Wolke7 is a future flying house concept, which has been conceived by designer Timon Sager. This interesting flying house concept is a perfect combination of a flying craft and a futuristic house. Wolke7 seems like a yacht in the sky which can take you anywhere. For an adventurous globe totter, perhaps nothing better could have been invented.

The concept This interesting design of flying house concept creates a strong possibility to live the sky-life. This flying house also features a deck so that you can wholeheartedly enjoy the lovely view from the sky and feel the soothing breeze on your face. Wolke7 is indeed a fascinating and super interesting flying house that offers you the liberty to travel freely in the sky while enjoying all the homely comforts. For more pictures of this amazing flying house, scroll down.

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The Crystal Lagoon, located at the San Alfonso del Mar resort in Algarrobo, Chile, is the world’s largest outdoor pool, stretching more than half of a mile and filled with 66 million gallons of water.

Built in 1928, the seven bedroom home overlooks Nantucket Sound and includes a guesthouse as well as a private beach. The compound is located on a private road with a seasonal security guard, no doubt there to ward off the inevitable tourists, paparazzi and random interlopers.

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East Sister Rock Island

Owning your own island in the Florida Keys has never been so easy, that is, if you have $12 million. Located three minutes by boat is the 1.4 private island, Easter Sister Rock Island, was put on the market by owner Bob Williford. Although the property on the island does not entail the luxury that accompanies a $12 million asking price, Williford stated that was not was his home was about. Williford noted that is was “a rustic vacation place where you can come and charge up your batteries. It’s not fancy like staying at Trump Plaza, but it is a place where you can get away from everything.”

Nonetheless, it is a private island, a Florida Keys’ private island.

Chris Krolow, CEO of Toronto-based Private Islands Inc., said there are only about 550 private islands for sale around the world right now, and only 60 percent of them can be purchased outright. The others are in the “leasehold category” — which means a buyer purchases permission to use an island from the government. Island inventory always is at a premium. There are 1,700-plus islands that make up the Florida Keys, but most are pristine. And with today’s strict environmental laws, new development permits are unlikely for most. Only 34 offshore properties have houses; nine of those have just one house, says Monroe County Property Appraiser Karl Borglum.

Williford and his wife, Elena, still love their island, which was a regularly used vacation home when their four kids were young. But the family doesn’t use it much these days now that the children are busy with high school and college on the mainland. Now, the island mostly is used as rental income — starting at $5,000 per week.

Williford bought the place for $715,000 in 1995 from Klaus Meckler, a gastroenterologist from New Jersey. Meckler built the island by digging a moat from the coral rock and creating a 15-foot-high plateau. The concrete poured house rests on 75 pilings drilled into the coral rock — done in the ’70s before strict environmental laws were put in place.

Williford has made the place green, with solar panels and a wind turbine. Water is supplied by captured rainwater that is filtered before being stored in a large cistern. The main house has 19 sliding glass doors to showcase the view and spacious veranda. There’s an above-ground pool, helicopter launch pad, two docks and a boat for making the quarter mile trip to and from mainland Marathon. And, unlike most offshore islands, it does not have a mosquito problem.

However, it can get hit by storms, such as 2005’s Hurricane Wilma. “We lost part of our roof,” he said. “But it’s just a price you have to pay for owning an island.”

Condé Nast Traveler

“We are delighted with our guests’ affirming feedback that Pelican Hill is not only highly regarded as Newport Beach’s onlyForbes Five-Star Spa, but also the best in California and one of the  top spa destinations in the country,”said Liza Esayian, Spa Director for The Spa at Pelican Hill.“In appreciation of this wonderful honor our guests have bestowed upon us, we are introducing two special values during the month of June, when Condé Nast Traveler’s Spa Issueis published.”

Available throughout June 2012 to spa guests from near and far, Pelican Hill presents two special offers in celebration of its guests:

California’s Top Spa Amber Gold Upgrade

Escape to The Golden State’s Top Resort Spa for an Amber Gold Signature Massage. Featuring Swedish massage techniques amplified with dry brushing exfoliation and enhanced oils, this treatment is an integration of mind and body that improves circulation and relieves stress.

SPECIAL: Book a 50-minute Amber Gold Signature Massage and receive a complimentary upgrade to 80 minutes, exclusively for weekday appointments (Mondays – Thursdays) in June. Mention code TOP-SPA-80 when booking your reservation to receive this offer.

