That reggae vibe

The island nation of Jamaica has a fascinating history, great music and a laidback attitude, and the island continues to attract thousands of tourists, as well as canny investors. Words Emily Barksdale

As the UK suffered through wind and snow over the winter months, the 2.8 million people who live on Jamaica relaxed on the beach with an average temperature of 28ºC. Gated properties and communities here can provide a much-needed respite from the daily grind, replacing it with beautiful vistas, tropical weather, and easy access to other resort destinations in the Caribbean, as well as the UK.

Jamaica, the third-largest island in the Caribbean, is part of the Greater Antilles, a popular destination for tourists, who often know of its famous jerk sauce, reggae music, and Blue Mountain coffee – not to mention the breathtaking coastlines and coral reefs. The culture of the Jamaican people shines through in their Patois dialect, colourful food and dedication to tourism and other service industries.

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Growing places

The Dominican Republic was a good deal last year and – against all the odds – it’s still looking like a good deal in 2011. Words Isobel Palmer

Forget overcoming the global recession – this place seems to have side-stepped it. The Dominican Republic’s economy grows apace and its infrastructure with it. Witness the recent speech by President Leonel Fernandez after cutting the ribbon at the golf and real estate project La Estancia. He said that GDP has increased from $19bn in 2004 to a projected $53bn in 2011.

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Give me hope, Joanna

In the wake of hosting a successful World Cup, Johannesburg is reaping the benefits of South Africa’s popularity on a global stage. Words Emma Leask

Six months on, South Africa is still reaping the benefits of hosting a successful World Cup. Its economy shows strong signs of turning the corner out of recession after a much-needed kickstart from international football. But while the match results may be forgotten by all but the Spanish, the impression left of a vibrant, friendly nation is not.

Taking centre stage last summer was Johannesburg – its Soccer City Stadium hosting the opening and closing ceremonies. The most powerful commercial centre on the African continent has long been a destination for UK business people. It’s the largest city in South Africa, and arguably the most racially integrated and cosmopolitan, too. Now, retirees and families are moving into a raft of stunning, gated golf and country estates. The attractions are numerous: perfect climate, beautiful nature, low cost of living, good infrastructure, and English as one of the 11 official languages spoken. The flight time may be around 11 hours, but when you arrive, there’s only a one or two-hour time difference – farewell forever to jetlag.

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Playing a round in Portugal

As the days get longer, golfers can look forward again to a perfect game at their perfect resort. Words Isobel Palmer

It’s on the ‘must-do’ list of every golfer – playing in Portugal. The courses there may not be numerous – around 70 at the last count – but they are of such quality and variety that this small nation with an enviable climate has become golfing nirvana for thousands of Brits.

What better way to complete the dream than invest in a property that makes an early tee-off every day the easiest thing in the world. You could even choose to look out on to the fairway or be a short stroll from your favourite putting green.

Got a lump sum of savings and getting depressed about inflation versus interest rates? Need convincing that now is a good time to buy? There are reports that prices have come down by 30-35% on the Algarve; and around the Lisbon area by at least 10%. Estate agents on the ground are optimistic that a recent increase in enquiries will soon convert into sales. As the early spring sun emerges, they are also feeling a warmth in the property market.

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