The quieter side of the white isle

10/6/2018

Much more than just a hotspot for hedonists – Ibiza is luring a new wave of second-homer prioritising the sound of peace over heady beat partying. Laura Henderson, managing editor of Abode2, takes a walk on the quiet side When enterprising artisan Joan Mari opened his drive-up bar on the outskirts of San Carlos in the north of Ibiza in 1954, little did he know that his makeshift hangout would become a bona fide symbol of la buena vida (good life) for the entire island. Mari’s pit stop paved the way for a humble dance hall and barbecue. Business began to prosper, even in those tentative first years in which European tourism was just spreading its holiday wings. Suffice to say the seeds of a Mediterranean chill-out utopia were sown and the island has never looked back. Today, that same irrepressible freedom, colour and warmth that attracted those hippy pioneers continues to shape the island’s intimate yet cosmopolitan tourist evolution, one that happily embraces a rich UNESCO heritage: vintage landscapes, pristine whitewashed towns and hotels rurales as much as the newer addition floaty fashion, uber-glam marinas, night clubs and super-size holiday villas. But while the DJ-driven club scene remains a drawcard through the summer months – island life is being lived at an altogether more relaxed tempo by a new breed of holidaymaker - health-conscious couples and family orientated holidaymakers drawn by the easy-care ‘liveability’ of the place. Many are opting to put down permanent roots, basing themselves ‘on island’ for several months at a time where they can take advantage of a business as usual lifestyle in warmer climes. “The island is opening itself up much more as a year-round destination,” explains local agent Lars Bruun. “International schools, sports and marina facilities together with new amenity-rich hotels such as Nobu and Sir Joan are attracting on-the-go families and young professionals. Venues are also extending their opening times across island, with more of a spread of events throughout the calendar giving the island a less seasonal-centric buzz.” Improved airlift has played its part too. British Airways daily flights operate throughout the year from London City Airport, with regional UK airports offering a more comprehensive schedule with a choice of airlines including Easy Jet, Ryan Air and Jet2. Last year also saw the launch of Surf Air, a private jet service that operates between London City and Ibiza with a monthly all-you-can-fly membership fee from £1,800. Compact and bijou, the island squeezes a lot into its small surface. About half the landscape, particularly the rugged north east, is covered with dense foliage, thick pine forests and olive, fig and fruit farms, while the coastline is characterised by dozens of cosy bays, walking trails, and outof-the-way beaches. Northerly resorts such as Santa Eularia, Es Cana and Puerto de San Miguel are popular with those seeking a quieter, slower paced getaway experience, while the livelier south around Ibiza Town, Playa d’en Bossa and the party-on Mecca of San Antonio continues to capture the imagination of a younger work-hard, play-hard international crowd who don’t like to sit still. The third-biggest of the Balearic Islands, stable property values have further added to the investment appeal. Despite a debt-deflation fall-off in prices in 2012 across mainland Spain which is still in recovery mode – the property market on Ibiza remains buoyant, with four of the five island municipalities claiming the most expensive property in the region. “The real estate market has learnt to evolve,” says Bruun. “Of the 140,000 full-time island residents, approximately 26% are now from overseas. Before, the must-have luxury properties were to be found in the south and south west. Now other areas are ‘bigging up’ their selling points – each offering scope with a diverse selection of property types and price points to match. Strong fundamentals continue to underpin stability: namely a diverse pool of local and international buyers, a finite supply of quality real estate and tight building regulations.” Rental yields, with a footfall of over 2m visitors to the island every year are also delivering good returns, adds Petra Lavin of prestige agents Lavin Estates: “Summer, when the majority of property owners let, is a busy period. A well appointed villa with pool can easily achieve £6,000 per week, potentially much more for a large, luxury property.” So where are the top places to invest on the White Isle? What should buyers be looking out for? SOUTH/WEST Brimming with luxury residences and stylish mansions along with more newly constructed turnkey apartments and villas, the south west of the island hits the spot for short-break escapees and weekend commuters with easy access to Ibiza Town, the marinas and the airport. “Many properties in the area boast stunning views of Ibiza old town D’Alt Vila,” confirms Bruun, “plus you’re just minutes away from the cultural sites and leisure attractions of downtown.” NORTH/NORTH WEST The sparsely populated northwest reaches (the island’s main agricultural region), boasts a contrasting landscape of rocky outcrops, canopied forests and small-scale beach resorts. The ideal hunting ground for larger rural estates, renovation projects with conversion potential and traditional village townhouses, property prices are a good 30-40% below those in the south. “Locations to watch include Portinatx, Puerto de San Miguel and Cala San Vicente,” confirms local agent Monica Balbin. EAST/NORTH EAST A quieter stretch of the island marked by quaint villages, secluded bays and olive and fruit farms, a workaday local population means that there is life here year-round. Key areas include San Carlos and San Juan. “Property here has excellent capital yield potential thanks to much improved road access from the south,” confirms Balbin. “Larger plots are still available in quiet, rural settings, fuelling the belief that it’s less important where on the island you live these days.” For more property insights from Abode2 visit www.abode2.com. ImmoVario readers can also get 50% off Abode2 Digital Subscriptions with the code ABODE50. To find out more visit www.abode2.com/subscribe/

