From Belfast to Orlando – new Virgin route opens up the Sunshine State to even more visitors amidst tourism boom

From Belfast to Orlando – new Virgin route opens up the Sunshine State to even more visitors amidst tourism boom

by Kate United States
  • Virgin Atlantic launch new flight route connecting Belfast with Orlando
  • Florida tourism on the up: 3.5% increase in tourist figures in 2013, compared to previous year (Visit Florida)
  • Part of positive US story: real GDP in the US is to rise from 2.1% growth in 2013 to 3.0% in 2014 and then by an average of 2.8% annually from 2015 to 2017 (Timetric ‘Travel and Tourism in the US to 2017’ report)

Florida is unquestionably one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, with tourists flocking to its shores for a signature blend of theme parks, championship golf courses, water parks and beaches. And now it is not only this wealth of attributes that are encouraging Northern Ireland holidaymakers to visit the Sunshine State, increased accessibility is today high on the list too.

Major player in the airline industry, Virgin Atlantic, have recently announced a new route that will see flights scheduled between Belfast International Airport and Orlando over June and July, linking Northern Ireland’s largest city with Florida’s top tourist hotspot. A spokesperson for the company also suggested positive ramifications for the establishment of the new route, commenting,

“We keep our flying programme under continuous review and if the new services are a success we could look to continue them in the future.”

And with the seemingly hot tourism market in Florida at the moment, these new routes certainly seem to be on track for recording a great success. Recent figures have shown that Florida’s unending popularity is actually on the increase, with last year a record year for the state’s tourism: Visit Florida reported an increase of 3.5% in tourist numbers in 2013 compared with 2012, bringing the total to 94.7 million visitors. The aim for 2014 is to hit the magical 100 million tourists figure, through the increased access and a whole host of exciting new attractions.

Walt Disney World last month opened its newest attraction, the ‘Seven Dwarfs Mine Train’ in Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom, a ride that will feature animated figures and music from the popular Disney film in a family-roller coaster, and also has big plans in the pipeline for ‘Pandora: The Land of Avatar’, set to open in 2017 amid much furore.

Universal Orlando Resort has followed suit this month with an expansion of the exceptionally popular ‘Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ from its current home at Islands of Adventure to its sister park of Universal Studios Florida, next door. The second site allows visitors to experience a virtual journey on the Hogwarts Express and an ‘Escape from Gringotts’ ride through darkened bank vaults. The new attraction also offers the chance to visit Diagon Alley and its popular shops that include the iconic Ollivanders Wand Shop, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes and Borgin & Burkes, selling objects of dark magic. There is even be the opportunity to sup on a butter beer or two at the famous Leaky Cauldron!

Sure to be met with overwhelming popularity, the new theme park attractions are set to contribute, not only to Florida’s increasing tourist figures, but also, in turn, to the US’ financial recovery in more general terms. And this is something that is looking increasingly healthy. The Timetric ‘Travel and Tourism in the US to 2017’ report forecasts that real GDP in the country is to rise from 2.1% growth in 2013 to 3.0% in 2014 and thereafter by an average of 2.8% annually from 2015 to 2017.

Florida’s increasing popularity is not only excellent news for flight operators and the country’s coffers, it is also ideal for investors in the state’s property sector. Both holiday accommodation and long-term rental accommodation are much in demand. As well as boasting impressive overnight visitor numbers, Florida is also the fourth most populous state in the US (after California, Texas and New York) according to data from the World Atlas.

Philip Button, Managing Director of specialist property investment firm Brookes & Co, which has been sourcing investment property in Florida for UK clients for the past decade, comments,

“Florida’s huge population means that demand for rental accommodation is consistently strong. The changes to the property market over the past six to eight years have also meant that many people have moved from owner occupied accommodation to private rented sector properties. Clearly this creates plentiful opportunities for overseas investors looking to profit from the US market.”

As with any foreign property investment, knowing what, where and when to buy is essential. Brookes & Co’s knack for obtaining this knowledge and turning it into income for its clients has garnered the company an excellent reputation for its Florida opportunities.

The latest – a boutique offering of just 17 exclusive, fully tenanted condos, available from as little as $69,500 – comes at the optimum time for UK investors looking to put their money to work in property. Managed and maintained, with excellent long-term yields, the condos also benefit from the sterling’s current strength against the dollar, which is at a five year high.

