MARCH/APRIL2011

MARCH/APRIL 2010 •• £3.25

£3.25

LuxuryHomes
Luxury Homesand
andTravel
TravelMagazine
Magazine
The Premium Collection FRACTIONAL
BARBADOS BECKONS OWNERSHIP
A high class alternative
CHARMING
The MONTENEGRO
splendour of St Peters Bay
The jewel of Europe MALTA
Superb Luxury homes
TOUJOURS PROVENCE
Luxury homes beyond the French Riviera

BERMUDA BOUNTY
Fractional ownership makes its mark

HARBOURING AMBITIONS
Living the marina home dream

MAGICAL MALTA
Small island, big personality

BBC TV’S JAMES

CHRISSIE RUCKERCAAN
The founder of the
From
White Brick Lane
Company sharesto
herDragons Den palettes
passion for neutral
 Welcome

THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE

The Good Titles Limited

1 Weirbrook, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7GX

Tel: +44 (0)1268 745682

Fax: +44 (0)1268 745682 Welcome
Web: www.thegoodpropertyguide.com Did any of you did get the opportunity to visit one of
Email: info@thegoodpropertyguide.com
London’s best events this month?
Rita Karia-Hopkins ‘A Place in the Sun Live’ at Earl’s Court was a resounding
Managing Editor
rita@thegoodpropertyguide.com success and buzzing with property buying potential. The
market-leading, three-day event is the biggest and best-
Laura Henderson
Features Editor attended overseas home show of its kind, with over 7,000
laura@thegoodpropertyguide.com visitors this year, highlighting the continuing appeal to the
Colin Halliday British public of buying abroad.
Production Manager Visitors looking for inspiration had plenty to choose from,
production@thegoodpropertyguide.com with over 150 exhibitors representing more than 40 countries. It’s an encouraging sign
John Dickinson against a backdrop of belt-tightening and coalition cut backs. More interesting perhaps,
Editorial Designer is the diversity of interest from a growing catchment of UK buyers. While traditional
production@thegoodpropertyguide.com
hotspots such as France and Italy are still very much in the investor spotlight, long-
Francesca Hammond haul remains in demand too.
Editorial Designer
production@thegoodpropertyguide.com With this in mind, we’ve dedicated a large part of this issue to exotic, far-flung
locations sought after by luxury second-home seekers. I have recently returned
Jules Oakland
Sales Executive from a trip to the exquisite Saint Peters Bay development in Barbados. The whole
advertising@thegoodtravelguide.com neighbouring area surrounding these elegant beachfront villas is gradually being
Emma Cousins upgraded thus enhancing the potential for future increases in property values. With
Accounts Manager Barbados becoming a celebrity filled Island, we may be able to tempt you to invest in
emma@thegoodpropertyguide.com the ‘high life’.
Scott Hartfield Earnestly British in culture, the genteel retiree haven of Bermuda has long been a
Web Developer favourite port of call for golfers and country club devotees. Now the island is beckoning
scott@thegoodpropertyguide.com
younger buyers with a new line in fractional real estate – see pages 22-23 for the full
Published by story. Despite much volatility in world markets, St Lucia’s real estate sector is also
The Good Titles Limited (6 times yearly)
(Registered office 25 Limefield Street, Accrington, weathering the storm well, with an increasing number of buyers choosing to invest in
Lancashire BB5 2AF) some of the best real estate the Caribbean has to offer. Laura Henderson outlines the
pick of the island’s beach front offerings on pages 26-29.
Reprographics by
Vortex Creative Ltd Traditional but never dull, France and Italy’s flagship regions of Provence and
1st Floor Business Centre, Tuscany are masters at reinvention. While the last decade
NWKC, Oakfield Lane, Dartford DA1 2JT of excess has seen fly-to-let devotees piling into Europe’s
www.v-creative.co.uk
baby tiger economies, both regions have been quietly
Printed by upping their tourism game. Turn to page 44 for the
Advent Colour Printers
19 East Portway, Andover insider view on the regions’ top investment spots.
Hants SP10 3LU Finally, with Easter just an egg roll away, we couldn’t let
Distribution by this issue go by without including a selection of the best
Citipost Ltd, springtime activity breaks on offer in the UK. Whether
Unit B Quebec Way, Surrey Quays London SE16 7LF it’s a luxury spa day in London or a great outdoors hiking
www.citipost.com
and horseback challenge – we’ve got a hit list to keep you
Special thanks goes to everyone who more than entertained!
has contributed to this issue of
The Good Property Guide Happy Easter!
All rights reserved. Except for normal review purposes, no part of this
magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the
publishers.Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but
the contents are only meant as a guide to readers. The proprietors of
this magazine are publishers not agents or sub-agents of those who
advertise therein. They cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a
result of information gained from this publication. The publishers of
The Good Property Guide recognise that the security of the reader’s
financial investment is of the greatest concern when buying a
property abroad. Great care is therefore taken in the preparation of
this magazine. However, it must be accepted that there is an element
of risk in undertaking overseas commercial transactions. We therefore
strongly advise readers to obtain reliable professional advice before
signing any documents or making payments to somebody hitherto
unknown to themselves. Copyright 2011 The Good Titles Ltd.
Rita Karia-Hopkins
MANAGING EDITOR
Visit The Good Property Guide The Good Property Guide
online at www.thegoodpropertyguide.com

March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE 3

 Contents

Contents
3 Editor’s Welcome with Rita Karia-Hopkins

6 Property News - Latest from around the globe

10 Celebrity Interview - White Company founder

Chrissie Rucker talks neutral palettes and purist
interiors with Laura Henderson

14 Barbados Beckons - Second home perfection

on the island’s pristine Platinum Coast

22 Born Again Bermuda - Fractional ownership

makes its mark Front cover: St Peter’s Bay, Barbados
See pages 14-15
www.stpetersbaybarbados.com 36
32 City Slicker - Designer pads in the heart of the
Belgian capital
16
56 Malta Magic - Luxury waterfont living on the
small island with a big personality

63 The Good Travel Guide

64 Travel News - Where to go, what to see and

how to do it in style

68 London Luxe- Getaway breaks with five-star

trimmings

82 The Last Word - Improve Don’t Move - how to

reap the rewards of staying put

14

56

4 The Good ProPerTy Guide March/April 2011

44 72

10

March/April 2011 The Good ProPerTy Guide 5

 Property News
ReclaimYourDeposit.com Launches
Low-Fee Bulgarian Property
Deposit Recovery Service
L egions of Brits have been lured into
buying property in Bulgaria due to the
low prices and a generous helping of media
hype. But for many purchasers the fairytale
hasn’t had the scripted happy ending they
were expecting. Many have become victims
of various scams losing money in the process,
making ReclaimYourDeposit.com’s new low-
fee Bulgarian Deposit Recovery Service a
welcome support vehicle.
Daren Wallbank, Director of
ReclaimYourDeposit.com explains: “Bulgaria has
proven something of a minefield for exploitative
estate agents and unscrupulous investment
practices. Whether hit by the global economic
meltdown, the vagaries of the Bulgarian
legal system or just downright criminality,
ReclaimYourDeposit.com receives its second
highest level of enquiries after Spain relating to
this tricky property market. Our new low-fee
Bulgarian Deposit Recovery Service will help
these desperate individuals recover their monies
without denting the battered bank balance too
6 ThE GOOD PROPERTY GuIDE March/April 2011
much further.”
For prospective claimants, the initial
professional assessment is free of charge.
ReclaimYourDepsosit lawyers will ascertain
chances of winning a payout before clients
commit any money to the process, giving
them the option to decide whether to proceed
or not. Should they choose to continue,
reduced fees apply.
For just £950 - to cover disbursements,
minimal fees and miscellaneous charges -
an initial legal claim process is initiated and
ReclaimYourDeposit.com’s appointed lawyers
will try to achieve success without the need for
costly court cases. This fee does not cover the
lawyer’s time but they will not agree to move
a claim forward unless confident of a win,
thus protecting client monies. In the event of
a victorious claim, ReclaimYourDeposit.com
will take a success fee.
For further information visit:
www.ReclaimYourDeposit.com
Get A Foothold
in the Calabria
Region
I ncreased low cost flights into Lamezia airport
make Calabria an attractive option for the
buy to let market
In 2010 Lamezia airport passenger numbers
increased by 16.22%, the highest increase in
Italy and in 2011 the airport is expecting a
further increase to over 2 million passengers.
With increasing demand in the area, a lot of
money is being spent on improving Calabria’s
image. Key plans are being implemented
to improve direct flight connections and
infrastructure in the region.
James Dearsley, European Sales Director
of Atlas International states: “With growing
confidence in the area, Calabria is set to offer
an excellent investment opportunity. Ryanair is
making Lamezia airport one of its regional hub
airports and will be offering 46 flights per week
in the summer time. This will include direct
flights from London. Talks are also underway
with other low cost airlines. Completion of
road works on the A3 motorway connecting
Naples to Reggio Calabria will also make
Calabria more accessible and help increase
interest in the property market.” The location
of Atlas’ Jupiter apartments is perfectly placed
to take advantage of these improvements.
Being just a short drive away from the airport,
virtually on the beach and within walking
distance to all amenities; these apartments
provide a fantastic rental opportunity with
one bed studios starting at just £40,000.
UK Property Returns Low, “PIGS” Or
“BRICs” Better Property Hotspot?
U K investors, faced with the recent
downturn in the UK economy and
property scene, will do well to weigh up
good future, investment opportunity, but
it must have the potential to recover in the
medium term. This way property can be
developed versus emerging markets, the so- bought at keen prices and has the scope to
called “PIGS” (Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Spain) grow as an investment.
or “BRICs” (Brazil, Russia, India, China). They Choosing the bank you deal with could be as
must also review their attitude to risk and important as the country you choose to buy in,
reward if they are to see strong returns. for 2011 and beyond. Banks with low exposure
Individual European property markets vary to weaker economies and bad debt may be
dramatically, with country annual growth worth seeking out.
ranging from minus 14.8% in Ireland and
minus 3.7% in Spain, to stronger European
countries like Poland at 8.1% growth and hotspots for 2011: areas, with a good news story. Murcia, for
Turkey at 2%. Emerging markets might be poland example is benefiting from an announcement
considered higher reward than European Low labour costs and proximity to important at the end of 2010 by Paramount Pictures,
markets. However it is important to note that markets are making Central and Eastern which will be opening its first theme park.
they can overheat and also be higher risk. Europe an attractive manufacturing This will be a boost for the area, if all goes
Dubai is a classic example of this. destination and Poland is key to this. Salaries according to plan and potentially for
Europe, the PIGS and BRICs. The troubles in Poland are significantly below those of property prices, as visitors plan their holiday
encountered in the Eurozone, including Western Europe - there is an expectation it accommodation in the area.
financial bail outs, the banking review, the will take 15 to 20 years before wages catch up
establishment of a permanent, Eurozone to western levels. Property investors, seeking turkey
financial rescue mechanism, all played capital growth and promising rental prospects Turkey is an exciting property market to
a role in shaping the developed nations’ should think about city centres and special consider in 2011/12 with its economic success
property market in 2010. Add to the mix, economic zones, like Krakow and Łodz. of late. Its economy is expected to finish 2011
property buyers wanting to raise finance, with growth of over 6% continuing into 2012.
as well as watching exchange rates. For spain As the economy grows, the wealth generated
example, European banks’ exposure to the Spain has faced challenges. Construction will have a positive impact on the property
debt of Spain is €257bn, (according to FT/ accounted for just over 10% of the workforce market. With annual house price growth of
CEBS analysis) that is a sizeable sum. This in Spain, so the property downturn has had a 2% in 2010, this buoyancy is expected to be
will influence access to funding for overseas big impact on the economy. There are some sustained.
property purchases.
The Euro area is forecast to grow at 1.3%
2011, vs 6.8% and 6.4% for emerging
economies. Economic growth bodes well for
property markets, since the wealth generated
creates property demand and acts as a driver of
the property market.
On the face of it, the emerging economies look
a better bet, however they will need resources
to grow, both money and raw materials (witness
the spate of lead thefts to supply china with
base metal requirements). Some emerging
markets have not yet got a proven, “foreign
property buyer” track record. Sustainability of
the domestic, property markets will also be a key
question to bear in mind, as well as how foreign
property buyers are treated by regulation.

What does this mean for overseas

property buyers in 2011/12?
A country need not be showing booming
property growth right now, for it to be a

March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE 7

 Property News
‘New World’ Residential Markets Show High Risk
High Reward Compared to ‘Old World’ Stability
T he characteristics, type and quality
of a city’s residential stock are a key
component of its global competitiveness.
A small number of world cities can count
themselves among a truly global market,
sought by the world’s richest households and
behaving almost like a separate asset class to
a worldwide investor audience.
international property adviser, Savills,
has piloted a new Global Cities survey that
examines four of these key cities. it very
clearly demonstrates that leading cities in ‘new
world’ emerging markets have significantly
outperformed the more established prime
residential markets in ‘old world’ economies
over the last five years - but at the expense of
greater volatility.
instead of the usual standard price per square
foot measure used by other indices, the company
has analysed the cost of an ‘executive unit’ or
basket of properties comprising the typical homes
of a regional chief executive, two local directors
8 The Good ProPerTy Guide March/April 2011
and four locally employed administrative staff.
yolande Barnes, head of Savills research
said: “We believe it is more meaningful to
compare global centres based on the total
cost of property for a core executive group
since this is a key measure of competitiveness
and a vital consideration for corporate global
decision makers.” in hong Kong, the total cost
of the basket of seven properties is now £15
million, compared to just over £10 million in
Moscow, £9.6 million in London and just £8
million in New york.
The average value of the homes occupied by
the global super rich is around double that of a
regional Ceo on a standardised price per square
foot measure, ranging from almost £6,500 per
square foot in hong Kong to almost £2,500 in
New york, just over £2,500 in Moscow and
£3,000 in prime London.
hong Kong is the most expensive centre for
every household type, including the global
billionaire. Surprisingly, for those working at
administrative and director levels, London
looks to offer good value housing in a global
city context. it is the cheapest location for
local employees at this level, who are likely to
occupy the more far-flung ‘metroland’ suburbs
which characterise most of the outer boroughs.
The reluctance of ordinary home-owning
London families to occupy flats, as well
as a preference to own freehold plots with
gardens also pushes this population into the
housedominated suburbs, Barnes believes.
This relatively cheap (by global standards)
housing may of course come at the price of
longer and costlier commuting times. The
unique characteristic of London is perhaps
the opportunity to trade size and cost for
travel. Meanwhile the high-rise and more
compact characteristic of Manhattan, coupled
with the willingness of families to occupy
apartments offers ordinary New york workers
an opportunity to live in quite central areas
of Manhattan.
Rise in Demand for Villa and
Cottage Rentals
T he traditional spring peak in holiday
bookings has begun and holiday home
owners advertising with holidaylettings.co.uk
are already benefitting from a 20 per cent rise in
visits to the website, plus a 26 per cent year on
year uplift in enquiries.
UK holiday home owners are set to enjoy
another year of high demand - current requests
for UK holidays are 54 per cent greater than this
time last year. Within that growth, Northern
Ireland is experiencing a 93 per cent hike. The
Emerald Isle is also benefitting from a desire
to holiday closer to home with a 78 per cent
increase in demand for holidays in Ireland.
Those seeking value plus sunshine are
causing a spike in demand for apartments and
farmhouses in Malta and riads and apartments
in Morocco. Also in the Mediterranean,
Turkey has risen to the sixth most enquired
about destination so far this year, behind the
traditional British traveller favourites.
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies, spokesperson for
holidaylettings.co.uk, comments:
homes in the UK are free of VAT, apartments
“Holiday
in Rome are free from the new tourist tax and
consistently the rate per person per night of a villa,
apartment or cottage rental is cheaper versus other
accommodation options. We know holidays are
imperative for many despite the pinch of the VAT
increase and general impact of the spending review.
So we’re delighted to see the growing
appreciation for the value-for-money benefits
booking rentals direct with owners can bring.”
March/April 2011 THE Good PRoPERTy GUIdE 9
 The Premium Collection

Pale and Interesting

She has built a successful business empire on neutral tones and remains the
doyenne of the crisp, clean interior. Laura Henderson reveals why Chrissie
Rucker deserves her super-homemaker status.

C hrissie Rucker, creator of The White

Company, is the ultimate purist of the home
interiors world. A former fashion journalist
at Harpers and Queen, she vividly recalls the
day she purchased a white sofa for her flat and
painted her walls white. Her family thought
she had lost her marbles – but her innate flair
and acumen for turning a germ of an idea into
a universal style statement, has kept her in the
vanguard of interior fashion for almost two
decades, not to mention giving a futuristic twist
to an outmoded UK home decor market. “In my
twenties, the few white items I could find and
afford were of the cheap design variety and of
average or poor quality,” she explains. “All the
gorgeous, high-quality ones I loved were only
to be found in the designer departments and of
course, with the designer label came the snooty
sales assistant and the high price tag!” So Rucker
embarked on a mission to create a business that
specialised in supplying stylish, white, designer
quality items for the home that were affordable,
and a company whose whole ethos was about
making its customers feel welcome.
In fact, putting the feel-good factor into home
making is what Rucker does best. A busy mother
of four, married to Nick Wheeler, founder of
Jermyn Street shirt maker Charles Tyrwhitt,
she makes it her mission to co-ordinate her
life around her sizeable brood. Living in the
welly clad environs of rural Oxfordshire with a
menagerie of dogs, ponies and all the associated
kiddy paraphernalia that go with a full-on family,
would deter most people from creating a white-
out colour scheme in their home environment.
Yet the cultivated neutral palette that drives
Rucker’s hugely successful business is not just
a quirky marketing ploy – it’s an influence that
defines her whole attitude to life.
Her mantra for success when she set up her
bed linens-to-tableware mail-order company
in 1994 has always been “keep quality up and
prices down”, and it’s a principle that has paid
dividends over the years, transforming her
business into one of the UK’s fastest growing
private companies, with a turnover in excess
of £100m. In spite of the recession, 2009-10
turned out to be a “bumper” year and today her
empire spans 37 stores, with five more in the
pipeline and an online business, although she
reflects she’ll probably “stop at 60 stores.”
Take a tour of the company’s flagship
‘concept store’ in the heart of Chelsea and
you get an instant snapshot of the way Rucker
likes to operate. Crisp, clean bed linen remains
the focal point of the business - along with
signature scent candles, room fragrances and
luxury bath and body products. But she has
enjoyed branching out into other homespun
lines. “We have a clothes range that you wear
at home: wraps and dresses in neutral shades
of white and greys, a perfect match for chunky
cable-knit cushions and blankets. We also have

10 THe GOOd PROPeRTY GUIde March/April 2011

 The Premium Collection

“keep quality up and prices down”, and it’s a principle that

has paid dividends over the years, transforming her business
into one of the uk’s fastest growing private companies

