THE ADDRESS Magazine No11 by THE GREAT ADDRESS

Spring 2012

No.11

THE ADDRESS CELEBRATING THE WORLD OF LUXURY REAL ESTATE, FOOD & TRAVEL

A TRIUMPH OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE

One of Costa Rica’s most singular private homes

BAREFOOT LUXURY

Architecturally magnificent resort residences in St. Lucia

GRACIOUS HERITAGE

LANDMARKS OF LUXURY

The allure of lavish waterfront living in Crete

STUNNING, SLEEK & SERENE

Designer villas on one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands

PROPERTY INVESTMENT

Historic palace residence in Florence

Top property havens 2012

FOOD & TRAVEL AROUND THE WORLD

Kitchen confidential

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Welcome to THE ADDRESS Magazine - celebrating the world of Luxury Real Estate, Food & Travel The latest issue of THE ADDRESS Magazine is filled with features and articles about luxury real estate, food and travel. The magazine showcases a curated selection of the finest luxury real estate from around the world. Each coffee-table-quality issue features luxury properties ranging from the most popular destinations to more private locales; from Algarve to St. Lucia and Tuscany. This issue’s Pièce de Resistance highlights a rare opportunity to own one of tomorrow’s icons. A showcase of sophisticated design and timeless luxury, Amanyara’s private villas offer impeccable resort living in Turks & Caicos (page 4). A luxury villa in Mallorca exemplifies ‘Best of Modern’. The ultra-modern villa offers just about everything for the design aficionado – clean lines, minimalist spaces and masses of glamour (page 100). The strong demand for European ski homes, particularly in the French Alps, continues. In this issue we showcase a wide range of ski property in France for sale including luxury chalet residences in Courchevel, St-Martin-de-Belleville and Les Gets (pages 18, 70). Much loved by those who know the Caribbean well, the island of St Lucia currently attracts both discerning holidaymakers and second home owners. This luxury property sits on 77 acres of a UNESCO World Heritage Site beneath the Piton Mountains, an area famed for its outstanding natural beauty. Both whole ownership and fractional ownership opportunities exist, representing some of the worlds finest investment properties (page 134). Barbados real estate offers great opportunities to own that dream home in the Caribbean. The island is home to some of the most magnificent proper2

ties to be found anywhere. Explore a true trophy property that offers not only a luxurious lifestyle, but a blue-chip investment in an area where consistent demand is the norm (page 22). Our market features in this issue are “Follow the smart money - top property havens 2012” (page 28) and ‘”Why Cyprus” (page 152). Be inspired to travel the world in style with the help of THE ADDRESS Magazine. Our ongoing quest to find hidden gems and authentic luxury travel experience takes us from Amsterdam to San Sebastían and New Orleans (page 156). We asked our Food & Travel Insider, Ishay GovenderYpma, to open her address book to some of her favourite places in Cape Town. This cosmopolitan metropolis is a vibrant, richly historic and proud African city - and it is this mix that makes Cape Town so irresistible as a city break destination (page 168). Our Kitchen Confidential features famous chefs with grown-up palates and sophisticated taste. In this issue, Head Chef Ian Rudge at The Rib Room in London gives you a chance to try some of his favourite recipes (page 184). THE ADDRESS Magazine also include a section featuring some of the Curator’s recent discoveries of global style, design and good living (page 190) as well as fabulous foodie inspirations (page 182). For the best in luxury homes for sale and stylish travel and food discoveries, be informed and inspired by the spring issue of THE ADDRESS Magazine.

Curator

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Contents Spring 2012 | No.11 PIECE DE RESISTANCE A timeless masterpiece BEST OF MODERN A triumph of modern architecture BEST OF SKIING Ski in ski out in the heart of a historical alpine wonderland TROPHY PROPERTY The ultimate address LUXURY REAL ESTATE Algarve (Portugal) Andalucia (Spain) Athens (Greece) Barbados Costa Barcelona Maresme (Spain) Crete (Greece) Florence (Italy) French Alps French Riviera Koh Samui (Thailand) Madrid (Spain) Mallorca (Spain) Mykonos (Greece) Paris (France) Phuket (Thailand) Puglia (Italy) St. Lucia Silver Coast (Portugal) Tuscany (Italy) Venice (Italy) PROPERTY INSIGHTS Follow the smart money - top property havens 2012 PROPERTY INSIGHTS Why Cyprus FOOD & TRAVEL Discoveries from around the world FOOD & TRAVEL Insider’s Guide Cape Town FOOD & TRAVEL Fabulous foodie inspirations FOOD & TRAVEL Kitchen confidential: Leading Chefs share their recipes TA STYLE Style & design discoveries for your home

4 12 18 22 38 42 48 50 58 62 68 70 84 90 96 100 114 118 126 132 134 142 148 150 28 152 156 168 182 184 190

COVER PHOTO: Amanyara, Turks & Caicos (page 4). THE ADDRESS Magazine is published by W International Management Ltd Email: info@theaddressmagazine.com Tel: +44 20 7095 8700

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piece de resistance

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A Timeless Masterpiece www.theaddressmagazine.com

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Understated elegance with a sleek contemporary design defines these limited-edition villas

ong a favoured destination with high net worth individuals from around the world, the Turks & Caicos are a collection of 40 islands (of which only eight are inhabited), just south of the Bahamas and a short flight from Miami. Epitomising barefoot luxury, the archipelago’s islands are resplendent with pristine, powder white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, secluded bays and some of the finest homes in the Caribbean. The Turks & Caicos Islands are an internationally acclaimed diving destination, boasting the third largest coral barrier reef in the world. Offering an ideal blend of privacy and sheer opulence, discerning travellers come for the islands’ incomparable air of tranquillity, wealth of untouched natural beauty and luxury amenities. Just over an hour’s flight from Miami and three hours from New York, there are additional direct flights from Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Boston, Philadelphia, Charlotte, Atlanta, Dallas and London. Turks & Caicos combines unparalleled Caribbean beauty with utmost convenience. The Providenciales Private Aviation Centre, one of the busiest private terminals in the world, is well versed in the handling of private jets of every size. With tourism skyrocketing 18% in the first six months of 2011 over the previous year, the islands are set for a prosperous 2012 and beyond. As a British Overseas Territory with the U.S. dollar the official currency, as well as with British banking and legal systems, the Turks & Caicos Islands represent an attractive destination for property investors. The Crown guarantees (fee simple) Absolute Title and a Permanent Residency Certificate can be obtained with a real estate investment of USD500,000. www.theaddressmagazine.com

A key Caribbean offshore financial centre, the Turks and Caicos Islands are increasingly a desirable second home destination for many Americans, Canadians, Europeans and British nationals. The absence of property, income, capital gains and inheritance taxes allows villa owners long-term enjoyment of their property investment. Another world awaits on the island of Providenciales – one that is supremely private, wonderfully tranquil and comfortably removed. Amanyara’s private villas offer impeccable resort living for those who appreciate a pampered lifestyle, über-stylish residences, exclusive privacy and the rare natural beauty of living along one of Turks & Caicos’ most desirable shorelines. In a place of timeless beauty and tranquillity, Amanyara sits next to the pristine reefs of the Northwest Point Marine National Park, an 8

acclaimed area of 4,168 acres that provides some of the world’s best wall and reef diving. Directly in front of the resort, approximately 300 metres from the beach, the 8-kilometrelong fringing reef system runs parallel to the coastline. It is dominated by Boulder Star and Elkhorn coral as well as Gorgonians of various species that are home to schooling fish, turtles, spotted eagle rays and many more intriguing species. The reef supports a characteristic fish population that includes groupers, snappers, surgeonfish, butterfly fish, angelfish and jacks. Also in the area are bottlenose and spotted dolphins. Humpback whales pass through during their migration that lasts from December to April. Surrounded by an 18,000-acre nature preserve that contains mangroves, natural ponds and lagoons, Amanyara is graced by the untouched and secluded landscapes of the Turks & Caicos.

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Just steps from Amanyara lies Malcolm’s Beach, one of the island’s most secluded, its soft white sand stretching 1,000 metres along the shore. A showcase of sophisticated design and timeless luxury, this is a rare opportunity to own one of tomorrow’s icons. Amanyara, which means “peaceful place,” radiates with understated elegance and features sensational architecture in an unspoilt setting. The refined villas are scattered throughout tropical vegetation and ponds, perched on rugged stone headlands and sit steps from an endless fine-sand alabaster beach. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, whose distinctly Asian architectural style for Amanresorts has won him worldwide acclaim, the resort and the villas are crafted from the finest materials and granted the most superb finishes. Amanyara offers limited-edition living at its

best, with only 20 architecturally magnificent villas available for private ownership. A masterpiece of liveable contemporary design, the symmetry and scale of the Amanyara villas create intimate yet indulgent spaces that flow seamlessly from inside to outside. The residence masterfully merges clean, linear architecture with soaring ceilings, stunning roof lines, secluded sun decks, inviting pools and tranquil ponds that reflect its dramatic architecture. Using timber and glass, the private villas are imbued with graceful tropical modernity. Fabulous for entertaining and serene living, the cutting-edge, architect-designed residences are situated either along the oceanfront, overlooking a tranquil pond or nestled among island vegetation. Comprised of an array of three to five individual bedroom pavilions, an office, kitchen and staff pavilion as well

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as a refined dining and living pavilion, each villa is a unique home of about 1,000m² of pure elegance. The striking private black volcanic rock infinity pool, as well as the outdoor bathroom courtyards, emphasize the serenity of this privileged lifestyle. Perfecting the indoor-outdoor style of tropical living, each villa sits majestically on 1.3 to 1.8 acres of lush landscape and is framed by a stunning reflecting pond. Amanyara seeks to please residents with understated service where privacy, individuality and personal attention are assured. Each villa is serviced by a full-time butler and private chef, both expertly trained by Amanresorts. They are further supported by the villa management team that takes care of any special wish: Invite over a neighbouring villa owner to dinner, host a cocktail reception for friends and family, indulge in a romantic beach dinner for two or enjoy spa services right at home. The optional Villa Rental Programme, as well as all villa services and maintenance, are managed by the Amanyara team for each owner, ensuring each stay is enjoyed from the first minute to the very last. In addition, each luxury villa comes with two 4-seater golf buggies. Owners enjoy unrestricted access to all of Amanyara’s amenities and facilities. Think of the tennis courts, gym, water sports, spa, bar, restaurant, 30-seat screening room, library and world-class beach and reef simply as extensions of that private villa. The resort’s 50-metre infinity pool, fashioned from volcanic rock, offers sweeping ocean views that can be enjoyed from chaise lounges along the timber sun deck. The bar is the resort’s striking centrepiece: a circular teak building reflected in its adjacent pond, where cocktails may be sipped and live jazz music enjoyed beneath the intricate slatted ceiling. The Nature Discovery Centre teaches children and adults about the rich marine, plant and animal environment at Amanyara. The Beach Club provides Hobie Cats, sailing boats, ocean kayaks, boogie boards, paddle boards and snorkelling gear. The combination of owning an elegant villa with an exquisite resort and its gracious staff at the doorstep makes the living experience at Amanyara Villas truly out of this world. The Amanyara Villas are simply one of the world’s most alluring hideaways. Prices: From USD9 million. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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BEST OF MODERN

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A triumph of modern architecture The villa is destined to become a minimalist landmark, lauded for its stunning architectural design and extraordinary details

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any people will find that minimalism provides an elegant, stylish and functional backdrop to their lifestyle. Characterised by sleek simplicity and clean lines, there is a feeling of order and serenity. Strong geometric shapes and well-defined angles are key. In order to make the most of incredible views that are so often on offer, modern house plans provide open spaces that optimise the entry of light and create space for the presentation of prized artwork and designer furniture. Free-flowing, flexible floor plans provide a level of versatility that cannot be matched by traditional architecture.

With an ultra-modern and sleek architectural design, here is a rare opportunity to own one of Costa Ricaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foremost minimalist properties. Superlatives cannot do justice to the cuttingedge design and the sweeping panoramas of the beautifully presented avant-garde villa. With its pure, sculptured lines and perfect proportions, the villa is the ultimate statement of modern, minimalist design. It is presented with an uncompromising approach to luxury living and is truly a sensational architectural masterpiece. The exceptional villa won the prize for best architectural project from the College of Architects of Costa Rica in 2010 and

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takes its rightful place as one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most singular private homes. It is a setting for the discerning few. From the dazzling swimming pool and wet deck that laps up to the glass walls of the master bedroom and living room, to the panoramic ocean and jungle views, to the artistry of world-renowned minimalist architect Victor CaĂąas, the property is far beyond the imagination of most. The breathtaking villa is as much a work of art as it is a modern family home, with 6,500 sq.ft. of living space. It features six bedrooms, an Ăźber-stylish gourmet kitchen, dining room

with a table for twelve, impressive living room and state-of-the-art media room. The awe-inspiring master suite has all that could be wished for and more, including a bathtub surrounded by glass and privacy screens that opens onto splendid ocean views. The oversized kitchen is fitted with all the major luxury appliances, including a built-in espresso maker, wine fridge and hotel-style icemaker. Unparalleled design options abound in the rarefied villa, including a glass staircase floating across the glass passageway, providing transparency, luminosity and elegance. Glass, steel and concrete create a

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masterful symphony; translucent walls give way to magnificent ocean views. The style is understated glamour, from smart technology, to motorized privacy screens and elegant design furniture. The dialogue between interior and exterior space is executed masterfully. With the climate allowing equal outside and inside living, borders between those worlds have been virtually eliminated. The living area leads to the glamorous swimming pool and surrounding deck through large glass doors that are always open to let the gorgeous ocean breezes flow through. Observe the majestic sight of whales swimming past, or simply gaze out to the vast expanse of the shimmering blue ocean accentuated by an endless horizon. Commanding a much-sought location in an exclusive gated community, the villa sits next to Los Sueños with its beautiful marina, sport fishing charters, fine restaurants and a beautiful and challenging golf course. Within the gated community are two tennis courts, a basketball court, three swimming pools, a barbecue, clubhouse, private beach and 24-hour security. The entire property is set within a lush tropical rain forest, boasting loads of wildlife. There is an independent apartment with one bedroom, kitchen and living room. The stunning villa, just an hour from the international airport at Juan Santamaría, is the essence of luxury escapism – without doubt one of the most extraordinary and striking modern vacation homes on offer in Costa Rica. Price: USD3.5 million. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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BEST OF SKIING

Ski in ski out in the heart of a historical alpine wonderland Stylish chalet apartments in the most beautiful and authentic Savoyard village in the Three Valleys

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Image: Gilles Lansard

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irectly linked to the amazing skiing of Les Trois Vallées is the breathtaking mountain village of St-Martin-de-Belleville – the undiscovered gem in the world’s largest ski area. This wonderful Savoyard village retains the charm of a traditional French Alpine village that has been lost in many modern resorts. Dating to the 16th century, the picture-postcard village boasts a pretty baroque church, small square, original wood and stone barns and first-class skiing. St-Martin-de-Belleville is a sought-after destination for many of the skiers from Courchevel and Méribel who come to enjoy the village, great skiing and the exceptional restaurants, including the Michelin-starred La Bouitte – one of the best restaurants in Les Trois Vallées. The village also boasts three Michelin-listed restaurants: Le Montagnard, serving a fabulous Savoyard menu in an atmospheric converted hayloft; Etoile des Neiges, a smart, traditional restaurant; and Le Grenier, in the Hôtel 20

St-Martin, which is great for that special lunch. St-Martin-de-Belleville is situated in the beautiful Belleville Valley with its superb skiing. The slopes are pleasant blues and reds, including the famous Jerusalem run, a long, rolling, wide red. The Verdent blue from the top of the Méribel lifts is a wonderful relaxing cruise with great views. For experts, the area offers large expanses of gentle and often deserted offpiste, whilst there is also a beginners’ slope. At an altitude of 1450 metres, St-Martin-deBelleville has retained its authentic village atmosphere whilst being part of the vast Trois Vallées ski region. A modern gondola connects skiers to the mighty Trois Vallées circuit in just minutes. The ski area is inexhaustible, with skiing and boarding to suit all abilities. There are over 600 kilometres of pistes with 180 ski lifts providing direct ski access to Les Menuires, Val Thorens (the highest ski resort in Europe), Orelle, Méribel, Courchevel, La Tania and Brides-les-Bains in the neighbouring valleys.

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Travel to St-Martin-de-Belleville is easy: it is 21/4 hours from Geneva and Lyon Airports, 13/4 hours from Grenoble Airport and 1½ hours from Chambéry Airport. High-speed train services - the TGV, Eurostar and Thalys - arrive at the Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-lesBains train station, 20 kilometres from St-Martin-de-Belleville. Rental demand and year-round tourism have boosted the Alpine property market, and demand for ski properties in authentic mountain resorts such as St-Martin-de-Belleville continues to grow. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a gorgeous mountain-chic chalet-style residence in one of the most desirable locations in Les Trois Vallées. The exclusive project in St-Martin-de-Belleville really does come close to perfection, boasting direct access to 600 kilometres of piste, ski in ski out, walking distance to the restaurants, shops and lifts. The property is superbly located on the edge of the slopes of this charming village resort, and consists of only 19 ski in ski out apartments.

Blending traditional elegance with modern sophistication, the 1-to-4-bedroom residences feature 39-94m² of living space. Each ski apartment comes fully furnished and enjoys a balcony and two parking spaces. Surrounded by the alpine beauty of the French Alps, the luxurious ski property features all modern comforts combined with classic Savoyard style. Property owners have access to a range of facilities including a covered heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath and cardio training facilities. The luxury ski apartments are available as a classic freehold purchase with no restrictions on usage. Worlds away from the crowds, relax in stylish mountain homes, with oodles of creature comforts, knowing that the world’s greatest ski area is right at the doorstep. This is an exquisite lifestyle investment. Prices: From €330,000. CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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TROPHY PROPERTY

The Ultimate Address Supremely luxurious beachfront residential masterpiece with priceless panoramas

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arbados in the Caribbean is home to some of the most coveted properties for sale in the world. Barbados is undoubtedly the most glamorous and quintessentially English island in the Caribbean Sea. It has almost become a way of life, synonymous with exclusive hotels and fashionable restaurants. Yet what originally made the island popular – its coral sandy beaches, crystalline blue waters and warm, friendly people – are still very much in evidence. Located in one of the most desirable locations on Barbados’ Platinum Coast, this is a true trophy property that offers not only a luxurious lifestyle, but a bluechip investment in an area where consistent demand is the norm. A trophy property is typically defined as a piece of real estate that is superlative, and not determined solely by price. Other factors such as location and provenance play a large part, if not larger than the actual price. This villa is no exception from that rule. Words cannot describe the splendour of the ultra-luxurious villa, its beachfront setting, its lavish atmosphere and scenic backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, alongside its unquestionable luxurious amenities. Celebrating opulence, glamour and elegance, the singular residence is beyond breathtaking, beyond spectacular, beyond beautiful. The villa is an extraordinary work of art, combining opulent design and a distinctive Balinese influence to spectacular effect, while showcasing dazzling ocean views. The magnificent villa of majestic proportions offers over 10,000 sq.ft. of pure opulence. Perfect for formal entertaining and casual family living, the residential masterpiece features three exquisite bedrooms, multiple reception areas including a bar, a fully www.theaddressmagazine.com

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equipped state-of-the-art Italian kitchen and media room with a large screen and surround sound for cinematic effect. Each of the three bedrooms opens onto a terrace with beach and sea views. The stellar master suite showcases a terrace overlooking the pool and out to the Caribbean Sea, a vast bathroom, an outdoor bamboo shower and a private air-conditioned fitness room. Elegant and sophisticated finishes include high vaulted ceilings, teak floors, custom-made furniture and multiple lily pools stocked with exotic fish. Considered to be one of the finest signature homes on the famed West Coast of Barbados, the villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s singular setting commands extensive beach frontage, bordering the sea, with a beautiful golden sandy beach. Seamlessly blending outdoor living with indoor comfort, the outdoor spaces feature a private garden, covered terraces, an octagonal dining pavilion that overlooks the beach and a stunning 80-foot infinity swimming pool, fringed with elegant coconut trees. A stairway leads down to a private gate, which opens onto the sugar-white sand beach, perfect for swimming and water sports. Perched on a bluff, the villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jaw-dropping setting offers uninterrupted sunset views. The location in a prized and privileged area, close to the famed Lone Star restaurant and bar, ensures that the owners can enjoy the outstanding restaurants, bars and first-class golf courses of the Platinum Coast, all of which are within a few minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive. From local captains of industry to celebrities, jetsetting socialites and international CEOs, this is a home for the global sophisticate in search of the very best. It is clearly one of the finest homes in the world. As well as owning a sensational piece of real estate, the prospective buyer will be investing in one of the most prestigious spots in the Caribbean. Price: USD20 million. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701 www.theaddressmagazine.com

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Follow the smart money – Top property havens 2012 The uncertainty in the U.S. and in the Eurozone, traditionally seen as the most stable regions in the world, means that the best investment options may well be outside these traditional destinations. However, even when buying outside the Eurozone and the United States, the most sustainable strategy is to invest in the best. The importance of quality and differentiation has never been more apparent. Only the very best locations, developments and brands will prosper. Astute property investors found opportunities last year, and as always, they will continue to do so in 2012. Here are a few of the places they may be looking at.

Barbados Retaining an aura of prestige, Barbados enjoys an enviable international reputation for its outstanding record of social, economic and political stability. Barbados’ parliamentary system has been in existence since 1639, making it the 3rd oldest parliament in the British Commonwealth. Also, the country’s freedom from corruption rates high – Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index 2010 ranks Barbados as 2nd in the Americas and 17th among 178 countries. Strong, stable and secure, the Barbados dollar has been pegged to the U.S. dollar at 1.98 to 1 since 1975.

Barbados enjoys a positive image in the marketplace as a reputable International Business Centre of choice and has been successfully attracting Foreign Direct Investment for decades, particularly from Canada and the United States. The country is the 3rd leading destination for Canadian direct investment abroad, garnering CAD$51.7 billion of direct investment by the end of 2010. With daily flights from the U.K., the U.S. and Canada, Barbados is easily accessible by air, attracting an increasing number of holidaymakers, buy-to-let investors and second-home buyers. With its temperate climate, endless beaches, colourful culture and friendly people,

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it is little wonder Barbados has an everexpanding real estate industry. There are no restrictions on foreigners purchasing property in Barbados, but nonresidents need to ensure that all of the funds for purchase are derived from external sources. There is no capital gains tax, inheritance tax or gift tax on Barbados.

With its booming economy, stable political system, a wonderful climate year-round, spectacular scenery and beaches, excellent international travel links and high levels of personal security, Mauritius is now widely recognised as one of the world’s most desirable destinations to live, ranking at the top of numerous global polls.