Coastal Spa Renewal Top Spa Upgrade

Retreat to California’s Top Resort Spa for a Coastal Spa Renewal experience. This package includes one night of accommodations, one spa cuisine lunch for two guests, and two 50-minute spa treatments (selecting from Amber Gold Signature Massage, Aroma Intentions Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Reflexology Massage, Deserving Mother’s Massage, California Sugar Glow, PH Sports Scrub, Crystal C Therapy, Body Gelato, Olivo Pedicure).

SPECIAL: Book a Coastal Spa Renewal package with a garden Bungalow guest room and receive a complimentary ocean-view upgrade (based upon availability) in June. Mention code TOP-SPA-CA when booking your reservation to receive this offer.

For reservations and additional information about The Spa’s weekday values, luxurious packages and seasonal experiences, please visit www.pelicanhill.com or call (800) 820-6800.

In the April 2012 issue of Condé Nast Traveler, readers ranked Pelican Hill Golf Club as California’s Top Golf Resort. In the magazine’s most recent readers’ choice survey, The Resort at Pelican Hill was voted Top U.S. Resort. These rankings were derived from Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Readers’ Choice survey, based upon the tabulation of tens of thousands of survey responses. Spas ratings are based upon three criteria: Spa Facilities, Spa Staff and Spa Treatments.

About The Spa at Pelican Hill

Evoking a “21st century wellness philosophy,” The Spa at Pelican Hill recaptures the original purity and effectiveness of the world’s most celebrated traditional treatments, such as the Lulur Italiano massage and the Body Gelato treatment.  The Spa delivers unequaled indulgence in a cocooned, sophisticated ambiance where every sense is awakened and every moment is one of extraordinary pampering and rejuvenation.

The luxurious 23,000-square-foot retreat features a dramatic 28-foot-high Palladian rotunda; wall of flowing water; tranquil relaxation room; 22 private treatment rooms designed for quiet comfort and deep relaxation; an array of facilities including men’s and women’s Acqua Colonnades with herbal steam rooms, saunas, and a regal Roman bath; and separate dressing areas for men and women with every amenity and appointment. The Spa also offers a full-service salon, boutique, spacious fitness center and yoga room for a variety of wellness activities.

So much more than a place to enjoy a good massage, The Spa helps restore health and balance by immersing guests in the ultimate individualized care, providing a highly personalized voyage of fulfillment and realization with the most renowned therapies from around the world using only natural and organic products. The Spa staff is comprised of the most talented professionals in the industry who were handpicked as the finest in their trades. Additionally, professional naturalists on staff conduct everything from environmental education programs to tide pool exploration.

In its first year open, The Spa at Pelican Hill earned the top Forbes Five-Star rating, Spa Magazine Silver Sage Reader’s Choice Awards as “Favorite New Spa” and Condé Nast Traveler’s “Hot List: 2009.”  The 2012 Forbes Five Star Awards honored The Spa at Pelican Hill for the third consecutive year, and Condé Nast Traveler readers have rated The Spa as California’s top resort spa in the June 2012 issue.

Kukio Clubhouse

Following four other successful Kuki’o auctions in the past two years, Concierge Auctions will be back at the ultra-exclusive Kuki’o Golf and Beach Club May 24 to sell a 9,277-square-foot residence in cooperation with Kuki’o Properties.

Kuki’o, a private oceanfront club and residential community developed by Discovery Land Company, is adjacent to the highly acclaimed Four Seasons Hualalai Resort and features some of the most expensive real estate in Hawaii. Since its inception, Kukio attracted numerous well-known member residents such as computer mogul Michael Dell and former Yahoo CEO Carol Ann Bartz.

The upcoming sale of the 9,277-square-foot, furnished estate was originally listed for $9.75 million. Bidding will begin at $3.995 million, or the property can be purchased prior to auction for a Buy-It-Now price of $8.195 million.

“Every detail of this home celebrates its location, facilitating outdoor living and the relaxed, informal lifestyle the Islands are known for,” said Carrie Nicholson, Principal Broker at Kuki’o Properties. “Everywhere you turn, there is an effortless transition between the interior and exterior living spaces.”Real estate is all about location, and it doesn’t get any better than Kuki’o. We’re pleased to work with the Concierge team again and look forward to what will be our fifth successful sale together and to introducing a new owner to the community.”

Todd Moen of The Moen Group, a personal representative of the seller, understands the seller’s motivations and believes the Concierge Auctions process is a great fit.

“I became familiar with Concierge over a year ago and have watched their skill at matching buyers and sellers of some of the most sought-after properties in the nation,” Moen said. “The Concierge team will only consider assignments where the owner is committed to accepting the market value as identified by the bidders on auction day, and as a result buyers and agents trust that their inventory presents the best opportunities. No doubt this is one of them.”

