Unique Homes is visiting Barbados to tour new luxury real estate opportunities. This is the final blog from our press trip:

Throughout the week, Unique Homes has taken its readers down the west coast of Barbados to fine restaurants, across inland parishes to gullies, and to the east coast where the rough Atlantic waters make for perfect surfing conditions. Readers may have wondered how these excursions related to real estate. It’s simple. When buyers purchase real estate in Barbados—on the west or east coasts—they’re getting more than just square footage. Owners are purchasing culture, recreation, tradition and pride. All of the places Unique Homes traveled represent the pieces that make Barbados a Caribbean hotspot.

In Paynes Bay, St. James, there are two exceptional real estate options that afford charm, luxury and Caribbean flair. Beach View and Sandy Cove are both distinctive developments with their own character.

Beach View Condo Hotel—Guests and residents of Beach View Condo Hotel are welcomed into a three-acre paradise that blends into the island atmosphere. The property offers four 3-story structures with 36 two- and three-bedroom units that range from $600,000 to $925,000 (fully furnished). Only nine units remain on the market.

Step into any unit and immediately capture views of the calm Caribbean Sea, which is located just beyond the property. An open floor plan allows sunlight to rush in and sounds of the ocean to form the musical accompaniment to a picture-perfect lifestyle.

Balconies and patios of each unit look out onto two pools—one for kids and one for adults. Because Beach View is a family oriented environment, a kids’ pool was a must. And beyond the enchanting floor plans, great location and pristine property is an even more enticing feature. Beach View Condo Hotel offers its buyers the opportunity to take part in a rental pool. The idea behind the pool is that a purchased unit can be used while it is unoccupied by its owner. This setup could potentially help offset the overall price of the condo unit and turn an even bigger investment.

Sandy Cove—Located directly on the beach, Sandy Cove’s property is comprised of 15 units in total, eight of which are currently on the market. Prices range from a $3 million resale to an $8.5 million penthouse.

Unique Homes was welcomed into unit 202, listed for $3.75 million. The 2,895-square-foot abode offered the finest finishes, a grand kitchen with high-end appliances, an abundance of storage space, three bedrooms and three and one-half baths. A large balcony off of the main living area beckoned us to take a glimpse. On the balcony, we found a plunge pool, room to host guests and private access to the property’s lovely pool and spa. Indoors and out, Sandy Cove raises the bar for island living.

Whether it be a fully furnished unit overlooking the Caribbean, or a residence on the sand with private access to the pool and beach, there is always a common denominator: great weather, friendly people, and a rich culture in Barbados.

—Lauren Varga

Unique Homes is visiting Barbados to tour new luxury real estate opportunities. This is the first blog from our press trip:

We touched down on Barbados‘ west coast—known as the Platinum Coast for its powder-soft beaches, crystal clear waters and manicured properties—in the parish of Christ Church at 1:10 p.m. (EST). The Barbadians wasted no time getting us settled in to Barbados, the most-eastern island in the Caribbean. By 3 p.m., we were checked into a room at the Beach View Hotel in St. James and was sitting poolside, overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Mirroring Barbadian style, we arrived at The Tides in an elegant, conservative fashion. The evening began with the serving of a traditional rum punch cocktail. A fresh Caesar salad and grilled jumbo shrimp appetizer, followed by sorbet to cleanse the pallet lead into the evening’s main dish. Pan-seared mahi-mahi over a creamy dish of risotto was presented as the main entree. No knife was necessary; the flaky, soft fish gently glided onto the fork with ease. And for dessert, a sweet Mars Bar and Oreo cheesecake, topped with a sliced strawberry; delicious!

Follow Unique Homes’ travels throughout the remainder of this week. Tomorrow, we journey to the eastern border of Barbados for zip-lining and a tour of St. Nicholas Abbey.

—Lauren Varga

Since I frequently write about green homes, anything related to energy efficient real estate grabs my attention, as did the recent release by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its Committee on the Environment’s (COTE) top 10 examples of sustainable architecture for 2009. These projects will be honored at the annual AIA convention in San Francisco from April 30 to May 2. While this annual list typically includes commercial and government buildings, schools and churches, this year’s honorees include two residential projects: Synergy at Dockside Green and Gish Apartments.

