Where the Streets Have No Name

By Samira Sheth
What’s New, Dubai
April 2005

Page 3

… instability and popular drug trafficking routes. You should also consider special features included in the price.

“Access is the most important consideration,” emphasizes Renee Redmond. “Whether it be by boat, helicopter or small plane, travel is required to get to your retreat. Boats necessitate moorage and depth. Aerial transportation calls for runways or helipads. Additional amenities required for access like docks and landing strips, add more costs to developing your island. The more remote your island, the more it will cost to visit and maintain.”

“Security is another factor. Who looks after your island when you’re not there. If your property is in international waters, you’ll need to be concerned about pirates, thieves and vandals. If you don’t live on the island full time, a local caretaker is generally a good idea.”

“And if you thought cell phones were an important part of navigating urban life, their importance is even more profound on a remote island. Make sure your satellite phone is charged up in case your partner has a heart attack or your daughter breaks her leg.”

But all this may be moot. After all, island owners aren’t like ordinary people who would be daunted by such realities.

“The one thing that sets island owners apart is that they are all strong individualists,”

says Locke. “It is good for active people who like to organize things as there is always something to do, you are constantly working to maintain your lifestyle, it is not for everybody. On an island you are really in touch with yourself and with nature - the sun, moon and tides decide the day’s schedule. You also have to be able to appreciate solitude - after all, there aren’t any stores or restaurants within proximity.”

Adds Renee, “Island owners are slightly unconventional creatures. Some are celebrities or millionaires looking for some privacy. Others are just regular folks looking for adventure - a chance to get away from it all. Self sufficiency and a penchant for solitude are basic qualities required in all island owners in order to enjoy island ownership. If you’re the kind of person who get lonely or easily bored, you may want to consider a loft in Tribeca instead of an island. However, on your own island, you are the master of your domain and may spend your time as you please. Feel free to blast the stereo, dance naked or otherwise entertain in any manner that suits you.”

However, while keeping factors like ecology and local laws in mind, there are also other things that may deter potential buyers.
“You may own your own island, but islands are not countries and they are subject to the same local and national laws and regulations as the country to which they belong,” declares Renee Redmond, of Private Islands Online.

Adds Locke, “We always recommend that you get together with the local lawyers to get all titles approved before any deal goes through. It is an unusual purchase that needs special expertise.”

Locke and Krolow are also big fans of the “try before you buy” credo. After all, if someone hates swimming or cannot handle a boat or the quietness, investing in an island may not be the best family entertainment.

Both Vladi and Private Islands Online offer islands for sale as well as rent, giving people …

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