Archive for April, 2009
Posted on April 30, 2009 - by admin
New Mexico Joins the Nuclear Renaissance
New Mexico hasn’t had a uranium boom since 1950. After Navajo shepherd Paddy Martinez woke up from his nap, beneath a limestone ledge with a handful of funny looking yellow rocks, only to be later told he had discovered New Mexico’s first uranium, the state was swarmed with thousands of prospectors hoping to cash in on the nuclear metal.
Another uranium boom may now be in progress. This time, the charge is led by the European consortium Urenco Ltd, general partner of Louisiana Energy Services (LES), which was issued a draft license, this past Friday, by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to build and operate a $1.5 billion uranium enrichment plant in Lea County, New Mexico. Louisiana Energy Services is a Urenco-managed partnership, whose members include Exelon Corp, Entergy Corp and Duke Energy Corp. This is the first permit issued for a uranium enrichment facility in thirty years; the first ever to a private company.
Announcement of the uranium enrichment facility came nine days after International Uranium Corporation (IUC) announced it was reopening its uranium mines in the Four Corners region of the western United States. In a company news release, Ron Hochstein, president of IUC, announced, “We intend on utilizing our large capacity mill to its full advantage through toll milling contracts with other future miners in the area…” The company’s White Mesa Mill, only one of two operational uranium mills in the United States, is across from the New Mexico border.
Uranium development companies have acquired uranium properties, abandoned by major oil companies during the uranium drought of the 1980s and 1990s, and could be well positioned to advance those properties through the permitting process. Over the past year, newer uranium companies have entered the state, optimistic the record-high spot uranium price may help finance their exploration and development costs in New Mexico.
With a uranium mill, just past the western border of New Mexico in neighboring Utah, and the soon-to-be-built uranium enrichment facility in southeastern New Mexico, when might the state again become a world-class production center? Only over the past few years has Canada’s Athabasca Basin, with its ultra-high grades of uranium ore, surpassed the cumulative production of New Mexico. The Grants Mineral Belt in northern New Mexico produced more than 340 million pounds of uranium oxide (U3O8, yellowcake) before the uranium depression of the 1980s and 1990s brought New Mexico mining to a standstill. The Grants Mineral Belt produced about 40 percent of all the mined uranium in the United States. Who is Urenco?
Urenco is short for Uranium Enrichment Company. Three countries – Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom – signed the Treaty of Alemlo (Netherlands) on March 4, 1970 as a way to collaborate in developing centrifuge technology for uranium enrichment. In 1971, three industrial partners – British Nuclear Fuels plc (BNFL), Ultra-Centrifuge Nederland N.V. (UCN) and Uranit GmbH – founded Urenco Ltd. The company has since spun off its Enrichment Technology Company. There are now three wholly owned subsidiaries, based in each of the respective countries.
The Louisiana Energy Services partnership plans on building the National Enrichment Facility (NEF) about five miles east of Eunice, New Mexico. The NEF plans on providing a sustainable domestic supply of slightly enriched uranium, also called ‘low enriched uranium’ or LEU, using Urenco’s gas centrifuge technology. Currently, USEC is the other uranium enrichment facility, using the more expensive gaseous diffusion technology. USEC is a publicly traded company, created under the Clinton-Gore Administration for the purposes of the Russia-US ‘swords for plowshares’ HEU deal. Under the HEU agreement, Russia’s counterpart supplied USEC with uranium from decommissioned Russian nuclear weapons. This uranium now supplies U.S. utilities with about 50 percent of the uranium used to power domestic nuclear power plants.
In 2001, the domestic uranium industry only produced 12 percent of its required supply of enriched uranium, while Russia exported 55 percent to the United States. Urenco supplied 16 percent of the U.S. demand. Urenco plans to increase its percentage of enriched uranium to about one-quarter of U.S. enrichment demand, once the plant is running at full capacity. This amounts to annual production of 3 million Separative Work Units (SWUs). A Separative Work Unit is the unit used to express the effort necessary to separate U-235 and U-238. The capacity of enrichment plants is measured in tons SW per year. For example, a large nuclear power station with a net electrical capacity of 1300 MW requires an annual amount of 25 tons SW (enriched uranium) to operate (with a concentration of 3.5 percent U-235).
The National Enrichment Facility will become Urenco’s North American debut of the company’s gas centrifuge technology, which the company boasts is the ‘world’s most advanced, energy-efficient and cost-effective uranium enrichment technology.’ It has reportedly been used for more than thirty years.
What is Gas Centrifuge Technology?
