co.uk
——— Notes to Editor ———
On the market:
Akkaya Gardens, Dalaman 
Stunning award winning 2 and 3 bedroom apartments found in the unspoilt mountains of the Akkaya region. Prices start from £61,200 for more details contact Buying In Turkey collection on 0845 3513551 or visit www.buyingin.co.uk
Seabreeze Apartments, Sarigerme, Turkey
A small, exclusive development of 2 bedroom apartments and duplex’s situated within beautiful natural surroundings including orange groves, cotton and sunflower fields. These apartments offer stunning sea views set on the hillside and just a short walk from Sarigerme. Only 15km from Dalaman International Airport these properties are in a prime location. Prices start from £90,000 for more information contact the Buying In Turkey Collection on 0845 351 3551 or visit www.buyingin.co.uk.

From the Hollywood hills to the lush lands of Le Marche

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

Now more so than ever, promoting tourism destinations is big business with countries and regions knocking on Hollywood’s door to raise their international profile through celebrity endorsements. Involving the right personality can say a lot about how a destination is perceived by holidaymakers, investors and of course other fellow A-listers. It is no surprise then that the Italian region of Le Marche was elated to hear that top Hollywood actor Dustin Hoffman has fronted their television and cinema advertisement campaign. With the slogan ‘Italy all in one place’ the emphasis is on the numerous attractions of the region and its good value for money compared to the more expensive neighbouring region of Tuscany.

One of the twenty regions of Italy, Le Marche borders Tuscany, Umbria and Emelia Romagna and the Adriatic Coast. An increasingly popular tourist destination looking to increase its profile, Le Marche is priding itself as a destination which attracts visitors from all over the world throughout the year. Its two most notable draws, beautiful scenery and the finest Italian cuisine, encapsulate its claim as ‘real Italy’. Le Marche is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, with traditional villages and a beautiful coastline.
The provinces of Pesaro and Urbino boast riches beyond the fabulous food and scenery. Visits to Urbino province are seen as an absolute must. It was home to Italian artist Raphael and now prides itself on the abundance of Renaissance artwork on display. The region is also flush with local shopping centres and markets offering a wide range of produce from household items to food for your exquisite Italian dinner. The local markets always bustle and burst with life and Italian tradition, with local artisans showcasing their handcrafted furniture and ironmongery. Fashion plays a large role in Italian society and Le Marche doesn’t disappoint. There are a number of designer boutiques and outlets stocking luxury brands such as Prada, Armani and Cavalli.
The terrain of the region also lends itself well to many seasonal activities and sports. For the adventurously minded there is climbing, trekking, canoeing and scuba diving as well as skiing. More gentile pursuits include golf, horse-riding, wine tasting at local vineyards or visiting the opera. The increasing popularity of this region is also assisted by its accessibility. There are frequent low-cost flights from London airports to the regional airport at Ancona, as well as other UK flights to nearby airports.
Steve Worboys, Managing Director of Experience International and a true Italianophile, enthuses:
“The fact that a Hollywood heavyweight like Dustin Hoffman believes in Le Marche enough to become the face of the region speaks volumes. Although the region is still not an established tourist spot, Le Marche is being heralded as the next big thing as far as the property market is concerned with its wide appeal to visitors, holidaymakers and property investors alike.
‘We are delighted to be offering properties in this emerging Italian region; on the market is Casa Serafini, formerly the ancestral home of the influential Serafini family, which combines traditional and historical features with modern design. Owners can enjoy communal swimming pools, Jacuzzis and tennis courts all within walking distance of local restaurants, shops, coastal towns and sandy beaches, Casa Serafini offers investors a palatial ‘real Italy’ experience with a deposit of 20% and cashback available on selected units for a limited time.”
This truly spectacular development is set in the village of Bargni, in the heart of Le Marche which is tipped to be the next ‘Tuscany’ but without the price tag. Comprising one, two and three bedroom unique properties starting from €227,500. For more information please contact Experience International on +44 (0)207 321 5858 or visit www.italian-property-sale.co.uk.

