Altinkum, the Family Friendly Resort

Altinkum is a very family friendly resort located in a beautiful area along the Aegean Coast. It is renowned for having three extremely nice beaches that are perfect for families with small children as the beach shelves away very gently. 
 
The beaches are super clean, and there is always plenty of space for sunbathing, and it is easy to rent a sun lounger and umbrella for the day at a very reasonable cost. In fact it would be very easy to spend the entire holiday on the beach, as everything you need is nearby, including numerous bars and restaurants.

Although it isn’t an enormous resort, it does have sufficient shops selling everything you are likely to need, as well as a weekly market selling plenty of fresh produce, and locally made crafts that are perfect for souvenirs. In spite of the fact that it has developed quite rapidly over the last ten years or so, Altinkum has managed to retain its unspoiled air. 
 
Altinkum is easily accessible from either Bodrum International airport, or from Izmir International Airport, and is a good choice for a family location as there is such a diverse range of activities available. There are plenty of water sports, and a water park in Altinkum, or it’s a great area for hiking in, especially in nearby Lake Bafa. The area is particularly well known for its abundance of historical sites that would keep even the most avid history buff occupied for a couple of weeks at least.

Visiting Fogo in Cape Verde

Most of the tourist developments in Cape Verde are on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, and it would be easy to spend your whole holiday on these beautiful islands, but several of the other islands are well worth a look, and offer unique travel experiences. One such island is Fogo which is the fourth largest island in the archipelago; it is remarkable for having the only active volcano, and its name is the Portuguese word for fire.

Fogo has the highest peak in Cape Verde, and the volcano has seen several small eruptions since 1785 although the last eruption took place in 1995, with the last major eruption being in 1680. These smaller eruptions have all taken place within the crater, and have created smaller craters in the floor of the original crater which is 10 km long and 7 km wide.

Not surprisingly the soil around the crater is extremely fertile, and coffee is grown on the slopes, while grapevines are actually growing inside the crater and produce Fogo wine. The scenery on the island is quite dramatic and almost lunar as it consists of black sand and rocks.

The main town on the island is called Sao Filipe, and it's easy to see the Portuguese influence amongst the cobbled streets and pastel coloured houses, many of which are decorated with tiles and woods from Portugal. It's worthwhile taking a hike up the volcano, as there's even a restaurant at the top and the views are breathtaking. Fogo is also remarkable for being one of the few Cape Verdean islands to receive any significant amounts of rainfall, although it's still a very dry island.

The Cayman Islands Has Plenty of Activities for Visitors to Enjoy

The Cayman Islands is an idyllic holiday destination in the Caribbean which has so much more to offer than merely world-class beaches. It offers fantastic opportunities for scuba-diving and snorkelling, for both beginners and the more experienced.

There's also the chance to feed stingrays, or to take a trip to the Turtle Farm to see the conservation efforts firsthand. However there's lots to do on land as well. It's a great place to go hiking, and the three islands are easily explored on foot.

The Cayman Islands is remarkable for having some of the most diverse flora and fauna anywhere in the world, and it's also home to the largest colony of red footed boobies in the Western Hemisphere. The Mastic Trail on Grand Cayman is an interesting two-mile hike which takes you through dry, subtropical forests.

More adventurous hikers may want to visit Cayman Brac, as it has some pretty spectacular walks along the cliff, and is also home to numerous caves which are suitable for first-time cavers or the more experienced. Little Cayman has lots of pristine coastline and secluded beaches, as well as mangrove forests, lagoons and wetlands to explore.

The Cayman Islands are very beautiful, and the National Trust for the Cayman Islands helps to protect local natural resources and wildlife, as well as some of the cultural and traditional sites which are of historical interest. These include Fort George, East End Light House Park, and Walter Cemetery.

One of the most interesting historical sites is owned by the government. Pedro St James is a reconstruction of a 1780 Great House which took seven years to complete, and is a great way of finding out more about the Cayman Islands history.

Sightseeing in and around Altinkum

Altinkum is a perfect place to pick if you love to sunbathe, as it is renowned for having three fantastic beaches, but there is a lot more to see and do nearby, and even if you aren’t particularly interested in history, it would be a shame not to get out and about as the countryside is very beautiful.

