VI Property & Yacht Guide - September 2012

Virgin Islands

PR OPERTY&YACHT SEPTEMBER 2012

survival of the sloop Tortola sloop builders remind residents of traditional boat-building.

king of the currents Former Olympic and Pan-Am Games sailor Presley King lives to sail.

swimming with sharks Most people avoid sharks. Photographer Jim Scheiner follows them.

Keeping a steady course with your investments is a precondition for reaching your goals, whether you rely on our advice or entrust us to manage your portfolio along the course you have plotted.

VP Bank – your partner.

VP Bank Group Domiciled in Liechtenstein – is quoted on the Swiss Stock Exchange SIX in Zurich.

Providing bespoke banking services in Liechtenstein +423 235 6655, Switzerland +41 44 226 2424, Luxembourg +352 404 7771, British Virgin Islands +1 284 494 1100 and Singapore +65 6305 0050.

2

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

Virgin Islands

PR OPERTY&YACHT

September 2012

F eat u re S 12 The Working Man’s Artist

By Traci O’Dea

Teacher, carpenter, painter, musician, sculptor, photographer...

Cedric Turnbull tries to find ways to keep from being bored.

23 Trashy Furniture

By Traci O’Dea

The second annual CHAIR-ity Art Auction and Exhibition hopes to help people realize that not everything we throw away is garbage.

30 A Historical Snapshot

8

S ur v i v al of the Sloop

By Traci O’Dea

Tortola sloops once served as a vital part of the territory’s economic and cultural tradition, and several boat makers would like to rekindle that vitality.

By Traci O’Dea

Dr Michael O’Neal’s recently published dissertation reflects on the BVI of thirty years ago and offers insight to where we are headed.

35

17 King of the Currents

Gaming Goes Outdoors

By David Blacklock

A new kind of treasure hunting for the adventurous is sweeping the shores.

By Dan O’Connor

Despite suffering a debilitating stroke, Presley King remains a denizen of the sea.

39 Manageable Metalics

By Traci O’Dea

42 Coping with the Elements

By Kate Henderson & Fran Morrell

26 Swimming with Sharks

By Dan O’Connor

Photographer Jim Scheiner braves sharky waters to snap some mesmerizing shots of sharks.

45 Provisioning

By Susie Younkle

48 Classifieds

British Virginn Island’s BEST

Virgin Islands

PR OPERTY&YACHT

Virgin Islands Property & Yacht announces our second annual Readers’ Choice Awards, giving our readers a chance to rank their favourite people, places and projects. Winners will be published in the October issue. All participants who fill out a survey will be entered to win a dinner for two at the winner for best restaurant.

Readers’ Choice Awards

2012

Name: Email: PROPERTY

Best British Virgin Island:

Best Architect:

Best Neighbourhood to Live:

Best Real Estate Agent:

Best Sunset Lookout:

Best Spa:

Best Museum:

Best Landscapers/Nursery:

Best Historical Ruin:

Best Pool:

Best Villa Rental:

Best Proposed Government Project:

Best Resort:

Best Eyesore:

YACHT

Best Marina:

Best Sailing School:

Best Beach:

Best Dive Shop:

Best Place to Skinny Dip:

Best Snorkel Spot:

Best Yacht Club:

Best Day Sail:

Best Sailor:

Best Charter Company:

Best Watersports Instructor:

Best Place to Provision:

Best Regatta:

Best One-Day Regatta:

THE LOT

Best Restaurant:

Best Artist:

Best Place to Find Fresh Threads:

Best Photographer:

Best Full Moon Party:

Best Late-Night Haunt:

Best BVI Cocktail:

Best Bartender:

Best Local Musician:

Best Shack Bar:

The survey can be faxed (284.494.8777) or dropped off at our Road Reef Plaza office—or completed online and e-mailed to info@alookingglass.com. For social networkers, like us on Facebook, facebook.com/VirginIslandsPropertyYacht, to take the survey there.

One entry per email address. Only entries with valid email addresses will be accepted into the prize pool.

E ditor ' s L etter , S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 2

Back to School!

Editor Emeritus Traci O’Dea

Chief Editor Dan O’Connor Contributors David Blacklock Marvin Flax Kate Henderson Fran Morrell Traci O’Dea Susie Younkle Graphic Design aLookingGlass Advertising Sales Owen Waters Stephen L. France

www.vipy.com Cover: Leandro Nibbs poses by his sloop-in-progress.

Photo by Dan O’Connor.

After three and a half years with the company, I’m saying goodbye to aLookingGlass and going back to school. I have decided to share my passion for writing and the English language with the students of the H Lavity Stoutt Community College, and I will start teaching there just in time for the new school year. But I guess it’s not really goodbye to aLookingGlass as I’m sure I’ll regularly pop in to check on the gang on my way home from the college.

I am so grateful to aLG for all the opportunities I’ve had while working for the company. It feels great to work for a firm that does such good work—by “good work,” I mean both work of the highest standard and work that benefits the Virgin Islands. The company creates designs and publications that not only promote the islands but also serve to protect and preserve these islands that we love.

While working at aLookingGlass, I’ve been involved in awareness-raising projects such as the BVI Marine Awareness Guide, written conservation articles on Reef Check and Old Government House Museum, assisted in publications for the Jost Van Dykes Preservation Society, spread the word about fundraising efforts such as the Virgin Islands Winemakers Dinners and An-Tiki’s raft crossing, and edited the children’s novel The Eye of the Storm—which benefits Special Olympics BVI. But it hasn’t all been about philanthropic efforts. For the sake of writing or publishing assignments, I’ve sailed, snorkeled, SCUBA dived, received spa treatments, visited private islands, power kayaked, eaten delicious meals, thrown parties, stepped aboard superyachts, been pampered at luxury rental villas, consumed too many glasses of wine, and met countless unforgettable people. (I also maybe flew a plane for a few minutes, but I don’t think I’m supposed to mention that.)

In addition to the amazing personalities I’ve met on assignment or through publishing projects, I’ve also had the privilege of working with one of the most creative, encouraging, intelligent and forward-thinking staffs in the Virgin Islands. Sure, we butted heads from time to time, but that typically lead to improved, synthesized results. Colin, Nick, Owen, Dan, Frankie, Kiya, Richard, Stephen and Maya have made the past three and a half years at aLG fulfilling and fun. I’ve loved hosting company functions—from our Holiday Open Houses to the premier of Alice in Wonderland to the epic Taste: Recipes from Acclaimed BVI Restaurants & Chefs launch party at Old Government House Museum—mainly because my coworkers stepped up, helped out and kept my glass half full.

I’m looking forward to sharing the skills I’ve honed as a professional editor, journalist and book publisher with my students. Who knows, I might even be teaching a future editor of Virgin Islands Property & Yacht.

Class is now in session…

Virgin Islands Property & Yacht is published eleven times a year (February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December/January) by aLookingGlass Ltd., Road Reef Plaza 6 and 7, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110.

Copyright 2012 by aLookingGlass Ltd. All pieces reproduced in this issue are under prior copyright by the creators or by the contractual arrangments with their clients. Nothing shown may be reproduced in any form without obtaining the permission of the creators and any other person or company who may have copyright ownership.

The publisher of VI Property & Yacht, assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the content placed in its publications. For the avoidance of doubt, aLookingGlass gives no warranty or guarantee in regards to any information placed in its publications.

Direct all inquiries to: Email: info@alookingglass.com Phone: 284-494-7788 Fax: 284-494-8777 Mail: aLookingGlass PO Box 3895 Sea Cows Bay Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110

Editorial and Business Office: aLookingGlass Ltd., Road Reef Plaza 6 and 7 Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Web: www.alookingglass.com Email: info@alookingglass.com Phone: 284-494-7788 Fax: 284-494-8777 Mail to: aLookingGlass PO Box 3895 Sea Cows Bay Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110

Dougall & Associates

Real Estate BVI

Property For Sale

US $995,000

Panoramic views! Great Rental Investment Property! Four Bedroom home with the potential for two more Bedrooms! Romney Park, West End, Tortola.

US $980,000 US $875 ,000 US $1,200,000 US $1,850,000 US $475,000 AND UP Waterfront three bedroom Three bed home and one Prime waterfront three Custom built, newly Modern three bedroom home with pool. bed guest house on 0.70 bedroom home with constructed homes home. acres of land.

Studio. including land.

Kingston, Tortola North Central Shore Shannon Estate, Tortola Brewer’s Bay, Tortola

Whether you wish to buy, sell, or rent a home, purchase land to build a tropical dream home of your own, or become an investor in a growing and vibrant real estate market, we are here to assist you at every step in the process.

Bonnie Dougall Managing Partner (284) 495-3003 l info@realestatebvi.netwww.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

7

Leandro Nibbs’ version of the Tortola Sloop floats through the Festival Parade.

Photo by Pip Newling-Ward.

