1 in 3 sun seekers will head to Spain for their 2012 holiday according to latest report

by Georgina Spain

The love affair between British tourists and Spain never seems to falter with the forever popular hot spots of Alicante, Ibiza, Mallorca and Malaga set to soar in 2012 according to a recent What’s Hot in 2012 report from low cost airline Jet2.com and package holiday specialist, Jet2holidays.

The report which identifies the key travel trends for this year, compiled from in-depth research acquired from more than 1000 holidaymakers explains how, in in spite of the current Eurozone crisis, more than 28% of respondents stated that a holiday this year was vital to their health and wellbeing with almost 1 in 3 sun seekers stating that they will be heading to the Iberian nation for their main holiday in 2012.

Meanwhile, a global ranking report from the Spanish holiday property rental portal HomeAway.es, which surveyed around 1,213 users in November 2011, revealed Malaga as the favoured location for British travellers while Palma de Mallorca took second place.

In addition to this, 6 Spanish cities appeared in the Top 10 Holiday destinations report for July, August and September 2011 highlighting Spain’s unflagging appeal. In further support of this, the Benidorm hoteliers association (HOSBEC) 2011 witnessed a 6%increase in hotel accommodation occupancy rates across the Costa Blanca, rising to an impressive 74.2%.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager at Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“While Spain broke its own tourism record last year, the popularity of the nation looks set to grow even further in 2012. For example, Alicante airport on the Costa Blanca which saw 10 million passengers in 2011, an increase of 500,000 on the previous year has received 15% more requests for flight slots in summer 2012 according to the Spanish airport authority (AENA) which is great news for Spanish tourism and property markets this year.”

In Alicante alone, a greater number of flight operations will be taking place in 2012 seeing the new Icelandic airline WOW Air offer two new weekly flights from Alicante to Reykjavik in Iceland and Zurich, increasing frequency as the year progresses with Swiss airline Edelweiss Air. 

In addition, Jet2.com will open a link with Edinburgh and increase frequencies to Belfast, East Midlands and Newcastle while easyJet will add a new route to the fifth airport in London, Southend. The Russian market will also be strengthened with a weekly charter flight to St. Petersburg from Alicante as of April 2012.

As one of the most famous coastlines in Spain, the Costa Blanca, which attracts millions of visitors each year is traditionally a favourite destination for foreign buyers drawn to the clear blue waters, miles of golden sandy beaches, quaint villages, sophisticated cafes and restaurants and an abundance of historical, cultural and leisure activities.

For those who are thinking about making a Spanish property purchase this year on the sunny Costa Blanca, why not take a look at what Taylor Wimpey España has to offer in 2012.

The new Lagunas del Sol development, a residential complex set in a beautiful rural area and located close to the heart of Rojales is made up of townhouses designed in a natural setting and very close to the beautiful beaches that this area is famous for.

The properties have been built on two floors with 2 or 3 bedrooms, a garden, private parking and outstanding views towards the swimming pools and gardens available now from €114,920.

The Calpesol residential complex in Calpe, Costa Blanca perfectly matches buyer’s needs. Comprised of stunning houses with gardens, this development affords communal swimming pools and three bedroom and two bathroom properties with roofed sun terrace and private parking costing from just €165,000 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

 

This private complex of beautiful 3 bedroom townhouses of Las Brisas de Alenda is located in the peaceful and quiet area adjacent to the Alenda Golf Course while the wonderful beaches of the Costa Blanca are just a 15 minute away.

The Brisas de Alenda Golf complex has generous private gardens, a communal swimming pool and a club house as well as a gym, bar and restaurant costing from just €189,000 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

Buyers can still buy VAT free in Spain with Taylor Wimpey España

by Georgina Spain

It was confirmed on the 31st of December 2011 under the Royal Decree – Law 20/2011 that the reduced VAT rate of 4% introduced in 2011 will remain applicable for all new build properties only in Spain throughout 2012.

In an ongoing effort to reduce the volume of stock property in Spain and stimulate the construction sector, the Spanish Government has set IVA (the equivalent of VAT) at 50% until the end of 2012, making purchasers of both first (mostly Spanish nationals) and second new homes liable for only 4% of the purchase price, a saving of €8,000 on a €200,000 home.

