Overseas - January, 2007

Jerez is perfectly placed for a high-style way of life, with every conceivable leisure amenity at hand. Only 15 minutes from the Atlantic coast and bordering the mountainour Ronda region, this is a location with quite impressive beauty. A new motorway links Jerez with the Costa del Sol, Cadiz and Seville, so getting around to other wonderful Andalucian destinations is simple.

Just outside Jerez is Monecastillo Golf Villas, a collection of 40 designer villas on the edge of holes 3, 7 and 8 of Montecastillo Golf. There are three- and four-bedroom houses with 200 sq m of superb living space plus large terraces and 40,000 sq m of landscaped gardens.
The homes have a personalised rental programme, perfect for investment buyers. The gated community also has 24-hour security and an on-site property management office.

Buyers at Montecastillo are getting a complete lifestyle along with a beautiful home. There is an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course which hosts several high-profile championships, as well as a driving range and golf academy. The development also boasts a five-star luxury hotel and conference centre, as well as restaurants and bars. The wellness centre and spa has everything for relaxation and revitalisation, including a heated indoor pool, outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, Turkish baths, a gum, massage room and beauty centre.
The terrain in and around Jerez represents the best of what Spain has to show the visitor: the tidy, sinsible motorways thread through undulating hills, giving tantalising glimpses of sea, as well as towns and cities like blinking jewels in the distance. Onward to Granada, where centuries of history mingle with a forward-looking mindset to form a gorgeous, trendy, chic city that has a wealth of influences, from Arab onwards.

Its charming marketplace and the world-famous Alhambra Palace reflect the Moorish past of the city, while excellent restaurants boast the finest of all cuisines. Many come to Granada to ski, and the neighbouring Sierra Nevada is ideal for that.
All the more reason to buy a property in this very popular destination. Not only does Granada have world-class skiing, but golf is once again a particularly popular pastime. The Medina Elvira Golf Residencial development is an opportunity to live in a beautiful environment within an easy 30-minute drive of everything Granada has to offer.

Medina Elvira consists of a range of homes, including wonderful front-line units priced from just £109,400. Meanwhile Medina Suites offers 72 luxury apartments built around the club house, and the development allows all residents permanent access to all the five-star facilties. There is will give you 24-hour security, access to the gym and spa, a fantastic bar and restaurant and a concierge service to tend to your every need. Each apartment is built to the highest standard offering residents typical Andalucian style, spectacular views and ‘front door’ access to the golf course.

UK Freephone 0800 011 2352

Four great ideas for the overseas buyer                

1 Sunny Lakes, Sharm-al-Sheik, Egypt

Only minutes away from the heart of Naama Bay, the Sunny Lakes project is designed to ensure maximum privacy without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Eight swimming pools, one of which has artificial waves and one indoor heated pool. Private parking. Prices start from 25,700 Egyptian pounds.

2 Caesar Resort, Northern Cyprus

Own your own apartment on the Mediterranean. This excellent investment is designed in an elegant Roman style and located in a unique site, full of attractions and only 600m from the beach. Each building has an elevator and there is a storage room for each apartment. The fantastic location is close to the airport, main cities and picturesque The beautiful fishing village of Bogaz is only five minutes away, while historical and archaeologically fascinating Famagusta is just ten minutes from Caesar. It is 45 minutes to Ayia Napa and only 35 minutes to a professional 18-hole golf course (another golf course planned next to Caesar Resort).
Available at special launch prices starting from only £18,000

3 Porto Dos Corais, Maracajaú, Brazil

Porto dos Corais is located 56 km north of Natal next to the beautiful beach of Maracajaú. The area offers excellent opportunities for water sports, scuba diving and snorkelling, and there is a Next big water park next door. Six golf courses are projected and approved for the next few years in the area. This spectacular seafront gated community is ideal for water sports, with jet skiing, windsurfing, coral diving boat trips and more all nearby.
Built on an area of more than 40,000 square metres, the Condominio Porto dos Corais has 30,000 sq m of green area and a leisure area complete with swimming pools, water slides, tennis, volley and basketball courts and soccer fields.
The small fishing village of Maracajaú has many interesting reasons to visit, including restaurants and bars. There will be 341 units with 1 to 3 bedrooms, 52 m² to 179 m². There will be 24/7 security. Furniture, electro domestics, air conditioning in the bedrooms and parking lots are all included.
The first units were completed November 2006; the next phase will focus on stores, boutiques and restaurants. Prices range from €38,889 to €129,000.