Castles and sandcastles on the Costa Blanca

9/14/2018

The Costa Blanca is one of Spain's most famous holiday destinations. You might have already been to Benidorm to soak up the sun, enjoyed a city break in Alicante or paella on the beach in Valencia but there's a whole host of other adventures awaiting you on this white coast. Did you know that the Costa Blanca boasts more than 170 beautiful white beaches? Did you also know that there are more than 230 castle or fortification constructions along this coastline to chill out. Beach life With 200 kilometres of coastline and 57 blue flags, you're guaranteed a great day at the beach on the Costa Blanca. From white sand to pebbles, steep cliff or dune backdrops, the beaches here just call for you to relax with friends or family. First, those white sandy beaches for those who want to switch off from the hustle and bustle of daily life on a sun lounger to the tune of waves lapping on the shore by day and the latest music by night. The northern part of the Costa Blanca is where you will find exclusive beaches in the Marina Alta area. Denia, Javea and Benissa are popular here. Benidorm in the middle has an unforgettable skyline and is the most international of the beach towns. You are guaranteed to find home comforts such as a local breakfast here! Further south you'll find beahces lined with sand dunes, such as those at Guardamar del Segura and wetlands and salt flats in Lagunas de la Mata near Torrevieja and El Hondo in Elche. Fortified positions - standing the test of time From bastions to watchtowers, lookout points to bunkers and even the church in Xábia, the Costa Blanca's prime position has been the battleground and defence point of the region's inhabitants for centuries. Spain's history of invasions from the Moors to the era of the Catholic Kings and even the Vikings cannot be seen over the course of just one holiday. From Orihuela's medina which was attacked by Vikings, Santa Barbara's castle which dates back to the Arab reign in Spain, the fortified mountain castle of the Palace of Marqués de dos Aguas, and of course the castles overlooking the sea such as Guadalest, you'll need to visit more than once to learn about their fascinating history and role in defending their respective towns over time. Looking for a house in this lovely area? Please have a look on our website immoVario.com to find a nice overview of property for sale in the Costa Blanca Sources Costablanca.org/Eng/Cosas_que_hacer/Playas_y_Calas/Pages/default.aspx Costablanca.org/Eng/Descubre_la_Costa_Blanca/Ruta%20de%20los%20Castillos/Pages/default.aspx

