Bob's Caribbean

TripAdvisor ranks Ambergris Caye #1

2013-05-08T00:55:00.001-04:00

My infatuation with Belize began a few years ago and did not start with Ambergris Caye....it started with Orchid Bay in the Corozal District...but I have since fallen for Ambergris Caye which is now my targeted retirement locale. In this year's TripAdvisor Top 10 Islands ~WORLDWIDE~ my favorite is numero uno! I've met quite a few expats living there, at least part time and they absolutely love it.

Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor

One of those individuals is Paul at Belize Shores Realty; Paul has helped me understand life on Ambergris Caye a bit better even if only through his eyes and observations...he's helped me identify a few different businesses available for purchase as well.
The 9 runner's up according to TripAdvisor, are:
2.) St John, U.S. Virgin Islands
3.) Bora Bora, Society Islands
4.) San Juan Island, Washington
5.) Santorini, Cyclades
6.) Isla Mujeres
7.) Moorea, Society Islands
8.) Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
9.) Easter Island, Chile
10.) Nosy Be, Antsiranana Province
There you have it...the Top 10 Islands in the World!

The World's 50 Safest Banks

2013-04-23T01:35:00.000-04:00

WORLD’S 50 SAFEST BANKS
     -Note #13 Westpac; Where your funds can be deposited for the purpose of a managed Forex trading account with Perfecto FX

1. KfW                                                                                 26. Pohjola Bank
(Germany)                                                                                    (Finland)
2. Bank Nederlandse Gemeenten (BNG)                              27. BNP Paribas
(Netherlands)                                                                                (France)
3. Zürcher Kantonalbank                                                      28. China Development Bank
(Switzerland)                                                                                (China)
4. Landwirtschaftliche Rentenbank                                      29. DZ Bank **
(Germany)                                                                                 (Germany)
5. Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations(CDC)                      30. Agricultural Development Bank of China
(France)                                                                                     (China)
Tie* 6. Landeskreditbank Baden-Württemberg                   31. CoBank AC
Förderbank (L-Bank)                                                                 (United States)
(Germany)
Tie* 6. Nederlandse Waterschapsbank                                 32. National Bank of Abu Dhabi
(Netherlands)                                                                             (United Arab Emirates)
7. Banque et Caisse d’Épargne de l’État                               33. National Bank of Kuwait
(Luxembourg)                                                                             (Kuwait)
8. Rabobank Group                                                              34. Pictet & Cie
(Netherlands)                                                                              (Switzerland)
9. NRW.Bank                                                                       35. Deutsche Bank
(Germany)                                                                                   (Germany)
10. Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)                                         36. JPMorgan Chase
(Canada)                                                                                     (United States)
11. Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD Bank)                           37. Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel (BFCM)
(Canada)                                                                                     (France)
Tie* 12. National Australia Bank                                            38. U.S. Bancorp
(Australia)                                                                                    (United States)
Tie* 12. Commonwealth Bank of Australia                             39. DNB Bank **
(Australia)                                                                                    (Norway)
13. Westpac Banking Corporation                   40. National Bank of Canada **
(Australia)                                                                                     (Canada)
14. Scotiabank (Bank of Nova Scotia)                                   41. Northern Trust Corporation
(Canada)                                                                                    (United States)
15. DBS Bank                                                                       42. Qatar National Bank **
(Singapore)                                                                                  (Qatar)
16. Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation        43. SAMBA Financial Group **
(Singapore)                                                                                  (Saudi Arabia)
17. United Overseas Bank                                         44. La Banque Postale **
(Singapore)                                                                                 (France)
18. Caisse centrale Desjardins                                                45. Bank of Taiwan **
(Canada)                                                                                      (Taiwan)
19. HSBC Holdings                    Tie* 46. Shizuoka Bank
(United Kingdom)                                                                         (Japan)
20. Nordea Bank                      Tie* 46. Banco del Estado de Chile (BancoEstado) **
(Sweden)                                                                              (Chile)
21. Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ)           47. Barclays Group
(Australia)                                                                                    (United Kingdom)
22. Svenska Handelsbanken                                                   48. Crédit Agricole
(Sweden)                                                                                      (France)
23. Bank of Montreal (BMO)                                                 49. Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ
(Canada)                                                                                      (Japan)
24. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)                  50. Banco Santander
(Canada)                                                                                       (Spain)
25. BNY Mellon
(United States)


*A tie is assigned when two banks with the same score have total assets within a $5 billion range.

**NEW ENTRANTS

PR date: Global Finance Magazine March 1, 2012
Ratings as of: February 22, 2012

Read more: http://www.gfmag.com/tools/best-banks/11661-worlds-50-safest-banks-april-2012.html#ixzz2RGAj21eY
Under Creative Commons License

Pirate Themed Vacations

2013-03-10T14:52:00.001-04:00

This is for all of my Parrot Head Phriends out there...I recently came across a web site featuring vacations based on a Pirate theme!!! Well Maties...this looked right up my alley! And since Belize is one of my favorite destinations, Captain Morgan's Resort is a great place to start. Captain Morgan's always gets a great review and Belize was ranked as one of the top 10 destinations for 2012...and the Mayans were wrong!!! Belize is still there, and only 2 hours from Miami.

Picture yourself out on this beauty!

Drinking lot's of Rum!!

Or on this beauty...the M/S G&G based in Europe!

Charter this one with a crew and do a Pirate themed vacation cruise!

And end up looking, dressing and acting like this!!
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I'm pretty certain that you have to provide your own Wenches!!!!

This one can be found at FLuxuryWorld

So go have some fun...find a Pirate themed vacation or charter a sail boat for the real adventure...and tell 'em SkipJack recommended it to you!!!

Belize, A Truly Natural Choice

2013-02-14T00:57:00.002-05:00

Commonly referred to in travel circles as "Mother Nature's Best Kept Secret", Belize is truly a tropical paradise. An exotic tropical paradise that now opens it's doors to all your dreams of adventure and new experiences.

