Lifestyle in Costa Careyes

Life in Costa Careyes offers a diverse range of relaxation, outdoor activities, entertainment, social life and private luxuries. Most home owners have either a part-time or full-time staff at their villas, typically a couple who provide all services necessary, including butler, maid, chauffeur, cook, gardener, nanny, personal shopper, party planner, etc. Whether it is for the owners, their guests or vacationers renting the villa, the staff sees to every need. And when the villa is unoccupied, they continue to maintain the residence for the next arrival. Between in-house staff and outside property management, owners only have to worry about what luxury they wish to indulge in next. The ease and comfort with which owners enjoy their lifestyle in Costa Careyes is on par with anywhere in the world, and, in many cases, this elevated standard of living surpasses even that of their primary residence, wherever that may be.

Costa Careyes

 

Casita Azul Casita Azul has approximately 7,000 sq. ft. of living space developed in three levels with 100 ft. of Ocean frontage. Two Casitas turned into 5 new full sized Bedrooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms, garden and large infinity heated pool. From everywhere in the house you can enjoy fabulous ocean and sunset views. It is a unique property, a large Oceanfront Casita in the center of the Bay of Careyes within walking distance of Hotel El Careyes and Lovely Playa Rosa. There are only 4 Oceanfront Casitas. Casita Azul, besides being the closest to the sea in all Careyes, is the only one that is for sale. Client has the opportunity to customize interiors.

Who Has Been In Careyes The media coverage for this area continues to grow, with well-known figures from Entertainment, Fashion, Finance and Technology including Brad Pitt, Claudia Schiffer, Robert De Niro, Heidi Klum, Giorgio Armani, Cindy Crawford, Charles Schwab, Craig McCaw and Bill Gates all frequenting the area. In addition, numerous heads-of-state, including Silvio Berlusconi, Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon as well as European royalty and aristocrats have spent time in Costa Careyes.

Miami Fashion Week

Bunny Mellon Lists Caribbean Home

The Wall Street Journal recently reported that Rachel “Bunny” Mellon has listed her family’s longtime Caribbean vacation home in Antigua for $14.5 million.

Ms. Mellon, 101, and her late husband, philanthropist and banking heir Paul Mellon, began assembling the 27-acre property in the early 1950s and built the home there; this is its first time on the market. The home’s two master suites overlook Half Moon Bay and flower gardens that Ms. Mellon, a noted horticulturist who designed the White House Rose Garden, created. The home has several terraces, a library and an orchid nursery. There’s a guesthouse, pool and pool house, two greenhouses, vegetable gardens and an orchard.

The estate is in Mill Reef Club, a members-only resort. The Mellons also own lots of land nearby that are available for sale. Adam Barrett of JHR Caribbean Real Estate, a Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate, has the listing.

Ms. Mellon is also selling her 26-acre, waterfront compound on Cape Cod. She listed it for $28.7 million in January. Jack Cotton of Sotheby’s International Realty has that listing.

Turks and Caicos Island RE on the Rebound

President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Real Estate Association, Kathryn Brown, and also of ERA Coralie Properties Ltd. said that the local real market has been showing strong signs of bounding with relatively intense performances in the high-end section and low-end sectors. She said though, that the middle field of the market was still sluggish, as even though sales were being recorded, the exercise was not as robust as with the two other market components. The high-end sector, according to Brown, posted the strongest in sales.

The local real estate head said that overall year-to-date figures showed that sales over the period climbed 28 percent, while property prices increased between four and five per cent over the period. The high-end section of the market comprises properties valued at a million dollars and above; the middle market constitutes properties valuing between four hundred thousand dollars and a million dollars; while the low end of the market encompasses properties that value four hundred thousand dollars and below.

Brown said that the market was not only experiencing increase in sales, prices as well.

“It is recovering. But in saying that, we’ve been steadily going down since 2008, and in the last months, we have seen a recovery in not only sales but increase in prices. We see increase in sales in a lot of high-end, and possibly, the low-end is also improving, with locals buying homes because they are able to get mortgages and get loans.

“So that has been going quite nicely; sellers and buyers are having more confidence in the market. The whole sector has not improved, though. I would suggest that the higher end and lower end have improved, but the middle sector has not improved as much,” Brown explained. The high-end properties included hotel condominiums, which saw their sales slumped, as a number of condominium hotels reported sharp drop in sales of their units. Some of those hotels have since been the victims of receivership.

Brown owes the recovery of the sector in part to buyers getting more comfortable with the general economy, and with those having disposable cash saw the Turks and Caicos Islands as good place to invest and with tremendous possibly for returns on their investment.

