Sea view city apartments released today in Best Travel Destination of 2014

by Georgina Spain

Today, Tuesday 19th November 2013, sees the much-anticipated release of Cala Estancia, a boutique collection of just eleven 1 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments in Palma, Mallorca.

Due for completion in June 2014, these spacious properties from leading Spanish house builder, Taylor Wimpey España, will present the perfect opportunity to visit the stunning Balearic Island of Mallorca, named one of the Best Travel Destinations for 2014 by the auspicious Lonely Planet.

  • Boutique collection of 1 and 3 bedroom sea view apartments
  • Located in Palma, Mallorca – Best Travel Destination 2014 (Lonely Planet)
  • 22.6 million people passed through Son Sant Joan airport in 2012

Located just 100m from the Mediterranean coast yet also close to Palma city centre, these apartments are within walking distance of all amenities and boast spacious terraces from which to enjoy the direct views of Palma bay and the Cathedral as well as allocated underground parking and private gardens.

Marc Pritchard, Sales & Marketing Director who is based at Taylor Wimpey Espana’s head office nearby in the heart of Palma, explains just why the location of this new release is so exciting,

“Mallorca is well known for its 550km of coastline, 40 plus Blue Flag beaches and clear, turquoise waters but this Balearic Island also holds some urban gems. The ancient city of Palma, the capital of the Balearic Islands, boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times with numerous architectural gems within the Old City.

“Set around the Bay of Palma, this cosmopolitan city attracts the rich and famous with the Spanish Royal Family visiting each summer. With world class restaurants, designer boutiques, a sizeable marina capable of accommodating even the largest of yachts and pleasant climate year round, it’s no wonder that Palma attracts more and more international visitors each year.”

Indeed, tourism levels to the city of Palma have grown significantly over the last 50 years since Taylor Wimpey España first started building second homes on the island. From 500,000 visitors in 1960 to 6,739,700 in 1997 and a staggering 22.6 million people passing through the city’s Son Sant Joan airport last year alone, it is no wonder that this Spanish city continues to enjoy a boom not seen by many others on the mainland.

And it’s not just tourists who have recognized the clear appeals of Palma; travel operator LowCost Holidays recently relocated from the UK to its Spanish subsidiary in Palma creating over 100 jobs in the process along with no-frills Spanish airline Vueling announcing new direct flights to the city from Brussels for summer 2014.

With more flights than ever touching down in Palma and the new Cala Estancia apartments just 5 minutes from the airport, visiting these new holiday apartments couldn’t be easier. Offering the best of both worlds, the calm serenity of Cala Estancia bay and direct access to Palma city centre in under 10 minutes, these new apartments, available from 141,000 Euro, are sure to be popular with buyers so 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 9 72.

Is it time to follow Bill Gates into the Spanish property market?

by Georgina Spain

News that billionaire Bill Gates has acquired a $155 million stake in Spanish builder Fomento de Construcciones & Contratas SA (FCC) has certainly caught the attention of property investors around the world. With Gates’ 5.7% acquisition leading to an immediate increase in the share price of FCC, is now the time to follow this business magnate into the Spanish property market ?

According to the latest data released from the Spanish Office for National Statistics (INE), the downward trend of property sales has definitely turned a corner, once again thanks to the foreign investors. The first half of this year saw the highest turnover of property transactions in 9 years with €2.834 billion being brought into the country, compared to the lowest year in the last decade which registered just €199 million.

  • Taylor Wimpey España says ‘YES’ as influx of buyers swoop in on the Costa del Sol
  • Bill Gates acquires[RC1] $155 million stake in Fomento de Construcciones & Contratas SA
  • €2.8 billion brought into Spain through real estate (INE)
  • Taylor Wimpey España records 257% increase of sales on the Costa del Sol (Oct 2013)

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director for leading house builder Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“Even though Spain is now officially out of recession, many Spaniards are still feeling the pinch of turbulent economic times; the situation seems to be easing across neighbouring European nations which is having a positive effect on the Spanish property market.

“Here at Taylor Wimpey España we are experiencing an influx of foreign buyers on the Costa del Sol in particular with a 257% increase in property purchases throughout October alone, in comparison with the same period in 2012, showing Spanish property in prime coastal locations remains a hot commodity!”

Indeed, the love affair with owning a bolthole under the Spanish sun is yet to show signs of cooling so why not take a look at what Taylor Wimpey España has to offer in the ever popular Costa del Sol.

Avalon is situated in one of the best areas of Marbella,on the prestigious Los Arqueros golf course and just 20 minutes from Estepona. This residential complex consists of luxury apartments and penthouses of 2 large bedrooms with 2 bathrooms and indulgent finishes.