Lot 57, also known as 72-119 Kahawaliwali Place, is a prime site on Kuki’o's 10-hole Tom Fazio-designed golf course. Located on a 29,359-square-foot lot, its exterior features include a stucco finish with Cedar shake roof and Honduran mahogany detailing. There is an outdoor dining area with a BBQ, a wet bar, an infinity-edge swimming pool and spa and an outdoor shower.

Indoors, the stunning master suite features Tigerwood flooring, a mahogany ceiling and its own covered lanai. Additionally there are four guest suites – all with private entrances – five bathrooms, a powder room, a gourmet kitchen and plenty of expansive spaces for entertaining.

“Our success record in Kuki’o is 100 percent, as we have sold every property we’ve represented in the community,” said Laura Brady, Vice President of Marketing for Concierge Auctions. “It’s no wonder why. Envisioned by the prestigious Discovery Land Company, whose roster also includes The Estancia Club in Scottsdale, Arizona; El Dorado in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; and Iron Horse in Whitefish, Montana, among many others, Kuki’o is without question one of the most private and refined oceanfront clubs in the world. Those who purchase here are not only buying exquisite real estate but also an unparalleled lifestyle. The opportunity to name the price at auction only sweetens the deal.”

Scott Kauffman, OceanHome writer

Lounge Time: Drop $75,000 and you could be lounging in this exact spot

Looking to have the ultimate summer? Now you can, in Leonardo DiCaprio’s Malibu home.

DiCaprio owns two homes in the area, and one of them, an oceanfront property in the Malibu Colony area, is listed for rent for a whopping $75,000 a month. Of course, if you want to rent the home for a shorter time period, the rent jumps to $115,000 a month.

It may seem steep, but when you see the details, the price might seem easier to digest. DiCaprio’s home sits on a nearly half an acre of prime Malibu real estate with full beach access. The property holds two homes: the main house has 4 bedrooms and faces the ocean, and a side, detached guest house has an additional two bedrooms. According to the listing description, the home was recently updated.

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Ocean Home Magazine, a leading luxury publication for developers, owners, agents, and designers of ocean homes, is compiling our list for the 5th annual “Top 25 Coastal Homes For Sale in the U.S.” issue. This editorial feature and the final selections will be conducted based on our seasoned editorial and publishing staff’s experience and the insight of our real estate experts. We are looking for your help to finalize our selections and would like your suggestions on locations and current properties for sale.  A “top” oceanfront home does not simply equate to the most expensive homes; though price is certainly a factor. Rather, our top homes are those with a uniqueness that makes them high-end, desirable – both in location and amenities, and somewhere our readers want to call home.

If you have a property, or know of a substantial estate that meets the criteria below, please fill out the below form including a brief description, a link to the online property listing (if available) with images of the interior and exterior features, and your contact information to us and we will review all of the properties. Properties must be submitted by May 18^th 2012. Need a refresher on past “Top 25″ homes? View last years winners here or click the cover image to the right!

This is an editorial feature. Homes will be selected based on our editorial team’s unbiased opinion from our selection of thousands of unique homes to find the top 25 most amazing homes for sale in the U.S.. To advertise in this special edition you may contact our publisher.

Contact: Lindsay Lambert, Editor, lindsay@rmsmg.com

Not bad for the spike-haired crooner whose stellar concert performances have produced a loyal following with decades of hit-making music.

The man who made “Mandy” — a love song about a dog — an indelible part of pop music has re-listed his contemporary-style home in Malibu for $6.950 million. That’s a pretty steep drop from the $10.9 million Manilow first listed the beachfront compound back in 2009. But after a few years, four price drops and — most startling, and a health scare earlier this year — perhaps the fan-favorite singer is more eager to finalize a sale.

The property contains a main house with four bedrooms and walls of glass overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There is also a guest house across a private courtyard that offers additional living space. Manilow’s retreat has been noted for its high fences, assuring privacy, and its location on the uber-desirable Malibu Road.

It’s not the Copa Cabana, but it’s a pretty sweet spot — now at a pretty reasonable price.

Source: Forbes

As part of the Newport World Series, the city will unveil the waterfront America’s Cup Village for fans at Fort Adams.  The new format of America’s Cup racing allows East Coast fans the first chance to get up-close-and-personal with the world’s best sailors on the fastest boats.  The AC Village will offer a host of activities for fans, including a Moët & Chandon Champagne bar, a Napa Valley Vineyards wine garden, in addition to a selection of locally sourced food and beverage concessions that reflect Rhode Island’s abundance of farm-fresh cuisine.