Lake Bafa is nearby, and is wonderfully unspoiled as strict planning regulations have limited the amount of development that can take place. It is a great spot for keen bird watchers, but it’s also pleasant to take a stroll around the edge of the lake, or to take a picnic and just relax in the peaceful surroundings.

Pammukale is another natural phenomenon, and the hot springs of this spa resort are believed to have healing powers. It was once the centre of a pagan cult, and although this has changed, it is still an important textile centre.

Kusadasi is around an hour’s drive away, and is one of the most attractive cities in the Aegean. It is very close to several very important historical sites, including Ephesus, Priene and Miletus, but is also a great place for families as you’ll find the largest waterpark in Europe here.

Ephesus is one of the best preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean, and gives an interesting insight into how life might have been in Roman times. Miletus theatre is capable of seating 25,000 people, and during Roman times was famous for being used for lion fighting. History is everywhere in this region, and you might be surprised to find out how interesting it can be when experienced first hand.

Why is Akbuk such a Great Choice for a Holiday?

Akbuk is a small, former fishing village right on the Aegean coast which is becoming increasingly popular as a holiday destination, but what makes it so great, and why do so many people return year after year? For a start the resort is situated in an incredibly beautiful part of the world, and is surrounded by forests and mountains.

This helps explain some if its charms, as the air is renowned for its high oxygen content, and is very healthy for anyone suffering from asthma or associated conditions. The fact that it is surrounded by mountains is very beneficial during the height of the summer, when temperatures can hit the forties, as there tends to be a cooling breeze coming off the mountains, keeping the temperatures bearable.

There is no denying it is a quiet resort that may not suit everyone, but it does make a great escape from everyday life, and the local shops can provide everything necessary for day to day life. The larger resort of Altinkum is just up the road, and this does have a larger choice of shops, restaurants and bars.

Akbuk benefits from having beautiful, clean beaches, and even has its own small marina where you can book boat trips during the summer months. It would be easy to spend the whole holiday simply relaxing in this enchanting resort, but the surrounding countryside is packed full of things to see and do.

This region is rich in historical sites such as the Temple of Apollo, but if that isn’t your thing then there are lots of other activities, including a wide variety of watersports that are available from the local beaches or you can take part in more traditional past times such as indulging in a Turkish bath, just in case you’re not relaxed enough already.

Discovering the Rejuvenating Qualities of Akbuk

Akbuk is a picturesque little resort whose name means White Bay. This former fishing village is right on the edge of the Aegean Sea, and is surrounded by olive groves and mountain forests. It's the perfect place in which to have a relaxing holiday, and to completely escape from the hassle of everyday life. Lots of people are attracted to its laid-back lifestyle, and over the last few years is becoming an increasingly popular location for people looking to buy holiday homes.

As well as enjoying a relaxing lifestyle, people in Akbuk also benefit from having one of the healthiest climates in the country. This is because the air quality is very good, as it has an extremely high oxygen content and very low humidity, and this kind of atmosphere is perfect for anyone who has breathing problems, or who suffers from asthma. Luckily the unique nature of Akbuk has been recognised, and the area is subject to strict preservation orders. The beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness, and there's a very peaceful little harbour offering numerous boat trips in the summer months.

Although it is a quiet little resort, it has a number of very good shops offering everything you could possibly want, but if you need a wider choice then the larger resort of Altinkum is only a few minutes’ drive away. However it would be easy to spend all your time in Akbuk, as there's also a good choice of restaurants and bars dotted along the beachfront and harbour where you can sit and enjoy a drink and a good meal while watching the sun go down.

Things to do in and around Altinkum

Altinkum is a beautiful resort right on the Aegean coast, and is popular amongst families as it has three beautiful sandy beaches with waters that are relatively shallow for a long way out. Each of the beaches offers a good variety of watersports, and it's easy to spend all your days just sunbathing and relaxing, as there are plenty of bars and restaurants willing to serve drinks and snacks all day long.

But what happens if you get bored of spending all your time on the beach? This is when you'll be glad you chose Altinkum, as its perfectly located to explore this interesting area.

There are a number of great places to see nearby, including Pamakkule which is renowned for being one of the natural wonders of the world. This unique geological phenomenon was formed more than 14,000 years ago by carbonate mineral deposits, and the area is well known for its hot springs that are reputed to have therapeutic qualities.

