Award-winning Italian beaches increase in number with announcement of Blue Flag 2015 Awards

Award-winning Italian beaches increase in number with announcement of Blue Flag 2015 Awards

by Kate Italy
  • Number of Blue Flag beaches in Italy increases to 280 (FEE)
  • Le Marche region home to 17 of the cleanest Italian beaches (FEE)
  • Le Marche’s Petritoli 20 mins from three Blue Flag beaches and home to Appassionata’s Casa Tre Archi

The number of Italian beaches granted the prestigious international Blue Flag award has this year grown to 280. An increase of an impressive 11 beaches on 2014, when 269 met the strict requirements, those granted the accolade by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) are recognised as those locations with the very cleanest waters and the most pristine of sands.

Taking third place in this important listing, behind the more tourist-centric regions of Liguria (with 23) and Tuscany (with 18), is the somewhat more undiscovered region of Le Marche, a location that, although growing in popularity, manages to retain a true sense of authentic Italia. Having been granted Bandiera Blu, or Blue Flag, awards for 17 of their beaches for two years in a row, this is set to further increase the popularity of the beautiful region with visiting tourists and holiday home buyers alike.

Dawn Cavanagh-Hobbs, Founder of fractional ownership company Appassionata, whose latest project Casa Tre Archi is located in Le Marche’s beautiful hilltop town of Petritoli, comments,

“The stunning Le Marche region in which we have renovated a number of beautiful properties, including Casa Tre Archi, and that we are also lucky enough to call home, boasts 180km of Adriatic coastline, all of which is eye-catching and some of which is the proud recipient of the prestigious Blue Flag award. With it being said that the granting of such an accolade can increase regional tourism by some 35%, this can only spell good things for a region that has so very much to offer to visitors, locals and those looking to purchase a base for their holidays in the wonderful Italy.”

As Dawn references, from Petritoli’s hilltop position, three of Le Marche’s Blue Flag beaches are within easy reach, all less than a twenty minute drive away. Of Fermo’s four beaches referenced by the 2015 awards, both Porto San Giorgio and Pedaso are easily reached by car from Petritoli, joining the commune of Ascoli Piceno’s three, one of which, Grottammare, is close by too.

Many of the coasts’ golden sandy beaches are protected by small rocky breakwaters, making the sun-kissed Adriatic waters safe for all the family to swim in and for those looking for something a little more adventurous, there are various water sports on offer, from sailing to windsurfing, scuba diving to fishing.

With Petritoli being one such standout hilltop town, Appassionata’s Casa Tre Archi is built into the ancient walls of the town, with the traditional rough-hewn brickwork a unique and beautiful feature of the lounge which, like all of the townhouse, is impeccably attired with furniture and fittings individually-sourced locally to provide a luxurious but homely feel.

The 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom property enjoys outdoor space on three levels and even has a spectacular 50m² roof terrace with views across Petritoli, the rolling countryside, and sea views, making the very most of the region’s award-winning coastline. With beamed ceilings and traditional terracotta floors, Casa Tre Archi is ideally situated close to shops, restaurants and cafes too.

The property is offered as part of a fractional ownership scheme and shares of 1/10th of the property, offering five weeks’ exclusive use annually, are available from £70,000.

For more information, contact Appassionata on +39 33154 13225 or visit www.appassionata.com.

Inside Spain’s economy – what’s really going on?

Inside Spain’s economy – what’s really going on?

by Kate Spain
  • Spain to achieve annual growth of 30% (Newton)
  • Unemployment down 2.7% in April (Labour Ministry)
  • 2015 to be ‘pivotal year’ for Spanish property market (PERE)

After years of gloom, the headlines are suddenly full of news about Spain’s bright future. Economic growth projections have been revised upward by Fitch, while Spain has been affirmed at a BBB+ rating. According to the data reviewed by Fitch, Spain’s growth in Q4 2014 reached 2% – higher than that of Germany and out-performing the Eurozone as a whole. Newton Investment Management has even noted that some analysts are predicting Spain to achieve annual growth of 30% over the coming years, making it the largest economy in Europe.