Background: Nearly 160 years old, the America’s Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport. The America’s Cup has evolved into one of the world’s leading sporting competitions – featuring the best sailors on the world’s fastest boats, the newly unveiled wing-sailed AC45 and AC72 catamarans.   Newport has a long history with the America’s Cup and has hosted the event twelve times, beginning in 1930.  This summer marks the return of an America’s Cup event to Newport, as the city hasn’t hosted since 1983.

Traveling to Newport: Easily accessible from New England, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. via car, train, or plane, Newport is an ideal coastal destination for summer travel.   Newport offers a blend of hotels, inns, motels, and bed and breakfasts.  Aside from watching the America’s Cup sailing, Newport offers a wide variety of activities for visitors, including tours of the famed Newport Mansions and more.

Upcoming America’s Cup Events:
April 7 – 15, 2012: (Naples, Italy) America’s Cup World Series
May 12 – 20: (Venice, Italy) America’s Cup World Series
June 26 – July 1, 2012: (Newport, RI) America’s Cup World Series
August 21 – 26, 2012: (San Francisco OR New York) America’s Cup World Series
October 4 – 7, 2012: (San Francisco) America’s Cup World Series
April 16 – 21, 2013: (Venice, Italy) America’s Cup World Series
May 14 – 19, 2013: (Naples, Italy) America’s Cup World Series
July 4 – September 1, 2013: (San Francisco) Louis Vuitton Cup (America’s Cup Challenger Series, determines who faces ORACLE Racing in the finals)
September 7 – 22, 2013: (San Francisco) America’s Cup Finals (ORACLE Racing vs. the winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup)

About the America’s Cup World Series: The America’s Cup World Series is an extreme experience – cutting edge wing-sailed catamarans flying at speeds over 30 miles per hour; short, sharp, intense races on courses squeezed into the Bay to ensure close action; and a mix of fleet and match racing, to test the abilities of the best sailing teams in the world.  While the World Series has no bearing on the America’s Cup, it’s a fun way to create on-the-water excitement for both the teams and the fans – kind of like the Spring Training of sailing!  The World Series continues in Newport, Rhode Island this June/July and in San Francisco in August.

About the America’s Cup: Nearly 160 years old, the America’s Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport. The America’s Cup has evolved into one of the world’s leading sporting competitions – featuring the best sailors on the world’s fastest boats, the wing-sailed AC45 and AC72 catamarans.  The new America’s Cup World Series begins its inaugural season August 2011.  In the summer of 2013, the 34th America’s Cup begins with the Louis Vuitton Cup July 4-September 1, followed by the America’s Cup Finals September 7-22.  For more information, visit www.americascup.com.

“We are honored to have been selected especially since the votes are coming from the brides. The resort is a perfect place for a romantic beach wedding,” said Robert Fesik, General Manager.

About Marco Beach Ocean Resort The all suite Marco Beach Ocean Resort overlooking the Gulf of Mexico brings stellar service, lodging and dining to Marco Island, one of the fabled Ten Thousand Islands located between Naples and the Florida Everglades, on Southwest Florida’s beautiful Gulf coast. Marco Beach Ocean Resort features a variety of dining options including the Beachfront Bar & Grill and authentic Italian cuisine at the award winning Sale e Pepe restaurant, a spa and fitness center, amenities, a sparkling pool, white sand beach and nearby golf perfect for a getaway, wedding or meeting. The resort’s Concierge and the highly-trained international service staff accommodates personal tastes and regularly exceeds expectations.

Marco Beach Ocean Resort is enjoyed by resort guests, locals and is also part of The Tarpon Club, offering homeowners of Fiddler’s Creek the opportunity to enjoy a beach and boating lifestyle so precious to those who live in the Naples/Marco Island area. Fiddler’s Creek residents also enjoy The Club & Spa amenities and have the opportunity to join The Golf Club, ranked in Golfweek’s 100 Best Residential Golf Courses in the country for the seventh consecutive year.

Fiddler’s Creek community is located off of Collier Boulevard on your way to Marco Island. For information, please call (239) 732-9300 or visit http://www.fiddlerscreek.com. For more information, or to make a reservation at Marco Beach Ocean Resort, please visit www.marcoresort.com or phone 239-393-1400; 800-715-8517.

Over the past 15 years, the Nantucket Wine Festival has become one of the country’s most celebrated and prestigious wine and food events.  Situated in the heart of downtown Nantucket and attended by world-renowned winemakers, chefs and celebrities, the 16^th Annual Nantucket Wine Festival takes place May 16-20, 2012.  Highlights include:

· An unusual and enlightening seminar, “The Greatest Chef You Never Heard Of.”  Hailed by Thomas Keller of French Laundry fame as one of America’s greatest culinary talents, Damon Baehrel has created a cuisine that uses native and home-grown ingredients to create an amazing array of dishes defying traditional concepts.  His style is independently derived and is unlike any other that we’ve encountered.  His restaurant, the Basement Bistro in Earlton, New York, has a two-year waiting list.  Guests will have an unforgettable opportunity to savor Damon’s food without waiting!  Winery TBA.

