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Times
4 days ago
- Times
23 of the world's best luxury holiday destinations
Ever wondered where the one per cent club holiday? When you've got a private jet on standby and an executive assistant to apply your SPF, everywhere from the Arctic Circle to the Maldives is your playground. While UHNW individuals see this as par for the course, the rest of us can enjoy a handful of these trips in our lifetimes — and my, how enjoyable they are. From yacht hopping between islands in Bora Bora, luxuriating in a paddy-side suit in Jimbaran Bay (known as Bali's Beverly Hills to its beautiful friends) and having George Clooney as a neighbour on Lake Como, sometimes paying through the nose feels totally worth it. Here's how to holiday in serious style. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue Best for a mix of tradition and modernityThere are plenty of luxurious moments in store in Japan. Soak in a exclusive mountain-top onsen, take a guided tour of the sacred temples in Kyoto, or experience a private tea ceremony in Nara. For something a little wilder, escape to the pristine beaches of Okinawa, or head north for wildlife watching and hiking on the little-visited island of Hokkaido. Or splash the cash in style in Tokyo's Michelin-starred sushi restaurants, designer boutiques and lavishly luxurious hotels. The world's original bullet train, the Shinkansen, makes it absurdly easy to get around — and there are few classier ways to travel. • Best tours of Japan• Best places to visit in Japan• Best things to do in Japan Few of us will manage to get to go to the North Pole, but you can get pretty darn close by visiting the remote, icy Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, which is way up in the Arctic Circle, at 74° to 81° north latitude, and snow-covered for much of the year. A range of adventurous trips to the islands are available, mostly using the island's main town of Longyearbyen as a base of operations: there are some surprisingly swish hotels here, including Basecamp Hotel and Funken Lodge. You'll be spending your time snowmobiling, snowshoeing, kayaking icy inlets and, of course, looking out for wildlife, including polar bears — hopefully at a reassuringly remote distance. With luck, the northern lights will also put in an for modern glamourIt's impossible to talk about luxury holidays without mentioning Dubai. The crown jewel of the United Arab Emirates is dripping in riches. Much of the city was built in the last 50 years, so everything has that shiny and new feel. The hotels are second to none, with lavish suites, award-winning spas and fine dining restaurants a plenty. Dubai's gravity-defying skyscrapers need to be seen to believed. Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, is spectacular. • Best hotels in Dubai• Best things to do in DubaiBest for laid-back sun-seekingThe sun-soaked Caribbean has long been the go to place for lavish holidays. With so many amazing islands to choose from, deciding where to base yourself can be agonising. Will it be the mountainous St Lucia, where you'll encounter some of the most dramatic scenery in the Caribbean? Or does star-studded Barbados get your vote? Its historic sites, golden beaches and luxury hotels are definitely hard to top. How about Jamaica, the home of reggae, and the island where Ian Fleming wrote the original Bond novels? Or perhaps you'd go for the uber-exclusive islands of St Barts and Turks and Caicos — the celebs' choice. Maybe you don't have to choose at all: a Caribbean cruise enables you to explore several islands, including lesser-known ones like Curaçao, Guadeloupe and St Maarten. • Best Caribbean cruises• Best budget Caribbean cruises Best for tropical luxuryBali's laid-back vibe, pristine beaches and mystical temples have made it synonymous with luxury escapes. Whether you're bedding down in a luxury retreat, a beachfront resort, or a self-contained villa, you'll find a slice of heaven. Mountain town Ubud is a great place to soak in traditional Balinese culture while marvelling at lush forests, rice paddies and conservation centres like the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to more than 1,200 monkeys. Seminyak is where you'll find some of the most sublime beaches on the Indonesian island, along with trendy beach spas and exclusive fashion boutiques. For maximum luxury, head to Jimbaran Bay, often referred to as 'the Beverly Hills of Bali' for the many high-end hotels located nearby. • Most captivating hotels in Indonesia Best for miles and miles of coastlineIt's not hard to see why this Indian Ocean archipelago is a favourite with the rich and famous. Consisting of around 115 islands, only a handful of which are inhabited, the Seychelles is all about sparkling white beaches and seas so blue they look like they've been Photoshopped. Spend your days snorkelling, eating seafood, cycling around local markets or just basking in the equatorial sunshine. The main island of Mahé is the most populous, and has its fair share of hotels and resorts, but for spoils you'll want one of the smaller islands — like La Digue, celebrated for its beaches, including photogenic Anse Source d'Argent (as featured in the Oliver Reed movie Castaway), or Bird Island, a super-swish island resort only accessible by private plane. • Best Indian Ocean holidays to book now• Best time to visit the Seychelles: when to go and what to do Best for beautiful, diverse landscapesIt's not hard to work out why Thailand is known as the 'Land of Smiles'. This enchanting country, as friendly as it is beautiful, would surely put a huge grin on the face of any holidaymaker. While bustling Bangkok is definitely worth a visit, it's the islands that most luxury travellers come for. Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe and the Similan Islands are among the most famous for good reason. Stretch out on sun-bleached sands and take in the rich and diverse natural landscape. Go shopping at floating markets, explore remote jungles, dive among whale sharks and manta rays, and visit elaborate temples. The possibilities are endless. • Best Thai islands to visit• Best hotels in Thailand Best for lagoon-side lazingWhat could be more glitzy than a sun-soaked getaway to Mauritius? Everything about this volcanic island, located in the southern Indian ocean, exudes glamour — from the coral-fringed coastline to the crystalline waters and turquoise lagoons. Did we mention luxurious resorts with everything from infinity pools to golf courses? Forgive us. Mauritius also happens to be circled by about 205 miles of pristine white beaches along its coastline, so you're never too far from a beautiful stretch of sand. The island has a fascinating creole culture too, testament to the hotchpotch of nationalities who have washed up here over the centuries. • Best hotels in Mauritius• Best time to visit Mauritius: when to go and what to do• Best things to do in Mauritius Best for exploring the oceanThe Maldives and luxury go hand in hand. This is a country made up almost entirely of privately owned islands, many of which have been turned into indulgent resorts: palm-thatched overwater villas, seafood feasts o the beach, day-tripping to deserted islands for snorkelling and secluded sunbathing. All-inclusive holidays are very popular on the islands thanks to its remoteness. You can just kick back, relax and enjoy the wonderful scenery around you. The Maldives is also great for diving — its waters are filled with whale sharks, manta rays, turtles and coral reefs. • Best overwater villas in the Maldives• Best hotels in the Indian Ocean• Best affordable hotels in the Maldives Best for volcanic sceneryHonolulu is big, brash, busy and, more importantly, easy to skip as there are direct flights from US west coast cities to other Hawaiian islands. So head straight for the 'Big Island' with its extraordinary volcanoes and beaches that are generally best on the west coast. The big prize is Makalawena beach, where postcard-ready white coves lie at the end of an unpaved road and a 30-minute walk across lava flows. Alternatively, venture up into the island's volcanic centre and Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, where you can go stargazing at Mauna Kea, home to the island's observatories, or hike Kilauea. And if you're here between December and April, you can spot breaching humpbacks on a whale watching tour. • Best national parks in the US• Best hotels in Hawaii Best for castaway fantasiesFiji is a fine place for some Polynesian pampering. You won't want to linger too long on the main island of Viti Levu: the more remote archipelagos, such as the Mamanuca Islands and Yasawa Islands, are where the paradise action is at. Some are accessible by ferry, while others can only be reached by sea-plane — a thrilling ride over coral reefs and blue lagoons that's worth the fare on its own. Go for a floating villa at Likuliku Lagoon Resort, or get your own private atoll somewhere like Royal Davui Island Resort or Tadrai Island Resort. • Best hotels in Fiji• Best beach resorts in the world Best for world-class beachesIf it's epic beaches you're after, nowhere outdoes Oz. The most famous are concentrated in the southeast and east, with Queensland's Gold Coast perhaps the most famous of all. The cool, forest-backed coastal towns of Byron Bay and Noosa both have impressive main beaches, plus a series of dainty coves and near-deserted golden arcs accessed via nature trails teeming with wildlife. For quieter, emptier sands, South and Western Australia are the better picks: you could literally drive for months here and still be finding new beaches every day. • Best time to visit Australia: when to go and what to do• Best train journeys in Australia• Best things to do in Australia Best for an up-and-coming luxury sceneTypically Cambodia's been known for its backpacker digs, not its luxury scene — but new resorts are changing that. Try Six Senses Krabey Island, with herby Cambodian cuisine and a riverside spa, or Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang, a lodge complex near the celebrated temples of Angkor Wat. Don't get stuck at the tourist hotspots — there are scores of temples to visit where most visitors never venture, not to mention many beaches and islands that are exploration-worthy. • Best trips of a lifetime• Best things to do in Cambodia and Vietnam Best for wildlife watching The Costa Rican rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, and if you want to spot wildlife, it's a paradise. The country has some fabulous rainforest lodges where you can wake up and watch howler monkeys, toucans, macaws and hummingbirds from the comfort of your balcony. Try Casa Corcovado for jungle atmosphere, Origins Lodge for all-round luxury and Pacuare Lodge for the most dramatic method of arrival — you paddle yourself in aboard a white-water raft. • Best things to do in Costa Rica• Best things to do in Central America Best for a South Seas fantasyNowhere is more suited for indulging your inner Robinson Crusoe than Tahiti — or more specifically, Bora Bora, where you'll find some of the fanciest resorts anywhere in the South Pacific. Thatched bungalows, private