To find out more about the US property market, the tenanted condos and the other investments Brookes & Co can source, contact them on 01621 875 925 or info@brookesandco.co.uk or visit www.brookesandco.co.uk

Spa hotels rise in popularity as holidaymakers demand greater ‘wellness’ from their breaks

Spa hotels rise in popularity as holidaymakers demand greater ‘wellness’ from their breaks

by Kate Belize
  • 15.2 million days of work were lost in 2013 due to mental health problems, up from 13.3 million days in 2011 (‘Sickness Absence in the Labour Market’, Office for National Statistics)
  • People demanding greater ‘wellness’ from their holidays, with 82%, wanting a holiday that offers a spa or massage, 73% an eco-property, 82% require nature experiences
  • The Baymen Lodge and Spa offers excellent investment opportunities in boutique eco resort with spa in rainforest surrounds

With working hours ever-increasing and work-life balance issues seemingly growing more and more intense, modern technology has made us a 24/7 contactable generation – using our smart phones to monitor emails on the move, check ourselves in via Facebook, and keep on track with the very latest breaking news on Twitter at the mere touch of an app.

Yet being part of the ‘have it all’ generation comes at a cost. Although technology was originally developed to save us time, it now takes up our time, and this all-consuming lifestyle is beginning to have an effect on our health. The Office for National Statistics revealed in their ‘Sickness Absence in the Labour Market’ report that 15.2 million days of work were lost in 2013 due to mental health problems such as stress, depression and anxiety, up from 13.3 million days in 2011.

Not only affecting people’s mental health in a detrimental way, stress also lowers the body’s ability to fight infection and disease, with a recent study detailing the worrying damage it can cause the heart, which taken alongside the more commonly known effects of digestive and respiratory problems, stress has a wide-ranging negative impact on a person.

For many the solution is to take a holiday, escape from everyday pressures for a week or two, yet the Spafinder Wellness 365’s ‘2014 Trends Forecast’ has shown that 85% of people surveyed returned from their break less rejuvenated than before they left. The answer is to choose the right kind of holiday, one that will allow a true escape and has relaxation at its core.

Wolf Worster, MD of  Wolf Wörster Associates, Inc, a global property consultancy marketing  The Baymen Resort & Spa in Belize’s Cayo region, explains what makes a resort a truly relaxing,

“For me I would say it is the little touches that make a resort totally tranquil – a beautifully designed spa with the very best fittings, the location of the relaxation areas that allow for idyllic views, comfortable sofas in which to flop after a warm day in the sun, the pure waters of an infinity or plunge pool – all adding to the serenity of the surrounds. At The Baymen, all of these aspects are included, and more, offering the ultimate in relaxation for individual owners and those staying as guests.”

The Spafinder Wellness 365 report also confirmed, in response to returning unrefreshed from their holidays, that people were now demanding greater ‘wellness’ from their breaks. 82%, for example, now claim they want a holiday that offers a spa or massage, 73% require an eco-property, and 82% look for nature experiences. All aspects that contribute to the overall relaxation of a resort, The Baymen in Belize ticks all these boxes.

Situated in the lush jungle foliage of a private rainforest location, the eco hotel has been designed to reveal its beauty gradually, encouraging guests to feel immediately tranquil and enthralled by the resort as they are welcomed with a signature cocktail and refreshing chilled towels infused with local organic oil.

From a nature perspective, the majority of the lodge sits among the rainforest canopy, seemingly floating off the ground so guests can truly feel part of the ecosystem, aiding relaxation and a sense of remoteness and of being away from it all, even though the resort is conveniently located 30 minutes away from the town of San Ignacio, which is a short flight from Belize City.

With a breathtaking infinity pool of non- chlorinated pure water that appears to float like a tablet of water suspended in air, providing the chance to watch nature pass by, the pool is located next to the palapa spa, a serene place where guests can be pampered whilst listening to the sound of water gently cascading from the infinity pool into a natural spring. In addition to this, a tranquil series of natural Maya spring plunge pools gently flow down to a stunning natural waterfall, providing a unique experience of natural relaxation unequalled at any other Belizean resort.

Individual residences can be purchased at The Baymen, providing 30 days personal usage a year at either The Baymen or its sister property, The Belize Ocean Club (www.belizeoceanclub.com), along with healthy rental returns throughout the year as the property is run as a boutique hotel. Each residence encompasses the notion of old world colonial charm, with four-poster beds, stunning bathrooms with indoor and outdoor shower areas, and a large outside deck, all utilising natural materials of the highest specification, with prices ranging from $230,000 USD to $460,000 USD.