Ephesus is a beautifully preserved ancient city which dates back to the 12th century BC. It used to be an important religious and trading centre, and St Paul is said to have lived here for two years. The Temple of Apollo is incredibly famous, and is very close to Altinkum. This ancient site is well worth seeing even if you aren't particularly keen on history.

Altinkum is a great place to have a Turkish bath, and the experience is extremely relaxing and cleansing. One of the nicest things about going on holiday is experiencing new cuisine, and there are a number of good restaurants in Altinkum that offer traditional Turkish food. Not surprisingly seafood is a speciality, and is always beautifully fresh.

Akbuk Is the Place to Go for a Peaceful and Relaxing Holiday

Akbuk is situated in a beautiful part of Turkey, and is a small and relaxing resort which used to be a fishing village. Although peaceful, it's not remote as it's just a few minutes’ drive from Altinkum, and is conveniently close to both Bodrum and Izmir international airports.

It's popular with Turkish people seeking a quiet retreat from the big cities, and many who holiday in the resort year after year eventually choose to retire here. This might make it sound very sleepy, but there is still plenty to see and do which would keep the average holidaymaker occupied for a couple of weeks or more.

There are lots of gorgeous beaches which are perfect for a few days hard sunbathing, or there are boat trips available from the local marina. However the area is well known for its numerous historical sites such as the Temple of Apollo which is only a short distance away.

It's a must see for everyone who visits the area, even for those who aren't particularly interested in history as it's quite spectacular. There is also a good waterpark at Altinkum, or a much larger one at the resort of Kusadasi, which is only 73 km away.

For an authentic Turkish experience, first-time visitors should definitely make time to go to a Turkish bath, an experience which is both relaxing and invigorating. Back in Akbuk, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to explore in the evenings, many of whom offer authentic Turkish food, although there is still plenty of more familiar food available for the less adventurous

Akbuk is Perfect for Anyone Looking for Peace and Quiet

Akbuk is one of the most perfect holiday locations for anyone looking for a little peace and quiet in beautiful surroundings. The scenery here is absolutely breathtaking as the resort is set against a beautiful mountain backdrop and is surrounded by pine forests. The blue waters of the Aegean are beautifully clear, and the environment is renowned for being extremely healthy due to its low humidity and high oxygen levels.

Although it is a peaceful little resort, it still has all the amenities to offer holiday makers a trouble-free and enjoyable break. There is a good selection of local shops selling everything you need for day-to-day living, as well as a weekly market which is held every Friday, and which is great for purchasing super fresh and super cheap fruit and vegetables.

If you feel the need to visit larger shops then the resort of Altinkum is just 15 minutes’ drive up the road. Akbuk enjoys around 300 sunny days a year, and although temperatures can reach into the 40s during the summer months there is almost always a cooling breeze from the surrounding mountains.

Although it might be tempting to spend your whole time relaxing on one of the lovely beaches, it would be a shame not to explore the surrounding area as it is pretty interesting. There are numerous historical sites nearby including the Temple of Apollo at Didyma, Ephesus and The House of the Virgin Mary.

There are also lots of boat tours available from the harbour during the summer months so you will never be bored. In fact many people choose to return year after year, or even buy property here because they love it so much.

Why visit Altinkum?

There are such a huge number of resorts in Turkey to choose from, so why pick Altinkum? In fact there are many valid reasons for picking this resort. Firstly it is set in one of the most beautiful parts of the world but is conveniently close to Bodrum and Izmir international airports both of which have numerous budget priced flights from the UK.

The weather in Altinkum is extremely pleasant and it’s renowned for its high oxygen content making it perfect for anyone with asthma or other respiratory disorders. If you translate its name then you'll find it actually means Golden Sand which is a clue to the superb beaches here.

The resort has three main beaches and they are perfect for families and children as the beach gently shelves into the water. The beaches are also ideal for anyone who just wants to relax and take it easy, and there are always plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available to rent for a reasonable price.

If you are easily bored by lying on a beach all day, then you'll also find a great selection of watersports which include banana boat rides, jet skis, windsurfing and the more sedate pedalos. It's one of those places where you can choose to do a lot or very little, so it's ideal for families or groups where everyone is looking for something different. There are plenty of bars and lively restaurants, but at the same time it's easy to find quieter spots where you can simply get away from it all and recharge your batteries.