Mauritius

St. Lucia

Being one of the most accessible islands in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius has not only established itself as a luxury holiday destination, it is also starting to gain a good name among property investors worldwide, as the island is open to foreign buyers thanks to the governmentbacked Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS). Long a favourite with holidaymakers and A-listers, Mauritius is perfect for those who enjoy unspoilt beaches and charming villages that dot the Indian Ocean idyll. But it is also an appealing option for active visitors, with diving, hiking, watersports and 6 championship golf courses on offer. There are financial perks, too. Foreigners can only buy property through the IRS on government-approved high-end resorts and in return receive automatic Mauritian residency and benefit from the island’s low taxes: 15% income tax, minimal capital gains tax and no inheritance tax. Mauritius is a politically and economically stable country, with a strong financial and offshore sector, modern and reliable IT and telecommunications infrastructure, and a comprehensive legal framework, which makes the island highly attractive as a world-class investment destination. Mauritius currently scores in the Top 2 for all 53 African countries in terms of the World Bank’s rankings for personal security, investment, business and rule of law. Mauritius’ GDP has grown faster than 5% annually for almost 30 years. 30

Voted the world’s most beautiful island, with 19,000 acres of rainforest and an array of outstanding beaches, St. Lucia rivals the more established Caribbean destinations. Surrounded by dazzling blue sea, St. Lucia also boasts one of the newest UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Piton Mountains with their surrounding tropical rain forest. Annual tourism grew by 9% during 2010, and reached the highest number of arrivals ever. St. Lucia has seen rapid development in the past few years, as the island’s infrastructure, social facilities and amenities have improved significantly in an effort to meet the demands of its tourism market. St. Lucia’s development is heavily regulated by the government to safeguard the island’s natural beauty, including protected rainforests, estuaries and marine reserves. Economic and political stability, excellent health facilities and direct flights from New York, Miami, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Charlotte, Toronto, Montreal, Puerto Rico, London and Frankfurt means St. Lucia has a lot to offer both tourists and investors. As an ongoing bonus for foreign buyers of property on St. Lucia, there’s no VAT, capital gains tax or inheritance tax, plus the government offers incentives for investors at various resort developments. There are no restrictions on what can be purchased in St. Lucia as a non-resident and all properties should have a registered title.

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St. Lucia represents good value compared to some of its more developed neighbours and is fast emerging as the destination of choice for real estate investment, holiday home or retirement living. St. Lucia’s beauty and lower prices make it ideal for property investment.

Switzerland Situated at the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a world-class destination to live, holiday and invest. Beautiful scenery, excellent transport system, excellent health and education services make Switzerland without a doubt one of the most attractive countries in the world to live and many celebrities and wealthy individuals have done so. They enjoy very attractive Swiss tax advantages, a high degree of privacy and personal security. Additionally, the political and economic stability of Switzerland makes it the ultimate place of residence. In the past it has been difficult for foreigners to buy property in Switzerland. However, recent easing of restrictions has enabled more international buyers to acquire luxury properties. Certain areas of the main Cantons of Vaud, Valais, Fribourg, Bern, Neuchâtel, Ticino and Graubünden now permit overseas purchasers. Numbers of properties available to non-residents are limited, and each Canton is different when it comes to letting property arrangements. Switzerland’s stable, strong economy and tightly controlled supply mean residential prices are less volatile than in many other international markets. With one of the most attractive lifestyles in the world, Switzerland represents strong investment potential.

Brazil Investors looking for key opportunities to increase their portfolios should seriously consider buying property or land in Brazil, 32

one of the world’s fastest-growing investment markets. Sovereign rating in Brazil was recently upgraded, proving Brazil’s status as an attractive haven for investment opportunities. Brazil, with a population of 193.3 million, has overtaken the U.K. to become the world’s sixth-largest economy, according to economists at the Centre for Economics and Business Research, and the government is bolstering long-term GDP growth by increasing infrastructure investments. It is one of the world’s top emerging markets, where the population is growing rapidly in both numbers and affluence. The past 8 years of centre/left government has resulted in a staggering 40% increase in GDP per capita, while a growing and more affluent middle class has resulted in increased consumption. Brazil has been booming, thanks to its huge supply of natural resources, including base and precious metals, oil and gas, and agricultural products. It also has a stable economy, a low risk of serious threats such as war and terrorism, and a strong development policy. This is attracting a lot of foreign investment. With robust demand across the board, Brazilian property is enjoying excellent health. Overall, the outlook is positive for Brazil. A GDP growth of close to 5% is expected through 2013, and preparations for the 2016 Olympic Games and 2014 FIFA World Cup are expected to generate more than $50 billion in new investment. Boasting the perfect climate, stunning scenery, low cost of living and warm, friendly people, the country has all the ingredients for the perfect vacation home: white sand beaches, tropical islands, vibrant cosmopolitan cities and charming colonial towns dot its 7,500-kilometre-long coastline. Inland, Brazil’s tourist attractions include imposing waterfalls, wetlands filled with wildlife, and the untouched wilderness of the Amazon, the largest expanse of rainforest on the planet.

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With all the right drivers for investment, especially property, Brazil has plenty of potential.

The Cayman Islands Situated about 500 miles south of Miami, the economy of Cayman Islands – consisting of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman – is dominated by 2 pillars: International financial services and tourism. The Cayman Islands is considered the 5th largest banking centre in the world. More than 9,000 mutual funds, 260 banks and 80,000 companies operate throughout the islands. It boasts the world’s 14th highest GDP per capita, and the highest standard of living in the Caribbean. These factors fuel the islands’ thriving real estate market. One of the main factors that truly sets Cayman apart from most other Caribbean islands is that Cayman has no direct taxes, With no income tax, no capital gains tax, no property tax and no inheritance tax, the Cayman Islands offers an attractive investment, as well as the stability and security of British Commonwealth state status. There are no restrictions for non-residents looking to purchase real estate in Cayman. The Cayman Islands government guarantees title, which allows purchasers to invest with conﬁdence. Cayman has a modern land registry system, based on the Torrens system, making transfer simple and quick. Tourism is a major industry, accounting for three-quarters of earnings. Each year, 1.5 million visitors experience the islands. Aside from the most beautiful white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, Cayman Islands is also best known for some of the most spectacular diving in the world. Economic and social fundamentals of Cayman are strong, and the country will remain an overseas holiday home hotspot for the foreseeable future.

London, United Kingdom Globally recognised as a leading financial centre, London is home to the 4th largest stock exchange in the world and according to U.K. Trade & Invest (UKTI), the U.K. is the most favoured location for companies to establish their European headquarters. The London real estate market offers good investment prospects for property investors despite the Eurozone crisis. Throughout 2011 investors have increasingly viewed the London real estate market as a relatively safe haven for capital and the instability in other countries appears to have further boosted demand for property in Central London, particularly in the upper price echelons, and the market remains strong. The number of foreign investors buying in London has climbed since 1960 and as U.K. owners tend to hold properties for less time than overseas investors, London’s property market is becoming increasingly international. Overseas investment into London real estate is running at £3.7 billion a year and at this rate, foreign buyers will own all residential property in Greater London by the middle of the next century, according to Savills. Within central London, foreign buyers accounted for 65% of all funds exchanged for properties valued at more than £5 million and for 34% of all London property transactions. Most investment is channelled into high-value residential property areas such as Mayfair, Kensington, Notting Hill and Chelsea, although buyers of high-end properties are starting to spread into less central locations. Property prices in some central London hotspots are set to more than double by 2016, driven by a mix of factors that include volatile financial markets and major new transport projects such as Crossrail – Europe’s largest infrastructure project – according to a report from estate agency Knight Frank.

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As domestic and overseas buyers continue to flock to the security of the prime central London housing market, recognising the importance of a prime London property as a tangible asset within their portfolio, the rarity of supply will continue to support price growth. The investment case for prime London property remains compelling. Over the past 15 years prime London homes have outperformed growth in both the FTSE and MSCI indices, as well as eclipsing gold as an investment.

Canada Canada offers beauty, variety and an enviable quality of life. With so much going for it, it is no wonder that Canada is a big hit among foreign property buyers. The country has everything – from rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, rivers and soft sandy beaches, to a great variety of unique fauna such as grizzly bears, humpback whales and moose. Beyond its natural world, the Canadian realm has cosmopolitan cities and rich history, culture and tradition. With one of the longest ski seasons in the world and a wide and varied range of summer activities, Canada is truly a destination for any season. Politically and economically stable, Canada presents few investment risks. Also underlying its appeal are low population density and a fabulous lifestyle. Canada has the best overall quality of life among the G7. The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) reports that Vancouver (1st), Toronto (4th) and Calgary (5th) rank among the top 5 cities in the world for liveability. At US$1.57 trillion, in 2010 Canada was the world’s 9th largest economy as measured by Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at market exchange rates. Canada’s economy is larger than those of Russia, India and South Korea and rivals leading destinations of foreign direct investments.

Best-in-class financial regulations and strong balance sheets have helped Canada’s banks earn global recognition. While banks around the world collapsed and inter-bank transactions froze in the wake of the global financial crisis, not a single Canadian bank required a bailout. The amount of investment coming to Canada demonstrates foreign investors’ confidence in the Canadian economy. Canada was the world’s 8th-largest recipient of FDI inflows between 2001 and 2010, attracting about US$36 billion a year over this period. A robust domestic property market and an increasing expatriate community are coming together to create a steadily growing housing market that should make for reliable long-term investment. The Canadian property market is one of steady growth rather than spectacular gains, but there is a steady influx of professional tenants as the country’s popularity for immigration and retirement increases. Its growing reputation as a safe and politically neutral country is only likely to enhance this. Canada has a mature, established economy that still offers investment potential in a relatively risk-free environment.

Panama Panama is a favoured destination for retirees and expats looking for homes overseas, thanks to its favourable tax laws, beautiful weather and beaches, first-rate healthcare and growing economy. For such a little country, Panama offers tremendous diversity and you can find almost any lifestyle you might be looking for, from cosmopolitan Panama City to Caribbean island hideaways, Pacific coast fishing villages, colonial cities, mountain towns and expat enclaves But there is more. Panama has the world’s best discount programmes for retirees, called the pensionado. It offers 15-50% off everything, from public transportation to movies, mort-

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gage rates, doctors’ visits, electricity, restaurants, hotels and airfares. The country is fast growing as a popular tourist destination because of special features such as deep-sea fishing, tropical rainforests and river rafting. In addition, there are stunning beaches and wonderful opportunities for diving, kayaking and surfing. Panama is considered to be one of the best-kept “natural” secrets in the world: 40% of forests are protected areas and the country provides over 2% of the world’s oxygen. The nation is sanctuary to hundreds of species – many of them endemic. A total of 7 major indigenous groups continue to live traditionally in vast nature reserves. The Tocumen Airport expansion is ongoing and total investment is over US$68 million. The airport, known as the Hub of the Americas, is home to Panama’s Copa Airlines, which will soon boast new aircraft and service to 7 new cities: Toronto, Nassau, Brasilia, Porto Alegre, Chicago, Cucuta and Asuncion. According to the IMF, Panama has one of the fastest growing economies in Latin America. It is projected that real GDP growth will have exceeded 8.5% in 2011, thanks to the uninterrupted infrastructure investments, along with diversifying the economy. Analysts predict growth in 2012 to be somewhat slower at 7%, but still a figure that makes Panama’s economy look recession-proof and ripe for foreign investment. Growth has been spurred by revitalized tourism, increased flights and port activities, along with strong commerce in the Colón Free Zone, Panama’s large trade area, and a major commercial distribution centre for the Latin America and Caribbean region. The ongoing US$5.25 billion expansion of the Panama Canal, which began in 2007 and is expected to be completed in 2014, accounts for about 25% of GDP. The project will allow the canal to accommodate larger ships, creating 7,000 direct jobs and 35,000 indirect 36

jobs in the complementary services sector and canal transit activities. The canal expansion will also increase Panama’s revenue from shipping tolls and exports. Annual trade growth is expected to be 11.6%. The government also plans to invest billions in infrastructure to help boost growth. More than US$13 billion worth of infrastructure projects is planned, including the US$1.2 billion metro system, scheduled to open in 2014. For those looking for a second home or retirement place, Panama should be at the top of the list.”

Thailand Thai property is popular with all types of real estate buyers and is set to increase in popularity as the country continues to invest heavily in its tourist infrastructure and economy. It is a vibrant, exotic, charming and exciting country that offers property investors good mediumto long-term potential. With more than 14 million international arrivals, Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It has one of the most active tourism industries in the world, and has become the gateway to the rest of the AsiaPacific region and Indochina. The country enjoys a diverse landscape. In the north are mountains and forests, whereas in the northeast are semi-arid farmlands. The Central Plains cradle the country’s vast rice fields, and in the south are Thailand’s famed tropical islands and its long coastline. Popular destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui and Pattaya are most in demand among second-home buyers and property investors. Phuket is becoming known as the Asian Rivera. The region is consistently rated as one of the world’s greatest sailing, diving and golfing playgrounds, with its countless beaches and natural wonders to explore. Phuket has a broad range of first-class hospitals, restaurants,

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nightlife and shopping, with an international airport that offers a huge number of flights to many Asian gateways. In addition, up to 50 private jets arrive each week during the high season, as the international elite fly in and out of the island on an increasingly regular basis. The island of Koh Samui has in the last decade attracted the attention of many foreigners who have decided to live or to invest. The beauty of the island, the classic tropical paradise, the hospitality of the people, moderate cost of living and, above all, the continuous development of the island have been the main drivers. Samui is living a period of increasing and impressive development, like Pukhet years ago. Now Samui is quickly becoming known as the Pearl of the Gulf of Thailand. Just under an hour’s flight from Bangkok, the island is a perfect place to purchase a retirement or holiday home. Pattaya is one of the most preferred retirement and second-home destinations in Thailand, attracting foreign and Thai investors. Pattaya’s strategic location will continue to be a key driver of growth in tourism and its property market. It is the closest beachside town to Bangkok, just over an hour’s drive from the capital, and offers an impressive range of 5-star amenities. Regarded as one of Asia’s top beach resorts, Pattaya is home to more than 30 international-standard golf courses, making it a tourist’s dream destination. These factors make Pattaya well positioned for further growth. For savvy investors looking to get an early start on the next big thing, Koh Pha Ngan, Krabi and Koh Chang are all starting to attract major interest.

France never goes out of fashion Although in the Eurozone, France remains a property hotspot. The country has much to offer visitors, expatriates and investors alike, and this factor creates a highly buoyant property market. Over the years, investment property in France has enjoyed success. Due to many natural and economic factors, France is still an ideal location

for many of today’s wise property investors who seek a stable, though buoyant market in which to make their next purchase. Tourism is a vital element of any property market and few countries can compete on the same level as France in attracting overseas visitors. Geographical diversity, natural and cultural attractions, combined with chic, cosmopolitan atmosphere and cities such as Paris, Nice and Cannes, are some of the driving factors. Add beautiful rural towns and villages, with that unmistakable French charm that continues to draw visitors, second-home buyers and expatriates. The fact is that France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and this is unlikely to change any time soon. The Languedoc and Limousin regions are currently attracting greater interest than usual from buyers looking to benefit from a laid-back French lifestyle without having to pay the Provençal prices, along with the Green Perigord region to the north of the Dordogne. The French enjoy the best quality of life in Europe, according to several surveys. The elements that have contributed most to France’s success include a lower retirement age, more days holiday per year, more hours of sunshine annually and more government spending on healthcare and education. Capital appreciation, while not as high as in some emerging markets, is considered to be profitable and reliable within a stable investment climate. The French estate agent trade body, the French National Association of Immobiliers (FNAIM), has forecasted an increase in prices of 6% across France throughout 2011 and 2012, with the most popular areas, such as Paris and the French Riviera, forecasted to rise by as much as 15%. Feature provided by Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com

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luxury algarve

Cool. Conceptual Modern aesthetics, breathtaking views define this villa

he Algarve is one of the most popular holiday and second home destinations in Europe, famed for its fantastic weather whatever the season, wonderful beaches and worldclass golf courses. The Algarve property market has grown steadily since the early 1980s to become one of the top destinations for those seeking real estate in Portugal – either as a holiday home or as a permanent dwelling. One of the most sought-after areas in the Algarve is Porto de Mós, located just outside the historical town of Lagos. This beautiful town boasts cobbled streets and flower38

bedecked squares, offering a wide variety of restaurants, bars, cafés, shopping and markets. Porto de Mós is a destination of outstanding natural beauty and boasts one of Portugal’s finest beaches. It is ideally situated to take advantage of the western Algarve’s exceptional golf courses and beaches. Outdoor activities include scuba diving, deep sea fishing, sailing and yachting. For those seeking sophistication and style, this contemporary villa, located in an idyllic setting that faces the beach in Porto de Mós, caters to the desires of the modern

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lifestyle. The sleek, contemporary villa sports a modern sculptural look and affords unobstructed panoramas of the ocean. Inspired by the bold, minimalist lines of architectural aesthetics, the beachfront villa is a unique statement of design. Excellent craftsmanship with exacting attention to detail. Clever use of natural light and space. Seamlessly harmonising interior and exterior. This is modern living at its finest. Facing the spectacular beach, the brand new 441m² architecturally significant house features a master suite with Jacuzzi, four additional bedrooms, impressive living-dining room with open-plan kitchen and laundry room. The luxury villa also comes with an enormous 203m² basement/garage, suitable for up to five cars. From basement to top floor, the villa is serviced by an elevator.

The elegant villa sits on a private 530m² plot with a heated swimming pool and large veranda with barbecue. Sweeping panoramas of the beach and ocean complete the magnificent setting for the wonderful family home. Whether it is a stunning holiday home or permanent residence, the villa will be a sound investment, situated in a prime location that affords excellent rental potential. Enjoy the very best in stylish, modern, beachfront lifestyle. Price: €1.4 million. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Modern Marvel Beachfront villa filled with stunning views

or those in search of that amazing lifestyle along with a reliable property investment, Algarve real estate is hard to beat. With Europe’s sunniest climate, the region remains popular with second home owners and buy-to-let investors. As one of the world’s top golf destinations, with an abundance of world-class courses set among some of Europe’s most beautiful surroundings, the Algarve enjoys strong international appeal. Add the scenic landscape, Blue Flag sandy beaches, charming towns and nature reserves, and it is easy to see why the Algarve is one of the most enduringly popular second home locations. One of the most picturesque towns in the Algarve is Lagos, known for its spectacular rock formations, its historical centre and a wealth of architecture and monuments. The town also is set amidst some of the most beautiful coastline in the entire region. The most prestigious area of Lagos is Porto de Mós, boasting one of the best beaches in the Algarve. It is also a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, offering a selection of fine courses. This exceptional beachfront villa is situated in front of Porto de Mós Beach. The villa is truly blessed with remarkable and uninterrupted views of the ocean that stretch on forever. Walk down a few steps to a glorious sandy beach lapped by crystal-clear waters, waiting to provide endless days of swimming, sunbathing and relaxation.

Inspired by the clean-cut minimalism and innovative design of the Bauhaus style of architecture, the villa connects light, geometry and space within a sleek structure with a functional floor plan and stylish interior detailing. Encompassing 315m² of living space, the elegant villa features four bedrooms, a lovely living-dining area with fireplace, breathtaking sea views and direct access to the swimming pool. There is a modern open-plan kitchen, a garage and laundry room. Glass walls frame those panoramic vistas and open to balconies and a veranda that allow for the very best of that indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Sitting on a private plot of 530m², the villa comes with landscaped gardens, a stunning heated infinity pool, barbecue and decking. The villa is ideally located to offer great rental potential, holiday use or even year-round residency if desired. Stylishly designed and positioned for the views, the distinctive home has fantastic appeal. Price: €1 million. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury aNDALUSIA

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A truly celestial setting www.theaddressmagazine.com

Breathtaking vistas of la Alhambra and a historic address complement a remarkable property

ranada is a magical combination of Arabic architecture, white houses, snow-capped mountains and nearby beaches, unmistakable and truly incomparable. A city of fascinating history and exquisite beauty, it is without a doubt one of the most spectacular cities in Spain. The province of Granada boasts that you can ski in the Sierra Nevada in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean Sea in the afternoon. The landscape includes the snowy peaks of that majestic mountain range, the white-washed villages nestled amongst the slopes and valleys of the Alpujarras, and finally the sparkling blue waters and sandy beaches of the Mediterranean’s Costa Tropical. In this land of dramatic natural beauty and with the Sierra Nevada as a striking backdrop, you will find the architectural and cultural splendour of Granada. Granada showcases several UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the stunning la Alhambra, the beautiful Generalife and Albayzín, with its medieval feel. One of the most brilliant jewels of universal architecture is the Alhambra, consisting of a fortress, palace and gardens built under the Nasrid Dynasty in the 14th century. This aweinspiring compound – including the summer palace called Generalife, with its fountains and gardens – stands at the foot of Spain’s highest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada, and overlooks the city and the fertile plain of Granada. The Alhambra is the most popular attraction in Spain, with nearly three million visitors each year, ahead of Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the Prado Museum 44

in Madrid. Harmoniously integrating nature and architecture, the Alhambra represents the zenith of Arabic art. On the hill opposite the Alhambra is the Albayzín, an enchanting old Moorish quarter or medina, and one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Europe. It is a picturesque maze of narrow cobblestone streets that wind between squares and ancient houses with secluded inner gardens, known as cármenes. This is a singular opportunity to own a prestigious property majestically situated on 8,000m², with panoramic views overlooking the splendid grandeur of Alhambra. Few properties can claim a better vantage point than the classic villa located in the heart of the popular Albayzín district of Granada, providing picture-perfect views of Alhambra’s splendour. The imposing villa boasts an expansive living space of 1,000m², featuring ten bedrooms. Here is a superb chance to acquire a unique property that could become a gorgeous boutique hotel or a capacious and magnificent private residence (subject to consent). Grandly scaled and impressively sited in the midst of a spectacular setting, this is Granada at its best. Price upon request. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Andalusian Avant-Garde Sleek lines, contemporary design and elegant finishes define this modern villa

ne of the most beautiful areas in Southern Europe, the Costa de la Luz – Coast of Light – is a section of the Andalusian coastline running east-west from the windsurfers’ paradise of Tarifa near Gibraltar, up to Ayamonte on the Portuguese border. The coast takes its name from the pure light that touches the rolling dunes and amazing cliffs that characterise its stunning and unspoilt scenery. Costa de la Luz boasts long stretches of dune-studded beaches with glorious sunsets and quaint seaside villages. The interior of the region offers everything that epitomises Andalucia, including white hilltop villages, the superbly historic cities of Sevilla and Cadiz, which are full of Spanish charm, the Doñana National Park, the famous wine cellars of Jerez de la Frontera and its fine Andalusian horses. The area is popular with Spanish second home buyers and growing numbers of foreign investors. This is an excellent choice if you are looking for stunning beaches and the real Spanish experience. Elegance and comfortable modern living merge beautifully in this strikingly contemporary house, located only two kilometres from the magnificent beaches of Novo Sancti Petri, in the Province of Cadiz. The property is a minimalist’s dream, featuring

clean white lines and a range of designer furniture. The unique residence combines an intelligent open plan layout, flawless functionality and awe-inspiring contemporary style. Designed for stylish living and superb entertaining, the ultra-modern villa offers a relaxing holiday environment that lives in harmony with timeless design precision. The luxury villa offers an expansive living space of 400m², featuring six bedrooms, an elegant kitchen, wonderful living room and dining area. It also incorporates under-floor heating and has a 7-car garage. The luxurious property has been constructed to the highest of standards using top-quality materials and fittings, with marble, granite and glass finishes throughout. The exclusive villa features a private garden and a stunning salt-water swimming pool, ensuring all the finest benefits of outdoor living. Elegant, striking and glamorous, the villa truly redefines modern living in Andalucia. Price: €1.5 million. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury ATHENS

