Gocek Yacht Service is operating as agent for bareboat, motorboat and gullet charters as well as serving the Superyachts who rely on our wide experience and highest quality. Gulet, Motor yacht and bareboat charters are our main business and we offer an outstanding large portfolio,

The wide scope of our professional and efficient service will make you feel as safe as you would be at home. Our experience in all aspects of tourism as well as invaluable local knowledge is at your disposal and GYS staff will be delighted to serve you 7 days 24 hrs.

We provide the best service for the needs of their VIP guests in all harbors of the Turkish coast either in a short period or longer with our local knowledge at high standards and perfect quality in each harbor where you are in Turkish waters.

For more information contact: +90 252 645 1730, gysyachting@superonline.com, www.gocekyachtservice.com

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This prestigious property was once the Bermuda residence to a United States Consul General for over 30 years. During that time, many famous guests visited the residence and were fortunate enough to take in all the beauty that the property encompasses. Such guests included President George Bush, Vice President President Dan Quayle, Senator John Kerry, Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts, Senator Chris Dodd of Connecticut, General Colin Powell, former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, actor Michael Douglas, and model/actress Brooke Shields.

Chelston is unique in Bermuda as a large-acreage, fully updated, private beachfront compound located within a five-minute drive of Hamilton. The 10,000-square-foot main house sits approximately 200 feet above sea level and as breath taking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the city of Hamilton, and the gardens that make up the 14-acre estate.

The compound features 15 bedrooms, 19 baths,  three guest cottages and a staff cottage, a salt-water aquarium with a living coral reef in the library, a well-equipped home cinema, a gym, a nearly Olympic-size swimming pool, a rare outdoor Chinese stone fireplace in the shape of a five-armed dragon, and a croquet lawn. The main house is on three levels with high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, multiple sets of French doors, and generous room proportions. The compound also features a pavilion overlooking the pink sands and turquoise waters of Grape Bay Beach. For more information visit Christie’s International Real Estate

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Photo Credit: JP Rouja/LookBermuda & Dan F

Hampton Glass House

Designed by Barnes Coy Architects, this newly constructed modern home is on the market for $29.95 million. The home, which is located in Bridgehampton, NY has a glass facade with more than 9,500 square feet of living space and soaring, 10- to 15-foot ceilings throughout. The home features seven bedrooms, 10 baths, an indoor gourmet kitchen, two outdoor kitchens, media room, full gym with sauna, steam and plunge pool, an infinity-edge swimming pool with spa, and a pool house.

“The design concept was to bring the excitement and drama of the Atlantic Ocean inside the house,” said architect Christopher Coy. “There is a protective dune in front of the house, which suggested that the main living spaces and the master suite should be located on the upper level to ensure the best view of the ocean. The upper story is cantilevered above the ground-floor structure to enhance a sense of floating or flying above the beach, which both increases one’s intimacy with the ocean yet creates a feeling of privacy and security.” The home is listed with Susan and Matthew Breitenbach of The Corcoran Group.

The elegant flowing design gives an airy feel to the grand space. The extensive Mahogany trimmed windows enhance the unsurpassed view of the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife refuge, which makes up the estates back yard. The property unfolds on four floors, three of which stand on their own with their own kitchens, laundry rooms, and private baths. They are all accessible by spiral staircase or Otis elevator for ease and convenience. The entire estate features state-of-the-art-security, Crestron computer controlled lighting and operating systems. The endless pool and 2 custom tiled spas provide relaxation and recreation.

Care to enjoy a movie or find the right bottle of wine? Just step inside your own theater or climate controlled wine room. Each unique feature of this magnificent estate must be seen in person to fully appreciate.

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For information please contact Charlie Whitlock

Charlie Whitlock

Coldwell Banker Best Properties

Phone: (907) 562-7653

Fax: (907) 250-5556

Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort rebrands to become the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

Located on the sugar sand beaches of Hilton Head Island on the southern coast of South Carolina, the newest oceanfront resort to become part of Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort is a tropical paradise unlike anywhere else in this premier destination. The Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort offers beautiful oceanfront views from 323 guest rooms including 28 suites. At over 550 square feet with mini kitchens and private balconies, the resort boasts the largest guest rooms on the island.

As part of the prestigious Palmetto Dunes Resort community, the luxury destination offers a 11-mile lagoon system ideal for kayaking and canoeing, bike trails, 25 tennis courts and three championship golf courses featuring 24 holes of golf. The resort also showcases a beautiful courtyard poolscape with tropical foliage, two pools, two beachside hot tubs and private cabanas.

With more than 20,000 square feet of event space, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort offers something for everyone with flexible meeting space for large or small groups.  Whether hosting a private function in our beachside Shorehouse or enjoying award-winning culinary selections and the Ocean Tides Spa. From our premier location and casual resort environment to our unparalleled service and amenities, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort exudes style and Southern Hospitality that will make you never want to leave.

