The Latest in Luxury Resort & Real Estate News

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Group Metro Celebrates Grand Opening of Marbella

(JUAN DOLIO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC) -- Group Metro, the Dominican Republic's leading real estate and transportation company, together with their partner Frank Pimentel of Cotuicar announced March 29 the grand opening of its newest beachfront development: Marbella.

This luxurious development, which includes both residential and hotel units, is located in Juan Dolio beach. For this special event, Group Metro hosted an exclusive event on the beach in front of the stunning new residential property. Among those who attended were the country's most elite figures including the President Leonel Fernandez, Minister of Tourism Francisco Javier Garcia and others.

"After three years in development, we are very pleased to announce the grand opening of Marbella," exclaims Dr. Luis Jose Asilis, chief executive of Group Metro. "It is always such a great feeling of accomplishment when a vision becomes a reality. Today, we are overjoyed to finally welcome all the new residents and guest to Marbella who will enjoy it for years to come."

Located at Villas del Mar in Juan Dolio, Marbella is a beachfront condominium that enjoys marvelous views of the ocean and features 301 apartments and 800 hotel rooms, totaling more than 1,200 rooms. The residences, available in two- and three-bedroom options, come in five different models ranging from 120 square meters to more than 400 square meters. Marbella residences will  have use of many amenities, including a restaurant and membership to the Metro Country Club. The second phase will also include two more towers.

Conveniently located, Marbella is just a 40 minute drive from the capital city of Santo Domingo and 20 minutes from the International Airport of the Americas. This quiet area of Juan Dolio is a well-kept secret as a sanctuary from the bustling city life of Santo Domingo.  According to Group Metro, a few residences are still available for sale in phase two.

Group Metro has established a formidable international reputation throughout its four decades of experience in transportation, tourism and real estate.  From its landmark property, Metro Country Club, to the oceanfront condominium developments of Costa del Sol, Marbella, Costa Blanca and Las Olas, Group Metro has become the definitive company for real estate and tourism in the Dominican Republic.  Led by its visionary chief executive, Dr. Luis Jose Asilis, the company has played an integral role in putting the Dominican Republic on the map as a top Caribbean destination.  Further, Group Metro will be one of the first developers in the Dominican Republic to provide flexible financing to buyers.

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Grand Cayman's Secret Harbour to Break Ground in June

(GRAND CAYMAN) -- Michael Ryan of Orion Developers, owner and developer of the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman resort and Dragon Bay - Grand Cayman's only sea-to-sea luxury resort community - has announced the groundbreaking of Secret Harbour will take place this June.

At the heart of the new Dragon Bay community, Secret Harbour - an exclusive collection of 125 residences inspired by the world's most beautiful maritime villages - reflects an integration of seamless outdoor and indoor living. With the same thorough dedication and attention to detail that comprised the vision of Secret Harbour, the project's creation underwent six complete planning efforts before the development was ultimately finalized.

"Secret Harbour was in many ways inspired by extensive study of the great harbor towns across the globe and the core elements of that inspiration are prevalent in this first phase," developer Mike Ryan said. "With 50 percent of the property's Phase 1 now sold out, and a starting price point under $1 million, Secret Harbour represents exceptional value among luxury Caribbean second home opportunities and the response from our buyers certainly supports that view."

To continue the theme of Caribbean culture and waterfront living, Ryan partnered with award-winning design team Carl D'Aquino and Francine Monaco to orchestrate the Secret Harbour interiors. D'Aquino Monaco, boasting a repertoire of illustrious design exploits, has defined Secret Harbour in two distinctive collections of modern design or traditional décor. Owners select their preferred collection and then choose pieces from that line, each providing the opportunity for unique combinations and customized homes - decorated and fully furnished to the singular standards of The Ritz-Carlton.

"Owning a residence at Secret Harbour will be like having a beautiful, closed heirloom box and anticipating what is hidden within," said Carl D'Aquino. "Secret Harbour conceals mysteries, and at the same time, invites everyone to explore and daydream."

The theme of 'secrets' is felt throughout Secret Harbour. From the initial arrival by boat to the hidden harbor that suddenly reveals itself; to the deceptively clean and stately exteriors which open to present the color and life within. At the heart of this exclusive community is a relaxing yet vibrant sanctuary complete with shopping, recreational and fitness activities, upscale spa indulgences and exceptional dining all on site - from the recently announced D'Aquino Monaco designed La Prairie Spa Suites to the infinity edge pool, rooftop terrace, and gourmet café inspired by the acclaimed chef Eric Ripert.

Residential options at Secret Harbour feature one-bedroom to three-bedroom residences, Harbour Lofts and an exclusive Club Penthouse for sale, ranging from studio lofts at 700 square feet to the Secret Harbour Penthouses at over 5,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space - all surrounded by scenic waterways with expansive views of the North Sound. Owners are also granted unlimited access to the amenities and services of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman resort, offering opportunities to experience the Greg Norman-designed Blue Tip golf course, a tennis center with programs designed by Nick Bollettieri, and the Ambassadors of the Environment by Jean-Michel Cousteau eco-adventure family program - all conveniently located at their doorstep.

Located 410 nautical miles south of Miami, Grand Cayman is top destination for discerning travelers and families. World-renowned for its safe, serene lifestyle as well as its idyllic beaches, diving spots, cuisine and culture, and recognized as a sophisticated, diverse financial center, Grand Cayman offers exceptional recreational opportunities along with world-class hospitality and service.

There is no legal restriction on ownership of real estate by foreigners. All land is recorded in a registered system maintained by the government and can be held by individuals, or in the name of a company. Grand Cayman has no sales tax, no income tax, no capital gains tax, no property tax and no inheritance tax, and local banks will generally lend between approximately 50 to 75 percent of the property value to non-Caymanians.

Secret Harbour combines the benefits of home ownership with the legendary personalized services and amenities of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. and the experience and success of Dragon Bay developer Michael Ryan. Ryan is also owner and developer of The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman and The DeckHouses - 19 three-story private island homes also situated within the luxury resort community

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