Sometimes going away for two weeks just isn’t enough. Sometimes we find that perfect luxury holiday destination that makes us want to live there. This selection of 5 great places to buy a holiday home contains something for everyone, whether you are looking for a beach villa on a white sand beach, a relaxing place to unwind or a base for sports. The locations below are all situated in or close by to popular tourist areas, which makes them ideal for those who wish to rent out their holiday home for part of the year.
Zell am See, Salzburg, Austria
Skiers looking for a place to buy the perfect holiday home need look no further than Zell am See in Austria. In the winter the slopes are as good as anywhere else. In the summer Zell am See overlooks a beautiful lake. Many ski resorts close down in the summer months but Zell am See gets a whole new lease of life in the form of sailing. The backdrop of snow capped mountains provides a unique sailing experience on Lake Zell. There is a range of property available from apartments to cabins to luxury houses. The year round tourism makes this a great choice because it is far easier to let your property throughout the year. Most suitable for skiers and sailors.
Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
This recently developed resort style residential area is upscale and well planned. It is located on the relatively undeveloped Lantau Island. It lies just 2 km from Hong Kongs Disneyland. Discovery Bay was originally intended as a tourist destination but the developers changed their mind. People from over 30 countries make up the population in this lovely beach community. There are actually two bays with excellent views from most properties. Hong Kong International Airport is a short taxi ride away, as is the main Hong Kong Island. Most suitable for families who need a convenient Asian hub to conduct business in the region.
Alvor, Algarve, Portugal
Golfers across Europe flock to the Algarve for the excellent weather, food and of course golf courses. The Algarve has developed steadily over the past 20 years to become a great value location for a holiday home. Alvor is a sleepy fishing village located on the South Coast. It has all the mediterranean charm you could hope for. Villas set in beautiful gardens can be purchased for very reasonable prices. It is just a short drive across the border for visits into Spain too. The main beach in Alvor is excellent and there are plenty of attractions for kids as well as golfers. Most suitable for retired golfers.
Crane Beach, Barbados, Caribbean
Barbados is famous for white beaches and great hospitality. Visitors are greeted like family by the Bajans and this is one of the main reasons why so many visitors become residents. Crane Beach is located on the south east coast of Barbados. The beach itself is postcard perfect with white sand featuring a hint of pink. The turquoise water often has mild surf allowing for some watersports. It is just a short drive to the capital of Bridgetown and the airport. Most suitable for those seeking a holiday home on a tropical island.
Ibiza Town, Ibiza, Spain
Spain has always been a favourite place to buy abroad for Europeans. There are are some good deals to be found on the mainland, but for those looking for a step up in class, areas such a Marbella are becoming over-priced and overcrowded. Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands, famous for its party culture. Once the party district of San Antonio is avoided, residents are rewarded with peace and tranquility. The classy Ibiza Town contains some of the best restaurants in Spain. There is a fantastic range of homes available in the area and it makes the perfect base to explore secluded beaches on the island.Most suitable for young families who want some nightlife.
