For the past two years of sailing adventures in the BVI I have sailed by this development as we headed to Marina Cay for some painkillers and conch fritters, or to the anchorage right across the channel from Scrub Island.  We even took our dingy over to visit one day and wandered around the construction site.  The location is spectacular for many reasons;  A marina that has 55 deep-water slips, including five slips for yachts up to 150 feet, as well as provisioning supplies, diesel fuel, black water pump-out station, metered electricity, laundry facilities and more services;  The over-the-top spa and fitness center;  Caribbean sunsets – a must for me;  and…a few very private beaches.

Scrub Island Resort officially opened February 11^th,  with some GREAT rates between now and March 31^st – a $399 daily room rate.  This is about half of what it will be after the “soft” opening, so if you can make plans quickly you will be getting the deal of the year with these rates.  The rate also includes breakfast and nightly cocktail receptions.  The amenities and choices one has to discover the BVI are endless with Scrub Island Resort as your luxurious home base.  Here are a few to consider;

• Snorkeling and SCUBA diving adventures to destinations such as The Wreck Of The HMS Rhone,  Angel Fish Point on Norman Island, The Dogs, and many more.  And, a trip to The Baths on Virgin Gorda is a must for breathtaking snorkeling.
• How about marlin fishing to the BIG Drop with Scrub Island Marina as your shortest run to my favorite big game fishing spot.
• How about the shopping destinations in the BVI?  One of our top boutiques is a Peter Island Resort across the channel from Scrub Island.  The clothes are very high end with many of them now in my wife’s closet.  Another one would be at The Bitter End Resort on the island of Virgin Gorda.  It is worth an afternoon to just wander around.
• The Scrub Island Resort lagoon pool with the 15’ waterfall is where my wife would hang out most of the day.  It is another spot that will take your breath away from morning to sunset.  AND…they have a great pool bar and restaurant so you never have to leave your lounge chair.
• If you never leave Scrub Island the resort has created five different dining experiences to satisfy all of your gourmet desires – from candle light elegance to bare foot in the sand casual.
• For those who don’t want to fully disconnect from the world, the resort has wherever you are at the resort and all the beautifully appointed rooms have king-size beds, big plasma satellite TV, air-conditioning and non-stop views of the Caribbean.

For more information go to their website and check more of the details, or contact me TODAY.  I know you will be very excited about this brand new Caribbean experience awaiting your review.  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty!

The other two major players in this division of worldwide real estate product, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation  and Starwood Hotes & Resorts Worldwide, are now being watched to see if they will scale back their Caribbean fractional projects because of falling sales and the loan products drying up for this type real estate.  ( You may recall from earlier articles that almost half of the fractionals purchased in the Caribbean were all-cash purchases.)  I do expect announcements soon from Wyndham and Starwood.

This news should alert the discerning second and third home buyers that it is the time to BUY!  Prices for Caribbean fractionals have fallen  the past year so there is lots of room for the bargain hunters.  Analysts are even predicting that the fractional products in Paradise could be in for a long recovery.  Joseph Greff from J.P. Morgan Securities  recently said, “This business, at least for the next 10 years, is going to remain permanently shrunk.”  I personally don’t share this pessimism, but Mr. Greff may be looking at data from afar that I don’t have given that I am right in the middle of the action in the Caribbean markets.

One of the best fractional/residence club products that Marriott has produced in the Caribbean is at the Ritz Carlton in Red Hook, St. Thomas.  This was one of their first entries into the fractional product over ten years ago.  Because of the success in the U.S. Virgin Islands  it sparked similar developments around the world under the Ritz Carlton brand.  With this news Marriott is still continuing to manage properties built by other developers and will continue to license its brands to luxury developer.  Plus, the Marriott will complete its luxury-fractionals and residence projects that are currently under construction.

They are not permanently exiting fractional-ownership project development.  The Marriott has said it will start building new luxury fractional and residence projects when those specific markets recover from the world economic meltdown the past two years.  One of the issues that is still facing consumers is the ability to find mortgage money for these second home products.  Lenders have not had this type of credit available for over a year because of lowering risk in their lending portfolios anyway they can.

