The new Puerto Banus?  This title may seem a little unlikely now.  But Lanzarote´s grand dame of tourism, Puerto del Carmen, is about to undergo a major, multi million euro facelift.  Which is sure to have a profound impact on the market for property for sale in Puerto del Carmen for years to come, regardless of the current gloom in the world housing markets.

 Puerto del Carmen was once a small fishing village called La Tiñosa.  Before being transformed out of all recognition by the package holiday boom of the 1970´s.  And now the resort is embarking on another chapter of change.  As island authorities unveil a project to “reinvent” tourism in Puerto del Carmen in order to ensure the resorts on-going competitiveness against newer and fresher destinations around the world.

 Puerto del Carmen has been the engine room of the market for property in Lanzarote as well as the island tourist industry for over thirty years. As thousands of overseas buyers have invested in holiday apartments and villas here – attracted by the rich seam of rental returns provided by the resorts buoyant tourist trade.

 But now Puerto del Carmen is in need of a serious overhaul – as three decades of package tourism has taken its toll on both facilities and insfracusture.  An impact that is most apparent on the main beachfront strip – the Avenida de las Playas.  Which is also the resorts main tourist shop front to the world.

 Here pedestrians fight for space on cramped pavements whilst cars whiz by just inches away.  And garish neon lit signs announce the presence of yet another British bar or indifferent restaurant.  Creating a downmarket and out of date image – especially in comparison with newer, purpose built holiday alternatives such as Dubai. 

 Fearing the loss of valuable tourist business to other destinations the island authorities have now given the green light to an ambitious project that will transform Puerto del Carmen into a desirable, upmarket holiday destination.

 The main beachfront strip is being pedestrianised and all shopfronts and fascias on the Avenida de las Playas will be harmonised in order to create a more aesthetically pleasing environment.

 But the biggest transformation will be taking place in the Old Town harbour area where the current port will be developed to accommodate a luxury marina with moorings for upmarket yachts and cruiser.  An initiative that is designed to attract a more affluent type of tourist to the resort.  Whilst also cutting in on the success of the marina at nearby Puerto Calero – located just a few nautical miles south along the coastline.  Which has exploded in popularity in recent years and where property also commands a premium.

 Along with the opening of a new golf course on the outskirts of the resort his winter these moves seem likely to ensure that both tourism – and the market for property in Puerto del Carmen – both have a positive future for decades to come.

This article was written by Serviced apartments near melbourne CBD

You’d like to invest in Real Estate, but…

1. You aren’t sure what to invest in (condos, apartment buildings, commercial properties, land), and

2. You’re not certain if you have enough money available to make a suitable Real Estate investment.

It seems that everyone is investing in some form of Real Estate, but you consider yourself a novice and your risk tolerance is low. You don’t want to make a costly mistake, so you decide to wait. You may have even purchased tapes and books and videos extolling the virtues of Real Estate investing, and how simple it is to become financially independent.

The old saying, “If it’s so easy, everybody would be doing it,” is just as appropriate for the Real Estate market.

Also, you may think that it’s too late — the so-called Real Estate “bubble” is about to burst.

Are there any alternatives for the neophyte, or the conservative investor who’s very concerned about his or her life savings?

There are such alternatives, a method by which you can own real estate and have it managed, with the liquidity of the stock market. It’s called a REIT, or Real Estate Investment Trust.

For about fifty years, REITS have offered investors the opportunity to own a variety of Real Estate investments — commercial and private — without the aggravation, inconvenience, and time-consuming hassles of individual ownership.

On top of this, a REIT can be purchased or sold just like as common stock. Professionals who are experienced in buying, selling, and renovating properties manage them.

Because many REITS purchase several properties, their diversification often keeps the investment risk low. Within the REIT, the management team has the capability of divesting itself of unprofitable properties, and, if the timing is appropriate, the ability to purchase additional properties.

Many REITS also offer very competitive dividends, which make them an excellent alternative to bonds and preferred stocks.