Everyone around the world dreams about traveling to an exotic, tranquil locale, complete with sun-drenched beaches and limitless activities on land and in beautiful tropical waters. Belize boasts all this and more, not only for retirement, but as a family destination as well. Belize is well known as a travel destination around the world for the tropical climate, the official language of Belize being English and of course, world class diving.

Belize also prides itself in providing schools with high academic standards and a reputation for excellence, excellent health care facilities, historic homes, convenient local shopping and most importantly warm and welcoming neighbors.

Belize is on the Caribbean coast, between Mexico and Guatemala and offers an intriguing mix of tropical forests, an extraordinary mix of wildlife, unbelievable mountains, intriguing Maya temples, and diving and fishing experiences beyond comparison. In a single day you can go from tropical forest to the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.

With the inception of the Retired Persons Incentive Program, Belize is rapidly becoming known as a fabulous and affordable retirement destination.

Belize’s natural environment, as well as the culturally diverse and warm people, are only few of the reasons to retire in Belize. A few more reasons to consider Belize...

Tax Breaks
English Speaking
Good Educational System
Sub-tropical Climate all Year Long
Easy Access to Land for Development and Construction of Retirement Home
Close Proximity to the US, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean
Strong Stable Belize Dollar
Abundance of Natural Resources
Breathtaking Beauty

To attract foreign investment Belize has created a program to reduce taxes and simplify residency for North Americans who wish to live part-time or full-time in Belize. The program is called the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program. You only need to be 45 to take advantage of the incentives and are only required to live in Belize for a total of 30 days each year which can even be split across multiple visits. Qualified retirees are eligible for benefits including expedited residency status and various tax exemptions.

If you are not quite ready to retire, but want to buy in Belize, learn how to use your IRA to own in Belize. And if you have any questions, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Happy travels!

SkipJack

Milagro del Mar Resort in Nicaragua Resumes Construction After Waiting Patiently for World Market to Rebound

2013-01-26T15:05:00.000-05:00

Milagro del Mar Resort in Nicaragua Resumes Construction After Waiting Patiently for World Market to Rebound

Milagro del Mar Beach & Golf Resort on Nicaragua’s Pacific Coast restarts construction on luxury condos, launches an eco-community and prepares to announce a major international hotel partner

San Diego Beach, Nicaragua -- After throttling back its activities in 2009 in response to the economic downturn, the team at Milagro del Mar Beach & Golf Resort is now pressing ahead with an aggressive relaunch strategy. Construction of the Ocean Village luxury condominiums is back on track, an innovative eco-community is underway and new custom homes are under construction. An announcement also is coming soon on the addition of an international hotel partner.

As it begins this new evolution, Milagro del Mar in Nicaragua already features existing beachside condominiums and a number of private homes on approximately 500 acres of oceanfront property along the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. A nine-hole golf course is open for play, with an additional nine-hole layout planned for the next phase of expansion. Eventually, the resort will feature the Country Club of Milagro del Mar, offering golf, tennis, fine dining and other recreational activities.

Other amenities currently include an oceanfront restaurant, a surf shop and ready access to two world-class breaks, a stable offering horseback riding, and La Vida Nica, an on-site concierge group that provides services to property owners and resort visitors. With rentals and packages available, Milagro del Mar has become a favored vacation destination for individuals and families from throughout Central America, the United States and Canada.

“We were able to weather the downturn and actually benefit from it in terms of additional planning and the opportunity to expand our land holdings,” says Roger Keeling, who heads The Keeling Group (TKG), which is developing the new Milagro del Mar. “We were able to put new financing in place and are now pushing forward quickly in what we feel is a rapidly improving market. We also are benefiting from the strong economic expansion here in Nicaragua, which is seeing significant gains in outside investment and tourism, as well as phenomenal growth in its GNP.”

The master plan was substantially revised and expanded after TKG acquired properties and amenities that were previously part of Gran Pacifica, a master development. The revamped plan still centers around the newly named Ocean Village luxury condos, a neighborhood of two- and three-bedroom luxury condominiums and villas situated on land sloping toward the ocean. The first condominiums are set for completion in the first quarter of 2014. The village also will contain a luxury hotel.

Homes also are underway in Milagro Verde, an innovative eco-community designed “to provide green living without sacrificing luxury.” The “right-sized” single-family homes utilize geothermal heating and cooling, and passive solar water heating.

Milagro del Mar also offers homesites adjacent to the ocean in the San Diego Viejo neighborhood and along the golf course. The resort community already contains a number of custom homes and casitas.

“The interest we’re receiving has been very positive, and more and more people are expressing the desire to come for one of our special in-country tours to learn more about Nicaragua and what we’re doing here,” Keeling says.

According to Keeling, both Nicaragua and destinations such as Milagro del Mar are gaining momentum from improving markets. The country has experienced steady upward trends in most sectors of its economy, and its recognition is spreading as a safe and welcoming place to visit, invest and live. Keeling points out the appeal of the low cost of living, available healthcare and favorable tax laws to retirees seeking to maximize their funds, while noting that there also are many “value seekers” who have recognized the lucrative investment opportunities in Nicaragua.

“Needless to say, it’s exciting to crank up our activities again,” Keeling says. “It wasn’t easy to wait, but it certainly was the right thing to do and now ideally positions us to move forward and create new momentum. It’s often said good things come to those who wait. For us, we now believe better things are coming for those who have waited.”