Surprisingly, Marriott has done better with time-shares the past two years with over half of their revenue the first half of 2009 coming from this product – $338 million!  With the Marriott writing off a $760 million non-cash charge against third-quarter profits it will almost cancel out any gains from the luxury fractional and residence products Europe, Asia and all of North America.  CLICK HERE   if you would like more information about the Caribbean Franctionals as a way for you to buy your slice of Paradise.  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty.

One of the most beautiful and exclusive privately owned luxury villas in the Dominican Republic  is now offering the opportunity to purchase a 1/10^th share of Villa Castellamonte, which allows them five weeks of enjoyment in the DR.  You know I am a fan of fractional ownership.  It is a way for people to enjoy their slice of Paradise without having to fully own the property.  There are some “potholes” to avoid with developments that are promoting that they have fractional ownership opportunities, when, in fact, it is not true.  So, it is a “Buyer Beware” for people investigating a fractional ownership anywhere in the world.

Villa Castellamonte is one of the DR’s top 5-star luxury villas.  The private villa has 15,000 square feet of living space, with eight bedrooms and ten full baths.  It has a complete staff as part of the package and is located on the North coast of the Dominican Republic at the Playa Grande – Cabrera area.  You may remember seeing this villa featured on MSNBC’s “On the Money”.  It was even named a “Top Ten Villa” in the Caribbean, and mentioned by Fodor as a must-stay if you are visiting the DR.

The Playa Grande – Cabrera area is about 70 miles east of Puerto Plata, and is now extremely popular for two reasons: 1) It’s gorgeous white powder-sand beach and the incredible Robert Trent Jones – designed 18 hole golf course.  Playa Grande Beach  was rated as “…one of the Top Ten most beautiful beaches in the world” by Condé Nast travel magazine. Along with the mash potato powder-like sand, the beach is lined with coconut palms and bordered by the rugged coral cliffs.  You know I love to surf  and this area of the DR is noted for it’s big waves.  As you have discovered from my past articles about the Dominican Republic, it is not just a place that makes world class cigars, it is a world class destination.

Villa Castellamonte is privately owned by Mr. Jason Matthews and he will keep a 20% ownership in it.  “For me, the rationale to fractionalize Villa Castellamonte made sense because although my ownership will be less, so too will be my expenses.  And, fractional ownership programs are found throughout the world, allowing investors to own and enjoy a property of a much higher value than they could typically afford individually,”  Financing any second or third home in the world is a real challenge today, given world economic climate.  So, Mr. Matthews has agreed to personally provide financing for qualified investors who would like to purchase a fractional ownership in his breathtaking villa.

If you would like more information about how to be one of the very special owners of Villa Castellamonte, contact me anytime and I will send you information.  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty.

The Caribbean is not just a place for adults to vacation and play.

Your kids are completely aware of the Caribbean.  Ask them if they have watched the movie Pirates Of The Caribbean .  I know many of you have never been to the Caribbean.  Your kids are now asking that you take them there for your next vacation.  I have done my homework, so here are some suggested Caribbean destinations for your first or next visit:

• Booking a cruise could be your easiest introduction to the Caribbean.  It allows you to scout out many different islands during a week cruise that is not possible by just vacationing on one island. ( A cruise vacation is not my favorite way to see the Caribbean, but it is a very Kid Friendly vacation.  Check out the 100-passenger Pacific Explorer  as a possible option for an unforgettable cruise. 
• The next step into the kid-friendly Caribbean is an all-inclusive resort.  Some resorts to consider for this type of vacation are; Jamaica’s Starfish Trelawny Resort; The Beaches in the Turks and Caicos Islands; Iberostar’s resort on Mexico’s Mayan Riviera; and the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.  All four of these are great choices for you to consider as a destination your kids will love.
• The next step up in kid-friendly Caribbean adventures would be to choose a region.  Three of my family favorites are Jamaica, Mexico’s Yucatan with Cancun as the center of action,  and the Dominican Republic. You can visit each of these region’s with Google or Yahoo! as your resources.  Just put into their search bars “Kid Friendly Vacations In The Caribbean”, and then design your own vacation adventures.
• A charter sailing vacation in the British Virgin Islands would be another one to consider a with your kids. You pick the can yacht together on the internet, or call me as your guide.  You decide your daily anchorages.  You decide on your daily adventures.  You even decide on your daily menus and beverages. ( This is my personal choice for a family adventure in the Caribbean.)
• A final destination to consider is a 5-star luxury resort like Azul Beach Resort on Mexico’s Mayan Riviera. This all-inclusive resort even has “beach butlers”, luxury spas, hair braiding and fun manicures.  This resort is one of the most luxurious for any family wanting to have every one of their needs met at the resort.