· Former CBS newsman Bill Kurtis has found a new passion—the virtues of Tallgrass Beef, why it is healthier, tastier, more environmentally responsible, and more humanely raised than any grass-fed beef available anywhere.  He will present a seminar explaining the reasons for the superiority of grass-fed beef in general and Tallgrass Beef in particular.  He is a charismatic speaker and a passionate advocate.  Chef and winery TBA.

· Back by popular demand, Veuve Clicquot will once again offer its world-class Champagne during the Festival.  Winemakers from the celebrated Champagne house will also conduct special seminars throughout the weekend.

· Famous for its array of distinguished winemakers and luminaries, the Nantucket Wine Festival’s 2012 lineup includes:  Ray Coursen of Elyse Vineyards, David Hirsch of Hirsch Vineyards, Tim Mondavi of Continuum Estate, Robert and Maria Sinskey of Sinskey Vineyards, Amaury Devillard of Domaines Devillard, Alex Gambal of Alex Gambal, Christopher Howell of Cain Vineyard & Winery, David Miner of Miner Family Vineyards, Larry Stone of Rubicon Estates, Chris Hall of Long Meadow Ranch Winery, Joe Donelan of Donelan Family Wines, Paul Chevalier of Château d’Esclans, David Guffy of Hess Collection, Manuel Louzada of Numanthia, Laurent Drouhin of Maison Joseph Drouhin, David Grieve of Grieve Family Wines, Ernst Loosen of Weingut Dr. Loosen, Janet Myers of Franciscan Estate and Mt. Veeder, Wendy Stuckey of Château Ste.  Michelle Wine Estates, Merry Edwards of Merry Edwards Winery, Tom Eddy of Tom Eddy Wines, Don Ross of Shibumi Knoll Vineyards and many others.

· The Festival’s popular symposia, the equivalent of a graduate course in advanced wine philosophy, feature hour-long tastings and discussions followed by lunch paired with the wines produced by participating vignerons.

· The Festival’s signature event, The Grand Tasting, will be held at the historic Nantucket Yacht Club (1 South Beach Street, Nantucket).  We are pleased to announce that Island Creek Oysters will be returning to this event, after a year’s hiatus, to shuck their glorious oysters for one and all.  Over 200 wineries will participate in the invitation-only event, so you can be sure that the quality level will be superb.

· The annual Nantucket Historical Association auction dinner will be held at the famed White Elephant Hotel.

WHERE: White Elephant Hotel (50 Easton Street, Nantucket)

The White Elephant Hotel, a Nantucket “grande dame,” serves as the Festival’s home base and hosts many of the Festival’s events, including The Harbor Gala, the Celebrity Chef and Winemaker Auction Dinners and the majority of the wine & food seminars.  Events are also held at locations throughout the island, including restaurants and private homes.

WHEN: May 16-20, 2012

BACKGROUND: The Festival is attended by over 200 global wineries, each typically represented by the winemaker or vineyard owner.  Celebrity chefs from Boston, Nantucket, Providence, Newport, New Jersey and New York lead seminars in wine and food pairings, perform cooking demonstrations and mingle with attendees. The Nantucket Historical Association, Nantucket Combined Charities and the Nantucket New School are the Festival’s charity partners.

TO REGISTER: For a complete description of all events, logistics, lodging pricing, contact the Nantucket Wine Festival at winefete@comcast.net or (508) 228-1128, or visit www.nantucketwinefestival.com.

One Thousand Ocean

One Thousand Ocean, the iconic Ocean-to-Intracoastal condominium at the Boca Raton Inlet, continues its notable success by closing three transactions for just over $11.5 million in the past three weeks. Two were new residences for just over $8 million. Additionally, the third transaction, a Signature Penthouse resale, sold for more than its original purchase price.

Over the past year, One Thousand Ocean has sold and closed 10 new residences totaling nearly $50 million, averaging almost one sale per month.

Jamie Telchin, president of development for LXR Luxury Resorts & Hotels, reports that the 52-unit building is just over 80% sold out since it opened in February 2010, representing just under $190 million in total new sales volume. “This leaves only 10 new residential opportunities to own in this trophy location,” he said.

