comes to Cape Verde See pages 14 - 16
ISSUE 12 MAY 2017
INTRODUCING
12% PROPERTY OPTIONS See page 2 for more
Partner Spotlight Page 4
News from Cape Verde Page 6
White Sands Hotel & Spa Construction Update Page 20
LIFE
How to Get an Assured Return on Your Overseas Freehold Property Investment
ISSUE 12 MAY 2017
CONTENTS 2-3 Cape Verde Property News 4-5 Partner Spotlight: The TUI Group 6 News from Cape Verde 7 No.1 on TripAdvisor 8-9 Our 5-Star Resort Restaurants 10-11 Management Options 12 A Family Favourite 13 Travelife Gold Certification 14-15 Running a Resort While Filming 16 Britain’s Next Top Model 17 Cape Verde in the Press 18 6 Things to Ask - Property Investment 19 Inspection Tours 20-21 White Sands Hotel & Spa Update 22 OysterOwnership 23 Bikini Beach News
Read more on our blogs: www.theresortgroupplc.com/blog www.trg-property.com/latest-news
@theresortgroupplc @theresortgroup @theresortgroupplc 2
Reasons for investments vary but caution should always be exercised when embarking on a property purchase abroad, for assuring returns on such large capital purchases is not always guaranteed. Luckily, there are several important factors that can help you identify an investment opportunity that is likely to yield assured returns.
Investing with an Established Overseas Property Developer Thorough due diligence must be exercised – from familiarising yourself with the purchase processes in your chosen country to the impact of fluctuations in exchange rate on any income or capital gains. An established developer will offer a complete and ongoing service in everything it does, including inspections of the property and in-depth guidance every step of the way.
Assured Returns on Overseas Freehold Property Investments The developer should have a proven track record that demonstrates how your property
will be occupied and that rents will be collected year-round. What is more, the developer will want you to see for yourself, the quality and success of its existing Resorts so inspection tours will be offered, giving you the opportunity to conduct your due diligence first hand.
Cape Verde Opportunities Rental incomes will only be generated if your property is occupied, which is why more and more investors are turning to the stunning shores of the Cape Verde Islands. Boasting some of the most glorious beaches on the planet, with crystal clear waters and year-round temperatures between 25°C and 30°C, the demand for quality accommodation on Cape Verde is outstripping supply.
Assured Returns with The Resort Group PLC Generating assured returns on your investment means partnering with an established property developer in your chosen location. Only in this way can investors feel truly secure in their purchase. Cape Verde is proving to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and the demand for new developments continues to rise.
For a limited time only, you can enjoy a 12% assured return from the moment you purchase your property to the date the Resort opens to guests. You will then receive a fantastic 7% guaranteed rental yield (net of costs)
for the next 5 years*, which offers long-term security on your investment. It is the ideal time to look into properties currently under development by The Resort Group PLC on the archipelago. The Group is now turning its eye to Boa Vista – breaking ground on White Sands Hotel & Spa in December 2015, whereupon work began in
earnest on the sands of Santa Monica Beach. As construction continues and properties become available for purchase on this luxury 5-star development, there really is no better time to invest and take advantage of our exclusive 12% Property Options offer.
Property News - Investment
Introducing 12% Property Options
*When signing up to the Hotel Managed Rental Programme 100% of funds to be received, and contract signed and submitted to The Resort Group PLC before 31st May 2017.
Overseas Investment: The Buy-to-Let Alternative
On the 4th April 2017, new tax laws came into effect that will change the outlook for many buy-to-let investors. Up until April, landlords were able to claim tax relief on their mortgage interest payments but that has changed with the new tax year. In a move that is set to deplete returns for buy-to-let owners, landlords are no longer permitted to offset the cost of the mortgage interest from the rental income when calculating their profits. If you own a buy-to-let property, you were previously paying tax on the difference between your rental return and the cost of your interest-only mortgage but you will now be paying tax on your full rental income, less a tax credit equivalent to basic-rate tax on the interest.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde is going from strength to strength with tourism numbers showing no sign of slowing down and demand outstripping supply. It was this hunger for luxury Resort developments that bought The Resort Group PLC to the Cape Verde Islands in the first place and with a strong business model in place on Sal Island, they have now turned their sights to the stunning Boa Vista. The new White Sands Hotel & Spa is being built on the flawless Santa Monica Beach, a 5-star Resort that will cater to every kind of holidaymaker while maintaining the captivating Cape Verdean hospitality and charm that have bought tourists to its shores for so many years.
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PARTNER SPOTLIGHT:
The TUI Group
As we moved to create a Resort experience to suit every type of holidaymaker on the Island of Sal, our natural partners were the TUI Group and their Sensimar brand.
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Cove Pool Bar, TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde
with several additions to the Sensimar and Family Life portfolio this Winter, including Lanzarote, Thailand, Mauritius and Cape Verde.”
