With the fall of communism in 1989 all travel restrictions were lifted as a result Bulgaria's Black Sea resorts lost its captive tourist market overnight. A lot has changed since then, not least the proposed membership to the EU tabled for 2007 by sheer determination and hard work, Bulgaria has raised its profile by attending major international tourism trade fairs, attracting overseas interest, investment and a level of high quality new developments previously unimagined.

Located in the Balkans, Bulgaria is a small country with a population of 7,973,671. Diverse and picturesque with snow capped mountains creating a backdrop to exhilarating ski runs and winter sports. Where new luxury developments co-exist alongside traditional cottages and taverns offering local delicacies, accompanied by impromptu folk singing and dancing. Discover how to relax and unwind in a traditional rural village surrounded by picturesque meadows and woodland or simply enjoy the miles of sandy beaches and clear azure water bathed in dazzling summer sunshine.

Bulgaria is made up of almost fifty percent mountains. Rila and Pirin are the largest and are perfect for winter activities. The mountain resort of Bansko located at the foothills of the Pirin Mountains recently began a metamorphosis from strictly a winter mountain resort into a year round destination offering golf courses, climbing, cycling, horse riding and hiking appealing to modern eco-tourist. The other winter resorts of Borovets, Pamporovo and Aleko are also following suit.

The largest city is Sofia the capital home to many national treasures, Roman ruins and cultural attractions. Historically rich with old majestic architecture lining narrow winding streets next to the fantastic new shopping malls. All remnants of communism have been left behind and the Bulgarian love of celebration and conviviality is evident throughout the country, particular in the cities with thriving cafe society, restaurants and a general ‘joie de vivre’ and optimism.

The original Black Sea coast resorts such as the major ports of Varna, Bourgas and Sunny Beach have recently come into their own. New development is underway catering for the increased number of international tourists attracted by the sunny climate, clean beaches and most of all the extremely competitive prices. Comparisons to the Spanish resorts in their infancy are justified with activities such as wind surfing, paragliding, waterskiing offered and a varied choice of accommodation, restaurants and entertainment.

Not only a land of great beauty, contrasts and surprises, Bulgaria has proved to be resilient and adaptable. Having survived Ottoman rule and Communism, it is now a democratic constitutional monarchy with its finger on the pulse. The comparisons of the Black Sea coast to the Costa del Sol in its infancy are no accident, which is why the canny investors are now looking towards the East for investment opertunities. Time zone: GMT+ 2 (2hrs ahead of U.K) €1= 1.96 lev

We have properties for sale in the following areas

Black Sea Coast (Sarafovo), Rhodope Mountains Pamporovo Ski Resort & Sofia City.

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What can be said about this hot, passionate country held with great affection by the millions of tourists who have visited over the years? It is a magical place where ancient traditions are held dear. In just a few short decades many of the previously poorer rural and coastal areas have benefited from extensive international investment resulting in a first class infrastructure and continuous growth in popularity.

Spain is characterised by a rich history and diverse landscape from the rugged beauty of Galicia with the spectacular gothic cathedral of its capital Santiago de Compostela to the vineyards, orange, lemon and olive groves. The stunningly beautiful coastal regions such as the Costa Almeria , Costa Blanca and Costa Calida to name a few, are home to a diverse array of established resorts popular with the Spanish, ex-patriots and tourists alike. However, the coasts are most famous for the miles of sandy beaches with crystal clear water and over 300 days of sunshine each year. All resorts offer fantastic amenities including water sports, golf courses, tennis facilities, restaurants, charming ‘chiringitos’ and lively nightlife. Whether playing golf or polo in Sotogrande, clubbing in Torremolinos or enjoying a drink in the world famous marina at Puerto Banus or Mar Menor in La Manga, there is something to suit every taste and pocket.

The capital city Madrid is the seat of the Spanish Royal family and home to a host of attractions including the royal palace, Plaza Mayor, Prado Museum and a multitude of art treasures. As expected the standard of accommodation, restaurants, nightlife and entertainment is high but it is the conviviality of the Madrilenos that make it so special. However, it is Barcelona the capital of Cataluna that is the most popular city and one of the richest regions, boasting its own Catalan language and culture. Most famous for the fairytale architecture of Gaudi and the Gothic quarter with its thirteenth century cathedral but it is also a modern industrialised city with a fashionable marina area, beaches, unbeatable shopping, cuisine and nightlife.

The Spanish love of tradition and festivals can be seen in the ancient art of bull fighting still enjoyed throughout Spain today. The flamboyance of the adrenalin driven bull running in Pamplona and La Tomatina the world’s largest tomato fight in Valencia give a glimpse into the passionate character of the Spanish people. As a Catholic country, one of the most important festivals is ‘Santa Semana’, Easter week, matched in religious gravitas by the splendour of the procession. The beginning of summer herald’s the ‘feria’ season, when each town throws itself into party mode in honour of its own patron saint. Traditional dress, Flamenco, tapas with free flowing wine and sherry are enjoyed well into the small hours. Salut!

