Bio fuels ripe for investment

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom

If only there were investment opportunities which made a positive impact on the environment… well, the Jatropha tree could be your answer. For centuries where the Jatropha bush was not seen as a weed it has been used for medicinal purposes, however today, the plum-like fruit really is ripe for investment as Jatropha has been propelled to the forefront of the bio fuels industry also known as green oils and bio diesel.

This unlikely plant is considered one of the ‘greenest’ bio fuels currently available although it has not yet reached significant levels of commercial production. The oil produced from the seeds in the fruit is used in blends of bio diesel which can be applied to run diesel transportation and the residue from the oil production can be processed into biomass to power electricity plants. Air New Zealand, in cooperation with Boeing and Rolls Royce, recently conducted a successful test flight using bio jet fuel, hailed as a ‘milestone for commercial air traffic’. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is so serious on converting to bio fuels to help combat carbon emissions that they are willing to offer 10% of the jet fuel need with alternative bio fuels until 2017.
It isn’t just the air industry however, that is embracing this new type of fuel, the UK government has recently committed to a Renewables Fuel for Transport Obligation which mandates a 10% blend of bio-diesel in all regular diesel by 2010, involvement brings some tax advantages and there will also be penalties for non-compliance. The EU has mandated that all cars must be powered by 20% bio diesel by 2020. The oil giant BP is reportedly investing £32 million into a Jatropha joint-venture with D1 Oils and even Bob Geldoff is investing; he has become a special advisor to Helius Energy, another British company developing the use of Jatropha as an alternative to fossil fuels.
So how is Jatropha ‘green’?
Bio fuels on the whole reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 80% and carbon monoxide by 50% and due to this, bio fuels are becoming an increasingly important part of global energy policies. The use of Jatropha itself in blends of bio diesel is a more sustainable crop than many others, palm oil, corn or rape seed oil for example. The bushes grow on marginal land not suitable for growing food products and they can produce fruit for up to 50 years. Being a hardy and resilient plant too it can even survive droughts.
The farming of Jatropha contributes to poor, rural communities creating employment and the plants assist in reversing the impact of deforestation, bringing degraded land back into positive use. The most compelling argument in favour of Jatropha as a feed-stock aside from how cheap it is to buy and grow, is its inedibility, the seeds are highly poisonous. Therefore, as it does not use food-crop farming land and can not be eaten it offers a solution to the food vs fuel debate. As Jatropha grows it absorbs carbon dioxide too, essentially making the plant carbon neutral even when it is burned for fuel.
With such convincing reasons to turn to Jatropha for a fuel alternative, now is the time to invest in this tree. Experience International together with carefully selected partners is offering income-producing investments at the very first stages of Jatropha production. In the Nursery Programme you invest in the trees which are registered in your name, in a GPS-identified location, to which you own full title and which you can sell at any time. The management company farms your trees and sends you your money – completely hassle-free. Returns on investment in the first 5 years could reach 345% equating to returns of £28,875 over 5 years on a £7500 initial outlay.
In securing an investment in Jatropha bushes you would be joining the Indian government with 27.5 million acres and China with their expectation to plant 3.5 million acres by 2010. Lex Worrall, the CEO of Helius Energy states, “Every hectare can produce 2.7 tonnes of oil and about 4 tonnes of biomass. Every 8,000 hectares of the plant can run a 1.5 megawatt station, enough to power 2,500 homes.”
Jatropha can create a high quality bio fuel without destroying food crops or rainforest, it is an environmentally friendly and financially savvy investment. Invest in the Nursery Programme today and download your investment guide at http://www.jatropha-biofuel.co.uk/
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Nursery Programme:
Invest in specific green oil-producing Jatropha trees which are registered in your name, in a GPS-identified location, to which you own full title and which you can sell at any time. The management company farms your trees and sends you your money – completely hassle-free. Your conservatively projected returns are:
·                       Year 1 – 13%
·                       Year 2 – 53%
·                       Year 3 – 93%
·                       Year 4 – 93%
·                       Year 5 – 93%
·                       Return for first 5 years – 345%
·                       Investment payback period – 2.4 years
There is no maximum investment – you can invest as much as you choose, subject to availability. There are no set-up fees, no management fees, and no annual fees: what you see is what you get. On an investment of £10,000 this equates to:
·                       Year 1 – £1,300
·                       Year 2 – £5,300
·                       Year 3 – £9,300
·                       Year 4 – £9,300
·                       Year 5 – £9,300
·                       Total for first 5 years – £34,500
Invest £7500 to receive returns of £28,875 over 5 years
Invest £25,000 to receive returns of £86,250
Invest £100,000 to receive returns of £345,000
Experience International: 0207 321 5858or www.experience-international.com
Further research:
 
Jatropha has been used to fly a Boeing which is a environmental and economic breakthrough as many bio fuels tend to have properties which restrict their use in aviation.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6278140.stm

The winning property Formula in Malaysia

by Charlotte Ashton Malaysia

It is once again the season where the fast and the furious take to the circuit; wheels are hotting up and on the 5th April they’ll be even hotter as Formula One 2009 revs up for the second race of the season at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.

