Valencia to host America's Cup again

Valencia has been chosen to host the 33rd America's Cup in 2009, it was confirmed yesterday by America's Cup Management (ACM) president, Michel Bonnefous.
Speaking on behalf of both ACM and the victorious Alinghi team, who beat Team New Zealand 5-2 earlier this month in the final of the 32nd edition, Mr Bonnefous said that: "Some six million people visited us and it was the most competitive America's Cup in history. We wanted to continue with those emotions and that is why I announce that Valencia will be the venue."
For her part, Valencia mayoress, Rita Barberá, claimed: "When we set out to hold the 32nd America's Cup we committed ourselves to hold the best ever America's Cup and we did just that. This has been the best venue in the history of the America's Cup."
The news will not delay the start of a project to extend Valencia port, according to Port Authorities president, Rafael Aznar, who said that: "the work schedule is fully covered in the contract with ACM. When races are being held, any work which may pollute the regatta course will stop to focus on other tasks." Mr Aznar also explained that, pending a favourable environmental impact report, it is hoped that work will start this year and be completed by 2011 or 2012.

Spain is still the best for investment

Spain is the best market for long-term property investment ahead of France and Portugal – according to GE Money Home Lending (GEMHL).
The lender interviewed 100 mortgage brokers asking for short and long-term investment predictions. Bulgaria was seen as having the strongest house price inflation over the next year, followed by Spain, Portugal, Romania and France. Developing territories such as Dubai and Croatia also ranked highly. Florida placed strongly in both the short and long-term investment tables at sixth and fifth respectively.
Research showed that, overall, Spain still tops the list as the best long-term investment option. The lender advised agents and IFAs that findings showed clients are being influenced by a mixture of lifestyle and investment choices.
“Although new emerging Eastern European markets are looked upon as good short term investment opportunities, we can see that most Brits are looking towards their dream holiday home as a location they can retire to in future years and for ease of living whilst abroad,” said Gerry Bell, head of marketing for GEMHL. “What is interesting is the emergence of Florida as a key holiday home destination as flights to the US become more affordable, strengthened by the current excellent exchange rate and the ease of conversing in the same language.”
Best house price inflation – short-term v long-term

Over next 12 months

Bulgaria
Spain
Portugal
Romania
France
Florida
Croatia
Dubai
Italy
Germany

Long term

Spain
France
Portugal
Bulgaria
Florida
Italy
Romania
Dubai
Czech Republic
Croatia

America's Cup - Valencia wins

On Tuesday afternoon, the Swiss team successfully defended the America’s Cup with a thrilling two second win in Race Seven over Emirates Team New Zealand. Alinghi won the 32nd America’s Cup Match by a 5-2 score.

What could be really interesting though is that before the start of the race, the Alinghi team stated that they were so impressed by the city of Valencia and all the facilities laid on that they would push for Valencia to stage the next America's Cup again. Let's hope so as it has been great for the city of Valencia and the region in general.