Even the unemployment rate looks to be headed in the right direction, with April seeing a record fall of 2.7%. But for those living and working inside the Spanish economy, is the picture as rosy as the current headlines would seem to imply?

“Well, yes and no!” comments Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España. “Unemployment has fallen sharply, but still stood at 23.8% for the first quarter of the year – so that’s more than one in five people who want to work yet can’t. It’s a stark figure, but actually there does seem to be a sense that the country has turned the corner, certainly among those who run businesses here.

“Economic recovery from a crash as spectacular as those that happened around the globe during the 2007/08 financial crisis is a long and slow process, but it looks like Spain now has the building blocks that it needs in place in order to expand and achieve stability once more. It’s a country on the brink of great things – we’re not quite there yet, but we’re certainly headed in the right direction.”

Such a position creates a wealth of opportunities for investors and in particular for property investors, who have watched as Spain’s prices dropped to an average of 40% below pre-crisis values, waiting for the perfect moment to step in and snap up bargains.

The PERE Real Estate Investment in Spain and Southern Europe’s opening statement says it all,

“The Spanish economy is growing at its fastest pace since 2008. With unemployment falling, consumer spending increasing and property prices on average 40% below what they were before the start of the crisis, 2015 is set to be a pivotal year for Spain’s property markets.”

Tourism and tourist properties, from hotels to second homes, are a core component of the Spanish market and strongly reflective of visitors’ confidence in what Spain has to offer. According to the Minister for Industry, tourism-based employment has posted the highest figures on record every month since May 2014.

“Visitors are back in their droves,” confirms Taylor Wimpey España’s Marc Pritchard. “We’ve noticed a real peak in those looking to buy a second home in Spain and Mallorca in particular is attracting a lot of interest right now.”

Taylor Wimpey España knows the island’s property market well. Their developments there range from key-ready apartments at Cala Magrana III for €230,000, to exclusive frontline townhouses for €560,000 at Cala Magrana Mar. Both sites offer idyllic locations close to some of the island’s best beaches, as well as featuring the signature Taylor Wimpey España combination of outside terraces, pretty communal grounds and well-proportioned swimming pool.

So are Spain’s hard times firmly in the past?

“Not yet, but we’re getting there,” concludes Pritchard. “Rebuilding a stable and prosperous economy isn’t easy but we are persevering and Spain can finally see a much brighter future on the not-too-distant horizon.”

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

Magna Carta celebrations to be held on the historic meadows of Runnymede

Magna Carta celebrations to be held on the historic meadows of Runnymede

by Kate United Kingdom
  • Magna Carta 800th year celebrations to be held on 15th June
  • Runnymede, Surrey marks the spot where the Magna Carta was signed in 1215
  • Barton Wyatt reflects on this historical significance of Surrey

It is hard to picture England in 1215.  Knights in armour, poverty, castles and mud dwellings all spring to mind but one spot that has remained relatively unchanged over the centuries is ‘the meadow which is called Runnymede, between Windsor and Staines.’  These words are lifted straight from the infamous charter – the Magna Carta.

Runnymede came close to having major development undertaken in 1929 but thankfully the application was denied and the meadows remain intact for all to enjoy today.  Now the property of The National Trust, it is in safe hands and will remain as such ad infinitum.

Monday 15th June marks the 800th year since the signing of the Magna Carta at Runnymede with an official ceremony and some 4,500 guests attending. Tickets for the event sold out a long time ago as local resident James Wyatt, owner of prime Surrey estate agency Barton Wyatt, comments,

“It was extraordinary, these tickets sold like hotcakes. Before we had a chance to consider purchasing a number the Americans had got in there and bought the lot!  Half the tickets have gone to our friends over the Pond!”

The official celebrations will also be shown on big screens a short distance away, so those keen to be a part of this extraordinary historical event can still participate.

The afternoon of 15 June will be an informal family picnic affair, which many members of the local community attending.  Boat rides will be running after 2pm across the river to Ankerwycke, just as the emissaries from the Royal Camp attacked back and forth to the Barons Camp 800 years ago.  Here visitors will be able to visit contemporary British artist Hew Locke’s new Magna Carta Memorial.