About Milagro Del Mar Beach & Golf Resort

Milagro del Mar Beach & Golf Resort is located on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua, approximately one hour west of Managua. The resort offers a wide selection of amenities and activities including golf, surfing, horseback riding, guided eco-tours and oceanfront dining. A range of real estate options are available, as well as rental properties, including condominiums, homes and casitas. Complete information is available at www.milagrodelmar.com

Contact:

Phil Alexander

phil@milagrodelmar.com

617/678-7940

Top Ten Reasons Why the Caribbean is Number One for Weddings and Honeymoons

2013-01-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

With wedding season coming up, and having been married for about 100 years (uh, sorry honey, it actually feels like just yesterday! :~) I thought it would be a good time to have our guest author, Tiffany Mullins share some of her thoughts and insights on why the Caribbean is so popular...thanks for your contribution Tiffany!

All inclusive Caribbean vacations are a popular choice, renowned for the sparkling sandy beaches, friendly locals and rich island history. But did you know that these famous isles are also the number one choice for many couples’ weddings and honeymoons? It’s easy to see why – we’ve compiled a list of the unique elements that make the Caribbean an ideal destination for two people in love:

1. Romance and Luxury

The Caribbean is one of the most romantic destinations on Earth, making it an ideal fit for weddings and honeymoons. The breathtaking scenery of the sparkling Caribbean Sea lapping the pristine beaches creates a soothing, romantic ambience. With a variety of all inclusive luxury resorts to choose from, couples can enjoy luxuries like a private candlelit dinner in a lavish honeymoon suite – the perfect way to unwind from all the months of wedding planning.

2. Island Hopping

There are thousands of islands throughout the Caribbean Sea, each with their own unique personality and attractions. Whether couples are seeking a calm and secluded honeymoon, or an unforgettable cultural adventure, there is an island that will have exactly what they’ve been searching for. For example, Jamaica offers a colorful nightlife and a variety of attractions, while some of the beaches in Antigua are among the most peaceful, quiet Caribbean destinations.

3. Beaches and Water Sports

Whether you’re walking Negril’s famous 7-mile beach hand-in-hand, or just basking in the salty sea breeze while watching the sunset, the Caribbean island beaches offer some of the best scenery around that can be enjoyed from the pristine, sandy shores, or from the deck of a peaceful catamaran cruise. Additionally, couples may choose from a wide array of water sports, many of which are offered during all inclusive Caribbean vacations, including paddleboards, snorkeling, glass bottom boat rides, aquatrikes, scuba diving and waterskiing.

4. Adventurous Tours and Attractions

For couples searching for the perfect balance of laid-back relaxation and jaw-dropping adventure, the Caribbean islands offer an exceptional blend. Possible honeymoon excursions include zip-lining and off-roading through the rainforest, canopy tours, mountain biking, volcano explorations, catamaran sailing, deep-sea fishing and swimming or snorkeling with dolphins. Additionally, there are a variety of sprawling parks with breathtaking mountains and waterfalls just waiting to be explored.

5. Room to Get Away

There are a multitude of romantic excursions to choose from as well. Couples can wander along undisturbed beaches and marvel in the beauty of the islands. There are even “Castaway Tours,” where couples are left alone on an uninhabited island for a few hours with a well-packed picnic basket and a bottle of wine.

6. Tropical Weather

Planning a wedding or a honeymoon can be a stressful venture, even without the added concern of the weather conditions. That’s one of the aspects of the Caribbean that is so attractive to couples: it’s warm year-round – which is greatly appreciated by couples from northern states or by those planning winter weddings. On the off-chance the weather does not cooperate, the wedding party can often be easily accommodated by changing locations to a gorgeous indoor setting.

7. Picture-Perfect

Couples often dream of the perfect background to complement their exchange of vows. When your wedding is in the Caribbean, it almost doesn’t matter where you stand because there are so many picturesque locations. Couples can choose from garden or beach settings for their ceremonies, creating excellent backdrops for photographs and memories that will last a lifetime.

8. Combining Weddings and Honeymoons

Celebrating weddings and honeymoons together doesn’t just save money - it also makes the entire planning process easier and less stressful. Weddings held at Caribbean family beach resorts are also vacations for the guests, not to mention that the happy couple will be at their honeymoon destination immediately after the ceremony! Instead of agonizing over themes and menus, couples can choose activities, décor and food – all prepared by the all inclusive resort of choice. This leaves time for the happy newlyweds to actually enjoy the ceremony and their time together. There are even some Caribbean and Antigua vacation packages that will provide a free standard ceremony after the bride and groom book a specific number of nights at the hotel. Additionally, some all inclusive resorts may provide a wedding planner to sort out any of the other details of the big day, ensuring that it all runs smoothly.

9. Customization

Although many Caribbean resorts offer all inclusive wedding packages, there is still the option for customization – upgrades and à la cart items are often available for couples to use. This makes planning the ceremony even easier because most of the work is already done. Depending on the type of wedding you’re hoping for, you can customize your day to be either as elaborate or as simple as you would like.

10. Affordability

Even though spending time in the Caribbean is sure to be a luxurious adventure, in comparison with the average cost of an American wedding, it is surprisingly affordable. Many all inclusive resorts often offer travel deals for wedding parties or seasonal discounts that couples may take advantage of when booking the trip.

The Caribbean is the most popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, and it’s easy to see why. There are endless activities and adventures to embark upon, and scenic views abound. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or honeymoon (or both!), you’ll find the picturesque tropical setting you’ve been dreaming of in the Caribbean.

About the Author

As International Social Media Manager for Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts (Unique Vacation, Ltd.), Tiffany Mullins leads a team that creates new strategies for global, multi-brand social media. In addition to managing Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts’ online community, she also oversees the direction of Sandals and Beaches social media, including the Sandals Wedding Blog, which brings brides and inspiration together to truly create “Your Wedding. Your Style.” Tiffany now resides on Paradise Island in The Bahamas. For more information on Grand Pineapple’s all inclusive resorts, please call 1-800-327-1991 or visit www.grandpineapple.com.

