In spite of the double-digit growth of U.S. visitors in 2007 to the Caribbean the airlines are cutting back flights!

I am not an alarmist, nor do I ever look at my glass “half empty”.  But, there are a series of SERIOUS decisions being made by the major airlines serving the Caribbean!  The past year has seen on of the largest levels of visitors to the Caribbean in history - over 15 million people enjoying the most beautiful resorts and beaches in the world!!!  As I have written many times, the Caribbean is THE place to be for second, third and fourth homes - whether fractionals or full ownership real estate. 

During my 30+ years of traveling to the Caribbean I have NEVER thought about not being able to get there.  My only concern is planning my monthly and yearly schedules to fit in the hundreds of adventures I have enjoyed over the years - from the BVI to Trinadad/Tobago.  BUT, today, with the monumental impact the oil prices are having on all aspects of our lives, the ONLY method to get to the Caribbean - airlines, are cutting back or canceling their flights to Puerto Rico, the visitor’s hub to all the Caribbean islands.

Allen Castanet, the chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization said last week, “Billions of dollars of investment are being exposed, and thousands of jobs are being exposed.”  The weak link in access to the Caribbean is American Airlines.  They are in a mess and are struggling to stay in business.  Here is the rub…they currently control more that 60% of the passengers traveling through Puerto Rico as they connect to smaller airplanes servicing each of the Caribbean islands.  American Airlines has just announced that they are cutting back their daily flights to Puerto Rico this September from 93 to 51!!!  Holy Moly!!!  If you owned any tourist oriented business in the Caribbean, wouldn’t this news put shivers up your spine?  This is a BIG issue that will need to be addressed by anyone who has an interest in the tourist economy of this very special region of the world.

The flights that are being cut to Puerto Rico will also greatly impact the cruise line business.  San Juan is the city where most cruise line passengers meet their ships.  Over ten cruise lines use San Juan as their destination port.  Continental Airlines is another big player in flights to San Juan, and they are now expected to announce flight cuts because of the price of jet fuel and the soft American economy.   Last week Spirit Airlines has closed their Puerto Rico hub entirely!

Again, in past articles I have highlighted the amazing opportunities in the Dominican Republic -fractional and full ownership real estate opportunities.  Get this…from January through April of this year more than 407,000 tourists visited the DR - a 6% increase over the same period last year!  The question now is how will you get there?  Peter Muller who owns the Hotel Coyamar in Samana, Dominican Republic said, “This is just the beginning.  We’re going to reach a point where it’s no longer worth keeping the airport open.”  In spite of this latest blow to those wanting to travel to the Caribbean, solutions will be found.  Those travel solutions will cost a lot more, but they may be the only options we have.  One thought may be that Cancun becomes the airline hub to the Caribbean.  It would make traveling there much more difficult for those U.S. travelers from the East Coast, but it would be about the same travel time for those going to the Caribbean from the West Coast.  It would also immediately put the focus on Belize, Turks & Caicos, Bermuda, Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands as places to consider for your next Caribbean home.  I am absolutely sure viable solutions will be discovered.  But, for the short term, we will all need to make flight plans months in advance in order to make sure we get a seat.  Let me know your thoughts on these latest developments impacting traveling to the Caribbean.  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective is on duty.

NEWS FLASH: The most beautifully planned development in Aruba is about to offer Fractionals!

Tierra del Sol - the only planned community in the Caribbean, with the Trent Jones champion golf course is launching a fractional project to go along with their beautiful development that includes homes, villas, condominiums, golf, spa & fitness, fine dining, and much more.  At the northwest tip of Aruba, has emerged a gorgeous 600 acre community offering a lifestyle to satisfy even the most discriminating of owners and world travelers. With today’s planned lifestyle, Tierra del Sol gives you the opportunity to purchase the home of your dreams just a chip shot away from the green, even if you are not an avid golfer.

