Burgeoning business tourism spells success for Sofia…

by Charlotte Ashton Bulgaria

The motto ‘Ever Growing, Never Ageing’ is rather apt for Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city. In recent years the city has seen a huge growth in popularity, not only as a tourist destination but also as a business centre, with more and more companies capitalising on the fact that Bulgaria sits outside of the eurozone, with a strong exchange rate and a thriving business environment.

Sofia Airport, one of the fastest growing airports in Europe, reported that in 2007 its air traffic had doubled over the previous five years. With more direct flights from most European capitals and a growing demand for larger planes and passengers, the airport has built a new Terminal 2 and expanded its runway. This, along with the €105m city metro investment by the European Investment Bank, means doing business in this thriving city is easier than ever.
The future of Sofia is looking bright, fuelled by further investments from large multinational companies including Coca Cola (who has a factory in Kostinbrod) and Kraft Foods (with a coffee plant in the same region). Statistics from the Economist Intelligence Unit reported that an average business person visiting Sofia is likely to spend 10 times more (at €184 a day) than a regular tourist. This is believed to be further boosted by the significant growth of the conference and exhibition industry in the city.
All the above factors are turning property developments, such as hotels, into big business. Revenue per available room (revPAR) across Europe in 2007 grew 6.6%, which in turn, has resulted in increased interest from businesses in Sofia who urgently need corporate facilities, as Joseph Upchurch, Managing Director of property development company, Aston Lloyd, explains:
“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 to satisfy the market now and in the future.”
It is for this reason, coupled with the region’s strengthening economy, that Aston Lloyd has brought the Aston Hotel Sofia to the market. The 400-seated conference complex is expected to capitalise on both the need for high quality conferencing facilities and the growth in business tourism in the city – which in turn, will increase the need for suitable accommodation.
This off-plan development offers buyers the opportunity to earn rental income by investing in either a hotel room or suite in the four-star boutique luxury hotel.
Despite the down-turn of the UK property market, emerging markets such as Bulgaria enjoyed property price increases of between 15-20% in 2008. Statistics such as this have lead Aston Lloyd to confidently guarantee a 6% yield for investors in the Aston Hotel Sofia in the first year, although the company claims this is “conservative” and are expecting the yield to be upward of 11% based on strong research on occupancy rates. Investors in the development may also be eligible to include in their SIPP, which could see some investors getting up to 40% of their money back.
                                                                          
Joseph Upchurch recognised the concerns of investors and introduced The Aston Hotel Sofia in response to the demands of the current and future market:
“Regardless of the negativity surrounding the current economic climate, it is possible to make money in these turbulent times.
The market was screaming for a low-entry level investment opportunity that allows buyers to enjoy the rewards of both rental income and real capital growth – this is why we are guaranteeing a 6% return in the first 12 months. We’re confident in our research and the returns.”
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.
Entry-level investment for the hotel starts at €3,500 for en-suite bedrooms and €4,900 for suites. For more information call Aston Lloyd on 0845 260 0646 to speak to an experienced property investment consultant. Alternatively, visit www.astonlloyd.co.uk.
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About Aston Lloyd and Partners International:
Aston Lloyd and Partners International is a leading global property development and investment company specialising in the emerging markets. Led by a team with over 30 years of experience in property investment, Aston Lloyd helps investors benefit from the significant capital growth that exists in global emerging markets like Central and Eastern Europe. They aim to deliver a wide range of services to clients, providing off-plan investments, sourcing sites and managing the build process.

Aristo Developers announces an exciting new look for 2009

by Charlotte Ashton Cyprus Greece

Leading developers and real estate experts in Cyprus and Greece, Aristo Developers, have announced an exciting new look to take them into 2009 and beyond. This modern take on the established and trusted brand is all part of Aristo’s continuous efforts to remain at the very fore of the markets in which they specialise.

 

The revised branding encompasses a new logo that builds on the previous, but evolves it into a more modern and recognisable shape – with a bright blue used to symbolise the Mediterranean Sea and escapism, whilst the gold represents the sun and the perfection of the lands in which they develop.

 

Along with the new logo, Aristo have also redefined the property product they sell, with two distinct categories of home for sale – the ‘Aristo Classic’, the well-known range of quality properties currently on offer and the ‘Aristo Signature’, a new collection of high-end projects of luxurious aesthetics and designed by world-famous architects.

 

This is an exciting time for the company, already amongst the elite developers of both Cyprus and Greece, and Managing Director Theodoros Aristodemou agrees that they are looking to a bright future,

 

‘Aristo Developers continues its pioneering and leading course of development, always aiming towards providing to every customer who dreams of owning a home in Cyprus or Greece, the finest the Mediterranean has to offer! We are certain that with an ambitious vision and by preserving the core values of our organisation, as well as by hard work through proper planning, we will achieve it!’