“Contributing to One Thousand Ocean’s desirability among high-net-worth purchasers is its prime, irreplaceable location on the tip of a private peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, along with expansive floor plans, oversized terraces and stunning panoramas. Furthermore, the building is adjacent to the Boca Raton Resort’s Beach Club, providing residents who are, or who elect to become private members of the world-class resort, a privileged lifestyle,” he added.

“We are very optimistic that One Thousand Ocean’s sales momentum will continue,” Stephann Cotton, LXR Realty, LLC’s broker, pointed out. “Just like last year at this time, we’re again seeing a lot of interest and activity, with buyers closing within a few weeks or sooner.”

Cotton said that one of the recent buyers is a couple from Canada. “They looked all over South Florida for a second home, starting in South Beach, and made their way up to One Thousand Ocean. They fell in love with one of our premier units and finalized a contract within 48 hours. This certainly continues to validate that One Thousand Ocean is something very special. It combines an enviable location with an award-winning resort lifestyle.”

Commenting further, he said, “Prospective purchasers who were interested in the two residences that recently sold are coming back to us and are refocusing on other units because they want to live in the building. They realize that the time to buy is now.”

Of the 10 residences yet to be sold, seven are finished and ready for occupancy, while three Penthouses can be customized to carry out an owner’s grand vision. Prices are from approximately $3 million to $15 million and most residences include private elevator entries, fireplaces, expansive walls of glass,  terraces with an outdoor kitchen and private, heated, jetted plunge pool, and a private two-car garage.

For those looking to move in immediately, one of the available residences is a model designed by Venus Williams’ V*Starr Interiors. Additionally, there is a residence furnished by Roche Bobois, a global leader in the design and distribution of home furnishings. Plus, Roche Bobois is in the process of furnishing a second residence.

Among luxuries residents encounter in the exclusive Ocean Club amenities areas are a fitness center with aerobics, yoga and Pilates rooms, cardio/free-weight and training area, spa treatment suite, hot soaking tub, and steam and sauna rooms. Also offered are a lakefront lounge with catering kitchen, conference room, multi-purpose playroom, oceanfront pool and sun deck, pool butler, and private cabanas. In addition, the building has onsite management, a 24-hour desk attendant, concierge, valet parking, and patrol services.

The Boca Raton Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, offers conveniences, amenities and services of the highest order next door to One Thousand Ocean at the Boca Beach Club, and at the resort’s main location, just a short stroll, cruise or drive across the Intracoastal Waterway. These include golf, tennis, marina, water sports, spa, fitness centers, croquet, pools, varied dining venues and member social activities.

For further information, visit www.onethousandocean.com, or call the One Thousand Ocean Sales & Design Center at (561) 869-5000 to arrange a private showing.

As the company celebrates its Five Year Anniversary, new luxury villas along with highly sought after destinations will be released over the next several weeks, offering clients a fresh portfolio when traveling abroad.

At the company’s benchmark anniversary a decision was made by Irene Aviles, Founder and President of Private Trade Winds to revitalize their portfolio by offering new villa product in the most sought after destinations, beginning with France and Italy. “Each villa has its own story to tell, which makes every trip to Europe authentic and unique,” said Aviles. “Although the previous villas we represented were top-notch, we realized that in order to keep a vacation experience exciting and new, we would need to present a variety of options.”

This week Private Trade Winds unveils two new villas in Italy; a dramatic 9,000 square foot 7-bedroom estate on Lake Como complete with boat and captain, as well as a classic 6-bedroom villa in the countryside of Tuscany with an optional 3-bedroom annex. Each villa is vetted to the highest standards, and boasts the Five-Star service and amenities the company has become known for. Private Trade Winds is eager to reveal additional villas over the coming weeks, and promises to announce new regions within France and Italy, as well.

Private Trade Winds is located in Newport Beach, California and is an innovator in the Travel Industry, positioned as the low cost alternative to high priced destination clubs. With a global portfolio of villas, both Classic and Modern, discerning travelers have embraced the ‘hybrid club concept’ and are traveling more frequently due to substantial savings and exceptional personal service. The company continues to grow in membership, and are credited within the travel industry as defining villa travel for both travel agents as well as consumers. To learn more about Private Trade Winds memberships email Andra Minnehan

Marco Beach Ocean Resort website recently received the highest possible honor in the Web Marketing Association’s (WMA) Internet Advertising Competition (IAC), which helps establish a standard for Internet marketing and corporate web development.

The redesign objective was clearly defined by the marketing team. “Showcase the beautiful resort, differentiate it from other resort websites, make it user friendly and provide the ‘wow’ factor when visiting” said Mary Jane Chappy, Director of Marketing. “Functionality was also very important to us. The site was designed so we could quickly and easily update new content, photos and specials.”

