Friday, January 30, 2009
Politics on Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras
The following is a recap of a political forum put on by a group called "Island Friends" as detailed by it's President Judith Alred regarding one political parties take on the island and it's plans for the future.
ISLAND FRIENDS FORUM JANUARY 2009
At last week‚s Island Friend's Forum, National Party candidates Julio
Galindo (Mayor) and Romeo Silvestri, (Congressman) surprised us by
addressing issues known to be serious problems. In the USA, we have become
accustomed to hearing platitudes and wrangling over inconsequential issues.
Their frustrations were evident as they described the problems they see on
Roatan they say haven't been addressed, „Because, Julio and Romeo said,
Of the present administration's "Don't care" attitude. Romeo spoke of tourism being the number one business on the island and how it needs to be dealt with as such. The first imperative, they said, is the establishment of a government with authority and a plan, so as not to live
with arbitrary decision making. They described Zolitur as a work in
progress, but which needs funding money for its effective administration.
„By December this year we should have two cruises ship docks functioning,
bringing thousands of visitors each month, and we're not ready,‰ Romeo
said. „No planning for water, traffic control, personnel training, and not
one item to sell made on the island.‰ They mentioned problems with children
on the streets and the collapse of the school system with teachers who are
required to teach 200 days, not even in the classroom for 100 days.
Julio said that American Airlines has been considering a Miami-Roatan route
but are unable to come because of the unacceptable conditions at our
government hospital. „We need an urgent-care and fully equipped facility
with at least 75 beds, as required by American Airlines.
Jobs and education are the answers to crime, they advocated. Julio said,
We know where the stolen goods are sold, we know where the drugs are being
sold, we see the young children on the streets, yet nothing is done about
it. He told of many of the same thieves, caught over and over, brought
into the jail and released the next day. He spoke of the extreme poverty in
some areas, something not seen by him until more recently. The dumps could
be alleviated since we produce enough garbage combined with La Ceiba's
garbage to be sold to El Salvador, Julio said.
They explained that the purpose of the Zolitur census was to first register
native born Bay Islanders as well as permanent residents - those who can
document five years as a legal resident. Once these carnets are issued,
there will be a method to limit the number of non-residents employed
locally. Employers will be required to hire documented persons thus
providing a means to insure that persons earning income here are also
contributing to their local community. The need for job training was also
discussed and it was estimated that the current unemployment rate stands at
about 40% on Roatan. Julio told many stories of what he described as waste, neglect,
indifference, and corruption. He said over and over, „This has to change
for the island to become stable and to flourish.‰ He also stated that the
municipal government now receives around Lps.93 million per year. With
these funds and with the potential funding of Pepe Lobo‚s (presidential
candidate) help, Julio said that he could begin to accomplish the changes
needed. This came after stressing the need for a 20 year master plan;
something they insist will be the basis of their administration and can be
used as a model and guide for future administrations.
Both candidates spoke of their desire to form an advisory board consisting
of ex-pat residents in order to tap the underutilized talent here on
Roatan. As Julio described, „There are many with talents and expertise such
as engineers, community planners, environmental experts, computer gurus,
social workers, and medically trained persons that are presently being
overlooked.‰ They spoke of a paradox; foreign investment was welcomed, yet
outside knowledge is turned away.
During the discussion, they stated that tourism is currently the economic
engine of the island and with the present administration there has been no
accountability in solving the island‚s problems. „We must have
accountability, Julio and Romeo said. Both candidates say we must have
leaders who have a vested interest in solving problems, because otherwise
why would they be seeking office. Both of these men are in the tourism
business, and this, they stated is what motivates them to work toward the
best interests for the island economy and its people. Most importantly, tourism must be planned and protected, as well as promoted. They feel their vested interest in tourism is also in the best interest of the island. They said, „This makes us ideal for the job of
mayor of Roatan Municipality and Bay Islands congressman lobbying for local
interests at the national government level in Tegucigalpa.
During my introduction, I stated that the purpose of the Island Friends
Forums is the encouragement of thinking together. Island Friends does not
endorse political parties or candidates. We believe that open forums are an
opportunity to inform and enter into discussions, sharing information with
those who want to learn more about island doings, connecting the
communities together, and help those who want to take action.
