The Caribbean Property Investor Issue 7

Money Mortgages & Citizenship

Life & Style Travel, Fashion, Art & Interior Design

Prime Property Luxury Homes & Commercial Investments

The Caribbean THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO PRIME PROPERTY & LUXURY LIFESTYLE

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BOUTIQUES 路 Cozumel The Caribbean Property Investor,Aruba Issue 7 路 |Bahamas 7thHeavenProperties.com St. Thomas 路 St. Maarten 路 Dominican Republic hublot.com

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ON THE COVER Of Luxury & Nature

Casual, coastal elegance meets the unparalleled beauty of Dominica, the Caribbean’s “Nature Island.” Discover The Residences at Secret Bay and be one of the fortunate few to own a home at the “World’s Best Boutique Hotel.” Turn to page 40

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C ON T E N T S

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IN BRIEF

MONEY

LIFE & STYLE

17 NOW Caribbean property market news and trends

35 Special Feature: Citizenship by Investment An in-depth look at Citizenship

by Investment programs in five Caribbean nations 38 Antigua & Barbuda 39 Dominica 48 Grenada 50 St Kitts & Nevis 54 St Lucia

69 Heart & Soul An interview with interior design guru Celerie Kemble on her stunning Dominican hotel

22 The Hot List Must have new products for luxury island living 26 Island Time A showcase of our favourite new luxury watches

60 Pathways to Paradise The ins and out of mortgages for non-residents in the Caribbean

64 History in the Making An interview with Paul Doyle, founder of The Crane in Barbados

77 They Call Him Mellow Yellow Fashion for him: Yellow… the colour surprise of the season 79 Your Star is Rising Fashion for her: How to wear this season’s hottest colour

82 One Week in… Anguilla What to see and do on the tiny island of Anguilla 84 Making a Splash The sensational swimming pigs of The Bahamas

88 Leading Light An interview with Stephen Scott Young, master of modern realist watercolour

Team Founder: Walter Zephirin Editor-in-Chief: Robert Cooper Consultant: Brigitte Pool Design and Art Direction: Kuchar Swara, Ling Ko Illustration: Toby Morison Photo Retouching: Emily Zarb Advertising: +44 (0)20 8960 1010 Contributors: Leo Bear, Victoria Gaiger, Zoe Dare Hall Cathy Hawker, John Lyon Copyright © 2017 7th Heaven Properties Ltd. All rights reserved. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of all contents, 7th Heaven Properties Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. All material published in The Caribbean Property Investor is copyright and reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission is strictly prohibited. The editors and publishers of this magazine make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised in this edition. All prices are correct at time of going to print, but subject to change.

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C ON T E N T S

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PROMOTIONS 36 Citizenship-Based Special Economic Zone Strategy Discover the world’s only citizenshipanchored Special Economic Zone 40 Of Luxury & Nature Introducing the new residences at Dominica’s Secret Bay

45 Second to None CS Global Partners on Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programme 52 Live Grand Fractional ownership opportunities at Wyndham Grand Nevis

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RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

93 7 of the Best: Income-Generating Homes for Sale in the Caribbean Our pick of homes offering relaxation and ROI 102 7 of the Best: Beachfront Homes for Sale in the Caribbean Our pick of the hottest shore-hugging homes 114 7 of the Best: Investments Approved for Caribbean Citizenship Programs A range of qualified options for the real estate route of Citizenship by Investment programs in the Caribbean

126 The Bahamas 214 unit beachfront condo resort & marina for sale

127 Grenada Beachfront boutique hotel for sale 128 Nicaragua Historical boutique hotel for sale 129 Roatan Marina for sale

130 St Lucia 110 acres of beachfront land for sale

56 The Offshore Advantage Blacktower Financial Management (International) on offshore investing

62 The Antigua Advantage The benefits of private banking in Antigua 80 Experience Luxury Puntacana Resort & Club, the ultimate beach, golf and marina destination

The Caribbean Property Investor Magazine is published by 7th Heaven Properties Ltd, the luxury Caribbean property specialist: www.7thHeavenProperties.com. Our extensive portfolio of residential and commercial property listings spans the entire Caribbean region, including the Central American countries with a Caribbean coastline. As experts in the market, we are ready to introduce you to the region’s most exceptional investment opportunities through our powerful network of handpicked, trusted partners.

To enquire about all properties mentioned in this magazine, or to advertise in future editions, please contact: UK: +44(0)20 8960 1010, US/Canada: 855 364 8776, E-mail cpi@7thHeavenProperties.com

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Caribbean Luxury at its Most Natural

Priced from US $848,000 to $3,200,000

Introducing a new real estate offering from Secret Bay, winner of the 2016 World’s Best Boutique Hotel Award.

This unprecedented collection of 42 architectural treehouse-style villas and bungalows are secluded within the gated confines of one of the world’s most acclaimed eco-luxury resorts. Enjoy privileged access to three swimmable beaches, wellness and fitness center, saltwater infinity pool, butterfly-roofed yoga pavilion, float-over-the-river restaurant and the natural wonders of Dominica, the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean.

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W E L C OM E & G U E ST C ON T R I BU TOR S GUEST CONTRIBUTORS Zoe Dare Hall

Welcome Welcome to the seventh issue of The Caribbean Property Investor magazine, the definitive guide to prime property and luxury lifestyle in the Caribbean from 7th Heaven Properties.

In recent years many parts of the world have become increasingly fraught with social, political and economic instability. Elections and referendums have resulted in results which have shocked the system on both sides of the Atlantic, while conflicts in other regions have dragged on, blighting the lives of people in various countries.

In contrast, one part of the world has remained an oasis of stability: The Caribbean. The timeless appeal of almost guaranteed sunshine, stability and a welcoming, smiley face never fails to draw people from overseas, whether for a short visit or a permanent stay.

According to the most recent data available, tourists flocked to the Caribbean in record numbers last year. Similarly, property investors are making a beeline to the region, keen to swap stress or upheaval at home for the luxury of a laidback lifestyle in the islands.

With airlines launching new flights from North America and Europe and governments introducing a range of enticing incentives for investors, real estate sales are up in many Caribbean islands and that trend is set to continue this year.

This issue provides a flavour of just some of the new property developments in the Caribbean. Please get in touch with us regarding any of the investments featured in this edition. Whether your interest lies in existing real estate or a newly built home, we would be delighted to help you find your perfect property in the Caribbean.

Our mission is to offer a highly personalized service, so please email or call us so we can fully understand your property requirements and help make your dream of owning a home in the Caribbean a reality.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Zoe Dare Hall is a property writer whose work can be found in The Sunday Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Financial Times and various luxury publications including Sphere and The London Magazine. She lives and works in London, but would swap it for Barbados at the drop of a hat.

For this issue, Zoe provides a roundup of new developments in the Caribbean property world (page 17) and introduces 7 of the best income-generating homes for sale in the region (page page 93).

Cathy Hawker

Two decades as a travel and overseas property writer have taken Cathy all over the world but the Caribbean is the region that remains closest to her heart. Her work has appeared in a wide range of international newspapers and magazines including The Financial Times, The Times, The Telegraph and The Evening Standard.

In our Prime Property section, Cathy highlights 7 of the best investments approved for Citizenship by Investment programs in the Caribbean (page 114).

Walter Zephirin Founder 7th Heaven Properties

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F ROM T H E E DI TOR & G U E ST C ON T R I BU TOR S Leo Bear

Freelance journalist Leo Bear writes travel features for some of UK’s leading titles including Tatler, House & Garden, Brides and The Telegraph. Her areas of expertise include honeymoon, wellness and interiors, which makes the Caribbean one of her all-time favourite destinations. Recent trips include Jamaica, St Lucia, Nevis and Antigua. Next up? Barbados.

From the Editor In this issue we begin with a roundup of what’s new in the world of Caribbean real estate (page 17), including incentives for property buyers. We also take a look at some of the hottest products hitting the market that are sure to enhance any trip to the Caribbean (page 22).

Our Money section includes a special feature on Citizenship by Investment programs across the region (page 35). We also take a look at offshore finance (page 56), how you can apply for a mortgage for a second home in the sun (page 60) and the advantages of private banking in Antigua (page 62).

In Life & Style, we talk to New York-based interior design guru Celerie Kemble about how she created a look and feel at her hotel in the Dominican Republic that uniquely blends handpicked vintage furniture with custom crafted pieces produced by local artisans (page 69).

Finally, in our Prime Property section, we showcase a selection of 7 the best homes for sale in the Caribbean in three separate categories: income-generating homes (page 93), beachfront homes (page 102) and investments approved for the real estate option of the Caribbean’s various Citizenship by Investment programs (page 114).

Robert Cooper Editor-in-Chief

Here Leo takes us on a trip to The Bahamas to meet the archipelago’s famous swimming pigs (page 84) and showcases 7 of the best beachfront homes for sale in the Caribbean (page 102).

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Fashion Editor Victoria Gaiger travels the world shooting the latest trends for some of the world’s biggest brands. Her next trip to the Caribbean will see her looking for pink sands and turquoise waters in Barbuda. She is currently the Fashion Editor at Harrods magazine and Harrods Man magazine.

In our Life & Style section, Victoria takes a look at the colour you should be wearing on the beach this year (page 76).

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A D IFFE R EN T POI N T OF BL UE It’s easy to fall in love with Zemi Beach House Resort & Spa – before you even catch a glimpse of our legendary beaches. The combination of personalized service, signature Zemi Thai House Spa and superb waterfront dining allows you to fully relax and experience a different point of blue.

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IN BRIEF

NOW the hot list LUXURY WATCHES

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A roundup of the latest market news & trends in brief from around the region

by Zoe Dare Hall

Gearing Up for Growth Anguilla cuts stamp duty to fuel economy and real estate market All home buyers in Anguilla will benefit from new lower rates of stamp duty, which came into force on January 1st 2017. The British Caribbean island hopes to stimulate the economy, property and construction markets with the tax cuts, which now mean Anguillan nationals (‘belongers’) pay 2.5% instead of the previous 5%. The rate for non-nationals has also been significantly cut from 12.5% to 5% for built developments and to 6.25% for vacant land. The new rates are to remain in effect for two years.

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Non-nationals will also be granted an 11-month visitor’s stamp when they pay their ALHL (Alien Land Holding License) fees, to be renewed annually.

The move – which coincides with the 50th anniversary of ‘modern’ Anguilla, since the island’s 1967 revolution - is expected to increase interest in second homes on the island by making Anguilla more competitive with regional neighbors.

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

IN BRIEF NOW

Cost-Effective Citizenship St Lucia’s new-look citizenship scheme is now the least costly in the Caribbean A year after its launch, St Lucia has reformed its Citizenship by Investment Program and can now claim to offer the least expensive Citizenship program in the Caribbean.

New regulations, which came into effect on January 1st 2017, see the scrapping of the minimum $3m net worth requirement for applicants – originally an attempt to set St Lucia’s scheme apart from the competition by targeting only the wealthiest investors. The limit on the number of applications that can be processed each year has also been removed.

The minimum level of required investment has been made more attractive too. To be eligible for the program, applicants now need to invest at least $300,000 USD (previously $350,000 USD) in an approved real

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

estate project. The minimum contribution required for investment in the St Lucia National Economic Fund ranges from $100,000 USD for individuals (previously $200,000 USD) up to $190,000 USD (previously $250,000 USD) for a couple with two dependents.

The third option – to invest in Government Bonds – has been reintroduced with a minimum investment of $500,000 USD and a $50,000 USD admin fee.

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Access All Areas New airports and flight routes set to boost tourism and real estate markets throughout the Caribbean It was a long time coming and five years behind schedule, but St Vincent’s new Argyle International Airport felt the love when it finally opened on Valentine’s Day 2017. The airport’s opening is expected to provide significant uplift to the archipelago.

Barbuda is hoping to follow suit with plans for its own international airport – a further boost to an island already buzzing with news of Robert de Niro’s planned $250m USD resort.

Airport improvements are all the rage too. There are plans to upgrade airstrips on Belize’s Ambergris Caye and Jamaica’s Ian Fleming International Airport to enhance access.

This year also sees a raft of new and improved flight routes. British property buyers will benefit from new

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routes to Barbados, Jamaica and Tobago. The US market can look forward to new JetBlue services to Aruba and Curacao and Delta routes to Bonaire, Jamaica, Punta Cana and St Thomas. Air Canada and WestJet are adding new services from Canada to Costa Rica, Puerto Rico and St Maarten.

Meanwhile, private jets will be greeted with open arms at Panama City and St Lucia, whose airports are now home to custom-built FBOs (fixed base operators).

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

THE INVESTOR’S CHOICE

Palm Cay is attracting local & international residents with its wide range of properties, an ideal choice for investors seeking a safe haven to invest their funds. Investors experience capital growth & above average returns with our buoyant, well managed rental program.

International investors continue to enjoy benefits of The Bahamas tax free infrastructure.

STARFISH ISLE

These beautifully appointed townhomes are 2,000 sf, 3 & 4 bedroom / 3.5 bath residences.

Every home is fully wired for 110 volt electrical appliances, as well

as cable TV, high-speed internet, and audio needs. You can walk to the private beach from your home in less than 40 steps. Prices from $675,000.

ONE MARINA Our latest phase of luxury apartments with marina frontages and majestic ocean views. A choice of 2 and 3-bed designer apartments which range from 1 , 4 3 0

THE ANCHORAGE

All homes feature expansive views of lush gardens, with oversized 2 & 3 bed homes, travertine tiles throughout, terrace or balcony, and much more! Full access to

the resort style amenities within the established and secure gated community. Approximately 1,200 sq.ft. under air. Prices from $400,000 to $415,000.

GARDEN TOWNHOMES

1,900 square feet to 2,180 square feet, 3 bedroom/2.5 bath residences. Spacious balcony, and a master suite with en-suite bath & walk-in closet. Private

LOTS / HOMESITES

sq.ft. to 3,000 sq.ft. (under a/c) including stunning penthouse units. Bahamas Accelerated Residency Program is available.

Prices from US$800,000 to $1,9m

Build your home at Palm Cay. A wide variety of home designs are available – each with it’s own distinctive character ensuring no two residences are the same.

The Palm Cay homesites range from 8,000 sq.ft up to 15,000 sq.ft and are located within easy access of all amenities. Prices are from $225,000 to $350,000

garden and a very short stroll to the beach and marina. All homes come complete with cable TV, high-speed internet, and audio connections. Priced at $550,000

VACATION HOMES Palm Cay is the perfect destination for your vacation. Palm Cay is the perfect complement to the landscape of this tropical archipelago, and tailor-made for the

ultimate beach/marina holiday.

Located close to a crisp white beach, these rental properties offer the perfect excuse to laze around and enjoy life to the full.

The Palm Cay development incorporating One Marina offers numerous attractive opportunities with its world class amenities: full service marina, clubhouse & restaurant, dockside café, swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness center, play areas and 24hr security.

Palm Cay Developments, Yamacraw Hill Road, Nassau, The Bahamas 001 242 676 8552 | www.palmcay.com | info@palmcay.com

IN BRIEF NOW

Silver Linings The Caribbean is moving on from the world’s recent ‘annus horribillis’ If 2016 was a year most of us would rather forget, plagued with social and political upheaval, 2017 shows promise for the Caribbean’s tourist markets and economies.

Tourism is forecast to continue to grow as arrivals increased by 4.2% last year to reach an all-time high of 29.3 million in 2016 and travel agents are reporting higher booking numbers than this time last year, with Jamaica, St Lucia and the Dominican Republic among the big sellers.

The luxury market is looking particularly strong, with high-end offerings such as Sandals Royal Caribbean’s new over-the-water villas in Montego Bay sold out until 2018 and “upscale product” accounting for 21.9% of new hotel construction, according to global data company STR. Hotel construction is booming

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across the board, says STR, with almost 7% more rooms built in the Caribbean/Mexico in the past year.

A strong performance in tourism and construction is contributing to economic growth across the region, with the IMF forecasting moderate growth of 3.8% in the Caribbean in 2017.

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

Pack Travel is all about making new discoveries and creating new memories and that’s exactly what inspired the 2017 collection of handcrafted leather suitcases, bags and accessories from Globe-Trotter – the luxury lifestyle brand beloved by traveling Brits from the Queen to James Bond. Taking inspiration from the travel stickers collected

by Hilary Farish – a 1960s air stewardess for British Airways-forerunner BOAC – as she jetted around the world, the new collection features colourful, graphical linings and hand-appliquéd leather patches in the midcentury style of Farish’s sticker sets which bring to mind the excitement and glamour of flying’s golden age and add a subtle element of fun to an otherwise discrete and elegant collection of luggage for men and women. Time to get packed, prepare to board and buckle up. The Caribbean here we come.

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IN BRIEF the hot list

The Hot List

Our pick of the must have new products for luxury island living RO B ERT CO O P ER

Sip Cracking open a good bottle of rum is often the ideal antidote to a long flight to the Caribbean. Rounded, delicate and balanced, there’s nothing quite like this newly released limited edition from Mount Gay Distilleries to ease you into island time. Limited to one small batch of 12,000 bottles per year, the amber-hued 1703 Master Select comprises a blend of rums from the distillery’s oldest reserves, ranging in age from 10 to 30 years.

The blend was created by Master Blender Allen Smith and each bottle has been individually labelled by hand, including details of the heritage year and exact cask in which it was matured. So, sit back, glass of this rarest of rums in hand, unwind and enjoy the flavours of caramel and spice as the sun sets and you ponder the promise of a new day in the Caribbean.

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Refresh Is your home in the Caribbean in need of a revamp? The new Itz’ana Home Collection offers a contemporary take on tropical design and delivers an instant interior update. The collection was created for the hotly anticipated Itz’ana resort in Belize by New York-based furniture and interior designer Sam Amoia, who has worked with hoteliers Ian Schrager and Andre Balazs. Including desks, lamps, tables and stools, the collection is customcrafted in Belize and Guatemala from palo blanco wood and available to purchase in a refreshing, sun-kissed colour palette. While paying homage to the traditional patterns he discovered on his travels through the region, Amoia’s geometric designs give Central American design a thoroughly modern edge. Fresh and current, the Itz’ana Home Collection is a great way to add a modern tropical feel to your home in the sun.

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Click Whether you enjoy unwinding to the soothing sound of classical or prefer to party to the rhythmic sounds of reggaeton, the Fugoo Sport can provide the soundtrack to your life in the Caribbean. One of the best wireless speakers on the market, the Fugoo Sport is wrapped in a waterproofed exterior, making it durable and ideal for listening to music wherever you are: at home, by the pool or even out at sea. Bluetooth connectivity and integration with iOS’ Siri and Android’s Google Now enables voice control and speakers on all four sides deliver 360-degree sound. Best of all the Fugoo Sport is compact enough to pack in your bag and has a 40-hour battery life so you could spend all day listening to your favourite tunes at the beach and still have enough battery life left for a pool-side dinner party.