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Style & sophistication Panoramic views meet classic elegance in luxury villa

hile Greek economy makes negative headlines, some Greek corporations are doing very well and are not only growing, but continue investing. Recently, there has been a significant number of international and Greek high net worth buyers inquiring about prime real estate in Athens. Here is an opportunity to acquire an inspiring dream home situated at a prestigious address in the exclusive Politia area. The deluxe villa represents the epitome of fine living. One of the most prominent suburbs of Athens, Politia is home to most key Greek politicians and leading business people as well as successful artists. The area boasts some of the finest properties in Athens. Situated on an elevated position, the luxurious villa commands splendid panoramic views of Athens, all the way to the sea. With large sweeping windows opening the way to spectacular vistas and dazzling sunsets, the villa speaks eloquently of Greece’s timeless beauty. Created for everyday family living and fine entertaining, the home offers 610m² of gorgeous living space, with all three levels finished in excellent quality materials. The superb residence features five bedrooms, impressive double-height living and dining area, modern kitchen with sitting area and Amana, Miele and Neff appliances. The house

includes a TV room, office, laundry room, large family room, gym and sauna. A glamorous, glossy black Young Chang Baby Grand Piano, antiques from Asia and designer furniture from luxury brands such as Armani, Interni and Andrew Martin add a stylish ambience to the unique villa. With its large garden, the villa provides the best in indoor comfort and outdoor living. Standout features include a wonderful heated swimming pool, stunning Ipe hardwood deck, pool room, children’s playground and custom outdoor furniture, including a sensational lounging area. The villa is brimming with tech features including dimmable C-Bus lighting system, central stereo system with speakers in every room, fire extinguishing system connected to the pool and state-of-the-art alarm and security system. Elegance and sophistication define this family home that provides a modern lifestyle of prestige and luxury. Price: €4.35 million (excl. furniture). CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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luxury BARBADOS

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Timeless luxury living www.theaddressmagazine.com

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The villas’ elegant design complements a scenic setting

arbados real estate offers great opportunities to own that dream home in the Caribbean. The island is home to some of the most magnificent properties to be found anywhere. Idyllic climate aside, it is an island of unspoilt charm and natural beauty that is rich in culture and steeped in history. Known as the “Little England” of the Caribbean, visitors may experience that unique quality that comes from the marriage of the island’s traditions and its British colonial history. Barbados boasts the most gracious hospitality, a place to enjoy everything from afternoon tea to cricket matches thrumming to the beat of reggae music. Sports enthusiasts are spoilt for choice, with horse racing, yearround polo and four 18-hole championship golf courses on offer. The national sport is cricket and Barbados is a regular host of international matches. The island’s pristine beaches and waters are wonderful for deep-sea fishing, kite, wind and board surfing, sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling and the unique experience of swimming with turtles. A stable U.S. dollar-based currency, social and political stability, a growing economy, first-class telecommunications and health care system combine www.theaddressmagazine.com

to put Barbados real estate in high demand. Located on the privileged Platinum Coast, Apes Hills Club is the Caribbean’s premier golf and polo estate. Set on a historical sugar plantation, nearly 1,000 feet above the west coast’s pristine beaches, the elite community offers panoramic sea views in all directions and is cooled by pleasant trade winds. Only a third of the 470-acre site will be developed with lowdensity residential properties, leaving the majority of open fields and woodland untouched. The whole elevated setting exudes peace and tranquillity, yet lively Holetown, with its shops, restaurants, cafés and bars, is a mere 10-minute drive away. Also close by are the beautiful beaches of the west coast, while only 20 minutes by car from the Atlantic coast. Property buyers will enjoy the beauty, diversity and privacy of Apes Hills Club, where indoor and outdoor living is combined with style and elegance. With an impressive array of on-site leisure facilities, acres of sensational countryside to explore and a luxurious spa, you can choose to participate in a range of exciting sports, or simply relax in the shade of a banyan tree. Residents may explore the natural wonders of Apes Hill Club, from tropical 53

forests filled with vibrant flowers, exotic birds and inquisitive green monkeys, to rolling meadows where the polo ponies graze. The 18-hole championship golf course is one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive where only property owners are offered membership. The course spans the whole Apes Hill Club Estate, with reminders of the estate’s historic past imaginatively incorporated, including a coral quarry, natural cave, old kiln and deep ravine. Around the course are spectacular views of the Caribbean and the Atlantic coastlines. Residents of Moonshine Ridge may become members of the exclusive Port St. Charles Beach & Yacht Club. Members can enjoy all-day dining and bar service, as well as access to one of the finest beaches on the island. The convivial setting offers dazzling views of the white sandy beaches of the Platinum Coast.

Another major attraction is the magnificent Apes Hill Polo Club, with full-sized polo field and resident coach. Drop by to watch worldclass international polo, where players recently included members of the British Royal Family, or join in to a match. Or simply take advantage of the excellent riding and stabling facilities. Complementing the breathtaking scenic beauty of the environs perfectly, Moonshine Ridge takes Caribbean luxury living to the next level. It occupies a prime location on the top of a forested ridge, gently sloping toward the Caribbean Sea and bordered by the 10th and 11th fairways of a championship golf course. The Moonshine Ridge development has been master planned to provide awe-inspiring views of the Platinum Coast. With just 36 lots averaging 0.75 acres, this is one of Apes Hill Club’s most prestigious

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communities. There is ample room on each plot for a large family house of up to six bedrooms, infinity pool, gated driveway and landscaped garden. Most of the lots will accommodate spacious guest cottages, too. While buyers may design their own villa, there are nine signature designs to choose from. Encompassing 4,100-7,000-plus sq.ft. of living space, the villas feature spacious hand-built kitchens equipped with built-in Miele appliances and impressive living areas. The villas and homes have been designed to fully capture the colonial Barbadian architecture with modern flair. Architectural features include warm coral stone, vaulted doorways, jalousie windows, polished granite and hand-

finished hardwood. Together, they create a refined and sumptuous home that is in perfect harmony with the surroundings. The villas for sales at Moonshine Ridge are sure to make a statement, offering a once-in-alifetime opportunity to create an exceptional Caribbean home. Land prices range from USD750,000 to USD1.75 million. Villa prices range from USD2,920,027 to USD6.5 million. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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Lifestyle. Luxury. Location. Elegant tropical retreat provides the quintessential Caribbean living

arbados luxury real estate has been fuelling the continued demand for Caribbean investment property. Buyers are lured by its excellent infrastructure, tropical climate and exceptional quality of life, making Barbados the jewel of the Caribbean for tourists and property investors alike. Barbados properties have proven to be some of the most secure real estate investments in the region. The island remains a strong location for investment as tourists flock to Barbados in search of that idyllic holiday home in the sun. Barbados is undeniably a great place to own a holiday home or investment property. The lovely people, the plethora of top-end restaurants and beach bars, the pure white sandy beaches and clear blue waters provide ample opportunities to relax and escape. This first-class gated community of only 30 premier townhouses not only offers beauty and elegance, it is wonderfully located on Barbadosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; famed West Coast. The exclusive development is set amidst beautifully landscaped grounds of indigenous trees, plants and water features, creating a gorgeous tropical environment merely a short walk from the beach. With 2,600 sq.ft. of living space, each townhouse offers Old World charm with all the comforts and sophistication of a modern luxury home â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all at a remarkably affordable price. The property is the ideal Caribbean holiday home as well as offering a very good rental opportunity. Classic Colonial architectural design blends with modern and traditional elements to present a gracious villa that boasts three bedrooms, a spacious living and dining

area, fully fitted and elegant Italian kitchen with European appliances, bathrooms with Philippe Starck fittings and home entertainment system. Finished to the highest specification, the whole design is gloriously stylish, open and airy. With a tasteful blend of fine architectural details and stunning furnishings, the splendid home is picture-perfect and move-in-ready. Ideal for enjoying the quintessential Caribbean indoor-outdoor lifestyle, each townhouse boasts its own private garden with a plunge pool and beautifully furnished patio. Designed for comfort and peace of mind, owners have access to on-site amenities such as a clubhouse with a large swimming pool and bar, food delivery service and tennis court. On-site management, housekeeping, maintenance staff and concierge services are also available. The fully furnished residences are superbly located, just a short walk from Mullins Beach, one of the best beaches on the Platinum Coast. Whilst easily accessible to restaurants, shops and entertainment, the property exudes tranquillity, nestled in a quiet neighbourhood in the parish of St. Peter. The freehold properties represent a solid investment, with unlimited lifestyle potential and real estate value. Prices: From USD575,000. CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury COSTA BARCELONA MARESME

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Pure Lines â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;If you want a more interesting life, you couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do anything better than live within fine architectureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; - John Lautner, architect Modern architecture is a style as well as a lifestyle. Among their distinctive traits, modern homes are open, and are characterized by a freedom from confinement and a strong connection to the outdoors. The brilliance of the modern house is in the flexible floor plan that flows seamlessly from one space to the next. With emphasis on openness, glass is a dominant material in modernist architecture, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. Modern homes are further defined by clean lines, clear volumes and elegant simplicity, which offers plenty of lightness. Elegant in scale, architecturally exquisite and with lovely sea views, this is undoubtedly one of the finest designed homes in Costa Barcelona-Maresme. The minimalist, airy architecture and high-aesthetics interior design, combined with cutting-edge technology, provide a lifestyle that suspends the boundaries of ordinary living. Offering the ultimate in contemporary living with expansive, light-filled www.theaddressmagazine.com

interiors, sophisticated design and a fluid open layout, the designer residence promises a luxurious indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Massive floor-to-ceiling glass panes and sliding doors merge, inside and outside, into one. On the other side of the glass walls, patios and outdoor entertaining areas encircle the home, extending living areas into the great outdoors. Interiors are sleek and serene, combining natural elements like wood and stone with contemporary design. Offering 800mÂ˛ of living space, the exclusive residence boasts an extensive choice of formal and informal areas for the whole family to spread out and enjoy. With masterful archi60

tecture and stunning design, the modern villa is a magnum opus showcase for its five bedrooms, the expansive living area with a wonderful stone fireplace, a loft-style luxury Bulthaup kitchen, office, laundry area and glass elevator. The ultra-modern villa features a spa area with indoor heated swimming pool and gym, home theatre, impressive family room and separate guest suite. The state-of-the-art home automation system provides the owners with the ultimate in control of their interior environment, from lighting to temperature. Occupying a generous plot size of 1,950mÂ˛, the

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ultra-stylish villa comes with a large terrace, garden and swimming pool. Wonderfully located on the Maresme Coast, the villa is located in the exclusive community of El Masnou, an area marked by prestige properties. The top four characteristics that buyers like about Costa Maresme (also known as the Barcelona Coast) are the beautiful countryside, wide sandy beaches, the pleasant micro-climate and proximity to Barcelona by road and rail. The Maresme region is just ten minutes from Barcelona and 30 minutes from Girona and the Costa Brava. The area is famous for its wine and gastronomy and is an excellent place to practise all types of outdoor sports.

There is also a good range of both local and international schools – the new British School of Cataluñya will open in Argentona this year – which has contributed to the area’s growing popularity amongst international property buyers. Perfect for the design aficionado, this superb residence makes a statement in striking contemporary style in a sought-after area. Price upon request. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury CRETE

Landmarks of luxury The private waterfront paradise overlooks the legendary island of Spinalonga and the endless blue Mediterranean Sea

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ith sun, sea and ancient majesty, Crete continues to attract buyers drawn to the idea of owning a picture-perfect island hideaway. With its unique mixture of culture, tradition and laid-back charm and with all the amenities of modern living available yearround, demand for Crete properties is not just for those seeking holiday homes, but also for those moving to the island permanently. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. It is a land of astonishing diversity and natural 64

beauty. The alluring isle presents a glorious kaleidoscope of ochre-coloured ruins, strikingly clear blue water, golden beaches and silver-green olive groves. With its variety of stunning landscapes, majestic mountain peaks and contrast between the cosmopolitan cities and archaeological sites, Crete is an idyllic place for that dream home. The island is a sun-drenched paradise, with beautiful sandy beaches, picturesque fishing villages, bustling harbours, sheltered coves

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and translucent seas in all shades of blue and green. And as the most southerly part of Europe, Crete enjoys one of the healthiest and warmest climates in Europe, with over 300 days of sunshine each year. The allure of lavish waterfront living in Crete is found in this exclusive development of only seven ultra-luxury villas. It is a magical place, to be experienced by some and desired by many. The limited-edition villas are set in the select location of the enchanting village of Plaka, near Agios Nikolaos in eastern Crete. The area

is already synonymous with the very best of fine living, and Plaka is fast developing a name to rival that of its famous neighbour, Elounda, situated just a 5-minute drive away. Setting new standards for an elite lifestyle and a sound investment for the future, the property boasts spectacular panoramic views and a true front-line location. Facing the island of Spinalonga, the prestigious enclave has been developed in response to the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s need for superior quality permanent residences. The deluxe villas are an easy 5-minute stroll to

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the delightful village of Plaka, which is becoming renowned for its waterfront tavernas and restaurants offering the best seafood in the area. The beautiful natural setting and dazzling sea views provide an idyllic backdrop for both relaxation and entertaining. Exquisitely appointed on all three levels, the villas boast elegance at its finest, with an incredibly spacious plan encompassing 675-1,539m² of impeccable living areas. The grand villas feature five or ten bedrooms, open-plan Bontempi designer kitchen with a kitchen island and Gaggenau appliances, plus impressive living and dining areas. Each magnificent villa comes with a private gym and sauna, hamam and spa treatment room, housekeeper’s bedroom, elevator and 6-car garage. Every luxury has been thought of and well executed in these stunning seafront villas – from the access to their own secluded, private beach, to smart home technology. Only the finest of materials and workmanship have been tastefully employed in these homes to blend refined classic island style with clean modern lines of understated sophistication. Contemporary and traditional architecture are combined and feature whitewashed walls, grey local stone, Italian wooden floors, wooden pergolas and decking. The exceptional villas are complemented with private landscaped plots of 2,199-4,912m², spacious terraces, outdoor kitchen with barbecue and multiple outdoor living areas ideal for lounging and entertaining in style. A warm, subtle palette sets the stage for the dramatic centrepiece: a private infinity pool, from which are seen the most brilliant views of the sea and sky. Each property is sited so as to offer optimum unobstructed sea panoramas, while retaining maximum privacy and blending naturally with its scenic surroundings. Services offered to residents include maintenance, security, driver, personal assistance and cook and housekeeper. This is island living as the ultimate luxury. Prices: From €2.55million. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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luxury FLORENCE

Gracious Heritage The historic palace residence offers uncompromising luxury, opulence and exclusivity

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Few cities can boast the wealth of artistic and architectural masterpieces to be found within the walls of the city of Florence, the undisputed birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Set in Tuscany, on the banks of the River Arno, Florence is one of Italy’s best-loved cities, providing a haven for art lovers. It boasts iconic Renaissance architecture and a multitude of museums and galleries, including the worldfamous Palazzo Pitti and the Uffizi Gallery. There are nearly 70 museums and art galleries, numerous palaces and 24 historic churches, including the Basilica di San Lorenzo, one of the oldest churches in Florence, the Brancacci Chapel with its outstanding frescoes, the cavernous Santa Maria Novella, and Santa Croce, the burial place of some of the most illustrious Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Rossini. Santa Croce is thus known as the Temple of the Italian Glories. Florence’s glorious Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (commonly known as Il Duomo) is the icon of the city because of the beauty and magnificence of Brunelleschi’s design and its striking impact on the skyline of Florence. Florence’s oldest bridge, the beautiful Ponte Vecchio, is lined with sophisticated jewellers’ and goldsmiths’ workshops. Peaceful and scenic, Boboli Gardens sits perched above historic Florence, affording wonderful views over the city and the surrounding landscape. To be in Florence is to experience a magical city that is as ancient as it is modern. It is also a great base to explore the rest of Tuscany, see the medieval cities of Pisa, Sienna, Lucca and the rolling countryside of the Chianti region. This magnificent historic palace, located within the architectural splendour of Florence, is a residence whose setting, pedigree and elegance put it at the very top as one of the finest offerings in Florence real estate.

For those who can allow themselves such a luxury, this is the ultimate way to enjoy the grandeur of Tuscany’s – and Europe’s – cultural heartland. Housed in a 16th-century Florentine palazzo, the rare and elegant home is rich with history and gracious in its architectural details, evoking the opulence of a bygone era. Designed for fine living and entertaining, the residence combines a graceful floor plan with elegance and volume – each capacious room flowing into the next. Spacious living is epitomised by the 350m² architecturally magnificent residence, featuring three bedrooms, two grand living rooms and an office that could be converted to another bedroom. Stately and refined, the breathtaking interiors are characterised by architectural elements and precious details such as grand halls, oak wood floors and hand-painted frescoes and ceilings throughout the home. The stunning and classically elegant piano nobile apartment also enjoys beautiful balconies and terraces, which open up to a lovely courtyard below. There is parking for two cars. Wonderfully located, the prestigious residence is just a few minutes’ walk from the Duomo Cathedral and the Ponte Vecchio. It is located on Borgo degli Albizi, a narrow cobble-stoned street, which is home to many local designers, artisans, antique shops and traditional food stores. This is a trophy property in Florence for the connoisseur of opulent architecture and living. Price upon request. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury FRENCH ALPS

The beauty and luxury of mountain living Stylish and authentic ski properties that preserve the look and feel of traditional Alpine living 70

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Image: Courchevel Tourisme / Patrick Pachod

ne of the most sought-after destinations for those in search of glorious snow, the French Alps have long been a firm favourite amongst the ranks of serious skiers. With its crisp, clear mountain air, its stunning scenery and Michelin-starred restaurants totalling into the double figures, it is no wonder the glitz and the glamour never cease to please even the most discerning international clientele. Well known as one of the best resorts not only in France but in the world, Courchevel is both a 72

traditional mountain village and a world-class ski resort. With its perfectly groomed runs, excellent ski record and beautiful scenery, it is easy to see why people return to Courchevel year after year. Courchevel is the most glamorous section of the Three Valleys (Les Trois VallĂŠes), attracting a large number of VIPs, A-list celebrities and Parisian society. It has its own airstrip (altiport), with the largest area for private planes of any ski resort in the world. This was the airport

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that was used in the opening sequence of the James Bond film, Tomorrow Never Dies, where it filled in for Russia. Being in the heart of the Three Valleys, a 600-kilometre playground with infinite possibilities, the skiing is truly outstanding. As one of the largest ski areas in the world, the Three Valleys provides high-altitude, world-class skiing, as well as a guarantee of great snow all season. The area links three genuine French classic resorts: Europe’s highest, Val Thorens, the ultimate chalet resort of Meribel, and the legendary Courchevel. The Courchevel Valley alone provides 150 kilometres of marked trails, regarded as amongst the world’s best, as well as 10,000 hectares of off-piste skiing. The slopes are predominantly north-facing, meaning that the snow in Courchevel remains in great condition throughout the season. Reflecting the exquisite Alpine lifestyle, this ski property delivers understated elegance and fine mountain living. The ski community is being developed for those looking for comfort and elegance in an Alpine setting, yet with the guardianship of the environment always at the forefront. The property is best described as mountain-chic, perfectly combining its prime position in Courchevel with the most modern comfort and luxury. Built in the traditional Savoyard style of wood and stone with slate roofs, there will be 82 elegant, serviced apartments in four chaletstyle buildings. The residences offer hotel-style services, along with all the comforts of home. Buyers will have a choice of 1-to-4-bedroom apartments and duplex penthouses, ranging from 38-141m² of luxury space. The elegant ski residences are fully furnished and each apartment comes with private balcony, fully fitted kitchen and bathrooms,

underground parking space and a cave. Optional wood-burning fireplaces present an ambiance of warmth and old-fashioned charm. The luxurious chalet apartments evoke an atmosphere of tradition with a touch of modern flair and conveniences: oak doors, parquet flooring in the bedrooms, tile flooring, ceramic hob, microwave, dishwasher and underfloor heating. For convenience and peace of mind, the property offers luxury amenities and services such as indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, massage rooms, reception and lounge area, ski room and a rental management program. The concierge service will open a world of possibilities where anything is made possible: try a new action sport, go hiking on the glaciers, dine in one of the greatest restaurants in the world. Each mountain home is professionally managed and provides a hassle-free second home ownership opportunity. There is maximum flexibility, with owners able to stay in their freehold property whenever they wish – up to 30 days in winter and up to 15 days in summer. It may also be possible to reclaim the VAT on the property’s acquisition price. The magical and beautiful setting of Courchevel 1650 Moriond is a winter wonderland surrounded by snow-topped trees, ski in ski out and the buzzing centre of Courchevel at the doorstep, just a stone’s throw away from the ski lifts. It is perfect for those thinking of glossing up their lifestyle in a much-sought location or styling up their portfolio with an alpine investment. Price: From €288,629 (excl. VAT). CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Timeless elegance The gorgeous mountain homes are the pinnacle of alpine luxury and convenience

he legendary winter sport resort of Courchevel – often referred to as the ultimate ski resort – attracts those who demand the very best. It is renowned for having one of the longest ski seasons and the best snow cover in the Alps, and has remained at the top of skiers’ lists of elite resorts for many years. Synonymous with prestige and luxury, the resort is popular with Russian oligarchs, including Roman Abramovich, Vladimir Potanin and Mikhail Prokhorov, and is a firm favourite among American film stars such as George Clooney, Uma Thurman and Bruce Willis. The Courchevel ski area has 62 lifts, several snow parks, 119 downhill ski runs with an immaculate length of 150 kilometres – including some of the best groomed motorway cruising pistes in the world. Courchevel offers phenomenal skiing for every enthusiast, from beginners to advanced and back-country skiers, families and snowboarders.