Only 0.7 percent of the weight of natural uranium, the U-235 isotope found in nature’s uranium, is the isotope needed to power a nuclear reactor. The U-235 isotope is the one that splits inside the core. It is this isotope which releases energy in the fission process. Because natural uranium can not power a nuclear reactor, the concentration of U-235 must be slightly increased, also known as ‘low enrichment,’ from 0.7 percent to between 3 and 5 percent. The enrichment occurs during the centrifuge process.
It is called the ‘gas centrifuge process” because gaseous uranium hexafluoride (UF6) is fed into a cylindrical, high-speed rotor. The gas is whirled around inside thousands of centrifuges in a nearly friction-free environment, separating the fissionable U-235 isotope from the heavier U-238 isotope. The centrifugal motion pushes the heavier U-238 gas away from the useful U-235 gas, which remains closer to the rotor axis. The process is repeated until the desired enrichment percentage is achieved.
Let’s back up the process a few steps. First, there uranium is mined and milled. The finished product, which is shipped off to the conversion facility, is called yellowcake.
The next step in creating nuclear fuel for a reactor is the conversion process. The yellowcake, or U3O8, is converted into uranium hexafluoride, or UF6. Yellowcake is dissolved in nitric acid to create a new solution, uranyl nitrate. Hydrogen is then used to reduce this to UO2. This is then converted to UF4 with hydrofluoric acid. The UF6 is obtained with the uranium is oxidized with fluorine. At ambient temperatures, UF6 forms solid grey crystals. Depending upon its temperature, uranium hexafluoride can be a solid, liquid or gas.
After the U3O8 has been converted to UF6, it is transported to the enrichment site in an internationally standard transport container. The solid UF6 is heated up in an air-tight pressure vessel until it returns to its gaseous state. It is then fed into the centrifuge. The Urenco ‘gas centrifuge’ has two pipes, one which removes the enriched uranium and another which removes the heavier uranium, depleted of U-235.
Because a single centrifuge won’t enrich the uranium to the desired level, a number of centrifuges are connected together. The connected, parallel centrifuges are called a cascade. By passing through each of the centrifuges in the cascade, the U-235 is gradually enriched to the level required by the customer, a nuclear power plant.
After the desired enrichment level is achieved, the enriched UF6 gas is passed through a series of compressors and packaged into product containers. The UF6 gas is cooled until the vapors solidify onto the walls of the container. The finished product is shipped to the fuel fabrication plant where the solid, enriched uranium is manufactured into fuel pellets.
Uranium Enrichment Means Big Money
The key to expansion, after sufficient U3O8 has been mined, is ensuring the uranium is converted and enriched so that it can fuel nuclear power plants. Until now, U.S. utilities have relied upon Russian HEU to LEU supplies to fuel their nuclear reactors. Urenco’s NEF in New Mexico gives a boost to the nuclear energy sector, and provides U.S. utilities with an alternative to having uranium enriched at USEC’s Kentucky plant, or worse yet, shipping domestically produced uranium overseas for enrichment. For instance, Brazil was forced to have its uranium enriched in Europe, until recently.
Value-adding to the fuel supplying reactors can mean big money for LES, and especially for Urenco Ltd. But, the investment of $1.5 billion will also produce hundreds of new jobs for the border towns of both New Mexico and Texas. Estimates show about 800 construction jobs will be created as the facility is being built, and as many as 1200 during the peak of the construction. About 300 employees will be required to operate the facility. Nearby Andrews, Texas has been celebrating the National Enrichment Facility. The city manager expects the number of new homes under construction to jump by 10-fold this year. School enrollment has grown over the past year while newcomers have moved into the area, hoping for construction jobs.
Urenco’s National Enrichment Facility should begin construction later this summer, probably in August. Louisiana Energy Services (LES) hopes to start selling enriched uranium in 2009, probably to its U.S. utility partners, who hope to build new reactors. A statement issued by the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) on Friday, congratulating LES for the approval of its NRC license pointed ahead to the U.S. expansion of the nuclear energy sector. The NEI’s chief nuclear officer, Marvin Fertel, said, “This experience bodes well for the construction and operating license applications for new nuclear power plants that are expected to be submitted to the agency beginning in 2007.”
Posted on April 30, 2009 - by admin
Land for Sale in Mexico – Build Your Mexico Dream Estate
If you’ve searched for the perfect vacation home, villa, condo, or luxury home and you just haven’t been able to find something that fits your needs, have you considered building your own vacation property? While the Puerto Vallarta Real Estate market is filled with beautiful properties, you may not be able to find one that meets your needs if you have a lot of specific criteria to be filled. Building your own Puerto Vallarta vacation home is the perfect solution to your dilemma of never being able to find a great rental property when you vacation in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll be able to customize the home with all of the conveniences that you desire and you’ll be able to choose every detail from the color of the walls to the type of tile used for the flooring.