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The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

IN BRIEF LUXURY WATCHES

Island Time During a lengthy island getaway, losing track of time is forgiven – even encouraged. And while living in the moment is key for Caribbean recreation, when you need to make a statement – whether at a shoreline shindig or a black-tie gala – the right watch can transform its wearer into island royalty. From retro reinterpretations to colorful new classics, here we profile a curated selection of watches that pair perfectly with paradise.

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Image courtesy of MAISON KITSUNÉ (photography: Pierpaolo Ferrari)

John Lyon

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Red, Bright & Blue While the vibrant hues of pristine cerulean waters and fiery red sunsets may be blasé for the Caribbean, watches sporting these brilliant colors are beginning to become de rigueur. So whether you are feeling calm and cool or vivacious and passionate, these 12 timepieces in bold shades of blue and red are perfect for injecting some personality into your look.

For him Hublot Unico Chronograph Retrograde UEFA Champions League Just as rousing as the soccer tournament it honors is the Hublot Unico Chronograph Retrograde UEFA Champions League’s bold dark blue and black color scheme. Reminiscent of the inky depths of the ocean, the tonal palate is complimented by pops of red and white on the hands and indices that help keep the timepiece legible.

Montblanc TimeWalker Chronograph 1000 Clad mostly in black, the TimeWalker Chronograph 1000 includes a swathe of vibrant red marked with a white scale to draw attention to its most noteworthy feature, the ability to time events to the thousandth of a second. So whether you are measuring laps around a racecourse or just how long your kids can hold their breath underwater, you know your timing will be precise.

Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti Aerolithe Titane White Gold Abyss A tribute to a long-lost Bugatti from the 1930s, the Bugatti Aerolithe Titane White Gold Abyss sports a navy blue dial set against a polished white gold case. The perfect accessory for a long coastal drive, the watch’s strap comes from Hermès and its buckle is designed to resemble Bugatti’s iconic horseshoe grille.

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean “Deep Black” The irony of decorating a dive watch like the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean “Deep Black” with such crisp red highlights is that red is the first color on the spectrum to fade as one descends deeper into the water.

But let’s be perfectly honest, this is a watch aimed more at impressing the denizens on the beach rather than those under the waves.

Harry Winston Project Z10 Project Z10 – the latest entrant in the 13-year-old Project Z series of limited-edition watches – is marked by an intricate, girder-like skeletonized dial in rich blue anodized aluminum.

The rugged timepiece comes paired with a blue leather on black rubber strap that contrasts with its scratch-resistant case made from proprietary alloy Zalium.

Bulgari Diagono Magnesium The most striking edition of Bulgari’s Diagono Magnesium collection has to be this version wearing a bright red dial coated in Motor Lac, a protective lacquer coating most notably used to protect automobile engine components. The textured material, which also appears on the watch’s lugs, gives the piece a unique visual interest.

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IN BRIEF LUXURY WATCHES

for her Fabergé Flirt The coquettish contrast of the Fabergé Flirt’s two-tone blue enamel dials create an intriguing three-dimensional quality that make its laser-cut Roman numerals and hour markers really pop. Fitted with an alligator-leather strap, the cheery watch would make a striking companion at a sunset soiree or elegant afternoon event.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso

by Christian Louboutin While every other woman will be rocking Louboutins this summer, only a precious few will do so on their wrists. If that wasn’t enough, this particular version of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso by Christian Louboutin is equipped with a twisting lipstick-red strap lined by a gold chain matching the watch’s rose-gold case.

Patek Philippe Ladies Calatrava 4897 Subtle elegance is the name of the game for the Ladies Calatrava 4897, which features a midnight blue dial with mesmerizing guilloche engraving.

The minimalist dial features white gold hour markers encircled by a ring of 48 baguette diamonds set into the case’s white gold bezel. Suffice to say, what this lacks in flash, it more than makes up for with class.

Ulysse Nardin Jade Collection Grand Feu Playful and feminine, the Ulysse Nardin Jade Collection Grand Feu in ruby red is a whimsical way for a woman to wear her passion on her sleeve.

Even the watch’s movement was specifically designed with women in mind, as it features a crown that does not need to be pulled out to set the time – perfect for those trying to preserve a manicure.

Harry Winston Emerald Collection Appropriately enough for 85-year-old jewelry and watch brand Harr y Winston, its Emerald Collection of women’s timepieces features cases whose shapes are inspired by that of emerald-cut gemstones.

This particular version sets the 18-karat, diamond-set case against a radiant blue dial with a sunburst finish and a playful double-tour blue strap wraps twice around the wrist.

Chaumet New Liens Lumière Mother-of-Pearl While Parisian brand Chaumet ’s New Liens Lumière Mother-of-Pearl watches can be paired with leather straps in 12 different bright colors, we think the variant in candy red is particularly vivacious. The model attracts further attention with its sunray satin-finished dial flanked by two mother-ofpearl arches that shimmer with color in the sunlight.

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Image courtesy of MARY KATRANTZOU (photography: Erik Madigan Heck)

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IN BRIEF LUXURY WATCHES Blasts from the Past Everything old is new again. Or at least that seems to be the trend as of late in the watchmaking industry, which has recently turned out a slew of retro-styled, vintage-inspired models updated for contemporary sensibilities. The following are 12 of our favorite watches that put a modern spin on styles that, like the allure of the islands, are timeless.

For him Parmigiani Fleurier Kalpa XL Hebdomadaire Although its tonneau-shaped case lends the Parmigiani Fleurier Kalpa XL Hebdomadaire a healthy dash of Art Deco charm, its oversize teardrop lugs and contemporary numerals leave no room for mistaking the piece for a vintage reissue. And for those who sneak a closer look, its meticulously balanced, guilloche-engraved dial is sure to evoke envy.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Like any megastar its age, the legendary Rolex Oyster Daytona (originally introduced in 1963) needs a facelift from time to time. Enter the new Daytona, which combines the classic design of its forbears with a bezel made from proprietary cutting-edge Cerachrom ceramic, a material with remarkable resistance to scratches, corrosion and even sun damage.

De Grisogono New Retro Inspired by the fashion of the 1950s, De Grisogono’s New Retro collection establishes its vintage design vernacular with a classic color palate (one variation even features a slight green, patina-like tint), large rectangular case and minimalist dial. The bold watch will certainly make a statement at formal evening events, but it can also be dressed down for more casual occasions.

Girard-Perregaux 1966 WW.TC No need to be stuck on island time. The new Girard-Perregaux 1966 WW.TC keeps frequent travelers on track with a simple-to-operate world timer function housed within the round 1960s-style case characteristic of the 1966 collection. The watch’s opaline dial is mercifully uncluttered, helping ensure legibility – even after a few daiquiris.

Drive de Cartier With an aesthetic as iconic as Cartier’s, the company could be forgiven for sticking with what works. However, as evidenced by the introduction of the Drive de Cartier line, the watchmakers are committed to evolving the look while staying close to its roots. Along with classic Cartier features, the collection also offers refreshing modern touches.

Breitling Chronoliner Based on one of the brand’s models from the 1950s, the Breitling Chronoliner features a retro two-tone dial paired with a high-tech, scratch-resistant ceramic dial. And while the chronograph’s design carries the hallmarks of Breitling’s aviation heritage, it will look right at home being shown off on terra firma.

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IN BRIEF LUXURY WATCHES

For her De Grisogono New Retro Women Not to leave the ladies out of the fun, De Grisogono also offers the New Retro Women collection, which shares its male counterpart’s large, landscape-oriented dial and gently curved crystal. The main distinguishing features are its boldly textured galuchat leather straps, the gem-encrusted bezels and subdials that appear on some models and attention-grabbing color options.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Quartz An iconoclastic look when it debuted in 1976, Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak for women has since become one of the brand’s most treasured items.

One of the newest entrants in the series, the Royal Oak Quartz offers a new spin on the look in the form of a cascade of diamonds that extends across its pink gold case like a wave lapping at the shore of a Caribbean beach.

Roger Dubuis Velvet by Massaro Rita Honoring actress Rita Hayworth and Hollywood’s Golden Age, the Velvet by Massaro Rita is rooted in vintage design, with classic touches like a tonneaushaped subdial, dauphine hands and elongated Roman numeral indices radiating from the dial’s center. Sure to please footwear fans, the watch comes on a gold pleated-leather strap designed by shoemaker Maison Massaro.

Girard-Perregaux Laureato 34mm The latest iteration of GirardPerregaux’s Laureato series (which dates back to 1975) is available in a range of sizes, including a new 34mm version for women. Available in satin-brushed steel, gold or a combination of the two, the sophisticated timepiece showcases a diamond-set version of the collection’s distinctive octagonal bezel.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso

by Christian Louboutin For the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso by Christian Louboutin collection, the famed shoe designer put his own modern twist on the iconic 86-year-old Reverso line with models that sport bright, shimmering color schemes sure to attract attention. This model is equipped with an enchanting nudecolored leather strap featuring cutouts like those made for his shoes.

Panthère de Cartier At SIHH this year, Cartier reintroduced its celebrated Panthère de Cartier line, originally from 1983. True to its name, the collection references the brand’s signature panther motif with various big cat–inspired patterns and slinky metal bracelets. Available in two sizes and in a range of materials and diamond settings, there is sure to be a variant to fit your personal sense of style.

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The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

DOMINICA CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT PROGRAMME Dominica runs one of the world’s most reputable Citizenship by Investment Programmes, offering prudent investors the ability to access the world through a trusted route to second citizenship.

Learn more about the benefits of citizenship in Dominica at

www.cbiu.gov.dm E: cbiu@dominica.gov.dm

+44 (0)20 7318 4343 • info@csglobalpartners.com • www.csglobalpartners.com LONDON • ZURICH • HONG KONG • BEIJING • DUBAI • NEW DELHI • LAGOS • WINDHOEK • ST KITTS & NEVIS • SINGAPORE

MONE Y

SPECIAL FEATURE:

Citizenship by Investment

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CITIZENSHIP OFFSHORE FINANCE MORTGAGES PRIVATE BANKING

Possession of dual citizenship offers great freedom to live, work and travel internationally. While many of us may not have been fortunate enough to have acquired dual citizenship at birth, it is possible to attain a second passport, in many cases via a substantial investment into a country’s economy.

Five Caribbean nations operate Citizenship by Investment programs. Here, we take a look at the details of each program and showcase the best associated real estate investment opportunities The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

P RO M OTI ON ABSE Z

Citizenship-Based Special Economic Zone Strategy Antigua and Barbuda is rapidly developing an international level Special Economic Zone which is fueling economic growth. What makes it the new pinnacle of citizenship-based real estate investment? Here, the Prime Minister, Attorney-General, Ambassador-at-Large, Deputy CEO of the Citizenship by Investment Unit and Executive Vice President of the ABSEZ shed light on the world’s only citizenship-anchored Special Economic Zone and introduce Regent Bay, the jewel in the crown of the ABSEZ

In 2015 the Government of Antigua and Barbuda announced its intention to create a Special Economic Zone with the goal of stimulating economic growth. Plans to establish the Antigua and Barbuda Special Economic Zone (“ABSEZ”) are progressing at a rapid pace. While the concept has been trialed in other parts of the world, this zone is unique. It is the world’s first and only Special Economic Zone to be anchored by a Citizenship by Investment program.

The ABSEZ – A Vehicle for Sustainable Growth So, what is the rationale behind the establishment of the ABSEZ? We asked the country’s Prime Minister, Honourable Mr Gaston Browne. “One of the core pillars for economic development under

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the current Government is to achieve real economic diversification, and to become the regional economic powerhouse of the Caribbean,” he responds. The Government believes the establishment of a Special Economic Zone is the best way to achieve that aim. “After an extensive two-year analysis of development strategies which are economically advancing, growth sustainable and GDP per capita enhancing, the Government has committed towards establishing an international-level Special Economic Zone,” he says.

A 1,600-Acre Master-Planned Zone, the Largest in the Caribbean So, what exactly will the ABSEZ consist of and how does it cater to a diversity of business interests? We put this question to Honourable Mr Johann Hesse, Ambas-

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 ||7thHeavenProperties.com 7thHeavenProperties.com

sador-at-Large of Antigua and Barbuda.

“The ABSEZ features a total of 19 different zones,” Mr Hesse explains, including “the International Tourism Island, which Regent Bay is part of.” The master plan was expertly developed. “Top international economic advisors, consultants and architects have been involved to create a vibrant, synergistic and commercially viable master plan for the ABSEZ, based on similar global precedents,” he says.

International-Level Standards The Government of Antigua and Barbuda made careful preparations to ensure that the ABSEZ was established in line with the highest international expectations for a Special Economic Zone. According to the Prime Minister, “a parcel of connected lands, with a minimum of 1,000 acres in

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area, is required to develop a scalable and sustainable Special Economic Zone. The land determined for the ABSEZ is in excess of 1,600 acres.” Size is not the only factor to be considered. “The lands are best situated in close proximity to all existing and future infrastructure projects, such as airports, ports and others,” he says. “Antigua has the flagship USD 100 million modern airport of the Eastern Caribbean, a USD 150 million commercial harbor which will be completed in 2017 and multi-million dollar plans for road works.”

The Government also took steps to protect the economic interests of companies and individuals investing in the ABSEZ. “In 2015, the Government, through legislation and unanimous support of Parliament, passed three Acts to cement the establishment of the ABSEZ, including the Special Economic Zone Act, 2015,” Honourable Mr Steadroy Benjamin, Attorney-General of Antigua and Barbuda, points out. “In combination, these legislations cement, of all important parts, the most encompassing and attractive set of concessions for foreign direct investment into Antigua,” he tells us.

Uniquely Anchored by a Citizenship by Investment Program Unlike other Special Economic Zones around the world, the ABSEZ is anchored by a Citizenship by Investment Program.

As a consequence, investors in qualifying projects in the ABSEZ are eligible to apply for the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

by Investment Program – widely considered by numerous international organizations to be the premier Citizenship by Investment Program in the Americas region.

Mr Anthony Thomas, Deputy CEO of the Citizenship by Investment Unit of Antigua and Barbuda explains the value of acquiring a second citizenship, in particular Antiguan citizenship: “In an increasingly challenging world to conduct global business, having a secondary and world-recognized passport is essential.”

As part of the Commonwealth, Antiguan citizenship is particularly valuable. “This is where the British Commonwealth status pays dividends,” he says. “Antigua and Barbuda is ranked as the No. 1 Caribbean passport program in the world, with over 134 countries visa-free and the only one with Canada.” Application processing time is rapid. “Turnaround time can be as little as

37

45 days, making it very competitive.” Other requirements make Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship program very competitive too.

“There is only a 5-day residency requirement over a period of 5 years, eliminating the need to live physically in the Caribbean to become a citizen of the country,” Mr Thomas reveals.

Regent Bay – Your Opportunity to Profit from the ABSEZ Due to the fact that the ABSEZ is uniquely anchored by the Citizenship by Investment program, investors can personally benefit with an investment in Regent Bay, a brand new beachfront villa resort located within the ABSEZ. Regent Bay is the only beachfront villa resort on Antigua to exclusively comprise of 4-bedroom fully-furnished “ready-to-move-in” villas, each of which are treated as an individual key. Investors gain freehold title to no less than 600 square meters of land.

The villas at Regent Bay offer great financial returns too. As Mr Kenneth Kwok, Executive Vice President of the ABSEZ explains, “Regent Bay ownership includes a hybrid of guaranteed and variable returns, up to 5.5% by Year 5 for the guaranteed portion and no upper limit on the variable portion.” In fact, “Regent Bay is the only project offering a hybrid of guaranteed and variable returns in Antigua,” Mr Thomas says. As he explains, “this attractive investment hybrid maximizes financial investment returns while minimizing volatility and risks.” “At the end of 5 years, the investor can sell the villa and retain their Antiguan citizenship, which makes the freehold land title of particular value towards resale,” Mr Kwok concurs.

Location, Location, Location The value of investments in Regent Bay is expected to only grow in value due to its highly sought after location. Mr Kwok points to the conclusions of market studies and valuation reports produced by HVS, one of the leaders in hospitality consulting, which indicate that lands contained within ABSEZ contain some of the most prized property on Antigua. “Antigua is one of the most prized islands in the Caribbean,” he says. “Regent Bay has the unique advantage of being adjacent to not one but two of the most prized private islands off Antigua.

The 475-acre private island has confirmed

one of the most premier brands to anchor its hotel development, with a signature onoff island 18-hole golf course as a feature attraction,” he adds. The location is also ideal. “The overall project is conveniently located, only 15 and 20 minutes away from the airport by boat and by car, and 25 minutes from downtown St. John’s and the cruise terminal,” Mr Kwok says.

Tax Advantages There are tax advantages too. “For Regent Bay, there is no stamp duty and property tax levied, and no income tax on annual returns,” the Attorney General clarifies. As Ambassador Hesse points out, a KPMGissued report entitled “A Special Guide to the Antigua and Barbuda Special Economic Zone,” described the ABSEZ as the most advanced foreign direct investment program in the Caribbean, in large part due to the tax concessions offered to investors. According to the Ambassador, “such concessions include: a) 0% corporate and personal income tax, b) 0% capital gains and inheritance tax, c) 0% import and export tax, d) 0% stamp duty and property tax towards real estate purchase in Antigua and Barbuda, e) flexible land usage rights and many others.”

Taking the Next Step So, for any investors interested in profiting from an investment in Regent Bay, what are the next steps? The ABSEZ has set up an international team across various continents, which is led by Mr Kenneth Kwok, who is the key point of contact to explore opportunities. “The group aims to respond within a period of two working days,” Mr Kwok says. “And, we look forward to hearing from you.”

To explore opportunities, Mr Kenneth Kwok can be reached at Kenneth@yidainvest.com

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

MONEY citizenship by investment

I antigua & BarBuda

Citizenship by Investment Programme Costs & Fees - At a Glance

“Antigua and Barbuda, located in the heart of the Eastern Caribbean, is known for capturing the minds and souls of whoever touches its shores. From the sun-kissed warmth of the tropical weather, to the mind-blowing enchantment of 365 white-sand beaches, Antigua is sure to keep you under its beautiful spell…

For tourism and for business, we warmly welcome you to visit our twin-isle crown jewel of the Caribbean.”

The Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda

Route 1 - Financial Contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF)

Route 2 - Investment into an Approved Real Estate Project

Main Applicant

Main Applicant plus Spouse

Main Applicant plus 3 dependants

Main Applicant plus 4 dependants

Minimum Required Contribution (US $)

200,000

200,000

200,000

250,000

Government Fee (US $)

50,000

50,000 main applicant 50,000 spouse

50,000 main applicant 50,000 spouse

50,000 main applicant 50,000 spouse

Minimum Required Investment (US $)

400,000

Government Fee (US $)

50,000

50,000 main applicant 50,000 spouse

50,000 main applicant 50,000 spouse

50,000 main applicant 50,000 spouse

25,000 per dependant aged 0-17

25,000 per dependant aged 0-17

50,000 per dependant aged 18+

50,000 per dependant aged 18+

Due Diligence Fee (US $)

7,500

7,500 main applicant 7,500 spouse

7,500 main applicant 7,500 spouse 2,000 per dependant aged 12-17

Both Routes:

4,000 per dependant aged 18+ Interview Requirement

No

Physical Residency Requirement

5 days over a period of 5 years

Typical Processing Time

3-4 months

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2 dominica

Citizenship by Investment Programme Costs & Fees - At a Glance

“One of today’s most sought-after destinations, the Commonwealth of Dominica is a magnet for people searching for security and tranquillity. Our island’s outer serenity is complemented by its inner stability: Dominica is a secure commercial hub offering a prestigious second citizenship opportunity for those individuals with a respectable and reputable background.”

Dr the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of The Commonwealth of Dominica Main Applicant

Main Applicant plus Spouse

Main Applicant plus 3 dependants

Main Applicant plus 4 dependants

175,000

200,000

200,000

Route 1 - Financial Contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)

Minimum Required Contribution (US $)

100,000

Route 2 - Investment into an Approved Real Estate Project

Minimum Required Investment (US $)

200,000

Government Fee (US $)

50,000

Processing Fee (US $)

3,000 per application

Due Diligence Fee (US $)

7,500

50,000 per additional dependant aged 0-17

Both Routes:

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75,000

75,000

7,500 main applicant 7,500 spouse

7,500 main applicant 7,500 spouse

100,000

4,000 per dependant aged 16+

Interview Requirement

No

Physical Residency Requirement

No

Typical Processing Time

3 months

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

P RO M OTI ON THE RESIDENCE S AT SEC R ET B AY

Of Luxury & Nature Casual, coastal elegance meets the unparalleled beauty of the Caribbean’s “Nature Island” at The Residences at Secret Bay, the new real estate offering from the 2016 World’s Best Boutique Hotel, Secret Bay.

From the developer of the award-winning eco-luxury resort Secret Bay comes a new era of Caribbean luxury living — The Residences at Secret Bay. Located on Dominica, the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean, this limited collection of 42 architectural treehouse-style villas and bungalows presents a rare opportunity to own a sustainable luxury vacation home within the gates of one of the world’s most acclaimed boutique resorts.

The Residences at Secret Bay are poised along a private peninsula hugged by three white-sand beaches in the northwest corner of one of the Caribbean’s most sparsely populated, environmentally-conscious and

culturally-rich islands. The residences are ideal for couples and families seeking a private Caribbean coastal eco-retreat with 5-star service, as well as for investors seeking an astute real estate opportunity in an up-and-coming destination.

Tropical Modern Retreats From the Riverside Bungalows to the Clifftop Villas, each residence is sited within its own secluded enclave, with spectacular seaside vistas of Prince Rupert Bay and the surrounding lush tropical landscape. The design concept of the villas and bungalows draws inspiration from rainforest-style tree-

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

houses, with each one rising from the earth, almost entirely liberated from the ground.

These widely-acclaimed residences, praised by the likes of Design Et Al and Brides Magazine for their ingenuity and use of the natural environment, are the embodiment of ethical luxury, as they offer exceptional comfort and stately modern amenities while staying true to their values of sustainability.

The Residences at Secret Bay feature generous floor plans that provide constant indoor-outdoor flow, along with plunge pools, outdoor showers, hammocks and day-beds. The finest materials are used to

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construct each architectural retreat, with floors built from Guyanese Greenheart and furniture meticulously crafted from Dominican Red Cedar by local artisans.

A Carefree Experience The fortunate few who own one of the newly-built villas and bungalows at The Residences at Secret Bay will enjoy privileged access to three swimmable white sand beaches, a swimming pool, wellness and fitness center, yoga pavilion, art barn, riverside restaurant and an array of natural wonders, from an underwater sea cave to an enchanting river.

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The carefree ownership experience also includes personal concierge, security, housekeeping, and laundry services, prearrival food stocking, use of the “Waitukubuli Wanderer,” and high-speed Wi-Fi. Additionally, owners have access to all Secret Bay adventure equipment, such as mountain bikes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, yoga mats and snorkelling and swimming gear.

Invigorate Your Soul Whether you are escaping into nature’s all-encompassing embrace or seeking the thrills of high adventure, Dominica’s world

of exploration and adventure extends out from your jungle-meets-beach haven at Secret Bay. Head to the northern segments of the Waitukubuli National Trail, the longest hiking route in all of the Caribbean, or try your best at wildlife spotting along the Indian River, made famous in the Pirates of the Caribbean films. If you venture towards Syndicate, you may just see the country’s most famous set of wings: the endemic and endangered Sisserou Parrot.

Secret Bay's very own Tibay Beach offers the perfect jumping off point for boat and snorkeling excursions. You can even assist the balance of Dominica's marine

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

ecosystem by joining Captain Don on a Lion Fish hunt. Take the opportunity to interact with local personalities—be them farmers, artists, or fisherman, one conversation can lead to a lifelong connection. Whether you choose to sign-up for a guided tour or head aimlessly towards the proverbial unbeaten path, there’s an adventure to be had for everyone.

An Epicurean Adventure Secret Bay offers its owners a culinary experience like no other. Enjoy fresh, locally-grown food everyday, with each meal prepared on-site by a private chef before being personally delivered to you. You can satisfy your inner chef as well, as each villa and bungalow has a fully-equipped kitchen.

The Secret Bay team can help you source local produce or you can shop the wonderful daily markets at Portsmouth or Roseau – Saturdays are particularly special with its

bounty of fruits and vegetables.

With every fruit tree native to Dominica growing on the Secret Bay property – from guava to pineapple, sweetsop to breadfruit and coconuts with their thirst-quenching water and jelly – it’s a feast for your senses.

The gardens on the property are also bursting with a variety of wild herbs – great for seasoning your freshly-caught Mahi mahi or Kingfish or for brewing up a refreshing pot of herbal tea.

Life is Precious Secret Bay is an eco-luxury development shaped in equal measure by its responsibility to the environment and the community and a desire to offer a place in harmony with nature. From the sourcing of materials and its building practices, to its water and energy efficiency, the resort is committed to green and sustainable practices as well as preserving and reestablishing the wild-

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life that thrives on its precious land. It is not just about creating a place to stay, but also capturing Dominica in a time when her land and wildlife are valued not just for what they can provide, but as cohabitants in a precious ecosystem.

In the Limelight Recently featured in The Wall Street Journal, Coastal Living and Brides Magazine, the resort’s accommodations have garnered attention for their artful fusion of high design and locally-sourced craftsmanship, forming open-air luxury retreats enveloped by an eden of lush vegetation.

Beyond design, Secret Bay has earned acclaim for its custom curated guest experiences. Secret Bay was recently named ‘World’s Best Boutique Hotel 2016’ by the World Boutique Hotel Awards, and it has ranked in TripAdvisor’s top 1 percent of hotels worldwide for the past four

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years, and top five small hotels in the Caribbean and top 25 for romance. Recent designations also include a Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Award and Travel & Leisure’s Top 11 “World’s Best” hotels in the Caribbean. Secret Bay brings this unmatched hospitality to The Residences, making it a truly unique Caribbean real estate opportunity.

Eden of the Caribbean Amongst Lonely Planet’s “Ten Destinations You Cannot Afford to Miss” in 2017, Dominica, also known as the “Nature Island,” is renowned for its abundance of natural splendours: 365 rivers, the second largest boiling lake in the world, volcanoes, mountains (known as Mornes), waterfalls, hot springs, and both white and black sand beaches. Indeed, many species that are extinct on neighbouring islands can still be found here. Much of the island is protect-

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ed under national parks, one of which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. With abundant flora and fauna on land as well as underwater, Dominica is a paradise for hikers, divers, birdwatchers and nature-lovers who seek excitement, inspiration or respite.

Beyond the unblemished natural habitat of the island itself, Dominica is home to a 3,000-acre territory collectively owned by the Kalinago, one of the Caribbean’s few remaining communities of indigenous people. Approximately 3,000 Kalinago, formerly known as Caribs, remain on the island, preserving and sharing a proud heritage more than 1,000 years in the making.

Retreat and come alive amidst your modern villa or bungalow in the thralls of nature. Open your mind immersed in the lifestyle of a lesser-known culture. Embrace the simply magnificent adventure of The Residences at Secret Bay. The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

PRO MOT IO N citizenship by inv estment

Second to None Weighing up the pros and cons of acquiring second citizenship in the Caribbean? Here, the Managing Director of CS Global Partners – international legal advisory firm specialising in citizenship and residence solutions – introduces the Citizenship by Investment Programme of the Emerald Island of Dominica Micha-Rose Emmett, Group Managing Director, CS Global Partners

The search for security, stability and the promise of a better future, attracts many to contemplate the option of second citizenship. However, with a majority of countries requiring lengthy residency stays or family connections prior to awarding citizenship, the route to obtaining second citizenship can be a lengthy and complicated one.

The search for security, stability and the promise of a better future, attracts many to contemplate the option of second citizenship. However, with a majority of countries requiring lengthy residency stays or family connections prior to awarding citizenship, the route to obtaining second citizenship can be a lengthy and complicated one.

Favoured by governments and high-net worth individuals, citizenship by investment programmes are a modern solution to this issue, offering an accelerated route to citizenship in exchange for a substantial investment into the economy of the providing state.

Such programmes offer a variety of investment options for acquiring citizenship, often including a donation to a national fund or an investment in a governmentapproved real estate project.

Because of the financial obligations required by citizenship by investment programmes, it is essential that investors consider the validity of the programme of interest to them, its suitability and the personal benefits it can yield.

Prospective applicants should assess the legitimacy of a citizenship by investment programme by ensuring it is enshrined in law. This assures that the citizenship conferred is one internationally recognised. Applicants should also determine the scope for family members to be included in an application and assess key programme characteristics such as processing times and residency requirements.

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In recent years, Caribbean citizenship by investment programmes have become very popular among high net worth individuals. This is not just because of the streamlined processes available in the region, but also because the Caribbean islands are socialy and politically stable jurisdictions enjoying significant economic growth.

Over the past 23 years, the Commonwealth of Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programme has evolved and adapted to become one of the most attractive dual citizenship opportunities in the world.

Not only does it cater to varying applicants’ needs, but it also benefits the public and private economic development of the island. Private investment through citizenship by investment enables the Dominican Government to fulfil its vision of sustainable and resilient growth, while maintaining the essence of Dominica’s ‘nature island’ mantra.

Dominica offers two investment options for potential citizens and neither option requires residency. The first is a contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF). The other is an investment into a government pre-approved real estate project.

The EDF route requires applicants to make a non-refundable contribution of US$100,000. This Government-managed fund operates in a fully transparent manner, with funds allocated in the national budget and redirected to critical needs areas. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of infrastructure, small businesses, and ‘smart investments,’ such as geothermal and biomass energy. Projects selected for EDF funding must also provide employment for locals, or otherwise substantially improve their quality of life. Dominican hospitals, schools, telecommunications facilities, agriculture and more have all benefited from EDF support. For each applicant’s dependants, be they a spouse, child or parent, a tiered fee structure is applied.

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

The second citizenship by investment option – investing in real estate – requires a minimum US$200,000 investment for a single applicant and payment of a US$50,000 government fee. Real estate is pre-approved by the Government and is usually a luxury, eco-friendly resort or hotel. Again, tiered fees are offered for each additional dependant. A minimum three-year ownership is required before the property can be resold, and five years must lapse before it can be offered back into the citizenship by investment real estate market.

Neither of these options involves compulsory residence times, interviews, or language tests on the part of applicants. However, it would certainly be a shame for citizens of this beautiful emerald island not to visit, and even live and work on Dominica – something they can do without restriction.

Dominica has one of the strongest due diligence processes in the world, featuring extensive background checks that eminent international agencies are mandated to undertake. Given these rigorous investigations, the application process can take up to 12 weeks, after which time all stakeholders can be assured of the applicant’s eligibility for a second citizenship.

Find a New Beginning on Dominica Dubbed ‘the nature island’ of the Caribbean, the Commonwealth of Dominica is the ultimate destination for those seeking to refresh, renew and reinvigorate. It is a 750-km oasis, spanning a full range of natural environments – from some of the highest mountains in the Caribbean to effervescent coral reefs. Its tropical climate

has birthed natural rain forests, hot and cold sulphur springs and uncommon volcanic sand beaches. Birdlife and fauna abound, and it is only here that you can see the Sisserou Parrot, which the Dominicans honour and promote on their national flag and seal.

Dominica has become a popular destination for tourists and Citizenship by Investment Programme candidates, especially for those who enjoy relaxed activities like hiking, snorkelling, diving, whale watching, yachting and yoga. It is also an idyllic setting for those seeking spirituality and a deeper connection to their natural surroundings.

Beneath the Morne Diablotin and Morne Trois Pitons mountains, the island’s 70,000 residents celebrate their Creole, African, and European origins. This multifaceted heritage allows Dominicans to build lasting relationships with visitors from all corners of the globe and to relate to their cultures and histories. This welcoming, outgoing spirit is reflected in Dominica’s laws, which allow all foreigners to visit the island for 21 days without a visa as a tourist.

Lucrative & Stable Dominica’s soaring popularity as a destination for nature and leisure-lovers has spurred investment in all areas relating to tourism, such as private charter aviation and yacht rentals. Perhaps the most profitable of these areas is real estate, which has seen unprecedented expansion. Investors are particularly interested in eco-lodges and luxury green developments catering to those who are both sophisticated and environmentally conscious.

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The Dominican Government has also been receptive to this rising demand for ecological real estate, having identified Tranquillity Beach Dominica (to be managed

by Hilton International’s Curio) and the Cabrits Resort Kempinski Dominica as approved projects under the nation’s Citizenship by Investment Programme.

To add to this, in January of 2017, the Government announced the approval of the Marriott Autograph Collection – a boutique brand of the Marriott International chain – as the latest real estate development to feature in Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programme.

Marriott International is hailed as one of the world’s largest and best hotel franchises, employing around 360,000 people across the globe, and there is no doubt the hotel will play an instrumental role in marketing the island to foreign investors, encouraging applicants to purchase a share in the hotel in exchange for citizenship.

Dominica’s financial services industry has also been experiencing notable growth, despite already being one of the most robust in the Caribbean. Its success is complemented by an established currency that is pegged to the US dollar and by a favourable tax system, which frees Dominicans from wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income and capital gains tax.

Entrepreneurs setting up a business in Dominica can also profit from the duty-free import of equipment and materials – a benefit that is particularly relevant to those investing in Dominica’s lucrative agro-processing and manufacturing sectors.

Investment in Dominica is aided by the Invest Dominica Authority, an institution fully dedicated to making Dominica as attractive to foreign investors as possible. Among its core offers are business concessions, low operational costs (less than any other Caribbean jurisdiction) and a steady, peaceful environment in which to nurture a business.

Confidence in the System Dominica attracts credible and worthy applicants to its Citizenship by Investment Programme because it has one of today’s most rigorous due diligence regimes, hailed the world over for its integrity and transparency.

This integrity and transparency is echoed in Dominica’s commitment to anti-money laundering, which has recently been strengthened by designing more effective and risk-based procedures and to combating the financing of terrorism.

Therefore, for those seeking a spiritual sanctuary with a commitment to transparency, where an investment has sustainable benefits both for individual entrepreneurs and local people, Dominica presents a paradise that is hard to resist.

with Dominica, these nations offer trusted programmes supported by a robust Government framework.

Launched in 1984, the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Programme has established itself as a leader and innovator in the citizenship by investment market. It offers the ‘Platinum Standard’ of citizenship by investment by ensuring strict due diligence is performed on applicants and agents and by providing speedy processing. It recently introduced a new, fasttrack option to secure delivery of passports within 60 days of submitting a successful application. Applicants to the Programme can choose to make a contribution to the country’s Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation (SIDF) starting from US$250,000, or a minimum investment of US$400,000 (plus Government fees) into an approved real estate project. In respect of the real estate option, applicants are strongly advised to undertake an independent valuation of the property they wish to purchase under the Programme, as this must be retained for a period of five years.

The Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme was designed with the family unity in mind and provides an effective solution for large households.

Grenadian citizens can enjoy the benefits of close diplomatic ties to several nations including the People’s Republic of China, to which they can travel visa-free.

Citizens of Grenada are also eligible to apply for residence under the United States’ E-2 Visa Programme, which allows applicants to invest in one of the world’s strongest economies. The Grenada Citizenship by Investment Programme welcomes individuals of good character in return for an investment either in the form of a minimum donation to Grenada’s National Transformation Fund (NTF) or a minimum investment into a government approved-real estate project.

The first option is available for a US$200,000 donation, which encompasses a family of four. The second option is available in return for a US$300,000 investment plus Government fees.