On the weekend leading up to this important event a grand Pageant is being organised on the River Thames.  This fabulous flotilla of boats is to be led by Gloriana, the Queen’s Row Barge.  The boats will assemble on the River Thames and make its way from near the Thameside village of Hurley to Runnymede. This stretch of the River Thames provides plenty of viewing opportunities for the pageant, including Boveney Lock, Eton Dorney, Windsor Bridge and Windsor Great Park.

Many will also be keen to get a glimpse of a new statue of HRH Queen Elizabeth II which is being erected to mark the significance of this event. The 4m bronze sculpture will be situated beside the River Thames at Runnymede and shows the Queen dressed in full ceremonial attire of the Order of the Garter. The unveiling of the statue will coincide with a wonderful Thames River Pageant.

Wyatt says:

“I feel sure this is why so many international guests are coming to the ceremony.  We Brits seriously know how to put on a show and I imagine that this will be one that King John would have been very impressed with!”

The Magna Carta and its significance has been cited by world leaders such as Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. It is one of the safeguards of freedom and is as important today as it was in 1215. It formed the modern-day legal system and has extremely powerful chapters on preventing imprisonment without trial and guaranteeing justice.

For residents of Surrey it is a time to reflect on the importance of the area in which they live. James Wyatt considers:

“It is very easy in our busy lives to forget our history and live just for today.  I feel incredibly privileged to live and work in an area that is immersed in so much history, whether I’m driving to the ancient village of Thorpe which features in the Domesday Book, or walking with my children through Windsor Great Park, which was once part of a vast Norman hunting forest, or indeed meeting a client for lunch in Great Fosters, one of Henry VIII’s lodges, we are surrounded by history.

“Many of our clients are from overseas and are attracted to North Surrey because of its superb transport links, choice of international schools and the fact there is already an enclave of other overseas residents living in harmony. They don’t come here for history and the Magna Carta but boy are they blown away when they realise where they have actually moved to!”

For more details on property in the historic Runnymede area contact Barton Wyatt on 01344 843 000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk

ABPM marks 10th anniversary with appointment by Quintain

ABPM marks 10th anniversary with appointment by Quintain

by Kate United Kingdom
  • Leading property public relations agency appointed to represent residential offering at Wembley Park
  • Central London based ABPM undertaking Public Relations and Social Media activities

 Leading property PR agency, AB Property Marketing Ltd is delighted to be marking the company’s 10th anniversary with an appointment by London-based property investment and development company, Quintain.

Central London based ABPM will represent the auspicious developer’s residential offering, North West Village, in a Public Relations and Social Media capacity.

Located in the heart of Wembley Park, North West Village is a brand new development of high quality new homes, private gardens, parks & outstanding facilities and a cornerstone of Quintain’s impressive masterplan.

Already a huge success, the luxury apartments of the current phase, Emerald Gardens, are 90% sold with the next exciting phase due to be launched later this year.

Due to their superb location in North West London, quality design and finish, not to mention onsite facilities, the apartments of North West Village hold broad appeal with young professional renters as well as first time buyers, second steppers, investors and overseas buyers looking for an affordable London pied-a-terre. Available units start at £366,000.

MD of AB Property Marketing Ltd and Wembley born and bred, Charlotte Ashton, comments on the appointment,

“I am absolutely thrilled by this appointment by Quintain. Not only does it mark a major milestone for ABPM but is also very rewarding for me personally to be involved in promoting the area in which I was born and grew up.

“The changes at Wembley Park over the last 10 years are incredible; the investment in new facilities and infrastructure modernisation is impressive yet the warm Wembley community feeling I remember as a child still remains.”

For journalists interested in finding out more about the changing face of Wembley Park and the residential offering at North West Village, ABPM is able to arrange exclusive on-site visits including the new show apartments, supply expert market commentary, case studies, high resolution imagery and share the very latest property specifications, availability and pricing.

Charlotte and the ABPM team can be contacted for any of the above information on charlotte@abpropertymarketing.co.uk or +44 845 054 7524.