Thousands of Formula One followers will be flocking to Malaysia to witness the motor racing spectacle and although Sepang International is unlikely to fill the full capacity of 130,000 due to the current economic climate, there will certainly be enough visitors to have a positive impact on Malaysian tourism and associated industries including accommodation.  
The organisers aren’t giving up on six figure visitor numbers that easily however, they have scheduled supporting events to take place over the weekend including a high profile post-race concert by Jamiroquai, in order to further appeal to the lucrative European market.
‘Alive with Adrenalin’ is the Sepang International Circuit motto, their forward thinking approach coupled with their three-point formula of ‘the Fun’, ‘the Experience’ and ‘the Convenience’, April promises to satisfy the avid motor enthusiasts and new spectators alike. Other events and competitions will be taking place over the weekend such as pit tours, autograph sessions and Go-kart lessons, creating an unforgettable experience.
It isn’t just the Circuit itself that is laying on entertainment for visitors, the Kuala Lumpur Grand Prix City programme will provide further fun for the fans adding to the combination of motor sports and music.
So, ‘the Fun’ and ‘the Experience’ have definitely been taken care of, leaving only ‘the Convenience’ to polish off the 11th Malaysian Formula One experience. Sepang International Circuit, close to the beach resort of Sepang is only a few miles from the award winning Kuala Lumpur International Airport, catering for up to 25 million passengers a year from across the globe. With transportation taken care of visitors also need a place to rest their heads and as Sepang is an international tourist destination, accommodation options range from hotels to private rental property.
Steve Worboys, MD of UK based real estate agency Experience International, comments, “Malaysia and the Sepang District in particular has proved incredibly popular with overseas property buyers. Many view the destination purely as an affordable, idyllic long-haul holiday destination but there are also buyers investing in property to take advantage of events such as the Malaysian Grand Prix. These events hold worldwide visitor appeal with the knock on effect of huge spikes in rental property.”
The Malaysian Grand Prix roars style and excitement and for property owners it is a winning combination. To get your property on the grid call Experience International for more information on +44 (0)207 321 5858or visit www.experience-international.com.
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Property for sale in the Sepang District, Malaysia:
Golden Palm Tree Water Villa
The Golden Palm is an exotic Gold Coast residence with the unique architectural feature of being situated on stilts over the sea. With fantastic facilities such as swimming pool, gym, spa and even a library, this resort is ecologically sustainable and the villa designs follow both Polynesian and Maldivian architecture.
Known as ‘The longest coastal paradise in Asia’ these stunning villas are built to a high specification and prices start from £102,400 / €110,970. For more information contact Experience International on +44 (0)207 321 5858or visit www.experience-international.com.
Sea-Tropics Village, Sepang, Malaysia
Sea-Tropics Villageis an exotic Gold Coast development with the unique design features of Maldivian Polynesian architecture. Overlooking a stunning landscape, the longest swimming pool in Malaysia, Koi ponds and the glorious coastline of Malaysia, villas are available in 2 and 3 bedroom styles.
Sea-Tropics Village also offers fantastic facilities such as a state of the art gym, spa and running and cycling tracks with various other historical and cultural opportunities in the surrounding areas. Shops, restaurants and bars are also available in the heart of the resort on Sepang Walk.
Only 25 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur International Airport these villas start from £111,531 / €120,911 for more information contact Experience International on +44 (0)207 321 5858or visit www.experience-international.com
Useful links:

Why our love for Spain just isn´t on the wane

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

At the beginning of the year Skyscanner.net revealed their top 10 most searched for destinations by UK visitors for travel in 2009 and Spanish locations including Malaga, Alicante, Tenerife, Palma and Murcia secured five of the top ten spots and nearly a quarter of the top 50. As the recession bites, consumers still want to enjoy their overseas summer holidays to which they have become accustomed but are looking at cheaper destinations and to take advantage of discounts being offered by tour operators such as Thomas Cook who are reported to be offering up to £150 off breaks to Spain as part of their ´Holiday Sale´.
 
And it´s not just summer holiday makers who are viewing Spain as a destination of choice as more foreign nationals than ever before are choosing to get married in popular Spanish resorts such as the Costa del Sol. Reduced costs prompt many to make the choice but the climate, scenery and culture also prove real draws.
 