For more information, please contact CS Global Partners, www.csglobalpartners.com, info@csglobalpartners.com

Other Options There are other Caribbean citizenship by investment programmes that stand out as particularly attractive: notably those of St Kitts & Nevis and Grenada. Together

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The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

MONEY citizenship by investment

3 grena da

Citizenship by Investment Programme Costs & Fees - At a Glance

“As one of the safest and most openhearted nations in the Caribbean, Grenada attracts those seeking citizenship in a welcoming second home. With a vibrant economy, our country attracts those looking for lucrative investment opportunities within the framework of our flourishing industries. In line with our foreign direct investment objectives, the Citizenship by Investment Programme invites qualified investors to join us and benefit from the long-term development and prosperity of this magnificent country.�

Dr the Right Honourable Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada Main Applicant

Main Applicant plus Spouse

Main Applicant plus 3 dependants

Main Applicant plus 4 dependants

200,000

200,000

200,000

Route 1 - Financial Contribution to the National Transformation Fund (NTF)

Minimum Required Contribution (US $)

200,000

Route 2 - Investment into an Approved Real Estate Project

Minimum Required Investment (US $)

350,000

Government Fee (US $)

50,000

25,000 per additional dependant after the third dependant

50,000

50,000 main applicant plus three dependants 25,000 per additional dependant after third dependant

Application & Processing Fee (US $)

3,000

3,000 main applicant 3,000 spouse

3,000 per applicant aged 18+ 2,000 per applicant 0-17

Due Diligence Fee (US $)

5,000

5,000 main applicant 5,000 spouse

5,000 main applicant 5,000 spouse

Both Routes:

3,000 per applicant aged 18+ 2,000 per applicant 0-17

2,000 per dependant aged 12-15 5,000 per dependant aged 16+ Interview Requirement

No

Physical Residency Requirement

No

Typical Processing Time

3 months

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GRENADA’S NEWEST

5-STAR RESORT EXPERIENCE

KIMPTON

K AWA N A B AY Freehold condo hotel suites and studios now for sale through Citizenship by Investment

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The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com WWW.KAWANABAY.COM Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is part of the InterContinental Hotels Group® ®

Opens 2019

MONEY citizenship by investment

4 st kitts & nevis

Citizenship by Investment Programme Costs & Fees - At a Glance

“As the pioneer of citizenship by investment, St Kitts and Nevis is committed to the highest level of due diligence and efficiency in the running of its Citizenship by Investment Programme. The reputation of our Programme is matched by the strength of our economic growth and the beauty of our country. In St Kitts and Nevis, we seek to invite only the discerning investor to come to our country.�

Dr the Honourable Timothy Harris, Prime Minister of The Federation of St Kitts & Nevis

Main Applicant

Main Applicant plus Spouse

Main Applicant plus 3 dependants

Main Applicant plus 4 dependants

300,000

300,000

300,000 25,000 per additional dependant after the third dependant

50,000 main applicant 25,000 spouse

50,000 main applicant

7,500 main applicant 4,000 spouse

7,500 main applicant 4,000 spouse

Route 1 - Financial Contribution to the Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation (SIDF)

Minimum Required Contribution (US $)

250,000

Route 2 - Investment into an Approved Real Estate Project

Minimum Required Investment (US $)

400,000

Government Fee (US $)

50,000

Due Diligence Fee (US $)

7,500

25,000 per dependant 25,000 per dependant aged 0-17 50,000 per dependant aged 18+

4,000 per dependant aged 16+ Both Routes: Interview Requirement

No

Physical Residency Requirement

No

Typical Processing Time

3 months (60 day fast track option available for an additional 25,000 fee)

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P RO M OTI ON northern pointe

Live Grand With its distinctive architecture and exclusive location, the Wyndham Grand Nevis is set to become one of the most coveted destinations in the Caribbean. Through the purchase of a fractional ownership interest, it could also become your second home and your route to securing second citizenship

The island of Nevis, nestled along the inner arc of the Caribbean’s Leeward Islands, is fast becoming one of the region’s most exclusive destinations. Gracing the gently sloping hillside of Long Haul Bay at the northern tip of the island, Wyndham Grand Nevis will be one of the finest properties in the Caribbean. Nestled in lush, tropical landscaping featuring bountiful palms, stunning tropical pine trees and an abundance of local flora, it will deliver the quintessential feeling of living in paradise to owners and guests alike.

Wyndham Grand Nevis is being developed by Northern Pointe Development Ltd which has assembled an unparalleled team of design and construction professionals, all of whom are highly regarded worldwide and are adept at working on projects in the Caribbean.

Property Features Featuring contemporary architecture, spacious design and up-scale appointments, our 150 one and two bedroom suites

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will be sure to please the most sophisticated individuals.

The resort will also boast 3 different styles of villas - 30 in total - each with magnificent views of both Nevis Peak and the Caribbean Sea. Guests and residents will have access to the beach club, multiple pools including our world class infinity pool, tennis courts, spa, fitness center, state-of-the-art conference center, multiple restaurants and rooftop bar and lounge.

The Welcome Center will house reception, a lobby bar, casual meeting space, concierge, a gift shop & boutique and the renowned Wyndham Grand Brew Parlor.

A state of the art, world-class 16,600 square foot conference center with breakout rooms and satellite kitchen facilities will accommodate small conferences, weddings and receptions, as well as a host of other special events. The unique and sophisticated roof-top lounge provides additional outdoor meeting space as well as a great place for evening libations and live music.

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Our 12,000 square foot five-star restaurant will be the culinary showpiece of the resort, and will offer both interior and exterior dining. The terrace will cantilever out from the bluff over the beach below providing incredible views and a one of a kind dining experience.

Our spa and wellness center will offer a full array of services and will feature a branded affiliation with a well-known multinational provider.

The fitness center will feature state of the art exercise machines for any desired workout. The “Glass Box” design will provide a supremely unique experience with marvelous vistas!

The infinity pool will sit at the edge of the bluff and is guaranteed to provide a swimming experience like no other. Designed both with no visible edge and a transparent side wall, guests will feel as if they are swimming in the Caribbean Sea! A family swimming pool, adjacent to the beach club, will be the center of family fun. Designed for both children and par-

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ents alike, the facility will feature activities for kids such as waterslides and a splash pad, as well as changing rooms and showers, along with fantastic dining and bar options for the adults.

Six full tennis courts, with adjoining changing rooms and Pro Shop facilities, will be available for use by guests. The location of the courts allows for lighting to permit night usage while not impacting the adjacent guestrooms. A grandstand will also allow for competitions, special events and a variety of other uses.

Suites & Villas All suites will be fully appointed and provide the best for both comfort and luxury.

Our layouts include: Suites One bedroom suites with 900 square feet of interior living space with a dramatic 200 square foot outdoor terrace.

Two bedroom suites with 1,365 square feet of interior living space and a 200 square

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foot outdoor terrace with exceptional panoramic views.

Presidential suites with 1,135 square feet of interior living space and a generous 250 square foot terrace which provides an abundance of outdoor living space, while maintaining privacy.

Villas The villas, with their modern, yet timeless architecture are a centerpiece of the resort and we have created a private communitylike feeling for residents and guests, with the convenience of the amenities provided by the nearby main hotel.

The Bluff Villas provide 1,950 square feet of interior living space and 600-900 square feet of outdoor living space along with a private plunge pool.

The Monarch Villas have 3,015 square feet of interior living space along with 1,200 square feet of outdoor living space and private infinity lap pool.

The Imperial Villas feature 3,300 square feet of interior living space as well as an

impressive 2,000 square feet of exterior living space and private infinity lap pool for all your outdoor living needs.

All units are equipped with luxurious amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, and feature a private terrace.

Whether you’re looking for qualifying real estate options for the St Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment program or just keeping your eye out for the region’s hottest new resort destinations, please visit www.npnevis.com for more information.

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

MONEY citizenship by investment

5 st lucia

Citizenship by Investment Programme Costs & Fees - At a Glance

“Today’s Saint Lucia is bold and brave and the perfect place for the discerning investor.

We are shaping our own destiny and welcome you to join us on this exciting journey.

We invite you to come enjoy life in Saint Lucia!”

The Honourable Allen M Chastanet, Prime Minister of St Lucia

Main Applicant

Main Applicant plus Spouse

Main Applicant plus 3 dependants

Main Applicant plus 4 dependants

165,000

190,000

190,000

Route 1 - Financial Contribution to the National Economic Fund (NDF)

Minimum Required Contribution (US $)

100,000

Route 2 - Investment into an Approved Real Estate Project

Minimum Required Investment (US $)

300,000

Government Fee (US $)

50,000

25,000 per additional dependants after the third dependant

50,000 main applicant 35,000 spouse

50,000 main applicant 35,000 per dependant aged 18+ 25,000 per dependant aged 0-17

Processing Fee (US $)

2,000

3,000

5,000

Due Diligence Fee (US $)

7,500

7,500 main applicant 5,000 spouse

7,500 main applicant

Both Routes: Interview Requirement

No

Physical Residency Requirement

No

Typical Processing Time

3 months

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6,000

5,000 per dependant aged 16+

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P ROMOTI ON OFFSHORE IN VEST IN G

The Offshore Advantage What exactly does offshore investing entail and is it the right choice for your circumstances? Here, Brandon S. Ure from Blacktower Financial Management (International) Limited sheds some light on the matter Brandon S Ure

What is offshore investing? Why does it make sense to most investors? Is offshore investing right for you?

Though these questions may seem straightforward, the answers are actually a little more intricate. Offshore investing is multifaceted and becoming comfortable with the processes will be crucial to helping you decide whether it is the right choice for you. With that in mind, this article aims to provide a clear picture of what offshore investing is and its benefits.

So,What is Offshore Investing?

One definition of offshore investing is as follows: “investing or holding assets in custody outside of the jurisdiction the beneficial owner currently resides.” For example, if an individual or entity resides in the United Kingdom (UK) and has assets in a bank account in the Isle of Man, the individual or entity would be considered to have assets offshore. Another example is someone using a brokerage firm for investment purposes based in the Cayman Islands while residing in Canada.

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These are two straightforward examples of investing offshore. This brings us to the more complex question “Why is this a good idea?”

The Benefits of Offshore Investing An individual or entity could benefit in a number of ways from domiciling assets offshore. Mainly, moving assets offshore increases flexibility, diversification and personal protection.

For example, a professional British expatriate living abroad could benefit by moving their former retirement scheme offshore if their intention is to reside permanently outside of the UK. This would allow much more control over how the assets are invested. By using this structure, the retirement funds are open to significantly more investment options. In addition, this could provide an enhanced death benefit to the expatriate’s spouse, which could be 50% higher than what the UK currently allows.

This is great news for UK expatriates, but what about

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everyone else? A great point to raise as most global expatriates would benefit from the diversification opportunities associated with moving assets offshore. For example, an American individual who has their entire life savings, property, business and investment portfolio within the United States (US) is vulnerable to US legislation. Moving retirement funds into an Offshore Individual Retirement Account (IRA) allows for diversification of retirement assets across international jurisdictions. This opens those retirement funds to many other investment options unavailable in a standard IRA. When assets are in custody outside of the jurisdiction an individual resides in, there are immediate benefits.

First, those assets are not subject to local litigation, as lawyers are required to seek representation in the jurisdiction where those assets are held. This is often very costly and complicated to implement. Second, many jurisdictions have taxation treaties with other territories, therefore providing significant tax efficiencies. Third, some jurisdictions offer Consumer Protection Acts, helping to protect their assets in the unfortunate event that the custodian becomes insolvent. Families of large wealth will often use multiple jurisdictions to prevent exposing their entire net worth to undesired sources.

This type of diversification can help to protect against kidnapping, bribery or blackmail.

Is Offshore Investing Right for You? Now that you understand the benefits of offshore investing, the next step is to research jurisdictions that could have relevance to you. This will play a large role in influencing how you proceed. Some areas to have in mind when considering the right jurisdiction for you include: 1. Tax treaties in place or beneficial taxation

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2. Where you may be residing in the future or where you frequently vacation 3. The political and financial stability of the jurisdiction 4. Strength of the local infrastructure 5. The primary language spoken (ease of communication is essential) 6. Any Consumer Protection Acts in effect 7. Time zone differences between your primary residence and the jurisdiction domiciling your assets While not an exhaustive list, this is a good start.

Not all jurisdictions are created equal and through research, you will discover where you find comfort and where to avoid.

Developing a relationship with a trusted institution is crucial to your experience. It is vitally important to feel comfortable with the group you proceed with. Carefully consider the investment products that are available through the firm, the regulators they are observed by, the size of the organization and the length of time that the group has been operational. All of these are important factors and will help you to gain confidence in your decision.

It is also important that you are comfortable with the direct relationship you will have with the “face� of the organization. That person is the Financial Advisor that you partner with. A few things you may wish to enquire about: Does the Advisor have a specific focus that aligns with your needs? Are lines of communication open for you to source throughout the relationship? How much experience do you feel is enough for your needs? What type of expectations should be set in order for the relationship to succeed? This line of questioning will continue to evolve as the relationship develops and a level of comfort is met. At that point, you should have confidence in your decision to move assets offshore.

So,What Next?

If this has sparked some interest and you think that offshore investing may be the next best step to expand your wealth planning strategy, then please allow us to be of service to you. Our institution has 17 offices throughout Europe, the UK and the Caribbean. Collectively, our network of trained advisors have over 150 years of financial industry experience. We look forward to assisting with your needs and are committed to providing quality service in every client relationship.

Brandon S Ure is Regional Manager for Blacktower Financial Management (International) Limited in the Grand Cayman. For more information, please contact Tel: +1 345 943 0015 E-mail: brandon.ure@blacktowerfm. com or visit www.blacktowerfm.com Blacktower Financial Management (International) Limited in the Grand Cayman is regulated by the Cayman Monetary Authority Licence No 896523

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

teps to Buying~ ~5 S Property in paradise Property in paradise

ÂŽ

/ ™Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada.

LEGEND

Have your personal attorney explain the fun of legal and tax implications.

Hire a local real estate agent to find the property you want.

Tiki bar, anyone?

Meet with an insurance agent to discuss coverage costs and protection.

Almost as important as SPF 45.

Find an attorney in the Caribbean to discuss costs, timeline and country regulations for ownership. Exciting!

Hire a property manager for housekeeping duties you’d expect, or not expect, like coconut rooftop damage.

CONTACT RBC TO START YOUR JOURNEY TO PURCHASE YOUR VERY OWN PLACE IN PARADISE Below you will find contact information for experts that can point you in the right direction and help with all your Caribbean banking needs.

Aruba

1 (297) 588-0101

The Bahamas

1 (242) 356-8656 or 1 (242) 376-1127

Barbados

Curacao/Bonaire

1 (599) 9-763-8438 or 1 (599) 717-4500

St. Maarten/Saba

1 (721) 546-7288 or 1 (599) 416-2454

1 (246) 467-4000 ext 64426

Trinidad & Tobago

Cayman Islands

Turks & Caicos Islands

1 (345) 914-8255 or 1 (345) 914-8220

1 (868) 625-7288, Opt. #3 1 (649) 946-4806

Your Mortgage Specialist

MONEY MORTGAGES

Pathways to Paradise Robert Cooper Thinking of taking out a mortgage to finance your Caribbean property purchase but not sure who to turn to and how to go about it? We talked to the experts at Royal Bank of Canada to get the lowdown on the ins and outs of mortgages for non-resident buyers eyeing up a second home in the sun

Applying for financing for a property purchase in your home country can sometimes feel like a confusing process. So many factors to consider, so many options to weigh up. The choices are many and varied, sometimes bewilderingly so. Now, imagine going through that process to finance your dream home in the Caribbean… Sounds daunting? Perhaps you didn’t even think it was possible for a non-resident to obtain a mortgage for a property purchase in the region? Well, contrary to popular misconception, it is possible to obtain a mortgage to buy a second home in the sun and the process does not have to be confusing or complex.

We turned to the experts at Canada’s largest bank, the Royal Bank of Canada, to get the lowdown on mortgages for non-residents investing in a second home in the Caribbean. As one of the world’s top-20 largest banks with 16 million customers worldwide

and a presence in 40 countries worldwide, including 17 countries across the Caribbean, who better to demystify the options and process?

To find out more, we spoke to Trinidad & Tobagobased Resha Seeram Singh, a Senior Product Manager responsible for Home Equity Financing & Personal Lending for RBC Financial (Caribbean). According to Resha, RBC offers mortgages to non-Caribbean nationals investing in real estate in certain Caribbean islands. “RBC currently offers mortgages for clients from countries including the USA, Canada, UK and the Netherlands purchasing property in The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Turks & Caicos, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, St Maarten and Saba,” Resha explains. “We also finance properties in the Eastern Caribbean on a selective basis,” she says.

According to Resha, RBC’s Caribbean mortgages for

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non-residents are provided to clients meeting RBC’s minimum underwriting criteria (including income, net worth and credit score) in order “to build, purchase or improve an owner-occupied residence. We focus on financing the acquisition of second homes and vacation homes.” “Buyers can borrow up to US $2,000,000 for RBC’s standard product,” she adds. How large a down payment do buyers need? “Typically 30% but we may require a larger down payment depending on the nature of the property. The facility can be amortized for up to 15 years,” Resha says. “Origination fees vary from country to country, but typically vary from 0.50% to 2% of the principal amount.”

So, at what stage in the property buying process should buyers seek advice on mortgages? We asked Shane Cummins, RBC’s Business Development Manager for the Southern Caribbean. Shane believes it’s best to get advice on mortgages right at the beginning of the property search process. “Knowing what amount you can pre-qualify for will allow you to shop for a property with confidence,” he says. “The pre-qualification amount is valid for up to six months and done at no cost or obligation to the client.” “You can also take the opportunity at this stage to get advice on the other factors you need to consider and the process involved in buying a home in the Caribbean,” he adds. “Our professionals are equipped with this information and can take you through step-bystep in the journey to property ownership.”

We asked Shane what other factors buyers should consider when seeking financing for a property in the Caribbean. “We always recommend that you seek expert advice,” he replies. “A mortgage is a long-term commitment and there are many factors to be considered.” Shane suggests that buyers should ask themselves some basic questions.

Firstly, how much can I afford? “Our professionals will take a look at your debt serviceability to ensure that you can comfortably afford the investment. RBC works with clients to ensure that they have the capacity and capability to pay off their debt (debt serviceability).

We examine your total debt service ratio, which is the ratio of your total monthly debt obligations to gross income to ensure that sufficient funds are available for other monthly expenses. A client can also make lump sum payments in accordance with terms and conditions of his or her contract.”

Secondly, what are the other costs involved? “There are other costs to consider in addition to the down payment. Closing costs such as legal fees, valuation fees, and the bank’s commitment/administration fee should also be considered.”

Thirdly, are there any tax implications? “We strongly recommend that you enlist the help of your tax professional or a tax professional in the jurisdiction of the property purchase to determine this upfront.”

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Fourthly, are there any other restrictions? “In jurisdictions with exchange control laws, purchasers need to carefully consider their medium to long term liquidity needs, as there are some restrictions on the flow of funds.

It is, therefore, essential that persons seek relevant advice in order to make an informed decision. Our Private Bankers can guide clients through this process and propose solutions suited to their needs and circumstances.”

Shane offers some words of advice to would-be borrowers. “Take your time,” he says. “There are lots of factors to consider when buying a home, and you can often benefit by searching in different areas and neighborhoods before you make a final decision. Your realtor is a key partner in this process. Secondly, apart from the mortgage payment consider other factors that will impact your income on a monthly or annual basis including utility bills, home repairs, property tax (if applicable), property maintenance, general insurance, and property management.”

Robert Pantry, RBC VP Business Development, Northern Caribbean, explains why you should come to RBC for a Caribbean mortgage. “RBC offers professionalism, experience and stability”, Robert explains.

“We are well aware that investors and high net worth individuals are looking for bespoke service from knowledgeable and respected banking partners wherever they do business across the globe,” he says. “RBC is a Canadian leader with global strength and recognized financial stability. We are the largest bank in Canada based on market capitalization. Our global footprint also extends to the Caribbean. We have operated here for over 100 years, so we understand this part of the world very well.” Robert also believes that RBC has a deep understanding of the needs of non-resident investors in the Caribbean. “We are very acquainted with the needs of international real estate investors and have designed a mortgage product to meet those needs,” he explains.

“We realize that there is not a “one size fits all” solution.

Therefore, we work closely with our clients in advising and guiding them through all the questions that they might have about this important investment and helping them decide how to balance mortgage financing with other financial goals. The great thing about RBC is that we operate as one bank across the globe. So if our clients also need advice on other investment asset classes, we can leverage the strength of our RBC International Wealth Management platform to provide tailored discretionary or advisory investment solutions right here in the Caribbean.”