For more information about The Baymen Lodge and Spa, visit www.thebaymen.com  or contact Wolf Wörster Associates, Inc on free-phone 0808 169 6526 or  info@thebaymen.com

Showing signs of stabilisation: Portuguese property prospects draw attention

Showing signs of stabilisation: Portuguese property prospects draw attention

by Kate Portugal

Portugal is attracting an increasing amount of attention from British investors looking to put their pounds into property. This is perhaps unsurprising given that the Deloitte Property Index Report has just revealed it to be one of the most affordable residential markets in Europe, joining Germany and Denmark as the top three top destinations.

The latest RICS/Ci market report has provided yet more positive news for Portugal, indicating strong signs of stabilisation within the property sector for the first time in four years. The report shows that prices of new homes across Portugal are rising, while resale values are also up in some areas, such as the southernmost Algarve region.

Blessed with 300 days of sunshine per year, the Algarve has long been one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations – affordable accommodation, stunning beaches and delicious local cuisine combine to ensure that millions of passengers pass through the region’s Faro Airport during both the summer and shoulder seasons.

The attractions of the Algarve are such that many towns see their populations quadruple during the summer months. Holiday accommodation is much in demand, particularly in areas such as Quinta de Lago and Vale do Lobo, close to some of the Algarve’s most challenging and visually appealing golf courses.

Ci Spokesman, Ricardo Guimaraes, noted the importance of these seasonal fluctuations in relation to the RICS/Ci May report’s figures,

“The challenge for the market is to consolidate the potential stabilisation which is now being observed by Agents. They report an increasing demand from potential buyers, especially in markets that benefit from seasonal activity, such as the Algarve.”

Property in the Algarve region of Portugal is on average 32% cheaper than it is in the UK, according to listings website Meravista, which, combined with the benefits of the exchange rate, makes investing in Portuguese property an extremely tempting prospect, be it for personal usage as a holiday home or for investment purpose, or a combination of the two.

Philip Button, Managing Director of property investment company, Brookes & Co, explains why they too are turning their thoughts towards Portuguese shores,

“With the property market stabilising in Portugal and prices currently marking it out as one of the cheapest markets in Europe, the time is ripe for investors looking to benefit from Portuguese residential property. This is where Brookes & Co springs into action.

Having kept a close eye on the Portuguese market over recent years, we are pleased to see all the factors coming together to make it ideal for investment. As such, we have worked hard to develop an excellent opportunity for our British clients, for which we are in the final stages of planning and due diligence. Those interested in putting their pounds to good use are encouraged to watch this space for further updates on our upcoming Portuguese offering.”

With low prices that are beginning to show steady increases, now is the time to look to Portugal as Europe’s top property investment hotspot.

For more information, contact Brookes & Co on 01621 875 925 or info@brookesandco.co.uk, visit www.brookesandco.co.uk or meet the team online.

Rebranding Albania: Europe’s hot new destination?

Rebranding Albania: Europe’s hot new destination?

by Kate Albania
  • Albanian government launch ‘Branding Albania’ competition to promote country as a top tourist destination
  • StrawberryFrog announced as winning agency with their ‘Go Your Own Way’ campaign
  • Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa destination of choice, working hard to dispel myths surrounding Albania and host top journalists

For many decades, Albania was not considered a tourist destination. Although situated just 45 miles from the eternally-popular coast of Italy, this South-Eastern European country was considered a world away. With a recent history peppered with the restrictions that come from living under communist rule, travel to Albania has been limited in recent years and its shores have remained largely undiscovered by the wider world.

General opinion of the country wasn’t high: it was a world of unknown, looked upon somewhat negatively and not considered a to-visit destination. Yet it is clear that this tide is now turning.

In April this year, the Albanian government launched ‘Branding Albania’, a national competition that would see organisations competing to come up with a winning logo, slogan and, importantly, a strategy for the future, to promote the country to a wider audience and place it firmly and confidently on a worldwide stage,

“This is a project that will change the image of our country in a radical way, in a way that will reflect the energy and vitality of our people, the great potential our country has to develop, Albanians’ hospitality, our rich culture and extraordinary historical heritage, our amazing places and landscapes… Our intent is to launch a new image of Albania and its touristic potential: Albania as a gateway for foreign investments in the Balkans, Albania as a factor of stability, security and peace in the region, Albania as a European country.”

This positive move by the country’s leadership for “Next Generation Albania” showed recognition of the untapped potential and the importance of tourism to Albania’s future, a bold move that received a great response. Eventual winners of the competition were StrawberryFrog, becoming Albania’s newly appointed global creative agency, tasked with the job of building the brand.