The very first step you’ll need to take, however, is reviewing land for sale in Mexico so that you can pick the very best parcel for building and using for entertainment and recreation. There are many different things to consider when choosing a piece of land for sale in Mexico and knowing what to look for will help to save you time and may prevent you from wasting money on an investment that is unsound.
The first thing you need to do when choosing a piece of land in the Puerto Vallarta real estate market is think about the size of the parcel you want to purchase. If you want to build a modest vacation home, you probably won’t need very much land. Just purchase enough for your home and leave some room for outdoor entertaining and recreation and you should be able to build the perfect vacation property. If you want a more luxurious home with a lot of outdoor space, the size of the parcel you purchase should be larger than if you had no plans for using a lot of outdoor space. This will give you the opportunity to have a lot of guests and be able to allow them to enjoy the beauty of your property. Before you make your final purchasing decision, you’ll need to make sure there are no ownership issues with the land you want to buy and you’ll also want to make sure there are no outstanding debts that you can be held responsible for. After all, you’re purchasing this land for sale in Mexico so you can create a less frustrating life for yourself in Puerto Vallarta.
Your beachfront property in Mexico is within your reach. Check out the listings of Playa del Carmen Real Estate, Puerto Vallarta Property and Cancun Real Estate for insight into this booming market. Contact Tom Budniak for the best deals in Mexican Property.
Tom Budniak operates, owns, and manages Realty Executives Vallarta here in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Tom’s office is considered by many in the industry to be the top office in Puerto Vallarta. Tom, from Realty Executives Mexican Caribbean is a Certified Member of RMRE and MLS 4 Riviera Maya. Check out all of the resources available through Tom and Realty Executives Vallarta.
Author: Tom Budniak
Posted on April 30, 2009 - by admin
Hazards of Mixing Business With Pleasure While Buying Property in Mexico
Jim Beam and three of his buddies were drinking in a bar one night and had the brilliant idea of driving their quads across the border and setting up a business in Puerto Penasco renting them. So one Friday they drove across, parked their vehicles on the beach, and put up a sign saying, “Rentals $25/HOUR”. Business was a little slow at first, so two of them decide to take a ride down the beach. Unfortunately they had been drinking a lot of beer and were not very steady drivers. They rolled over the quads, putting both the vehicles and themselves out of commission. While they were being treated, Jim rented another quad to a guy on the beach, who took off and never came back. The fourth quad was confiscated because Jim and his friends had no corporation and hence no legal status to do business in Mexico. There are several attitudes that cause problems for Americans who are trying to do business or buy property in Mexico:
1. Party mentality. It should be possible to go on vacation in Puerto Penasco and make some money on the side. Not likely. Jim and his friends made the mistake of trying to mix vacation with business. This is an (only slightly) exaggerated situation, but I have met many, many Americans who seem to feel that they are on vacation as soon as they cross the border. This greatly hinders their ability to conduct any sort of business transaction.
2. Greed. Great bargains in Mexico can be picked up likes shells on the beach. Not true. They can be found, but it takes times and effort to make a sound investment. Larry and Rita Marino had rented a beachfront condo in Puerto Penasco for several years. They decide if they could buy one. The owner of the one next door happened to be there one weekend when they were and told them he’d like to sell. The price was right, and they agreed to buy it. Rita asked when they could meet with a notario to close the transaction. The owner said “Oh, we don’t have to do that. It cost too much. Just give me the money and I’ll have over the title. That’s how is done in Mexico. Three months later Larry and Rita Returned and found their condo occupied by another family who claimed to have bought it from the same owner. He had to return to the U.S and could not be located.
3. Ignorance. That’s the way it’s done in Mexico. Not if it’s done right. People who say this are usually trying to cut corners. Buyers should always check the details of proposed transactions or engage a reputable person to check for them. Larry and Rita gave money for the purchase of property to a complete stranger without an office or an established business. They allowed their greed to overcome their business sense and failed to follow proper procedure or even to find out what to proper procedure was.
Buying property in Mexico.
If you are an American or Canadian wanting to buy property in Mexico, here are some tips for you.
1. When you arrive in Mexico, turn off your vacation attitude and turn on your business brain. You will do better if you aren’t distracted by margaritas and fun.
