Wednesday, November 25, 2009

NEW MARINA ENTRY POINT PLAN FOR KARPAZ RESORT

Karpaz Bay Resort’s marina is set to become a new entry point for visitors to North Cyprus.
The 200 million Yeni Erenkoy project’s first stage will be concluded with the construction of the 300-berth Karpaz Gate Marina. That should be in 2011 if negotiations with the Government go smoothly.
The marina, which is being built by maritime construction company Sea-Alliance, will have customs, duty-free shops and immigration facilities to allow visitors on yachts to enter the island through the Karpaz, rather than having to use the ports of Gazi Magusa and Girne.
The Karpaz Gate Marina is being built on the concept of a “yacht hotel” and its inner basin will contain six floating pontoons.
The marina is designed for yachts ranging between seven metres and 65 metres long. Water and electricity facilities will be provided at each berth and yachts will also be able to refuel.
There will also be a Marina House which will include offices, a yacht club, health club, swimming pool, laundry services, restaurant, ship chandlery and nightclub.
A dry dock with a travel lift for up to 150 tons will also be present in the marina for repair and maintenance purposes. The marina’s planned dry dock will be one of the biggest in the eastern Mediterranean.
Once the first stage, which is the marina, is completed the construction of two modern hotels, a holiday village and landscaping will begin.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

BOGAZ SHOPPING CENTRE

For the latest information on the Anfora Shopping Mall Complex, copy and paste the following link onto your website:
http://www.bogaz.info/anfora/invest.php

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

CTA IMAGE TO CHANGE

The Minister for Public Works and Transport, Hasan Tacoy stated that the image of Cyprus Turkish Airlines will change in 2010. Tacoy stated that there will be changes at Ercan Airport which will include modifications in the passenger lounge.

The Agenda would include improvements in maintenance, catering, services and Passport Control. There are also plans to expand the departure lounge area within 18 months.

NORTH CYPRUS YACHT CLUB FOUNDED

The Sailing, Motor and Rowing Federation introduced the new North Cyprus Yacht Club at a cocktail party which took place at the Colony Hotel in Girne on Monday 9th November.

The President of the Federation, Zeki Tasci made a speech saying the TRNC does not yet have the necessary infrastructure for the maritime sector and that sailors and officials should meet and solve their problems together.
“We are still using the harbours from the Venetian and Lusignan periods in both Girne and Gazimagusa. We do not have the facilities for our yachts. The citizens of the TRNC are unable to bring their own yachts to the country and keep them here”

If the harbours in the TRNC were sufficient, thousands of people with yachts would visit the country each year. They would pay to berth their yachts and they would also leave revenue in the country as they would eat, drink and repair their yachts here.

The North Cyprus Yacht Club participated in the presentation of awards for those who were successful in the photography and fishing contests.

NORTH CYPRUS YACHT CLUB FOUNDED

The Sailing, Motor and Rowing Federation introduced the new North Cyprus Yacht Club at a cocktail party which took place the Colony Hotel in Girne on Monday 9th November.

The President of the Federation, Zeki Tasci made a speech saying the TRNC does not yet have the necessary infrastructure for the maritime sector and that sailors and officials should meet and solve their problems together.
“We are still using the harbours from the Venetian and Lusignan periods in both Girne and Gazimagusa. We do not have the facilities for our yachts. The citizens of the TRNC are unable to bring their own yachts to the country and keep them here”

If the harbours in the TRNC were sufficient, thousands of people with yachts would visit the country each year. They would pay to berth their yachts and they would also leave revenue in the country as they would eat, drink and repair their yachts here.

The North Cyprus Yacht Club participated in the presentation of awards for those who were successful in the photography and fishing contests.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

NORTHERN CYPRUS CHEERS DAVID HAYE’S WIN OVER NIKOLAY VALUEV

The victory for David Haye on Saturday night was not only one for Bermondsey, London, and the United Kingdom, it was also one for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

The rather lovely harbour town of Kyrenia has more recently been annexed by Haye and his trainer, Adam Booth, and the locals rather like it.

They pat Haye on the back and pay him compliments; Haye barely understands a word of it but the relationship works swimmingly.

Haye started training here two years ago after Booth suggested they pay it a visit. The trainer’s father was from Northern Cyprus and he fancied the value of property there.

As Haye recently put it, he thought he was going to “a tourist destination with lager louts”, but he has since learnt the difference between north and south and has worked out that the quiet life is best achieved by not expressing a political preference either way.

In some previous bouts, though, he has gone so far as to fight with a small flag of the Republic stitched on to his shorts and this has gone down exceptionally well.

There is no internationally recognised football association in Northern Cyprus, nor a recognised Olympic association, so Haye is pretty much the only sporting hero they get to shout about.

Northern Cyprus is now a second home that Haye and Booth normally use when preparing for fights. They both own villas on the coast and they have renovated a building at the top of a rough, one-track lane and turned it into a state-of-the-art gym.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Corporate rates at the Kaya Artemis Resort, Bafra

We are pleased to announce the 2009/2010 Rates for the Kaya Artemis as follows (all rates are in euros).

