People are still focused on purchasing a piece of Paradise, even though the world credit crisis continues.  Fractionals continue to be one of the most popular ways to enjoy the Caribbean experience!

The world’s credit crisis has yet to slow down the sales of Caribbean fractional resorts.  The reason is that most of them are purchased for cash without the need for a real estate loan.  And, the mix of Buyers are still mainly from the U.S. markets – Chicago to Boston, and New York to Florida.  The people purchasing fractionals are 80% from the U.S. and 15% from England and Europe.  The remaining numbers are from Canada and South America.

You will recall from a past article about the amazing condo franctional purchases at Los Altos  in the Dominican Republic.  This super luxury complex consisting of 2 and 3 bedroom Caribbean-style condominiums was completed less than a year ago, and it is selling like hot cakes!  It is located in the world-class Casa de Campo resort.  It is Casa de Campo’s only condo project.   Los Altos combines the romance of a tranquil Caribbean getaway with the ultimate in rustic luxury.  Los Altos looks over the internationally renowned Dye Fore golf course and is located adjacent to the inviting and exciting Altos de Chavon Village with its collection of shops, restaurants and cultural events.

The typical Caribbean fractional and/or luxury real estate club sell a 1/8th to 1/12th interest in the property.  The many benefits include the management company for rentals when you are not able to visit your Caribbean get-a-way, and the maintenance of the luxury resort.  At Los Altos a 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath luxury condo starts at US$175,000, fully furnished for a 1/8th share of the ownership.  That is approximately six weeks a year at your very own luxury resort on one of my favorite destinations, the Dominican Republic.  Let me know  if you want more information on the many Caribbean fractional ownership opportunities in Paradise.

The rumors about the demise of Dolphin Cove Resort are over stated.  It is alive and well and is creating a remarkable resort for the very discriminating owner.

Last month I had a conversation with a real estate contact in St. Thomas who was giving me an “update” of the real estate developments in the Virgin Islands that were in trouble.  During that conversation he stated that Dolphin Cove, the luxury development on the Red Hook side of St. Thomas, had ended it’s planned development because of the lack of capital.  I filed this information, and I was concerned because I know the managing partner very well and had not heard this “update”.

Remember, rumors are usually not true.  They are a result of one person telling another person, who tells another person, and so on, until the eleventh generation “story” has no baring on reality.  So, I contacted Dave Marriner, the managing partner of Dolphin Cove and asked him what was happening with it’s completion date.  We had a very interesting conversation about this beautiful project.  It is on track to have the first phase up by the Summer of 2009!  And, all of the approved portions of this project will be built. 

You may recall several of my past articles about this amazing development on one of the most pristine beach front properties in the Caribbean.  I have been following this project for five years, and you will not believe it.  The Dolphin House, the 5-star restaurant on the edge of the Caribbean, will be a historic “rebuild” of the home scientists used to train dolphins to find ocean mines during WW II. The location of Dolphin House provides one of the most spectacular views of Nazareth Bay and St. Croix you will ever see from St. Thomas.

The gated community of Dolphin Cove will feature two beaches, tennis courts, fresh and salt water swimming pools, a myriad of hiking trails, restaurant, and fitness center. Water sport amenities will be available at the beach that is next to the original dolphin training center. Dolphin Cove will also be a self-sufficient community, offering its own security, water treatment plant and standby generators.

Please contact me  if you would like more information about how to purchase your piece of Paradise at Dolphin Cove.

The Boat Show is over, and today the Crews and a few of the Brokers started their day relaxing at the Yacht Haven Grande pool and some even moved the party on to Secret Harbor Resort beach.

Yes, there was an after-party today!  Many of the Crews have charters that start on Saturday, so they had one more day to relax before they started their provisioning details.  Since their yachts are all charter-ready, it gave them one more day to relax and enjoy the time off before their real work begins – six to seven months of hosting charter guests.  And, some of the Brokers are stay an extra day or two, since they are already on-island.  The day started pool-side at Yacht Haven Grande, and then transitioned in the afternoon to Secret Harbor.

Since many of the charters will be starting this Saturday at American Yacht Harbor, it made sense to move to the Red Hook side of the island for the rest of the after-party.  Secret Harbor is the perfect location for any party.  Even some floaties showed up so cocktails could be consumed while sunning in the water.  There even was some fun happening at the outdoor showers.

The sunset set with more goodbyes, and some were even planning on participating in Jonny and Meredith’s wedding tomorrow.  Remember them?  they are the adorable crew from s/y Conundrum.  Yes, they have been planning a wedding for months so it coincided with the Boat Show.  That way their family and friends could fly down for the wedding, and all of their very special Crew friends could join them, too.