2. When buying property, do it right. In Puerto Penasco foreign individuals can purchase residential property with a bank trust. A Mexican corporation can own property outright, but only for business purpose. These are the only two legal ways of doing it.
3. Get a professional real estate agent to represent you, preferably a member of the Puerto Penasco Association of Real Estate Agents.
Author: Steve Schwab
Posted on April 30, 2009 - by admin
Property for Sale Algarve: the Best Algarve Property
There are a lot of locations all over the world that allows you to live in complete relaxation. If you are thinking of buying a property that is unique from all the ones that you have already seen, opt for a property that is found in an exotic destination. You can just imagine owning a home near the beach, or within an exclusive golf community. You can take a walk on the shore, or ease up under a big umbrella and watch the waves lick the sandy shore. The world is filled with millions of developed prestigious properties. If you want a house that allows easy access to the beach, you can go for an Algarve property.
When you live in an exclusive property, you will be able to benefit greatly. First, the atmosphere is more relaxing. You will get to relax properly, and you will have a peace of mind that you will never be able to get if you are living in the city. Second, the air is fresher. Since all that surround you are mountains, trees, hills, and waters, you are assured that you are breathing in clean air. Third, you will not have to deal with noisy neighbors. The tendency with urban areas is that the people living next to you do not care that they are already bothering their next-door neighbors. You will not experience this kind of hassle, when you are living in a private property.
There are many property developments today that are catering to buyers, who want luxury living. One of these developments is an Algarve property, located in Algarve, Portugal. This location is incredibly breathtaking, what with its clear waters and fine sand beaches. All throughout the history of this Portuguese region, there have already been a lot of travelers choosing to settle within the area. This is because of the natural beauty and serenity that Algarve has to offer. If you want to make sure that you are living without worries, opt for an Algarve property.
When you buy an Algarve property, you will be residing within one of the pride of Europe. Since the region is situated along the coastal part of Portugal, Algarve consists of magnificent beach resorts. These resorts usher in thousands of visitors each year. Your Algarve property has easy access to all the comforts that life has to offer you. If you are fond of playing golf, you will be able to find a golfing club nearby. There are also plush hotels found in the region, along with boutiques and shopping centers. If you are searching for a prestigious property for sale, Algarve has the perfect offer for you.
If you are looking for a home in exotic locations, such as an Algarve property, there are many real estate agencies to inquire from. But if you want to make your search convenient and hassle-free, you can check out Unique Living. Through this website, you will be able to find a property for sale. Algarve, Portugal has beautiful properties to offer you. Unique Living blends high-quality real estate and property search services. If you want a superior home within a prime location, an Algarve property is the perfect option for you. When you find a property with the help of Unique Living, you will be able to locate a home that you have always been dreaming of.
Posted on April 30, 2009 - by admin
Bali Real Estate Paradise Property, Land and Homes For Sale
Paradise Property Bali is the leading Bali real estate developer and property investment company. When it comes to buying the Bali real estate, Paradise Property offer fantastic property investment opportunities in Bali for private villas in Seminyak, luxury houses in Canggu, cliff top locations in Jimbaran and The Bukit, secluded beachfront in Candi Dasa and mountain and river views in Ubud.
Paradise Property Bali can help create lifestyles most people can only dream of with real estate options that include buying off plan in a gated community, to buying an already constructed luxury Bali private villa.
Paradise Property Bali provides fully integrated property investment services including architects and interior design, construction and quality control to European standards as well as Bali villa management and Bali villa rental services.
With discerning international clients and a large investment base, Paradise Property Bali knows that with global investment comes the expectation for quality and excellence. The architecture, interiors and finishing of all developments with Paradise Property Bali is of the highest international standards. So important is the quality aspect that a wood preparation facility and specialised kitchen manufacturing and design service using the finest quality European fittings are also being created by Paradise Property Bali to maintain standards that are second to none.
Looking at resent tourist boom and Bali’s many developments, Bali real estate still remains a buyers market, where a suitable Bali development for anyone’s taste is available.
Resent tremendous growth in both arrivals as well as people who wish to stay and live in Bali real estate has attracted more and more serious and larger development companies. The Bali developments are also more and more being developed with in now better exposed zoning law’s and areas, as well as building and construction regulations. The Bali villa buying market is also becoming more sophisticated, and as a respond most Bali villa developments now has a fairly good to even similar to European standards. Recently there has also been a trend where Bali developers offer a wider range of design and interior opportunities, even though most Bali developments has a strong Balinese touch to it.