2009
NOVEMBER + DECEMBER
Holiday Village: €45.00. Hotel: €60.00
2010
JANUARY + FEBRUARY + MARCH
Holiday Village: €50.00. Hotel: €65.00
APRIL
Holiday Village: €55.00. Hotel: €70.00
MAY + JUNE
Holiday Village: €70.00. Hotel: €85.00
JULY + AUGUST
Holiday Village: €100.00. Hotel: €135.00
SEPTEMBER
Holiday Village: €70.00. Hotel: €85.00
NOVEMBER
Holiday Village: €65.00. Hotel: €80.00

To book, please contact Sargin Perk (Front Office Manager) on 00 90 (0) 3962 630 60 00 / e-mail sargin.perk@kayatourism.com.tr

All rates are per person per night, at FULL BOARD basis and include VAT. Full board prices include open buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner and all local drinks during meal times.

Single supplement - +50%
Extra bed reduction - -20%
Child reduction - first child 0-6 free, second child 50% reduction, between 7-12 years old 50% per person reduction.
These rates are not applicable during special holiday seasons (18-22 September and 26-30 November and 31 December).

Monday, October 26, 2009

NORTHERN CYPRUS TO GAIN FIRST MAJOR MARINA AND ‘YACHT HOTEL’

The Karpaz Peninsula (or pan handle) of Northern Cyprus is one of the Mediterranean’s last undiscovered yachting areas. Completely free of industry and pollution, Karpaz stretches into the sea like a narrow finger pointing to the North East and is home to rolling countryside, wild donkeys, ancient Byzantine churches and mile upon mile of empty sandy beaches, bays, coves and inlets.

This stunning location will soon play host to the Karpaz Gate Marina – the world’s first ‘Yacht Hotel’ - currently under construction and project managed by Sea Alliance Group Limited.

Designed sensitively to complement the area’s unique natural beauty, the new development will open up this undiscovered corner of the Mediterranean to yacht owners and charter companies alike while providing Northern Cyprus with its first ever modern marina.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

CHOIR IN FINE VOICE FOR MISSION TO RAISE MONEY

From 24th October to 31st October, a choir from Lancashire is set to raise the roof in the TRNC to raise money for charity.
About 40 male and female members of Blackburn People’s Choir will entertain across North Cyprus under the leadership of Jeff Borradaile.
The group, which performs a variety of music from gospel to pop, will sing a capella and are set to busk on the streets of Girne, Bellapais and Gazi Magusa.
Their Itinerary is as follows:

25th Oct 1.00 pm : Hoots Restaurant in Ilgaz
26th Oct From 10.30 am to 1pm : Busking on the streets of Bellapais and entertaining at the village’s Gardens of Irini
27th Oct Hosting a charity concert in aid of the Help Those With Cancer Association (Tulips) at the Ataturk Cultural Centre in Lefkosa
28th Oct From noon until 3.30 pm : entertaining on the streets of Girne around the centre and harbour
29th Oct From 7.30 pm : Mambo Bar
30th Oct Busking in Gazi Magusa and possibly a final concert will take place at Salamis ruins

The concert at the Ataturk Cultural Centre will take place at 8.00 pm.
To book tickets, which cost 15 tl, contact Tulips on 228 9807 or 227 0585.
Contact details and ticket prices for the other venues are yet to be
arranged.

NEW BOWLING ALLEY OPENS

It’s a strike!! The new Kyrenia King’s Pin Leisure Centre has now opened.
King’s Pin manager, Hasan Kutluer said: “We are very happy …… now we have a European-style entertainment centre, not only for kids, but for people of all ages.
We have baby-sitters on site and a responsible person monitoring all the machines. Of course, we are newly opened so there are things we have missed, but we are working on everything.”
The Leisure complex is built on 5-donums of land. It includes a 12-lane bowling alley and employs nearly 70 staff. The centre uses a card system for all the games, rather than cash. Cards are topped up with one-tl credits at the desk and games cost different amounts. For instance, the rollercoaster costs ten credits and the Hummer car simulator costs five. The facility has a range of different restaurants and bars and is open every day from 10.00 am until late and can be found on the new bye-pass where a one-way stretch of carriageway is open – to 2-way traffic – between GAU Junction and Ezic Restaurant.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Monday, September 14, 2009

TBV Party 29th September 2009

Could all residents please let us know by the 21st of September if they are able to attend the Autumn party this year.
Please reply to admin@cyprus-invest.com
Many thanks.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Turtle Bay Village Autumn Party 2009

Please note that the party will be on Tuesday 29th September 2009 - invitations will follow shortly.
Thanks

Monday, August 17, 2009

ESENTEPE VILLA HOTEL

AN EVENING OF INDIAN
CUISINE WITH A GUEST CHEF
SMALL MENU WITH A CHOICE OF
3 STARTERS
3 MAIN COURSES
TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST

BOOKING ESSENTIAL
03928236059/0533 8418114

Friday, August 7, 2009

Turtle Bay Party September 2009

As you know we are going to hold the next Turtle Bay party on Tuesday 29th September - we will be sending out invitiations over the next few weeks. We will be holding the party around Pool One again this year. This is due to logistical reasons. We have empty apartments there with connected electricity and water therefore we can use them for toilet facilities. We also have electricity requirements for any catering equipment and also the DJ - we have staff apartments situated at Pool One so we can use their electricity. We will look at holding a future party around another pool but for this one, due to the reasons above, it is more suitable for us.
We look forward to seeing you at the party!

Monday, August 3, 2009

Planting and restaurant works

Just to let all residents know that RESCO have very recently added over 210 assorted plants, various rows of Oleander and over 20 palm trees around the areas at Pool 7. They are also planting more Oleander around blocks 41 and 50 and 7 and 8.
Also, work is commencing this week to finish the exterior of the large restaurant building.