Menorca: The exclusive untouched gem of the Balearic Islands

8/22/2018

Stephen Penn, content editor at Abode2, takes a look at how Menorca is rising up the ranks and becoming a hot investment spot for a unique Balearic experience When thinking about the Balearic Islands it’s easy to stereotype them as vibrant party islands, but one island has retained its quiet Mediterranean charm over the years, and is now becoming the place to invest. In the 1970s, the majority of the Balearic Islands jumped headfirst into package holidays and nightclub tourism, giving them the stellar reputation of being premiere holiday hotspots. Menorca, however, resisted this transformation at the time, preferring to remain under the radar in terms of mass holiday appeal. Today, this has proven to be a smart decision, as it stands as an unspoilt Mediterranean haven and it’s property market is now gaining traction for its rugged shoreline, punctuated by small bays with white sand beaches on an aquamarine sea, and a generally laid-back lifestyle. Known as the ‘green’ island, it was named a Unesco Biosphere zone in 1993 to protect its cultural heritage, countryside and coastline. Menorca’s homes are held in high esteem for boasting immaculate drystone walls and rustic-chic gates made from wild olive wood – as anything bling is frowned upon by the local authorities. “Menorca reminds people of what the Mediterranean used to be like 40 years ago,” says Francisco Arnau of Engel & Völkers. “It’s relaxed and peaceful.” This air of exclusivity doesn’t come cheap however, as due to prices for the most attractive properties - on the beach or with sea views - are up 15 per cent year-on-year due to the limits on property numbers. This is seeing a boost, however, as 18th-century palacios in its former capital Ciutadella are being swept up by eagle‑eyed investors to be turned into sophisticated boutique hotels and a number of developers are casting their sights on the island to create more seasonal summer homes. This growing potential is bringing more and more people to the market, including the Balearics Sotheby’s International Realty team, which is now offering international and local clients a selection of high quality properties throughout the island. “We monitored the Menorcan market for some time and observed the increase in value of properties and land, boosted by the rapid growth in demand,” says Alejandra Vanoli, managing director of Balearics Sotheby’s International Realty. “We realised this unique and beautiful island had huge potential as the island in the Balearics with the biggest growth opportunity.” The vast majority of buyers on the island tend to be those in their later years, meaning that despite growing numbers, it has retained a more elegant and relaxing lifestyle. There are limitations however, as most who come do so between Easter and October, as the island still remains seasonal. “One of the downsides to Menorca, but which has helped to maintain its charm, is the lack of flights in the winter – they mostly drop down to weekly services,” says Colin Guanaria, a quantity surveyor on the island. Summer access is improving, though, with increased routes from Britain – as British Airways is now operating a route from Edinburgh and Jet2 has started a new route from London Stansted. According to Spain’s national airline database, Menorca Airport now receives around 1.5 million visitors per year. This is still a fraction compared to the 10 million tourists Mallorca welcomes each year, but it is clear that Menorca is rising to become the hottest place to invest in property. For more property insights, go to abode2.com