“Also, it is a good vacation area that is safe – one of the safest places in the Caribbean. It uses the US dollar and we are still in very early stages of development in a lot of sectors. So the growth is very good potential and the prices are down, and compared to many parts of the world, we are still very inexpensive,” Brown said.  Brown believed that based on the current trend, the Turks and Caicos Islands real estate market could become one of the most robust at least in the region.

“We have a very healthy future. The Turks and Caicos has so much to offer; we still have all the assets we’ve always had. We have sun, sand and sea, and are also in close proximity to major cities in North America. Going forward, we anticipate world-wide flights that are going to come from many parts of the world. And our visibility is still growing; there are still many people in the world that never heard of us. We have a very healthy future, I believe,” Brown said. Joe Zahm, President, Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty said in the company’s website that Turks & Caicos enjoyed a “strong bounce back year in 2011, after struggling along a murky market bottom in 2009 and 2010”.

He said the resurgence was led by the following factors: booming tourism, up about 18%, led by excellent air service; stabling government and local economy; better price value in the market; excellent inventory; drastically increased sales activity in all market sectors and the fact that inventory is down for the first time since 2008.

Zahm said: “The home/villa market nearly tripled in dollar sales volume, and almost doubled in average price, led by the sale of Serendib Villa (which was once owned by developer Richard Padgett and bought by music star Prince) at $10.5M and La Dolce Vita at $6.25M (which was sold by our own Nina Seigenthaler). There was strength throughout this sector as buyers re-emerged and sellers lowered prices to market levels.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands saw its real estate market plummet after a number of banks such as Fannie May, Freddie Mac and Lehman Brothers went bust as a result of the subprime housing market crisis. The Wall Street calamity affected many parts of the world including Caribbean countries such as the Turks and Caicos Islands, and as a result, derailed many projects, which were being financed by the American financial institutions.

Hurricane Ike in August, 2008, also dealt the country another severe body blow, as it tremendously slowed down tourist arrivals. Many visitors that travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands also used their vacation time to scout condominium purchasing opportunities. But because a number of hotels were closed for as long as five months in the aftermath of the hurricane, a slump in the market was created since. The unstable political climate in the country was also said to be factor in the market.

*Island and Resort

Dick Clark Lists Malibu Retreat

TV legend Dick Clark puts his Flintstones style Malibu retreat on the market at $3.5million

Perched on hill-top, the specially designed home has huge glass windows in every room which makes for amazing views of the nearby Pacific Ocean, Channel Island, Boney Mountains, and Serrano Valley. The home only features one bedroom and two bathrooms, but the whole house is set to look like a cavern, which provides a unique feeling. Even the log burning fire and wine cellar adds to the Flinstones feeling.

Sitting on top of a very steep hill, the specially designed home is on the market for $3.5million but it’s appearance from the outside is not the biggest selling point it has to offer.

Set in a 23-acre estate the luxury and extrovert home is an architectural marvel and is classed as one of Malibu’s landmark buildings. The listing agent describes it as: ‘art as architecture at it’s finest.’

They said it is: ‘Truly exceptional and one-of-a-kind from within and without. The architecture of this home seamlessly marries form and function. The interior space is extremely voluminous and features an expanse of glass to capture the views from every room of this home.’

Exterior of Clark's Flinstone Style Home

TripAdvisor Honors Grand Isle Resort

Grand Penthouse at Grand Isle

TripAdvisor, Inc., the world’s largest travel website, reveals Grand Isle Resort & Spa was chosen as a winner in its 2012 Travelers’ Choice® awards for both Top 25 Luxury Hotels in the Caribbean and Top 25 Relaxation & Spa Hotels in the Caribbean.

Now in its tenth year, the annual TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards honor the world’s best hotels, earning their distinction from those who know them best – real travelers. Unlike any other hotel honors, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice winners are based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from travelers around the world.

“With the help of millions of travelers around the globe, TripAdvisor is thrilled to recognize the world’s most outstanding hotels for the tenth year of the Travelers’ Choice Awards,” said Christine Petersen, president, TripAdvisor for Business. “From the best bargain hotels to best luxury hotels, remarkable service, value and quality are the hallmarks of our Travelers’ Choice winners.”

“We’re so pleased to receive these Travelers’ Choice awards because they come from our guests. It’s very important that guests have a great time and a memorable experience when they come to Grand Isle. This is great validation that we’re doing a good job for them, and that means the world to us,” said Don Jelinek, General Manager, Grand Isle Resort & Spa.

As TripAdvisor has continued its growth globally, featuring sites in 30 countries and in 21 languages, the Travelers’ Choice Hotels awards now highlight a broader range of spectacular properties across the globe.