Key words for a successful Bali real estate development is still about great location, quality build, recognized architect, as well as established management brand name attached to it.
At this stage Bali developers still source most building material locally in Bali, and around Indonesia. But also in this area more high end Bali developments has started to import some of the needed material, specifically interior and furniture. Bali land prices for Bali real estate projects in Bali residential market is still also very much undervalued with about 40% compared to Thailand and the market therefore sees a strong value for money buying into Bali developments.
Villas for Sale and Rent
We have a villa management and villa rentals department for our own developments as well as for some of the most exclusive and luxurious individual properties in Bali . A dedicated website at Paradise Villa Rentals has been created to provide you with details, information and prices to make your next trip to Bali a truly memorable event.
Land build packages
Paradise Property Bali also develop land build packages whereby an investor can ask for their own private dream home to be built on a plot of land. We will source the land, source the architects and liaise between the owner and all parties concerned to make sure the highest quality of build is achieved.
Exclusive locations
We offer the best property investment in the most exclusive and sought after destinations of Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, The Bukit, Ubud and Candi Dasa ; from prime beachfront to picture postcard rice fields and stunning mountain views, members of the Paradise Property family will have choices of luxury private villas most people can only wish for. An impressive list of prestigious developments in Central London, Geralds Cross, UK; Flagler Beach, Florida USA; Port Andraitx, Majorca and Marbella, Spain and the Casa Nova in Albufeira, Portugal is testimony to Paradise Property’s pedigree.
Property investment
With discerning international clients and a large property investment base, Paradise Property Bali knows that with global investment comes the expectation for quality and excellence. The architecture, interiors and finishing of all developments in all locations are of the highest international standards. So important is the quality aspect that a wood preparation facility and specialized kitchen manufacturing and design service using the finest quality European fittings are also being created to maintain standards that are second to none.
Posted on April 30, 2009 - by admin
Investing in the Silver Coast Portugal
Buying property in Silver Coast Portugal is currently popular with Europeans, but as of yet, not so much with the British property buyers. This is because properties are relatively inexpensive and transport links to/from the UK are getting better and cheaper to the Silver Coast.
Buying property in Silver Coast Portugal offers superb beach holiday facilities with a great summer climate, great culture, architecture and history. Also, the Silver Coast is tipped to see significant capital property value rises in the coming years.
Portugal is an evergreen in the overseas property market. Build quality is high, property prices have grown a steady 10-15% per annum since the Millennium, and there is a broad choice of property across the price range and country. The price grow within the Silver Coast in the following years will reach possibly the 25 to 35%.
Buying property in Silver Coast Portugal offers good prospects for rental from both the local market and from holidaymakers, and with the potential of significant property price rises on the Silver Coast Portugal, this could be the ideal place to invest in a holiday home.
Portugal still has great appeal as it has a benign tax system which allows avoidance of the worst effects of capital gains and inheritance tax and can put you in a lower tax band.
Why buy in the the Silver Coast
Property experts have been advising clients to look beyond the Algarve, with its pockets of overgrowing, and invest instead in homes 45 minutes drive from Lisbon on Portugals Silver Coast.
According to international property specialists the Silver Coast is now the up-and-coming area in Portugal. Many Brits are selling up in the Algarve and moving up to the Oeste Region, which is located just north of Lisbon. This area is still very Portuguese, with farming the main source of income for the locals. It does not die in the winter because most of the locals are Portuguese. The cost of properties is so much cheaper than on the Algarve, so there is still room to make money in this area.
What of the place itself?
The Silver Coast stretches from Porto down to Portugals capital Lisbon and hugs the North Atlantic coastline; it is home to beautiful beaches, amazing cliffs, quaint fishing villages, lush rolling countryside and some of the most fascinating historic sites in Portugal. Here you can discover pretty villages and a real Portuguese way of life.
The Silver Coast is a particularly good bet for those with holiday lets in mind, thanks to the new A8 motorway which has cut journey times from Lisbon to the Silver Coast considerably, opening the atmospheric towns of Caldas da Rainha and Turcifal, and pretty villages, such as Peniche, up to tourists and investors.
There is a wide range of property available on the Silver Coast. You can find traditional farmhouses in need of renovation, but there has also been a fair amount of developments popping up and luxury villas with pools and apartments in complexes are easy to find.
All of this is now less than an hour drive from Lisbon International airport along the new A8 motorway, linking the vibrant capital of Portugal with historic Oporto in the North. This little known region is opening its doors to the outside world.