Starting Feb 1st, guests can now make reservations.

As a full-service licensed travel agency & concierge service and supplier of Luxury Villa Rentals, Private Trade Winds adds a destination wedding & events department allowing air, ground, concierge, wedding and honeymoon plans to be made all in one location.

Private Trade Winds, Inc. (PTW) the nations leading supplier of five-star villa vacations, is proud to announce the unveiling of their Destination Wedding & Events Department. The vast portfolio of villas which PTW currently represents offers exceptional locations and venues for intimate gatherings as well as grand social affairs, however, it is the addition a wedding and events coordinator with 20+ years of experience that readied the company to walk down the aisle and confidently serve this new clientele. As a full-service licensed Travel Agency & Concierge Service, PTW is poised to assist with all the travel details including air & ground transportation and accommodations, as well as group and individual activities. The wedding & events coordinator handles all of the wedding details streamlining the “one-stop-shop” model into an experience of a lifetime for the bride, groom, wedding party and guests in a rare and innovative way.

“Our eclectic portfolio allows couples to choose the destination of their dreams – whether it’s slope-side, beachfront, on a vineyard, or even at sea – we have the right venue and villa option to make that special day as magical as it should be,” said Irene Aviles, Owner and President of Private Trade Winds. Aviles went on to say, “We were pioneers in the field of villa travel when I started the company five years ago, so it’s especially poignant to launch this innovative concept on the mark of our 5th anniversary!”

Private Trade Winds is launching their Destination Wedding & Events department in highly sought-after locations such as Greece, Costa Rica, South Africa,Hawaii, the Seychelles, and Northern & Southern California. By uniting luxury villa accommodations with wedding venues, couples can marry and honeymoon in the same romantic setting, and return year after year to that special place. PTW takes great pride in playing a part in the countless anniversary and honeymoon celebrations they have booked for their client’s, and look forward to making more dreams and magical moments come true.

For more information on private trade winds wedding & events, contact Judy Sweetland at 866.789.4589 Ext. 804 or email jsweetland@privatetradewinds.com.

TBSS International, Inc. (“TBSS”), announced in December, 2011, that they had purchased the patents, inventory and molds of a highly efficient and environmentally-friendly neon lighting system (Velella Lighting Systems: VLS) that was created initially for the nesting of sea turtles. TBSS is commencing a pilot program along Florida beaches to assess the effectiveness of its recently acquired energy-efficient neon lighting manufactured under the specifications required by the Turtle Conservation Coastal Lighting Regulations.

Sea turtles in Florida and other coastal states nest almost always under the cover of night to protect themselves from predators and overheating. As a result of this survival instinct, beach resorts and beach homes are prohibited from using flood lights, which impede nesting and limit beach activity at night due to safety concerns. The company believes that the market for “turtle compliant” lighting on beachfront properties, including marinas, hotels and residences is huge.

The publicly held company announced on January 24th that their engineers had completed the design phase of new commercial lighting applications for office workspace and outside path lighting, and mass production of the newly designed 2′ x 4′ lay-in fixtures will begin in the coming weeks. The company’s design maximizes the visible light while minimizing wattage usage. The Velella Lighting System, which is designed to run on a patented 12 volt DC power supply, meets or exceeds requirements set by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) and Independent Electrical Engineering Reports, and will be brighter, safer, and cheaper to operate.

Todd Spinelli, CEO of TBSS, noted, “As Congress forces all of us to gradually discontinue use of incandescent lighting in deference to the new compact fluorescent lights (CFL), we will all pay more up front, and worry about the dangers and strict regulations that surround disposal of the expensive CFL’s. The VLS alternative is already in use through a number of trial programs in street lights in half a dozen neighborhoods across the country. Utility statements indicate that the VLS is 85% more efficient than incandescent lighting and at least 50% more efficient than last generation fluorescent lighting. When compared to the environmental headaches that surround the new CFL screw-in bulbs, the VLS neon light will be 60% cheaper in initial cost, will not contain deadly mercury, and require no special procedures for disposal. We anticipate having a consumer (screw in) version of the VLS by late summer 2012.”

Velella Lighting System Benefits Summary vs. LED Lighting

- Velella Lights are non-corrosive unlike LED lights
- Velella Lights have up to a 28 year lifespan vs. up to 4 year Limited warranties for identified competitive LED products*
- Velella Lights have higher longevity, lower replacement rates and therefore lower maintenance costs than LED
- Velella Lights are competitive or lower in price than LED light alternatives*
- LED lights have serious disposal/land fill issues due to quantities of nickel and lead heavy metals and other toxic components
- Velella Lights use less energy than LED lights in a DC (Direct Current) form*
- Velella Lights give off no heat and LED lights radiate heat. Therefore, Velella Lights do not measurably impact cooling cost and by
definition are more efficient in use of electricity
- Neon Velella Lights are physiologically more comfortable to the human eye reducing eye strain and possible damage caused by
harsher LED light illumination, as per American Eye Association studies

*Further specific details are subject to specific analysis of various LED lighting products on the market.