Customer Service

2013-01-10T01:31:00.000-05:00

Okay, so...I am going to deviate from my usual rants about the tropics, and discuss something more business like and professional (which is NOT to say that I am going to get all "stuffed-shirt"), heck...I'm not even going to include any pics in this post!
You see, in one of the social media groups I engage in, someone posed the question "What are the qualities of a customer focused (hotel) business?" And the responses he received were all good...but not great...and the reason is that they all miss the core element which is absolutely required...they all used words like exceptional, exceed expectations, consistency, desire and motivation...one individual came very close when she mentioned "teamwork across the organization." And while these are all critical, they miss the mark!
First, customer service needs to be approached like it is it's own entity and must be built on a sound foundation. Identifying the foundation and implementing it are two entirely different things and if not approached properly, all efforts will eventually end up as "lip service" as one response indicated.
So what is this core element? It is so critical that I can compare it to Math 101, which is an absolute prerequisite to Architectural Design....that's right, it is the simplest of principles on which math is learned that are so necessary to one's ability to come even remotely close to understanding architectural design. (Trust me...I suck at both math AND architectural design) but I think you get my meaning here...
Mediocre "external" customer service can only be achieved if the prerequisite of mastering (and I mean mastering) "internal" customer service is accomplished first.
I have implemented this concept in several companies and it truly makes all the difference in the world!
_____________________________________________________________________________

If you would like to know more, and discuss how this can be accomplished in your organization, please feel free to post a comment here, or drop me an email at bob@skipjackmarketing.com and I will be happy to discuss how this principle can change your organization.

Until then

Hit 'em straight!!

The Mayan Calendar-Is it the end?

2012-12-20T01:54:00.003-05:00

There’s absolutely no way that I will claim to be an expert on this subject, but I couldn’t resist the need to weigh in on the subject of 12/21/2012…the date which the Mayan civilization indicates that the world will end via the Mayan Calendar.

First off, I have been aware of this date, and this prediction, since I started paying attention to Belize. This interest was born out of the passionate conversations I had with a good friend who was involved in the founding of a fabulous development in northern Belize, Orchid Bay,Belize. Since then, probably 5 or 6 years ago already, I have fallen deeply in love with the idea of living in Belize and will get there soon. It is a fascinating country, full of adventure…but I digress…

The Mayan’s calendar abruptly ends on December 21, 2012; what don’t know is what exactly is going to happen. If, as some predict, the world comes to an end, I regret that I have not yet actually visited Belize! But the Mayan’s apparently, are not the only ones with a patent on this dilemma…the Cherokee Indians had an ancient calendar which ends in 2012, the Zulu believe that the world will be turned upside down, the Hopi Indians predict a 25 year period of purification followed by the “End of the Fourth World and beginning of the Fifth” and the Hindu calendar matches the Mayan’s almost exactly. They all refer to a time of enlightenment, transformation and/or the beginning of the new Fifth World.

I frequently refer to song lyrics to help me with a variety of scenarios; so with regard to the Mayan calendar, my musings bring me to this question…Is this “The End of the World as We Know It” or is this “The Age of Aquarius?”

I will leave you with this cartoon (courtesy of Mexican Word of the Day on FB), depicting two ancient and obviously very wise Mayan Indians:

If these guys are right, and I think they are…I will post again to wish all of my readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! If these guys are wrong...get yourself a nice tropical shirt, drink plenty of tequila and relax in one of our fabulous Caribbean Hammocks!

Quick Tips for Caribbean Trips

2012-12-02T00:13:00.002-05:00

As the winter escape season is here (it's snowing and about 27 degrees out where I am in New England) I thought it would be appropriate to do a post on vacation travel...then Tiffany Mullins from Sandals.com sent me these tips on preparing for my Caribbean vacation and I thought I would pass them along:
______________________________________________

Quick Tips for Caribbean Trips
It can be easy to forget a few things during the hustle and bustle of packing. In order to prevent you from smacking your forehead in exasperation as you board the plane, we’ve put together a handy-dandy guide to make sure your all-inclusive Caribbean vacation sails as smooth as a catamaran. From packing tips to daily advice, we’ve got you covered.

Pack a Waterproof Camera
Sure, crystal clear water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving in the Caribbean Sea, but not so much when it comes to dropping your camera into the tide and losing your memories due to a case of the butterfingers. Bring a waterproof camera – it’ll put your mind at ease, so you can splash and frolic at the base of a waterfall with nary a worry in sight.

Bring Rechargeable Batteries
You’re going to be snapping pictures in all directions, so regular batteries just won’t do. Save the bank (and luggage space) by purchasing rechargeable batteries to capture every spectacular moment.

Include Hair Clips/Ties
If your locks are long, this must-have accessary will keep the salty breeze from wafting tresses directly into your mouth. Trust us - this makes a huge difference, especially when you’re windsurfing.

Don’t Forget Your Medications
As you’re packing up, it’s easy to get excited about those sandy white beaches and to forget your prescriptions. A few days before you leave, you should make sure your supplies are stocked and talk to your pharmacist to make sure you don’t need to bring anything else.

Footwear: Bring a Supply of Sandals
Packing light is always a challenge. (What if you need that bathing suit, too?) Rest at ease, you won’t require more than two pairs of sandals – one for dressy romantic dinners and one for more casual pursuits. Stilettos don’t fare too well in this sandy terrain.

Protect Your Eyes with Some Sweet Shades
You’ve been waiting for the perfect excuse to splurge on those glamorous sunglasses. And now – it’s here! Not only will the specs fling UV rays away from your eyes, your pictures will be tres elegante, too.

Cover Up
Wardrobe changes throughout the day may seem glamorous, but the novelty quickly wears off. By packing a comfy, cute cover up you can keep swimsuit-ing in style as you sip mimosas by the pool or read a spicy novel on the warm sand.