March/April 2011 The Good ProPerTy Guide 11

 The Premium Collection
a kids’ line The Little White Company, which
we launched in 1997, which encompasses
everything from white wooden beds to soft toys
and sleepwear.”
But it’s Rucker’s innate understanding of
the power of neutral, calm, pale colours and
pared-back furnishings, that makes her one-
stop concept both credible and investable. “I
like everything to feel calm and peaceful,” she
explains. “White – particularly a warm white
– does exactly that. It gives a comfortable
informality to any living environment.”
Her business strategy wasn’t always as fine-
tuned. In the early days, she was packing small
orders from a rented attic room where she’d set
up a makeshift office. When the packaging and
goods started arriving in ever larger volumes,
she moved into a warehouse and took a spare
12 THE Good PRoPERTy GUIdE March/April 2011
room in the back of her husband’s office. “I
was incredibly young and naïve,” she adds.
“I had an idea and often acted on a whim.”
Choosing mail order – a marketing tool with
relatively low overheads, was, however, a savvy
decision. With only a handful of competitors
on the market 10-15 years ago, Rucker was
quickly able to build brand dominance.
“For the first eight or nine years we recorded
amazing growth,” she explains. “The product
range broadened. From bed linen and towels it
became a complete lifestyle brand.” Expanding
from mail-order to opening up the retail side of
things has been a “necessity”. “More and more
customers were visiting the warehouse,” she
adds. “We had to find a way to deliver a walk-in
version of the brochure.” Now with 37 stores
nationally, twelve franchise outlets overseas,
CHRISSIE’S TOP
HOMEMAKING TIPS:
✽ Layering is the buzzword for beds. Not
only is it a clever way to quickly adjust
the temperature, it’s also a fab way of
introducing different colours and textures.
✽ Getting the proportions right in a room is
a fine art. Use a floor plan and draw in key
furniture. That way you know how much
free flowing space you have to play with.
✽ Lighting plays a vital role in creating
atmosphere. Have different lighting for day
and night - candles and tea lights dotted
around, works particularly well.
✽ Change cushions, rugs and accessories
with the seasons. If you have a neutral
background, introduce berry tones in
the autumn/winter then change to paler
palettes in the spring.
plus three Selfridges concessions and one in
Harrods and Fenwick, Rucker has a stake hold
in many influential locations.
It’s a world away from her rural county
upbringing in Kent, where her father worked
in commodities in the City and her mother
was a dance teacher and a pony-club girl. “My
childhood was all about horses”. She adds. But
it’s a hands-on upbringing that has influenced
her approach to family life. Finding a work-life
balance, she explains, is enormously difficult and
requires “teamwork and organisation.” While
she has the benefit of a “wonderful” nanny and a
“wonderful” housekeeper to help run her home,
she’s refreshingly honest enough to admit that,
“you’re only as good as the team you have around
you – that goes for work or home. I’m lucky in that
I have two fantastic teams. We always try and have

some family time every day. We are very lucky as
working parents go. We manage to make it work.”
Weekends are normally ring-fenced to spend
with the children. But for Rucker there is also a
blurring of home-work boundaries – with lots of
input from family members. “The children were
the inspiration behind the Little White Company,
and still are,” she adds. “They love being involved
and often give me ideas for new pyjamas or toys.
They go in the Little White Company product
testing room and we check things with them and
take on board what they say.”
As to future plans, Rucker has branched out
into black, brown and grey, although she has
no yearning to go vibrant. “Garish colours just
aren’t me. They make me feel manic.” More
recently she has also started to delegate some of
the areas of her business to her team. “It always
works to focus your energy on the things you’re
good at. I am still very involved with the product
side, which is my biggest strength,” she reveals.
“My energy goes into the form, the way it looks
and feels and the way it is represented in the
books, brochures and sites.” As to whether her
white obsession is likely to diminish anytime
soon; the answer is categorically no. “While I
don’t want a door on every high street, there’s
so much more one can do to maximise quality.
What makes us special is that we’re still a family
run, family orientated business. White works
whoever you are, wherever you are, in ultra
modern houses or in pretty traditional houses
– it’s a life-enhancing colour.”
March/April 2011 THe GOOd PROPeRTy GuIde 13
The Premium Collection
Chrissie ruCker
snapshot
What is the White Company
ethos?
Simple, classic design predominantly in
white!
Where do you glean your
inspiration for neW produCt
lines?
There is not an hour that goes by when I’m
not inspired by something or someone. I
sketch the whole time and, if I can, I take
pictures. I had a great day yesterday with a
friend who loves everything heart-shaped.
The White Company is working on a
range of heart shaped items to raise money
for Great Ormond Street Hospital’s heart
and lung unit next year.
do you think uk style has
Changed With the austerity
age?
I think we are investing in classic, quality
products that will last but don’t want to
spend a fortune. The White Company
style is versatile and it doesn’t matter if
your taste is sharp and modern or pretty
and traditional, our products add an extra
bit of luxury to any home.
hoW do you seCure Customer
loyalty through the on-line
medium?
We are a multi channel business and so
always try to do everything we possibly
can to make our customers feel really
special, whether they shop online, in store
or over the phone. We occasionally offer
special discounts, promotions and news
about local store events in our weekly
email newsletter and brochure.
What is the most
Challenging aspeCt of
running the Company?
I think managing a good work/life balance
is an eternal battle for every working mum.
There are times when it works brilliantly
and times when it just doesn’t go to plan
at all.
do you have any neW
produCt lines in the offing?
This summer has a very natural feel with
some great new wicker homes accessories
and a new Fresh Thyme homes fragrance.
I am also very excited about our best ever
Summer clothing collection.
 The Premium Collection
Saint Peters Bay Barbados- A Slice of Paradise...
Have you ever wondered wHat it
would feel like to own a piece of
paradise?
T rust me-it is now most certainly possible
in Barbados.
I have just returned from my trip to the
exquisite development of Saint Peters Bay set
in the beautiful island of Barbados, a naturally
charming and sophisticated place, alive with
all kinds of possibilities, as boundless as its
turquoise sea and as endless as the sandy shore.
A warm friendly welcome awaited us upon our
arrival in one of the most stunning places around
the globe. A straight forward and trouble-free eight
hour flight takes you straight into Bridgetown
from UK to this remarkable island which has an
14 THE GOOd PrOPErTY GUIdE March/April 2011
By Rita Karia-Hopkins
estimated population of 284,589 people, with
around 80,000 living in or around Bridgetown-
The largest city and the country’s capital.
In 1966, Barbados became an independent
state and Commonwealth realm, retaining Queen
Elizabeth II as Head of State. Barbados is one of
the Caribbean’s leading tourist destinations and
is the most developed island in the region.
Only a short journey from the airport sits
this exquisite development (which to be totally
honest blew me away when I first set my eyes
on it!). The three bedroom Beach front villa
was simply ‘to die for’....Its superb decor of
an extremely high standard and delightful
ambiance gives it a superb edge and made it
for me one of the highest premier specification
places I have ever had the pleasure of visiting.
Saint Peter’s Bay is known to be a breathtaking
new development on Barbados’s exclusive West
Coast and offers 57 private beachfront residences
nestled in 4 acres. Suitably positioned between
the shopping, entertainment and service centres
of Holetown and Speightstown, this piece of
tropical paradise offers all the key essentials that
make up the classic Caribbean dream location –
peaceful surroundings, swaying coconut palms, a
sweeping panoramic view of the ocean, a beautiful
white sand beach and crystal clear water.
Tactful elegance is complimented by a
collection of facilities including concierge
services, membership at the exclusive Port St.
Charles Yacht Club, a fitness centre, a beauty
salon, and on site property management and
security personnel. Property Manager - Geoff
Farmer was very obliging at all times, so there
is no hesitation in saying that you would be
extremely well looked after. From groceries
you may need, to swimming with turtles in the
deep blue sea-he is your man! Nothing was too
much to ask for at Saint Peters Bay. The outdoor
swimming pool area offered the most luxurious
sunbeds to enable one to soak up the fantastic
Barbados sunshine. I was totally in my element.
The staff are always there to help, whether you
would like to book one of the finest restaurants in the
area or even if you simply wanted to take a short trip
to the local supermarket in historic Speightstown.
Alternatively, you could travel in style and use the
classy complimentary water taxi to whisk you off to
wherever you fancy. For a traditional lunch why not
try the Fishermans Pub-this is the place to visit to get
a taste of true Barbadian food.
One of my favourite places was Port St.
Charles Yacht Club. It was ideal for lunch or
dinner. I am sure my seventeen year old son
has fond memories now of watching his mother

making a fool of herself dancing Bajan style
with the fabulous entertainers that they provide
mid-week. A sheer mix of people and a very
pleasant ambiance for the whole family makes
the yacht club an ideal place for everyone.
Designed by Ian Morrison, who is one of the
most highly respected and experienced Architects
in the Caribbean. Ian’s skills are second to none.
His design ability is of the utmost standard offering
the best views and spacious layouts that you
would dream of. They are around 2,700 square
feet including a master bedroom with a large
bath in the en suite plus two further bedrooms,
laundry room, and my most favourite area the
balcony with its own private Jacuzzi. I was utterly
blown away by the amount of living space and
top range commodities in the kitchen. What
more could a girl ask for!? I spent most of the days
drinking champagne relaxing in the private spa
pool watching the sun go down. Sheer heaven... .
There are an additional six penthouses on the
top floor which also feature a 400 square foot
private roof deck with spa pools. You would
unquestionably be totally spoilt for choice.
Plus for those of you with deeper pockets,
I believe there are a further three deluxe
penthouses providing approximately 6,330
square feet of space including a spectacular
master suite with large walk through dressing
area and bathroom, three additional en suite
bedrooms, a terrace bar, and private roof deck
with full size pool and barbeque area serviced
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by a waiter from the kitchen below, a state of “beach on Barbados’ platinum west coast.’
the art media room, and a home office. Standing in a class of its own, Saint Peters
The whole neighboring area surrounding Bay would be for sure you’re ‘very own piece of
Saint Peter’s Bay is gradually being upgraded paradise’... remember life is for living.
thus enhancing the potential for future increases A special thanks to Betty Cathrow
in property values. These other developments
are focused at varying niches but will all be of
the highest quality. I can totally appreciate why
these properties are going to be immensely
popular. Barbados is now increasingly
becoming a celebrity filled zone with the likes
of the legendary Cilla Black and Simon Cowell
investing in homes there. We did too spot a
few celebrities on our trip and to no surprise
in fact, as we were undoubtedly staying in one
of the most exceptional locations in Barbados.
Saint Peters Bay is privately gated and totally
secluded. This is the ultimate place for those of
you looking to invest for total privacy. Available immediately Prices
The Project Manager at the development is Betty start at:
Cathrow, I asked her why holidaymakers and US$2.3 Million - Standard 3-Bed
investors choose Barbados, her comments were Residence
‘Barbados is ranked number one in the Caribbean US$3.4 Million - 3-Bed Penthouse
for the greatest percentage of repeat visitors. One PRICE ON REQUEST - 4-Bed Deluxe
lady who has been visiting the island for over 40 Penthouse
years told me the other day that Barbados is not
a vacation for her, it is a way of life!’ she went on For further enquires please contact
to say ‘This is why more and more visitors choose info@stpetersbaybarbados.com
to make Barbados their second home and Saint Tel + 246 419 9601
Peters Bay fits in perfectly with this by offering www.stpetersbaybarbados.com
beautifully designed beachfront homes and
an array of amenities set on a “picture postcard
March/April 2011 THe GOOD PrOPerTY GuIDe 15
 The Premium Collection
Interior design might have been a second career for England’s most
celebrated costume and theatre designer Oliver Messel, but his iconic
style lives on in many of Barbados’s grand homes. By Laura Henderson.
T our the island and the architectural legacy
left by those gone before stands proud
from every seascape and hilltop balcony
– from the bijou chattel houses and pastel
coloured stilt cottages once transported from
one plantation to another by farm workers, to
the rambling Colonial estates dressed in styles
that span Palladian Regency to neo-Gothic.
One inspirational influence that perhaps
encapsulates the island’s bricks and mortar
heritage more than any other, however, is that
of British theatre designer Oliver Messel.
Close friend and confidant of playwright
Noel Coward, fun-loving uncle of HRH Princess
Margaret’s husband, Lord Snowdon, and
revered rival of photographer Cecil Beaton; few
period personalities stand out in quite the same
flamboyant manner. Born in London in 1904
16 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE March/April 2011
Grand Designs
to an affluent, middle-class English family, and
educated at Eton, where his fellow classmates
included the likes of Evelyn Waugh and Brian
Howard, Messel’s artistic leanings shone forth
from an early age – his talents securing him a
place at the prestigious Slade School of Fine
Art at London’s University College. From there,
an illustrious career as a portrait painter soon
followed. A born socialite with the ‘gift of the
gab’, commissions for theatre work heralded a
new creative outlet for the multi-talented artist,
a window of opportunity that he put to good
use, showcasing his wider talents as a costume
designer for ballet and stage productions in the
country’s most prestigious venues.
It wasn’t until the age of 55, when, exhausted
from a demanding theatre season and suffering
from recurring arthritis, Messel took the radical
decision to abandon his gad-about-town
existence and head to sunnier climes. Lured
by high society denizens Ronald and Marietta
Tree, he put down roots in Barbados, buying
a dilapidated property on the coast called
Maddox House. Coaxing it back to life with a
heavy dose of theatrical flair, Messel’s elegant
Coral-rimmed creation caught the eye of
influential dynasties like Cunard and Guinness
and design commissions began to flood in.
Today, a healthy sprinkling of grand homes
including Fustic House, Alan Bay, Cockade
House, and Crystal Springs bejewel the island;
each one drawing a certain artistic licence from
his flamboyant stage sets – big statement walls,
Demerara windows, Bajan parapets all dusted
down in his signature leaf coloured tone known
as Messel green. “Messel was all about capturing

a sense of laid-back, tropical elegance,” explains
interior designer to the stars Susan Levitt.
“There’s always a wonderful sense of space in
each home, with different settings in which to
dine and terraces and drawing rooms where
guests can relax. He loved crisp, white-on-
white lines, elaborate mouldings, latticework,
but he also injected a playful note with his
mix of Palladian, Baroque and Classical styles
– each property presenting a different facet
depending on his mood. He wasn’t without
his eccentricities though. He was quite a short
man, and one of his quirks was the placement of
light switches close to the ground, a feature that
many home owners still find hugely amusing,
so much so, they keep them as a talking point.”
Of all his many magical transformations,
perhaps his best known and most distinctive
is that of Fustic House. Formerly known as
Seaview, this elegant plantation home dates
back to the 18th century, although very little is
known of its first generation roots. Surrounded
by cane fields on a tree-lined ridge above the
north west coast, where trade winds cool the air,
the house was bought in the 1970s by Charles
Graves (brother of the writer Rupert Graves).
Graves commissioned Messel to refurbish it, his
‘The most beautiful house
first step being to add aI have
two storey
everNorth Wing
seen.’ *
enlarging its Moon Deck overlooking a tropical
ravine, and the sea. With so many Fustic trees
in the gully – the property was also given a new
name. “The house has a wonderful symmetry
to it with its four distinct sections,” adds Levitt.
“The flattened arch of the front door is topped
by a fanlight, and flanked by two smaller,
arched windows – all of which are trademark
Messel features. So is his use of latticework
and coral ridge stone for the stunning lagoon
swimming pool. His love of the property also
prompted him to paint all of the woodwork a
hallmark sage-green, which gives the place a
naturally serene allure.”
A true aficionado of old world charm, Messel
was always keen to ensure any refurbishment
remained respectful of a property’s timeline.
Nowhere is this more in evidence than at
the sprawling beachfront estate of Crystal
Springs. Hidden away between Holetown
and Speightstown on the west coast and set
in two acres of landscaped grounds dotted
with mahogany, palm and ylang-ylang; this
sumptuous property (built in 1940 as a simple
beach house) was re-designed by Messel in the
1960s. Every one of the property’s breezy rooms
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has an immediate sense of grandeur yet is
strewn with laid-back sofas and chaise longues,
simple beige and white linen and billowing
muslin curtains for a subdued-glam effect. “The
botanical garden setting is very much part of
the villa’s uniqueness and charm,” adds Levitt.
“Messel loved bringing together house and
garden, using nature as a sort of cupid in the
guise of a theatrical backdrop.” The living room,
encapsulated by the large picture window from
where you can look down to the beach through
the jungle greenery, is also testament to his
‘outdoors-in’ match-making mind-set. Walls
dotted with Haitian oil paintings and bespoke
touches such as the two large Monkey planters
(another Messel trademark) also add to the
tropical, yet tranquil theme.
It’s a testament to the island’s many charms
that Messel considered Barbados his true home
and it was here that he lived until his death
in 1978 at the age of 74. Renowned architect
Barbara Hill describes his work as “converting
ordinary houses into wonderlands.” For
homeowners and holidaymakers fortunate
enough to stay in a Messel home; a healthy dose
of fantasy is always guaranteed.
March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTy GuIDE 17
 The Premium Collection

ahoy Sailor
Marina developments can mean mega revenues these days with a new breed of investor
looking for a prominent spot to dock. So where’s the smart money heading?
Laura Henderson reports.

T hey say, if you need to ask the price of

a boat, then a life on the ocean waves is
probably not your bag. But as the super-yacht
industry boasts record international sales
and marinas begin to rival golf resorts, the
serious players are grabbing a slice of the best
waterfront action. “The luxury market for yachts
is booming,” says luxury yachting broker Ben
Ridge. “The number of individuals with assets
of more than £20m has grown by almost 50 per
cent in the last three years and a good many
of those are not just investing in a super-yacht,
they’re also buying a waterfront pad with a dock
to showcase their floating assets.” According to
agent Matthew Fox however, it’s not all about
millionaires on their gin palaces, there are
plenty of people tying up their pleasure boats
and enjoying the scenery: “While demand
for homes with pontoons or access to marina
berths is rising, supply is also restrained by
growing restrictions on development of canal
side residential estates and waterfront marinas.
This is adding greater scarcity value to this
type of property, so if you’re fortunate enough
to find a dockside home you like-stick with it.
Growing demand and constrained supply make
for a nice little nest egg for the future.”
Portugal
Blessed with over 150 miles of superb sailing
coastline and one of the best charter areas in
Europe-Portugal’s gilt-edged Algarve region
has built up a serious ‘leisure and pleasure’
reputation over the years, not only for its
championship tees and greens, but also as
host of several prestigious international sailing
regattas including the Algarve International
Sailing Tournament held every spring in
millionaire’s marina Vilamoura. Shoring up the
boat hub portfolio, Parque Expo, the company
responsible for revamping Lisbon’s northeast
waterfront into Nation’s Park, has set about
transforming the frontline east of Faro around
Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, into a glittering
luxury marina complex to accommodate

18 ThE Good PRoPERTy GuIdE March/April 2011

 The Premium Collection

larger yachts and small cruise liners. “The city

has been seen as a poor relation to Lisbon in
the past,” explains Connie Vito of Quadrant
Overseas Property, “the latter having benefited
from the first tranche of regeneration funding
from the EU. Now all that is all set to change.”
Early bird investors looking to snap up a
property bargain are in good company, with
high-wattage celebrities such as Jose Mourinho
and Cristiano Ronaldo eyeing up property in
the area. “Land prices in the immediate vicinity
of the marina are already reflecting future
development,” adds Vito, “a 1,000sqm plot
selling for €£50,000 five years ago now double
the value.”

March/April 2011 ThE GOOd PROPERTy GUidE 19

 The Premium Collection
A see-and-be-seen alternative close to
the Portuguese capital Lisbon, the former
fishing village turned boating Mecca of
Cascais, has become the weekend escape
for Lisbon’s well heeled-the town’s ‘good
life’ reputation supported by the price tags
in its boutiques and the number of stars on
its hotel signs. Real estate next to the town’s
650-berth marina, which opened in 1999,
understandably commands a premium.
“The town has a vocation for staging major
international sailing events such as the ISAF
Sailing World Championship,” says local
agent Paul Houston. “Now there’s a quay for
mega-yachts and additional moorings, which
will only serve to strengthen the resort’s
second-home appeal.”
Those on the lookout for a ready-to-move-
into designer pad can take their pick from the
current portfolio of £1m+ frontline stock.
20 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE March/April 2011
Sicily
A top destination for inter-island cruising,
Sicily’s capital Palermo is a popular launch pad
for the sailing grounds of Malta and Tunisia
with the scenic Aegadian and Aeolian Islands
lying just offshore. “Hosting the preparatory
regattas of the Louis Vuitton Cup 2005,
triggered a significant increase in pleasure-
boat traffic to the island,” confirms District
Councillor Fabio Granata, “with a staggered
upgrading in port facilities around the
coastline underway, including Riposto Marina
north of Catania, which has a further 650
berths planned.” “It’s all part of the island’s
game plan to ramp up the quality of residential
tourism facilities,” confirms Ian Giddings of
Overseas Property Links. “Real estate prices
have risen steadily in recent years, with EU
and Italian government money revitalising the
capital Palermo on the north coast. Property
there offers good capital growth prospects,
particularly for those willing to renovate,
with studios selling for as little as £75,000.”
Dedicated exclusively to private and charter
yacht hire, the city’s full-service Marina Villa
Igiea, just a short distance from the centre, is a
good buy-to-let area.
Adding a touch of high seas glam at the
prestige end of the scale meanwhile, is the
chi-chi resort of Taormina. Overlooking
two crescent shaped bays, this pristine town
with its giddy network of winding streets
and bougainvillea-clad gardens attracts more
foreign buyers than any other resort on the
island. “Prices reflect this,” confirms Jeremy
Smith of the Sicily Property Company, “and
you could easily blow £1m on an architect
designed villa, but you’ll get a lot for your
money. Rentals are also lucrative, a three-
bed villa netting you £1,800 per week peak

season.” Six nautical miles from Taormina,
Porto dell’Etna constitutes a modern, well-
equipped yacht marina within the existing
structure of the Port of Riposto. Open for
business all year round, and just 30 minutes
from Catania airport, the marina boasts 150m
of quay berths as well as 570m of floating
wharfs, with moorings available for vessels up
to 40 metres. Architect designed glamour pads
are the staple of the area – the price tag? All
yours for a cool entry-level price of £1m.
Spain-Valencia
Sleek yachts are in ready supply in Alicante’s
gothic capital Valencia, a ‘city break’
destination, which has upped its profile
of late as a rival to Barcelona and Seville.
Relatively new to the dockside game, the
community has also benefited from significant
real estate gains following the prestigious
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America’s Cup, with new leisure facilities
and a state-of-the-art port raising the bar in For further information, contact:
marina design to compete with the likes of www.sicilypropertyco.com
Genoa and Marseille. Real estate regeneration www.overseaspropertylinks.com
in traditional barrios like El Carmen, also www.algarvepropertysearch.com
mean growth capacity on a second-home
investment is a strong bet. One of several
new build projects geared to the mainstream
market is the immaculately groomed resort
of Port Saplaya. Located on the city outskirts
and sporting a 323-slip marina, turnkey two,
three and four-bedroom residences come with
‘doorstep’ mooring facilities and excellent
rental prospects. Resort re-sales currently on
the books include a four-bed duplex in mint
condition for £300,000. Properties sports
spacious lounges and master bedrooms with
private terraces. Perfect for watching those
floating pleasure palaces slip by…
March/April 2011 ThE GOOd PROPERTy GuidE 21
 The Premium Collection

Born Again Bermuda

Earnestly British, this genteel retiree haven is beckoning younger buyers with a
new line in fractional real estate. Laura Henderson reports.