So, with advice from the experts, taking out a mortgage to finance the purchase of a second home in the Caribbean need not be so complex and daunting.

For more information, please visit www.rbc.com/ caribbean

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

M O NEY PRI VATE BAN KING

The Antigua Advantage Well known for its picturesque beaches and centuries-old sailing tradition, Antigua has also been discreetly strengthening its reputation in the private banking sector in the years since gaining its independence from Britain in 1981. Michele Delco, Founder of Hachiko Financial Corp. Antigua, explains why Michele Delco

Since well before achieving independence from Great Britain in 1981, Antigua has had a unique, historic position as a strategic center for trading and providing shelter which it has long guarded. The now iconic English Harbour was central to Antigua’s international role. Now one of the leading, natural deep water harbours for modern superyachts in the Caribbean, English Harbour served as the headquarters of the British Royal Navy’s Leeward Islands fleet during the 18th Century. Following the signing of the treaties at the 1783 Peace of Paris which brought the American War of Independence to an end and compelled France to return Grenada, Dominica, St Vincent, St Kitts and Nevis to Britain, the then Captain Horatio Nelson was sent to Antigua to enforce the Navigation Act,

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which restricted trade with British colonies to British shipping. “Nelson’s Dockyard” at English Harbour became the Captain’s base from 1784 to 1787. Thus 18th Century Antigua occupied a place at the center of international trade.

Fast forward to 2017 and an array of impressive vessels still fill the island’s natural, deep water harbour. While the region’s relationship with the UK has of course long since evolved and the vessels bobbing on the water today consist of visiting sailing boats and mega yachts rather than Royal Navy war ships, Nelson’s Dockyard at English Harbour remains the world’s only functioning Georgian-era Dockyard and the legacy of a multi-faceted colonial history.

Antigua today, is perhaps better known for its 365 breathtaking beaches,

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world renowned sailing regattas (including An¬tigua Sailing & Classic Yacht Week and the Superyacht Challenge every December) and a recently introduced Citizen¬ship by Investment program (which has emerged as a stable and sustainable contributor to the nation’s economy). Antigua has also established itself as one of the Caribbean’s premier tourist desti¬nations with a revitalized second homes market. Unlike other locations in the region, it is less well known for its banking sector. However, the island is home to Hachiko Financial Limited, an Antiguan Pri¬vate Wealth Management specialist.

But why Antigua today, you may ask?

Firstly, as an independent member of the Common¬wealth, the Caribbean Community, the OECS and the OAS, with a stable

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political system and solid currency (Eastern Caribbean Dollar) that is pegged to the US Dollar, Antigua provides a low risk environment, both for clients and for Hachiko Financial Corp. . The country offers a healthy, well regarded jurisdiction for offshore banking where strong banking secrecy ensures customers can be assured of discretion.

From this solid base, Hachiko Financial Corp. offers private banking, tailored financing, investment management and fiduciary services and specializes in the creation and management of trusts, companies and other fiduciary structures in offshore and onshore jurisdictions. We provide a conservative, prudent approach and the first class service customers expect from a discreet International Wealth Management specialist.

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Our people are critical to our business success and Antigua also provides a pool of talent, from which we can carefully select individuals who are best quali¬fied and most closely aligned to the Group’s philoso¬phy. We invest in our people, training our staff internationally and regionally with the pre-requisite skills necessary to adapt to all situations. We are therefore able to offer our customers first class service surrounded by Caribbean comforts.

Further to this, it is not just our people who operate according to the highest standards: As in other parts of the world, in recent years the financial services landscape has changed significantly in Antigua - and, as a consequence of recent events, the supervisory authorities have become increasingly strict. The authority, known as

the FSRC (Finan¬cial Services Regulatory Commission), is extremely professional and competitive and easily comparable to authorities of larger financial centers. The FSRC offers the transparency and high standards both we and our customers require. The relatively small size of the sector in the Caribbean has meant that the region has been able to emulate the new approaches of countries such as Switzerland, Hong Kong and Singapore and to move fast and adopt new systems of control without the com¬plications experienced by those larger territories.

So, while a walk on the beach or a day exploring Nelson’s old haunts might well be Antigua’s main appeal, without a doubt there is much more to the region that demands your attention.

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

INTERVIEW THE CRANE – PAUL DOYLE

History in the Making Robert Cooper Roughly 30 years ago, Paul Doyle sold his home in Toronto, upped sticks and moved from Canada to Barbados. Upon arrival, he set about transforming The Crane – the Caribbean’s oldest operating hotel – into one of its most highly acclaimed resorts with residences for sale. While completing the final phases of development at this 130-year-old hotel, Doyle has also begun work on Beach Houses – a new, luxury residential project on the island’s east coast – which is also set to make history. We asked him about both projects and what makes them such special investment opportunities for prospective buyers.

In 1988 Paul Doyle moved from Canada to Barbados with his wife and baby. Having sold his home in Toronto, he began to eye up a small hotel in the parish of St Philip on the quiet south-eastern coast of the island.

The hotel only had 18 rooms and little in the way of amenities, but, what it lacked in luxuries at the time, it more than made up for in potential: A superb location, 40 acres of undeveloped land, buckets of charm and a rich history stretching back to 1887. Doyle immediately recognized the opportunity to create something very special on the site. He decided to purchase the hotel and over the following 30 or so years he has worked to transform it into one of the most successful resorts in the Caribbean. The rest is history, as they say.

the ropes and slowly considering the future direction of the hotel. “We had something like 30 employees back then and we actually did more restaurant business than we did hotel business and so I kind of let it settle in and tried to let it tell me what was needed,” he explains. “In the next few years I really got to know the property better. I was able to spend a lot of time speaking with the guests and understanding what they really liked. What I understood was that, even though we definitely were not the fanciest property in the world – we were an 18room hotel with very little amenities – what the guests were really looking for, what they really appreciated, was the natural beauty and the breeze, the laid back ambience and the history.”

Building on Tradition What was it about the site that was so special in his eyes? “I fell in love with it,” he says. “Back then The Crane was completely undeveloped and the area around it was undeveloped, mostly just fields… What was amazing was its location. We’re on the most stunning beach you’ve ever seen: beautiful white sand, turquoise water, lovely breeze. And we had 40 acres of undeveloped land around the hotel. While I wasn’t a developer, it didn’t take a genius to figure out it had wonderful development potential.”

Without having any development experience, Doyle spent a considerable amount of time learning

Fractional Ownership Opportunities Doyle eventually set about developing the hotel into a fractional ownership property, while retaining and enhancing the tranquillity, natural beauty and the classic Barbadian feel that guests valued so much. He proceeded with a very close eye on costs, with a view to channelling savings into the creation of an unrivalled collection of resort amenities. “Early on I decided to do the sales without all the kind of marketing bumf that you see with other people in the business… I made a critical decision, which was, I wanted to be the most luxurious fractional property anywhere in the world. The money we saved on the marketing costs, I put it into the build-

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ing,” he explains. The first set of residences were unlike anything the fractional world had seen before. “They were the largest residences in the fractional world,” he says proudly. “The majority had their own private swimming pools, 11-foot-high ceilings, real mahogany furniture done in the original style. Whatever I could think of that added luxury and amenities, I put in. I guess I viewed at that time that my challenge was to design and develop a property that was as beautiful as the location we were in and the response was fantastic.”

Residential Ownership Opportunities The fractional sales were a great success and allowed Doyle to transform the property over a 15-year period, adding multiple swimming pools, five restaurants, bars, a fitness center, spa, tennis courts and acres and acres of beautiful landscaping. As The Crane began to evolve into the luxurious resort that it is today, Doyle became aware of demand for whole ownership opportunities.

“All of a sudden I started to get a lot of people asking about residential,” he says. “So, I decided to develop a purpose-built residential development for The Crane

for owners to use as their second home when desired and rent out in the meantime.”

Today there are both residential ownership and fractional ownership opportunities available at The Crane and sales have been extremely well received. “We are now in the process of finishing off our first residential building,” Doyle says. “It is all sold and the second building which will start immediately after finishing the first one is three quarters sold. So that would be, 30 out of 36 of the first apartments are now sold. We only have 6 left in the second phase. So we’ll be starting presales on our third phase shortly.”

A Unique Community The key to success of sales of residences at The Crane is the combination of natural beauty, space, amenities and a sense of community, Doyle believes. “It’s important that we’ve developed a community where people don’t need to drive anywhere. They can live here and walk to different restaurants every night, meet their friends, just enjoy a real sense of community and Caribbean lifestyle and the amazing thing is, without real planning, we had

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developed a property that filled a need and then we found people with this need and put them together. It all worked brilliantly.” “It’s a unique community,” he adds. “Anyone who has spent time at The Crane will always say that the most important part for them is not the physical building but the sense of community and this laid back, friendly, casual lifestyle that we’ve developed here. That sort of thing creates a very friendly, comfortable lifestyle for people who want to spend quality time in their retirement or on their vacations.”

Beach Houses – Barbados as it Used to Be For many, The Crane represents the ultimate real estate investment opportunity. With a well-honed skill for identifying unmet needs in the real estate market, Doyle has also sensed emerging demand for second home ownership in a more secluded setting where buyers can really get away from it all. So, while completing the final phases of development at The Crane, Doyle has simultaneously begun work on a second residential resort called Beach Houses. Located just a 15-minute drive from The Crane at Skeete’s Bay on the eastern coast of the island, the 50-acre beachfront site is nestled in very special surroundings. “All of the east coast is amazing,” Doyle says. “It’s rugged, little fishing villages, it’s where we’ve got terrific surfing and quaint, little undeveloped places, it’s beautiful.” Almost all the eastern coast is a national park to protect its beauty for future generations. “We were lucky enough to buy the only development sized property on the east coast and it is just outside the national park. So we’re allowed development,” Doyle explains. His vision for Beach Houses is quite different to The Crane but equally spectacular and impressive: Approximately 63 cutting-edge, contemporary homes with unparalleled coastal views in a natural setting almost untouched by time. “Very contemporary architecture featuring huge glass windows with sea views, each with a 55-foot private, negative edge pool and features like BBQs, hammocks and outdoor showers, so the bathrooms open into the gardens.”

As at The Crane, Doyle plans on complementing the residences with a unique set of five-star amenities: a fine dining restaurant, bar, fitness and reception area, all right on a beautiful white sandy beach. Subject to government approval, we would also like to transform the local Skeete’s Bay Fish Market into a casual dining seafood restaurant and bar right on the water.

While development is only really just beginning in earnest, buyers have responded very positively “We’ve got 17 committed units,” Doyle discloses. The appeal lies in the unique offer of seclusion, which will continue to remain tranquil for years to come. “You’re just on your own, there’s no other hotels in the area, there never will be, which a lot of people feel is a wonderful benefit. This area is something like what the west coast of Barbados

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was like maybe 50 years ago but that will never change because of the national park. So for people who want that lifestyle, who want to bring a good book, to put their feet up, to bask in a beautiful setting with great, panoramic views, it’s perfect.”

Tremendous Investment Opportunities Whether it’s the 130-year old sense of tradition, community and world of conveniences at your fingertips at The Crane or the fusion of contemporary design and natural setting embodying Barbados as it used to be at Beach Houses, both properties represent tremendous investment opportunities for buyers, Doyle argues, for various reasons.

Great Value for Money Firstly, the properties offer great value for money because of the efficiencies of operations. “We do many things internally to keep our costs low,” Doyle says “The architectural team here is our team. Our engineering team is our team in terms of the design. All of the construction people are our people. All of the equipment is our equipment. As a result, we’re able to keep our costs very low.” “You put all this together and our costs are way lower than other people in the business. It’s hard work and it’s taken us time, but it gives you a very efficient business in terms of generating revenue.”

Proactive Marketing Secondly, the business is very experienced and proactive in terms of marketing which ensures a high level of occupancy and, as a consequence, great returns for property owners. “We are very, very active with the travel trade, we’re at all the major travel shows, we work with more than 100 tour operators around the world, we work with all the major airlines and we’re in the top 1, 2 or 3 with the major online travel websites. So we’re extremely active in the market making sure we’re booked,” he says.

Profit Sharing Thirdly, the business has a unique approach to profit sharing which provides a win-win for the resorts and for owners. “I think again where we’re unique in the region is we don’t take something off the top for our fees and then require people to pay the money or pay losses or whatever,” Doyle comments “All we take is a per cent of net profit. After all expenses, taxes, insurance, maintenance come off, then we take 15 - 20% of net profit and that’s it depending on your type of ownership with us. No matter your ownership type, whether fractional or residential, our interests are perfectly aligned.”

For more information on ownership opportunities at The Crane or Beach Houses, please visit www.craneresorts.com

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

L IFE INTERIOR DESIGN FASHION travel ISLAND INSIDER ART

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interior design

Heart & Soul Robert Cooper

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Hugging a magical stretch of beachfront on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Playa Grande Beach Club is a soul-filled mashup of West Indian oldworld elegance, custom crafted Dominican decorative elements and pre-loved vintage furniture. Here, we talk to interior designer and author Celerie Kemble, the mastermind of the resort’s design vision, about how she achieved the look and how you can emulate it in your own home The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

LIFE & STYLE INTERIOR DESIGN

In the summer of 2004 a group of investors connected to each other by family ties and friendships acquired a 2,000-acre swathe of land at Playa Grande between Rio San Juan and Cabrera on the quiet northern coast of the Dominican Republic. The parcel is indisputably one of the most spectacular sites in the Caribbean: a seemingly endless beach of dreamy powder-soft white sand, dramatic cliffs and lush tropical jungle. Close enough to the international airports at Puerto Plata or El Catey for easy access but secluded enough for relaxing in undisturbed tranquillity, the group had found their Eden – the ideal spot to build their own hideaway homes for family vacations (which are now open to guests too). Over roughly ten years, celebrated interior designer and part-owner Celerie Kemble oversaw the creation a collection of 9 one- and three-bedroom bungalows and a communal great house with oceanfront pool, all of which are infused with her unique style while feeling firmly rooted in their surroundings.

I asked Kemble how she first came across the site. “One of my friends from my college age years had talked about this property as one of the most dreamlike properties, too much to be believed until you’re there in person. He had informed us the property was for sale. On his word – which were all superlatives – we went down as a group of friends looking for something to buy together. We couldn’t believe that anything like this was sitting there.”

At the time there were remnants on part of the site of a former destination long past its best. “There was the original golf course in poor repair but still stunning,” Kemble says. “The original golf club which had a Soviet era design. Nothing you’d want. Everything about it

was the topography. Then this big, long beach which stretched along the jungle. There was one hotel there called the Occidental. It was an old, all-inclusive and that was also a big concrete conker… it was as good as gone when we purchased the property.”

The group decided that they wanted to purchase the site but they had not yet decided what exactly they wanted to do with it. “We knew that we wanted to somehow be a part of the property. We knew it was obtainable given the scale of our investment group and it was so easy to see no matter where we built or what we built, we would be in an optimal location. There aren’t many sites that are protected on all sides by cliffs or jungle or ocean with that level of view, the beautiful weather, the proximity to airports. It just seemed like at the time we made the decision to get involved that we didn’t even need to know what we were doing specifically because we weren’t developers. It was more a group of people who were like, somewhere in this property we could build our homes and create vacation homes for our family. It was big enough to encompass a lot of imagination. It almost felt like, well if we did it this way it would work or we could do it a totally different way and it would still work. The property had inherent flexibility just because it was beautiful in all directions.”

The group decided to purchase the entire parcel.

One section of the parcel was subsequently sold on to developers and has since become the setting for the gleaming Aman resort – Amanera. With minimalist concrete and teak structures perched on 60-foot cliffs and the crisp lines of floor-to-ceiling glass walls, flat roofs with overhanging eaves and glimmering infinity

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LIFE & STYLE INTERIOR DESIGN

pools, Amanera is the epitome of clean, contemporary luxury design. It is also a striking contrast to Kemble’s vision for Playa Grande Beach Club at the other end of the beach. “My goal in designing the club was to make it feel like an old house,” Kemble explains. “Not so old, but something that quickly, in accommodation of its own environment, aged in a way that felt natural. So, where I think of Aman as these incredible sightlines and sort of intense architecture of high contrast, bold moves, I wanted where we are to be a bit more of a folly in the jungle, something that bent and swayed in the breezes and was of wicker and color and whimsy. An entirely different design directive than the Aman.”

The vision for Playa Grande Beach Club developed out of Kemble’s design philosophy, typified by the title of her first book ‘To Your Taste: Creating Modern Rooms with a Traditional Twist’. However, in this case, “I would probably not even use the word modern, except that it is modern in its use and its comfort level,” Kemble says. She drew on the architectural tradition she was surrounded by in her childhood. “I grew up in Palm Beach, Florida, also in an old wooden house which had originally been a church and next door to an old, wooden Victorian kit house,” she says. “There was a lot taken from those two homes, because I grew up really

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loving the graceful women’s folly in the tropical setting.”

Kemble also looked deep into the local architectural traditions of the region for inspiration. “It really grew out of looking at the local farmhouses and some of the old Victorian houses in the cities which are pretty heavy on ornamental detail but all primitive details – very hand wrought and irregular and wonky,” she says.

“We used a lot of the same architectural references, the decorative balustrades, the overdoor shapings and the tragaluz (the cut out open air passageways above doors) and I looked to the patterns in a lot of the roadside homes or farmhouses up in the mountains where they used a particular wood species called Tabla de Palma,” she explains. “Then we used concrete tiles made in the Dominican Republic for our flooring. Then there were elements of more Victorian era design that we took from some of the houses in Puerto Plata and I worked with an architectural historian who has long been going down there and he brought years’ worth of his own inspiration and photographs from traveling around the country and we pored over them.”

Kemble did not stick rigidly to architectural tradition. She added her own playful twists. “I always think inspiration from something original is as important as being original because every building has its own

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LIFE & STYLE INTERIOR DESIGN proportions. We made ours grander and a little bit more refined than the Dominican farmhouses, but at the core, the layout of the houses were the same.” To the interiors Kemble added an eclectic mix of pieces, from vintage wicker furniture and copper bathtubs to shell-festooned mirrors, wrought iron light fixtures and lamps and bright throws and cushions. The result is an eye-catching and inviting feeling that has a warm patina of age and is filled with unique character.

It is this mix of old and new, the twist on tradition that Kemble believes is key to adding personality to a space. So, how can you set about recreating the look and feel in your home in the Caribbean? “I don’t think it is easy to design anything,” she says. “But, to design something and have it feel like it wanted to bear its own soul or have a real personality, you need things with

varying ages and different design styles”. Her advice: “I think it would be to really challenge yourself, even if it means buying old things that are more expensive than new things, to shake the desire to have things entirely functional. The truth about the Caribbean is that nothing is truly functional – that is part of its charm. So, in decorating houses I would choose a wildly old chair that has a soul over something that I could get a matching set of ten,” she explains. “I would allow for more spirit and kook than continuity and practicality and perfection,” she says.