So, here is the real deal…the Caribbean can be the most family-focused vacation destination you have ever experienced!  No matter how you decide to experience the Caribbean,  your kids will be eternally grateful you decided to provide a vacation that included them.  Contact me  any time for information on any of this family vacation options.  So, what have been some of your favorite family vacations!  Until next time…your Caribbean Islands lifestyle detective remains on duty!!!!

Those of you who enjoy a visit to the U.S. and British Virgin Islands are going to LOVE the luxury rental I discovered a few weeks ago.  In fact, I have stood on the deck and enjoyed the sunrise over American Yacht Harbor  in Red Hook – a magnificent sight!  This luxury rental is named “Harbor House”, and it sits on the hillside above the harbor.

So, when I am talking about a luxury Caribbean rental, what does that mean?  Well, how about a home that is just a five minute walk to American Yacht Harbor, Duffy’s Love Shack,  Molly Malone’s, and the Caribbean Saloon?   Now, a visit to three of my favorite stops in Red Hook will just barely take you through lunch.  You can then walk to Vessip Beach, or the Ritz Carlton beach,  or you can drive your car to Secret Harbor  which is just a short distance away. Secret Harbor is another beach that has a very fun bar that I frequent – Blue Moon.

As part of the two story villa and gorgeous private pool, you have a gourmet kitchen, three elegant bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and don’t forget the views from all the windows.  It can easily sleep six, but we had a total of eight of us without a problem.  One of your days at Harbor House will require you visit Charlotte Amalie‘s duty free shopping  district, and a visit to Havensight – another duty free shopping area of St. Thomas.  You will have every luxury item you can imagine, all within just a few blocks – jewelry, watches, cameras, perfume, silk, and on and on!

As part of the weekly lease package the owner, Captain Mike, will include a private day charter on his 35 foot Maxum  power yacht, and race you over to the BVI for a day of SCUBA diving, snorkeling,  and just non-stop fun in the sun.  You end your day at the island of Jost Van Dyke at my FAVORITE beach, White Bay, and my favorite beach bar – Soggy Dollar Bar.  You can say hello to Mick and enjoy a rum Pain Killer and sit on my favorite sunset beach.  This type of day charter for six people would cost about $1,200.  Your cost is that of a skipper, British custom fees, fuel, and any of your food and drink.  Well, given my experience with the drink costs, they can be high because thirst is a dangerous thing.

Captain Mike will even throw in the use of his 2002 Chevy Blazer as part of the deal, so you don’t even have to rent a car for your week of exploring St. Thomas.  So, what does a luxury rental of Harbor House cost?  It is about $4,500 per week for six people.  Contact me for more information about booking this little piece of Paradise.  I will fill in any of your week’s itinerary if you need some help.  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty.

So, my wife, and fellow world adventurer and I sat down today and said, “Why don’t we share with our friends our Top Ten Romantic spots in the Caribbean?”  I have been remiss in not telling you know about these ten jewels that are our favorite romantic spots to hangout at.  They range in price from a $2,000 a day to just the cost of a Pain Killer rum drink for $10 each.  Here goes;

#1.  Isle de France – St. Barts:  This is our sentimental favorite because it is where we spent almost two weeks for our honeymoon.  It is a small boutique resort on Flamond Beach and it is in the pricy category.  You will need to book a year in advance and try and secure Suite #1.  St. Barts is only four miles long and two miles wide,  and just a few miles off the island of St. Martin.  It is a French province so it has all of the flair of St. Tropez, but in the Caribbean.  The haute courtier shopping is over the top! 