Tuesday, February 10th Forum ˆ Liberal Party candidates Dale Jackson
(Mayor) and Dorn Ebanks (Congressman) ˆ at Plaza Mar Restaurant.
Sincerely,
Judith Allred
www.islandfriendsroatan.com
ISLAND FRIENDS FORUM JANUARY 2009
At last week‚s Island Friend's Forum, National Party candidates Julio
Galindo (Mayor) and Romeo Silvestri, (Congressman) surprised us by
addressing issues known to be serious problems. In the USA, we have become
accustomed to hearing platitudes and wrangling over inconsequential issues.
Their frustrations were evident as they described the problems they see on
Roatan they say haven't been addressed, „Because, Julio and Romeo said,
Of the present administration's "Don't care" attitude. Romeo spoke of tourism being the number one business on the island and how it needs to be dealt with as such. The first imperative, they said, is the establishment of a government with authority and a plan, so as not to live
with arbitrary decision making. They described Zolitur as a work in
progress, but which needs funding money for its effective administration.
„By December this year we should have two cruises ship docks functioning,
bringing thousands of visitors each month, and we're not ready,‰ Romeo
said. „No planning for water, traffic control, personnel training, and not
one item to sell made on the island.‰ They mentioned problems with children
on the streets and the collapse of the school system with teachers who are
required to teach 200 days, not even in the classroom for 100 days.
Julio said that American Airlines has been considering a Miami-Roatan route
but are unable to come because of the unacceptable conditions at our
government hospital. „We need an urgent-care and fully equipped facility
with at least 75 beds, as required by American Airlines.
Jobs and education are the answers to crime, they advocated. Julio said,
We know where the stolen goods are sold, we know where the drugs are being
sold, we see the young children on the streets, yet nothing is done about
it. He told of many of the same thieves, caught over and over, brought
into the jail and released the next day. He spoke of the extreme poverty in
some areas, something not seen by him until more recently. The dumps could
be alleviated since we produce enough garbage combined with La Ceiba's
garbage to be sold to El Salvador, Julio said.
They explained that the purpose of the Zolitur census was to first register
native born Bay Islanders as well as permanent residents - those who can
document five years as a legal resident. Once these carnets are issued,
there will be a method to limit the number of non-residents employed
locally. Employers will be required to hire documented persons thus
providing a means to insure that persons earning income here are also
contributing to their local community. The need for job training was also
discussed and it was estimated that the current unemployment rate stands at
about 40% on Roatan. Julio told many stories of what he described as waste, neglect,
indifference, and corruption. He said over and over, „This has to change
for the island to become stable and to flourish.‰ He also stated that the
municipal government now receives around Lps.93 million per year. With
these funds and with the potential funding of Pepe Lobo‚s (presidential
candidate) help, Julio said that he could begin to accomplish the changes
needed. This came after stressing the need for a 20 year master plan;
something they insist will be the basis of their administration and can be
used as a model and guide for future administrations.
Both candidates spoke of their desire to form an advisory board consisting
of ex-pat residents in order to tap the underutilized talent here on
Roatan. As Julio described, „There are many with talents and expertise such
as engineers, community planners, environmental experts, computer gurus,
social workers, and medically trained persons that are presently being
overlooked.‰ They spoke of a paradox; foreign investment was welcomed, yet
outside knowledge is turned away.
During the discussion, they stated that tourism is currently the economic
engine of the island and with the present administration there has been no
accountability in solving the island‚s problems. „We must have
accountability, Julio and Romeo said. Both candidates say we must have
leaders who have a vested interest in solving problems, because otherwise
why would they be seeking office. Both of these men are in the tourism
business, and this, they stated is what motivates them to work toward the
best interests for the island economy and its people. Most importantly, tourism must be planned and protected, as well as promoted. They feel their vested interest in tourism is also in the best interest of the island. They said, „This makes us ideal for the job of
mayor of Roatan Municipality and Bay Islands congressman lobbying for local
interests at the national government level in Tegucigalpa.
During my introduction, I stated that the purpose of the Island Friends
Forums is the encouragement of thinking together. Island Friends does not
endorse political parties or candidates. We believe that open forums are an
opportunity to inform and enter into discussions, sharing information with
those who want to learn more about island doings, connecting the
communities together, and help those who want to take action.
Tuesday, February 10th Forum ˆ Liberal Party candidates Dale Jackson
(Mayor) and Dorn Ebanks (Congressman) ˆ at Plaza Mar Restaurant.