The TUI Group is the largest leisure, travel and tourism company in the world, having stepped onto the service industry world stage in 1997. Merging with First Choice Holidays in 2007, the business is now recognised as a key global player, servicing 20 million customers in 180 regions.
into the world’s leading integrated tourism business based on own brands, it is TUI’s scale and strong integrated business model that gives them a strong competitive advantage, especially against what they call an uncertain geopolitical and macroeconomic backdrop. The report summarises, “as anticipated, trading reflects a continued shift away from Turkey (which accounted for around 8% of Source Market Summer 2016 bookings) to alternative destinations.” This includes our recently opened TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde, on the idyllic Island of Sal – a peaceful refuge designed for adults and the perfect place for luxurious relaxation.
It boasts 1,600 travel agencies and leading online portals, six touristic airlines with around 150 aircraft, over 300 hotels with 214,000 beds, 14 cruise liners and countless incoming agencies in all major holiday destinations around the globe. Fastforwarding to 2017, the Group has released its quarterly results statement for the first quarter of this year, a positive report that spoke of a “growth in long haul and cruise” ambitions for TUI. Indeed, as all travel institutions face a new global market, this report brought good news for the company including a turnover up 8.5%, with continued growth in its hotel, cruise and concept brands. Citing an emergent popularity in new destinations, the group has been “expanding our unique concepts in third party hotels,
Resort News - Partner Spotlight
Concentrating on relaxing, stylish holidays at adults-only destinations, this synergy tapped into a market that The Resort Group PLC was keen to introduce to the laidback, undiscovered Cape Verde Islands.
Continuing to deliver this progressive strategy, which is designed to transform the Group
It is clear from this recent report that TUI sees Cape Verde as a significant growth area, alongside other key destinations, as we enter a period of peak Summer 2017 bookings. The Financial Times recently analysed the growing popularity of destinations like Cape Verde in its coverage, highlighting that bookings for the summer are 4% higher and revenues are 9% higher than this time last year.
It all suggests a promising year ahead for our partnership with TUI and Sensimar, especially given these growth projections. For more information on the Group’s partnership with the world’s leading leisure, travel and tourism company and how it impacts on investment opportunities, get in touch today via our website.
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NEWS
from Cape Verde Cape Verde has repeatedly risen above expectations when it comes to tourism statistics in the last few years. It seems as though 2017 is set to be no different as a number of recent reports suggest growing interest and faith in the area, as well as a promise of future prosperity.
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MELIĂƒ Llana Beach Resort & Spa
It states that the number of guests visiting the Islands increased by 6.6% compared to the same quarter of the previous year and in the same period, overnight stays increased by 5.2%. As in previous reports, the United Kingdom was the main country of provenance for tourists and the British also stayed the longest in Cape Verde, with an average stay of 10 nights. With the recent news that Santa Maria has been voted one of the best beaches in the world by TripAdvisor, it may come as no surprise that holidaymakers continue to flock to Sal’s stunning shores. In a positive sign for the forthcoming White Sands Hotel & Spa, the island of Boa Vista was the most sought after by tourists, representing about 49.6% of overnight stays in hotels.
Another recent report confirmed that Cape Verde received over 644,000 tourists in 2016 – an impressive 13.2% increase on last year.
It indicates Cape Verde’s strength in the global tourism market and its position as an overseas property hotspot, something that is further strengthened when the Islands consistently appear in lists of the best places to invest in real estate. Most recently, the Panama-based publisher Live and Invest Overseas, placed Cape Verde ninth in its list – citing the market’s increasing rental demand for its prominence amongst investors.
The recent announcement of the Praia airport expansion also points towards faith in the future growth for tourism prospects in the country.
In fact, such is the high level of service and soothing atmosphere at the TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde, it was recently voted to the top spot on TripAdvisor. Securing the trust and enjoyment of the loyal guests is utmost in the minds of our hospitality partners and this is reflected in the five star reviews that praise both the staff and the facilities.
The World Bank published the Global Economic Outlook earlier this year, which predicted that Cape Verde’s economy will grow by 3.3% in 2017 - 1.4 percentage points higher than predicted in their previous forecast. It looked further ahead to forecast that the economy will be up 3.5% in 2018, 1.3 percentage points more than former projections. These significant upward revisions are a sure sign that the trajectory will be strong for the coming years, securing a safe environment for investors.
Introduced to address new air transport demands, the extension will include a larger, modernised terminal, a parking area and renovation of the freight terminal. The suggested project is sure to boost Cape Verde’s growing air infrastructure. In similar news, TAP Portugal flights are on the increase across the continent, as they announced a 36% increase in their traffic results from Africa in December 2016, with a focus on the increased tourist interest in Cape Verde amongst other destinations.
No. 1 on TripAdvisor TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde One of the most recently opened destinations, the TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde, is an exclusive adult-only Resort designed to cater for couples looking for total relaxation. Billed as a contemporary and stylish holiday, it promises everything you might want or need to make your stay totally stress free.
In turn, it seems as though the economy has also remained strong in the current unstable global climate.