Boasting natural charm with stunning sea and golf views, large terraces, communal swimming pool and beautiful landscaped gardens all for just €260.000, these properties are certainly not to be missed!

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.

60 Seconds with… Gil Summers, Co-founder of Sun Park Living

by Georgina Spain

60 Seconds with… Gil Summers, Co-founder of Sun Park Living, a private gated community resort exclusively for those who are retired and active, located on the year-round sunny and warm Canary Island of Lanzarote.

What does it say on your business card?
If I had one it would say “Gil and mobile number”, that´s how people know me. And if I had a door, it would always be open, I am available for everything, any time of the day, I´m always on call!

How did you first get involved with Sun Park Living?
Ever since growing up on a kibbutz, I´ve always thought it would be an ideal environment for people who no longer have the responsibility for keeping a full time job or raising a family, to experience a living situation which has a strong community ethos to it. Our involvement with retirement holiday living was something we have been working towards for a long long time.

What is Sun Park Living in a nutshell?
Sun Park Living is a living solution within a holiday resort environment, exclusive for ‘SunRockers’, and that means people who are active semi or fully retired, who want to spend a few weeks, months and even longer, in a relaxing atmosphere, with like-minded, community hearted people. All activities and events are organised by the ‘SunRockers’ themselves and guests who choose to get involved.

How does it differ from other retirement villages?
There are a number of important differences between Sun Park Living and other retirement villages. The hassle free-accommodation is rental only. No bills to pay. No maintenance to worry about. No central heating problems. Just an affordable fixed 4 weekly payment. There is a holiday feel to it with new guests arriving weekly so there is a feeling of stability as well as transience, and because Sun Park Living is a social enterprise, all the use of communal space was given to the Community at no cost, to create and run their social life. There is even a community operated Shop and Cafe on site, managed directly by the ‘SunRockers’ themselves, with the support of those guests who may wish to take part in it.

So, who exactly are these ‘SunRockers’?
‘SunRockers’ are community hearted and minded people, who are no longer in full time employment nor raising a family, and wish to maintain an active lifestyle in a sunny, friendly, safe, relaxing and invigorating environment. They organise their own group activities and events, and help, in turn, minding their own Community Shop and Cafe. Their cheerful disposition and caring nature is instrumental to the ethos of the community and without them none of this would be possible.

And why Lanzarote? What makes it the perfect retirement destination?
Lanzarote and the Canary Islands are renowned for their year round sunny and warm weather, stunning natural scenery, wonderful people and culture as well as fantastic food and wines. It´s a much-loved destination by all, there´s a wonderful combination of European culture and standards, Latin American influence and Caribbean weather. Plus, there are daily inexpensive direct flights from most UK and EU airports which is a real bonus!

Describe a typical Sun Park Living resident 
We have a good balance of couples and singles, men and women, from 60-90 years old, all looking for companionship, good weather and a relaxing atmosphere. Because it´s so convenient and affordable to stay here, SunRockers say that the “real currency” to be here is ones willingness to be a good fit and contribute to the social fabric of its community.

Usually, SunRockers may be seen leading their own lives, as they would in the UK, and many spend the afternoons and evenings in groups doing anything from gardening, book reading, watching movies or simply “hitting the town”, it´s all about enjoying life in good company, and that can definitely be achieved here.

It is very rewarding to watch them all blossom, some right from the moment they arrive, into active members of the Sun Park Living community. We´ve even witnessed mature children bringing their parents to see if Sun Park Living is good for them, seen how they care and protect them, and when they leave, suddenly mum and/or dad change into a fully independent ‘SunRocker’, it´s exhilarating to watch them having such an enjoyable time, confirming that Sun Park Living is absolutely worth it.

What does 2014 hold for Sun Park Living?
For the SunRockers and Guests – more fun, friendship and good times in the Spanish sunshine. Our charitable Foundation is looking to keep making an impact and spread the word about the benefits of community living in retirement.

For more information about Sun Park Living visit the website at www.sunparkliving.com or call 0161 408 3360. You can also follow Gil and the team on Twitter or Like them on Facebook.

Mallorca named top 10 region to visit in 2014 Mallorca named top 10 region to visit in 2014

by Georgina Spain

Contrary to what you may have heard about the nocturnal habits of certain younger visitors to the popular tourist resort of Magaluf, the island of Mallorca is one of the great natural destinations in the world. Majestic limestone cliffs plunge into the translucent sapphire and turquoise-hued waters of the Mediterranean along the length of the island’s western and northern coasts whilst the rugged interior of the Tramuntana mountains offers diverse fauna and flora, not to mention picture postcard villages.