Murcia airport is quickly becoming one of the busiest airports in the country. Ryan Air fly direct from Dublin and Aer Lingus fly direct to Alicante on a regular and very affordable basis. Flights from the U.K are also readily available. The fantastic ‘Roda Golf & Beach Club’ designed by Dave Thomas is located literally 5mins from Murcia Airport while the PGA affiliated ‘Corvera Golf’ designed by Jose Maria Olazabal is just 25mins drive from Murcia Airport Corvera will be the PGA’s winter headquarters, making it set to become a mecca for professional golfers from all over Europe.

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A vibrant, modern country of great diversity, not only rich in natural beauty with breathtaking waterfalls and mountains, pristine beaches and lagoons, it is also steeped in historical and archaeological treasures dating back to the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empire when the capital Istanbul was known by the exotic name of Constantinople. It is also a site of religious significance for a multitude of faiths such as the 'tomb of Eyup' one of the holiest Islamic sites, the purported last destination of the 'Noah's Ark' and the final resting place of the Virgin Mary to name but a few. Over the last few years it has steadily become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Turkey straddles two continents with Europe on one side and Asia on the other; a beautiful country, it is surrounded by the Aegean, Black, Mediterranean and Marmara Seas and is famous for its wonderful bays and golden beaches.

Turkey has something to offer everyone: with charming fishing villages, bustling holiday resorts with frantic nightlife, cultural tours and challenging outdoor pursuits. Life in Turkey is laidback and inexpensive with a wonderful climate and people that are engaging, warm and hospitable.

Turkey is most definitely looking to the future and currently undergoing major changes. With one of the World’s fastest growing economies, it is also becoming increasingly popular for people looking for a sound investment.

Land in Kusadasi is very scarce and planning and building regulations have become very stringent. Mesa-Tasonu is located 10mins walk East of the sea front and 5 minutes walk from the town centre. It is located in the heart of an emerging area of the town where the infrastructure is being upgraded to cater for the new hospital, the city’s main market and the city’s main Mosque. Direct flights from Dublin to Izmir fly thousands of Irish people annually to this resort which is located 50 minutes from the airport.

With its proximity to historical and touristic cities such as Ephesus, Miletus and Priene, its sun shining even in Winter, blue flagged beaches, thermal waters which cure illnesses, fantastic national parks, restaurants, entertainment and shopping centers, Kusadasi is the most important tourist center of the Mediterranean today. The Marina alone can hold 700 yachts and is among the biggest cruise ports in the Aegean. Furthermore, you can find every product you need at the super markets of European standards. In addition to the private medical doctors of various professions the private hospital and the state hospital provide a high quality health service.

With property prices equivalent to that of Spain in the mid-80’s, Turkey is the next property hotspot, so now’s the time to buy. In short Kusadasi promises everything for a healthy, happy and stress-free lifestyle.

Check out our Apartments & Hotel for sale in Kusadasi

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The Kingdom of Morocco, is located at the gateway of Africa and Europe, with the Spanish mainland only 13km across the Straight of Gibraltar. Between the years of 1912 and 1952 France and Spain divided Morocco and ruled it as a protectorate. Today there are still two Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla within Morocco and also some smaller islands, resulting in rich and distinctive identity, culture, architecture and language with Arabic, Berber and French widely spoken.

When we think of Morocco it is easy to be picture the film, Casablanca or the colourful souks and bazaars of Marrakesh and to overlook the largely unheralded Mediterranean coastline, shielded by the Atlas mountains. The topography of Morocco lends itself perfectly to luxury beach resorts, edged with miles of pristine sand edging the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, a superb year round climate ideal for outdoor pursuits including sports, golf, water-sports or just soaking up the Moroccan sunshine.

The king of Morocco has put together multi-billion dollar an investment program funded by the UAE, Morocco, Spain and the EU aimed at increasing tourism to the tune of 10 million per year by 2010. Investment in local infrastructure will include motorways, new marinas, golf courses, holiday resorts, shopping malls, convention centres and beach clubs. There are also plans to expand the airports to cater for the forecast influx of tourists.

It has been suggested that the Saudi Arabian royal family and the king of Morocco have already shown interest in one the new prestigious beach resorts. These resorts offer every conceivable luxury, with no detail overlooked, equipped with hotels, villas, international restaurants, shops, pristine beaches and stunning marinas. The unrivalled level of activities available includes; golf at the prestigious Cabo Negro Royal Course, water-sports such as scuba-diving, sailing, water-skiing, hunting, hiking and even camel trekking. Or relax and drink in the sights and sounds of this magical country.

Reaching Morocco has never been easier there are daily helicopter flights from Malaga to Ceuta, ferry from Algeciras and direct flights from major European cities. Ryan Air offer very affordable flights from Dublin on a regular basis. There are also plans for a new airport at the town of Tetouan. This high standard of development is underway by royal decree and will see the established rental market increase to unprecedented levels, creating a demand for high standard property.

Check out Alcudia Smir Development

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