yachts, beachside banquets, Instagrammable overwater bungalows — you'll find them all here, and more, as long as you're happy to pay through the nose for the privilege. For a more local vibe, and a better insight into Tahitian culture, head for the nearby islands of Moorea or for an icy adventureForget seven-star hotels: a cruise to the bottom of the earth is as exclusive as it gets. For a start, it takes ages to get there (count on a round trip of three to four weeks by sea), and it's eye-wateringly expensive (packages from around £10k, ranging up to £50k-plus). Most cruise ships depart from Ushuaia, and sail across the infamous Drake's Passage before exploring the northern edge of the continent. Zodiac boats sail to remote coves where you can watch the wildlife and even step out onto the Antarctic ice. Walking in the footsteps of Scott, Amundsen and Shackleton: if you can afford it, this is the definition of a once-in-a-lifetime trip. • Best luxury cruises to Antarctica• Best time to visit Antarctica: when to go and what to do Best for Riviera styleThe French Riviera has long been synonymous with the high life, and while it might no longer boast the Jazz Age pizazz of F Scott Fitzgerald et al, it's still a chic spot. St Tropez is the classic choice, once a simple fishing town now a seaside enclave for the super-rich, with luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants. Yachties plump for Antibes, high-rollers make a beeline for Monaco, film-lovers go to Cannes and pretty much everyone else heads to Nice to sunbathe along the Promenade des Anglais. To escape the summer crush, take a boat trip out to one of the offshore islands, such as Îles de Lérins or Île de Porquerolles. • Best villas in the south of France• Best things to do in Nice Best for a luxury safariKenya is home to some of Africa's most incredible safari lodges: places such as Angama Mara on the edge of the Rift Valley overlooking the Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the vintage-style camp of Cottar's Safaris. Go on a private jeep safari with local guides to spot lions, leopards, rhinos and elephants; have a picnic out in the bush; head back to camp for some spa pampering and a slap-up supper cooked up by your own personal chef; then go back out at dusk for yet more animal encounters. You'll need deep pockets, but there's no experience on earth like it. • Best safaris in Kenya• Best time to visit Kenya: when to go and what to do Best for cruisingGalapagos is an archipelago where Mother Nature let loose all her wackiest ideas: swimming iguanas, giant tortoises, rainbow-coloured crabs, giant manta rays and blue-footed boobies, to name a few. Access to the national park is carefully controlled, so the best way to visit is aboard an organised cruise — and there are some beauties to choose from. Expeditions onshore are led by licensed naturalists, and there's a wealth of adventures — from trekking over lava flows to tracking giant tortoises through the undergrowth. • Best Galapagos tours• Best Galapagos cruises Best for old school glamourSince Roman times, this Italian mountain lake has been the go-to place for aristocrats, nobles and the European elite when they're looking for a summer holiday home — and things haven't changed all that much (some of the world's richest people own houses here, and it's one of George Clooney's favourite holiday spots). Palatial mansions and villas line the lakeshore, many of which have been turned into seriously chic hotels, including Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Che bella. • Lake Como v Lake Garda: which one should you visit?• Best tours of Italy Best for mountainsThe tiny mountain kingdom of Bhutan has remained wary of embracing mass tourism: visitor numbers are limited, and a government fee covers accommodation, activities and guides, meaning there are few backpackers wandering about, in stark contrast to nearby Nepal. It's a fascinating country, with a rich, complex culture, majestic mountain views and some of the most spectacularly sited temples on earth. Perhaps surprisingly, it also has a few upmarket hotels — the epitome of which is Amankora, a luxury lodge not far from the city of for wild naturePatagonia is nature in the raw: arid pampas, glittering glaciers, snowy peaks and pumas. It's hard to get to and there are few hotels — but if you're prepared to spend, you'll find luxury galore at all-inclusive lodges such as Tierra Patagonia. It provides a pamper-factor quite out of keeping with the wild landscape: gourmet meals, a spa, heated pools and in-house guides to take you on a hiking adventure or find the best spot to watch the sunset over the Torres del Paine. • Best things to do on your Patagonia trip Best for next-level glampingThe Serengeti is legendary among safari aficionados — all of the Big Five can be seen here, along with a rich menagerie of other African wildlife. There are numerous high-end safari lodges to choose from; more fun are the luxury bush stays such as Cherero Camp, which offers solar-powered, safari-style canvas tents on hardwood platforms, minimising their environmental footprint and offering a more immersive — and authentic — safari experience. Indulge in a morning yoga session, hop in a jeep for your first private game drive of the day, then head back for G&Ts as the sun sinks over the savannah: it's a spoil from start to finish. The camp's remote location makes it an ideal place to view the mass annual movement of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles across the Serengeti plains. Additional reporting by Imogen Lepere
Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Times