Survival of the Sloop Traditional boat building finds its place in the

By TraciBVI O’Dea “They used to ship cows on these from Tortola to St Thomas, four at a time,” Governor Boyd McClearly told me as we stood on B Dock at Nanny Cay on Festival Tuesday looking at two of the Tortola Sloops that would be racing in that morning’s 9th Annual Sloop Shootout. I imagined the 20-foot sailing boats making the crossing with mooing passengers as well as a full crew. An article on bareboats bvi.com states, “Incredibly, the Tola Boats were often used to carry livestock to neighbouring islands, including cattle, pigs, sheep and goats.”

8

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

Sailing & Watersports 2012 Calendar Oct 13 Virgin’s Cup Oct 27-28 Trafalgar Regatta Nov 10-11 Pete Sheals Memorial Match Race Regatta Nov 17 Round Tortola Race Nov 24-25 BVI School’s Regatta Dec 15 O’Neal & Mundy Commodore’s Cup

“I noticed the culture of the local sailboat industry has been dying out, so I was trying to revive it,” Mr Nibbs said.

x

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

9

caption caption caption caption caption caption caption caption caption caption

Sea Moon under construction on Anegada

by Watson White in 2004.

Photo by Geoffrey Brooks.

Premier Orlando Smith (left) leads his sloop to victory at the Sloop Shootout. Photo

by Traci O’Dea.

10

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

The HLSCC team hoists sails before the race.

Photo by Traci O’Dea.

At the Sloop Shootout, I watched three Tortola sloops—Sea Moon, Moonbeam and Youth Instructor—battle it out for the trophy.

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

11

Cedric Turnbull smiles in front of a lighhearted mural outside his Greenland home.

The Working Man’s Artist

By Traci O'Dea Photos by Dan O’Connor

Photographer Dan O’Connor and I met local artist Cedric Turnbull at the bottom of Greenland hill. He picked us up and drove us to his hillside home on the eastern side of Tortola. Cedric’s soft spoken, laidback, youthful disposition belies his enthusiastic, prolific work ethic. In addition to teaching at Elmore Stoutt High School, Cedric paints, sculpts, photographs, carves, macramés, gardens, designs jewelry, makes furniture and musical instruments, and even created a fish tank built into a wall outside his home.

12

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

The artist’s creations are often calabash-infused.

“If I have something to do, I just go, do it.

Bam. Next. If I stay on one project too long, I get bored.”

“If I have something to do, I just go, do it. Bam. Next. If I stay on one project too long, I get bored,” he said as we chatted in his house which is full of his creations—from the entertainment centre shelving unit in the living room to paintings on the walls to a plant holder hanging from the ceiling.

I first encountered Cedric’s work on the painted mural in East End that depicts scenes of home life and spirituality.

And while painting is Cedric’s first love, he has recently fallen for a different art. “Right now the most rewarding thing for me is playing music. That’s what comforts me right now,” he said then picked up a handmade banjo-uke (also known as banjolele), a combination of a banjo and a ukulele that Cedric made. He strummed the instrument, and a sound emerged that seemed to brighten his house with a brief, happy tune that reminded me of a mix of Buddy Holly and local fungi band The Lashing Dogs. He smiled as he played, and I was reminded of how he described his painting work ethic as short bursts of artistic expression.

Cedric taught himself how to play and make the instruments, and he’s also started making them out of calabash—a local gourd that he gets from friends’ trees in the BVI. “There’s nothing more challenging to myself than to invent something up,” he said then went into a back room in his house and reappeared with a güiro made from calabash.

“I challenge myself to make things out of calabash,” he said and showed me a felt-lined calabash jewelry box, earrings, bowls and the hanging plant pot.

A painting in the corner of his living room caught my eye—a surreal Dali-esque piece in a Caribbean setting with a camera lens and basketball strung among a spiderweb. “I did that when I was in school in New York. I think I had to come up with five different properties about myself—so photography is the lens, I used to play basketball, I tried to

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

13

Cedric’s work with paints, on walls and on canvas.

make a crane out of bamboo and the rock to show a hardworking person, and then the scenery was memories of the island when I was in New York; I can’t remember what [the spiderweb] was,” he said.

The fact that he was as hardworking back then as he is now, and aware of it, struck me. “When I was in school,” Cedric said, “my counselor used to say to me, ‘Why are you here? You’re wasting your time’, because I used to spend more time helping other students because I would’ve already done [the work]. After I returned [to the BVI], and I had to teach, I had to keep trying different ideas, trying to come up with different things,” he said and gesticulated with his hands in a way that seemed he was creating new artwork and sculptures from the air. “So when I discover something that I liked, I dig into it. I’m always picking up different ideas. That’s me. In a nutshell.”

Cedric is currently displaced from his gallery in the Crafts Alive Village due to the renovations, but he has plans for the upcoming season when the shop reopens. “My next goal is to make stuff for the tourists—some screen printing on aprons and such.

And all this stuff is local stuff, you know. The calabash is local [grown in the BVI then made into crafts in the BVI]. I’m thinking about making some lampshades out of calabash and some maracas,” he said. “And when I get tired of that, I’ll probably move on.” PY caption caption caption caption caption caption caption caption

14

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

You don’t have to walk for miles, Drakes traders has the best in building supplies.

’ Traders Ltd. Drakes P.O Box 623 Road Town, Tortola, BVI | T(284)494-3282 | F(284)494-4382 | E: drakestraders@surfbvi.com | W: www.drakestraders.com www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

15

King of the Currents

Story and photos

by Dan O’Connor

Presley King moved from the small Grenadian island of Bequia to Tortola in 1967. He was 23 and worked with his cousin transporting freight between Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. One day, as he sailed passed Fajardo on a 55-foot monohull, Presley noticed the boat had lost its rudder. Instead of flagging down help or calling the Coast Guard, the seasoned seaman canvased the vessel. He found two truck tires. Securing one tire to each side of the boat and alternately using them as drag, Presley was able to navigate his crew and freight the 50 miles back to St Thomas— and successfully bring the boat to parallel-parked safety in the marina. www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

17

Presley points to old memories as he flips through his scrapbook.

It’s these inherent abilities to understand the relationship between a boat and the sea that have made Presley a decorated and celebrated sailor.

I first met the now 68-year-old last month at The Moorings. He was sitting at the entrance to Sunsail, chatting with some taxi drivers and Moorings employees. I would’ve passed the otherwise unassuming seaman had it not been for his billowy white beard that caught the corner of my eye and turned me around.

“Presley?” I asked.

“You must be Dan,” he responded curiously, cracking a smile. “I thought you’d be older.”

He hoisted himself up with a collapsed umbrella and suggested we talk away from the bustle and noise of the busy marina. I followed the veteran sailor and longtime

Presley credits everything he knows about the sea and sailing to his father. At the age of seven, he learned about the ways of the wind, the characteristics of the current and the importance of the moon’s correlation with the sea.

Moorings employee as he led me to a quiet table near the pool. It was a slow walk across the dining room; Presley led with a wincing hobble and used his umbrella as a crutch to help him along the way. That day his foot bothered him, he told me. He had just returned from a check-up at the doctor’s office where he was instructed to stay off of

18

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

his swollen appendage. Similar ailments have troubled Presley since 2003, when he suffered a debilitating stroke that might have forced many in similar situations away from physical activity. But not Presley. He was quick to return to sea and has since participated in several regattas.

When asked if the stroke affected his ability to sail, Presley chuckled. “No, no. I just don’t run like I run before,” he said confidently in his jovial West Indian accent.

Today he continues to do maintenance and transport boats for The Moorings. I found out that Presley doesn’t need the agility or reaction time of a young man to navigate his way around a marina or a seaway. His nautical knowledge was inherited—then developed through years of practice.

Presley credits everything he knows about the sea and sailing to his father. At the age of seven, he learned about the ways of the wind, the characteristics of the current and the importance of the moon’s correlation with the sea. When he turned 10, his dad taught him how to build 17-and-a-half-foot-long Bequia sloops called double-enders, which he soon began to race competitively. Three years later, his father built him his own. Since that time, sailing has turned his love for the sea into his livelihood, and the relationship has become impenetrable.

After moving to Tortola and working for his cousin for a short time, Presley took a job running boats from Beef Island and Virgin Gorda for Marina Cay, a BVI development now known as a popular outpost for Pusser’s. During that time, the Bequia-born sailor made a name for himself as a fierce competitor among local salts of the sea.

As we sat at our second meeting at The Moorings, Presley flicked through a photo album filled with pictures from an earlier generation of sailors—sailors who battled on small boats called sunfish and squibs for little more than bragging rights and a Heineken after the race.

El Richardson, a longtime friend of Presley’s, has fond memories of those days. I sat with El at his marine supply shop in Road Town, where he reminisced about a simpler time.

“There was no proper yacht club in the early 1970s—just us guys racing all along here,” he said, motioning across Road Harbour. “Yup. All the way to Paraquita Bay and back.”

Presley was always a figurative pain in the stern as he usually followed closely behind El during match races. El said he usually found a way to weasel a boat length or two ahead of his competition. But during a particular Around Tortola Regatta, it would be all broken dreams for a young El. “We had him—we were [catching wind] hard, and then crack!” he exclaimed, explaining that their boom had snapped under pressure. “He took us that race. But he didn’t want to beat us like that. He was a competitor—a very good sailor.”