A region for life
Exploring the tranquil towns, villages and countryside of this beautiful region will confirm to you that here is a place that genuinely has the best of both worlds. Whilst offering a life of rural calm amidst the spectacular scenery, at the same time it is perfectly equipped with access to all the modern facilities of transport, healthcare, education and leisure that make life a pleasure for all generations.
The Western Region enjoys entertainments and events throughout the year: concerts, art exhibitions, the Torres carnival – the most Portuguese event in Portugal, the Caldas da Rainha ceramics and fruit fairs, the Bombarral wine festival, Peniches Festas da Nuestra Senhora da Boa Viagem, the Montejunto popular festival (Cadaval), Alenquers Feira da Ascensao, festivals in Sobral, Monte Agraco and Arruda dos Vinhos, Feiras da Cebola e das Tasquinhas and hundreds more fairs, festivals and popular gatherings.
The region has many hotels with superb facilities and innumerable restaurants, bars and lively venues which ensure that one’s first visit to the Western region is never the last.
For golf enthusiasts the Western Region is the new destination in Portugal. Golf Courses at Praia del Rey (18 holes)and Rio Maior (18 holes) are complemented by 9-hole courses at Consolacao and Porto Novo. The Bom Sucesso and Perola da Lagoa 18-hole courses are actually already under construction and the brand new project of the 18-hole course of Foz do Arelho, which will be the hugest should begin within the year 2008.
The natural abundance of the area is enhanced by beautiful fine-sanded beaches, where the sands shimmer like silver, at Santa Cruz, Porto Novo, Areia Branca, Sao Bernardino, Consolacao, Peniche, Baleal, Foz do Arelho and Salir do Porto. Local crafts can be found in Peniche, which is notable for its lace, and in Caldas da Rainha, which is one of the most important centres for ceramics in Portugal.
The new Peniche recreation centre is a base for water sports, with a haven of fishing and scuba-diving in Berlenga. Santa Cruz and Peniche (Supertubos beach and Lagide beach) are the places for surf lovers. The Obidos lake has sailing, rowing and windsurfing. Montejunto, Serrado Socorro and Santa Rita beach are the main locations for paragliding and hang-gliding. The Santa Cruz aerodrome, with its flying school, offers flights in light aircraft and gliders.
There are equestrian centres in the Hotel Golf Mar, in Marquiteira (Lourinha), in Atouguia da Baleia – at the Quinta das Tripas and the Quintas de Bom Sucesso – Lourinha, S. Sebastido – Arruda dos Vinhos, Quinta da Ferraria and Cortisada – Rio Maior.
A region for health
Healthcare facilities are modern and efficient and offer a good range of public and private services for all your requirements. In addition the region offers several thermal baths: Vimeiro (digestive system, circulatory system, respiratory system and skin), Cucos (metabolic and endocrine systems, rheumatics, muscular and skeletal systems) and Torres Vedras and Caldas da Rainha – the oldest in Europe (respiratory system, rheumatics, muscular and skeletal systems).
A region for Gourmets
Gastronomy in the region is rich and varied: there are many delicious pork dishes, oven baked kid, stewed rabbit with rice, celebrated fish stews, baked or boiled sea bream and rock bass from Peniche, eels and cockles from the Obidos lake and shellfish from the beds at Porto de Barcas (lagosta suada – sweating lobster – is a delicacy which can only be found in the Western Region).
The gastronomical influence of history is evident in trouxas de ovos, lampreias de ovos (sweet dishes made with eggs) and cavacas (light crisp cakes) from Caldas da Rainha, bean pies from Torres Vedras and paes de lo (sponge cakes) from Landal, Painho and Rio Maior. All are complemented by the taste and aroma of apples and pears.
The Western region is also one of the largest wine growing areas in Portugal and indeed the world. The area boasts full-bodied, aromatic red wines with excellent alcoholic content: the wines of the south (castas Camarate, Periquita and Tinto Miudo) are lively when young, intense yet well balanced and with an exquisite bouquet when aged.
The white wines of the north are deliciously fruity (castas Arinto, Fernao Pires, Vital). Out of this diversity, the wine-growing areas of Obidos and Alenquer, Arruda dos Vinhos and Torres Vedras were born in 1989. The region is also known for its light wines with lower alcohol content, and for the only DOC (controlled standard of origin) classified brandy in Portugal – Aguardente Vinica from Lourinha.
Hope to meet you soon in the Silver Coast of Portugal.
Posted on April 30, 2009 - by admin
Energy Efficiency Certificates In Portugal
In January 2009 Portugal became the latest of the European countries to adopt the policy of energy efficiency certification. Every property for sale or rent must have a certificate prior to it being sold or rented.