Turtle Bay Autumn Party 2009

Dear all

Due to various reasons, including the RESCO AGM date, we have decided that the TBV Autumn Party will now be held on Tuesday 29th September. We will keep you posted. Thank you

Investment inventive to develop Karpaz

Article taken from 'Cyprus Today' on Saturday 1st August.

"The Turkish Government is planning a new drive to encourage a quicker rate of investment in the Bafra area of North Cyprus.
It is offering 300 million TL credits at lower than normal interest rates in a bid to speed up development of the east Karpaz region. Out of 13 planned tourism complexes envisaged as part of plans first unveiled in 2002, only one hotel, the Kaya Artemis, has been completed in a project which was due to be finished in 2007. The initiative comes just days after a seven million TL scheme to finish off hotel developments across the TRNC was unveiled in conjunction with the Development Bank. The new plan forecasts completion of the Bafra tourism area by 2011.
The planning of the $260 million Bafra project, including hotels and holiday village resorts was completed in 2002.
Investments in the area started in 2003, where seven hotels were initially to be constructed. Originally there were going to be four-star hotels with a total capacity of 6,500 beds. This was later increased to 15,000 beds. The deadline for the credits is the end of December this year."

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Credit and debit card payments

Please note that we are now able to take credit and debit card payments over the phone - please call our office number on (009) 0392 815 9656 or our UK freephone number 0808 178 3150 if you wish to use this service. Bank charges will apply.
Many thanks.

Monday, June 1, 2009

Turtle Bay Autumn Party 2009

Please be advised that will be holding our Autumn Party at Turtle Bay on 22nd September 2009 - if you are planning a trip here around that time, please put the date in your diaries. The evening will be similar to our other events however more details will follow closer to the time.

Non - residents using the gym

We are doing our utmost to control non residents using the gym, but unfortunately cannot police this at all times - could we please ask for all owners/residents assistance in this matter - if you see someone using the gym that you know is a non - resident, please contact Resco immediately. Could you please also ensure that the door is locked behind you.
Many thanks.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Sailors from across the globe set sail for Girne

Yachts from around the world will arrive in Girne later this month when the Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Rally floats into town.
Some 68 boats crewed by 200 people from 18 countries are taking part in this years' event, which left Istanbul on April 24.
A flotilla will begin arriving in Girne's new and old harbours from 8am on Saturday May 23. Those taking part in the entire event, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, will take in 24 ports, six countries and 1,679 miles in 74 days.

£8m marina to bring boat owners to TRNC

One man's nine year dream is about to come true after he won planning consent to creat an £8 million pound marina in Kucuk Erenkoy, 30km east of Girne.
Work on Port Cyprium Marina is scheduled to begin in July at a cove in the village, which sits between Esentepe and Tatlisu.
Covering 27 donums, the marina complex with 32 villas is designed to realise the potential of yacht tourism in the TRNC's coastal waters. The 543 berth marina is to have boat repair, servicing and lifting facilities, a clubhouse with 20 guest bedrooms, a bar, 3 restaurants offering choices ranging from fast food to fine dining, a bowling green, gym and 2 tennis courts. Watersports including diving and sailing will also be available.

Monday, May 11, 2009

Turtle Bay Spring Party 2009

Tuesday 5th May saw our second party at Turtle Bay Village. Around 200 guests arrived and following food and drinks, we were entertained by Turhan, a professional Turkish Cypriot belly dancer. After Udi made a speech thanking all guests for their attendance and support, a wonderful fireworks display took place. We even had a few brave guests swimming in the pool!

Margaret Warbrick, one of the Turtle Bay Committee members wrote to us thanking us for the evening,

“Thank you very much for arranging the Celebration Evening yesterday we really enjoyed it. It was good to see so many people on site all clearly enjoying themselves.
Please thank all your staff for all their hard work in getting everything ready and for the refreshments.
After reading so much negative press recently regarding purchasing property in Northern Cyprus with the latest events in the Oram's case I am sure everyone feels very grateful that they have bought a property from you and not elsewhere. Certainly all the owners I spoke to last night were saying exactly that.
Thank you once again. Margaret Warbrick.

Many thanks to all who attended.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Turtle Bay Village Spring Party

Dear residents and owners - we have now received over 130 confirmations of attendance at our spring party on the 5th May. If you haven't yet confirmed, could you please e-mail admin@cyprus-invest.com by 21st April.
Many thanks.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

STOP PRESS!

Contracts for the new cafe area in the gym building have been signed - more information at a later date!

Turtle Bay Village Spring Party 2009!

PLEASE SEE DETAILS BELOW OF SPRING PARTY 2009



Monday, April 6, 2009

Kleftico night at the Esentepe Villa Hotel

Starting from this Wednesday (8th April) the Esentepe Villa Hotel (on the main road up to Esentepe village) are starting their 'Kleftico and Kebab' evening which will run throughout the spring and summer.

Only 28tl for Kleftico, kebabs, salads, mixed mezes plus first local drink free.

Starting at 7pm.