The light started to dim and we watched another glorious Caribbean sunset.  The “Charter Gang” started to dispurse for the actual start of another very successful charter yacht season.  And, the mantra we talked about several times today that many are now going to post in their crew quarters to read each morning when they get up to face another day of customer service is;

“Today I will declare a commitment to a result that has no present evidence of possibilities.  Let’s make miracles happen today!”

Fari winds to all, as your Boat Show internet reporter signs off until November 8th – 11th, 2009 at next year’s VICL Boat Show!  Contact me  any time with updates on your adventures.  I will glad to post them for all to read.

This year’s BVI Boat Show is now concluded with a Sunday sail and party at Deadman’s Bay on Peter Island!

The BVI Charter Yacht Society  concluded another amazing boat show for both the charter yacht Brokers and the charter yacht Crews.  The Saturday night BASH was memorable for some, and some may not even remember it.  It was pure FUN!  So, those who were able to rally this morning, a group of the charter fleet sailed to Peter Island’s Deadman’s Bay  for a day of water sports, more rum, and a lot of farewells.

The charter yacht community of Crews are an extended Caribbean family from November to June.  And, the Boat Show is one of the few times they are all in one spot.  It is a community of professionals that clearly understand they are members of a very special group.  No matter what a member of this community may need, they are willing to help – anytime.  They all know that this Crew community takes care of each other.  I remember a bareboat charter I captained where I lost my dingy under sail.  I put out a message on Channel 16 for boat captains to keep an eye out for it.  Within less than an hour Captain Whitey from s/v Tamerin called me and let me know he had found it and would meet me at Norman Island with the dingy.  It is an amazing community that always takes care of each other.

So…now to the last day of FUN of the BVI Boat Show experience – Splish Splash at Peter Island.  Lots of water sports, drinks on board and at Deadman’s Beach Bar, and just hanging out in the water.  This year’s show was a bit quieter than past ones, but it was still the place to be in the Caribbean the first week of November for the Charter Yacht Society members and vacation yacht Brokers.  Contact me anytime  for information about the charter yacht vacation experience.  Until next year’s show…fair winds to all of you.

So, why are the Canadians still focused on the Caribbean as their second homes?  It is so darn COLD there half of the year!

Eleven months ago it was the British Boomers  who were flocking to the Caribbean.  Who has taken over those purchases are the Canadians!   The Canadian market has been the largest increase in Caribbean real estate purchases this past year – both fractionals and full deeded  ownership.

The Canadian demand for second home is being fuelled by their Boomers’ desire to re-invent their retirement lifestyles – following the sun!  It is REALLY COLD from Edmonton to Nova Scotia half of the year!  With direct flights to the Caribbean from Toronto and Montreal the entire Caribbean is easily accessible – from Aruba to the Dominican Republic.  And, this year 42% of our Canadian Buyers have been paying ALL CASH for their real estate purchases!  Here are the results of the Harris/Decima  study following the Canadian trends.

14% of the Canadian population own recreational real estate asset.

57% of owners are sole recreational property owners.

43% of owners have invested in shared ownership assets – fractional ownership properties.

36% of those who are sole owners purchased their property prior to 1990.

43% of fractional and timeshare ownership investment with most acquisitions made since the year 2000.

59% increase in second home ownership among Canadians since 1990.

30% of the total population in the Harris/Decima Survey indicated they are interested in purchasing a recreational property asset.

71% are interested in acquiring sole ownership properties.

14% are interested in fractional ownership.

48% prefer to be very close to the beach.

46% want retail facilities nearby.

Contact me today  if you want to get in on what the Canadians are discovering in the Caribbean for their second homes.  The Caribbean continues to be the real estate HOT SPOT in the Western Hemisphere.  Until next time…go Maple Leaf’s!

St. Thomas, USVI is the location, and the former Preserve At Botany Bay is the spot!

Caribbean fractionals  continue to be THE real estate choice of thousands of Caribbean buyers. Last week David Burden – founder and CEO of Timbers Resorts  announced that the ultra-luxury resort located on the western tip of St. Thomas will be managed by the international hospitality management group – Jumeirah Group,  which is a member of Dubai Holding.  This announcement was made at the signing ceremony with Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of Jumeirah. ( Remember my past article about the Virgin Islands  fractional market? )

“We selected Jumeirah as the ideal hotel company to partner with at this unprecedented resort on the secluded western tip of St. Thomas,” remarked David Burden. “Based on their internationally renowned hotel experience in luxury service, they will be a perfect match for our discerning owners and resort guests.”