Resort News - News from Cape Verde
The National Institute of Statistics in Cape Verde have released their analysis of tourism in the third quarter of 2016.
When it comes to luxury Island holidays, Cape Verde is a beach-lovers paradise. And its unspoilt shores make the perfect home for our 5-star Resorts, providing guests with miles of sandy beach on which to enjoy the archipelago’s year-round sun.
“We had a great time at this hotel. Hotel is fabulous and staff are great and eager to please.” Alisonblackmore27
“We have just returned from a fabulous 2 weeks at this perfect location.We loved everything about it.”
“We had a fabulous week in this lovely new resort. Relaxing (especially at the beach) but with plenty of things to do. […]Staff are very attentive and nothing seems too much trouble. Perfect winter sun break.”
Lily T
A TripAdvisor Member
“Loved this hotel from the minute we arrived. We were greeted and checked in very efficiently and were given a drink and cold towel which were very welcome after the flight.” Paul H
“The staff were excellent. Their customer service skills really highlight what the UK is missing in lots of bars and restaurants. They had a smile on their face and nothing was too much trouble.”
Stampsherfeet 7
Enjoy the many restaurants at our
5-STAR RESORTS
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Mosaico Restaurant
For many people, booking an All-Inclusive holiday is synonymous with stress-free experiences. Arguably, the biggest part of that is dining – an event that can make or break your stay. At The Resort Group PLC, we take that into account from the very beginning, designing our 5-star Resorts to meet the needs of its intended guests and making meals a focal point of their luxurious stay. We set out to look at each restaurant on our Resorts and what you had to say about them on renowned reviewing site, TripAdvisor.
MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort Spices is the main restaurant at the Resort, serving up an international buffet with ‘something to suit all’ and commenters noting that it is easy for vegetarians and a ‘great breakfast’. Meanwhile, they described Aqua’s Mediterranean menu as ‘to die for’ and the beef medallion as ‘lush’, taking the time to also thank the staff – who were ‘so friendly and couldn’t do enough for you’. Sitting right next to the pool, the Waterside restaurant was described as serving ‘delicious fresh fish dishes’, with a special mention for the ‘great tuna in peppercorns’. Over at O’Grille, it didn’t go unnoticed that you could ‘watch the sunset on the beach with music and then have a nice meal’ – ideal for a luxurious, relaxed evening – especially as you can then watch your food ‘freshly cooked on a grill’.
MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa Rancho restaurant is often a favourite for guests with the ‘great service’ and ‘delicious food’ leading guests to ‘highly recommend
eating there’. One holidaymaker described Aqua as their preferred place ‘for a relaxed lunch’ but dinner was praised too, as one diner explained it was ‘where you could order from the menu or choose food from the chef who would cook it while you wait, all was delicious’. Fans of the Atlantis were out in force, with many speaking of The LEVEL breakfast experience as relaxed and ‘lovely’ and another visitor defining it as ‘brilliant seafood with something different on the grill each day’. Lastly, Sahel, which serves up Indian cuisine, has been pronounced ‘delicious’ with ‘plenty of selection and great service’.
Sol Dunas Resort Sol Dunas has three places to eat, with Spices offering a buffet style selection – described as having ‘lots of selection from fresh fruit, continental, cooked and omelettes’ for breakfast and ‘excellent with a lot of variety’ for lunch and dinner. The second, O’Grille, allows guests to ‘indulge in the a la carte menu or the buffet’, with one holidaymaker ‘highly recommending the cheeseburger with bacon and BBQ sauce’. For commenters who preferred Italian food, they loved Il Terrazzo – a ‘great little restaurant:’ with ‘waiter service and freshly cooked food’ and ‘baked bread’.
TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde Dishes at the Riviera restaurant were always ‘tasty and cooked fresh’ so it’s no surprise that several people described the food as ‘excellent’. It was often the same for Latitude, where ‘the selection of food choices was excellent with a mixture of hot and cold foods, as well as several specialist chef-cooked, while-you-wait choices each night’ – there was praise for the fish,
in particular. At the ‘superb’ and ‘divine’ Culinarium restaurant, guests were truly impressed and one couple ‘enjoyed it so much we paid to go back for a second meal’ on another day. There’s no better recommendation than that. It is a beautiful spot and one commenter focused on this, explaining ‘we sat outside, lovely night, cool breeze, and a full moon complimented by the most delicious food and great service’.
Resort News - Our 5-Star Restaurants
R I S T O R A N T E
MELIÃ Llana Beach Resort & Spa The team was particularly complimented at Pura Vida but the delicious food wasn’t overlooked, at one point mentioned to be ‘the highest quality at all points of the day’. The Mosaico is said to be ‘great for breakfast’, while one reviewer went so far as to say that the ‘food buffet was the best I have ever experienced’, a pleasure to read for all the hard-working staff that go above and beyond to provide the best food and service. The TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde and the MELIÃ Llana Beach Resort & Spa also share two of the restaurants, allowing guests to enjoy a wider variety of culinary treats. The first, Casa Nostro, acts as The LEVEL breakfast area for the MELIÃ side, with a varied menu including ‘eggs that could be cooked to order including omelettes, with fresh juices, breads, yogurts, fruit and coffee’. It’s also said to be ‘super popular’ in the evenings due to its ‘lovely starters’ and ‘great pizza’. At the ‘amazing’ Nami Bistro, diners spoke of an ‘absolutely lovely meal, worth every cent’ and the ‘delicious Teppanyaki dishes’ – high praise, indeed.