Bookings are advisable as it's a popular venue - please contact Sue on 0533 841 8114 or the hotel on 0392 823 6059.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

GBP Transfer Bank Details

If you wish to pay your maintenance to the UK based account, details are as follows:

Funds to be transferred to: Lloyds TSB Bank plc International Services Office

Swift: LOYDGB 2 LMON
Sort Code: 30-96-34
IBAN NO: GB85LOYD30963401023307
Beneficiary: Cyprus Economy Bank Ltd
GBP Account Number: 01023307
Additional information:Resco Management Ltd
Transaction reference: A/C No 4695868

Please note that if you are transferring funds from the UK that this is going to be a domestic transfer within the UK, either by CHAPS or same day domestic transfer to Lloyds TSB in UK.

Therefore do not ask you bank to make an International Bank transfer.

Make sure that beneficiary is stated as Cyprus Economy Bank and account number 01023307.

Please make sure you put your name, block number and apartment number on all transfer documents.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Turtle Bay Village (TBV) Committee update, March 2009

This note contains important information related to TBV.

Events over the last three months have moved on at an alarming pace and it has been difficult to keep up with all of the major changes which have sprung up requiring the committee’s immediate attention. We have endeavoured to keep owners fully informed of our actions and decisions, however these have often been difficult to determine as the situation continues to rapidly evolve.
We look forward to a period of greater stability as soon as the key issues outlined below have been resolved.


Management Operating Structure for TBV

In January the committee and TBV owners were advised by Udi Ilan of Kensington Development (KD) that a decision had been made to set up ResCo as the operating company for TBV instead of Sharon Management (SM). SM are part of the Ariel group. The committee was not consulted about these changes.
Given that ResCo was originally set up as a dormant company to hold the shares and the deposit monies for the owners this proposal seemed to conflict with the original purpose of the company.

The committee’s response was to seek urgent advice from a leading TRNC law firm. We have engaged Naomi Mehmet and Partners and are dealing directly with Naomi Mehmet herself. Naomi has assessed the situation and had outlined how we may need to proceed with this matter. This is still work in progress but essentially she is helping us to prepare for a meeting with KD and hopefully Ariel in the near future.

The committee are working with Udi Ilan to agree the steps that need to be taken to change the management structure for TBV and the target date for this to be finalised is January 2010.

In our understanding, to put it simply, we (the owners) now no longer employ Sharon Management in a client/contractor relationship. Instead, SM staff have transferred to ResCo and their staff are the employees of ResCo. Udi Ilan is currently the majority shareholder of ResCo but in due course the shareholding is to transfer to owners. The relationship between us and "site management personnel" is therefore very different. Clearly we also will be seeking advice from Naomi around the drawing up of a new set of contracts to reflect the new relationship between ResCo owners and ResCo Management. We are sure we you will appreciate the amount of time and effort this all involves.


Ariel Group decision to pull out of TBV Contract

Since the decision outlined above there have been two significant events which impact both the day to day running of site and the longer term operations generally. Firstly we were informed by Ariel that Arie Aizenshtat had resigned from his position as General Manager of the site and a couple of weeks later we were informed that Ariel Group no longer wish to manage TBV and they have resigned. There is a copy of their resignation letter attached to this message.

The committee are currently seeking further clarification around this decision with respect to Ariel’s ongoing commitments. Clearly this decision raises many questions as to how we deal with the future running of the site, so again is work in progress. .

The good thing is that Simon Hall, who many of you will have already met, has been appointed to the role of General Manager and is employed by ResCo Management Limited. All of this leads to many more questions and we shall of course keep you informed on a regular basis now that the new Forum is up and running once we have some answers.

Proposed Maintenance Fees for 2009/10

The committee have been working with Simon Hall on the proposed budget and are recommending that the new rates are agreed by the owners to ensure that there will be enough money coming in to cover the cost of running the village.

After much deliberation the committee have agreed the maintenance fees set out below. These are backdated to 1st January 2009.

The fees include the cost of insuring the village which makes up some of the proposed increase.

New fee structure:
Two bedrooms - £67 per month
Three bedrooms/villas - £77 per month

We believe that this is the minimum amount that can sustain the village to the standard we expect but relies on all owners making regular payments to the Management Company.
We have attached a copy of the new bank account set up to enable all owners to make payments into a ResCo account at Lloyds bank in London which saves the cost of transferring funds abroad.

The committee and Simon Hall are all working very hard and spending an enormous amount of time to resolve this complex situation. We are confident that together we can resolve these issues but we do need the support of every owner in paying their maintenance fees in order to ensure that the site goes from strength to strength and becomes the dream we were all promised.

Bob Strawford
Chairman of Turtle Bay Owners’ Committee

Monday, March 9, 2009

Pegasus winter schedule announced

Just to let all customers know that Pegasus airlines which fly between Stansted and Ercan have announced their winter schedule and prices. Dates between October 25th 2009 and the end of March 2010. For more information, please contact Pegasus directly or e-mail ankaratravel@superonline.com

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Letter from Simon Hall, Resco Manager

Simon Hall, Resco General Manager


Dear Turtle Bay Village Owner,

I am writing to you to introduce myself and to inform you of some of the changes we are hoping to achieve in TBV this year.
I look forward to meeting with you all when you visit TBV and I am looking forward to working with you to improve the Village.
The team, here at Resco, are working on many areas around the Village and also on our systems and procedures in order that we can improve our supporting role for our owners.
We have spent time listening to and reading our owners’ opinions and are keen to implement changes where ever possible in order that we can improve our service.
We are expecting the landscape to establish itself this summer and we have already started to re-distribute shrubs to various areas that were previously a little bare. We will monitor the growth this year and assess all areas. We are hoping, also, to introduce some other fast growing, drought tolerant trees and shrubs to the village that will have a visual impact on the site.
We are also hoping that the infrastructure of the village will settle in order that we can free some time to introduce improvements.
We have a lot to achieve, and with the backing of our owners, and close work with the TBV Committee I am very keen to see how much of a difference we can make.
In order that we can implement these improvements, we require adequate funding and I would ask our owners to please keep their accounts up to date. I realise there has been confusion over the maintenance fees but to stop paying all together has a huge effect on our ability to run TBV effectively. I am working very closely with the TBV Committee to finalise the budget for 2009 and I am hopeful that we can agree very shortly.

The TBV Committee have asked me to include this statement from them:

‘The committee are currently studying the accounts for year end December 2008 and the proposed budget set by Sharon Management for 2009 and are waiting for some of the queries raised to be answered before it can be approved.
In the meantime the committee feel it is imperative that all owners pay their maintenance fees up until April 2009 so that wages and bills can be paid by the management company in order to keep Turtle Bay site running smoothly.
We, therefore, suggest that owners pay their fees at 2008 prices until we have finalised the budgets. It is likely that the maintenance fees for 2009 will in crease. Payments can still be made into the HSBC account (details attached)until we resolve the issue with the developer and Ariel about the change of name and its implications from Sharon Management to Resco.’

Turtle Bay Owners’ Committee

I would like to thank you in advance for your help.

Yours Sincerely

Simon Hall

TBV Gen. Manager

Snagging & Electric Meters

Snagging Drop-in Service

We are happy to announce that the snagging drop-in service will also be open at Turtle Bay Village on Mondays between 4pm - 5pm for a period of 8 weeks from Monday 9th March until Monday 27th April 2009 inclusive.

Electric Meters

Phase Two & Villas without Electric Meters
We have been informed by Kibtek that your electric meter is due to be fitted within the next few weeks. Once you receive your first electric bill, please can you arrange to go to Kibtek (electric board in Kyrenia) to transfer the meter into your name. Instructions on how to do the name transfer would have been given to you when you took possession of your property. Once you have done the name transfer please do not forget to give us a photocopy of the deposit receipt.

Phase One & Villas with Electric Meters
If you have already had your meter fitted and you haven't transferred the meter into your name please can you do so as soon as possible. Instructions on how to do the name transfer would have been given to you when you took possession of your property. Please can you also give us a copy of your deposit receipt. As the electricity meters have been fitted for a while now we will be disconnecting all meter's which are still in our company name from 4th May 2009.

Electric Deposit Receipt
It is important that you keep the original as if you decide to sell your property the new owner should pay a deposit to Kibtek to transfer the meter into their name and you will be able to get a refund from Kibtek for the deposit you have paid.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Landscaping

Having initially planted over 35,00 plants across the Turtle Bay site, RESCO have now started transporting and re-planting to areas which are in need of more and will continue to do so over the following months.
Once the warmer weather arrives we will again review the situation regarding the grass as we are assured by the landscapers that the grass will improve over the next few months.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

"Bar B" - a new bar opens in Kucuk Erenkoy

"Bar B" has opened on the main road towards Tatlisu on the right hand side, 800 metres after leaving Kucuk Erenkoy. It is open every day from 5pm until midnight and serves alcoholic drinks, fresh juices and cocktails. A lovely rustic stone cottage which has been converted into a welcoming, cosy bar. They will be serving meals within the next few months.

TBV February 2009

Friday, February 6, 2009

Payments to Belediye

We have been advised by the Esentepe Belediye that they are charging interest on late payments of the 90ytl that covers the yearly services. Therefore, we advise all owners to ensure this is paid as soon as possible to avoid incurring interest.

Recent update from Naomi Mehmet

Where there is a Will ……
Many clients are uncertain about the rules regarding the requirement for making wills in the TRNC.
We often hear the rumour that if you do not make a will, the state will take your property! This is
completely untrue, however, it is advisable for foreigners to make Wills dealing with their assets in
Cyprus; otherwise, the recipients of their estate may not be the beneficiaries they would wish because
the rules on intestacy are not the same as in other countries. . For example a spouse will only receive
a one sixth share of the estate and any children will receive the remainder equally between
them and if there are no children other relatives will receive a share. There is a mechanism for resealing
a Grant of Probate here but this is not a straightforward procedure. For foreign clients we prefer
to lodge the Wills at the Court as these are checked and logged by the Wills Registrar and the original
kept at Court. Wills can only be lodged at the Court on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday.

Friday, January 30, 2009

Kensington's response to customers questions.

Title Deeds
Q: Are the title deeds for Turtle Bay available yet?
A: Savyon Village has submitted all the necessary paperwork, permits and payments, now the title deeds are currently with the District Lands Office in the process of parcelisation. Once they notify us of a date when the individual deeds will be available for transfer we will in turn contact all customers.
Q: Do all apartments at Turtle Bay Village have to be sold before the deeds can be transferred?
A: No, as soon as the deeds are available we will begin transferring them to individual owners.

ResCo Management Limited
Q: Is ResCo wholly owned by the Residents of Turtle Bay Village?
A: Yes
Q: Why has Sharon Management now changed to ResCo Management Ltd?
A: Operating as ResCo will provide greater transparency to owners, will enable owners to take a more active role in decision making through the Residents Committee as well as enable a reduction of some VAT payments.
Q: What is the allocation of shares of ResCo?
A: Currently, ResCo shares are held in trust jointly by Savyon Village & Hasip Izzetli, (TRNC Company regulations require 2 share holders, Mr Izzetli has taken on this role on a temporary basis and as a favour to the company) Both Savyon Village & Hasip Izzetli consider themselves temporary trustees on behalf of the Residents. Once all apartments at TBV have been sold the Residents will appoint two trustees on their behalf. In order that ResCo be fully owned by the Residents this is the only technical way by which it can be done. In the meantime Residents can still act as share holders.
Q: Has an Annual General Meeting been held?
A: No, this is up to the Residents and the Residents Committee to organise.
Q: Are the Management Company accounts available for all Residents to see?
A: All accounts are presented to the Residents Committee, who in turn summarise them to the Residents. In July 2008 the Committee published a committee update and included a summary of accounts. Please contact your committee for this update.
Q: Are the allegations of missing money valid?
A: No, during 2007 & 2008 the maintenance fees paid to Sharon Management were not sufficient and as a result some of the Maintenance Deposit fees were used. Savyon Village have now subsidised and injected £150,000 GBP into ResCo and all deposits have been replaced.
Q: Are the maintenance deposits held in a separate account?
A: The maintenance deposits are held in a separate account and any interest accrued will remain in that account. 40% of the deposit will be held until such time that the owner wishes to sell their property and at that time the 40% plus interest will be returned.
Q: How much of my deposit will I get back?
A: One year from the payment of the deposit owners will receive 30% of the deposit back; one year after those owners will receive a further 30% of the deposit back. The remaining 40% will be retained as security. Owners have already started receiving the first 30% of their deposits back; deposits will be paid back subject to owner maintenance accounts being up to date.
Q: Does the Maintenance side of ResCo have separate accounts to the Management side?
A: With reference to additional services provided by ResCo Management, should Residents use such services as apartment cleaning, management packages etc they will be charged separately, however all profit earned from these additional services will go back into the maintenance pot so to speak, which in turn will benefit all residents. It has been estimated that if 300 apartment owners at Turtle Bay Village each used one of ResCo’s property management packages this would in turn reduce the maintenance fee by £20 - £30 per month.
Q: I am being asked to pay an additional amount for building insurance on top of my maintenance fee.
A: Insurance for May 2008 – July 2009 was not included in the monthly maintenance fee this was charged separately.
Q: Can I see a copy of the insurance policy?
A: Yes it is available from the ResCo Management office or you can contact Steve Dickenson who is the insurer as well as on the Residents Committee.
Q: I don’t receive any correspondence from ResCo.
A: Not all correspondence comes directly from ResCo, some communication is provided to the committee for them to distribute. Please ensure that ResCo has your correct details and find out from the committee how information is distributed in order to ensure that you are being informed.

Landscaping and Gardens
Q: Why are some areas of grass patchy?
A: As grass seed was sown, it requires water and sun to help it grow. At the moment, we are currently in winter so we will wait until the weather becomes warmer to assess the situation.
Q: Are the plants that have died going to be re-planted? When and who will monitor that this takes place?
A: Yes. In the contract with the landscaping company, it states that they will in the first instance replace any plants that have died.
Q: Will gravel be laid on the outdoor gym area?
A: The area has been seeded with grass seed – once the weather has warmed up and the grass has had a chance to grow, we will review the situation.
Q: Lighting – lighting must be on around pool and apartment areas as it is inadequate at present – why are lights are switched off at midnight?
A: It was very costly to run the small path lights as we were connected to temporary electricity pending our final approval from Kibtek – this is why some of the lights were switched off at midnight. However, the Belediye will be switching on the large street lights soon(these will be on all night) and we will then assess the areas that require more lighting.
Q: Bins – how often and how are the bins collected? Is it the Belediye or do Resco
collect them and take them up to the main entrance?

A: The Belediye should empty the bins once a week during the winter and twice a week during the summer. If bins become full, Resco remove them and place them at the entrance to the site, ready for collection.
Q: Can bins be provided for the tennis and basket ball court areas?
A: These have now been supplied and are in place.
Q: Rubbish around the beach area – can we ask the Belediye to clear the area as it is unsightly? Rubbish around the restaurant area?
A: KDG have asked the Mayor of Esentepe to arrange the clearing of rubbish around the beach area. The area around the restaurant is currently being cleared.
Q: Rubbish in front of blocks 21-45 – can it be cleared?
A: This is currently being cleared.
Q: Beach area – what are we actually going to do to it?
A: The beach area will be cleaned and large boulders and rocks will be removed. Suitable furniture will also be placed there in time for the summer season.
Q: Irrigation pipe work – will this be covered?
A: No, as the boxes that cover them are unsightly. As the trees and plants continue to grow, these should become less apparent.
Q: Whose responsibility is it to do the weeding – landscaping company or Resco team?
A: Whilst the landscapers are still on site, it is their responsibility. Once all landscaping has been completed, this will be handed over to Resco.
Q: Can we provide more steps from the pier into the sea?
A: Yes, these will be provided.
Q: Can we have a proper tiled path from the road to the outdoor gym?
A: This is currently being examined and will be done.

Desalination plant & Water
Q: What was the cost of the desalination plant?
A: The total cost of the plant was £700K which was paid for in full by Savyon Village. ResCo members then contributed 65% of this cost. (This excludes the cost of the land it was built on). The land and access to the sea was “gifted” by the Mayor of Esentepe.
Q: Who owns the desalination plant?
A: The Plant is owned by The Municipality. The pipe work and infrastructure leading to and coming from the plant is the property of the municipality and as such they own and operate this.
Q: I paid towards the desalination plant, why do I not own part of it?
A: Each Resident paid a contribution towards the cost of the plant; in return the Plant will supply Residents with water at cost price. It was never intended that Residents would own the plant; you have bought into a secure water supply.
Q: When purchasing I was under the impression that the desalination plant would be a private plant to provide water for the Turtle Bay Site only, how and why has this now changed?
A: In order to operate the desalination plant we had to build it on the beach, as with all beaches in the TRNC the beach is owned by the Government. The Esentepe Municipality “gifted” the land to Savyon Village as well as granted access to the sea. In exchange for the land and permissions Savyon Village entered into a joint venture with the Municipality allowing them to sell any surplus water as long as the Residents of Turtle Bay were supplied water at cost.
Q: Why was the plant built on land not owned by us?
A: The only feasible place to build the Plant was as close to the sea as possible, this meant building it on the beach. As beaches in the TRNC are owned by the Government it was not possible to purchase the land on which we needed to build.
Q: Why has the plant been taken over by Esentepe Belediye?
A: It was agreed that in exchange for the land and access to the sea the Municipality would manage the plant. The pipe work and infrastructure leading to and coming from the plant is the property of the municipality and as such they own and operate this.
Q: What assurances do residents have that they will continue to be supplied water at cost price?
A: A letter of intent has been agreed with the Municipality and Savyon ensuring that Kensington Development Group projects in Esentepe are supplied first and only then to other projects.
Q: The contract states that the maintenance of the plant would be carried out by Resco.
A: The maintenance of the plant will now be carried out by the Municipality. ResCo may appoint a suitably qualified firm on it’s behalf to carry out its obligations.
Q: Who is responsible for its maintenance?
A: The Municipality
Q: Are there suitably qualified personnel from the Municipality that is able to service and repair the plant?
A: Suitable training has been given to Municipality workers by Savyon Village engineers as well as from the company that installed the plant. Support is available to the Municipality not only from the installing company but also from Southern Cyprus as there is a plant built by the same company there.
Q: What is the out put from the plant?
A: The plant currently produces 600 tonnes of water per day.
Q: Is the Plant supplying water to other sites?
A: If there is sufficient supply and as along as Turtle Bay Village is supplied first the Municipality may sell water to other non – KDG developments.
Q: If water is being sold to other developments are Residents owed money from the profits?
A: Residents are not owed profit from the sale of water to other non – KDG developments as they do not own the plant.
Q: Will there be water trucks coming in and out of the Development to and from the Desalination Plant?
A: There are holding tanks at the entrance to Turtle Bay where tankers can fill from, there is no need for tankers to go down to the plant itself.
Q: What payments should I have made in relation to water so far?
A: Purchasers are required to make the following payments:
Contribution to the desalination plant payable on possession.
Cost of the water meter payable on possession.
£200 connection fee – payable to the municipality.
Water usage from possession to the 31/07/2008 payable to ResCo Management.
Water charges from 1st of August to date at the minimum 30TL per month, payable to the Esentepe Municipality.
Q: Why do I have a water meter if it is not being used?
A: Meters are being used, the Municipality have begun reading meters should Residents use more than 10 tonnes per month they will be billed accordingly.
Q: What is the £200 charge for?
A: The £200 is a connection fee to the water supply, payable to the Esentepe Municipality. All Municipalities require a connection fee for example Çatalköy Municipality currently charge 1,548TL for the meter and connection.
Q: What does the 30TL per month include?
A: The 30TL monthly charge is the minimum amount required to operate the plant regardless of consumption. Please note that each apartment will be supplied up to 10 tons of water per month at no additional cost.
Q: When does the Municipality start charging the 30TL per month?
A: 1st of August 2008.
Q: Do I have to pay the monthly charge even if I am not using the property?
A: Yes, the 30TL charge is the minimum charge per month.
Q: How will we receive the bill?
A: The Municipality will issue bills to your apartment, if you are not receiving bills please visit their office in the village of Esentepe.
Q: Where should we pay the bill?
A: Bills should be paid at the Esentepe Municipality office.
Q: Can we pay by direct debit?
A: No, it is not possible to pay by direct debit however you can pay in advance for the months that you won’t be there.
Q: Will we be charged interest on late payments?
A: Yes, please check with the Municipality regarding late charges.
Q: If the plant fails who is responsible to get it up and running again?
A: The Esentepe Municipality is responsible.
Q: If the plant fails is there a provision of getting water to the site? And at what cost?
A: If the plant should fail, there is a holding tank which can hold up to 400 tonnes of water at one time.
Q: Is it possible to disguise the desalination plant or make it look better?
A: If the Municipality wish to do this it is up to them.
Q: Does the Municipality contribute to the insurance of the desalination plant?
A: No.

Other Municipality Questions
Q: What is the 90TL charge from the Municipality and when do I have to pay this?
A: The 90TL is charged annually for council services it includes the following:
30TL for Street lighting per year
30TL for Rubbish collection per year
30TL for the spraying of insecticides per year.
Payment should have been made in November 2008.
Q: Will the road down to the beach be finished?
A: As the road is owned by the Municipality it is up to them if they wish to improve this road.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Turtle Bay Village Jan 2009

Changes to management structure at Turtle Bay

Please be aware that all residents of Turtle Bay will be receiving an e-mail from the Ariel Group regarding re-structuring of the management team on site.

Turtle Bay Snagging Procedure

As you are aware, snagging is now a drop in service available on Thursday mornings between 9am and 11am.
Customers or their representative must come to the TBV sales office and give Yonel the details of the issues and then accompany the engineer to the property in order to point them out.
Should the fault be covered under guarantee, we will then fix the problem immediately or call the customer re when we can arrange the relevant worker to come to the site and rectify the problem.
If the customer is not available he/she must send a representative to report the problem, be available to open the door to the workers thereafter and then sign that the job has been completed. Therefore a representative that is on site would be the best option (such as Resco), however customers are entitled to use which ever representative they wish.
On the back of this, please be aware that this service will not be available on Thursday 12th February, but will resume the following Thursday (19th).
Many thanks.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

KDV & Title Deeds for Turtle Bay Village

Just to let all owners know, we have previously advised you of the change in legislation regarding the KDV (VAT) payments on your apartments. Unfortunately there are still some payments outstanding. Those of you who have still not paid will be receiving an e-mail from our accounts department shortly.

Additionally, we are pleased to announce that we have prepared all the relevant documentation for the parcelisation process of title deeds and this is now with the Land Registry. As soon as we have more news on the issuing of your individual Title Deeds, we will update the blog and contact you on an individual basis.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

TBV Owners Committee-Message from Mick Collins

The first elected committee representing TBV owners took office in September 2008.The objectives of the committee are to achieve the following on behalf of the owners:

  • Continuous improvement of the site and facilities;
  • Continuous improvement in the quality of service received from the Management Company;
  • Value for money for all owners.
  • The dissemination of information to owners regarding future developments in relation to site and financial matters;
  • Ensuring that the use of owner's deposit account and maintenance fees is transparent and available for audit annually; and
  • That the Management Company and Developer are held to account for any promises made in brochures, advertising etc

To achieve this the committee will strive to work in a co-operative manner with the Management Company, the Development Company and any other third parties with which they need to engage.

The committee comprises:

Bob Strawford - Chairman email: bobstrawford@blueyonder.co.uk

Bev Brindle - Secretary email: b_brindle@sky.com

Gareth Andrews - Site and Services email: gmahome@tinyworld.co.uk

Margaret Warbrick - Site and Services email: margaret@warbrick.com

Mick Collins - Finance email: mickandjules@btinternet.com

Mike King - Finance email: mikeking11@talktalk.net

All owners are encouraged to join and participate in the TBV Owners' Forum, a private 'chat-room' exclusive to TBV owners where owners can share their thoughts, concerns and any information they feel would be of benefit to other owners. For access to this forum please contact Bev Brindle, contact details as above.

Please could anyone new to the site who would like to be included on the committees emailing list also contact Bev Brindle.

Your attention is also drawn to a TBV Owners Questionnaire. This is exclusive to TBV owners and can be accessed via the following link: www.TurtleBayVillageRentals.com

The first round of information gathering has closed but any new owners who have not completed the questionnaire are most welcome to do so at the earliest opportunity.

Monday, January 19, 2009

New Thalassa Beach pictures on Thalassa Blog

Please log in to http://thalassabeach.blogspot.com to view recent pictures of Thalassa Beach Resort.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Russian investors want to build Disneyland in Pile

Russia has announced that it wants to build the world’s largest childrens entertainment facility, Disneyland in Pile.
According to an article published in the Greek Cypriot Politis newspaper, Russian investors want to build Disneyland in the village of Pile which is in the buffer zone.
In a statement he made concerning the issue, the Greek Cypriot Foreign Minister Harilaos Stavrakis said that if the project is realised the 800 million Euro project will be the biggest of its kind in Cyprus.
If the project is realised it is estimated that 3 thousand jobs will be created and half a million tourists will visit the island.
The paper wrote that as Pile is a bicommunal village, there will be two separate entrances to the entertainment facility and Turkish Cypriots will also take part in the building of the facility.
In the article it is stated that the Russian government supported the building of the facility in the bufferzone so that it would play a supporting role among the two peoples of the island.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

TURTLE BAY SUPERMARKET

Could we please urge all Turtle Bay owners to make use of the supermarket on site to promote and support our local business at the Village. They are well stocked and prices are not inflated compared to other large supermarkets in the area. Many thanks.

Monday, January 5, 2009

Ercan will be islands' 'dominant airport'

Cyprus Today (Jan 3-9)

North Cyprus's "inadequate" Ercan Airport is set for a 40 million euro revamp as the TRNC government looks to offload it to the private sector.
It is drawing up plans with an international consortium to map out the future of Ercan, which celebrates its 33rd anniversary as the main air gateway into North Cyprus on February 3rd.
It hopes that Ercan will become the most efficient airport in the whole of Cyprus, despite multi million euro upgrades of both Larnaca and Paphos.
"We are considering new areas such as a new runway, apron, terminal building and shopping centres" commented Salih Usar, Public Works and Transportation Minister.

Friday, January 2, 2009

'Those who invest now are expected to make a profit'

Cyprus Today (Dec 20th - Jan 2nd)

Chairman of the Estate Agents' Union, Hasan Sungur, said that with the new legislation produced by the government, the TRNC had become one of the most reliable countries in the world for foreigners to invest in property.
He said "property prices are at their lowest level..... those who invest now will profit in 2010".