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Courchevel is part of one of the best ski areas in the world – Les Trois Vallées. The glamorous resort is located at the eastern end of Les Trois Vallées, which incorporates other first-class Alpine villages that include Méribel and Val Thorens, as well as Les Menuires, La Tania, Brides-les-Bains, St-Martin de Belleville and Orelle. Les Trois Vallées ski area is one of the largest in the world, with 600 kilometres of slopes and 200 lifts that cater to the beginner as well as the expert. Discover breathtaking panoramas and magnificent scenery stretching from the Mont Blanc massif in the north to Les Ecrins massif in the south, as well as a unique view over the Swiss and Italian Alps. Famed for its skiing in the midst of the dramatic mountainscape, the alpine resort is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty in summer as well. On offer are a wide variety of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and rafting, all set amidst the beautiful, tranquil alpine landscapes. Courchevel remains one of the most sought-after addresses for ski property in the French Alps. It will always be a sound investment because its location, beauty and charm are simply among the best. This is an extraordinary and rare opportunity to acquire a quintessential alpine home in one of the most coveted locations in the French Alps. The two detached, luxury ski chalets for sale are prestigiously situated at the foot of the slopes at Courchevel 1550. Boasting wonderful ski in

ski out access, chalet residents will certainly enjoy the doorstep skiing. The fantastic ski property is truly a new breed of mountain chalets, with space and style in abundance. An elegance that comes from beauty and true craftsmanship gives the houses a comfortable and warm ambience. Intended for elegant entertaining as well as comfortable living, the traditional chalets have 229m² or 320m² of space, exquisitely designed and executed to perfection. Each chalet provides four ensuite bedrooms, a spacious living room with fireplace and modern kitchen. Designed for easy liveability, the gorgeous mountain-chic chalets enjoy beautiful open plan design, boasting panoramic views of the surroundings. Complementing the dream home will be luxury amenities that include a private spa with Jacuzzi and hammam, ski room, individual private underground garages, and a refined design palette that mixes traditional and modern. Buyers may customise their own floor plan to create that bespoke home. Ski in ski out chalets are some of the most desirable properties in the Alps, providing the most distinguished lifestyle investment for connoisseurs of fine living. Here is the dream mountain hideaway – stylish alpine luxury at its best. Price: From €4.282 million. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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Alpine chic

Stylish ski residences in an idyllic setting

hile many property markets have performed poorly over the last couple of years, the popularity of buying Alpine properties has risen considerably during the same period. Rental demand and year-round tourism have certainly boosted the Alpine property market. As a result, prices in many Alpine locations have not experienced any slackening and are in fact higher than they were four years ago. The forecast for real estate in the French Alps remains snowy and bright, with perfect conditions for those wanting to invest in lifestyle property. The chance to obtain that perfect bolt-hole on the piste, while garnering rental income when it is not in use, continues to attract plenty of attention. The French ski property market provides buyers with a safe, secure asset alongside strong rental demand. Les Gets is the French Alps’ best-kept secret, and with the launch of one of the few new developments in the area, this is a fabulous time to invest in a mountain home. Les Gets is one of the villages that make up the remarkable Portes du Soleil ski area. Situated between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, Portes du Soleil has been one of the biggest players in world skiing for the last 40 years, with 12 linked resorts either side of the French-Swiss border and 650 kilometres of glorious pistes. Presenting a vision of winter perfection, Les Gets offers one of the most envied snowfall records in Europe, wonderful tree-lined ski runs and majestic snow-capped mountain peaks. Full of quiet alpine charm, the enchanting old farm village of Les Gets is made up of traditional chalets in the distinctive Savoyard style, retaining its “chocolate box” status and appeal. Summertime in Les Gets is just as desirable as winter, since it is one of the most popular 78

mountain biking hotspots in Europe. Here, bikers may enjoy miles and miles of tracks, while taking in the stunning scenery of Mont Blanc. Housed in a mainly south-facing chalet-style building, there are five luxury ski apartments boasting magical views of the ski slopes and the picturesque surroundings. These stylish ski residences have been well designed and represent exceptional value for money, with their lovely views, tasteful living areas and great location. Combining traditional Savoyard architecture with high-standard, modern facilities, the elegant mountain homes offer functionality as well as a warm, homely feel. Exposed timbers and wood provide traditional alpine ambiance, with tiled floors in the living areas and carpet in the bedrooms for ease and comfort. Designed with the second home owner and ski enthusiast in mind, the gorgeous mountain-chic ski residences feature one or three bedrooms, fully-fitted kitchens, living areas, balconies and parking spaces. Tastefully refurbished, the highquality ski apartments are being sold furnished and equipped with Wi-Fi, home cinema surround sound and flat screen satellite TVs. Wonderfully located, the luxury ski property is situated at the entrance to the village, just across from the new high-speed Les Perrières ski lift. The elegant property offers second home buyers an attractive residential opportunity for an exquisite lifestyle and a rewarding real estate investment. Prices: From €195,000. CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Stylish Alpine Luxury The gorgeous chalet apartments combine mountain chic with idyllic living and legendary skiing

ituated at the edge of Vanoise National Park in the beautiful Savoie region of France, the village of Courchevel is a winter wonderland as well as a chic alpine ski resort. Courchevel is widely recognised as one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world, 80

giving skiers direct access to the Three Valleys (Les Trois VallĂŠes). With 600 kilometres of interconnected slopes and 180 ski lifts, the Three Valleys is the largest skiable area in the world. Most seasoned Three Valleys veterans agree that Courchevel has

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the best breadth and variety of skiing of the ski resorts in the region. The scenery is stunning and the Courchevel pistes are renowned as some of the bestkept in the world, making this a Mecca for skiers and snowboarders alike. In the summer months, the resort is a paradise for walkers, cyclists and climbers. With 250 kilometres of mountain bike trails, horse riding, fishing, canoeing, orienteering, archery and much more, it is no wonder that the resort has become increasingly popular among summer holidaymakers.

Quieter and prettier than glitzy neighbour Courchevel 1850, the resort of Courchevel 1650 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also known as Moriond â&#x20AC;&#x201C; exudes that authentic village feel, with old chalets and barns and extensive local skiing. Located at the far side of the Three Valleys, Courchevel 1650 is somewhat off the beaten track, and as a result experiences fewer crowds. Also, with its excellent north-facing ski slopes, which still retain the sun late into the afternoon, Courchevel 1650 always seems to have the best snow conditions in the Three Valleys. With only a limited number of luxurious ski in

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ski out apartments, this exclusive boutique development combines alpine elegance with modern informality. Boasting attractive architecture and a certain Savoyard way of life that is embodied in the traditional stone and wood houses, the gorgeous ski apartments are housed in two beautiful chalet buildings. Encompassing 55-134m² of living space, the property offers only 15 luxury 2-to-4-bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthouses. Each ski residence features a modern bathroom and stylish, fully fitted and equipped kitchen with ceramic hob, oven, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator/freezer, cupboards, worktop and sink. Offering modern living with alpine charm, the mountain homes boast spacious private balconies, ranging from 10m² to 50m². Each luxury residence comes with a parking space and cave. Decorated to the highest mountain chic standards, with plenty of wood and stone, the ambience is both sophisticated and comfortable. The interior is a harmonious blend of understated modern lines, alpine details and luxurious finishes and materials. Adding to the list of luxury features are parquet floors in the bedrooms, tiled floor in the other rooms, oak doors and underfloor heating. For that extra cosiness, some ski apartments offer a wood burner as an option. Residents have access to on-site facilities that include reception area and ski room. Optional services include rental management, concierge and cleaning. Situated in the heart of Courchevel 1650, on the pistes, the elegant mountain retreat is a skier’s dream with true ski in ski out access. With its central location, the ski property is conveniently located close to shops and restaurants. This is true mountain elegance at its finest. Price: From €620,000. CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury FRENCH RIVIERA

Sophisticated living Timeless setting Elegant homes that are the epitome of luxury

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rom perfectly bronzed bodies to fashionable restaurants, Saint-Tropez is renowned the world over for being one of the most exclusive and opulent holiday destinations – the epitome of indulgence and prestige. There is a magical and daring elegance that goes back to the days of the iconic French actress and supermodel, Brigitte Bardot, who put Saint-Tropez on the map in 1956 when she was filming Roger Vadim’s And God Created Woman. The storied past makes it easier to understand why celebrities and socialites alike continue to escape to this mystical place. Saint-Tropez is truly the culmination of Los Angeles celebrity, New York culture, Miami vivacious sun-kissed bodies, Paris haute couture, and Middle Eastern high society, making it every luxury lover’s fantasy. At the same time, it has to be said that there are few places on Earth to match or rival the beauty of Saint-Tropez. Despite its status as a celebrity haunt, the village has managed to keep its Provençal charm and allure and remains a picture-perfect postcard: from its pink ochre buildings with red-tile barrel roofs and blue and white shutters, to the historic fort crowning rose-tinted rocks that oversee the forest of masts that sprout from super yachts in the spectacular harbour. Step back from the bustling old port and you will find yourself in another world, where you can explore narrow, cobbled streets, picturesque village houses, Provençal markets and delightful squares where elderly gentlemen play pétanque. And even if many of the old cobbled streets are filled with exclusive boutiques and renowned restaurants, the atmosphere of old Provence is still very strong. In terms of luxury real estate, Saint-Tropez has few equals. Property here is regarded as a prized commodity and those investing in Saint-Tropez are sure to feel rewarded. The lack of high-quality properties at the top end of the market means that currently, supply cannot meet demand.

These two villas will appeal to that elite group of buyers who seek the highest levels of luxury and sophistication wherever they travel. Privacy, exclusivity and luxury are the coveted attributes of the residences, which are wonderfully situated in the heart of the village of Saint-Tropez and near the beach. Created for fine living and elegant entertaining, the extraordinary residences resonate with the timeless architecture of Provence. The villas will be meticulously renovated and restored to offer all of the modern amenities, while preserving each property’s authentic style and charm. A pure fusion of elegance, function and sophistication, the villas epitomise the Mediterranean indooroutdoor lifestyle for which the French Riviera is renowned. The larger of the two prestigious country houses, offering 570m² of living space, will feature six bedrooms, home cinema, fitness centre, professional kitchen, 6-car garage and an independent caretaker’s apartment. Built on a large plot of 4,000m², it comes with ample outdoor entertaining area that includes an 18-by-6-metre swimming pool, private pool house and surrounding mature garden with centuries-old trees. Sitting on a plot of 1,500m² with planted ancient trees, the second deluxe villa will offer 275m² of living space including four bedrooms, a modern kitchen and living room, opening on to a 280m² terrace and a 10-by-5metre infinity pool with pool house. Parking is available for five cars. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle in a world of privilege and privacy. Price upon request. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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Glamour, style & elegance Superlative villa in a singular setting

he French Riviera is one of the most sought-after areas to buy property in France. The Riviera not only provides an excellent quality of life, it consistently maintains good capital growth and investment potential. Originally the preserve of European royalty, the Côte d’Azur, with its glorious sunshine and well-deserved prestige, has retained its French charm. A true playground of the rich and famous, the South of France enjoys a fashionable lifestyle, magnificent surroundings and a salubrious climate year-round. The region boasts country and coastal properties in stunning locations such as Eze, Villefranche, Cannes, Cap d’Antibes and St-Tropez – surrounded by beaches, marinas, golf courses and only 90 minutes from the ski resorts in the Southern Alps. Nestled between Nice and the Cap Ferrat peninsula and only ten kilometres from Monaco, the unspoilt town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the most desirable places to live in France. It boasts one of the most beautiful bays in the world, a charming old town and a lovely port where exceptional panoramas are on offer. Defined by superb glamorous design, understated elegance and cool sophistication, this showcase Riviera villa magically blends stylish grandeur with contemporary chic. Supreme style and luxury with only the highest quality in fittings and 86

fixtures capture the essence of the immaculately presented family home that is ideal for entertaining both inside and outside. From its vantage point on the heights of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the luxurious villa commands unparalleled blue water panoramas. Reflecting the exquisite Mediterranean lifestyle, there is 420m² of gorgeous living space, finished to perfection. Sitting on an elevated, private 2,720m² plot, the home holds four bedrooms, a sensational living and dining room with glass walls, sleek state-of-the-art kitchen and office. The prestigious villa features key architectural design elements such as a breathtaking curved staircase, dramatic gallery landing that overlooks the double-height lounge and striking floor-to-ceiling windows. The French Riviera’s outdoor beauty and sunny indoor-outdoor lifestyle are showcased with walls of glass, expansive views of the Bay of Villefranche and Cap de Nice, a stunning infinity pool and several terraces. The wonderful home affords a sophisticated lifestyle at one of Côte d’Azur’s finest residential addresses. Price upon request. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Contemporary elegance Luxury villa with panoramic landmark views

lamour seems defined by the French Riviera. The playground of film stars and royalty, it remains one of the most desirable places to own a property anywhere in the world. Even for those who have never set foot there, it immediately conjures up images of gleaming white yachts, stately villas, glitzy casinos, private beaches, stylish bars, Michelinstarred restaurants, fashionable clubs, scenic corniche roads and the Cannes Film Festival. The mild climate, legendary ambiance, beautiful residences and stunning scenery make the Riviera one of the most sought-after places to live. Add the advantage of skiing in the Southern Alps – just an hour or so from the beaches. Located in the heart of the Côte d’Azur, the town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is a real gem, perhaps the most charming seaside village on the Riviera. The Bay of Villefranche, reputed to be one of the most beautiful bays in the world, is embraced by the Cap of Nice on the west and Cap Ferrat on the east. Close to Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer has everything that makes the area so popular. It boasts a sparkling blue sea fringed by sandy beaches, an enchanting old town, plus prestigious villas that attract stars and the super rich. Famed American singer Tina Turner owns a palatial villa here, and has received the honorary citizenship of Villefranche-sur-Mer. The picturesque village has also been the setting for numerous films, including Hitchcock’s classic To Catch a Thief, the James Bond thriller Never Say Never Again, Ronin with Robert de Niro, and the Michael DouglasKathleen Turner epic, Jewel of the Nile. This property presents a fabulous opportunity to experience the very best of French Riviera glamour. Sleek design, panoramic views and

that most coveted of addresses are the hallmarks of the spectacular villa. Designed to take full advantage of a dazzling location, the home’s vistas of the Bay of Villefranche are absolutely breathtaking. Offering 280m² of modern living space, the floor-to-ceiling windows bring in plenty of natural light and scenic views throughout the home. Interiors are clean and contemporary, with a refined palette of white against natural materials such as wood and stone. The elegant interior is tastefully appointed throughout its five bedrooms, stylish designer kitchen with cooking island and bar, dining room, and impressive living room with fireplace opening onto an outside sitting area that faces the sea. No expense has been spared, from the glamorous Boffi kitchen to the sleek Bose indoor-outdoor sound system. Offering the finest in everyday living and fluid indoor-outdoor entertaining, the exceptional residence is situated in a staggeringly scenic location on a private plot of 1,700m². The superb California-style villa boasts a lovely garden with pool, multiple outdoor living and lounge areas, perfectly complementing the Mediterranean climate and jaw-dropping vistas. With sophisticated interiors, inspirational architecture and sweeping panoramas, the home represents the finest in French Riviera prestige real estate. Price upon request. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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luxury KOH SAMUI

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Stunning, sleek & serene Escape to a secluded haven on one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands

s foreign buyers from Europe and Asia return to Thailand’s resort property market, there is an increased demand for investment properties as well as holiday homes. The country’s third-largest island, Koh Samui, continues to attract world attention. The 247km² tropical gem in the southern Gulf of Thailand – where white sand beaches, inviting sapphire waters, abundant coral reefs and majestic palm trees beckon – has emerged as

the stylish luxury alternative to popular Phuket. Listed third in the New York Times list of “Places to Go in 2011”, Koh Samui has become one of Southeast Asia’s premier tourist destinations. Despite the pace of change, Koh Samui has retained much of its charm. Quaint villages and coconut plantations are still very much in evidence, as traditional life continues for many of the residents. The island has evolved into the perfect mix of East and West, old and new

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â&#x20AC;&#x201C; of simple living, street markets, temples and traditions, set alongside 5-star spas, resorts, bars and gourmet restaurants. It is a destination that combines pampering with tranquillity, and authenticity with modernity. Quickly becoming known as the Pearl of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is an idyllic and unique spot to escape the hassles and stresses of the modern world. There are direct flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Pattaya, Phuket, Hong Kong, Singapore, Penang and Kuala Lumpur. For those who dream of owning a holiday home on a getaway tropical island, it is difficult to do better than Koh Samui. It offers an excellent opportunity to indulge in island life at its most pristine and peaceful. 92

Redefining resort-style island living, this designer property offers 13 limited-edition pool villas for private ownership, two with absolute beach frontage. The property offers a unique mix of contemporary cool design, modern comfort and understated indulgence. It is the ideal spot to retreat from the bustle of the outside world and journey into a secluded haven where the days pass in gentle relaxation. The stylish property offers owners a combination of minimalist villas, ranging from two to four bedrooms with 155-448mÂ˛ of living space and 139-630mÂ˛ private plots. Designed and crafted for a sleek modern look, the buildings blend seamlessly with the scenic surroundings. They are showcasing

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modern living and understated interiors in refined neutral tones that create a lovely contrast to the Gulf of Thailand’s striking turquoise waters. Each designer villa comes with flat-screen TV plus music and movie library. Nearly all villas boast their own private swimming pool and terrace garden. Each residence offers full access to the resort’s comforts, services and amenities. Facilities include a gorgeous fusion restaurant, fitness area, library, swimming pool, water sports equipment and owners’ storage centre. 94

The resort’s pièce de résistance is the unique spa and impressive outdoor massage pavilion. The pavilion houses two beds, while the chic modern building has an entire acre of land and 30 metres of beachfront to itself. This is a place to feel that the most desirable luxuries of today are infinite time, endless space and peaceful silence. Offered with full rental management and a multiple-location exchange programme, the resort property provides a wonderful holiday home and that much-sought tropical lifestyle.

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The 4-year rental income programme offers worry-free vacation home ownership, with up to 60 days complimentary use each year and no monthly maintenance or management fees. Owners will be members of a Residents’ Club offering benefits that include discounts on spa treatments, food and beverages at the resort’s outlets and in-room dining. Located on the island’s unspoilt and tranquil south-east shore, the property enjoys an 8-acre

beachfront setting, beautifully framed by majestic and ancient trees. The designer villas offer peace, tranquillity and elegance at its finest. Prices: From THB19.5 million. CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury MADRID

Gorgeously Luxurious Grand villa affords magnificent craftsmanship that exudes sophistication and elegance

ews reports of the Spanish housing market have focused on the oversupplied Costas, but the luxury real estate market in the nation’s capital escaped such turmoil and uncertainty to a large extent. Madrid has been less exposed to the global market downturn than the rest of Spain, mainly due to the limited number of houses for sale in the city, a fact even more pronounced in the prime districts. In the last few years, Madrid’s luxury property market has had a considerable amount of movement. Select urban areas such as La Moraleja, Somosaguas and La Florida remain the focal point for most overseas buyers. Posh and sophisticated, these areas offer lovely surroundings, with great amenities and international schools. They are popular with overseas buyers who tend to be either international footballers, celebrities or senior executives. For buyers like this, the capital’s high-end real estate represents a secure investment in an otherwise challenging market. Located in Somosaguas, this villa has been created with total elegance and gracious taste. The design scheme is daring, yet stunning and striking, and offers a generous amount of style and luxury. The octagonal structure adds a grand, monumental effect to the building, highlighting the unique design statements introduced throughout the property. 96

Luxurious and magnificently spacious, the property is the perfect family villa, offering 1,000m² of pure extravagance. The 5-bedroom residence features formal entertainment areas and abundant family living spaces. Imposing yet inviting, the first floor is composed of dramatic spaces with a breathtaking living room of 150m² divided into four areas, plus a separate dining room. Glorious light streams in through the villa’s remarkably grand skylight and oversized windows, enhancing the soaring ceilings of the home. The 2,800m² of grounds are equally impressive, complete with exquisitely landscaped gardens by Fernando Caruncho. His gardens are renowned for their harmonious geometric patterns punctuated by sculptural plantings. The exclusive villa boasts a private pool, bodega, 3-car garage and superior finishes and fittings that include solid oak doors and limestone flooring. Refined design, gracious living and a prestigious location turn this house into a dream home. Price: €3.1 million. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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Timeless elegance & refinement A villa that is modern yet classic, elegant yet inviting

ocated almost right in the centre of Spain, the capital city of Madrid is home to an increasingly large number of expats who are lured by the employment prospects, the relatively affordable cost of living and the rich cultural and social scene. The city is considered the major financial centre of the Iberian Peninsula because of its economic output and high standard of living. It houses the head offices of many of the major Spanish companies, as well as the headquarters of three of the world’s 100 largest companies – Telefónica, Repsol YPF and Banco Santander. Madrid is both the 98

nation’s capital and its largest city, serves as the seat of government and is the Spanish royal family’s place of residence. Madrid has an awful lot going for it, which is probably why almost 10% of its population is made up of foreign nationals. The cost of living in the city is far lower than that of other European capitals, such as Paris and London. The costs of dining out, public transport, clothing and entertainment are really rather affordable and make living in Madrid a lot more attractive. There are also some highly acclaimed international schools catering to British, American, German and French

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students. Among them is the renowned American School of Madrid. This luxury villa enjoys a desirable location in the sought-after area of Aravaca, an exclusive residential area north-west of Madrid. The elite enclave has been a desirable residential area amongst international families relocating to the city for a long time, thanks to its proximity to, and excellent communication with Madrid’s city centre. The sprawling villa features modern design with classic style and provides the ultimate in expansive luxury living. Fabulous for entertaining and serene living, the elegant villa of supreme quality and style showcases an immaculate and sophisticated décor and design, with exceptional finishing touches. The residence offers 990m² of pure elegance,

featuring a double-height living room, dining room, kitchen with dining area, office, gym, home cinema room and utility room. A stellar master suite, including his and hers bathrooms, is complemented by seven additional bedrooms. Set in wonderful grounds of 3,100m², the deluxe villa boasts a swimming pool, paddle tennis and basketball court. A paragon of elegance and expanse, this represents Madrid sophistication at its best. Price: €3.7 million. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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luxury MALLORCA

Design perfection, Architectural beauty

The villa has the Wow-factor with striking ultra-modern design and panoramic views 100

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allorca is a beacon of calm, sophistication, beauty and A-list celebrity allure. From fabulous white sand beaches to craggy pine-clad mountain ranges, the exquisite architecture of historical buildings, to flowerfilled fields heavy with citrus and almond trees, Mallorca offers a little something for everyone. Almost 23 million passengers passed through Palma de Mallorca Airport in 2011, an increase of 7.6% over 2010, making it Spain’s third busiest airport. Despite the steadily increasing number of visitors, Mallorca remains one of the most picturesque destinations in Spain, frequented by celebrities and holiday-makers attracted by the charm of the traditional stone villages, the buzz of the marinas, outstanding golf resorts and a vibrant and sophisticated capital city. The treasured Balearic island has maintained its stronghold as a highly desirable investment destination and holiday home spot. It continues to hold broad appeal amongst discerning buyers from around the world. The Mallorcan property market held up surprisingly well during 2011, with sales seeing a marked improvement over 2010. This ultra-modern villa offers just about everything for the design aficionado – clean lines, minimalist spaces and masses of glamour. Iconic architecture and design, holistic vision and enhanced comforts of a modern home blend effortlessly to deliver a true work of art. The modern, minimalist house is a veritable playground for modernists, presenting a white palette that suits the façade, combined with black steel frames and walls of windows that open to the endless vistas.

