The Italian government is selling off a selection of its state-owned properties in an ambitious plan to raise €1.2billion. Most exciting are the buildings of historic interest and those in prime city centre locations.
There’s a hint of winter in the air and the first dustings of snow have been reported in the Alps. The build-up to the new ski season is always an exciting time for winter sports fans, especially if you’re in the market to buy your own ski pad. If you’re unsure about which resort to focus on, here are some nuggets from the French Alps.
Italy has 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than any other country. This recognition and the high visitor numbers each site attracts, demonstrate how highly regarded Italy’s culture, archaeology, environment and landscape are in the world. What’s amazing is that you can actually live near many of these sites.
If you’re dreaming of that perfect beachfront pad, you might be surprised to know how affordable it could be – as long as you know where to look. This week, I’m discovering some of the Mediterranean’s top spots to buy a seafront home without breaking the bank, whether you want a traditional fishing village or a bustling resort.
When Dave and Aly Sheldrake retired from their busy careers in the police, the last thing they were looking for was a quiet retirement – so they swapped the UK for a new adventure in the western Algarve, pursuing their dreams as a photographer and artist. Eight years on, they know it was the right decision, saying they’ve ‘never felt happier or more relaxed about life’.
Diane and Kevin Sowells knew there was more to life than daily commuting to London from their Brighton home, struggling with their mortgage and yearning for warmth and sunshine. Six years ago, they realised their long-held dream when they found their perfect home in the Minervois wine region. I spoke to them about their new life in the sun.
