French country in Puerto Banus

On the Costa del Sol in Spain you'll find the famous port Puerto Banus just outside the town of Marbella. Marbella is a beautiful town full of charm, something that cannot be said about Puerto Banus. The port is the playground for the rich and famous (and a lot of not so rich and not so famous too...) If you want to see the biggest yachts, the fastest cars, the most expensive shops and the most obnoxious people - this is the place to go! And we go - every year! I guess that says something about human nature....

In the middle of all the Cavalli, Dior, Armani and Vuitton I happended on this wonderful little store. CÔTÉ SOLEIL is a french home and decorating botique that has all the charm that the rest of this place lacks. It doesn't really fit in with all the glam and glitz of this place, but for me it was absolutely perfect.

It was established in 1995 in Marbella, with a vision to create an exclusive, refined French life style for the home. Elegant French furniture, fine bedding and table linens, tasteful glass and dinnerware are all handmade from natural materials, reviving a craftsmanship that has all but disappeared. Vintage pieces such as silver items and crystal chandeliers set the mood for a home full of warm family tradition.

Now all you need is a country house in France!

Viva España

I'm spending my summer here in Spain and thought I would give you a peek into the Spanish real estate market. Most investors claim that Spain is an excellent real estate investment opportunity right now. Spain is one of the countries in Europe that has been the hardest affected by the international financial crisis and prices have, in some areas, been reduced by almost 50%.

Because of the wonderful beaches, the comfortable climate and the accessibility from northern Europe there is a strong optimism that Spain will bounce back and again become one of the forerunners in the European holiday market.

For the fun of it I have chosen to showcase two very different properties on the Costa del Sol (South coast) at each end of the price range. This is an example of what your money can buy. There are thousands of homes for sale here right now and if you want to see more properties go to www.vivaestates.com

Property #1

Located in Calahonda

Beds: 2, Baths: 1 Built: 76 m², Terraces: 12 m² Priced at 125.000 Euro

Existing Freehold Reduced by €45,000. Lovely reformed apartment, 2 beds / 1 bath, completely new fitted kitchen, brand new bathroom, quality furniture, as well in lounge as both bedrooms. Direct access to the beautiful community gardens, gated parking, marble floors, fitted wardrobes, fantastic sea views. A good deal!

Property #2

Sierra Blanca - Marbella

Beds: 8, Baths: 8 Built: 1200 m², Terraces: 200 m², Plot: 4000 m² Priced at 5,450,000 Euros

Existing Freehold Large mansion with a great semi-rustic ambience, located on one of the finest adresses in Sierra Blanca, Cascada de Camojan. The villa is set on a plot of 4000 m2 with beautiful landsacped gardens, outdoor barbecue/bar area and 70 m2 large swimmingpool. The villa have 1000 m2 livingarea divided over 3 levels. Furthermore 200 m2 terrace with great views to the coast, sea and mountains. The house have 8 bedrooms with 8 bathrooms and 2 guest toilets. Pool room, jacuzzi, turkish bath and fitness room. Independent apartment on basement level. Great driveway with fountain, carport for 2 cars aswell garage for 2 cars. Aircondition hot/cold. High security in area aswell installed alarm system! Great villa on large plot in prestigious area!!!