But those who purchase a new build property on the stunning Balearic island of Mallorca or Costa Blanca through leading house builder Taylor Wimpey Spain before 29th February 2012 can enjoy an extra 4% off the purchase price, in effect making the property VAT free. Offer on stock properties (limited units).

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of Taylor Wimpey España explains,

“2012 is set to be the year to invest in Spanish property. Not only will buyers be feeling the benefits of the government reduced IVA (VAT) rate of 4% but they can take advantage of special offers such as our VAT free properties available until the end of February.”

For Spanish property hunters looking to make hefty savings without compromising on quality, Taylor Wimpey España are offering superb Spanish properties located in the popular areas of the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and the Balearic island of Mallorca, VAT free until the 29th February 2012.

El Puerto II, Cala D’Or, Mallorca

Located on the south east coast of Mallorca, very close to the glamorous Marina de Cala D’Or El Puerto II consists of 2 bedroom apartments costing from just €195,000 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

With communal swimming pools available these properties are surrounded by outstanding natural beauty offering various other activities such as water sports, biking and golf in the local area.

Pollentia Mar, Puerto Pollença, Mallorca

Located in the seaside town of Puerto Pollença, Pollentia Mar is a two bedroom apartment complex, just 50 meters from the beach and Pollensa’s famous Voramar promenade with the last unit fully furnished and VAT free.

The development is a single block of apartments with a communal area and swimming pool. It also has private parking spaces in the basement and four lifts with prices starting at €275,500 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

Calpesol, Calpe, Costa Blanca

The Calpesol residential complex in Calpe, Costa Blanca perfectly matches buyer’s needs. Comprised of stunning houses with gardens, this development affords communal swimming pools and three bedroom and two bathroom properties with roofed sun terrace and private parking costing from just €165,000 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

Brisas de Alenda, Alicante, Costa Blanca

This private complex of beautiful 3 bedroom townhouses of Las Brisas de Alenda is located in the peaceful and quiet area adjacent to the Alenda Golf Course while the wonderful beaches of the Costa Blanca are just a 15 minute away.

The townhouses come with fully-furnished kitchens, equipped with a vitro-ceramic hob, extractor hood and oven as well as air-conditioning with heat pump, and fitted out wardrobes. All homes are set over two floors with spacious terraces, gardens and two bathrooms.

The Brisas de Alenda Golf complex has generous private gardens, a communal swimming pool and a club house as well as a gym, bar and restaurant costing from just €189,000 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

5 things to remember when choosing an ACTIVE retirement property

by Georgina France

With 55 to 65 years olds remaining the largest group of home owners in the UK, putting considerable pressure on the UK housing stock for younger generations to access, the need for older generations to downsize has become ever more pressing. Indeed, with properties often becoming too big to manage along with the allure of moving away for improved  lifestyle benefits, The Villages Group in France, dedicated to delivering homes, services and support for “Active” 50+’s  may prove an attractive option for those entering their third age.

According to Danny Silver, MD of The Villages Group and a expert in French real estate, The Villages Group understand precisely what people over the age of 50 require when choosing an active retirement property thanks to all six shareholders themselves being between the ages of 55 and 65.

One of the six, Jane Graham explains why she became involved in The Villages Group and why she believes the active living resorts in France perfectly meet the requirements of her and her peers:

"Since approaching 50 I have started to think more about my retirement and how and where to spend it. Although I enjoy the change of seasons, I´m getting less fond of the cold English winters and wet summers. I decided on France due to its climate, easy way of life, great food and drink, beautiful countryside, good transport links and its proximity to England to maintain contact with family and friends. I was delighted to be able to become involved with "The Villages" project to create purpose-built small communities for people like me. This concept answers my quest to find the right sort of property at the right price among the right sort of people in the right location."

For those 50+’s thinking about buying an active retirement property, Danny Silver offers some top tips for making the right choice.

Tip 1. Consider the Community

“Quite often people entering their third age have fears of isolation so it’s important to consider whether you wish be set within a community of like-minded individuals that share the same interests and values as yourself. The best active living communities are places where you should feel comfortable and happy day in and day out.

“Additionally, does the community promote an active senior lifestyle with a variety of activities? Maybe you’re keen on fishing, playing tennis or horse riding or maybe you want an exciting entertainment programme? Ask what they have on offer.