ANNUAL OFFICE LIGHTING OPERATING COST COMPARISON

30 Standard Industrial 2′x 4′ – 4 Bulb Fluorescent fixtures

- Annual Electricity Cost – ($162.01 per unit x 30) = $4,860.30
- Annual Cooling Cost – $601.92
- Annual Maintenance Costs – $31.14 per unit x 30 = $934.20
- Total Fluorescent Lighting Office Costs = $6,396.42

30 Vellela 2′ x 4′ – 5 Bulb Commercial Fixture

- Annual Electricity Cost – ($15.75 per unit x 30) = $472.50
- Annual Cooling Cost = $0
- Annual Maintenance Costs = $0
- Total Vellela Light Office Costs = $472.50
- Average Annual Savings using Vellela Lightning International = $5,923.92

Spinelli adds, “We are proud to be able to bring this safe and energy-efficient lighting product to the public. The product has proven itself in parking lots, beach lighting and residential street lighting, and is a viable alternative to traditional incandescent and fluorescent lights including the expensive CFL that Congress is jamming down our throats. TBSS will be manufacturing VLS products in the Pensacola, FL area and has plans to open additional facilities across the country. Initially the company expects to employ close to 1,000 people, a significant boost to Florida’s unemployment. As production gears up and manufacturing is moved to the U.S., and facilities are opened across the country, TBSS will need to fill thousands of positions in manufacturing, and marketing. In addition to saving Americans dollars up front and operational costs for lighting, we hope to impact the job market in a big way.”

About TBSS International, Inc. TBSS International is a domestic and international service company with service contracts in different sectors such as gold mining, oil drilling, water well drilling, trenching and construction and recently entered the energy efficient lighting market. The management team of TBSS has been in the construction industry since 1950 with a strong reputation for completing contracts on time and within budgets. TBSS’s competitive advantage stems from the company’s joint venture partners, their respective technological expertise and proprietary technology and the company’s own intellectual property.

From the outside looking in Malibu has a very high profile due, in part, to the paparazzi and the media shining a spotlight on its glamorous surface.  Certainly, it is known as getaway for many Hollywood celebrities and titans of business.  The sitcom, Two and a Half Men takes place here. Even some Malibu real estate agents became local celebrities when they were featured on the reality TV show, Million Dollar Listing.  But, beneath the surface Malibu has the intrinsic values of a small, rural California coastal beach town with a Mediterranean climate and a close-knit community.  This, plus its close proximity to the diverse amenities of Los Angeles and easy access to the entire globe, makes Malibu one of the top 50 luxury real estate markets in the world.

According to Irene Dazzan-Palmer, “What makes the lifestyle in Malibu so extraordinary is the caliber of people you meet or run into daily.  With great people and outdoor living Malibu is like ‘Aspen at the beach’. One day you can go for a walk on the beach, the next day you can go hiking in the mountains.  You rarely need to leave town because there are so many wonderful shops and restaurants close by. It is wonderful to spend time in Los Angeles.  But, I always love to get back to ‘The BU’ as the locals call Malibu”.

Irene partners with her son, Sandro Dazzan, who was recently honored by Forbes Magazine as one of the ‘30 under 30 (years old)’ for closing $100 million in home sales in 3 years, including Malibu’s 2011 highest).  Sandro says, “In Malibu, you grow up in tune with your environment, especially if you are into water sports.  Surfing clears your head.  The water is always moving and is teeming with sea life. Sometimes you swim with dolphins or watch the silhouettes of pelicans diving to catch fish against a backdrop of an amazing sunset”.

Chris Cortazzo explains it this way, “Contrary to what many assume, the Malibu lifestyle is not pretentious. It is casual and comfortable. It may be sophisticated, but the hype about pretentiousness is false.  It is not about what you have, because not everyone here is rich.  It is about being nice. The ocean is definitely a grounding force; it has incredible energy that can bring out the best in you.”

Jeff Certow says, “In the summer, Malibu is besieged with tourists which is great for local businesses.  Come Labor Day, however, the entire town breathes a sigh of relief and celebrities can once again return home because the locals do not hassle them.  Everyone gets along here in this small town; it just feels normal”.

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Malibu does have its private gated enclaves such as the famous Malibu Colony. But, very few of the 12,500 residents actually live right on the beach. According to Jim Rapf, “Although, it is true that some beach front residents own a section of the beach up to the mean high tide line, most of the beaches in Malibu are open to the public. The town itself actually encompasses 21 miles of coastline”.