New Urban Settlers flock to Manchester’s private rented sector

New Urban Settlers flock to Manchester’s private rented sector

by Kate United Kingdom
  • Nurbs drive demand for luxury apartments in Manchester (Property Frontiers)
  • Economy driving strong growth in number of renters (Experian)
  • Manchester’s population up 19% (Census data)

For several decades, English cities enjoyed a pattern of incoming young professionals renting property, moving up the career ladder and then buying a home of their own. However, a woeful lack of housing, mortgages that are increasingly hard to obtain and rising prices have caused the pattern to change. Now, these New Urban Settlers move to the city, rent a property, climb the career ladder… then rent steadily more luxurious properties. For many, buying is simply out of the question.

“With money harder to borrow, larger deposits required, a lack of affordable housing and the impact of the economic downturn, one of the biggest changes we have seen is a strong growth in the number of people renting,” comments Richard Jenkings, senior consultant at Experian Marketing Services.

Experian’s research has shown the rise of these New Urban Settlers, known as Nurbs. They are up-and-coming professionals who demand high end accommodation in good locations. In the South, they flock to the Home Counties, while in the North they head to Manchester. Indeed, Manchester has enjoyed a 19% increase in population over the past ten years and Nurbs are leading the field.

Manchester’s Nurbs are driving demand for luxury apartments in the city, explains Ray Withers, Chief Executive of leading property investment specialists Property Frontiers,

“We’ve seen a dramatic increase in those classed as New Urban Settlers in Manchester in recent years. The career opportunities in places like Salford Quays are particularly attractive to them and the waterside living that the area boasts is a textbook example of the kind of accommodation that the Nurbs are looking for. Convenient location, high quality interior and excellent local amenities are all essential for the modern professional’s rented accommodation. Priced out of the market, they take the view that if they are going to have to rent, they may as well demand the best.”

The Custom Quay development in Salford Quays is certainly that. The 60 one and two bed apartments and duplexes benefit from a communal roof garden with superb views over the quays, private gated car park and landscaped courtyard. Properties are available from just £127,000 for a duplex, with yields of 8.4% and full management option available.

As well as being a thriving area in its own right, packed with shops, restaurants and cultural attractions, Salford Quays is just 15 minutes by train from central Manchester, making it the ideal location for New Urban Settlers looking for high quality living within easy reach of the city centre. Salford Quays itself is booming, meaning that residents can enjoy the area’s prosperity and the career opportunities that such economic advancement generates. Meanwhile investors can sit back and enjoy the buy-to-let property ownership opportunities that the Nurbs are generating for them.

For further details, visit www.propertyfrontiers.com or call the team on +44 1865 202 700.

No need to feel blue – Spain flagged up as having world’s cleanest beaches

No need to feel blue – Spain flagged up as having world’s cleanest beaches

by Kate Spain ,
  • Spain’s beaches awarded record-breaking 577 Blue Flags (FEE)
  • Galicia leads the way, with 131 Blue Flags and holiday rentals from €730 per week (Kyero)
  • Frontline Mallorca townhouses with infinity pool from €560k (Taylor Wimpey España)

Every year countries across the world eagerly await the awarding of Blue Flags to their beaches. The Blue Flag is an internationally recognised eco-label that identifies a beach as clean, safe and committed to sustainability, based on strict criteria addressing water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and safety and other services.

This year, Spain has once more been awarded more Blue Flags than any other country in the world – 577 in total, up from 573 in 2014. Spain values its reputation as having the world’s best beaches and has topped the league table from the Foundation for Environmental Education (the body that awards the Blue Flags) since it was first launched in 1987.

Spain has well over a hundred more Blue Flags than its next nearest rival (Turkey, which has 436 Blue Flag beaches). Galicia was the region with the highest number, earning an impressive 131 Blue Flags.

Martin Dell, Director of leading property portal Kyero.com, which offers property sales, holiday rentals and long-term rentals across Spain, comments,

“Galicia is a popular area with tourists looking to see Spain at its best. The beaches there are simply stunning, with the meandering Atlantic coastline creating some wonderful settings. Many have an almost Caribbean air to them, with long stretches of white sand backed by thickly forested slopes. Others offer rocky outcroppings that look like they have stood there since the dawn of time. The variety is exquisite.”