“Another point to consider is that many active living resorts like The Villages Group in France are suited to those who aren’t necessarily retired. Indeed, even if you are, it doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t want to stay active in the workforce so researching job opportunities within your community or around your area might prove useful.”

Tip 2. Location, location, location

“As we get older, we must ensure that getting around our living area is simple. Consequently, considering the time it takes to get from points of interest, attractions and nearby amenities is an essential. When buying an active retirement property abroad access to all the necessary amenities such as shops and banks for example is extremely important.  As well as this, you may want to be close to family and friends back home so ensuring that flights are frequent and affordable is important too.

“Meanwhile, what is the surrounding landscape like? Is it quiet? What’s the traffic like? It is imperative that the living environment on the outside is considered particularly if you’re after some history, culture or scenic beauty. Seeing as the weather, particularly in older life becomes ever more important, you might also want to ponder whether the climate suits your new lifestyle.”

3. Cost of Living

“When moving abroad the costs of living may differ somewhat and it’s important to do the sums, particularly if you’re using your savings. France for example, has one of the best lifestyles in Europe and opinions differ on whether living in the country is cheaper than in the UK, however many believe living costs are very similar so make sure you’ll be able to manage your outgoings.“

4. Choosing the right home

“The layout of the property you buy is probably one of the most crucial decisions. For those over the age of 50, buying an active living retirement property must need your needs today and in the future which is why one level properties like our bungalow style homes at the Villages in France are perfect. With this in mind, it is wise to ensure that the entire development is flat in every way to ensure that it’s easy to get around.

“Low running costs is also important. The Village properties in France won’t break the bank particularly as they are eco-friendly with high levels of insulation for example.”

5. Buying Costs

“The costs of buying your active retirement property should be affordable without a mortgage and include a ‘shareholding’ of entire development much like the Villages in France.

“There may also be on-going maintenance costs and community charges for particular on-site facilities such as tennis courts, fitness centres, club house’s and libraries for example that must be deliberated.”

Providing a lifestyle that will best reflect the interests of its residents, the 50+ village communities in France courtesy of The Villages Group could provide the answer, allowing residents to live life to the full in one of the top ten expat countries in the world.

The concept for The Villages Group in France has taken four years of research and development to create the first active living resorts in the country dedicated to the over 50’s. Designed for living, the Villages situated in three stunning French communities in Bordeaux / Perigord, Canal du Midi and Provence, offer one-level eco-friendly homes from €165,000 set within outstanding natural environments with full on-site amenities including tennis courts, indoor pool, gymnasium and quality entertainment programmes.

For more information please contact The Villages Group on + 33 1 4007 8625, email villages@pdfparis.com or visit www.thevillagesgroup.com
 

Spanish house builder forecasts a positive outlook for Spanish property in 2012

by Georgina Spain

A growing number of experts believe that the Spanish property market is showing signs of recovery following the well documented economic crash which has plagued numerous global property markets. With a brand new year ahead we ask award-winning Spanish property builders Taylor Wimpey España for insight into the future of Spanish property in 2012.

With years of experience in building some of Spain’s most highly regarded properties, Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of Taylor Wimpey España suggests that the Spanish market has now reached the bottom and will move in a positive direction this year, highlighting a number of aspects that will aid Spain’s recovery.

Sale prices in Spain for quality properties in prime locations were stable in 2011 and Pritchard indicates that this trend will continue into 2012 while properties in less popular inland locations that have reduced infrastructure or no views will drop further in price.

Pritchard predicts that a greater number of lifestyle buyers will enter the second home market this year with very few looking for rental returns. He suggests that the average age of the property buyer will rise up to 55 years old signalling that lifestyle attributes will be of greater importance in 2012.

Furthermore, Pritchard explains that this year is likely to see inflation increase in the UK, with rising interest on bank accounts and unstable stock markets pushing British buyers, Spain’s strongest market, into investing their money in Spanish property.

Finally, when it comes to Taylor Wimpey España this year, Pritchard comments,

“We expect sales levels this year to be in line with 2011, however seeing as we will have additional sales outlets, new developments launching in 2012 and are covering the reinstated IVA tax now at 4% on new build properties until the end of February 2012, we are expecting sales numbers to increase making for an exciting year at Taylor Wimpey España.”

For those thinking about making a Spanish property purchase this year, why not take a look at what Taylor Wimpey España has to offer buyers in 2012.

