Beachfront property of Dreams - Europe’s Top 5 Places for Seaside Living

 Oh we do like to be beside the seaside. Yes, that satisfying smell of salty sea air, the comforting thrum of the waves on the shore and the hypnotic view of nothing but horizon, all add to the joy. In Europe we are spoilt for choice, we have everything panoramic cliff-top villages and glamorous riviera haunts to secluded private islands. So exactly where is the best place to live by the sea?
Here are 5 of the most magnificent properties currently on the Miami real estate market:

Monaco

Apparently, good things come in small packages. Residents of Monaco would certainly agree. The world’s second-smallest country is the epicentre of luxury living. Tax haven status aside, its favourable location, sandwiched between the Alps and the Med, allows residents to hit the beaches in summer and the slopes in winter. Soirees aboard superyachts, high rolling at the Monte Carlo Casino and splurging in the Carré d'Or shopping quarter - bagging a sea view apartment in Monaco certainly offers a taste of the good life. Despite Hyde Park rivalling the country when it comes to space, jet set residents currently have 5 Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from - not to mention the countless members clubs. This apartment on Boulevard de Suisse is currently on the market and has a port view.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

 Following the political troubles in the nineties, this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Centre has been carefully rebuilt with the affluent tourist in mind. The vibrant city quickly worked its way to the top of the A-listers’ bucket lists, with everyone from Roman Abramovich and Bill Gates to Angelina Jolie and Steven Spielberg making a dash for its marble streets. Steeped in history, with intricate baroque churches, gothic statues and proud museums around every corner, a beachfront property in Dubrovnik is the ideal base for exploring this fascinating country; jump on a ferry to party island Hvar, visit the Diocletian’s Palace in Split or simply enjoy Dubrovnik’s impressive culinary scene.


Marbella, Spain

Long before Marbella became synonymous with luxury, it was home to Phoenicians, Visigoths, Romans and Moors, and this history is still palpable throughout the city; note the columns that are now part of the medieval city walls, which were built during the city’s Moorish epoch in the 10th century AD. Of recent years, it has also become a haven for the rich and famous thanks to its glamorous Puerto Banús, where superyachts line marina, and its ‘Golden Mile’ of exclusive clubs and restaurants. However, those looking for a more traditional charm will fall in love Marbella’s Old Town, with its cobbled lanes and brightly coloured flower boxes. Shielded by the stunning Sierra Blanca mountains, the city enjoys a microclimate that protects it from getting too hot or too cold, making it a strong contender for Europe’s best seaside living destination. Thanks to the Club La Costa World property ownership resort near here, this area is a home-away-from-home for many.

Cascais, Portugal

King Luis is to thank for transforming Cascais’ humble golden shores from a low-key fishing village into a millionaire’s playground. He spotted the city’s potential back in the late nineteenth century and paved the way for a stampede of eager aristocrats who, following his lead, hastily purchased their own beachfront properties and grand mansions. World-class hotels offer a pleasing spa and bar scene, whilst the Atlantic Ocean, sandy beaches and coastal path keep outdoorsy types busy. Cascais’ pedestrianised historic city centre has plenty of lively family-run restaurants and upscale boutiques. Cosmopolitan Lisbon is just a twenty-minute drive.

A Finnish Island 

 It may seem like a wild card, but right now Finland is the happiest country in the world. While winter reveals the spectacular Aurora Borealis, summer’s white nights give you all of time you need to explore the country’s endless forests and lakes. Plus, when you combine 180,000 islands with a population far smaller than London, you have plenty of space to make that beachfront property you’re planning a big one – don’t forget to leave room for a sauna!

Sandbanks, UK 

Dubbed Britain’s Palm Beach, this tiny sandy spit is home to some of the UK’s priciest beachfront properties. Often written off as a hangout for footballers’ wives and retired millionaires, Sandbanks is well-connected to London, boasts one of the country’s best blue flag beaches and has great water leisure and sports facilities. The exclusive enclave also affords fantastic access to the Jurassic Coast – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to the endless sea views, the beachfront properties here are well-serviced by a range of upmarket eateries, like Rick Stein’s famous seafood restaurant.