This certificate is issued by the government and declares the energy efficiency rating of each property so the potential buyer or seller can chose a more efficient home. However even though this law has only been in force for less than three months at the moment of writing, the energy efficient certificate are proving to be just another cost to the property owner and a key income to the government.
The government has specified a sale or rental of a property will not be permitted to proceed without proof of this document. While some more rural notary offices are claiming the opposite, unfortunately for home owners wishing to sell or rent be prepared to get your certificate as this is not the case.
However a fact which has not been widely publicised it the certificate, is that it is only valid for six months after it is issued. So therefore if the sale of your house takes more than six months you will be require to have another inspection by a licensed engineer to ensure no further alterations have been made, which can be costly.
The main points the engineers note are whether the property has central heating, double glazing, interior or exterior shutters, air conditioning units and whether the property is in an area deficient of regular sunlight. They will also note whether the property is displaying areas of damp or neglect. However unlike a survey, which buyers in the United Kingdom are use to, which identifies all key points, this simply denotes what insulation and energy saving items are currently in situ. then an energy rating is awarded to the property, much like a fridge or freezer.
In the long term these energy efficiency ratings will be worthwhile, however at the present moment in a country with so many properties deficient of basic amenities there is no rhyme or reason to the costing to them.
The cost to have an energy efficiency survey carried out is not simple. The costing depends upon the size of the property and the location in which it is set. Ruins, which are self evident of being the least energy efficient properties simply by their category, are still incorporated into the scheme.
If you are currently in the process of selling your property it is pertinent to note, until you have an offer on your property it is not worth investing in an energy efficiency certificate as you may find you have to have the process repeated on several occasions at significant cost to yourself. An energy efficient certificate does not add value to your property, it is simply another tax by the government, which in the much longer term will have value.
To gain an energy efficiency certificate is a simple procedure and one which your estate agent will be fully familiar with. The engineer takes approximately one week to compile the data – with a visit to your property, then after a report is sent to the central government and the appropriate funds given, the certificate is issued, but only with a six month validity date.
Posted on April 29, 2009 - by admin
Why Buy Real Estate in Mexico?
Mexico Real Estate is an attractive investment for anyone looking to purchase property. With so many places to choose from, many people want to know why Mexico is so special. This brief article will clue you in on some of the main reasons that Real Estate in Mexico is so appealing. Read on to find out more about our neighbor to the south.
Mexico has a rich and vibrant history as our neighbor. There are many benefits to living in Mexico or investing in property there. It is easy for anyone looking for great weather, scenic surroundings, low prices, and a thriving culture to buy property in Mexico. Sandy beaches, striking Mayan ruins, ancient colonial cities, sprawling mountains, sunny deserts, and beautiful jungles await you. Best of all, it is so affordable. People have been going to Mexico to vacation or retire for many years. It is actually one of the top real estate markets in the western hemisphere. There are tons of properties available, and the Mexico property market is very affordable.
A vibrant economy makes Mexico real estate a good move. The peso is particularly strong right now, and trade is steadily increasing. The local government is also advancing in terms of laws and policies that promote investment and economic growth. Things are becoming very stable throughout the country, and it is a great time to buy Property in Mexico. Whether you want a tiny beach-front home, a colonial building, or a business office, you will find it in Mexico. You just have to know where to look for the best offers. The natural geography pulls you in with its mountains, valleys, beaches, and so much more. There is something special about the region. That is why so many tourists and visitors have been going to Mexico over the years. You can get your own little spot in this thriving country as well.
Do not forget to consider the wonderful quality of life when you think about buying Mexican real estate. The people are friendly, and the natural scenery is amazing. The incredibly low cost of living is an enticing factor as well. Life moves slower down south, and you will learn to slow down yourself in Mexico. Everything is cheaper, so you can finally afford the luxuries that you only dreamed of in America. The landscapes and culture will attract you to Mexico. The amazing options in terms of real estate will make you stay.
I appreciate you as a client and a friend. I appreciate your business, your loyalty, trust and your referrals. It is my goal to provide the very best counsel, advice and service possible for your real estate needs. If I may ever be of assistance to you, a relative, friend or co-worker please don’t hesitate to call me. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you
Have questions, need advice you can count on or just want to discuss this further?
Don’t waste any more time; pick up the phone and call me now! I’m here to help!