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Management Options for Your Cape Verde Property Investment
When considering an investment, it’s imperative for investors to know that they will have the freedom to manage their property the way they want to. With The Resort Group PLC, there are number of management options for your Cape Verde property investment, all uniquely tailored to suit different types of investor.
Lifestyle Purchase If you’re looking for your very own holiday home in the sun, then buying a property outright and keeping it for personal use only, comes with a huge range of benefits for those that choose The Resort Group PLC. The luxury facilities of our Cape Verde Resorts are made available to property owners all year around, including access to the lounge areas, free Wi-Fi, Resort swimming pools and communal areas.
The purchase of an all-inclusive wristband at any point allows access to additional 5-star services, giving you the chance to indulge in everything that our world-renowned Resorts have to offer. You can even make use of our fully-managed housekeeping service to keep your property spruced up as and when you like, and of course have the opportunity to explore our stunning Islands and enjoy the many restaurants and bars on a self-catering basis.
Choose this option if you’re: An investor looking for an overseas property investment in the sun for private family use. Many retirees have made the perfect new home from their Cape Verde property investment.
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Independent Rental Many people who make a Cape Verde property investment choose to self-manage their properties, enabling them to retain complete control over rental rates and availability. This can either be done with complete independence, where the owner is in charge of their own marketing and management, or through a third-party rental company. Those that choose to manage their Cape Verde property investment alone, often do so for the purposes of renting it to their own network of family and friends and for extended personal use. This gives them the opportunity to keep a second home in the sun readily available, whilst still enjoying a rental income when they have the chance to fill their rooms. For those who decide that going through an independent rental company is right for them, The Resort Group PLC has partnered with a number of reputable letting agencies with vast experience in the Cape Verde tourism trade and will assist in teaming you up with the best provider.
Choose this option if you’re: An investor who wants to spend more than the standard 5 weeks of personal usage that our Hotel Rental Programme offers. Independent rental is of most benefit to those who want extended enjoyment of a lifestyle purchase, but one that’s combined with securing a rental income for the rest of the year.
This is the management option for those seeking year-round assured returns on their investment – with the added benefit of still being able to holiday in their property for up to 5 weeks every year.
The Hotel Management Programme provides a full, hassle-free management package for investors who want consistent rental returns and an opportunity to achieve meaningful capital growth. Our Hotel Management Programme is managed by Meliá Hotels International – the largest Resort operator in the world – and using it means that your Cape Verde property investment will be marketed worldwide to millions of holidaymakers. In addition, you will also benefit from Meliá Hotels International’s lucrative commercial partnership network of global travel agencies and tour operators. The Hotel Management Programme
presents a unique, fully-managed “hands-off” investment opportunity, providing investors with the amazing option of owning their own holiday home in the sun, whilst enjoying a guaranteed rental income 47 weeks a year.
Choose this option if you’re: An investor who wants regular and profitable assured returns from your Cape Verde property investment, combined with an opportunity for meaningful capital growth. Those seeking to diversify their portfolio, or who want a secure option for their first overseas property investment, are ideally suited to take advantage of our Hotel Management Programme.
Programme with the exclusive 12% Property Options offer provides everything you need.
The 12% Assured Returns Offer All of these options are available via our 12% Property Options programme, which offers 12% returns from day one. Following this, when the Resort has opened, investors enjoy a 7% guaranteed net rental yield for five years or a 50% share of the room revenue after operational costs (whichever is higher), with the option to sell the property after five years if you so wish.
Read more on the blog: www.trg-property.com/latest-news
Property News - Management Options
Hotel Management Programme
Manage Your Property the Way You Want To Each management option offers a chance for you to purchase your own piece of paradise that you can enjoy when you want to, but for those seeking sustained assured returns from their property investment with a secure exit strategy built in, our Hotel Managed
MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort 11
A Family Favourite The Dunas Beach Resort & Spa is geared towards families seeking an affordable yet luxurious experience, tailored to children as much as parents. With this in mind, the Resort still offers up a range of delicious dining options, large pools, a relaxing spa and elegant bars, while ensuring that kids of every age have things to keep them entertained. There isn’t just a hotel-run kids’ club for the little ones, there is a specifically created area for teenagers to while away the hours so everybody is taken care of. Meanwhile, the mini splash water park provides hours of fun with a castle-style playground and large waterslide for the ultimate fun. For the sporty children, there’s two full size tennis courts and a beach volleyball court, as well as a range of activities in the main pool.