Water, Water, Everywhere
Drink up! The Caribbean sunshine and flowing adult beverages will leave you thirsting for some good ol’ H2O. The last thing you want is to be dehydrated during your romantic getaway, as this can cause headaches and put a real damper on things. Try adding a few slices of orange or lemon to infuse your water with minerals and nutrients depleted during a day in the sunshine.

Apply Lots of Sunblock
You may have imagined coming home from your Caribbean adventure bronzed and beautiful, but sunburn can sap the fun right out of it. Apply sunscreen regularly to keep the smiles coming!

Make a To-Do List
Don’t leave your island paradise with regrets. Start working on that to-do list now. Zip lining? Horseback riding? That gourmet restaurant you read about? If you keep it on your phone, you’ll be ready to edit the list whenever inspiration strikes.

Enjoy Your All Inclusive Vacation
Finally, don’t forget to smile (although all of the awesome times you and the love of your life will have makes this tip a bit of a no-brainer). Discover more ways to maximize the fun during your stay at your all inclusive Caribbean resort – we’ll see you soon!

Copyright © 2012 Sandals.com

Guest contributor: Tiffany Mullins from Sandals.com

The Trouble With IRA Custodians

2012-11-28T00:41:00.000-05:00

Since this blog is based on mostly tropical things and my affliction with JBS (or Jimmy Buffett Syndrome), and with the presidential election behind now for another 4 years, I wanted to share this note I received from my friend Thom over at IRAAssets.com; because in my mind, using any way possible to achieve a tropical lifestyle (even if only a few weeks or months out of the year) is worth passing along.

There has been a great deal of interest, and I'm certain there will be more interest now, in utilizing your retirement funds to own property, or other tangible stuff...Thom's web site has a great resource for the ins and outs of how to self-direct your retirement account...so here is the note I received yesterday from Thom...do with it what you will...but if you speak with Thom (and I recommend it) please let him know that SkipJack recommended you contact him...

Bob,

Self Directed IRA custodians aren't getting a lot of love from their clients lately, based on the calls I've received this week.
That's unfortunate because without them, we'd be stuck with holding nothing but paper assets like mutual funds, CDs or annuities in our retirement plans, instead of real estate, precious metals, mortgages or pre-IPO stock in our retirement accounts.
I consider some of these IRA custodians my friends, so when I get a call asking for our Custodian List because the investor has had it with the high fees or lack of friendly service, I realize that for every investor that's pissed enough to take action & transfer their account elsewhere, there must be 10 more that feel the same way.

No one is ever happy when the occasional mistake occurs that delays our hard earned profits from getting into our retirement plan. It makes you wonder if your custodian really values our business at all.

Today the problem is two-fold. Custodians are being hit with wave after wave of new regulations since they are trustees for your retirement savings, while at the same time they are watching their customer base double every few years.
Most of them tell me their biggest challenge is constantly hiring and training a larger staff.

The alternative for many investors is to switch to what is often called a Check Book IRA or 401(k) plan where the account owner takes over much of the custodians work and manages their own funds. Click here watch the recorded webinar on Check Book Retirement Plans.

Basically, you become the record keeper for your retirement plan as well as hold your IRA-or-401(k) funds at your local bank, so you are the only person having check book access to your retirement funds.

Let me know if this was helpful.

Best regards,

Thom
Publisher:
Diversify Magazine
IRA Assets News.com
800-914-2689

Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune ~ Jim Rohn

Expats with Savannah Jane Buffet

2012-10-19T00:50:00.001-04:00

Having grown up sailing on an old 34' sloop on the Great South Bay (the south shore of Long Island, NY), then moving to land-locked Nashua, New Hampshire about 20 years ago, I've been feeling severely land-locked! So, I've taken to reading about sailing and following a few potential opportunities that might help me get my sea legs again. Since one of my mottoes is "If you're going to think...may as well think big" I'm working towards this 50 footer!

But, since I'm not there yet, I thought I would find a way to live vicariously through someone else who is there! Then...like manna from heaven (really from my FB friend RumShop Ryan) Ryan posted this video episode of the Expat series on Youtube! If you have ever even thought about escaping to the tropics...this is a must see! It is about 24 minutes long, and is part of a series hosted by Savannah Jane Buffett (yup! Jimmy's daughter), so take some time out and enjoy this guys story! By the way, he is a fellow New Englander...or was!
Check out new Chillin' Like a Villin' page for some relaxation techniques (okay, so they're hammocks)...more to come!
Almost forgot to mention...Savannah is a pleasure to watch...I'd love to meet her!

Developer Sponsored "Discovery" Tours

2012-02-21T20:22:00.006-05:00

When you think of a developer sponsored "discovery" Tour, some cannot help but think about the days of old when you were sucked into a 90 minute timeshare tour...this is NOT the case AT ALL!!! At least not with the folks at Orchid Bay in Belize with their "Insider's Tour", nor is the case with the folks at Seaside Mariana with their "Discovery" Tour in Nicaragua.

These tours are designed, and well executed by these developers, to help you discover their little piece of paradise. But let's face it, my particular spot in the sand and sun may not jive with what you have in mind...so they have designed these tours to be tailored to making the best of your trip, and to provide you with as much information as possible to help you with your investment...which is why you are going in the first place.

Tours in both of these locations consist of seeing the property of course, but you also get to experience some of the local culture, meet some of the local people and really get a feel for the place before making any kind of commitment.
SkipJack's recommendation...take them up on their offer...it is generally a very good one! And a great way to explore and discover a new place...a place you might be calling home soon!

Both of these properties can be purchased and owned using your self-directed IRA...click here for more info.

SkipJack

ZeePlane! Zee Plane!