I n its prime, the former British colony

of Bermuda was the favoured weekend
playground for dotcom millionaires and
captains of industry who’d fly in just to
network their way round the tees and greens.
But like an elite country club, the island has
had to come to terms with the fact that it is
simply too highbrow, and is trying to shake of
its fusty image. Outdated customs are gradually
being replaced by a laid-back urban style, best
exampled by Bermudan businessmen clad
in Bermuda shorts, jackets and ties. With the
tourism focus now firmly on warm-weather
values and a £100m ‘golden hello’ from
government to upgrade hotel accommodation,
it’s more flip-flops and sundowners these days
than tea and scones on the terrace. Nightlife,
albeit low-key, is also more in evidence as is
the growing array of visitor attractions from
heritage tours to beach tennis.
Located off the eastern coast of North America
and just a seven-hour flight from the UK, this
21 square mile island has an atmosphere of
serenity and safety that’s increasingly rare these
days as brasher influences seep into the holiday
mix. High-end real estate and a blue-blooded
pedigree of ‘A’ list owners including Michael
Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones and David
Bowie add a certain panache to the community
atmosphere, while a robust economy is helping
to shield local enterprise from the worst
excesses of the global recession. “The island
has the third-highest per capita income in the
world,” explains former Minister of Tourism
and owner of The Reefs Club Development
David Dodwell, “with tourism and international
business interests now permeating all aspects
of island life. Hamilton the capital also has a
growing blue-chip presence with many big
insurance and reinsurance firms relocating here
thanks to the island’s favourable tax regime.”
Property values (underpinned by limited
supply and little remaining land for
development) are also holding up confirms
Buddy Rego of Sotheby’s International Realty,
down by just 5 per cent in the past eighteen
months: “The government have placed a cap
on housing stock sold to non-nationals with
just a handful of residences in 2010 made
available for sale to foreigners at an average
price of £2m.” It’s a prudent intervention that

22 THe GOOD PROPeRTy GUIDe March/April 2011

 The Premium Collection

has helped to counteract a boom-bust cycle and

ensure that Bermudian residents are not priced
out of their own market. “Potential investors
can feel pretty secure about the intrinsic value
of property,” adds Rego: “If you’re a non-
Bermudian selling your house for just the right
price, it should sell, and we have a demand for
just that, without reaching saturation levels.”
Keen to ensure that the island is not beyond
the reach of aspiring second-homers, the
government has, for the first time, sanctioned
the introduction of fractional ownership for
non-nationals. Foreigners can own a deeded
part-share in a property, which can be sold,
willed or put into a trust like any other form
of real estate. Projects will offer a strict limit on
the number of resident owners per property

March/April 2011 The Good PRoPeRTy GuIde 23

 The Premium Collection
to ensure that investors have maximum usage.
“The attractions are obvious,” adds dodwell.
“it means buyers can effectively trade-up to a
larger holiday home without the prohibitive
entry costs and the maintenance hassles that
come with buying a place outright.”
Working to a completion schedule in 2012
a clutch of new projects are underway in the
premier districts of Tucker’s Point, Paget and
the South Shore, studios in the golf resort of
Newstead Belmont hills in Paget starting from
just £100,000. Perched on limestone cliffs in
the cosy parish of Southampton, The reefs
Club is one of the latest waterfront releases.
Partnered with the prestigious reefs hotel,
which boasts the highest repeat-guest rate
of any luxury hotel on the island, this eye-
catching community will comprise nineteen
fully furnished two and three-bedroom
residences just steps away from a private pink
24 The Good ProPerTy Guide March/April 2011
sand beach. Spacious interiors boast floor to
ceiling picture windows, cantilevered stone
and glass walls, with rich fabrics and mahogany
furnishings that evoke the island’s lush tropical
landscape. Luxury refinements include walk-
in closets and spacious private verandas with
outdoor whirlpool spas, while gourmet open-
plan kitchens and spa bathrooms complete the
minimalist look. Communal facilities continue
the luxury theme, with a Zen-styled owner’s
lounge, infinity-edge pool, Spa and rooftop
putting green. owners also have the services
of a dedicated concierge to coordinate leisure
activities from organising day-trips to securing
dinner reservations. Prices start at £200,000 for
a two-bed apartment rising to £245,000 for a
three-bed unit based on a 1/10th deeded share
in perpetuity. Annual maintenance fees range
from £6,000-7,500. Property access, based on
average usage patterns, works on a rotating

priority system enabling members to book on a
“planned”, “short notice” and “space-available”
basis throughout the year.
Attracting its shared of headlines on the
island’s sun-soaked South Shore meanwhile,
is Ariel Sands a former 1950’s cottage-colony
turned stylish boutique resort owned by
hollywood golden couple Michael douglas and
Catherine Zeta Jones. The dill family-one of
Bermuda’s oldest clans came from ireland to the
island in 1630. Bermuda-born actress diana dill
and her Academy Award winning son, Michael
douglas who now lives with his family on the
island have taken on this prestigious real estate
project expected to complete late 2012. The 14-
acre estate complete with private beach club,
tennis courts and spa will support six three-
bedroom standalone deluxe villas and 60 two
and three-bedroom townhouses. Whitewashed
vaulted interiors open wide to interact with
the soothing greens of the surrounding
hilltop landscape and are complemented by
plunge pools and ocean views. Villas on a
999-year lease basis start from a pricey £3m,
with more affordable fractionals (based on a
minimum of four weeks per annum usage) in
a fully furnished townhouse expected to fetch
upwards of £550,000.
Moving to the island from Surrey in 1997
for a “better quality of life”, Jennifer Johnson
is watching the upturn in investor contact
with interest. “it’s an eclectic place, with some
65,000 residents many of whom are expats.
Families looking to buy here will love it, as it’s
a safe and friendly environment. There are no
flashy casinos or mega resorts. Cars are limited
to one per resident family-and visitors are not
allowed to rent cars. you have to hop in a taxi
or catch a bus, which adds an element of fun
and gets you chatting with the locals.” As to
whether the latest development splurge might
dilute the island’s laid-back ambience: “it’s
unlikely. Bermuda is a year-round destination
so the resorts rarely get crowded. rather like
the beaches. you can stretch out, relax and
enjoy the quality essence of the place.”
ContaCts
www.thereefsclub.com
www.arielsands.com
www.regosothebysrealty.com
www.newsteadbelmonthills.com
March/April 2011 The Good ProPerTy Guide 25
The Premium Collection
Buying in Bermuda
✽ Non-Bermudians wishing to purchase
property must obtain a licence from the
Bermudan government. The fee scale is
set at 25 per cent of the purchase price for
houses, 18 per cent for condominiums and
10 per cent for fractional units.
✽ Non-Bermudians may only purchase one
residential property.
✽ Whole ownership purchase is restricted
to the island’s most expensive properties-
those with a minimum Annual rentable
Value (ArV) of £100,000 per annum for a
house and £21,000 for a condominium.
✽ Stamp duty typically divided between
buyer and seller is charged on a sliding
scale of 2-7 per cent of the property value.
✽ Legal fees range from around £3,500 for
a £400,000 property to £13,000 for a £5m.
✽ Agency fees are typically 5 per cent of the
purchase price.
✽ Tax on rental income is at 7.25 per cent.
✽ There is no Capital Gains or
inheritance tax.
 The Premium Collection
Island of PossIbIlItIes
The Caribbean’s most understated island - St. Lucia’s latest collection of luxury resorts makes it
the ultimate place to play castaway. By Laura Henderson
T he sound of the crashing waves on the
rocks below the headland setting of Cap
Maison takes the al fresco dining experience,
an atmospheric notch higher. Cocooning its
guests in plumped-up pool lounger luxury is
what the hotel does best, but the resort has set
a precedent in other ways too. On an island
long dominated by big all-inclusive brands
(couples-only player, Sandals, alone has four
‘loved-up’ villages dotted across the island), the
informal glamour of Cap Maison shows just
how far St Lucia has come in its bid to become
the Caribbean’s new hot spot for boutique
developers and blinged-out sun seekers.
Big on tropical greenery and marina life, the
island doesn’t boast the same beach inventory
as some of the other Caribbean havens. Steep,
corkscrew roads wending their way through
steamy rainforest and mountainscape can make the
simple quest of day-tripping, feel like an off-road
adventure. Yet it’s this unadulterated topography:
the primeval Piton peaks, rising out of the sea like
daggers, the rough hewn cliff tops, and the cosy,
drop-anchor harbours that set it apart.
Tourism, while a dominant force in the economy
(currently accounting for 45% of GDP) hasn’t
always been so prevalent. Until the early 1990’s,
banana production was the island’s primary source
26 ThE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE March/April 2011
Stunning sea views from The Landings balcony
of income, but with globalisation and subsidy
cutbacks in the European market, revenue from the
‘green gold’ industry has dwindled away, with the St.
Lucian government stepping in to fill the gap with a
raft of investment sweeteners aimed at attracting new
sector interest, with residential tourism leading the
way. “Tax incentives and ‘start-up’ grants fast-tracked
resort construction in the early stages,” explains
property consultant James Lomax. “Operating and
build costs are inevitably higher here than in many
middle-market destinations, so the focus on high
end products was inevitable, but it’s a formula that
has stood the sector in good stead.”
Prudent planning and a measured pace of
development have also enabled the island to
weather the worst of the recessionary storm over
the past few years. While places like Antigua
and St Kitts are feeling the ill-effects of over
supply, St Lucia’s focus on quality, has nurtured
a well-heeled per capita tourist spend, with a
record 300,000+ visitors in 2010. Improved
airlift has been instrumental in swelling footfall
too, with British Airways recently increasing
their direct schedule from London Gatwick to
five flights a week, and Virgin operating three.
Buyers in the market for a beachfront pad will
find two distinct investment locations vying for
their attention – the more developed northerly
coastal reaches around Rodney Bay Marina and
vintage capital Castries and the quieter south
around Soufriere. To date, property values in
the north have had the edge over their southern
counterparts with more demand for re-sales,
particularly from Canadian, British and US buyers.
Existing properties on resort developments in
Marigot Bay south of Castries, for example, have
doubled in value the last six years, with new
developments tipped to rise by 8-10% a year.
Rental income is also high, with villas
typically fetching up to £3,500 a week in
high season, and two-bedroom apartments
from £180 a night. “St Lucia has a five-month
peak season, but the other seven months are
by no means barren,” confirms Oliver Gobat,
Director of Sales for The Landings Resort. “In
fact, younger couples and retirees often prefer
to visit out of the school holiday season –
there’s always something going on, be it a golf
tournament, music festival or yachting event.”
Launched in 2007, the prestigious £100m
Landings resort near Rodney Bay Marina is in
pole position on the UK investor radar, with
over 50% of existing homes British owned.
Spread over 19 spectacular acres of reclaimed
beachfront, it offers buyers a rare opportunity
to snap up a freehold pad. “The Queens Chain

regulation states that all land within 20 metres
from the shoreline is owned by the government
and can only be leased,” explains Gobat, “but
in the case of The Landings which is built on
reclaimed land, this does not apply.” Designed
around a latticework of waterways and boasting
the only private marina in St Lucia (with 60
berths), all homes sport scenic views of the
beachfront, harbour, or lagoon, with a choice of
one, two, and three-bedroom grand residences
and four-bedroom townhouses, which range
in size from 1300 sq feet to over 4000 sq feet.
Prices start from £340,000 rising to £2.16m.
Interior designs come with an haute-gamme
pedigree - Alex Chapman whose work includes
the exclusive Cotton House resort on Mustique
has meshed traditional colonial and contemporary
Caribbean styles, incorporating bamboo and
coral accents, hand-rubbed paint finishes
and honed marble. Spacious open-plan living
rooms and dining rooms sport vaulted ceilings,
bedrooms come with Kohler accessorised en-suite
bathrooms. “Finishes are all about using natural
components,” adds Sales Manager Michael Green,
“with extensive use of solid wood, mosaic tiling
and stone. Quite a few of the residences also have
four-poster beds in the master bedrooms, and all
ground floor and top floor apartments have heated
jetted plunge pools, with satellite television, and
high-speed Internet fitted as standard.”
While yachting is unquestionably the focal
point of resort life at The Landings, home
owners have plenty of other amenities to dip
into including a signature spa, state-of-the-art
fitness club, tennis courts, water sports facilities
and beachfront club lounge and restaurant.
Adds Gobat: “Owners also have automatic
membership of the St Lucia Golf and Country
lounge interior at The Landings
Club, which is just a five-minute drive away.”
One of the first buyers at the resort, MTV
and BBC presenter Trevor Nelson, whose family
is from St Lucia, purchased a two-bedroom
apartment with “stunning views” over the beach
and the calm waters of Rodney Bay. With a hectic
work schedule, Nelson decided to place his
property in the resort managed rental pool to let
out when he’s not there. “My game plan was to
put my savings into property and to earn a rental
income from it,” he explains. “You could say that
The Landings is effectively my pension. But it’s a
great place to chill-back too. It’s like coming home
each time I visit, which I try and do several times
a year. Buying in a resort is a hassle-free choice
too – it means you never have to worry about
the upkeep side of things. I know my property is
being looked after when I’m not around.”
Garnering its share of interest on the south
side of the island meanwhile and expected
to complete in 2011, is the £60m top-to-toe
transformation of the historic sugar producing
Jalousie Plantation renamed Sugar Beach.
Managed by internationally renowned operator
The Tides, and dotted around 130 acres of
tiered terraces and canopied woodland, existing
cottages are being replaced by colonial-style
villas designed by Caribbean architect Lane
Pettigrew, with a new five-star hotel complex to
be run by the Kor Hotel Group.
64 exclusive buy-to-let villas, in standard or
deluxe one or two-bedroom versions range between
£400,000 and £1.2m and feature statement ceiling
fans, white-out interiors and private plunge pools.
42 larger privately owned residences start from
£1.5m. Says Sales Director Naomi Cambridge: “All
homes are nestled among the natural topography
of the development to create a sense of seclusion
The Premium Collection
and privacy. That way, owners have the best of both
worlds – a ready made community but peace and
quiet whenever they need it.” Owners purchasing a
buy-to-let villa can enjoy four weeks free holiday use
per year and will receive a 37.5% share of the total
room revenue which will be pooled, with individual
owner’s split calculated on the purchase price of the
villa. Residents, she adds, will also enjoy a minimum
5% rental guarantee from handover and for the first
12 months after hotel rebranding (December 2011).
Says property owner, Neil Mannering:
“Property choice on the island is wide ranging
and still a good 40% cheaper than Barbados.
I love the laid-back vibe. It disarms you. A
few days here unwinding and you start to feel
human again.”
Further information:
www.thelandingsstlucia.com
www.sugarbeachvillas.com
Buying in St Lucia
✽ There are no restrictions on non-
residents buying property in St Lucia.
✽ An ‘Alien Landholding Licence’ is
required and costs around £1,200.
✽ Stamp duty is 2% of the purchase price.
✽ There is no VAT, capital gains tax or
estate duties.
✽ Under a special government concession,
rental income earned from some resort
properties are tax exempt for an agreed
period of time. In the case of The
Landings, it is 10 years.
March/April 2011 THe GOOD PROPeRTY GUIDe 27
 Tax Friendly St
St Lucia
Lucia Lures
Lures
CANNY LIFESTYLE AND
AND INVESTMENT
INVESTMENT
S tt Lucia,
Lucia, which
Indies,
which is
is
is part
part of
characterised
of the
by
the Windward
a
Windward Islands
lush,
Islandschain
tropical and
chainin
naturally
Indies, is characterised by a lush, tropical and naturally scenic
landscape
inthe
theWest
West
scenic fully
The
TheLandings
Landingsisiscurrently
operational as a
currentlyininphase
resort. Prices
phase33ofofconstruction
range from
constructionand
US$550,000
fully operational as a resort. Prices range from US$550,000
andisis