 

It’s no wonder therefore that this beautiful Balearic Island has been named by renowned travel publisher, Lonely Planet, as one of the top 10 regions to visit in the world in 2014, in its just released Best in Travel 2014 publication.
“Like a movie star settling comfortably into middle age, Mallorca has matured, wedding stunning natural beauty with an appreciation for the finer things in life without ever losing its glamour,” Lonely Planet says. And with accolades such as that, it’s no wonder that Mallorca has welcomed over 1.3 million tourists in September alone this year, with many more looking to make their stay more permanent with a property on the Golden Isle!
Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading house builder Taylor Wimpey de España who has also lived on the island for 24 years, comments,
“It’s about time that travellers wake up to the wonder that is Mallorca. Naming the island as one of the best regions in the world for visitors in the coming year is in recognition of it being a fantastic all-rounder; with some of the most stunning scenery, dynamic towns, friendly people and a burgeoning food scene.
“This prestigious Lonely Planet accolade is only set to boost buyer confidence into 2014 and beyond as visitors look to purchase their own slice of Mallorcan paradise. Indeed this positive sentiment is already being reflected in our property sales figures which are up by 51% over this time last year.”
So for those property hunters looking for high quality homes at affordable prices, located in one of the top regions of the world for 2014 and beyond, Taylor Wimpey de España has some stunning properties on offer.
El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca boasts 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools. Costing from €155,000 + VAT this sophisticated complex is within reach of the Blue Flag beach, Cala Mondrago and easy reach of the popular super yacht action.
Following the success of Cala Magrana I and II, Taylor Wimpey España have launched phase III located just 500 metres from Cala Anguila beach and a stone´s throw from the Mediterranean.
The Cala Magrana III residential complex is situated very close to several golf courses and the marina of Porto Cristo. 2 bedroom apartments of Mediterranean design with sea views, surrounding a communal garden and swimming pool are available from just €179,000 + 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.

Spain retains its crown as top golf destination in Europe

by Georgina Spain

According to the latest European Spotlight on Golf Tourism to Spain research report commissioned by Reed Travel Exhibitions, out of the 28.5% of those who travelled to Spain to play golf in the last 12 months, 12.7% visited the Costa del Sol, 3.9% to the Costa Brava and 3.2% to the Canary Islands.

  • 28.5% tourists travelled to Spain to play golf in the last 12 months (Reed Travel Exhibitions)
  • Research has also revealed golfer’s nationality impacts on their choice of region to visit (Reed Travel Exhibitions)
  •  2,500% increase of overall purchases of golf properties from Middle Eastern buyers in September alone this year compared to the same period in 2012 (Taylor Wimpey España)
This latest study also revealed that Spain has retained its crown as a key player in the European golf tourism industry with thousands of golfers from all over the continent putting Spanish greens and bunkers at the top of their tee off list.
Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director for leading Spanish house builder Taylor Wimpey España comments,
“Whilst the course itself is an important factor when selecting a Spanish golfing holiday, the accommodation is equally important once you leave the fairway. Resorts with onsite courses, quality accommodation and amenities are in high demand as they offer the entire package and offer a higher level of security and community living.
“This new study commissioned by Reed Travel Exhibitions comes as no surprise to us here at Taylor Wimpey España. We have experienced a great level of interest in our golfing properties throughout 2013 from not only the British but Scandinavians, Russians and Middle Eastern buyers in particular, where overall purchases from this region have increased by 2,500% in September alone this year compared to the same period in 2012.”
Interestingly, the research also revealed that a golfer´s nationality impacts on their choice of region to visit, with British and Scandinavian golfers preferring the Costa del Sol; French golfers more likely to visit Costa Brava; and German golfers travelling to all regions, with Mallorca a firm favourite.
Indeed, Spain boasts some of the most luxurious golf resorts in Europe, and the warm, sunny climate makes it a pleasure to hit the green. So what are you waiting for? Take a look at what Taylor Wimpey España has to offer today!
Los Altos del Golf is a brand new development in the Port Andratx area of Mallorca, nestled in the heart of the Andratx golf course and only 500 meters from the famous Camp de Mar beach, consisting of large, detached two and three bedroom houses with stunning sea views.
These luxury properties are designed in the style of a small Mediterranean village with coloured façades, verandas, spacious terraces, beautiful landscaped gardens and three large communal swimming pools.
Available now from €495,000, 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.
You can also like the Facebook page or follow @TaylorWimpeyEs for all the latest news!