Turkey on top for travel and property in 2010

by Charlotte Ashton Turkey

With the credit crunch still affecting wallets, holidaymakers are keen to find the best value deals. According to tour operators, bargain hunters are favouring pocket-friendly destinations such as Turkey, with budget airlines introducing new services to cater for the growing demand.

Turkey is one of Britain’s most popular holiday destinations for 2010, according to The Co-operative Travel, which has reported an 82 per cent increase in bookings to the Turkish airport of Dalaman compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, Thomas Cook is adding 20 new Turkish hotels this year to keep up with growing demand.
Turkey is increasingly popular with independent traveller too. Search results released by internet travel website Skyscanner show that Dalaman is the 5th most popular airport searched for from UK airports in 2010.
Growing demand has seen the introduction of many new flights for the 2010 season. Budget airline easyJet has announced five new services to the Turkish resorts of Bodrum and Dalaman from Bristol, Stansted and Gatwick, to add to their existing Istanbul and Dalaman routes.
Turkish budget carrier Pegasus Airlines will fly 17 routes from the UK, including new services from London to Bodrum and Dalaman; Manchester to Antalya and Dalaman, and Birmingham to Antalya and Bodrum. Jet2.com has announced low cost flights to Dalaman from East Midlands Airport and Thomas Cook has added weekly flights from Exeter to Dalaman to its existing services.
More British tourists and easier accessibility from the UK will have a profound effect on the Turkish property market, with demand for property expected to rise significantly according to Dominic Whiting, editor of the Buying in Turkey guide.
“More budget flight options, particularly from regional airports, and the growing number of British tourists holidaying in Turkey is excellent news for the property sector and promises to add to the country’s appeal with home buyers, boost market activity and speed up the post-credit crunch recovery,” says Whiting.
For more information contact Buying In Turkey Collection on 0845 351 3551 or visit www.buyingin.co.uk.
—– ENDS —–
On the market in Dalaman:
The Hills – Olive Grove Villas, Akkaya, Dalaman
Stunning award winning detached 3 bedroom villas, in Akkaya Valley in The Hills development from only £152,000 to £156,000. Contact Buying In Turkey Collection on 0845 351 3551 or visit www.buyingin.co.uk for more information.

Spice island of Grenada ranks as top overseas wedding destination

by Charlotte Ashton Grenada

Tropical Sky, the luxury travel specialist, has named the Caribbean island of Grenada as a top 10 destination to get married. Known as the ‘spice island’, Grenada has seen an increase in couples looking to tie to knot overseas in turn boosting local tourism and spelling good news for property owners.

The overseas wedding market has grown steadily in recent years with 1 in 6 British couples marrying overseas in 2008. Main motivators for weddings abroad include cost savings and the avoidance of stress, not to mention reliable weather! The Caribbean remains a top choice for couples seeking seclusion, sunshine and special moments and luxury resorts such as the 5 star Bacolet Bay Resort & Spa, situated on the south eastern coast, offer use of a traditional Grenadian wedding chapel, just meters from the beach and with stunning ocean views.
This trend for overseas weddings is proving lucrative for Grenadian property owners also who are enjoying:
ü Increased tourism to the island
ü Improvements in infrastructure and amenities       
ü Better accessibility such as increased flights by British Airways from the UK 
ü Demand for high quality accommodation
ü Year round rental returns of up to 14% p.a.
ü Strong capital growth
For those interested in owning a piece of paradise then a number of luxury hotel cottages are available to purchase at Bacolet Bay with just an initial cash outlay of £2600. For more information please contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858 or visit http://www.grenada-real-estate.co.uk.  

More than A Year in Provence?

by Charlotte Ashton France

The bestselling novel ‘A Year in Provence’, made famous a few years later in the BBC drama, celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year. Many remember the late John Thaw as author Peter Mayle, documenting his memories and experiences of moving to south east France. However John Thaw was not to the only one to captivate British audiences; the sunny, beautiful and appealing lifestyle which inspired the novel caused many to fall in love with the region of Provence itself turning it into one of the most sought after second home destinations in the world.