This private community offers a remarkable experience within a meticulously planned and highly acclaimed environment. Homeowners and vacationers experience world-class amenities, including fine and casual dining, a full service spa, fitness and full care beauty salon, lighted tennis complex and unlimited greens at a championship golf course, displaying its own challenging version of Robert Trent Jones II - the only professional golf course on Aruba.

The tranquil setting provides a gracious lifestyle amid some of the most beautiful Caribbean views. Custom homes, villas, casitas and home sites accommodate a wide variety of expectations for your personal lifestyle. A homes at Tierra del Sol incorporate distinctive design features, tailored to the desert surroundings and complementing the natural beauty of the landscape, creating an inspiring and tranquil environment within this beautiful private community.

 Body &  Soul is a sanctuary amidst the finest displays of nature. Nourish your body, revitalize your mind and enhance your well being with a journey to vitality.  Pamper yourself from head to toe.  Their spa treatments are designed to ease tension and restore balance to your body and spirit. The spa’s professional staff offers a variety of therapies, including massages, body wraps, skin and body treatments, aromatherapies, hydrotherapy, manicure and pedicure and a newly opened full service hair salon.

 As you know, each time I get off a plane in the Caribbean, no matter what island it is,  the words that go through my brain are, “Welcome Home!”  That is the experience you will have when you arrive at Tierra del Sol.  For more information about pricing, contact me!  Until next time…fair winds.

Placencia Peninsula is the latest location for Belize’s newest luxury resort!

The Placencia Peninsula - an 11 mile strip of land sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea and the Placencia Lagoon in Belize, has beautiful white sandy beaches and - because of its distance from the reef - it also has “real” surf. The water is clean and clear; the trade winds gentle and cooling.

Remember that Belize has a stirring and lively history beginning in 200 BC with the ancient Mayans. In the 17th century Spain settled the country. It then survived war, piracy and slavery until being declared a British colony - British Honduras - in 1871. It gained self-government in 1964, chose the name Belize in 1973 and became an independent member of the British Commonwealth in 1981.

 The beaches along the Placencia Peninsula are dotted with small resorts that can easily arrange dive and snorkel trips to the reef, which is about 17 miles away. They can also arrange day trips to many small, idyllic cayes, such as Laughing Bird Caye, a mini-atoll that offers protected snorkeling and swimming, a white sand beach and many cooling palm trees (it even has hammocks!) Laughing Bird Caye is also a favorite camping site for reek kayakers who base their expeditions in Placencia. A hotel can also arrange deep sea or reef fishing trips, or day sailing on a 57-foot catamaran.

 Placencia along with Ambergris Caye are now two of the country’s main tourist destinations, and they are also well visited by Belizeans from across the country on local holidays. You can get a delicious plate heaped with stewed chicken, rice and beans for about US$4. There are also several small gift shops, a post office and some night life. Nearby Mango Creek/Independence Village also has a disco and weekend activities.

 Another new resort is planned for Belize - The Palmetto Bay Resort at Maya Beach being developed by Dave Bowman and his exceptional team.  It is located on Placencia Peninsula it will offer beachfront real estate and four star amenities and will be the first development in the Caribbean designed ‘green’ from inception to completion.

The first phase of the gated resort, which is currently under construction, will be comprised of 36 whole-ownership, luxury beachfront condominiums ranging from approximately 1,100 to 4,500 square feet, each with open views of the Caribbean. ( In a perfect world, I will be talking with Dave about offering some of their units as fractionals.) Prices will start in the low $300,000s. The turnkey one- two- and three-bedroom residences are spread through two low-rise buildings. Designer Julieanne Dobson who also worked on Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn in Belize.  He is creating the interiors using warm woods and natural stone, vibrant contemporary textiles, and niche lit Mayan and African inspired art.

Ownership at Palmetto Bay Resort will include access to fitness facilities, conference rooms with wireless internet; 24-hour reception and security; fully equipped luxury kitchens with gourmet utensils and stainless steel appliances; balcony barbecues; and lush, mature landscaping with use of indigenous fruit trees and plants. The property will feature a 300-foot oceanfront infinity pool, a 400′ private beach, beach boardwalk, and private dock.

