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!  Jim Walberg and Ann Marie Nugent are members of this select group of professionals

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.

The Reefs Club is one of the latest fractional 5-star resorts in Bermuda!

Guest contributor:  Sherman Potvin is recognized throughout the fractional industry as one of the most experienced consultants in the field. He has worked with leading companies such as Intrawest, Four Seasons, and the Ritz Carlton, as well as many individual developers around the world.  Mr. Potvin founded the world’s most respected Website for fractional real estate - Luxury Fractional Guide. And he has recently completed a book designed to aid vacation homeowners in fractionalizing their personal homes. He has served on numerous boards and panels at fractional symposiums throughout North America. Mr. Potvin has been involved with real estate as a broker for more than thirty-five years and, for the past seventeen years, has helped shape the fractional industry and bring it to its accepted prominence today.  Below are a summary of his comments about The Reef’s Club in Bermuda now offering fractional ownership.

The challenge with fractional ownership properties in Bermuda are the laws requiring that most of the land needs to be owned by residents of Bermuda. The structure of the purchase of fractional ownership at The Reef’s Club allows a person interested in ownership of a luxury resort residence to circumvent this restriction.  One of the real draws to Bermuda is its location - approximately two hours by plane from most of the East Coast airports to this small island with a “big island” feel. Bermuda is actually a collection of 180 islands linked by bridges and divided into “parishes”. All of the “parishes” enjoy spectacular pink sand, tropical coral reefs, lush vegetation and 80 degree weather most of the year.

The Reef’s Club is a collection of spectacular two and three bedroom residences with nothing but ocean views in front of all of them. The Reef’s Club is designed to combine fractional ownership of new beachfront homes with the Reef Hotel Resort’s world class hospitality. The amenities are all that you would expect from such an exclusive resort community; infinity pool with pool-side services, fitness center, roof top putting green, and full access to all of the hotel’s factilities - restaurants, tennis courts, and the award winning day spa.Scheduled for a completion in 2009, you are still able to buy at the pre-completion sales prices.  A 1/10^th deeded interest starts in the mid-$300,000. Ownership also allows you to exchange your vacation home for other luxurious residences in the Elite Alliance.  This collection of premium residence clubs includes properties in some of the world’s most coveted resort locations; beaches, golf mountains, and European destinations! For more details on fractional ownership at The Reef’s Club, contact me today!  Until next time, your Caribbean lifestyle detective is on duty!

  The fractional ownership trend is finally spreading onto the Cayman Islands!

When most of you think of the Caribbean you forget about the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and the Turks & Caicos.  Also, many of you still think that the Bahamas and Bermuda are part of the Caribbean.  So, for those of you who have not yet experienced the outer islands of the Caribbean, here is some info to peak your interest.  The Cayman Islands consists of three small islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Cayman Brac can be reached through a weekly one-hour direct flight from Miami or through daily connecting flights from Grand Cayman. Residents enjoy freedom from taxation, a stable democratic government (British Territory), and the highest standard of living in the Caribbean.

Cayman Brac, the middle sized island, is about the same size as Manhattan (12 miles long, 2 miles wide) but the skyline that gives it its name is natural: a sheer rock bluff (”Brac” is Gaelic for bluff) that runs the center of the island and sets it apart from its two low-lying sister isles. The island is home to about 1,800 residents and has a number of caves dotting the island that are rumored to still hold hidden pirate treasure.

It is no secret that Cayman Brac has some of the world’s finest diving and its greatest attraction is its surrounding waters. Virtually every major dive magazine has ranked the island among the World’s Top Ten Destinations. That’s because just offshore you’ll find more than 100 species of coral, more than 500 kinds of fish and some of the most dramatic and unique geological formations on the planet. Cayman Brac offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean and most sites are just a few minutes boat ride from the resorts.

Crystal Azure Beach Resort is now offering fractional ownership at preconstruction prices. This is an opportunity to purchase an outright share of ownership in one of our luxury, beachfront villas supported by full service amenities and a comprehensive rental management program. This means you can use, rent, lend, trade, will or sell your fractional ownership as you see fit without restriction. The prices for a ¼ ownership start at $110,000US!  There are an additional $260 in monthly maintenance and management fees.