Hacienda Beach Club’s Exclusive Offering

Hacienda, Cabo San Lucas

Buyers are realizing superb values with savings up to 48% on select Cabo homes at Hacienda Beach Club and Residences through a ” First Steps to the Beach” exclusive limited offering.

Hacienda Beach Club and Residences announces historically low prices on an exclusive offering of Cabo San Lucas homes. With this limited offering of new select residences, Homebuyers can now save up to 48% on an elegant Los Cabos retreat with stunning ocean and marina/mountain views. “There is a significant market demand for these well located luxury residences, we are marketing with emphasis on the experience of Cabo San Lucas and the luxury resort amenities of Hacienda Beach Club and Services. “ Since Paradigm Real Estate Solutions has begun the marketing real estate program in January 2012, we are seeing tremendous activity and results for the Hacienda Beach Club and Residences”, says Michael Carreno, President, Paradigm Real Estate Solutions.    This premier location offers unprecedented access to downtown Cabo San Lucas, the Marina, Medano Beach, nightlife, shopping, and Cabo’s legendary restaurants and attractions. In addition, the next buyer in the promotion may also qualify for a $100,000 special designer turn-key furnishings package. Other special offers include possible credits for resort accommodations and airfare reimbursements for qualified prospective Hacienda homebuyers or a $120 Spa or Restaurant certificate for qualifying visitors participating in a resort tour. *Please contact a sales executive at the Sales Pavilion at Hacienda Beach Club and Residences for detailed qualifying criteria on all promotions..

“Hacienda’s idyllic setting and swimmable beach truly sets it apart from other Los Cabo resort residences, “said Ricardo Ramirez, General Manager at Hacienda Beach Club and Residences. “We are delighted to see the tremendous increased interest in our real estate offering.”

Perched on a quarter mile of Cabo’s Medano Beach, Hacienda overlooks the iconic rock formations of Land’s End and offers an unparalleled getaway experience. Hacienda Beach Club and Residences boasts a variety of real estate options including one, two, three, and four bedroom homes with modern luxury conveniences, artisan finishes, and thoughtfully designed, spacious floorplans. Hacienda offers a unique opportunity to own or rent a Cabo San Lucas beachfront home with resort amenities including a state-of-the-art fitness center, a restaurant and bar, a kid’s club, beach activities, and a full-service spa.

For floorplans, galleries, and more information about Hacienda Beach Club and Residences visi thttp://www.HaciendaCaboSanLucas.com or call US 800.670.0310 or MX 624.173.9100 to speak with a Sales Concierge.

*The prices, plans, and availability shown are subject to change without notice. All pictures, photographs and images are owned or licensed by Hacienda Beach Club and Residences and its affiliates. Any use, reproduction or distribution of pictures, photographs and images without written permission is expressly prohibited.

The Federated Companies Beachside Project

The Federated Companies, a leading national real estate investment and development firm, is pleased to announce that it has received site plan approval from the Town of Salisbury for its 210-unit Class A multifamily community in Salisbury, Massachusetts. The site, located at 191 Beach Road, is within walking distance to the beach, and has 900 feet of frontage along Route 1A. The development will have views of Plum Island, downtown Newburyport, and a protected Audubon wildlife reserve to the south.

The Federated Companies acquired the 13.2 acre development site in March 2011 which included developmental rights to construct the multifamily community along with a community building, fitness center, and swimming pool.

“This is a unique opportunity to build a large multifamily project in an authentic New England beachfront community,” stated Nick Wexler, Chief Operating Officer for The Federated Companies. “We believe that the site is well-suited for multifamily development and that the area amenities complement the project.”

The site is located a few miles from the Newburyport MBTA commuter rail station, which provides rail service to downtown Boston. The site is also strategically located within 10 minutes from the entrance of Interstates 495 and 95. Salisbury is renowned for its beaches, boating, fishing, and summer entertainment.

About The Federated Companies The Federated Companies is a national real estate investment group with offices in Boston, MA and Miami, FL. The company is a vertically integrated organization that is a leader in the acquisition, development, construction, and management of multifamily apartment communities and net lease retail assets. Founded in 1999, the company has successfully navigated several market cycles, demonstrating program flexibility, and disciplined investing. In addition to its traditional investment objectives, The Federated Companies strives to maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace while balancing environmental, economic, and social objectives. The firm is a member of the United States Green Building Council and a Federal Energy Star Partner.

Marisol Malibu

Our friends at Frontgate revisited the Marisol Malibu property today as part of their America’s Finest Homes Fridays series! We worked with Frontgate to shoot this amazing beachfront estate back in 2011. Click here to take a further tour inside this expansive 10,000 square foot home in iconic Malibu, California as we revisit the ocean views and stunning interiors!