Shen Schultz points out that, “With fewer homes right on the water, these homes generally hold their value because they are usually in demand”.  Yet, living right on the beach does not appeal to many who treasure their privacy. Jack Pritchettsays, “Some people prefer the seclusion and solitude of the canyons in the mountains.  The tranquility in the hills means no neighbors and large gardens. Besides, you can drive by the ocean any time you go into town”.

According to Ellen Francisco, “One of Malibu’s biggest draws is the public schools.  There is tremendous parental and community support for the schools here both in volunteer time and in private funding of projects, activities and sports programs. For example the music department is outstanding. Musicals at the high schools are comparable to professional performances”.

Marcus Beck says “The public schools in Malibu are comparable to private schools. Families here have the same values.  Parents spend time in the classroom; they will help grade tests, for example to free up the teachers to concentrate on other things. Fundraisers are very successful and help to provide Malibu kids with an excellent education. The indoor-outdoor lifestyle that makes Malibu so attractive to adults and kids alike, also enriches the children’s education because there are so many outdoor activities”.

Mike Cunningham, says, Malibu definitely has a small town feel that is very much family oriented. The weather is wonderful and it is just gorgeous.  There is quite a diversity of successful people who live here from the entertainment industry, to the sports industry to business.  Yet, they all have something in common. Once people move to Malibu they do not want to move away!”

Restored within the strict guidelines of Nantucket Island’s Historic District, this 264-year-old Cape still pays homage to its Quaker-inspired design roots. Behind the simple lines and cedar shake lies a range of modern conservation-minded features that enhance the home’s immediate and long-term performance, proving that sustainability can be integrated into existing homes without compromising authenticity. In addition to preserving and modernizing the LEED-Gold house, architect husband and wife team Michele Kolb and Eric Rosenberg added 260 square feet for a new kitchen, bathroom, and entry in keeping with the period. Among the many challenges posed by this whole-house renovation were meeting LEED insulation and air sealing requirements, installing new mechanical and ventilation systems, and restoring the original single-pane window sash to conserve energy while meeting historic architectural standards.  Further energy improvements included sealing and insulating the existing crawlspace; installing new exterior sheathing; insulating the envelope with spray foam; and installing zone-controlled HVAC, HRV, and ERV equipment and high-efficiency water heating. Low-flow faucets and fixtures as well as water-conserving landscaping contribute to water-efficiency goals.  American Clay plaster, reclaimed oak floors, and pine ceilings were specified for their natural and environmental qualities; painted surfaces were finished with Benjamin Moore’s Aura low-VOC products; and floors were oiled.

Project Details

Union Street Residence, Nantucket, Mass. | Size: 1,810 square feet | Cost: $273 per square foot | Completed: August 2010 | Certification: LEED-Gold | HERS Rating: 69 | Architect: Rosenberg Kolb Architects, New York City | Builder: Knapp Construction, Nantucket | Verifier: Conservation Services Group, Westborough, Mass.

Green Highlights

Energy: Sealed crawlspace / insulated foundation and slab / Icynene spray insulation throughout / restored historic window sash for tightness / Life Breath HRV, 98% AFUE York gas furnace / BMPlus Zone Control system / Rinnai LS Series tankless hot water heater / Emerson Blue Single Stage thermostat / Energy Star appliances

Resources: locally sourced marble countertops / cedar shingle roof and siding / oil-finished reclaimed oak floors

IAQ: American Clay plaster / Benjamin Moore Aura low-VOC paint / Blanchon oil-finished wood floors / MERV-13 filters / Panasonic WhisperGreen exhaust fan / Johns Manville urea formaldehyde–free duct insulation

Water: Toto Eco Supreme toilets / drought-tolerant landscaping / high-efficiency drip irrigation with Irritrol Total Control system

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For more information or a consultation, contact:

Rosenberg Kolb Architects PC

226 East 79^th Street, New York, NY  10075

212-996-3099, www.rosenbergkolb.com

Hilton Worldwide today announced continued expansion of eforea: spa at Hilton, its innovative global spa concept. Refined at seven properties owned or managed by Hilton Worldwide since debuting in late 2010, the turnkey spa solution is now available to franchise owners across the Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton and Embassy Suites Hotels brands. Already one of the fastest growing spas in the world,eforea: spa at Hilton offers a spa solution with consistent standards, customizable key elements and ease of implementation. Franchise availability is expected to expand the eforea concept’s global pipeline, which already includes more than 90 locations in development at Hilton Worldwide managed hotels.

“The success of eforea: spa at Hilton demonstrates what our company, Hilton Worldwide, doesbest -  provide best in class solutions for property owners and compelling reasons for today’s travelers to choose Hilton,” said Jim Holthouser, global head, full service brands, Hilton Worldwide. “eforea has been well received by spa-goers and hotel developers around the world. Our concept can make opening a new spa faster and cost-effective for our hotels and it  is poised to expand and enter new markets at a rapid pace.”