The website is a custom, modern design focused on utilizing the latest usability best practices, including design elements such as large imagery, layered calls to action, area guides, webcam and integrated social media. The site also included professional copywriting and SEO. The website has produced tremendous traffic, online reservations and results.

About the IAC Awards The WMA was founded in Boston in 1997 to help set a high standard for Internet marketing and corporate web development on the World Wide Web. The organization is made up of Internet marketing, advertising, PR and design professionals. In 1999, the WMA decided to create a new award program to recognize outstanding online advertising in all of its various forms. The IAC Awards were born.

About Marco Beach Ocean Resort The all-suite Marco Beach Ocean Resort brings excellent service, lodging and dining to Marco Island, one of the fabled Ten Thousand Islands located between Naples and the Florida Everglades, on Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. Marco Beach Ocean Resort features a variety of dining experiences, a spa and fitness center, a sparkling pool and four miles of white sand beach. The resort’s Concierge and the highly-trained international service staff accommodates personal tastes and regularly exceeds expectations.

Distinctions:
AAA Four-Diamond Award winner
Preferred Hotels & Resorts member
Florida Green Lodging Program Designation
Pinnacle Award winner from Successful Meetings
WRAP Award

Marco Beach Ocean Resort is enjoyed by resort guests, locals and is also part of The Tarpon Club, offering homeowners of Fiddler’s Creek the opportunity to enjoy a beach and boating lifestyle so precious to those who live in the Naples/Marco Island area. Fiddler’s Creek residents also enjoy The Club & Spa amenities and have the opportunity to join The Golf Club, ranked in Golfweek’s 100 Best Residential Golf Courses in the country for the seventh consecutive year.

Fiddler’s Creek community is located off of Collier Boulevard on your way to Marco Island. For information, please call (239) 732-9300 or visit http://www.fiddlerscreek.com. For more information, or to make a reservation at Marco Beach Ocean Resort phone 239-393-1400; 800-715-8517.

Luxury Daily recently wrote that high-end real estate company One Thousand Ocean spent 25 percent of its advertising budget last year on print, claiming that the medium’s ability to display its property without overstating its beauty was important.

Anchored in southern Florida, One Thousand Ocean focuses on drawing national and international clients through placement in publications including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Elite Traveler, Boca Life and Ocean Home magazine. In 2011, twelve One Thousand Ocean sales resulted in $81 million worth of real estate.

“We think print marketing plays a support role in the overall marketing campaign,” said Laurie Andrews, chief operating officer of Cotton & Co., Stuart, FL.

“When consumers flip through a publication, you can convey a message that they can pick up and instantly get a feel for the property,” she said. “We’re looking for publications that both identify the demographic that we’re looking for, but also the psychographic mindset when they’re reading that they’re looking for a lifestyle.

“Just having the demographics alone does not carry the weight of the publication.”

Cotton & Co. works with One Thousand Ocean for its marketing.

Read the whole article here

Front Gate at Fiddler's Creek

Fiddler’s Creek, LLC, President and CEO, Aubrey J. Ferrao has announced that Stock Construction has signed a $10 million contract to purchase 48 single family home sites within the Isla del Sol, Mahogany Bend and Majorca villages of Fiddler’s Creek.

The Stock family name has long been synonymous with quality real estate. Throughout Southwest Florida, you’ll find many communities and 1,700 homes that bear the distinctive brand of Stock Construction.  Stock Construction has been honored with many national, state and local awards are a reflection of Stock Construction’s mission to give its customers the very best home and buying experience in Southwest Florida.

Stock Construction plans to break ground on the sites this Spring in the Isla del Sol, Mahogany Bend and Majorca villages within Fiddler’s Creek. The purchase represents the company’s entrance into the community.

“We are delighted to welcome such a well-known and well-respected regional homebuilder to Fiddler’s Creek,” said Aubrey J. Ferrao, President and CEO of Fiddler’s Creek, LLC. “The homes to be constructed by Stock Construction will complement the residential offerings currently available and will provide buyers with single family homes in distinctive neighborhoods.”

Launched in 1998, Fiddler’s Creek® is a private, master-planned, residential community offering unsurpassed elegance amongst a tropical setting. The community comprises of nearly 4,000 acres and is zoned for 6,000 residences. With 1,700 residences completed, Fiddler’s Creek has approximately 4,300 residences yet to be built. With a very low density level of 1.6 homes per gross acre, the community will be comprised of about 100 distinct neighborhoods upon completion.