The Waterford Private Residence Club is another fractional ownership opportunity on Grand Cayman. It will be a five-star resort and spa. It will contain 50 two- and three-bedroom villas and four estate homes spread over 11 buildings and 10.5 lushly landscaped acres. As a fractional, buyers can purchase a 1/8 share which entitles them to six weeks of usage and additional time based on availability, at no additional cost. The prices for preconstruction start at $297,900US! The Waterford will be completed by May 2010.

All villas and homes will be delivered fully furnished and equipped with designer furniture and top quality appliances. When in residence, owners will have access to a Land Rover, BMW, Mercedes or Audi for their personal use. They’ll also be able to use a Boston Whaler boat, complete with captain. Owners at The Waterford will receive five-star quality care when visiting. From a 24-hour concierge to make golf and dinner reservations to pre-arrival grocery shopping service, every need will be attended to. With two pools, a community Great House with a cigar room, fine dining restaurant and bar, plus a full service spa and health club, it will be the choice of many discerning owners who can’t wait for the a home in Paradise.  I will keep you posted as to how the build out goes for both of these new fractional ownership opportunities that have now come to the Cayman Islands.  Until next time…

If you include Mexico, half of the Top Ten Luxury Villas are in the Caribbean and Mexico!

Each year Travel + Leisure publishes their “Top Ten Luxury Villas” in the world. This year’s list confirms the world’s focus on the resort opportunities in the Caribbean Islands.  And, as I stated in the sub-title, if you include Mexico, HALF of the top ten are in the Caribbean and Mexico! What a deal for the Northern Hemisphere to enjoy the opportunity of luxury living and luxury vacations.

Here are the top Caribbean Islands Villas for your review. If you want more information you can also go to CNN.com under real estate.

• Au Soleil, St. Barth:  The very model of a hedonistic St. Bart’s retreat, this four-bedroom villa overlooking St. Jean Baie is over-the-top luxurious. The property is an Eden of tropical gardens with a fountain, a bi-level infinity pool, and a grand pavilion (known locally as an ajoupa) for gazing over all of it. Inside, the gleaming gourmet kitchen comes with an in-house chef; the common areas have vaulted ceilings and terracotta floors, and the bedrooms all have carved wood queen- or king-size beds. More sybaritic pleasures–namely, the beach and swanky shops–are just a five-minute drive away. Pricing: From $9,500/week.
• Villa Beach 921, Dominican Republic:  The soaring, open-plan design of this four-bedroom property makes the most of its beachfront location on the Dominican Republic’s north coast. Inside, the amenities include a slick chef’s kitchen with a wood-burning pizza oven, and baths with sunken spa tubs. Outside, there’s a private palapa for yoga or meditation, an herb garden, a four-car garage, and a spacious infinity pool overlooking a slice of breezy beach. The water-sport capital of Cabarete, just minutes away, has windsurfing, kiteboarding, and enough cafes and beach bars to keep happy-hourers happy around the clock. Pricing: From $21,000/week.
• La Koubba Villa, Turks and Caicos:  A sprawling (8,000-square-foot) Moroccan-style villa just south of Providenciales in Turks & Caicos, La Koubba has ocean views from all five of its bedrooms. The interiors are decorated with eclectic textiles and ceramics from around the world, along with hand-loomed rugs and embroidered throw pillows. An arched courtyard leads to a hammock-surrounded pool, and a summer kitchen perfect for barbecuing. The calm waters of Sapodilla Bay are just steps away–literally, via a staircase leading into the sea. Pricing: From $10,000/week.