 

For more information on Aristo Developers or the Aristo Classic and Aristo Signature collections please contact 0800 856 3338 or visit www.aristodevelopers.com.

Groundbreaking new Dominican Republic resort commences construction

by Charlotte Ashton Dominican Republic

The close of 2008 saw a new beginning for an exciting project in the Dominican Republic, with the laying of the first stone at the prestigious Punta Perla Golf, Marina and Spa Resort.

On the 29th December, the President of the Dominican Republic Leonel Fernández and Prince Albert II of Monaco were joined by government ministers, officials and Punta Perla president Ricado Miranda for the initial ground breaking and stone laying ceremony at the site of this much-anticipated new resort.
The Punta Perla Resort will be focussed around the principle of luxurious living and is set to have something for everyone – with high hopes of bringing increased tourism and spending to the Dominican Republic economy. As President Fernández recognised at the launch ceremony, the timing of the start of the new project is heartening for the country,
“Dominicans will emerge victorious thanks to the climate of peace and the investment projects in the pipeline”.
This positive feeling exemplifies a hope for the future that the project represents for the people of the Dominican Republic which, given the difficult financial times of late, is most welcome.
As construction of the Punta Perla Golf, Marina and Spa Resort commenced, eyes were drawn to the project’s plans for the future – ambitious and exciting plans that include three signature golf courses, the construction of one of the largest inland marinas in the Caribbean, a luxury Beach Club with swimming pool carved into a coral base at the edge of the sea, an equestrian centre, championship polo club, tennis club, aqua park, casino and cinema and shopping complex. And with ‘green’ features that include the harvesting of rainwater and the recycling of grey water for irrigation, the resort is set to be an impressive project, that has already captured the hearts of many – including Prince Albert II who is said to be impressed by the resort as an example of environmentally-friendly tourism that will act as the blueprint for similar projects in the future.
The start of construction at Punta Perla comes at an exciting time for the Dominican Republic, with the last quarter of 2008 having seen a huge $10.4 billion investment in the tourism sector, and the Dominican Republic Tourism Ministry reporting the highest ever number of tourists visiting the country – at 4.3 million. This has lead to Minister Francisco Javier Garcia saying that,
“tourism is consolidating itself as the ´locomotive´ of economic development in the Dominican Republic”, not only excellent news for residents, but also for those looking to invest in new projects such as the Punta Perla Resort.
Mark Andrew, Managing Director of Emerging Earth who are master agents for the development, agrees,
“With positive results having been reported in the Dominican Republic tourism market in 2008 and funding of the sector increasing further still in 2009, the numbers of people visiting the country to take full advantage of its tropical climate, rich culture and pristine sugar-coloured sands are on target to grow and grow. This is therefore an excellent time to invest to fully benefit from the projected increase in visitor numbers and the Punta Perla Resort with its great choice of properties and facilities that are second to none.”
The Punta Perla Golf, Marina and Spa Resort boasts a wide variety of different property types throughout its beach, marina, tropical gardens and golf complex, from one, two and three bedroom apartments, two and three bedroom villas and two bedroom bungalows, to one and two bedroom townhouses and two and three bedroom penthouses. All properties are set within the gated resort with private terraces, private Jacuzzis / splash pools, marble and solid wood flooring throughout, air conditioning and kitchen appliances. Properties also come with the added benefit of no stamp duty, capital gains tax or tax on rental income payable and investors can also opt for an 8% guaranteed rental return over five to ten years. Prices start at £163,550 / $245,000 to £935,280 / $1,400,000.
For more information on the new Punta Perla Golf, Marina and Spa Resort contact Emerging Earth on 0845 604 1208, email team@EmergingEarth.com or visit www.EmergingEarth.com.

Invest in a slice of Sofia as Bulgaria soars from strength to strength…

by Charlotte Ashton Bulgaria

Tourism in Bulgaria is going from strength to strength according to new figures released by Bulgaria’s tourism agency. The data revealed that from January to September 2008 the number of foreign tourists visiting the country had increased by over 18% and that end of year figures are set to be equally healthy – with a 20% year on year increase predicted.