Committed to preserving the environment, Fiddler’s Creek is being planned to accommodate and enhance the natural beauty of Florida’s environment. Less than one-third of Fiddler’s Creek® will be developed for residential use, while the remainder of the land is dedicated primarily to nature reserves, lakes, parks, golf courses and recreational areas. Amenities offered at Fiddler’s Creek include a 54,000 square foot Club & Spa, Fitness Center, Resort Style Multi-Pool Swimming Complex, Tennis Courts, Tot Lot, Restaurants, and the opportunity to join The Golf Club ranked in Golfweek’s 100 Best Residential Golf Courses in the country for the seventh consecutive year and The Tarpon Club offering Fiddler’s Creek homeowners the opportunity to enjoy a beach and boating lifestyle so precious to those who live in the Naples/Marco Island area.

Fiddler’s Creek is located just off Collier Boulevard on the way to Marco Island. For more information on the community, The Golf Club and The Tarpon Club, call (239) 732-9300, stop by the Sales Center located at 8152 Fiddler’s Creek Parkway or visit http://www.fiddlerscreek.com.

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation found an ally once again by enlisting the support of the philanthropic Newport Beach based villa rental company Private Trade Winds. Three luxury villas were donated and drew raves from generous supporters of this worthy cause.

The prestigious Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel, California set the backdrop for an elite gathering of Orange County’s most generous socialites and contributors. The halls were lined with vendors representing exquisite jewels, coveted art, and fine wine and spirits available to the highest bidder, but it was the live auction in the grand ballroom that rallied the crowd into generous giving. Irene Aviles, Founder and President of Private Trade Winds, as well as Andra Minnehan and Judy Sweetland Directors of Sales and Marketing were present at the event. “This is such a worthy cause, and seeing the children afflicted with this disease really makes you count your blessings and give generously to put an end to this type of suffering,” said Aviles.

Villas donated by Private Trade Winds include a ski-in/ski-out Aspen chalet, a beachfront condo on Oahu, and PTW’s newest gem – an 8 bedroom luxury seaside villa on the French Atlantic Coast near Bordeaux in France. A Private Trade Winds membership package valued at $2,995 was included with each winning villa bid, allowing recipients to enjoy properties in the company’s portfolio at up to 50% off for one year. Memberships were also available to purchase at $2995 with PTW donating 50% of the fee back to JDRF. The evening concluded with the annual after party known as Club Imagine, where music and dance filled the air.

Private Trade Winds is a Newport Beach based company which enjoys giving back philanthropically to the local community, the nation and the world. After launching in 2007, the Company stayed the course through a hard pressed economic recession, and emerged as a leading supplier and educator in Five-Star Villa Vacations. Private Trade Winds celebrates their five year anniversary this year. To learn more contact Judy Sweetland at jsweetland@privatetradewinds.com.

The Inn at the White Elephant Village will open summer 2012* with 20 units, including 14 suites and six deluxe guest rooms. Located on South Beach Street, the new Inn and existing White Elephant Residences will comprise the newly-created White Elephant Village, a natural extension of the award-winning White Elephant hotel that continues to be rated among the top hotels in the world by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler magazines.

As part of the expansion, the Village will have its own lobby, including reception area, concierge, fireplace, gift shop, and business center. The lobby will serve morning coffee, pastries, all-day snacks, and late-afternoon port and cheese – creating a natural hub for guests. All guests of the White Elephant Village will continue to enjoy exclusive use of the Village’s heated pool and cabanas, fitness center, and complimentary bicycles.

Celebrated Nantucket interior designer Kathleen Hay will bring a warm, neutral palette to the Inn, providing a sophisticated and comfortable décor. Reflecting the ambiance of its island location, the Inn will feature oversized windows, allowing natural sunlight to illuminate the rooms, and quintessential Nantucket wainscoting detail throughout. Each of the suites and deluxe guest rooms will be replete with HD flat-screen TVs and miniature refrigerators as well as linens by Pratesi, plush turkish towels, bathrobes, and cozy slippers. Ideal for families, the 14 suites will offer sofa beds to accommodate couples traveling with children and four of the suites will feature fireplaces.

Managing Director of Nantucket Island Resorts Khaled Hashem sees this expansion as a positive sign that tourism in Nantucket is continuing to grow. “We are excited with the addition of the Inn that will further enable us to host families and groups in the award winning accommodations these travelers expect from the White Elephant.”

*The iconic White Elephant hotel and White Elephant Hotel Residences will open for the season on April 19. Guests can book now for suites and guest rooms this summer at the Inn at the White Elephant Village.

For more information visit www.nantucketislandresorts.com or call 800.475.2637