Continuing, El described the “local knowledge” that he and Presley and other resident sailors possessed that gave them an advantage over other traditional sailors. In order to beat Presley, El said he had to enter a “think tank” before races to plan his attack strategy.

“He always had a good attitude,” El chuckled. “I remember we nicknamed him straw hat. He always wore a straw hat.”

El has since retired his racing hat, instead enjoying similar legendary stories from within his store, surrounded by memories of the past. But Presley hasn’t skipped a beat.

Since those days, Presley has sailed in almost every Spring Regatta dating back to its inaugural opening in 1974, missing out only because of his stroke and a brief relocation to the States. He spoke fondly about racing in the Panama Games in 1983, where he crewed on the BVI’s team and placed “in the middle” of a 10-boat pack. In 1992, Presley was selected as an alternate sailor for the Olympic games in Barcelona. He joined Robbie Hirst, John Shirley and Robin Tattersall at the paramount event.

“I was always dreaming about being close to [the Olympics], but there I was—in it,” he said. “I spent a month in Barcelona, where the water is cold but the sun was hot.”

The 1990s were monumental years for Presley, as far as competitive sailing goes. During that time, he won the majority of the Spring Regatta bareboat class races he entered. Bob Phillips, who now chairs the Royal BVI Yacht Club and BVI Spring Regatta, remembers racing against Presley shortly after moving to the territory in 1993.

“He’s just a phenomenally good sailor—very much seat-of-the-pants-type of style,” he said, recalling his unique ability to judge the current by the location of the moon. “I remember one Spring Regatta, we had a real light breeze on a Sunday. [Presley] came to me and said, ‘Bob, you’re not going to have any breeze until right after 11. The moon will be right ahead of you at that time.’ And sure enough, within 10 minutes of 11, the wind picked up.”

Of Presley, the longtime Spring Regatta and Royal BVI Yacht Club chairman said, “I think the world of him.”

Presley has won the affection and admiration of many with his lighthearted outlook on life, his contagious charisma and his ability to hammer down fungi rhythms on a banjo or ukulele. That’s

Presley’s competitor pass from the 1983 Pan-Am Games.

Authorized Dealer for:

Your Store For: • The only certified paint consultants • Largest inventory of paints, paint sundries & Coatings • Most advanced color equipment • Consistent color matching • Contractor and quantity discounts • Top quality product lines • Quick and reliable service • Reasonable pricing

T: (284)494-1800 | F: (284)494-1803 E: paintfactory@surfbvi.com | www.paintfactory.com Located between Tool Town and Tortola Carpets, Port Purcell, Tortola, BVI

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

19

“He’s just a phenomenally good sailor—very much seat-of-the-pants-type of style.”

—Bob Phillips perhaps why so many came together recently to help him during trying financial times. Since his stroke, Presley has incurred large medical fees, and had been forced to take time off work as he was nursed back to health in the States. While there, his longtime partner Pamela Lendzion cared for him after he left the hospital, quitting her job to do so.

“It took a while, but I finally got him back on a boat, and we worked to rebuild those brain cells,” she recalled. “Now he’s sailing just fine, doing deliveries, still racing. It’s a miracle.”

Although they spent a couple years near the water in New Jersey and Florida, Presley missed the islands—the people and the familiar warm waters. Moving back, though, on a $300-a-month social security check, has been close to impossible without the help of his friends. Friends like Bob Grannafei and Sandra Jarett, who organized a group to donate to the cause

and refurbish an old boat for Presley to live on. Several friends have gifted their time, equipment and money toward the project which has since afforded Presley the comfort of a new home on the water, docked appropriately at The Moorings, where he now lives the life he was always meant to live.

As I sat at that peaceful Moorings table discussing Presley’s life, it was evident that the lifetime seaman had a lot more living— and sailing—to do. Physically, Presley wouldn’t admit much has changed since his stroke. But spiritually, he said he has developed a closer relationship with God. He admitted to a few regrets and relationships that needed mending—but always lit up as he took me through his fond memories of sailing.

“I don’t have much—gave everything away accept my ukulele, and I can’t even play that.” he admitted, clenching and releasing his left hand. “But other than that, I’m doin’ fine.” PY

Presley peeks out from the cabin of his newly refurbished boat home.

20

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

21

Leo House, 65 Main Street, Road Town Tortola, British Virgin Islands, VG1110

Casa Del Mar - Tortola’s north side

Sea Grape Condo - Olde Yard VIllage, Virgin Gorda

Overlooking the beautiful Brewer’s Bay beach. A brand new 4 bedroom family home awaits you; call to view.

A beautifully furnished 2 bedroom Condo with all the amenities can be yours. Call us today!

Anegada Ocean View Home

Set amongst the unique, tranquil setting of Anegada, a few hundred yards from a pristine white, sandy beach is this 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms home. Located on Nutmeg Point along the western coastline of Anegada. This is definitely paradise!! The master bedroom has its own private patio from which you can enjoy the sounds of the ocean and the fresh cool breeze. Some of the floorings are covered with beautiful wood and the kitchen and dining room has an open floor plan and a separate living area. Your dream home in Anegada awaits you.

T(284)494.2500 | F(284)494.6969 | E monica@trudebvi.com | Skype truderealestatebvi

22

Residential & Commercial Sales . Property Management . Long & Short term Rentals For additional information on properties for sale or rent email or visit us online at www.trudebvi.com

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

By Traci O’Dea

Trashy Furniture

Last year I served as a judge—along with Governor Boyd McCleary, architect Viviana Jenik and the Solid Waste Department’s Terry Benjamin—at the first annual CHAIRity Exhibit and Auction that took place in front of Nutmeg Designs in Wickhams Cay II. The event, organized by Annie MacPhail, showcased chairs, ottomans and stools made from discarded materials by resident artists, students or people simply interested in trying to make furniture from trash.

As I wove a path between the colourful entries, I rated them on overall use of recycled materials and aesthetic design. The chairs were created using diverse materials that included a skateboard, rope, fabric, a towel, driftwood, wine corks, PVC, bottle caps, a bicycle seat, aluminum cans, mailing bags and the drum from a washing machine. The aesthetic appeal of the chairs ranged from the elegant design of Sayula Hirst’s surfboard chair—made from the remains of a halved Firewire board and some scrap wood— to the funky life raft chair created by the students of St Mary’s School. During a recent phone interview, organizer Annie MacPhail said, “The event was a much bigger success than I thought it would be. I was nervous that we weren’t going to have so many entries, and a lot more people showed up than I expected.”

By auctioning off the 21 chairs to the highest bidders, the event raised $2500 for Green VI, a not-for-profit organization that focuses on promoting sustainable living in the Virgin Islands. The event also raised awareness by showing participants, bidders, judges and spectators that a lot of the things we consider trash can be repurposed in fun, functional and artful ways instead of being sent off to the dump or incinerator at Pockwood Pond.

St Mary’s School’s chair made from objects washed ashore. Photo by Traci O’Dea.

The second annual CHAIR-ity Exhibit and Auction takes place this year on September 28 at Government House.

Annie hopes the new venue will attract even more artists and designers interested in showing off their ability to convert recycled materials into functional works of art. “This year, we are recruiting the schools a lot harder,” Annie said. For those who are not artistically inclined, Annie encouraged involvement at the corporate level or simply by coming out to the event, “participation at every level—whether it’s a home project or your company.” She also mentioned that this year’s event is very timely because “there are so many great initiatives going on right now—programmes in the works—to get people interested in recycling.” The move to Government House also gives the event a little more gravitas, and Annie told me that the Governor and his wife bought two of the chairs at last year’s event.

Annie expressed her excitement at the recycling initiatives that have started to get off the ground since last year’s event. “People are really getting it—it’s in the newspapers every week. People are getting excited about cleaning this place up and cleaning up the incinerator,” she said. Annie’s business, Nutmeg Designs, sells furniture, www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

23

Sayula Hirst created both the washing machine ottoman and the surfboard chair. Photo courtesy of Annie MacPhail and

by Traci O’Dea.

24

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

fixtures and accessories made from repurposed goods. Her shop has been touted as the first sustainable goods store in the territory. She hopes this event will inspire resident budding artists to see the usefulness and beauty of what might otherwise be thought of as garbage, and while last year resulted in some stellar

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

creations, she expressed that they were mostly completed in little time. “A lot of the artists did their piece within a couple of weeks,” she said, “and that’s why we had so many people in the end.” Interested participants can contact Annie MacPhail at Nutmeg Designs: prettierplanet@gmail.com (284) 494-9151. PY

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

24

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

25

Swimming with Sharks From the Underwater Lens

By Dan O’Connor All photos by Jim Scheiner

Jim Scheiner’s pictures of sharks are amazing to observe. His stories of how the photos were captured, though, sometimes border terrifying. But to Jim, an underwater dance with these ferocious hunters can sometimes mean just another day in the office. The longtime Virgin Islands resident first combined his love for photography and diving in the early 1970s, and his life has been led by this professional marriage ever since. Jim started a photography company called Rainbow Visions with his first wife Odile on Tortola in 1986.