Hilton Worldwide leverages its expertise as one of the world’s largest spa providers. eforea: spa at Hilton provides a cutting-edge spa concept that meets guests’ needs around the globe while also being cost effective and easy to implement. Thespa’s design concept ensures consistent spa installations globally while honoring local cultures and a sense of place. Design standards are complemented with the ease of standard operating procedures, global supply agreements, training curriculum and an exclusive treatment menu, which can make opening a new spa simpler.

eforea: spa at Hilton also offers owners an online booking engine, pre-opening support, sourcing and distribution of retail products by L’ITYA, Vitaman, Kerstin Florian and Peter Thomas Roth, and a distinct brand identity with standards and a full collateral suite.

“We are optimistic about the new potential for growth of eforea: spa at Hilton as we work with our current and potential owners to help them meet the needs of today’s travelers,” said Tyra Lowman, senior director, global spa, full service and luxury brands, Hilton Worldwide. “From our signature treatment journeys to core design elements and global marketing, we are focused on building consumer preference for eforea and helping our hotels excel in the competitive spa environment.”

In 2011 Spa magazine readers ranked eforea: spa at Hilton as a top five spa brand. The eforea experience is shaped by threesignature treatment journeys – the Essentials Journey, Escape Journey and Men’s Journey – all which customized to provide balance and wellness for body and soul. In December 2011 Hilton began selling eforea: spa at Hilton products on its retail site, www.hiltontohome.com. Since launching, eight Hilton properties in five countries currently offer the eforea experience. Hotels currently featuring eforea spas include: Hilton Short Hills (New Jersey, U.S.A.), Millennium Hilton Bangkok (Thailand), Hilton On The Park Melbourne (Australia), Hilton Pattaya (Thailand), Hilton Queenstown (New Zealand), Hilton Surfers Paradise (Australia), Hilton Grand Vacations Suites on the Las Vegas Strip (U.S.A.), and Hilton Baku (Azerbaijan).

Find more information, watch video interviews and enjoy virtual tours of eforea at www.hiltonglobalmediacenter.com/eforea. Additional information for consumers is available at www.hilton.com/eforea and www.hiltontohome.com.

When Columbus singled out Puerto Rico for its beauty, golf had already been established as a favorite pastime in Europe. These many centuries later, Puerto Rico, a U.S. commonwealth where English is widely spoken, has reasserted itself as one of the Carib-bean’s top golf destinations.

You don’t need a passport to enter Puerto Rico, but you will need your A game at two brilliantly revived courses—plus one striking newcomer—that combine to offer visiting players and savvy investors plenty of options east and west of San Juan.

Beachfront Suite at Dorado Beach

Dorado Beach Resort and Club Conceived by Laurance S. Rockefeller in the late 1950s as a back-to-nature playground for the well-to-do, Dorado Beach, located 45 minutes west of San Juan, was one of the first full-fledged golf resorts in the Caribbean. A visionary developer and conservationist who saw an opportunity to build a recreational “Great Park” in the tropics, Rockefeller hired Robert Trent Jones, Sr., the dean of the trade, to build a pair of courses on a 1,400-acre plantation on the island’s lush north coast.

More than 50 years after Rockefeller transported 150 friends (each one a millionaire) to the resort’s gala opening, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., who as a teenager had toured the course during construction, has returned to direct a $6.2 million restoration of Dorado’s East Course. “It’s a treat for me at this point in my career to have the opportunity to refresh some of my father’s most notable work,” Jones says. “The restoration…has enhanced the natural beauty, playing conditions, and flexibility that my father had originally envisioned.”

Working from his dad’s original notes and sketches, Jones set about rediscovering a course that had fallen into ruin. After an extensive tree-pruning program thinned out the layout’s jungle-lined corridors, the Atlantic Ocean became visible from 15 of the 18 holes. Numerous lost features were revealed during the cleanup, from specimen trees to water hazards.

Reopened in November 2011, the East Course, a veritable museum of the senior Jones’s work, is now better than when it was ranked among the best courses in the islands. The runway-style tees have been restored, the elevated greens rebuilt, the sculpted bunkers restyled, and the fairways widened and resurfaced. In 2012, Jones, Jr. will return to touch up Dorado’s West Course, a shorter, sportier version of the East Course. Visitors can also access the property’s Pineapple and Sugarcane courses (formerly the North and South courses at Cerromar Beach, respectively).

