Dominican Republic
Contempo Casual
April 14, 2010 by OceanHome · Leave a Comment
Google engineer Spencer Kimball opens the doors to his Dominican Republic villa.
The Dominican Republic has long been known for its world-class cigars, rums, and professional baseball players. Now, with a growing number of upscale resort-style developments, the DR is becoming recognized as one of the Caribbean’s top destinations for luxury real estate. A relative newcomer is Google software engineer Spencer Kimball. Unlike numerous celebrities gravitating to the DR’s popular Punta Cana and Casa de Campo resort communities, Kimball is content on the Costa Verde coastline along the north. Read more
Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic
The Puntacana Resort & Club Estates is a magnificent paradise community that has been carefully planned and luxuriously executed to create an exclusive lifestyle of relaxation and understated elegance. Read more
Dominican Republic
Costa Blanca Development Opening Mid 2010
February 3, 2010 by OceanHome · Leave a Comment
Spanning 580 acres along the coastline of Juan Dolio Beach, just 20 minutes from the Dominican Republic’s Santo Domingo International Airport, Costa Blanca is a billion-dollar development that will encompass luxurious residential homes, retail stores, a full-scale mega-yacht marina, an 18-hole Greg Norman Signature Golf Course, a private beach, and other sporting components. Read more
Dominican Republic
Site Updates and New Content
April 8, 2009 by OceanHome · Leave a Comment
As you may have noticed, we’ve posted the content from our May/June issue to the site and there are a few highlights that are worth mentioning. First, be sure to click on our new feature stories. If you’re in the market for a new ocean home, we’ve got some great stories to help with your research. First, “A New Dawn for the Dominican Republic” takes an in-depth look at the best new developments in the DR – from world-class golf resorts to a new Trump casino-resort. What was once a low-buget vacation spot is quickly becoming a luxurious second-home desitination (or third, or fourth).
Next, we’ve got our annual “Top 25 Ocean Homes in the US.” We’ve dug through the listings, contacted the real estate agents, and put together the most lavish homes for sale on the ocean from coast to coast, including Hawaii. Finally, we have a story about the man who singlehandedly started the anti-virus software business, John McAfee. While McAfee once owned a dozen properties around the world, including the Molokai home that we feature in the story which is currently on the market, he is dumping it all in favor of a life on the sandy shores of Belize. We hope you enjoy the story.
Also be sure to check out all the great new items we’ve posted in our Sea Life section, as well as some new interviews with a few key players in oceanfront developments. On top of that, we’ve updated our Exclusive Agent program to include new listings by some of the top ocean home real estate agents in the country. Just click on “Exclusive Agents” for more.
Please let us know what you think right here on this blog. Your comments are welcome. In the meantime, put a new layer of sunscreen on and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Dominican Republic
A New Dawn for the Dominican Republic
Once a sleepy haunt for low-budget tourists, the Dominican Republic has awoken deep-pocketed investors and homeowners seeking an unspoiled tropical paradise.
Despite the troubled economy, there are areas of the world where the real estate market continues to thrive. The Dominican Republic (or the DR as it’s commonly known), just 90 minutes from Miami and three hours from New York, is one such spot. Aesthetically, it is a beautiful country, boasting lush mountain ranges and stunning beaches, as well as a variety of microclimates that range from warm and tropical to arid and temperate. Improvements to the infrastructure are ongoing, and land is cheap and easy to come by. The DR remains as Christopher Columbus described it upon discovery: “a beautiful island paradise with high forested mountains and large river valleys.”
The bottom line: The DR is no longer the budget vacation spot or sleepy Caribbean backwater it was long thought to be. Ritz-Carlton, Starwood, and Four Seasons have all signed on to build or manage luxury hotels and residences here in the next few years, while major real estate players (think Donald Trump) are spending hundreds of millions to create luxury developments from the ground up. One local realtor says he’s seen more new construction during the past few years than in the previous 18, while another estimates that more than 20 new condo projects are taking place along a 30-mile stretch of coast near Puerto Plata.