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Intelligently proportioned and magnificently designed, the elegant villa offers 242m² of fine luxury. It features a splendid master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, open bathroom, large private terrace, two additional bedrooms and a stylish kitchen. A striking gallery invites one into the expansive living and entertaining spaces that boast a fireplace and are ideal for both formal and informal gatherings. Showcasing the panoramic sea and mountain views, the impressive glass walls make way for bright, light-filled interiors that exude minimalist elegance in their aesthetic of peace and serenity. The newly built villa stands on a 1,000m² plot, boasting a spacious covered terrace, stunning infinity pool with a relaxing lounge area and views over the valley and the sea. Wonderfully located, the architecturally magnificent villa is set in one of the most prestigious areas in the north of Mallorca: Bonaire, an exclusive residential area surrounded by beaches, natural beauty and a marina. This is an ideal location near the medieval town of Alcudia with its narrow streets featuring cafés, restaurants and small boutiques. The house is walking distance to the beach. For modern minimalism at its best, the überstylish villa personifies all that is glamorous and gorgeous about Mallorca. Price: €1.495 million. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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Island living with distinction Exceptional luxury and refined elegance abound in the magnificent estate

ynonymous with luxury, elegance, celebrity and jetset lifestyle, Mallorca has increasingly become one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top residential locations, boasting a growing number of rich and famous residents and visitors. With stunning scenery, tranquillity and tradition, quaint rural villages and picturesque towns standing shoulderto-shoulder with swanky yachts in the marinas, chic boutiques, fine restaurants and a luxurious, laid-back lifestyle, it is no wonder the rich and famous flock to holiday homes on Mallorca. www.theaddressmagazine.com

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The idyllic Mediterranean island is extremely diverse, a place that attracts Hollywood stars, musicians and sportsmen in search of their ideal home. The names may be big – Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Annie Lennox and tennis supremo Rafa Nadal – but the level of showiness is low. Truly spectacular and luxurious, this prestigious Mallorcan villa estate is designed to perfection, a blend of beauty, art and taste. Offering exclusivity and privacy, the world-class estate is a statement in luxury, impressive in grandeur and stunning in design. Secluded and incomparably elegant, the gracious home is designed for entertaining on a grand scale as well as serene family living.

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Offering 2,900m² of luxury and comfort, the 7-bedroom estate consists of an imposing traditional stone finca, a second stone country house and several outbuildings. The main house is breathtaking with its striking entrance hall, decorated with exotic pieces of furniture originating from Morocco, India and other exotic locations. The reception area leads to a lavish living room of about 200m². The spacious family home also contains three ensuite bedrooms, a gorgeous kitchen, multimedia TV and music room, office and hammam. Next to the main house, set amidst rich Mediterranean vegetation, is a second stone-clad country house, complete with two spacious living rooms, a bedroom with dressing room, kitchen and dining room.

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The sensational centrepiece of the deluxe property is the breathtaking interior courtyard of 1,400mÂ˛, which connects the main building, stone house and guest apartment. With lush vegetation and majestic ancient trees, the magnificent setting is the perfect backdrop for dinner parties, barbecues and grand celebrations. The elite property enjoys a stunning pool house next to a 30-metre pool, gym, sauna, steam and spa area, providing an atmosphere of pure rest and relaxation. For tennis lovers and equestrian enthusiasts, the country property provides an outstanding tennis court as well as stables for at least six horses. There is a separate staff house, a helipad and garage for six cars.

Exuding complete peace and tranquillity, the property is spread over a sprawling expanse of more than 60 acres, filled with lush vegetation and orange trees. The imposing country house is located in a magical and beautiful setting, close to the historic village of ArtĂ , in the picturesque north-east of the island. For a lifestyle of privilege and privacy, this is the ultimate family estate. Price: â&#x201A;Ź15 million. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Elegant Contemporary Cutting-Edge Modular villas offer the ultimate in high aesthetics and modern design

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odern architecture is as much about attitude as it is about design. It is a style and it is a lifestyle. And just like Mallorca, modern is relaxed, it is dramatic, and it is beautiful. From bold sculptural forms, to sleek simple lines, from ultra-modern to timeless elegance, these modular homes offer aesthetic luxury at an affordable price. Thanks to improvements in modular construction, this new method of designing and building houses in factories with on-site assembly results in shorter construction times, more specialised labour, higher overall quality and lower price. Producing in factory and assembling on site means that within just four months after all permits and planning permissions are in place, the new house is ready to be enjoyed. 112

The architecture will really please fans of the minimalist style. Cutting-edge, cool, contemporary and utterly beautiful, the ultra-modern villas are defined by clean design, strong geometrical lines and pure, bold aesthetics. The design is thoughtful and cleverly maximises light and space. Selecting the plot and villa design affords buyers the flexibility to choose just the size and layout to fit their needs. There are six configurations to choose from, ranging from two bedrooms to four. Villas may be built as single- or 2-storey models. The stylish living spaces range from 156mÂ˛ to 246mÂ˛. The abundance of glass walls allows for a perfect symbiosis between nature and modern living. Modern in construction with concrete roofs, walls and floors, the architec-

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turally stunning villas clearly make a statement. Buyers may customize their villa with wooden floors and painted walls to suit their personalities, style and taste. With spacious floor plans, volume ceilings and unencumbered flow between rooms, the luxury villas not only deliver on expectations, they honour the modern layouts preferred by today’s sophisticated buyers. The spaces are designed for comfortable daily living as well as entertaining. Interiors are clean and contemporary, with a refined white palette. The plots are located in Pollensa, an area of Mallorca renowned for its outstanding beauty and its scenic variety, a place that enjoys an artistic, tranquil and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The area has long been established as a desirable location for holiday

villas and, consequently, the property market is ideal for buy-to-let investments and for those seeking a good rental return. As well as being one of the best locations in Mallorca for holiday homes, Pollensa is increasingly popular for semi-permanent and permanent homes, too. This is an exquisite lifestyle investment, offering exclusive luxury. Prices: From €300,000 for villas and plots from €150,000. CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury MYKONOS

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The great escape Luxury estate commands a spectacular setting

eceptively laid-back but deeply fashionable, Mykonos continues to attract the rich, the influential, the trendy, the jet-setters and the fashion moguls from all over the world. Since the 1950s, Mykonos has been one of the most popular islands in the Mediterranean. It is famed for its awe-inspiring Cycladic setting, its windmills dotting a rocky landscape and above all, its incredible beaches. All this is accentuated by the mesmerising Mediterranean light and set against the deep blue backdrop of the Aegean Sea. Regarded as the most elite of the Greek islands, Mykonos has become coveted by wealthy Athenians who are prepared to pay serious money for a holiday home on the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answer to Saint-Tropez. www.theaddressmagazine.com

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Mykonos is considered by many Greeks to be the most cosmopolitan of their famed islands. Buying a deluxe villa here and renting it when not in use has become attractive for many tourists, working expats, those planning to retire and keen investors alike. This is truly a rare opportunity to own one of the most beautiful estates on the island. The luxurious estate radiates beauty from its envied perch in Pyrgi – a cape that sits between two beautiful beaches and bays, Paradise and Super Paradise Beach – thus offering a perfect blend of privacy and priceless views. Built to the very highest standards and finished with excellent quality materials, the estate’s elegant architecture provides sundrenched tranquil spaces and breathtaking views, blending architectural luxury with natural splendour. Occupying 9,000m² of land, the stunning estate is comprised of two independent and elegant main villas and several smaller buildings, boasting a seamless integration of architecture and nature. The estate is surrounded by stone walls, ensuring privacy and security. The 450m² villa on the upper side of the estate features three bedrooms, an imposing dining room, sitting room, kitchen and office. The 410² villa on the lower side consists of three spacious bedrooms, a living-dining room and kitchen. Finished to perfection, the estate harmonically blends Cycladic architectural elements with Neoclassical references and stylishly contemporary features. Tastefully decorated 116

with Italian and Spanish furniture, exquisite sculptures and other works of art, the property offers great aesthetics and luxurious living. The estate also boasts a private 1-bedroom stone house with dazzling views of the Aegan Sea, its own garden and two verandas with pergolas. There is another private 1-bedroom guesthouse with sitting room and sea views. Other highlights include a small traditional Cycladic chapel, helipad and stone seat rows built in the style of an ancient theatre. At the main entrance gate, there is a security building with accommodation for staff. This estate is the perfect blend of casual luxury for that indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The stunning outdoor areas showcase landscaped gardens, two swimming pools, spectacular lighting and a lovely pergola sitting room, which includes a barbecue, a bar and a dining room. The property has been used by several heads of state as their summer holiday home, offering them the ideal private retreat away from the paparazzi’s prying eyes. The estate is ideal as either a business enterprise or as an exclusive getaway for family and friends. Stylish island luxury at its best, the estate offers the chance to purchase some of the most exclusive real estate in Mykonos. Price: €7 million. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury PARIS

The epitome of stylish elegance The exclusive residence offers the finest in extravagance 118

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orld-class cities not only attract international business, they are also the haunt of a growing number of international billionaires who are increasingly important investors in residential luxury real estate. Their affluence is creating a new global super-elite of real estate. Paris, which clearly is one of the cities favoured by this exclusive group, remains one of the most sought-after property markets in the world, with prices increasing by almost 18% in 2010, according to the Paris Chamber of Notaries.

Thanks to strong demand, Paris property values are at historic highs and continue to rise. Buyers from Brazil, Russia, India, the Middle East and China are increasingly looking to Paris as a safe haven to invest funds in a mature and high-performing market. Add the fact that the supply of real estate is already very limited as the French shun stock and bond markets in favour of real estate, at a time when fewer owners are selling their properties and little new stock is coming on to the market.

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As a consequence, existing demand from the Parisians who live and work there is coupled with wealthy internationals looking to diversify their assets or move money out of risky equity markets. This means that real estate prices are likely to continue to rise. Even in an ever-changing real estate market, the allure of owning a prestigious property in one of the world’s most beautiful cities is undeniable. Paris is a refined and chic capital, and with great transport links, celebrated fashion and wealth of artistic and historic attractions, it really is the perfect city to enjoy the finer side of life. For property investors looking for that something special, Paris is the place to invest in luxury real estate. Prestige and sophistication define this spectacular real estate offering. Impeccable design, unparalleled quality and paramount location make the property a true piece of art. The strikingly elegant 5-bedroom residence with 385m² of living area, styled in classic grandeur, features magnificent architecture and exquisite custom finishes throughout. Renovated to perfection, the luxurious apartment showcases extravagant living areas, a

large Italian kitchen, wooden-finished office and library, hammam, maid’s room and cellar. There is a possibility to acquire two garages. Lavish and exclusive, yet by the same token supremely comfortable, the apartment is designed for ultra-sophisticated, grand-scale entertainment and fine living. Original appointments invoke the grandeur of the luxurious lifestyle, including 3.8-metre ceilings, cornices, fireplaces and Versailles wooden floor. Supremely situated, the deluxe apartment is located in the aristocratic 16th arrondissement, widely regarded as Paris’ most opulent and exclusive residential area. Exceptional luxury and amazing elegance abound in this residence, providing a majestic lifestyle. Price: €6.95 million. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Indulgence meets luxury

An outstanding, impeccable residence of supreme style and distinction “We’ll always have Paris,” Bogart says in Casablanca. There is no doubt the French capital is one of the world’s leading cultural and business centres. Its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts all contribute to making it one of the world’s truly global cities. In addition to being home to the head offices of nearly half of all France’s corporations, as well as the offices of many major international firms, Paris also hosts the headquarters of many international trade and social organisations, including the OECD and UNESCO.

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Grand boulevards and magnificent building façades mingle with charming cafés, fashionable boutiques and iconic cultural attractions. Paris is hard to beat. As a property investment location, the return enjoyed in Paris real estate is historically strong, and prices continue to rise. Luxury properties in the right areas will enjoy above-average growth, as demand for great properties in these desirable areas continues to outpace supply. This prestigious home is the consummate testament to superb standards, impeccable integrity and incomparable vision. The ultra-exclusive residence has it all – a refined décor that is rivalled only by its breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower. Boasting the grandeur of 427m² of unsurpassed perfection, the elite property consists of a newly renovated 387m² top-floor flat, with 26m² in balconies, five lavish bedrooms and a magnificent kitchen finished in exquisite wood. The signature residence comes with gracious principal rooms perfect for everyday living and fine entertaining. There are two studios of 17m² and 23m² respectively with views of the Invalide Dôme and the Eiffel Tower. This unique offering is completed by three cellars (one for wine) and car parking space. Masterfully refurbished, the fine residence is sumptuously decorated in the Louis

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XVI style, reflecting all the glamour and decadence of that era. Commanding, 3.4-metre ceilings set the grand tone of this architectural gem and evoke a feeling of refinement, indulgence and elegance. Located in one of the most coveted neighbourhoods in Paris, the deluxe apartment is situated on the Left Bank in the highly sought-after 7th arrondissement. The district is indeed incredibly well located – the Latin Quarter, Boulevard Saint Germain, the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, Musée d’Orsay, Ile de la Cité, Notre Dame and the banks of the Seine are all within an easy walk. The immediate area is particularly safe and is the location of Hôtel Matignon, official residence of the Prime Minister. Enjoy the allure of the private palatial residence, resplendent with the aristocratic atmosphere of elegant style and majestic opulence. Its cornices, marble fireplaces, new Versailles wooden floor, Louis XVI wooden finished office and entrance make it a truly singular residence for those seeking the finest living style. Price upon request. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury PHUKET

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Sleek, elegant and in tune with their surroundings, these resort homes offer intelligent designs for serene living

Environmentally friendly planning laws and height restrictions ensure that developments are low-key and low density.

ver the last 25 years, Phuket has evolved from a backpacker’s paradise island into Asia’s premier luxury holiday and residential destination. The size of Singapore, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and offers a truly unbeatable combination of scenic beauty, great infrastructure, fine dining, world-class golf courses, yacht marinas, idyllic beaches and amazing diving. Still, Phuket has retained much of its tropical island charm. As Asia’s best lifestyle and vacation playground, Phuket is not only a great place to unwind and relax, it is a fantastic place to relocate permanently, to retire, or to buy a holiday home. The fast-growing property market has made Phuket a popular place to invest in real estate.

For investors looking for prime Phuket real estate, these residences offer a great opportunity to acquire Phuket property and gain a good rental income. Combining stylish contemporary living with value for money, the modern resort property will certainly be a rewarding experience for house-hunters and property investors.

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The gorgeous property is one of the new breed of chic and contemporary Thai boutique hotels, with a minimalist interior and trendy vibe, that takes the Phuket condominium market to the next level. Set in a beachfront location on one of the most serene shorelines of Phuket, the property makes for the perfect investment. The residential resort overlooks the vibrant

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and beautiful Chalong Bay, studded with picturesque islands, fishing boats and luxury yachts that provide the ideal backdrop for pristine living. The property is just five minutes from Chalong Pier, which is a major gateway to Southern Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world-famous island destinations, such as Koh Khai, Coral Island, Phi Phi Island and Phang Nga Bay. Boating enthusiasts and those seeking a more idyllic lifestyle will enjoy taking full advantage of the unique waterfront location. Consisting of 64 ultra-modern beachfront condos and villas, the spectacular contemporary homes artistically blend modern spaces with accents of Thai features. The fully furnished 1-to-3-bedroom apartments, penthouses and villas enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies, with a few residences boasting private plunge pools. Expansive living areas, large open terraces, breathtaking ocean views and the seamless

transition from indoor to outdoor spaces reflect the modern Asian design. Residents will enjoy the benefit of resort facilities right at their doorstep, alongside an attractive rental programme. Amenities include a very hip and popular lounge barrestaurant, stunning infinity pool, spa with luxurious private treatment rooms, gym and Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club. This is exactly how one imagines a modern tropical escape: serene, stylish, carefree and indulgent. Prices: From THB9.5 million. CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Cool & Hip The stylish ocean view villas are distinctive for their futuristic design and architecture

ocated in the sparkling, turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket, known as the “Pearl of the South”, is Thailand’s largest island and undeniably the most popular beach destination in Asia. Awe-inspiring scenery, breathtaking tropical sunsets, palm-lined white sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, serene bays, lush emerald green mountain ranges, turquoise waters, quaint villages, superb food, outstanding hospitality, fantastic infrastructure – the island of Phuket has it all. Phuket is truly a tropical playground, a fantastic place to call home, which explains why the island has become a favourite for holiday homes and investment properties amongst members of the international community. Chalong Bay, a thriving and bustling area, has

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long been a favourite with expats working or living on the island long-term. Because the area is close to the provincial capital, it is one of Phuket’s more established areas, meaning there is a good infrastructure and plenty of local businesses. There are many charming restaurants, a marina, golf course, shopping centres and easy access to some of Phuket’s best beaches, including Nai Harn and Kata. Perhaps best known for its fine yacht mooring, Chalong Bay is associated with water sports and all things nautical. Chalong also offers easy access to some of the most beautiful islands in the region, such as Phi Phi, Coral Island, Mar Thon and Racha Island, as well as the dive sites of Koh Dok Mai and Shark Point. Surprisingly, the area has long been overlooked by developers, but Chalong is prob-

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ably the fastest growing property market in Phuket. These newly built architectural stunners add a design statement to the profile of the Chalong area. The villasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; exterior and interior design both inspire and evoke with their futuristic style, creating a new paradigm of luxury home architecture. Innovative lines and bold design define the villas as a forward-looking expression of architecture. The elegant, curvaceous structures create a feeling of harmony with their natural surroundings. Designed with elegant simplicity and functionality in mind, the villas capture the essence of modern living, combining daring design and liveability. Encompassing 300mÂ˛ of living space, each home boasts stunning ocean views over Chalong and Rawai Beach. Each stylish pool

villa features three bedrooms, a contemporary kitchen and living room. Elevator service within the villas is optional. The modern villas offer great indoor and outdoor living, and each features a private 400mÂ˛ garden, pool and spacious terrace. The private rooftop terrace commands great views and allows the owner to customize the space, creating the perfect living-entertainment area. This is stylish contemporary and modern living at its best. Prices: From THB11 million. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury PUGLIA

Historic and Staggeringly Beautiful

A quintessential Pugliese masseria, boasting elegant design and understated charm

uglia in Southern Italy has in recent years become recognized as an attractive region for holiday home ownership. Its beauty and the diversity of the landscape, charming towns and architecture, along with the quality of food and wines and friendliness of the people, are just some of the reasons. Beautiful and unspoilt, Puglia’s setting along two coastlines bordering the Adriatic Sea in the east and the Ionian Sea to the southeast, puts it in high demand. With crystalline seas, fine beaches, stunning countryside and endless sunshine, Puglia offers an easy-going lifestyle. Puglia does a superb job of combining rolling, green countryside with breathtaking white-walled villages strung along the coastline, embedded like jewels within the region’s pastoral landscape. 132

Puglia, widely considered the jewel of the South, is a place where purchasing a property means not only owning a house in a magnificent and unspoilt area, but holding a strong and sustainable investment. With two international airports – Bari and Brindisi – Puglia can be reached easily from London and other European cities, including Geneva, Zurich, Brussels, Paris, Stockholm, Madrid, Seville, Eindhoven, Rome and Milan. Masserie, the grand, fortified farmhouse estates, hold great appeal for luxury property buyers. Inspired by a passion for all things beautiful, this breathtaking masseria is a rare find. Offering great scale and classic style, elegant living is there for the taking in this gorgeous country house that sits within a truly magical world.