Jumeirah Botany Bay Resort is one of the true world-class luxury resort which includes mash potato sand beaches, private coves to explore, a protected coral reefs and a nature conservancy, ultra-fine dining, a beach club as well as a Talise Wellness spa.

Jumeirah Group will manage the five-star luxury hotel of 84 rooms, spread over nine tropical buildings in a very secluded setting on St. Thomas’ western shores. It is scheduled to open in 2011, the 400-acre resort will also include 30 fractional residences, 30 whole ownership villas and 20 grand estates. These full-service residences will be managed by Jumeirah Living, combining the luxury of a prestige hotel with all the privacy and comforts of your home away from home.

Jumeirah Group is also in the midst of ultra-luxury resort developments in Phuket, Shanghai, Argentina, Mallorca, London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Jordan, among others.  “We are impressed by Timbers Resorts’ commitment to responsible development and the care with which they intend to develop this protected enclave,” said Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of the Jumeirah Group. “With its secluded location in a tropical environment, the Jumeirah Botany Bay Resort will be true to our “STAY DIFFERENT” promise.”

Timbers Resorts is a world class developer that we have enjoyed working with in serving our client’s needs.  The Timbers Collection is a group of small, private, luxury resort properties in the world’s most sought-after ski, golf, beach and scenic countryside locations.  They include One Steamboat Place in Steamboat Springs, Colorado;  Botany Bay Resort on St. Thomas in the USVI;  Castello di Casole in Tuscany, Italy;  The Rocks Luxury Residence Club in Scottsdale, Arizona;  Esperanza Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico;  The Timbers Club in Snowmass, Colorado;  and there latest is The Orchard at The Carneros Inn in Napa Valley.

For further information regarding Botany Bay Resort, or any other of the Jumeirah and Timbers Collection, contact me today!   We are standing ready to serve any of your luxury real estate needs around the world!   I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Viscape University has invited renown bloggers Jim Walberg and Jim Cronin as the seminar’s moderators.  Blog = A citizen journalist writing about things they are noticing or personally experiencing and sharing those with the world through the internet.

Viscape  is the world’s first social marketplace to rent or buy vacation properties on-line!  Because it is a social network focused on vacation destinations they also provide a forum for world travelers to share their stories and resources.  One of the services they provide their Internet social marketplace is Viscape University.  This is their education division that focuses on practical topics for world travelers who are interested in rentals and vacation property purchases.  On October 6^th at 9PM EST they are hosting another one hour seminar.  The topic is Blogging and how it can be THE tool one uses to connect to a social network, but specifically how to use it as an additional profitable marketing tool for your business.

Because of the success of CaribbeanIslandsRealty.com, and RealEstateTomato.com’s blog sites,  Viscape has arranged for the owners of these businesses to be the moderators of a one hour teleconference on this topic.  Jim Cronin and I will be the contributors as we share our experience of how blogging can be the most effective tool possible to connect with people who are looking for the services you are providing.

Jim Cronin’s internet site – RealEstateTomato.com, is built to be a “hub” to assist the real estate community to better understand how to embrace blogging as the center of their marketing efforts.  He recently created “Tomoto University”,  An education and training center for bloggers – from novice to those who are at the top of their game want to go even higher.  Jim moved to California in the mid 90’s as the Senior Internet Marketing Consultant for Z57 Inc. from 2000 – 2006.  He then had the idea of creating a method where he could share his incredible strategies regarding blogging as a marketing profit center for real estate businesses, and RealEstateTomato.com was launched.  Jim has helped thousands of Realtors gain a superior Internet presence by using the tool of blogging on their websites.

No matter if you have been checking out my CaribbeanIslandsRealty.com  site for the last two years, or you just found us, we have become the real estate resource center for the Caribbean, with thousands of visitors from 16 different countries around the world using our services.  And, our readership continues to grow daily.  Our blog site has also evolved into being your Caribbean lifestyle information center with ME – for better or worse,  as your on-site detective letting you know about my favorite stuff to do in Paradise.  Not only is CaribbeanIslandsRealty.com a resource center for Caribbean real estate, we also assist those who want to purchase a piece of their Caribbean paradise.  We represent real estate opportunities from Aruba to the British Virgin Islands.

