Even More Floating Homes
By Islomaniac | June 28, 2008
Yesterday’s post on floating modular homes got me thinking more about living on the water off a private island. As I was looking at some of these homes I was struck by home much many of them looked like yachts. This of course got me thinking, would it be so bad to just dock a yacht near your island? Depending on the size of your yacht it would most likely provide all the same features of a floating home with the added advantage of greater mobility. Of course on of the disadvantages would be price, with yachts, on average being considerably more expensive than a modular home.
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Topics: Island Luxury | No Comments »
Floating Modular Homes
By Islomaniac | June 27, 2008
Modular homes have been around for ages now, and for many island owners they provide a convenient and affordable way to build and live on their island. I was recently thinking about how one could make this process even easier, which got me thinking about floating modular homes.
After all, with a floating modular home you wouldn’t have to worry about clearing land, leveling out your property and building a foundation. You could simply float your home up to the island, ensure that the necessary infrastructure was in place and I believe you could be set up pretty quickly.
Floating modulars are already being used in many parts of the world where coastal flooding is a big issue. In terms of island living, a floating modular would not only be a desirable alternative to traditional modular homes, but it would also free up more space on your island, which I think most would agree is a good thing. Click below to see more pictures of existing and concept floating modular homes.
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Topics: Island Technology | No Comments »
An Island with a Story
By Islomaniac | June 26, 2008
I belive that every island has a story, it’s part of what makes islands special. Duck Ledge’s Island in Maine has a story that will put a smile on any animal lovers face.
An ordinary island by most accounts, Duck Ledges Island sits in Wohoa Bay near the town of Addison, Maine. The island with its quaint cottage and pink granite looks like something out painting. However, the islands beautiful scenery is not its story.
Duck Ledge’s story surrounds a special visitor. One of the features of the island is the seals that live and breed on and around the nearby islands. One day the owner of the island came upon a baby seal alone on the island. The owner kept an eye on the pup for a couple days soon realizing that it had been abadnoned by its mother.
The concerned owner was able to contact a local animal refuge that was able to take the pup to be rehabilitated at their facilities. Fortunately the young pup, which has come to be known as Scuttle is well on its way to being released back into the wild.
I think this is a great island story beacuse it highlights the fact that island owners are not just lords over the property but also stewarts of their properties and to the creatures that also call the island home.
To learn more about Duck Ledges Island visit Private Islands Online.
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Topics: Family Islands, Environmental, Islands for Sale | No Comments »
Tiny Shetland Island Declares Independence
By Islomaniac | June 25, 2008
One of the reasons people own private islands is that they provide a sense of ownership and control and although it is next to impossible to declare your island an independent nation, it does not stop some people from trying.
It has been reported that the owner of a tiny island off Scotland declared its independence from the UK on Saturday, saying he wanted the territory, population one, to be a crown dependency like the Channel Islands. In a declaration that was published on his website, Stuart Hill, owner of the 2.5 acre island of Forvik said he no longer recognized the authority of the government or the European Union and cited a centuries old royal marriage dowry as the basis for his claim.
Mr Hill, has lived on the island since 2001 when his boat capsized there during failed a attempt to circumnavigate Britain. He is Forvik’s only resident and his home is a tent on the Atlantic island. Hill said he had written to the Queen offering his services as “steward” and recognising her as head of state. Mr Hill has also added that he invites …” anyone from any country in the world, who supports these aims, namely to become free of liars, thieves and tyrants in government, to become a citizen of Forvik”
I guess this is perfect for anyone out there who dreams of starting their own country. It seems that there is potential to co-stewart an island with Mr. Hill. Although you may have to be okay with sharing a tent with this gentleman. I am curious how the government will respond to this claim.
For more visit Yahoo News
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Topics: Islands in the News, Sovereignty, Islands and Politics | No Comments »
Groundbreaking on Dellis Cay
By Islomaniac | June 23, 2008
Dellis Cay in the Turks and Caicos is a 560-acre private island that is about to be developed into one of the most exclusive island communities in the world. Offering uparalleled service and innovative design the exclusive island will provide one of the most comprehensive luxury living experiences.
Last Friday the official groundbreaking for this new community took place with Dr. Cem Kinay, CEO of O Property Collection hosting a weekend-long celebration for Dellis Cay.
Festivities began with a traditional blessing of the land, and the first shovels being dug into the ground. The evening was highlighted by sunset cocktails, barefoot island tours, regional musical entertainment and of course, a fireworks display.
International guests were flown via a private jet to the island. Much of the islands development has already been purchased with Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones being among the first island purchasers.
It will be interesting to see what this unique island development project will look like upon completion.
For more information on Dellis Cay
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Topics: Islands in the News, Island Luxury, Islands for Sale | No Comments »
France and Spain Sold
By Islomaniac | June 23, 2008
Two of the major islands in The World island archipelago have been sold. The islands have apparently been purchased by “Select Group” a leading blue-chip real estate development firm in Dubai. Select Group have purchased the islands in a joint venture with Select Property, a UK based company.