Those looking to explore the coastline of Galicia can do so from the comfort of a country retreat from just €730 per week. Just five minutes from the nearest beach, the three bedroom, two bathroom house in Bueu comes with pleasant terrace, barbecue area and charming enclosed porch and offers the ideal base for travellers keen to discover just how Galicia managed to earn so many Blue Flags in its own right.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of prestigious Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, is keen to point out that it is not just mainland Spain which features wonderful beaches,

“The Balearic Islands benefit from some beautiful beaches, particularly Mallorca, which is known the world over for its sheltered coves and gentle, aquamarine waters. Diving, snorkelling and all manner of water-based fun can be had around the island, thanks to tranquil tides and the Mediterranean climate.”

Those searching for a second home that is perfect for exploring Mallorca’s beaches to the full will love Taylor Wimpey España’s exclusive development of seven townhouses at Cala Magrana Mar. The three bedroom properties enjoy a frontline position, complete with carefully designed terraces and gardens that are perfect for making the most of the temperate climate. The site also benefits from lush communal grounds and a stunning infinity pool. Prices start at €560,000.

Countries looking to challenge Spain’s top spot as home to the best beaches in the world clearly have a long way to go, but the Beach Clean-Up Manual recently released by Blue Flag International with the support of Corona International is a good starting point. For now though, Spain can relax and enjoy having retained its Blue Flag crown for another year.

For more information please contact:

Kyero: www.kyero.com

Taylor Wimpey España: +44 08000 121 020 or www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

Try somewhere new: Albania answers demand for luxury travel without the expensive price tag

Try somewhere new: Albania answers demand for luxury travel without the expensive price tag

by Kate Albania
  • 35% of British holidaymakers want to visit a country they have never been to before (ABTA)
  • Luxury travel market forecast to increase in 2015 (Zicasso)
  • New deluxe beachfront villas launch on the Albanian Coast (Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa)

With the summer fast approaching, choosing the perfect holiday destination can be a meticulous task. A recent report by the UK’s largest travel association ABTA reveals that this year British holidaymakers are looking to explore brand new destinations, with 35% wanting to visit a country they have never been to before.

One such location proving increasingly attractive is Albania, emerging as a popular choice for those looking to explore the undiscovered beauty of Europe’s Balkan region. Described as the last secret of the Mediterranean, the country has become a top holiday location for 2015, with ‘Stylist’ ranking it third in their best destinations to spend the summer holidays this year and with increasing numbers looking to the country as THE destination to buy their very own holiday home.

Yet this is not all that is emerging as a key travel trend for 2015. The ABTA Travel Trends 2015 report also proposes that the luxury travel market is set to see a significant increase in enquiries and bookings, with holidaymakers looking to make the very most of their valuable time away.

American luxury travel planning agent, Zicasso, has similarly forecast this growth within the luxury market suggesting that there has been a definite rise in demand for more exclusive holiday property as well as unusual destinations.

This ever-increasing demand for luxury holiday properties, combined with the continuing desire within the market to find the most competitive prices, has created a sub category of holidaymakers seeking affordable luxury. Peter Walshe, Marketing Director of Albania’s first affordably luxurious resort, Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, comments on this growing consumer group,

“We have definitely noticed a significant increase in enquiries, in keeping with this year’s rising interest in hidden gem destinations and luxury overseas property. Located on one of the last stretches of unspoilt shoreline in Europe, the Albanian coast still has a great deal of unseen views and untraveled landscapes yet to be explored, making it a prime destination for those in search of exclusive property without the excessive price tag. We pride ourselves on leading the market with regard to affordable luxury and our ability to construct quality beachfront properties that are still accessible financially.”

As part of their exclusive offering, Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa has announced the launch of a select number of 5/6 bedroom, beachfront villas with stunning, unobstructed Mediterranean views. With prices starting from just €437,000, these luxurious freehold villas are inspired by California’s modern beachfront houses, located on the beautiful sands of Lalzit Bay and the Adriatic coastline. Situated on a private gated resort, amongst landscaped gardens, each villa can be personalised helping create a sense of individuality, with the element of uniqueness key when investing in luxury travel.