Positive vibes for Marbella´s property market

7/18/2018

The allure of sun-soaked Marbella is strong, and it’s having an extremely positive impact on the property market. Stephen Penn, content editor of Abode2 spoke to a local real estate agency to get the findings from their latest property market report. Across the board, virtually every indicator of activity of the Marbella property market and its economy is positive. Last year, the increase in sales volume was a healthy 6.9%, rising to 4275 properties sold during 2017. In addition, tourism - the main source for real estate sales - is breaking records, both nationally and locally, with hotels being built and old ones refurbished. Rental prices increased 20.8% from January 2017 to January 2018, and 924 new companies (discounting those which closed) were formed in Marbella in 2017. The evidence is clear that property prices are creeping upwards, and Spanish buyers are returning to the market place. Of the foreign buyers of property in Andalucia, those from the UK represent 21.5%, followed by the Swedes at 11.6% and the Belgians at 8.11%. Although the UK demand for property in this area has diminished slightly from 26.82% in 2016, the UK market is showing surprising resilience and remains the most important single market for purchasing property in Andalucia and in all of Spain. A few ultra-prime areas in Marbella have doubled in price since the bottom of the market in 2011, whereas other areas in the municipality still offer properties for sale at below pre-crisis levels. The property sales volume in the province of Malaga is double that of the Balearic Islands, and in fourth place in Spain behind Madrid, Barcelona and Alicante. But what is it that draws so many people to this sun-soaked city? Since Marbella started to become popular in the mid-1950s when the Marbella Club Hotel opened, a policy of low density, low rise construction and ample green zones have all played a part in making Marbella stand out today as an oasis of quality, compared to the overdeveloped growth corridors of the Spanish Costas. There are more than 40 golf courses within a 30-minutes’ drive from Marbella. Located at Europe’s southernmost tip, the area boasts more than 320 days of sunshine a year and has the best weather in all of the continent. With these contributory factors and a core population in the municipality in the winter months of around 300,000 people, Marbella now has a twelve-month season, with its high and low periods, compared to the strictly seasonal nature of many Mediterranean resort cities, rolling up the sidewalks at the end of September and gradually coming back to life at the end of March. Marbella also has a unique lifestyle which permits one to enter into the various strata of Marbella society or simply sit back and enjoy the climate, the incredible light which artists always enthuse about, the warmth and genuineness of the Spanish people, the outstanding nature surrounding the area. To get the latest property news, visit www.abode2.com

Embrace the pleasure principle at Pikes

6/15/2018

Ibiza’s ultimate hostelry of hedonism – Pikes Hotel may have embraced a wonderland makeover under the infamous Ibiza Rocks brand - but it’s still an island must, as Laura Henderson, the Managing Editor of Abode2, discovers. Nestled a few miles away from the drink-party-repeat clubbing scene of San Antonio - Pikes has played host to many a fast-living celebrity Mick Jagger, George Michael, Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Grace Jones... I could go on. As absurdly decadent destinations go – the hotel is hard to equal. Th ink dazzling disco balls above the pool, walk-in costume closet and wall-mounted zebras. Did I mention the hot-pink tennis court or Freddie Mercury karaoke bathroom? Having been lovingly restored in 2011 since its takeover by Ibiza Rocks founders Andy McKay and Dawn Hindle – the couple have successfully created a modern incarnation of an old school classic, completely returning the estate to its former glory. The story of the let-your-hair-down establishment however wouldn’t be complete without reference to the former owner of the 15th century finca Tony Pike - a one-time yachtsman, model, actor, and raffish gigolo who converted the property into a resort synonymous with Hawaiian Tropic tanning days and wild nights that live long in the memory. Fast forward to present day and the property’s new life chapter hasn’t diminished any of its push the boundaries personality. For the third year running, the hotel has scooped prestigious awards at the 2017 ‘White Ibiza Best of Ibiza Readers’ Choice Awards including Best Boutique Hotel 2017. Accommodation has a whimsical character and rustic Balearic feel, with décor that gives a nod to the hotel’s party on roots with added extras such as vintage record players and sunken bathtubs. Rooms are dotted around the estate, linked by a web of paths and gardens where you might encounter a garden gnome or inflatable crocodile. The Ca Pietra Spanish tiled floors have been glammed up with cowhide rugs and guests can keep the boho vibe going by day by lounging on the porch in 70s style rattan peacock chairs or by the pool on over-sized sun loungers. Foodies are unlikely to go hungry either. Head chef Lee Milne who has worked at award-winning restaurants including ‘Restaurant Gordon Ramsay’ and ‘The Vineyard at Stockcross’ has established ‘Room 39’ as one of the best restaurants in Ibiza, with daily mouth-watering ‘House specials’ along with an extensive à la carte menu and sublime individually chosen wine list. A weekend institution drawing those in-the-know is the ‘Sunday Roast’ - starting with poolside Bloody Mary’s followed by a traditional English-style roast with all the trimmings. The hotel’s next stage outing is certainly in safe and creative hands - Dawn and Andy co-founders of Manumission, the biggest and most famous club night in the world that launched in 1993, boasted over 1.5 million visitors. In 2005, they spotted the shift in youth culture and launched the Ibiza Rocks brand that many argue - has pioneered the social rejuvenation of the island. Says Andy: “The hotel is one of the few places that still represents the authentic, carefree, Balearic spirit of the Ibiza. As we so often say to guests - the only danger of booking Pikes is that once you check in, you’ll never want to check out…” PIKES HOTEL – FAST FACTS • The hotel is named as one of the ‘Top 100 Hotels in the world’ by Sunday Times Travel. • There are 25 comfortable and spacious rooms and junior suites to the gorgeous vast apartment ‘La Residencia’, with walls hung with stunning photographic images by Victor Spinelli and other artists. • For the Zen-minded - there’s a whirlpool tub, a variety of massages, fitness and yoga classes offered in the ‘Rockovery’ tent.