We have been telling you about Belize and the many awesome opportunities for second and third home ownership for months!  It is now time to act.  Let me know if you are ready!

In spite of the real estate challenges in the U.S. markets the world is still flocking to the Caribbean for values and lifestyle!

It has been amazing to participate in such an exciting real estate market as is happening in the Caribbean Islands!  The stars are aligned regarding the world currency markets plus the experience that people who want a tropical life style are able to find from the Dominican Republic, to the British Virgin Islands, to Aruba, to Belize!  Because of the strength of the Euro, Pound, and the Canadian dollar, Caribbean real estate is looked upon as a real bargain.  And, it is one of the safest places for people to have a second, third or fourth home given the chaos that is in much of the world at this time.  In addition there are direct flights from Chicago eastward, Canada, England and Europe.  These factors are creating a “perfect storm” for real estate purchases.  And…the sellers are loving it, too!  Here is an article I pulled from Internatinal Living written by Don Ediger a month or so ago.  It will tell the “story” of what we are experiencing even better.  His focus is Belize.  Enjoy, and contact me if you want more inforamtion about the exciting Caribbean real estate markets.

By Don Ediger - International Living 

Real Estate prices in Belize are rising, thanks to a surge in demand from Canadians and Europeans, especially the Irish. The phenomenon is apparent all around the country. In Corozal you’re likely to see real estate agents showing property to European clients, and in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, new Irish residents regularly meet at a local restaurant where they would have been a rare sight only a year ago.

It’s mostly a result of the soaring value of the euro and the Canadian dollar. The euro is currently worth about $1.54, and the Canadian dollar-for many years worth much less than the American dollar-is now trading at just about an even rate. The Belizean currency is tied to the U.S. dollar so that two Belizean dollars are worth one greenback.

A few Canadians and Europeans have always shopped for property here, but their interest and presence in Belize has increased dramatically this past year. It’s easy to see why: the tropical climate and lifestyle in a stable country where English is the official language is attractive. Moreover, Belizean real estate prices are lower than prices in many other English-speaking parts of the Caribbean, such as the Bahamas.

The bargains aren’t hard to find if you know where to look. Some of the best values are in the Corozal area of northern Belize, which is near Mexico and the beautiful Corozal Bay. A three-bedroom house with a view of the water was recently listed at $125,000.

The Cayo District, in the rainforest to the west, is another haunt of bargain-hunters. A new three-bedroom house there was recently for sale for $75,000.

That’s a big contrast from the $150,000 to $350,000 that you could expect to pay for a condo in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, the elegant island off Belize’s northern coast, or in Placencia, the seaside resort to the south. (South Beach Belize is the exception, where pre-construction Condos start at $139,900 and Private Villas - INCLUDING LOT, at $199,900!) 

Plus, foreign buyers now pay less “stamp tax.” Until recently, Belizeans paid 5% of the price of a property purchase in stamp tax…but most foreigners had to fork over 15% (on all but the first $10,000). Today, the stamp tax is 5% for foreigners and Belizeans alike.

This is the right time to look for real estate in Belize. If you wait, the demand from foreign buyers may continue to push prices up.  Your Caribbean lifestyle reporter remains on duty!  Until next time…Fair Winds!   Comments are always welcome!

Viva Resorts has just launched three locations in the DR and more to come!

Last month Viva Resorts announced the launch of Viva Residences, a fractional deeded ownership aimed at the worldwide “baby boomer” tourism market starting in the Dominican Republic - Play Dorada, Puerto Plata, and Las Terrenas at the Samana peninsula.  You recall some of my past postings regarding viewing the Dominican Republic as one of the best values in the Caribbean for fractional and full ownership vacation resort living.