To further increase the luxurious feel of the resort, Lalzit Bay Resort villa owners are also granted membership to both the Residents’ Club and the exclusive Adriatic Club, where additional services are available on request. These luxurious accompaniments can include a 24 hour concierge service, a private beach area and an airport pick up service, allowing complete relaxation throughout the stay.

The beachfront resort also has one and two bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom villas available. Apartments are well designed and generously proportioned, while the villas are the height of luxury, each benefitting from the option of a private pool, with prices ranging from €35,000 to €360,000.

Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa also boasts an array of 5-star amenities including a beach club, tennis courts and a range of shops and eating and drinking facilities, alongside a 24 hour on-call medical service onsite and 24/7 security presence.

For more information, contact Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa on +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com

Opt for two wheels to see Mallorca at its best

Opt for two wheels to see Mallorca at its best

by Kate Spain
  • Impact of cycling in the EU worth more than $265 billion per year (European Cyclists’ Federation)
  • Perfect Mallorca properties for cyclists available from €245k (Taylor Wimpey España)
  • Cycling tourists in Mallorca up from 100,000 in 2013 to 150,000 in 2014 (Newsweek)

From domestic travellers to visitors from overseas, it seems that everyone is planning to enjoy a spot of Spanish sunshine this year. According to the Alliance for Tourism Excellence (Exceltur), GDP was up 3.5% during Q1 2015, due mainly to a 10% rise in demand from Spanish travellers during January and February.

Q1 2015 also saw record visitor numbers from overseas, with Spain enjoying some 10.6 million visitors during the quarter – an increase of 5.3% according to the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism. The Brits led the charge to the sunshine, with 2.1 million heading to Spain between January and March, up 9.5% from the previous year.

Tourism is a crucial element of the Spanish economy. Based on the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Travel and Tourism Economic Impact 2015 Spain guide, it directly contributed 5.6% of GDP during 2014 (€58.8 billion), with this figure forecast to rise by 3.3% during 2015.

Naturally, some areas benefit more from visitor numbers than others and the Balearic Island of Mallorca is a perfect case in point. Figures from Spanish property portal Kyero.com illustrate how much difference tourist appeal can make in terms of demand for property. The Kyero Enquiry Report for Q1 2015 showed that for the nation as a whole, those looking to purchase property searched mainly in the €50-100k price bracket, yet on Mallorca the majority of enquiries were for properties costing €150-200k.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España and resident of Mallorca, comments,

“Mallorca has a thriving property sector and tourism is definitely a key driver of the market here. Second homes on Mallorca are highly prized, particularly by buyers from the UK, Germany and the Nordic countries.”

Not only does Mallorca enjoy stunning coastal scenery and a wealth of water-based activities, from cave tours to wind-sailing, but it also has a rich sporting presence for those who prefer not to get their feet wet. Cycling is particularly popular on the island, as it is in many European destinations. In fact, figures released in 2013 from the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) estimated that the impact of cycling in the EU reached well in excess of $265 billion per year, or more than $530 for every person living in the EU.

According to the ECF, cycling is excellent news for local economies. A visitor on a bike spends an average of £25 per day on local food and services, compared to just £7.30 spent by visitors in cars. On Mallorca, where cycling tourists increased from 100,000 in 2013 to 150,000 in 2014, their expenditure makes a serious impact.

Mallorca is increasingly being seen as one of the best destinations in Europe for cycling holidays. From extensive planes to challenging mountain terrains, the island offers cyclists every gradient they could wish for, along a network of roads that are in excellent condition and have minimal car traffic. Amateurs coast along in the sunshine, toning and tanning at the same time, while pros flock to the ‘Vuelta a Mallorca’ every February as part of their annual training plan for the world’s major competitions. From shops to hotels, Mallorca has a whole host of attractions dedicated to those who opt to enjoy life on two wheels.