The knock-on effect of these statistics for the country’s tourism sector has been extremely positive, with the income generated during January to August 2008 up some 13% on the 2007 figure and, with the State Tourism Authority requesting more money to help promote the country as a quality destination that offers good value for money, these figures could be set to increase further still with the new year. In fact, this same Tourist Agency is predicting that a new scheme based on ‘Regional Development’ could see the monies generated from Bulgaria’s tourism industry grow by €50 million by 2011, proving that Bulgaria’s focus is well and truly on growing this sector of the economy.
Within this climate of growth in Bulgaria, the capital city Sofia is also making a stand as the European destination of choice. Bulgaria’s cultural and economic centre is also one of Europe’s oldest cities and it is increasingly proving to be a great draw for tourists and business people alike. Recent passenger figures from Sofia Airport have shown an increase of 20% a year for the last five years, with positive numbers expected despite the credit crunch. Not only this but popular budget airline Easyjet have also recently added extra flights to Sofia Airport from Manchester to their schedule – as of 11th December 2008 – with a spokesperson from the company recently commenting on the city’s potential and the new flights to be,
“…ideal for the growing number of second home owners from the region investing in the Bulgarian market, Sofia itself is one of the up and coming city break destinations for 2009.”
This additional accessibility to Bulgaria’s capital city is sure to increase its popularity further still and, as Easyjet have recognised, this proves good news for those investing in property in the region. As a growing market, this is an excellent time to invest in Sofia, and one project – The Aston Hotel Sofia – is sure to be a sound investment for the savvy buyer. This project is a 4 star hotel complex that boasts 52 beautifully designed en-suite bedrooms and 6 suites available on a buy-to-let basis. Featuring a restaurant, stylish bars, swimming pool, fitness facilities and a 400 capacity conference centre, The Aston Hotel Sofia will primarily target the business community and city-break visitor.
This hotel initiative offers investors 28 days per year of potential room income earning 50% of the revenue from their allocated room and a guaranteed 6% yield in the first year. And with occupancy rates conservatively predicted at 43%, but more likely to be around the 70% mark, as well as very few projects offering the same facilities in the area, The Aston Hotel Sofia will fill a lucrative gap in the market. Joseph Upchurch, Managing Director of Aston Lloyd, explains,
 “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.”
With investors such as WBC Super Middle Weight World Champion Carl Froch already having invested into the project and infrastructure improvements taking place in the local area, as well as prices affordable at just €10,000 for an en-suite bedroom and €14,000 for a suite, now is the perfect time to invest in a slice of Sofia. Not only this but the recent announcement that the European Investment Bank (EIB) are transferring €105 million to the government of Sofia for the expansion of the underground metro system also confirms that now is an excellent time to be investing in The Aston Hotel Sofia, as Joseph Upchurch explains,
“The announcement that the Sofia government will be receiving millions of Euros to expand and improve the metro system is fantastic news for those looking to invest in property in the area. In particular, these improvements are set to reduce commuting time to our developments in Kostinbrod to just 15 minutes which can only mean even greater ROI than we anticipated for investors of both The Aston Hotel Sofia and our Capital 68 apartments.”
For more information on property investment opportunities, call Aston Lloyd on 0845 260 0646 to speak to an experienced property investment consultant. Alternatively, visit www.astonlloyd.co.uk.
—– ENDS —–
 
About Aston Lloyd and Partners International:
Aston Lloyd and Partners International is a leading global property development and investment company specialising in the emerging markets. Led by a team with over 30 years of experience in property investment, Aston Lloyd helps investors benefit from the significant capital growth that exists in global emerging markets like Central and Eastern Europe. They aim to deliver a wide range of services to clients, providing off-plan investments, sourcing sites and managing the build process.

No Wane in Spain’s Popularity Predicted for 2009

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

With the falling strength of the Pound against the Euro and with an increasing witter of wariness about Eurozone destinations, there remains one close-to-home country that is still drawing British holidaymakers time and time again – Spain.

2008, although somewhat shaky for many, was a good year for this popular European tourist destination, with the Office of National Statistics (ONS) ranking Spain the ‘Top Holiday Destination in 2008’, with a total of 12,029,325 holidays attributed, ahead of both France and Italy. These findings were also corroborated by BAA Scotland’s figures that have shown that the Iberian skies were busy with Scottish-departed planes in 2008 – with Spain the most popular travel destination for those travelling overseas from Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh Airports.
And with a healthy year of tourism behind it, Spain is looking forward to a similar 2009, even given the continued economic downturn. Skyscanner.net, a site that offers the easiest way to search for flights online, revealed five Spanish destinations made their Top Ten Most Popular Destinations for 2009, a list based on the destinations most searched for on the site. With Malaga, Alicante, Tenerife, Palma and Murcia all residing in the top ten, Spain seems on track to have another bumper year. Barry Smith, Skyscanner co-founder, explains,
“This year, it’s all about making your money go as far as possible, which is why Spain remains an extremely popular destination for British travellers. It’s close, warm and still very good value.”
 