A colorful tapestry of Spanish, French, Haitian, and African influences woven by a rich and storied history, the DR offers an exciting and unique cultural experience that goes far beyond the typical sun, sand, and sea of neighboring destinations. From exotic cuisine to merengue, premium cigars to world-class baseball, the DR will likely surprise even the most seasoned traveler or home buyer.
And, of course, there are the golf courses and beaches that have put the destination on the map. Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones, Gary Player, Tom Fazio, and Nick Faldo have all left their imprint for golfers to enjoy, while no less than 1,000 miles of sand create the perfect complement to the greens in the form of beautiful beaches. The island is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Dancing is a way of life on the island and is viewed by Dominicans as an art; they take pride in sharing their native movements with others.
For its part, the east coast region contains the most popular and fastest-growing tourist area in the country, namely Punta Cana/Bavaro (known best for having some of the most picturesque beaches in the world). Fortunately for luxury home buyers, this region of the country is offering new opportunities. Take, for example, the new Roco Ki development which features the Faldo Legacy Course, the Westin Roco Ki Beach & Golf Resort, Heavenly Spa by Westin, and the Fairmont Residences, all with 3.2 miles of beachfront at your doorstep. Beachfront residences include thatched-palm roofs, infinity pools, tropical shower gardens, and much more, starting at $2.7 million while beachfront lots are available from $1.3 million. Visit www.rocoki.com or call 888-476-2654 for more information.
Donald Trump has put his stamp on this tropical paradise with the new Trump Farallon at Cap Cana, one of several luxury resort communities currently being developed as part of the $1.5 billon Cap Cana master plan (68 lots starting at $3 million each). Over the next decade, this 30,000 acre site (located just 10 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport) will feature more than 5,000 residences including villas, condos, and town houses, and no less than four luxury hotels. Other stand-out amenities at Cap Cana include a huge marina with 1,000 slips (many for megayachts), and five golf courses (including three designed by Jack Nicklaus). The first such course to open, Punta Escada, has already been selected by Golf Digest as one of the 100 best non- U.S. golf courses in the world. Cap Cana’s second golf course, Las Iguanas, is due to open shortly. For more information, call 800-785-2198 or visit www.capcana.com.
One of the more exclusive enclaves on the eastern edge of the DR is the Punta Cana Estates at Corales, located within the Punta Cana Resort and Club. Oscar De la Renta and Julio Iglesias (both of whom are involved in the development of the area), as well as Mikael Barishnikov own properties here and it’s not hard to see why. Only 140 homes are being built, some along the new Tom Fazio golf course, and each with a minimum of once acre of land with prices ranging from $1.8-$3.3 million. For more information visit www.puntacana.com or call 888-442-2262.
Also in Punta Cana, the Punta Perla Caribbean Golf Marina and Spa is a new development that caters to the yachting and golfing crowd. The development features penthouse apartments in its private 400-berth marina or golf villas right on the fairways of the Colin Montgomerie signature course. Properties include bungalows, apartments, golf villas, and more as well as multi-million dollar beach-side mansions. Visit www.puntaperlasales.com or call 845-604-1208 for more information.
Just north of the Punta Cana region, lies the Samana Peninsula. It is here, tucked into lush hillsides overlooking the ocean, where you will find Terrazas de Coson, a new development by Swiss firm Valman, S.A. The first phase of development sold out in less than four weeks and now Phase Two has begun, with 52 villas for sale starting at $1.7 million. Benefits include a private beach and restaurant, membership to a private spa, as well as the option of putting your villa into the hotel inventory should you choose to rent it out. The development overlooks white beaches and turquoise waters and is minutes from the new Samana International airport as well as the nightlife of Las Terrenas. Visit www.terrazasdecoson.com or call 800-701-8414 for more information.
South of the thriving tourist-filled area of Punta Cana is a completely different scene: the environmentally-forward Bayahibe. This area not only contains one of the most celebrated national parks, but has also received two awards for its conservation efforts in tourism. With golf courses designed by Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, and Nick Faldo, this region features some of the country’s most unique golfing experiences. Another popular east coast destination is La Romana. More than just a luxurious resort frequented by many celebrities, the city of La Romana is also historically important, especially for baseball fans, and worth a visit. One of the more popular developments here is the 7,000 acre Costasur Casa de Campo with golf and oceanfront villas ranging from $925,000 to $5.4 million. Initially owned by Paramount Studios, this development is home to many socialites from around the globe and features four golf courses and over 20 restaurants and bars. Visit www.casadecampo.com or call 800-877-3643 for more information.