The Calpesol residential complex in Calpe, Costa Blanca perfectly matches buyer’s needs. Comprised of stunning houses with gardens, this development affords communal swimming pools and three bedroom and two bathroom properties with roofed sun terrace and private parking costing from just €165,000 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

Located on the south east coast of Mallorca, very close to the glamorous Marina de Cala D’Or El Puerto II consists of 2 bedroom apartments costing from just €195,000 + NO VAT until 29th February 2012.

With 3 communal swimming pools available these properties are surrounded by outstanding natural beauty offering various other activities such as water sports, biking and golf in the local area.

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.

 

Latest report identifies what buyers want from Spanish property in 2012

by Georgina Spain

Having waved goodbye to what was a relatively tough year for the global property market, Kyero.com’s latest analysis of the forever popular Spanish property market highlights some interesting findings, identifying that foreign buyers will continue to look for bargain properties focusing in Spain’s best known areas.

Kyero.com’s  enquiry report analysed almost 130,000 enquiries made by email during the second half of 2011 showing that between July 2011 and December 2011 47.3% of enquiries for properties in Spain sat within the £50k to £100k price range.

Further statistics show that across Spain 31.6% of enquiries made wanted an apartment while 32% desired a 3 bedroom property. Meanwhile, unsurprisingly over half of enquiries (55%) requested a pool.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager at Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“The Kyero.com report provides an interesting insight into what buyers want from Spanish property. In 2012 it is important to look at trends in buyer behavior and the interest generated regarding Spanish property to identify how to grab the attention of this year’s property buyers.”

Pritchard continues,

“Indeed, the findings show that by province, Alicante and the Costa Blanca remain the favorite locations for foreign property hunters accounting for nearly 35% of enquiries according to Kyero.com’s findings while Malaga in the Costa del Sol followed behind with 14.4%. With this in mind, we at Taylor Wimpey España feel we can meet the needs of customers not only because many of our properties are located in these popular areas but because we can deliver on property type and budget as highlighted in the report. ”

For those who are thinking about making a Spanish property purchase this year, why not take a look at what Taylor Wimpey España has to offer buyers this year.

The Calpesol residential complex in Calpe, Costa Blanca perfectly matches buyer’s needs. Comprised of stunning houses with gardens, this development affords communal swimming pools and three bedroom and two bathroom properties with roofed sun terrace and private parking costing from just €165,000.

Property buyers wishing to soak up the sun in the Costa del Sol should look no further than Los Robles de los Arqueros II. Costing €227,000 this development affords 2 and 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartments with amenities including a swimming pool for children and adults as well as community gardens and underground parking all surrounded by a prestigious 18 hole golf course providing everything a property buyer could want and more.

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

The Great Escape: With 2 million in the UK set to retire in 2012, those in their ‘third age’ look to French active living resorts

by Georgina France

In 2012 there will be a 22% rise in people reaching retirement age in the UK, an increase of over 2 million people compared to 2011 according to the Department for Work and Pensions. While this presents a big challenge for the UK housing market, The Villages Group in France could well provide the best solution, having introduced the concept of communities dedicated to delivering homes, services and support for “Active” 50+’s in France.

With the number of post-war baby boomers reaching retirement age in 2012 predicted to rise by 150,000 thanks to the steady increase in the number of people living longer, the government has estimated that the numbers of retired people living in the UK will rise to more than 15 million by 2030.

Danny Silver, expert in French real estate and MD of The Villages Group, comments,

“With people now living longer, healthier lives most entering their ‘third age’ can expect to live well into their late 80s which means that considerable strain will be placed on the UK housing stock. Indeed, a report from Knight Frank recently discovered that older households will represent half of all household growth between now and 2026 and as a result, it is no surprise that the innovative active living Villages already popular in Australia and the USA are providing a practical alternative to this growing problem.”

Silver continues,

“The British over 50’s market provides one of the biggest opportunities for growth and it is important that their demand for housing is recognised. Indeed, we at The Villages Group have acknowledged that active living Villages for the over 50’s which provide services and amenities that encourage an active, happy and healthy lifestyle focussed around a strong community of like-minded individuals is definitely the way forward. ”

With more and more people looking to move abroad for their golden years, seeking lower living costs and a better quality of life, France remains a popular destination affording a wonderfully warm climate, relaxed lifestyle, stunning natural beauty and easy access to the UK.