2011-04-20T23:49:00.005-04:00

When the developers at Orchid Bay, Belize told me they were adding several airplane "hanger lots" the first thing I thought of was Tattoo shouting "Zee Plane...Zee Plane" at the beginning of Fantasy Island! But it's true, they've added an airstrip which will accommodate small airplanes!
Just imagine flying into your own airstrip, taxiing to your house and parking your Piper in the hanger...which, just happens to be attached to your waterfront home! A true fly-in residence on the water.
Send me an email if you are interested in the full details...this has to be the coolest addition to any of the unbelievable developments I am involved with!
By the way...Orchid Bay has been selling out of the monthly tours...contact us now if you have plans to travel to Belize...

Keep the shiny side up!

SkipJack

My old friend from Jamaica!

2010-12-05T00:29:00.004-05:00

I recently took a job in the industry I have spent most of life in...the automotive accessory business...specifically custom wheels and hit the road to visit my best and favorite customers from the past (I've been out of the wheel business for about 5 years). One of my first stops was in Hartford to visit my friend Dennis...he owns a small tire shop in Hartford and is one of my favorites...if you've ever had the opportunity to get to know anyone from Jamaica, you know exactly why...warm and friendly...that's all I need to say.
When Kate told Dennis I was in the front waiting room, all I heard was "holy @#$% Mon! Bob!" And out Dennis came from the back room with a great big smile and a warm (man) hug! Now...remember, I had not seen Dennis in about 5 years, so this was a great welcome!
After catching up, and letting him know I was back in the wheel business I told him that I expected that he would have been retired and living in Jamaica by now...he went on to explain that he is building a small condo development in Mandeville and proceeded to show me some pictures...what a fabulous deal....I explained that I have this blog and my web site at SkipJackMarketing.com and when he was ready to start selling, I'd be happy to help!
Now, Mandeville is located inland, and is not ocean-front; but it is in an elevated parish and has some of the best views you can imagine, and also has some fabulous weather!I'll be providing more on these condos as Dennis provides me with more info and when he establishes the selling price (which will be in the mid-$300,000's for a 3 bedroom.
I always find it amusing how the sixth degree of separation applies in so many different circumstances...in this case it was two-fold because here, Dennis and I can connect on a whole different level, outside of the auto biz and as we continued to speak, we discovered that he knows the folks at Tyres-R-Us in Kingston, Jamaica...obviously through being in the same industry for him, but I actually sold these folks a new enterprise software system during my short stint in the technology industry. Strangely, my first sale in that industry was to these good folks in Jamaica....and I have to say that Sarah and her husband Andrew are fabulous people as well!
Now all I have to do is find someone interested in a condo in Jamaica Mon...and I am on my way there!
Anyway...stay tuned, Dennis and I are going to work out the details of the sale price etc and I will get them listed on my web site and cover all the details here as well. And as soon as I can get down there, I will get all the info on the surrounding area, restaurants, bars...what to do there and get some photos of the condos themselves. The pics I saw showed me some real nice stuff and quality construction!

Thanks for reading...and Hit 'em straight when youo get to hit 'em!

SkipJack

AARP says Belize one of the best places to retire!

2010-08-10T00:15:00.004-04:00

Okay, so I am not ready to sign up for a membership with the AARP but I am getting close...and I am getting their mailers...and I do have to hand it to these folks for the accurate and thorough information they provide!
I've been thinking that I want to live in the Caribbean BEFORE I retire, but one of the benefits that Belize has to offer for their retirement program is that you only have to be 45 years old...which I DO qualify for!

Here's my top ten reasons to choose Belize for your retirement home:
1. English speaking (in Central America!)
2. Relatively easy to get to (only two hours from Miami or Houston)
3. Great diving (World Heritage barrier reef)
4. Great fishing (deep sea or flats)
5. Great retirement program (at least for now)
6. Under-developed (for now)
7. Plenty of stuff to do (diving, fishing, caving, Maya ruins)
8. Wonderful people
9. Low cost of living (even on the islands)
10. Orchid Bay Belize

But don't just take my word for it...read the AARP article here.

Hit 'em straight!

SkipJack

My new friend in Honduras

2010-07-07T00:29:00.003-04:00

When I first started out on this journey of writing and discovering various parts of the Caribbean, the small island of Roatan was on my short list of places I wanted to go to. Roatan is just off the coast of Honduras and has some fabulous scuba diving...
Then I discovered Belize and fell in love with the place...Ambergis Caye and Caye Caulker as well as the Orchid Bay, which is located on the Bay of Chetumal.
But I was just introduced to Carter, who is the editor of the CaribbeanLifeClub Blog. Carter is a fabulous writer and has actually made the move...yes, he actually moved to a small town called El Pino (I think that's correct) and his blog is extremely insightful as to some of the challenges he faces while adjusting to his new home...this is a must read (must subscribe) blog for anyone who is considering a move to paradise in the Caribbean...whether that paradise is Honduras, Belize, Nicaragua or the Dominican Republic.
I wonder how many readers actually understood his Beatles reference in his article title "Pineapple Fields Forever" or maybe that was just me...

Hit 'em straight!

SkipJack
SkipJack is now on Facebook

Jimmy Buffett's S.W.A.T Boats effort stalled by beurocracy!

2010-06-29T23:43:00.004-04:00

This has to be the most idiotic thing I have ever read! In my last post, Jimmy Buffett and the guys at Dragon Fly boats started a project to build these very specific boats...they are meant to be used in very shallow water to rescue wildlife injured or effected by the BP oil spill in the Gulf.
Here these guys are, trying to do some seriously good stuff together with the University of Southern Mississippi's Gulf Coast Research Laboratory and they are prohibited from using them to rescue wildlife by BP's Incident Command Center!
HELLOOOOOO! Can someone PLEASE help our bureaucrats wake up and smell the oil!
Go to Margaritaville.com to read the full story! And do what you can to pass this along!

Hit 'em straight!

SkipJack

Jimmy Buffett donates boats in Gulf effort...