One of the most powerful draws for outsiders is the region’s scenery, which comprises sandy beaches on the coast, large picturesque valleys and fields carpeted with flowers and olive trees. This has always attracted artists of one type or another, be they novelists or painters like Van Gogh, Renoir, Monet and Picasso who loved to visit and exploit what they could see for the sake of art. The countryside around Avignon for example, in the Vaucluse region, is regarded as being some of the most beautiful in France.
In addition to the year round sunny climate and sun-ripened locally produced food, vegetables and herbs, the region is noted for its wines which have been fermented for nearly three thousand years and have recently seen a surge in popularity. Also lauded is the cuisine of Provence, which results from the warm, dry Mediterranean climate and the abundance seafood from the coast.
Avignon itself sports the ancient and the modern, with three miles of fortified walls and the highly historic Palais des Papes on the one hand, and the rather more up to date opera house and university on the other. Streets and squares are often full of buskers, and the Avignon festival in July, which includes theatre, mime and cabaret, has now become a major European event. Once the Papal residence, Avignon is now a cheerful town of cafés, art galleries and fashionable shops whilst France´s oldest city, nearby Marseille, is a famously bustling port with a lively local atmosphere.
Provence has a rich history. Although Marseilles and Nice were founded in 600 BC by the Greeks, the Romans left their mark on the area in many ways, even down to the name, derived from the word ‘province’. The architecture, culture and scenery of Nimes, Arles, the magnificent theatre at Orange and the Pont du Gard are amongst the finest examples of Roman buildings in Europe. Small, hilltop villages and hamlets with cobbled streets are dotted all over the region and feature Medieval, Gallic, Roman and even some prehistoric structures, such as the village of Malaucène situated near Avignon.
Such peaceful and relaxing climes have always attracted Britons looking for a better life away from some of the harsh realities of the British rough and tumble. Surveys also indicate that Britain and France are at the opposite ends of the lifestyle league table. An extensive survey undertaken earlier this year by price comparison website uSwitch.com found that although UK income was highest in Europe, the highest performing country in their ‘Quality of Life Index’ was France. UK workers were found to work longer, die earlier and pay more for goods, services and everyday consumer items than the French. It’s no surprise that these features make France the most visited country in the world attracting some 79.3 million tourists in 2008 alone and a top destination for expats.
Steven Worboys, MD of international property specialist Experience International, comments:
“Increasingly Britons are looking towards the kind of bright and beautifully relaxing parts of France that Peter Mayle wrote so famously about twenty years ago and particularly so now that only €2000 is needed to invest in new property in the area. Our charming development which allows one to take all the pleasures of Provence benefits from an exceptional situation in the heart of the magnificent French countryside, just a few steps away from the historic centre of Malaucène.”
 
 
Les Mazets du Ventoux – €197,688 + VAT (refunded)
The development comprises 18 high quality 1 and 2 bedroom apartments ranging in sizes, due to complete in June 2011. Les Mazets du Ventoux properties will offer tiling or wooden parquet floors, fully equipped kitchens, upper class bathrooms, flat screen TV and fully furnished. In addition on-site facilities will include: Outdoor heated swimming pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, massage parlour and a park. The Management service will also provide a personalised reception for the owners, cleaning and beds made up on arrival and a dedicated ownership service.
For further information contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858 or visit www.france-properties.co.uk.

Harvest the rewards of an investment in a French vineyard…

by Charlotte Ashton France

 

Ever dreamed of rolling hills punctuated by vines laden with rich fruit, ripe for picking, the bright sun warming your land, in advance of a plentiful harvest? With the pressures of modern life and the stress of the daily commute taking its toll on a nation struggling to pull itself out of what has become known as the worst recession faced in 100 years (according to MP Ed Balls), many British people are looking to the French countryside to make their dream of owning a vineyard a reality.
 