Jet cards — VIP travel without the hassle of owning a plane
There are many pathways (or should we say runways?) to private jet travel, from full jet ownership to fractional ownership to one-off charters — indeed, the private aviation menu is as layered as a St Moritz brunch. But if you want luxury jet access without having to remortgage your villa in the Hamptons, then 'private jet card' memberships are a slick option to have up your sleeve. The deal with these cards is that you pay upfront for a block of flying hours (starting typically at about £75,000), and in return you get guaranteed aircraft access with 24-48 hours' notice. Who's snapping up jet cards? Frequent flyers who like their travel private, their bookings last-minute, and their budgets predictable — without the entanglements of jet ownership. Flexjet, a long-established force in the fractional jet ownership market (since 1995), and also one of the leading providers of jet cards, defines its jet card customers as 'UHNW [ultra-high net worth] individuals, families, and companies'. According to Andrew Collins, the CEO of Flexjet, 'a significant proportion have self-made wealth, distinguishing them as high-achieving entrepreneurs, investors and business leaders in sectors such as finance, real estate and technology'. Collins explains that 'one key demographic shift we are seeing is clients getting younger, with a growing proportion now falling in the 45-54 age bracket. Our average age for a new client was 58 in 2024, four years younger than it was in 2019'. It's easy to see why jet card programmes are gaining traction when you consider the alternatives, some of which require a CFO, a legal team and a meditation app. For example, outright ownership of a jet is the ultimate status symbol — until you're managing hangar leases, crew contracts, juggling maintenance schedules plus the emotional burden of insuring a flying palazzo. It can cost tens of millions upfront and millions more per year in upkeep, and your jet will sit idle most of the time. It's a bit like buying a château in Bordeaux just because you like the house wine. Fractional ownership companies offer a 'lite' version of this. About £375,000 typically buys 50 hours a year — but with some companies you'll still pay monthly fees, compete for availability, and occasionally (with some programmes) share the ride, sometimes with someone else's labradoodle. Then there's jet charter, which gives you on-demand convenience, but the price can yo-yo, especially in and around the glitzier fashion shows and swanky sports fixtures (hourly charter jet rates can oscillate between £3,700 and £11,000 for even the smallest jets during the Monaco Grand Prix). These options all have their place for the right individual or corporate entity, but jet cards fill an important niche, with their blend of luxury, stable pricing (one of the main pulls) and availability at short notice. One call, or a few taps on an app (which most jet card outfits now provide) and your jet will soon be spooling up its engines on the tarmac while the galley is being topped up with Pierre Hermé macarons. But before you reach for your Meisterstück to sign up there are a few endearing quirks to watch out for. Some jet cards charge by estimated flight time, others from 'wheels up to wheels down', meaning any scenic detour or weather delay becomes your financial responsibility. Then there are 'repositioning fees' (aka ferry fees) — charges for when a private jet must fly empty to or from another airport to pick you up or after dropping you off. Some jet card providers absorb these, others trim them off your tab. And what about that upfront retainer? With some cards your deposit sits safely in an escrow account, but with others it's helping to fund the provider's day-to-day operations. Meanwhile, lower-tier cards can be rigid, with fewer route possibilities, less perks, and aircraft that may lack the wow factor promised in the brochure. Another aspect to look out for is that some card operators have their own dedicated fleet of aircraft (the best option for a consistent service experience), whereas others don't own a single plane and rely on a pool of spare capacity sourced from an array of jet charter operators. Verifying what the set-up is should be high on your checklist before you take the plunge. Finally (and this is something that many people forget to ask) check how much baggage allowance is included — bear in mind that smaller jets have very limited stowage space. That said, jet card memberships are just the ticket for high-flyers who crave the perks of private aviation without too much palaver. They're also useful for helping jet-set rookies dip their toes into the world of private aviation without getting out of their depth. According to Flexjet's Collins, 'we see our jet card as the perfect introductory programme for those looking to experience Flexjet, before considering the longer-term commitment of fractional ownership, which is generally for five years or more'. Many of Flexjet's jet card holders do go on to become fractional owners, having experienced the Flexjet experience via its jet card programme, and as their flying needs and service expectations increase. Which provider might be right for you? It comes down to the intricacies of quality, service, convenience and of course budget. There are about 45 jet card companies worldwide. Here are four of those with the upper hand. Flexjet's European jet card is positioned as a stepping stone into private aviation. It's a highly refined product tailored for individuals who want seamless access to a top-tier fleet, consistent service and a taste of what Flexjet's fractional ownership model has to offer. At the heart of Flexjet's European jet card offering is the Embraer Praetor 600, an aircraft Flexjet knows intimately. 