Luxury Real Estate

By John Hodnett of Lila Delman Real Estate

Coastal Life, Volume 5 Issue 9, 2009, by Nicole Bouchard, Exclusive to Coastal Life

With their captivating water views, temperate seasons and proximity to Boston and New York, the areas of Newport, Narragansett, Jamestown and Watch Hill have been coveted vacation spots since the mid-1800's.

The Gilded Age settled comfortably in Rhode Island as the well-traveled elite sought opulent summer homes along the water, away from their demanding high profile city lives. Bringing with them the styles and trappings of Europe, the prominent families sought to create their own petit-Versaillle in the midst of a quiet waterfront oasis. With great emphasis on skilled preservation, these whimsical, palace-like structures remain as the areas grow and change, incorporating modern architecture, imaginative fine cuisine, artistic shops and elite galleries, all with reverence to both the past and the future.

In the playroom of their Narragansett home in 1964, Lila Delman founded what would become a family legacy and a Rhode Island trademark of luxuriant real estate. Lila's affinity for upscale properties, beautiful art and antiques with stories behind them combined with her business zeal to found a firm that educated itself about the e historical architectural treasures that Rhode Island had to offer. When asked how her mother came by these interests and talents, her daughter Melanie, who is now the President of the firm, explained that it all came purely as though by instinct. "She harbored a natural curiosity towards those areas of interest. She was naturally artistic, naturally inclined toward historic homes and she had a very special, unique eye for beauty with a sincere appreciation of it." The firm has grown substantially to include four offices and takes part in helping international clients transition here or local clients move abroad.

In understanding the draw of the Rhode Island coastline and following the trends from the Gilded Age to the current market, there are the classic elements to consider as well as the regional growth and development in more recent years. For the genteel society of the late 1800's and early 1900's America's "royalty," this region had a quiet charm, a sense of being away without truly being away so that husbands could stay on top of business in Boston and New York, varied social character, prestige, and offered more for their money. The Beaux-arts architecture brought to the region in the nineteenth century defined a nation. Italinate, Neo-Renaissance and French Baroque styles lent an artistry to the landscape which had yet to be seen before this period. Lavish details with little expense spared adorned the magnificent structures embodying the feelings of the time. When asked which of the historic properties she has represented was her favorite, Ms. Delman responded, "I have seen some truly magnificent properties over the years. Just as with your own children, you can't really pick a favorite when considering these homes. Each has a unique personality."

It is very true that each historic residence possess an individual charm; they each have a unique quality that features and discerns them like characters in a novel. Though many famous architects worked to design the various masterpieces that immortalize the history surrounding them, Richard Morris Hunt stands out amongst them. The Beaux-arts architecture was brought to the region by Hunt, the first American student of the Ecole des Beaux-arts. While mentoring in France, he was allowed to supervise work on the Louvre Museum which was being renovated for Napoleon III at that time, as well as design the Pavilion de la Bibliotheque located in proximity to the Palais-Royal. Once in Newport his vibrant personality and humor drew him many elite friendships. One myth surrounding his career stated that as he was finishing a Vanderbilt mansion, he found a tall, covered figure in a ballroom. Pulling away the material, he saw that it was a handsome statue of himself, made by the stonecutters working on the property to honor him. Ralph Waldo Emerson delighted in Hunt's unpretentious, engaging manner which was paired with an extremely intelligent, artistic mind. Hunt's work extended not only throughout Newport, (Marble House, Wrentham House, Beechwood, Ochre Court, Belcourt Castle, The Breakers) but also to North Carolina in the form of the Biltmore Estate, the biggest private mansion in the country, and to New York (the base of The Statue of Liberty and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.) In his obituary which appeared in The New York Times, August 1st, 1895, he was hailed for having rendered the most influence on domestic design, having been as excellent mentor to his pupils in America and abroad, having been unselfish as an individual and certainly one of the most prodigious, successful mine of his profession. His style was thought to be "elegant" and "free" which is a fair indication of the creativity he used in his designs.