All images courtesy of Playa Grande Beach Club (photography: Patrick Cline)

For more information on private and commercial commissions, please visit www.kembleinteriors.com and to enquire about Playa Grande Beach Club, please visit www.playagrandebeachclub.com

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Polo, t-shirt & shorts by KATAMA SWIM

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1. Swim shorts by THORSUN 2. Hat by FRESCOBOL CARIOCA 3. Swim shorts by TOMMY HILFIGER 4. Bracelet by LUIS MORAIS 5. Flip flops by HAVAIANAS 6. Sunglasses by ILLESTEVA 7. Royal Oak Offshore Diver Chronograph

by AUDEMARS PIGUET 8. Polo shirt by VILEBREQUIN

LIFE & STYLE fashion

They Call Him Mellow Yellow VICTORIA GAIGER

The colour surprise of the season for menswear is… yellow. What’s hot on the women’s catwalks doesn’t always make its way onto the men’s runway but this season’s surprise bolt of sunshine came in the shape of colour blocks, flashes or the full ‘george’ in a suit from Paul Smith. At Hermès there were acidic yellow polos, shorts and bags, Gucci’s bolder statement sou’wester and Mcqueen showed a softer yolk. Across the board there were hints of highlight neons and punchy shades of daffodil suggesting an optimism and confidence in our brave new world.

Yellow is a statement colour that needs to be used sparingly and

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anchored with neutrals. Try mixing with pieces in white, blue, grey, beige and charcoal. Or ape the catwalk like Salvatore Ferragamo and see how black is the perfect match. Balenciaga, Fendi and Hermes added colour with beautiful bags. Berlutti’s take was a statement leather jacket. Haider Ackermann a yellow knit, Rick Owens showed voluminous jackets and trousers. J.W. Anderson dipped his whites in sunshine and even Prada was at it with a pair of parachute trousers, while Thom Browne edged his tailcoat in a yellow stripe. Still not convinced? Then add yellow with some accessories… Havaianas, yellow shades and a sporty watch to keep up with the trend.

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Imaan lemon crepe ruffle bikini by LISA MARIE FERNANDEZ

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1. Catwalk shot by EMILIO PUCCI 2. Sunglasses by CUTLER & GROSS 3. Fabergé Flirt watch 36mm18 Karat White Gold - Yellow Dial by FABERGÉ 4. Vagabonde Jaune Ring by FABERGÉ 5. Eugenie lime sandal by CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA 6. Bag by EMILIO PUCCI 7. Yasmin Lemon Seersucker Drawstring Maillot by LISA MARIE FERNANDEZ

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LIFE & STYLE Fashion

Your Star is Rising VICTORIA GAIGER

Chris Martin was right. “Look at the stars, look how they shine for you, and everything you do…they were all yellow…” Yes, Coldplay were years ahead of their time when they identified this season’s hottest colour. Because 2017 is going to be ablaze with yellow.

Every shade from neon, through bright banana to soft sherbet graced the international catwalks.

The runways shone with shades of saffron and limoncello.

Haider Ackermann paired stunning acid yellow with a simple black leather jacket, Pucci a sheer elegant dress, whilst Ferragamo was understated (if yellow ever can be) but elegant. Gucci showed us you can be as frothy as you like with frills that shout in a citrus shade. For a more polished look go for Ralph Lauren’s simple shift and for statement looks Vivienne Westwood’s dramatic dress or

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Rick Owens sculptural dresses. Others such as Chanel, Chloe, Bottega Veneta, Simone Rocha, Tibi, Cedric Charlier and Phillip Lim kept the shades of yellow coming with sheer fashion enthusiasm.

For those not looking to illuminate themselves from head to foot, then try trousers (Maxmara), citrus accents (Loewe) and pretty yellow prints (Zac Posen) or highlight an outfit with yellow accessories. Valentino showed a teeny cute chained bag in yellow.

Chaumet a pretty yellow strapped watch, There are towering yellow shoes from Louboutin to Gianvitto Rossi and my personal favourite - a yellow diamond-encrusted ring to die for from Fabergé!

Perhaps with all the uncertainty in the world right now we’re all looking for something to shine brightly. Certainly, we could all use a bit of stardust right now.

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

P RO M OTI ON puntacana RE SORT & C L U B

Experience Luxury Discover Puntacana Resort & Club, the Caribbean’s ultimate beach, golf and marina destination and one of the region’s most sought after second home investment locations

Rewind almost 50 years to 1969. The year that Richard Nixon was elected the 37th President of the United States; The year that John Lennon married Yoko Ono; The year that Apollo 11 made its historical journey to the moon and 500 million people tuned in to their television sets to watch Neil Armstrong take his first steps on the lunar surface. 1969 was a year of great change, creation and progress. It was also the year when a group of far-sighted investors acquired a vast, almost untouched expanse of jungle with 6 miles of beachfront on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic and thereby took their own first small step on a journey of creation.

In the five decades or so since, 15,000 acres of land have been transformed from an almost untouched expanse of beachfringed jungle into Puntacana Resort & Club, the most popular destination in the Caribbean, an unrivalled beach, golf and marina resort and real estate investment location. The original investors partnered with world famous fashion designer Oscar de la Renta and celebrated singersongwriter Julio Iglesias, whose combined vision lead to the creation of a collection of

exceptional hotels, an oceanfront golf club, marina, spa, restaurants, shops and private residences – all served by what is today the Dominican Republic’s busiest airport.

Convenient & Accessible Home to our very own Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), the leading airport for travel to the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is easily accessible via convenient direct flights arriving daily from around the world. In just minutes you can transfer from the airport to the heart of paradise.

Unparalleled Service & Understated Elegance Upon arrival you will discover privacy, unparalleled personal service and the understated elegance and timeless vision of Oscar de la Renta, which defines the uniquely Dominican experience of Puntacana Resort & Club.

Luxurious Accommodation Guests and visitors to Punta Cana, can choose from a selection of hotels and rental properties. Our hotels include the AAA 5 Diamond Tortuga Bay and The Westin

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Puntacana Resort & Club. Home & Apartment rentals are also available at The Estates Experience.

The Residences – Own Your Own Home at Puntacana For those who would prefer to stay longer, you can become a part of our magnificent paradise community with the purchase of a vacation home in The Estates at Puntacana Resort & Club. Grupo Puntacana has worked meticulously to develop communities in harmony with their lush surroundings, preserving the rare natural treasures of the Dominican Republic.

Step into an exclusive lifestyle of relaxation, excitement and understated elegance.

Select from our different real estate offerings – a finished villa, a luxury condo, or build your own dream home along our scrupulously manicured golf course and the sparkling Caribbean Sea. There is an abundance of locations and exquisite views to choose from.

Puntacana Resort & Club is a low density Real Estate Development, It has been designed to be a family oriented, high end, community that enjoys security, great tran-

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quility and privacy. Proof of that is our dedication to sustained tourism what has made it possible for Puntacana Resort & Club to maintain stable growth since 1969, grow in size and establish itself as the most important luxury destination in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean.

A private retreat where neighbors know each other and children develop lifelong bonds. This is the unique lifestyle of Puntacana Resort & Club, where people appreciate and preserve the surrounding natural beauty.

As you can see, The Estates at Puntacana Resort & Club can offer much more than a wonderful vacation. You can make the relaxing Dominican lifestyle your own.

Amenities & Activities With a wide selection of superb amenities, Puntacana Resort & Club offers fun, relaxation and excitement to owners and guests of all ages. Explore miles of white sand beaches, two oceanfront championship golf courses, professional tennis courts, the only Six Senses Spa in the Americas, an ecological reserve with natural springs and endless water sports.

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The resort also includes the Oscar de la Renta Tennis Center with several clay tennis courts, which are among the best in the Caribbean and surrounded by tropical vegetation.

For the avid golfer, the P.B. Dye’s La Cana Golf Club offers challenging play on its three different nines set against the beauty of the Caribbean. The exclusive Tom Fazio-designed Corales Golf Club features a spectacular ocean view setting with six of its holes overlooking the Caribbean and the blue waters of the Bay of Corales.

Puntacana Resort & Club offers numerous excursions and tours that allow you to make the most of everything the destination has to offer. From Segway ecotours, to wreck diving, to helitours, to sunset cruises.

The Aquatic Center offers underwater tours to sunken ships for experienced divers as well as PADI certification classes for all who want to learn this great sport.

Also, the Kite Club Punta Cana offers the very best in kiteboarding lessons. Our flat waist-deep water and steady cross-onshore trade winds combine to create a safe and controlled environment.

For novices and experts alike, El Rancho at Puntacana Resort & Club offers memorable horseback rides along the pristine, white sand beaches and throughout the resort’s lush landscaping and golf courses.

After a long day full of fun and activities, give yourself over to the master therapists at our world-renowned Six Senses Spa. Melt in the hands of our gifted international team as they apply their patented holistic techniques and unique Six Sphere Philosophy to rejuvenating your mind and body.

As part of our holistic approach Yoga and Meditation are also offered.

Finally, Puntacana Resort & Club offers an enticing variety of restaurants featuring locally sourced farm to table cuisine, and, with our Dine Around Program, you can sample all our finest culinary experiences.

So, whether you are planning an unforgettable vacation or considering a long-term investment, look no further than Puntacana Resort & Club.

To discover more, please visit www.theestatesatpuntacana.com or email theestates@puntacana.com

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

LIFE & STYLE ZEMI BEA CH HOUSE

One Week in… Anguilla Top tips from Jeffrey Goldstein – developer of award-winning boutique resort Zemi Beach House – for how to spend an unforgettable 7 days on the tiny, sun-kissed island of Anguilla

What’s the best way to get there?

Anguilla is remarkably easy to get to. You can fly in via private jet to our small international airport, or fly commercial to neighboring St Maarten and hop over with the Sea Shuttle. It’s an easy 30-minute ride from the launch in St Maarten, making Anguilla highly accessible for all travelers, but especially from the East Coast of the USA. St. Maarten is only a 2.5-hour flight from Miami, or 4.5 hours from New York City.

Recommendations for unwinding on your first day on island?

To help ease into “island life”, I always encourage visitors to take advantage of Anguilla’s natural landscape – 35 square miles with 33 white sand beaches. That’s nearly one beach per mile! Of all our beautiful beaches, Shoal Bay East, where Zemi

Beach House is located, is an undisputed favorite – it’s been voted one of the “world’s best beaches” time and again.

Guests of Zemi Beach House, set on 1,000 feet of the 1.5 mile stretch of Shoal Bay East beach, can get a taste of what it’s like to enjoy their own private island. Take advantage of the location by taking a dip in the Caribbean Sea or relaxing on the powdery sand.

Best way to completely recharge?

In order to completely recharge – mind, body and soul – I recommend a day at our Thai House Spa. Allow yourself to let go of all worries and stresses with a total wellness experience, such as the Taino Bathing Ritual - a healing treatment that pays homage to the Taino Indians who once inhabited Anguilla. You can enjoy it alone

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or with your companion. Either way it’s a calculated journey: A five-step therapy through different temperature changes, using ancient plants and herbs, and making use of Anguilla’s only Hammam. It will leave you feeling renewed and rejuvenated.

Must-see attractions and places to explore?

The island of Anguilla is known for many things… including its multi-cultural cuisine, its national sport of sailing and a refined exclusivity that has been retained despite proximity to the travel hub of St Maarten. Unlike other Caribbean islands that only offer sun, sand and sea, Anguilla offers so much more to see and explore.

History buffs can check out Fountain Cavern National Park, a 14.5-acre site with a limestone cave, which is currently pending

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UNESCO-listing status and is home to numerous petroglyph rock artworks, which provide an extraordinary glimpse into early island life.

For those who enjoy a little sport, I recommend visiting Anguilla’s only golf course, an 18-hole Greg Norman Signature Design Champion Course with views of St Maarten. Or, practice your back hand at Anguilla’s Tennis Academy or our onsite tennis court.

One of my personal favorites is Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve Beach Bar, named after Anguilla’s famous reggae artist. It’s an iconic oceanfront bar on Rendezvous Bay, constructed from drift wood and old boat parts, that travelers fall in love with for its laid-back vibe, rustic charm, killer rum punches and live music.

Since rum is such an integral part of Anguillian lifestyle, the Rhum Room at Zemi Beach House is also a great way to get a true sense of the island’s flavors. Our Rhummelier will hand pick a selection of rhums for sampling or serve you a curated Rhum Flight.

Any favorite hidden gems to visit?

I highly recommend making a visit to Little Bay, a magical and remote alcove on the East End. This tiny strip of beach is surrounded by high cliffs and only accessible via boat from Crocus Bay or descending down the

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steep landscape by rope. While the latter is not for the faint-of-heart, it’s fully worth the trek, and drops you off into one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.

Another favorite is Sandy Island, an uninhabited little circle of sand in the middle of the sea. With only a small restaurant serving rum punch and grilled seafood, it’s the perfect haven for anyone seeking privacy, with 360-degree views of the Caribbean and Anguilla. Our Beach Concierge can arrange a private picnic and boat ride for our guests to Sandy Island for a romantic excursion.

Advice for a day at sea?

Since sailing is the national sport, it’s only fitting that visitors experience the island by boat. Chartering a boat through Calypso Charters Anguilla and heading out to sea with a local skipper will give you an insider’s look into the island’s history and culture from the water. Or, if you prefer, take advantage of the many water sports and activities available from our beach, including snorkeling, fishing, diving, swimming with dolphins, and paddle boarding.

Dining recommendations for an unforgettable meal?

Anguilla has been dubbed the “culinary capital of the Caribbean” for its exquisite food and top-notch restaurants. There are

upscale options in Island Harbour, including Hibernia (part art gallery, part FrenchJapanese fusion restaurant) and Gwen’s Reggae Bar & Grill. Stone at Zemi Beach House is also a great option, with menus featuring traditional Anguillan dishes with Asian flavors inspired by the Executive Chef Leoci’s international travels. Then there are local hotspots like Ken’s Pork BBQ and Blanchards Beach Shack, hailed as one of the best restaurants on Anguilla.

And if one week in Anguilla isn’t enough?

Anguilla is one of those islands you can picture yourself never leaving, but rather picking up and relocating to after just one visit. It’s enchanting in that way, which is exactly why the Zemi Beach House Residences were created: A home ownership option offering studios and beachfront residences for travelers who wish to become full or part-time residents. Expansive floor plans, panoramic ocean views and personalized service create a luxury experience that is “boutique resort living” at its finest. All homes form part of a comprehensive maintenance scheme meaning that owners simply arrive, relax and enjoy resort amenities at their doorstep.

For more information, visit www.zemibeach.com

The Caribbean Property Investor, Issue 7 | 7thHeavenProperties.com

LIFE & STYLE ISLAND INSIDER

Making a Splash Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a drift of swimming pigs, and they’re heading your way. Brilliant or bonkers, you’ve got to admire the sensational swimming pigs of The Bahamas LEO BEAR

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In a world where luxury travel is increasingly defined by adventure and one-off experiences, jetsetters are seeking more than just a palm-strewn beach with a cold-pressed juice bar when they head to the Caribbean. They want life-changing experiences, they want to interact with the locals, to climb volcanic peaks and immerse themselves in a vibrant culture in order to forget their troubles and switch off. Hence, the steady rise of culturally immersive and trend-driven programmes at five-star hotels across the globe. Martial arts training academies, water-biking classes, Ayurveda under a full moon… It’s all there for the taking. Excursions, classes and experiences that give the traveller real bragging rights when they get home, and photographs to treasure forever.

But of all the gimmicks, fitness fads and creative campaigns marketing execs can dream up, there’s no beating the power of nature – an encounter with wildlife – up close. Mother Nature’s charisma has always been, and will always be, the strongest draw of all.

For decades, travellers have associated the azure waters of the Caribbean with scuba diving and snorkeling; dolphin cruises a firm staple on any honeymoon itinerary, and lucky honeymooners might even see turtles hatching. However, none of these come close to the animal encounter on offer on Big Major Cay, one of the tiny islands in the pristine Exumas archipelago.

Up until now, the area was the preserve of limit-pushing deep-sea divers for its shadowy blue holes, cavernous caves and colourful coral reefs (not to mention plentiful sharks) but now, holidaymakers are coming in their hordes to splash around the shallows with a colony of wild pigs.

Pig Beach, as it’s been coined, is home to a rambunctious clan of more than 20 pigs and piglets which were stumbled upon

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by the photographer and ocean guide Jim Abernethy a couple of years back. The animals roam freely up and down the beach of this uninhabited island and love nothing more than plunging into the surf after long hours of sun-bathing. When visitors arrive, they’ll trot out from under the almond trees to greet their guests with great gusto, and far from the image of smelly, mud-swilling farm animals, these four-legged creatures are clean and friendly with soft furry ears and pink noses just waiting to be petted.

Visitors can watch the pigs frolicking in the surf from the bow of a luxury yacht, hang out and take selfies with the hogs on the beach or swim alongside them. They are excellent swimmers – just mind you don’t get too close, as their hooves can do damage.

How did the pigs get there in the first place? It’s unknown. Theories include a shipwreck where a few pigs swam ashore

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and set up home. Others have speculated that sailors arrived on the island and left a handful of pigs there with the intention of returning later for a lavish feast, but never made it back. No matter the circumstances, there’s no denying these porcine islanders’ unique appeal. They’ve even got their own Instagram account with, at the last count, 288,000 followers. Talk about hogging the limelight.

Other celebrities who call the Exumas (which are technically part of The Bahamas) home, include A-list actor Johnny Depp, who fell in love with the islands after filming Pirates of the Caribbean there, plus the magician David Copperfield and the Formula 1 racing champ Eddie Irvine.

With some of the best beaches in the world, and an easy transfer – just an hour from Miami – these little piggies certainly chose their home well.

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Right: “LOOKING FOR GROUPER” (2011), watercolor on paper, 15 x 22 inches

As a student studying print making and etching at Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota (Florida), Stephen Scott Young met a fellow student majoring in graphic design. “She was only 18, I was only 20,” he recalls. The young woman later became Young’s wife. This relationship not only changed the course of his personal life, but also set the direction for his career in the art world.

Young’s wife is a seventh generation Bahamian from Nassau and his marriage to her led to him visiting The Bahamas in 1983. “I fell in love with it,” he says. “The light, the colour. I had never seen anything quite like the Caribbean light… it changed my whole life.”

Young was captivated by the raw, natural beauty of the islands. Throughout the 80s and 90s, he travelled to The Bahamas once per month to paint everyday scenes of people and landscapes. “I would go once a month for ten days. Maybe sometimes two weeks. I went back and forth,” he says.