La moda española: Spanish fashion brands to add to your wardrobe

6/6/2018

When you think of fashion, which countries spring to mind? France, Italy? The question is, should you be adding Spain to that list? For those that have already travelled to some of Spain's major cities to check out the shopping potential, the answer is an obvious yes! Spanish fashion continues to find new ground and new fans, from high street fast-fashion to high-end designers flying the fashion flag for Spain. Perhaps the most obvious Spanish designer or name to look out for is Zara. Hailing from Galicia, and part of the Inditex group, Zara is known across the world for its affordable adaptations of catwalk designer dresses, trousers and looks. With prices in Spain typically lower than in northern European countries, Zara is definitely worth popping into several times when on holiday in Spain. Styles and stock change weekly and they operate a slick turnkey buying process with a lot of their production taking place in Portugal and Morocco, perfect to ship in new designs that are a quick reaction to the latest high street and catwalk trends. For the younger and older ends of the Zara spectrum check out Stradivarius and Uterque. Stradivarius targets a younger market with staples such as jeans, slogan t-shirts and faux leather jackets a guaranteed fixture on their shelves. Uterque is all about fine tailoring, unusual jewellery and top knotch shoes. Aimed at an older than Zara market, a combination of the two names works well for us. With over 150 years' heritage, Loewe is well-known in Spain for classic leather bags, high-end accessories and ready-to-wear clothes. Now part of the LVMH group, Loewe is often seen on Queen Sofia and remains true to its founding country -its leather goods are all made in Spain. If you're a true high street fan then Mango should be a definite port of call. Like its rival Zara, you can snap up a bargain by shopping in their Spanish shops compared to their northern European counterparts. Leather jackets, basics and limited run dresses all form part of the classic Mango wardrobe. Nice Things offers a high street approach to Spanish fashion with higher end styles and prices. A more boutique feel welcomes you into their shops with their strengths lying in patterned tops, wide-leg trousers and blouses. Founded in 1995 this is a relatively young company and its collections reflect the upbeat approach to fashion and the designs you'll find in its stores. Finally, a mention for Bimba y Lola, a fashion focused brand well known in Spain for chunky jewellery, affordable leather purses and handbags and adaptable wardrobe staples. Invest in one of their handbags, you won't regret it! If you are looking for a holiday home for sale in Spain with easy access to Spain's top fashion brands, we recommend the Costa del Sol or Costa del Maresme, for the best shops with the latest from the best Spanish designers on your doorstep. Sources Photo by Pete Bellis on Unsplash Telegraph.co.uk/fashion/brands/best-spanish-brands/ Independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/fashion-beauty/best-spanish-fashion-brands-uk-a7395851.html