2010-06-16T23:42:00.006-04:00

I absolutely must give the credit to the SunHerald .com for this article and the picture....according to the Sun Herald News, Jimmy Buffett has teamed up with the USM and toured the Gulf Coast Research Lab. JB is a 1969 graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi and Buffett told the group he is interested in strategies for creating a “voice for the Gulf of Mexico.” (Let me know if I can help, Jimmy).
Buffett has teamed with Dragonfly Boatworks of Vero Beach, Fla., to create and donate special watercraft, which the boat maker calls Shallow Water Attention Terminal boats, for the lab. Designer Mark Castlow said these 17-foot boats are capable of navigating in as little as 8 to 10 inches of water through the estuaries of Mississippi.
The SWAT boats will have laptop computers and Web cams, so anyone with an Internet connection will be able to watch live as oiled animals are rescued.

Read more: SunHerald.com

Most know Jimmy Buffett (a.k.a., Bubba, JB and several others) to be the free-wheeling, sun-lovin' Rock-n-Roller who loves to have a great time! But Jimmy always puts his money where his mouth is, and the clubs that form around his phan-dom do a lot of the same...take for instance, the New Hampshire Parrot Head Club...many of the members are attending the Jimmy Buffett concert this weekend in Boston, and together with the Parrot Head Club of Eastern Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island I'm sure, are collecting old (or new) baby blankets to be sent to the Gulf of Mexico to aid in cleaning oiled water fowl! And it doesn't stop there!
So here is a bit more on the symptoms I have that prove my affliction with JBS, which is my own diagnosis for "Jimmy Buffett Syndrome"...(no, it's not in Wikipedia yet, so it must be my own personal affliction shared with many)
-Need to go where it's warm!
-Like cheeseburgers
-Tend to act like a Land Shark from time to time
-Like to sail off to some moonlit bay and take a holiday
-Like to get drunk and %&^#
-Admire girls in bikinis
-Love to change my attitude by changing my latitude
-And have an overwhelming desire to give back to a variety of communities, and just simply help when and where I can.

I'm sure there are others (symptoms) but I think you get the idea! Here's a guy we can ALL look up to...hat's off to you Bubba!

Hit 'em straight!

SkipJack

"Twenty degrees and the hockey game's on..."

2010-05-13T00:32:00.003-04:00

All right...anyone that knows me, knows that I love Bubba's music and that I love ice hockey! but my Bruin's are starting to scare me! If I had a six-shooter I probably would've shot six holes in my freezer after tonight's performance!
Alright...back to my own private JBS (Jimmy Buffett Syndrome) for which the only known cure is a margarita on the rocks and the sound of some steel drums or a six-string instead of the six gun.
I had a very interesting conversation with one of the founders of Orchid Bay in Belize and the CEO of 7th Heaven Properties in London earlier this week (I helped bring the two together on a marketing partnership)from both ex...what was amazing to hear from both executives, is that they both emphatically stated that there is a tremendous amount of activity in Caribbean real estate by buyers! Great news for those of us who want to go where it's warm! Ari Kahn from Orchid Bay stated that while sales "are not where they were in '08 they are way up compared to '09" and Walter Zephirin of 7th Heaven Properties stated that "interest and activity amongst Caribbean real estate buyers is up nearly 70%...especially with buyers looking for homes in the $1.5 million to $5 million range."
Another common theme from both executives was that it appears that people in Europe and the US are sick of the high cost of living and exorbitant taxes...both of their web sites have free information on the cost of living in a variety of locations...well the Orchid Bay site is focused on Belize...but if you have a specific Caribbean country you would like more information about...just send me an email and I will get you that info...
For now though...hit 'em straight and put the six-shooter away...Bruin's will take it from the Flyers in game 7...hey that goes with Walter's 7 theme and the 7th Heaven Properties website!

SkipJack

Belize expecting foreign sales surge in 2010

2010-04-22T00:00:00.004-04:00

According to a press release by Property Frontiers, Belize is expecting to see a massive surge in foreign real estate buyers and investors this year. Property Frontiers is one of the most influential and innovative companies in the International Property Investment arena.
According to the press release the revival of Latin American economies, including Belize, and the revival of international tourism to the region, will combine with reduced prices in Belize, and their previous track record of growth, to make the country a hotbed of foreign buying activity.
This makes Orchid Bay a very enticing investment, especially since the beach front casitas have nearly sold out, and the soon-to-be-built seaside condos have already begun pre-construction sales.
I have personally spoken with a few of the hotel owners in Belize and they tell me that the occupancy has not dropped...in fact, one owner tells me that they were 96% filled in February...yes...February 2010! Belize is truly a remarkable place...you really need to go there and see it to Belize it!

Hit 'em straight!

SkipJack

I can fly to Belize for HOW MUCH!?

2010-04-06T00:24:00.005-04:00

My good friend Ari (one of the founders at Orchid Bay in Belize) sent me this link to an awesome Caribbean airfare promotion going on right now with American Airlines. You can actually fly to Belize for as little as $176! You just have to book by April 14th and complete your travel by June 7th!
Click here to check out these incredible fares to a variety of Caribbean destinations!
That works well for the upcoming spring Insider's Tours at Orchid Bay on April 23-25 and May 21-22! And to make it even better...Ari tells me that you can save $100 ($150 for couples) on the cost of the already inexpensive cost of the tour at Orchid Bay.
If you are even thinking about an investment in Belize real estate...NOWS the time to plan your exploratory visit!
Just be sure to tell Ari that SkipJack sent you!

Hit 'em straight!

SkipJack

New Condos at Orchid Bay, Belize

2010-03-24T00:20:00.004-04:00

Who says the economy sucks and that nobody is buying? And nobody is building? Orchid Bay, Belize continues onward with the announcement of The Caribbean Condos at Orchid Bay These new condos allow you to own a private beach house that will both appreciate in value and generate rental income. The condos are located directly on the seafront and are 2 bedroom 2 bathroom 1,430 square foot units.
Click here to learn more about Orchid Bay, Belize...premium Caribbean real estate!