Right from the start he preferred the laidback lifestyle of the Out Islands to Nassau.

In the early years, Young regularly visited Harbour Island to paint. “That was before it became popular,” he explains. “Back then it was a regular English settlement from the 1600s. You could walk the streets and there was hardly anyone there.”

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LIFE & STYLE art

Leading Light The youngest living artist to have works sold by auction houses Christie’s and Sotheby’s, American artist Stephen Scott Young is a master of modern realist watercolour. We talk exclusively to him about his Bahamas-inspired paintings and an upcoming exhibition of his new regatta series Robert Cooper

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LIFE & STYLE ART As Harbour Island became increasingly developed, Young was drawn to the tranquillity and simplicity of life on quiet neighbouring Eleuthera. The island became his second home and his muse. “It just has a certain momentum and energy,” he says.

“As soon as I get off the plane from Florida I change completely. The smells, the feeling of it, it’s just so different. The people, the roosters crowing, the dogs, goats everywhere, the life there... It inspires me to work.”

Through countless visits over many years to the Out Islands of The Bahamas, Young has carefully observed the people and landscape which have inspired the majority of his work, including his well-known watercolours of Bahamian children playing with marbles and model boats. Young prefers to paint people he knows and landscapes he is familiar with. “I like to find somewhere that I can feel comfortable and know the people instead of going there as a stranger,” Young explains. “I knew everybody that I was painting. Most of the kids I started painting when they were really young and painted them until they became adults and then had children of their own. Then I ended up painting their children.”

As a result, Young’s paintings expertly depict a time and a place. They also perfectly capture his affection for Eleuthera and its people. “I love the subject matter,” he says emphatically. He refutes the comments of some critics which suggest his paintings contain hidden political messages. “I don’t particularly try to focus on a message…

Some people used to think that I would paint some of the people because they’re poor or because they come from an Out Island where they don’t have many of the things that we have in America. But that’s not the reason at all. I actually thought they were luckier than us. They live a wonderful life. I just loved the way they looked.” “It’s mostly about beauty,” he adds. “I just like the way it looks. Honestly, there’s really no hidden meaning in most of the paintings.”

Young’s watercolours are celebrated for their honest and charming portrayal of life in the Out Islands. Numerous pieces have been sold at auction by Christie’s and Sotheby’s and snapped up by galleries including the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Greenville County Museum of Art and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary

Left: “ZARIA” (2000), watercolor on paper, 22 x 14 inches

Art. However, the majority of his work is in private collections.

Paintings of one child from Eleuthera brought Young even greater fame. The child was a young girl called Cindy who Young painted several times. On a visit to a New York gallery, one particular painting of Cindy caught the eye of Oprah Winfrey who has reportedly acquired several pieces of his work. She bought the painting as a gift for a very special recipient. “She gave it to Barack Obama when he was elected in 2008,” Young tells me. “It was quite an honour. It was really unexpected… It was a great thrill for me,” he recalls humbly.

More recently, Young has sought a new challenge. Since 2014 his focus has shifted from depicting people to painting boats on the water in The Bahamas. “I’ve been seeing boats my entire life in The Bahamas.

I’ve painted them on and off for many years, just sketching. Then, for some reason, I saw a regatta and I thought I’d really like to learn how to do this,” he tells me. “Painting boats on the water was the most difficult challenge in my entire career. It took a long

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Below: “HOISTING THE JIB” (2015), 20 x 28 inches

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time. I threw away a lot of paintings before I was able to get anything that looked like water and the boat looked like it was actually in the water. It’s very hard to do because it is moving. I studied it for hours and hours, just watching it move.” “I’m still working on it. I still don’t have it exactly as I want it.”

Thus Young’s regatta series was born. Each year Young travels to the regattas on Exuma, Harbour Island and Cat Island. Inspired by the works of 19th Century American realist painter Winslow Homer, the resulting series of paintings capture the long boating tradition of The Bahamas and the light, colour, energy and movement of the boats in the archipelago’s waters.

The regatta series is set to be the sub-

ject of a major international solo exhibition which Young is delighted to announce.

“The regatta exhibition is going to open in the year 2018,” he says. “It’s going to open at the Greenville County Museum in Greenville, South Carolina. They have a large collection of my work. There will be 200 works – my biggest show ever. The show should travel around the United States.” A book

by Dr Abigail Booth Gerdts, author of a catalogue of works by Winslow Homer, will accompany the exhibition.

To discover more works by Stephen Scott Young and for information on his upcoming exhibition, please visit www. stephenscottyoung.com

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PR IME PROPE RT Y A showcase of the finest luxury homes for sale across the Caribbean and the region’s most sought after commercial real estate investment opportunities

7 of the Best: Income-Generating Homes

7 of the Best: Beachfront Homes

7 of the Best: Citizenship ProgramApproved Investments

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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Playa del Carmen, Mexico Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Rivas, Nicaragua New Providence, Bahamas Simpson Bay Lagoon, St Maarten Savannes Bay, St Lucia

Placencia, Belize Middle Caicos, Turks & Caicos Islands Meads Bay Beach, Anguilla St Philip, Barbados Rio Grande, Puerto Rico Punta Cana Resort & Club, Dominican Republic 7. Val des Pitons, St Lucia

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Antigua Secret Bay, Dominica Pinneys Beach, Nevis Southeast Peninsula, St Kitt Kimpton Kawana Bay, Grand Anse Beach, Grenada 6. Regent Bay, Antigua 7. Southeast Peninsula, St Kitts

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7 of the Best: Income-Generating Homes for Sale in the Caribbean ZOE DARE HALL

A home in the Caribbean has always been an aspirational lifestyle purchase - a symbol of luxury, success and of having reached a point in life where you can afford to take it easy in one of the most beautiful regions on earth. The fundamentals of this idyll never change – the climate and beaches, the laidback lifestyle and friendly people.

Now, however, buyers are increasingly seeking a different kind of Caribbean cocktail – one that combines all the elements of a perfect holiday with the fundamentals for

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a strong property investment.

Buyers want personal usage as well as rental returns that deliver a return on investment - and there is a growing number of condo hotels and villa resort developments that are responding to those demands.

Some go as far as guaranteeing rental yields.

Others trust their track record and the location’s proven popularity to forecast a high return on investment for investors.

Here we look at seven of the best new resorts offering relaxation and ROI.

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1. Beachfront Condos with 70% Rental Revenue Split — Puntacana, Dominican Republic

2. Last Few Beach Club Units with 5% Guaranteed Returns — Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Offered at: From US $254,536

Offered at: $349,000

When it comes to footfall – a vital element if you are chasing high returns – it’s hard to beat the Punta Cana area, the most popular destination on the Caribbean’s most visited island, the Dominican Republic.

Tourist numbers are booming, giving developers the confidence to offer high rental yields, such as at these contemporary condos. They sit on white sands, 10 minutes from the country’s busiest international airport, and come fully furnished and stylishly designed.

The condos are located within a fully operational boutique resort with facilities including several pools, beach club, two restaurants, spa, mini market and Zen gardens with shops, a marina and golf courses nearby.

Competitively priced, the final few remaining condos come with no usage restrictions and offer a 70% split of rental revenue, while resale units allow four weeks of annual personal usage and come with a guarantee from the developers that, for a defined period, the two-bedroom units will see a fixed annual return of 6% and three-bedroom units a 7% return, based on the original purchase price of the property. Owners also benefit from full on-site maintenance and exemption from transfer and annual property tax. Financing is available from local banks.

With the turquoise Caribbean Sea at your feet and monkeys swinging in the surrounding trees in the most popular resort on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, these residences offer all the lifestyle and holiday appeal you could want. There are spas, bars and restaurants, sports and nightlife galore, and a multitude of other five-star amenities and services.

This Playa del Carmen resort, built by an awardwinning developer and managed by a leading international hotel brand, also comes with a compelling investment angle.

There are two remaining fully-furnished units available that offer guaranteed rental returns of 5% for five years. With other remaining units, which vary from one- to three-bed condos and penthouses, buyers are guaranteed that if they put their property in the rental program, they will at least cover their costs, including homeowners’ insurance, property tax, utilities, maintenance fees and exclusive Beach Club access.

Mexico’s tourism is booming (up 9% in 2016 to an annual total of 35 million visitors) and its economy is steadily growing. Accessibility is good too, with Cancun International Airport just 30 minutes away.

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3. Condos with Rock Star Appeal and 6% Guaranteed Returns — Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Offered at: From US $173,200 This is the place to relax by the almost endless pool, safe in the knowledge that your property is providing you with a 6% guaranteed return p.a.. That makes it one of the best rental earners in the Caribbean.

These 123 condos sit next to the Hard Rock Golf Club at Cana Bay and come with views across the gardens, pool or the Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course. Other resort facilities include a kilometerlong pool and fitness center and owners enjoy use of a beach club on the soft white sands of Macao Beach, a short stroll away. The neighboring Hard Rock Hotel – a global attraction, renowned for its fun, friendly atmosphere - has the added offering of a casino, spa, shops, nightclub and nine restaurants.

Two-bedroom condos and penthouses with private terraces are available. The resort takes care of rentals and you pay no transfer or real estate tax.

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4. Luxury Treehouse Villa with 5% Guaranteed ROI — Rivas, Nicaragua Offered at: US $650,000 It’s hard to think of a more idyllic escape than this 2,000 sq ft luxury treehouse in a soul-nourishing resort on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast. Set over two levels and finished with rich, sustainable hardwoods, the villa is tucked away on a forest-covered hillside with views of the beach, ocean and flower-filled grounds.

The villa comprises two units – a master king “penthouse” suite with an ocean-view balcony and a queen guest suite with a plunge pool set into a private deck.

The spectacular views from both go without saying and the private white sand beach is just steps away. Also within a short walk are all the amenities of this highly rated eco resort.

So that’s the luxury escape sorted. What about the returns? As part of the hotel’s rental program, the villa comes with a 5% guaranteed annual ROI, with all maintenance and homeowners’ association (HOA) expenses paid.

While still considered off the beaten track but rapidly growing in popularity, Nicaragua is emerging as a more affordable alternative to Costa Rica and is a regular fixture on lists of must visit destinations.

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5. Marina-Front Apartments with 7.5% Net Yield Forecast — New Providence, Bahamas Offered at: From US $800,000 This is the kind of five-star Bahamian community that Hollywood stars love, with 69 acres of private luxury overlooking a deep-water 194-slip marina and powder soft white sands. Close at hand are the shops and nightlife of Nassau and Paradise Island, or serene escapes in the nearby islands of the Exumas.

Two-bedroom apartments – one of various property types available, including penthouses and town homes – front directly on to the marina, with views taking in the yachts bobbing on the water and the ocean beyond. The residences exude casual sophistication and come equipped with features including hurricane-proof sliding glass panels, signature European kitchens and spa showers.

Community amenities include a rooftop pool with views across the marina and beach, plus tennis courts, a gym, several parks, BBQ and entertainment areas.

In one of the top destinations in the Caribbean, these high specification apartments from an experienced developer represent great value for waterfront real estate with direct beach access.

From an investment perspective, the units are fully managed and expected to generate net rental returns of up to 7.5%. Buyers will also benefit from a 12-month exemption from the Property Management fee and Property Owners’ Association fees.

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6. Turnkey Marina Condos with Estimated 9.8% Net Income — Simpson Bay Lagoon, St Maarten

7. Serene Apartments with up to 6% Yield Forecast — Savannes Bay, St Lucia

Offered at: US $530,000

Offered at: From US $280,000

St Maarten’s Simpson Bay Lagoon is home to a villagestyle, mixed-use residential and resort community with one of the most prestigious marinas in the Caribbean.

The marina caters to vessels ranging from simple sailing boats to mega-yachts and framed by boutiques, restaurants and nightspots.

These contemporary condos sit directly over the marina, with views across the boats, lighthouse and lagoon, and come fully-furnished and equipped, making them an ideal option for easy vacations or a hassle-free rental investment.

They are located in an upscale community on the western tip of the Dutch side of St Maarten, one of the Caribbean’s major international transport hubs and soon to benefit from more streamlined border controls with US pre-clearance.

The island’s reputation, combined with the marina’s amenities – including shops and sports facilities - means owners can expect high levels of rentals income. As a guide, a one-bed condo that rents out for 32 weeks a year can generate US $52,300 net. A three-bedroom penthouse, rented out for 17 weeks, can earn US $58,200.

Just five minutes from St Lucia’s main international airport and one of the most tranquil stretches of the island’s coastline, these brand new apartments sit in an immensely accessible yet serene spot overlooking Savannes Bay within a well-established boutique villa resort with a proven track record.

There are six one- and two-bedroom apartments available in a new building – and the price point is particularly appealing given the location. This private, gated development is close to the town of Vieux Fort, which is set to benefit from significant public and private investment, including a major upgrade to Hewanorra International Airport. A US $2.6 billion mixed-use residential, resort and leisure development is also planned nearby, which means this boutique villa development is well placed to accommodate a steady stream of visitors for many years to come.

The setting will be hard for owners to resist, but those who rent out their property continuously can expect a 5-6% ROI, with maintenance and property management services already in place.

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A Home in Paradise that Pays its Own Way These developments present a new opportunity to buyers who are eyeing up the Caribbean not just for its natural beauty and easy lifestyle, but for the investment potential it offers. Beachfront or ocean-view locations, top notch amenities and hassle-free rental management make your property appeal to the widest possible audience – and as hands-off an investment as you want it to be. That may not be easy, given the charms on offer, but there is little sweeter than the prospect of owning a home in paradise that largely – or entirely – pays its own way.

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For details on all these properties for sale in the Caribbean and many others offering high levels of guaranteed or estimated returns, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44 (0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776 info@7thHeavenProperties.com

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7 of the Best: Beachfront Homes for Sale in the Caribbean LEO BEAR

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Let’s face it, when it comes to Caribbean living, it’s all about those soul-lifting sea views and the soothing sound of the waves lapping the beach. What could be better than casting open the doors of your home and stepping onto sugary soft sand for a dip in the warm water before breakfast? Or bringing home your catchof-the-day to grill up a feast with friends and family, ice cold drink in-hand?

Whether you’ve got your heart set on a stunning stand-alone beach house, a cutting-edge condo or a show-stopping estate just footsteps from the waves, there are plenty of beachfront retreats up for grabs across the Caribbean.

From Piton-view properties on St Lucia to ultraluxe lodgings on Anguilla, we bring you the hottest shore-hugging homes. Here’s the cream of the crop…

1. Tropical Modern Living in Breezy Belize — Placencia, Belize Offered at: From US $325,000 These final remaining one- to five-bedroom homes hugging Belize’s Caribbean coast in pretty Placencia feature naturally-chic details and swoon-worthy plunge pools enveloped by beautiful tropical gardens.

Nestled within one of the world’s most highly anticipated resorts with its own state of the art spa offering Maya-inspired treatments, a farm-to-table restaurant serving fresh, local cuisine, a private rum room and a full service marina, a home here means you are a stone’s throw from wild jungle terrain, hidden caves and the beautiful Belize Barrier Reef.

Best of all, these villas have been fully furnished in a cool tropical modern style using (thoroughly updated and refreshed) Central American patterns and custom crafted furniture made from local hardwoods – the vision of celebrated interior designer Sam Amoia, one of the world’s hottest interior design talents.

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2. Beach House Bliss — Middle Caicos, Turks & Caicos Islands Offered at: US $368,000 Located within a 12-acre boutique resort with a private clubhouse, restaurant and bar on tranquil Middle Caicos, lined by an arching stretch of pristine pink-hued sand, these minimalist eco-homes feature contemporary sleek lines, natural finishes and open-plan living areas. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors reveal striking views of the beach and turquoise waters beyond.

Helping to minimise the impact on the environment, the beach houses incorporate the latest cutting-edge technology, such as rainwater harvesting and solar power systems. A management and rental program will also relieve owners of the worries of maintaining the property when not on island and help to generate income by placing the property into the resort’s rental pool.

With two-bedroom units available from US $368,000, these beach houses offer a rare opportunity to purchase a more modestly priced home in one of the world’s most coveted beach destinations.

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3. A-Class Abodes in Anguilla — Meads Bay Beach, Anguilla

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Offered at: From US $750,000 Designed by an award-winning architect, these beachfront condos on the tiny island of Anguilla have modern-luxe written all over them. Just 18 one- and twobedroom units are available.

Part of a charming development that sits on the soft white sands of much-loved Meads Bay Beach, the condos benefit from access to a pair of 30-foot swimming pools plus a state-of-the-art gym.

One of the most desirable parts of the island for real estate investment, it’s no wonder that Anguilla’s top restaurants, the renowned Greg Norman championship golf course and several of the island’s most ravishing hotels including Malliouhana and the Four Seasons are located nearby. Did we mention the Jacuzzis on the private terraces? Sold!

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4. The Ultimate Getaway — St Philip, Barbados Offered at: From US $1,986,000 Introducing a rare chance to snap up a jaw-dropping holiday home at pre-construction pricing on what is the most tranquil, unspoiled strip of Barbados’ eastern coastline. These light, airy, open-plan beach houses form part of a small community of laid-back luxury hideouts overlooking sleepy Skeete’s Bay Beach in St Philip. A far cry from the intensely developed west coast of the island, this community will deliver a high level of seclusion within the only large parcel on the eastern coast not to be designated as protected national park.

Each house sits on approximately 8,900 square feet of grounds and benefits from a glittering infinity pool and hot tub – the ideal vantage point from which to savour the sweeping views along the ruggedly beautiful Atlantic coast.

The highlights? Elegant contemporary architecture, a true ‘get away from it all’ setting, sweeping coastal views and access to world-class amenities including two restaurants, spa and tennis court courtesy of the developer behind one of Barbados’ leading resorts.

5. The Perfect Pad in Puerto Rico — Rio Grande, Puerto Rico Offered at: From US $2,870,265

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Apartments don’t come much grander than these beauties located on a two-mile palm-tree-dotted stretch of Puerto Rico’s northern coastline in Rio Grande.

With all the conveniences of a five-star hotel – concierge service, in-residence dining and housekeeping provided by the St Regis hotel – these three- to four-bedroom beachfront luxury apartments had us at ‘hello’. Throw in ground-breaking design by the forward-thinking Miami-based company SB Architects, exquisite interiors with top of the line finishes and spa-inspired bathrooms, conveniences such as private elevator access and panoramic views of the barrelling Atlantic Ocean, and this really is indulgent oceanfront living at its most seductive.

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6. Opulent Escape — Puntacana Resort & Club, Dominican Republic Offered at: US $4,900,000 Nestled within an acre of dense tropical greenery, this elegant home is a masterpiece of contemporary design.

When you’re not taking a walk on the beach (just steps away) or teeing off on the spectacular P.B. Dyedesigned La Cana Golf Course, you can relax in style in this property’s spacious living rooms.