The south central region anchored by Santo Domingo and its three million residents, is arguably the Caribbean’s most diverse and vibrant destination. As the oldest city in the New World, Santo Domingo features the first cathedral, first university, and first hospital of the Americas, yet it is a very modern city. There are sophisticated restaurants serving cuisine from around the world, highend boutiques and major fashion designers displaying their wares, plus a wealth of museums, galleries, and theaters.
If the Dominican Republic has one very well-kept secret, the western region of the country is it. This scenic region includes the area west of Santo Domingo, and it is still largely undiscovered. The farthest part of the region is only about a three-hour drive from Santo Domingo or Santiago airports.
Although the Dominican Republic provides a change of scenery at just about every turn, this region is the most diverse ecologically. Two salt water lakes, one being the largest in the Caribbean, provide a haven for massive populations of birds and reptiles. And while some sections of the area are mountain rainforest, other parts are pine forest and arid desert.
Local real estate and tourism attorney Letvia Arza Goderich, who has practiced law in the Dominican Republic for 20-plus years, says the island’s hospitality and real estate industries are undergoing the biggest boom in the Caribbean. “Once known for its sugar cane plantations, the Dominican Republic is reinventing itself,” says Goderich. “Most people know that Oscar de la Renta is from the Dominican, but they may not know Leonardo DiCaprio has recently looked at real estate in the region, and Robert DeNiro filmed several movies here. Investors are sinking more money into the area every year because they know they’ll see a return on their investment in just a few years.”
Local realtors say steady growth has actually been enjoyed in the Dominican Republic since the international airport opened at Puerto Plata in the 1970s, but it is only in recent years that the country has gained the interest of so many savvy buyers actively seeking a luxurious, but affordable, second home. If there is any doubt about the level of interest in this red-hot destination, consider this: Trump recently sold $368 million worth of real estate for his Cap Cana project. – Stacy H. Small
Video: Susi Mai kiteboarding in the Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic’s Sunrise Villa
March 20, 2009 by OceanHome · Leave a Comment
Sunrise Villa, or “Villa Amanecer” as it’s locally known, is an exclusive Dominican Republic villa rental set on nearly two acres of breathtaking beachfront property. The Caribbean luxury villa rental is located right on the beachfront in the exclusive Orchid Bay Estates, a private, American-owned, secure, gated community.
The villa was designed by the same architect responsible for the World-Famous Case Colonial Hotel.
The Dominican Republic vacation rental villa sits on a rock cliff about 20 feet about one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, which is where you’ll probably spend most of your time while you’re down here.
A stunning collection of charming Bali-style structures make up the intriguing architecture and design of this Caribbean luxury villa rental destination. The villa is comprised of a Main House featuring a master suite, plus three adjacent habitations (separate buildings) containing five additional bedrooms, all with air conditioning and all in suite. The lush grounds that surround the Caribbean villa provide ample hideaway spots which beckon for reading, resting, or romantic seclusion.
The Main House at the villa serves as the centerpiece for your ideal Caribbean family vacation and features a host of indoor and outdoor living spaces. The great room itself is nearly 2,000 sq ft, and is complemented by a dining room which seats 14. There are two large verandas, one that overlooks the sparkling pool and hot tub, while the other boasts a full-service bar. There’s also a billiards room.
Th0e Laziest Pool in the Caribbean is found down the steps at the back of the Main House. The villa rental features its own zero-entry beach style pool, so you simply walk in and out, rather than climb in and out. Even more effortless, the relaxing, party-sized hot tub awaits. Nearby, you’ll find the romantic yet spacious outdoor or catching a siesta just about anytime. If there is anything you’d like to eat or drink, just mention is to one of the dedicated and highly trained staff, and they will bring it right to your chair.