The Spanish government is well aware of the importance of the tourism sector to the country´s overall economic health accounting for approximately 11% of jobs and GDP and so the additional €600 million which will be allocated in 2009 to help the tourism industry face global competition (in addition to the €400 million allocated and spent in 2008) is most welcome. The funds will be used to upgrade and modernize existing tourism facilities, infrastructure and accommodation and it is hoped that the projects will provide much needed employment, especially for those construction workers made redundant through the collapse of the property boom.
 
One area in particular is receiving significant investment – the Costa del Sol. Dubbed the ´Playground of Europe´ this stretch of Mediterranean coastline has for nearly 50 years been a focal point for visitors seeking sun, sea and sand not to mention luxury living. And now over €5 million is being invested by the Spanish tourism authorities to upgrade 12 beaches stretching from Torremolinos to Casares, with new shower facilities and lighting being installed as well as promenade construction and maintenance.
 
Adding to the magic of Marbella, the social centre of the Costa del Sol, a new hotel called Lorcrimar is expected to open at Easter according to publicist (and Marbella home owner) Max Clifford´s Times column and with its restaurant, Sisu Novelli, being run by the famous French chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli it´s sure to be a real draw.
 
It´s not however just good food and clean beaches that are attracting British attention to Spain. The enduring love affair with Spanish property and the dream to start a new life in the sun does not seem to be abating, even in light of the weakening of the pound.
 
Recent surveys such as the Jan – Feb 2009 statistics from overseas property portal PropertyIndex.com support this with data revealing a 26% rise in searches for Spanish property compared to the same period last year. Julia Norton, Sales Manager of the new Champneys Marbella resort, comments,
 
"Having worked in the Spanish property market for nearly a decade I firmly believe that Spain is an enduring market and has something for everyone. Britons have an affinity for this country and many still see it as a viable alternative to recession hit Britain.
 
"I have seen however that buyers demands´ are changing; with such a glut of property stock available buyers are becoming far more selective about what and where they purchase. They are looking not necessarily for cheap, entry level properties but for value for money, for well constructed, well located homes with potential for return on their investment."
 
And the new Champneys Marbella resort nestled in the hills overlooking Marbella is one such development which offers not only luxury living but will capitalise on the burgeoning spa tourism sector. The first Champneys resort outside the UK comprises 2 bedroom apartments and penthouses all finished to the highest of standards. The 2 bedroom apartments boast interior gardens, state of the art gas fireplaces, stunning courtyards with peaceful Moorish fountains, and high quality marble bathrooms, hot and cold air-conditioning and fully fitted kitchens, with prices starting at €696,358. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses left featuring the same first class features alongside the luxury of private lifts to both of the two floors, double height ceilings and stunning galleried second bedrooms as well as a private plunge pool, with prices at €971,729 and €1,026,705.
 
The Champneys resort now under construction offers the very best in facilities, with heated indoor and outdoor pools, twenty-five therapy rooms, manicure salon, sauna and Turkish bath, Jacuzzi terrace, and gymnasium, as well as relaxation areas, sun terraces, conservatory gardens, Moorish Plaza with hanging gardens and water features and Champneys clubhouse and restaurant.
 
Owners can also take advantage the Champneys Rental Pool which means that the resort will manage the rental of the property and in turn tie it in with Champneys Spa Packages, thus encouraging the best potential rental.
 
For more information about buying in Spain or indeed in the Champneys Marbella project please call Julia on 01442 291200 or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

A breath of fresh air in Marbella

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

Driving upwards through the winding mountain road, the sea falling below you and sun bright and warm on your face you are surrounded by fresh, green slopes and birds calling in the distance. As you reach the idyllic pueblo blanco your body starts to relax, turn left and you’re there… Champneys Marbella… Just like the start to a good novel, Champneys Marbella sets the scene perfectly for your spa retreat. Nestled in the foothills of the Parque Natural Sierra de las Nieves, the resort is the perfect place to relax, unwind and absorb the fresh air of the expansive nature reserve.
 
Behind the city of Marbella in Spain’s Andalucía province and in a unique area where mountains meet the sea and the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea the Sierra de las Nieves natural park is rich in flora and fauna. The park has been of interest to botanists across the world throughout history and in 1995 was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Several species of deer, birds of prey including the golden eagle roam the reserve finding shelter in the Mediterranean pine forests.
 