Spanning 11,410 square feet, the property features five bedrooms, six bathrooms, two kitchens, as well as separate staff quarters with two bedrooms. Even more impressive is the huge pool-side palapa – perfect for al fresco dining or sipping Piña coladas in the shade while gazing at the glorious beach views. Did someone say ‘pool party’?

With the beach, golf club, restaurants, bars and all the other amenities of the world-famous Puntacana Resort & Club practically on your doorstep, this bombastic beach house is hard to beat.

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7. Sleek Sanctuaries in St Lucia — Val des Pitons, St Lucia

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Offered at: From US $8,250,000 The pinnacle of luxury beachfront living, these jawdropping four- to five-bedroom residences are as sumptuous (and as sexy) as it gets. Situated within a private enclave of a 100-acre trendsetting resort near Soufriere with unrivalled views of the twin spires of the majestic Pitons rising dramatically from the reef-filled Caribbean Sea, these are without question some of the most desirable homes in the world.

Fringed by immaculate talcum-powder-white sand with a backdrop of dense rainforest, each residence comes with uninterrupted views of the beach, the sea and the Pitons enjoyed from the privacy of a shaded timber deck complete with dining gazebo and infinity pool.

Services include dedicated butlers, 24-hour concierge, in-residence dining and chauffeured shuttles, complemented by a highly acclaimed rainforest spa, world-class restaurants, gym, tennis courts, kids club and scuba dive center are.

Which Island is Calling your Name?

Whatever your budget, there’s scope to achieve real wow factor with a beautiful beachfront home. The only question is, which Caribbean island is calling your name?

For details on all these beachfront homes for sale in the Caribbean and many others located right on the beach, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44 (0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776 info@7thHeavenProperties.com

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7 of the Best: Investments Approved for Caribbean Citizenship Programs Cathy Hawker

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Investors looking for swift access to the benefits of a Caribbean Citizenship by Investment program have the choice of some seductive Caribbean destinations.

The Eastern Caribbean island nations of Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada and St Kitts & Nevis all offer a range of options approved for the real estate investment route of Citizenship by Investment programs.

While precise qualifying details differ between the islands, these condos, hotel suites and villas for sale all have their own special appeal.

Choose between buzzy mega yacht marinas or tranquil white sand beaches, striking contemporary architecture or traditional Caribbean style. Some homes are on resorts managed by big-brand international hotels while others are part of small private estates. All of them however provide eligibility to apply for a second citizenship along with interesting potential rental returns thanks to a thoroughly sybaritic Caribbean lifestyle Here are some options to kick start your search.

1. One Bedroom Beach Beauties — Antigua Offered at: US $450,000

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In a prime west coast location beside two soft sand beaches and within easy reach of several of the island’s laid-back and lovely beach clubs, this boutique development of new one to five-bedroom apartments, townhouses and villas with managed rental pool has already had good success selling to Citizenship by Investment purchasers. Spacious one-bedroom freehold apartments start from US $450,000.

The seductive development fuses an outstanding beachfront setting with contemporary styling (think natural stone, glass and wood exteriors) and sleek interiors featuring Italian kitchens and high-tech entertainment systems. Some apartments have private plunge pools overhanging the azure sea and all of them have generous west-facing terraces with views of the brilliant white sand beach.

Antigua’s infrastructure is undergoing substantial improvements showcased by the opening of a gleaming and well air-conditioned new airport terminal a year ago. The island is now the undisputed gateway to the eastern Caribbean, welcoming increased visitor numbers from Europe and North America.

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2. Eco-Luxury on the Nature Island — Secret Bay, Dominica Offered at: US $212,000 for 1/5 fraction or US $848,000 for whole ownership Hugging a dramatic cliffside which plunges into glittering waters, Secret Bay is a highly acclaimed boutique villa resort on the northwestern coast of Dominica – the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean. A mountainous island that has managed to remain relatively off-radar (until now), this lush and naturally beautiful destination’s interior dazzles with cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes and dense rainforests.

Having notched up an enviable succession of outstanding hospitality awards and topflight write-ups, Secret Bay has announced the launch of a range of new homes for sale at the resort, including a collection aimed specifically at Citizenship by Investment buyers. Just 8 one bedroom Riverside Bungalows are priced from US $848,000 for whole ownership or from US $212,000 for a one-fifth fractional share. With breathtaking surroundings, eco-chic interiors, unparalleled service and access to three beaches, these rainforest hideaways offer a limited number of investors the opportunity to own their very own piece of paradise at the “World’s Best Boutique Hotel.”

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3. All Out Luxury on a Peaceful Celebrity Retreat — Pinneys Beach, Nevis

4. Turnkey Homes for All-Action Sports Fans — Southeast Peninsula, St Kitts

Offered at: From US $2,900,000

Offered at: From US $950,000

Nevis, twenty minutes south of St Kitts by water taxi is eight miles long and five miles wide. Small scale for sure but packed out with rainforests, natural springs and a 3,200 foot peak. A favorite and secure hideaway of great natural beauty, the island is pleasingly quiet but has certain celebrity status. Lord Nelson got married on Nevis in the 1780s and two hundred years later Princess Diana and her two young princes frequently holidayed there.

On one of the most exclusive beachfront resorts on the island backed by a world-class five-star hotel brand with a rock-steady fan club of travelers, these three and four-bedroom freestanding villas offer true luxury and spacious island living. The villas are the most recent addition to a collection of residences which have proven exceptionally popular with second home buyers.

The chic open plan design and private gardens and pools offer a Mediterranean-style indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The villas have wide views of the resort’s golf course and Nevis Peak while the idyllic beach, the finest on Nevis, is a short stroll away.

Resort facilities, all available to villa owners, include an 18-hole golf course, ten tennis courts, a state of the art gym with daily classes and a popular children’s club.

Prices start from $2,900,000.

These two-bedroom single storey homes within a magnificent beach and golf resort on the blissful Southeast Peninsula of St Kitts will appeal to golfers, sailors and beach babes alike. Priced from US $950,000 the stylish and comfortable homes feature two bedrooms, both with en suite bathroom, lush private gardens and a delightful colonial style refreshed for contemporary living including tropical woods and coral stone floors.

Homes are in a separate gated part of the 2,500-acre estate and are fully managed by an experienced international developer who also offers a property management and rental program so that your home can generate a return and is taken care of even when you’re off island.

The resort is one of the most exciting, ambitious and largest developments in the Caribbean. Planned facilities will include a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, deepwater harbor and 300-berth marina in Majors Bay making it an ideal multigenerational and year round resort.

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5. Spice Up Your Life on Grenada’s Best Beach — Kimpton Kawana Bay, Grand Anse Beach, Grenada

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Offered at: US $350,000 Take one of the finest beaches on the wonderfully unspoiled island of Grenada - the Caribbean’s Isle of Spice - add in a five-star resort backed by award-winning brand Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants (part of the InterContinental Hotels Group®) and you get a winning formula that is simply too good to overlook.

This beachfront project is offering freehold condominium studios for sale from US $350,000 through Grenada’s acclaimed Citizenship by Investment program. Penthouses and pool suites will be available in later phases.

Owners will get title to their property and can enjoy two weeks’ personal use at the resort each year. For the rest of the year their property will serve as hotel accommodation for which they will receive a revenue share.

Kimpton Kawana Bay overlooks the two-mile stretch of Grand Anse Beach, Grenada’s main water sports area. Owners and guests will also have access to a large beachfront infinity pool, gym, spa and a choice of restaurants and bars.

Grenada in the southern Caribbean has a garlanded reputation as a calm and friendly island and is attracting increased interest from international tourists. It is at the heart of Caribbean sailing with modern marinas offering top-rate technical support and the international airport receives direct flights from Europe and North America.

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6. World-Class Community on a Caribbean Favourite — Regent Bay, Antigua Offered at: US $600,000 The Leeward island of Antigua is famous for its 365 beaches, one for each day of the year locals tell you with pride. That sand-fringed coastline combines with calm seas and steady breezes to give the island a flawless reputation among both beach lovers and sailors alike.

The island’s north-eastern coast is the setting for Regent Bay, a world-class gated community and beachfront resort. Facilities are set to include a beach club and bar, two signature restaurants, main pool with cabanas and separate children’s pool, wedding pavilion, business center and fitness center.

Under the twin-island nation’s Citizenship by Investment program, 4 bedroom 4 bathroom villas on no less than 600 square meters of freehold oceanside land are priced at US $600,000 including furniture and pool package. There is no stamp duty, property tax and rental income tax as Regent Bay is located within a newly created 1,600-acre Special Economic Zone, as well as a special offer on government processing fees.

With picturesque views of world-famous Jumby Bay and Guiana Island, guaranteed annual returns provided by a rental pool program and on-site concierge, look no further than Regent Bay for one of the Caribbean’s most highly attractive citizenship by investment products.

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7. Customized Luxury on a Caribbean Cliff-Top — Southeast Peninsula, St Kitts Offered at: US $3,900,000 The 68 square mile volcanic island of St Kitts, once carpeted in sugar cane was the first Caribbean nation to introduce a Citizenship by Investment program and has some appealing small scale developments.

On a gated development of only 15 villas, this threebedroom all en-suite luxury detached house is priced at US $3,900,000. It sits on a 0.85 acre site 500 feet above sea level, perfectly placed between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Sink into the rooftop Jacuzzi to enjoy dramatic views along the coast of the Southeast Peninsula of St Kitts and across the Narrows to the neighboring sister island of Nevis before drifting down to the infinity pool and barbecue on the verandahshaded sun deck.

The Promise of Second Citizenship The range of homes on offer demonstrated by this selection shows how developers in the Caribbean are adapting to modern-day demands for thoughtful holiday homes in safe, sought-after and beautiful locations. Many include professional rental management programs aimed at helping investors generate income and a return on their investment.

Picture-perfect, tropical and framed with blasts of idyllic blues and greens, the Caribbean has been one of the world’s most popular vacation hotspots for decades.

Now the promise of second citizenship, a sound case for investment and the sheer variety and quality of real estate investment opportunities offered by Citizenship Programs has helped introduce a new class of investors from around the world to the region’s perennial charms.

Choices, choices, choices.

For details on all these investment properties and many others approved for the real estate option of Citizenship by Investment programs in the Caribbean, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44 (0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776 info@7thHeavenProperties.com

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Boaters’ Bliss — The Bahamas: 214 Unit Beachfront Condo Resort & Marina for Sale Located on the island of South Bimini, this resort comprises 214 one- and two-bedroom condo units overlooking a marina and the ocean, complemented by a collection of guest amenities on 24 acres of grounds with a one mile stretch of white sandy beach.

The condos, 57 of which are still owned by the development company, are divided between 21 buildings.

The marina, which is one of the resort’s main draws for boating lovers, can hold up to 100 vessels with a fuel dock with gas and diesel.

Additional guest amenities include an infinity edge pool and beach bar, an additional pool and grill, office, retail store, recreational facility and tennis courts.

Thanks to the resort’s location on South Bimini in the Bimini Islands – the westernmost group of islands in The Bahamas – guests can enjoy boating, fishing, diving or just relaxing on the beach.

Just 50 miles to the east of Florida, USA, Miami Airport and Fort Lauderdale Airport are just a 25-minute flight away, making Bimini an ideal destination for residents of South Florida or travellers connecting in Florida.

The Bimini Islands has recently benefited from over US $400 million of investment into a major resort on nearby North Bimini which has helped to raise the

profile of the island group among international visitors and contributed to an increase in visitor arrivals in recent years.

As a consequence, this resort represents a great beachfront investment opportunity with huge potential.

Offered at: Price Upon Application For details on this investment opportunity, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44(0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776 info@7thHeavenProperties.com

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Heavenly Hideaway — Grenada: Beachfront Boutique Hotel for Sale Situated on 5 acres of beachfront grounds in the prestigious area of Lance aux Epines just 3 miles from Grenada’s airport, this acclaimed beachfront boutique hotel has an excellent reputation and track record.

The hotel is set into a hillside on a private peninsular which slopes down to a 450-foot white sand beach with panoramic views across a beautiful sheltered bay and protected nature reserve.

Blending traditional and modern architecture, the hotel is designed in a natural style with lawn-covered roofs and curved walls carved into the rock. The hotel, which has recently been renovated and benefited from over US $3,000,000 of investment, comprises 3 main structures. Firstly, a building with 7 air conditioned en suite guest bedroom suites, a reception room, library, 2 separate kitchens, office, fully-equipped air conditioned gym and a 30-seater sitting room which is open on 2 sides revealing wonderful bay views. Secondly, a selfcontained apartment with 1 bedroom, kitchen and bar.

Thirdly, a 4-bedroom villa nestled in gardens with private pool and direct beach access.

Guest amenities include an 85-foot infinity pool with Jacuzzi and swim up bar, 180-foot-deep water dock and helipad.

The hotel is fully furnished and operational,

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staffed with an experienced team available to continue employment.

There is space to expand and planning permission is in place to develop a 6-bedroom villa with pool.

Situated footsteps from the sea, the hotel is ideal for snorkelling, diving, water sports, sailing or just relaxing on the beach. It is also close to the restaurants and shops of Lance aux Epines, Grand Anse Beach and the historical, picturesque capital and harbor of St George’s.

The property is approved for Grenada’s Citizenship Program, making it a great investment opportunity on an island which saw an 8% increase in visitor arrivals in 2016, following a 12.7% increase in 2015 and is benefiting from expanded air service from New York via JetBlue.

Offered at: US $16,000,000 For details on this investment opportunity, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44(0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776

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A Piece of History — Nicaragua: Historical Boutique Hotel for Sale This boutique hotel is located just steps from the main square and cathedral in the heart of the beautiful, vibrant colonial city of Granada.

One of the finest hotels in Granada, its history dates back to the founding of the city in 1524. While continuing to exude the splendour and majesty of its earlier colonial days, it was completely restored during the 1990’s and again in 2010.

The hotel features a total of 35 air conditioned guest rooms and suites with a fine dining restaurant serving international cuisine and local dishes, as well as a lively bar providing the full Granada experience to guests and tourists.

21 of the guest rooms are designed in the original Spanish Colonial style but with modern amenities.

They include access to a spectacular central courtyard swimming pool. The remaining 14 guest rooms retain the classic elegance of authentic Granada but with a modern minimalist décor.

Located in the heart of the colonial city close to several of its main attractions, this represents a rare opportunity to invest in a high quality, diamond level hotel with an excellent track record, high level of occupancy and ADR and huge potential for growth in the tourism hub of Nicaragua.

Nicaragua has recently exploded in popularity as a tourism destination and Granada is one of the most popular attractions in the country. Overseas visitor numbers, which total approximately 1.5 million per year, have surged as the international profile of this Central American gem continues to rise and airlines have increased commercial flights by 26%.

Offered at: US $5,200,000 For details on this investment opportunity, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44(0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776 info@7thHeavenProperties.com

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A Piece of History — Roatan: Marina for Sale Set on 5 acres of waterfront grounds, this full service marina located in Gibson Bight on the west north side of the island of Roatan features modern docks, pedestals, ramps, gates and a guard house.

Serving both locals and tourists, the marina includes slips accommodating boats up to 80-foot long and boats with drafts up to 7.5 to 8 foot.

Thanks to its location, this is the only marina on the west side of Roatan that can afford protection from tropical storms and hurricanes.

It is also enjoys breathtaking views of Gibson Bight and is conveniently located just off the main highway towards West End close to various amenities and tourism attractions. It is, for example, just 5 minutes from the popular West End which is 1 mile away and 15 minutes from the island’s main town of Coxen Hole.

There is an onsite fuel station, however it is separately owned and operated.

The 32 square mile island of Roatan located in the Bay Islands is considered one of the region’s top emerging travel destinations and is renowned for its beaches and surrounding reefs which are considered some of the best waters for diving, snorkelling, fishing and boating in the Caribbean.

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Offered at: US $1,999,000 For details on this investment opportunity, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44(0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776 info@7thHeavenProperties.com

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Land of Opportunity — St Lucia: 110 Acres of Beachfront Land for Sale This large parcel of land for sale in St Lucia is located in the Quarter of Laborie on the island’s south-western coast.

The parcel spans 110 acres and includes customary rights to over 20 acres of Queen’s Chain.

The site features gradually sloping land offering stunning sunset views of the Caribbean Sea, the majestic twin peaks of Gros Piton and Petit Piton and the neighboring island of St Vincent.

This parcel is ideally located in a quiet part of the quarter of Laborie close to the small fishing village of the same name. Laborie is known for its beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, friendly people and tradition of fishing. The area is ideal for enjoying an authentic and romantic escape surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.

White and black sand beaches, hot springs and waterfalls, cool mountains and warm valleys are all just a few minutes away and Hewanorra Airport – St Lucia’s main international airport – is just 20 minutes away.

Enjoying a wonderful beachfront location close to the airport, this parcel of land represents a good investment opportunity which could be used for residential or resort development in a quiet and beautiful part of the island.

Offered at: US $3,500,000 For details on this investment opportunity, contact 7th Heaven Properties: UK: +44(0)20 8960 1010 US/Canada: 855 364 8776 info@7thHeavenProperties.com

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In partnership with:

How currency uncertainty affects the price of your property Halo Financial explains why you need to be prepared in the current marketplace

The pound is struggling against its major currency partners, the Euro and US dollar, in the face of continued uncertainty, and with Brexit, Sterling’s fortunes are unknown. Markets hate uncertainty, which causes the sharp currency movements seen after the UK referendum and the US Election.

If you’re buying property overseas, you need local currency to pay for it. How much currency you can buy dictates your budget; property price moves alongside exchange rates. As a director at currency specialists, Halo Financial, David Johnson has seen dramatic rate movements after economic and political events for the past 20 years – and their effects on your pockets.

“A property in the Bahamas valued at $3,500,000 on 19th June cost £2,463,921 on 19th June, then jumped up to $2,639,916 in only a month, following the referendum – a difference of £175,994 in your pocket!” The same goes for any business costs.

The weaker pound makes overseas transactions more expensive, eroding profitability.

“Understanding how and when markets move enables you to protect against this, saving time, money and worry,” he continues. It’s impossible to keep up, but a currency specialist can update you on what market movements mean for you – a valuable tool against uncertainty.

“I’ve used them for various transactions and received the same high level of service each time.”

- from a Feefo verified review (over 800 reviews)

The more informed you are, the more money you can save, exchanging currency at the time that’s right for you.

FCA authorised, Halo Financial can set a rate for up to two years in advance so you know how much your future transfers will cost. Budgeting effectively could make all the difference when it comes to being able to buy your dream property abroad.

Having experts on hand is reassuring for Halo clients, both individuals and businesses. No wonder that 99% of customers rate their service as five star, according to independent review site, Feefo. Get in touch with Halo financial on: +44 (0) 20 7350 5474 or halofinancial.com/7th heaven