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Miami and its high-end luxury condo living

What could be more indulging that staying on a 5-star resort? Swimming on Infinity edge-pools, relaxing in elegant spas, tasting delighting food at gourmet restaurants, and even working out in state-of-the-art gyms are just some of the treats you enjoy, and now, thanks to the latest boom of luxury condos in South Florida real estate market, you can enjoy all these privileges on a daily basis. You just have become the proud owner of a luxury condominium.
Here are 5 of the most magnificent properties currently on the Miami real estate market:

Murano Grande

This spectacular residential masterpiece has redefined luxury living in the vibrant South of Fifth district of Miami Beach with its gigantic condo units, upgraded residential features and spacious balconies that overlook the Atlantic and Biscayne Bay. As a resident of Murano Grande you’ll also enjoy a heated bay front swimming pool and spa, lighted tennis courts, pool & resort area with restaurant service.

South Pointe

 One of the first luxury condominiums to be built on South Beach, South Pointe is set just a few steps from the Atlantic Ocean in the South of Fifth (SoFi) Street district of Miami Beach. This imposing tower delights with its stunning units and penthouses facing the water and a  recent multimillion-dollar renovation included a new lobby, residence hallways and the additions of a media room and business center.

 Santa Maria Brickell   

The 51-story impressive tower of La Santa Maria Brickell is an architectural jewel in the sparkling Miami skyline. The residential building rises at a prime waterfront location in Biscayne Bay, and it provides the ultimate luxuries of a high-style lifestyle.  La Santa Maria features 173 residences to rent and buy and amenities include a lap pool & Jacuzzi, racquetball and tennis courts and a modern fitness center, among others.

Icon South Beach 

 This is an exclusive s-shaped condominium rising 40 stories over the magnificent Biscayne Bay in South Beach. Residences deliver the most enchanting views of the water and the city skyline apart from featuring high-end features and fixtures like 9-foot high ceilings and expansive terraces. The building indulges its owners with sumptuous amenities including a state-of-the-art gym, a relaxing spa, two amazing pools and Icon Grill – an exquisite restaurant that promises to delight your palate every single day.

Echo Brickell 

Set in the middle of one of the most cosmopolitan communities in Florida, Echo Brickell is the epitome of luxury. The building’s elegant style was in charge of Carlos Ott, while the interiors are thanks to the acclaimed Yoo Studio. Residents enjoy the latest technology, lavish amenities, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city, and of course, a great array of white glove services.

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Rolls-Royce Ghost: The World’s Best Super Luxury Car

The Rolls-Royce Ghost has once again demonstrated its luxury appeal by fending off high-level competition to recently be crowned the “Best Luxury Car”. The category included a collection of stunning luxury cars over £100,000, but the team of highly respected experts at What Car? magazine felt the design of the Ghost’s extended wheelbase gave it the edge. For those who want to rent a Rolls-Royce in Monaco, a Ghost is an ideal choice for business or pleasure on the French Riviera.

Following a tradition of giving its cars somewhat supernatural names, such as the Wraith and Phantom, the Rolls-Royce Ghost has similarly ethereal qualities that few commentators and enthusiasts can deny. Its V12 engine makes this ride so smooth and silent that it’s stealthy as its namesake. The Rolls-Royce Ghost is also famous for seats that are unrivalled in comfort and design. As a whole, the car feels like a cocoon of safety and luxury. 

It was the extended wheelbase, however, that was the focus of the judges at What Car? The panel of experts deemed the marriage of the very latest technology and contemporary design was a winning combination. The indulgent proportions of the wheelbase with its extra 17 centimetres of rear legroom and fully integrated technology make every journey a pleasure. 

In an age when younger drivers are influencing the engineering of luxury car marques, the Rolls-Royce Ghost has stood out for its simple lines and peerless heritage combined with a contemporary edge. The British manufacturers updated their design in 2016 with the Black Badge Series, and the Ghost exemplified the brand’s more intense and darker transformation. 

The new Ghost was a truly bespoke response to a desire for audacious design and bold creativity. Demand for the newest and fastest Ghost was equaled only by the amount of praise it received from industry experts. Celebrity fans and owners of the model include Jennifer Lopez, Rod Stewart, Ice T, Kris Jenner and boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. 

The elegant Rolls-Royce Ghost is ideal for any occasion, from business meetings to special events. It suits the beautiful Cote d’Azur coastline perfectly and is a statement car to be seen in at annual events such as Cannes Lions and Monaco Yacht Show. Renting the Rolls-Royce ghost in Monaco is the ideal way to travel for visitors seeking total discretion as they transfer between business meetings and social events and galas. 