'Flexjet was the launch operator,' Collins says. 'It hits a sweet spot in terms of its performance, spacious cabin and category-leading range, which allows nonstop flights to New York or Dubai from northern Europe.' With space for up to nine passengers and a dedicated cabin server, the Praetor 600 is designed for transcontinental travel, with a range of 4,018 nautical miles and endurance of up to eight hours. Cruising at 466 knots (roughly 536mph) it can soar at altitudes up to 13,716m (about 45,000ft) where the air is usually less turbulent than the layer of airspace wherein mainstream airline traffic operates. It also comes with a generous 4.39 cubic metres of baggage capacity — oodles of space for your Louis Vuitton Pyramide Bistens. Flexjet's card provides 25 hours of prepaid flying time, with guaranteed availability within 48 hours — or 120 hours during 25 peak travel days, plus 10 blackout days, with fixed hourly pricing set at €14,900 (£12,550 approx). A huge plus is that cardholders benefit from access to Flexjet's own fleet, ensuring service standards remain consistently high, and the company's operation is underpinned by significant long-term investment. This year, it announced a $7 billion deal with Embraer, placing orders for 182 business jets with options for 30 more — an industry-shaping commitment that will help to keep its fleet among the most modern and efficient flying today. Sustainability is another priority. Flexjet partners with the aviation consultancy 4AIR to deliver meaningful environmental action, including 300 per cent carbon offsetting on every flight. This goes beyond CO₂ to account for contrails and other emissions. Clients can also choose to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and contribute to next-gen flight research. 'This jet card,' Collins says, 'is aimed at those who are looking for an exceptional service experience at the very top of private aviation with the simplicity of a jet card format.' Jettly's jet card programme offers clients flexible, transparent and cost-effective access to a global network of over 23,000 private aircraft, all with fixed hourly rates and no hidden fees. 'Our focus,' explains Justin Crabbe, the CEO of Jettly, 'is on delivering seamless, personalised private jet experiences without the complexities of ownership'. The company's 'pay-as-you-fly' card starts at $50,000 (about £37,000) for 25 hours, with no minimum usage requirement and no long-term commitment. The service draws high-net-worth individuals, business executives and corporations. But Crabbe observes that 'we're seeing emerging interest from younger, tech-savvy entrepreneurs and a growing number of leisure travellers looking for safe, flexible alternatives to commercial flights'. Jettly says it's investing heavily in technology to enhance the customer experience, including AI-powered flight booking, digital membership management, and the integration of blockchain and NFT technology. 'Our goal,' Crabbe says, 'is to simplify private aviation while providing more transparency and flexibility for our clients.' Still, sourcing aircraft from a global pool can raise concerns about consistency — something Crabbe is quick to address. 'We rigorously vet and partner with top-tier operators globally. Every aircraft meets our safety, maintenance and service standards,' he says. 'Our dedicated concierge team works closely with clients and operators to tailor each flight to their preferences.' Unlike some rivals, Jettly promises 'no blackout dates', Crabbe confirms. 'We offer guaranteed availability with as little as ten hours' notice.' Sustainability is also on the radar. Jettly provides optional carbon offsetting and is 'exploring partnerships with sustainable aviation fuel providers'. Asked how he thought the private aviation market would evolve over the next 5-10 years, Crabbe says he anticipates continued growth, driven by evolving traveller expectations, technological advancements, and increased focus on sustainability. 'Blockchain and digital platforms will likely reshape ownership and access models, while sustainable aviation fuel and hybrid-electric aircraft will become more prevalent.' Backed by Berkshire Hathaway, NetJets runs one of the busiest private aviation operations in the world, with over half a million flights annually and a fleet that includes aircraft from Bombardier, Cessna and Embraer. Customers include over 40 of the Fortune 100 companies (over 50 professional golfers choose NetJets year after year). The company itself has a vast footprint, with a global team of over 9,000 employees with on-site support at its most popular global destinations. Cardholders get access to a 24/7 service team, and at many major hubs its 'NetJets Service Representatives' assist with arrivals and departures. The price of a NetJets Card begins at $200,000 to $300,000 (£148,000 to £221,000) (depending on which aircraft type you sign up for), with 'no hidden expenses and ferry fees'. Every NetJets Card (beginning with its offering that unlocks 290 days of annual access) is prepaid in 25-hour increments. Jet card 'owners' (NetJets' name for its card customers) have 24 months to use their flight hours. Inside the cabin, there's consistency across the fleet. The interiors lean towards a minimalist, functional style — pale leather seats, dark woods and neutral textiles. Materials are