#2.  Soggy Dollar Beach Bar:  This got on the list because it is our favorite sunset beach in the Caribbean.  It is on Jost Van Dyke in the BVI.  You will probably swim ashore so that is why your dollars will be soggy.  This is the cheapest date in the Caribbean – $10 or less for a rum Pain Killer.  But, it will cost you some dough to get to the beach.

#3. The Bitter End Yacht Club:  This is the last resort in the Caribbean before you head out into the Atlantic on your way back to Europe on the island of Virgin Gorda.  This resort has it all; great food, a great bar, unbelievable sunsets, sailboats to rent for the day or the week, and every room has a view of the BVI.  It is unforgettable.

#4. Caneel Bay - St. John:  We have spent several of our wedding anniversaries at this Rockefeller Resort.  This resort is also one of the pricier ones,  but it is worth every penny.  It is on a part of St. John that connects it from both sides of the island.  The beaches are unforgettable.  There have been many times when there has been no one on the beach except us.

#5. Sandy Lane, Barbados:  Now, this one is considered the Top resort in the Caribbean.  Tiger Woods leased the entire resort for his wedding.  It is almost impossible to describe the decadence that awaits any guests that decides to experience this type of luxury vacation.  The beach,  cuisine, bars, and spa are over the top!  You must book this at least a year in advance.

#6. The Blue Parrot Hotel:  You may not realize it, but the Mayan Riviera,  just south of Cancun, Mexico is a part of the Caribbean.  This is our sentimental funky favorite.  It is built right on the sand of Playa del Carmen.  You will feel as if you are on the French Riviera.  Half of the town is Italian, French and German. The bar is the BEST!  You sit in swing seats at the bar right on the sand.  The cervices is our favorite appetizer, and the choice of beers from around the world will satisfy anyone.

#7. Anse Chastanet - St. Lucia: We love St. Lucia!  It is about half way down the chain of Caribbean islands, and it is a jewel!  The 600-acre resort is a lush garden of tropical foliage bordering one of the island’s best beaches.  With this unforgettable resort, it is hard to define where the inside of the rooms stop and the outside begins.  You will love every moment you spend here.

#8. Palm Island Resort, The Grenadines:  At the World Travel Awards it was named “The Worlds Leading Private Island“,  and Caribbean Travel & Life ranks it amongst the Caribbean’s most romantic resorts!  Travel & Leisure says it is one of the best places to stay in the WORLD!  So, how is that for an introduction?  There are 37 guest rooms and five white sandy beaches.  This is a Euro-Caribbean cuisine experience not be missed! 

#9. Coco Plum Cay Resort, Belize:  You are in for the surprise of your life if you make it to this Caribbean resort.  Belize used to be British Guiana, and is the only English speaking Central American country.  Coco Plum Cay is a tiny private island that has stand-alone cabana’s along the beach with your privacy in mind.  Romance is the experience you will have 24 hours a day. This little island has very private beaches, hidden hammocks, and a beautiful peninsula all to your self.

#10. Divi Aruba Beach Resort, Aruba:  Last, but not least, is Divi Resort in Aruba.  You are almost at the southern end of the Caribbean islands when you step off the plane in Aruba.  It is an island that is almost all sandy beaches and this resort is one of our favorites.  There are only 203 rooms at this all-inclusive beach resort and every amenity you expect in the Caribbean is there.

There you have it.  From one end of the Caribbean to the other,  our Top Ten Caribbean Romantic Spots – from $10 to thousands per day.  Let me know  what your favorite Caribbean resorts are.  I look forward to adding them to my list.  Until next time…fair winds!!!