There are many reasons why France is the obvious and increasingly desirable choice for those looking to make this Utopian dream come true. Quite apart from the association that makes it synonymous with wine-making that dates back thousands of years, France has a great deal to offer those looking to make a new life abroad. Known to boast a more relaxed pace of life than the UK, this has recently been confirmed in a study by uSwitch.com which compared the UK with nine other European countries. The Quality of Life Index revealed that the quality of life in the UK is the poorest in Europe, whereas that of France was the best quality. Various factors contributed to this positive result for France, with the country spending the greatest amount on healthcare and having one of the lowest retirement ages of all the countries surveyed. Not only this but the French can expect to live around two years longer than their fellow Brits and France ranks behind only Italy and Spain in terms of hours of sunshine.
 
Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com explains that although the UK has the highest wealth, this does not necessarily determine quality of life:
 
“There is more to good living than money and this report shows why so many Brits are giving up on the UK and heading to France and Spain… For too long the focus in the UK has been on standard of living rather than quality of life. As a result we have lost all sense of balance between wealth and well-being.” 
 
It is clear, therefore why such numbers of Brits visit France on an annual basis (2007 saw France attract 81.9 million tourists, according to the French Government Tourist Office, an increase of 3.8% on the previous year) and it is easy to see why so many decide to make the move to France a permanent one. When deciding to start a business in France, wine-making and owning a vineyard is an obvious and aspirational choice, for not only is the French culture heavily entwined with wine – France produces 550 million cases a year, according to winedefinitions.com – but there is also a great British love affair with wine (Alain Marty, president of the Wine & Business Club and wine commentator recently having credited the British as ‘good at choosing wines carefully, they really know their stuff’).
 
Owning a French vineyard is a dream for many British, and in reality more and more are realising this ambition as changes in government policy have led to greater numbers of vineyards becoming available for purchase. With property prices in France stable and the country having now officially emerged from recession, buying a vineyard can offer an interesting opportunity to overseas buyers and those looking to relocate.
 
Kirkor Ajderhanyan, Managing Director and Owner of Agence 107 Promenade, a local agency that sell exclusive property between Cannes and Monaco, recognises the appeal for British buyers,
 
“Owning and running a vineyard is undoubtedly hard work, but the sense of achievement – as well as potential financial returns – that producing and selling your own wine can give you is second to none. Not only this, but to live in a luxurious property, surrounded by beautiful French countryside extending as far as the eye can see, is a dream-come-true for many. Purchasing a French vineyard is not simply a property and land purchase, it truly is an investment in a way of life.”
 
From Burgundy to Bordeaux, there are multiple French regions that are tantamount with wine production, but when looking to relocate to France and build a new life as well as a wine business, it is important to consider the area as a whole and whether you could envisage daily life there. One region that has wide appeal is Provence, where not only some of the country’s most famous wines are made, but which also has a great deal to offer those looking at relocating. This region in south-eastern France is famed for its unique micro-climate and stunning sweeping countryside, as well as picturesque towns and villages, scattered throughout the hills. Saint Rémy de Provence is one such village, encircled by the remains of 14th century fortifications, and one of the oldest in France. The location where Van Gogh painted ‘Starry Night’ and Nostradamus was born, Saint Rémy is 20km south of Avignon and 90km from Marseille.
 
Close by, a 25 hectare vineyard, currently producing 75,000 bottles of wine a year can be purchased, near to Château Neuf du-Pape and very well-known for its white, rosé and red wines. The vineyard’s wine is sold throughout the world and it is actively participating in tasting competitions in which it has been very successful. With a main property built in the 18th century in Provençal style, as well as a swimming pool, the vineyard consists of several buildings, including a wine warehouse and wine cellar, sanitary facilities and agricultural warehouse.
 
On the market for €7,300,000, for further information contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.

Family Holiday Heaven

by Charlotte Ashton Turkey

 

Looking for the perfect place for a family holiday in 2010? Turkey may just be it. Now Britain’s Mediterranean escape of choice, over 2 million British holidaymakers visited last year – many of them families. So why is Turkey so popular, and which are the best areas to buy a dream holiday property in the sun?
 
Undoubtedly, the main draw for most sun-starved Brits is the country’s glorious weather, with sunshine and blue skies guaranteed throughout the long summer season – which stretches from May to October. The weather at Easter and the summer and autumn half-term holidays may actually be better for younger kids than the hottest months of July and August when temperature are well into the 30’s, though even in the height of summer most coastal area have a cooling breeze.
 