4 Turtle Bay Resort, Maio Island, Cape Verde

With beach frontage, new marina and with a highly competitive price structure, this is your chance to potentially own your own bit of paradise. These four-bedroom villas offer 1,000 sq m plot sizes in a quiet, desirable location; apartments are also available.
This is without doubt one of the best developments we have had to market. Turtle Bay Resort will offer something for everyone and is structured to enable you to maximise your investment. You will initially purchase your plot and then will make a second further payment for the infrastructure and final payment structured over twelve months for the construction of your luxury villa. Constructors’ finance will be available for your villa up to 100 per cent.
Plot prices from €75,000 for a premier plot and €125,000 front-line plot – available with a 15 per cent pre-launch discount.

A great selection of properties and locations in this beautiful country

Les Naturelles, Leukerbad, Valais

Set in spectacular surroundings, Les Naturelles offers an opportunity to acquire a mountain retreat in this spa town where travellers have journeyed for centuries to take to the waters and enjoy the clean mountain air. Les Naturelles is situated just two hours from Geneva airport. Famed for having Europe’s largest Alpine hot springs, the two spa facilities in Leukerbad are within a few minutes walk.  Two gondolas whisk skiers to the top of the mountain’s challenging slopes to enjoy over 50 kilometres of pistes.  A selection of one bedroom apartments is available for immediate occupation and the developer is also offering a five year guaranteed rental income.  Prices start from sfr310,000 (approx. £133,047) and range to sfr360,000 (approx. £ 155,172).

La Soldanelle, Chateau d’Oex, Vaud

Converted from a 19th century hotel, La Soldanelle is situated in a pretty, un spoilt Swiss village.  Chateau d’Oex is also host to the annual balloon festival each January.  La Soldanelle consists of 21 one, two and three bedroom apartments and one three-bedroom duplex apartment.  Many of the flats have large terraces or balconies which owners can enjoy the stunning views and crisp Alpine air.  The luxury conversion features a concierge service, Jacuzzi, sauna, pool and fitness centre amongst other amenities. There is currently one, one bedroom apartment available in the main building at sfr550,000 (approx £236,051) and one two bedroom apartment available in the annex at  sfr640,000 (approx £ 275,862).

Le Chateau des Rocailles, Anzère, Valais

This newly completed development of 17 purpose built apartments comprises eight one-bedroom apartments, four two-bedroom apartments and five three-bedroom apartments.  The generously sized apartments each feature a large balcony or terrace and have access to excellent communal facilities including a fitness room, sauna, Jacuzzi, ski storage and lockable caves for extra storage. The developer is also offering a 5 year rental income. Anzère has an altitude of 1500 metres with skiing to 2500 metres.  Prices start from Prices from sfr295,000 (approx. £126,609) for a one bedroom apartment,sfr790,000 (approx. £339,056) for a two bedroom apartment and sfr585,000 (approx. £251,073) for a three bedroom  apartment. There are five apartments left.

Residenz Ambassador, Leukerbad, Valais

Leukerbad is located on the sunny side of the Rhone valley, to the East of Lake Geneva in the Canton Valais region just two hours from Geneva airport.  This new development consists of 27 spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments which are fully fitted with modern kitchens, parquet or tiled floors, underground heating and the option of a private parking space. Each apartment has a balcony offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Furthermore, holiday makers can make full use of the excellent leisure facilities which include a fitness room, sun beds, and wellness centre with a Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Prices start at sfr645,000 (approx. £276,824) and range to sfr860,000 (approx. £369,099). The cost of an underground parking space starts from sfr32,000 (approx. £13,734). Owners can enjoy the benefits of a five year guaranteed income scheme.