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Dating back to the 17th century, the building has been tastefully and impeccably restored, giving the property a stylish combination of country charm and historical elegance. With 980m² of gracious interior space, the luxury masseria features five bedrooms, multiple living rooms, dining area, kitchen and roof terrace. The deluxe property can be extended to provide more living area, making it unquestionably grandiose, but in a stylish yet understated way. Located in the magical and lovely setting of the Ostuni, the exquisite hideaway offers total privacy, yet is only 1.5 kilometres from the sea and some of Puglia’s loveliest beaches. Nestled on ten hectares of grounds, the splendid country house is set in gardens that include an olive grove and fruit orchard, where the air is scented with typical Mediterranean fragrances. With its stunning

terrace, courtyards and patios, there is an abundance of exterior living space to enjoy and socialise in, or find that quiet retreat to escape to and relax. The extraordinary property offers a plethora of opportunities. It is suitable for use as a boutique hotel or bed-and-breakfast, and perfectly suited for use as a luxurious and exclusive private residence, subject to planning permission. Surrounded with magic and timeless possibilities, the superb masseria is the epitome of Italian living at its finest. Price: €4.2 million. CONTACT

Leading Luxury Real Estate www.leadingluxuryrealestate.com +44 (0)20 7095 8703

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luxury ST. LUCIA

BAREFOOT LUXURY Architecturally magnificent resort residences supremely located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site 134

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t. Lucia, an island of unparalleled scenic beauty, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for holiday home buyers and buy-to-let investors, thanks to its appeal as a year-round tourist destination. A strong tourism market, stable political system and economy, as well as daily flights from Europe and North America, provide the ingredients for a sound investment. With the vast majority of the island consisting of untouched and natural rain forest, it is easy to understand why St. Lucia is regarded as the “Jewel of the Caribbean”. With its magnificent mountainous landscape, lush green tropical rainforest, stunning coral reefs and the majestic Twin Pitons, St. Lucia is an island of incredible and diverse beauty. It is simply breathtaking. Although St. Lucia has become one of the top Caribbean destinations, much of the island still remains unspoilt. A sporting and cultural calendar sets the pace for a vibrant social life year-round, from the parades of Independence Day in February to the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, the world’s largest transoceanic race, in December. The St. Lucia Jazz Festival has become one of the premier musical events in the world. And, of course, the greatest show on the island’s schedule is Carnival, a captivating and colourful extravaganza spanning an entire month. The St. Lucia Golf & Country Club, situated in the exclusive Cap Estate, is an 18-hole championship golf course operated by Troon Golf Management. The course is set in the green rolling hills, with a dazzling panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the sapphire waters of the Caribbean. Some of the top-name tournaments hosted by the St. Lucia Golf & Country Club include the Moët Hennessy Tournament in October and the Rotary Club Tournament, which has been held here for about 13 years. Rodney Bay Marina is considered one of the Caribbean’s leading centres for yachting, sailing and sport fishing, 136

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offering yachters 253 slips and a 4.5-acre boatyard, as well as excellent accommodation for mega-yachts up to 280 feet – all in a hurricane-safe haven. Direct flights from New York, Miami, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Charlotte, Toronto, Montreal, Puerto Rico, London and Frankfurt make St. Lucia easily accessible for those with holiday homes or investment properties. Due to increasing property values and continuing growth in tourism, St. Lucia is a prime choice for the Caribbean property investor. It has an efficient legal system based on English common law and the Code Napoleon, with freehold ownership and a land registry system. With no restrictions on foreign ownership, no capital gains, inheritance or estate taxes, as well as lower property prices than neigh138

bouring islands can offer, prime St. Lucian real estate provides an excellent investment proposition along with a desirable lifestyle. Here is an extraordinary and rare opportunity to acquire a luxurious resort villa, uniquely located at the foot of the iconic Pitons of St. Lucia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perfectly positioned amidst a white sandy beach within its own bay and the verdant tropical foliage of St. Lucia’s west coast, the low-density property sits on a lush 77-acre prime site. The UNESCO World Heritage status of the Pitons ensures that very little additional development will occur within close proximity to the resort, thus affording residents the utmost in exclusivity and privacy. The elite beachfront community provides one of the Caribbean’s finest residential

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offerings with a superb selection of full and shared ownership opportunities, along with a limited number of villa estate lots for sale, each about 20,000 sq.ft. Delivering exclusivity and prestige, together with the finest in safety and service, the eco-luxury resort development will include an international world-class hotel with 29 detached 1- and 2-bedroom hotel villas, each with its own pool, an exclusive private residential estate of 50 3- and 4-bedroom deluxe villas and 94 variously sized apartments, all with hotel concierge service. Designed by Richard Hywel Evans Architecture and Design, an award-winning and worldrenowned practice, the private villas will introduce a new era of aesthetics and design to the Caribbean luxury residential market.

Masterfully developed amongst an undulating canopy of lush tropical rainforest and along the edge of a magnificent sandy bay, the spectacular private residences are stylish, modern and glamorous. The unique and contemporary design is based on open, flexible and light-drenched space, glass walls and the purity of natural stone, wood and tactile materials throughout. Boasting panoramic vistas of either the Caribbean Sea or the Pitons, each villa comes with a private infinity swimming and reflecting pool, access to the beach, private gardens, expansive glass-fronted balconies, outdoor showers and dining areas, entertainment decking and stateof-the-art intelligent home technology for perfect living.

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Specifications are of the highest standard; plans include highperformance Poggenpohl kitchen with integrated Miele appliances with induction hob and wine cooler, stone and granite worktops, stylish contemporary Duravit sanitaryware with Hansgrohe chrome fittings, media centre with interactive entertainment system, flatscreen TV, ceiling speakers and Aquavision TVs. The villas are as purposeful as they are beautiful and represent fine living perfected. The hotel, spa and private residences will be operated and managed by the 5-star Six Senses Resorts & Spas Group, one of the most highly regarded and award-winning resort companies in the world. Residents will enjoy access to all of the superior amenities and services at the Six Senses Hotel. These include three restaurants, library, chill-out and cocktail bars, cigar lounge, epicure deli, marine jetty, large central infinity pool on the beach, beach cabanas, tennis club, fitness centre, diving school, rainforest spa and a wellness centre built around a natural waterfall. With amenities to ensure an exceptional lifestyle, residents will also enjoy the intuitive style of service perfected by Six Senses. This includes villa butlers, in-house catering, event arrangements, delivery of food and beverages, laundry service and general housekeeping, as well as rental management service to owners who wish to rent out their property. The resort’s privileged and unspoilt setting is a nature lover’s wonderland. There are indigenous trees and animal and bird life galore. Offshore, the pristine reefs are teeming with colourful coral and marine life. The ocean in front of the resort is a designated marine reserve, so anchoring is not allowed so as to protect the coral reef. The rainforest terrain is ideal for Piton hikes and mountain biking. Proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand, several eco-friendly features will be employed, including the LEED Platinum Certified buildings constructed from locally sourced and sustainable materials, locally sourced food, on-site vegetable garden, electric buggy for resort property use, and spa treatments that use local leaves, bark, fruit and nuts. The prized address offers everything desired for a prestige lifestyle. Prices: From £17,500 per single-week fraction. From £660,000 for hotel villas. From £320,000 for villa estate plots (prices subject to currency fluctuations). CONTACT

International Luxury Real Estate www.ilre.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701 140

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luxury SILVER COAST

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Fabulous & Stylish

The Atlantic Ocean provides a magnificent setting for this contemporary villa

roperty on Portugal’s Silver Coast is becoming increasingly in demand among buyers attracted not only by the quality of life, but also by the prospect of a good return on investment. One of most beautiful places in the whole of Western Europe, the Silver Coast, also known as Costa de Prata, stretches from Porto down to Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, and hugs the Atlantic coastline. It is home to unspoilt sandy beaches, amazing cliffs, quaint fishing villages and lush rolling countryside. Here, visitors discover pretty villages, the authentic Portuguese way of life and some of the most fascinating historic sites in the country. The Silver Coast is also a golfer’s paradise, with about ten courses, including Praia D’El Rey, Bom Sucesso, Penha Longa (former Portuguese Open venue), Oitavos Dunes and Quinta da Marinha. Strict planning laws mean that developments in the region must be in keeping with the landscape, ensuring that it maintains its natural beauty and appeal. The A8 motorway has made the region much more accessible, placing it within 45 minutes of Lisbon. This has made luxury real estate on the Silver Coast even more attractive. For those looking for a gorgeous coastline, charming seaside resorts, medieval villages and close proximity to all the attractions of a vibrant city, a second home on the Silver Coast offers an enviable lifestyle. Facing the wide expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, this ultra-modern villa has everything the

design lover could possibly want in a home. The spectacular design, stunning ocean views and a striking pool mean living in the elegant villa can be a dream come true. Unpretentious and serene, the building dominates with its clean-cut lines and cutting-edge design. European modernist sensitivities are apparent both inside and out. The use of wood, glass, steel and concrete creates a coherent composition of materials and allows light and shadow to complete the decorative touches. The house offers 400m2 of airy and spacious modern living space, including five ensuite bedrooms, a dramatic dining-living room with wonderful ocean views, designer kitchen, billiard room and 2-car garage. The villa’s singular setting commands 2,800m2 of grounds, overlooking the ocean. It comes with a breathtaking infinity pool and an impressive deck area with barbecue. Wonderfully located, the contemporary villa is only five minutes from the stunning beaches of Foz do Arelho and Sao Martinho do Porto and 45 minutes from Lisbon airport. Modern living at its finest, the property has plenty to offer as a lovely holiday home or permanent residence. Price: €820,000. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Timeless. Stylish. Contemporary Cutting-edge design and understated luxury combine to create a light and airy villa that exudes modernity

he stunning stretch of Portuguese coastline between Lisbon in the south and Porto in the north makes up the area known locally as the Costa de Prata. Known to the wider world as the Silver Coast, the region is characterised by long and golden sandy beaches, interspersed with rocky outcrops and dramatic cliffs that fall away to the Atlantic surf below. So unspoilt is the Silver Coast, it is often referred to as the real Portugal. With its pristine beaches, sleepy fishing villages, scenic countryside of vineyards and forests, historic monuments, pretty medieval towns with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, the Silver Coast attracts visitors looking for charm and authenticity. The Atlantic coastline is a paradise for water sports lovers with good fishing, exceptional surfing, scuba diving and snorkelling near the Berlenga Islands - renowned as one of the best surfing and diving areas in Europe - as well as superb opportunities for swimming, waterskiing and windsurfing. Inland, there are numerous golf courses, some situated amidst the vineyards that produce such outstanding wines. With so many excellent courses, including Penha Longa, a former Portuguese Open venue, the Silver Coast is a true haven for golfers of all levels of expertise. Not surprisingly, Silver Coast real estate is quickly gaining in popularity with those who wish to get away from it all, but also those who see the historical area as a good place to invest. 144

This striking contemporary villa perfectly showcases the form, function and detail of modern aesthetic architecture at its best. Designed for style and functionality, the villa makes use of clean, geometric lines, creating a sleek look. The house was built with exceptional attention to modern detail, with a warm and inviting palette of wood, glass and stone. The dynamic, modern architecture, along with custom contemporary interiors enhanced by spectacular walls of glass and tranquil organic surrounds, delivers the ultimate indooroutdoor oasis with a touch of designer luxury. The incredibly beautiful living space of 217m² features five bedrooms (three ensuite), living room with fireplace, dining room with woodburning stove, modern kitchen and aweinspiring office space. With its delightful garden of 600m², its striking marble swimming pool and lovely views, this is a very desirable modern property. The minimalist-style villa provides a comfortable and serene setting, located close to the beaches and only two minutes to Meco village. Lisbon airport is a 30-minute drive. A minimalist haven, this villa’s design makes for a stunning architectural statement. Price: €750,000. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Hip meets tranquil Natural meets modern Minimalist design aesthetic infuses Zen-like serenity into the striking villa

mart money is heading to new property markets, such as the increasingly popular Silver Coast where prices are lower than in the more established areas such as Algarve. With its breathtaking coastline of sandy beaches, azure blue waters and over 300 days of sunshine, the Silver Coast of Portugal is fast becoming a favourite holiday and second home destination. Thanks to its proximity to Lisbon and less than three hours flying time from the main European cities, the Silver Coast is easily accessible. Situated between Lisbon and Oporto, the unspoilt Silver Coast, or Costa de Prata as it is known locally, provides a wealth of delights: from the miles of sandy beaches to the gentle green landscape that is dotted with ancient

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windmills, and from charming traditional villages to stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Development of the area is strictly controlled in order to ensure the beauty of the Silver Coast remains unspoilt. The extensive coastline is a haven for water sports such as sailing, surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving and fishing. Golfers may savour the pleasure and challenge of several worldclass courses. The areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excellent equestrian centres and trails are a popular choice for horse lovers. This villa is a sublime example of how beautifully modernist architecture can translate into highly inviting, liveable spaces conceived with contemporary living in mind.

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Combining the breathtaking beauty of unspoilt nature with a sophisticated modern design, the stylish villa is characterised by a sleek, geometric minimalism. Inside, the villa blends chic and cool contemporary design with the best of modern luxury. The pristine white adds the ultimate in minimalist elegance. With 300m² of contemporary, elegant and stylish living space, the exquisite villa offers three bedrooms, a living-dining room with fireplace and fully fitted kitchen. The gorgeous home radiates a sophisticated style within a modern floor plan perfect for the indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The stunning outdoor deck encourages relaxing conversations, while the various lounge and sitting areas around

the dazzling pool will always beckon. The villa boasts the perfect location for anyone seeking the serenity of nature, near the fishing village of Sesimbra and the beaches of Meco. The 3,000m² grounds are peaceful and lovely, offering the ultimate in privacy, together with wonderful views of Sintra. The ultra-modern Zen house makes a unique statement within its scenic setting. Price: €580,000. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury TUSCANY

Iconically designed by Frank Lloyd Wright Modernist masterpiece in a scenic setting with private beach and sea views

hile the art market may be shaky, savvy connoisseurs of culture are investing in iconic architecture. Although most buyers are looking for a property to live in, in recent years a new trend has arisen: Sophisticated investors with a passion for the built environment wish to leave their mark on it by owning an important building designed by such luminaries as Frank Lloyd Wright. The American Institute of Architects billed in 1991 Wright as “the greatest American architect of all time.” Yet Frank Lloyd Wright never attended architecture school. Despite a lack of formal training, he designed 1,141 works, varying from single-family homes, to offices, skyscrapers and museums. Wright is best remembered for his unmatched mastery of the organic style of architecture, where a structure’s form and material blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings. 148

Here is a rare opportunity to live in an architectural gem designed by this brilliant man. Set in a place of timeless beauty and great tranquillity on the Tuscan Coast, the iconic villa boasts a private beach, lovely sea views and large roof terrace. Perfectly integrated into its wooded waterfront homesite, the architecturally magnificent villa maintains the essential elements of Wright’s style: horizontal lines, open interior spaces, overhanging eaves, a central chimney and solid craftsmanship. A priceless showpiece of artistic and cultural heritage, the villa showcases pure geometry and cutting-edge modernity. Exuberant yet restrained, there is 1,200m² of gorgeous living space, with all three levels decorated in minimalist style. The modern family villa features nine bedrooms, four living rooms (some with fireplaces), a dining room with panoramic sea

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views, a second dining room with fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, TV room, library, multi-purpose room and laundry room. There is a separate single-bedroom house with dining room, kitchen and cellar. Showing a respect for nature with a celebration of the beauty and harmony of the natural surroundings, the designer villa is built in hammered concrete, a tribute to the local rocks. The refined, understated colour palette is beautifully enhanced with the colours from the surrounding greenery, as well as with the blue of the sea and the sky. With walls of glass and doors opening outwards, the property offers Mediterranean indoor-outdoor living, with a charming private beach surrounded by cliffs and fragrant vegetation, as well as a private jetty. Majestically situated in an exclusive area of Castiglioncello, the modern family home commands breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Privacy and serenity abound. The villa enjoys a beautiful and well-groomed park of 5,000m² graced by Mediterranean vegetation that includes palms, pines, oaks, oleander, pittosporum and a perfect English garden.

Known as the Tyrrhenian Sea’s “La Perla,” Castiglioncello is indeed a priceless treasure of Italy. Few can imagine the sheer beauty of the former Etruscan village that has become an elite destination for the yachting community, as well as those renowned in the worlds of politics, culture and the arts. Famed for its spectacular cliffs, sheltered bays, lovely beaches washed by crystal clear water and graced by luxuriant pine forests, Castiglioncello’s beauty has inspired artists, painters, writers and poets. Awarded the EU’s Blue Flag, the idyllic village sits on a small headland in the heart of Tuscany, where the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian seas meet. The trophy property awaits connoisseurs of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and living. It is truly an opportunity to own a piece of architectural history. Price: €10.5 million. CONTACT

Modern Homes Worldwide www.modernhomesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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luxury VENICE

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Classical Epiphany

One of the most splendid Venetian Gothic palaces

ith its achingly beautiful palaces and canals, Venice is inherently indulgent. No other city in the world boasts a larger collection of sumptuous palaces. Erected mostly during the apogee of the city-state of Venice between the 13th and 16th centuries, the palazzi are magnificent and grand in their structure and ornamentation. Each palazzo is unique and built in one of several distinctive Venetian architectural styles. Byzantine elements are apparent in older palaces, while later ones are either Baroque or Neoclassical in style, though the signature look is Venetian Gothic, combining Byzantine styles from Constantinople, Arab influences from Moorish Spain and early Gothic forms from mainland Italy. A spectacular and priceless piece of real estate, this palace represents an extremely rare opportunity to acquire an extraordinary and historical jewel of incomparable scale and grandeur. This is an exquisite and refined Gothic palazzo, which was described by the English writer, art critic and essayist John Ruskin as one of the most beautiful palaces in Venice. From the grand design to the historical features, the gracious property evokes a feeling of refinement, indulgence, elegance and wealth. Formerly the residence of the Contarini family, one of the most powerful and influential families in Venice, the late-14th-century palace is the perfect embodiment of the High Gothic period. The secluded palazzo preserves the real spirit of an ancient Venetian family residence. This is exemplified by the two entrances (to the canal and the street), the lovely courtyard, the external staircase leading to the main floor and the spacious sitting rooms.

The stately, vast and imposing residence boasts 2,289mÂ˛ of impeccable classic taste. Original historical features in architecture and furnishing reflect an era of gracious living, including high wood-beam ceilings, Venetian terrazzo and wood flooring. Antique tapestries, Murano glass chandeliers, gilt mirrors and handsome fireplaces create a luxurious atmosphere. The buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aristocratic past shows in the elegant inner courtyard with its original well and an external ornate staircase. The property also enjoys a formal garden with statues and fountains. The magnificent palazzo features 19 apartments, currently used for holiday lets. Some boast a balcony or patio. There is also an exceptional piano nobile apartment with 613mÂ˛ of living space, replete with the grace and charm of a bygone era. Situated in the district of Castello, the oldest and most fascinating part of the city, the property is only ten minutes from Piazza San Marco. The delightful neighbourhood offers plenty of good shops and restaurants. The palazzo has its own waterside entrance that opens directly onto the Canal of Francesco della Vigna, making it possible to gain access to the palazzo directly via water taxi. This is palatial living at its best. Price upon request. CONTACT

Signature Residences Worldwide www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com +44 (0)20 7095 8701

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Why Cyprus

By Dr Jean-Philippe Chetcuti, Managing Partner at Chetcuti Cauchi

Cyprus is a remarkable country that marries the quaint charm of a Mediterranean island with the energy and bustle of a major financial centre. It is this unique blend that allows Cyprus to seduce the visitor in search of fun and adventure, the retiree seeking financial safety and relaxation, and the entrepreneur seeking a proactive jurisdiction in which to do business.

For Business

Strategic Location Cyprus is strategically positioned in the eastern half of the Mediterranean, which places it at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. This makes

Cyprus easily accessible from most European and Middle Eastern financial centres. The country is also well placed diplomatically, priding itself for having good relations with its European counterparts and enjoying strong relations with major global players.

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EU Member State Cyprus’EU accession in 2004 highlighted the soundness and reputability of its institutions and helped the country to achieve significant growth in diverse fields. EU membership further bolstered the safety and stability of the country, and served as a reminder of the strength of its democratic structures.

Highly Qualified Labour Force Cypriot education levels are of a high standard, with the majority of youths attending tertiary education in universities situated in different parts of the continent, and many others advancing their studies in Cyprus. The government encourages a developed and highly motivational education system. In fact, the government invests approximately 6% of its Gross Domestic Product in education.

Competitiveness Cyprus is aware that it faces increasing competition for foreign direct investment from a number of other similarly proactive jurisdictions, such as Malta. In response to the stiffening competition, the Cypriot government is continuously providing incentives and creating new initiatives to attract investment.

Corporate Incentives Company Law in Cyprus permits a variety of commercial partnerships, such as: Cyprus Private Company Limited by Shares Cyprus Exempt Private Company Cyprus Public Company Limited by Shares Cyprus Company Limited by Guarantee Cyprus Branch of Overseas Company Cyprus General Partnership Cyprus Limited Partnership Cyprus Sole Proprietorship Cyprus Trusts 154

Cypriot corporate law is largely modelled on Common law and is evidence of the British presence in the islands. Cyprus is an attractive option for foreign investors who are interested in establishing a company because of its 10% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the world. This allows it to compete with other tax haven jurisdictions. In addition to the 10% flat tax rate, Cyprus offers favourable tax mechanisms to encourage individuals, as well as legal entities, to invest. One such example is the Participation Exemption, imposed on income originating overseas. Through this mechanism, income achieved particularly through dividends that is received by a Cypriot legal entity is exempt from national tax. The rationale is that with the income already taxed at source, no further tax need be deducted by Cypriot authorities. Also, income passed on to shareholders through distribution of company dividends, whether to residents or non-residents, is not subject to further tax, provided the funds remain in Cyprus. A further incentive is that no capital gains tax is charged on profits from a Cypriot holding company when shares are transferred to a subsidiary, provided the company does not hold any immovable property under its name.

For Individuals Language

Greek and Turkish are the official languages in Cyprus. However, tourism and a busy open economy mean that English language fluency is essential for many. As a result, professionals are almost universally fluent in English and the population at large generally speaks the language.

Tourism and Lifestyle With its Mediterranean climate and easy-going

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Mediterranean vibe, it is no wonder that Cyprus is an attractive tourist destination. Agia Napa, Limasol and Pafos welcome thousands of visitors every year. There is a richness of destinations and sights, everything from medieval castles to peaceful villages. The Mediterranean climate is mild and pleasant, and unlikely to disappoint anyone looking for sunshine.

For Both Individuals and Businesses

Residency in Cyprus

Efficient legal, accounting and business services

Entry into Cyprus is easy for EU citizens, who require only an EU passport. Visitors from non-EU countries and their dependants may require a visa for stays of more than 3 months. However, an application is required for permanent residence status for a longer duration. The government has introduced a range of attractive residence schemes which open the way for newcomers to enjoy all of the favourable tax incentives mentioned earlier. There are 6 classes under which individuals may relocate to Cyprus. The most popular covers those who are able to sustain themselves–those who immigrate for employment, or who are pensioners. Permit holders under this category are able to obtain a visa and may travel to all EU states, even if they are not EU citizens. These permit holders may eventually apply for citizenship status. There is no minimum wealth requirement, but the permit holder must own property valued at €300,000 or more. The resident would also be subject to the Cypriot tax system and benefit from a progressive tax rate mechanism that exempts the first €19,500 from tax. One of the key attractions is that Cyprus does not impose taxes on net wealth or real estate. However, capital gains tax is imposed on the sale of immovable property, with the exception that no capital gains tax is imposed on a main residence, provided such property has been owned and occupied for at least 3 years.

Double Taxation Treaties

As a result of Cyprus’ neighbourly relations with international players, the country enjoys a double tax treaty with 50 jurisdictions. This allows uniform exemptions with other member states.

Anyone wishing to establish corporate entities or relocate existing enterprises to Cyprus has access to a sophisticated system of legal, accounting and banking services and advice. With offices in Cyprus, Malta and London, Chetcuti Cauchi is a multidisciplinary firm providing legal, tax, and corporate services to the local and international business community. With a unique multi-disciplinary set-up of professionals comprising lawyers, tax advisors, accountants, company administrators and relocation advisors the company offers all-round support. Chetcuti Cauchi specialises in assisting foreign investors extending their business operations in Cyprus as well as the owners, employees and their families who may be relocating. A special focus is the use of Cyprus in the legal and tax structuring and administration of international business and personal affairs. The firm’s industry experience covers major industries including property, financial services, i-gaming, ICT, pharma, shipping and aviation. Chetcuti Cauchi is well positioned to service clients ranging from high net worth individuals and families, owner-managed companies to larger corporations. Chetcuti Cauchi Web: www.cclex.com Email: info@cclex.com

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Food & Travel around the world

Explore epicurean inspirations; from hidden gems to perennial classics, from simple delights to refined pleasures. The Great Address shares some of their food and travel discoveries to be included on your mustto-do list. Join us on a journey from Amsterdan to San Sebastían. Explore and Enjoy!