landscape that
that remains
remains unspoiled.
unspoiled. Visitors
Visitors to
to St
St Lucia
Luciaconsistently
consistently totoUS$3,000,000.
US$3,000,000.
remark
remark on the friendliness of the locals who genuinelywelcome
on the friendliness of the locals who genuinely welcomevisitors
visitors
and delight in telling them proudly about their
and delight in telling them proudly about their island. island.
Providing
Providing an an additional
additional benefit
benefit for
for property
property buyers
buyersisisthe
theisland’
island’ss
tax friendly regime. In an effort to accelerate tourism projects the St
tax friendly regime. In an effort to accelerate tourism projects the St
Lucian government stepped in to provide a rental income ‘tax holiday’
Lucian government stepped in to provide a rental income ‘tax holiday’
for property buyers. In addition there is no VAT on property, no
for property buyers. In addition there is no VAT on property, no
capital gains tax and no inheritance tax. There are also plans to allow
capital gains tax and no inheritance tax. There are also plans to allow
foreigners who invest in St Lucian property over £211,000 to become a
foreigners who invest in St Lucian property over £211,000 to become a
resident of St Lucia, which will bring with it further tax benefits.
resident of St Lucia, which will bring with it further tax benefits.
The Landings is St Lucia’s premier resort development situated
The Landings is St Lucia’s premier resort development situated
on Rodney Bay in the popular north-west of St Lucia on 19 acres of
on Rodney Bay in the popular north-west of St Lucia on 19 acres of
spectacular beachfront. As The Landings is built on reclaimed land it
spectacular beachfront. As The Landings is built on reclaimed land it
offers a rare opportunity to buy a freehold Caribbean beachfront property.
offers a rare opportunity to buy a freehold Caribbean beachfront property.
Luxury apartments are built around a 60-berth harbour and have
Luxury apartments are built around a 60-berth harbour and have
access to extensive amenities on site that include the elegant ‘Palms’
access to extensive amenities on site that include the elegant ‘Palms’
fine dining restaurant, a beach bar and restaurant with beautiful views
fine dining restaurant, a beach bar and restaurant with beautiful views
over the bay, a luxurious 7000 sq. ft spa which features indigenous
over the bay, a luxurious 7000 sq. ft spa which features indigenous
signature treatments made from local ingredients and hydrotherapy
signature treatments made from local ingredients and hydrotherapy
terraces, plus a fully equipped gym. Owners at The Landings also have
terraces, plus a fully equipped gym. Owners at The Landings also have
membership at the St. Lucia Golf and Country Club, which is a five
membership at the St. Lucia Golf and Country Club, which is a five
minute drive from the resort.
minute drive from the resort.
A 24 hour concierge service caters for every whim arranging
A 24 hour concierge service caters for every whim arranging
anything from travel and sightseeing activities to ensuring an owner’s
anything from travel and sightseeing activities to ensuring an owner’s
fridge is stocked with their favourite food before arrival.
fridge is stocked with their favourite food before arrival.
The apartments are built in a traditional Caribbean architectural
The apartments are built in a traditional Caribbean architectural
style and offer a choice of one bedroom (1319 sq. ft), two bedroom
style and offer a choice of one bedroom (1319 sq. ft), two bedroom
(1850 sq. ft), three bedroom (2638 sq. ft), three bedroom grand
(1850 sq. ft), three bedroom (2638 sq. ft), three bedroom grand
residences (3390 sq. f), and a four bedroom townhouse (3700 sq. ft).
residences (3390
Apartment sq. f), sizes
and balcony and aarefour bedroom
generous townhouse
with (3700 sq.
many properties ft).
having
Apartment and balcony sizes are generous with many properties having
To arrange a viewing please contact Oliver Gobat on :
balconies at the front and rear of the property for alfresco dining and UK Telephone 0207 079 1443 + 1 758 452 0422,
balconiessunset
enjoying at the cocktails.
front and rear of the property for alfresco dining and
Email: info@ thelandingsstlucia.com,
enjoying sunset cocktails.
Website: www.thelandingsstlucia.com
28 The Good ProPerTy Guide March/April 2011
 C
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The Landings is St. Lucia’s prestigious 5-star luxury private harbour resort on its finest beach. Unrivalled quality,
TheTheLandings
Landings is is
St.St.
Lucia’s
Lucia’s
prestigious
prestigious
5-star
5-starluxury
luxuryprivate
privateharbour
harbour resort
resort
onon
itsits
finest
finest
beach.
beach. Unrivalled
Unrivalled
quality,
quality,
finishes and amenities. A fabulous freehold home with all the trimmings that is yours alone – no time-sharing
finishes
finishes
andand
amenities.
amenities. AAfabulous
fabulousfreehold
freeholdhomehomewith
with
allall
thethetrimmings
trimmings that
thatis is
yours
yoursalone
alone – no
– no
time-sharing
time-sharing
– with tax advantages others only dream of, such as 0% tax on rental income. So beautiful, it’s unreal.
– with
– with
taxtax
advantages
advantages others
others
only
only
dream
dreamof,of,
suchsuch
asas
0%0%taxtax
ononrental
rental
income.
income. SoSobeautiful,
beautiful,it’sit’s
unreal.
unreal.
For a private showing, please visit www.thelandingsstlucia.com or contact
For
Fora private
a private
showing,
showing,please
please
visit
visit
www.thelandingsstlucia.com
www.thelandingsstlucia.comoror
contact
contact
Oliver Gobat on 1 (758) 452-0422 or email: info@thelandingsstlucia.com
Oliver
Oliver Gobat
Gobat onon
1 (758)
1 (758)
452-0422
452-0422 oror
email:
email:
info@thelandingsstlucia.com
info@thelandingsstlucia.com
for the GenerAtionS
east hampton South. Enjoy the current 5 bedroom house, rolling
lawn, specimen trees and extensive flowering gardens while from
the unique 45 ft tall tower look out over the existing countryside. If
your needs dictate a new house, you'll be glad to know that there is
ample room for a significant residence, pool, pool house and tennis
court enhanced by the grandeur of the existing landscaping.
Exclusive $5.95M WeB# 24677
fithiAn lAne
east hampton South. This 6,000 SF+/-, 6 bedroom residence
offers living room, dining room, den, master bedroom and guest
bedroom, all warmed by fireplaces. The kitchen is flanked by butlers
pantry and large eat-in-area. The master bedroom with bath and
sauna joins 5 additional bedrooms. Covered porches overlook the
gunite pool with spa and pool house. Close to town and beaches.
Co-Exclusive $6.495M WeB# 51949
Gary DePersia, SVP, Associate Broker, 516.380.0538
SkimhAmPton roAD
east hampton South. This 5,000 SF+/- homes features a double
height paneled entry, 2 story great room with fireplace, dining
room, master bedroom and country kitchen. Second floor includes
four spacious guest rooms. Finished lower level includes theater,
bar, full bath, wine cellar, pool room, gym area, massage room, and
much more. Attached garage with room for all your Hampton Toys.
Exclusive $3.495M WeB# 45734
coBB roAD trADition
Water mill South. A long drive leads to a 9-bedroom residence on
2.2 acres that captures the spirit of a Hamptons tradition now gone.
Common rooms include gracious living room, formal dining room,
den and sunroom. Numerous bedrooms allow ample accommodations
for guests and staff. With pool, room for tennis, proximity to villages
and beaches, this offering is guaranteed to generate interest.
Co-Exclusive $4.995M WeB# 27759
clASSic GeorGicA comPounD
east hampton South. Warm summer days and sultry nights await that lucky buyer fortunate to snag this turn of the century compound on
a rare 3+/- acre lot south of the highway in East Hampton’s Georgica. Stroll to the beach, village shopping or places of worship from this
beautifully restored 3-story, 6 bedroom property that features 2 parlors, country kitchen and large dining room. The newly renovated 3
bedroom 2 story guest house with full kitchen, living room and fireplace will make weekend entertaining effortless. After days by the heated
Gunite pool you’ll be able to stroll into town for some much needed shopping. And oh yes, tennis is also an option.
Co-Exclusive $4.995M WeB# 10032

Southampton to Montauk...Sagaponack to Shelter Island

With over $80 million dollars worth of properties sold and another $6M in contract in just the
first six months of 2010, Gary DePersia has shown why buyers, sellers, renters and investors
continue to contact him for all their needs in the Hamptons. In almost 15 years on the East
End, Gary has participated in over a billion dollars of real estate transactions with more than
170 of his exclusive listings sold and closed, as well as matching hundreds of his own buyers
and renters with the right properties. His inventory of sensational exclusive listings from
Southampton to Amagansett and from Sagaponack to Shelter Island includes such standouts
as the 55 acre water front oasis Tyndal Point, the 40 acre enclave known as Sagaponack
Greens as well as a dozen new construction projects. While being Corcoran’s 2008 Top
Broker by Sales Volume and by Rental Units, Gary was recognized by the Wall Street Journal,
Real Trends and lore magazine as the 4th top ranked broker by sales volume in their annual
list of the “TOP 200” of real estate professionals nationwide in November of 2008. With
three full time assistants Gary has no problem with covering over $400 million dollars worth
of property currently listed with him. Contact Gary today to discuss listing your property
or finding your perfect place in the Hamptons.

Gary DePersia, SVP, Associate Broker

d: 631.899.0215 m: 516.380.0538
gdp@corcoran.com corcoran.com/gdepersia
Equal Housing Opportunity. The Corcoran Group is a licensed real estate broker. Owned and operated by NRT LLC. * Prices are as last advertised.

THE HAMPTONS SHELTER ISLAND NORTH FORK

 The Premium Collection

Brussels Breaks the Mould

Laura Henderson tours the capital where top architects
are reinterpreting residential design.

T he penthouse’s designer credentials have

been compared with the Weissenhof
Estate in Stuttgart made famous in the 1930’s
by Le Corbusier and Mies Van der Rohe. It’s
a flattering association for property owner
and developer Peter Bracke, but one he is
quick to dismiss. “Living space for me is first
and foremost about comfort,” he explains,
“although I prescribe to ‘clutter free’ philosophy
for ease of use.” A vision in minimalist white,
Bracke’s home, hidden behind the unassuming
walls of an apartment block in downtown
Brussels, has taken time to evolve: “When I
bought the place in 2003, I effectively had a
blank canvas on which to decorate-making
good the walls and laying down stone flooring.
I wanted a clean look-superfluous features were
strictly taboo.” As to what works: “Pure white
as a backdrop and raw elemental materials such
as steel, chrome, marble and glass are visually
effective. I also chose flooring that could be
easily cleaned-wood and stone, and softened
the look with large geometric and plain rugs.”
His taste in furniture with boxy timeless shapes
and modular sofas also gives a streamlined look,
as does the non-obstructive storage to hide
everything away. “You can easily spend time
and money on details that don’t add value,”
he adds. “The trick is to invest in things that
are really going to create impact-eye-catching
kitchen units for one.”
A winning concept when it comes to cool
styling, Bracke’s shiny home adaptation has
caught the wave of demand in the capital for
unapologetically modern real estate, with
developers and architects customising both
commercial and residential units for a growing
sector of young design conscious investors.
“Loft apartments have been around for years,”
explains Javier Van Kerrebrouck of Metropole
Properties, “and have particular appeal with the
expat market. The minimalist look however,
is now becoming more egalitarian, spreading
to haute gamme districts like Avenue Louise,
and up-and-coming areas such as Jette, St

32 THE Good PRoPERTY GuIdE March/April 2011

 The Premium Collection

Gery and Molenbeek.” Modern, confirms

Kerrebrouck, accounts for a good 10 per cent
of the residential market, prices starting from
around £2,000-3,000sqm but often exceeding
the £3,500 mark. Celine Brachwitz of Trevi
Immobilier Neuf has also been monitoring
the rise in new investments and welcomes the
trend: “Downtown has some of the funkiest
districts with a constant stream of hip bars,
clubs and boutiques opening up, so why should
real estate be left out of the loop? The Belgians,
especially the young are increasingly setting the
tone, evolving. When they read about designers
and architects, they want to own some of their
work or at least to emulate the lifestyle in some

March/April 2011 The GooD ProPerTy GuIDe 33

 The Premium Collection

way. Buying a chic apartment is one way of

achieving that.”
Built in 1850 on the site of a former watermill
in the Chaussee d’Anvers, Loft Boheme is one of
the best examples of an industrial conversion
refit. Crowned by a zinc roof and sporting 10-
foot high ceilings and oversized windows, the
six-floor 1m property’s central feature is a brick
staircase and stairwell decorated in graffiti by
local artists. Open-plan living spaces on the
top three levels allow for ‘design and create’
entertaining, working and sleeping areas. “It’s
an innovative project,” says local agent Abigail
Cherrier, “but it’s also a renovation style that’s in
tune with residents’ way of life-the whole idea
being to allow owners to entertain, to conduct
business and to relax at home, optimizing the
popular live-work concept.” Simple structural
changes have also made a difference; replacing
4 by 4 posts with cast iron ones to retain a

34 THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE March/April 2011


semi-industrial feel. Recessed display cases in
the lounge area, (previously a small wall), have
been seized by the developer as an opportunity
for display. Polished wooden floors complete
the minimalist look, with sliding doors,
exposed brick, and wooden beams creating a
functional, low-key atmosphere.
Renowned for his talking point residences in
Ibiza, Switzerland and Gran Canaria, Brussels-
based architect Marc Corbiau is also blazing a
contemporary trail closer to home, with award
winning projects such as Le Grey in Avenue
Louise. One of his most recent ventures in
collaboration with real estate company Beaufort
House, is Residence Downtown, an eight-storey
urban integration jewel comprising 40 deluxe
two-bed apartments. The architecture inside
as well as outside is a pleasure to look at, with
its subtle blend of sunlight and straight lines.
“Everything has been designed for personal
comfort,” explains Beaufort House MD Philippe
Weidner, “without neglecting the private
character of each apartment, from natural
stone floors to large picture windows providing
access to the terraces. Each apartment has fully
fitted designer kitchen and bathrooms, with
air conditioning throughout and a meticulous
and adapted decoration to accommodate
custom appliances.” A first also for downtown
residential community projects in the area, is
a communal roof terrace with panoramic city
views.
Five minutes from the Grande Place,
developers Trevi Immobilier Neuf are bringing
their own brand of turnkey simplicity to the
district, transforming four original warehouse
buildings into trendy, style conscious units.
Their delicious Charles Rogier Building project
comprises a limited edition collection of 28
apartments with high ceilings, studio apartments
The Premium Collection
starting from £160,000 rising to £250,000 for
a three-bed. Their Watermeal portfolio of seven
open-plan apartments ranging from one to
four bedrooms with stunning roof terraces and
panoramic city views, Starck designed kitchens
and private gardens start from £200,000 rising
to upwards of £325,000 for a spacious three-
bed split level unit.
Says Cherrier: “Contemporary designs are
thought-provoking, and that’s a good thing. A
formulaic approach can kill property values-
something investors won’t have to concern
themselves here.”
CONTACTS
www.trevi.be
www.residencedowntown.be
www.immobilierneuf.be
March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTy GuIDE 35
 The Premium Collection
Full of Eastern-Bloc Promise
Taking their cue from a heavily regenerated Berlin, other ‘Iron Curtain’ cities
are now being targeted for their growth potential. Laura Henderson reports.
O ne of the first industrialised nations
to claw its way back into the black,
Germany’s escape from recession boot camp
last year was welcome news in more ways
than one, with heightened real estate activity
pumping the feel-good factor for the first time
in months. Taking the heat off the country’s
flagging export-driven Western states,
“pockets of potential”, have been coming to
prominence since, in the former Iron Curtain
regions of Thuringia, Saxony and Saxony
Anhalt. “Cities with a growing nucleus of
‘sunrise industries’ in innovative sectors such
as new technologies and renewable energy
are going from strength to strength,” explains
Judith Schreyer of agents Grund Boden and
Fundus. “These medium-sized urban hubs
not only have vibrant cultures and rapidly
growing labour markets, property prices also
remain a good 30-40% below western German
equivalents, with rent levels steadily gaining
ground attracting yield-focused investors.”
Research company Prognos’s annual survey,
36 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE March/April 2011
which ranks German cities by their economic
potential, confirms this picture. While Berlin
remains a mid-table staple, the nearby historic
town of Potsdam has shot up from 148th place
out of 439 to number 15. Top ranking eastern
hubs Dresden and Jena also fare better than
West German cities like Cologne, Hamburg and
Frankfurt/Main. To give praise where praise is
due - real estate regeneration, has, been carefully
orchestrated: grand homes and monumental
Stalinist apartments giving rise to innovative
renovation projects, with vast swathes of
outlived, poor quality property raised to the
ground, leaving little vacant housing stock.
“Cities like Dresden and Leipzig have potential
for a range of investors,” states Carsten Hamm
CEO of agency City Makler Dresden. “With
finance rates around 4-5%, net yields of 7% or
higher ensure a positive cash flow, plus there’s
a stable tenanted rental structure.” Transaction
costs, nevertheless, remain high compared to
the UK, with 10% - 12% as a rule of thumb
to be budgeted for. The mortgage market has

“Cities like dresden and leipzig have potential
also yet to fully mature, with overseas investors
restricted to repayment mortgages (typically
70% LTV), which can stifle cash flow. From a
pan-European perspective, however, the ratio
of salary to property prices in East Germany is a
hard benchmark to beat, stresses Mat Littlecott,
MD of UK based investment consultancy Pro
Venture Property: “A safe and secure 8% yield
in an attractive, smaller city with long-term
growth potential has the edge over an unsecure
4% - 5% in a larger one. In the current climate,
East Germany’s ‘late developer’ status should be
seen as an opportunity, not a handicap.”
Cities in Credit
Dresden - ranked in the top 10 best cities to
live in Germany, with a GDP per capita equal
to many West German communities, the Saxon
capital’s ‘new town’ north of the River Elbe, is
slowly being rebuilt in the footprint of WWII
devastation; its outer fringes a Bohemian quarter
of narrow lanes, filling up with trendy restaurants
and boutiques. Head south of the river and the
for a range of investors,” states Carsten
hamm Ceo of agenCy City makler dresden
Altstadt (old town) hoards the lion’s share of
grand public buildings crowned by a classical
skyline of spires, domes and steeples.
top investment distriCts
Neustadt, Blasewitz-Striesen and Weisser
Hirsch
Average Price per sqm: £700 - £2,000.
One-bed apartments from £35,000.
Leipzig - located in the northwest of Saxony
- pristine parks, contemporary art galleries and
an age-mellowed old quarter, mesh with state-
of-the-art research facilities for medicine and
biology as well as spanking new 13,000sqm
‘Media City’. Top of the real estate agenda is an
ambitious revitalisation programme to demolish
unsuitable prefab homes and 20,000 outdated
apartments by 2012, with listed building
restorations drawing increasing numbers of
UK, Irish and Italian buyers.
Gohlis South, Sudvorstadt and Plugwitz
Average price per sqm: £500-£1,000. One-
The Premium Collection
bed apartments from £30,000.
Jena - after a post-reunification slump lasting
many years - aggressive business promotion
in the “green” central state of Thuringia has
paved the way for a high-tech region, with the
traditional university town of Jena on the River
Saale, taking centre stage. The city looks and
feels much like an affluent West German town –
pristine red roofed buildings and empty spaces
left by wartime bombing dressed with spanking
new architecture. A thriving cultural scene is a
further draw: the annual “Kulturama” attracting
‘A’ list celebs to sample the city’s burgeoning
museum and art house theatre scene.
Kernberge, Landgrafen and the Central
Quarter.
Average price per sqm: £400 – £800.
One-bed apartments from £30,000.
Further information: www.property-
source.eu and www.ndga.de
March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE 37
 Beauchamp
estates
www.beauchamp.com

London, UK: +44 (0)20 7499 7722

Mykonos, Greece: +30 22890 24797
Cannes, France: +33 (0)4 9706 0697

Exclusive properties in Mykonos

Mykonos Magic
Voted one of the most popular island destinations in Europe by Conde Nast,
Mykonos hits the spot for offshore property bounty.

T he Cyclades are home to some of the most

famous and beautiful islands in all of
Greece. Mykonos is perhaps one of the most
famous of all; an idyllic offshore haven that
attracts visitors from all over the world. The
island is one where the real estate and property
market is constantly increasing, as more and
more people look to either relocate or invest
in what is arguably one of the world’s most
exclusive holiday playgrounds.
Says property agent Neil Ward: “Interest in
the island is now very broad – with buyers
from the UK, States, South America, Australia
and the Far East. Despite many changes and
upgrades, the island has also managed to retain
its authenticity.”
Boasting a population of some 6,000, the
island ramps up a notch or three visitor wise

38 ThE GooD ProPErTy GUIDE March/April 2011

 Villa Paradisia - Mykonos
4 bedrooms Asking price: €7.000.000

in the summer months, with upwards of
40,000 holidaymakers putting down roots for
their annual fun-in-the-sun fix. But the island
is also refreshingly devoid of package-tourism
presence. Strict planning and development
rules have prevented high density construction
– with a requirement that all residences are
constructed in the classic Cycladic style –
whitewashed cubes in local stone with wooden-
framed windows and flat roofs less than 8
metres high.
While homeowners have their pick of leisure
and pleasure amenities to choose from – the
opening of the super yacht marina, will go some
considerable way to reinforce the brand image
of the island as an upmarket offshore getaway
– a playground for well-heeled holidaymakers
and kaftan chic sun-seekers.
Property hot spots are in plentiful supply too
- Lazaros, Kalo Livadi and Psarou, three of the
most attractive areas and all within a short drive
from Mykonos Town: the heart and soul of the
island. Price wise, despite recessionary pinched
times - buyers can still expect to shell out in the
region of £4,000 to £8,000 per sqm – a sizeable
investment but, as Ward explains, it’s the age old
law of “supply and demand”. “You may manage to
pick up a small apartment for around £180,000,
but buyers looking for a decent family-sized villa
in good condition will be looking at a starter price
of around £450,000, larger luxury residences
with private pools and terracing, upwards of
£1.5m. Plump for a beachfront plot and you can
add a 40-50% premium.”
Concludes Ward: “Mykonos will always
have cachet. Rather like the South of France
or Tuscany, property prices are unique to the
area – you can’t make comparisons with other
places. Most investors are high-net-worth
individuals who know what they want and are
happy to pay the price it takes to secure their
dream home. The sky’s the limit as they say.”

March/April 2011 The Good PRoPeRTY Guide 39

 TURKEY STILL ONE OF THE
TOP PROPERTY HOTSPOTS
Check out our website for a wide selection of
apartments, villas and resales, or contact our UK sales
office for help and advice on 01772 735151
Beachfront Residence,
Altinkum
There are still a few of these fantastic
apartments available. Built to a very
high standard, 2/3 bedrooms, large
family bathroom, swimming pool,lift
turkish connextions
and live-in maintenance man, ideal
holiday location and only 50 metres
to the lovely sandy beach, many
have sea views.
Price from £49,000 T urkish Connextions, is both a Developer and Estate Agent, offering
property in most of the hotspots of Turkey, it has offices in the UK,
Northern Ireland, and Turkey.
Panoramic View Villas,
Bodrum The company is a fully licensed estate agency, and are members
These villas are new to the UK market of the chamber of commerce both locally and internationally, we are
and have stunning views of Yalikvak also members of the AIPP (Association of International Property
and the bay. Walk along the pathways Professionals).
to the waters edge in minutes. The
Our aim is to give you peace of mind throughout the buying process
villas are constructed and just ready
and beyond. Buying a second home is an important step and we
for you to put your own mark on the
inside ttings. Visit the Show Villa to endeavour to make this an enjoyable experience, all are staff are fully
appreciate the nished article. trained and have many years experience in this industry, with a wealth
Prices from £375,000 of local knowledge, we try to take the stress and anxiety out of buying
and owning a property abroad. Let us use our experience to find you
Greenhill’s Gumbet, that perfect property
Bodrum You can rest assured, that all the legalities will be thoroughly checked,
These apartments are set in a
we are also able to offer mortgages and insurance through our network of
fantastic location close to all the
amenities of Gumbet. They are set working partners. We can help with the management of properties, rentals
in lovely grounds around a central and travelling arrangements, leaving you with just one point of contact.
swimming pool and are spaciously set With Turkey being outside the Euro Zone, it is an ideal location to
apart. The apartments are large purchase, we provide one to one tailored viewing trips to all areas, all
inside nished to a high quality.
year round, allowing
Prices from £74,000
you to view a vast
selection of property,
Yesiltepe Villa, off plan, new builds
Altinkum and also resale’s, just
New to the market, fantastic resale tell us your criteria
Villa, set in the small village of
and we will endeavor
Yesiltepe, huge detached villa, with
its own swimming pool and large
to help you find your
gardens. This villa is individually perfect property in
designed and once you step inside, the sun.
it resembles a show house, has to be Lovely executive
viewed to be appreciated.
villa in Yalikavak
Price £127,500
with stunning sea
views, three sets of
patio doors open out
onto a wonderful
terrace area and
private swimming
pool.
£500,000 buys
this lovely villa.