Also, the value of the properties in the REIT can appreciate, giving the investor a very important investment advantage — total return (appreciation plus dividends).

This appreciation in value is rarely seen in bonds (unless interest rates drop sharply), and, unlike bonds, REITS do not have a maturity date. This article is Courtesy of Serviced Apartments South Yarra, Melbourne

REITS are not without their risks. The Real Estate market could weaken, apartments and mall locations could remain vacant for a period of time, or the REIT may not want to risk putting additional capital in certain properties.

If you don’t have the expertise to invest in individual Real Estate ownership, or, if you’re a conservative investor who demands liquidity in your portfolio, speak to your investment advisor regarding REITS. These trusts may give you the liquidity and the diversification you need and deserve.

As a final note: If you’re searching for appropriate vehicles for your IRA, REITS may be one of your best alternatives. Remember to do your homework. There are many different types of REITS out there. This Article was brought to you by Serviced Apartments

The city of Sheffield is a very metropolitan place which for years has been one of the homes of steel. Both stainless steel and crucible steel were first made in this city and today there are plenty of places to visit in the city showing the history of this city. But there are plenty of other attractions in Sheffield and the surrounding area that will make your stay in Sheffield enjoyable. 

1.    Beauchief Abbey – This is one of the most beautiful of all attractions that Sheffield has to offer. Although the tower is the only part of the abbey remaining from 1175 the stone from it was then used to build the Church of St Thomas in the 17th Century. This was originally the only Premonstratensian Abbey in the whole of this part of Yorkshire. Today you can spend time just wandering around this peaceful medieval site and relaxing away from modern stresses and strains.

2.    Beauchief Golf Course – This is one of three golf courses in the area and it stands in the grounds of the abbey. This pay and play course like the other two is easily accessed from the centre of the city and a round of golf here will keep you occupied for hours. Certainly those who do play golf will find these courses not only a challenge but will have wonderful scenery to enjoy as well.

3.    Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet – As we know Sheffield is famous for its steel and this is an authentic 18th Century scythe works. As you wander around you can view not only the house but the workshops, the crucible steel furnace, the dam {and|&} water wheels which were all important for steel production a couple hundred years ago. When you take the time to explore, you’ll start to feel how life was for those who lived in those times.

4.    Sheffield Botanical Gardens – These are peaceful and tranquil gardens for you to enjoy. The site is important and is Grade II listed and with several listed buildings which include the glass pavilions. The gardens are currently being extensively restored. This work is helping to show off the original Victorian design of the garden and introduce back into it plants originally grown when the gardens were first laid. Disabled visitors will be pleased to know that their needs are being taken into consideration as well during the work.

5.     Cobweb Bridge – This is on the Five Weirs walk, a recent addition to Sheffield’s tourist attractions.  The walk follows the banks of the River Don which stretch for 8 kilometers (5 miles) and the more energetic can follow the path to Rotherham and even across the Trans Pennine Trail. Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty of local wildlife to keep them occupied. Engineering fans will be fascinated by the design of the bridge itself.

6. Peak District National Park – Just 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the centre of Sheffield is this National Park which lies at the southern end of the Pennine Hills. Take time to spend it exploring the varied landscape and try and spot some of the areas wonderful wildlife. Not only is this a favorite place for walkers to visit but also climbers and cyclists as well.  

Choose your Sheffield hotel or guest house here.

The Holiday Property Bond (HPB) offers an interesting alternative to the traditional timeshare concept.

The “bond” is actually a life assurance bond which invests up to 65% of its funds in holiday properties in Britain and Europe. After fees and charges have been deducted the rest of the fund is invested in British government bonds, Eurobonds and other income producing securities.

Investors receive an annual allocation of Holiday Points according to the amount of money they have invested in the bond. The minimum initial investment is £4,000 and one point is allocated for each pound invested. However, the investment is inflation-proofed to protect members’ booking power year by year.