 

Let The Ritz Carlton Plan Your Wedding

Ritz Carlton Amelia Island unveils new guest rooms; ballroom; spa and restaurants to complete five-year, $65 million investment

Walk down the isle at Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island

How long have you been planning your wedding? The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island may have you beat. The luxury resort on the North Florida coast today unveils a five year, $65 million investment in new guest rooms, ballroom, spa and dining areas. The hope and dream is to offer couples and their guests an exceptional location to celebrate their wedding.

“Like brides and grooms everywhere, we understand and value the time and commitment it takes to plan the perfect event,” says James McManemon, the resort’s general manager. “Over the last five years, we made a significant investment in our resort to create an experience that we hope couples will cherish for a lifetime.”

The oceanfront resort provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of celebrations, from coastal casual to tailored elegance. To be sure, the resort has everything a couple and their guests can enjoy, including an expansive beach, a gorgeous spa, pool, workout facilities and a golf course. There is a fire pit with plentiful and comfortable seating, and even an authentic tiki hut on the beach. The stunning oceanfront ceremony venues and formal celebration sites are just as impressive with five ballrooms, a variety of fine dining restaurants and private rooms for large or intimate affairs.

“All the event spaces are highly customizable so we can help couples create an event that is right for them, whether that means hosting a tented affair on the beach or celebrating with a black-tie event in one of our formal ballrooms,” says Anastasia Stone, the resort’s catering sales manager.

Brad Pitt and Partners to Build in Croatia

The Brijuni islands in Croatia

Brad Pitt and Partners to Build Luxury Resort in Istria, Croatia

An exclusive report from Jutarnji List, a Croatian media outlet, claimed that Hollywood star Brad Pitt will be involved with partners in building a luxury waterfront resort opposite the Brijuni Islands in northern Croatia.

The proposed project, which has a working title of ‘Barabriga’, will include hotels, villas, a golf course and a marina, and will be the biggest tourism project undertaken by businessman Danko Koncar, who bought the project from Hypo Bank for 85 million euro. The Brijuni islands, once an exclusive resort favored by President Tito, is known to Jolie, and she visited the area last year on her first visit to Croatia. She was once again in the country last week with Pitt for the premiere of her new film in Zagreb.

The Hollywood couple’s interest in Croatia is part of a growing attraction to the former Yugoslav republic, which reported record official tourism numbers in 2011. Other regular celebrity visitors include the yachts of Roman Abramovich, Bill Gates and Bernie Ecclestone, while the antics of Prince Harry in a Hvar nightclub and the revelation of Beyonce’s baby bump at a Hvar beach club made global headlines.

Bradbury Home Listed for $78.8 Million

Located in Bradbury, CA, this 42,000 square-foot estate was recently listed for a booming $78.8 million, but for good reason. The home sits on eight acres and is only recently being recognized for all of the construction and renovations that have taken place over the last eight years. Features in the estate include three floors, six bedrooms, eight baths, a ten car garage, city and mountain view, a cross-shaped pool, 15 person jacuzzi, 3D movie theater, 2,000 bottle wine cellar, poker lounge, a subterranean firing range, a temperature-controlled trout pond with a two-story waterfall, and an oak-paneled elevator.

The house is on the market through realtor.com and can be found here

 

 

Ocean House Receives AAA Five Diamond

The Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island has been honored with the celebrated AAA Five Diamond Award® designation for 2012, the travel authority’s highest rating for hotels and restaurants. A new addition to the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Lodging list, the Ocean House is the only Five Diamond rated hotel in Rhode Island. To celebrate, the resort is launching a signature “AAA Five Diamond” package, inviting travelers to experience first-hand why the Ocean House has achieved membership in this elite group.

The Ocean House

 

The Ocean House is part of a select group representing the upper echelon of the hospitality industry. For 2012, only 126 lodgings and 53 restaurants received the Five Diamond Rating. These notable establishments account for just 0.3 percent of the total 59,000 AAA Approved and Diamond Rated lodgings and restaurants across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Lodgings at this level deliver unmatched guest comfort with luxurious accommodations, extraordinary facilities and many personalized amenities, according to AAA. An expert service staff provides a meticulous, individualized experience, consistently exceeding expectations of even the most discriminating guests.