40 ThE GOOD PrOPErTY GUIDE March/April 2011

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100th
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celebrates a centenary
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To make the most of this special anniversary,
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 The Premium Collection

How to Bank on a Good Exchange Rate

Buying in France can be a costly enough affair without losing out on

currency fluctuations, says property expert Laura Henderson.

W hile the British love affair with la belle

France continues; so too does demand
for low-cost euro loans. The flip side for UK
property purchases.
Those changing pounds to euros have two
main options open to them, teaming up with
amount of euros. Minimum buying amount is
usually between £2,000-5,000.

investors of borrowing for that rural pied a
terre however, is currency risk. Fluctuations
in the exchange rate can significantly affect
the sterling price of your French home, which
makes finding the best exchange rate and
methods of transfer key considerations. Many
buyers avoid playing currency roulette by
either tapping into existing savings or taking
out a second mortgage on their UK residence.
This is by far the cheapest and easiest way if
you have equity in your current home, as
long as you bear in mind currency conversion
costs, as large deposits (normally 10 per cent
of the property value) are required on French
either a high-street bank or a foreign exchange
specialist. Specialist brokers invariably offer a
better deal: more competitive rates, lower (if
any) transfer fees and no commission charges.
Because they solely deal in foreign exchange,
you’ll also benefit from a number of exchange
perks that most banks are unable to offer
Spot ContraCt
This literally involves the buying of currency
there and then at an agreed rate (valid for two
days) usually for immediate delivery and can
be beneficial if, for example, the rates offered
by your broker are low when buying a certain
Forward ContraCt
This provides security against future exchange
rate fluctuations. “Once you have committed
to purchasing a property, you’re exposed to
currency fluctuations until you secure an
exchange rate,” explains Mark O’Sullivan
at Currencies Direct. “A forward contract
is effectively ‘a buy now pay later’ scheme,
allowing you to ‘lock into’ a favourable rate
for up to two years. The added benefit of this
type of contract is flexibility-you can draw
down some or all of your currency up to three
months prior to the forward date that you’ve
set in place, which is particularly useful if your

42 The GOOD PrOPerTy GUiDe March/April 2011


completion date is pushed back.”
Regular Payment Plan: This works best for
those who have regular payments to make
in France such as a pension or mortgage
payments. A direct-debit payment is normally
set-up, with a minimum monthly transaction of
£150 and the flexibility to up the amount as and
when needed. Again, short-term competitive
exchange rates can be fixed.
Orders
These are ideally suited to buyers who are not
in a rush to transfer money or to buy currency,
and who can wait for an optimum rate to save
money. Stop Loss Orders enable you to fix a
minimum rate at which the euro is bought or
sold. If the exchange rate drops below this level,
you are not affected. Limit Orders on the other
The Premium Collection
hand, allow you to set an optimum exchange
Contacts
rate, which if achieved, enables you to purchase
www.currenciesdirect.com
your currency.
www.caxtonfx.com
As always, it pays to shop around. Choosing
www.mortgagesoverseas.com
the right company can also be made easier
by drawing up a basic check-list taking
into account service levels, country-specific
expertise and best combination of rates. It is
also wise to request a personally signed dealer.
If there is a rate that you desire, your broker
will ensure that the rate is ‘booked’ when it
is achieved. Brokers’ abilities to access ‘live’
exchange rates means that they should be able
to undercut banks, which work to built-in
margins. That said, if you are a long-standing
customer with one of the major high-street
names, you’ve nothing to lose by putting in a
call to see what’s on offer.
March/April 2011 The GOOd PROPeRTy GuIde 43
 The Premium Collection
Traditional but never dull, France and Italy’s flagship regions keep investors
coming back for more. Laura Henderson reports.
W hile the last decade of excess has seen
fly-to-let devotees piling into Eastern
Europe’s baby tiger economies, traditional
destinations closer to home have been quietly
upping their game and nowhere more so
than Provence and Tuscany, where first class
infrastructure, healthy rental yields and solid
capital growth offer a bedrock of sustainability.
Midi climes lured a healthy 18m to the French
Riviera last year, while ‘no-frills’ hopper flights
have fuelled a Tuscan tourist train, with over
20 million visitors now hot footing it to the
province every year. “Tuscany can be as quiet
or hectic as you want to make it,” says Rick
Chapman, who bought a three-bed village
house in Lucchio in the Lucca province last
44 THE Good PRoPERTy GuidE March/April 2011
Old Blue Skies
year, “but it’s perhaps best suited to those
looking to immerse themselves in culture and
integrate into the local community. Everything
is based around the family here–those with
children will find they are welcomed with
open arms.” Provence by contrast, epitomises
rustic chic. “Cities such as Nice, Avignon and
Aix became culturally autonomous early on,”
says Patrick Joseph of My-French-House.com,
“and consequently have the social cohesion and
established traditions that make provincial living
so good.” “Community life goes on regardless of
what time of year we visit,” adds Jo Perkins who
has a three-bedroom farmhouse in the village of
La Croix-Haute, “it’s a very social environment.”
Both regions score well on communications,
weekend breaks now common currency thanks
to the proximity of motorway networks and
major airports-location influencers, which also
dictate rental patterns. A five month season is
not uncommon in ‘Chiantishire’ hot spots like
Siena, while the Cote d’Azur can stretch to
six or more, attracting overseas and Parisian
clientele for whom the Midi way of life is pure
Elysium…
Provence
Ever since Lord Brougham stumbled upon
the deep blue waters and cassia plantations
of Cannes in 1834, Brits have been flocking
to France’s southern belle. The 1960’s firmly
established the area as Europe’s ‘ultimate’

summer retreat, and house prices have
been spiralling ever since, now comfortably
competing with, and often outstripping London
and Paris. “Provence is a micro-market,” says
Joseph, “the added bonus being easy access
with high speed Eurostar links from London
and upwards of fifteen flights a day to the
region. Well-located properties also command
high rents from May through October.”
Running from Hyeres in the west to La Napoule
in the east, the Cote d’Azur remains the region’s
most desirable stretch, embracing a cluster of
quaint fishing villages turned pleasure ports
such as Le Lavandou and St-Raphael. Demand
has fuelled growth in sales of apartments in
stately Belle Epoque mansion blocks and new
build managed resorts with locations ranging
from the more traditional Corniche d’Esterel to
the showy chic of St Tropez.
“Property values are sustained due to limited
building land available,” confirms property
consultant, Ludovic Logerot, “plus government
predictions of a 5 million population increase
by 2012, have led to an overhaul of key
infrastructure which looks set to run for the
next four years”.
Buyers looking to escape the Riviera glare will
no doubt favour the gites, farmhouses and old
villas of the arriere-pays. The aromatic garrigue-
covered hills provide welcome respite from the
coastal buzz and typically cost a third less,
with detached period properties starting from
£300,000. Landlocked Vaucluse encompassing
the Parc Naturel Regional du Luberon has a
wealth of picturesque villages scattered across
its rugged countryside, while the principal
towns of Orange and the departmental capital
Avignon offer a cultural fix with their lively café
scenes. “Avignon has growth potential,” adds
Logerot. “There’s a high speed train direct from
Waterloo plus plans are underway to upgrade
the airport to absorb extra overseas traffic.”
Property dynamics are also shifting in the
Alpes Maritimes department, resorts to the
west of Nice such as Tourrettes-sur-Loup,
Cagnes-sur-Mer and St Laurent-du-Var rivalling
March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE 45
The Premium Collection
Provence - An
InsIder’s vIew
O ne of the best known Englishmen to
have settled in Provence described
it as a ‘place where it’s possible to find
everything except a bargain’ and the
peaceful French backwater that inspired
writer Peter Mayle retains a reputation for
exclusivity to this day. Daubed with colour
throughout the year, the vibrant Provencal
landscape with its fields of lavender,
sunflowers and olive groves satisfies the
senses of the many British visitors who
stroll leisurely along its sleepy lanes.
“Provence has some of the most expensive
properties in France,” says Patrick Joseph of
My-French-House.com. “It offers an idyllic
French country lifestyle and although house
prices are high, they hold their value well
because of its popularity and the fact that
new construction is so highly regulated.”
The laid back charm of Aix-en-Provence
with its museums and hot water springs is
typical of the many towns and villages in
this part of France where the days revolve
around long, leisurely meals enjoyed al
fresco under the welcome shade of ancient
trees. Understated and elegant, it is often
hard to comprehend just how exclusive this
part of France has become.
“For those with money to invest, this is
somewhere to enjoy real French country
living within close proximity of larger cities
such as Orange and Avignon with their lively
cafes and good restaurants,” adds Joseph.
Spectacular properties nestle in the
charming hilltop villages of the Luberon,
where one of the most enjoyable pastimes
is a late afternoon browse in the antique
shops for unusual artefacts or classic
French country furnishings.
“Good rail links and regular flights
between the UK and Provence’s three main
airports, Nice, Marseille and Avignon, make
it a good choice for second homes or those
wanting to take advantage of the fact, that
properties attract high rentals between May
and October,” says Joseph. “Twenty years
ago this was a place where people escaped
to undertake a renovation project. Now
those renovations have been completed,
we are seeing a new breed of buyer looking
for luxury and interior design alongside
the herb garden and the Aga. People will
pay a premium for properties that are ready
to move into and within a 50 mile radius
of Avignon and the trend for comfortable
country living looks set to continue.”
 The Premium Collection
the stellar price hotspots of Villefranche-sur-
Mer and St-Jean Cap Ferrat. “St Laurent has
all the attractions of a marina resort,” says
Logerot, “plus it’s just minutes from Nice
airport.” Hillside villages behind Cannes such
as Mougins, Villenueve-Loubet and Biot boast
access to several international schools and
estates are increasingly popular with those
looking to relocate; two-bedroom apartments
with communal pool and tennis courts selling
for £250,000. Prices dip between Toulon and
Marseille in the Bouches-du-Rhone, the hills
overlooking Toulon town boasting a cluster of
eye-catching villas from £350,000. Marseilles,
an edgy city with lashings of history, has the
region’s highest and fastest real estate capital
growth. “It looks set to stay like that,” explains
local agent Sarah Kahn, “because of new business
and the expansion of air and TGV train access
with fast links from Paris in three hours. The
coastal cornice and harbour is improving, plus
it has all the cultural benefits of a big city.” New
developments like Pavillon Massalia located in
La Belle de Mai in the heart of the city are a
hit with off-plan investors. The complex offers
one-three bed luxury apartments with 80%
finance available. Prices start from £135,000.
The region’s capital city Aix-en-Provence, has
witnessed major change in the past decade,
46 THE GOOd PROPERTy GUIdE March/April 2011
but still personifies urban chic. “Anything up
to a twenty minute drive from the centre is
popular,” says Logerot. “Property has doubled
in value in the last four years in districts such
as Le Tholonet.”
Tuscany
Once an elite hideaway for wealthy eccentrics,
Tuscany’s wholesome reputation, classic culture
and high fashion have drawn wave upon annual
wave of suburban escapees from northern
Europe. Pre-recession was buoyant with a 15
per cent per annum increase in property prices
in the more popular areas of Siena, Arezzo and
Florence, but the market has since flat-lined
despite growth in lesser-known districts to the
north. “Prices remain quite high within a thirty
mile radius of Florence, Pisa and Siena,” explains
Karen Roos of Casa Tuscany, “but places like Val
d’Orcia near Montepulciano are starting to pick
up, northern Tuscany having seen investment
values rise in the past two years. Authorities are
also keen to maintain the integrity of the region,
so their approach is to find properties suitable
for restoration and renovate them according to
buyers’ tastes.”
One of a handful of affordable areas, prices
north of Arezzo in the Casetino Valley are
half those of ‘Chiantishire’. More forest than
vineyard, the area has numerous authentic
towns such as Chiusi della Verna and Poppi,
while the north of the province is zoned national
parkland. Farmhouses requiring renovation
start from around £170,000, renovated from
£250,000, while the lively well-preserved
hillside city of Arezzo has two-bedroom
apartments on the outskirts fetching £225,000.
Close to the Liguria border Lunigiana the ‘land
of 100 castles’ is now a classified green-zone. An
hour’s drive from both Pisa and Genova, clusters
of small villages straddle the valleys which link
the mountains and the coast. “Property choice
here is wide,” confirms Anna Curtis of Unicasa.
“The area also has a flourishing rental market
which is consistent with demand for character
properties within striking distance of the coast
and cultural places like Lucca, birthplace of
Puccini.” North of Lucca, the Garfagnana in the
lush Serchio Valley has two-bedroom village
homes selling for as little as £150,000. Pretty
stone villages perched on hilltops especially
around Bagni di Lucca and Barga have a good
stock of renovation bargains, sporting rugged
views of the Apuan Alps, but the area is by no
means remote, just one hour’s drive from Pisa
and forty minutes to the coast.

On the Market PrOvence
Near Cavaillon in the Luberon near Avignon
(23km) and Aix-en-Provence r2,450,000
Where
Set in 2.5ha of grounds, only 10 minutes from
Gordes and 4 kms from one of the most typical
villages of Luberon, with all amenities.
What
Restored 18th Century Provencal farmhouse
offering 450 sq m of living space and a large
indoor courtyard. The buildings are divided
into several dwellings, a main residence (with
The Premium Collection
studio) and three self-contained flats as well as
a number of annexes, including a laundry and
workroom, and a 300 sq m organic swimming
pool. The property has eight bedrooms in
total, six bathrooms and an indoor sauna.
Why
A perfect rural retreat that typifies the Provence
region and which is surrounded by fields of
lavender and vineyards. The apartments attract
rents of between e600 and e900 per week.
www.my-french-house.com
Near Saint Remy de Provence, in the Alpilles guest houses, outbuildings and two swimming
region of Provence, 20km from Avignon, pools as well as a wine cellar, pool house, tennis,
r7,490,000 golf and horse paddocks.
Where Why
In a completely preserved rural environment, For those searching for luxury, tranquillity and
beautifully built from traditional materials close space in the heart of Provence this property is
to St Rémy de Provence, in western Provence. a real find!
What www.my-french-house.com
Rare luxury Provence country home set in 35ha
of land, this property includes two independent
March/April 2011 The Good PRoPeRTy GuIde 47
 The Premium Collection
Sicilian Serenade
Bathed in breathtaking scenery and a civilised distance from the tourism hum of the Italian
mainland, the offshore idyll of Sicily is ripe for a property boom. Laura Henderson reports.
R umour has it that Kate Moss and long-
limbed rocker fiancé Jamie Hince are
planning a discrete honeymoon in Sicily this
summer, away from prying eyes in the exclusive
hilltop town of Erice. The rumour mill has
brought with it a fresh wave of interest for the
sun-kissed island, a glistening getaway bathed
in Baroque charms, only now with a growing
roll call of celebrities and lesser mortals smitten
by its wholesome charms. As property markets
go, the island has followed a similar trajectory
in terms of increased buyer interest. In general
however, the Italian contingent still largely
outnumber European and international visitors,
a state-of-play, which points to a healthy market
for property, and a local confidence in the island
as a second-home destination.
Drifting contentedly off the toe of Italy and
separated from the mainland by the Strait of
Messina, Sicily makes a great rags-to-riches
48 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE March/April 2011
tale-a past beset by poverty and the infiltration
of the Cosa Nostra (mafia), leading many
Sicilians to skip town in search of a better life.
Decades later, pump prime government funding
is giving the island a new lease of life. The cost
of living remains a fraction of islands such as
Crete, and mainland hotspots like Tuscany
and Umbria. But the island also has increasing
appeal to investors keen to get in on the ground
level and turn a profit through rentals, a spike
in interest fuelled by the introduction of no
frills flights from the UK into Palermo, Catania
and Trapani.
An island that doesn’t stint on looks,
inland boasts its share of rolling hills, craggy
mountains and vineyards, with the brooding
(but harmless) Mount Etna dominating the
skyline, while the coast has its share of unspoilt,
sandy beaches. “Quality leisure facilities are
being discretely added,” explains Fabrizio
Vitellino of Etna Immobiliare, “but you won’t
get formulaic tourism blurring national identity.
Sicilians remain tremendously proud of their
heritage, so while there’s a growing awareness
of the need to change planning attitudes and
policy, market saturation is unlikely to become
an issue.”
Investment wise, the island is best
understood as a series of micro markets, with
some areas starting to hot up while others tick
over. “Prices have risen by an average of 10-12
per cent in the last three years,” confirms Ian
Giddings of Overseas Property Links, “almost
doubling per sqm in the southeast around
Ragusa and Siracusa, but still well under value
in the less accessible south.” Along the west
coast, served by flights into Palermo, towns like
Erice, Marsala and Trapani are seen as emerging
investment opportunities, in particular, bagli,
(former wine warehouses), that ape traditional
 The Premium Collection

An islAnd thAt doesn’t

stint on looks, inlAnd
boAsts its shAre of rolling
hills, crAggy mountAins
And vineyArds, while the
coAst hAs its shAre of
unspoilt, sAndy beAches.

Tuscan hilltop villas only for considerably less

money. Those with a budget of £800,000 will
find plenty to choose from in the estate line,
but renovations projects are also in ready
supply – vintage farm estates and rustic villas
in characterful locations such as Modica and
Ragusa ready for the taking at £350,000.
If a mini-me offshore idyll is your ultimate
fantasy, then the Aeolian Islands to the north,
of which Lipari is the largest, have a choice
selection of hilltop mansions, many sporting
annex accommodation, ideal for guest house
conversions. Real Estate Modena is marketing a
stunning hilltop property, Villa Casali on Salina
the greenest of the Aeolian Islands consisting
of two independent ultra-luxury apartments
surrounded by terraces, a Mediterranean
garden and circular pool for £1.2m. The good
life has arrived.

March/April 2011 ThE Good PRoPERTy GuIdE 49

 Buy in Sicily

WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE

Buy in Sicily real estate is an online real estate agency specialising in the sale of luxury
residential homes and private estates on the captivating island of Sicily.

F abrizio Vitellino, General Manager and

Founder of Buy in Sicily, is a member of
FIAIP (Italian Federation of Professional Real
Estate Agents) and the London Chamber of
Commerce. Fabrizio started his real estate career
in 1996 in Milan, gaining first-hand insight into
the workings of the luxury city-based real estate
market before deciding to return to his native
island of Sicily, where he launched his online
property portal aimed at both domestic and overseas buyers.
Through www.etnaimmobiliare.it and www.buyinsicily.co.uk and as
Managing Director heading up a cohesive and dedicated multi-lingual
team of agents, Fabrizio is able to offer a bespoke service to foreign clients
in search of their dream home in Sicily.
All BIS agents have an in-depth knowledge of the island’s regions and
can select the best properties to suit specific client needs. This tailored Says Fabrizio: “We’ve had an increasing number of enquiries from
service includes short listing potential properties for viewing and making overseas of late, in particular from UK clients looking to snap up a holiday
sure that all documentation is legally secure in order to complete a home on the island. As locations go, Sicily has a huge amount to offer.
purchase, from title deed checks, and requisite surveys to technical-legal Property price points are also broad ranging – our high-end portfolio,
and notarial duties required to complete the conveyancing process as for example, can be viewed on our website dedicated to exclusive luxury
smoothly as possible. properties: www.sicilianluxuryproperty.com as well as the ‘luxury’ section
of our Buy In Sicily portal: www.buyinsicily.co.uk
Would-be holidaymakers can also try-before-they buy by taking their
pick from a choice selection of rental homes dotted across the island on
www.domusvacanze.com. Property options range from simple B and Bs
to cottages on the beach, and grander serviced villas with pools.
Says Fabrizio: “choice can very often end up being the tricky part
when choosing to put down roots here – with everything from designer
apartments to rustic country villas, from turnkey new build townhouses
to vintage villa estates with land. Whatever your ideal home in the sun
may be, however, you can be sure that Buy in Sicily will find it for you.”