It is these same forests that have attracted the likes of the health and spa brand Champneys who operate 4 award winning resorts in the UK. The combination of location, Mediterranean climate and accessibility lends itself to a luxurious spa resort destination. Unlike the UK resorts it is possible for people to invest into the lifestyle and the brand in Champneys Marbella. William Claridge has bought a penthouse on the resort and is also a regular visitor to Champneys Springs in Leicestershire. He comments, “The first thing I do when I get to Springs is relax for an hour or so then go for a massage, you can’t beat it, well I thought that until I heard about the Champneys Marbella project.I can enjoy the sunshine, relax in the spa or my penthouse and I have the flexibility to use my property when I want.”
 
Fresh air is itself key to wellbeing and good health. Air pollution, mainly from traffic, has been linked to cardiovascular diseases and asthma, of course other factors such as smoking and diet affect these afflictions. This is one of the reasons that Champneys Marbella has a holistic approach to its spa resort utilising the natural resources around it, there will be no cars on the development, owners drive through an underground network to reach their building.
 
Champneys Marbella has been sympathetically designed to fit into its surroundings using the best of ancient Moorish architecture maximising light and the natural resources. Apartment owners at Champneys will enjoy an interior courtyard with running water from the abundant natural spa, further bringing nature into the home to enhance the feeling of wellbeing. Even prior to building the land was cleared and every tree was replanted in the grounds including olive trees, orange, lemon and avocado trees.
 
The resort has been carefully and compassionately planned for the benefit of both the visitors and the surroundings and if you wish to unwind in your own Spanish sanctuary contact Champneys Marbella for more information on 01442 291200 or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
 
 
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Champneys Marbella Spa Resort:
 
Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Heads, Champneys, Knees and Toes…

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

What is your health worth to you? Enough to buy vitamin supplements each month? Enough to buy a new bike? Or even enough to buy a home on a spa resort? What would seem like an extreme purchase is becoming more common as people opt for a healthy way of life in every way possible.
 
As a nation we have developed an obsession for looking good and feeling great, something that can be achieved in a spectrum of ways from supplements to surgery. I think to myself, ‘Why go through the torment of flaky nails when you can pop down to your local shop and buy a perfect set to glue on?’ The short cuts are endless … There is a point however, when this desire to look good overtakes and dominates the need to fight illness and be truly happy, something which can only be achieved through a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
 
When it comes to that all important balance, spa resorts can offer the guidance needed on nutrition, exercise and de-stressing and of course they offer the opportunity to indulge in pampering treatments. In 2008 the spa industry was estimated to be worth over US$250 billion according to the Global Spa Summit, and when considering the broader industry of beauty, nutrition and fitness this figure reached US$1 trillion a testament to the importance of this sector globally. And in hard economic times the need to combat stress and maintain good health will surely only increase.
 
The opportunities to make spas and health resorts a part of your everyday life are increasing, and we are not simply talking about your 3 times a week fix at the gym! The Champneys Spa Resorts have created a unique proposition for serious health and lifestyle investors; it is possible to buy your own home on a spa resort bringing the spa to your doorstep… literally. The Champneys Marbella resort will be the first of its kind for the resort group and nestled in the foothills of the Costa del Sol coastline in Spain, it will bring that extra richness of sunshine and Mediterranean diet.
 
Owners will have daily spa and fitness suite access, a choice of restaurants on site promoting a balanced diet and nutrition, plus perks such a comprehensive concierge service will help take the strain out of everyday chores. With prices starting at €696,358 for a 2 bedroom apartment, it isn’t a frivolous health purchase, however it is a sound financial investment. Owners have the option to place their property into a Champneys rental pool so when you are not using it you have the possibility to earn an income from your home by renting it to other like minded spa goers.
 
For those people who are looking to turn their life around to gain that all important wellness and health balance, Champneys Marbella could offer the living solution for you.
 
For more information contact 01442 291200 or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
 
 
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About Champneys Marbella:
 
Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Time to check in to Bulgaria´s happening hotel sector

by Charlotte Ashton Bulgaria

 

Despite concerns that EU member state Bulgaria is succumbing to the negative effects of the economic recession along with its other CEE neighbours, recent reports indicate an 8.4% increase in tourist revenue in 2008 (NSI Bulgaria), giving investors hope that the country´s hotel sector could be a ticket out of the downturn for 2009.
 
There are now over 3200 hotels, hostels and lodgings across Bulgaria, offering a total of 130,000 rooms, which is a 7.3% growth compared to 2007 figures. Over 120 new hotels opened last year, the majority of which were located in cities such as the capital, Sofia and second city, Plovdiv and along the popular Black Sea coast in towns such as Bourgas and Varna.
 
And it would seem that demand for accommodation, not only from foreign visitors but also Bulgarian nationals, is expected to remain stable in 2009. According to the Chairman of the Bulgarian Hotel & Restaurant Association hotels in the southern towns of Velingrad, Sandanski and Zlatograd have been full during this winter season as Bulgarians seek ski and spa breaks and hopes remain high for the impending summer season.
 