Synergy at Dockside Green is a mixed-use development on a former brownfield site in Victoria, British Columbia. The first community in the world to receive a LEED Platinum certification, according to designer Perkins+Will, Synergy includes a nine-story residential tower with commercial units on the ground floor; a two-story townhouse building; a six-story building with commercial units on the ground floor; and a four-story residential building. Sustainable elements include an integrated energy system that ensures the development will be greenhouse gas neutral, on-site wastewater treatment estimated to save more than 70,000 gallons of water annually, rooftop gardens, a car co-op with a Smart Car, Energy Star appliances, heat recovery ventilation units and Low-E double-glazed windows.

Gish Apartments in San Jose, Calif., is a transit-oriented apartment complex that breaks new ground for both design and green building. Also located on a brownfield site, Gish was built using locally produced materials and it offers a 25.7 percent improved efficiency over the state’s standards and a 36 percent reduction in indoor water usage compared to a conventional home. Gish is the only affordable housing development in the U.S. to receive both LEED for Homes and LEED NC Gold certification.

According to AIA, projects honored by the Top Ten Green program have an integrated approach to architecture, natural systems and technology. Typically, the projects use strategies such as the re-use of existing structures, a connection to transit systems, low-impact and regenerative site development, energy and water conservation, the use of sustainable or renewable construction materials and implementing designs that improve indoor air quality.

Unlike other awards, the Top Ten Green program pays as much attention to design as it does to performance. “In architecture, performance and aesthetics are inextricably linked. The COTE Top Ten is one of the very few awards that evaluates performance and design,” said the jury.  “Other awards and organizations look strictly at performance without care for how a building looks.” Look for more green stories in the next issue of Unique Homes magazine. Photo courtesy Synergy Dockside Green. —Camilla McLaughlin

Losing oneself in a secluded, peaceful rainforest on the island of Costa Rica never sounded so luxurious.

Tranquilo, a luxury quarter-ownership development in the gated enclave of Punta Leona along the central coast of Costa Rica, spans 15 acres of jungle, beaches and natural surroundings. Punta Leona lives up to any resident’s expectations with three Blue-Flag-rated (or as the natives say Bandera Azul) beaches, jungle hiking, mountain bike trails and a zip-line tour of the jungle canopy and butterfly farm.

After a day of relaxing on the beach, or hiking through the jungle, come home and be pampered within your Tranquilo residence, which can range from a 750-square-foot studio to a 4,500-square-foot penthouse and start at $70,000. Gently settled into the topography of Costa Rica, Tranquilo looks out over the canopy to capture views of the Pacific Ocean.

The seamless exteriors are a complement to Tranquilo’s open and contemporary interiors, which are flanked with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the tropical oasis indoors. Finishes and details are incorporated from around the globe and will pleasure all of the senses.

With 90 percent of Tranquilo’s property undeveloped, there is a quiet nook waiting. Sink into a lounge chair by the infinity-edge pool, find your inner peace on the meditation deck, or grab a book and head to Playa Blanca or Playa Mantas.

Tranquilo is a 45-minute drive from San Jose, via a highway, which is scheduled for completion in 2010. Whether you arrive via automobile or helicopter, the homecoming is all the same. Each residence is equipped with a stocked refrigerator and owner requests; owners may even opt to have a chef prepare a private, culinary delight.

—Lauren Varga

MIAMI – The World is the first and only private residential community at sea.  This extraordinary 12-deck, 644-foot vessel first set sail in 2002, and officially sold out four years later.  As is the case with any private community, select apartments become available for resale from time to time.  One such apartment that is now available is Apartment 1110 & 1108, whose more than 4,000 square feet make this the largest apartment onboard, with five double en suite bedrooms, one double en suite study bedroom, two living areas, two dining areas, two kitchens, both with laundry facilities, and 150 square feet of verandah space.  The apartment is priced at $17.5 million, and can comfortably fit up to 12 people.  More information on the apartment can be found at www.theworldsuite.com

Apartment 1110 and 1108 is custom-designed, ideal for large families or groups of friends visiting the ship together, as its connected living spaces have internal dividing doors and private entrances for assured space, privacy and flexibility.  The apartment is one of only a few to offer both bow and port views with two heated whirlpool spas on the 150-foot verandah.  The en suite study bedroom offers a quiet place to use the internet or a convenient extra sixth bedroom for children or an Au Pair. 

The ship’s overwhelming success and the increased demand for bigger, more luxurious apartments led to 1110 and 1108 as a multi-suite living option for the well-traveled, discerning guest.  These combined apartments have been cleverly configured with internal doors (some disguised as book cases) allowing for a variety of rental options with either two, three or five en suite bedrooms. 