Go for a snorkel. Have a picnic. Enjoy Caribbean deep sea fishing or some excellent, Dominican Republic golf. Play a friendly game of volleyball, or just mellow out and lay back in the sun. When you’re ready for another drink, ask one of the staff what they suggest and they will cheerfully bring you an ice old Presidente.
Dominican Republic
Palmera de Cabarete
February 26, 2009 by OceanHome · Leave a Comment
Palmera de Cabarete in the Dominican Republic is home to 138 privately owned residences designed as two-, three- and four- bedroom villas ranging in size from 2,400 to 5,000 square feet. Read more
Dominican Republic
El Batey
February 25, 2009 by Brian_Brinkers · Leave a Comment
This 6,000 square foot luxurious villa contains 5 huge bedrooms, each with in-suite bathrooms. There are 2 master suites & 3 guest bedrooms. This one acre villa is situated on the breathtaking eighth hole of the La Romana Country Club. State of the art kitchen with Viking appliances and a water filtration plant are among the many quality features.
For more information please contact:
Brian Brinkers
info@casadecamporesort.com
La Romana, Dominican Republic
Office 1-978-535-6600
Dominican Republic
Tennis Villa
February 25, 2009 by Brian_Brinkers · Leave a Comment
Tennis Villa is located within the La Tennis Plaza and centrally located inside the Resort. The Villa offers the highest standards in living and entertainment amenities. Technical and architectural detail has been thoughtfully considered and carefully incorporated into the design and construction of this villa!
Construction completed in December 2006 on this Casa de Campo 7,000 Sq Ft Luxury Villa, which consists of 7 bedrooms with 8 full baths & sleeps 13 or more in 3 King Beds and 7 Double Beds.
For more information please contact:
Brian Brinkers
info@casadecamporesort.com
La Romana, Dominican Republic
Office 1-978-535-6600
Dominican Republic
Punta Aguila 42
February 25, 2009 by Brian_Brinkers · Leave a Comment
The villa is located on the western shore of Casa de Campo. It offers the highest standards in living and entertainment amenities. Technical and architectural detail has been thoughtfully considered and carefully incorporated into the design and construction of this villa!
Brand new construction of this 11,000 square foot gorgeous villa shows extraordinary detail throughout. Direct frontage on “Teeth of the Dog”, Casa de Campo’s premier golf course. Custom mahogany woodwork and travertine marble throughout. Large private pool with waterfall.
For more information please contact:
Brian Brinkers
info@casadecamporesort.com
La Romana, Dominican Republic
Office 1-978-535-6600
Dominican Republic
Barranca Oeste 42
February 25, 2009 by Brian_Brinkers · Leave a Comment
Newly Built on 3/4 acre private lot. 4 Bedrooms, Two with King Beds, others have 2 Queen beds each. Well equipped Kitchen, Large Living Area, Pool, Gazebo and Heated Jacuzzi. Wonderful Master Suite. Located high on the Barranca Hills with cool ocean breezes in an exclusive area of Casa de Campo.
For more information please contact:
Brian Brinkers
info@casadecamporesort.com
La Romana, Dominican Republic
Office 1-978-535-6600
Dominican Republic
Top 10 New Oceanfront Golf Courses
January 23, 2009 by OceanHome · 2 Comments
The ocean lifestyle means different things to different people. To some, it is all about the pure pleasure of yachting the bountiful blue waters. To others, it is the sheer beauty of the beach or the buzz of various coastal activities. To golfers, the coast means one thing: links golf. Read more
Dominican Republic
Las Canas Beach Resort, Dominican Republic
January 1, 2009 by OceanHome · Leave a Comment
Las Canas is a five-star oceanfront resort boasting a select number of overwater bungalows—the first such accommodations in the Dominican Republic. In addition, villas, townhouses, penthouses and apartments will be available for sale. All residences come fully furnished and include a private Jacuzzi and flat-screen TVs. The one- to four-bedroom villas range in size from 1,480 to 4,500 square feet. Planned amenities include a signature 18-hole golf course, restaurants, bars, freshwater swimming pools, a Kid’s Club and Teen Club. Prices start at around $785,000. www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com
