Looking for a Beach Town Investment?

Some of the most affordable beach towns to invest in for 2019 lie on the Gulf Coast, especially in Texas.

In four-season coastal communities such as Port Aransas, Texas on Mustang Island, the average 50-foot Gulf front lot costs under $1 million — well under the $4 million to $5 million-plus average found in coastal California and Florida. “In addition to the bottom-line profits, people fall in love with our island. We’re an authentic beach community with a laid-back lifestyle more in tune with life in the tropics,” notes Keith McMullin, broker/owner of Port Aransas Realty.

In 2019, Texas housing sales recovered after second-quarter declines, trending upward amid lower mortgage interest rates and a robust economy. Mortgage applications for home purchases and refinances continued to rise, nudged by further dips in interest rates. “The construction of high-end, luxury homes and condos in Cinnamon Shore, Palmilla Beach, and Sunflower Beach have played a significant role in our expansion to new markets. We remain somewhat of a secret outside of Texas, but that is changing as more people discover the affordability and allure of Mustang Island,” according to McMullin.

Texans capitalized on lower rates, pushing mortgage applications for home purchases up 15.6 percent year to date (YTD). Refinance mortgage applications (more sensitive to interest rate fluctuations), have nearly doubled over the past six months. “Large areas of Mustang Island were undeveloped until recent years. Of the 367 miles of Texas coastline, the bulk of the land available for development is located on Mustang Island.  We simply are not as widely known as other more mature beachfront communities,” says McMullin.

Investing in Texas real estate has been a no-brainer. Since 2010, the population has grown by 3.5 million, a million more than either Florida or California — converting into one and a half million new homes. Some 2 million of those people came from elsewhere attracted by new jobs, a fast-growing economy, more reasonable home prices, no state income tax, and a state ranked among the world’s ninth strongest economy.

“When compared to investing in other vacation/second-home markets, our story is very compelling. Lower property acquisition costs coupled with the vibrant Texas economy and steady population growth has created a healthy investment opportunity through appreciation and vacation rental income,” says McMullin.

For small coastal communities like Port Aransas, 2019 visitor arrivals from Texas and around the U.S. have so far exceeded last year’s numbers by 40 percent. Those arrivals are expected to rise, thanks to 3,300 out of 4,200 lodging units (up from 2,200 last year) that are now open for business (since Hurricane Harvey) with elevations of 10 to 11 feet above sea level.

Port A is definitely on the upswing, with new developments that include:

•   The destination’s first conference center, slated to open in 2021 for gatherings of 500 to 2,000 attendees.
•   225-room conference center hotel, slated to break ground in February 2020.
•   A new beachfront/bayfront marina and resort
•   Cinnamon Shore, an upscale 1,000-acre master-planned beachfront, family- and pedestrian-friendly community that will add Cinnamon Shore South, a $1.3 billion, a 300-acre expansion that will more than quadruple the existing community. It will include luxury homes, Town Center residences, community pools, a dining district with several restaurants, a retail destination, a health and wellness center, and a boutique hotel.
•   Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Community opened a new golf course on June 1st with 9 holes of links-style play, plus THE LOOP – a 3-hole, par 3 course, plus a driving range. Palmilla Beach’s homes range from condos and townhomes to cottages and custom homes. Homesites begin in the $200s and completed homes from the $500s. 
•   Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences, nestled among 50 acres of protected dune preserves, features beach homes, several lots and 21 single-level poolside condos.  It has nearly completed the first phase of 25 new ultra-luxury one- and two-bedroom beach cabins priced from $382,000 to $499,000 at The Camp.

Photos courtesy of Cinnamon Shore

The busy summer season is coming to a close, but here are a few unforgettable destinations around the world that should be shared! These curated experiences are opportunities to immerse yourself in new cultures, taste new foods, appreciate art, design, history and enjoy time for yourself to rejuvenate.

Photo courtesy of São Lourenço do Barrocal

Wild Terrains — Portugal

As the only travel company leading women-only group trips that partner exclusively with local, female-owned businesses, Wild Terrains has expanded and launched their second destination – Portugal. This new eight-day/seven-night journey takes women travelers to Lisbon, Alentejo, and Porto, where the dynamic history, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes are just the beginning. Guests stay at stylish women-owned hotels like The Lisboans in Lisbon and Duas Portas Townhouse in Porto. Experience a Lisbon street art tour designed by Vanessa Teodoro, a South African street artist. Enjoy a tasting menu dinner at women-owned Prado with wine pairings by Portugal’s top female winemakers, and so much more!

Other activities:

Foraging with Portuguese mixologist Constança Cordeiro, private mixology lessons, biking through the countryside of Alentejo Visit. Travelers will learn more about Portuguese food history with cooking classes and eating your way through Porto with a food crawl. Another option is to take a day trip to Douro Valley to meet some female winemakers in the region, and so much more!

Photo courtesy of Prado Restaurant                                                                                                                                              Photo courtesy of  The Lisboans

Photo courtesy of Wild Terrains

On Foot Holidays — Catalonia

The hills of Catalonia are perfect for a fall getaway, with the grape harvest in full swing in September. On Foot Holidays’ self-guided hiking vacation will take you through the terraced vineyards of the famed Priorat winemaking region to the town of Porrera, where there are, of course, plenty of opportunities to sample the local wines in celebration of completing your walk. Starting at Montsant, only an hour from Barcelona, the route through quiet hills with magnificent vistas also passes two fine abbeys – Poblet and Escaladei – the former thriving and active, the latter now being restored as an archaeological site of major significance. 