50 THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE March/April 2011

SICILIAN LUXURY PROPERTIES
TEL.+39-098-8841471 CELL.+39-349-3707563
E-mail: info@buyinsicily.co.uk
www.buyinsicily.co.uk
www.sicilianluxuryproperty.com

SICILY, TAORMINA Boasting a panoramic location, this tastefully restored character Villa, built at
the end of the 1800s, is spread over 15,000 square meters of land, and sports five large terraces, one of which
measures some 750 sqm - ideal for al fresco dining. Nestling in mature landscaped grounds including lawned
areas, the property also boasts two swimming pools (one internal ), and a spacious fitness area. P.O.A.

SICILY, SIRACUSA PLEMMIRIO Natural Reserve an exclusive and rare

opportunity to own a marvellous villa in the Plemmirio Natural Reserve (an ideal second home) located directly on
the beach with private access to the sea. This sumptuous property sits in a plot of about 1750 sqm and comes with
a large outbuilding/garage (30 sqm) ideal for conversion into a two-bed guest house. The main Villa (just 2 metres
from the waterfront) comprises two bedrooms, bathroom, a spacious corner veranda, living room, and small kitchen
with sea views. Some renovation work required. P.O.A.
 The Premium Collection
discover the wonders of lAtin AmericA
with Air europA
O ver the last two years more and more
UK travellers have fallen for the delights
of Latin America. With buzzing cultural cities,
stunning beaches and mountainous regions
to explore, it’s no wonder that destinations in
Argentina, Brazil and Mexico are on many a
traveller’s wish list. Air Europa has introduced
Mexico City to its offering for Summer 2011,
while also increasing routes to Buenos Aires and
Salvador de Bahia to make it even easier for UK
travellers to plan their Latin American holidays.
We’ve picked out some of our favourite places
in Latin America to enjoy a trip like no other.
Buenos Aires
Known as the most European of Latin America’s
cities, Buenos Aires is a cosmopolitan city with
world-class museums, restaurants and night life.
With quaint cafes to people watch in, bustling
outdoor markets to browse and colonial streets
to wonder down, in Buenos Aires you can do as
much or as little as you like.
52 THE GOOd PrOPErTy GUidE March/April 2011
Air Europa offers return flights from London
Gatwick to Buenos Aires via Madrid from
£684.70. For more information go to www.
aireuropa.com or call Air Europa’s reservation
team on 0871 423 0717 for a personalised
service and instant seat confirmation.
sAlvAdor de BAhiA
Salvador is famous for its fabulous annual
carnival, which draws thousands to its streets to
dance along to samba tunes and beating drums.
However, even outside of carnival time, there’s
plenty to attract you to the city. Salvador was
once the capital of Portugal’s New World colony
and the city still retains a sense of its African/
Colonial roots with its unique cuisine, powerful
music and dance. Of course the other draw is
the city’s beaches, of which there are many to
kick back and enjoy.
Air Europa offers return flights from London
Gatwick to Salvador de Bahia via Madrid from
£686.80 For more information go to www.

aireuropa.com or call Air Europa’s reservation
team on 0871 423 0717 for a personalised
service and instant seat confirmation.
Mexico city
As the world’s third largest urban area, Mexico
City might not seem the most obvious place
to spend a holiday. But behind the fast pace
and all the chaos lies a wonderful world just
waiting to be explored. Once the centre of
Aztec’s civilisation, modern-day Mexico City is
a fabulous mix of old and new, where colonial
palaces are met by world-renowned museums,
green parks and a vibrant night scene. This
colourful city offers plenty of urban adventures
for even the most intrepid traveller. And since
Air Europa will now fly to Mexico City via
Madrid from Summer 2011, getting there has
never been easier.
Air Europa offers return flights from London
Gatwick to Mexico City via Madrid from
£835.80. For more information go to www.
The Premium Collection
aireuropa.com or call Air Europa’s reservation call Air Europa’s reservation team on 0871 423
team on 0871 423 0717 for a personalised 0717 for a personalised service and instant seat
service and instant seat confirmation. confirmation.
LiMa
Loud and hectic, Peru’s capital has an irresistible
and palpable energy, but as it’s located on the
Pacific Coast, its craziness is somewhat calmed
by the presence of the sea and the beaches.
Many tourists tend to overlook the city and
head to the cool heights of the Andes which is
a real shame because if you look beyond the
surface you’ll find some real gems. Brimming
with culture and history, condominium high
rises are punctuated by surviving colonial
streets and there are some excellent Spanish
churches in the centre of the city. History,
culture, adventure, modern shopping and great
food: Lima has got it all.
Air Europa offers return flights from London
Gatwick to Lima via Madrid from £660.80. For
more information go to www.aireuropa.com or
March/April 2011 THE GOOd PrOPErTy GuidE 53
 The Premium Collection
Catalonia Calling
Boasting two sun-kissed costas and a thriving rentals market, the Spanish region of
Catalonia has a good deal to offer second-homers.
N estling across the border from France,
with the Pyrenees on its doorstep, just two
hours flying time from the UK, Catalonia is a
hard region to beat for lifestyle and accessibility.
For a good many buyers, this great outdoors
vista is more important than the sun-kissed
staple of sand and sea, which probably explains
why a growing number of British investors are
choosing to put down roots in the area.
The region can perhaps best be seen as
a series of micro-markets. In the far north,
Catalonia’s Pyrennean range tumbles all the way
to the sea, much of the property on the Costa
Brava stretch resting on rugged headland rather
than, more predictably, on sandy beaches. This
topography also gives the coast its name (brava
meaning wild or savage).
54 ThE GooD ProPErTy GUIDE March/April 2011
Nearby, Girona’s recent airport upgrade with
budget flights also now operating from the UK,
has given a fillip to property prices with short
term rental potential, especially for apartments,
showing excellent growth. Nearby investment
hotspots for larger residences and villas include
the soon-to-be-hip resorts of Begur and
L´Estartit, both of which are benefiting from
Girona’s airport development, not to mention
the vintage city of Girona itself.
Further south, the costa below Barcelona
earns its name by virtue of its beautiful
swathes of fine golden sand (Dorado means
gold). Still relatively unknown to the UK
market, most holiday homes in this region
are owned by Spaniards and Catalans, with
surprisingly little variation in price between
 The Premium Collection

Daily Express

coastal and inland locations. PGA Catalunya Resort is tucked

North of Tarragosa, where the Dorado beaches fuse with the amongst the beauty of mature
pines, majestic mountain tops
A Sterling Offer
Costa Brava, would-be homeowners will notice a marked spike and two world-class golf courses for UK Buyers
ranked No. 2 in Spain, No. 3 in Europe
in property values – all of it down to the ‘Barcelona effect’. “The and No. 88 in the world. All this just Guaranteed exchange
popularity of the city as a weekend break destination isn’t the only minutes from Girona, a quick drive rate of d1.25 on all plot
from Barcelona and an hour from purchases through
driver of prices,” explains local agent James Sampson. “Although the Pyrenees. With the infrastructure
September 30, 2011*
tourist demand is significant, with lucrative rents for apartments and amenities in place, the estate is
poised to become Spain´s premier
in good locations, demand for student rentals also adds to this residential resort community.
The residential collection includes
hugely strong market, and is expected to continue.” golf-front plots starting at d380,000,
Heading further down to the bucolic southern half of the single-family turnkey villas from
d950,000, a private enclave of
region around Penedes and buyers have their pick of quality townhomes from d625,000 and
renovation projects, whitewashed finca estates with acres of olive apartments starting at d325,000.
*Offer valid only on La Vinya and La Selva
groves and vines can be snapped up for as little as £150,000, plots purchased by September 30, 2011.
Prices subject to change.
while the untouched Ebro Valley (a haven for sports lovers and
bird watchers) with its wending river still offers bargains for Brits www.pgacatalunya.com +34 972 472 957 www.lifeatpga.com
wanting to relocate.

March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE 55

 The Premium Collection
Bricks and Malta
An established haven with retirees, the bite-sized island of Malta
now has younger second-homers in its sights. By Laura Henderson
S mall, lively and welcoming, Malta is smothered in boutique bays
and snug resorts-its very name an anagram of the original letters -
the Phoenicians, one of many patrons down the years, called it Malat,
meaning safe harbour. Residential tourism has applied a similar niche
strategy; the first recorded ‘boom’ dating back to the 17th century when
the Knights of St John embarked on a dedicated building programme
producing much of the architecture prevalent across the island today.
‘Modern day’ additions surfaced in the 60’s and the real estate market has
been diversifying ever since. “Malta ticks a lot of boxes as a second-home
destination,” says John Cutugno of Homes in Malta. “It boasts a great
climate, excellent quality of life and most European capitals are just a
three hour flight away.” Close ties with former colonial power Britain, and
the Maltese Permanent Residents Scheme established in 1998 have seen a
steady stream of expats setting up home on the island. “Foreign residents
have no tax levied on their worldwide income or wealth,” Cutugno adds,
“and are subject to a flat income tax rate of 15 per cent on remitted
income. Stamp duty is also low, and pension funds are easily transferable,
which makes relocation an attractive proposition.”
Like most locations, the island has felt the recessionary pinch in the
56 THE GOOD PROPERTY GuIDE March/April 2011
past two years – “2008/2009 was hard for everybody,” adds Cutugno,
“but real estate hasn’t faired too badly overall. Mid to lower priced units
dipped by as much as 20%. The luxury end of the sector however, has
seen little correction. Prices flat-lined for eighteen months or so, but
confidence is returning across the board with an upswing both in number
of sales and also values.”
One inspired real estate initiative contributing to the island’s continued
popularity has been the introduction of Specially Designated Areas
(SDA’s); government approved regeneration zones of which waterfront
and marina developments aimed at foreign buyers are a key component.
“Malta’s Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) have done a
rigorous job in nurturing the initiative since its launch in 2003,” explains
property consultant Paul Barnett. “Portomaso in scenic St Julians was
the first resort. But many more have come on stream since. Each has
its own very individual personality and style.” Prices, adds Barnett, are
that bit steeper than buying a stand-alone property. “You can expect to
pay around £150,000 for an apartment, to upwards of £1m for a luxury
penthouse, but annual rental returns of between 4-5 per cent are more
or less guaranteed, plus you have the luxury of on-site amenities and
 The Premium Collection

• Your buyer’s agent • Over 25 years in the business

concierge-level service, so you can settle into holiday mode as soon as • Thousands of properties • Free advice on living in Malta
you arrive.”
Authentic St Julians, where Maltese ‘Luzzu’ fishing boats still bob up
and down in the small inlet of Spinola is a popular spot for UK buyers.
Boasting a healthy stock of period townhouses, with restoration projects
from £200,000, the turnkey delights of Portomaso has also enticed many
Brits to put down roots. The flagship residential community covers an
area of 128,000sqm, its meandering design of the three-basin 110-berth
yacht marina stretching along 1.6km of waterfront.
The brainchild of hospitality and leisure giant the Tumas Group,
complementary components include a five-star Hilton hotel and beach
club. Two-bed apartments start from £395,000 rising to £2.1m for a
spacious penthouse.
Close by, occupying the peninsula directly north of the capital
Valletta, Sliema is a lively seafront resort, its wide promenade hugging
the shoreline for almost 3km. Tigne Point (SDA) is an exclusive complex
meshing some 500 residential units lining the north and south shores,
with retail and commercial space as well as a 400-berth marina and
casino on neighbouring Manoel Island. Styled by Italian design house

March/April 2011 THe GooD ProPerTy GUIDe 57

 The Premium Collection

Pininfarina, two-bed duplexes start from

£400,000 rising to upwards of £1m for a five-
bed luxury penthouse with pool.
One of the newest additions to the island’s
luxury resort mix - Fort Cambridge - has just
handed over the keys to its first tranche of
residents. Located next to Tigne Point on the
historic site of the Cambridge Battery, seafront
apartments combine contemporary urban
design with a peaceful spacious environment.
Over 80% of the development is dedicated to
landscaped open spaces that incorporate the
original battery building and features. The
resort boasts a private swimming pool, fitness
centre, indoor spa pool, gardens and 24 hour
security. One, two, three and four bedroom
apartments, duplexes and penthouses (380 in
total) are spread between three freestanding
blocks. Almost all have waterfront views,
many with wide terraces and balconies; the
uppermost floors offering spectacular vistas
over Valletta. Large windows and facades of

58 The GOOd PrOPerTy Guide March/April 2011


recycled greenish glass contribute to the overall
effect of sea and sky, light and air. Prices start
from £97,000 for a one-bed.
20 km west of Valletta, Mellieha’s main
attraction is Golden Bay, the longest stretch
of uninterrupted golden sand on the Maltese
coast, its welcoming shallow waters a result
of a natural sandbank lying just offshore.
Tas-Sellum Village (SDA) is a car-free resort
featuring clusters of low-rise semi-detached
apartments overlooking the beach. “The resort
has less than 45 per cent site coverage and will
act as a buffer between Santa Maria Estate on
the east and the high-density build area of the
west,” explains local agent James Shepherd.
One-bed units start from £150,000.
Buyers taking the Maltese plunge will
find a streamlined purchase process - the
island boasting one of the safest and most
undemanding legal systems in Europe with
contracts written in English and property
transfers deemed unbreakable and security of
title guaranteed. Overseas investors are only
permitted to purchase one property, the single
exception being in SDA resorts where multiple
sales are common. An AIP (Acquisition of
Immovable Property) permit will only be
granted if the minimum value of the property is
LM 39,000 (approx £60,000) for an apartment
and LM 66,000 (approx £103,000) for a villa.
“The exception to the rule is if you reside in
Malta on a permanent basis for five years,
explains Cutugno, “then you can purchase
additional property without an AIP.”
As to what’s in store in the near future:
“Malta’s tourist industry still has plenty of room
for growth,” concludes Cutugno. “The southern
reaches are starting to come to life, with a new
stretch of motorway connecting north to south
and a new SDA Ta Monita in the boutique resort
of Marsascala. Would-be buyers have a lot to
tempt them. But then the island wouldn’t be
doing its job if it didn’t have one or two dream
home tricks up its sleeve.”
The Premium Collection
Buying in Malta - Fees and taxes
✽ Stamp duty 5 per cent.
✽ Notary fees 1 per cent.
✽ Searches and registration £300.
✽ Ministry of Finance fee is around £150.
✽ There are no annual property taxes.
✽ If you don’t live in the property and then
come to sell it, you may be liable for property
transfer tax at a rate of up to 35 per cent. This
is dependent on the length of time you have
owned your home and how much it has gone
up in value. An alternate option available to
buyers is to pay a flat rate up front of 12 per
cent of the selling price.
For further information, go to:
www.homesinmalta.com
www.portomaso.com.mt
www.tasselum.com
www.tignepoint.com
www.fortcambridge.com
March/April 2011 ThE GOOD PrOPErTy GuIDE 59
 The Premium Collection

Home-sWeet-office
Garden offices not only add value to your
property, they’re the perfect division between
work and play.

W hile high profile artists and writers such

as Roald Dahl and Philip Pullman have
upped the profile of the benefits of working
from home, these days you’re just as likely to
find accountants, lawyers and web designers
joining the ‘WFH’ club: the past decade alone
witnessing a revolution in working practices
with more than 2.5m businesses being run
from home. A natural extension of this trend
has been the growth in garden offices. Seen
as a viable alternative to the cost, time and
general upheaval of a traditional extension,
well-appointed versions can add as much as 5%
to the value of your property. So how do you
choose the one that’s best for you?
Home office fast facts
Costs vary from self-build models at £2,500 to
bespoke versions designed by an architect from
£30,000. The most popular option however, is
to buy an off-the-peg model from one of the
many suppliers around the country. Try The
Garden Room Company, Smart Offices, Taylors
Garden Buildings and Rooms Outdoors.
Garden offices usually take a lot less time to
finish than the same size extension. A flat-pack
modular building can be completed in three
weeks.
The trend towards eco-friendly offices is
strong with options to generate electricity
through solar panels on the roof and eco-
upgrades such as sedum planting. High-density
insulation also makes structures thermally
efficient, so there are no excessive heating or
air-conditioning costs. Try Energy Space and
Vivid Green.
top tips by Home office Guru
peter Weaver
Don’t underestimate the space needed for:
desks, filing cabinets (there’s no such thing
as a paperless office), even a small stationery
cupboard to avoid clutter. Give yourself space
for books, reference material and files, and,
where possible, allocate a separate space and a
desk for visiting clients and colleagues.
• comfort invest in really comfortable
adjustable chairs - and a desk large enough
to spread out your work. Having your floor
insulated is also time and money well spent
– it’s surprising how cold a concrete floor can
feel during the winter.
• security consider rigging up a camera
and monitor for spotting deliveries and general
callers. Do you need a security alarm for the
office separate from the house? Ask neighbours
to keep an eye on your property when you’re
on holiday.
• finally ensure work stays in the office -
don’t let it stray into the house!

60 THE GOOD PROPERTy GuiDE March/April 2011

 The
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March/April
March/April 2011
2010 The
THE Good
GOOD ProPerTy
PROPERTY Guide
GUIDE 61
17
 Activity Holidays

hoLIDAYS To InSPIRe
Fancy a different kind of holiday? The Good Property Guide has the perfect
solution in the sun-kissed South of France

“Frances has somehow created an extraordinary sanctuary, a

restorative haven of such utter peace and tranquility . . . “ - CMS
With extensive studios and workshops, gentle teaching, inspiration
and practical guidance and encouragement on hand, guests are amazed
at what
The they achieve,markets
mountains, each finding
anda unique
medieval creativity.
villagesAlternatively
are richthey pieces and paintings, to relaxing en plein air in the age-mellowed French
can explore the mountains, with abundant fauna and
resources for me; it’s a joy to see them stimulate guests’ flora, medieval countryside - holidays are tailored to maximise enjoyment and creative
villages, paléolithique
creativity. Frances caves, and Roman villas, with a minibus available
Marsden fulfillment while meeting individual client needs.
for group outings. Returning home each evening, tired but refreshed
knowing
The Lowa wonderful
Down welcome awaits, where everything and everyone The SToRY
is just quietly taken
Holidays to Inspire arecare of.
inspirational breaks offering expert pottery, art and Ten years ago, Frances Marsden found a new home amongst the
ceramics tuition, amazing food, and gentle, unobtrusive personalised splendour of the Pyrenees; a stunning maison de maitre, with panoramic
“We came to pot; and left with much more - friends, pictures,
attention, all in the scenic surrounds of the Pyrenees in the heart of views, peaceful gardens and extensive outbuildings.
ideas for other creations, and increased waistlines …..” - JW
southern France. From translating the shapes, forms, tones and textures Totally smitten, she upped sticks with her potter’s wheel and
of the magical and dramatic French landscape into works, ceramic Labrador puppy to start a new life in southern France. Frances, a
highly experienced and inspirational art and ceramics teacher, found
k stimulation for her sculptural pieces in the rhythms and forms of her
g surroundings.
Friends arrived and just wanted to ‘have a go’. The house was
y clearly meant to be shared, so Frances set up her warm and welcoming
Chambres d’Hôtes. With a passion for arts and ceramics, a love of food
and spontaneous ability to care for her guests, Holidays to Inspire
, naturally evolved. The rest, as they say, is history.

whAT TheY SAY

er ✽ We came to do pottery; and left with much more: friends,pictures,
lots of ideas for other créations and, increased waistlines ... » Jw

✽ A unique place - I felt embraced by the atmosphere and magic -

largely due to your special touch, Frances, and the lovely people you
gather around you. Relaxing, stimulating, and unforgettable .. « KR
www.artcoursesfrance.com
me
sy, To find out more visit: web: www.artcoursesfrance.com

62 The Good PRoPeRTy GuIde March/April 2011

Luxury UK and International travel guide
 Travel News

Play At The Home Of

Golf In Exclusive Pro-Am
C lub golfers are being given the unique
opportunity to play competitive golf
on the Old Course, St Andrews, thanks to
Fairmont St Andrews and the Old Course
Experience. The five-star resort is hosting the
exclusive St Andrews Pro Am from June 25-30
which takes in some of the Home of Golf’s finest
layouts, including 18 holes on the Old Course.
Competitors will have the dream opportunity
to make the pilgrimage to the famous old town
and sample its courses and atmosphere while
following in the footsteps of legends.
The five-night package includes a 72-hole
competition played across St Andrews Old
and New courses, Kingsbarns and Fairmont St
Andrews’ Torrance course.
Players’ performances will contribute to a
team Stableford score while there will also be
prizes for the best professional and amateur
stroke play performances, with pros off scratch.
As a special memento of the event each golfer
will take home a souvenir photo of their team
on the Swilken Bridge as well as a range of
official souvenir merchandise.
The exclusive package costs a team £2,815
Tune In To The BBC And Then
per amateur, which includes five nights’ five-
star accommodation at Fairmont St Andrews, Transport Yourself To Wild
Madagascar
four competition rounds of golf, and a
complimentary place for their professional.
Prices are based on teams of four sharing two
twin rooms and include daily breakfast and
lunch as well as drinks receptions and dinner
on the first and last nights, with prize giving
T he BBC Natural History Unit’s latest
wildlife spectacle will shortly be hitting
TV screens bringing the extraordinary
and reptile population.
Some of the wildlife featured in the BBC2
programme appears on film for the first time,
and entertainment on the latter. wildlife and dramatic landscapes of one of whilst surprising stories are brought to light
Room upgrades and extra rounds of golf are the world’s most astonishing islands under surrounding perennial favourites such as the
available on request, as are airport transfers. the microscope. Narrated by Sir David lemur. Highlights include frogs that turn from
Attenborough, the three-part ‘Madagascar’ brown to bright yellow, wasps that pluck tadpoles
For more information visit: series uses the latest in filming technology from tree-nests, fish that swim upside down and
www.oldcourse-experience.com. to explore strange and fascinating wildlife the romantic life of the world’s tiniest chameleon.
found nowhere else on the planet. Reef & Rainforest Tour’s 13-night ‘Bare
Reef & Rainforest Tours (www. Necessities Overland Tour of Madagascar’
reefandrainforest.co.uk) is the UK’s longest- includes the wildlife-rich rainforests of
established and most experienced specialist Andasibe and Mantadia National Parks, the
tour operator for Madagascar, with 16 years’ varied landscapes and villages of the Hauts
first-hand knowledge of this remarkable Plateaux along with the stunning Ranomafana
Indian Ocean island. A land of lush rainforests, and Isalo National Parks and the beautiful
desert scrub and beautiful coral reefs, coast and spiny forest at Ifaty. The trip has
Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the been designed with independent travellers
world. The land mass broke from continental in mind and costs from £1,836 per person
Africa 65 million years ago, leaving its flora and includes: Accommodation, some meals, a
and fauna to evolve in isolation and resulting number of tours and excursions and private
in an almost completely endemic mammal transfers. Flights are not included.