In December 2012, the resort will unveil a new Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the site of Rockefeller’s original beachfront hotel. More intimate and luxurious than a typical Ritz-Carlton, the Dorado Beach Reserve, designed according to LEED Silver standards, will feature 115 rooms spread across 50 acres and a mile of beachfront. The resort will include Spa Botanico, a new Beach Club, a Wind and Wave Center headed by Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment, and celebrity chef restaurants. The 11-mile Rockefeller Nature Trail, Watermill water park, and fitness and wellness center are already in place.

The resort’s real estate offerings are led by the Ritz-Carlton Reserve West Beach Residences, a limited series of two- to four-bedroom oceanfront condos. These units range from 2,204 to 4,140 square feet and are priced from $2.5 million.

Dorado Beach East is a well-established residential neighborhood with custom homes priced from $1.2 million.

Until the new hotel opens, accommodations are available at the Plantation Resort Residences, its spacious three- and four-bedroom condos overlooking fairways, mountains, and ocean. These units, available in four different floor plans, are available starting at $830,000.

Beach front swimming pool at the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club Fronting a two-mile crescent of sandy beach adjacent to El Yunque, the only rain forest in the U.S. National Park System, Bahia Beach Resort is a master-planned, 483-acre community with a 139-room St. Regis hotel on site. Occupying a former coconut plantation, Bahia Beach is dotted with 100-foot palms and fringed by thick stands of almond, sea grape, and flamboyant trees. Colorful songbirds and iguanas inhabit the surrounding forest.

Tucked away on the island’s northeast coast 30 minutes from San Juan, Bahia Beach is anchored by its enticing Robert Trent Jones, Jr.-designed course. On a preexisting public course that was no match for its superb location, Jones and his team superimposed an entirely new design on the site.

Water is a strong component on this subtly contoured layout—nearly every hole skirts a lagoon, challenging players to sacrifice power for accuracy. A typical hole at Bahia Beach has water on the left, thick jungle to the right, and a slim fairway pinched by upswept bunkers in the landing area. The slick, undulating greens are well protected by sand and water. Five sets of tees offer plenty of options. The key to enjoying the course is selecting the correct markers for your ability level.

Opened to acclaim in 2008, the golf course reaches its pinnacle at the final three holes, each of which is flanked to the right by the ocean. The 17th, a long par 3 that plays to a green perched above the beach, is a stunner, as is the home hole, a dazzling par 4 straddled by a lagoon and the sea. Jones, a true aesthete, created a greenside bunker at the 18th that is an extension of the beach. Players can tally their scores in the club’s open-air beachfront clubhouse.

The well-appointed accommodations at the St. Regis feature spectacular views of the sea or rain forest from their private terraces. In addition to its 24-hour butler service, the St. Regis, opened in November 2010, offers a Remede Spa and Fitness Center, three restaurants (including Fern, a splendid Jean-Georges Vongerichten dining establishment), transportation in a chauffeured Bentley, and other extras.

Bahia Beach has a variety of residential properties available. On a private island within the community are 26 branded St. Regis estate homes set on half-acre to 1.5-acre lots. The approximate starting price for these homes, which range from 6,000 to 10,000 square feet in size, is $3.6 million. Las Cabanas, a group of oceanview townhomes, comprises two-story, three-bedroom residences, each with a small studio, four baths, and a terrace. Prices range from $2,150,000 to $2,750,000. The 29 units at Las Ventanas, ranging in size from 1,680 square feet in Ventanas I ($745,000) to 3,300 square feet for a Penthouse in Ventanas II ($2.4 million), are within walking distance of the beach. Lastly, Las Verandas offers 90 two- and three-bedroom villas ranging in price from $700,000 to $1,641,500.

The green on Royal Isabela's first hole

Royal Isabela Seventy-five miles west of San Juan in Puerto Rico’s northwest corner is Royal Isabela, one of the most spectacular new golf courses to debut in the Caribbean in many years. Developed by brothers and former tennis stars Charlie and Stanley Pasarell, this one-of-a-kind layout sprawls across rolling tableland 200 feet above the frothy Atlantic Ocean.

The centerpiece of a 426-acre resort community, the course is marked by sharp elevation changes, limestone outcrops, and natural sand dunes. Broad clifftop fairways and sod-faced bunkers create a multitude of strategies for each shot, as do the brisk trade winds. “Tropical Scotland” is how Stanley describes the course, adding, “If the Open Championship ever leaves the British Isles, this could be the venue.” At full stretch—7,667 yards, par 73—Royal Isabela is one tough coconut, though staggered sets of forward tees offer graduated challenges to higher handicappers.

Observant players will detect a sense of naturalness at Royal Isabela. During the construction phase, the majority of the shaping was done by hand, reflecting the developers’ desire to tread lightly on the land. Natural lakes were integrated into the design of the course, as were deep chasms that call for death-or-glory shots. Conceived as a sustainable development, more than 20,000 native trees and indigenous plants were propagated and grown in on-site nurseries, using seeds and cuttings gathered on the property.