Pestana Palace

Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl Muottas Muragl, Swiss Alps Tucked away in one of the most beautiful vantage points in the Swiss Alps’ Engadin St. Moritz, the hotel, accessible only by a 10-minute ride on the Muottas Muragl’s exclusive funicular, is set in an intimate and romantic mountain setting. At an altitude of 156

Le Foundouk

2,456 metres and set in the triangle of Zurich, Milan and Munich, it enjoys breathtaking panoramic views along the Upper Engadin Valley, a land of lakes and alpine villages. From the terrace, enjoy scenes of nature in all its splendour. Inside, the combination of arolla pine and walnut, together with natural stone, creates an atmosphere that is both stylish and pure.

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漏www.xdachez.com

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This is the first plus-energy hotel in the Swiss Alps. It was awarded the highly coveted Swiss Solar Award in 2011, the Milestone 2011 Tourism Award and the PlusEnergieBau (PEB) Solar Award 2011, the only prize in the world for buildings that generate more energy than they consume. www.muottasmuragl.ch/en/

Hôtel de Glace Québec Hôtel de Glace brings new meaning to the concept of “cool.” Constructed completely from ice and snow, the awe-inspiring hotel boasts towering snow arches and crystalline ice sculptures. Indoors, it impresses with dazzling décor. It is really a beautiful giant igloo carved from ice blocks, each room uniquely decorated from designs created by Québec architecture students. Wall etchings co-ordinate with the sculptures, some of which are purely decorative and some serving as a window, table, chair or even the bed. The grand hall boasts ceilings of 5½ metres, lined with majestic columns and lit by a breathtaking ice chandelier. Guests chill out in one of several ice lounges where cool lounge music is played. There is an awesome Ice Bar where Absolut Vodka is served in an ice glass. There is an ice disco and an outdoor hot tub. Deer-topped sleeping bags and an endless supply of hot chocolate help guests keep warm. An ice chapel provides an enchanting, fairytale-like setting for weddings. There is an ice altar and pews covered with deer fur. The ice wall behind the altar is etched and looks like stained glass, although the only colour is reflected from the flowers on the altar. Candelabras are made of ice and there are bear skin rugs. 160

During the day, join in the dog sledding, snow-shoeing, tubing, snowmobiling, crosscountry skiing, skating, ice fishing – and an ice slide that is bound to bring out the child in anyone. There is even a traditional igloo building workshop. The winter wonderland is located ten minutes from downtown Québec City. The hotel is redesigned and built each year so no two years will result in exactly the same accommodation. It takes five weeks, 500 tons of ice and 15,000 tons of snow to craft Québec’s Ice Hotel. www.hoteldeglace-canada.com

Restaurant AS Amsterdam Cooking in its purest form, served up in the austere surroundings. That is the concept behind Restaurant As, a place where food is prepared in a traditional Tuscan oven. The restaurant smokes its own salmon, cures its own ham, bakes its own bread and grows much of its own produce. Flavours are true to the season, super-fresh and presented in marvellous combinations. This is a place that is austerely organic, its food locally sourced, family style and wholesome. Stellar dishes may include the supernal smoked Tuscan pork that has been marinated for five days, roasted in the brick oven and laid over a bed of parsnips and white beans. For dessert, don’t pass up a chance to savour the plum tart, served with a luxurious yoghurt ice cream. Customers are served at rustic communal tables, a fitting ambiance given that the Restaurant As is housed in a round and brutalist concrete building that once served as the chapel of the adjacent former convent. www.restaurantas.nl

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White Elephant Safari Lodge South Africa Step back in time to the elegant and classic colonial days of the African homestead at this secluded retreat. Set amidst the unspoilt savannah bushveld, a place teeming with game and birdlife, the White Elephant Safari Lodge offers the ultimate “Out of Africa” experience. Located in the beautiful Pongola Game Reserve and overlooking the majestic Lebombo Mountains, the lodge sits next to the shimmering waters of Lake Jozini and the endless savannah woodland of the northern KwaZulu Natal. Luxury safari tents surround an elegant 1920s homestead. Exquisitely furnished with antiques, the décor is classic colonial, with plenty of natural materials, muted colours and African artefacts to capture the history and romance of a bygone era. Each tent enjoys its own secluded spot. Tents are decorated with crisp white linen and teak furniture. Don’t miss tying back the tent flaps to the ensuite bathroom before luxuriating in the claw-footed Victorian bath so as to better enjoy the star-flecked African skies across the distant wetland. The cuisine is superb with traditional African flavour. Venison meals are not to be missed. The lodge is rich in activities to prime guests for the safari mood. Open-top 4X4 game drives, bush walks, sunset boat cruises, tiger fishing and joining in the “Space for Elephants” monitoring program are just a few. Don’t forget those early-morning walks along Lake Jozini. There is also a lovely rim pool with sun loungers on the wooden pool deck. The first proclaimed game reserve in Africa, Pongola Reserve is host to four of the ‘Big 5’ species. The reserve enjoys many of this incredible continent’s most fascinating species,

including buffalo, elephant, rhino, leopard, hyena, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, warthog, 12 species of antelope and over 350 types of birds, plus an array of smaller mammals and insects. Venture into the wilderness to witness that magical moonrise, enjoy glorious sunsets, bubble baths, dusky bird calls, champagne on ice, private dinners and star-studded skies. Enjoy the sweeping views and the therapeutic silence – pure bliss. www.whiteelephant.co.za

Arnaud’s Restaurant New Orleans The beautifully restored, turn-of-the-century dining room is the grande dame of classic Creole restaurants. Opened in 1918 by the French wine salesman, Arnaud Cazenave, it still sparkles today. Reserve a table in the nostalgic main dining room, replete with exquisite crystal chandeliers, mosaic-tiled floors, stately columns, dark wood walls and bevelled glass windows. As well as the formal and seriously New Orleans dining room is the more casual jazz bistro, where visitors indulge their appetite for food and music alike. Dishes range from baked oysters to grilled pompano and a decadent Sunday brunch. The signature appetizer is Shrimp Arnaud, giant prawns served cold with a spicy rémoulade sauce. If you love Bananas Foster, this is the place to get it. Dinner is finished best with the café brûlot, a divine concoction that emits blue flames along with the aromas of citrus, liqueur and spices. Service is always impeccable. Before or after dinner – or both – stop in for a libation at Arnaud’s famed French 75 Bar, listed as one of the best in America by Esquire

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Arzak

Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl

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Magazine. This is a vintage, dark wood-panelled watering hole where mixologist Chris Hannah holds court. Hannah is known for turning out pitch-perfect craft cocktails with the confidence and ease of an old-school barman. Arnaud’s is also home to the Mardi Gras Museum, a definite must for any customer intent on learning about what makes New Orleans tick.

the Vall d’Arán. Surrounding it all, the magnificent Pyrenean scenery is truly magical, a land of waterfalls, forests, lakes and tiny villages served by Romanesque churches. This is, indeed, a place to come for chic alpine style and pampering in the mountains. www.lapleta.com

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Pestana Palace

La Pleta

Lisbon Set in a stately late 19th-century palace in the heart of Lisbon, the hotel is an oasis of serenity and elegance. At its core is one of Portugal’s finest examples of Romantic Revival architecture, combining at least four distinct styles that include Rocaille Baroque and Doña Maria revival. Created by José Constantino Dias, Marquis of Valle Flor, the palace is an opulent extravaganza of stained glass, ornate ironwork, gilt-covered panelling, parquet floors, stucco and painted rococo ceilings, perfectly complemented by distinctive classical furnishings and lavish fabrics. Stately. Sumptuous. The building is a shimmering masterpiece. It took nearly a decade to restore the four suites and public areas within the former palace. Stained glass windows were sent from Italy, which were then manufactured in Cláudio Martin’s workshop, which has been operating in Lisbon since 1907. Surrounding the hotel is a magnificent botanical park containing flowers unique to Portugal. The hotel boasts lovely views of the private subtropical park, as well as the Tagus River. The palace and gardens are both classified as National Monuments. Guests lounge at the spectacular pool where they enjoy views over the Tagus River and the

Baqueira-Beret, Pyrenees Surrounded by the majestic Spanish Pyrenees Mountains, the Vall d’Aran region remains charmingly unspoilt and boasts some of the most exhilarating skiing in all of Europe. Set in this gorgeous location, La Pleta is a stylish mountain retreat in the Baqueira-Beret ski resort. Each bedroom at La Pleta boasts stunning mountain views of the snowy landscape, while the public rooms are decorated with an eclectic collection of contemporary art, wooden sculptures and paintings. The sushi restaurant is first-class and offers the best of Japanese cuisine as well as spectacular show cooking. There is also an exceptional restaurant that features a specialised menu of Catalonian cuisine. Sit on the terrace at Café y Veranda and enjoy oysters with champagne. Or, in winter, as great glimmering drifts of snow lie all around, enjoy the open terrace with vin chaud, a mulled wine served in ceramic cups. Built around a cosy fireplace, the Cigar Bar offers an excellent choice of cigarettes, cigars, whiskies and prestigious brandies from around the world. For those in search of the most chic in pampering, there is the spa, which is inspired by the ancient culture of the Pyrenees and uses ingredients from the flowers and fruits of

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25 de Abril Bridge. The grand restaurant evokes Old World glamour with its high ceilings, ornate gold coving and large antique paintings. A sumptuous buffet breakfast is served in what was once a ballroom. Tea can also be taken in the oriental pavilion called the Lake House, which is located in the garden. www.pestana.com

Arzak San Sebastían Housed in a building constructed by the owner’s grandparents in 1897, Arzak succeeds in paying homage to its roots while at the same time standing as a divinely modern temple of haute cuisine, a place where fusion, evolutionary, investigatory and avantgarde cuisine reigns supreme. The eponymous owner, Juan Marie Arzak, has been credited with starting the modern Spanish cuisine movement and is today considered one of the grand masters of New Basque gastronomy. Arzak obtained its 3 Michelin star status in 1989, an honour it has maintained ever since. The legendary Juan Marie Arzak operates the restaurant with his daughter, Elna, who is considered one of the world’s finest chefs. The cuisine is thoroughly modern, daring and hauntingly wonderful. Dishes are designed to amaze and amuse the senses, mixing cuttingedge molecular gastronomy with sound classic technique. Stunning amuse bouches are utterly divine, some served on custom-

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made backlit trays that resemble photographic light boxes. The tasting menu ought not be missed. The meal concludes as it began, with a myriad of bite-sized selections – this time, sweets that are impossible to resist. Décor is black, white and thoroughly modern. The service is impeccable. As well as the kitchen, there is a Flavour Bank containing more than 1,500 products and ingredients that are used in the search for new creations. At Arzak, tradition, family and forward-looking cooking techniques come together in a spectacular result. www.arzak.es

Le Foundouk Marrakech Men in cloaks, lanterns in hand, guide curious visitors along a hidden backstreet in the medina’s northern district. Down a dusty alley. Through a secret door and into a stylish sanctuary that stands as a modern interpretation of an ancient travellers’ inn. Rescued by a pair of French furniture designers, the building has been transformed into a stylish restaurant serving French-Moroccan and fusion cuisine. This is a place right out of 1001 Arabian Nights, where the magnificent décor is dominated by regal shades of purple. A dramatic 3-level dining space is revealed, its ceilings soaring, its every corner filled with African carvings and modern Moroccan art. Here one can enjoy a quiet apéritif in the lovely lounge bar. Then perhaps retreat to the rooftop terrace for

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romantic alfresco dining. The terrace is particularly popular during the summer when evening dining is conducted in the illumination of candlelight, and when sweeping views of the medina are stunning. Or book one of the highly sought tables on the first floor that overlooks the giant wrought-iron candelabra. The menu is innovative and elegant. Dishes range from the traditional harira soup, to pastilla with pigeon (b’steeya) and Moroccan salads, as well as magret de canard. For dessert, try the crème brûlée á la pistache, accompanied by a Moroccan Sahari Reserve wine. www.foundouk.com

Hotel Villa Magna Madrid With a modern mix of the most elegant Old World sophistication and contemporary elements, Villa Magna, located in the fashionable Barrio Salamanca, is striking and über-stylish. This is a neighbourhood known for its designer shops and small, yet majestic 18th- and 19th-century palaces. All rooms are exquisitely decorated with restored antique furniture. Stunning art pieces emphasise a modern aesthetic which makes a bold statement against the hotel’s classic allure. Throughout the hotel, each room features LCD Magic Mirror TVs, the latest in high-definition viewing that delivers reception without cables and uses the decorative room mirror as its screen.

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Villa Magna boasts more than 50 suites, more than any other hotel in the city. The top-floor Real Suite presents the ultimate in penthouse decadence, measuring 290m2, with a splendid 120m2 terrace, kitchen, living room with piano, two bedrooms with walk-in closets, private Turkish bath, office and dining room that seats 12. Guests may choose from a number of avant-garde gastronomic selections. The elegant Villa Magna Restaurant, decorated in grey and white, boasts lofty windows, black mirrors and white linen armchairs with gold trim. The menu offers classic cuisine with a twist of the 21st century. Lovers of Asian food rave about the Tse Yang Restaurant, with its red walls, antique furniture, hand-painted screens and lanterns providing the backdrop for some of the country’s finest Cantonese cuisine. The Magnum Bar creates a warm and sophisticated 1950s New York atmosphere and specialises in delicious tapas and elegant cocktails. Outside, the hotel is surrounded by manicured gardens. Terraces provide a tranquil retreat from the bustling nearby streets. Its understated opulence makes this hotel the choice for visiting heads of state, celebrities, business travellers and tourists alike www.villamagna.es Feature provided by The Great Address www.thegreataddress.com

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Insider’s Guide

Cape Town A jewel in Africa’s crown and at her southernmost tip, Cape Town is a city of inspiration. Flanked by the majestic Table Mountain and two oceans, it’s a food lover’s/nature enthusiast’s/ adventure seeker’s paradise, dotted with wonderful spots for romance and celebration. We asked Ishay Govender-Ypma, award-winning food writer and recipe developer, to share some of her Cape Town favourites.

Best for Natural Beauty Table Mountain There is so much in the way of natural beauty on offer in the Cape that it’s almost impossible to choose the single best. Table Mountain offers an incredible vantage point for panoramic views of the city and was just named a New Wonder of Nature by the New7Wonders Foundation in Zurich, Switzerland. The more fit and adventurous might want to hike up the mountain and take the cable car down. Pack a picnic and a lightweight picnic blanket in a backpack, or try the restaurant at the top. Bring a light jacket (even in warm weather, since conditions on the mountain are unpredictable) and wear good walking or hiking shoes. Excellent photo opportunities present themselves at every turn. Purchase tickets to the cable car online to save 10% and skip the always-long queue. www.tablemountain.net

For something a little different, hike up Table Mountain with Khoisan poet Jethro Louw. www.coffeebeansroutes.com

Where to stay Best Hidden Gem Hout Bay Manor Situated in the beautiful fishing village of Hout Bay 20 minutes outside Cape Town, Hout Bay Manor offers 19 unique 5-star rooms, each decorated in a modern African fashion, replete with beautiful views, impeccable linens and the best in conveniences. A stay here is a lovely way to escape it all, while remaining close to the hub and pulse of the city. Additional draws are the hotel’s sumptuous Pure Restaurant with its elegant Afro-chic design and fine dining menu at incredibly reasonable prices, and the Inzlolo Spa, which uses a range of African products. The hotel has a strong social

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Hippo Boutique Hotel

responsibility programme and focuses on giving back to many charities in the Cape. Baviaanskloof, Off Main Road, Hout Bay, 7872 www.houtbaymanor.com

Best Value Hippo Boutique Hotel Is it possible to recommend a 4-star hotel in the good value category? This is a rarity, but Hippo Boutique Hotel proves the exception. Situated at the very centre of Cape Town’s restaurant mile and food attractions, this modern hotel provides stylish accommodations, a computer in each room, free wi-fi and secure parking. Step out of the hotel and into a choice of restaurants, delis, take-aways, a supermarket and a fantastic health shop (Wellness Warehouse) that stocks freshly prepared foods and a huge range of organic produce. There is also a kitchenette for easy food preparation and complimentary tea and coffee. Minutes from vibey Long Street, evenings needn’t be shortened by travel time back to the hotel. Party the night away, knowing that 24-hour reception will be there to welcome, and perhaps arrange a massage for the next day at a nearby spa. Room rates 170

start at R1290 per night. 5-9 Park Road, Gardens, Cape Town www.hippotique.co.za

Where to drink Best for Beer &Union A pioneer in popularising the craft beer movement in Cape Town, &Union stocks a range of Brewers & Union beers that the owners choose to have made in Belgium. This unassuming venue, with wooden benches and a ping-pong table outside and simple stools on the inside, is packed in the summer with the after-work crowd. The spicy pulled pork sandwich is legendary, as is the size of the pickles. Try a bucket of love – 3 craft beers. &Union offers a curated wine list and does tastings on selected evenings. Bookings are essential. Open from 7 a.m., it serves breakfast and goes strong till late. Live music on Wednesdays from 7 p.m. is a hit. Yes, you’ll bump into a lot of skinny jeanwearing hipsters, but there’s a reason &Union is so popular with locals and visitors alike. 110 Bree Street, Cape Town www.andunion.com

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Hout Bay Manor

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Best Sea Views 12 Apostles A majestic entrance awaits at the 5-star 12 Apostles Hotel, situated between Camps Bay and Hout Bay and set against a continuous 12 Apostles mountain backdrop and the Atlantic Ocean. The Leopard Bar affords the most incredible views of the Atlantic. Start the evening here, watching the sunset, for one those special Cape Town moments. For those preferring to take their drinks earlier, the bar offers a tea-by-the-sea option – high tea, with spectacular views. Naturally, it could be a Pimms or a gin and tonic. Dinner at the hotel’s Azure Restaurant completes the luxurious experience. Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town www.12apostleshotel.com

Retro Alba Lounge The Alba Lounge cocktail bar is an institution amongst locals in Cape Town. Situated above the small Hildebrand restaurant, it boasts wonderful views of the V&A Waterfront. It is both comfortable and elegant. A separate staircase allows access away from restaurant

diners. Deep-cushioned seating on the inside, and a few tables and chairs on the deck lend themselves to perfect sun-downer celebrations. The venue is small and has aged a tad, but is worth it for the drinks, views and service. Drinks are inexpensive and taxis are plentiful in the area. Enjoy an Alba Chilli Martini while browsing the tapas menu. Complimentary bar snacks are offered for those ordering drinks. Pierhead, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002 www.albalounge.co.za

Where to eat Best Sushi Willoughby & Co Willoughby & Co is a Cape Town favourite with a varied menu and a dedicated Japanese kitchen. The other thing worth knowing is that Willoughby’s is situated in a shopping mall. But there is a reason it’s packed all week and weekend during lunch, and that during the evening service the queues snake many doors down: consistent quality, fresh produce, attached deli with bar-side dining, plus the variety. Consider the sizable Japanese platter for 2 for a dinner, or for 2 starving individuals for lunch. It contains some of the most popular

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hot and cold dishes on the menu, personal favourites being the tempura prawns, salmon saikyo miso yaki (marinated grilled salmon with a special miso sauce) and the tender beef fillet. They’re a little more than sushi, but the sushi platters and conveyor belt options are also winners. Shop 6132, Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town www.willoughbyandco.co.za

Best Breakfast Caffe Milano Tucked in the upper part of Cape Town’s restaurant mile, Kloof Street, Caffe Milano, which falls under the empire of chef extraordinaire Gorgio Nava, offers a small menu of well-executed breakfasts and the most incredible pastries, Milanese style and in smaller tapas portions. The eggs Benedict has regulars

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flocking into the small restaurant. Over weekends, get in early and grab one of 3 tables outside, then watch the weird and wonderful folk saunter, jog or bustle along. The tiny pastries, such as the simple plum tart on butter puff pastry in the summer, must be tasted to be believed. For those who don’t fancy a savoury breakfast, try a bunch of these tapasstyle pastries, including a bombolone – a delectable doughnut filled with vanilla cream – to indulge in over a cup or 2 of espresso. 153 Kloof Street, Cape Town www.caffemilano.co.za

Best Local Food The Noon Gun Cafe In the Cape, local food is often synonymous with the cuisine of the Cape Malay (descendants of Javanese/Indonesians who were enslaved by the Dutch and exiled to the Cape

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from 1654). Even though these are not the only local inhabitants, the Cape Malay style has cemented itself as the local food. It is similar to Indian cuisine, but differs in terms of heat, as far less masala and chilli are used. Cape Malay food also uses turmeric and fruit such as apricots, and incorporates many Dutch and Afrikaaner influences. The Noon Gun Cafe is a famous family-run restaurant on the slopes of Signal Hill, showcasing wonderful views of the city and serving a small but representative menu, such as dahltjies (chilli bites or bahjias), chicken curry, Malay bredie (stew) and the famed bobotie (a mince dish covered in a savoury custard). Try the koesisters for dessert, a sweet syrupdrenched mini-doughnut and covered in dessicated coconut. 273 Longmarket Street, Signal Hill, Bo-Kaap, Cape Town

Best Steak Carne Carne refers to the Italian word for meat, and this is precisely what is to be found here. But not just any meat. Owner-patron Gorgio Navas, a very successful Milanese chef and businessman in Cape Town with a string of unique restaurants to his name, has seen to it that only the very finest cuts of Romagnola beef, Dorper lamb and game are used. The menu is Italian and this is the place to sample exquisite sweetbreads, tongue, carpaccio and a beautiful cut of your selection for the main meal. Service is impeccable and the restaurant was designed to complement the wood and metal of the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interior. Italian marble, butcher blocks, solid oak tables and Phillipe Starke chairs complete the look. The bar serves a range of wines by the glass, then enjoy a meal in the 70-seat downstairs dining area. Carne

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Africa Cafe

Planet Restaurant

attracts those meat-lover couples looking to celebrate a romantic anniversary, birthday or date in style. Recommended for celebration. 70 Keerom St., Cape Town, South Africa www.carne-sa.com