Scott Goodson, Founder of StrawberryFrog, expresses their delight at being chosen,

“We are excited to be working with the government and people of Albania to help build its brand and in the process propel it to the forefront destination among the world’s travellers and those seeking the world’s most extraordinary, most pristine, most authentic European destinations. There is nothing else like Albania. As one of the world’s most respected agencies, we are in the process of finalizing a disruptive strategy and brilliant creative work that will help Albania be recognized for all the wonderful and inspiring experiences.”

As StrawberryFrog have expressed, there is a large amount of untapped potential within Albania’s previously-veiled treasures, and from a rich history to unspoilt beaches to expansive mountains, Albania’s untamed beauty is beginning to turn heads.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, agrees,

“Albania truly deserves the title of ‘the hidden gem of the Adriatic’, with so much to offer visitors and investors alike. However the rebranding of the country by StrawberryFrog marks an exciting time in developing the country’s currently greatly untapped potential and the agency’s winning slogan of ‘Go Your Own Way’ encapsulates the concept of the many and varied reasons people will fall in love with Albania if they visit. As part of the movement to overthrow common misconceptions about modern day Albania, through developing the country’s first high-end resort, I am proud to say that the future is certainly bright for this beautiful country.”

Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa has actively worked over recent years to dispel the myths surrounding Albania and open the eyes of the wider world to the country’s bounteous charms. Hosting national and international journalists, inviting them to see ‘behind the iron curtain’ and featuring in a wide variety of media, the development has made considerable progress.

Helped by the recent announcement that Albania has been granted EU candidacy, following their original request to join the European Union in 2009, interest is today being piqued in holiday homes and investment properties in the country, with the 5 star Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa being top of the wishlist.

Situated just 30 minutes from Tirana’s airport on a beautiful sandy beach, Lalzit Bay offers a range of 1 or 2 bedroom apartments and 3 or 4 bedroom villas with private pools, inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Properties are built at low density and to the highest of standards, and all have access to first-class facilities, including a beach club, range of top restaurants and bars, tennis courts and boutique shops.

Prices range from €35,000 to €360,000. For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa on +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

‘Happy Independence Day!’ US proves hot property this Fourth of July as real estate market registers positive growth

‘Happy Independence Day!’ US proves hot property this Fourth of July as real estate market registers positive growth

by Kate United States
  • Sales of US existing homes up 4.9% and pending homes up 6% in May 2014, compared to April figures (National Association of Realtors (NAR))
  • Forecasts of 5-6% property price growth for 2014 and 3-5% for 2015 (NAR)
  • Foreclosures offer excellent opportunity to invest at far lower rates, which Brookes & Co are currently offering to market

With strains of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ infusing the air and the traditional fireworks lighting up the night skies, the Fourth of July may be a national holiday for people in the United States to pause and reflect upon their independence, but one arena where there has certainly been no pausing in recent months is in the country’s real estate industry.

In their ‘Housing Market Forecast’, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealed that sales of existing homes were up, marking a real rise of 4.9% in May 2014 in the number of homes sold when compared to April. Alongside this there was also an increase of 6% in the number of pending homes sold in the same period.

This positive growth is a big step forward for a market that triggered the property crash that spread its effect globally from 2008, forcing people to drastically tighten their belts and the market to shrink dramatically. Yet with sparks being shown in property sales figures for recent months, upcoming forecasts are also looking healthy, marking important upward movement.

The NAR are forecasting Median Price Growth of between 5-6% for 2014, with an increase of 3-5% for 2015, steady figures that prove growing confidence in the market, at more manageable levels than the booming figures of the 11.5% growth recorded in 2013, fuelled by a lack of housing stock.

As the report explains, there is a great deal of potential remaining in the US,

“The housing market is beginning to roar back… there is sizable pent-up housing demand looking to emerge. The timing is uncertain. But the pent-up demand implies home sales have much room to rise over the next few years.”

Although RealtyTrac have shown in their ‘May 2014 Residential & Foreclosure Sales Report’ that it is the sale of higher end properties that are currently registering the highest percentage change in terms of their share of total property sales, year-on-year, at the other end of the market there is a different kind of potential.

Since the market crash of six years ago, one arena which has witnessed great potential for investors is the sale of foreclosures, or distressed assets. Asking prices for these properties, sometimes in a state of neglect and in need of much work, is far below that of standard properties – RealtyTrac recently revealed that the average price of a US foreclosed property was 37% lower than a standard property, at $120,000 compared to $190,000. These properties make up just over 14% of the US housing stock (as of May 2014) and offer an excellent opportunity for those looking to make a profit.