Author: Herb C. Jahnke
Posted on April 29, 2009 - by admin
Buying Property in Puerto Vallarta
There are many reasons why you should seriously consider buying Puerto Vallarta real estate, but it will ultimately come down to both personal choice and individual circumstances. One thing’s for sure, however, before buying, you need to decide what your reasons are for looking at Puerto Vallarta real estate. Are you planning to live in Mexico for a long time and therefore you view a long term rental as a waste of possible equity? Are you looking for an overseas investment property that will provide a handsome rental income while also providing you with a vacation home whenever you can get away? Is your company looking for a new location, second headquarters, and warehouse or manufacturing facility?
Whatever your reasons for looking at Property in Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen Real Estate or Cancun Real Estate, it is important to realize that it can be a very smart investment. For one thing, property values in Mexico have been consistently going up every year, just like they do almost anywhere else – as we know, one thing that is NOT being manufactured is more land. However, property values of Puerto Vallarta real estate do not typically appreciate as quickly as they do in the U.S. , Europe, Canada and other ‘developed’ countries, making it a value for buyers from these other nations at almost any given time. In addition, as with any property, the true appeal and value of Property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico comes down to one thing only – location!
This brings us to another important thing to think about when you are looking at Puerto Vallarta real estate is the state of development in the immediate vicinity as well as the surrounding governmental infrastructure of the whole entire area. Some areas are much more developed than others, while some are hardly developed at all. While property values will be cheaper in underdeveloped areas, be careful when you are looking at these sorts of locations in the purchase of Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta.
Author: Tom Budniak
Posted on April 29, 2009 - by admin
Mexico Holiday Property Rentals
It’s no wonder why Mexico is such a popular tourist destination. Millions of people flock to the country each year to enjoy its warm and sunny climate, its fantastic beach resorts, its culture and its diverse natural beauty.
Mexico is ideal for a family holiday, a romantic vacation (such as a wedding or honeymoon), an adventure holiday or a cultural break.
It’s a large country and has so much to offer its visitors. It’s also a superb area for a holiday property rental, as there is a great selection of self catering accommodation in Mexico to suit everyone.
There is so much to see and do in this amazing country. Mexico City is the country’s capital and is well worth a visit. It’s also a good place to start your holiday. It’s brimming with museums, culture, restaurants, shops, parks and Mexico City is definitely the place to be if you’re looking for some great nightlife.
If you’re a big museum fan, then you definitely need to check out Mexico City! Here you will find the National History Museum, National Museum of Popular Culture, Modern Art Museum, National Museum of Anthropology, National Art Museum and a whole lot more!
If you’re looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, then be sure to visit one of the city’s parks. Chapultepec Park is a fine example.
And if you have the time during your trip to Mexico City, make your way to the 45th floor of the World Trade Center, where you will find the incredible revolving restaurant, Bellini. Here you will get the opportunity to take in some fantastic views while you dine.
Acapulco is another fun Mexican city to visit during your self catering vacation. It’s perfect if you’re planning a beach holiday. You can also try your hand at many water sports here and it’s an ideal location if you want to get down to some serious partying!
Not surprisingly, the beaches are a huge attraction here. There’s Caleta Beach, Icacos Beach, Condesa Beach and others.
Another huge attraction in Acapulco is the Cliff Divers at La Quebrada. Here you can watch the divers jump off the 45-metre cliff into the sea below! It has been taking place for years and years (since the 1940s!).
After a day’s sightseeing or sunbathing, there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy Acapulco by night. The city is brimming with nightclubs, discos and bars. Get ready to dance the night away!
Cancún, meanwhile, is an ideal coastal city to tie the knot and then honeymoon! It’s also a perfect destination for a fun-filled family holiday or indeed a sporting vacation. There is no shortage of activities for the children and no end of facilities for those with a keen interest in water sports. For example, you can go sailing, fishing, scuba diving or snorkelling here. Or if you prefer, you can just lie back and sunbathe on one of Cancún’s beautiful, stunning beaches.
Other popular destinations in Mexico include Guadalajara (great for culture, museums, nightlife and food), Mazatlan (stunning beaches), Puerto Vallarta (brimming in natural beauty, gorgeous beaches, plenty of water sports on offer – and you might even see the whales and dolphins while you are here) and Cozumel (an island which is great for scuba diving and snorkelling). Other popular areas in Mexico are Palenque, Oaxaca City, Yucatan, Merida, Tulum, Puerto Escondido, Quintana Roo and Puebla. There are also so many more places to explore besides!
Mexico is a great holiday destination for everyone. It’s ideal for an annual family vacation, a sightseeing or adventure holiday – and it’s a perfect location for a wedding or honeymoon, too!