“We are thrilled to receive the Five Diamond Award from AAA,” said Daniel Hostettler, the President and Managing Director of Ocean House Management, LLC. “This is one of the most prestigious awards that any hotel can receive, and we are honored to be in the company of so many other distinguished properties. We also thank each member of the Ocean House team who have worked tirelessly in our first year and a half of operations to deliver this exceptional level of service to our guests ”

“AAA is pleased to recognize the Ocean House as an exemplary member of the travel industry,” said Michael Petrone, director of AAA Tourism Information Development. “The ability to provide the highest level of hospitality in luxurious surroundings is what the Five Diamond Rating is all about. To achieve and maintain superior standards including personalized services for every guest on a daily basis is a remarkable accomplishment.”

In honor of this achievement, the Ocean House announces the “AAA Five Diamond” package. Available February 1 through April 15, 2012, luxury-seekers can reserve a Deluxe or Terrace Room to receive 20% savings. Deal includes:

• Spacious accommodations with unrivaled Deluxe or Terrace Water Views

• Complimentary seasonal afternoon refreshments served in Seasons Lounge

Rate starts at $292 per night, for a Deluxe room, based on double occupancy. Subject to availability and blackout dates apply. Tax, gratuities and resort fee excluded. Two night minimum stay over weekend dates (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). No minimum over weekdays (Monday – Thursday). Book by visiting www.oceanhouseri.com or call 401-584-7000.

 

Royal Princess to Launch Next Year

Royal Princess

Details have been revealed by Princess Cruises on their newest vessel, The Royal Princess, which weighs in at 141,000 tons and will carry 3,600 passengers, making her slightly bigger than last year’s major debuts, the Disney Dream, Carnival Magic and Celebrity Silhouette. Royal Princess will also be 50% larger than the atriums on other recent Princess ships.

As well as featuring existing outlets present on current Princess ships, the plans will see the addition of a new ice cream outlet and a luxury gift shop, targeted at those celebrating major events such as birthdays and weddings on board. A new cocktail bar called Bellini’s will also debut, along with a seafood bar selling sushi, sashimi, ceviche and caviar. And outside, guests will be able to walk along a new glass-bottomed walkway which extends over 28 feet from the edge of the vessel.

The atrium, as you will see in the video below, is shown as a ‘street-cafe’-style open space, with glass staircases, backlit floors and venues that appear to float in mid-air. This new design style is described as an “evolution” of the current atriums.

On the top deck, there will be a new adults-only pool and other new pools which surround a tropical “island” that offers sunbathing by day and an outdoor nightclub in the evenings.

Princess has confirmed that the first preview cruise will depart in June and the Maiden Voyage will see the Royal Princess tour the Mediterranean.

Among her highlights, the new Royal Princess will offer:

  • An even larger and expanded atrium with additional entertainment and casual dining options.
  • The SeaWalkSM & SeaView Bar – a first-of-its-kind enclosed walkway extending from the ship’s top deck and a port side cantilevered bar, each with glass floors and sweeping ocean views.
  • A new upper-deck pool exclusively for adults, featuring plush private cabanas
  • Our largest top-deck pool ever, offering another Princess first — a dazzling evening water and light show
  • An enhanced Movies Under the Stars® screen – the largest yet!
  • Balconies on all outside staterooms

 

Cary Elwes Lists Malibu House

Actor Cary Elwes has put his Malibu house on the market at $1.975 million. The actor, 49, who has starred in movies such as “Twister”, “Saw”, “The Princess Bride” and a handful of television shows is selling his Old World-style Mediterranean home which was built in 1978. The house looks out on to the ocean and surrounding hillsides and features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a red-tiled portico, interior archways, expansive windows, and a deck.

Public records show Elwes bought the property in 1996 for $615,000. Eytan Levin of the Levin Group is the listing agent.

 

St. Regis, Bal Harbour Resort

A Vision of Chic Modernity and Elegance Created by Yabu Pushelberg. The international resort features remarkable interiors paying homage to Art Deco style and is home to an impressive collection of art by local and world-renowned artists.

Remède Spa Entrance

Remède Spa Entrance

 

St. Regis’ commitment to art and design has been realized with the arrival of The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, which opened on January 19, 2012. The resort, which has been conceived of as a contemporary flagship of the storied brand, reflects this lofty goal; it is a grand, chic and thoroughly elegant space which is truly the modern interpretation of St. Regis. Featuring an expansive art collection, and striking, glamorous design by world renowned interiors firm Yabu Pushelberg, The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort offers its guests an unmatched luxury experience that is further enhanced through its merging of exceptional design and incomparable location.

“We remember a time when Miami was a glamorous place and we wanted to bring back this notion with a touch of sophistication and apply it to the design of this five star hotel. The property captures the feeling of 1960′s glamour done in a very elegant way as is evident in the entrance hall with its crystal chandeliers and mirrored walls. The hotel will appeal to everyone, it is a very special place,” says George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg.