And Skyscanner is not the only one to recognise Spain´s positive credentials. In their 2009 Travel Trends Report, ABTA highlighted Spain’s consistent appeal as “a destination with so much variety that its attractions appeal to a wide variety of travellers, whether it’s adventure or culture seekers, families or pilgrims. While its countryside, language and culture are quite different from our own, Brits really do feel at home in Spain. They are reassured by its excellent infrastructure and facilities, and are warmly welcomed.”
The continued draw of Spain as a holiday destination with a great many assets is excellent news for those looking to invest in property in the country and as Martin Dell of Spanish property portal Kyero.com, explains there are certain types of property that remain ever-popular,
“the majority of foreign buyers are more interested in traditional inland property or a beachfront lifestyle.”
When it comes to traditional properties of this kind – and in turn the ‘true’ Spanish lifestyle that is so appealing for many – there is one province that stands out and yet still represents a good buy. Mike Hamilton, MD of Casas de Lorca sheds light on why Murcia is an up-and-coming region for those considering buying property in Spain,
“When speaking to people who are looking to buy property in Spain – be it for their own use as a holiday home or as an investment property that can be rented out – I find that a great deal are drawn to the country for its lifestyle and therefore are looking for the ‘true Spain’ over and above more well-known ‘Britain in the sun’-type resorts. They want to integrate with the Spanish, enjoy the beauty and space of the rolling countryside and learn the language. Murcia is one Spanish region where these things can be enjoyed with ease and where property is still affordable, which ultimately in these challenging times is of utmost importance.”
The affordability of Murcia as a province when compared to other more well-known coastal regions such as the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca, for example, means that essentially the British pound can go further to buy a bigger property of high quality for the same price as a property of limited size and value elsewhere. Supporting this fact, Kyero.com have shown in their latest independent findings that average house prices in Murcia are 18.4% cheaper than the Spanish average (an average of €202k compared to the Spanish average of €247k).
Casas de Lorca sell bespoke villas that can be tailor-made to suit individual needs and desires, set within 5 acres of Murcian countryside surrounded by vineyards and almond groves and close to the town of Lorca, the properties make the most of the very best that Spain has to offer whilst using aspects of traditional architecture to truly capture the spirit of Spanish life. A three bedroom villa on a 5 acre plot of land can be purchased for €199,000 but if a larger property would be more suitable, the stunning four bedroom, three bathroom Casa Mallorca, for example, is built over two levels giving a feeling of grandeur and taking full advantage of the stunning views of the Murcian countryside. Prices start from €329,000.
For more information please contact Casas de Lorca on 0844 734 8057 or visit www.casasdelorca.net.

Next generation safari experience at the award winning Limpopo-Lipadi, Botswana

by Charlotte Ashton Botswana

When you think of an African safari do memories of watching Born Free or Out of Africa come flooding back? Do emotive tribal cries ring in your ears or maybe the majestic landscapes of the Masai Mara, the Serengeti or Kruger National Park flash through your mind?

Imagination aside, these destinations have become a reality for millions over the last few decades as advances in accessibility and technology have made visiting these unique locations easier and cheaper, but now, as other African countries such as Botswana open up, what is attracting the next generation of people on safari?
For a couple living in Wimbledon, south west London, the key factors for a successful safari experience are wildlife, conservation, direct involvement and sustainability; and for Gerald (originally from South Africa) and Kathleen Briers this was found at the award winning game and wilderness reserve, Limpopo-Lipadi, in the heart of Botswana.
The Limpopo-Lipadi reserve, located in the Tuli block in eastern Botswana, covers some 32,450 hectares, borders 21km of the banks of the Limpopo River, has a 4.5km long by 300m high mound (Lipadi Hill) with views that span 100km in all directions and has the largest number of free ranging elephants on privately owned land in the world. As well as the beloved elephant the reserve also plays home to leopard, hyena, giraffe, black-mane lion and abundant antelope species, river wildlife and around 400 species of birds.  
Limpopo-Lipadi offers people passionate about the African bush the next generation safari experience by allowing them to buy a slice in the living, breathing corporation. Investors are welcome to purchase one or more shares in the game reserve through which real involvement is gained. Shares are available with an entry level of $195,000.
In addition to the fauna and flora, six low density accommodation camps are being constructed across the reserve for investors and their guests. The four lodges and two tented camps are being built to the highest specifications and utilise locally trained workers as part of the reserve´s corporate and social responsibility programs. The camps are designed by internationally acclaimed architects and whether it is a luxury canvassed abode or riverside lodge, the experience will be memorable.
The Briers invested in one share in Limpopo-Lipadi back in October 2007 which concluded a seven year search for an investment opportunity that would mean more to them than just parting with some cash. “We spent a considerable amount of time looking for the best investment that would incorporate all the factors important to us” says Gerald.
“My wife is an avid nature lover and was attracted to the reserve but because we are still relatively young and in the process of building our careers and our financial stability, she was very cautious about making an investment of this nature from our savings,” continues Gerald an account manager for Kelway. “I had to persuade her to at least come with me and meet the Limpopo-Lipadi team to get a better understanding of the nature of the investment and the long term plans for the company and the land; it wasn’t long before Kathleen was hooked!”
“The Limpopo-Lipadi team have a wealth of experience having successfully completed a project of this nature in the north of Botswana. I had made enquiries into a number of similar investments in South Africa but apart from various risks and rules that didn’t appeal to me I also found the teams running them to have a very short term sales focus – working towards a commercial target almost exclusively.”
The Briers´ search included looking at reserves similar to that of the Kruger National Park in South Africa, one of the most famous game parks in the world. In fact South Africa in general is known for its vast number of game parks similar to this most celebrated one. Approximately the size of Wales, the Kruger plays host to around half a million visitors a year giving everyday people an experience of the bush that most would never be able to dream of.
“A lot of these parks however have very controlled elements to them” says Alan Marneweck the director and founder of Limpopo-Lipadi. “Half a million visitors verses the 430 shares available at Limpopo-Lipadi highlights the unique low-density model that we offer. The commercial pressures operating on larger reserves such as the Kruger are heightened with guarantees of seeing the majority, if not all, the ‘Big Five’; at the Limpopo-Lipadi reserve the animals naturally have some habits but largely it is about tracking them and using those skills to explore the whole land.”
Gerald Briers goes onto say “The Limpopo-Lipadi project in Botswana and the associated team has a long term interest in the success of this venture and they have put together what I feel is a very good balance between the commercial necessities of the project and more importantly the long term sustainability of the reserve. It is interesting that after such a long time searching for the right investment the ideal opportunity was right on our doorstep!”
At the reserve´s core, investment offers those with a keen interest in the nation, its wildlife and in augmenting the lives of the local people a chance to make a real difference. Kathleen Briers says, “We love the bush; we had been to Botswana before and had fallen in love with the country and people. The wildlife and game ranger courses which will be offered are a very important aspect for us. We wanted a place in the bush away from ´normal´ life. I also want to get involved with some of the other projects for example the African Wild Dog programme and a social responsibility programme that will help with children in the local villages affected by HIV/AIDS.” 
Gerald echoes his wife’s comments saying, “I have spent some time with fellow shareholders, and I think most of us have similar reasons for investing but each of us looks for slightly different experiences from the reserve. We will be looking to share the experience with close family, friends and business partners by inviting them to join us from time to time on the reserve and I think this aspect of the investment cannot be underestimated.”
In conclusion the Briers both agreed that this wasn’t an idea that seemed just good at the time but rather something of significant longevity. Gerald concludes: “This investment is to become an important part of our own safari (Swahili for ´journey´) and the lives of future generations. We are excited about the project having an impact on us and feel privileged to have already had a small impact on the work that is going on out there.”