The launch of this venture was highlighted in DominicanToday, and Viva Resorts will also include Mexico, Bahamas and Brazil, besides the Caribbean.  Their architect, Antonio Imbert has designed Viva Residences in Las Terrenas, with about 70 villas and apartments in front of the sea, clubhouse, gym area. The construction is scheduled to begin this month - May.At Santo Domingo’s Hotel Embajador, Viva Wyndham Resorts president Ettore Colussi said the offer will also include several restaurants, a modern spa, and a swimming pool which wraps internally around the project. 

He said all the units have balcony or terrace, water heating system and a modern kitchen totally equipped with household appliances. Some of the properties have Jacuzzi or swimming pool and a private gazebo.Mr. Colussi said these properties have swimming pools and Jacuzzis, discothèque, spa and gym, boutique, stores, casino, the complex’s golf course and the hotel’s services.  In all developments buyers will get deed of property, ordinary and extra maintenance for gardens and other areas, security services, private beach club, receptionist and manager, 24 hour water and electric, the possibility of renting and/or interchanging the units through a specialized rental network.  

The Viva Resort management at Las Terrenas said, “We don’t know if it’s the perfect white sand beaches, the crystal clear waters, the palm trees or the fun atmosphere, but guests keep telling us that the Viva Residences embodies their lifelong vision of a Caribbean vacation spot.” Prices will be announced in the next month.  As soon as I get the info I will pass it on.  And, if you find out more info let me know.  I look forward to having all of us learn more about these Caribbean residence opportunities.  Until next time…I remain your Caribbean lifestyle detective.

In spite of the credit woes of major world markets, the Caribbean condo / fractional ownership markets continue to expand!

The news last Friday from the Wall Street Journal and the National Association of Realtors is the second home purchases last year represented almost a third of all home puchases, and the focus on those purchases were in the condo / fractional markets!  If you have been following my postings, you know my belief that the trend in Caribbean real estate is in the fractional deeded ownership world.  And, the great majority of those purchases are in the condo products.  There are seveal factors leading to this thriving segment of the real estate markets in the Caribbean.

1. Easy access of the purchase because of pricing and financing.  Many of the homes and villas in the Caribbean have priced themselves out of the reach of most consumers.
2. Location, location, location!!!  Developer of the condos and fractionals realize the intense interest in owning something in Paradise, so they are building them on a beach setting in the most beautiful part of the world.
3. NO maintenance other than making sure you care for the interior of the condo.  All outside maintenance and management is included in the price.
4. With the fractional condos, the product has created such an easy access appeal to consumers all over the world, that even the major luxury resort builders are recognizing the profitability for them to create and expand the product.
5. The incredible value of the world currency compared to the U.S. dollar.  Wouldn’t like to have your currency in Euros today - $1.61 per Euro?

If you are in the shoes of the developers, they are able to leverage their investment in the development and buildout of the condo / fractional markets because they are able to sell them at a higher per square foot price than with a single home.  For example the fractional market pricing allows developers to sometimes be able to triple their square foot price because the purchaser is willing to pay a premium so they do not have to own the condo by themselves.

Check out what the Ritz Carlton Residence Club is doing in the Dominican Republic if you want to notice the health of this aspect of the real estate markets in the Caribbean.  They announced last month THE largest Residence Club in their history of resort development in the Cana beach region.  From all reports, it appears to be their most luxurious project so far.  I have not reviewed the annual financial reports of the Marriott Corporation, but I would venture to guess the Residence Club division of the company is their #1 profit center.  So, where are the DEALS?  Here are just a few that I am very excited about for those who ask me this question from time to time;

1. Turks & Caicos - L’Emeraude Resort
2. Belize - South Beach Belize
3. Dominican Republic - Los Altos Residence Club
4. St. Lucia - Le Paradise Beach Resort
5. Bermuda - The Reef Club
6. St. Maarten - Pelican Marina Residence Resort
7. Cayman Islands - The Waterford Private Residence Club
8. St. Thomas, USVI - Ritz Carlton Residence Club

There are several other favorites, too.  If you want my expanded list, contact me and I will share it with you.  For those who are interested in condo / fractional real estate ownership, this is the time to purchase!  I have never seen anything like it in the Caribbean before.  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty!