Chalet Edelweiss, Chateau d’Oex

Located in Chateau d’Oex with dramatic mountain views, this luxury conversion of a former modern chalet consists of one, one bedroom and four three bedroom apartments. The development is conveniently located within three minutes walk to the town centre, where restaurants, shops and bars can all be found. All apartments have modern fully fitted kitchens, bathrooms, double glazing and come with either a balcony or terrace. Residents will have access to a wellness centre where facilities include a gym, sauna, Jacuzzi and an indoor swimming pool. Prices range from Sfr995,000 (approximately £428,879) to Sfr,2050,000 (approximately £883,621).


The Golf C, Leukerbad:

Located in the heart of Leukerbad, just two hours away from Geneva airport, the Golf C development comprises 15 one, two and three bedroom apartments. With a balcony or terrace to every apartment, inhabitants will be able to make the most of the dramatic views. All apartments come fully fitted and buyers can choose from a range of the highest quality bathroom and kitchen furnishings. Additional features include double glazing, electrical exterior blinds and parquet flooring. Buyers will also have a choice of a fire place or tilted stove in the living room. Prices range from 375,000CHF (approx. £160,944) to 730,000CHF (approx.313,305). The developer, Schnyder Bauunternehmung und Immobilien AG who have been developing properties in the Valais area since 1948, provides an optional scheme whereby buyers may receive an annual fixed income for the first five years of ownership.  In return, buyers must allow the developer to rent their apartment for 20 weeks each year.  


Hotel Rochegrise, Villars-Sur-Ollon, Canton de Vaud :

Located in one of the most sought after resorts in Vaud, Hôtel Rochegrise is an exclusive apart-hotel development with superb mountain views. The 27 apartments consist of studios, two and three bedrooms and there is direct access to the ski slopes.  All apartments have modern fully fitted kitchens, bathrooms, double glazed windows and come with either a balcony or terrace. Furthermore, buyers are permitted to use hotel facilities which include an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room and sauna. Underground parking spaces are available and are sold separately, prices range from 35,000CHF – 50,000CHF (approx. £15,086 - £21,552. The apartments are available from 649,000CHF (approx.£279,741) for a studio apartment and range to 3,920,000CHF (approx. £1,689,655) for a three bedroom apartment.

Zermatt

The mountain range around Zermatt offers the longest ski season in Europe and, an undisputable reputation as one of the best skiing terrains available. This top floor penthouse apartment offers four private balconies spread out over two sides over the apartment providing breathtaking views over the Matterhorn Mountain.  With a sumptuous lounge and open fire place, this stylish apartment offers the highest standard of alpine living. The apartment spread over 180 sq meters also includes a fully fitted kitchen, a cellar and equipment storage space all heated throughout.
The village is car free and offers a wide range of restaurants, shops, boutiques and year round sporting activities. At an altitude of approximately 1620 meters above sea level the glazier provides the largest summer ski season in the Alps. CHF 2’300’000 (approximately £986,724)

For more information, please contact Overseas Homesearch  Tel:  0800 652 0769
Email: enquiries@overseashomesearch.co.uk  Website: www.overseashomesearch.co.uk

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At the tip of Lake Geneva, where it meets the River Rhone, a spectacular new marina is nearing completion. Consisting of 140 residences with as many moorings, Marina Port-Valais is magnificently situated for visitors to enjoy all the pleasures that both lake and mountain can afford.

Lake Geneva itself is the largest lake in Western Europe, and is host to the Gold Cup race “Bol d’Or”, the biggest regatta held on inland water in Europe. Between the lake and the mountains, in a country and region which benefits from an attractive tax system and economic stability like no other, this lakeside village offers an investment that combines profitability and pleasure.

A few short metres separate residents from the excellent range of water sports on offer at Lake Geneva and, come the winter months, a 30 minute car ride takes one onto the ski slopes of Portes du Soleil, the largest skiing resort in Europe. Within close proximity lies Montreux with its’ famous music festival. Slightly further afield is Geneva itself, a cosmopolitan centre with superb shopping and fine dining. This outstanding geographical location is just one of the advantages offered by the Marina Port-Valais, which is also well sited for short excursions to France. Yet more pistes can be found in nearby Leysin, Verbier or chic Gstaad, all world-renowned resorts. Naturally Port-Valais benefits from an exceptional climate in a location protected from the wind and summers are more akin to those in St Tropez.