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As evening falls, the Resort has a complete roster of evening shows and live music for children and adults. From The Lion King to our jazz-inspired musical, the spectacular amphitheatre holds shows and themed parties with a maximum capacity of 800 people. When it comes to the all-important meal times, the buffet restaurant has a variety of food available so every taste is catered for. It’s these little touches and the staff who help make it special for families, week in, week out, that have made our Resort the perfect place to take your family for your next holiday.
Sol Dunas Children’s Play Area
The high standard of service and 5-star hospitality at our operational Resorts is of utmost importance to The Resort Group PLC. That is why we take every accolade we achieve seriously, such is their contribution to our ongoing success in this emerging tourism hotspot. Recently, both the MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort and the MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa were granted the Travelife Gold Certification. Travelife is an international sustainability certification scheme, which assists its 1,300 members around the world improve their environmental, social and economic impacts cost-effectively. As two of our Resorts meet the Travelife standard, we have been formally recognised with a Travelife award to promote these achievements. The certification has been designed within the travel industry to ensure an affordable and fair system that helps hotels and accommodations
to improve their sustainability. Resorts and hotels must become a Travelife member and prove they meet the appropriate assessment criteria to achieve an award and become certified. As we are now eligible to use the Travelife Gold certification mark, the sustainability solutions we adopt within our operational Resorts are more important than ever. The Resorts were assessed against 163 sustainability criteria and after two years, this will be reviewed. The assessment criteria included environmental issues, such as minimising the amount of energy, waste and water.
The social criteria recognises positive actions for employee welfare, working with the local community and businesses, child protection and human rights.
through recycling, day-to-day environmental measures and our various methods to save water, to our regular staff training programmes, support of local businesses, such as the new tour guide partnership, and sustainability communication to guests. It is an important measure, tourism businesses must care about sustainability to help protect the unique natural and cultural characteristics of our Resorts, so they continue to attract tourists in the future.
Resort News - Travelife Gold Certification
Travelife Gold Certification for two of our Resorts
It is why this Gold Certification is essential to our development and subsequently, the reason we will continue improving before the next assessment in under 2 years’ time.
Read more on the blog: www.theresortgroupplc.com/blog
Every element of our operation in Cape Verde was taken into consideration – from our energy-saving efforts on Resort, waste reduction
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Running a resort
WHILE FILMING
Britain’s Next Top Model premiered on the 16th March, so we took a look at the logistics of filming such a production on our largest Sal Island Resort, MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa.
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Opening night was an enormous occasion where the cast, crew, staff and helpers pulled out all the stops to give the very best impression. Details will be left until the episode airs but it was certainly a sight to be seen.
Arriving at night meant the girls could experience the grand illuminated hotel entrance while we treated them to entertainment, after which the MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa team put on a parade through the Resort to the girls’ awaiting villa, which was ready for the excited visitors and dressed to impress with tea lights and flowers. Special mention goes to Jose Luis Cuevas, General Manager of MELIÃ Llana Beach Resort & Spa and TUI Sensimar Cabo Verde and Kais
Resort News - Running a Resort Whilst Filming
With all the team members ready to welcome them, it had been a thorough process to ensure a smooth operation and ongoing efficiency whilst filming.
Once filming began in earnest, it was essential to have a private area for any top-secret scenes and we knew exactly where to look. Our beautifully placed wedding pavilion provided the perfect spot once it had been draped in sumptuous purple curtains to ensure the utmost discretion. Still making most of the Cape Verdean sunshine, this special and personalised arrangement had the advantage of being outside and private, yet not disturbing any of our holidaymakers. Vera, the Head of Guest Experience, and her catering team were pulling out all the stops. Maintaining a 5-star service for our guests while also making sure our cast and crew had anything they needed at their fingertips. As well as welcoming the models with a unique al fresco dinner, amuse bouche and petit fours, catering was always on-call for any requests and delivered a special breakfast every morning. They worked especially hard to ensure the girls felt as though it was a home from home, this being the first time some of them have been so far away from home.
Mbarek, General Manager of MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa, who represented The Resort Group PLC as we introduced the girls to the Resort and Cape Verde. The whole team came together, with animation also involved in the set up and logistics. Nelson, Director of Animation, and his entertainment crew, most of whom are usually making the families laugh with their much-enjoyed rendition of The Lion King or getting the dancing started at the White Party, went above and beyond. The set was tailored specifically to the event, ensuring MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa had the best introduction.
Vera’s team have experience with this high level of service after the visit by the former First Lady, Michelle Obama, last year and their hospitality has often been described as second to none.
Britain’s Next Top Model is airing on Lifetime TV every Thursday at 9pm – you can catch Lifetime on Sky 156 and Virgin 208. Keep watching to spot Cape Verde’s starring role later in the series.
It was no surprise then that they were able to continue looking after guests while going the extra mile for everyone on Britain’s Next Top Model. Cape Verde is famous for its culture and hospitality, and that was clear throughout filming. Blended with MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa’s 5-star service and luxury, we couldn’t think of a better location for a production.