With just over 1,000 members from 60 countries, this is THE organization to find and market your luxury properties!

Last week at the Grand Del Mar in San Diego, California, the Who’s Who In Luxury Real Estate produced their Spring Conference where they highlighted the latest technology to be used by both the Broker/Realtors and the consumers in the global real estate markets.  Jim Walberg and Ann Marie Nugent were part of this exclusive group of 240 participants from all over the world sharing their best practices in serving the needs of their international clientele.  One of the important breakout sessions I attended was facilitated by Pat Hoferkamp - President of Burgdorff Realtors headquartered in New Jersey.  She presented the mission / vision of her company and reviewed the best practices they use in creating a luxury experience for both their Realtors and their customers.  It was worth every moment of the session.  An added feature of the conference was having Ben Stein as the keynote speaker on Thursday night. ( You know, the world famous writer, director, and actor.  His comments about the importance of owning real estate was actually compelling to the point of him getting a standing ovation.  In addition, he was darn funny.)

Who’s Who In Luxury Real Estate was founded by John Brian Losh almost 20 years ago.  He had a vision of gathering the best Broker / Realtors in the world into one organization in order to create a synergy in the luxury real estate markets worldwide.  Each selected member has been recognized as a leader in the marketing of distinctive and luxury properties, committed to high performance, professionalism and quality service.  The members are truly the “Who’s Who In Luxury Real Estate!  Not only has Mr. Losh succeeded, but today it is the dominant luxury real estate network in the world!

Mr. Losh commented, “As I interview brokers and work with organizations through my consulting services, I continue to be profoundly impressed by the quality and integrity of the people represented in Luxury Real Estate. I am pleased to see a steady increase in the use of our logo in print advertising, and our 50% growth over the past year. Each year we set high goals and work diligently to improve the network in every way.  I am confident that doing business with any one of our Broker/Realtors would be a delightful and rewarding experience.”

He also said, “Each year I travel to all sections of the United States; the villages of New England, the resorts and cities of the East Coast, the great state of Texas and the Gulf, the deserts of the Southwest, the grandeur of the Rockies and America’s heartland, and this year to Europe and Asia. As a result of this effort, we have added many excellent firms from all over the world.”

By the way, the Grand Del Mar has created a breathtaking resort!  It is San Diego’s newest 5- star resort destination. From its Tom Fazio-designed golf course and The Villas, to a luxurious spa and award-winning dining, The Grand Del Mar delivers a world-class resort experience.  This is a must resort for those seeking the BEST level of service and amenities I have found in California.  I promise you will be hearing more about the developments of the Luxury Real Estate’s world wide expansion of members and luxury property opportunities.  Until then…

South Beach - Belize is perfectly positioned for the explosion happening with European investors in the Caribbean!

Article By Poyel Nelson:  “The headline on the International Living Magazine in December 2007 is straight forward: ‘Belize: Buy Before The Europeans!’ (Remember my last posting about South Beach - Belize?) Amongst the financial crises triggered by the real estate market woos in the US caution is advisable over such a bullish statement. So, what are the reasons for such a headline?

“Direct flights from Europe to Belize City will be launched by late 2008. This is major news for Belize and its real estate market. Europeans, armed with their strong currency, will most likely start to travel to this English speaking country in greater numbers. Transit though the U.S will no longer be required for European visitors. They will come for the classic Caribbean experience, the world class diving, the jungles and rainforests, the Mayan ruins, the waterfalls and rivers. And some will want to stay or retire here; hence real estate dollars are likely to follow close behind.