Philip Button, Managing Director of property investment company, Brookes & Co, explains,

“With the US market showing signs of improvement, now might just be the ideal time to invest and one option looking attractive is that of foreclosed properties. According to RealtyTrac, the popular Sunshine State of Florida holds a third of the US’ inventory of empty foreclosures, four-times more than New York, and within an improving market, not to mention the 5 and a half year high of Sterling against the US Dollar, now is a fantastic time to buy.”

Today it is not just Independence Day that the US should be celebrating; it is the positive signs of growth in the property industry and the potential being offered to overseas investors that should be helping the American flag to fly proudly at full mast.

For more information on investing in the US, contact Brookes & Co on 01621 875 925 or info@brookesandco.co.uk, or visit the website www.brookesandco.co.uk

New Slovenian flights to boost Albania’s accessibility as tourism thrives

New Slovenian flights to boost Albania’s accessibility as tourism thrives

by Kate Albania
  • Adria Airways to launch routes connecting Tirana, Albania with Paris and Brussels
  • Slovenian-Albanian relations strengthen with meeting between country ministers
  • Albanian Visitor Exports up 6.4% in 2014, heralding tourism growth (World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) ‘Travel & Tourism Economic Impact 2014’ report)

Increasing numbers of visitors are likely to be setting their sights on the hidden gem of Albania from next year following the announcement that accessibility will be further improved from key European destinations.

Slovenian national carrier, Adria Airways, recently announced plans to expand its flight plan with the addition of new routes from 2015 that will connect the capital of Tirana with the popular, and populous, north European capital cities of Paris and Brussels.

The announcement comes as part of the company’s wider strategy to continue the expansion of routes to and from the Albanian destination that is increasingly becoming top of many to-visit lists. This spring already saw Adria Airways launching direct flights linking Tirana with Frankfurt, making the very most of its relatively recent launch of a base in the Albanian capital.

And this is not the only way in which Slovenia-Albania relations are looking to strengthen in the near future. Just this month Albanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ditmir Bushati, met with Karl Erjavec, his Slovenian equivalent, to discuss ways to develop economic cooperation between the two European countries. As part of the visit Erjavec was heard to express that the relationship between the two countries was flourishing, also backing Albania’s EU accession plans.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, reiterates this view,

“Albania has worked really hard as a nation to meet the conditions for accession into the EU and it is hoped to be firmly on the cards for this wonderful Balkan nation, especially following the news of EU candidacy having been confirmed. Becoming part of the EU will not only help with the country’s economy as a whole, it is sure to also draw more and more people to Albania’s sun-drenched shores to discover the wealth of natural treasures the country has to offer: from unspoilt beaches with golden sands and azure waters, to breathtaking mountain ranges and a fascinating history just waiting to be discovered, there is something for every visitor.”

It certainly seems that increasing numbers are visiting the picturesque country that sits just 45 miles across the waters from Italian shores. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) ‘Travel & Tourism Economic Impact 2014’ report for Albania showed that spending within the country by international tourists (known as Visitor Exports) is forecast to grow by 6.3% in 2014, showing that tourism is becoming an increasingly important sector within the country.

This positivity is not set to be a flash in the pan either with the report also predicting growth in Visitor Exports of 5.6% annually until 2024, heralding a prosperous future for Albania, one which many are beginning to realise they too can take their part in. Investing in property in the country is a key way that is allowing people to make the most of the climate of growth, whilst also taking advantage of the beauty of Albania for themselves.

The luxurious Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa is a 5-star resort just 30 minutes from Tirana’s airport, capitalising on the growing connecting routes, and offering the spectacular combination of a stunning location and first-class facilities. Situated on a beautiful sanded beach, properties are built at low density and to the highest of standards, with access to a beach club, range of top restaurants and bars, tennis courts and boutique shops.

Ranging from 1 or 2 bedroom apartments to 3 or 4 bedroom villas with private pools, properties are inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Prices range from £35,000 to £290,000. For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on + 44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

Albania granted EU candidacy spelling good news for country’s tourism and property markets

Albania granted EU candidacy spelling good news for country’s tourism and property markets

by Kate Albania

Today it was announced by the European Union that Albania has been granted EU candidacy, an extremely positive sign for the future of this south-eastern European country.

Announced on Twitter by EU Enlargement Commissioner, Stefan Fuele, following a meeting in Luxembourg, the newly appointed status sets Albania on the road to full EU membership in the coming years. The announcement also recognises the hard work put in by the Albanian government, newly elected in September, to reach this point, as recognised by Fuele,

“Albania congratulations on candidate status just agreed by Ministers: acknowledgement of reform efforts, encouragement for more.”