Although the company started mainly as an underwater photography firm, Jim said they soon found out that “the fish don’t pay very well.” Today, Jim can be spotted around the VI shooting weddings, events and luxury villas. But he also continues to pursue his passion for underwater video and photography.

His collection of shark photography stems from hundreds of dives over a few decades on expeditions he has led from the Galapagos Islands to the Red Sea and the Barrier Reef and beyond.

26

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

Feeding Frenzy Jim was quick to pack his gear and leave the office the day he received a phone call about sharks feeding on a sperm whale carcass near the Wreck of the Rhone. When he arrived at the site of the carcass, which was suspended on Black Rock off the coast of Salt Island, he suited up and jumped in. In hindsight, he said he would have waited for a safety diver to follow him. “But I was too excited,” he said. As he approached the carcass, he noticed a group of hungry tiger sharks tearing through the massive adolescent sperm whale. You don’t want to mess with a bloodthirsty shark, especially when they’re in mid-chomp, Jim said, explaining the obvious. “I swam as fast as I could back to a ledge behind me, and the tigers did a figure-eight right over me.”

Thinking quickly, Jim’s only option was to use his underwater housing gear as a weapon. “I smashed it as hard as I could on the belly, and it didn’t even react; it was time to get out of the water… I was scared.” Jim swam toward neighbouring Salt Island and scampered onto its jagged shoreline where he waited for help. Luckily, he survived and has the pictures to prove it.

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

27

Jaws Great White sharks are to the sea what lions are to the jungle. They’re the creatures blockbuster films and nightmares are made of. They’re also very photogenic. Jim dove into the chilly waters of Isla Guadalupe, a tiny Mexican island 36 hours off the Baja Peninsula in the Pacific Ocean, to swim with the beasts. From his enclosed cage, he tempted the fierce fish with his camera’s flash. Of the experience, Jim said, “It was exciting and primal.

When I was alone in that cage, I really felt they were sizing me up.”

Whale of a Shark One of Jim’s favourite dive excursions was in Thailand on Richelieu Rock. There, along with his late wife Odile, Jim met up with about a half-dozen whale sharks swimming harmlessly in slow circles, enticing them to swim along. The massive fish are the largest of the sea, growing as big as 40 feet in length. The plankton-eating fish pose no threats to swimmers, even though they dwarf humans in comparison. “They’re just incredibly impressive to swim with,” Jim said. “These massive gentle giants that are fearless of divers.”

28

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

White Tip Jim captured this impressive panning shot off the coast of Papua New Guinea. The white tip shark was in mid-catch of two parrotfish when this photo was taken. Jim said that shark photography can be particularly difficult because “sharks might come by you, but they won’t stop for a photo. You either get the shot or you miss out. But if you frame a shot where both eyes are visible, you know you’re in trouble.” In such a case, the shark may have spotted himself a camerawielding meal, he said.

Jim prides his shark photography but mostly shoots them as a hobby and on international expeditions that he continues to lead. He describes his work as “an underutilized commercial asset.” Many know Jim’s underwater work from BVI Cable’s Channel One, where loops of mesmerizing underwater video have been known to entrance viewers for hours. “It’s probably my biggest contribution to the BVI,” he chuckled. “I’ve done more to help parents calm children than anything else.” PY

YOUR PRIVATE YACHT FOR THE DAY! WITH SKIPPER OR FULL CREW BVI VISITORS

I

FAMILY REUNIONS

I

SPECIAL OCCASION

I

CORPORATE ENTERTAINMENT

Get out on the water and live the real BVI with a Moorings Day Sail! Choose a beautiful Moorings catamaran with skipper to sail you to the anchorages of your choice, or choose a fully crewed yacht with skipper & chef serving a 3 course lunch. Sail, swim, snorkel and enjoy beach bars and restaurants. Perfect for Tortola visitors, or residents wanting an escape for the day!

Call: (284)494.2331 MooringsHalfPg BVIPY.indd 1

Email: GoSailing@moorings.com

The Best Sailing Vacations In The World! www.bvipy.com

9/23/11 3:16 PM

SEPTEMBER 2012

29

An Historical Snapshot of the BVI Economy

By Traci O'Dea

Dr Michael O’Neal’s book Slavery, Smallholding and Tourism: Social Transformation in the British Virgin Islands was published this year

by Louisiana law publishing company Quid Pro Books as a part of its Classic Dissertation Series. During his launch of the book at Island Services in Pasea, Dr O’Neal remarked that the publishing house was interested in his dissertation “because of the substantial use of court records with respect to the plantation era.”

The book is valuable not only for the court records but also for its insightful coverage of several transformative periods in the BVI—the plantation era, the post-emancipation era and the beginnings of a tourism-based economy. Though published this year, Dr O’Neal’s dissertation was written in 1983, one year before the passage of the International Business Companies Act of 1984, so the final section of the book serves as a snapshot of the territory when it was on the cusp of prosperity resulting from the boom of the financial services sector in the BVI.

30

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

The most striking contribution to this snapshot comes from Chapter five of the book: “Perceptions of Tourism and Development.”

This chapter includes transcripts of proceedings from a symposium held in 1982 with the topic of “Social Change: Implications for the British Virgin Islands.” The symposium, Dr O’Neal writes, was part of his doctoral internship, and “affords perspicuous insight into British Virgin Islanders’ perceptions about their existential circumstances” (p.97). Highlights from the transcript include McWelling Todman’s account of the years leading up to 1982—a history that puts the state of affairs at that time into perspective with relation to tourism development and truly shows the BVI’s economic climate as being concerned mostly with tourism and only briefly mentioning (within the context of the length of the monologue) “foreign exchange contracts” and “Trust Companies” (p.102, 103). In a recent interview with VIPY, Dr O’Neal said, “The 1982 symposium provided a forum (probably the first of its kind at the time) in which a convocation of academics, technocrats and policy-makers, comprising both

BVIslanders and invited guests, gathered to discuss the perceived social impacts that had been concomitant with the dramatic social changes which had occurred in the BVI.” The book also highlights the importance of the Positive Action Movement of the late 1960s—a series of protests against Government regarding the development of land in Wickhams Cay I and Anegada by Batehill Ltd. The importance of the Positive Action Movement was that it vocalized “widespread discontent over the Wickham’s Cay-Anegada Agreements, as well as concern over what was being perceived as uncontrolled development” and resulted in the Government abrogating the Agreements and acquiring the Batheill Ltd interests (p.90). The outcry of the community against the development resulted in the Government’s reassessment of its tourism/development strategy that focused on sustainable development and an emphasis “on developing the Territory’s marine resources” (p.91). Dr O’Neal recently said, “The abrogation of the Batehill Development Agreements coincided with the 1970s

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

31

Dr Michael O’Neal speaks about his book to a small gathering in Tortola.

recession in much of the Western world, a period with some similarity to today’s economy. This was also a time for reassessment for the BVI in terms of development strategy and direction, which, in the event, resulted in a strategy of carving a niche in marinebased, charter-boat tourism, along with some sensibilities regarding a sustainable development approach, as noted.”

Bill Maurer’s Afterword to the book concludes with a focus on the financial services industry within the historical context that Dr O’Neal set up with the plantation era, post-plantation era and tourism-based economies. The question Maurer asks, based on this framework, deals with the continued exploitation of the BVI. “If the BVI remains today a colony of exploitation,” he writes, “how does it do so, in what direction, and who is exploiting whom?” (p.137). Dr O’Neal asserted during the book launch that he wrote the text as “plea for a sense of historical perspective” for the generation at the time. The final sentence of his text warns against “the centripetal force of a mode of development which, in the long run, is completely homogenizing.”

Thirty years ago, during the tourism symposium, one speaker, BVIslander Anne Kortright suggested that it was only a matter of time before BVIslanders were “swept away” and repeated the “unplanned growth” of other islands. Thirty years after Slavery, Smallholding and Tourism was written, the BVI remains free of franchises, has not been overrun with skyscraper hotels, and maintains a pride of land ownership.

“The BVI is again at a similar inflection point, both in terms of the worldwide economic environment of recession in which it operates,” Dr O’Neal expressed to VIPY, “and the need to determine its development strategy and direction, with such critical issues to be decided as the notions of airport expansion, cruise ship infrastructure development, and so on.”

With its court records, symposium transcripts and virtual time capsule of a subject matter, Dr O’Neal’s book provides a valuable history lesson for those interested in the future of the British Virgin Islands. PY

HUNTE & CO. Attorneys-at-Law Incorporations Trade Mark Agents Notaries Public

AN EXCULSIVE BUYER AGENT, WORKING SOLELY FOR THE BUYER. Unique and committed relationships built on trust to assure the best possible home buying experience.