On the famous Bellevue Avenue, rests an ideal example, Beechwood was originally built for a merchant named Daniel Parrish. The house was later purchased by the Astor's who hired Hunt to revitalize the property which they bought in 1881. The two million spent on the revival of the home culminated in memorable elegance as displayed in the nautical ball room,. It was made to have the glittering affect of light on the water with its eight hundred panes of glass, mirrored walls, crystal chandeliers and the flowing patterned waves of French flooring. Caroline Astor was proclaimed to be the "Queen of American Society." Her summer balls were the social event of the season . She retired from public life in 1906 with a whirling collection o twenty-five summer seasons filled with lively memories behind her,. It was her son, John Jacob Astor IV, who rode aboard the luxurious, yet ill-fated ocean liner Titantic. The property continues to inspire with a rich history, having inspired musicians and Hollywood directors alike.

Another of the historic gems is The Wrentham House. Also an artistic tribute to Hunt with his unique aesthetic sense and craftsmanship, this home was built in 1891 for J. R. Busk who, along with his swift boat, Mischief, defended America's Cup with his skills as world-class sailor. At the highest point on Ocean Avenue, it features water views from every room. With turrets, a prominent cathedral ceiling, arches and exposed woodwork, this property has impressions of Northern France, particularly the lines found in the architecture of Normandy. Here, the impressive modern amenities begin the transition from the past to the present. A multi-level home theater and central air entice another page of time to be filled with new experiences.

The modern landscape intricately intertwines both historical and contemporary architecture. Therein lies a diversity that also plays a factor in attracting buyers to Southern New England. Discussing this unique diversity, Ms. Delman states: "In many of the older homes, the artwork and furniture are not the original pieces. Each owner of the home has different personality, style and decor. The exteriors are preserved, however, so that they have a charming authenticity to them. These homes are timeless. In terms of the emergence of the modern architecture, I think it gives an individual so much to choose from amongst these complimentary designs of new and old along the coastline. There are no cookie cutter layouts and people can mix styles, choosing various stimuli. Historic home might display modern art while modern homes might showcase antiques."

As the area is again drawing the elite, offering fine schools, art communities, culinary pearls, and the beauty of sea-side locale without over-abundant traffic, more and more prominent names are settling into the Rhode Island coastal region, seeing it as an endearing option. Property values still allow buyers to get more for their money as opposed to property values in the Hampton's. Easy access to the major cities and the smooth breezes off the water are causing many to not only view the region as a summering spot, but also a promising opportunity for a year-round residence.

In the instance of Hollywood actress, Anne Archer, (featured in major motion films such as Fatal Attraction, Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger) she and husband Terry Jastrow, an executive producer of six Olympic games, chose a new townhouse located in Carnegie Abbey Club in 2003. The Carnegie Abbey Club is one of the finest golf and sporting clubs in the country. In the Clubhouse is the couple's 1,592 sq. foot townhouse whose design is meant to capture both west facing views of Narragansett Bay and the two east facing views of the extensive golf course. The interior suggests the theme of the a super-luxury yacht. As a result of frequent famous visitor/residents, individuals choosing primary residences, year-round entrepreneurs 'setting up shop,.' cultural and recreational amenities, the atmosphere of the region doesn't change seasonally to the extent that some summer locations do. There remains a sophisticated continuity. Additionally, education plays an important factor. Salve Regina University in Newport, RI not only has impressive collegiate programs, but features speakers such as His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who hold vastly important world roles. Portsmouth Abbey, in near proximity to Narragansett Bay, is a prestigious learning facility which has a day school and serves also as a boarding school. St. George's school in Newport has been five star rated by parents of attending students.