Sincerely,
Judith Allred
www.islandfriendsroatan.com
Labels: Caribbean Islands, Roatan Honduras
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Roatan Honduras
Tired of snow? cold? ever think about running away, at least during the dead of winter?
Roatan Bay Islands Honduras is a great place to consider.
How about our FREE Investment and Relocation Guide ? Over 300 pages of
great information. http://www.roatan-realestate.com/index.php
The fact of the matter is, investment in Caribbean properties has traditionally been both profitable and an exciting life experience. Certainly not for everyone, but personally I think it should be! If you cannot find the answers you are looking for just drop us a line.
We feel we have the top staff on the island and we will be happy to help anyway we can.
realty-inquiries@roatan-realestate.com
Roatan Bay Islands Honduras is a great place to consider.
How about our FREE Investment and Relocation Guide ? Over 300 pages of
great information. http://www.roatan-realestate.com/index.php
The fact of the matter is, investment in Caribbean properties has traditionally been both profitable and an exciting life experience. Certainly not for everyone, but personally I think it should be! If you cannot find the answers you are looking for just drop us a line.
We feel we have the top staff on the island and we will be happy to help anyway we can.
realty-inquiries@roatan-realestate.com
Labels: America, beach, caribbean, Central, costa, cruise, Honduras, Island, Mediterranea, Ocean, Roatan, Roatan Honduras, surf, Tropical, Water
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Roatan Honduras Golf Black Pearl Pete Dye Course
This is by far the most exciting project that the island has ever seen and certainly shows that this sleepy little island has turned the corner in the development that so many wished to happen and at the quality levels they wished to achieve.
-Pristine Bay/Black Pearl Golf Course has not slowed down a bit and continues to move forward toward their commitment to allow golf to be played there by this years end. Will they make it? Not positive at this point but they sure are working at it. This week they have released the second phase of home sites and I was told they will be doing the same in the next few weeks for both a second phase of Casita condos and their upcoming Hotel condos earmarked to be managed by the Lancaster Group.
If you have not yet checked it out you certainly should. This is an outstanding opportunity to get in at the beginning of one of the premier golf communities in the Caribbean. Pete Dye Design? It does not get any better than that. Just three months ago Pete was inducted into the “World Golf Hall of Fame” for his work. Check it out here. Write with any questions.
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/listing.php?id=418
Article in January "Avid Golfer" Magazine
-Pristine Bay/Black Pearl Golf Course has not slowed down a bit and continues to move forward toward their commitment to allow golf to be played there by this years end. Will they make it? Not positive at this point but they sure are working at it. This week they have released the second phase of home sites and I was told they will be doing the same in the next few weeks for both a second phase of Casita condos and their upcoming Hotel condos earmarked to be managed by the Lancaster Group.
If you have not yet checked it out you certainly should. This is an outstanding opportunity to get in at the beginning of one of the premier golf communities in the Caribbean. Pete Dye Design? It does not get any better than that. Just three months ago Pete was inducted into the “World Golf Hall of Fame” for his work. Check it out here. Write with any questions.
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/listing.php?id=418
Article in January "Avid Golfer" Magazine
Labels: Roatan Honduras Golf Black Pearl Pete Dye Course
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Roatan Bay Islands Golf -Pete Dye course
-Pristine Bay/Black Pearl Golf Course has not slowed down a bit and continually move forward towards their commitment to allow golf to be played there by this years end. Will they make it? Not positive at this point but they sure are working at it. This week they have released the second phase of home sites and I was told they will be doing the same in the next few weeks for both a second phase of Casita condos and their upcoming Hotel condos earmarked to be managed by the Lancaster Group.
This is by far the most exciting project that the island has ever seen and certainly shows that this sleepy little island has turned the corner in the development that so many wished to happen and at the quality levels they wished to achieve.
If you have not yet checked it out you certainly should. This is an outstanding opportunity to get in at the beginning of one of the premier golf communities in the Caribbean. Pete Dye Design? Does not get any better than that. He just three months ago got inducted to the “World Golf Hall of Fame” for his work. Check it out here. Write with any questions.
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/listing.php?id=418
email for more information larry-schl@roatan-realestate.com
This is by far the most exciting project that the island has ever seen and certainly shows that this sleepy little island has turned the corner in the development that so many wished to happen and at the quality levels they wished to achieve.