Aided by David Pfaff, a former Pete Dye associate, the Pasarells let the existing landforms dictate the course routing. “It’s an unbelievable piece of land,” says Charlie. “We spent years walking the property until we uncovered a golf course.” Recognizing that resort golf should, above all, be fun, the Pasarells built plenty of entertainment into their design. For example, there’s an infinity-edge green that appears to float on the distant sea, an atoll-like island green, plus a clifftop double green that serves the 12th and 14th holes. There’s also a quirky original feature: The sixth hole, with two separate fairways and two separate greens, can be played either as a par 4 or a par 5. (The brothers couldn’t agree and so they built both options.)

In April 2012, Royal Isabela will unveil a lodge with 20 guest casitas. Additional amenities will include a clubhouse, restaurant, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a spa and fitness center. The property also has an organic farm, 27 miles of hiking trails, and world-class surfing.

Royal Isabela’s home sites, ranging in size from one to two acres, are spaced around the golf course and overlook the ocean. Lots start at $2 million. Each Fairway Villa provides over 1,500 square feet of living space and features two master suites, a covered terrace, and a plunge pool. Villas start at $1 million.

*Virtual Tour of 901 Airole Way, Bel Air

Outstanding private and public courses are conveniently located nearby, including Country Club of Florida, Pinetree Golf Club, Adios Golf Club, The Gulf Stream Country Club and The Boca Raton Resort & Club. Known as a golf mecca world-wide, the Palm Beaches is home to more than four dozen courses—so you never have to go far for a premium golf match. For a change of pace, there are two challenging executive Par 3 courses, The Little Club and St. Andrews just minutes from 4001 North Ocean.  Throughout the area you’ll find an excellent selection of fine, established marinas. Less than two miles down the street is a full service marina featuring long-term and overnight wet dockage and rack storage at Marina Delray. There are boat slips for vessels of every size, ship stores, fuel and much more.

Along the highly coveted coastline of Gulf Stream, prime oceanfront for new development is a rarity. Indeed, more than 30 years have passed since the last new residential offering. Careful zoning and thoughtful preservation will limit future opportunities. For those who have longed for modern design and conveniences in an area that—until now—has had limited development, 4001 North Ocean is exactly what you have been waiting for. This is a moment to invest in both your future and your present. This is the moment to change the way you enjoy life.

Priced from $1.7 million

Contact

561-450-7494
4001 North Ocean Blvd
Gulf Stream, FL 33483

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ET noted that the biggest sale of 2011 in the Hamptons didn’t even come close to the biggest in 2010, which raked in a whopping $43.5 million.

As a matter of fact, the most expensive Hampton home sold in 2011 would have only grabbed the third top-spot in 2010. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that 2011 lacked any spectacular transactions. Here’s a list of the top five most expensive homes sold in the Hamptons in 2011:

1. 1280 Meadow Lane, Southampton

The most expensive home transactioned in the Hamptons in 2011 sold for $25 million on June 1. According to Curbed, the impressive oceanfront mansion was designed in 1930 by architect Leroy P. Ward in a French provincial style with incredible attention to detail.

2. 137 Crestview Lane, Sagaponack

This house in Sagaponack was originally listed in August 2010 for $26.75 million, according to Newsday. The house sits on 2.4 acres of oceanfront property and features an infinity pool, two laundry rooms, and a guest cottage. Our records indicate that the (now) previous owners put down $18 million back in 2007 to acquire the property before deciding to list it for sale three years later. The property finally sold for $24 million on Sept. 2, 2011.

3. 5 Eel Cove Road, East Hampton

Curbed revealed that the seller of this property was none other than Robert Benton, movie writer and director. He was one of the writers of 1978’s Superman and writer and director of Kramer vs. Kramer. With the latter, he won the Oscar for best director in 1980. Originally listed with an asking price of $29,900,000 on July 13, 2010, the property finally sold on Nov. 17, 2011 for $23 million.

4. 96 Meadow Lane, Southampton

This impressive home sits on the Atlantic oceanfront and it sold on Oct. 21 for $21.6 million. The home itself was custom built in 2009, but the lot was purchased back in 2005 for $10 million. The property was first listed on May 24, 2011 with an asking price of $26.9 million, before it was snatched up by an undisclosed buyer through Seacret LLC in October 2011.

5. 1251 Ocean Road, Southampton

Closing off the top 5 is the property located at 1251 Ocean Rd, Southampton, which sold on March 30, 2011 for $20.5 million. It was allegedly bought by the TV star Donny Deutsch through an LLC, 1251 Ocean Road LLC.