So…if you want to discover the rules and strategies of blogging as a very profitable marketing tool for your business – whether it is for real estate or for any enterprise, check out this FREE teleconference on October 6^th.   RSVP to RSVP@viscape.com  by October 3rd in order to get the call-in information.  Also, you can start posting your questions  that you would like Jim and I to addressing during your time together with us on the teleconference.  Contact me  if you have further questions about this exciting event.  Until next time…I remain your Caribbean lifestyle detective!

This boutique luxury resort on the Placentia Peninsula is a trendsetter when it comes to its “Green Features”!

Palmetto Bay Resort  is one of the leaders of “green” Caribbean developments in Belize.  This boutique luxury resort has integrated into its build features that other developers are watching closely.  Palmetto Bay Resort has carefully considered its impact on the environment from the earliest planning stages of its development. Some of the features they have implemented are:

• Geothermal cooling and heating technology
• Solar power for outside illumination – pathways, water features, landscaping and the beach
• Grey water systems to recycle water
• LED lighting that will reduce energy costs by as much as 80%
• Indigenous species of plants including fruit trees in the landscaping
• Cisterns to catch and store rain water and act as a renewable water supply for the saline pool, water features and landscaping
• Strategically implemented wind power

This gated project has plans for around 120 full-ownership condominiums.  The initial phase that has just been released has 36 whole ownership Caribbean beachfront condo starting in the low $300s US and they are currently the most sought after resort real estate for sale in Belize. It is just a short two-hour flight from Houston or Miami to Belize where there are no restrictions on foreign ownership of property or capital gains tax.  This is a project you may want to put on your list for your piece of Paradise!  They even just announced a fly-in package for people who want to seriously consider this as there next Tropical home.

OK…so how is this for a description of what Palmetto Bay Resort has created?  As you walk into your Caribbean condo you first notice a wrap-around veranda overlooking the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea.  What I immediately do is dump my watch and find my bathing suit.  The temperature is around 85F degrees with a delightful warm breeze, and I then head to mash-potato coral sand.  Then the stress really starts because a decision needs to made;  sunbathe; snorkel, SCUBA dive; drink…because thirst is a dangerous thing; read; nap; eat; schedule a jungle tour checking out how many Tucans I can spot, and many more choices to consider.  Here is the fun part, I get to do it ALL!  My first task is take out the cold beer in the frig and head to a lounge waiting for me on the beach.  All the rest of the remaining choices will show up in their proper order…which, actually, there is no proper order.  This mind set is the way I get to “Caribbean Time” as fast as possible. 

Here is more good news for those you intrigued about buying real estate in Belize.  Belize has made owning real estate very simple and easy with some of the most advantageous offshore investment legislation in the world. The official language in Belize is English, and the legal system is based on English common law. Belize has no capital gains tax, no inheritance, estate or probate taxes and no restrictions on foreign ownership of property. The ease of air travel to Belize from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. is effortless compared to many of your choices for other Tropical destinations.

Finally…you will discover a country of diversity!  It has a very wide variety of ethnic backgrounds that live together in a marvelous melting pot, each adding to the cultural color of the next. Belizeans are some of the friendliest people in the world. They are a cross-pollination of cultures – ancient Maya people, Spanish,  British, African roots, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Lebanese and Indian influences, AND the official language is still English.  This is one of the special Caribbean destinations that you will want to put on your “must see” list.  Let me now if you want more information about my favorite spots.  Until next time…fair winds!

Casa de Campo Resort is the location of one of best resorts in the Caribbean!

If you have read any of my past postings  about what is happening in the real estate opportunities in the Dominican Republic, you know I am a raving fan!  The DR is not a secret anymore to the world travelers who want an amazing experience of Caribbean culture, luxury resorts, world class golf courses, and GREAT cigars.  The DR is now known for its beautiful beaches and some of the most friendly people welcoming you to their tropical paradise.

“Los Altos”  is a 116 unit ultra-luxury one, two and three bedroom villas and lofts development within Casa de Campo Resort.  They even have a concierge service that takes care of EVERY detail of your Caribbean experience – from booking travel, hotels, transportation, and even grocery shopping so your kitchen is stocked when you arrive. ( Wouldn’t be great if they could rent out this service at our full time homes? )

Here is an example of what is included in the two-bedroom / three-bath / 2,533 sq.ft. lofts:  swimming pool, completely furnished, and even a garage door opener!  This limited edition luxury property is right in the middle of the DR’s best golfing, spa and resort amenities in the Caribbean, and features some over-the-top gardens, and even an optional private pool.  All of the Los Altos villas have breathtaking views of the Dye Fore golf course.  I have heard from many golfers coming off the links that there is not a more beautiful site in golf than to finish a round and watch a Caribbean sunset at the 18^th hole of this course,  which is actually perched at the top of the resort’s highest point!  You will be blown away by this finishing hole.  OK, so what is the price?  How about a fractional ownership price of $200,000, to $795,000 for a full ownership!  WOW!  What an opportunity for a primary home or a part time get-a-way!