If you have not yet checked it out you certainly should. This is an outstanding opportunity to get in at the beginning of one of the premier golf communities in the Caribbean. Pete Dye Design? Does not get any better than that. He just three months ago got inducted to the “World Golf Hall of Fame” for his work. Check it out here. Write with any questions.
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/listing.php?id=418
email for more information larry-schl@roatan-realestate.com
Labels: Pristine Bay and the Pete Dye Black Pearl Gold Course, Roatan Honduras
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Roatan, Bay Islands. Investment the fun way. Profit financially and mentally
There are many possible alternatives to investing your hard earned money, and in difficult economic times it seems many who thought all was well in their plan and are now down by 30 or 40% are wondering.
Those who are taking the time to investigate are also finding that now that if you did loose the 40%+/- that it will take years to make it up. For example if you had $200K invested in your IRA or just in taxable investments and it is now worth $120K it will take about two and a half years to make it up and that is if you can find an investment at the 16% needed to accomplish that. Yeah chances are that will not happen.
There is no doubt that many pundits are thinking that stocks are now a great buy as is real estate in many parts of the U.S. Consider the alternative. Foreign investment can also be a "kick". Think about it. Getting funds off shore, estate planning and very limited taxes and in some situations totally tax deferred or tax free. Trips that are tax deductible to check on your investment and a heck of a lot more fun that a monthly statement from your financial adviser.
Check it out here - http://www.roatan-realestate.com/roatan-investing.php
Sign up for the monthly informational newsletter here -
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/roatan-real-estate-newsletter.php
or the V.I.P Investment Club here-
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/investment-club.php
Those who are taking the time to investigate are also finding that now that if you did loose the 40%+/- that it will take years to make it up. For example if you had $200K invested in your IRA or just in taxable investments and it is now worth $120K it will take about two and a half years to make it up and that is if you can find an investment at the 16% needed to accomplish that. Yeah chances are that will not happen.
There is no doubt that many pundits are thinking that stocks are now a great buy as is real estate in many parts of the U.S. Consider the alternative. Foreign investment can also be a "kick". Think about it. Getting funds off shore, estate planning and very limited taxes and in some situations totally tax deferred or tax free. Trips that are tax deductible to check on your investment and a heck of a lot more fun that a monthly statement from your financial adviser.
Check it out here - http://www.roatan-realestate.com/roatan-investing.php
Sign up for the monthly informational newsletter here -
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/roatan-real-estate-newsletter.php
or the V.I.P Investment Club here-
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/investment-club.php
Labels: Investment Alternatives. More fun than a monthly statement.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Real Cash to You.
There are many possible alternatives to investing your hard earned money, and in difficult economic times it seems many who thought all was well in their plan and are now down by 30 or 40% are wondering.
Those who are taking the time to investigate are also finding that now that if you did loose the 40%+/- that it will take years to make it up. For example if you had $200K invested in your IRA or just in taxable investments and it is now worth $120K it will take about two and a half years to make it up and that is if you can find an investment at the 16% needed to accomplish that. Yeah chances are that will not happen.
Need an example.......
Infinity Bay Hotel Condos on West Bay Beach is offering an 8% discount to cash buyers. This top of the line project has done everything they said they would, including ahead of schedule build outs and distribution of rental income. Financing on these units is available, as is just a few of their fractional ownership units. This is the perfect place to set up your investment/vacation spot with an IRA. Invest with part IRA funds, part personal funds, (via a Honduran corporation), get rental income, capital appreciation, the ability to write off travel to visit your property and end up on one of the best beaches in the world. To me sure sounds like a lot more fun than monthly statement from some Investment firm.
Those who are taking the time to investigate are also finding that now that if you did loose the 40%+/- that it will take years to make it up. For example if you had $200K invested in your IRA or just in taxable investments and it is now worth $120K it will take about two and a half years to make it up and that is if you can find an investment at the 16% needed to accomplish that. Yeah chances are that will not happen.
Need an example.......
