It is perhaps for this very reason, then, that some countries in North Africa are fast becoming more popular with us Brits - particularly Cape Verde and Morocco.

It has been possible to fly direct from the UK to the Cape Verde island of Sal since last November, during which time many agents have reported increased Brit interest in the country.

One new development on the island which is currently stirring interest is the Cotton Bay Golf and Resort (pictured) in the Algodoeiro region on the south-west coast of Sal. Boasting a 36-hole golf course as well as a marina and harbour with 600 yacht moorings, properties in this development are said to be designed with an awareness of the environment, and to reflect the Cape Verdean culture and personality with an emphasis on open spaces and light.

Emerging Real Estate is currently marketing a number of two- to five-bedroom villas, and one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in the resort, with prices starting from 124,000 euros.

However, Sal isn't the only Cape Verde island which will continue to provide easy access for overseas property buyers. From 10th July direct flights will operate between Gatwick and Boa Vista - the easternmost Cape Verdean island.

The Por do Sol development on the island's Cabral Beach has recently released its second phase of development: 23 one- and two-bedroom apartments, and eight townhouses. This is a gated development which comprises two swimming pools, sun terraces and a pool bar. Through Cape Verde Property, prices in this resort start from 97,404 euros.

Back on the African mainland, the decision of low-cost carriers Ryanair and Easyjet to expand their operations to Morocco - Ryanair flies to Fez from the UK, while both airlines fly to Marrakesh - has been noted with interest by many British buyers of overseas property.

La Dune, perched on a stretch of beautiful beach in Mirleft, south of Agadir, is a resort of four-bedroom, four-bathroom Arabic-styled villas, which it is predicted will prove to be popular with investors. GEM Estates, which is marketing the resort, estimated that based on a purchase price of 270,000 euros - the lowest current entry price in the resort - and an average weekly rent of 1,800 euros, investors can expect rental yields of 7.25 per cent.

Of course, aside from these countries now being easier to get to for overseas property seekers, it is likely that more tourists will also choose to visit these countries - something those of you with an eye on making money from your purchase may just want to take into account when deciding where to purchase that second home.

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Article first published 16th May 2007