Bond members may use the points to book rent-free holidays in any of the available properties any time of the year, as long as they have enough points to cover the “points charge” of a particular property, and provided the property is not fully booked.

It should be noted that “rent free” does not mean “100% free” because Bondholders are expected to pay a “no-profit user-charge” which, according to the HPB portfolio catalogue, is a “contribution towards the actual costs of servicing” the property during the period of occupancy. This still represents good value, especially as the terms of booking stipulate that “all the facilities on most sites are provided to Bondholders at no extra cost.”

One problem Bondholders may encounter is that their preferred holiday site is already fully booked, especially during the peak holiday season. HPB management maintains that even if every bondholder were to book a holiday in the same week ten percent of the accommodation would still be empty. In other words, although some holiday sites fill up quickly there will always be accommodation available somewhere. Courtesy of Car Hire at Port Elizabeth International Airport

The Holiday Property Bond was launched in 1983 with just one holiday property in the Canary Islands. Twenty five years later the portfolio has grown to include 19 properties in Britain, three in France, two in Spain, Italy and the Canary Islands, and one in Austria, Portugal, Turkey, Madeira and Majorca, so HPB may be said to offer more choice and flexibility than the traditional timeshare model.

The portfolio includes a castle, a manor house, mansions, farmhouses and country cottages in Britain; a French chateau; a medieval palazzo and a trulli development in Italy to mention just a few. On site or nearby facilities can also be impressive, such as a championship golf course in Norfolk, a salmon beat in Scotland, and skiing in Austria.

Each property is sympathetically decorated, comfortably furnished, and fully equipped. The sites are maintained to a high standard.

As well as the properties under HPB ownership, further choices available to members through the HPB Tenancy Programme, which extends the range of countries covered by the portfolio and takes it beyond Europe to the USA (Florida and New England) and South Africa (Capetown).

The Bond is issued by HPB Assurance Limited, which is registered in the Isle of Man. Bondholders who wish to cash in can do so after two years. Unlike some timeshare schemes, there have been no reports of difficulties in encashing. Courtesy of Car hire in Bloemfontein

However, investors looking for major financial gains would be advised to look elsewhere and encashment after just a few years has tended to result in losses on the initial investment.

For many Bondholders, the real value of the Holiday Property Bond lies elsewhere, in providing a life assurance vehicle that allows investors to enjoy holidays in attractive and well-maintained accommodation in a variety of interesting locations.

Courtesy of Car hire in Cape Town

One of the major Asian Tiger economies Malaysia has consistently had stronger economic growth that of America and the European Union. Its economic growth exceeded 8% in each year of 1989–1997.

The turmoil in the US economy is not evident in Asia. Malaysia is buoyed by the many surplus funds in the region, particularly from rich investors from the Middle East, its compulsory pension schemes and sovereign investment funds.

Property in Malaysia is a strong and established market

In an age of global economic uncertainty and volatility in the major markets of the USA and UK, retirement planning for the Malaysian non-welfare state, with its trademark absence of taxation-funded old-age pension has seen a move of many local investors into the quality of on-shore real estate investment. Listed property trusts have operated in Malaysia for the past 20 years, and their strict regulation (they must be sponsored by financial institutions) has assisted even Malaysians with lower pension funds to invest in Malaysian real estate.

Housing development in Malaysia is controlled unlike some other Asian countries, having been set up in the mid-1970s development control legislation patterned on the British Town and Country Planning Act. This to some extent props up prices, particularly in the rapidly increasing urban areas. Its developed legal system keeps away excesses of developers, which are common in countries with less -developed legal systems, and the system also offers a large degree of protection for property buyers and investors.

Why is the Malaysian market soaring?

The thriving Malaysia property market is fuelled by ongoing economic growth; a naturally-growing population averaging 1.8% long-term; increasing migration from country to city; the growth of the state-sponsored pension fund; expansion of economic activity by nearby Singapore; and the 10-year-old “Malaysia- My Second Home” programme.