According to reports the plans are to develop the islands of France and Spain into Aquitania - a world class development which when complete will be the most exclusive address in the project. Designed to capitalize on the romance of France and the passion of Spain, residents will come ashore where they will be greeted with first class service.
It seems like everything in Dubai is simply over the top, now there isn’t necessarily anything wrong with it, but the question is will Dubai ever be a family friendly vacation destination?
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Topics: Man made islands, Islands in the News | 1 Comment »
Island Accessory: Floating Bed
By Islomaniac | June 22, 2008
Islands are the quintessential place to relax, unwind, and rest. Therefore many island aficionado’s are constantly searching to make there islands more comfortable, and thus more like the paradise of their dreams.
One of my favorite products that is currently on the market is The Float Bed or “The Float”. Part bed, part raft, the Float is a creation of New Zealand design company Okooko and designer David Trubridge. The Float is desgined to envelop, craddle, rock, sooth and embrace its owner.
The bed is constructed from native New Zealand Totara a water resistant timber that requires little maintenance in its natural state. Acrylic fabirc finished in Teflon encloses the base of the float. The fabrics that compose the bed are designed for outdoor use and promote fast absorbtion and evaporation.
The only down side to this bed is its price, it costs a whopping $25,000, which is probably more than many island owners are willing to pay. That being said it would be great to have one.
For more information on The Floating Bed, visit Okooko
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Topics: Island Luxury | No Comments »
Lilypad: A Floating Island for Climate Change Refugees
By Islomaniac | June 21, 2008
It has pretty much become universally accepted that global warming is having an effect on global ocean levels. The effects of sea level rise are potentially devastating with millions of coastal and island inhabitants at risk of being displaced. For example, it is predicted that within 60 years the island nation of Kiribati, home to 90,000 people will be completely submerged beneath the sea.
In response to this potential devestation, engineers and scientists are attempting to come up with ways to support a growing population on less land. One of the more interesting proposals is known as “Lilypad.” Lilypad is a floating Ecopolis for climate change refugees.
Designed to house up to 50,000 people Lilypad travels the ocean currents from the equator to the poles following marine streams. Lilypad is a prototype of an auto-sufficient amphibious city. The city will feature green technologies such as solar, wind, tidal and biomass energy production. The double skin exterior of the city will be constructed of polyester fibres covered by a layer of titanium dioxide which reacts with UV rays to enable the absorbtion of atmospheric pollution.
No word on whether or if this type of floating city will ever be developed, but its sad that we have to consider developing these projects in order to preserve human survival.
For more information visit Vincent Callebaut Architects
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Topics: Man made islands, Environmental | No Comments »
The Only Cambodian Private Island Resort
By Islomaniac | June 20, 2008
Cambodia, a country with a nightmarish history is beginning to make a bold entrance into the tourism market. Bolstered by beautiful beaches and islands, as well as some of the friendliest people in the world, Cambodia is poised to become a major player in the growing south-east Asian tourism market.
Although Cambodia has many toursits resorts, for now it has only one private island resort (although others are planned). Mirax resort located on Koh Dek Koule Island is a stunning example of a private island travel.
Surrounded by aquamarine waters, Mirax Resort is a lush tropical island sitting in the blue waters of Siam Bay. The island offers privacy, pampering, adventure travel and of course relaxation.
The island features beautiful south-east Asian inspired furnishings and offers a wide variety of suites and accomodations. The resort also offers the opportunity to experience the best in Khmer cuisine.
I often feature private island resorts on this blog, and although I find them all appealing and beautiful, Mirax Resort is the first island in a while that has truly inspired me and captured my imagination. Who knows I may soon be booking a ticket to Cambodia.
Visit Mirax Resort
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Topics: Island Luxury, Island Vacations | No Comments »
Exclusive Island for Rent in Lake Como
By Islomaniac | June 19, 2008
I have had the good fortune of traveling Italy many times over the years. It is really one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Recently a new private villa came on the market in the exclusive Lake Como area.
I will be honest in saying that the island is not a complete private island. However, the property is relatively isolated and is accessible only by boat. Therefore, for all intents and purposes the estate is a private island.
This incredible Lake Como estate features 7 bedrooms, each with ensuite bath, plasma screen tv’s, and a comprehensive library of DVDs and CDs. The estate features a drawing room, large kitchen, lavish sitting rooms and a dining room capable of seating up to 24. Apparently the island is famous for its gardens which feature beautiful sculpted cyprus trees.
The property doesn’t come cheap though, renting for 115,000 Euro’s per week. However, considering the size and ammenties of this estate, along with the fact that it comes with gardeners, housekeepers and butlers the property does seem appropriately priced.
For more information on the property visit Private Islands Online.
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Topics: Island Luxury, Island Vacations | No Comments »
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