Best Vegetarian Africa Cafe Situated in Heritage Square, the bright and friendly Africa Cafe offers a modern spin on African foods from Ethiopia, the Congo, Zanzibar and Mozambique, amongst others. While it also serves meat and fish dishes, the special spring menu called the Raw Feast caters to those with glucose and lactose intolerances and is perfect for both vegetarians and vegans. While the thought of a raw meal may not appeal on first read, the spicy butternut soup with chia seed and sweet potato crackers, the wild mushroom and walnut burger, the Senegalese stuffed papaya, filled with greens and turnip rice in a ginger & sun-dried tomato dressing and the raw cacao mousse are sure to change that. 108 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town www.africacafe.co.za

Best Food Market Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill Cape Town’s market scene has exploded in the last 4 years, with the interest in fresh, local produce and foods manufactured using natural, sustainable methods, taking centre stage. The Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill was the forerunner in making food market culture popular in Cape Town by offering a selection of artisanal goods, usually sold by the farmers, butchers and manufacturers themselves, in a fun environment. Every Saturday, crowds descend upon the Biscuit Mill to grab fresh salads, paella and gourmet sandwiches and chill on hay bales, or even on the ground with ice-cold craft beers and ciders. For those looking to pick up items to enjoy at home,

such as breads, terrines, meat, cheeses and nuts, it’s best to get there before 9 a.m. If you’re prepared to soak up the vibe in true laid-back Cape Town style, however, pack your shopper with a dose of patience, grab an Everson’s Cider and a KC Canteen legendary steak sandwich (the best beef and made by respected chef Peter Goffe-Woods and his fabulous wife, Elize) and watch the beautiful people. The crepes and curry stands are also a must-try. 373 - 375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town www.neighbourgoodsmarket.co.za

Best Romantic Planet Restaurant Situated in the Mount Nelson Hotel, one of the Cape’s most famous 5-star hotels, renowned for its old-world colonial charm and stellar service, the Planet Restaurant is the perfect venue for romance. Crystals and a breathtaking chandelier set the scene, with plush carpet underfoot and waiters moving about silently, anticipating that every need. Consider the 6-course journey menu paired with wines. Chef Rudi Liebenberg has won awards and worship in abundance at Planet. Manager and sommelier Carl Habel has an outstanding knowledge of his wines and is on hand to offer suggestions and to indulge every wish. A special night out is guaranteed. Arrive early for a glass of bubbles at the Planet Bar before dinner. 76 Orange Street, Cape Town www.mountnelson.co.za

Best for Families Cafe Roux Cookbook author and food writer Berne le Roux co-owns and runs Cafe Roux in Noordhoek Farm Village. It’s a large restaurant that hosts regular events and live music every Sunday. The casual menu, with an emphasis on good home-cooked meals, draws families by the score. Everything, including the sauces and breads, is made in-house. Berne is a keen urban farmer, so be assured that only

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seasonal, organic produce is used. Kidlets can let off steam in the attached playground, monitored by staff, while parents enjoy a glass of wine. For those arriving sans children on a Sunday, look for a table on the inside where chatting can be done without distraction. The farmer’s omelette and salmon crepes come highly recommended for breakfast. Lunchtime favourites include the tender calamari strip starter and the crunchy Asian salad with beef and noodles. Village Lane, Noordhoek Farm Village, Noordhoek www.caferoux.co.za

Best High-end Dinner Pierneef à La Motte Set on La Motte wine farm and part of the Rupert family legacy, Pierneef à La Motte is named after the artist Jacob Hendrik Pierneef, famed for his inspirational depiction of the South African landscape and architecture. An extensive collection of Pierneef’s works is displayed. The restaurant is elegantly opulent and contemporary in design. It is dedicated to

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serving Cape Winelands cuisine, delving into a history of inhabitants that spans well over 300 years and many, many cultural influences, all with a modern twist. Do try the Cape bokkum (dried fish) salad with semi-dried tomatoes, apricots, almonds and wild garlic dressing. The food and wine pairing is a must. Book a table with sofabench seating. R45, Main Road, Franschhoek www.la-motte.com

Best Luxury Value La Mouette La Mouette (the seagull) is a gem located at Sea Point in a grand old Tudor house – a white-washed beauty replete with dark wood window panes and a gorgeous wooden staircase with several rooms, each with their own special nooks, bench seating at windows and fireplaces throughout. Upstairs there’s a double-sided bar with cushy low seating all round, and a private dining room that has been partially and very cleverly

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opened up. Outside, diners enjoy the summer sun under umbrellas in the courtyard, around the large fountain. Chef Henry Vagar has invented a tasting menu that he adapts each month and offers excellent value and keeps locals streaming in. R150 buys 6 courses of exceptionally good food (fine dining by all standards). These menus are also available paired with wines, and in a deluxe version. The à la carte menu is always available. Host and co-owner Mari Vagar will make you feel right at home. Consider La Mouette for special occasions, too. 78 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town www.lamouette-restaurant.co.za

Best Seafood Harbour House Situated in Kalk Bay, a small picturesque fishing village with a working harbour, there is no better place to sample seafood and views of False Bay than the elegant Harbour House. A mere 40 minutes out of Cape Town, a great option is to spend an hour or so walking

along the main road, exploring the antique and clothing shops. Work up an appetite and have drinks at Harbour House, followed by dinner. Be sure to book a table at the window. Consider starting with the champagne oysters or the West Coast mussels (steamed in white wine, garlic, thyme and cream) and follow with the scrumptious seafood platter. Harbour House’s own boat Live Bait supplies it and its sister restaurants exclusively. From July, whales are often visible in the bay. For a less grand meal, downstairs is another restaurant (also part of the same group), Live Bait, which serves more modest fare but with no compromise on quality or flavour. Enquire about the line fish of the day and enjoy it served with a lemon butter sauce. At both restaurants, bookings are advisable. Just recently, Harbour House opened a branch at the V&A Waterfront. Frown upon chains? Fear not: this is one exception. Also convenient for those in the city with no time to travel out. Main road, Kalk Bay or behind Amphitheatre, V&A Waterfront, Victoria Wharf, Cape Town www.harbourhouse.co.za

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Where to shop Best for Pretty Presents Imagenius A Victorian house dating to 1899 holds this 3-level store. Place yourself in Alica mode and go forth and explore the wonderland that is Imagenius. From stationery and homeware to shoes, bags, belts, jewellery, furniture, ornaments and glassware, this store offers the quirkiest, most beautiful items. Climb the narrow wrought iron staircase and reward your own bravery with glass and wooden decor items and bespoke furniture. As the name indicates, most items are imaginative genius. Friendly, welcoming staff make the experience complete. 117 Long Street, Cape Town www.imagenius.co.za

86 Long Street, corner Longmarket Street, Cape Town www.afraidofmice.com

Best Decor Items

Best Vintage Afraid of Mice Run by two sisters who quit their respective jobs to open their dream store, Afraid of Mice 178

stocks the type of clothing and accessories that, in the words of the women, you wish your mother had kept for you when she was young. The store is clean, uncluttered and holds special items that are actually sourced with current trends in mind, too. It is a mixture of big names and no names with interesting details, each piece in perfect condition. After years of searching in several of the big cities around the world, I finally purchased my first vintage item here â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a beautiful soft, leather bag covered in gold leather leaves. Love at first sight. Chances are youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have as much luck. Maybe even more.

O.live Think of a treasure trove of collectibles belonging to your chic aunt in the country and the young English professor who always smelled of vanilla and who kept her pencils

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in a glass jar on the desk. O.live contains an accumulation of items old and new that they could have owned. Mainly items for the kitchen, there are some ornaments for the living room, bedroom and library, as well as select art and furniture pieces. The shop is beautifully laid out and neatly packed. I found a 1930s-inspired tea set, complete with 20 cake plates, but far fewer cups and saucers, that have made themselves very at-home in my kitchen. You’re bound to find something pretty for your home or study here. 8 Kloof Street +27(0)21 426 5773

Best for Kids Toy Kingdom – V&A Take the little ones for a visit to Toy Kingdom. Spanning two levels, the store caters for babies from a month old to children up to 13 years and older. You can even “order” an infant from the nursery downstairs, candy at the candy bar or recharge at the coffee stop. After the children have let off steam and selected their purchases, hand over the plastic, knowing you

can bribe them for yet another browse in the grown-ups’ stores at the V&A. No one should miss this mall. Shop 005, Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town www.toykingdom.co.za

What to do Best Safari Experience Aquila Private Game Reserve This nature reserve is a hefty 90-minute drive from Cape Town, but for those wanting to see the Big 5 close to Cape Town (or at least stand a sporting chance, as animals are unpredictable), this is the place. Aquila is set on a private nature reserve of 4,500 hectares in the Southern Karoo and is home to elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards and rhinos, amongst others. There are varied options, from a standard safari, to quad bike and overnight safaris for those seeking something a little different. www.aquilasafari.com

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179 Michael Stevenson Gallery

Best Museums for History iZiko South African Museum The iZiko South African Museum, established in 1825, is the country’s oldest museum and contains over half a million artefacts reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the sub-continent. A fine collection of fossils and pieces of rock reflecting San paintings and engravings, as well as the Lydenberg heads – one of the earliest known forms of African sculpture dating to AD 490 – are reasons to visit this museum. Also, the museum is situated next to the lovely Company Gardens, ideal for a stroll afterwards, or a rest on one of the benches. 25 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town www.iziko.org.za

Best Art Gallery Michael Stevenson Gallery One of the best examples of a broad spectrum of South African contemporary art, the Michael Stevenson Gallery in Cape Town is situated in the suburb of Woodstock, once gritty and over-looked but now an active hub for artists and creatives. The gallery has hosted a series of

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solo and group exhibitions that engage with contemporary art practice in South Africa as well as Africa and its diaspora. In addition to giving African artists access to the rest of the world, the gallery’s FOREX programme, started in 2009, has brought the work of several international artists to South Africa. Exhibitions change regularly. Buchanan Building, 160 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock www.stevenson.info

Picnics Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens Set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is known as one of the great botanical gardens of the world. In 2004 the area under which the gardens are situated was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site. Apart from the unique indigenous flora and the 9 specialist gardens within the park, it is home to many species of animals and birds. Kirstenbosch is synonymous with Cape Town summers – pack a picnic and a blanket, explore the gardens and have a nap under one of the shady trees. A dedicated concert calendar operates in high summer and things get rather

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festive, with some of the more popular local and international artists holding concerts that sell out fast. Check out the schedule on the website or Facebook page. Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town www.sa-venues.com

Best Visit to Artisanal Producer Jorgensen’s Distillery Jorgensen’s are artisan distillers of handcrafted premium spirits, an entirely family-run business. The 10-hectare farm is to be found within the urban edge of Wellington in the Boland. The distillery’s products include brandy, vodka, gin, absinthe and liqueurs such as Limoncello and lime, bay leaf and naartjie. Everything is hand-made from scratch, using home-grown organic raw material whenever possible. The emphasis is on a holistic approach to farming and distillation, using bottles and packaging that should be reused or recycled. Jorgensen’s runs the farm on strict principals that minimise municipal waste. Roger Jorgensen has an incredible knowledge of botany and takes great pleasure in discussing

the plants (all grown on the farm) used to make the spirits, especially the absinthe. The family opens the farm to the public by prior appointment and the tour affords a unique and intimate look into the manufacture of handcrafted spirits. It would be difficult to find a family more welcoming and kind-hearted. Be prepared to take a few of these very sexy bottles of spirits home for loved ones, or for yourself. Versailles Farm, Regent Street, Wellington www.jd7.co.za Ishay Govender-Ypma is a curious food writer and recipe developer involved in several social causes. With a background in law, and a nose for the delectable, she plots her adventures from the shade of Table Mountain, Cape Town. Ishay has dedicated her love of words, art and food to her own special travel experiences over the last 4 years, which now feature on her blog which was recently awarded best food and wine blog at the South African blog awards. You can find her, spoon in hand at www.foodandthefabulous.com

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Fabulous Foodie Inspirations

Here we serve up gourmet food, nifty tools, and stylish tableware for the ultimate dinner party Offering an aesthetic tool for storage of bread, the ultra-stylish bread box from RIG-TIG by Stelton brings both function and design to the kitchen. Designed by Jehs & Laub, the bread box is constructed of bamboo melamine and pure bamboo and has a lid that doubles as a cutting board. It represents Scandinavian minimalist design perfected. www.rig-tig.com Food presentation is as important as how the food is cooked. Now visually stunning dishes like the culinary professionals produce can be done effortlessly. Ideal for rice, vegetables, terrines and for layering cold starters and desserts, the food rings from Grunwerg turn simple ingredients into delicious works of culinary art. Impress guests with stylish food presentations. The stainless steel rings bring restaurant-quality cooking right into the home. www.grunwerg.co.uk Those looking for a corkscrew to go with that Le Corbusier chair can now find it, in the minimalist lever-action Screwpull LM-400 by Le Creuset. Produced in a stylish satin chrome finish, it blends sleek design, ingenious engineering and the latest patent technology, making both natural and synthetic corks effortless to open. www.lecreuset.fr With boldly designed labels and innovative flavours, the Mikuni Wild Harvest’s Noble Handcrafted Tonics line of aged maple syrups taste as good as they look. Each tonic is packaged in an attractive glass bottle topped with a cork and sealed with thick white wax. The bottles contain exquisite sounding ingredients or production methods such as Tuthilltown Bourbon Barrel Matured Maple Syrup (Noble Tonic 01) and Tahitian Vanilla Bean & Egyptian 182

Chamomile Blossom Matured Maple Syrup (Noble Tonic 2). The beautiful apothecary-style packaging, combined with the unique, delicious contents makes this a great hostess gift or even a nice treat for the home cook who deserves a touch of indulgence. www.mikuniwildharvest.com With its sleek design and contemporary styling, volcano by Ritter is a must-have for design aficionados. Engineered to look stylish and function flawlessly, the elegant glass toaster features thermal insulated housing made of glamorous black, pristine white or scarlet red glass. Notable highlights include elongated slots, integrated bread and roll rack, LED indicator for toasting degree, automatic centring, defrosting, keep-warm and manual lifting for easy bread removal. A perfect addition to every kitchen. www.ritterwerk.de Engineered to perfection for the discerning home chef, the Ceramic Santoku by Edge of Belgravia is light-weight and razor-sharp. The Ceramic Onyx Santoku comprises a Santokustyle blade, noted for its “three virtues” – slicing, dicing and mincing. Made from zirconium oxide, ceramic blades are second to diamond in hardness, and the knives stay sharp for years without need for sharpening. Working like a charm, each knife forms part of a limited edition series of 999 pieces. Designed by contemporary London-based designer Christian Bird, who intelligently fuses futuristic styling and maximum cutting efficiency to produce distinct, superior designs that complement the sharpness and durability of the blades. Striking and stunning with its ultra-sleek black look, it is a contemporary culinary work of art. www.edgeofbelgravia.co.uk

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Mikuni Wild Harvest

Ritter

Grunwerg

RIG-TIG by Stelton

www.theaddressmagazine.com Edge of Belgravia

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Kitchen Confidential Top Chefs share their recipes In each issue of THE ADDRESS Magazine, leading chefs from some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading restaurants share their recipes. In this issue, meet head chef Ian Rudge at The Rib Room in London, UK

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The Rib Room, London, UK One of London’s most legendary restaurants • An elegant setting to enjoy the best of British cuisine • Magnificently styled by Designer du Jour Martin Brudnizki, the restaurant is masterfully put together to combine heritage and modernity • Head Chef Ian Rudge’ menu showcases a modern approach to the restaurant’s classic British food. The signature grass-fed, traditionally reared Casterbridge Aberdeen Angus rib of beef remains at the heart of the menu. Other must-tries include roasted lamb sweetbreads with caramelised cauliflower and toasted almonds; Loomswood Farm duck breast and honey crusted drum stick with pear, parsnip purée, shaved chestnuts and fig sauce • The extensive wine list is presented on fully interactive iPads, making selection and matching incredibly easy. Featuring tasting notes from the head sommelier, diners can filter their selection by year, price, producer, grape, region and style, before linking through to uncover the back story of their chosen wine • The glamorous destination cocktail bar is a must. It offers a range of over 15 gins served with bespoke hand-crafted bitters, in flavours from lavender to liquorice, and cardamom to chocolate. Dispensed on antique silver trays in theatrical style at the table, the service is more Downton Abbey than uptown Chelsea • Frequented by a diverse mix of famous faces that have included Hollywood stars, politicians, supermodels and even royalty www.theribroom.co.uk

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Pressed Foie Gras, Dandelion and Fig Salad Courtesy of head chef Ian Rudge at The Rib Room, London, UK

INGREDIENTS 0.8 kg 20 ml 20 ml 20 ml 10 0.3 1 0.4 kg

Foie Gras Port Brandy Madeira Figs kg Dandelion loaf Brioche Fig Boiron puree

Foie gras Line a long terrine mould with cling film De-vein the Foie gras then lay out flat and marinate in port, brandy, Madeira, sugar and salt for 20 mins Pat dry then place in a vac pac bag and poach in water at 52 degrees centigrade for exactly for 10 minutes, using a cooking thermometer to maintain the correct temperature Leave to cool slightly, then build the terrine to the top of the mould and press, with something heavy, leaving overnight Once set, turn out and re-roll in cling film, cutting into 4 pieces of the same size Fig puree Reduce down the fig puree in a hot pan then add lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil and season to taste Spoon into a piping bag ready for service

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Fig Carpaccio

Remove the centre of the fig, leaving none of the white pith before leaving to sit in muslin overnight Season the fig and place between 2 sheets of plastic and press so you have a thin layer of the puree Freeze the puree until hard, then cut into squares of the same size Figs Sprinkle with a little icing sugar, a squeeze of lime, olive oil and season to taste Leave for 2-3 minutes then serve alongside the foie gras, fig carpaccio and puree with a few dandelion leaves as a garnish

Serves: 4

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Autumn Fruit Pudding Courtesy of head chef Ian Rudge at The Rib Room, London, UK

INGREDIENTS 500ml 200g 1 1 2 1 300g 2 300g 200g 150g 1 1

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red wine caster sugar cinnamon stick star anise cloves orange rind dried cranberries pears (Ideally the Williams Pear) blackberries fresh plums soured cherries vanilla pod. loaf of sliced white bread (laterally if possible)

Boil the red wine with the sugar, cinnamon, star anise, cloves, orange rind and the vanilla pod, then leave overnight to infuse for around 12 hours, before passing the mixture through a sieve Heat a little of the infused liqueur and add cranberries, before leaving to soak for a further hour Boil the plums in a pan of water, and then remove the skin and stones and cutting into quarters Peel and slice pears into slices of equal thickness, poach in the remaining infused liqueur and, once soft, add plums and allow to simmer for a further 2 minutes before adding the cherries, blackberries and half of the soaked cranberries Cut crusts off the bread and roll flat

with a rolling pin. Cut out 8 discs (4 for the top 4 for the bottom) then use the remaining bread to line the pudding moulds Fill the lined cups with the mix, being careful to fill mostly with fruit not using too much of the infused liqueur and leave in the fridge overnight to set To create the sauce, reduce remaining liqueur slowly until it thickens slightly, cool and add the rest of the cranberries To serve, carefully remove the pudding from the mould, place on the plate and pour over the sauce and serve garnished with a sprig of mint and a scoop of raspberry ripple ice cream Serves: 4

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TA STYLE

Style & design discoveries for your home We love the clean, sweeping lines of Concord, an Ăźber-stylish swivel chair. Designed by Thomas Pedersen for Stouby, Concord showcases streamlined elegance, harmonious lines and outstanding comfort. Exquisitely crafted, the frame structure that supports the expression of the seat gives the impression that the chair is floating. The polished aluminum legs follow the shape of the chair and enhance the sharp and streamlined look. Uncompromising and iconic design, Concord is a glorious masterpiece. www.stouby.com

Perfectly sculpted, the LOFT dumbbells by Hock Design showcase exquisite German workmanship with a minimalist design. The combination of the finest ground oiled solid walnut and food-grade stainless steel create a bold yet stunning statement. Presented on a walnut wood sculpture stand, the 10-piece dumbbell set radiates perfection, timelessness and elegance. The home gym has never looked so stylish. www.hockdesign.com

Haute fragrance for the home at its best. A high-tech version of the classic lavender sachet, the Incense Mat by Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle is a bright red rubber mat, designed to perfume small spaces like closets, dressing rooms and car interiors. Infused with the scent of Saint des Saints by Carlos Benaim, a mystical, sensual, warm and enveloping fragrance, inspired by the captured scents of several Indian temples. A precious and millennium mix of wood, incense and stone encapsulated in 100% recyclable plastic rubber. Once 190

unwrapped, the scent will continue to diffuse for months. Packaged in boxes that look like those used for photography paper, each box contains three rubber mats. www.editionsdeparfums.com

Designed in 1968 by the prolific Finnish designer Eero Aarnio for Adelta, the revolutionary Bubble Chair is a true iconic masterpiece. The chair is still turning heads today â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such is its timeless appeal and beauty combined with the simplicity of design. It boasts an intelligent design that surpasses most modern designs in functionality. The transparent Ball Chair, made from clear acrylic, is suspended from above, giving a floating or bubble-like sensation. An effortless, virtually invisible addition to a space, the effect is stunning. With its clean, sleek look, the cutting-edge chair makes a stunning centrepiece in any room. www.eero-aarnio.com

Pushing the boundaries of design and innovation, the award-winning towel warmer from VOLA replaces the more traditional radiator-style towel warmers. Taking minimal design to the next level, VOLA offers a built-in modular heated towel rail for a contemporary look. Designed by Aarhus Arkitekterne A/S, the towel warmer hides all the technical elements behind the wall and exposes a sleek and extremely flexible system of bars that can be combined in number and location. Timeless Scandinavian design, the clean stylish lines represent the ultimate in modern design and functionality. www.vola.com

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Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle

Hock Design

www.theaddressmagazine.com VOLA

Eero Aarnio

191 Stouby

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© W International Management Ltd. All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher. While every effort has been made to offer information that is current, correct and clearly expressed, prices and details are subject to change including currency fluctuation. The accuracy of the information cannot be guaranteed and none of the information forms part of any contract. The information contained in this publication (including but not limited to, photographs, illustrations, plans, dimensions, descriptions, tables, projections and prices) is for guidance only and for no other purpose. While every effort has been made to offer current and accurate information, errors and amendments may occur. W International Management Ltd makes no warranties or representations as to the accuracy, correctness, reliability or otherwise with respect to such information, and assumes no liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content contained in this publication. W International Management Ltd is not responsible for the results of actions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication, nor for any errors or omissions. Disclosure Policy The Federal Trade Commission requires that we disclose any relationship we have between a product manufacturer or service provider when we write about a product or service. Here are the guidelines we operate under here at THE ADDRESS Magazine:

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