In terms of culinary delights, Newport has many, yet Ocean Cliff Resort, which was designed by the Boston firm Peabody & Sterns who also designed the original Breakers Mansion and Doris Duke's Rough Point has entrancing Safari Restaurant and Lounge. Fine cuisine, breath-taking views and excellent live music on Sundays with dancing make this restaurant an unforgettable experience. For Jamestown, the Victorian Bay Voyage Inn has stained glass windows looking out onto the bay and the gourmet fare features international dishes. One of the things that is most coveted by those who frequent Bay Voyage Inn is the famous Sunday brunch. In Narragansett, the Coast Guard House, which is listed on the national register of historic landmarks, serves up history, exemplary cuisine, oceanfront views and entertainment.

Art galleries and museums are prominent along the Rhode Island coastline and the expansion of the performing arts adds to the eclectic atmosphere. The Opera house, the jazz, folk and classical music festivals join visual beauty in the picturesque waterfront settings with engaging sound and often powerful words sewn into lyrics. Words as an art form have many roots along the Rhode Island coast through inspired musicians and providing backdrops for written works translated to film such as the adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby which was partially filmed at Rosecliff and Marble House. It would be fitting then that the nineteenth century architects who worked to shape the face of the area aspired to not only elements of the Renaissance styles, but also the expression of humanism which was to speak well and write well.

A modern extension of thatt15th century principle made local is perhaps evident in what is referred to on the Lila Delman Real Estate website as Lila's Blog, containing intriguing entries about synchronicity such as "Lost and Found", "Only in RI", the entry with Emily Dickenson's poetry as nearly an ode to one of the estates, and the thought-provoking entries posted by Liz Marchi which evoke the most serendipitous feel concerning Hunt and Wrentham House. With her artistic passions, its very conceivable that Lila would enjoy her aptly named blog. Aside from their associations with Christie's and prestigious brokerage firms internationally, it is interesting to find that the firm features the creative aspects of their agents which is in keeping with many of the inspiring properties they represent. Asked what she loves most about her profession, Ms. Delman replied, "I get tremendous satisfaction from what I do because this is where I live-I'm not promoting something I don't believe in and when we serve in an advisory or consulting role, we are comfortable in our skin, pointing out attributes that we experience on a day-to-day basis."

New England, as a whole, features numerous incredible waterfront communities and short travel distance to nearly everything one could desire. It has inspired many generations past and will continue to inspire the future. Carving out a distinguished spot for itself is the coastline of Rhode Island which highlights a space in time and continues to grow with the Gilded Age mindset framed in the pursuit of excellence.

By Arnaud Bouzinac of Zaya LLC

Partnership between Zaya and Utopia brings original chill-out lounge to the Middle East region

Abu Dhabi, 20 May 2009:- Zaya, the UAE-based luxury developer, has signed an agreement with Utopia, master franchisee of Café del Mar (Ibiza’s famed original chill-out lounge), to open in Zaya’s flagship project Nurai, a spectacular private community of limited edition resort beach-front estates and water villas on a beautiful island off the coast of Abu Dhabi, UAE.

 

“In creating Nurai, our focus was on bringing some of the world’s most exclusive experiences and brands to each and every resident. Nurai’s conception was a result of extensive and in-depth research into the tastes, inclinations and desires of our clients. Café Del Mar was a favorite amongst most of the target buyers we interviewed during the conceptualization process. We are therefore thrilled to be partnering with Café del Mar and look forward to delivering together great experiences for our Nurai residents and guests” said Nadia Zaal, CEO, Zaya.

Utopia, master franchisee of Café Del Mar, was approached by Zaya to deliver this distinctive offering that would perfectly blend the two brands, with a focus on exclusivity, luxury and sophistication. Inaugurated in 1980 on the island of Ibiza, Café del Mar has played a major role in the foundation of chill-out music culture and has franchises in various locations around the world. It first gained fame in the eighties and its music CD’s have gained a worldwide following since then.