chosen for durability and sustainability, and the company was one of the first to pioneer a sustainability initiative in the private jet sector — 'Blue Skies', which has been running since 2008. All cardholders are automatically enrolled and contribute to carbon offset projects tied to the number of hours they fly. For those who value privacy, tail numbers (registration numbers visible just underneath the tail of every aircraft) are never publicly linked to clients, and boarding is typically via private lounges — so customers can rest assured they won't be tracked (and their whereabouts shared on social media) by celeb stalkers. Additionally, NetJets invests in numerous art, food and wine, music, yachting and premier sports events (including golf, equestrian sports, tennis and motorsports). And from complimentary upgrades to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, customers gain access to exclusive benefits through more than 50 premier partnerships with other luxury brands (the company's present and past collaborations include such brands as Mercedes-AMG, luxury yacht brokers Northrop & Johnson, and Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts). Then there's VistaJet. VistaJet defies categorisation, but it is a heavyweight contender. It's a jet membership programme, yet it sidesteps the 'card' badge — and it's not a charter operator either. 'VistaJet is not a jet card offering. We have a solution for every private aviation client through our VistaJet and XO brands,' insists Thomas Flohr, the founder and chairman of Vista Global Holding. The Swiss billionaire set up the Vista brand in 2004 (a year after he bought his first Learjet) to offer 'more than transportation … a way of life, exquisitely tailored to those who fly not just often, but well'. The Vista group includes aircraft management, leasing and flight operations solutions, making it a one-stop shop for every kind of private aviation client. It owns its entire fleet of 270 aircraft, so every seat, surface and smile in the sky is under their Vista brand — no charter roulette here. The core proposition, VistaJet, focuses on guaranteed availability and a polished experience, with fine bed linen, cashmere blankets, and Christofle silverware and porcelain on board. Its 'cabin hosts' are trained by the British Butler Institute and MedAire (aviation specialists providing life-saving training, medical kits, and expert advice from aviation medical doctors and security experts). VistaJet's '50-hour-per-year Program Membership' offers a fixed hourly rate locked in for three years. So whether you're flying at Christmas, Easter, or during peak summer, the price stays blissfully the same. Hourly rates for different aircraft types vary. For example, the Challenger 350 (an eight-seater aircraft with 7 hours' flight endurance) starts at about $15,000 (£11,000) per hour, while Global 7500 options (with 14 seats and a 17-hour non-stop flight capability) are about $25,000 (£18,445) per hour. Every booking is supported by Vista's global team of 4,000, offering service 24/7 across all time zones. You can also switch between aircraft types, because some days you need an Embraer Phenom 300 (with 6 seats), while at other times you might be travelling with a larger entourage, so one of VistaJet's Embraer Lineage 1000E jets with 18 seats might be a better play. VistaJet's service is augmented by brand sibling XO, which is your on-demand option for private aviation via smartphone, a kind of skyborne 'Uber'. In short, VistaJet is white-glove precision, while XO is sleek spontaneity. At the heart of Vista is a fleet that isn't bound to any single location — what Flohr calls a 'floating fleet concept'. This ensures that, wherever you are in the world, a beautifully appointed aircraft is just 24 hours away. 'We guarantee an aircraft available to fly our Members anytime and anywhere,' Flohr adds, 'with the highest level of service, and a consistent experience on every flight.' Even pets and children receive VIP treatment. From the VistaPet service (which includes VistaPet Pochette — a travel bag on board every flight containing 'bio-organic animal treats, water-free shampoos, soothing wipes and toys to keep companions entertained throughout the flight') to 'Adventures in the Sky' experiences for younger flyers, every detail is considered. 'We want you to feel a sense of familiarity. It should feel easy, almost like home,' Flohr says. Sustainability, too, isn't an afterthought. Vista has contracted 4.2 million US gallons of blended sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and offset over 2.2 million tonnes of CO₂ on behalf of clients. Still, Flohr insists, it's the blend of innovation and human touch that defines Vista. 'It's all designed to create a smooth, personal, and efficient experience.' From curated menus by the triple Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco to exclusive itineraries via Private World (Vista's collection of premium experiences, events and destinations delivered in partnership with an ecosystem of partners — an essential element of the Member experience), Vista offers far more than a seat in the sky. 'If our members are at Le Mans, we want to be there too,' Flohr says.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Switzerland's proposed inheritance tax could undermine wealth hub status