64 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUIDE March/April 2011

I n light of tightened airport security measures,
there’s never been a better time to cut back
on time spent at the airport, as well as on your
overall journey from doorstep to destination.
“With events like Easter coming up, airports
are about to get busy and recent events have
put security measures into focus yet again,”
says says Nadine Hallak, Travel Expert for
Cheapflights.co.uk. “Putting a little extra
thought into packing as well into time of arrival
at the airport can go a long way to ensuring a
smoother overall journey.”
Check in: Save time in the check-in queue
by checking in online, printing out your own
boarding pass, and securing your seat selection
during that process. If carrying hand luggage
only, you can bypass bag drop too and proceed to
security. Remember that busier airports will have
longer check-in procedures, so being familiar
with the rules and preparing for them will help
save time. Travellers who are flexible with hours
should try to avoid peak days and times.
Security check: Dress to avoid the pat down.
Metallic items in the form of large belt buckles
will set off the detector, and high heeled or thick-
soled shoes will mean they have to come off. If they
must be worn, then selecting a pair that’s easy to
remove is the next best option. Additionally, having
loose change, keys, mobile phones, watches, and
liquid items already placed in plastic bags or in
easily accessible places makes them ready for the
conveyor, and saves time. Travellers should also
avoid over packaging items carried in hand luggage
so that everything inside is easily identifiable by the
New Tour Of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle
H ome to the most delicious coffee in the
world, Colombia is set to be one of 2011’s
hottest destinations. Bespoke travel experts Black
Tomato have put together a new five night tour
around Colombia’s coffee country - the perfect
experience to twin with Bogota or Cartagena.
The new tour travels through the rolling hills
of the coffee plantations and reveals the unspoilt
colonial towns of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle
whilst staying in top boutique hotels. Starting in
Cheapflights. co.uk
Reveals Time
Saving Travel Tips
scanner and requires no further inspection.
Bag it well: Bags with easy access flaps and
plenty of different pockets make belongings easy to
locate if necessary. The currently highly fashionable
messenger bag was created for people on the go, and is
recommended for time saving and improving comfort.
Apply logic: Avoid carrying forbidden items
such as sharp objects in the form of nail scissors
as well as aerosol deodorants, lighters and
anything else that may not logically pass security.
Rules pertaining to permissible liquid
measurements may vary. If in doubt, check
both airport and airline websites for security
and hand baggage regulations, and remember
that rules may vary by airline and airport.
Beverages of any kind including water will not
be permitted through security, and should be
purchased once you have been cleared.
Reduce lotions and potions: Avoid taking
unnecessary items such as shampoo, soap, and
conditioner as most hotels will provide these.
If staying in alternate accommodation, check
whether these items are supplied, and, if not,
travel sizes can be purchased at the airport once
through the security check.
Quindio, the heart of the coffee region, guests get
exclusive access to working coffee plantations and
haciendas, to see how the coffee beans are grown
and sample the finished product before journeying
deeper into coffee growing country. They stay at the
Hacienda Bambusa, a boutique hotel in Quindio’s
countryside with a magnificent view of the Andes.
The following days are spent exploring
the hills and valleys of the area in traditional
Willy jeep and on horseback with a private
guide. Stops include the quiet and untouched
town of Cordoba, which sits on the peak of
the central mountain range; the coffee picking
town of Pijao; Buena Vista, situated 1450
above sea level with views over the Andean
Mountain range and the coffee town of
Filandia in the Valle Cocora with its primary
coloured painted houses and coffee shops that
have remained unchanged for decades.
On horseback, explore the valleys of the
Manizales, riding through the pine forests and
stopping to relax in the local hot springs. Stay at the
Hotel Boutique Sazagua, which effortlessly reflects
early coffee history with its colonial architecture,
Boot Camp Beauty
In Five-Star Style
I f your aim is to get fit and fabulous for
the summer, then why not kick start your
new regime in style at the luxurious five-
star, Castlemartyr Resort in County Cork.
Set within 220 acres of serene countryside
but only half an hour’s drive from Cork City
centre, this stunning stately house hotel is
the perfect place to dust off your running
shoes and get active.
Each day guests can be put through their paces
with an hour-long boot camp under the watchful
eyes of the resort’s qualified instructors. After a
hard morning of exercise, you’ll be rewarded
with a relaxing detox treatment in the health and
wellbeing centre, with products from the exclusive
Anne Sémonin range.
Post treatment lunch is served in the Knights’
Bar with the remainder of the day given over to
sampling the spa – guests can take a dip in the
ozone-treated swimming pool, relax in the sauna
or steam room or just take in the views of the
magnificent gardens whilst unwinding on one of
the day beds.
Two-night stays in a deluxe room including
breakfast and lunch in the Knights Bar, boot
camp and two detox spa treatments start
at £282 per person, based on two sharing.
Visit www.castlemartyrresort.ie
wooden structures and vivid colours.
The journey leads to the National Park Los
Nevados, where the symbol of Colombia,
the Wax Palm tree grows. With a private
guide, guests will explore the mountain
ranges, dormant volcanoes, hot springs and
El Valley de Las Tumbas (the Valley of the
Tombs), a truly striking natural phenomenon
of bouncing sounds and echoes. The five
night coffee tour in Colombia with Black
Tomato (www.blacktomato.co.uk 0207
426 9888) costs from £2,299 per person,
including flights, transfers and
accommodation with breakfast.
March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTy GuIDE 65
 Drakes Hotel
a hotel as
individual as
you are
W hen 43-44 Marine Parade was
sympathetically renovated
form drakes, a luxurious, contemporary
to
boutique hotel with hints of the orient,
they immediately set the standards for style
in Brighton and soon established an award
winning fine-dining restaurant.
Aiming to be a “home from home”, drakes
offers exceptional levels of service, comfort
and more than just a touch of decadence.
Most guest rooms boast impressive sea views
or fabulous free standing baths, whilst all
room have monsoon “wet rooms” or well
appointed traditional bathrooms. Hand-
made beds are draped in velvet throws and
Egyptian cotton bedding, with goose down
duvets and pillows to ensure a perfect
night’s sleep. Guest facilities also include
wireless connectivity and air conditioning in
each room, plasma screen television, i-pod
docking, dvd and cd player, room service and
a discrete concierge for any extras required.
With international experience and
exceptional standards, Head Chef, Andrew
66 THE GOOD PROPERTy GUiDE March/April 2011
MacKenzie has succeeded in achieving
several accolades for the restaurant at drakes,
43-44 Marine Parade, Brighton
including the highest score of all Brighton
BN2 1PE
restaurants in the 2011 Good Food Guide and
01273 696934
2 highly coveted AA Rosettes. His Modern
European menus are created with only the
www.drakesofbrighton.com
finest, seasonal ingredients and each dish
www.therestaurantatdrakes.com
is a delight to the palate. Specially selected
Old and New World wines are available from
a comprehensive list to compliment each
course. For that special touch, a Private Dining
Room, with dedicated waiter is available for
parties of up to 12 guests.
drakes hotel and the restaurant can be hired
either together or separately for formal and
informal events. Whether for an Exclusive Use
romantic Wedding or Corporate Event, you can
be sure it will be perfect.

Boutique is Best
While larger hotel chains battle for market share –
intimate brands are raising the bar for customer satisfaction.
T he hotel industry is a fiercely competitive one, but not all getaway
havens are cut from the same cloth. Following the tremendous
success of the boutique hotel concept in the U.S, where large hotel groups
have lost market share to the more personal style of service and amenities
that smaller establishments can provide – the UK is witnessing its own
growth spurt in bespoke accommodation. “People take their leisure time
a lot more seriously these days,” explains hotel guru, Jonathan Layman.
“Not only are guests tastes more discerning, the majority, are also more
worldly wise in terms of personal experience. For cash-rich, time-poor
holidaymakers, it’s all about instant gratification: the turnkey guarantee of
intimacy and quality of personal service from the minute they check-in.
It’s little wonder demand for smaller hotel outlets has increased four-fold
in the UK in the past five years, with a further spike in boutique outlet
volumes expected across the regions in the near future.”
One knock-on effect of the small is beautiful boom has been its
Boutique Hotels
impact on the big chains, spurring them into changing their often
formulaic approach to service into a ‘bespoke’ alternative. “Many chains
are successfully stepping up to the challenge of a new leisure tourism
environment, by letting go of the cookie-cutter approach to service,” adds
Layman. “The Four Seasons Group, for example, increasingly reflects
the country and locality of its hotel locations, something that nimble
boutiques already do supremely well. Big chains are also becoming less
stuffy and over-cosseting in response to the new service of style required
by both business and leisure customers. Making a clear distinction
between the two groups in terms of services and facilities required, is a
step change in progress terms and one likely to prove lucrative. The long
term outlook for the boutique brand is already rosy. Now with growing
global affluence and a more demanding Generation Y contributing to a
permanent shift to hotels that are lifestyle driven; it’s up to individuals in
the industry to capitalise on those opportunities.
March/April 2011 The GOOd PrOPerTY GUIde 67
 London Luxury Hotels
The London luxury hotel market is a fiercely competitive one – so how do individual brands
stay at the top of their game? The Good Property Guide goes undercover to find out.
A -list celebrities have a nose for rooting out
the best and the quest for hotel service
par excellence is no exception. It doesn’t take a
genius to work out why; sumptuous surrounds,
indulgent interiors and charm incarnate
concierge services, such establishments provide
an impeccable experience that keeps well-
heeled clientele coming back for more. But
sustaining interest and building a loyal client
base, particularly in today’s recession-clipped
climate, is far from easy. But while many lesser
68 The Good PRoPeRTy GUIde March/April 2011
Lessons in Luxe
luxe establishments are falling by the wayside,
tried and tested hotel havens in the capital are
successfully rising to the challenge; upping their
game with a new line in tasteful refurbishments,
backed by a switched-on management and
value added services.
Part of the prestigious Starwood Resorts
Group, one hotel leading the quest for quality
is The Lanesborough, located in Knightsbridge.
This hallowed golden postcode establishment
has refurbished its Garden Room to create
what it believes is London’s “most glamorous
smoking area”. A “discreet” outdoor space for
just 35 guests, the area counteracts the UK’s
smoking laws, which bans smoking in public
areas, by offering the “freedom to smoke in
five-star luxury”, an experience “enhanced
by a selection of the finest cognacs and
champagnes”. Not only that, it also features a
walk-in humidor — the first ever to be installed
in London — which houses 1000 cigars and
25 private lockers for top guests’ personal

cigar collections. The Lanesborough’s head
of sales and marketing, Paula McColgan has
acknowledged that wooing new markets are an
“extremely important” clientele source for the
property. “We’ve seen an increase in business
from the Middle East and it’s important to
improve and broaden our services to ensure
The Lanesborough always exceeds new client
expectations. Our chauffeur service is also
popular and we have recently acquired a Rolls
Royce Phantom to our selection of cars.”
In a similar vein, Grosvenor House, located
on Park Lane, Mayfair, is gearing up to embrace
new clientele from several new markets
across the globe, including the States. Having
recently undergone a multi-million pound
refurbishment and re-branded as a JW Marriott
Hotel — the brand’s first in the UK, the £100
million makeover has been extended to the
hotel’s 494 rooms and suites and its conference
and banqueting facilities. Its new look mantle
appears to be working, with a spike in visitor
numbers in the past two quarters.
“Market share is more important than
ever in a downturn,” explains leisure and
tourism industry consultant Richard Burton.
London Luxury Hotels
“That means paring down extra fees and
complementary services, while maintaining
customer service quality and loyalty
programmes.” As to reconfiguring of prices:
“Excessive pricing in a fragile economy can
create ill will and tarnish a brand. By the same
token, slashing prices as a reaction to the
recession is never good for business in the long
run, and could also erode brand image. Part of
the price strength of luxury hotels is its segment
size. It’s finite, yet the market share of guests
able to afford luxury accommodations has risen
dramatically in the past few years. It’s a good
dynamic as long as property volumes don’t
grow faster than the number of persons willing
to pay their premium prices. The good news,
in the case of London and other keynote global
cities is hotel room rates look likely to hold
their price points as demand outstrips supply.”
So juSt how are top hotelS
keeping their market Share?
Seductive offers: Off-peak and work-to-leisure
rates can be snaffled even in the plushest of
establishments. Sundays nights at Mayfair
grandee Claridges, start from just £245 per
March/April 2011 THE GOOd PROPERTy GUIdE 69
 London Luxury Hotels
room per night. www.claridges.co.uk
Glass half-full clientele: A year ago, in the
depths of recession, ‘make do and mend’ was
the mantra du jour. With the climb back to
recovery, ‘a little of what you fancy’ is back in
fashion – hoorah!
City slickers: The banks and financial service
sectors are on the prowl again, which means
an increase in spend on hospitality services
including accommodation. ‘Doing’ corporate
deals with the promise of repeat business, is a
strong incentive for key establishments.
Global growth: The Savoy, Connaught and
Landmark have been full to brimming with
international travellers lately. Strengthening
world economies are giving a fillip to new
markets and putting the life back into keynote
travel and tourism markets with London as the
most visited city in the world, top of the pile.
70 The GooD ProPerTy GuiDe March/April 2011
Pick of the Luxe Bunch
The Zetter
Located in the cultural hub of Clerkenwell, the
Zetter first opened its doors in 2004. originally
a Victorian warehouse, a multi-million pound
renovation has seen the property transformed
into a deliciously uber-modern residence,
with a Conde Nast Traveller ‘coolest hotel’
award to match. The hotel’s diligent in-house
management team has gone to great lengths
to instill a dose of eco-friendliness. Design-
conscious rooms offer good value for money,
while the Bistrot Bruno Loubet restaurant
with its urban-chic atmosphere is a great spot
for a spirited, gourmet night out with friends.
www.thezetter.com
The May Fair Hotel
opened by King George V in 1927, the May Fair
hotel brings its own unique brand of luxury
 London Luxury Hotels

five-star comfort into the 21st century. The
official hotel of London Fashion Week, the May
Fair has hosted numerous exclusive parties and
events. its luxurious screening room is one of
the capital’s largest private cinemas and its hotel
bar one of London’s most popular celebrity
haunts. The hotel sports 400 sumptuous
hotel rooms including 12 of the capital’s most
memorable suites, together with a discreet spa,
fine-dining restaurant and the quintessential
London Casino. www.themayfairhotel.co.uk
39 guestrooms is contemporary english in style
and varies in size from the honestly named;
‘Tiny’, to ‘Small’, ‘Medium’ and ‘Bigger’. All
beautifully decorated with bespoke furnishings
and linen, silk and calico upholstery – a good
night’s sleep is guaranteed. Sporting bijou
facilities in keeping with its boutique roots
- there’s also an excellent restaurant serving
seasonal Modern British cuisine, with a divine
American-style bar serving delicious cocktails.
www.deanstreettownhouse.com
out with Philippe Starck furniture, crisp linens,
central columns ringed with bookshelves
and the requisite (i’m in the) mood lighting.
Minimalist T-shaped cabinets house chests
of draws with built-in TVs and dVd players,
and bathrooms have statement-piece porcelain
sinks, deep freestanding baths and Korres
toiletries. www.stmartinslane.com

Dean Street Townhouse St Martins Lane

The brainchild of Nick Jones, founder of
London’s ultra-glamorous Soho house Group
and richard Caring (proprietor of the equally
fab see-and-be-seen hotspots Le Caprice, the
ivy and J Sheekey restaurants), this beautifully
restored Grade ii-listed Georgian townhouse in
the capital’s lively Soho district, is charmingly
elegant yet resolutely homely. each of the hotel’s
This quirky designer hotel boasts verdant
garden rooms, panoramic city views and a
decadent bar, beaming shafts of multi-coloured
light. effortlessly groomed in other areas too,
the hotel has established itself as London’s see-
and-be-seen venue for press events, photo-
shoots and star-spotting.
All of the 204 white-out rooms are decked

March/April 2011 The Good ProPerTy Guide 71

 Activity Holidays

Wish You Were Here?

Fancy a spot of microlighting, canoeing or coasteering? If the Britain’s
great outdoors is beckoning, the Good Property Guide has the pick of
adrenalin-junky thrills to get you moving.

SurfS up a timely-placed A-Z of insider information on Cornish afternoon teas and amazing three

I f you fancy riding the white horses but have

no idea where to start, or, if you’re already a
surfer and just want an easy way to access the
waves, then check out www.bigfriday.com. The
concept is a good one – extricating stressed-out
city folk from the work-hard play-hard smoke
and helping them to make the most of their
leisure time on the beach, breathing fresh clean
air and catching the waves.
The BF team takes care of everything – from
transport, beds, and instructors to boards and
wetsuits – and all you have to do is get yourself
to Hammersmith and board the funky Surf Bus.
Alternatively, you can make your own travel
arrangements and the Big Friday crew will co-
ordinate everything for you on arrival including
the best places to surf, shop and hang out.
Big Friday has weekend experiences for
wannabe surfers of all levels. The company
uses only the very best accommodation spots
and surf & activity providers - plus there’s lots
more to do if you don’t fancy a full on dawn til
dusk surfing weekend.
Those hankering for luxury will enjoy the
Surf Chic package in stunning bed & breakfast
surrounds in Trevone, Cornwall, with Reiki
massages and champagne breakfasts on request.
Rick Stein’s gourmet restaurants are just a short
hop away in nearby Padstow.
For larger groups who may be skiers or
boarders, The Surf Chalet offers an activity
cum foodie weekend with delicious breakfasts,
course gourmet dinners. For those on a budget
and up for surfing fun, the bright lights of
Newquay and Big Friday’s surf lodges beckon
with a perfect Atlantic surfs up backdrop.
www.bigfriday.com
Hike tHe WelSH 3000S
On a par for drop-dead gorgeousness with
the Scottish Munros, but a tad easier to climb
if you’re a limbering up for something mega
steep, the Welsh 3000 challenge involves
conquering the 15 peaks of 3,000ft or more that
crown Wales’s lofty crags. It’s a three-day full-
on agenda, starting below Aber Falls, climbing
seven peaks on the first day followed by an
overnight stay in the delightful Ogwen Valley.