In what sort of Malaysia properties do affluent locals wish to live?

The Malaysian buy to let market is increasing, fuelled by rising incomes of a growing young, educated professional class.

There has been a spate of launches for high-end properties all around the country, due to a lot of interest from locals, as well as people from overseas. Developers believe that demand will remain steady, and are careful to build high-end projects in the best locations such as the city centre and near certain attractions like the formula 1 race track along Sepang Goldcoast, targeting niche markets.

The properties being build that we are aware of make the most of the tropical coastline and some of the new touristic resort developments like The Palm and Tropical Cluster which are being built as part of Sepang Walk along the Goldcoast near the Sepang Formula 1 race circuit are very popular with foreign investors. The Palm was one of the fasting selling developments in the last year and was in very high demand.

If you need to rent a car, follow these eight tips to make sure you are getting a great deal:

1. Pick the right size of car.
If you only have a family of three, you don’t need to rent a full sized SUV. Larger cars are more expensive to rent. Rent the smallest sized car that you can get away with.

2. Choose the right type of car for your budget.
Although many people look at renting a car as an opportunity to get a luxury vehicle, the budget savvy traveler will choose more carefully. Just like when it comes to purchasing a car, renting a luxury car is more expensive than renting an economy car. And you’ll pay through the nose if you decide to rent a sports car! You'll save money if you stick with the basics.

3. Consider renting for an entire week.
Do a cost anaylsis of rental rates. You might discover that to rent a car for a whole week is a cheaper option than renting for just four or five days. Compare the daily rental rate to the weekly rate. The weekly rate might be a better deal. Double check the company’s policy for turning in the car early, just in case you need to do so.

4. Comparison shop.
If you have a choice of car rental companies, make sure to shop around. Get similar quotes from each car insurance company and find the best deal on the type of car that you need. You can also search prices online through travel sites and be on the lookout for travel coupons specific to your destination. Sometimes, you will find the cheapest prices directly at the rental company’s website. Look for online car rental coupons at secondary sites that will save you even more.

5. Look for package deals.
You may be able to save money by booking your car rental in a package with your flight and hotel. But don’t assume that a package deal will equal a better rate. Do the math to make sure that you’ll be saving.

6. Talk with your car insurance company.
Your regular car insurance company may offer discounts on car rentals. In addition, they may also insure you while you are driving a rental car. Read your policy carefully or call your car insurance provider to make sure that you’ll be covered while you have a rental car. If you are, this means that you won’t have to buy the daily insurance from the car rental company, which can save you a lot of money.

7. Look at your credit card benefits.
Your credit cards might come with money-saving car rental benefits. Your credit card may give you discounts on car rentals or rental car insurance. Call your credit card company to find out your benefits regarding renting a car.

8. Try to find discounts through other memberships.
Several other membership groups offer discounts on car rentals. If you are a member in any type of large group or club, check to see if you have any rental car benefits. Check out your local entertainment book coupons as well.

metro Amsterdam

Amsterdam has long been considered as one of the most grand, exciting and interesting cities that the world has to offer. It is made up of an intriguing mixture of different “faces,” which reveal themselves readily enough to the visitor who wants to see and experience all facets of this jewel of a city. In addition to being a popular destination for travelers from around the globe, and being the capital of Holland, it is also a mecca of social and cultural distinctions.

One of the most lovely and inviting features of metro Amsterdam is the many beautiful and peaceful canals that meander through the center of the city. This wonderful maze of waterways, which is rare in large metropolitan areas, has earned this Netherlands metropolis the honorary title of “the Venice of the North.” Visitors are often mesmerized by the view of this clean and modern city that they are able to enjoy as they gently and quietly glide through different neighborhoods that are connected by this network of canals.

Amsterdam has long been a favorite destination for travelers from all over the world, and it continues to attract more and more tourists every year. With over 700 years of history, including many times of tumult and difficulty, this grand city has been able to survive and thrive by embracing the many people, and their rich cultures, who have come to settle in this area.