Taxes in the country are low, and each district levies at a fixed tax-rate that is suited to the location. The Canton and the commune where the Marina is located are amongst the most advantageous in Switzerland, which makes acquiring a residence a guaranteed profitable investment.


An Unrivalled Choice

Construction of the Marina Port-Valais began in November 2004. The first apartments were handed over in December 2005. One of particular features of the site lies in the individuality of each module.  The buyer can choose the colour and the style of the façade, the interior and exterior installations (balconies, bay windows, specified staircases etc), which makes each apartment unique and guarantees a block of apartments with great visual variety which still preserves a lake-side village atmosphere.

Moreover the social life of the marina will be enhanced by the establishment of a harbour master, a restaurant and access to Bouveret village only a few hundred metres away and to the best aquatic leisure centre in Switzerland: Aquaparc.  

A virtual tour to the Port-Valais Marina is possible by visiting the web site www.marinaportvalais.com

Two to five bed apartments with expansive views and private outdoor space are available off plan at Marina Port Valais now through PURE International.  Prices range from circa £303,000 for a two bed duplex.
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On Tuesday, December 19th, the Canton Valais government announced a 12 month moratorium on sales of second homes to foreign buyers in seven communes. This will take effect from January 2007.  According to a government spokesman, this action has been taken to eliminate the backlog of nearly 1000 applications currently outstanding in the Canton.

Following yesterday’s announcement, Chesterton International has established the following information:

-Current permit C applications will proceed. If a buyer has signed a sales contract (exchanged), the purchase will not be affected by the moratorium.

-Buyers who have reserved but have not yet signed a sales contract must sign the sales contract at the notary’s office before the end of the year or the sale will not go ahead until the moratorium is lifted.

-This action appears to be limited to the Bagnes (Verbier), Grimentz, Heremence, Nendaz, Riddes, Val d’Illiez and Veysonnaz communes in Valais

-Local objections to the moratorium have been registered and the outcome is not yet entirely clear

Andy Hawkins, Senior International Property Consultant, Chesterton International, states that “Chesterton is actively seeking further information and clarification on the moratorium and what effect it will have on property sales in Switzerland and will provide an update when more information is available.”

Chesterton currently has properties available for sale in areas unaffected by the moratorium:

Le Domaine De La Foret, Bluche
This perfectly positioned development has panoramic views over the valley and is located moments from the centre of the fashionable Crans-Montana. Located between a river and forested area, the plot maintains a natural Swiss feel. The area is directly south facing, providing the maximum level of natural light.   Alpin Chalet has created four individual chalet designs, each offering ample living space. Alpin Chalet is happy to work with each purchaser to create their dream home away from home.  

During the winter season, the area boasts a skiing domain of at least 170km. There is a free shuttle bus from Bluche to the slopes with access to at least 30 lifts. In the summer, the resort of Crans offers a range of activities including walking, hiking and mountain biking, not to mention the PGA Golf Course and Omega Swiss Open. In addition, Crans has the largest tennis centre in the Swiss Alps.  With the comprehensive shopping centre of Crans-Montana only moments away and the Funiculaire connecting with Crans and the rest of the valley, this development fulfils all requirements.   Plots 2 and 4 remain, with prices from £900,000
Geneva             -           2 hours (186km)
Crans-Montana  -           7 minutes (5km)
Verbier              -           1 hour (81km)
Sion                  -           ½ hour (28km)

Les Mayens De Sion, Les Agettes
Situated 1300 metres above the valley, amongst mountain woodlands, Les Mayens de Sion offers breathtaking views in the popular '4 Valley' ski domain.  Just 90 minutes from Geneva, Les Mayens de Sion offers excellent all year round activities for the entire family.  Les Mayens de Sion is located moments from the Piste de l’Ours ski lift. Along with the neighbouring resorts of Veysonnaz, Nendaz and Thyon, every amenity is at your doorstep.