Attractions on the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands is a luxury upmarket destination which is renowned for its beautiful beaches and good year-round weather. It's fair to say many of the attractions on the islands are beach centred, but there are also a good choice of activities for those times when you feel like seeing a little more of the scenery.

One of the best-known beaches is Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman which is frequently named as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. There are numerous beach bars and restaurants located here, and you'll find most of the resort hotels on the island are situated on this beach.

Perhaps the best-known attraction on Grand Cayman is Stingray City which is renowned for being one of the top places in the world for shallow dives and snorkelling. If you visit the spot then you'll have the chance to hand feed these amazing creatures as they are incredibly tame.

If you are looking for some of the best snorkelling and diving in the Caribbean then Bloody Bay Wall on Little Cayman is one of the best sites around. Cayman Brac also has some great dive sites and the opportunity to visit wrecks. It's also the least visited of the Cayman Islands, but has the most dramatic scenery and is great for anyone who likes walking, bird watching and of course diving.

Back on dry land another very popular attraction is Queen Elizabeth the second Botanic Park which is on Grand Cayman and displays the islands native flora and fauna and includes a lake area which is a natural habitat for the Cayman Blue Iguana.

Cape Verde, a Well-Kept Secret amongst Those in the Know

As yet not many people have heard about Cape Verde, but that is all set to change. It's an archipelago formed of 10 different islands in the Atlantic Ocean just a few hundred miles off the coast of West Africa. The islands origins are volcanic, but each has its own very different personality.

You'll find Sal, Boa Vista and Maio to be flat, sandy and dry. In contrast most of the remaining islands have far more vegetation and are much rockier. The islands are quite dry, so there isn't that much green vegetation, but this does mean that holidaymakers are almost assured of a nice sunny break.

Cape Verde was originally discovered and colonised by the Portuguese in the 15th century but achieved independence in 1975. The population is around half a million with a quarter living in the capital city of Praia. The country is very stable and democratic and is often held up as being a good example amongst African nations; it enjoyed substantial economic growth between 2000 and 2009.

Its economy is very much service oriented and increasingly focused on tourism and this industry is one of the fastest growing in the world. It is being hailed as the new Caribbean or Canary Islands but is much more affordable.

Cape Verde also has the advantage of being just a few hours flight away so it's perfect for long weekends or week long breaks. It's beaches are utterly stunning, especially on the island of Sal where there are miles of white sandy beaches, perfect for anyone dreaming of a desert island getaway, but be sure to get here fast before everyone finds out.

The Peaceful Attractions of Akbuk

Akbuk was originally a small fishing village and is in a beautiful location as it is surrounded by mountains and pine forests, giving the village its enviably healthy air with a high oxygen content. Anyone choosing to live or holiday here is assured of a peaceful and relaxing time as it is not somewhere to come if you are after a lively nightlife.

The small town centre has a good selection of shops where you can buy everything you need for day-to-day living, and there is also a good weekly market which is well worth a visit for its super fresh fruit and vegetables. If you want a bigger selection of shops then Altinkum is just a short drive away.

It's the kind of place where people return year after year, and many have retired here from much larger cities. Tourism has become much more important to Akbuk in recent years, and former fishing boats now take holidaymakers on trips along the coast during the summer months. However it's not in any danger of being overdeveloped as planning laws are quite strict so it should remain a tranquil and relaxing destination.

If you feel like having a break from relaxing then Lake Bafa is only a few miles away. It's a great spot for keen birdwatchers as it is one of Europe's biggest bird refuges. It's a beautiful place to explore and is great for hikes. Akbuk is also an excellent location from which to explore historic sites, visit local villages and learn a little more about the rich culture of Turkey.

EU Grants GSP+ Status to Cape Verde

Last month the EU granted Cape Verde Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) + status. This is a trade scheme which gives the archipelago preferential access to the EU market provided certain conditions of good governance are fulfilled.

Any country benefiting from GSP+ must adhere to 27 core international conventions that implement good governance, which respect human and labour rights, as well as conventions which respect the environment. Cape Verde has fulfilled all these provisions to benefit from the enhanced access to the EU. In addition Cape Verde can continue to enjoy this preferential access after its graduation from the "Everything But Arms" (EBA) initiative.

Cape Verde is the first African nation to sign up to this scheme which should help the country continue on its path to sustainable development. GSP+ and EBA currently give preference for exports from 176 developing countries into the EU. Until 2008 Cape Verde was classified as being a "Least Developed Country" and after graduating from this status was given a three-year transition period, which expired at the end of last year in order to allow market operators to adjust to a different tariff regime.

