Second Homes turn to Primary Homes

Recession, new tax band (50% for those earning £150,000.00) and an over all better quality of life are some of the most compelling reasons stated by almost half of the British working population (45%) which according to a recent survey consider relocating abroad. A significant number pointed out, under the better quality of life category, that housing in the U.S., Australia and Europe is by and large less expensive. Many of those are gloating over the real estate investment they made overseas. Unlike others they know they can rent their properties at home and relocate to their chosen dream house without concerns of applying for mortgages, international tax laws etc..

Norman Foster

For those who have second homes not entirely for their investment value, but because we love homes and design and architecture - Norman Foster the British architect has been awarded the Príncipe de Asturias de las Artes 2009 prize. He is but fourth arquitect to be bestowed this award.

His projects have included the restoration of the Reichstag in Berlin, the Millennium Bridge in London, Hong Kong Airport and the Millau viaduct in France.

The jury highlighted Foster’s “universal appeal” and his capacity to “unite aesthetic quality and intellectual reflection” as well as “create a dialogue between territory and citizens through the original use of space, light and material.”

Cidade Velha - Santiago Island, Cape Verde.

Cidade Velha is a MUST on your list of things to do during your holidays in Santiago Island, Cape Verde. The first European style village establihed on the arquipelago by the Portuguese. Currently Cidade Velha is waiting upon UNESCO approval for World Herritage status.

Jose Maria Neves Doctor Honoris Causa

José Maria Neves, Prime Minister of Cape Verde, recognized as one of Africa’s foremost leaders, will be receiving an honorary doctor of law degree from the University of Rhode Island in recognition for his excellent performance as the archipelago’s leader, and specifically, his role in promoting education through important partnerships between the University of Cape Verde and other institutions worldwide. Rhode Island University’s publication also praises the Prime Minister for his anti-crises measures which have minimized Cape Verde’s vulnerability to the world economic downturn, thereby fostering international credibility which enables foreign investment, largely in the tourism sector and second home real estate, to continue its growth trajectory.

Easter Weekend Weather Report!

Feast your eyes on the dream Cape Verde Easter weekend weather and compare it to the London forecast. If you own property in Cape Verde and have made this your new Easter holiday tradition - give yourself a pat on the back. If you craftily booked yourself a tropical get a way break to Praia, Cape Verde do not miss the opportunity to look around at some of the properties available in the capital city of the archipelago. Ponta Bicuda offeres a wide range of houses and apartments which can be used as second homes, or as real estate investment.

Diving in Cape Verde

If hiking in the tropical mountains of Cidade da Praia is not your thing, yet visiting the historical sites is not exciting enough, head down to the shores of the Ponta Bicuda beach where steps away from the city's most exclusive real estate investment site, Nuno Pereira and his team have made quite a different type of investment - under water.

With the most up to date equipment for hire and a complete list of PADI courses on offer (from beginners to masters), you don't need to have experience to enjoy this natural resource. If you have experience you can choose from up to 10 of the best diving spots nearby the city of Praia, where you will have the chance to see some of the best known fish swimming the Cape Verdean waters. Those may include grouper, tuna, mackerel, trumpet fish and several different species of tropical reef fish. With luck, you may see dolphins, turtles and even whales. Be aware that you are also likely to encounter some anchors which might have been laying in the bottom of the sea for centuries having likely been lost by the Portuguese trading ships.

Easter in Cape Verde

If your planning on returning to your Cape Verde property to recharge your batteries during the Easter break, we just wanted to remind you that there is more to Santiago Island than white sand beaches and warm tropical waters. Challenge yourself to a hike in one of the island’s mountain ranges – Serra do Pico d’Antónia (Antonia’s Peak mountains) or Serra da Malagueta (Chilli Pepper mountains). If hiking boots are not the shoes that fit you, then take some time to visit Cidade Velha (the ancient city) the first European style city built in Africa where you can also see the beautiful fortress of St. Filipe.

Who are Your Neighbours in Portugal

Something you may not know about Portugal is many international jetsetters, sporting heroes and celebrities have already, or are looking to invest in Portuguese properties. Those who have signed the deed include singers Ronan Keating and Cliff Richards, Liverpool and Chelsea football palyers Steven Gerard and Michael Owen, golf gurus Padraig Harrington and Nick Faldo, and most notably Judith Chalmers, because she was the unforgettable presneter of travelling abroad show "Wish You Were Here". Celebreties considering a real estate investment in Portugal include Madona, Cameron Diaz and “Posh and Beck,” all of whom have vacationed in Portugal.

Can I Park my Airplane at Your House

Work, housework, cooking shopping, bills, noise - it's all getting to you, and you need a real break. On top of it all, as you sit in your office it starts to rain. You get out of work as soon as you can, pack a little weekend bag, hop in your car and drive it to the nearest airport. You taxi it around the take-off runway, unfold your car's wings and wait for permission to take off! 450 miles later you land your car just minutes from your property abroad. So you fold up your car's wings again and taxi out of the airport and quickly drive to your secnod home, park it in the garage and leave it there all weekend.

It is not quite possible yet, but maybe very soon. The company Terrafugia already has working prototype of the Terrafugia Transition. In fact on their website you can already pre order yours.

Luxury Items for Second Homes

Talk about the perfect item for second home oweners anywhere. For a million reasons, this is the object you just must have - the Superheadz Deer Book Camera. Easy and affordable online.