As you may recall, the Ritz at Red Hook, St. Thomas is one of my favorite elegant places to stay in the Virgin Islands.  This particular Ritz-Carlton was the beta test site for the Deeded Fractional Ownership  concept for the Marriott Corporation  over ten years ago.  The outstanding results created at this Ritz-Carlton with the sellout of their initial fractional ownership opportunities launched the development of deeded fractional ownership within the Ritz organization worldwide.  They have now expanded luxury villas at their Red Hook, St. Thomas location as part of their deeded fractional ownership product.  Their success with this concept has now swept over the entire Caribbean.

Given that this was their first venture into the Residence Club market over ten years ago, it was time for the Ritz to refurbish their residences.  What they have created is over the top!  The new décor was designed to highlight the flair of the Caribbean while still keeping with The Ritz-Carlton tradition of pure elegance.  Each refurbished unit also includes artwork by the resort’s in-residence local artist, Lucinda O’Connell.

“We are very excited to unveil this makeover to our Members as they return to their residences over the course of this year,” said Ronald Parker, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton Club, St. Thomas.

The fractional owners at the St. Thomas Ritz-Carlton also enjoy their own personal concierge services, which assist them with their every need prior to and throughout their stay – even the stocking of their unit with groceries before they arrive, plus, they have the use of the 53-foot catamaran, Lady Lynsey, and a full-service spa, salon and fitness center.  The deeded fractional ownership allows Members and their guests to use a one-twelfth interest, for 21 days annually.  As I have mentioned many times, this is a destination I highly recommend for your  next visit to the Caribbean.  Just a side note, the bay in front of the Ritz is THE kite-boarding center of the Virgin Islands.  Until next time…fair winds!

There are a couple of other parts of the Caribbean that are missed with those who want a piece of Paradise.  One of those special places is the Cayman Islands.  The Wyndham Grand Bay Waterford  is one of my favorite luxurious choices that you can find in the Caribbean.  The Cayman Islands are not noted for the sailing experience that I love, however if you love mash potato coral sand beaches and breathtaking SCUBA diving these are the islands for you.

Many of you have probably vacationed in the Caymen Islands.  But for those of you who have never been to this Caribbean paradise, the Cayman Islands are located in the western Caribbean.  The Cayman Islands are approximately 180 miles northwest of Jamaica and are made up of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. The overwhelming amount of fish life, coral reefs, water sports and shopping make Grand Cayman the perfect destination for the world travelers looking for non-stop luxury, relaxation and water adventures.

The Waterford  has choices for anyone’s needs, from luxurious villas, grand penthouses and an elegant “Great House.” It is located in Crystal Harbor Safe Haven, overlooking the magnificent North Sound and Sting Ray City.  Those that have been to the Cayman’s know that Sting Ray City is unforgettable. And, it is right next door to the North Sound Championship golf course for those who can’t stand to be without a day of golf. A side note is that my lowest golf score is at 114!!!  The resort includes 44 two-bedroom and three-bedroom oceanfront villas, and three luxury penthouses. If you are one of the Residence Club owners at the Waterford you will enjoy lodging throughout the year with at least six weeks of flexible usage, plus unlimited “space available” usage at no additional charge. And, the prices start at about $300,000 for membership to the Residence Club.  When you are at your villa you will be blown away as to what is included; access to a Land Rover, BMW, Mercedes or Audi; and access to a Boston Whaler with your own personal captain as you explore all there is connected to the Cayman Islands waters.

The Waterford just joined The Registry Collection program – a global Residence Club network with over 30,000 members and more than 160 luxury resort opportunities on five continents. These 160 properties participating in The Registry Collection are available for exchange to any of the Residence Club owners, fractional property owners, and fractional yacht owners. As the world’s largest luxury exchange program, The Registry Collection program provides members with access to some of the world’s finest vacation properties, as well as a personal concierge service that is available 24 hours a day at each of their properties.  Spread the word about this luxury resort opportunity to your clients who are looking for their first “second – home” location , or those who are accumulating additional properties around the world.  Contact me  for more information as to what is happening in the Grand Cayman, and any of the other islands in the Caribbean.  Your Caribbean lifestyle detective is always on duty.  Until next time…

Yes, the Caribbean real estate community includes the Riviera Maya  on the cost of Mexico from Cancun to Belize.  I first discovered this part of the Caribbean in 1995 and even had the opportunity to purchase an acre beach front lot with a new Spanish style home for $120,000.  There was no financing available at that time I didn’t have the cash.  I missed one of the best real estate opportunities in purchasing that Caribbean home.