“We could observe this effect of new flight routes on real estate markets before. Wherever Ryanair (Ryaniar is a major European low cost airline) has started flying, the Irish and the British have followed and real estate markets have prospered. This is now called the ‘Ryanair effect’.  Rumor has it that direct flights to Belize from Canada might also start soon. Real estate is all about timing and right now could be the time to focus in on this stunning country in the Caribbean. Property prices are still well below regional benchmarks. Let’s look at some of Belize’s characteristics to further elaborate whether the above proposed demand really is valid:

“The Belize River flows through the middle of the country. With a Caribbean coastline, the Belize Barrier Reef and the Maya Mountains, there is a diverse countryside with plenty of outdoor recreation. The longest living barrier reef in the western hemisphere, and the second longest in the world, attracts divers from all around the world to Belize. This Central American country is a former British Colony also known as British Honduras and has adopted English as native language. It is considered one of the most stable Caribbean governments with a Parliament as their ruling body. Retirees in Belize can apply for a special status that provides tax breaks on retirement income and extends easy import of household items and furnishings.

“Belize has the lowest population density in the Central American Region, and one of the lowest in the world. There is room for many people in Belize.  Adding to Belize’s attractions is the cultural and ethnic diversity. There appears to be almost no friction between the harmoniously blended cultures and races. Belize is home to a wide range of ethnicities including Mennonites, Chinese, Mayan, Spanish, Lebanese, and East Indian. Culture, economy and geography make Belize a desirable place to live. With this Caribbean country becoming more accessible through air travel it seems to be positioned well for significant growth in its economy, in general travel, and eventually, its real estate market.

Poyel Nelson certainly supports our interest in South Beach Belize.  Remember, pre-construction prices are well below regional markets with lots starting at USD$99,950 to USD$6,913,000 for 36-unit boutique hotel/restaurants. This may be the project to act upon NOW. I will keep you posted as I continue my real estate detective work in the Caribbean.  Contact me anytime.  Until next time…

Remember, Belize is part a vital part of the Caribbean tourist industry, and it is breathtaking!

In the SCUBA diving community, Belize is world renown for its dazzling array diving opportunities along the second largest reef in the world.  In the resort community, Belize is one of the true bargains in the Caribbean because of it’s white coral sand beaches, fabulous five-star resorts, and 365 days a year of Tropical climate! It is also the only English speaking country in Central America. It was originally one of the British Crown Colonies in the Caribbean.

he BIG deal that is unfolding in Belize is the recreation of South Beach, Florida’s art deco era in the 1950’s. South Beach Belize on Ambergris Caye is where it is happening.  This is an 800+ acre planned development on the southern tip of Ambergris Caye. One of my real estate friends is leading the marketing efforts for this project that is just breaking ground - Dr. Tom McPeak. Here is his latest report as to why all of us should take a moment and check it out.

From Dr.McPeak:  Have you noticed how private island resorts and private island ownership are experiencing global rise in popularity? With the world currency buying any USD properties at bargain basement prices, they are following the sun, and Belize is one of the top five destinations in the Caribbean they are focused upon.  We are very fortunate to be a part of the most exciting resort opportunity in the history of Belize.  South Beach Belize is approximately 800 acres on the southern end of 25-mile long Ambergris Caye.  Archeological evidence indicates it may have been inhabited at one time by 10,000 Maya people, and was important as a mixed fishing and trading center.   Today Ambergris Caye has a population of about 8,000 with 7,000 living in San Pedro, just 3.5 miles north of South Beach Belize.  It has become internationally known as a salt water sport fishing destination, in addition to diving and snorkeling.  South Beach Belize on Ambergris Caye is just an additional 17 minutes flight via either of two local airlines, or 75 minutes via water taxi.  As the crow flies, it is about 29 miles from Belize City to Ambergris Caye.  What is being discovered with the buyers of Caribbean real estate is their in wanting exclusivity and privacy, and they are willing to pay for it.  This is one of the many reasons the world is coming to South Beach Belize.