Monaco is the epitome of glamour and as the gateway to the magnificent Cote d’Azur, the Ghost is completely at home on the streets of the Principality. Its spacious design and sumptuous interior are ideal for families, those entertaining guests or visitors with a large number of bags. The Rolls-Royce Ghost is also the car of choice for many brides and grooms as its immaculately crafted contemporary design is combined with a timeless sophistication and reliability. Next time you visit the Riviera, why not sample the world’s best super luxury car for yourself? 

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Experience Musical Mastery at the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival

Monaco is legendary for many reasons. Its renowned array of sophisticated pleasures include a picture-perfect harbour filled with gleaming megayachts, chic boutiques that carry the latest and most lavish version of whatever your heart may desire, a Grand Prix that always manages to thrill, a Yacht Show that is second-to-none, elegant architecture that beguiles the eye and the sort of superb lifestyle that very few can attain. Yet, if all of this were not enough to make Monaco one of the most desired destinations in Europe, there’s yet another attraction that draws those in the know to this Principality – the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival.

Now in its 12^th year, the annual Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival has been showcasing jazz’s legends alongside some of its most promising new talents, since 2006. This year will be no different. For true lovers of jazz, as well as those who simply like music and are curious to find out more, the 2017 Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival should mark a can’t-miss item on the calendar. Block off some time between opening night on the 16^th of November and the final performance on Saturday, 2^nd of December, and get ready to be dazzled by musical fireworks.

Opera Garnier

If you are planning to check out the jazz festival, whether this year or at a later date, the very best way to do that would be to find your own supremely comfortable and convenient luxury villa rental near Monaco.

Immerse yourself in sounds of sublime jazz

Ever since its very first edition, 12 years ago, the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival has been wowing fans of this freeform musical art with the quality of the acts that it has presented. Set in the Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo, this event prides itself on bringing together an eclectic mix of not only some of the world’s most revered leading lights of jazz, but also those lesser known musicians who are making a name for themselves through the sheer force of their talent and virtuosity.

Marcus Miller

Supported by its royal patron, HSH Prince Albert II, this festival’s mission is to not only highlight the very best of accepted and celebrated contemporary and traditional jazz, but also to offer a forum for some of the more avant-garde, cutting-edge and experimental trends that are currently electrifying the music world. While not courting controversy, the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival nonetheless displays a commitment and a particular flair for cultivating and rewarding musical creativity.

Open to all musical currents, with an ear to discovering new creations and stars, while still celebrating the great accomplishments and compositions of the giants of jazz, this event’s ambitious aim is to invite and share musical inspiration from around the globe. Attendees of the festival in 2017 can choose from an impressive lineup of established and emerging acts, including Marcus Miller, Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, Chick Corea and Steve Gadd’s collaboration, The Corea/Gadd Band, Texas, Laurent Coulondre and Christophe.

Scott Bradley

If you’re planning to head to the 2017 Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival, there simply can be no better way to enjoy all that this special music event has to offer, than to rent a holiday villa on the French Riviera. Staying at a luxury villa rental near Monaco will give you the best of every possible world, allowing you easy access to the wonders of the nearby jazz festival and of Monte-Carlo itself, while also giving you an opulent pied à terre nestled on the dazzling Côte d’ Azur.

Stacey Kent

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Top 5 Sites You Must Check Out Before Visiting the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2017

Anyone planning to go to the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2017 should read this before setting off. Looking for an amazing super yacht deal…look no further…looking for the hottest most exciting new superyacht designs…got that here too…looking for VIP or regular tickets…we’ve got you covered…and last but not least don’t go anywhere without your FLIBS 2017 App!

1. 18 Must See Yachts At The Show

With 1,200 boats at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2017 there is far too many to visit in just five days. So, Kate Lardy, of Boat International picks out the best of the best...

2. Top 15 Yacht Deals at FLIBS 2017

Worth Avenue Yachts one of the most important brokerages in attendance at the show will have displays in two locations, one for their mega yachts and another for their smaller yachts. These are Worth’s top 15 yacht deals available at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2017.