For more information about investing in the next generation safari experience at Limpopo-Lipadi contact 0871 244 5152 or visit www.limpopo-lipadi.com.

New Year, New Home, Know How?

by Charlotte Ashton Canada

For some investing in lifestyle means a jaunt to the local gym twice a week, a healthy eating plan or even a monthly massage at the local beauty parlour others however may see a change in lifestyle as the opportunity to change the location of their home. As the recent HSBC International Explorer survey of over 2000 expats across four continents who have made that choice shows, Canada is one of the easiest countries in which to settle.

Martin Spurling, CEO for HSBC Bank International and Head of HSBC Offshore Islands commented in a recent release: “Canada is the most welcoming country to expats, with almost all (95%) of respondents claiming that they found it easy to make friends with the locals and fit into the community. The survey also highlighted the buying experience.”
“Canada is regularly listed by the United Nations as one of the 10 best places in the world to live and has featured again in A Place in the Sun´s Top 20 locations to buy property for 2008/09” says John Prior, Principal of Undiscovered Properties. “It is also interesting to see the measures by which the Canadian government are making things easier for those looking to relocate to Canada with figures showing that as well as Canada being a popular lifestyle location, it is actively seeking people to re-locate to the nation with skilled migrant expected to account for 100% of workforce growth by 2011.”
An extension of the already popular Canadian work permit is all part of the ‘Action Plan for Faster Immigration’. According to the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, “On 15th December 2008 we announced that professionals seeking to work in Canada under the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) can now receive permits up to three years as previously workers were required to renew their permits every 12 months. Lawyers, doctors, dentists and teachers as well as other skilled workers are all needed and this extension will greatly benefit the Canadian economy by helping ensure greater continuity and stability for both employers and workers.”
Prior concludes: “We have some stunning four season properties available in the Quebec province which is rapidly becoming a top choice for purchasing property. Close to the city of Montreal with employment opportunities available for both French and English speakers, the area offers an imitable blend of history, heritage, tourism appeal, culture and style – appealing aspects for visitors and investors alike.”
“As well as those looking to use the homes themselves, many buyers are purchasing properties speculatively, looking to rent out their luxury log homes to tourists and so far owners haven’t been disappointed” continues Prior. “Rental demand has increased every month to the point where we were fully booked in the height of the summer and are also sold out twice over for Christmas / New Year. We estimate over 60% occupancy for next year based on the trends we have seen.”
So if you are looking to change your lifestyle this year then call Undiscovered Properties on 0870 734 7968 or visit www.undiscoveredproperties.com.
—- Editors notes —-
Eagles Ridge Golf and Country Club, Canada
 