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Britain’s Next Top Model at the Analita Boutique and Beauty Salon When we learned that Britain’s Next Top Model was coming to Cape Verde, and one of our Resorts in particular, we knew exactly who should be involved. Working tirelessly to ensure our guests are immaculately dressed, well-groomed and feeling fantastic, the Analita Boutique and Analita Beauty Salon play a hugely important part in making sure the Resort maintains its 5-star luxury, no stress ambience. Namely, by providing a place to relax while holidaymakers receive their favourite salon treatment and supplying a variety of chic clothes and swimwear looks for them to choose from to style their sun-soaked getaway. Utilising the beautiful poolside setting at the MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort, the show took full advantage of the weekly Friday fashion show. The Analita Boutique models took to the task with style, displaying all the best Boutique pieces for their now extended audience. It’s the ideal integration of Cape Verde style with British fashion that Analita herself imagined when she launched the business with her first shop on Resort. Now spanning all three Resorts, she speaks of this opportunity with much pride.
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“We were thrilled to welcome the cast and crew of Britain’s Next Top Model to our beautiful Island and so happy they chose to work with us. I could never have imagined this when I started but it was with such joy that I watched my team work on this respected programme. The Analita brand has grown so much in the past few years and this was a real highpoint so it was fantastic that we could get both the boutique and the beauty salon involved too.” What else goes hand in hand with the world of fashion? Hair and beauty, of course. So, naturally, the Analita Beauty Salon was at the beck and call of all concerned to support the cast and crew while filming. A perfectly placed one-stop shop for a quick change of hairstyle or touch up before getting in front of the camera, the team worked together to make sure the process ran smoothly. It’s another example of how wonderful it was to host Britain’s Next Top Model at the MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa and MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort, as we pulled out all the stops to collaborate with the production crew – discover all the behind the scenes news on the blog or keep up to date on our social channels.
Britain’s Next Top Model is airing on Lifetime TV every Thursday at 9pm – you can catch Lifetime on Sky 156 and Virgin 208. Keep watching to spot Cape Verde’s starring role later in the series.
Main Pool, MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort
We recently commissioned research that found that 50% of UK holidaymakers don’t know where Cape Verde is. One of the best kept secrets of the travel industry, Cape Verde has so much to offer holidaymakers with its year round sunshine, unspoilt beaches and activities from whale watching through to kite surfing – it really does have something for everyone. It’s been a busy few months… last December we invited a number of UK journalists to the launch of the MELIÃ Llana Beach Resort & Spa, including The Sun, The Daily Star, OK Magazine and Yahoo. The event was a huge success, with electrifying performances by artists including Jason Derulo, Alesha Dixon and Jamelia. This, along with the video we produced of the opening weekend, resulted in 31 pieces of coverage, including four national pieces (two articles on the Mail Online, one in The Daily Star and one in The Sun) and 16 articles across the regional press.
Here are some of our favourites: • Mail Online: Girl About Town heads to Cape Verde for Llana Beach Resort’s star-studded launch parties • Daily Star: Chill out in Cape Verde – The ‘African Caribbean’ • OK!: Alesha Dixon stuns on stage at lavish hotel launch in Cape Verde with her daughter Azura by her side. • The Sun: Partying with the A-listers in Cape Verde Islands dubbed the ‘African Caribbean’ In February, we invited media to come and experience everything that Cape Verde has to offer. They had a go at kite surfing, swimming with sharks, a tour of the famous salt mines as well as visiting a local school funded by The Cape Verde Foundation. They had a wonderful time and we’ve had some great coverage so far…
In March, we announced that Cape Verde is quickly becoming one of the hottest holiday destinations with record tourism figures for 2016. With its guaranteed sunshine, unspoilt beaches and short flying time form the UK – is it a surprise? We saw coverage in: • The Scottish Sun: Verde good place to visit at Easter • Daily Star: Brits have a new favourite holiday destination – it’s more exotic than you might think
Resort News - Cape Verde in the Press
Cape Verde In the Press
• Travel Weekly: Cape Verde islands, overflowing with activities • Breaking Travel News: Cape Verde takes place on tourism trail • Travel Daily UK: Cape Verde reports rise in UK tourism arrivals
Read more on the blog: www.theresortgroupplc.com/blog
• Evening Standard: Melia Llana hotel, Cape Verde – hotel review • Travel Supermarket: Last-minute Easter holidays and long weekend bargains • Daily Mirror: Book a holiday to Bali for the same price as a trip to Spain this summer as long haul becomes more affordable
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6 Things to Ask
When Looking at Overseas Property Investment Opportunities When looking at overseas property investment opportunities, it’s imperative that investors are properly acquainted with all the necessary facts. No matter whether seeking a steady rental income, to diversify an existing portfolio, or a second home for regular and convenient sun-drenched getaways, buying a property overseas is a big decision. Investors must always, therefore, ensure that they’re asking the right questions when conducting research.