“Café del Mar has quickly become a favorite and frequented hangout for well known personalities, including artists, writers, painters and intellectuals who originally visited the café looking for a haven of tranquility and to contemplate the famed Ibiza sunset. The ambience drew hundreds of people to it and it was precisely the music and the sunsets that made it a magical place still famous today. Café Del Mar epitomizes the quintessential soundtrack to luxurious island living. It will provide Nurai residents and their guests with an exclusive enclave where they can enjoy great cuisine and fantastic music, amidst a spectacular ambience reminiscent of Ibiza. Café del Mar, Nurai will be the world’s most exclusive sunset lounge bar and will set a new benchmark in the entertainment hospitality industry.” said Umesh Amarnani, CEO, Utopia.

Nurai is surrounded by clear waters and ringed with pristine sandy beaches. Lying immediately northeast of Abu Dhabi, the natural island is set in isolation away from the hustle and bustle of city life yet is within minutes from the mainland, affording its residents secluded accessibility to Abu Dhabi, an influential and growing business hub and emerging cultural and entertainment hotspot.

Awarded the “Most Luxurious Project in the World” title by Newsweek Arabic Edition Awards, Nurai consists of a combination of shoreline and seaside beachfront estates as well as water villas all of which afford its residents an abundance of space, uninterrupted views and heightened privacy. Residents will have access to all of the services and comforts provided by the island’s boutique retreat and spa/fitness centre. In addition to the amenities of the retreat, which include three world class restaurants and multiple lounges, Nurai also offers a private helipad and marina with an arrivals lounge, private beaches and water sports facilities, with Utopia providing the Café del Mar lifestyle experience with live entertainment on custom built platforms for artists to perform on the beach lounge bars.

About Zaya

Founded in February 2008, Zaya is a UAE based boutique developer specialising in high-end real estate with offices in Abu Dhabi & Dubai. Zaya is a joint venture between Tasameem Real Estate, and Assas LLC whose combined portfolio is in excess of US$20 Billion. Tasameem Real Estate has a development portfolio worth more than US$ 15 billion around the world. Assas is an investment holding company focused on investing in premium and luxury developments. Tasameem and Assas together bring over 25 years of experience in delivering world-class real estate. Zaya’s first project, Nurai, is a private island in the Arabian Gulf just minutes away from the city of Abu Dhabi, one of the fastest growing cultural, entertainment and business capitals of the world. Nurai is a development of 31 beachfront estates, 50 water villas, and one boutique luxury retreat due for completion in December 2010.

About Utopia

Founded in March 2008 by Umesh Amarnani, Utopia, is an offshore based Entertainment Hospitality and Management Company with its head office in the Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai . Utopia focuses on creating state of the art venues around Asia and the Middle East - promoting a lifestyle that converges restaurants, art bars, lounges, performance spaces, clubs, along with boutique hotels and spas.

By Nicola Christinger of Home Hunts

In a world where sometimes style over substance has become the norm, people who want to indulge and enjoy a luxury property without feeling guilty for nature and its surroundings – need look no further. La Cacao Pearl is the world’s first non-profit, luxury eco-resort to be built on an entire private island, at the northernmost tip of Palawan in the Philippines.

Their philosophy is simple: to share all profits with residence owners and a purposefully-formed foundation, which will concentrate on social and environmental preservation programmes in these Palawan islands.

Set in 116 acres of lush rainforest and eight, pristine beaches, the eco-chic resort offers private residences with zero carbon cost, five-star service, an infinity pool, wreck and reef diving, and an organic spa, gardens, bar and restaurant.

Only 10% of the island will be developed which means that there are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ locations to buy and no further development will take place - ever. A guarantee which is secure and Joel Cere, CEO of Cacao Resorts confirms: “we provide an authentic experience for the grown-up backpacker, a guilt-free option for the traveler with a conscience, a breath of fresh tropical air for sophisticated urban escapees.”

There is a choice of locations: beach, garden, resort and crèche (especially for guests/owners with children) and all 1 and 2 bedroom residences have been designed by film art director, Antonio Calvo (Love Actually, Alexander, Pride and Prejudice). Antonio will work with owners on bespoke requirements, custom finishings to compliment the interiors which use exotic timbers from sustainable forests and designs from Asia’s boutique specialist, Budji.

Buyers and investors who want to own a truly unique property are guaranteed sustainable construction methods, 100% renewable energy with an option to buy, re-sell or rent. The resorts rentals are managed by Cacao Resorts, which ensures that the clientele remains private. Prices for the 1 and 2 bedroom residences start at USD $280,000 – $500,000

The island has been described by National Geographic magazine as “incredibly beautiful natural seascapes and landscapes”, by Condé Nast Traveller magazine as “having the best beaches overall in Asia” and the resort has just received a “Best Residential Development” award by CNBC Asia Pacific Property Awards 2009.

The resort is being marketed through HOMEHUNTS and for full details of residences and floor plans please contact: nicola@home-hunts.com

Only happy people who care about the world we live in, need apply!

By Heidi Warth of Warth & Properties

Region: Pollensa - Formentor

Construction Year: 2009

Plot: 8,564 m²

Living Area: 800 m²

Number of Bedrooms: 7

Price: on request

Exclusive charming estate with a prime location South facing. The living area is distributed over 3 floors. Ground floor: attractive entry foyer, beautiful living/dining room, impressive modern kitchen, winter lounge, 1 en suite bedroom, guest toilet. First floor: library, 3 large bedrooms with bathroom and dressing room and 2 additional bedrooms each with a bathroom. Basement: kitchen, TV lounge, spa and gym, 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, laundry.

Extraordinary construction quality and top technical equipment, comfortable layout, spacious light-flooded rooms, modern interior design, underfloor heating, reversible air conditioning, large double-glazed windows, natural stone flooring in all the house, beautiful finish materials and works (stone, steel, iron, glass and wood), high ceiling, Bulthaup kitchen, wine-cooler, Dornbracht y Kaldewei fittings, Floss and Fontana Arte lighting-system. Alarm.

Spacious inviting terraces with summer kitchen and barbecue, big kitchen. Marvellous Mediterranean garden and green areas with old tree-population. This fabolous estate has been buil 1960 and totally renovated in 2008/2009. Idyllic quiet location, privacy and good access. Large parking area for several cars.

By Robyn Flick of John's Island Real Estate Company

VERO BEACH, Fl. – April 7, 2009 – John’s Island Real Estate Company is pleased to announce that Bob Gibb, President, was honored by the Cultural Council of Indian River County on March 25^th, 2009 at the 14^th Annual Laurel Awards Dinner at Grand Harbor Club. The Laurel Awards recognize leaders that contribute to the quality of the cultural community of Vero Beach in the areas of business, philanthropy, professionalism and volunteerism.

The particular award Mr. Gibb received is the Carolyn K. Eggert Award. This award is given to individuals who have made long-term, noteworthy contributions of both money and time to the wider cultural community. It is not awarded every year, and only at the discretion of the selection committee.

Cultural Council board member Mary Schenkel, who submitted Bob’s name as a candidate for this award said, “You’d be hard-pressed to find a non-profit organization that Bob has not supported or touched in some positive manner in Vero Beach and he throws himself whole-heartedly into everything he does for this community.”

John’s Island Real Estate Company sells exclusively John’s Island properties and has been since 1969. John’s Island is a private residential, oceanfront community of approximately 1,300 families. It offers a fine selection of elegant homes and gracious condominium residences encompassing 1,650 acres between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercoastal Waterway.

The exclusive John’s Island Club offers fine dining in several clubhouses, including a new Beach Club with exquisite ocean views, three championship 18-hole golf courses designed by Pete Dye and Tom Fazio, tennis and squash facilities, state-of-the-art fitness center and three miles of private beach access.
 

Pete Dye (http://www.dyedesigns.com/)

Tom Fazio (http://www.faziogolf.com/)

By Ann Adenius of Signature Residences Worldwide

Today’s Phuket is one of the premier destinations for the discerning holiday traveller and second home owners. With a property market that is strong, especially in the exclusive, high-end sector, it continues to draw discriminating property investors seeking extraordinary opportunities. Real estate prices on Phuket are still relatively low when compared with comparable tropical destinations.

Jumeirah Private Island Phuket will offer levels of luxury, privacy and security as yet unseen in the Phuket area. This exclusive resort development is situated less than 500 metres off Phuket Island, at the southern gateway of Phang-Nga Bay, one of the world's most fantastic seascapes. The island is a scenic 5-minute helicopter journey or 20-minute drive and short speedboat ride from the Phuket International Airport. An on-demand 24-hour ferry service connects the island to Phuket’s full portfolio of leisure and lifestyle amenities including world renowned golf courses, fine dining and shopping outlets.

Ownership of property on a completely private island in an idyllic setting has always been perceived to be the ultimate in real estate. There is a certain romanticism about being cut off from everyday modern life and being surrounded by water. It is a symbol of prestige, wealth, and has enormous investment value, largely because islands are limited, the supply can only diminish.

Opulent Jumeirah residences are currently for sale within the development. Revel within your own palatial Jumeirah private residence and enjoy full access to a luxury Jumeirah Resort & Spa together with a super yacht marina and the private members only Jumeirah Private Island Yacht Club. The super yacht marina will have 101 berths and will offer true “super yacht” facilities with 24 hour deep water access. The benefits of berthing in Phuket include fuel, crew and dockage costs up to 80 percent less than Europe and there are no luxury yacht import taxes.

The majority of the Estates rest along the northern coast with stellar views of Phang-Nga Bay; while a few select Estates are positioned on the southern coast and offer direct beachfront access and views spanning the island-dotted seascape. The custom-designed villas present a great range of options incorporated into a single-storey, low-density home that induces the superlative tropical lifestyle.

Prices from THB 120 million. Private homes will be completed from Q2 2009 with the soft opening of the resort Q2 2010 and the official opening set for October 2010.

Homeowners can look forward to enjoying the great stress-free, luxury lifestyle that Jumeirah has to offer.

For further information, contact Signature Residences Worldwide, www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com, email info@signatureresidencesworldwide.com or call +44 20 7095 8703

By Ann Adenius of Signature Residences Worldwide

Offering an unbeatable lifestyle of sophistication, tropical charm, splendid white sand beaches and gracious Thai culture - Phuket is luxury island living at its best

Phuket Island is one of Asia's most desirable dream home destinations, with magnificent scenery, stunning beaches, diving reefs, as well as some of the world's most exclusive recreational facilities including spas, world class golf courses, marinas and a wealth of fine restaurants and shops. Phuket boasts six international golf courses making it Asia's number 1 golfing destination. Moreover, the island offers an attractive infrastructure such as world-class hospitals and medical care as well as international schools.

Malaiwana is one of the greatest top-end luxury property developments, a superb addition to the most exclusive real estate belt on Phuket’s beautiful north west coast’s strip of pristine beaches.

Malaiwana is a mixed development comprising 19 sensational Estate villas, a secondary phase of pool residences, and a stylish oceanfront beach club.

Sea views and sunset views are truly breathtaking. Naithon Beach is truly pristine. Perhaps Phuket’s most beautiful unspoiled beach. Naithon Beach is classic fine white sand, turquoise water…..a true oasis.

Malaiwana Estate Villas are set on land plots from 1-2 rai, so the estate will maintain its tranquil feeling. The villas are large at almost 1,000 square meters of construction area. Villas are distinctly separated into owners, guests and social areas. The magnificent social area is arranged under two Thai style pavilions, where living , dining, sundeck and sala connect to form one exclusive and very elegant entertainment area. Separated only by water, and bounded by a double edge infinity pool, the entire area looks over the Andaman Sea.

To complete the scene, private estate management and concierge services will be available.

Prices from: THB 89 million

For further information, contact Signature Residences Worldwide, www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com ,email info@signatureresidencesworldwide.com or call +44 20 7095 8703

By Jim Walberg of Caribbean Islands Realty

Two charter vacation yacht owners who are also the crews on their gorgeous yachts, checked in with Jim Walberg regarding some experiences from their current 2009 season in the Virgin Islands.

S/Y Three Moons: Randy and Shelly Tucker - Owners/Crew

The instability of the economy is only making us work harder at perfecting our positive image of being a high level professionally crewed yacht. Yes, we are all networking more and reaching out in new ways to contact prospective clients. We are emphasizing that no corners are being cut for our guests, no matter the cost or the economy. ALL INCLUSIVE still means “all inclusive” for our guests. We are a premium yacht with three professional crew members that continue to serve each of our guests in a royal style. This seems so much smarter than making “desperation deals”. If it results in a quieter season overall, then the results will reflect positively with the great changes that have been made to our yacht. All of us have our 2009 “to do” list and are happily getting it “done” with an extra week of time here and there between charters!

Also, visit us at the Spring Show in St. Thomas at Yacht Haven Grande. It will be another opportunity to show off our “stuff” to the various charter vacation brokers. And…our 1^st Mate - Becca Lee, has been working as a Tour Guide for Princess Cruise Lines here in St. Thomas for a couple of years between charters. Last month she was awarded with the prestigious “Tour Guide of the Year” award. We topped off her excitement with a nice tiara to wear while washing dishes in the Three Moons Galley! Being a crew member always keeps us grounded in a state of reality. Becca has created quit an impression with our guests this year because of her non-stop fun-loving style. And, Jim, the weather is sunny, 85 degrees, and the water has 100 foot clarity and is 80+ degrees. Hope to see you at the VICL Spring Boat Show! We may even stop by and visit you again during the off-season as we explore more of the San Francisco Area.

S/V Felicia: Chris and Julie Bennett - Owners/Crew

Good to hear from you, Jim! We enjoyed your article on Tuscany two weeks ago. It was very reminiscent of where we live in France during the off-season - but on a much grander scale of course. Just beautiful - would love to see the hotel some day, when we’re done with our house and able to actually do some more serious exploring in Italy and France.

2009 has been our transition year as we stepped up in size and scale with our new catamaran Felicia. We had such a successful run on Blu Moon that has really served us with clients following us to our new charter vacation sailing vessel. We’re actually doing great given it is our first year with a new yacht. We have the reputation in the industry as one of the top crew and charter experiences for our guests, however our catamaran is somewhat unknown in the industry because it wasn’t actively chartered for the past several years.

With any business “stuff happens” that causes you to need to be light on your feet and make adjustments. We are having one of those moments. We are in the midst of an insurance claim with a boat that sailed into us with six cruise ship passengers on board. S/Y Felicia was actually on her mooring, we gone into town for supplies, and the other boat got itself wedged between our starboard hull and our mooring ball. Don’t ask me how they came to be sailing between the boats in 20+ knot winds (they picked the most two expensive boats in the anchorage to sail between that day)….I don’t know. So…we’re in a lift at the moment having the lifelines, stanchion and bowsprit repaired. We had to already turn away a charter last week because we couldn’t go out in that condition. Just hope we can get some relief from the insurance company. We “splashed” back in the water last Friday so we are very excited to get back into the action of the business we love so much - creating an extraordinary sailing vacation for cherished customers. Until next time…fair winds. Please keep in touch. We love your articles!

So, if you would like more information about one of the most unforgettable vacation experiences you will ever have in Paradise, contact me and I will be glad to send you the information you will need. I look forward to hearing from you.

By Ann Adenius of Signature Residences Worldwide

Emerald Monkey Eco Luxe Resort & Residences is one of the newest developments to be announced in the Caribbean. This one-of-a- kind development is located in the Archipelago region of Bocas del Toro, in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Panama. The development has been designed to be the first luxury “Zero Carbon Footprint Project” in the world.

You can’t help but to fall in love with the warm people and beautiful islands of the Archipelagos of Bocas del Toro. It’s one of the finest locations in the Caribbean. The islands offer a great diversity of breathtaking attractions including the amazing white sand beaches, magnificent coral reefs in crystal clear water, and magical mountainous rainforests.

Emerald Monkey sits on 80 acres of lush green foliage in tropical setting. Phase one includes 76 unique Balinese villas with indoor outdoor living. The villas are built in Bali by native craftsmen, and then disassembled and shipped to the island. Each villa boasts custom designed Balinese décor.



 

The residences are accompanied with five-star amenities. These include the “Banjar” Village which is filled with antique Balinese shops, two saltwater pools, spectacular coral reef diving, a world class anti-ageing rejuvenation Spa, two beaches, a sunken Bali village for snorkelling, two miles of walking trails, family activities center, on site restaurants, and even a meditation temple to watch the sun rise and set.

The developer is committed to build a luxury eco friendly community. Their inspiration came from the Balinese way of life that people should live at one with nature. Through use

of sustainable and renewable resources along with hydro-electric power, the team of Emerald Monkey will take its first step towards creating the first luxury “Zero Carbon Footprint Project”.

Construction has already started on Emerald Monkey, and the resort is scheduled for opening in summer 2010.

Villas start at mid $500’s to over $2.5 million.

For further information, contact Signature Residences Worldwide, www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com ,email info@signatureresidencesworldwide.com or call +44 20 7095 8703

By Matthew Woon

A slice of the tropical paradise which inspired James A Michener’s iconic Tales of the South Pacific is up for grabs with Vanuatu’s groundbreaking luxury development, the Lapita Plantation.

The vision of plantation owners Matthew Woon and his mother Sheryn von Schwerin, Lapita is an ecologically sustainable lifestyle development with a French colonial theme. Set on 328 hectares of land and fringed by 6 kilometres of coastline, the five-stage luxury lifestyle resort development called Lapita Plantation will feature 205 plantation villas, two luxury resort complexes, a large outdoor pool, restaurants, cocktail bar, Balinese-style day spa, golf practice range, specialty shops, and facilities for scuba diving, horse riding, kayaking and sailing.

In order to promote ecologically sustainable development of the site, land and villa allotments will be offered strictly as limited “staged” or “precinct” releases over the next 5 to 7 years. Each precinct will be identified by landscaping designed to create individuality and ensure harmony with the local environment and architectural features, and positioned to take full advantage of their natural surroundings and magnificent water views. Crushed coral pathways for pedestrians, private buggies and bicycles mean that no villa is more than 10 minutes from one of the resort centers.

The high-vaulted ceilings and wide, shaded wraparound verandas define the interior space while inviting spectacular water and distant mountain views into the heart of each residence.

High-speed internet, voiceover IP and satellite television will also be available in each villa, enabling busy professionals to take a much-needed break in one of the world’s most idyllic tropical locations while still keeping a hand on the pulse of their business. At Lapita, you get the best of both worlds – a tropical retreat just a mouse click away from the real-time outside world.

Tastefully selected interior furnishing packages will be available to add the finishing touch to these superb luxury villas offering the ultimate in resort style living in superb tropical surrounds.


Editor’s Note:
Matthew Woon is the Developer of the Lapita Plantation in Vanuatu, located in the South Pacific Ocean east of Australia. He is a new member of the international Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate network. It’s difficult to add more to what’s already been said about this marvelous luxury property. I’d just like to point out what a fascinating place Vanuatu appears to be. From the few photos above, you can certainly get a taste for some of the beauty awaiting you if you want to invest in a luxury home on the Lapita Plantation.