Eagles Ridge Golf and Country Club properties are set in 1,800 acres of natural woodland and sit on stunning land surrounding 5 freshwater lakes. They are found only 90 minutes away from the cosmopolitan and sophisticated city of Montreal with its international airport which is connected by direct flights to over 120 destinations around the world. Only 15 minutes drive from Mont Tremblant, the ski capital of Eastern Canada which boasts 94 different runs served by 13 state of the art lifts, this resort is perfect for skiers of all abilities.  These stunning properties are blessed however with 4 season’s worth of various activities and when the lakes aren’t ice rinks and the ski mobiles are stored away the lakes host boats and water activities including water sports and fresh water fishing, the surrounding mountains areas also open up into fantastic cycling and hiking areas.
The Algonquin Tribe once called the neighbouring national park and its stunning Mont Tremblant the ‘Mountain of the Spirit’ and legend has it that anybody who disturbs the tranquillity of the area will make the spirits of the mountain tremble. Eagles Ridge Golf and Country Club is not an imposing array of properties though and its conscious decision and design has incorporated many environmentally friendly features including the use of sustainable timber sources and each property will draw water from its own automated artisan well sunk beneath each plot.
An 18 hole designer golf course can also be found in the heart of Eagles Ridge Golf and Country Club and you are given the choice of views whether it be the stunning lake view lodges or the lodges that overlook the panoramic views of the golf course and mountains. An onsite shop and boutique area are found alongside clubhouses and restaurants that offer fantastic facilities that make the community of Eagles Ridge Golf and Country Club a unique, relaxing and majestic experience. 
These exclusive 3, 4, 5 and 6 bedroom lodges all with unique styles and features start from £280,000 / $420,200 for more information contact Undiscovered Properties on 0870 7347968, email contact@undiscoveredproperties.com or visit www.undiscoveredproperties.com. 

Getting the best of both worlds – investing in Apart-Hotels

by Charlotte Ashton Venezuela

Now, more so than ever, there is a myriad of ways in which to purchase property, be it freehold, leasehold, through fractional ownership or as part of a fund or syndicate. But in today´s financial climate, investing in Apart-Hotels is increasingly becoming an attractive method of purchasing property for the long term whilst accumulating money in the short term.

Apart-Hotels are a cheaper alternative to staying in a traditional hotel yet combine the benefits of serviced hotel living with the flexibility and space of an apartment. Stays are booked through familiar hotel booking systems and expected hotel services such as room and maid service are available. They are proving particularly popular with families on holiday wanting additional space, privacy and the option of self-catering, businesspeople working overseas and early stage relocators. The new Caracola Beach & Spa Resort on Isla Margarita is such an Apart-Hotel development which is appealing to investors looking to capitalise on the burgeoning tourism market,
Isla Margarita is a small island off the Venezuelan coast blessed with sandy beaches and plentiful sunshine. It is becoming increasingly popular with Europeans and Britons in particular, who are now the third most important overseas tourist market. The 50 plus beaches dotted around the 106 mile coastline, coupled with the fact that 94% of days feature at least six hours of sunshine, make the island an affordable and exciting alternative to the traditional Mediterranean destinations.
The island is easily accessible from North, Central and South America as well as Europe. Visitor numbers were 2.3 million in 2007, a high figure compared to the population of just 436,000. The island is famed for its water sports, particularly wind and kite surfing but also boasts exceptional tax-free shopping, an outstanding 18 hole golf course, scuba diving and snorkelling facilities, as well as hiking amongst the varied scenery which ranges from mountainous rainforests to sand flats.
The Apart-Hotel properties available at the Caracola Beach & Spa Resort are modern and stylish and located in an area with a shortage of high quality accommodation. All rooms will be furnished, come with air conditioning and will be built to exacting standards. The resort, built frontline on one of the most beautiful and picturesque beaches on the island, will also be close to restaurants, shops and other amenities. The properties will be fully managed by the resort to ensure high standards, making them a genuine ‘arm-chair investment’ for short as well as long term letting if desired.
The concrete benefits of the Caracola Resort are also matched by the financial ones. The Apart-Hotel investment scheme allows those who take part to enjoy the very attractive taxation benefits afforded to islanders; indeed, the island is a duty and tax haven. Investment in the Caracola Beach Resort is also compatible with the self-invested personal pension plan (SIPP), allowing purchasers choice in how to invest. .
Mark Andrew, Managing Director of Emerging Earth, comments:
“Isla Margarita is a beautiful, tropical destination and our Caracola Beach and Spa Resort is set to take advantage of the expected increase in travel and tourism to this exciting Caribbean island. The Apart-Hotel is an excellent way of combining the benefits of the apartment and hotel experience and investors can be sure to yield high and consistent returns well into the future.”
About the Caracola Beach & Spa Resort, Isla Margarita
 