HUNTE & CO. (BVI) 2nd Floor, Yamraj Building P O Box 3504, Road Town, Tortola British Virgin Islands, VG 1110 T +1.284.495.0232 | F +1.284.495.0229 E manager@hunteandco.com

32

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

HUNTE & CO. (UK) 7 Bell Yard, London WC2A 2JR T +44 (0)20.7277.2938 DX. 98 London Chancery Lane www.hunteandco.com

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

Violet Gaul - Realtor Licensed BVI & USA T(284)443.1777 | Info@tropicaisle.com | www.tropicaisle.com P.O. Box 83, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, VG1110

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

33

Can your insurance provider bundle your car and homeowner’s insurance for less?

To learn more about NAGICO’s great discounts, call: 494-6433 or email: nagico@surfbvi.com.

We’ve Got You Covered !

Now Serving: Anguilla • Antigua • Aruba • The Bahamas • Bonaire • B.V.I. • Curaçao • Dominica • French Antilles Grenada • Montserrat • Saba • St. Eus tatius • St. Kitts & Nevis • St. Lucia • St. Maarten • St. Martin • Trinidad & Tobago

Gaming Goes Outdoors Story & Photos by David Blacklock

Whether sailing around the BVI on a charter yacht or whiling away the days in a rental villa, the challenge often facing the holidaymaker is to find something to do to get lazy crew or friends off the boat or out of the house and exploring the beauty of the islands.

Long days in the hammock or lounging in the infinity pool are not to be sneezed at, but sometimes you have to get up and go do something. Especially if there’s a bunch of teens or tweens involved. Those guys have energy to burn, and they’d otherwise be busting up the rental property if you didn’t have a plan involving physical exertion and mental application.

Some areas offer hiking trails or destinations, such as Salt Island or Jost Van Dyke’s Bubbly Pool, but for those wanting a greater challenge or a reason to try an unfamiliar destination, there still remains a large obstacle to overcome: inertia.

When the gamers have had enough of the Play Station or Mad Killer Sniper Attacks, and it’s time to get all 3-D and real world on their short attention spans, geocaching’s the answer. It’s a puzzle, it’s a physical challenge, it’s a competition and, best of all, it costs nothing (well, almost).

Geocaching is basically a type of treasure hunt propelled by the GPS chip incorporated into a smart phone or in a

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

35

An Example of Geocoaching Karin hid a cache box with valuable trinkets and a note pad. First to find will feel deep satisfaction and a chance to make an esoteric boast. Coordinates of the cache are 18deg 24.788’ N, 64 deg 35.278’ W. The idea is to replace a trinket with one you supply and to write your name and email. A winner will be drawn from the bowels of a very big hat and will receive a prize of astonishing value.

portable navigation unit. Following clues and data, mostly in the form of a latitude/longitude position obtained from the website such as geocaching.com, users proceed to the cache site they’ve chosen to explore and then search for a container that might reveal a trinket or some other kind of swag. Or, if you prefer, you can set up your own private caches close to your house or preferred anchorage to keep bored crew from mutiny and away from the boat or villa for an hour or three. If you’re traveling in company with other boats, you can set up a competition with winners, losers and rum.

Some caches might include a clue leading to yet another site mere yards or even miles away.

Safegaurd your most valuable assests with us.

PREMIUM FINANCING AVAILABLE

✓

Casualty

✓

Marine

✓

Auto (Private & Commercial)

✓

Health

✓

General Accident

✓

Contractors All Risks

✓

Life

✓

Bid & Performance Bonds

✓

Property (Private & Commercial)

GENERAL INSURANCE AGENTS FOR: Gulf Insurance Ltd. • Atlantic Southern Insurance Company Heritage Insurance Company • Colonial BVI Ltd. • BUPA Insurance American Bankers Life Insurance • Midland National Life

CREQUE’S INSURANCE AGENCY LTD. T (284)494-2337 / 2937 F (284)494-4942 E ucreque@surfbvi.com P.O. Box 125, Road Town, Tortola VG 1110, British Virgin Islands

36

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

And so the adventure proceeds. Part of the fun is in logging the discoveries made and attempting discoveries of increasing difficulty. One of the odd things about geocaching is that players rarely encounter one another in the field— although they often encounter evidence of other players’ recent presence at sites.

The geocaching.com web site logs 32 different caches in the British Virgin Islands, ranging from Sage Mountain to the north shore of Anegada by way of the Soggy Dollar and Saba Rock. So what are you waiting for? Grab your smart phone or your GPS, a decent pair of shoes, and get searching PY

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

37

For A Less Taxing Life, Own a Home in The BVI.

GUN POINT RAKU SMUGGLERS COVE C R O O K B AY $4,500,000 $5,500,000 19 room custom beachfront 5.5 acre historic, waterfront home. No other BVI home Estate located at Smuggler’s finished to this standard. Cove beach. 5 bed home.

S AT O R I V I L L A S M A H O E B AY $3,600,000

4 bed main home, 2 bed guest home. Glorious views. Short stroll from fantastic beach

DOS SOLS VILLA SEA GRAPE R A M B U TA N L E V E R I C K B AY WATERFRONT, BREWERS BAY N A I L B AY $2,200,000 $1,850,000 $2,200,000 4 bedrooms with pool. Right Walk to the beach from this fabulous Exquisite island home. 3 beds plus 1

on the beach. Indonesia meets 4 bedroom home with pool. Simply bed guest house. The island home Caribbean in some style! stunning views of North Sound! you’ve always dreamed of!

D ’A R C Y ’ S R U N A W A Y S P R I N G B AY $2,500,000

C A N N O N P O I N T E S TAT E C A N E G A R D E N B AY $1,400,000

SEASCAPE L E V E R I C K B AY $1,300,000

SEVEN PEAKS C A N E G A R D E N B AY $3,250,000 Sitting on a rare 4 acre water-

SEA’S SONG VILLA N A I L B AY $2,950,000 When you dreamt of a water-

front Lot, a 4 bedroom home with landing area. Very private.

front home, it probably looked like this. 3 beds, 2 beaches.

T H E R E E F S AT STROH HAUS B A L L A S T B AY TOWERS $1,550,000 $1,495,000 Brand new architect’s home Immaculate 3 bed villa marries contemporary luxury in private, gated estate. with Caribbean comfort. Views simply breathtaking!

HARBOUR HOUSE L E V E R I C K B AY $1,100,000

ISLAND HOME TOO S PA N I S H T O W N $1,200,000

2 acres! 3 bedrooms. Walk to 2 acres on the water at

apartment. Fantastic North Sound lovely 2 acre Lot, perched on hill

stonework, boulders and views. views,

2 bed with large pool in lovely breezy spot. Natural stone floors. Glorious potential. views of North Sound. New kitchen.

4 bedrooms with extra 1 bed 3 bed home with guest apt on

glorious Spring Bay Beach. Lovely Cane Garden Bay. Stunning

Views. Walk to marina and beach. above Spanish Town. Fantastic views.

MANANA, VG S E A WAT C H , V G $895,000 $650,000 3 bed with pool vacation villa, Lovely 3 bedroom villa with one Lot off the water. Walk wonderful ocean views, to beach, bar, marina, pool. breezes & awesome boulders!

LO N G B AY V I L L A S THE HANDSOME BEACH HOUSE $465,000 $525,000 A delightful 2 bed cottage right Choice of 2 and 3 bedroom stand on the beach at Handsome Bay. alone beautifully refurbished Resort Calling out to be expanded! villas. Great views, beach and facilities.

lots

of

Under $1m

N A N N Y C AY M A R I N A

FROM $795,000

Nanny Cay is Tortola’s flagship marina with berths for 180 yachts, full service boatyard, pool, restaurants, shops, beach etc. Nanny Cay Village - 32 waterfront townhouses with docks - is nestled within this thriving marina. Finished to the highest standards, these 2 & 3 bedroom homes are for sale turn key, fully furnished if required. Guaranteed marina berths available for larger boats. Competitive, entirely optional rental program available.

www.coldwellbankerbvi.com (284) 495 3000 www.bvivillarental.com info@coldwellbankerbvi.com Visit our offices at Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola, or Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda

Photos by Dan O’Connor

Manageable Metallics Due to the climate and oxidization, I don’t typically consider decorating with metals in the BVI, but on a recent trip to Arawak Interiors, I discovered some room-brightening metallic accents that will withstand the humidity and salty sea air—mainly because they are constructed from rust-resistant metals, such as aluminum or stainless steel, or from materials that simply look like metal. I found baskets made from silvery plastic, glass bowls that shine like mirrors, and boxes strung with shiny beads. The sparkly surfaces complement the more natural, rough-hewn pieces that are characteristic of the décor of our islands.

+1.284.494.5240 Road Reef Plaza, Road Town, Tortola

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

39

Architectural Styles in The Caribbean

By Marvin Flax Jr, Architect OBMI BVI

When considering the type of architectural style for a house in the Caribbean it is important to consider the rich vernacular that make up this genre of design.

Architecture in the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean as a whole has been heavily influenced by the original Amerindian inhabitants, early English, French, Dutch and Spanish colonists. In more recent times we are seeing a slight move away from traditional Caribbean design features to more modern and contemporary components.