The World’s continuous worldwide itinerary allows for the only home ownership with views of more than 470 of the world’s finest cities, beaches and ports including Hong Kong, New York, Sydney, London, Antarctica, Venice, St. Petersburg and the Seychelles.  In addition, The World is offering three unique Expeditions in 2009 – a voyage through the Sea of Cortez in May, a journey along the Bering Sea in August, and a trek through Papua New Guinea in late-November.  The World will also make a maiden call in Seoul, South Korea in October 2009.  

Each suite within the apartment is outfitted with a range of amenities including sophisticated home entertainment centers in the living rooms with a comprehensive supply of the latest movies and music; space for private, catered meals; dining areas with wet bar facilities; fully equipped kitchen and laundry areas; stunning views from floor to ceiling windows; Internet, fax and phone services; cable television, and more.  Other onboard offerings such as daily housekeeping, private chef services, dry cleaning, concierge and 24-hour room service allow those onboard to be free to explore and enjoy the ship.  The World offers four high-quality restaurants, an expansive fitness center and The World Spa by Banyan Tree, a golf simulator, onboard theatre and art gallery, marina for water sports, and much more.

The unique ship offers 165 homes aboard, and pricing for residences starts at approximately $1.4 million.  Additionally, many private residences are available for rent, with a minimum six-night stay required.  For further information on Apartment 1110 and 1108 pricing, and for a full listing of the 2009 itinerary, please visit www.aboardtheworld.com

About The World:
The World® is the only residential community at sea, allowing its Residents and Guests to travel the world without leaving the comforts of a private home.  There is an average of 150 adventurous and like-minded explorers onboard at once, traveling to intriguing destinations all over the globe.  The ship offers an elegant and intimate travel lifestyle with impeccable service and amenities that deliver a personalized and bespoke experience.  Discerning travelers can travel in one of the 165 private residences aboard The World or elect to own one of the select homes available for resale. For more information about residential purchase options or vacation experiences, please call ResidenSea Management, Ltd. at 1-800-970-6601 in the U.S. or Canada or + 1-954-538-8400 outside the U.S.; or visit www.aboardtheworld.com

The Watermark on Hudson—a WCI Communities, Inc., development—is defined by luxury, uniqueness and location and is not a victim of the down economy.

Located just beyond New York City limits, The Watermark on Hudson is positioned on the Gold Coast in North Bergen, N.J. From the 12-story tower residence one will enjoy New York skyline views and the glimmer of city lights reflecting off of the Hudson River.

Though some real estate markets and projects are suffering, The Watermark on Hudson has been selling multiple units each month. To date, The Watermark on Hudson only has 11 residences remaining of the original 206 residences and penthouses.

What is alluring buyers?

To start, guests and residents are welcomed home by a 24-hour valet. Services such as automotive care, babysitting and nanny referrals, boat charters, access to sporting, concert and theatrical events, pet sitting, restaurant delivery, technology assistance and laundry and dry cleaning further enhance the amenities of this luxurious address.

Residences within the building range from 906 square feet to approximately 3,000 square feet in size—each with views of the Manhattan skyline. For a luxury, two-bedroom condo, a buyer should expect to pay anywhere from $800,000 to $1.4 million. With this price comes top-of-the-line amenities, including European cabinetry, granite countertops, floor-to-ceiling windows and wood floors. The high-end master baths include Kohler Seaside soaking tubs and separate, glass-enclosed marble showers. Each residence is complete with a gourmet kitchen accented by KitchenAid stainless-steel appliances.

A health club, grand salon, social room, business center, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor pools, screening room and guest suites are also positioned to captivate the most discerning buyers. And alas, nothing is left to desire.

WCI Communities, Inc., offers more than 50 master-planned communities, neighborhoods and high-rise towers throughout Florida, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Virginia.

—Lauren Varga

Las Campanas, a master-planned community located in Santa Fe, New Mexico hosts a special set of riders at their equestrian center every Monday, children and adults with special needs.

Las Campanas Compadres is a member-driven charity that helps inspire and empower special needs students through horseback riding. Sixteen students ranging in ages from 10 to 52 spend 45 minutes learning every aspect of horsemanship with a certified instructor.

In 2006, Las Campanas residents Lawrence and Susan Becerra were inspired to start the program while volunteering at a nearby adaptive ski program. Lawrence asked that if Las Campanas would donate their world-class equestrian center on Mondays, when it is normally closed the Becerras would fund the adaptive riding program. Las Campanas were more than willing to donate the equestrian center, but also donated the use of their four well-schooled trail horses.