The Caracola Beach & Spa Resort is situated on Isla Margarita, known widely as the “Pearl of the Caribbean”, just off the North East coast of Venezuela. It benefits from being outside of the hurricane belt and also from a consistent climate average of 27 degrees, with a soothing sea breeze and little or no rain. Isla Margarita boasts a variety of natural scenery, from mountainous terrain to lush vegetation to over 300km of long white, typically Caribbean, sandy beaches and it is for this reason that it has been a popular tourist destination for around 30 years.
The Resort is situated on Caracola Beach (Caracola is a Conch shell indigenous to Isla Margarita), a long golden-sanded beach with sparkling waters on the edge of the island’s main town, Porlamar. The area offers a large amount of activities to interest all visitors, including an excellent 18 hole golf club at Isla Bonita, open all year and with breath-taking views, excellent windsurfing, scuba diving and snorkeling facilities, exceptional shopping facilities offering fantastic tax-free value, and for those that enjoy hiking, the island’s varied scenery allows exploration of mountainous rainforests one day and sand flats the next.
The Caracola Beach & Spa Resort comprises of a variety of apartments and duplexes spread across 15 floors, most with stunning views of the beautiful Caribbean beach. The development boasts excellent facilities that include restaurants, bars, swimming pools, chill-out areas, spa, gymnasium, beauty salon, high end retail outlets and beautifully landscaped gardens. All apartments are 1 or 2 bedroom and have air conditioning, are spacious with large terraces, fully furnished and come with a guaranteed rental return of 7% pa net for 10 years. This investment purchase is SIPP qualifying and offers tax efficient freehold ownership. Prices start from €79,000/ £63,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.

For more information, please contact Emerging Earth on 0845 604 1208, email team@EmergingEarth.com or visit www.EmergingEarth.com.

Men Seek Me Time At The Spa

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

Based on an outdated stereotype, when you think of the spa, a retro image of the exhausted housewife or burnt out career women recharging their batteries with a massage or a manicure springs to mind. Today, that couldn´t be further from the reality of spa clientèle. Spas are no longer the reserve of ladies who lunch, then relax in a haven of lavender scented, pink chintz. In fact, in today´s spa emphasis is actually placed on creating a neutral gendered environment so that their market encompasses both men and women alike.

The overall perception of spas has changed enormously in society over the past few years. They used to be considered a place where you would go with the objective of coming out with an improved appearance. However they are no longer seen in such a superficial light nor as an indulgent experience but an essential part of dealing with wear and tear on the body when modern day to day living takes its toll. And as far as the word pampering is concerned that just isn´t enough anymore as according to their survey results,

International Spa Association (ISPA) President Lynne Walker McNees cites that “People continue to expect more from their spa visits than simply being pampered. They want results. More than 1 in 10 spa-goers treat spa-going as part of a larger health and wellness lifestyle.”

The concept of men hanging out at the spa is not an entirely new phenomenon. Champneys’ four UK resorts have been host to some of the biggest sporting household names for years such as Frank Bruno and the late George Best. Men, too, want to age well and live longer so they appreciate the importance of taking care of themselves in order to perform in areas of their life where vitality is needed.

 
Frank Bruno, the British boxing icon and a regular visitor to Champneys, comments, “Champneys is my best kept secret. As soon as you reach the driveway you know that you are entering paradise, I can spend up to 6 hours of a day relaxing and enjoying the first class facilities on offer; you are treated as an individual and the staff make sure that all your needs are met.”
But it´s not just sport stars who are in need of a little TLC, the effects of working long hours such as poor blood circulation from sitting at a computer all day or discomfort in the fingers and hands from excessive texting are just a couple of the reasons why men are heading for the spas for the specific tailored treatments that are on offer.
Julia Norton, Sales Director, Champneys Marbella comments “Our treatments tailored for men are extremely popular in the UK and we are sure that they will be just as popular in Marbella, if not more, given that a significant number of our clients will be golfers in this area”.  Champneys range of men´s treatments include an Elemis IQ facial which is described as the ultimate overhaul for skin, perfect for those who spend a lot of time in an air conditioned office. The list of treatments available is endless from deep tissue massages to Hopi ear candles, a treatment designed to treat ear and sinus conditions that can also relieve stress related headaches. It doesn´t stop at the spa as Champneys boast a range of products for home use too. Any stigma attached to men indulging in what was once thought as women´s treatments has long died out.
Although according to 2007 ISPA Global Consumer Report “women continue to rule as spa goers” it just so happens that Champneys Marbella is located in one of the countries where men account for more than 40% of spa goers. Champneys Marbella is set to be a success in Spain where the outdoor culture and lifestyle lends itself to wellness and taking care of one´s self.  About 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. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000.  


For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com. 