Alpin Chalet’s development of five bespoke chalets here will be designed and constructed by to the highest standards, blending traditional style with luxurious modern design.   Prices from £740,000
Geneva -           90 minutes (170km)
Sion-                 25 minutes (16km)
Nendaz -           20 minutes (11km)
Veysonnaz        10 minutes (6km)

Les Chalets De Marie, Ovronnaz
A development of luxury one, two and three bedroom apartments set in the mountain resort of Ovronnaz with views down to the Rhone Valley. This traditional village at an altitude of 1,350 metres is one of the rare mountain resorts to attract visitors during all four seasons due to its variety of activities. Thermalp Les Bains is a famous thermal spa complex in the area, offering indoor and outdoor pools, sauna/hammam, and fitness centre, the ideal way to recharge after a day’s skiing or hiking.

Les Chalets de Marie will be built by one of the most reputable builders in Valais. The residence will comprise a beautiful south-facing chalet, with eight apartments made of traditional wood with authentic stone roof finishes.  Each apartment has a private south-facing balcony or terrace with stunning views to the mountain peaks and down to the valley. The apartments all have cellar, ski storage room and a laundry room.

Located in the heart of the Canton Valais with views down to the Rhone Valley, Ovronnaz is renowned for its sunny aspect. The village is set amongst orchard and vineyards, on a wonderful south-facing plateau, offering the very best of sport and nature. At 1,350 meters, the village is one of the only mountain resorts to attract visitors during all four seasons due to its variety of activities, with an abundance of powder snow for lovers of skiing and snowboarding. Sun worshipers will have the choice of nursery slopes to the high Tsantonnaire ski runs including carving- and freestyle runs and 25 km of cross-country skiing.  Ovronnaz enjoys spectacular colours in autumn and there are 150 km of hiking paths and more than 50 km of mountain bike trails. Visitors can also enjoy river fishing, volleyball, a fitness course and much more.   Prices from £155,000 for a one bedroom apartment, from £215,000 for a two bedroom apartment and from £355,000 for a three bedroom duplex apartment.
Geneva - 1 hour 40 minutes (156km)
Sion - 30 minutes (25km)
Verbier - 1 hour 51km)


Les Rhodos, Ovronnaz
Les Rhodos are located at 200 metres from the thermal baths in Ovronnaz and approximately five minutes drive from the slopes. In peak season, a free shuttle will drive skiers from doorsteps to the slopes. This is one of the most desirable locations of the resort comprising two beautiful south-facing chalets, each of 12 apartments, made of natural traditional wood.  Each apartment has a private south-facing balcony or terrace with panoramic views to the mountain peak and down to the valley, a personal cellar and ski-locker and a common laundry room.   Les Rhodos is perfectly located on the sunny south facing side of the valley. The development is moments from the thermal spa and only a short ride away from the slopes.   Prices from £282,000
Geneva             -           1 hr 50 mins (156km)
Sion                  -           30 mins (25km)
Verbier              -           1 hr (50km)
Nendaz             -           40 mins (30km)

Sun Brook, Zweisimmen, Bernese Oberland
At Home in the Alps, a Swiss company that specialises in designing and constructing exclusive holiday homes, is offering 12 bespoke luxury chalets on plots in the traditional Swiss village of Zweisimmen, located in the Waadtlander Alps, at the heart of the picturesque Bernese Oberland, near Gstaad.  Located on the mountainside at the top of Zweisimmen village, facing the slopes of the Rinderberg, with panoramic views across the valley and to the peaks, these homes are within a five minutes’ walk of the village centre and five to ten minutes’ walk of the ski lifts. The chalets take their name from Zweisimmen’s nickname, ‘Sonnendorf’ (literally Sun Brook), bestowed on account of its glorious year-round sunshine.  These homes will provide the perfect all-season holiday destination for families with a vast range of winter and summer activities, sightseeing opportunities, spas, shops, restaurants and nightlife.  Year-round sunshine and easy, low-cost access from the UK make the area even more attractive to those seeking a second home abroad.  Plots ranging in size from 600 square metres to 1,000 square metres. Each chalet provides from 150 to 200 square metres of living accommodation.   Prices from £500,000

With more than 90 years of experience in construction, At Home in the Alps enjoys an excellent reputation for quality and service. At Home in the Alps is a brand name of the Swiss German company Staempfli which is an ISO 9001:2000 accredited company. The construction period on the Sun Brook chalets starts in March and will run for 10 to 12 months.