40

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

As designers, we often have clients— couples, mainly—whose styles differ widely.

One spouse may desire a more Caribbean aesthetic while the other has more modern leanings. First, we should identify what elements actually define traditional and contemporary architecture.

The word diverse comes to mind when describing homes built in the last twenty years.

Most dwellings, either built twenty years ago or in the last year, have successfully combined the use of the multiple European influences.

As a result, the style is a blended collaboration.

Variations of the features are noticeable all over the region; such as moderately pitched hipped roofs with gingerbread decorative wood trim on the fascia board, colorfully painted and vibrant. Some homes have eaves that provide shade and some are flush but with wide verandahs to enjoy the sea or hillside views and cool trade winds. Wood shingles and siding make up exterior walls that are brightly painted which expresses our colorful culture.

Verandahs are articulated by chamfered wood columns and in some instances wide arches supported by tapered columns. Even though the Spanish did not settle the VI or most of

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

the Leeward Islands, arches are a prominent feature. In between the columns you may see variations of x-braced wooden rail designs. The windows are either double hung or louvered but are located to maximize views and natural ventilation. Alongside the windows are wooden shutters that have contrasting colors from the walls. Shutters are a staple in older Caribbean homes, normally used for security and weather proofing.

Individually, the facades look busy but as a complete composition have a harmonious rhythm; a particular order and flow that is visually appealing is tied together with symmetry and gentle proportions. These too are facets of European design influence.

Defining what is considered modern in the Caribbean is more of a challenge. Ultimately, they are in two categories. The first one is a combination or blend of traditional Caribbean elements with contemporary ones. Examples of this are more common and considered aesthetically safe. Traditional features like hipped roofs, balconies, wooden windows are still evident but now combined with infinity edge pools, stainless steel cable rails, wide central glazed openings that step out onto a

Opposite: a rendering of luxurious modern design; this page: a combination of influences. Photos provided by OBMI.

deck and wooden pergolas. Local cut stone is used often with great success for wall façades and soil retaining structures. Specifically we refer to this style as contemporary Caribbean.

The second is the complete opposite or rejection of everything we deem Caribbean.

There are a few examples of this locally and as far back as the mid 1960s. Modernist elements usually lack symmetry and are based on mostly clean horizontal planes with solid neutral colors broken by contrasting verticals that are painted in complementary hues or clad materials like stone. A common and identifiable aspect of modernism is flat roofs. The concept might seem

technically foreign, but the roof is gently sloped to a concealed drain. Openings are strategically placed to frame views, and the rules of order are undefined. In a traditionally designed house, window or door placement is typically matched from one floor to the other, whereas, a contemporary approach might use smaller windows where the sills intentionally don’t line up.

The formal living and dining spaces are blended into one large space that provides layout and functional flexibility.

There are drawbacks and benefits of using either approach. Traditional elements can create more maintenance issues from weathering and dust but

the majority of contractors are well versed in these construction methods. With modern architecture, there is the possibility of the home becoming dated and not blending in well with the overall surrounding site context. These potential risks can be averted by keeping your architect involved during the construction process.

Identifying what style suits you is a personal choice. Retaining a design professional will go a long way to help you create your ultimate living space that suits your unique needs all while maximizing and increasing the value of your investment. PY

ARCHITECTURE • RESORT DESIGN • DEVELOPMENT CONSULTING • MASTER PLANNING • INTERIOR DESIGN

OBM International T 284.494.2148 BVI PG APR 2012 - Brooks.indd 1

OBMINEWS.COM www.bvipy.com

41

3/8/2012 12:58:41 PM

SEPTEMBER 2012

Coping with the Elements

By Kate Henderson and Fran Morrell, House (BVI)

In the Virgin Islands, our homes overlook some of the most stunning scenery in the world. However, when it comes to maintaining a house, it can be a very harsh and difficult environment to contend with. Depending on where your house is situated, you could be dealing with a number of conditions that can be destructive to your precious collectibles and furniture. However, there are a few small tricks, mostly for minimal cost, that can help protect against these elements.

Reducing moisture in the air: Despite the constant sunshine, mould and mildew can still be a real issue, especially if your home is closed up for any length of time. The key to a mould/mildew free house is keeping it clean, dry and well ventilated. Small silicon sachets (found in packaging) can be stashed in drawers, picture frames, wardrobes and under sofa cushions to absorb moisture. Hardware stores sell products like DampRid that also absorb moisture in the air and prevent mould spores from forming. By far, themost effective device is the electric dehumidifier, which totally strips the air of excess moisture. These work best in small rooms like walk-in closets or bedrooms. Heated towel rails in bathrooms can keep your towels fresh and dry. For new builds, we always recommend anti-mould paint. Important papers and photos should be stored in airtight containers.

Keeping your fabrics looking like new: In our experience with interiors in tropical climates, we see first-hand how the sun can literally disintegrate fabric. Upholstered furniture, curtains and rugs can be severely affected by harsh sunlight. We always recommend outdoor fabric, such as Sunbrella.

These fabrics are specially designed to prevent fading and breakdown and to withstand repeated washing. Regular use of a spray-on fabric protector (like Scotchgard) can help prevent stains and fading on furniture, curtains and

Everything you need to make your house a home...

Located next to Tico and HIHO, Wickhams Cay 2, Tortola, BVI

www.housebvi.com

42

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

rugs.

Keeping dust under control: It’s impossible to keep dust out, especially after long periods without rain. Regular sweeping and vacuuming will keep the worst at bay, but it is important to cover any unused furniture with dust cloths when the house is not being used. Keep special occasion clothing in hanging dust protectors.

Maintaining metals: The combination of moisture in the air and salt spray is the perfect breeding ground for corrosion. The most affected metal is chrome. It is always best to buy stainless steel if possible (preferably 18/10), which will withstand corrosion.

Spraying items with corrosion inhibitors and cleaning with products like Nevr-Dull will help keep rust at bay.

Keeping things fresh: We have found scented oil diffusers really effective in keeping the house smelling fresh and clean.

They diffuse into the air and last between 6 months and a year depending on the size of the room. Fabric softener sheets, bars of soaps and drawers liners are all great for keeping clothes in drawers smelling fresh. Alternatively, you can spritz your favourite perfume/cologne onto cotton balls and stash them with your clothes and linens.

Natural is always better: We recommend using as few chemicals as possible to protect furniture and fabrics and keeping your house fresh. Baking soda has a multitude of uses throughout the household; from keeping closets, bathrooms and fridges fresh, removing stains and removing harsh smells in laundry. A mix of vinegar and water is the best window cleaner and also prevents mildew and removes stains. Natural scents such as lavender, citrus and cedar keep mosquitoes and moths at bay. Not only are these the most environmentally conscious choices, but they will also keep your fabrics and furniture looking new without risk of staining and fading.

We are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful place. These precautionary tactics are a small price to pay for protecting your household, leaving you free to enjoy the more attractive elements of our tropical climate PY

Would you like to make your business more Do you need to execute a project

efficient?

successfully?

Smith and Associates’ team of consultants can provide consultancy services that will improve customer satisfaction and your service delivery.

Project Planning and Management Business Operations Consulting Small Business Consulting Corporate Event Planning

t: (284) 541-1192 e: info@smithandassociatesbvi.com Contact us for a free consultation to your Solutions for Success!

8 OFFSHORE JURISDICTIONS

GOAL

For more information, please contact: Michael Burns Managing Partner - BVI +1 284 852 5318 mburns@applebyglobal.com Offshore Legal, Fiduciary and Administration Services applebyglobal.com

Bermuda

Hong Kong

Mauritius

British Virgin Islands

Isle of Man

Seychelles

Cayman Islands

Jersey

Shanghai

Guernsey

London

Zurich

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

43

Why pay your health premium and risk large bills too? Your wealth is protected with Colonial.

PremierHealth Health insurance with Colonial protects you from large out-of-pocket bills.

Colonial offers the richest benefits plan for your money and the fastest claims service. Choose a health plan where health care is all about choice, value and service.

Stop loss cover No deductibles, competitive premiums Direct billing, dedicated in-house claims department No annual cap on $2 million lifetime benefit Widespread I.D. card acceptance

Save with home and motor insurance!

CALL 494-8450 or visit www.cgigroup.bm

COLONIAL INSURANCE (BVI) LTD. Palm Grove House, P.O. Box 2377, Road Town, Tortola, VG1110 Tel. 494-8450 email. colonial@surfbvi.com www.cgigroup.bm A member of Colonial Group International: Insurance, Health, Pensions, Life

Colonial Group International is rated A(Excellent) by AM Best.

www.smithsgore.com

“Tis not too late to seek another world”

–Tennyson

Smiths Gore opened its office in the British Virgin Islands in 1965. The firm was established in the UK in 1845 and currently operates from 26 offices.