A gem of an investment in the "Pearl of the Orient Seas" – The Philippines

by Charlotte Ashton The Philippines

A gem of an investment in the “Pearl of the Orient Seas” – The Philippines

For those purchasers keen to be ahead of the game, The Philippines is the latest market to burst onto the international property scene. This Southeast Asian island country offers the attractive blend of a tropical climate, low cost of living, thriving economy and good accessibility and is proving to be a destination more popular than ever with a near 4% rise in tourist arrivals reported for Jan – Oct 2008 compared to the previous year (Central Bank of the Philippines).
Named after the 16th century King Philip II of Spain, The Philippines comprises over 7,000 separate islands in the western Pacific Ocean. It has a population of 90 million and although around 180 languages are spoken across the islands, the two official languages are Filipino and English. Philippine culture is a mix of pre-Hispanic Austronesian (Malayo Polynesian) civilisations, Hispanic and American culture, and to a lesser extent Chinese, Arab, and Indian cultures.
Following a period of marshal law from 1972, the People Power Revolution of 1986 led the country back to the thriving democracy it is today. Turbulence in the late 1980´s gave way to stability and economic growth in the 1990´s. The Philippines is regarded as a newly industrialised country and now receives substantial contributions from manufacturing and mining sectors as well as remittances from overseas Filipinos. Tourism is hugely important as is, increasingly, outsourcing from international businesses. The Philippines has the potential to become one of the largest economies of the world in the 21st century according to Goldman Sachs´ ´Next Eleven´ paper.
The Philippines also represents an exciting alternative to traditional property investments in the West, particularly given recent economic developments. According to a recent World Bank report, thanks to various fiscal and other reforms during the last several years The Philippines is in a good position to weather current difficulties. The report cited continued strong performance in private investments and construction, in addition to better than expected crop harvest yields. There was also higher manufacturing output and continued remittance from the 8 million Filipinos who work overseas.
Such economic resilience is likely to lure increasing international investment into the property market. Demand from Europe, the United States and Russia for city centre and resort properties has been brought about thanks to cheaper prices and the requirement from investors to shift their money into strong emerging markets. Savvier investors are looking for investments with the potential for high monthly rental yields and developments such as the Blue Coral Resort and Spa on Mactan Island, which is to be run as a managed resort hotel, increasingly seem a sound investment. Philippine hotel rates are on a par with the US or Europe, whilst entry level purchasing prices for freehold property are much lower. A deposit on a new fully furnished, five star apartment or villa for example can be as low as £2000.
Mactan Island, subject to much developer interest, is located in part of the central Philippine province of Cebu in the Bohol Strait. This beautiful coral island is surrounded by azure water with extensive mangrove forests and offers some of Asia’s best diving facilities and lush golf-courses. There are modern shopping centres, fine-dining restaurants and lively entertainment centres. Thanks to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and its proximity to Cebu, the area’s tourism industry has boomed significantly with the local economy feeling the positive effects. Recently, a further £4 million of investment in the airport has been announced, together with the planned addition of another terminal due to the increasing volume of passenger traffic.
Steve Worboys, Managing Director of Experience International, comments:
“Our development on Mactan Island is ideal for property purchasers or investors who are disappointed with the returns on traditional investments and who want to look abroad towards exciting emerging markets. Our properties, to be run as part of a fully managed resort, will allow purchasers or renters to experience the best of life in The Philippines, surrounded by a plethora of facilities. These will include 26 spa rooms, a gymnasium, water sports, diving school, wellness spa, health pools and a private beach.
“The ´credit crunch´ has affected The Philippines to a much lesser extent and given the local price of property and the increasing demand for accommodation in the area, we estimate that properties taking part in our rental management scheme will yield 19.5% per year and up to 150% return on investment over 5 years. These numbers, together with all the other benefits, make investing in the resort seem like simple common sense.”
For more information on this exciting opportunity, visit www.experience-international.com or call 020 7321 5858.
On the market:
 
Blue Coral Resort and Spa, Mactan Island, Philippines
The Philippines are known as the “pearl of the orient seas” which lie 750 miles off the coast of Asia and consist of over 7000 islands. The Blue Coral resort and Spa is situated in part of the province of Cebu in the Bohol Strait and has a successful tourism economy which has grown over the past few years. It is a region that offers modern shopping centres, fine dining, local entertainment and some of the finest white-powder tropical beaches in Asia.
Blue Coral is a 5 star resort offering studio and 2 bedroom apartments and 2 and 3 bedroom villas on the eastern side of the stunning coral island of Mactan. Situated in close proximity to Cebu city and Cebu international airport these properties are easily accessible and overlook the neighbouring island Cordova.
Facilities on site at Blue Coral Resort and Spa include 26 spa rooms, gymnasium, water sports, diving school, wellness spa, children’s pool and play area, infinity pool and private beach. The properties are to run as a managed resort hotel offering investors high rental yields with a guaranteed net income of up to 19.5%. Prices start from £63,450/ €66,704.