“Mallorca is a fantastic destination for keen cyclists,” confirms Taylor Wimpey España’s Marc Pritchard, “And cycling is an increasingly important contributor to the island’s economy. The industry has boomed in recent years and looks set to carry on doing so for the foreseeable future.”

Marc particularly recommends the Porto Cristo area as a base for those looking to explore the island by bike. The gently rolling landscape is perfect for cycling enthusiasts looking to zoom around and the stunning beaches provide the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in the sea to soothe tired muscles in the ultimate salt bath. Taylor Wimpey España’s Cala Anguila II development there features two bedroom, two bathroom apartments from €245,000. The coves of Cala Anguila, Cala Romántica and Cala Mandía are within easy reach, while the resort also enjoys its own pool and verdant grounds.

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

Brand New Spanish Property Market Confidence Index reveals divisions in the market

Brand New Spanish Property Market Confidence Index reveals divisions in the market

by Kate Spain
  • 71% of agents feel more confident in Spanish property market than 1 year ago (Kyero.com)
  • 30% of English-speaking agents see stronger sterling as most significant shift in market
  • Almeria, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Murcia highlighted as inspiring confidence

The new Spanish Property Market Confidence Index (SPMCI) from leading Spanish property portal Kyero.com has identified some interesting trends in the Spanish market. The survey, covering some 160 English-speaking and 216 Spanish-speaking estate agents across Spain, reveals that on a national level 71% of agents in Spain felt more confident about Spanish property in Q1 2015 than they did compared to a year earlier. Only 4% felt less confident than a year ago.

Interestingly, English-speaking agents were more bullish about the state of the market than their Spanish counterparts. Martin Dell, Director of Kyero.com, which lists more than 200,000 homes from 3,000 estate agents, comments,

“The strength of sterling has played a key role in the confidence divide that we are seeing currently between English-speaking and Spanish-speaking real estate agents in Spain. Some 30% of English-speaking respondents have highlighted stronger sterling as the most significant change over the past 12 months.

“For Spanish-speaking agents, increased marketing tops the table of significant changes, with 26% of respondents flagging this up as the biggest change.”

The findings reveal the stark difference that currency exchange fluctuations can have on similar businesses in the same country, just due to the language that their staff speak. While English-speaking agents in Spain have been able to enjoy more confidence in the market thanks to the pound’s movements, their Spanish peers have been working flat-out on their marketing activity in order to achieve the same goal.

Interestingly, both sets of respondents reported similar figures when it came to buyer confidence, with 20% of English-speaking agents feeling that improved buyer confidence had been the most significant change over the past 12 months, compared with 21% of Spanish-speaking agents.

Four geographical areas stood out as inspiring the most confidence in agents. The first of these was Almeria where a three bedroom, two bathroom villa just minutes from the beach can be picked up for around €175,000. For a lower cost option, a four bedroom, two bathroom cortijo in need of a little TLC, but with extensive land, can be had for as little as €79,000.

Fuerteventura, the second largest of the Canary Islands, also stood out as inspiring above-average confidence in agents. Property there offers excellent value. A two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in Corralejo, for example, can be purchased for just €77,000. The property enjoys a popular town centre location, with beach access just a few minutes away.

Nearby Gran Canaria was also highlighted by respondents. The sun-kissed island offers a variety of properties ideal as both second homes and main residences, as well as some exciting ready-made business opportunities. This stunning site with three villas, pool and existing tourist licence is available for €890,000.

Back on the mainland, Murcia was the fourth area to inspire above-average confidence among agents. A two bedroom apartment with pool in Murcia (city) can be picked up for as little as €69,000. Only the regions of Granada and Tarragona recorded no improvement in confidence since 2014.

For further details on the Spanish Property Market Confidence Index 2015, Spanish property market trends and to view properties available for sale across Spain, visit www.kyero.com.