The blue Caribbean Sea, sandy beaches, and waving palms are as beautiful on Ambergris Caye as any other Caribbean country destinations that cost two to three times as much for a 5-star resort, or purchasing real estate.  It is also located on the second largest barrier reef system in the world.  That is why South Beach Belize on Ambergris Caye might be one of the most intelligent places to buy TODAY.  The real estate opportunities are extensive and very affordable:  Lots for any size Villa you want to build (hold for investment until ready to build),   Condos starting at $139,900, six models of Villas starting at $199,900 INCLUDING THE LOT, or even a complete turn-key Boutique Hotel (thirty hotels are planned in the style of South Beach Miami) for just under $7 million USD each.  You own and manage the hotel and gain the revenue from all aspects of the hotel and restaurant/bar that is a part of the package.  There is even an opportunity to be considered as one of the partners in the development of the elegant Casino that will be built as part of this planned luxury community. The development team at South Beach Belize is standing ready to be a resource for having your Tropical dreams come true - as a second home, or for full time living.  Caribbean Islands Realty and Jim Walberg are standing ready to serve any off your inquiries or purchases of this unique and special real estate opportunity.  Contact him today for more information!

  Le Paradise Beach Resort - St. Lucia, and Los Altos Residence Club - Dominican Republic are awesome fractional residence choices!!!

So, I am back on the road looking for more fractional ownership and real estate opportunities in the Caribbean.  Two that just showed up on the radar are Le Paradise Beach Resort in St. Lucia and the Los Altos Residence Club in the Dominican Republic.  If you recall from past postings, St. Lucia was named as one of the “Top Five Places To See In Your Life Time” by O Magazine.

The Le Paradise Beach Resort is a ¼ fractional ownership condominium opportunity.  WOW! They are creating a five-star luxury community on St. Lucia with a completion date of this $1 billion development in December 2008 for Phase One.  It will also include a Greg Norman Signature Golf course, a yacht marina - which I obviously will love.  In addition they are building an International shopping village, a gorgeous European spa and fitness center.  Le Paradis Resort has miles of private beaches, great diving spots, plus sport fishing - all as part of this luxury community.

Each quarter-share fractional condo is a spacious 2-bedroom / 2-bath residence including a gourmet kitchen, designer interiors, plasma televisions, high speed internet, central security and life safety systems and Westin beds. The architecture will be reminiscent of the island’s colonial past with a mix of Anglo-French Caribbean tones.  Those that are wise enough to purchase any of the condos in Phase One will also have their golf initiation membership cost waived, plus they will receive two years of golf dues paid.  Amazingly, the St. Lucia government has issued a 10-year property tax waiver for this project’s Buyers!!!  The developers are pulling out all the stops to entice you to check it out.  The prices are yet to be published but full ownership of these luxury condos ranges from $450,000 to $1,300,000!

Los Altos Private Residence Club is a part of the Casa de Campo ocean front 7,000 acre, world class resort.  Casa de Campo won the “#1 Family Friendly Resort In The Caribbean” from Travel & Leisure, and “#1 Golf Course In The Caribbean” from the same magazine. The residence club consists of 116 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom luxury condominiums. I discovered that it has already become the fastest selling Private Residence Club in the Dominican Republic! They have been open for business since December 2007! Don’t wait to check it out.

Los Altos Private Residence Club enjoys the amenities of this world class resort; beaches, sailing, golf, tennis, equestrian facilities, spa and massage facilities, poolside lounges, deep sea fishing, and much more! Each of the residences are decorated with an Asian-style influence with wood, stone, metal and water treatments.  They have soaring 10 foot ceilings, and 20 foot vaulted ceilings in the penthouses, plus the oversized terraces with breathtaking views.  These fractional condos start at around $200,000 for a 1/8 fractional ownership! So, these are the two latest discoveries I am bringing to you.  For more information, email me or leave a comment. I will get back to you.  Until next time…I continue to be on duty as I comb the Caribbean for the best real estate opportunities in Paradise.