The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort welcomes guests through a stunning entrance hall where they are immediately greeted by a captivating silver cloud sculpture, created by artist Inigo Manglano-Ovalle which is suspended from the ceiling. “Cloud Prototype No. 4” is a soft, statement-making sculpture that changes guests’ perspectives as they come in from the outdoors into the luxurious lobby. From there, they come upon the main entrance hall, which has been dramatically designed with mirrored “bracelet” motifs, reflecting light throughout the space and adding a touch of sparkle to the corridor. Guests’ eyes are drawn up to the large rock crystal chandeliers, each boasting individually hung crystals which glitter like gems against the mirrored backdrop. The resort also features antique mirroring throughout and a striking ceiling rosette detail, a signature of Yabu Pushelberg, which has been repeated throughout the resort in various spaces. Godflower marble, quarried exclusively for the resort, can be found on all of the floors throughout the ground level; the rich, dark marble is framed by white marble in dramatic fashion and accented with teal flower-like shapes, giving the rare marble its name. Guests will delight in the small details, and thoughtful design of the entire resort, from bas relief gingko leaves and flowers found on the wall leading into The St. Regis Bar and the private wine vault room to the one-of-a-kind West African Movinque wood found throughout the resort, which has been inlaid with silver trim to emphasize contrast between the soft white panels and the natural, blonde, tiger grain finishes of the wood.

The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort features 243 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, each boasting a full ocean view as the rooms have been masterfully laid out to take advantage of one of the destination’s most spectacular views – unobstructed azure blue ocean, for as far as the eye can see. Large walk-in closets complete with mirrored drawers, spa bathrooms and expansive outdoor terraces are some of the highlights guests will enjoy in every guestroom and suite. The resort’s guestrooms reflect a contemporary style with Art Deco elements, a nod to Morris Lapidus, legendary architect of neo-baroque modern Miami. The rooms have been designed as sanctuary of relaxation with cool blues, grays, mirrored surfaces and details in the carpets, fabrics and wall coverings which reference the destination, from coral branches to sea-life. Additionally, throughout the 14,000 square foot Remède Spa, the sea-inspired motifs continue with detailed mosaic tile work forming coral outlines and coral etched glass found throughout the spa.

 

The artwork at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort continues to reflect the values and time-honored traditions of the St. Regis brand, dating back more than 100 years, to the brand’s flagship property in New York. The art collection at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is contemporary in nature, offering guests a glimpse at both thought-provoking and modern pieces. The collection offers sophisticated travelers an atmosphere of refined luxury while also playing to the resort’s destination and vibrant locale. Composed of a mix of new and established artists, the expertly curated collection features a variety of pieces in the mediums of sculpture, paint and photography, all chosen for their ability to engage the observer and spark intrigue and conversation. The collection features artists that are both local and internationally known, and includes works by Japanese artist Hirotoshi Sawada, Kohei Nawa, Miami-based artist Santiago Rubino, French photographer Jean Francois Rauzier among others.

One of the main pieces in the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort collection is a mural by local artist Santiago Rubino entitled “Eyes of the Stars,” which serves as a focal point in the bar experience. The mural is a hallmark for the St. Regis brand, referencing the brand’s New York flagship where Maxfield Parrish’s iconic King Cole Mural — commissioned by St. Regis founder John Jacob Astor — is displayed. Like the iconic mural located at the King Cole Bar in New York, “Eyes of the Stars” by Santiago Rubino acts as a centerpiece for The Bar at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort and offers guests and visitors an eye-catching visual experience, and serves as a topic of conversation.

Another notable piece featured in the lobby reception area is a bejeweled deer sculpture by Japanese artist Koehi Nawa. The stunning silvery-gray sculpture is a modern vision of the majestic animal, and the piece is sheathed in crystal beads which catch and reflect light. The sculpture makes a stunning impression upon guest arrival. Additional works by Vanessa Beercroft, Arslan Sukan, Tony Cragg, Candida Hofer and Inigo Manglano-Ovalle are on display at the resort as well.

Additionally, The St. Regis Bal Harbour has partnered with the renowned, local gallery Rosenbaum Contemporary to create an exhibition space inside the lobby. The satellite gallery showcases contemporary pieces in a variety of mediums including, paintings, photographs, sculptures, works on paper and mixed media pieces. A wide array of artists are featured including Bill Beckley, Fernando Botero, Alex Katz and Michel Pellus. This unique concept further elevates the art experience for guests as they will have the opportunity to view new, interesting pieces by esteemed artists each time they visit the resort.