The jewel of the Middle East is not only a top holiday and investment destination. As the Shakiba family found, it’s also an excellent place to invest in property

What started as a family for Dariush Shakiba, his wife Caroline and their two children has now turned into an investment adventure. In Dubai for the first time in 2003, they had a wonderful family holiday, impressed by the world-class leisure facilities, beautiful beaches and friendly culture.
Certain that they would return regularly for holiday, they then saw the investment potential of this fascinating and rapidly growing world destination.

The Leicestershire-based Shakiba family has now invested in a property near the iconic manmade Dubai Marina. Dariush and Caroline were attracted to DAMAC Properties’ Marina Terrace development – and they weren’t alone. All the units had been sold within six months of the launch, such was the popularity. Undeterred, and impressed by the quality of the development, they turned to another nearby DAMAC Properties scheme, The Waves. At this scheme construction was just underway and apartments were being sold-off plan.  
“The transaction process has been quick and easy,’ says Dariush. ‘With the Dubai property market cited to continue its current boom for years to come, Caroline and I are confident that our investment will show substantial asset value growth. Our apartment at The Waves is an investment that we as a family can enjoy, and that our children, and later our grandchildren, will appreciate too.’
Rising to 27 and 10 storeys in Tower A and B respectively, The Waves offers breathtaking views of the marina and across the Persian Gulf. The development comprises a collection of 230 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with luxurious interior specification.
Surrounded by lush green walkways and located within walking distance of a variety of waterfront cafes, restaurants and shopping boulevards, The Waves is ideally placed for a family holiday. The scheme benefits from a number of recreation facilities including an outdoor swimming pool and waterpark, children’s play area, state of the art gymnasium and five star health club and spa.
Caroline says, ‘The Dubai Marina can best be described as a city within a city. Everything from shopping, exercising and golfing, sunbathing, eating and drinking is on our doorstep. There is a wonderful variety of restaurants nearby that reflects the diverse mix of cultures that converge in this great city, from the ‘50s American diner to our favourite sushi bar overlooking the marina.’
Dariush adds. ‘One of the best aspects about Dubai is that it is safe and crime-free, making it very tourist friendly. All the facilities are five-star and the infrastructure is new and modern, and it works.’
For further information on The Waves and other DAMAC Properties developments call 020 7499 9001 or visit damacproperties.com.

After Shanghai, Dubai is the planet’s biggest building site, an emerging dreamworld. With its great climate and wonderful beaches, Dubai confidently predicts that its enchanted forest of 600 skyscrapers and malls will attract 15 million overseas visitors a year by 2010, three times as many as New York City.  Over 800,000 Brits enjoyed a break in Dubai in 2005, and these figures are likely to increase dramatically now that Virgin Atlantic are flying daily flights to the Gulf along with Emirates who have 91 flights a week from the UK to Dubai.  Budding investors will be able to see the dozens of outstanding mega-projects that Dubai has already under construction, or about to leave the drawing board at the Dubai & Gulf Property Show on the 20-21 January 2007 at the Novotel Hotel in Hammersmith, London.  

Mike Bridge, Director of Dubai Shows Ltd, organisers of the Dubai & Gulf Property Show comments, “Dubbed as the Las Vegas of the Persian Gulf, Dubai is constantly introducing world class projects in a city that offers unlimited opportunities, strong population growth, high rental returns and new real estate laws designed to protect the investor.  We are delighted that so many well known Dubai and Gulf agents and developers will be showing en masse, exclusively under one roof in London for the second time.  

The show has doubled in size since last year, featuring Dubai’s world famous mega projects as well as those of its neighbouring Emirates, in particular its capital city which has the highest per capita income in the world.  Dubbed as ‘the sleeping giant’, Abu Dhabi has been slow to join the regional real estate boom, but with new property ownership laws in place since summer of 2005, the emirate has already launched several huge projects in the property hot spots of Al Raha Beach and Al Reem Island. For UK buyers, the emerging short term rental market, could be the way to go, enabling you to enjoy a few weeks in the sun while still retaining excellent rental returns.”