Evoking Ibiza´s party scene with bespoke art

5/21/2018

A scene-stealer for its Balearic-Beat coastline and high-octane nightlife, Ibiza is perhaps best known as the world’s premier dance music destination. White Isle resident and clubbing aficionado, Nick Pagett is honouring this heritage through art.  A thumping baseline is the ubiquitous heartbeat of life on the vibrant island of Ibiza, a sun-kissed getaway that has morphed from its bohemian roots into an extravagant, wild-spirited party Mecca. Disco fiends, celebrities and party hungry revellers arrive in droves over the summer to be swept up in the island’s outrageous party culture and to bake on its warm sands. But while the pristine coastline and stunning panoramic views continue to draw an ever more cosmopolitan crowd, it’s the vintage vibe and soul-seeking heritage that have honed its true character. That is certainly the opinion of UK business entrepreneur and White Isle resident, Nick Pagett, who has set up his own art business to help spread a little island nostalgia wherever you happen to be. First visiting in 2006, Nick was immediately hooked and soon set up a late-night food emporium for the leading nightclubs on the island, including Amnesia, DC10, Eden, El Divino and the Zoo Project. “I’ve travelled to 65 countries but there’s nowhere that tugs at the heart strings quite like Ibiza,” says Nick. “There’s such a diverse music range, so much going on for people of all ages, tastes and persuasions. “During the 50s, the island saw the likes of Denholm Elliot, Diana Rigg, Terry Thomas and a gaggle of young aristocrats take up residence. When Laurie Olivier pulled up in 1965, Ibiza’s reputation as the cool crew’s hangout was sealed. It was these trailblazing non-conformists who paved the way for the flower children of the late 60s. “From the hippies in the 70s at Benirras, through to the different genres of Acid House in the late 80s, the raves, famous DJs, the debauchery of Manumission, the golden era of Ibiza and the iconic clubs, there has always been something special for everyone here, whatever type of let-your-hair-down party you’re in to.” After purchasing his first home on the island in 2016, Nick found himself perusing art galleries and shops looking for pieces to adorn his white walls but came up empty. He says: “The island has such a vibrant history. I couldn’t believe that the artwork available didn’t reflect this colourful heritage.” This realisation sparked a brainwave, and Nick set about commissioning local artists and sourcing imagery to create bespoke pieces of art that not only tell the story of the island, but also capture the feeling of being there. “So much has happened on the island and there’s such an intense sense of nostalgia from all the millions of parties, clubbers that have visited over the years,” he explains. “I wanted to use art to recreate that vibe, to give people a way of bringing that vitality and life into their homes.” Nick teamed up with long-time friend and art enthusiast, Aaron Pope, and started work on creating a series of authentic paintings using local talented artists. This has since become his latest business venture, DJ Art Ibiza. “We have put huge efforts into sourcing nostalgic images and creating paintings that stir your emotions and bring back the feelings and memories you have of your time clubbing here, whether it be a great DJ, a chilled sunset, queuing outside a club or the atmosphere of a wild party,” he says. “We’re collaborating with five keynote island artists who specialize in different genres, including the renowned Karina Danchu and Carlos Genicio. It’s a show-stopping collection that’s already attracting attention not just from island residents and clubbing fans but art collectors seeking something a little different.” The work features well-known DJs David Guetta, Tiesto and Carl Cox, as well as iconic clubs like Pacha and Space. There are also paintings from memorable parties throughout history, ideal for a vibrant space, and even island landscapes, for a more holistic addition to the home. Original works of art are available for sale, as well as highquality canvas prints in various ‘ready-to-go’ sizes. Private commissions are also undertaken. Adds Nick: “Nowhere captures the clubbing scene with such clued-up originality as Ibiza. Yet for such a tiny island - it’s culturally sophisticated and outrageously picturesque too. Depicting its multiple personalities on canvas is a true privilege.” To find out more visit www.DJ-ART-IBIZA.com, email [email protected] or see exhibitions at various beach clubs over the island this By Laura Henderson of Abode2