Such efforts continue to establish the country as a major player in the region, in line with its Balkan brothers of Croatia and Bulgaria who have already been granted EU membership, and along with Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia who have also been granted candidacy.

Providing a sense of reassurance that Albania will continue to surge forward in terms of its economy, political stability and fight against crime and corruption, today’s announcement is good news for residents and tourists alike.

Peter Walshe, Marketing Director for Albania’s first high-end resort Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa explains,

“What fantastic news that Albania has today been officially recognised as a candidate for the EU! It does, however, come as no surprise to me as there have been prodigious efforts made in recent times to achieve this longed-for goal, with the country making great leaps forward.

“This announcement will certainly pave the way for a bright future for beautiful Albania, bringing much-deserved recognition within the wider European community and encouraging more people to discover all that this hidden gem has to offer.”

2014 was already predicted to see an increase of 5.5% in the direct contribution of travel and tourism to Albania’s GDP (according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s ‘Travel & Tourism Economic Impact’ report for the country) and the news of candidacy to the European Union can only add to this growth further still. This, in turn, heralds an optimistic future for the Balkan country, of prosperity and popularity, as a to-visit destination.

The reassurance that today’s announcement gives will also inspire erudite buyers to see that now is the time to invest in Albania’s property market. The luxurious Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa offers a stand-out Albanian property option, with 5-star facilities and homes built by award-winning architects, whilst also keeping in line with Albania’s affordability.

A range of 1 or 2 bedroom apartments and 3 or 4 bedroom villas with private pools are available, with properties inspired by California’s elegant and modern beachfront houses. Prices range from £35,000 to £290,000. For more information contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on + 44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com.

Discovering paradise: Increasing numbers of tourists uncover Belize treasures

Discovering paradise: Increasing numbers of tourists uncover Belize treasures

by Kate Belize
  • Belize ranked second fastest growing Caribbean tourist destination (Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO))
  • 11.6% increase in tourist numbers in February 2014, compared to previous year (Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO))
  • Travel & Tourism expected to contribute an additional 4.1% to Belize’s GDP in 2014

A naturally beautiful, near-magical place, of exotic black orchids, mysterious Mayan history and the flaming colours of wild toucans and scarlet macaws, Belize is undoubtedly magnetising. Yet, it remains one of the final unspoilt jewels in Central America’s crown.

The country, which ranges around 20,000 km², is known for its diversity of flora and fauna that is second to none and makes for an enthralling experience. Spanning rich rainforests – home to tapirs who swim in the rivers and colourful motmots who dot the trees – and near-endless barrier reefs – the longest in the world – it is no surprise that Belize is growing in popularity as a to-visit destination.

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) recently released figures showing Belize coming in at second place on the list of fastest growing tourist destinations in the Caribbean in the first quarter of 2014, behind only the Turks and Caicos Islands. The country registered 32,712 tourist arrivals in February, an impressive increase of 11.6% in the number of people discovering Belizean treasures on the same month the previous year.

This healthy growth was complemented by interesting figures, also released by the CTO, which broke these arrivals down in terms of the main markets that were visiting. These figures showed an increase of 11% in US visitor numbers in the first quarter of 2014 as well as a vast growth of 26.6% in visitors from Europe.

Wolf Worster, MD of  Wolf Wörster Associates, Inc, a global property consultancy marketing  The Baymen Resort & Spa in Belize’s Cayo region, gives his take on Belize’s charms,

“Belize really is an outstanding country with the most breathtaking of landscapes and intriguing species, it has a great deal to offer the keen visitor, and it is no surprise that numbers of these are growing as more and more people explore its hidden treasures.

In this context, The Baymen, set within the beautiful Belizean jungle, is being developed to take full advantage of the incredible environment in which it is set, incorporating a natural waterfall and Mayan spring-fed plunge pools, whilst at the same being virtually carbon neutral, with outstanding eco credentials. Providing tourism is handled carefully and resorts are sympathetic to the rich flora and fauna of Belize in this way, the increase in tourism can only be a good thing for the region.”

And this certainly seems to be the case. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) released their recent Travel & Tourism Economic Impact report for Belize that showed that travel and tourism contributed 13.5% to the country’s GDP in 2013, a figure they predicted would rise by 4.1% in 2014. This is also not only an immediate trend, with the report also forecasting an even higher 4.4% annual rise in the direct contribution of travel and tourism to Belize’s GDP from 2014 to 2024.

As claimed by Worster, this would be a positive result for the country, with the WTTC predicting an additional 10,000 jobs being generated in the Belizean travel and tourism sector in the next decade, benefitting the wider community.