1. What Are the Typical Returns? An overseas property investment opportunity is no opportunity at all unless sustainable returns can be assured. Setting aside all the benefits of owning a second home in the sun, a property abroad nonetheless plays a key role in your asset portfolio and needs to work towards future-proofing your finances. No matter who you choose to partner with, you need assurances and to see proof that the developer or agent in question can live up to their promises of returns. As a burgeoning tourist destination, property investments in Cape Verde will generate good returns for smart and careful investors. And when it comes to choosing a developer, The Resort Group PLC’s track record in demonstrating strong financial results and profitability really sets us apart from the competition.
2. Have Property Values Risen Over the Past Few Years? Investing in a declining market is only going to leave you out of pocket a few years down the line. And so, you need to find out the recent history of property values in the locality that you’re seeking to make an investment. In Cape Verde, capital values are rising by 10% 18
to 15% annually – but, even so, property on the islands is still very much a bargain, as reported in the Global Property Guide, with prices averaging between €1,200 and €1,650 per square metre.
3. What Are the Management Options? You may wish to completely self-manage the property, list it online via an independent rental company, or go through a managed rental program with the company that initially presented the investment opportunity. The important thing to find out, however, is that you have absolute freedom to manage your new property as you wish it to be managed. The Resort Group PLC furnishes clients with a full suite of management options whether buying for personal use, independent rentals, or as part of our Hotel Managed Program.
4. Is Accommodation Demand Consistent Year-round? If planning to rent your overseas property to tourists, you will need assurance that the location is attracting adequate visitors all year round to ensure that your rooms are full. Indeed, this is what makes Cape Verde a hotbed for overseas property investment opportunities. Tourism analysts the world over predict that the islands will rival traditional beach Resort destinations such as the Canaries and the Caribbean over the coming years.
trade – you must find out about the frequency of flights in and out of the country, how close the airports are to your property, and from where international access is possible. Cape Verde is enjoying an ever-increasing amount of attention from worldwide tour operators, with new access routes being opened up all the time.
6. Is the Economy and Exchange Rate Stable? One of the most important elements comes in the form of determining the riskiness of the investment climate in the country under consideration. This means taking into account the economic, business, and political risks that are unique to the country, which may result in future investment losses. Understanding the stability of the exchange rate should be a priority, but so too should investors seek to gain knowledge about the stability of the country’s internal economy, and the “friendliness” of the political climate – especially towards foreign investors. Cape Verde has a dependable and consistent track record of political stability, and is frequently referred to as one of the most democratic countries in the world.
5. What Are the Transport Links Like? If the property is in a remote location with poor transport links, it may prove very difficult to fill, especially if renters start leaving negative online reviews pertaining to the inconvenience of the location. In addition – and especially if you are relying on the tourist
Read more on the blog: www.trg-property.com/latest-news
Property News - Investment
Have You Considered an Inspection Tour? There are many questions to ask when you first consider purchasing an overseas property as you look into the various benefits and advantages. With The Resort Group PLC, you can answer all of these questions and more with one of our Inspection Tours. An Inspection Tour allows you to realise this opportunity for yourself as you relax in one of our luxurious 5-star Resorts. All reservations of investments over £40,000 qualify for you and one other guest to explore Cape Verde and discover just why our Resorts make the ideal investment. Not only will you be able to experience the proven success of our already operational Resorts with one of our Inspection Tour guides – at MELIÃ Tortuga Beach Resort, MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa, MELIÃ Llana Beach Resort & Spa and Sensimar Cabo Verde – you will be able to take your own time to soak up the sun-drenched and unique Islands by yourself. It’s a chance to do your due diligence on properties on our newest development White Sands Hotel & Spa on the nearby Island of Boa Vista, while staying in a luxurious all-inclusive Resort with VIP status on the established Island of Sal.
The tour would include your transport to Boa Vista, a beachfront trail and an opportunity to explore the Resort during construction to discover your favourite plot and choose it on location. We also include return flights from the UK and transfers to the hotels, as well as a guided tour of the Island and our current developments in the package.
It really is the perfect time to take advantage because if you book soon, you could also capitalise on our latest offering.
The offer requires potential buyers to reserve a property by the end of May 2017 and in return, it will assure 12% returns p.a. on selected properties until the Resort opens.
This is a great chance to take in the sights of Cape Verde, check out your next investment and maximise your returns upon purchase. A contribution will be taken for the trip before you commit to investing but if you decide to proceed with your property purchase, all fees paid will be deducted from your first deposit payment.
An excellent example of safely investing in overseas property, our 12% Property Options is a long-term returns plan with a structured exit strategy for new investors.You will also receive a guaranteed 7% net rental yield once the Resort has opened and, should you wish to exit, we can even resell the property on your behalf after five years.