This exclusive enclave is located directly across from the celebrated Bal Harbour Shops and mere minutes from the energy of South Beach and Miami. The signature St. Regis Butlers offers service beyond expectations and a 14,000 square-foot Remède Spa provides exceptional experiences and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Additional amenities include fine dining restaurants, childcare, and poolside cabana and beach services. Visit www.stregisbalharbour.com or call 305-993-3300 for more information.

The Residences at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort sales center is open on-site at 9701 Collins Avenue. For information, call 305-993-6000 or visit www.stregisbalharbourresidences.com to explore ownership opportunities starting at $1.9 million. The Residences at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is scheduled for completion this Fall.

 

Engel & Volkers Selling “Barefoot House”

The luxury real estate firm is determined to sell this classic Florida Beach home on Valentine’s Day.

Engel & Volkers Florida, a globally recognized luxury real estate firm, announces their Jupiter Yacht Club location’s recent listing of a historic beach house, also referred to as the Barefoot House. The estate which has been in one family for three generations is located on 365 South Beach Road in Jupiter Island.

The residence comes with impressive amenities that include a large wood burning fireplace and two guest suites. The tranquil house once belonged to Four Star General James A. Van Fleet, a soldier described by resident Harry Truman as “the greatest general” our nation has ever had. Nicknamed the “Barefoot House” by a member of the family, this home has seen a mixture of formal elegance and casual relaxation, all enhanced by its unique setting on one of the world’s greatest beaches.

The Barefoot House is a 1930′s beach house nestled on a 1.26 acre lot with over 337 square feet of ocean frontage. This upscale five bedroom home boasts a spacious living space with five and a half bathrooms and beautiful wood finishes throughout made of Heart pine, oak, and Florida cypress. The two story house which has been meticulously preserved features glorious high cathedral ceilings, spacious living and dining room areas and a fully enclosed porch. Originally listed at $7.9 million, this one of a kind listing is now available for sale at the highest offer above $3.5 million. There is a catch; those buyers interested in purchasing the estate must make their offer by February 14th, 2012, Valentine’s Day. That’s right, the owner, a hopeless romantic has put an expiration date on his offer.

Distinguished for its lush surroundings and beautiful beaches and sought after for its unspoiled natural beauty, Jupiter Island is the southern-most barrier island along Florida’s east coast. Located north of legendary Palm Beach, Jupiter Island’s exquisite real estate and promise of privacy has proven irresistible to its fair share of prominent residents. The Island consists of about 1,643 acres, bound on the east by nine miles of ocean frontage. In addition, the residences on Jupiter Island have breathtaking Atlantic and Intracoastal views. Jupiter Island is widely recognized as one of the most affluent and discrete enclaves of the USA.

“The Barefoot House is historic to this region and a one of a kind residence,” says Ken Meierling, owner and broker of Engel & Volkers Jupiter. “We have had a lot of interest already, since we came up with the Valentine’s Idea. The home gives people something to talk about and this is what the house needs. People just don’t know what a hidden treasure this place is. You have to see it to believe it. There is nothing like it.”

Engel & Volkers Florida currently has multiple offices in Naples, Palm Beach, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa, Jupiter, Longboat Key, Sanibel, Clearwater and more with plans to expand throughout the state of Florida in the next 12 months. For more information on Engel & Volkers Florida please visit www.engelvoelkers.com/florida. You may also follow on Twitter at @engelvoelkersFL.

SOURCE Engel & Volkers Florida

Lennar Corp To Build in Fiddler’s Creek

Fiddler’s Creek, a private, 3,964± acre master-planned community offering complete resort lifestyle amenities, has contracted to sell 227 single-family and coach home sites to Lennar Corp.

Lennar, a national homebuilder, plans to initiate construction on the sites soon beginning with the village of Millbrook within the Aviamar section in Fiddler’s Creek. The purchase represents the company’s entrance into the community and commitment to working with Fiddler’s Creek.

“We are delighted to welcome another well-known and well-respected national homebuilder to Fiddler’s Creek,” said Aubrey J. Ferrao, President and CEO of Fiddler’s Creek, LLC. “The single-family and coach homes to be built by Lennar will complement the offerings currently available and will provide buyers with a high-quality product in a distinctive neighborhood.”

Launched in 1998, Fiddler’s Creek is committed to preserving the environment and is being planned to accommodate and enhance the beauty of Florida’s natural environment. Less than one-third of the land at Fiddler’s Creek will be developed for residential use, while the remainder is dedicated primarily to nature reserves, lakes, parks, golf courses and recreational areas.