The Baymen Resort and Spa is a rainforest home that makes the very most of its unique setting amongst the lush vegetation of the Belizean jungle. The majority of the lodge sits amongst the rainforest canopy seemingly floating off the ground to give the feeling of being a part of the ecosystem. It also boasts stunning features that include a suspended infinity pool, a palapa spa and even a natural wine cave.

Each individual residence encompasses the notion of old world colonial charm, with four-poster beds, stunning bathrooms with indoor and outdoor shower areas, and a large outside deck, all utilising natural materials of the highest specification, with prices ranging from $230,000 USD to $460,000 USD.

Investment in The Baymen provides 30 days personal usage a year at either The Baymen or its sister property, The Belize Ocean Club (www.belizeoceanclub.com), along with healthy rental returns throughout the year as the property is run as a boutique hotel.

For more information about The Baymen Lodge and Spa, visit www.thebaymen.com or contact Wolf Wörster Associates, Inc on free-phone 0808 169 6526 or  info@thebaymen.com

Birmingham property demand soars as Deutsche Bank opens new “centre of excellence” with 1,000 local staff

Birmingham property demand soars as Deutsche Bank opens new “centre of excellence” with 1,000 local staff

by Kate United Kingdom

Voted a ‘Destination of the Future’ by fDi Intelligence (The Financial Times), Birmingham is one of the highest performing cities in all of Europe and the third most globally influential city in the UK (after London and Manchester).

A hub of international investment and industry, Birmingham is undergoing massive regeneration and offers a high quality of life at an affordable price. It is no wonder that over a million people choose Birmingham as their home and a further 150,000 are expected to join the burgeoning population by 2031.

Deutsche Bank’s “new centre of excellence”

Now banking giant Deutsche Bank has announced it will move into a large new office at Five Brindleyplace, the multi-million pound flagship development in the desirable Brindleyplace estate. This move will deliver one of the biggest ever employment boosts in the city’s finance sector, as one thousand new employees join the bank’s existing one thousand strong Birmingham workforce.

These local employment figures show a massive growth considering Deutsche Bank started out with just thirty staff when it moved to Birmingham under a decade ago and the bank says the Brindleyplace office will become “a new centre of excellence” for the firm.

Richard McCarthy, managing director and site head for Deutsche Bank in Birmingham, tells us: “Five Brindleyplace is an excellent building in an outstanding location on the estate and will be an aspirational place in which to work. Brindleyplace has a real sense of community and its connection to the main transport hubs enables us to both attract and retain the very best talent.”

Housing demand soars by two-thirds in one year

The financial sector in Birmingham is certainly strong, being the second largest in the UK outside of London and expected to grow on average by 3.5 per cent per year for the next five years. The move by Deutsche Bank is another great reflection of the city’s international and commercial status and impressive talent pool.

That talent pool needs somewhere to live though and the city’s increasing popularity is causing a massive imbalance between supply and demand. Demand for homes in Birmingham has soared by two-thirds in a year – six times greater than the growth in supply. The city is also outstripping the region in rising house prices too, with an 11 per cent annual rise compared to an average of 8 per cent across the West Midlands.

Ian Simmonds, area director at local estate agent Shipways, explains: “Supply is increasing, up 11 per cent year on year, but it is not keeping up with the increase in demand. There are now over five potential buyers for every available property and it is this imbalance which keeps pushing prices up by 8 per cent annually.”

52 per cent rise in direct foreign investment means 4,000 new jobs

Certainly, the opening of flagship offices from Deutsche Bank and other international industry activity have boosted foreign direct investment. In fact, Birmingham has seen a 52 per cent rise in direct foreign investment in 2012 and 2013, opening up more than 4,000 local jobs.

Residential regeneration of landmark buildings

In addition to commercial developments like Brindleyplace, residential development is also on the up in Birmingham – partly to try and assist supply and partly thanks to citywide regeneration schemes. The historical 20 storey Metropolitan House, also known as No 1 Hagley Road, is one such project.

Designed by renowned local architect John Madin, this 1970s modernist building is being converted into high spec residential apartments as part of the £100 million redevelopment of the Five Ways area.

Set in a prime location on one of the main arterial routes into the city, this landmark building will become an iconic part of Birmingham’s skyline.

Property Frontiers are able to offer apartments at No 1 Hagley Road for as little as £104,500 with guaranteed returns of 7%; get in touch today on +44 1865 202 700 to find out more or visit www.propertyfrontiers.com.