72 THe GOOd PROPeRTy GuIde March/April 2011

 Activity Holidays

Day two involves a scramble up Bristly Ridge,
five peaks and a stopover in Nant Peris, with the
grand finale climbing Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), at
3,560ft. A trip with Wandering Aengus Treks
includes two much-needed limber-up days,
with accommodation in characterful inns and
guest houses, with meals and climbing gurus
on tap. www.wanderingaengustreks.com
liberal helping of kayaking, climbing, abseiling
and for the real hard core participants: improved
raft building: two teams, two lots of ideas, two
frantically paddling raft teams and loads of
wet fun as you race across the lake. Adrenalin-
fuelled guests can stay an extra day and explore
Devon’s fantastic river estuaries by kayak or
canoe. www.spirit-of-adventure.com
boasting fifteen entrances and exits including
the biggest in South Wales, you’ll be guided
through an extensive underground system
to cave nirvana. Afternoon pursuits include
sporting caving challenges including The Death
Ledge, Cork Screw and Rat Trap. You have been
warned. www.blackmountain.co.uk

Devon Dare Devils Caving Cravings

A weekend of fast-paced action and adventure
in the beautiful Dartmoor National Park, with
activities that are exhilarating, challenging and
fun. Specifically designed for people with little
or no previous experience and who may not
feel very fit: great outdoors company Spirit of
Adventure offer multi-activity weekend breaks
for aspiring go-getters of all persuasions. Their
action-packed weekend in Dartmoor includes a
The Southern part of the Brecon Beacons
National Park in Wales is perfect for
caving. Riddled with caverns, pot holes
and passages, including the largest cave
passage in the UK, activity gurus Black
Mountain Activities will help you explore
the subterranean world that was formed
over three hundred million years ago.
The top cave for visitors is Porth Yr Ogof –

March/April 2011 The GOOD PROPeRTY GUiDe 73

 Hampshire
hampshire heaven
With its lush rolling countryside of the South Downs and beyond, Hampshire’s bucolic
hinterland offers the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the coast
E very vintage town and sleepy village in
Hampshire has its own unique personality.
Because of this, determining the top destinations
to visit is a hard task to master. But the Good
Property Guide loves a challenge. Here we take
a look at three of the more popular tourist
destinations for a great day out.
Winchester
Oozing old-school character, as a former capital
of Britain and legendary home of King Arthur (of
the Round Table fame), Chichester offers charm
and history in abundance. Culture vultures can
visit the 13th Century Great Hall, which houses
The Round Table and the medieval cathedral in
the heart of the city, before catching a period
performance at the award winning Festival
Theatre. The old town is also brimming with
fantastic restaurants, antiques shops and
boutiques scattered through its winding lanes.
For day-trips out nearby, Twyford, Alresford
(home of the Watercress Line) and Cheriton are
delicious places to explore for walkers, real ale
lovers and those of a snap-happy nature.
Whitehill and Bordon
Set in the Woolmer Forest, an area of heathland
74 THE GOOD PROPERTy GuIDE March/April 2011
designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest
and ecologically outstanding as a wildlife
sanctuary, these attractive villages in East
Hampshire combine historical interest with a
contemporary way of life. The area has been
a centre of military importance since 1863
when the War Office purchased 1,600 acres of
training land.
The best way to explore the area is on foot.
The Deadwater Valley Walk is in a 50 acre area
of heath and woodland rich in wildlife, and is
easily accessible. Edwardian and Literary Town
Trails are packed with information about the
history of the town and its literary connections.
The Woolmer Forest Heritage Society, who
put together the trail based on Our Edwardian
Town, are passionate about the ancient and
recent history of the Whitehill and Bordon
area. A selection of artefacts found locally is on
display in the Bordon Library.
neW Forest
This sprawling area of woodland and heaths
is the quintessential green and serene getaway
for families on-the-go, be it on foot, bike or
horseback. A favoured spot with royalty down
the generations, the Crown has held onto it,
not only raiding it for timber - hence the large
areas of open heathland - but preserving the
historical practice of pasturing ponies, cattle
and donkeys, who roam the byways with all the
freedom - and disregard for traffic - of sacred
cows in India.
Late spring is a sublime month to visit,
when winter’s white-out blanket gives way to
fields of vibrant daffodils and colourful shrubs.
Exbury, just beyond Beaulieu, at the eastern
end of the Forest is worthy of a detour. Famous
for its National Motor Museum, it also has a
fine 16th century mansion in Palace House.
Secret Agents were trained on the estate during
World War II prior to being dispatched to join
the Resistance in Europe, and an exhibition
shows how their “finishing school” operated
in secrecy for four years. For those with a
penchant for hearty home fare, the picturesque
towns of Beaulieu (home of the British Motor
Museum), Lyndhurst and Lymington boast a
tasty collection of vintage pubs.
For more information,
visit: www.visit-hampshire.co.uk
 UK Holidays
In a New Forest Frame of Mind
Fancy blowing away the Xmas cobwebs with some cheese
Then the New Forest is the place to head.
L ike most stretches of coastline in the United Kingdom, the region
where the New Forest touches the sheltered inlet of the Solent is a
site to behold with its ever changing bucolic landscape. This wooded
coastal fringe of Hampshire is as idyllic a weekend break spot as anything
mainland Europe has to offer.
It perhaps comes as something of a surprise then to hear that covens
of white witches have put down roots in this corner of ancient Wessex –
but that should be taken as a good omen. When you stroll beneath acres
of beautiful tall trees which stretch as far as the eye can see, you feel the
special magic energy unique to England in leafy midsummer.
This stretch of wooded land running down to the south coast has also
been a favoured spot with royalty down the generations, so much so,
the Crown has held onto it, not only raiding it for timber - hence the
large areas of open heathland - but preserving the historical practice of
pasturing ponies, cattle and donkeys, who roam the byways with all the
freedom - and disregard for traffic - of sacred cows in India.
Touring at a leisurely pace - indeed, meandering and on occasion
taking a detour - is what the area is all about. Gazing at trees, enjoying the
74 THE Good ProPErTy GUIdE January/February 2011
Hampshire
When you have had enough of sea and sand,
pack a picnic of fresh strawberries, local
outdoor pursuits?
and bread, hire bikes or horses and
make your own trails across these wonderful
islands. Or take a trip to the world famous
Tresco Abbey Garden, a botanical paradise
created around the ruins of a Benedictine
priory in 1834. Dubbed “Kew with the roof
off”, corridors of palms, topiary, flame trees
and borders peppered pink and purple make
this garden a “must see”.
Flights include spectacular views of the
Cornish countryside and coastline and on the
approach to Scilly you will see the islands,
their white sandy beaches and the sparkling
turquoise sea.
To book call 0845 710 5555
or for more information visit
www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk
March/April 2010 THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE 67
March/April 2011 The Good ProPerTy Guide 75
 Best of British
UK Days Out

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the Bristol Channel, the National Trust-maintained island of Lundy
is one of the most secluded holiday havens going in the British Isles.
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stop-off
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views across the Bristol
Cove on the western shore. There are, however, numerous other bird location for grey seals who often come to play in the waters. Scuba-

76 ThE GOOD PROPERTy GuIDE March/April 2011 86 THE GooD PRoPERTy GuIDE July/August 2010
s Property Services
Best of British
UK Days Out
In July and August, peak season for Wales and the major school-
holiday period across Britain, attractions, accommodation and roads
diving is also popular; one of the biggest draws
get choked with visitors, prices rise and even the kindest of locals can
being the basking sharks – although they don’t
get annoyed with the crush. However, this is prime time for a long,
congregate in Lundy’s waters until late summer.
lingering night at one of Wales’ countless festivals or a concerted assault
If you’re planning an underwater excursion, be
on its highest peaks.
sure to organise well in advance as access to the
In general, spring and autumn are the best times to visit, combining
marine conservation area is restricted.
pretty good weather with glorious countryside, but avoiding the
crowds, clogged roads and accommodation rush of midsummer.
Stay and Play
Despite its diminutive size, Lundy offers a
wide range of accommodation from vintage
fisherman’s chalets to luxury fairytale castles.
All hotel and hostelry services are run by Lundy
residents, who live on the island to service the
tourism trade, but a number of hostelries, are
managed by the Landmark Trust, with options
that cater for larger groups.
SAMPLE PACKAGES INCLUDING A TOU
Three star hotel with London Sightseeing run - £77.50pp stay
nights at the three star Imperial hotel on a b/b basis with a sigh
Out and Back
al, From April to October, Lundy’s very own ship run included. Based on two sharing and valid any day of the w
w. the MS Oldenburg departs several times a week the end of April.
on from Bideford or Ilfracombe in north Devon, Four star hotel with London Sightseeing run - £87.50pp s
a with a journey time of approximately two- one nights at the four star Grafton Hotel on a b/b basis with a
les hours. Bristol Channel waters can, however, sightseeing run included. Based on two sharing and valid any
er) be unpredictable – so be sure to check the week until the end of April.
weather forecast in advance. If the sea crossing
of looks unlikely, passengers have the option of For more information or to book call Superbreak
travelling by helicopter from Hartland Point. on 0871 222 3055 www.superbreak.com
ch Visits between the end of October and March For further information contact: www.lundyisland.co.uk
ng are by helicopter only.
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March/April
March/April2010
2010 THE
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GOODPROPERTY
PROPERTYGUIDE
GUIDE73
69 March/April 2010 THE GOOD PROPERTY
95 May/June 2010
July/August 2010 ThE
THE GOOD
Good PROPERTy
PRoPERTy GuIDE
GuidE 91
87 March/April 2011 THe GOOD PrOPerTy GuIDe 77
 UK Days Out
UK Family Holidays

In J
hol
and built in 1708 for the then mayor who get

In the Mood for Maldon went on to collect the taxes to pay for the
construction of nearby Blenheim Palace,
get
ling
Hope House is one of just a few remaining on
grand homes built in the Vanbrughan style.
The hotel’s three exquisite suites have pre
Rich in maritime history and the proud holder been of the Green
sympathetically Flag
restyled withAward
antique since 2001, crow
the historic market town of Maldon on Essex’s scenic
furniture, Moulin Blackwater
Noir sleigh beds,Estuary,
fine is fast
becoming one of the UK’s top weekender destinations.
Beltrami linens; their original oak beams and
bay windows still in tact. Breakfast is served
in the chandelier-clad Vanburgh Restaurant

I
– the
f a long weekend or family day out with a difference beckons, then high Longabove
as 24m Crendon black
sea level, smoked
which bacon
over the years has proven itself to be
and Hope House’s special recipe sausages
the age-mellowed town of Maldon in the county of Essex might just an ideal climatic site. New Hall Vineyards are open daily for wine tastings
areguided
fit the bill. Climbing up hill from the banks of the River Blackwater and guaranteed to perk
walks along you up.
the Vineyard Trail.www.
www.newhallwines.co.uk
and just an hour’s drive from the capital, big skies, open waters and hopehousewoodstock.co.uk
surrounding sweeping vistas offer an unexpected sense of tranquillity Maldon festIvals
Norfolk
Maldon – StrattoNS
and
and some are
isolation, while still
the in
townuseitself
commercially as back
is like stepping charter vessels.
in time; The
cobbled Take your Festivals
pick from the ever popular Mud Race, Maldon Carnival,
distinctive colour of the barge sails is due to a dressing of yellow Tucked
Take away
your off the
pick fromhigh street
thetheever inpopular
the olden Mudday Race, Maldon Carnival,
streets, pastel-hued townhouses and a well-preserved architectural Maldon Beer Festival and Maldon Festival of Arts, to name but a few.
market town
Maldon Beer of Swafham,
Festival and thisMaldon
the small family-run
Festival of Arts, to name
ochre,
fabric cod oil
steeped in (for
Saxon waterproofing),
history. and seawater. One recent fixture brought back due to popular demand is thebut a few.
Maldon
hotelrecent
One set infixture
a majestic Queen
brought backAnnedue Palladium
to popular demand, is the Maldon
Classic Motor Show. Due to return in July 2010, the show features a variety
topSt Peters on the Wall
attractIons
villa, isMotor
ofClassic
the former Coming
pristine classicShow.
home oftoarchaeologist
cars and commercial townand in military
July, thevehicles
show features
includinga
Built by Sir Cedd from the ruins of Othona, St Peters Church has HowardofCarter,
variety pristine discoverer
classic of and
cars Tutankhamen’
commercial s and military vehicles
Promenade Park the Ford Gran Torino and the General Lee (Dodge Charger) from the TV
stood overlooking the entrance to the Blackwater Estuary for over tomb. Eight
including thebeautifully
Ford Granappointed
Torino androoms mix Lee (Dodge Charger)
the General
This remodelled 100-year old Edwardian park sports an ornamental shows Starsky & Hutch and the Dukes of Hazzard.
1,300 years. One of England’s oldest ecclesiastical buildings, the lush contemporary
from the TV showsand boudoir
Starsky chic, while
& Hutch the Dukes of Hazzard.
and the
lake, new Amphitheatre, performance area, model boating lake, Splash
church boasts much of its original grandeur. turnkey apartments
hotel’s indulgent and upmarket
afternoon teas are tourist
legendaryattractions with the aim of
Park and magnificent river views and walks with designated picnic areas.
luring
For
well
further
heeled
information
Londoners and
visit: www.maldon.gov.uk
weekenders
thanks to the
ForCoastline
further atboozy cheesecake
Newquay,
information Cornwall, and
visit: lavenderfrom the southeast.
England
Special events run throughout the year with boat trips and Maldon or www.touruk.co.uk
New Hall Vineyards One of thewww.strattons-hotel.co.uk
shortbread. flagship districts
www.maldon.gov.uk spearheading regeneration is Fistral Beach
or www.touruk.co.uk
Districts Museum close by.
This charming 37-hectare English Vineyard is one of the oldest and (far left). Dubbed ‘Surfbury’ for its big swell waves, the area is fast garnering
largest English Wine Producers in the Country. Vines grown, have a reputation as the place to stay and play. The area’s natural setting is
Moot Hall
been planted as high as 24m above sea level, which over the years an obvious draw: a stunning 630-mile long South West Coast Path
This Grade One 15th Century listed building has dominated civic
has proven itself to be an ideal climatic site. New Hall Vineyards are running across trademark bleak cliffs. Trendy boutiques and upmarket
life in the town for over four centuries. Sporting numerous unique
open daily for wine tastings and guided walks along the Vineyard eateries including Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen, are attracting a more discerning
architectural features including a brick spiral staircase, Dickensian
Trail. www.newhallwines.co.uk clientele, while luxury apartments in communities like Ocean’s Gate are
Well Court and Georgian dado panelled council chamber, the building luring investors in search of a weekend pad with rental potential. “To a
also houses the remnants of the old borough gaol with prisoners
Moot Hall large extent, Newquay is benefiting from the ‘Eden effect’ that has seen
exercise yard. The panoramic roof top views over the Blackwater £700m of extra spending injected into the Cornish economy since this
This Grade One 15th Century listed building has dominated civic life in
Estuary are well worth the climb. project opened nine years ago,” explains Teresa Timms of Visit Cornwall.
the town for over four centuries. Sporting a number of unique architectural
features including a brick spiral staircase, Dickensian Well Court and “Padstow and St Ives have undergone successful revamps thanks to the
Hythe Key likes of Rick Stein. Now, expectations are running high that Newquay
Georgian dado panelled council chamber, the building also houses
Home of the sailing barge, Maldon’s living heritage, many of Hythe will follow suit.” “Time will tell,” adds travel consultant Richard Mynott.
the remnants of the old borough gaol with prisoners exercise yard.
Key’s barges have been lovingly restored by devoted owners and some “There’s plenty scope for improvement, but if Fistral is anything to go by
The panoramic roof top views over the Blackwater Estuary are well
areworth
still in
theuse commercially as charter vessels. The distinctive colour
climb. – the resort is undoubtedly on the right track.”
of the barge sails is due to a dressing of yellow ochre, cod oil (for
waterproofing), and seawater.

Viking Saga Boat Excursions

Hop on a roomy 50ft cruiser from Maldon Promenade out past Heybridge
towards Osea Island before heading back via buzzing Hythe Quay.
Excursions run daily ranging from 40-minute snap-happy trips to leisurely
two-hour lunchtime cruises. Charters are also available for private parties.

St Peters on the Wall

Built by Sir Cedd from the fabric of Othona, a Roman fort, St Peters
has stood overlooking the entrance to the Blackwater Estuary for
over 1,300 years and is one of England’s oldest churches boasting
much of its original fabric.

New Hall Vineyards

This charming 37-hectare English Vineyard is one of the oldest and largest
English Wine Producers in the Country. Vines grown have been planted as

March/April 2011 THE

May/June 2010 THE GOOD
GOOD PROPERTy GuIDE 79
GuiDE 95
 UK Days Out

In search of
Santa Claus
on a December
holiday to Lapland
www.santa-holidays.com
01923 822 388
Call for a brochure
0739

Canterbury Travel
V6364 Merging Fan†asy with Reality

78 The Good ProPerTy Guide March/April 2011

 UK Days Out
A Five-StAr Flight to iSlAnd PArAdiSe
If kick-starting your holiday with a helicopter trip sounds like fun – British
International Helicopters might just have the solution.
A s companies with a passion for taking to the
skies go, British International Helicopters
have plenty to crow about. Operating the longest
running scheduled helicopter service from the
mainland UK to the beautiful Isles of Scilly, the
company also has a longstanding relationship
with the Ministry of Defence (MOD), a
relationship that has seen the company offer
helicopter support to the Falkland Island
Garrison and Flag Officer Sea Training and Joint
Maritime Courses in Plymouth and off the west
coast of Scotland.
Its award-winning helicopter service to
the islands of St. Mary’s and Tresco provides
holidaymakers with a hassle free, efficient
transfer from Cornwall; as well as the chance to
get an exhilarating first-look aerial view of the
stunning islands.
The Penzance – St Mary’s route has been
operated by helicopter since 1964, making
it the world’s longest running scheduled
helicopter service. The Tresco service
was inaugurated in 1983, and British
International helicopters remain the only
80 THE GOOD PrOPErTy GUIDE March/April 2011
operator to fly direct to both Islands.
The service flies daily (except Sundays)
from Penzance. After a quick and easy check-
in process, a member of the cabin crew escorts
passengers to the impressive Sikorsky S61
aircraft. Once onboard, passengers can choose
where they sit; there are single seats on the left
of the cabin, and double seats on the right. Large
windows ensure everyone gets a great view.
The trip lasts just 20 minutes, but there’s
plenty of scenery to spy from the window. The
beginning of the journey provides passengers
with a bird’s eye view of Penzance, Newlyn,
Mousehole, Porthcurno, and wow-factor
Cornish landmarks like the Minack Theatre and
the Long Ships Lighthouse. Lands End, the tip
of the British Isles, completes the scenery floor
show, and Cornwall is left behind as the pilot
begins his descent to the beautiful archipelagos.
Let the holidays begin!
For further information, go to:
www.islesofscillyhelicopter.co.uk
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March/April 2011 THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE 81

 Last word
The LasT Word
Improve For Good
“Improve, don’t move”, has become something of a new age mantra, but not all
‘improvements’ reap the expected rewards, says Laura Henderson.
B ling bathrooms and kitchens – extravagant Jacuzzis and super-size
wet rooms cost a small fortune to install and may well wow the
neighbours, but unless you have a rambling country pile where space (and
money) is no object, they’re likely to be ripped out by your successors,
because they’re tantamount to dead space. Bespoke kitchens are a further
cash sapper - buyers seldom distinguish between a well-designed high-
street brand that costs £5,000 and a souped-up alternative that costs
£15,000, so unless you’re planning to stay put and live the dream, reign
in your extravagances.
open pLan LayouTs - houses tend to be valued by the number of
rooms rather than the square footage, with an extra bedroom adding a
disproportionate amount of weight in market value. Trendy open plan
kitchen/diners can be an effective way of combating space limitations, but
may limit your buyer base and have a negative impact on the selling price.
82 The Good ProPerTy GuIde March/April 2011
“There’s always room
for improvement – you
know it’s the biggest
room in the house.”
Louise Heath Leber
running for The hiLLs - bespoke interiors that indulge the
eccentricities of the owner can have prospective buyers running to the
hills. Purchasers look for understated quality, not garish gimmicks. So
keep the red-hot upholstery and mirrored ceilings to a minimum.
poor mainTenance - prevention is better than cure. So check your
chimney, clear your gutters and make sure the central heating and wiring
are up to scratch. If buyers see that work needs doing the instant they
move in – they’ll scale back their offer.
BoTTom Line - Improvements are all well and good, but not at the
expense of your property’s character, floor space, and liveability.
Tricks and Mortar: The Little Book of Property Wisdom by Laura
Henderson is out now.
March/April 2010 THE GOOD PROPERTY GUIDE 61