3. Buy Tickets In Advance

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the "Yachting Capital of the World" will host the 58th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show on Nov 1- Nov 5, 2017. Show exhibits range from yacht builders and designers to exotic cars and brokerage yachts. A wide variety of boats will be on display including runabouts, sportfishers, high performance boats, center consoles, cabin cruisers, flats boats, skiffs, express cruisers, sailing yachts, motor yachts, bowriders, catamarans, ski boats, jet boats, trawlers, inflatables, canoes, and extraordinary superyachts. FLIBS is exactly where you want to be! Buy FLIBS Tickets Here.

4. Be A VIP At The Show

Each VIP Club Experience package includes show entry, access to the Windward VIP Club, Ulysse Nardin Lounge and the Water Taxi for one person on one day. Buy FLIBS VIP Tickets.

5. Download The Show App

MyBoatShow is the official events app for The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), The St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show, The Yacht and Brokerage Show in Miami Beach (YBS) and The Palm Beach International Boat Show. The MyBoatShow app is ideal for visitors to these events as it will help them to navigate these shows and find the boats and marine products they are searching for. Download the FLIBS Show App.

Have an amazing time at the boat show of the year!

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5 Seaside Resorts Near London

Southwold

Southwold is a beautiful seaside town on the heritage coast of Suffolk. There is just one road leading into the town, which dates back to the 11th century. 

Where to go?

Southwold just happens to be the home of the famous brewery company Adnams. Adnams offer tours of the victorian building in which the modern distillery is located. It’s the perfect way to see how Adnams creates their award winning beers and spirits and guests can even create their own unique gin.


Southwold Pier and its adjacent beaches offer a variety of things to do and see. A stroll along the beach to the pier will take visitors past a range of colourful beach huts. There are a few gift shops along the way as well as plenty of restaurants and cafes. The Boardwalk Restaurant offers stunning views across the sea with fresh and seasonal cuisines served throughout the day. The Treat Parlour guarantees you won’t leave empty-handed with the array of ice creams, sweets, fudge and shortbreads.


Other attractions include the Water Clock, built in 1998 it was designed to represent the importance of water recycling. For something a little bit different, the model yacht regattas occur throughout the summer months. The regattas are held on a boating lake next to Southwold pier called “The Pond.” The unique activity has been ongoing in Southwold for more than 100 years and all ages are welcome to try out in the competition. The organisers can even provide you with a model yacht if you don’t own one yourself.


How to get there?

Experience the true Essex and Suffolk countryside on this lovely drive from the M25 up to Southwold. For a quick route take the A12 and A1095 all the way or divert for a smooth drive through the Suffolk hills to the town. If you’re looking to drive over the Suffolk hills on a sunny day in the ultimate style, roll down the roof of a Porsche or a Ferrari through Supercar Hire UK. 

Hastings

The “new Brighton”, Hastings holds film festivals, farmers markets and sports a smart new pier. The town claims fame from the Battle of Hastings which was fought in 1066 between the Norman-French army and the English army of Harold Godwinson.


Where to go?

The Pier has been transformed into a glitzy beach destination on an international level after a £14million refurbishment. Just close to the pier is Hastings Old town, the area that dates prior to the nineteenth century. An afternoon stroll through the streets will please visitors due to the unique sights; The Net Shops and the Stade make up around 50 tall black wooden sheds which were built to protect fishing gear from the weather. After wandering around the old town, take the funicular up the cliff to Hastings Castle and St Clement’s Caves.



How to get there?

The A21 will lead you all the way to Hastings and it’s just a 40 mile trip from the M25. 

  

What is it?

We know that Folkestone is no match for the beaches of the French Riviera - think shingle instead of sparkling white sands. However, this seaside resort is very close to London and has some unexpected sights.



Where to go?

Wondering around the town, you’ll probably come across the 200 foot cliff. The lift will transport you all the way down to the beach. After further exploration, you’re likely to come across the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, a miniature railway which has been delighting visitors for over 88 years. The locomotives are one-third of the full size Steam & Diesel engines. The 13.5 mile track features four stations, all within walking distance of a beach. Some stations also offer catering, museums and gift shops.



How to get there?

This seaside resort near London is easily found via the M25 and the M20. If you prefer to take a more scenic route through the countryside, try exiting the M20 at Maidstone before heading down the A274 for some beautiful Kent scenery. Drivers will pass the village of Biddenden with its exquisite and Edwardian architecture as well as the Biddenden Vineyards where Apple cider, brandy and wine are produced. Don’t forget to head back east on the A28 to ensure you reach Folkestone.



What is it?

Officially one of Britain's most iconic seaside resorts with its monumental 9 miles of sandy beaches.



