Notes From the D.R. – “I’ve Never Seen Anything Like It!”

Notes From the D.R. – “I’ve Never Seen Anything Like It!”

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February 16, 2012

The plans at the Gran Bahia Principe (the new resort I told you about in my last report from the Dominican Republic) call for a self-contained mini-town. Residents here will be able to go to school...get medical treatment...enjoy their leisure activities (like golf and tennis)...dock their boat...get dressed up for fine dining...dress down for cocktails and a snack on the beach...buy groceries in the supermarket...You get the idea.

The Dominican Republic Scouting Trip, Part 1

The Dominican Republic Scouting Trip, Part 1

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January 28, 2012

Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic and one of the largest cities in Latin America. I haven't explored it yet. That will have to wait until the tail end of my scouting trip. Pulling out of the airport...across the bay her skyline glimmers. I'm most interested in the restored colonial center. Museums, restaurants and short-term rental market. My 11-day scouting trip will end in Santo Domingo.

One of the World’s Best-Kept Caribbean Secrets – For Now

One of the World’s Best-Kept Caribbean Secrets – For Now

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January 13, 2012

Tulum's beaches are mesmerizing. Nestled at the end of a stunning powder sand Caribbean coastline, surrounded by untamed jungle, ancient forest cities, a protected nature reserve, and the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, Tulum is one of the world's best-kept secrets...for now. Close by is the exclusive development called Tao. It's a project made up of condos, town homes and residences. RETA members bought pre-release and pre-construction here 18 months ago. Back then, not a single sod had been turned. But developer Benjamin Beja had a vision, a hard-working team and a truly special piece of land.

Full Details About That Lake-View Costa Rica Deal

Full Details About That Lake-View Costa Rica Deal

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January 6, 2012

Lake Arenal in Costa Rica's lake country is stunningly beautiful. The weather, with year- round temperatures in the 70s, is near perfect. From the lake (and from the elevated lots at The Preserve, the project I told you about yesterday) the views to the towering Arenal Volcano are jaw dropping. This is rich pasture and tropical jungle country. You might think you are in Switzerland. The roar of howler monkeys... flamboyant and dramatic...and brightly colored birds tells me I'm not.

Get Ready to Buy Costa Rica for $143 a Month

Get Ready to Buy Costa Rica for $143 a Month

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January 5, 2012

Lake Arenal, Costa Rica has been overlooked. I can't explain why. I can see no good reason. It's just one of those anomalies. It's stunningly beautiful. The weather is near perfect. The community of locals and expats is welcoming and friendly. The road here is good and you don't want for any modern conveniences or amenities. I've seen situations like this before.

For 30 Members Only: Trip to the Most Affordable Beach on the Pacific Coast

For 30 Members Only: Trip to the Most Affordable Beach on the Pacific Coast

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December 23, 2011

Ecuador's nicest 100-mile stretch of coast used to be difficult to get to. That's changed with the new highway. One strong opportunity I've told you about on this coast is Jama Campay. This is where you can buy a 1,800-square-foot home perched above...yet only steps from...a white-sand beach. From your lap pool you have views past the beach and breaking waves to the Pacific Ocean.