Cape Verde is involved in negotiations for a comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between West Africa and the EU. This agreement would give West African countries much greater development prospects as it not only allows goods to be traded more freely but also services and investments which are quickly becoming a major part of Cape Verde’s economy.

The GSP scheme is due to expire on the 31 December 2013 and the present system is already being discussed by the European Parliament to enhance the attractiveness of the scheme and ensure better compliance to the 27 conventions. At the moment the EU is Cape Verde's main export and import partner, as in 2010 Cape Verde exported €36 million worth of goods, most of which were foods and textiles.

Cape Verde is a Great Choice for a Winter Holiday

Cape Verde is a great choice for a winter holiday; situated just 300 miles off the coast of Senegal it has already been called the European Caribbean and is just a five and a half hour flight from the UK.

It's perfect for sun lovers as the islands are gently cooled by trade winds and remain pleasantly warm rather than stifling.

There are 10 different islands and each has its own character, with plenty of deserted beaches, dunes and volcanic peaks to explore. Cape Verde was originally part of the Portuguese empire and its language remains a mix of Portuguese and Creole.

The main island is Santiago, and this is the business centre for all the islands. The scenery here is dramatic and mountainous and ideal for keen walkers. Fogo lies to the south and is home to an active volcano crater and is the wine and coffee producer for the country.

Saint Vincent is one of the more northerly islands and is widely recognised as being the artistic and cultural centre. However the two most visited islands are Sal and Boa Vista, and both have regular charter flights from the UK.

Boa Vista is the island closest to Africa and is perfect for water activities. It's also the third most important site in the world for nesting turtles. Sal has starkly beautiful but barren scenery, but is very much the watersport capital of the islands and is renowned as being one of the top five windsurfing locations in the world.

A holiday on Cape Verde definitely offers something a little different from the normal winter destinations, and is a perfect, stress free escape.

Discovering the Appeal of the Sun-kissed Grand Cayman Island

The Cayman Islands is a British overseas territory consisting of three islands less than 500 miles south of Miami. The islands have a reputation for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, as well some of the best diving and snorkelling.

The largest island is Grand Cayman, and it’s here that you'll find the capital city of George Town which is excellent for those who enjoy fine dining and shopping. It's possible to do National Trust historic walking tours around the city, with a number of historic buildings currently being restored by the Trust and National Historic Sites Committee, and it is a great way to find out a little more about the history of the islands.

Grand Cayman makes an excellent place from which to start exploring these islands, and one of its main attractions is Seven Mile Beach, which although very long and beautiful is slightly less than 7 miles long. If you are a keen snorkeller or diver then there are a number of excellent tours available which can be personalised to suit your level of experience and comfort. It's also possible to sail, try your hand at parasailing or go deep sea fishing.

Other must see attractions include the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park which sprawls over 65 acres. The park includes a 0.8 mile walking Trail as well as a small cafe and a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century farmhouse complete with original furnishings, cistern, cook room and outbuildings.

There is also a two acre lake which is an important site for native aquatic birds, and the Park houses the Cayman Blue Iguana Captive Breeding and Reintroduction Facility. In fact there is a lot to see and do on Grand Cayman, and it makes the perfect location for those wishing to relax on a beach as well as for those who like to be slightly more active.

Discovering Cape Verde’s Third Largest Island

Cape Verde is an archipelago of 10 islands 300 miles off the coast of Senegal and thanks to year-round temperatures which average 24°C it is fast becoming a sought-after holiday destination and tourism numbers are increasing rapidly.

It's been predicted that the number of visitors to the islands will exceed 1 million annually by 2015, and it had the distinction of making Lonely Planet’s list of top 10 countries last year. It is being likened to the Canary Islands but in fact is quite different, and at just a five-hour flight from the UK it’s eminently accessible.

The most obvious attraction of the archipelago is its beaches, and Boa Vista, the third largest island has no less than 55 km of pristine sandy beaches, and as tourism is only just beginning to take off most are beautifully quiet. The landscape on the Boa Vista is almost lunar and it's generally necessary to take a 4x4 vehicle to get around.