May in Córdoba

5/5/2018

Córdoba's events calendar comes alive in May, just before the real heat of the Andalucian summer arrives. May starts with the patio festival. A lot of the older buildings in the town centre in Córdoba have a central patio, a feature of Cordoban houses that was inherited from the Romans but proliferated by the Moors. Patios were a shaded area which could be, and still are, decorated to keep cool but look attractive at the same time. Water features and flowers are the norm, with jasmine and orange blossom being the main plants you will find in these wonderful peaceful areas. Approximately 50 patios take part in the patio festival and some even open during siesta time. Once the patio festival is over it's time to party Cordoban style at the Feria de Mayo. Held at the El Arenal fairground, the annual Feria de Mayo sees the Cordobeses come out to shake their gladrags in style. You will soon get used to the sight of Cordoban men in the traditional hat and Cordoban women dressed in Flamenco dresses, dancing to Sevillanas with their friends, chatting and catching up over a glass of the local Manzanilla sherry and tapas. Initially a celebaton of Nuestra Señora de la Salud (Our Lady of Good Health), the Feria de Mayo is now the place to be seen and to meet friends for locals and foreigners alike. Local groups hire casetas (stands) and play Flamenco and Sevillanas music for those who want to dance like a local, and serve traditional food throughout the day and evening. For those who like the pomp and circumstance of a festival, there is a horse parade and firework displays as well as traditional gypsy costumes aplenty on show for Andalucia is the homeland of Federico Garcia Lorca's Romancero Gitano or gypsy ballads. We also recommend a walk along the Guadalquivir River, the fifth longest river in the Iberian Peninsular and the second longest in Spain and a visit to Córdoba's mezquita, a Catholic cathedral/mosque which holds a mass every morning at 9.30 am and twice a day on Sundays. If you own a holiday home on the Costa del Sol, Córdoba is very easy to get to on the AVE train from central Malaga. With a travel time of less than one hour, you can be in central Córdoba before lunchtime!  Sources: Mezquitadecordoba.org/cabildo-mezquita-cordoba.asp Andalucia.com/cities/cordoba/patios.htm Cordoba24.info/english/

Tourism cap could quash Mallorca´s all-time high tourism demand

4/26/2018

Stephen Penn, content editor at Abode2, takes a closer look at the impact of the tourism cap sweeping the Balearic Islands: Demand for holiday homes in Mallorca is at an all-time high, but thanks to caps on tourism rentals, there are strong concerns the supply cannot keeping up – as 3,620 accommodation places leave the market. Over the past two years, the number of people looking for exclusive holiday rental properties on the Balearic Islands has soared, with people looking more and more for ‘hidden’ locations on the sun-swept hotspots of Mallorca and Ibiza. In a bid to offer these private getaways, more and more property owners on the islands have been offering their homes to short-stay tourists, in order to capitalise on this demand. Rental prices have risen by double digits over the past few years due to the popularity of shared homes via sites such as San Francisco-based Airbnb, which in turn has priced has many locals out of the market. "The living situation has become unsustainable due to the increase in people using digital accommodation brokers such as Airbnb,” explains Vincent Torres, the general manager of the City of Ibiza Council’s tourism department. “We want to shift the housing situation to benefit long-term residents of the island, as things have spiralled over the past few summers – to no one’s benefit." In a bid to combat this issue and equal the playing field for locals and tourists, last year the government introduced a new law, enforcing a cap of 623,624 beds that can be used for tourists, as well as stricter enforcement of property owners having a DRIAT (Documento de Responsibilidad de Inicio de Actividad de Turismo) license for apartments and EVT (Estancia Turística en Viviendas) licenses for villas. The EVT licenses have been a requirement for years on the islands, allows owners of villas, fincas and chalets to advertise and let out their properties to tourists for short periods of time. These licenses come with restrictions, including properties having no more than 6 bedrooms and a bathroom for every three guests. DRIAT licenses for apartments are harder to come by. A spokesman for Engel & Volker’s explained to Abode2 that apartments cannot be rented out for holiday lets of less than one month, unless they are in existing designated buildings where there is a tourist license for the building. For years apartment owners have circumvented these rules, but now the government is cracking down and those who let out their apartments or villas without the correct paperwork, run the risk of being slapped with a serious fine. In addition to this, as of July last year, in a bid to tackle the ever-growing prices of rentals in places like Mallorca and Ibiza, a moratorium was put in place, meaning no new licenses will be issued until July 2018. Those with existing licenses will not be affected at the present time. This movement has been welcomed by a number of property rental companies, including Engel & Volkers. “For the local government, the main problem has been focused on the apartment market. It is important to understand that renting out apartments for short term holiday lets (under 1 month) is and always has been illegal in this region of Spain,” explains Dominique Carroll from Engel & Volkers. “Now, as the local government have introduced large fines of up to fines of up to €400,000 for platforms offering illegal housing, and fines of up to €40,000 for private owners, people will think twice about doing this.” Since the holiday rentals legislation came into force, 574 properties with 3,620 accommodation places have been removed from the market. But some have hit out at the impact this will have on companies like Airbnb, which is currently in a legal battle over an alleged breach of the regulations, as well as working class families who rely on rental income. "We strongly believe that rules in the Balearic Islands should help spread tourism benefits to local families and their communities - not keep them in the hands of a wealthy few,” says a spokesman for Airbnb. Despite this opposition, the change has been celebrated by the government. Tourism minister Bel Busquets publically stated last month that the reduction in illegal homes has been a ‘positive move’ and that it is fundamental to the objective of ‘changing the economic model’ of the Balearics. Other Spanish cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Seville and Valencia, have taken note from this change and have either passed laws, or are examining regulation, to curb tourism rentals via the sites because of their effects on local rental prices. For the latest property news and insights, visit www.abode2.com