There is a vibrant and fascinating melting pot of various lifestyles, customs, traditions and heritages that are evident in various districts, attractions, sights, arts and commerce found within the boundaries of Amsterdam city, and also the surrounding areas which have been influenced as well. Overall, this has all created a wonderfully unique and distinct culture all its own. As well, there are many four and five-star Amsterdam hotels available to the world traveler. There is truly something for everyone in the contemporary urban environment that makes up the largest city in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam NL is also known as the “city of Rembrandt,” the world-renowned master painter. Rembrandt spent his days and created his masterpieces in the historic Jewish neighborhood of the city where visitors can still go to see the home where he lived and worked. Several of the museums throughout the city also give honor to Rembrandt and his work, as well as other well-known artists of the ages. The Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam is another venue honoring yet another Dutch artist.

The colorful and picturesque buildings found throughout Amsterdam Netherlands are a hallmark of this city and is one of the strongest attractions for those who visit Amsterdam. Especially in the old city center, one is dazzled by the beauty of the architecture and the unique and charming feeling that these neighborhoods evoke. One of the best ways to view these neighborhoods is by taking a leisurely boat ride down the various canals, which gives the tourist an incomparable view of these endearing sites that have been lovingly and carefully maintained through the centuries.

One of the cultural aspects of this European city that it has become fairly well known for is the very tolerant position the city takes on prostitution and the use of soft drugs, both of which are legal. The Amsterdam red light district, which is where the prostitution trade operates openly, has even become a part of many city tours. This is part of the “laid-back” attitude that has been in part responsible for the general, easy-going lifestyle that has attracted so many people and which has often converted visitors into residents.

The vibrant and diverse nightlife of the city is something that is particularly attractive to many tourists. There is an almost endless array of pubs, clubs, restaurants and entertainment venues to be explored in Amsterdam, offering something that will appeal to just about everyone. And, for those who are always looking for great shopping opportunities, this is also considered to be a city that competes with the amazing shops found in the likes of London, Paris and Milan.

Vacations to Pitlochry are becoming increasingly popular not only with those who live in Britain but from around the world as well. When you take a short break in Pitlochry there is plenty for one to do and see whilst spending time in an area renowned for its stunning scenery. 

The town of Pitlochry itself has kept almost all of its Victorian charm and features and it can be found in the highlands of Perthshire. Actually, the town has been a popular holiday resort for over a century and this is all down to the fact that Queen Victoria chose to spend time here in 1844.   

Although it was a popular location with visitors from around the UK after the visit of Queen Victoria, Pitlochry was well known before this time. During the 18th Century, it was here that flax was being grown and the town was producing high quality linen in their mills. This meant that the town was very busy throughout the 1700′s and 1800′s. 

As well as weaving linen, the city was renowned for its whisky that was being distilled at the Blair Atholl Whisky Distillery. Later, in 1835, the first water powered wool mills were opened by the MacNaughton family and here raw wool was made into Tweed. 

Pitlochry is also home to the local highland games and it was here in 1852 the first modern version of these took place. Today these games are still played and they are the last to be held in the Scottish season. The actual site where the games take place is located only a short distant from the main street in Pitlochry and are usually held here during September. 

The games include all the traditional ones you would expect at such an event other ones have been included as well. Today they now include tug of war competitions, highland dancing and pipe band competitions also. So you are likely to find something to watch and enjoy through the days events.

If your trip doesn’t coincide with the highland games there is plenty more for one to do and see whilst there. Which means that as well as the games, there are other festivals that one can enjoy such as the Autumn Festival or the Winter Words Festival. 

So you do not have to restrict your Pitlochry vacations solely to summer months when the weather is good. Providing you’re prepared to dress up warm and something to protect you from the rain then this area of Scotland is an all year round destination.  You’ll be rewarded with a warm Scottish welcome whenever you visit.

Choose your Pitlochry hotel or guest house here.