44

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

British Virgin Islands Britannic Hall, P.O. Box 135, Road Town, Tortola T 1(284) 494 2446 E info@smithsgore.com United Kingdom 17-18 Old Bond Street, London W1S 4PT T +44 (0) 207 290 1616 E michelle.persaud@sgcommercial.co.uk

Cooking with Coffee

By Susie Younkle

My grandpa “Pop” is responsible for my nearly lifelong love of coffee. When I was five, Pop first introduced me to coffee— diluted with copious amounts of milk and sugar—which I sipped from my own tiny porcelain cup and saucer. Old habits die hard.

While I’ve had brief periods in my life when I give up coffee, I always return to my morning java. Unlike many coffee drinkers, it’s not about the caffeine. I’ll frequently drink decaffeinated coffee, as caffeine doesn’t have a huge effect on me. (The decaf must be top-notch, though, to account for the decaffeinating process that strips out some of the flavour). I simply love the taste of coffee and the ritual of coffee to start my day.

Yet coffee doesn’t have to be reserved for the morning or as a beverage. Even non-coffee drinkers will find it a wonderful addition to a wide variety of foods. I’ve long used coffee for desserts such as

need to ship?

Green has you covered . . . and size doesn’t matter Parcels and Mail

Get a Miami shipping address with TortolaExpress’ Parcels and Mail, and start shopping instantly. You can finally order everything you ever wanted online and now enjoy nonvolumetric weight charges!

Cargo Service

With our extensive network, you can send your freight from anywhere in the USA to our warehouse. Just leave all logistics to us. All you have to do is decide what you want to get and where you want it from. As soon as you have purchased your bulk shipment, email us an order confirmation, and we'll tell you where to send it. Once it arrives we can have it delivered to your door here in the BVI.

Sign up online at

www.aeropost.com/eis T: 284 494 0707 info@tortolaexpress.com www.tortolaexpress.com www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

45

mocha brownies, coffee ice cream and tiramisu. Chocolatecovered espresso beans are a favourite pick-me-up during night passages.

My use of coffee was limited to beverages and sweets until a few years ago. While on a boat with my friend Bob, he prepared a delicious grilled pork tenderloin for dinner. I take pride in my ability to identify flavours, but I was struggling to detect the ingredients in the pork marinade. As we neared the end of the meal, I finally inquired about the mystery ingredient.

“Coffee,” said Bob. “No thanks, I don’t drink coffee after dinner,” I replied.

Bob just laughed and said “coffee is the secret ingredient.”

In fact, coffee lends an incredible depth of flavour to foods, both on the sweet and savoury spectrum of flavour.

Coffee-marinated pork is an ideal onboard dinner because it’s versatile, equally delicious hot off the grill or thinly sliced

46

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

on fresh bread for a fantastic sandwich the next day. The ingredients for the marinade are always in my pantry, and the mixture comes together quickly—though the meat must marinate for at least 24 hours.

I can even add a local element to the meal by using Caribbean coffee. The largest quantity of coffee comes from the Dominican Republic; Jamaica’s Blue Mountain coffee is likely the best-known Caribbean coffee. Small quantities are also cultivated on islands such as Puerto Rico, Dominica and Trinidad & Tobago. Although coffee is not grown in the Virgin Islands, one can buy locally roasted and distributed coffee here.

Caribbean Mountain Coffee, a favourite of Virgin Islands Property & Yacht staffers, is based in the BVI and sources its Arabica coffee beans from mountains high in the Dominican Republic. It’s equally good in a cup of strong coffee or as a secret savoury ingredient. PY

Photo by Dan O’Connor

Coffee-Marinated Grilled Pork Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the appropriate doneness.

• ½ c finely ground coffee beans

• 1 Tbl minced fresh ginger

• ½ c vegetable oil

• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely

• ¼ c molasses

chopped

• ¼ c maple syrup

• 1 ½ tsp kosher salt

• ¼ c soy sauce

• 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 2 1/2 lbs

• 2 Tbl fresh lime juice

total)

Design Management

Construction Management

Project Management

1. Puree all ingredients (except pork) in food processor or blender until smooth. Transfer to a zip top plastic bag. Add pork and chill 24 hours or longer.

2. Grill pork, turning often, until meat thermometer registers 145 degrees, about 25 minutes . Let stand 10 minutes before slicing.

Adapted from Bon Appétit magazine.

Quantity Surveying

Consultation

PY

Certified Members of the

“Safe Delivery of Quality Caribbean Projects Since 1999”

Tel: 1(284) 494.2622 | kmibvi@kraus-manning.com | www.kraus-manning.com | Kraus - Manning Inc.

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

47

K9 5 BEDROOM BEACHFRONT VILLA WITH PRIVATE DOCK: Beautifully positioned on historical Fort Hodge Point, with extensive water frontage including two sandy beaches and full serviced dock. The 5 bedroom residence with swimming pool terrace encompasses approx. 4,500 sf and captures spectacular views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Spacious great room with covered dining porch. master bedroom suite and separate pavilion with three guest suites and game room. Self-contained lower studio apartment. US$5,900,000.

(284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com

Property Listings TORTOLA H9 Lovely Lot at Ballast Bay: Beautiful Ballast Bay Lot now available. Glorious views of Cane Garden Bay and Jost Van Dyke. US$120,000 (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

Lambert Condo: Fully furnished studio apartment in Lambert Beach Resort. Enjoy the pool and amenities of Resort. Beach only a few steps away, as is the restaurant. Nearby laundry and ample parking. US$210,000. (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM

I10 WATERFRONT HOMES WITH DOCKS, NANNY CAY: 2/3 bedroom waterfront townhouses with docks now available at Nanny Cay, Tortola’s premier marina. Full resort facilities and competitive rental program available to offset costs of ownership. US$850,000. (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

Turtle Dove Cottages - *NEW*: Tortola, Apple Bay. One 2-bed villa and three 1-bed cottages on 1 acre lot 300 ft above the golden beaches of Long Bay and Apple Bay. Excellent investment opportunity. US$1,500,000. (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM

H8 1 acre Lot, Glorious Cane Garden Bay views: A rare Lot on Luck Hill with fantastic views of Cane Garden Bay. Beautiful sunsets. Very buildable. One not to be missed! US$225K. (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

G10 Waveland: Waveland is a uniquely private, 3-bed, 2-bath luxury villa with a spectacular elevated position and a magnificent view. A covered lanai with full wet bar connects the living area, two guest bedrooms and master bedroom with unique his and her bathroom suites.

US$695,000. (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM

H8 Cane Garden Bay Cottages: Two delightful cottages set within landscaped palm fringed gardens, less than 50 yards from the beach. Set in under 2 acres, prime investment property.

US$1.295K. (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

K9 Hodge's Creek Land: 0.8 acres beautiful parcel of land with a magnificent view over Hodge's Creek Marina. US$400,000 US$275,000. (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM

J8 3 bedroom Ridge Road Home with 3 bed Apt: Lovely 3 bedroom family home with rental income potential from 3 bed apt beneath. Great views of North Shore and Guana Island. Lush mature garden filled with coconut palms and fruit trees. Motivated Seller. US$750,000.

(284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

G10 Far Pavilion: A spacious deck makes a wide-open living space where a new definition of “lounge” can be created. The magnificent view constantly calls your attention. On the other side of the pool is a charming guesthouse with ensuite bathroom. The proximity to Long Bay Resort provides easy access to all its amenities: restaurant, spa, pool and of course, the beautiful beach.

US$1,300,000. (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM

G10 Hummingbird House: Located in the prestigious Belmont Estate only moments from Smugglers Cove and Long Bay beaches, this delightful home has been extensively remodeled by the current owner, an English Architect with over 20 years island experience designing first class, luxurious homes. Pleasing proportions and scale, elegant finishes and fixture choices of the highest quality and wonderful ocean, island and sunset views. US$2,495,000.

(284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com H9 Rose Lodge, 3 bedrooms Windy Hill *PRICE REDUCTION*: Beautiful hillside setting with exceptional island and sunset views. Two bedroom main house with lovely gardens and lawn.

Delightful views of Cane Garden Bay from very private guest house. US$795K. (284) 495 3000 www.coldwellbankerbvi.com | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com

L8 THREE BEDROOM WATERFRONT HOUSE: Located at the southern end of Tortola with views of Beef Island and the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Close to beaches and amenities. US$795,000.

(284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com G10 2 BEDROOM HOUSE AT BELMONT ESTATE: Overlooking Smuggler’s Cove and offering spectacular views of Jost Van Dyke. Main house with great room, kitchen and master bedroom suite. Separate guest cottage. 0.8 acres. US$775,000. (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com Casa Del Mar: Newly constructed 4 bedrooms exceptional family home located on Tortola’s north side. This home is situated in a very private community, near to Tortola’s great beaches, Cane Garden Bay to the west and Brewer’s Bay to the north. This beautiful home sits on 0.399 of an acre. US$890,000. Contact monica@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com

H9 Business Opportunity: 1.04 acres of hill side land just 200 feet beyond the picturesque beaches of Cane Garden Bay. The property houses six buildings containing 5 one-bedroom, 2 two-bedroom and 1 three-bedroom units. US$2,500,000. (284) 495 4825

Sea Cow’s Bay Land: Located near Oleander Estate in the hills above Sea Cow’s Bay, these 6 Lots have spectacular views; these lots are perfect to build your dream home. Lots are from .6 of an acre 1.0 acre, these lots are ready to build with water, electricity and cable available. US$85,000+.