Where to go?

Dreamland amusement park in Margate has been entertaining the whole family for decades. The park was refurbished and reopened in June 2015 after years of decline. Traditional street food stalls dot the town's streets where visitors can try a range of snacks such cockles, fish & chips and candy floss. Shell Grotto can not be a missed, a series of underground passageways and rooms covered in shell mosaic. Some believe the grotto is an ancient temple built around 2000 years ago.



How to get there?

Margate is accessible from the A2 from London which leads to the A299 taking you straight to the seaside resort. For those looking to adventure further, a detour to the Isle of Sheppey via the A249 will only set you back a few more minutes.

Brighton

What is it?

Without a doubt, Brighton has been at the forefront of the British seaside getaway for years. Easily accessible from London with plenty of entertainment for the whole family. The renowned nightlife and endless water sport activities, amusement arcades and shopping have made Brighton a busy bustling holiday destination in its own right.



Where to go?

Brighton Pier is a focal point and the exemplary landmark of the city. Hours can be spent exploring the array of shops and food stalls and let's not forget the rides and attractions for the whole family. If traveling through the British countryside in a supercar was not enough, adrenaline junkies are spoilt for choice with rollercoaster “Turbo” and wooden log water ride, “Wild River”. During the day, Pebbly Beach offers traditional seaside fun while at night, the sea front transforms into a fashionable beachside club scene.



How to get there?

The seaside road trip to Brighton will lead drivers straight down the M/A23 past Crawley. If you’ve had enough of the motorway madness, Nywards near Haywards Heath is a quick detour off the A23. The romantic house and ruins are surrounded by exquisite gardens open to all the family. If you’re looking to transport the whole family in style, experience the Range Rover Sport with luxury car hire UK.

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Top 5 Hiking Routes near Serre Chevalier

The delightful region of Serre Chevalier is full of quaint villages and hidden valleys just waiting to be discovered. Although mainly known as a ski resort, the area has over 370km of incredible hiking routes and more than enough to make a summer visit worthwhile. The best way to explore them is to use a hotel in Serre Chevalier as a base for your exploration and go out and do as much or as little of them as you like. Here are our top five trails.

5. Reallon to Saint-Firmin – 104km

Reallon in the Parc des Ecrins

The stunning GR50 hiking trail traverses the valley from north to south, offering some of the best hiking in all of France. Reallon to Saint Firmin is perhaps one of its most jaw-dropping sections, with picturesque lakes, mountains and meadows along the way. Although its sharp elevations make it a relatively challenging route, the scenery is an almighty reward and well worth the effort. It is almost impossible not to find a picturesque village on the trail, with Saint Firmin in particular renowned for its beauty. 

St Firmin

4. Mizoen to Briançon – 71km

Mizoen

This stretch of the GR50 begins with the beautiful flower-filled village of Mizeon. From high up on its hill, the village has incredible panoramic views over the Lac du Chambon, the Meije, and the Romanche gorges and up to the Taillefer ridge. From here, the route meanders along the valley and offers up some incredible views of La Meije Mountain. Villages worth visiting along the way include Le Monetier les Bains and Saint Chaffrey. 

Briançon

3. GR54 – 176km

GR 54 

The GR54 loops around the higher parts of the Parc National des Ecrins, France’s oldest national park. Taking approximately 12 days to complete, the beautiful trail is regarded as strenuous but not difficult by the experts. There are many great refuges along the way serving traditional French Alp cuisine, but it is also possible to camp out on the route should you wish to bring a tent.

2. Briançon to Nice - 209km

Nice - Côte d'Azur

Briançon to Nice is one of the most famous and rewarding treks that one can do. The views are divine and even during peak season it is not unheard of to not see a single person for days at a time. There are several medieval Alpine hill villages perched high up in the mountains to stop and recharge while enjoying some delicious fare, including Fort Queyras and St Dalmas le Selvage. The journey takes roughly a week and is relatively easy in terms of difficulty.


1. Les Boussardes circuit – 8.4km

Serre Chevalier

The Les Boussardes circuit is ideal for a single days hike out from the hotel at Serre Chevalier and well worth including in this list. The route is marked with heavenly hamlets that make for a welcome break on this steep uphill climb. You’re rewarded for your effort at the halfway point where there is a beautiful glacial lake with incredible views out across the region. Definitely not to be missed.

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