Dubai’s mega projects being showcased at the exhibition include the World (where Rod Stewart has reportedly spent $33 million to buy ‘Britain’), the earth’s tallest building (Burj Dubai), the domed ski resort, Dubailand, a mega theme park twice the size of Disney World Florida, Mall of Arabia - the worlds biggest shopping mall, Dubai Sports City with it’s Ernie Els golf course and Manchester United’s soccer academy, the Restless Planet which will house over 150 animatronic dinosaurs and much more.  According to the finance director of the Natural History Museum, the Restless Planet ‘will have the full stamp of authority of the Museum in London, and will demonstrate that education and science can be fun’.

The real estate sector in Dubai & the Gulf is outstanding in its diversity.  There is an array of projects being built which are without a doubt, the best in the world.  Prices compared with other international resorts are still very competitive, with studio apartments starting from as little as £45,000 and villas from only £200,000.   

Although tourist development generate most of the ‘buzz’ in Dubai, the city has extraordinary ambitions to capture as much value added as possible through a series of specialised free zones and high tech clusters.  There are free trade zones where 100 per cent ownership is allowed, with no individual or corporate taxes or import/export duties whatsoever.  The largest of these zones is Internet City, already the Arab world’s principal internet hub with local subsidiaries of Dell, HP, Microsoft and others.  Media City is home to various international news organisations such as Reuters and the BBC.  Dubai’s International Financial Centre is hoped to grow into the largest stock exchange between Europe and East Asia as foreign investors rush to tap the Gulf’s vast reservoir of oil earnings.  Commercial office space continues to experience healthy demand with both regional and multinational companies finding it strategically important to be situated in Dubai.  

By the end of 2007 it is estimated that approximately 7.3 million sq. ft of office space will be ready for handover.  With occupancy levels close to 100%, developers will be scrambling to bring product to the market, that will both satisfy this demand as well as supply that is expected make Dubai the premier business hub in the Middle East.  One office development in particular is Jumeriah Lake Towers (JLT), a mixed use development that is available on a freehold basis with an estimated 5.6 million sq. ft net leasable area of office space.  JLT is particularly unique as it is the one free zone in Dubai that is not restricted to a specific industry.

At the Dubai & Gulf Property Show in January, visitors will be able to see for themselves the abundant lifestyle opportunities available, as well as meet the experts with information about living and buying real estate in Dubai & the Gulf.  This will be an event that budding property investors cannot afford to miss.

There will be a number of free daily workshops at the show, covering lifestyle, commercial investments and short term rental opportunities presented by a number of experts, plus films on Dubai and all its latest attractions.

The show will be held at the Novotel Hotel, Hammersmith, London which will be open daily from 10.30-18.00hrs. Entry is free. For further information please call Dubai Shows Ltd on 07733 298 367 or visit www.dubaishows.com

France represents so much: culture and cheese, chateaux and gateaux, Champagne and romance … Well, that’s only the beginning. The Brits have long admired the Gallic joie de vivre, with its emphasis on romance, food, art and intellect – and from 19 to 21 January we have the chance to take a closer look at the finest that France has to offer.
To celebrate this beautiful and diverse country, Vive la France is coming to Olympia, London. With over 100 exhibitors, the event showcases the very best, from fine wines and gastronomic delights to culture, style and interior design. Travelling to and living in France are also emphasised, as the show spotlights a rich variety of travel destinations as well as a whole host of property.

To cover all aspects of French culture and life, Vive la France has four shows within a show. The French Travel & Tourism Show features regional tourist boards, from the favourite and best known regions to the hidden gems of France. The French Food & Wine Show includes Taste on the Terrace, which will be serving signature dishes created by some of the most popular French restaurants in Britain such as Brasserie Roux, Club Gascon, Le Gavroche and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. Also, superchefs Raymond Blanc and Jean-Christophe Novelli will be cooking up a storm at the Food Theatre. Elsewhere visitors should prepare their taste buds for a culinary celebration, with a whole host of fine wine and food tasting to tempt passers-by.

The French Lifestyle and Culture Show captures that certain je ne sais quoi which makes French living so desirable. Visitors can brush up on their French or start from scratch at the Language Pavillion while fashionistas should head straight to the Fashion Stage where designers such as Agnès B will be presenting exclusive previews of their spring/summer collections. And for lovers of La Nouvelle Vague, TV5 will be showing excerpts from classic French films.
And of course, there is French property, long a favourite with us Brits. Buying property in France is not just an idyllic dream; it makes very sound business sense too. Whether it’s a hilltop villa, a coastal retreat or a country house ripe for conversion, eagle eyed investors will find an unrivalled selection of property, information and advice at The French Property Exhibition where experts will be giving seminars on making that dream a reality.

Vive la France is open Friday 19 January 10am to 6pm and Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 January from 10am to 5pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be booked on 0870 013 0730 or at vivelafrance.co.uk. Tickets are £8 in advance and £12 on the door; price includes entry to all four shows, including the French Property Exhibition.

 

How the land lies

Cyprus is the third largest and the most easterly island in the Mediterranean Sea. Its nearest neighbours are Turkey 40 miles to the north, Syria 60 miles east, Lebanon 108 miles south-east and Egypt 230 miles south. The 486-mile coastline offers enchanting coves, rocky coast and long golden sandy beaches. The most prominent geographical feature is the northern range of Beşparmak (Five Fingers) Mountains. The fertile north coast is covered with olive and carob trees. The Mesaoria plain, which lies in the centre of the island, is used for the production of cereal crops such as wheat, barley and oats.
The climate is mild and rarely, except upon the mountain peaks, does the temperature drop to freezing. Summers are hot with the highest temperatures and top humidity in July and August. spring and autumn are long and the lovely weather offers gentle breezes.

Nature

The flora of Cyprus is various enough to please everyone, from the visitor who just wants to see valleys full of wild endemic flowers, anemones and orchids to the serious botanist who would like to identify countless specimens during their couple of weeks’ stay.
Although the variety of wild animals in Cyprus is limited, the is the opportunity to see reptiles, insects and a great variety of birds using the island as a stopover for their immigration routes – not surprising as the island is one of the most unpolluted corners of the world. Fish, sea turtles and seashells are also represented.

History

The name Cyprus comes, arguably, from the word ‘copper’, of which there was (and possibly is) an abundance on the island. The island has had a tumultous history, and before its annexation to Rome in 58 BC, Phoenicians, Achaeans, Assyrians, Egyptians and Persians colonized the island. Then came the Byzantines, English during the reign of Richard the Lionheart, Knight Templars, Frankish Rule of the Lusignans, Venetians, Ottomans after the conquest in 1571, and the British Rule between 1878 and 1960. The Republic of Cyprus was established in 1960 but the partnering bodies were in conflict from 1963. In 1974, following a coup d’état against Archbishop Makarios, the President of the Republic, Turkey intervened militarily in order to restore peace on the island , using its right of guarantee according to the 1960 Cyprus Constitution. Since then, Cyprus has remained divided into two states.

Culture

The island is full of historical sites, some dating back to Neolithic Period (5,000 BC). Hellenistic, Roman, Lusignan, Venetian and Ottoman architectural artefacts are very well preserved and all are worth visiting. The best known handicrafts or items of folk art are Lefkara Laces, carpet weaving, wood carving, pottery, and wickerwork. Paintings or handicrafts produced by local artists are also worth collecting. Throughout the year there are festivals for classical and jazz music, theatre, folk dances, which drawinternational celebrities to take part.

Kitchen

The Cypriot culture is well reflected in its kitchen, and the unique Cypriot cuisine combines its strong Turkish roots with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours to create a delicious and original taste. Eating is a national pastime. Cypriots are great meat eaters, thus lamb, beef and chicken are widely used in most main dishes. A typical Turkish Cypriot restaurant, like its Turkish counterparts, traditionally offers a meal that consists of meze (appetizer starters), kebabs (lamb or chicken) or fish, followed by fruit and coffee. Cypriot home cooking is different and is only found in a handful of restaurants.

Hobbies

A wide range of activities available in Northern Cyprus include trekking and hiking, camping, botanic pursuits, bird watching, photo safari, shooting and hunting, horse riding, caving, traditional handicrafts, go-karting, sports, paragliding, scuba diving and many others to be added.