We’re excited about this one.

A game-changing resort is coming soon to Jamaica: the Zoëtry Montego Bay, the first Zoëtry all-inclusive in the English-speaking Caribbean and a game-changer for the island’s hotel sector.

The property, which is set on the beach in Montego Bay, will open Dec. 23, according to AMResorts.

And there really won’t be anything like it in Jamaica.

The hotel’s 49 suites are set in three buildings called Wood & Water, Bamboo and Blue Mountain, with a private beach and a culinary program focused on organic and local ingredients (including gluten-free and vegetarian dishes).

The property’s suites have either ocean or garden views, while the resort boasts three restaurants and room service., along with a top-level spa.

Zoëtry Montego Bay will include the brand’s signature all-inclusive experience, with eateries including Canoa, a Mediterranean restaurant; Blue Mahoe, an international fusion restaurant, Polo Restaurant and Lounge, an English-style eatery focused on small plates; and Soul, a fresh juice bar.

Zoëtry Montego Bay joins two other Zoëtry-branded resorts in the Caribbean: Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita in the Riviera Maya, both of which regularly find themselves at the top of our all-inclusive rankings.

The post New Boutique All-Inclusive Coming to Jamaica appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

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The Oil Nut Bay luxury development in Virgin Gorda has unveiled its newest villa.

The hillside property in the British Virgin Islands is called Posideon’s Perch, and it is now available for rent.

The three-bedroom villa has expansive ocean views of Oil Nut Bay and the beach, with capacity for up to 10 guests (including a bunk bed for young visitors).

It’s also got a gourmet kitchen, a jacuzzi, an infinity pool with a palapa and copious outdoor lounge space.

Nightly rates start at $2,250.

— Caribbean Journal Staff

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Leading chef Michael Schwartz has introduced a new menu at Royal Caribbean’s 150 Central Park restaurant.

The eatery, which is located onboard the company’s Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas ships, underscores Schwartz’s “simple, elegant approach to American dining,” according to the company.

The multi-course menu begins with the signature “Central Park Martini” cocktail, followed by a variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts including a tableside cheese cart.

Selections include meals like lobster gnocchi with carrot butter sauce and a bittersweet chocolate bourbon tart with salted caramel, spiced pecans, cranberry chutney and chantilly cream, or even tuna tartare.

Eric Larkee, sommelier at Schwartz’s Miami outpost, Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink, has crafted a wine program for the restaurant.

The cost? A $45 cover charge, all-inclusive.

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If you’re looking to move to an island in the Caribbean, there is so much to think about, from the environment to the cost of living to the culture. And those are factors that can be vastly different from island to island.

But the most important thing is this: how to actually go about buying a home.

To learn more, we talked to Heather Lightbourn-Peterson, Broker/Previews Specialist at Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty in Nassau, Bahamas. Here’s what she had to tell us.

Why buy a home in the Bahamas? 

Besides the wonderful climate, stable government, proximity to the United States, low taxes (including no income taxes) a purchaser can obtain permanent residence with a home purchase of a minimum of $500,000. An investment of $1.5 million provides accelerated consideration for the application. A well chosen property can provide a decent rate of return in the rental market.

What’s the real estate market like right now? 

The real estate market is doing really well. There are a lot of properties moving at the moment as it’s the perfect time to buy. It is a buyer’s market, particularly for properties generally in excess of the $700,000 range. Properties are for sale on several islands at varying prices.

What’s the average price for a beachfront home? What about a condo? What about an inland property? 

Beachfront prices vary greatly depending on the particular island in the Bahamas.

For instance, in New Providence, beachfront homes are hard to find and are mainly limited to high end gated communities, such as Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay and Paradise Island where you would expect to spend at least $3 million.

Beachfront condos are more affordable and a basic condo in a beachfront community can start around $300,000. Interior condos in suitable areas would start at around $350,000 and homes slightly higher.  Some of our Out Islands offer more affordable options, for example,Treasure Cay and Abaco offer condos starting around $235,000 with beach access.

Are there certain areas of the Bahamas that are better for buyers right now? 

Generally speaking, the Out Islands (islands other than Nassau) offer better “deals.” However, Nassau provides a larger selection.

How long does it typically take to purchase a home? 

Ideally two months. However, issues such as needing mortgage financing can extend closings.

What are the taxes like?  

Homes and condos which are occupied by the owner have no property tax on the first $250,000; for the next $250,000 the rate is 0.75 percent and the value over $500,000 is taxed at 1 percent with a $50k ceiling. A 7.5 percent VAT tax is charged on goods and services. On a real estate transaction, lawyer’s fees and the real estate commission incur the 7.5 percent vat tax. A 10 percent charge on real estate transactions over $100k (made up of 7.5 percent vat tax and 2.5% stamp duty) is paid upon completion of a sale and this charge is generally divided equally between buyer and seller. There are no income, inheritance or capital gains taxes.

Can I get a mortgage?  

Yes. Generally, a 30 percent deposit is required with interest rates slightly higher than in the US prime rate.

What do foreign buyers need to know about buying a home in the Bahamas?  

Get a well-qualified lawyer (your realtor can likely make a recommendation) and a  licensed BREA realtor who has experience working with foreign buyers.

What is it like to buy a home in some of the more remote islands of the Bahamas?

Generally more bang for the buck. However, there will be less amenities available. There will be a more laid back atmosphere, which is ideal for buyers looking for a true “island living” feel.

Where are you seeing the most interest right now?  

Properties priced around the $500,000 range, or $1.5million are sought after by foreign buyers looking for residency status, so we have a lot of activity in both price points. Gated communities are most popular in Nassau due to the various amenities, especially options with a community beach access. In the Out Islands, Harbour Island always does well and has some of the most exclusive properties on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world attracting affluent buyers from around the globe. Sales in Abaco, Exuma and Eleuthera  have also picked up over the past few years with increased airlift to these islands.

For more information, visit Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty.

The post How to Buy a Home in the Bahamas appeared first on Caribbean Journal.

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Appleton has begun a major expansion of its Appleton Rum Estate Tour Complex in Jamaica.

The $7.7 million USD project is slated to begin in January and will add 25,000 square feet to the existing facility.

The main building will be a welcome center with a theater, a luxury bar, a five-star restaurant and other amenities.

The project is slated for completion in time for the 2017/2018 winter tourist season.

“This is a very critical area where quality investment is needed. When you look at the fact that some 39 million United States (US) leisure travellers choose a destination based on the availability of culinary activities, while another 35 million seek out culinary activities after a destination is decided upon, (it) only goes to show the kind of potential we are talking about,” said Jamaica Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett.

— Caribbean Journal Staff

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