Have you seen our updated websites? Our restructed designs include the new Property Investment logo as well as our user-friendly updates to both sites. The Resort Group PLC
www.theresortgroupplc.com Property Investment by The Resort Group PLC
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White Sands Hotel & Spa Properties and Construction Update
White Sands Hotel & Spa is coming on leaps and bounds on the Island of Boa Vista. Construction has moved onto new blocks and the complex is starting to take shape as focus has moved onto the next development for The Resort Group PLC. With such amazing progress already, more properties have now been made available to investors. You could be among the first to purchase these newly-presented 5-star luxury beachfront suites that have just come onto the market on our premiere Cape Verde Resort.
Sitting on the stunning Santa Monica beach in Cape Verde, White Sands Hotel & Spa will be a prestigious destination. There will be 835 luxurious properties including duplex and penthouse hotel suites, as well as a range of stunning private villas. Guests will enjoy a choice of six delicious restaurants, with bars and the world-famous Gabi Club ready to welcome them for an after-dinner drink. The luxurious YHI Spa experience will be complemented by the fully-equipped fitness and water sports centre, while the kids club, playground, baby pools and tennis and beach ball courts can keep the children entertained. Six Resort swimming pools, swim-up bars and poolside eateries will make all-day lounging a truly stress-free experience or you could take it up a notch by upgrading to the exclusive area of the Hotel, which will provide additional luxury and personalised services. 20
The very limited beachfront suites available today have all of the aforementioned as well as boasting incredible sea views, just a few footsteps away from touching the sand of one of the most beautiful and celebrated beaches in the world. And now you have a perfect chance to invest before anyone else…
• Prime access to commercial facilities • Purest white sandy beaches of the Cape Verde Islands • Open-plan with an en-suite and balcony area • Enjoy the sunset from your own balcony hot tub • Incredible returns on offer
Property News - White Sands Hotel & Spa Update
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The flexible way to purchase overseas property with
OysterOwnership
ownership In a world where smart and alternative ways to purchase property are becoming more commonplace, there’s an easier way to take a first step into the profitable overseas property game. OysterOwnership is pioneering a new way to enjoy a slice of luxury. Their bespoke package allows you to own the ‘bricks and mortar’ of a property at your chosen Resort whilst earning points for your purchase. These can then be spent on stays at your home Resort or at any one of their 4,000 stunning international destinations each year.
If you’re pondering over a direct and more equitable alternative to outright ownership then this is perfect for you.
Quarter shares at MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa in a 2 bedroom sea-view apartment cost just £99,950 and come with enough points to holiday like a celebrity for years to come! The team behind this new option comes with 20 years of experience and trust, having discovered a way to offer worldwide holiday accommodation whilst allowing you to own an interest in the bricks and mortar of a luxury resort property. It’s this experience that has bred such confidence in their proposition and why The Resort Group PLC are proud to partner with them. An ideal solution for anyone searching for that sought-after balance of fractional property purchase and lifestyle usage, it’s time to look at OysterOwnership. For more information on this innovative new way of owning a piece of paradise in Cape Verde, visit www.OysterDunasBeach.com Follow OysterOwnership on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with the latest news, offers and competitions.
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@bikinibeachCV @BikiniBeachCV
A Bikini Beach welcome to our new CEO
The World’s Finest Clubs
Everyone at The Resort Group PLC and Bikini Beach is thrilled to welcome Andy Osborn into his new role. We look forward to working with him as the brand goes from strength-to-strength, with new destinations and first class DJs on the decks in the near future. In his first month, he even got to shake hands with tennis legend, Bjorn Borg - here’s to many more amazing meetings in his new position as CEO of Bikini Beach Club.
The World’s Finest Clubs is an international organisation that constantly monitors the global high-end clubbing world and awards the most exclusive nightclubs with a quality seal. Bikini Beach Club was proud to join this network of luxury establishments in 2017, securing our place amongst some of the best clubs in the world.
Bloggers build the momentum We’ve opened our doors to Instagram’s famous faces recently, check out the latest bloggers to visit our beach club and keep up to date on our social media channels.
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CEO of Bikini Beach, Andy Osborn, and Bjorn Borg
Bikini Beach Head Chef Pedro creates brand new menu What was the inspiration for the new menu? The life in Cape Verde is what inspired me for this menu. I want to bring something new to this great culture. Making the most out of the fresh catch, and the incredible flavours available on the Island this menu brings something completely different to Cape Verde. What is your favourite dish? My favourite dish on the menu is the Peruvian Ceviche. A lovely appetiser, the fresh fish and marinated spicy flavours are an absolute dream to eat. For beside the pool, our homemade sushi is a sure win. What would you order if you wanted something special? Our special menu ‘Degustacion’ is what we bring out on special occasions. Here, the clients have a lot of different rounds with great surprises and taste sensations. Read more on the blog: www.bikinibeachclub.com/news
Love Island’s Alex
Resort News - Bikini Beach
Bikini Beach News
@BikiniBeachCV
Book the best spot To experience it for yourself, make sure you book your Bikini Beach Club visit with our team by emailing sales@bikinibeachclub.com or calling +23 899 492 56.
The only thing missing is you… Bowen
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