AND, Los Altos is located right next to Altos de Chavon, a gorgeous replica of a 16^th century Italian village, with shops, restaurants, and many cultural attractions.  In fact, in the village there is even a 5,000 seat open-air theater!  The concert schedule they are planning is world class!  Casa de Campo Resort has already won the Travel & Leisure Magazine’s   #1 “Family Friendly Resort In The Caribbean!”, plus, the #1 “Golf Course In The Caribbean”!  Casa de Campo Resort is one of the very special Caribbean paradises!  What a place to have your “home away from home”!  Los Altos’ villas and lofts are just a few of over 1,200 private villas at the 7,000 acre resort with outstanding amenities to satisfy clients with the most discriminating tastes.

Owners of Los Altos villas and lofts enjoy ALL of Casa de Campo resort’s amenities and services.  And, there is even MORE!

• Equestrian center!
• Tennis courts!
• Sailing facility!
• World class full service spa!
• Poolside lounges!
• Three championship golf courses; Teeth of the Dog; the Links, and Dye Fore!

And, even MORE!  So, what are you waiting for?  Contact me today  for more information!  The DR has become one of my Top Five favorite Caribbean destinations!  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective is exhausted from the work required to bring these great opportunities to your favorite Caribbean website.  OK, so I am just kidding!  This “old dog” is having the time of his life!

“The Waterford” on Grand Cayman is setting a new standard of excellence with Caribbean fractional ownership!

You know that I am not only a fan of fractional ownership in the Caribbean, it has been the hottest real estate purchase options for the past year.  I have let you know about the opportunities in the Cayman Islands in the past, but what is unfolding at The Waterford on Grand Cayman continues to evolve into one of the top luxury properties in paradise.  Grand Cayman is the ultra-chic island in the Caymans.  It has the international shopping, high end nightlife, along with the traditional Cayman-style homes and a rich Caribbean history.  George Town is the on Grand Cayman and it is the capital of the Cayman Islands.  George Town is also the fifth largest financial center in the world!

Grand Cayman real estate is some of the most valuable and prestigious you can find in the tropics.  The Waterford Private Residence Club is Grand Cayman’s newest oceanfront luxury resort at Safe Haven overlooking the islands North Sound with breathtaking views of Rum Point.  The Waterford is offering purchasers of an oceanfront villa for $1,700,000US – pre-construction!  They are also offering 1/8 fractional ownerships starting at $329,000US – pre-construction!  The end result will be one of the most amazing turn key, fully furnished, luxury residence in the Caribbean!

You will not believe luxurious amenities that are included for you and your guests.  Here are a few of them so your imagination can run wild for a moment or two:

• Use of a car during your stay – Land Rover, Mercedes, Audi or BMW
• Boat privileges – a Boston Whaler complete with your very own captain!
• Private jet services are available for booking a direct flight to Grand Cayman!
• Golf and tennis club membership!
• The Waterford Spa – a 5,000 sq. ft. full service spa and fitness center!
• Two sprawling crystal blue pools right along the sandy beach front!
• The Waterford Cigar Room – one of my favorites!
• An unmatched 24 hour concierge, maid and valet services.
• How about a pre-arrival grocery shopping service? Your kitchen will be stocked!

Are you getting the picture?  The Waterford is creating an unforgettable experience for each of their owners.  From the moment you arrive until the moment you depart, you will experience the most pampered lifestyle I have ever seen,  right in the heart of paradise – the Caribbean!  Your staff of professionals are on-call every day to make sure that ALL of your needs are met!  An added feature is that The Waterford staff speaks English, Spanish, French and Italian.

With its prime location on Grand Cayman, The Waterford provides its owners the ultimate Cayman Islands real estate opportunity by combining the advantages of ownership with five-star amenities and luxury resort services.  All of the residences have breathtaking oceanfront views, elegant furnishings, and luxury amenities and services beyond any of your expectations!  If you have ever dreamed of owning your own luxurious vacation villa in the Caribbean then you may want to seriously consider The Waterford Private Residence Club on Grand Cayman.  Contact me TODAY for the next steps to take in order to find out how easy it is to secure your spot in paradise.  Until next time…your Caribbean lifestyle detective remains on duty!