Nearly €4 billion is expected to be generated in Bulgaria during the 2009 tourist season according to the Head of the Bulgarian Institute for Analysis and Evaluation of Tourist Business, half from foreign visitors and the other from nationals encouraged to take domestic holidays. But the government is not leaving anything to chance with an 8 million leva (approx EUR 4 million) domestic and international advertising campaign planned by the State Tourism Agency to promote Bulgarian tourism in 2009.
 
Joseph Upchurch, MD of overseas property developer Aston Lloyd, comments,
 
"The reported increase in tourism revenue, new accommodation and plans to promote this wonderfully diverse European country is very encouraging. Bulgaria holds such a wide appeal from families seeking summer holidays on the Black Sea coast to winter sports enthusiasts taking advantage of the ski slopes in Vitosha National Park, to business tourists visiting Sofia.
 
"Aside from its rich culture and varied landscape, one of the key appeals of visiting Bulgaria is its affordability. According to the recent Post Office Travel Services Holiday Money Report, Bulgaria ranked the seventh cheapest place to holiday, three places ahead of perennial favourite Spain, and these real savings are becoming increasingly important to travellers and investors alike."
 
Notably absent from Bulgaria´s hotel scene are the large Western chains seen in most countries around the world. Love them or hate them, the type of accommodation offered by such operations remains reliable and popular, especially with the business community and now four of the world´s top hotel brands are reported to be entering the Sofia market. Despite the current financial landscape, Marriott, Hyatt, Movenpick and Intercontinental have all expressed interest in Bulgaria with the view of securing a foothold in the market now for future growth.
 
But it is not only these companies who have identified opportunity. Property development company Aston Lloyd & Partners International recently launched the Aston Hotel Sofia located in Kostinbrod, just 15 minutes from Sofia City. This 4 star boutique hotel complex boasts 52 beautifully designed en-suite bedrooms and six suites as well as a restaurant, stylish bars, swimming pool, fitness facilities and a 400 capacity conference centre.
 
Joseph Upchurch comments, "The major international hotel groups in Sofia are currently not able to meet demand.  In particular, there is a real lack of conferencing and business facilities. The Aston Hotel Sofia will have 400 capacity conferencing facilities that will well and truly meet this demand…so the hotel not only offers a considerable yield for minimal risk (particularly in today’s market); it’s an affordable and simple lifetime investment.”
 
 
Aston Lloyd is welcoming investment in this project from just €10,000 for en-suite bedrooms and €14,000 for suites. The hotel initiative offers investors 28 days per year of potential room income, earning 50% of the revenue from the allocated room; Aston Lloyd is guaranteeing a 6% yield in the first year and those that are eligible for a SIPP could also get up to 40% cash back.
 
The project has already attracted some high-profile investors, including WBC super middle weight world champion, Carl Froch, and Ring Magazine light heavy weight champion boxer, Joe Calzaghe CBE. Both have bought into the Aston Hotel Sofia as a means of expanding their existing property portfolios and profiting from the thriving city.
 
For more information about Bulgarian hotel investment please call Aston Lloyd on 0845 260 0646 or visit www.astonlloyd.co.uk.

Back to Botswana as the second series of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency returns to BBC1 this Sunday

by Charlotte Ashton Botswana

 

Following the huge success of the first feature length drama broadcast on the BBC last March, the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency filmed entirely in Botswana will return to our screens this month as a six part series starting on Sunday 15th March 2009 at 9pm on BBC1.  
 
Based on the best selling novels by Alexander McCall-Smith, the series chronicles the adventures of Precious Ramotswe, proprietor of the only female-owned detective agency in Botswana. And with an all star cast including Grammy Award winning singer Jill Scott and Tony Award winner Anika Noni Rose the second series promises to continue the vision of the late Academy Award winning director, Anthony Minghella.
 
But it´s not just the actors who are the stars of this show, with the series being entirely filmed on location in Botswana the stunning country in southern Africa and the Batswana people also play a starring role as producer Timothy Bricknell commented,
 
"Everyone involved is very pleased to be back in Botswana and capturing the essence of such a remarkable and extraordinary country."
 
This is a sentiment shared too by Alan Marneweck, founder and shareholder of the Limpopo-Lipadi Game & Wilderness reserve located in the malaria free Tuli block of eastern Botswana, who goes on to say,
 
"The filming of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency was and is very welcome in Botswana and by its people. The spotlight certainly has been placed on this magical country and can only serve to raise awareness of all that it offers. We have welcomed guests to the reserve who have been inspired by the BBC film and who want their very own piece of Africa for themselves and their families."
 
Covering some 32,450 hectares, the award winning Limpopo-Lipadi is a unique game and wilderness reserve with sustainability and environmental conservation at its core. With some 21km of river frontage, world class game including lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog, elephant, rhino, hippo and crocodile not to mention over 37 fish and 400 bird species as well as magnificent landscape formations and archaeological sites it´s not hard to see why this project has drawn like minded investors from all over the world.
 
Investors are invited to purchase one or more shares in the reserve from $195,000 and as a part-owner shareholders can become as involved in the management, preservation and development of the reserve as they wish. Shareholders also enjoy the right to visit the reserve as often as they wish and now, with the completion of the first 2 and 3 bedroom lodges at River Camp guests can enjoy stunning views of the Limpopo River and its wildlife, a central facility including a kitchen and dining room, the swimming pool as well as fine local cuisine from one of the reserve´s chefs.
 
To find out more about Botswana and the Limpopo-Lipadi Game & Wilderness Reserve please call 0871 244 5152 or visit www.limpopo-lipadi.com.
 

“Africa always brings something new” (Pliny the Elder)– Why this rich continent is looking to a bright future

by Charlotte Ashton Botswana Egypt Morocco Tunisia

A somewhat less mainstream holiday destination, Africa remains a largely untapped continent for international visitors but one whose tourism sector is significantly on the increase with the World Travel & Tourism Council having reported growth in tourism on the continent of 5.9% in 2008, greater than the global average of 3.0%. Not only this but with a great deal to offer all travellers, from a welcome sunshine getaway to an adventurous escape, Africa is set to share some of its hidden secrets to a growing number of privileged visitors in the coming years – with the World Travel & Tourism Council reporting that Africa’s travel and tourism industry is likely to contribute 9.4% to the continent’s GDP over the coming 10 years – there is a bright future ahead.

An exciting array of wildlife, a generally warm and sunny climate and varied and captivating landscapes can be said to be offered by all parts of this the second most expansive continent in the world. As one of the most diverse continents, Africa has an arguably unrivalled richness and variety, with countries such as Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt and Botswana, for example, all offering something different to those looking to visit – and perhaps also as places to invest.

Morocco
Colourful Morocco is one of the most well-known of Africa’s destinations, having founded itself both as an exotic holiday location as well as an exciting property investment choice, close to the hearts of many. Just three hours’ flight time from the UK has made Morocco a popular choice for visitors and in response to this popularity, a wealth of property developments have sprung up around the key tourist areas driven by King Mohammed VI’s ‘Vision 2010’, a national focus on increasing the country’s tourism industry and in turn industry profit. Morocco’s aim was to increase tourist numbers from 4.5 million in 2000 to 10 million in 2010 and in response to this national focus, the country is well and truly on track – with 2008 figures showing tourist numbers had increased to 7.88 million, revealing Morocco as a destination of growth where investors can financially benefit.
The resort of Apple Gardens in the tourist hotspot and capital city of Marrakech not only takes advantage of the growth in Morocco’s tourist industry – with 15% annual capital growth predicted – but also the myriad of cultures that define the country – just 15 minutes from the city centre yet boasting breathtaking views of the rugged Atlas Mountains as well as being close to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Djamaa El Fna Square. Apple Gardens is a beautiful boutique gated development with an array of first-class facilities and three bedroom town houses (from £188,711/ €213,134) and three bedroom villas (from £220,141 / €248,632), each available with individual courtyards, stunning roof terraces and a private pool with stunning views.
Tunisia
Though also in Northern Africa, Tunisia offers something different for the seasoned traveller, with a property market in its infancy for foreign buyers due to relatively new legislation to allow and encourage foreign ownership of property in the country. Tipped as one of the top emerging property markets, Tunisia is taking its stance firmly in the global limelight, and this is set to further increase in coming years. The Global Competitiveness Report 2008-2009 ranked Tunisia the top African country when looking at a number of factors including infrastructure, health and primary education, technological readiness and financial market sophistication, making looking to the future bright for the country and in turn for those looking to invest in property. Not only this but the newly signed Open Skies Agreement which will allow European, American, Canadian and Arabic airlines to operate freely in Tunisian airspace, along with the construction of a new airport at Enfidha on the Gold Coast, all point towards a predicted significant growth in the numbers of those visiting Tunisia.
Steve Worboys, MD of emerging property market specialists Experience International, agrees,
“The Tunisian government are now very keen to encourage foreign investment in property and also in turn to grow Tunisia’s established tourism industry. This is therefore a fantastic time to buy either a holiday home or an investment property in the country, with rental income and property prices set to grow in the coming years and the Gold Coast is one region where we foresee an increase in both its tourist and property markets over the next few years.”
The Dunes at El Kantaoui is an exclusive resort located next to a private white sandy beach on Tunisia’s Gold Coast, between two of the country’s busiest airports and offers on-site world class Thallasso Spa facilities including Turkish baths, sauna and beauty and massage treatment rooms. The resort boasts studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments, with prices starting at just £20,646 / TND$40,531 for a studio.
Egypt
If historical significance, cultural splendour and a slightly more established property market is more your thing then perhaps Egypt should be your destination of choice. The warm desert climate and luxurious properties being built at reasonable prices have meant that Egypt has positioned itself as a popular holiday destination, with the ABTA 2009 Travel Trends Report recognising the country’s magnetism,
“As recession bites in the UK and consumers look closely at their budgets, Egypt will keep popping up as a good bargain option. For the past few years holidaymakers have been drawn to the country’s Red Sea resorts… attracted by the promise of good weather within a five-hour flight of home, top-class hotels and bargain prices.”
As ABTA have recognised, the Red Sea is one area specifically that is witnessing significant growth in its tourism prospects and it is here that Veranda is located: an exclusive gated resort set on a long white sandy beach with crystal clear waters. The resort boasts stunning views as well as a wide range of excellent facilities that include swimming pools with waterfalls, tennis courts, a luxury spa, gym and restaurants. Well-situated to take full advantage of the burgeoning tourist market – which the World Travel and Tourism Council predicts will grow Egypt’s GDP by 5.8% annually over the next 10 years – Veranda is just 15 minutes from Hurghada International Airport. Exotic gardens surround the properties which range from studios, one and two bedroom apartments to three bedroom townhouses and four bedroom villas, with prices starting at £39,690 / €44,827 for a studio.
Botswana
If instead it is more of a lifestyle investment that you are looking for, and ecological and ethical returns are of significance, the bushlands of Botswana may well hold the answer. This more southerly country is a truly different corner of Africa and in turn holds a wealth of unique and extraordinary wildlife that is bound to amaze and to enrapt and it is also here that a balance of tourism and environmental responsibility is being closely worked on by the government, with Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, Honourable Onkokame Kitso Mokaila having commented,
“Travel & Tourism will contribute enormously to the country’s economy and we are committed to running a conscious campaign to publicise the strategic role and benefits of tourism in order to stimulate a more positive perception to the wider public.”
The Limpopo-Lipadi Game and Wilderness Reserve is one project that is setting the standard for this mix of environmental awareness and eco tourism in Botswana. Covering an expanse of over 80,000 acres, the reserve offers a unique investment opportunity to become part of this project that aims to educate and enrich through working to a strict ecosystem and conservation model. Visit Botswana, become part of the decision-making process surrounding the reserve, learn about the country’s unique species through local knowledge courses, sleep in game hides or tree platforms and even train to become a game ranger, the Limpopo-Lipadi Game and Wilderness Reserve will broaden your horizons and teach the wide variety of experiences that Africa has to offer.
Not only this, but the award-winning Limpopo-Lipadi Game and Wilderness Reserve also offers a unique financial investment opportunity, as Alan Marneweck, founder and share holder of the reserve comments,
“The exclusivity of Limpopo-Lipadi is reflected in the amount of shares available and this is an appealing feature to those who are looking for a unique investment… Another development in the area has seen returns of 300% over 5 years so capital gain on your investment is achievable.” This combined with the fact that Botswana has been tipped by the World Travel & Tourism Council over the next ten years to see “annualised real growth of 5%, exceeding the average for both the world and sub-Saharan Africa” means that the Limpopo-Lipadi Game and Wilderness Reserve is an all-round excellent investment choice – both ethically and financially. Entry level investment is $195,000.
 
For more information on investing in Morocco, Tunisia or Egypt contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.
 
For more information on investing in Botswana contact Limpopo-Lipadi on 0871 244 5152 or visit http://www.limpopo-lipadi.com.

Open skies agreement increases investor interest in Tunisia

by Charlotte Ashton United Kingdom

 

After years of negotiations, the long awaited Open Skies Agreement which will allow European, American, Canadian and Arabic airlines to operate freely in Tunisian airspace has been entered into.
 
As a consequence increased air passenger arrivals to the northern most African country are expected and a new airport at Enfidha, located on Tunisia´s ´Gold Coast´ between Hammamet and Sousse is being constructed to meet the anticipated demand.
 
Tunisia has become a burgeoning tourist destination for Brits over the last couple of years recording 7 million tourists in 2007 and a 71% increase in bookings in 2008 according to lastminute.com. And the popularity of mid-haul, non euro zone destinations such as Tunisia shows no sign of abating in 2009 as more and more holidaymakers look for reliable climates and high quality amenities at affordable prices.
 
Tunisia already offers scheduled flights to the UK with British Airways and the national flag carrier, Tunisair, as well as charter flights from Monarch and First Choice amongst others however the introduction of the Open Skies Agreement will offer visitors a greater choice of carrier including low cost airlines.
 
Enfidha airport, due to be completed in October 2009, will be Tunisia´s ninth airport with an initial capacity of 7 million passengers rising to a reported 20 million by 2020. Steve Worboys, MD of Experience International, emerging property market experts, comments,
 
"The confirmation of the Open Skies Agreement can only be good news for Tunisia. We have seen tourism demand rise significantly over the last couple of years and now holidaymakers will find it even easier and more affordable to visit this beautiful country."
 
Mr Worboys continues, "And it is not only British holidaymakers who have discovered the appeals of Tunisia. This market, especially around the Port of El Kantaoui has become one of our most sought after property investment destinations and with studio apartments located in a low rise 5* gated community, the Dunes, available from just £22,266 and a recently announced minimum 6% rental guarantee it´s not hard to see why."


For more information about purchasing property in Tunisia please call Experience International on 0207 321 5858or visit www.experience-international.com.

Evocative Morocco Rich in Culture and Increasing Tourist Numbers

by Charlotte Ashton Morocco

With the strength of the pound against the Euro still slipping and no sign yet of a turnaround in its fortunes, many people are looking further afield in 2009 when booking their holidays, with horizons widening outside of the Euro zone. One country that is benefitting from this increasing trend is Morocco, a country keen to grow its tourist market and one that is moving very much in the right direction.

2001 saw Morocco’s King Mohammed VI lay down plans for a focus on increasing tourism to the North African country, with ‘Vision 2010’ aiming to create 600,000 jobs in the industry and increase visitors from 2000’s figure of 4.5 million to a figure of 10 million tourists in 2010. This was to be achieved through ‘Plan Azur’, a strategy to build 6 new coastal resorts along with improving transport links and building additional amenities including marinas and sporting facilities to widen the appeal of this culturally resplendent country.
To date, ‘Vision 2010’ has attracted a large increase in visitors to Morocco, with the Moroccan Department of Tourism announcing that numbers of tourists to the country had grown by 6% in 2008 to 7.88 million, making them on track to hit their 2010 target. This growth in foreign interest in the country has also been shown in an increased demand for flights to Morocco, with research from online measurement company Hitwise.com revealing that searches for flights to Morocco increased by 2.1% in the last year, one of only a limited number of countries to witness a growth.
Not only is Morocco witnessing tangible results from its ‘Vision 2010’ in terms of tourists, the country has also become a hot topic of conversation amongst those in the property industry, with Propertywire.com finding in their review of leading property forums that Morocco was one of the most talked about destinations for those looking to buy property abroad. And it’s not hard to see why. Not only is Morocco investing in foreign interest in the country, as a property and holiday destination it has much to offer – with its location close to Europe, rich history, beautiful art and evocative culture amongst many other draws.
Growing in popularity with each year, Morocco is being recognised as one of the hot emerging markets in which to invest and more and more people are looking to buy property in the country, with John Howell of the International Law Partnership, a well-recognised industry figure, amongst many others ranking this destination in his Top Ten Investment Locations for 2009. But where should one invest if they want to buy property in Morocco? The six ‘Plan Azur’ resorts are being developed in coastal regions – one on the Mediterranean Sea and five on the Atlantic – and this is for distinct reasons of meeting demand. As Alisdair Luxmoore, director of Fleewinter.com, points out it is these types of developments that have the most potential,
“If you want a return on your investment, in terms of tourists coming to stay in your place, then, wherever you are in the world, being by the coast is an enormous help.”
One of these developments is the Mediterrania-Saïdia, the first ‘Plan Azur’ resort to be developed, within which Le Jardin de Fleur three miles from Saïdia town offers a great deal of rental potential, with facilities that are second to none including three 18-hole golf courses, 6km of unspoilt coastline, a 1,350 berth marina with a wide array of restaurants, designer shops and bars.
This secure gated resort offers a variety of property options, from one bedroom hotel suites (from £92,000) to a two bedroom beach apartment (from £197,000) or a three bedroom frontline golf villa (from £213,000), all finished to the highest of standards including furniture packs and set in landscaped gardens, some with roof terraces or plunge pools.
The development will be operated by leading hotel groups, such as Radisson and Best Western, which will allow owners to either have the option of using their unit for personal use, when they can use concierge, spa and hotel facilities, or to benefit from a lease-back programme organised by these operators, tapping into their large client base, to truly exploit its rental potential.
 
For more information contact Undiscovered Properties on 0870 734 7968 or visit www.undiscoveredproperties.com.