2008-05-06 18:24:21 - Baden Baden is the Monte Carlo of Germany. Long famous for its Casino, its Spa Baths and Horse Racing, it is a magnet for film stars and the international jet set. Now it's the turn of wealthy Russians, Arabs and others to get a piece of the action, and not just the action at the Casino!

Set in a beautiful, wooded valley in the foothills of the Black Forest, this much loved resort is gaining popularity as a second home destination. Buyers are coming from all over the world to participate in the lifestyle and attractions of the area, and with low-cost daily flights from Stansted to the nearby airport, it is only a matter of

time before UK investors catch on.

The town plays host to many international conferences and festivals and its cosmopolitan flair and degree of sophistication make an immediate impact on the many visitors. The glorious parks and gardens make Baden-Baden a paradise for people who appreciate the finer things in life and are looking for a relaxing break, or to make it a temporary home.

For Russians, Baden-Baden has become the best-known German city in Russia and unofficially seems part of Russia itself. It has been popular with Russians since the 18th century. Since then, many thousands more have come, including the likes of Dostoevsky, Gogol, Tolstoy and Turgenev. Dostoevsky wrote "The Gambler" while compulsively gambling at the famous Baden-Baden Casino. After the better part of a century -- since before the revolution -- the Russians are back in Baden-Baden.

Property prices are still reasonable here with 2 bedroom apartments available in the city centre from €125,000 (£100,000 approximately). One thing you can be sure of is that with super-rigid planning controls, there will be no overbuilding. The few new projects are either refurbishments or on the outskirts of town. There is a strong rental market here, both short-term and long term, but you should check carefully if you plan on buying for short-term rental to make sure that there are no restrictions for the property in question.

If your budget extends high enough there are wonderful town houses and villas within walking distance of the town centre.

If you are looking for a strongly performing property investment in a robust economy where the fundamentals are right, you can't do much better than look at Baden Baden.

Life International have introduced a customised and discreet service for property investors wishing to invest in Baden Baden