With the help of Georgia Smith, a riding instructor, who was certified through the north American Riding for the Handicapped Association, Inc. and is the director of a non-profit community foundation in Abiquiu, New Mexico, they provided everything the students would need from wheelchair ramps to a custom-made adaptive saddle, with backs and arms so students can ride without assistance.

With nearly 40 Las Campanas residents volunteering their time and money to support the program, the Bercerras make sure that every penny goes directly to the Las Campanas Compadres.

The Becerras have also introduced programs in fishing, golf, tennis and swimming and there are upcoming plans for kayaking, rafting and cooking programs.

—Shari Barbanel

The newest addition to the extensive and comprehensive real estate inventory available at Condo.com, River Cities Condos, is sure to stand out amongst the competition. As CEO of River Cities Condos, developer and 30-year boating enthusiast David Nelson conceptualized the company’s initial offering, The Marquette, after spending 19 years living on a houseboat in St. Paul, Minn. The Marquette offers buyers the unique opportunity to travel thousands of miles without ever having to leave the convenience and familiarity of their own homes. The 600-foot-long, 108-foot-wide vessel formed by four barges will be topped with 185 to 200 condos, which will travel 6,600 miles along the Mississippi River, connecting rivers and intracoastal waterways annually.

Thirty crew members will join the 350 residents aboard The Marquette, which boasts a long, open-air center atrium complete with plants, benches and six elevators for accessing the vessel’s various levels. Each condo, ranging from 528 to 924-plus square feet, is complete with a private waterfront balcony and will be able to access high-definition television as well as high-speed Internet.

Full-year, six-month, four-month and two-month purchase plans are available, ranging from estimated prices of $54,600 for two months spent in a 528-square-foot condo to a full year at $499,000 in a 924-square-foot residence; Homeowners’ Association fees are an additional cost and pay for staff salaries, port fees and insurance costs.

Serving to enhance the cruising experience will be amenities such as 24-hour concierge services, pools and hot tubs, an 18-hole half-acre golf course, a theater and a library. River Cities Condos arranges for land transportation but leaves land activities up to the realm of its residents’ imaginations.

Rivercitiescondos.com offers a video introduction, as well as scheduled informative online meetings.

– Sarah Binder

A private island with 124 acres of lush rain forest and towering coconut trees all lined by more than a mile of pristine beaches—Sound inviting? Welcome to the Cacao Pearl, the first non-profit luxury eco-resort community. Located in Palawan, South East Asia, the Cacao Pearl will present a unique opportunity to enjoy a stunning eco preservation locale. 

Designed by former film director Antonio Calvo, the low-density boutique resort concept will offer sustainable development and enjoyment.  Even more attractive about this unique island resort is 100% of the resort’s net operating profits will be used to support local environmental and social programs.

The very best for a luxury lifestyle—Five-star service, designer homes with zero carbon cost, infinity pools, a secluded destination spa, private media rooms—coupled with an eco-friendly approach to the area’s natural surroundings is certain to delight the most discerning guest.

For more information on this island paradise, visit www.CacaoResorts.com and www.BarefootSophistication.com.

—Robert Burke

Remarkably sited above the village of Montauk, Montauk Manor rests on nine lushly landscaped acres and provides panoramic views of the ocean, bays and hills.

Originally built in 1927 as a luxury hotel by industrialist Carl Fisher, Montauk Manor is considered the crown jewel of Montauk. Designed by the architectural firm of Schultze and Weaver, who patterned such properties as the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City and The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida, Montauk Manor has recently been renovated and converted into 140 exceptional condominium units.

Ranging from $200,000 to $500,000, buyers can purchase studio- to three-bedroom deluxe apartments, with many offering private terraces and balconies.

“To own a piece of such a unique estate is an incredible opportunity,” says Elizabeth Wohl, sales associate at Brown Harris Stevens. “The Montauk Manor has so much charm. It’s a place where history is preserved, together with all conveniences of luxury living.”

In addition to beautifully designed spaces, homebuyers will enjoy indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a private health club, saunas, a day spa, a first-class restaurant, and conference rooms. Complimentary shuttle service is also available, providing easy access to beaches and parks.

“The village of Montauk offers endless possibilities of things to do: world-class fishing, water sports, fabulous dining, great shopping, and rich historical and cultural experiences, says Gary Wohl. “The sophistication and authenticity offered by the village is surprising to many visitors. It truly is a wonderful place.”

Elizabeth Wohl and Gary Wohl of Brown Harris Stevens are the exclusive agents for Montauk Manor. To search available residences in the Manor, please visit either agent’s section at the following address: www.bhshamptons.com

—Holly Marie Busacca