Switzerland's reputation as a magnet for ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals may soon be under threat. A proposed nationwide 50% inheritance tax aimed at estates over CHF50m ($55m) will be put to a referendum among the population. The measure aims to address wealth inequality and fund pensions. However, its long-term implications could significantly erode Switzerland's appeal as a safe haven for the world's wealthiest families, thus creating concern among international wealth managers and private banks. Switzerland has long enjoyed a privileged position among the global elite. It ranks fifth globally for billionaire expat residency, with 17.1% of the world's mobile billionaires calling it home—behind only the UK, the US, Hong Kong (China SAR), and Singapore. The country's appeal lies in its political neutrality, strong financial infrastructure, privacy laws, and crucially, its favourable tax regime. The inheritance tax proposed by the Young Socialists Switzerland political party targets precisely the segment that Switzerland currently serves best: the ultra-wealthy. While just 3.5% of all HNW expats reside in Switzerland, the share is nearly five times higher (17.1%) among billionaires. In contrast, only 2% of those that hold $1m to $4.9m in assets reside there. This skew towards those in higher wealth bands is set to change should the referendum pass. Jurisdictions such as Monaco, Hong Kong (China SAR), and Singapore—already popular among the wealthy—stand to benefit. Monaco, for instance, hosts 5.36% of global billionaire expats despite being a fraction of Switzerland's size, offering a zero-income and zero-inheritance tax regime. Hong Kong (China SAR) and Singapore, with 12.1% and 3.9% of global billionaire expats respectively, are also likely to see inbound shifts should Switzerland introduce more aggressive tax policies. Private banks and wealth managers operating in Switzerland are already under pressure from global transparency initiatives and shifting regulatory tides. An inheritance tax of this magnitude would not only drive existing UHNW clients to reassess their domicile but could also dissuade new wealth from relocating to Switzerland altogether. This is more than a tax policy change—it is a brand risk for the Swiss wealth management industry. Wealth managers may need to recalibrate their offerings or expand into more favourable jurisdictions to retain client trust and capture new flows. Switzerland's strength has always been its stability, discretion, and predictability. A sharp departure from these principles, especially in a way that targets the very base of its HNW appeal, could trigger a flight of capital and clients. In the face of rising global competition for mobile wealth, Swiss policymakers must carefully weigh the societal benefits of taxation against the long-term damage to a key pillar of the national economy. If preserving Switzerland's wealth hub status is a priority, this proposal may need serious rethinking. "Switzerland's proposed inheritance tax could undermine wealth hub status" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
02-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
As Dubai Moves Towards Tier-1 Status, Foreign Investors Eye Relocation
Accessibility is one of the factors propelling Dubai to Tier-1 city status: 3 billion people live ... More within a four-hour flight of the UAE's most populous metropolis. The next phase of its 2040 Urban Master Plan will create a "20-minute city," where residents can reach 80% of their daily destinations within a 20-minute walk or cycle ride. The projects the European client toured looked reasonable. The yields? Attractive. On paper, everything made sense. Then, things took a turn. As any seasoned real estate advisor might, Abdullah Alajaji of Driven Properties guided his client beyond the spreadsheets. There was white-tablecloth dining in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Then, a bout of relaxation on a private beach followed by a leisurely stroll through the city's luxury retail districts. Flagship boutiques from Milan and Paris lined the promenades, conjuring images of home. 'That left an impression,' recalls Alajaji. 'Then, his mindset started to shift.' Cap rates and returns faded into the background. The conversation turned toward community, wellness and long-term living. By the end of the trip, the European client purchased two units—one purely as an investment, the other for his personal relocation. 'What sealed the deal wasn't the yield,' said Alajaji. 'It was the lifestyle—the safety, the infrastructure, the ease of living in Dubai. That's what turned a business trip into a life decision.' The UAE continues to be a leader in attracting HNW and UHNW individuals. In 2023 alone, the region ... More saw an influx of around 4,500 new millionaires, placing it second globally. This shift is becoming more common. According to a new report released by Driven, Dubai is quickly transitioning from a high-growth, speculative market to a bona fide tier-1 global city. In its inaugural Tier-1 City Index, the firm ranks Dubai fifth out of seven benchmark cities, outperforming Paris and Hong Kong, and landing just behind global stalwarts like Singapore, Sydney, London and New York. The index—based on in-depth interviews with real estate developers, investors and brokers, as well as finance professionals—evaluates 28 indicators across six pillars: infrastructure, governance, economy, safety, quality of life, and international appeal. Dubai scores particularly high on infrastructure (2nd), global appeal (3rd) and quality of life (4th). Last year alone, Dubai recorded 226,000 real estate transactions totaling over $207 billion—a 20% increase in transaction value year-over-year, according to the Dubai Land Department. In the first quarter of this year, residential sales surged another 30% compared to the same period last year. All towers welcome in Dubai International Financial Centre—its dynamic skyline is a bellwether of ... More the institutional investment that brings foreign professionals and their families with it. The physical cityscape reflects this growth. Take Ciel Dubai Marina, poised to become the world's tallest hotel. Or ICD Brookfield Place in DIFC, a 53-storey tower developed in partnership with the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Last year, Brookfield sold a 49% stake to international investors in a deal reportedly valuing the property at $1.5 billion. Now, Brookfield is planning a new mixed-use development in Dubai Hills—its first residential venture in the area. 