Starting at $249,000 USD
Click here to request more info on these condos...there aren't making any more beachfront property!
Remember, if you're going to invest in Caribbean real estate...Orchid Bay should be on your short list...and the best way to check it out is by taking advantage of the "Insiders Tours." See the dates in the side bar...

See you in Belize!

SkipJack

One Day Sale on Nicaragua!

2010-03-09T15:14:00.003-05:00

Join our webinar today at 5PM EST, Tuesday March 5th, 2010 and cash in on huge savings with prices from 25% - 50% off!
Don't wait because you will pay more!

Click here to register for our webinar!

Click here to learn more about Seaside Mariana!

Caribbean Music Festivals

2010-03-01T00:37:00.003-05:00

I've mentioned my own personal JBS (Jimmy Buffett Syndrome) but it doesn't stop there. I am a lover of all kinds of different music. This year I am hoping to make several of the Caribbean music festivals...personally.

One of the first is coming up later in March in Anguilla. Anguilla is a wonderfully quiet island with a lot to offer, but from March 25-28, 2010 Anguilla will come to life with the Moonsplash event by Bankie Banx. This year they are calling it a "Family Reunion" because "...we’ll be bringing back many of the favorites from the past 19 years of Moonsplash". Bankie's music is wonderfully unique "part Bob Dylan and part Bob Marley"...if you make one Caribbean music event this year...make this the one!

Hit 'em straight!

SkipJack

Challenge to the We Are The World performers

2010-02-09T00:05:00.004-05:00

First, I want to personally commend each and every artist who performed on this recording for such a needed cause…helping the people of Haiti…I hope that I have included everyone who performed or helped produce below:

Akon, India.Arie, Patti Austin, Tony Bennett, Justin Bieber, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Ethan Bortnick, Brandy, Jeff Bridges, Zac Brown, Kristian Bush, Natalie Cole, Harry Connick Jr., Kid Cudi, Miley Cyrus, Snoop Dogg, Drake, Earth Wind & Fire, Faith Evans, Melanie Fiona, Jamie Foxx, Sean Garrett, Tyrese Gibson, Josh Groban, Anthony Hamilton, Keri Hilson, Julianne Hough, Jennifer Hudson, Enrique Iglesias, LL Cool J, Randy Jackson, Taj Jackson, Taryll Jackson, TJ Jackson, Al Jardine, Joe Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Janet Jackson, Kanye West, Nick Jonas, Rashida Jones, Gladys Knight, Adam Levine, Jimmy Jean Louis, Benji Madden, Joel Madden, Mary Mary, Katharine McPhee, Jason Mraz, Mya, Jennifer Nettles, Orianthi, Freda Payne, Pink, A. R. Rahman, Nicole Richie, Raphael Saadiq, Carlos Santana, Nicole Scherzinger, Isaac Slade, Trey Songz, Musiq Soulchild, Jordin Sparks, Barbra Streisand, T-Pain, Robin Thicke, Rob Thomas, Usher, Vince Vaughn, Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Will.i.am, Anne Wilson, Brian Wilson, Nancy Wilson, BeBe Winans, Lionel Richie, Wyclef Jean, Celine Dion, Quincy Jones,
RedOne, Ricky Minor

Second, I want to put forth this challenge…I have a home, no…a private estate which is being offered for sale in Turks & Caicos. This Estate is truly magnificent, and can be seen by clicking here. It rests on the edge of the ocean, sitting on 2.5 private, immaculately manicured, gated acres. The home itself is approximately 11,000 square feet and what makes it so fitting for the group of talented individuals listed above, is that there are two additional “guest” cottages which can easily be converted into your own private recording studio. And while that is the perfect use of this Estate, it can also be converted into an extraordinarily luxurious boutique hotel/resort as well. The Estate is listed at $15.75 million USD.

Now…you might be thinking that this is a cheap way for me to gain exposure to this Estate with the hopes of selling it…and while that is true (yes…I do actually want to sell it) and I stand to profit from the sale…but…and this is a big but and the real purpose of this exercise…upon selling this Estate and collecting my compensation for the sale of The Estate…I will personally donate up to $200,000 to the people of Haiti via the charity organization of the buyers choice!

So…let’s just say that Wyclef Jean buys the house for the asking price…
-Wyclef gets an extraordinary private Estate and converts the “guest” cottage into a recording studio…win #1
-I get compensated for my efforts…win #2
-Wyclef chooses Yele Haiti as the organization he would like to benefit from my compensation…win #3

This is truly a win…win…win scenario. And while I would like to acknowledge those who performed on this “We Are the World” recording, as I find it truly commendable, I do not want to alienate anyone else who feels compelled to take me up on this challenge by buying this truly amazing Estate. That would include other such notable individuals and performers as Leonardo DiCaprio, P. Diddy (Sean Combs), Elton John, Eric Clapton, John Travolta, Branjolina (Brad & Anjelina), Bruce Willis, Lady Gaga….I think you get the idea.

One other thing…whoever buys this amazing Estate…I am going to ask you to help me with another fund raising project I have in the planning stage for later in the year… when all the media have moved on and the focus is no longer on Haiti…because we all know that the media will stop covering this once it no longer sells papers and airtime. I would think that whoever buys will be willing to work with me on this project, but I am not going to make it part of the deal, so no obligation.

Oh…and one other thing…I am not doing this for my own self promotion…in fact, I want the donation I make to go completely unnoticed unless the celebrity who buys the Estate, and chooses the beneficiary charity, wants the donation made in his or her name in order to promote more donations.

So let’s hear it celebrity nation…who is up for the challenge? You can either leave a comment here or follow the link below to contact me privately via my web site.

Hit ‘em straight!

SkipJack