New WTTC report confirms Grenada as a golden opportunity in the globe’s fastest growing sector

New WTTC report confirms Grenada as a golden opportunity in the globe’s fastest growing sector

by Kate Grenada
  • Travel and Tourism sector accounted for 9.5% of global GDP in 2013 (WTTC)
  • Grenada to attract 120,000 international tourists in 2014, rising to 175,000 by 2024 (WTTC)
  • ‘Spice Island’ to host 2014 Cricket Caribbean Premier League starting on 11th July 2014

The just-released World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) report, in conjunction with research partner Oxford Economics, heralds ongoing good news for the global tourism sector and, in particular, Grenada in the Caribbean.

Travel and Tourism the fastest growing sector in the world

According to the report, 2013 proved to be another successful year for the Travel and Tourism industry as a whole, with the sector’s contribution to global GDP growing for the fourth consecutive year. In 2013 the Travel and Tourism sector contributed a significant 9.5% of global GDP ($7 trillion USD). This both outpaced the wider economy and also showed growth which was faster than any other notable sectors, including financial and business services, transport and manufacturing. In total, nearly 266 million jobs were supported by Travel and Tourism in 2013, constituting one in eleven of all the positions in the world.

This ongoing rise is said to be helped especially by strong demand from international travellers. Visitor exports (the measure of money spent by these international tourists) rose by 3.9% at a global level year on year to USD $1.3 trillion; and over 10% within South East Asia. Growth in demand from emerging markets continues with pace, as large rising middle-classes, especially from Asia and Latin America, are willing and more able than ever to travel both within and beyond their borders.

Forecasts remain positive for the next decade

The outlook for 2014 remains positive, with Travel and Tourism GDP growth forecast to reach 4.3%. This is largely driven by higher consumer spending as the recovery from recession gathers pace. Tourists are expected to spend more per trip and stay longer on their holidays in 2014. Profitability for travel companies (and other associated businesses) should also start to edge upwards, bringing further opportunities for new job creation. This good news looks set to continue for the next ten years, with predicted growth rates of over 4% annually.

Grenada continues to shine

In Grenada, specifically, the predicted figures are up slightly to a higher-than-average 4.5% per year, representing a significant 55% ten year growth. Grenada also continues to be forecast as the third fastest developing country in the Caribbean for tourism, behind St. Lucia and St. Kitts & Nevis. Grenada is expected to attract 120,000 international tourists in 2014, with this figure rising to 175,000 by 2024.

The island of Grenada is definitely attracting an increasing amount of interest, from investors and the Travel and Tourism sector alike. In addition to its stunning, internationally acclaimed beaches (including Grand Anse, Petite Anse, Morne Rouge Bay, La Sagesse and Gouyave Bay to name but a few), the Isle of Spice is fast becoming a hotspot for sporting events.

‘Pure Grenada’ becomes a sporting Mecca

Already well regarded as a world class sailing destination (Island Water World Grenada Sailing Week), Grenada has now been named host to the Caribbean Premier League opener for cricket. The Guyana Amazon Warriors and Antigua Hawksbills will contend the opening fixture of this year’s Caribbean Premier League at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada on 11th July.

Grenada has also been chosen as host venue for the 2016 CARIFTA Games, the annual athletics competition founded by the Caribbean Free Trade Association. St. Kitts will host the 2015 fixture. Grenada won its 2016 host position over Turks and Caicos Islands, St Lucia and The Bahamas. A brand new, Chinese government funded, athletics and football stadium is under construction especially for the forthcoming event.

Investment opportunities as golden as the beaches

Ray Withers, CEO of Property Frontiers, comments: “It’s great to see Grenada attracting so much positive attention. The World Travel and Tourism Council report says “If the right steps are taken, Travel and Tourism can be a true force for good” and I couldn’t agree more. This is particularly true in emerging markets which offer favourable business climates and incentives for investors – such as Grenada, which is tipped to be the fastest growing market in the Caribbean between 2011 and 2021.”

He continues: “The appeal of Grenada is clear. It is less spoiled that some of its more popular neighbouring islands and, from an investment perspective, it gives you affordable entry into a luxury Caribbean market while also taking advantage of its emerging economy status and booming tourism trade. Add in currently favourable foreign exchange rates and Grenada offers investment opportunities as golden as its glorious beaches.”

Get in touch with Property Frontiers on +44 1865 202 700 or visit www.propertyfrontiers.com to find out more about investing in the Caribbean and how you can gain an average yield of 10.5% net pa from a 5* sea view hotel suite in the glorious Bacolet Bay Beach Resort in Grenada.