Finally, here’s the complete top 10 of the biggest single-family sales in the Hamptons in 2011:

Address                                                   Sale Price                    Sale Date

1280 Meadow Lane, Southampton           $25,000,000                   06/01

137 Crestview Lane, Sagaponack             $24,000,000                   09/02

5 Eel Cove Road, East Hampton               $23,000,000                   11/17

96 Meadow Lane, Southampton               $21,600,000                   10/21

1251 Ocean Road, Southampton             $20,500,000                    03/30

21 Old Beach Lane, East Hampton           $20,450,000                   05/25

1240 Meadow Lane, Southampton           $20,000,000                   04/15

33 Hwy Behind The Pond, East Hampton  $16,750,000                  11/10

450 Gin Lane, Southampton                     $14,500,000                   09/27

144 Meadowlark Lane, Southampton       $11,995,000                   11/02

*Source: Epoch Times

It might be balmy and breezy where your oceanfront home is, but a little fireplace can add a lot of ambiance and atmosphere, even when it’s warm outside. Portable fireplaces that can be placed practically everywhere are perfect for owners of oceanfront homes that don’t require a bulky, permanent option. In addition to their varying sizes and shapes, these movable works of fiery art are available in a variety of styles, allowing for more placement options. Some models can be conveniently mounted on the wall, while others are placed on the floor or another steady surface (think tabletop for alfresco dining or lounging). Ideal for fuss-free decorating and maintenance, the ventless fireplaces don’t require a chimney or gas line (no ashy mess to clean up, either), and they burn liquid or gel bioethanol fuel, making them eco-friendly.

Eco Smart Fire "Ghost"

The odor-free fuel is smokeless and non–polluting, and it creates no soot or ash, but gives off water vapor and CO2. But there’s more to these hot little numbers than their heating capabilities; they’re also sleek and stylish, with the smooth finish of stainless steel, black satin power coat, or high-gloss white paint—options that allow them to blend into nearly any room’s design scheme. A perfect touch for beach homes, many models come with polished rocks, shells, marbles, or sea glass. Anywhere Fireplaces“Hudson” MSRP (shown above) $200

Editor’s Picks Four more movable, eco-friendly fireplaces.

1 Brasa Fire “Sienna,” $1,100. 2 Eco Smart Fire “Ghost,” $2,295. 3 Blomus “Vidro,” €649. 4 Planika “Coffee Fire Long,” €2,300.

Edward Stepp, CTA, of the Florida based travel agency Stepp Into Paradise, LLC, is the most recent recipient of a luxury villa vacation valued at $1200 from Private Trade Winds, Inc., the Nation’s leading Villa Supplier.

Private Trade Winds (PTW), has partnered with The Travel Institute, a non-profit company dedicated to serving the travel community, by writing the Villa Certification Course, a program designed to equip Travel Agents with the knowledge necessary to master this unique niche known as Villa Travel.

A webinar was conducted by Certified Villa Specialist Judy Sweetland, who serves as Marketing Director for Private Trade Winds. Topics covered include villa classification, destinations, and required service and amenities which elevate a typical vacation rental to a Five-Star Villa Vacation. “Villas offer space, privacy and security – three elements favored by the affluent luxury traveler,” Ms. Sweetland advised.

Upon completion of the webinar a name was selected by random drawing, and Mr. Edward Stepp received a three-night villa stay at Private Trade Winds’ PGA West Villa on the Greens, located in La Quinta, CA. “I am really excited and look forward to going to one of their villas in California. This is part of my niche that I look forward to expanding in my business. I will most likely take the Villa Specialist Course online,” said Mr. Stepp of his prize valued at $1200. To learn more about villa travel or The Villa Certification Course offered through The Travel Institute, please contact Judy Sweetland at jsweetland(at)privatetradewinds(dot)com or call 866-789-4589 Ext. 804.

About Private Trade Winds Private Trade Winds, Inc., located in Newport Beach, CA is the creator of the Five Star Villa Vacation, and is preparing to celebrate their five year anniversary in February. PTW enjoys partnering with Travel Agents, Real Estate Agents, and Developers in defining, classifying and selling Villa Travel.

*More Images of Tyler and Brady’s Maui Home

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Sherri DuPont

Kim Collins

Founded in 1987, Collins & DuPont is a nationally recognized, award winning, full service interior design firm offering clients enduring style in combination with exceptional quality. From their offices located in Bonita Springs, Florida, Sherri Dupont and Kim Collins work with clients throughout Southwest Florida and across the nation. Collins-Dupont residential designs have earned recognition including the Southeast Building Conference’s Aurora awards, the Best in American Living awards, sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders, and the ASID-Florida South Chapter Design Excellence awards.

One of the trademarks of Collins-Dupont is their work with oceanfront and ocean view homes and condos and below are some images that illustrate the level of quality devoted to each project.

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For more information or a consultation, contact:

Collins-Dupont Interior Design

8911 Brighton Lane, Bonita Springs, FL  34135

239- 948-2400, www.collins-dupont.com