Darin McMurray, President of the Southwest Florida division of Lennar Homes, stated that his firm is excited to enter Fiddler’s Creek and has been waiting 15 years to do so. “This community offers an attractive lifestyle and natural setting that will be very desirable to our buyers,” he said.

Founded in 1954, Lennar Corp. is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. The Miami-based company builds affordable, move-up and retirement homes in communities located in 17 different states throughout the country that cater to almost any lifestyle, including as urban, golf course, active adult or suburban communities.

Located just off Collier Boulevard on the way to Marco Island, Fiddler’s Creek comprises approximately 4,000 acres and is zoned for 6,000 residences. With a very low density level of just 1.6 homes per gross acre, the master-planned residential community will be comprised of about 100 distinct residential neighborhoods upon completion.

Amenities offered at Fiddler’s Creek include a 54,000-square-foot Club & Spa, Fitness Center, Resort Style Multi-Pool Swimming Complex, Tennis Courts, 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 area.

For more information, call 239-732-9300 or visit the Sales Center at 8152 Fiddler’s Creek Parkway or visit www.fiddlerscreek.com.

Historic Bermuda Estate Listed at $45 Mill

Chelston, Bermuda’s most impressive estate originally constructed in 1939–1941 for California oil baron Carbon Petroleum Dubbs, has been listed for sale via Christie’s International Real Estate for $45 million.

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

 

Photo Credit: JP Rouja/LookBermuda & Dan F

Fall in Love at Velas Resorts

 

Puerto Vallarta Valentine´s Day Special – All Inclusive

Luxury Accommodation in a Grand Class Suite

Romantic Dinner in your suite or at the Ocean Club.

Holistic 50-Minute Couples Massage

Bottle of Sparkling Wine and Petit Fours

 

Travel Period: February 1st to 29th, 2012

Rates starting at $290.00 USD per person per night in double occupancy

For reservations please call 1-866-529-8813 or e-mail reservations@velasresorts.com

Minimum stay required 2 nights. Not combinable with other promotions in the same reservation.

 

Puerto Vallarta Valentine´s Day Special – European Plan

Luxury Accommodation in a Grand Class Suite

Romantic Three-course Dinner in your suite or at the Ocean Club

Bottle of Sparkling Wine and Petit Fours

Travel Period: February 1st to 29th, 2012

Rates starting at $290.00 USD per suite per night in double occupancy

 

For reservations please call 1-866-529-8813 or e-mail reservations@velasresorts.com

Minimum stay required 2 nights. Rate plus 19% taxes and a $10.00 USD daily charge for service. Not combinable with other promotions in the same reservation.

 

Valentine´s Day Special: All we need is love!

In addition to our Luxury All-Inclusive, this promotion includes:

Luxury Accommodation in a spacious 1,000+ sq. ft. suite with Private Terrace

$50 USD Spa Credit per adult per night.

Romantic Dinner for two on the beach

Sparkling Wine and Petit Fours upon arrival

10% in the Hotel Boutique

Taxes and Gratuities

 

Booking window: February 10th to 17th, 2012

Rates starting at $360 USD per person per night in double occupancy

Reserve by calling 1-888-261-8436 or send an email to: reservations@velasresorts.com

Spa credit is not cumulative, not refundable and not transferrable. Must be used in $50 USD increments per day. Valid for treatments of 50+ minutes. Not valid in the Beauty Salon or for Spa Products or Hydrotherapy Circuit. Promotion is not combinable with other promotions. Inclusions are not combinable. Valid for individual reservations only. Not valid for groups.

 

Romantic Experience

 ”Live a Little while on Romance surrounded by the nature or enjoying the blue Turkish sea immersed in the Luxury Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Enjoy our Culinary Tour in a Romantic dinner and share the magic of a couple massages.”

In addition to our Luxury All-Inclusive, this package Includes:

Private roundtrip transportation airport – hotel – airport

Romantic Dinner at the terrace.

Sparkling wine bottle and special fruit plate and petit fours upon arrival.

Breakfast in bed.

60 minute Aromatherapy Couple’s Massage.

15% discount in spa treatments.

Luxury accommodation in a Zen Grand Suite, Ambassador Suite or Grand Class Suite with interior Jacuzzi.

 

For reservations please call to 1-866-230-7221 or e-mail reservations@velasresorts.com 

Children from 4-16 years old $99.00 USD per child per night (May 5 thru June 30, 2012). Stays crossing December 19, will be subject to a rate change. Rates in USD per person per night. Maximum occupancy per room is two adults, two children under 16 and one infant (0-3). Subject to availability and change without notice. Blackout dates apply. Minimum of three nights applies. Package components are not refundable and cannot be substituted. Package does not apply to groups. Taxes and tips included.


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