For more information, contact me today.  You will be blown away by these three villas. I would love to introduce you to each of them.  Until next time…

Grand Turks is the location of the newest beach resort

in Turks & Caicos -  L’Emeraude

I’m sure you remember my past blog about what is happening in the Turks & Caicos.  Well, it hasn’t slowed down a bit!   L’Emeraude has just broken ground on their beach front resort on Grand Turk.  The owner, Mr. Erwin Jones stated today, “L’Emeraude has been designed to offer a select few owners an oasis of peace and tranquility.  Plus, the floor plans feature thoughtful amenities such as living rooms that open to the broad covered terraces, spacious and well proportioned bedrooms, with views of the beach and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.”

Mr. Jones’ vision has created a boutique resort that is limited to only 8 two-bedroom, two- bathroom oceanfront suites, 12 one-bedroom, one-bathroom suites, and 12 studios with lockout poolside suites.  The resort has been elegantly arranged around a stunning signature pool designed in the shape of Grand Turk.

The layouts feature an open plan living room/dining room with a fully equipped and well laid out kitchen. Suites on the upper floors boast 18′ high vaulted ceilings. Each of the beachfront suites is a corner unit, maximizing the dramatic ocean views and allowing the gentle sea breezes to flow through.  For the owners comfort each unit is also fully air-conditioned.

The beautifully designed garden features walkways to the beach, a central signature swimming pool that includes a small palm island and gazebos in which to relax and dream the day away. L’ Emeraude will offer a Game Room, Fitness Centre, Restaurant and Bar, Lounge Area and Gift Shop.

All the condo suites will be professionally designed and furnished with an attractive tropical furniture package. However, the real beauty of L’ Emeraude is it’s location on Pillory Beach, with the breath-taking Caribbean waters, and the charm and small town feel of Grand Turk. Grand Turk is just a short 25 minute flight from Providenciales and is well served by local scheduled airlines whose time-tables are conveniently coordinated with those of the major international airlines serving Providenciales. Grand Turk is a world unto itself. I know you will fall in love with it as we have. Prices range from $280,000 to $675,000 for presales. Contact me today for more information.

Harliquin Property just announced this morning that they are now offering fractional ownership in their residences at Buccament Bay Resort!

 London, England:  Hot off the presses…I just received confirmation this morning from London that Harlequin Property has just announced that they will be offering fractional owernship purchases for their residences at Buccament Bay Resort.  You will recall that I discovered this 5-star resort last September while sailing around St. Vincent. It is a spectacular resort right on the beach with all of the amenities one would expect. You will also recall that Harlequin Property is developing 5-star resorts in five other locations in the Caribbean. We are now a part of their worldwide marketing groups that represent all of their resort projects, from the Caribbean to Thailand.

In addition to the fractional ownership opportunities at Buccament Bay, Harlequin is offering their 100% financing package to those who qualify. It is a brilliantly simple financing structure that Harlequin Property has created that allows for a much broader group of buyers to participate in resort property ownership.

The developers of Buccament Bay have also created one of the biggest water gardens in the Caribbean within the resort.  They have contracted the services of Mr. Peter May, garden designer, author and water-landscaper, and editor of Water Gardener Magazine.  His January 23rd article was about this project. Mr. May flew to St. Vincent last November to preview the project and see if it was one that his firm would be willing to take on.  It has just been announced that Mr. May’s firm is going to take the lead on this project.

Mr. May says, “There should be a mass of material created from this adventure to show readers how to build water gardens in the tropics. Part of the excitment is that I don’t know what the challenges really are until I get started. One of them will undoubtedly be the weather, plus the exrtremes from one season to another, the sun and the heat are going to make water gardens become swampy lagoons in no time unless there is a plenty of oxygenation and a good balance of plants. Resorting to technology will also be imperative rather than an option with a project of this magnitude.”

St Vincent is the location for many of the scenes in “Pirates of the Caribbean” and the bay next along from where many of those scenes were shot is the site of a new pretigious holiday resort that has been is sensitively designed to blend in with the beautiful landscape. If you want to get an idea od what may be involved, take a trip to Buccament Bay and check out the site plan and the artist’s renditions of what is in store for those special few that purchase full ownership or fractional ownership residences in this 5-star resort on St. Vincent.  Your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty.