Luxury Home Buyers' Guide Articles

Jamaica continues to soak up travel awards   -   4.5.2011

Continuing to reinforce its place as a premier Caribbean destination among those looking at beach villas around the globe, the island of Jamaica has earned yet another top travel award. Full Article

Pair of private jet terminals may land in Thailand   -   3.8.2011

Officials are now exploring plans to build a pair of airport terminals for private jets in both the northern and southern parts of Thailand. Full Article

Ferries connect twin Thai paradises   -   3.4.2011

For those looking at luxury villas in Thailand, two of the most obvious sites - both renowned for their smooth beaches and warm waters - are the islands of Phuket and Koh Samui. Full Article

Jamaica wins host of awards   -   3.4.2011

The island of Jamaica won two awards in the recent “Best of the Caribbean” Readers’ Choice Awards from Caribbean Travel + Life magazine, in addition to earning honorable mention in five other categories. Full Article

Norman, Ochoa teaming up for new Mayakoba golf course   -   3.3.2011

Golfing legends Greg Norman and Lorena Ochoa, both former top players in the world on the PGA and LPGA Tours, respectively, are teaming to design a new top-level golf course at the Mayakoba complex in Mexico. Full Article

Golfers flock to southern Portugal   -   2.25.2011

The Algarve is a huge pull for many people that enjoy golf and beautiful weather. A Portuguese estate lot can be a very attractive investment for someone searching for golf paradise. Full Article

Annecy vies for Winter Olympics bid   -   2.25.2011

The French skiing village of Annecy recently hosted members of the International Olympic Committee, in hopes of winning the 2018 Winter Olympic bid. Full Article

After hurricane, St. Lucia gaining resort feel again   -   2.24.2011

St. Lucia, one of the smallest resort islands in the Caribbean, is recovering well after getting hit hard by Hurricane Tomas in October of last year. The hot-spot for beachgoers, St. Lucia looks ready to show everyone how beautiful it actually is. Full Article

Different options for Portuguese estate lots in the Algarve   -   2.21.2011

The Algarve region of Portugal offers a number of different vibes for those thinking of establishing a luxury villa or other vacation home there, according to the Daily Mail. Full Article

Refurbishing luxury villas could improve leasing opportunities   -   2.9.2011

Owners of luxury villas in Dubai could realize serious improvement to the value of their properties with a program of reinvestment, according to an article in Gulfnews by Helga Jensen-Forde. Full Article

Phuket, Koh Samui among Thailand's top beach destinations   -   2.7.2011

Beach villas in Vietnam can be found in nearly any part of the country. But as The Nation contributor Vipsani Niyamabha writes, some of the best beaches can be found on the islands of Phuket and Koh Samui. Full Article

Renowned Wintergreen Resort joins Virginia Golf Trail   -   2.4.2011

The award-winning Wintergreen Resort has announced that it has joined the growing Virginia Golf Trail, which offers a number of varied experiences for those who purchase luxury condos or estate lots in Virginia, the Nelson County Times reports. Full Article

Banyan Tree Mayakoba wins host of awards   -   2.2.2011

The Banyan Tree Mayakoba resort in the Yucatan peninsula has earned a number of recent industry awards, adding to its sterling reputation among those looking to buy a villa in Mexico. Full Article

South African airways expands non-stop service   -   2.2.2011

South African Airways is expanding its non-stop service between New York and Johannesburg to cater to growing demand. Full Article

Thai officials tout long-term gains with diving regulations   -   2.2.2011

Officials say while new rules limiting diving areas off the coast of Phuket may be a slight annoyance to those buying a villa in Thailand, the decision to protect several marine parks in the Andaman Sea will have long-term benefits. Full Article

Property in South Africa simpler than many other countries   -   2.1.2011

The New York Times says those looking to buy a villa in South Africa will find a market that has fared relatively well in the wake of the global recession. Full Article

Costa Rica offers climates for all tastes   -   1.31.2011

Costa Rica News contributor Kat Sunlove says that Costa Rica offers a wealth of different climates that can suit a whole host of desires. Full Article

Cape Air touts new route to Anguilla   -   1.31.2011

Regional U.S. airline Cape Air has announced a trio of new routes, including adding service to Anguilla, improving access to those looking to buy a villa on the island. Full Article

Festival returns to Revelstoke   -   1.31.2011

Those looking to buy a ski property in Canada may be interested to hear that the town of Revelstoke is bringing back its popular Spirit Festival, adding another attraction for those looking at luxury apartments in the world-class resort. Full Article

Wave of new restaurants may be coming to San Francisco   -   1.31.2011

Lawmakers in San Francisco may soon take steps to allow a number of new restaurants to start up in the city's upper Fillmore District, making the area even more attractive for those looking at luxury apartments on the West Coast. Full Article

St. Lucia improving infrastructure as country evolves   -   1.27.2011

As the island of St. Lucia continues to gain recognition into a world-class destination for those looking for beach villas, officials are working to help further along that process, eTurboNews reports. Full Article

New smartphone app gives insight into the Seychelles   -   1.21.2011

For those who purchase a vacation home overseas, unfamiliarity with the area can be a source of annoyance and frustration. However, a new smartphone application should help those who buy a villa in the Seychelles. Full Article

GPS coming to Revelstoke   -   1.20.2011

Those who buy a luxury townhouse at the popular Revelstoke ski resort in British Columbia may soon be able to forget worrying about carrying a paper trail map with them on the slopes, as the resort is now one of less than 20 in Canada which has partnered with SatsportsNA to create a GPS trail map. Full Article

Portugal's Algarve remains a popular destination   -   1.19.2011

While the lingering effects of the global recession have left property prices down across much of Portugal, including the popular Algarve coast, the New York Times reports that the area remains very much in-demand for those looking to buy a villa or luxury apartment. Full Article

Market in Brazil ready to pick up   -   1.13.2011

With a pair of major international sporting events heading to Brazil in the next several years, analysts say the time to buy a villa in Brazil may be now, as Luxury Travel Magazine says that the country's market is "on the cusp of exploding." Full Article

Jamaica's Fleming airport opens today   -   1.12.2011

Those looking to fly to a beach villa in Jamaica will be able to take advantage of improved access to the island, as the Ian Fleming International Airport is set to officially open today. Full Article

Human-powered cabs give Breckenridge added charm   -   1.11.2011

Already known as one of the most charming ski resort towns in North America, a new business - human-powered cabs - is adding yet another layer to the experience for those that buy a luxury apartment in the area. Full Article

Costa Rican property market represents strong buying opportunity   -   1.7.2011

For those looking for a beach villa with a warm climate all year-round, Costa Rica generally pops near the top of the list. The New York Times reports that property prices have fallen significantly over the past few years, representing a strong buying opportunity. Full Article

Expanded airport improves access in Vietnam   -   1.3.2011

Those looking to buy a villa in Vietnam will now find another potential arrival destination on their flight out, as officials have now officially opened the international terminal at Can Tho airport. Full Article

Phuket's marinas make it a top yachting destination   -   12.30.2010

As its reputation as one of the top global destination for those looking to buy a villa has grown, Phuket has also developed into one of the maritime capitals of Asia, with ample resources for sailors and boat owners. Full Article

Anguilla an uncrowded island escape   -   12.30.2010

Every year, as the winter chill sets in across much of the United States, there is a resurgence of interest in people looking to buy a beach villa someplace warm, such as the Caribbean. As QMI columnist Cathy Stapells writes, Anguilla remains relatively uncrowded and calm. Full Article

Saadiayat Island ahead of the curve   -   12.28.2010

As more and more developments begin to make their way into Abu Dhabi, tourism experts say that the city is at a turning point, and that its makeup is quickly shifting to focus the majority of its energies towards tourism. Full Article

1757 the latest Virginia golf course to earn recognition   -   12.23.2010

Adding to the wealth of top-flight courses already in play in Virginia, the 1757 Golf Club in Dulles, Virginia, has also made its name in the area, giving those who buy estate lots in Virginia another set of fairways to drive. Full Article

Court ruling to impact South African safaris   -   12.22.2010

Those looking to buy a villa in South African as a relaxing safari destination may be encouraged by a recent court ruling, which removes a great deal of uncertainty in the industry. Full Article

Jamaica remains top Caribbean destination   -   12.20.2010

The island of Jamaica has won yet another travel award, as it has now been named as the top Caribbean destination in the world for the second consecutive year by Travel Weekly, making it an ideal spot for those looking to purchase a beach villa either for their own use or for its leasing potential. Full Article

St. Lucia's Treasure Bay opens its doors   -   12.17.2010

While its beautiful beaches have long been a stunning draw, those who buy a villa in sunny St. Lucia will now be able to take advantage of the island's newest attraction, the Treasure Bay Casino. Full Article

Abu Dhabi developing as a shopping mecca   -   12.16.2010

While it has emerged as a world-class beach destination in the Middle East, the city of Abu Dhabi continues to be one of most opulent and expansive shopping destinations in the world, providing those who buy a villa in the United Arab Emirates' second-largest city easy access to all they desire. Full Article

Luxurious dining, high in the Austrian Alps   -   12.15.2010

When looking to buy a villa in Austria, sometimes the idea of dining can be overlooked compared to the picturesque vistas, cozy chalets and waiting ski slopes. But as Luxury Travel Magazine reports, those staying in the area can enjoy some of the finest cuisine anywhere, nearly 5,000 feet up. Full Article

America's Cup could bring major improvements to San Francisco   -   12.15.2010

As one of the largest cities on the West Coast of the U.S., San Francisco is one of the most popular places for boat owners looking for a luxury apartment near the water. Now, the city's pursuit of the 2013 America's Cup may dramatically improve its facilities. Full Article

Dana Point may soon be sight of artificial reef   -   12.14.2010

The oceanside community of Dana Point may soon be the sight of a new artificial reef, as officials have now released specifics of a plan, which would provide new diving opportunities for those who buy estate lots or luxury condos in the area. Full Article

Jamaica offers medium between developed and developing   -   12.8.2010

For those looking for vacation homes, they may be drawn to Jamaica because its lower costs aren't marred by substandard services. Full Article

United States and Brazil open up skies   -   12.7.2010

Those who buy a villa in Brazil may find it easier to make the trip from the United States in the coming months, as the two countries have now come together on an Open-Skies agreement, which will loosen air travel restrictions between them. Full Article

Montgenevre adding new amenities   -   12.6.2010

As skiing season kicks into full gear in the month of December, the Montgenevre resort in the Alps is unveiling a number of new amenities that will be available to those who purchase condominiums for sale in France. Full Article

Panama tops in Latin American infrastructure   -   11.30.2010

While those who buy a villa in Panama are generally looking for an oceanfront location with easy access to the country's beautiful beaches, a new report says that the country also ranks tops among all Latin American and Caribbean countries in terms of infrastructure. Full Article

Vietnam will soon host two more international airports   -   11.30.2010

International access for those who buy a villa in Vietnam will be much improved in the years to come, as officials have now approved the construction of a pair of new international airports. Full Article

High demand for Algarve's top courses   -   11.29.2010

Despite the fact that the global economy is still struggling to pick up, officials say that demand for playing time on some of Portugal's top courses in the Algarve region has continued to pick up - creating prime leasing or living opportunities for those looking to buy a golf villa in Portugal. Full Article

Seychelles becoming better connected   -   11.24.2010

While renowned for its idyllic beaches and warm breezes, officials say that the Seychelles will soon become much more connected. Full Article

Emirates continues to expand services to the U.S.   -   11.15.2010

Those who buy a villa in the United Arab Emirates will soon find travel connections much simpler, as the Dubai-based airline Emirates has now partnered with JetBlue to offer "seamless connections" through New York's JFK International Airport. Full Article

New developments make for more convenient stays in Brazil   -   11.11.2010

As Brazil readies itself for a massive influx of tourism in the coming years, with the World Cup and Olympics each set to arrive in the next six years, internal transit has picked up tremendously, which is allowing those who buy luxury villas in Brazil to easily travel throughout the country. Full Article

Viceroy Anguilla shows off new amenities   -   11.11.2010

Already known as one of the most attractive properties for those looking to buy luxury villas in Anguilla, the Viceroy resort has now unveiled a number of new amenities, Elite Traveler reports. Full Article

Mauritius named the top island destination in the world   -   11.10.2010

Those interested in purchasing luxury villas in Mauritius may want to act soon, as the Indian Ocean paradise has now been honored as the best island travel destination in the world for the second consecutive year. Full Article

Canada named as top travel destination   -   11.10.2010

Riding its renewed popularity, a new survey now says that Canada has emerged as the top travel destination in the world, and remains popular among those looking to purchase luxury apartments. Full Article

Avioraz resort set to expand   -   11.8.2010

One of the French Alps' most well-known resorts is set to expand its offerings in the coming months, giving those who purchase luxury apartments in France a wider range of activities from which to choose year-round. Full Article

Opportunities exist for fractional ownership in South Africa   -   11.8.2010

There are a large number of fractional ownership opportunities for those who want to purchase an estate in South Africa, and each of them offers a great opportunity for a positive return on the investment people make, according to local experts. Full Article

Emirates continues adding luxury flights to Dubai   -   11.4.2010

Those who buy an estate in the United Arab Emirates now have improved access to the Middle Eastern country, as Emirates have now opened a number of new nonstop flights with luxurious first-class accommodations out of Houston. Full Article

Phuket named one of the top island destinations in Asia   -   11.3.2010

For those who are considering the purchase of a luxury villa in Thailand, Phuket has recently been named one of the top island destinations in the world. Full Article

UAE continues to lead the pack for luxury yachting   -   10.29.2010

Those with interests in yachting and sailing may want to consider luxury villas in the United Arab Emirates, as officials tell the Khaleej Times that the country has maintained its standing as a hub for the luxury boating industry in the Middle East and Asia. Full Article

Jamaica earns top Caribbean honors at travel awards   -   10.25.2010

Luxury villas in Jamaica may be in high demand, after the island nation won a host of awards at the World Travel Awards. Full Article

Dana Point Harbor revitalization gets approval   -   10.22.2010

Boaters in the United States who buy an estate in Orange Country will likely be glad to hear that the California Coastal Commission has now finally certified the harbor revitalization plan that lays out a path for future development in the area. Full Article

Costa Rica embracing technological advancement   -   10.21.2010

While most of those purchasing a luxury villa in Costa Rica are drawn to the country's 600 miles of beaches, they can also maintain their connection to the rest of the world, as the country is quickly becoming much more connected. Full Article

Buyers of luxury homes in Canada take to fractional ownership   -   10.21.2010

After transforming waterfront property in Canada into a pair of luxury resorts, developer Andrew Pearson and his wife decided to sell them through fractional ownership, and found that buyers were very receptive to the idea, the Edmonton Journal reports. Full Article

Emirates increases service to Seychelles   -   10.20.2010

Emirates says it will increase air service between Dubai and the Seychelles to seven flights per week, starting early next month, in a move that will increase travel options for those who own Seychelles estate lots or luxury villas. Full Article