The main town on Boa Vista is laid-back Sal Rei, and it's easy to see the Portuguese influence as the islands only gained independence in 1975, and the official language is Portuguese. It's very much a fishing town as this is still quite a thriving industry, but there are already a number of craft shops and souvenir shops to cater for the tourism market.

Although there are a number of sites worth seeing on this island one of the major attractions are the nighttime tours to see the loggerhead turtles which nest in their thousands on the eastern and southern beaches each year. Boa Vista is a charming island, and as it becomes more widely known it's easy to imagine visitors flocking here.

Enjoying the Quiet Charms of Akbuk

If you are looking for the perfect spot in which to enjoy a quiet and relaxing holiday, or are looking for a holiday home surrounded by gorgeous scenery, then Akbuk might just fit the bill. More and more holidaymakers are choosing to visit Turkey, and some will go on to invest in property in the country, attracted by the affordable prices and easy accessibility from the rest of Europe.

There is no doubt it is a beautiful country, as it is rich in culture and has an unspoiled beauty. Whether you are looking for gorgeous sandy beaches, colourful bazaars, or want to explore the many ancient ruins, Turkey has all the ingredients for an unforgettable holiday, and Akbuk is in the perfect location.

This small former fishing village whose name means White Bay is situated right on the waters of the Aegean and surrounded by mountain forests and olive groves. It is renowned for having excellent air-quality as it enjoys low humidity and high oxygen content, making it ideal for anyone who suffers from respiratory diseases.

Development here is strictly controlled as much of the land is protected, and this will ensure demand for property remains high while the idyllic nature of the resort is preserved.

Although the resort is quiet, it's up to you as to whether you choose to have an active or relaxing holiday as there are plenty of things to see and do nearby. Akbuk is well supplied with local shops, restaurants and bars, and there is a local market every Friday which is superb for anyone who is self-catering as you can buy super fresh fish, vegetables and fruits and spices. It's just 20 minutes away from the larger and more lively resort of Altinkum and a mere 50 minute drive from Bodrum airport.

Cape Verde Economy Predicted to Enjoy GDP Growth of 6.8% in 2012

While the rest of the world continues to struggle with the global crisis, Cape Verde continues to buck the trend. This archipelago is located in the mid-Atlantic between Brazil and Senegal and is just five hours away from the UK. Although its economy did suffer during the global crisis with GDP growth dropping from 8.6% in 2007 to just 3.6% in 2009, government policy has ensured it is back on track, with growth predicted to be more than 5% this year by the World Bank.

Cape Verde is increasingly attracting investors as it is one of the most stable countries in Africa. It enjoys low inflation and low crime and has been granted special partnership status by the EU. It's a great place in which to buy property, as the property laws are easy to understand, dating back to the time when the country was under Portuguese rule, and property rights are strongly protected.

The country has few natural resources and energy and fuel costs can be quite high, but the government is planning a huge renewable energy project which includes Africa's first large-scale wind project. The intention is that renewable energy will provide 50% of the country’s requirements by 2050.

Most of the development is taking place on the island of Sal which was originally known for its salt mines. Nowadays the island is undergoing substantial infrastructure improvements which include a marina plaza and new roads. Luxury developments can be found at Tortuga and Dunas, and some properties can be bought through SIPPS although they have to be commercially leased.

China Provides $4.7 Million Interest-Free Loan to Cape Verde

China has agreed to provide an interest-free loan of $4.7 million to Cape Verde which will be used for projects which are considered a priority. These include infrastructure and economic and social facilities such as the National Stadium and the new maternity ward at the Agostinho Neto Hospital. The money will also be used to fund building work at the Santa Maria technical school on Sal Island as well as projects which will improve water and energy efficiency.

There is also likely to be additional funding available for social housing. This isn't the first time China has provided loans to the country which is still very much an emerging economy.

It's definitely a country which is well worth investing in, as it has a very stable democracy and until the recent economic downturn, enjoyed good economic growth of around 7% annually.

The economy is mainly service oriented and is focused upon the rapidly growing tourism sector.

The islands are perfect for tourists as they enjoy a warm climate year-round and are close enough to Europe to be enticing enough for a short winter break. The islands are extremely interesting as each has a diverse landscape while the people are warm and welcoming and celebrate their culture through music.

Although the islands have a lack of natural resources, and have to import much of their food, major efforts are being made to build renewable energy sources such as wind farms, which is essential as the country has one of the fastest-growing tourism industries in the world.