Rise in Italian tourism sees Tuscany continue to shine

Rise in Italian tourism sees Tuscany continue to shine

by Kate Italy
  • Italy’s economic growth forecasted at 0.6% this year and 1.4% in 2016 (The European Commission)
  • In 2014, Italy generated €34.8bn in visitor exports, set to increase by a further 2.5% in 2015 (WTTC)
  • Italy ranks highly on The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2015, positioned 6th for Culture and Entertainment and 2nd for Natural Tourism (World Economic Forum)

The European Commission has recently forecasted Italy’s economic growth at 0.6% for this year, increasing further in 2016 to 1.4%. This positive progression has been prompted mostly by external demand and investment, with foreign tourism becoming a key element within Italy’s phoenix-like economic rise.

The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index 2015, constructed by the World Economic Forum (WEF), highlights the significance of Italy’s growing tourism industry, jumping to 8th position having only been ranked 26th in 2013. The report places Italy amongst the best in the world on digital demand for Culture and Entertainment, as well as Natural Tourism, ranking 6th and 2nd for each respectively. With a vast array of landscapes, from stunning golden coastlines and iconic sweeping countryside to the snow-kissed mountains of the Dolomite range, Italy abounds with natural splendour, with the undisputable heart of this beauty the region of Tuscany.

Tuscany is blessed with an abundance of both unparalleled culture and celebrated landscapes and continues to be a favourite destination amongst tourists from all over the world. The region is immediately recognisable to foreign visitors by its scenery of picturesque rolling hills and charming ancient towns, becoming emblematic for the global perception of Italy.

Yet, whilst the traditional Tuscan scenery is renowned worldwide, set in the deep south of the region is the wild landscape of Maremma, a landscape at complete juxtaposition with the straight rows upon rows of endless vines and steadfastly straight cypress trees commonly thought of as Tuscany. A more hidden, untamed area of Tuscany, the Maremma offers truly natural authenticity and allows visitors to embrace a lifestyle based on respect for the surrounding nature.

Terre Gialle Residence & Resort is situated on the slopes of Mount Amiata in Maremma, and Marketing Manager Simone Rossi explains how its nature-furnished location has sparked a wealth of interest,

“We have definitely noticed an increase of enquiries related to the natural charm of Tuscany when speaking to potential buyers, with specific interest in relation to the area and what Mount Amiata has to offer, something that just cannot be found elsewhere. Our estate overlooks some of Tuscany’s most pristine countryside, and with a majority of it still waiting to be discovered, the wild Maremma has the potential to provide visitors with the sought after familiarity of beautiful Tuscany, combined with a more exclusive and diverse natural setting.”

This vastly undiscovered area is dominated by the outline of Mount Amiata, Italy’s second highest volcano, and is home to a diverse group of flora and fauna throughout the seasons. With Italy’s natural tourism becoming progressively more prevalent, landscapes like the Maremma are being exposed with less well known regions starting to be explored.

According to The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Italy generated €34.8bn in visitor exports in 2014, with this figure expected to grow by 2.5% this year. With 49,697,000 international tourists predicted to arrive in Italy this year, it would seem that this trend in foreign spending is only going to continue, with not only the most popular destinations attracting revenue but also more of the country’s unfamiliar locations, like the Tuscan Maremma.

The Residence at the heart of the beautiful Terre Gialle Residence & Resort estate has origins dating back to the 18th century, ensuring that the apartments housed therein are unique and full of traditional charm whilst having been restored to high modern standards.

Featuring wood-beamed or vaulted terracotta ceilings, stone walls and handmade furniture, the studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments available on a full ownership basis, reflect the original character of the building, with prices ranging from €93,500 to €176,000. Alongside this, the Resort offers a range of modern 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom villas available on a shared ownership basis, where 1/12th fractions, start from €28,000 (excluding maintenance costs), providing four weeks usage a year.

Terre Gialle Residence & Resort exudes a unique elegant atmosphere with high quality services, a swimming pool with whirlpool, a well-kept park with nature trails and sports facilities, a tennis court and bowling green. As well as an array of extensive onsite facilities, the ancient town of Castel del Piano is only a five minute drive away or a ten minute walk, offering cobbled streets, wondrous architecture, local cuisine and friendly residents.

For more information about Terre Gialle Residence & Resort, visit www.terregialle.com, email info@terregialle.com or call 0203 637 2215.