Did you know?

All of On Foot Holidays’ 32 routes throughout Europe are designed by a local – someone who lives near every route and is responsible for the upkeep of the route, hotel liaison and providing telephone support for all walkers during their trip. For this route, the locals recommend a stay in Barcelona at the end (or start) at one of On Foot Holidays’ hand-picked hotels or B&Bs.

Photos courtesy of On Foot Holidays

Photo courtesy of Pierre Carreau

Photo courtesy of Gerald Tessier

Ignacia Guest House — Mexico City

Stay in the beloved Colonia Roma neighborhood at Ignacia Guest House, a trendy eco-friendly bed and breakfast. Featuring just five unique suites, the hotel’s namesake is Ignacia, the housekeeper who took care of this 1913 colonial mansion for more than 70 years. In celebration of Dia de los Muertos, the chef will bake the traditional holiday bread for breakfast that week – Pan de Muertos or “bread of the dead,” a slightly sweet, brioche-like bread covered with orange blossom water and anise seeds. 

In addition:

Foodies will love Eat Like a Local Mexico City’s special Dia de los Muertos food tour where founder Rocio Vazquez Landeta shares her personal approach to the celebration. Start the day with coffee, sweet bread, and street tacos with a visit to the flower market to enjoy delicious food while shopping for candy skulls, flowers, candles, colorful papers, and more. 

Photo courtesy of Jaime Navarro

The Liming — Bequia 

To Caribbean locals, liming means ‘the art of doing nothing.’ At The Liming Bequia, this leisurely way of passing the time comes with added luxury. Set on the tiny island of Bequia, this boutique hideaway is refreshingly off the beaten track compared to larger islands. With lush gardens, a private marina and views towards Canouan and Mayreau, The Liming instantly rewards you for going that bit further. 

Did you know?

Reopening after the off-season on November 9th, 2019, The Liming Bequia recently announced a special offer for travelers –

“stay for 7 nights, pay only for 5” – so guests can enjoy liming for even longer. 

Photos courtesy of The Liming, Bequia

For similar content try the following articles; Expert Q&A: Combining Luxury Travel with Curated Wine Experiences, Traveling the Globe in Search of The New Art Deco, Experiential Travel, Docent-Led Destinations.

Enjoy stunning fall colors, gorgeous views, endless amenities, and satisfying food at these luxury destinations!

It’s that time of the year to break out the hot cocoa, comfy sweaters, and pumpkin flavored everything. The season of holidays, romantic getaways, family gatherings and more is officially here. Three top fall destinations will have you booking your next vacation before the leaves hit the ground.

The Ranch at Rock Creek

Five-star Guest Ranch – Philipsburg, Montana

“The first thing that stands out when you arrive is the natural beauty and privacy of The Ranch at Rock Creek, which is situated on 10 square miles of wilderness and surrounded by the Sapphire, John Long and Pintler mountains. Add that a river runs through it and you are transported back in time to a more simple way of life, rugged yet unhurried,” says Carol Ann Kelley-Elwell, the director of marketing and media relations at The Ranch at Rock Creek.

This destination is the perfect mix of Western adventure — horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing — and all-inclusive luxury. From the spa and the gourmet dining to the custom duvet covers, you’ll enjoy every careful detail.

Why is this a luxury fall destination?

“The brilliant colors and cooler temperatures make for exhilarating days and cozy fireside evenings,” says Kelley-Elwell. “The ambiance and décor of the historic barns, granite lodge, riverfront canvas cabins and log homes make for the perfect fall escape for all ages.”

Photos courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek

Topping Rose House

Haven in The Hamptons – Bridgehampton, New York

“The first thing people recognize about Topping Rose House is the timeless design of the colonial manor,” says Joseph Montag, the general manager of Topping Rose House.

Tradition and history meet new and luxurious at this haven in The Hamptons. “The blend of historical and contemporary design is unique to this property in the Hamptons,” says Montag. This luxury hotel is surrounded by gorgeous grounds and offers exhilarating activities, including hiking, nature walks, golf courses, tennis clubs, and a mix of beaches. “The fall is actually the most consistent weather season of the year. There is little rain and the brisk breeze coming off the ocean gives an ideal climate and beautiful scenery,” says Montag.

Amenities Offered

“The hotel has a swimming pool that is open to the public as well as a year-round Jean-Georges restaurant. The restaurant wraps around the front porch of the main house to provide a unique dining experience in the Hamptons,” says Montag. The hotel also has new Lexus cars that are available for guests, a pool and a spa.

Photos courtesy of  Topping Rose House

Blantyre

Award-winning luxury Forbes Five-star resort – Lenox, Massachusetts

Blantyre is a Tudor-style mansion and estate that was built in 1902 but has been seamlessly updated to the highest of standards. This retreat has an abundance of history that melds perfectly with fine and casual dining that adheres to a farm-to-table philosophy, a spa and vitality bar, hot air balloon rides, hiking and much more.

A Great Fall Destination

“The stunning and scenic 110 acres of the estate and the manor house is modeled after a Scottish castle,” according to a Blantyre spokesperson, making this an unforgettable fall destination.

“Blantyre offers unparalleled culinary experiences, including a classic French bistro, fine dining restaurant, and outdoor dining terrace, in addition to New England’s most extensive wine cellar with a private tasting room, and nearly 10,000 bottles,” according to a Blantyre spokesperson.

Photo courtesy of Blantyre Resort