Contact dameon@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com.

G10 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH CONDO: Set within Long bay Beach Resort and operated within the hotel rental pool, the apartment has one full kitchen and one kitchenette and affords beautiful ocean views. Direct access to the hotel amenities and within walking distance to the beach.

US$299,000. (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com J9 SPACIOUS 3 BEDROOM VILLA AT KINGSTON: Two separate buildings connected by a swimming pool terrace with split level living-dining area and large kitchen. Master bedroom suite and two guest suites. Prevailing breeze and expansive channel views only five minutes away from Road Town. US$1,099,000. (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com

H9 Cane Garden Bay: Hillside Land with stunning ocean views located in Cane Garden Bay; 0.596 of an acre; 1.472 acres & 2.00 acres, any of these lots could be yours today to start the home of your dreams. Contact dameon@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com Private Lots for Sales 0.5 Acres: Located on the North Shore are two parcels of land, with stunning views, available to build your own dream home. US$100,000+. View at www.trudebvi.com Contact Monica (284) 494-2500

c n i y l l a c i graph

d e li n

284.494.7788 | info@alookingglass.com | www.alookingglass.com

48

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

Great Mountain Area: 4 Lots in a Private Estate for sale | prices start at US$67,000.

(284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com Cooten Bay Home for Sale: Owner Motivated – New on the market - Beautifully designed and finely executed this 4 bedroom, 3 bath main house along with a 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment located off the Ridge Road, is a steal at this price. Purchase today and use the income from the rented apartment to pay your mortgage. Bring your clothes and move into this architectural beauty which features Brazilian cherry wood flooring, granite counter tops, modern fixtures and luxurious furnishings. US$975,000. Contact monica@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 www.trudebvi.com Looking for an Investment Opportunity? We have the deal of a lifetime for you; an apartment complex with 5 income generating apartments and there’s room to add others. At $675,000.00 this property will not be around for long; call us today to finalize your sale!. dameonn@trudebvi.com | (284)494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com L8 1/2 acre Lot: available at Hawks Nest. Simply stunning views back to Virgin Gorda. Very buildable. US$145,000.00. (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com www.coldwellbankerbvi.com J8 1 acre Lot: available at Trunk Bay. Breath taking beach and island views, all the way down the island chain to Necker Island! US$295,000.00. (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com K7 ½ acre Lot: available at Little Bay. Walk to beautiful beach from this very buildable Lot. US$185,000.00. (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com I8 3 bedroom beach house at Brewers Bay: With direct beach and water frontage, this property is unusual in the BVI. Located right on the beach at Brewers Bay overlooking the bay and Jost van Dyke. US$850,000. (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com

P9 HOME SITE AVAILABLE AT CROOKS BAY: Located a few minutes’ walk to the beach, on a quiet residential estate, this 1.4 acre site boasts spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and benefits from cool tropical breezes. Utilities to site. US$500,000. (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com P8 Sea Grape Condo: Magnificent ground floor 2bedroom, 2 bathroom condo fully furnished, A/C, full use of resort amenities, tennis courts, pool, gym. The option is yours; live on property or rent the condo | US$395,000. Contact Monica @ monica@trudebvi.com | (284)4 94-2500 www.trudebvi.com South Sound Virgin Gorda: Lots available for sale starting at US$200,000. Own a piece of “paradise” today. Contact Monica at monica@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com R6 Looking for waterfront Land in Virgin Gorda?

(284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com Q6 Vacant Lot available at beautiful Nail Bay: New life has been breathed into this stunning development. Now is the time to buy and build your dream home.

Q6 ‘Mystic Water’, Nail Bay: Three bedroom main house with pool, 2 x one bedroom guest cottages each with own pool and full kitchen, beautiful gardens, great rental villa. $1.8m.

(284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com Q6 ‘Sugar Mill’, Nail Bay: Built close by to the site of an historic Sugar Mill, unique 3 bedroom villa with pool takes its design from the original mill. Stunning views. Walk to the beach. Lots of rental potential. $1.6m. (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com Q6 Renovated 4 bedroom villa with access to private beach: Located on 1.6 acres of manicured hillside on Virgin Gorda’s west coast, the house is designed so each bedroom suite opens onto a private deck with panoramic views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Direct access to Mountain Trunk Beach by a private pathway. US$3,250,000. (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com

G10 Exquisite Caribbean style house on the hillside of Belmont Estates: This charming 3 bedroom house offers a perfect balance between elegance and relaxed comfort. Main house: great room with living and dining areas, galley kitchen, master bedroom suite and guest suite. Independent one bedroom guest cottage. Artist’s studio. Lovely swimming pool terrace with covered verandah. US$2,150,000. (284)494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com

NORTHERN ISLANDS

VIRGIN GORDA

M7 DIAMOND REEF ESTATE, UNIQUE 10 ACRE PROPERTY: A fabulous property, full of character and charm. Upon this 10 acre site sits a magnificent 3 bedroom main house, built largely from local stone in 1968 by the Upjohn Pharmaceutical family. A delightful one bedroom guest house built in later years. Residents treated to glorious views yet completely private. Wonderful landscaping, beachfront, private swim dock. Absolutely one of a kind property. US$6m.

(284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

P9 Charming two bedroom, two bath home at Windy Hill: Set on 0.4 acres in a quiet neighbourhood the property enjoys beautiful views of Tortola and Beef Island and a lush tropical garden. | US$550,000 Q7 A Dream Come True, Pond Bay: A five bedroom, cliffside/waterfront home above Virgin Gorda’s most spectacular beaches at Pond Bay and Savannah Bay. Simply stunning. Ask to see the rental history and figures on this property. A phenomenal story. US$3.5m. (284) 495 3000 chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

M7 CHARMING 5 BEDROOM VILLA ON GREAT CAMANOE: Delightful 3 bedroom Main House with 2 Bedroom Guest house on Great Camanoee. Lots of character. Fantastic island and ocean views, incredible panorama. Easy access to dock. Approx 2 acre Lot. US$1,200,00. (284) 495 3000 chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com

P8 THE VILLAS AT LITTLE DIX BAY: A rare opportunity to own a permanent home at Little Dix Bay resort managed by Rosewood Hotels. Situated on the dramatic hillside above the worldrenowned resort these 3-4 bedroom villas offer a magnificent setting, luxurious amenities and remarkable privacy. Rental pool option. From US$3,300,000.

(284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com

SUPERIOR PROPERTY SERVICES LTD Cleaning Services

“The most reliable response to your need for clean”

Commercial & Dome c Maid Services Window cleaning Carpet steam- cleaning Tile / Grout cleaning & sealing Natural stone refinishing Vinyl floor stripping & polishing Concrete flooring cleaning Upholstery steam-cleaning

Tel. (284)494-5580 Fax: 284)494-5446 Email: spsservices@surfbvi.com

www.bvipy.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

49

As a Territory without any fossil fuel reserves, the energy security of The Virgin Islands is highly vulnerable to global shocks in the production, distribution and price of fossil fuels.

– Virgin Islands - Climate Change Green Paper, Section 3.4 pg 65

2011

2050

1900

EARTH HAS a

What powers the BVI?

Alternative Energy Systems R ENE WA BLE EN ER G Y • A B UN DA N T • S US TAINABLE • INDEP ENDENT • A CARIBBEAN SOLUTION +1.284.494.1478

energy@aesbvi.com www.aesbvi.com

2010 Winner, “Best Vacation Experience.”

–Fodor’s Gold Choice Award

SOL Y SOMBRA Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

US$8 Million This spectacular beachfront villa boasts four beautifully decorated air-conditioned suites, each furnished with custom-made teak furniture. Outside amenities include an ocean-front infinity pool and lit tennis court, bound within lush tropical gardens. Inside, take advantage of a European-style kitchen, private movie theater, daily maid service and state-of-the-art gym. An in-villa cook is available upon request. www.solysombrabvi.com

Smiths Gore Limited : : British Virgin Islands

T 1(284) 494 2446 F 1(284) 494 2141 E bernadette@smithsgore.com

“Oil Nut Bay is the greatest gift I can give my family.”

your

lifetim e

i s

o n ly

t h e

b e g inning

...

As faraway places diminish in their access and modern day luxury becomes more commonplace, there remains a little known outpost where legacies will live on in safety and seclusion, and generations of families will gather together as one – now and forever.

This opportunity is as limited as the land itself. When it’s gone, it’s gone and may very well stay that way for generations to come.

y o u r m o s t r a p i d r e s p o n s e i s h i g h ly s u g g e s t e d .

284.495.5400

52

VI PROPERTY & YACHT

Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.

l

o i l n u t b ay . c o m