The next ingredient for a happy holiday – a sandy beach – can be found all along the Turkish coast. Some of the best beaches are Sarigerme in Dalaman, Oludeniz near Fethiye, Patara near Kalkan and the beaches around Belek and Side in Antalya province. But there are many other smaller coves and sandy stretches to lay out your beach towel and build sand castles.
 
For older children there are water sports like windsurfing, sailing, water skiing and parasailing available in most resorts and tours can be arranged to the historic sites and ruins that are scattered along the Turkish coast.
 
Another important draw for families is how child-friendly Turkey is. Wherever you go, from shops to restaurants, expect the children to be doted on and spoilt. It is also an extremely safe country for you and the kids, with low crime-rates compared to the UK.
 
Reached in 3-4 hours flying time from UK airports, there is no long-haul nightmare getting there and back. The choice of flights is good with charter operators like Thompson and Thomas Cook and no-thrills airlines Easyjet, who fly from Gatwich to Dalaman, Pegasus and Flyglobespan, who operate from Scottish airports.
 
Sitting outside the eurozone makes Turkey an excellent value holiday destination. Even before the credit crunch Turkish property was significantly cheaper than traditional Mediterranean favourites like Spain. With the global slow-down prices for resale property have dropped in the main resorts and developers are offering some excellent deals. Most new complexes in Turkey have been designed specifically with families in mind and have great facilities such as large swimming pools and tennis courts to keep the kids entertained for hours. It is also likely they will find other English-speaking friends to play with, leaving the adults free to relax.
 
 
Checklist for the perfect family holiday home
 
  1. Choose a property within 1 hour of the nearest airport
  2. Choose a development with good communal facilities
  3. Choose an area with activities locally
  4. Select a resort where there are other English-speaking kids
Holiday Home Hot Spots
 
Kusadasi
 
Located on the Aegean coast close to Izmir airport, Kusadasi is popular with families because there is so much to do in the area. There are great beaches, water parks and the historic ruins of Efesus. The nearby Dilek National Park is perfect for family picnics on the beach.
The Melito Villas are large 4 bedroom semi-detached villas within easy walking distance of the beach. There’s a huge communal pool visible from all the houses, so you can keep an eye on the kids while relaxing on your terrace. Prices from £71,500, with mortgages available.
For details contact Buying in Turkey, Tel 0845 351 3551, www.buyingin.co.uk
 
 
 
Dalaman
 
Unspoilt Dalaman has plenty to keep the family busy including boat trips, nature tours, mud baths, white-water rafting and the Blue Flag beach at Sarigerme, which is one of the few beaches in Turkey with life guards. For the adults, an 18-hole golf course is opening in 2010 at the Hilton Dalaman Golf and Spa Resort. The international airport has plenty of flights from the UK and the kids can be playing in the pool within an hour of touch down.
 
Akkaya Gardens is a family-friendly development with excellent facilities including a large outdoor swimming pool, an indoor pool, sauna, a fitness centre and a café. The surrounding woods are great for exploring and there are exciting boat trips up the Dalaman river gorge. The last remaining 2 bedroom apartments start from £54,500, with 3 bedroom villas from £132,000. For details contact Curbanoglu, Tel 0845 355 5625, www.curbanoglu.co.uk
 
 
Altinkum & Akbuk
 
Good beaches and lots of activities for the kids make Altinkum a firm favourite with British families. Nearby Akbuk is a lot quieter, but has some great sandy beaches too. The area has some of the cheapest property on the Turkish coast with two-bedroom apartments with communal pools starting from £45,000. For details contact Buying in Turkey, Tel 0845 351 3551, www.buyingin.co.uk
 
 
 
 
Notes for editors
 
Buying in Turkey
Buying in Turkey is the UK’s leading independent guide to buying and owning property in Turkey. First published in 2005, the 140-page guide has helped hundreds of people purchase villas, holiday apartments, investment properties and retirement homes in Turkey. The guide is available for free download from www.buyingin.co.uk