Fast forward to 2009.  The Mayan Riviera has exploded in value, population, and as a world class tourist destination.  This region has over a 100 miles of mash potato coral sand, palm trees, turquoise blue water, and the typical 85+ degree weather.  Plus, you have the cultural experience of Mayan culture and the amazing international treasures – the many Mayan ruins in this region with Tulum  right on the coast.

The three main regions of the Mayan Riviera as Cancun,  Playa del Carmen,  and Puerto Adventuras - which is right in the middle of the region.  The Aventuras Club is a new fractional interest condominium resort built within Puerto Aventuras.  The Private Residence Club offers three distinctly different locations with luxurious vacation home villas situated on the Marina, the Lagoon and the Beach.   The resort offers elegantly appointed one, two and three bedroom villas that are lavishly furnished, decorated and supplied with all you need. The beautiful resort community offers diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, biking, golf, swimming with the dolphins, shopping, fine dining and much more. 

And, it is a very short drive to my favorite street in the Mayan Riviera – La Quinta Avenida  or the famous 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen. This charming cobblestone pedestrian passage offer Mexican Art, crafts, jewelry, high end shops, designer boutiques, restaurants and night life and only a block from the beach that would remind you of the south of France. In fact, I generally find more Italian, French, German, and visitors from other countries than the locals in this region.  Playa del Carmen is the location of the ferry to the island of Cozumel.

The Adventuras Club has two and three bedroom condos starting at $105,000 to $128,500 for 1,500 square feet to 2,500 square feet at the Marina, Lagoon, or the Beach.  This allows you a 1/8 ownership of the condo and a minimum of six weeks a year at your Caribbean resort community.  I have enjoyed many of the restaurants and shopping in this region, so contact me  if you want more information about the opportunities awaiting you.  Until next time…your Caribbean real estate and lifestyle detective is on duty.

Timbers Resorts, a leader in the emerging category of luxury, boutique resorts are completing the final work on beautifully restored and reconstructed farmhouse villas on 4,200 acres in the Tuscan region of Italy near Siena.  For those who are wanting to enjoy the Tuscan lifestyle, Castello di Casole  is a five-star luxury resort and residence club.  These villas are being painstakingly restored and reconstructed to their original charm and further enhanced with modern amenities.

The Castello di Casole residences are organized around a series of glass-tiled, infinity-edge pools and hand-set stone patios complete with wood-burning ovens.  Outside and in, one can trace the centuries across the hand-set loggias, terracotta vaulted ceilings and attention to exacting detail which makes each villa an individual expression of art and architecture. The farmhouse villas range from 3 to 5 bedrooms and include a private infinity-edged pool, with 4,000 to 7,000 square feet of living space.  Furnishings are a collection of the finest interior appointments from local artisans and antiques gathered from throughout the region.

Located within easy access to Siena and Florence, this historic estate is also home to the 18th century Castello, opening in spring of 2010 as an intimate 41-suite, plus luxurious penthouse, hotel. Formal and casual dining venues, terraces, pools, artisan shops and a world-class spa and fitness center will be available for an Owner’s enjoyment

Some Of The Features and Benefits: 

• Traditional Tuscan architecture and interiors
• Concierge team
• Airport transfers, private chefs and dining upon request
• Language and cooking classes
• Daily housekeeping
• Pre-arrival Grocery
• Extensive private trail system
• Guided regional day trips
• Grape and Olive harvesting

The pricing for fractional ownership starts at just over $300,000 for a 1/12 deeded interest.  Your fractional purchase entitles you to three planned vacation weeks each year, plus usage as residences are available, and short notice vacation weeks.  There are also whole ownerships available.  Please contact me for further details.  If you have an interest in owning a piece of Tuscany, this is a project you will want to seriously consider.  Until next time…your lifestyle detective is on duty…