'Institutional capital is pouring in,' says Alajaji. 'It shows confidence.' But to understand how Dubai reached this inflection point, one must rewind to the global uncertainty of 2020. As much of the world shut down, Dubai took a contrarian stance: reopening its borders by July, launching long-term 'retirement' visas, and injecting $86 billion into the economy across five stimulus packages. It was a calculated bet on openness—and it worked. 'That was the moment I knew something had changed,' says Alajaji. 'When clients from Europe, Asia and North America started calling not just to buy, but to ask, 'How do we set up our lives here?'' Abdullah Alajaji, CEO of Driven | Forbes Global Properties: "Investors don't just want stability or ... More returns. They want to be part of something that's still evolving." Today, Dubai's appeal goes far beyond its tax advantages. The city offers a blend of efficient governance, safety, world-class infrastructure, and high-end amenities—the core elements that global investors and residents increasingly prioritize. 'Dubai still feels like it's in motion,' Alajaji explains. 'It's adaptive. Ambitious. That sense of momentum matters. Investors don't just want stability or returns. They want to be part of something that's still evolving.' Driven's sentiment survey, released in May 2025, reveals that 73% of market stakeholders believe Dubai is either already a tier-1 city or will become one within the next decade. This optimism is reinforced by tangible indicators: long-term residency programs, digital infrastructure rollouts and steady population growth. As the market matures, cap-rate compression is expected. Today, Dubai's investment properties yield between 6% to 8% annually—a figure considerably higher than most tier-1 peers. Yet institutional capital is increasingly willing to accept lower yields in exchange for long-term stability. 'This shift won't happen overnight,' says Alajaji. 'But the signs are already here. More joint ventures. More capital with a long-view mindset. Dubai is aligning with the world's top investment markets.' The pace may be slowing, but that may be exactly the point. Dubai's transition to a mature market is no longer theoretical. It's playing out in the numbers, buyers and buildings. The trajectory is set. Now comes the follow-through. Driven Properties is a member of Forbes Global Properties, the invitation-only network of top-tier brokerages worldwide and the exclusive real estate partner of Forbes.
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Indosuez gains BNP Paribas wealth management clients in Monaco
The local BNP Paribas Group Wealth Management clientele will be acquired by Indosuez Wealth Management, a division of Crédit Agricole Group, as part of an agreement to increase its presence in Monaco. CFM Indosuez, the group's long-established Monegasque entity, has struck a deal to take over BNP Paribas' Wealth Management client base in the Principality. The move will bolster Indosuez's already strong presence in the local market, where company has been operating since 1922. In addition to acquiring the clients, Indosuez will form a strategic collaboration with BNP Paribas to provide long-term support to the latter's Wealth Management clients in Monaco. The transaction, subject to regulatory approval, is likely to close in the first half of 2026. Moreover, the acquisition forms part of Indosuez's wider strategy to strengthen its presence among ultra-high net worth (UHNW) clients in Europe, particularly in a sector seeing increasing consolidation. Jacques Prost, Chief Executive Officer of Indosuez Wealth Management stated: 'This acquisition would strengthen our position in Monaco with ultra-high net worth clients (UHNW). Indosuez is pursuing its growth strategy in a sector undergoing consolidation and is a major player in wealth management in Europe.' For BNP Paribas clients in Monaco, the transition means continuity and improved services. CFM Indosuez will provide them with access to a wide range of banking and advising services. These include corporate finance, fund servicing and management, as well as global financing capabilities supported by Crédit Agricole. Mathieu Ferragut, CEO of CFM Indosuez Wealth Management and Deputy CEO of Indosuez Wealth Management added: 'We are delighted to welcome the Wealth Management clients of BNP Paribas Group's Monaco subsidiary. This strengthens our position as Monaco's leading bank and number one employer. We will work together to make this acquisition a success for both clients and employees.' BNP Paribas has defined the arrangement as part of a strategic restructuring of its Monaco business, with the goal of focusing on a single platform. While the group will leave the Wealth Management sector in the Principality, it will maintain a local presence through corporate, private, and retail banking services. