As the American mortgage crisis widens, some European property markets are slipping into an uncertain downward spiral. But there is good news on the horizon. Out of this murky mist rises the stunning Alpine vistas, pristine forests, handsome cities and seaside hideaways of Slovenia.
Slovenia? you ask, incredulously. Located in the Balkan Peninsula, nestled just below Austria and attached firmly to Italy, this bustling nation of 2 million is one of the most stable and dynamic of the former Yugoslav republics. Knight Frank, a Brit-based property consultancy, has just named Slovenia one of the top destinations for property investment in the world. They forecast 17.5% growth for 2007 alone. If you are looking to diversify your investments, look no further.
The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, (population 250,000) is a Baroque jewell that conjures images of Mozart’s Salzburg. Think of your favourite German town along the Romantic Road mixed gently with the soothing canals of Venice and you have this smart, thoroughly European capital.
Handsome churches, open squares and fashionable eateries have made this little dynamo a destination hot-spot for tourists and investors alike. Medieval buildings and a cosmopolitan feel have proven irresistible to Europe’s jet-set as well as those looking for a bargain. Growth has been vigorous for at least 7 years now, but Ljubljana still remains a good buy compared to similar cities like Prague.
Ljubljana’s geographical position, educated workforce and membership in the European Union (2004), have provided an open invitation to capital investment from across Europe. Slovenia has seen 5% economic growth in the past year, placing it far above many of its seemingly sluggish Western European cousins. By all expert accounts, Slovenia boasts a stable democracy, excellent infrastructure and a welcoming attitude born from of years under not-so-sympathetic rule.