Twenty experiences that will satiate and surprise even the most seasoned traveller in 2016.
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Author Archives: peterswain
Irie Fields
Brand new golf course openings have been rare of late, so Golf International was delighted to be invited to St Kitts for a sneak preview of Ian Woosnam’s new Irie Fields layout. Our man in the Caribbean sun, PETER SWAIN, got the gig.
Changing fortunes
As the global economy digests this year’s economic and political happenings, the property narrative is all about secondary markets. Today’s real-estate investors and lifestyle buyers need imagination, a sense of adventure and a little help from the wealth of research and knowledge in this Centurion guide.
A taste of Mendoza
Oenophiles are enjoying the fruits of success at The Vines of Mendoza in the Uco Valley wine region in Argentina.
Christophe Harbour ahoy
The Caribbean’s newest destination marina is now officially open for business. There’s more work to be done, but the first phase of Buddy Darby’s magnum opus – created by, and for, superyacht owners – has been successfully launched.
Soneva Jani in the Maldives
Over a million travellers a year to the Maldives believe the Indian Ocean island nation to be the quintessential tropical nirvana. Now there’s a new opportunity to buy a piece of paradise.
A home from home: the Airbnb phenomenon
More and more travellers are eschewing hotels and inns for the comfort of easy-to-book stays at private residences throughout the world. Here’s why.
A good time to buy in Europe
A combination of factors, including a weakening Euro, mark out an opportune moment to invest in continental Eurozone property.
Post election boost for Downton Abbey mansion
As Dame Maggie Smith’s Dowager Countess of Grantham might have said, “Isn’t it splendid to see that nice Mr Cameron back in Downing Street.” Surprise UK election result poised to buoy the housing market.
Stunning golf properties in New Zealand
For anyone thinking of retiring to a home on a world-class golf course, in an English-speaking country with British traditions and legal system, a stable economy, low crime rate, and temperate weather, New Zealand ticks all the boxes.
Six of the best
The Mediterranean is renowned for demanding golf courses surrounded by luxe resorts and stunning scenery. Peter Swain picks out the highlights.
2015 global property trends
Global wealth has never been so portable, real estate as an asset class so desirable or the choice of destination so wide. An appraisal of the where, what, why, who and how of 2015.
Private islands
The search for solitude has a simple solution – a private island sanctuary. Peter Swain examines the exclusive marketplace and assesses the options
A peak repast
Nevis stores its tastiest treats up on the slopes of the 3,232-foot peak, from gourmet grandeur and plantation inn pleasures to “snackettes’’ strong on local flavours
Nevisian fare
Those in the know, already know Nevis is one of the Caribbean’s hidden gems, but gourmands are now discovering that the island’s culinary excellence matches its rich cultural heritage
Citizenship by investment
Global passports for global citizens are not yet available, but several Caribbean countries are currently offering the next best thing
Home bound
Futuristic technological innovation is encouraging architects and designers to utilise residential interior space ever more imaginatively. Peter Swain looks at some of the more ambitious concepts.
Mauritian magic
“You get the idea Mauritius was made first, and then heaven.” So said Mark Twain. Now, the pearl of the Indian Ocean with a magnetic allure is getting in touch with its family side, discovers Peter Swain
Angling for perfection
For devotees of the art of fly fishing, the name Hardy inspires the same veneration violinists reserve for Stradivarius
Swinging safari
For the travelling golfer (and their family) who appreciates immaculate courses, impeccable hotels, shining seascapes and the occasional safari drive, South Africa is hard to beat, says Peter Swain.
Avoid the Inheritance Tax trap
Of all the taxes to consider when buying abroad, inheritance tax is one of the most fiendishly complex and can be surprisingly costly, discovers Peter Swain
Littorally laid-back
The hippy-chic attractions of Goa’s beaches have been on the radar for a generation, but discerning travellers keen to top up both their chi and their tan are now discovering the allure of the uncluttered south of India’s smallest state.
Above par
Catalonia’s abundant courses cater for golfers of all abilities, with everything from on-site academies to a Spanish Open venue on offer.
Auckland appétit
From culinary backwater to the crest of a gastronomic wave, the City of Sails in New Zealand’s North Island is now a world-class foodie destination, reports Peter Swain.
10 best golf courses in the UK
Whether you’re the next Tiger Woods or a poor man’s Happy Gilmore, there’s absolutely no excuse for any self-respecting golf enthusiast to chip balls on a driving range or navigate rickety windmills on a crazy golf course.
Back in the swing
Old-school golf developments are receiving modern makeovers, while new resorts are springing up in unlikely places. Peter Swain hits the fairways to find holiday homes that are up to par.
Sunningdale and Sicily
Italian exuberance qualified by English reserve is the perfect recipe for a great day out, discovers Peter Swain, as he talks to Sir Rocco Forte about his new project, Verdura.
Improve Your Golf – Where to play
10 courses in the Uk, Ireland, Spain, Caribbean, USA, Thailand and Mauritius which have great facilities both for beginners and good players wanting to improve their game.
Burning issues
A stylish new breed of cigar bars, lounges and plush spaces designed to skirt around stringent anti-smoking regulations are opening around the world
Top tees for One… or Two
Golfers travelling on their own or as a couple often want very different things from a golf holiday. Peter Swain makes some suggestions.