Picture postcard perfection in Platja d'Aro

4/11/2018

One of just 19 Catalan Official Family Holiday Destinations, Platja d'Aro has grown from a small fishing village to a town that offers something for everyone. It is a fantastic place to rent one of our holiday villas if you are travelling to the Costa Brava with friends or family for a holiday. Platja d'Aro is the beach area just 3km from the nearest town of Castells d'Aro. A town steeped in history with Castillo de Benedormiens, a castle which dates back to 1041 being one of the main attractions. There are medieval towers to see here and El Parque dels Estanys, a 150,000 m2 wildlife park which has over 250 species of birds. Daily walking tours and lookout points are just some of the attractions at this very popular local gem. If you really want to partake in a local custom and you are in the area on the 23rd April, remember to buy a book and a rose to give to your significant other. The 23rd April is St Jordi's Day (Saint George's Day), the patron saint of Catalonia. On this day couples buy each other a rose and a book, often from the numerous stalls which local shopowners open up in a special fair just for the occasion. There is a lacemaking event on the same day, so if books aren't your thing, you can always buy some handmade lace and give that as a unique gift when you get back home. One of the biggest social gatherings of the year is the town's answer to Oktoberfest. A beer festival takes place every October, with both local and international beers served straight from the keg. Held in the town square, each year there is a different commemorative pitcher available to sample the beers in and take home with you. Platja d'Aro is just 80 km from Barcelona and 43km from Girona, giving you two options for airports to fly into when you arrive. You can take advantage of easy connections to major European airports at Barcelona, or low-cost airlines at Girona. If you are looking to rent a holiday home for a week, a month or even longer, check out our homes in Platja d'Aro and combine the best of two worlds - a fantastic beach and local cultural activities, just what you need for a relaxing holiday! Sources Picture: ID 90755648 © Juan Bautista Cofreces | Dreamstime.com Catalonia-valencia.com/castell-platja-daro-spain-travel-guide.html Platjadaro.com/events/1356/diada_de_sant_jordi.html Platjadaro.com/events/1231/inauguration_tapping_the_first_beer_keg.html