Infinity Bay Hotel Condos on West Bay Beach is offering an 8% discount to cash buyers. This top of the line project has done everything they said they would, including ahead of schedule build outs and distribution of rental income. Financing on these units is available, as is just a few of their fractional ownership units. This is the perfect place to set up your investment/vacation spot with an IRA. Invest with part IRA funds, part personal funds, (via a Honduran corporation), get rental income, capital appreciation, the ability to write off travel to visit your property and end up on one of the best beaches in the world. To me sure sounds like a lot more fun than monthly statement from some Investment firm.
Labels: foreign country adventures, Roatan Honduras Investment -Retirement, second home
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Moving South
A recent news item on FOX News, (can be seen here on U-Tube)-
http://www.foxnews.com/video-search/m/21534341/south_of_the_border.htm#q=Baby+Boomers
Although the piece discusses Mexico in particular the basic theme is that
there will be 76 million baby boomers retiring and that over a million are moving south of the border. Over a million in Mexico alone. This is happening throughout Central America and Roatan one of those places. The more that come the more improvements are being put in place. Roatn which is mainly English speaking, has that advantage over may destinations where an overall lower cost of living exists.
Whether this be for a second home a future retirement home that may generate rental income until that retirement happens or just an investment alternative in a shaky market for their personal or retirement portfolios, it seems many are jumping on the band wagon.
Maybe a time to consider? http://www.roatan-realestate.com/index.php
http://www.foxnews.com/video-search/m/21534341/south_of_the_border.htm#q=Baby+Boomers
Although the piece discusses Mexico in particular the basic theme is that
there will be 76 million baby boomers retiring and that over a million are moving south of the border. Over a million in Mexico alone. This is happening throughout Central America and Roatan one of those places. The more that come the more improvements are being put in place. Roatn which is mainly English speaking, has that advantage over may destinations where an overall lower cost of living exists.
Whether this be for a second home a future retirement home that may generate rental income until that retirement happens or just an investment alternative in a shaky market for their personal or retirement portfolios, it seems many are jumping on the band wagon.
Maybe a time to consider? http://www.roatan-realestate.com/index.php
Labels: Baby Boomer Investment South of the Border
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Pristine Bay/ Black Pearl Roatan Honduras Golf Development
Although for decades Roatan Honduras and neighboring islands has been a mecca for scuba diving
known mainly by that group, things are changing.
With the adventurous spirit of people world wide, as a newer cruise ship destination and tens of thousands of U.S. Bay Boomers retiring each week, many are finding that Roatan may just be their cup of tea for investment alternatives, second and retirement homes or just a great vacation spot.
Although still a great place for beaches, snorkel and diving, a whole new group will be looking at Roatan because of the new Black Pearl, Pete Dye design, golf course now under construction. With home site, condos and soon a top end Hotel people from all over the world will start finding out about this great little island.
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/listing.php?id=418
With investment options in the stock market nowadays just may be the time to start your research on other possibilities.
Curious? Drop us a line. realty-inquiries@roatan-realestate.com
known mainly by that group, things are changing.
With the adventurous spirit of people world wide, as a newer cruise ship destination and tens of thousands of U.S. Bay Boomers retiring each week, many are finding that Roatan may just be their cup of tea for investment alternatives, second and retirement homes or just a great vacation spot.
Although still a great place for beaches, snorkel and diving, a whole new group will be looking at Roatan because of the new Black Pearl, Pete Dye design, golf course now under construction. With home site, condos and soon a top end Hotel people from all over the world will start finding out about this great little island.
http://www.roatan-realestate.com/listing.php?id=418
With investment options in the stock market nowadays just may be the time to start your research on other possibilities.
Curious? Drop us a line. realty-inquiries@roatan-realestate.com
Good Reading when you are dreaming a warmer place
I recently finished a newer book that held my attention throughout. After I read it I started doing some searches on the internet and saw that according to Wikeoedia the story ended about 50 years previous to when the author starts the story, of William Morgan and his "death". If you would like a easy read/adventure a great little book to warm up to you may want to give the "Death and Revival of William Morgan" by William Jackson a try. Early, 1800's +, pirates, pioneers, survival.
This the third book about the Bay Islands area and although all are novels the historical background and adventure about Roatan and Utila gives very vivid "mind pictures" (and some real ones), of the area.
This the third book about the Bay Islands area and although all are novels the historical background and adventure about Roatan and Utila gives very vivid "mind pictures" (and some real ones), of the area.
Labels: Tropical Caribbean - Roatan Bay Islands
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