With this in mind, it is hardly surprising France was chosen as the location for The Villages Group’s active living resorts. Providing a lifestyle that will best reflect the interests of its residents, the 50+ village communities will allow residents to live their lives to the full in one of the top ten expat countries in the world.

The concept for The Villages Group in France has taken four years of research and development to create the first active living resorts in the country dedicated to the over 50’s. Designed for living, the Villages situated in three stunning French communities in Bordeaux / Perigord, Canal du Midi and Provence, offer one-level eco-friendly homes set within outstanding natural environments with full on-site amenities including tennis courts, indoor pool, gymnasium and quality entertainment programmes.

The Villages concept in France is set to be a success, offering a practical solution to the housing shortage in the UK as well as providing a fresh alternative and unique lifestyle choice for the active over 50’s seeking the perfect lifestyle abroad.

 

 

For more information please contact The Villages Group on + 33 1 4007 8625, email villages@pdfparis.com or visit www.thevillagesgroup.com
 

Properties sold to foreign residents in Spain increase by 24.7% in third quarter of 2011

by Georgina Spain

Property sales made by foreign residents in Spain experienced an increase of 24.7% in the third quarter of 2011 compared to the same period last year according to statistics from The Ministry of Public Transactions.

This figure takes into account all foreigners who live and resident in Spain while further statistics show that the provinces with the greater number of purchases by foreign residents were Alicante (2097), Malaga (951), Barcelona (607), Balearics (516) and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (476).

With this in mind, Spain looks set to continue this trend according to experts with a final rush of property buyers seeking out Spanish real estate before 2011 comes to a close with experts suggesting that tax breaks and low interest rates on savings accounts will be the main factors encouraging buyers to hunt down bargains.

Marc Pritchard Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, comments,

“The increase in property sales to foreigners in the last quarter of 2011 shows that many buyers have been discerning enough to strike while the iron is hot and purchase properties that are well priced and in excellent locations. With this in mind, the Holiday Lettings´ Insight Report for 2011 identified that there was a 3% increase in the number of enquires about buying Spanish property between January and October this year compared to the same period in 2010 while the report also discovered that people looking for holiday let opportunities in Spain was the second most-enquired about destination among buy-to-let investors, after the UK, between January and October 2011.

Pritchard continues,

“Indeed, it is looking likely that prices in Spain will begin to increase by the end of 2011 with places like Tenerife and Malaga seeing property values improve signaling good news for the Spanish real estate market next year.”

For those who are thinking about making a Spanish property purchase next year, Taylor Wimpey España has some superb homes available in Mallorca, the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca to spice up 2012.

Located on the south east coast of Mallorca, very close to the glamorous Marina de Cala D’Or El Puerto II consists of 2 bedroom apartments costing from just €195,000. With 3 communal swimming pools available these properties are surrounded by outstanding natural beauty offering various other activities such as water sports, biking and golf in the local area.

Los Robles de los Arqueros II, in Benhavis, Costa del Sol offers 2 and 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartments with amenities including a swimming pool for children and adults as well as community gardens and underground parking all surrounded by a prestigious 18 hole golf course costing from €227,000.

The Calpesol residential complex in Calpe, Costa Blanca is comprised of stunning houses with gardens and communal swimming pools affording three bedrooms and two bathrooms with roofed sun terrace and private parking costing from just €165,000.

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.

 

Mallorca – Something to look forward to in 2012?

by Georgina Spain

After what has been a good year for tourism in Mallorca, 2012 looks set to be an even better one according to research from the World Travel Market.

Figures released during the World Travel Market in London last month highlighted that the number of UK visitors to Spain had increased by 9% between January and September 2011. Meanwhile, these figures also identified the Balearics as the top tourist destination with 24% of the 11 million British visitors travelling to Spain during the first 9 months of this year.

And the good news looks set to continue into 2012 with further reports from the World Travel Market showing that summer bookings are already up for next year with tour operators planning more flights to the Balearics with a particular focus on Mallorca.

Indeed, nearly a fifth of all passengers arriving on low-cost airlines in Spain fly into Palma de Mallorca. In October this year, Palma received the highest number of passengers on low cost airlines reaching nearly 610,000 – four-fifths of the total arrivals to the Balearics and nearly 15% more people than the same month last year while also in October, nearly 90% of arrivals flying in via traditional airlines to the Balearic Islands landed at Palma airport.

With this in mind, it is hardly surprising that tour operators and airlines are promising more flights next year to satisfy growing demand with Ryanair announcing the opening of its 49th European base at Palma airport next year. Opening in March 2012, the budget airline will have four aircrafts based at the airport operating 47 routes; 17 of which are new and include flights from Palma to Cork, Maastricht and Stockholm.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, comments,

“We are happy that the no-frills airline has estimated that it will fly around 2.8 million passengers annually and maintain 2,800 jobs – in the face of economic doom and gloom people want to get away and providing more flight options is a great way to satisfy growing demand. Indeed, with more tourist arrivals next year, the Mallorcan property market looks set for a boost. We are certainly expecting sales levels to be in line with this year particularly as we will have more sales outlets and new developments for property buyers to get their hands on in 2012.”

For those who are contemplating Mallorca in 2012, Taylor Wimpey España has some superb homes available on the golden island.

Located on the south east coast of Mallorca, very close to the glamorous Marina de Cala D’Or El Puerto II consists of 2 bedroom apartments costing from just €195,000 + NO VAT until 2011. With 3 communal swimming pools available these properties are surrounded by outstanding natural beauty offering various other activities such as water sports, biking and golf in the local area.

Cala Magrana III in Mallorca, situated close to Cala Anguila beach and the marina of Porto Cristo comprises 21 stunning 2 bedroom apartments surrounding a communal garden with a swimming pool. Ground floor apartments have a spacious terrace with a garden for private use while top floor apartments benefit from a private roof terrace, affording a great price of €220,000 + VAT.

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.

 

Balearics receive boost from cruise ship passengers

by Georgina Spain

The Balearic Islands received a much welcomed boost this year of 1.2 million cruise ship passengers, the second highest number in Spain.

Only Cataluña, with the port of Barcelona, received more arrivals via sea between January and September 2011, visited by just over 2 million cruise passengers. Indeed, both Cataluña and the Balearic region have this year, accounted for a 58% share of Spain’s 5.8 million passenger cruise market.

Meanwhile, between January and September 2011 the total number of cruise passengers arriving in Spain was 12.7% higher than last year while it is thought that the total number of cruise passengers could well rise to a record 8 million by the end of this year.

Palma and Barcelona, two of Europe’s busiest ports are now preparing for a significant increase in cruise ship arrivals next year, expecting to see the onset of large North American and Scandinavian cruise ships making their presence felt in Western Mediterranean waters.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, comments,

“Cruise holidays are continually growing in popularity as more people discover the value and variety of sailing the Mediterranean, particularly in the face of a proposed new air transport tax in the UK. At present the cruise industry is flourishing and has seen significant investment pumped into not only the building of new ships but also the expansion and improvement of port facilities, particularly at The Port of Palma which broke records back in August this year when it handled six large 100,000 tonne cruise vessels, carrying a capacity of around 3,000 passengers.

“Indeed, the Mediterranean has become the second most popular cruise destination worldwide after the Caribbean. The great thing here is that cruise passengers stopping off in Palma, Mallorca can choose from a variety of day trips around the island allowing visitors to explore its many beautiful sights and grab a feeling of life on the island – it’s a great way to persuade visitors that a Mallorcan lifestyle is for them.”

For those who are planning on cruising into Mallorca, Taylor Wimpey España has some superb homes available on the golden island.

Located on the south east coast of Mallorca, very close to the glamorous Marina de Cala D’Or El Puerto II consists of 2 bedroom apartments costing from just €195,000 + NO VAT until 2011. With 3 communal swimming pools available these properties are surrounded by outstanding natural beauty offering various other activities such as water sports, biking and golf in the local area.

Cala Magrana III in Mallorca, situated close to Cala Anguila beach and the marina of Porto Cristo comprises 21 stunning 2 bedroom apartments surrounding a communal garden with a swimming pool. Ground floor apartments have a spacious terrace with a garden for private use while top floor apartments benefit from a private roof terrace, affording a great price of €220,000 + VAT.

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

Have yourself a very Spanish Christmas

by Georgina Spain

 

One thing is guaranteed if you spend Christmas in Spain – it is going to be considerably cheaper for Mum and Dad than it would be in the UK. 
 
It’s not that the Spanish do not celebrate the Christmas period but they haven’t gone mad with the commercialism of the event which will cost on average £437 for Brits taking into account presents, food and alcohol.
 
For Spaniards, Christmas has retained its religious focus with traditional nativity scenes present in most homes, decorations throughout the towns and villages and a general feeling of peace to all men.
 
The ‘stars’ of the Christmas period in Spain are Three Kings, Balthazar, Melchior and Gaspar. Father Christmas and Rudolf play a much smaller part and in times gone past were unheard of. 
 
The Three Kings are the same chaps that are taught in school in here. They saw the star in the West and followed it to Bethlehem – bearing the infamous gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. It is representations of these gifts that are exchanged on January 6th in Spain.
 
British expat Dean Wilkinson has lived in Spain for 12 years; he has often spent his Christmases there as opposed to trekking back to the UK for turkey and perhaps a little more commercialism than he wishes to stomach.
Dean explains:
 
“The Spanish Children do not expect gifts on December 25th, some may receive a few but it will be more of a token gesture while they wait for the big event on January 6th. However there is a general feeling that 6th of January is slightly out of kilter as schools reopen on the 7th and there is no time for enjoying their booty.
 
“For British and other European expats, December the 25th remains the main event but to keep in line with the Spanish tradition they are likely to receive a gesture in January.”
 
Living in Spain and remaining there for the Christmas period is a bit of a treat for Dean Wilkinson. Much as he loves to come home and see his friends and family in Chatham, Kent he prefers to make this journey off-season. Being in the UK is so much more frenetic and stressful at Christmas than in Spain where the pace of life – particularly on the Costa del Sol – is so much more relaxed and gentle. 
 
“The thought of jumping on the M25 or queuing in supermarkets in the UK is not something I miss. I am very lucky to have purchased a fabulous apartment in the hills on the Costa del Sol. I will be enjoying the company of good friends, delicious Spanish food and some ice cold beer on Christmas day this year!” explains Dean.
 
The festive calendar in Spain follows this format:
 
The 21st December marks the shortest day and in many cities this is celebrated with big bonfires where the crowd will be seen jumping through the flames to protect themselves against illness.
 
22nd December is a big day in the Spanish diary as this is the date that the annual Christmas Lottery is drawn – the event takes all day and is a much bigger lottery draw than anything that would be seen in the UK. Not necessarily in value but as a country this is known as ‘the fat one’ (El Gordo) and there is great excitement and ceremony over the whole occasion.
 
Then 24th December is known as Nochebuene – Goodnight. This is a very important family gathering in the social calendar. Families meet together – often in very large numbers – lots of food, cava and festive sweets make this evening stand out. This night is as big in Spain as New Years Eve. As Father Christmas has never traditionally had to make his way down the chimneys of Spanish households there is no need for an early night and celebrations often go on into the early hours of Christmas morning.
 
The 28th December is known in Spain as Santos Inocentes – this translates to Holy Innocents and is our equivalent of April Fools day. Again the Spanish are known to take this event more seriously than in the UK where it is normally the premise of the young to play pranks. In Spain you might find whole communities engaged in activities such as making the Mayor sweep the streets or other such frivolous antics.
 
New Years Eve is a big celebration throughout Spain much as you will see throughout the world. Then the Christmas period culminates with the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6th when the Three Kings arrived in Bethlehem. For Spanish children this is the most important day of the year when they wake up to find that Los Reyes Magos (the Three Kings) have left gifts for them in their house. Three Kings are their favourites, especially Baltasar who rides a donkey and is the one believed to leave the gifts. During the day of 6th the Three Kings continue their good work and are seen distributing gifts to children in hospitals all over Spain.
 
Marc Pritchard, Sales & Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, who lives on the island of Mallorca explains why the festive season in Spain is so special:
 
“I love the deep traditions of a Spanish Christmas but I fear that other European, more commercial influences are starting to creep in. My advice is to come out and experience the tradition for yourself – and sooner the better! We have property available from €114,920at the moment; there has not been a better time to buy in Spain for many years and spending the festive season in the sun with joy and fun of the Spaniards is really something very special.”
 
For more information on having a very Spanish Christmas contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.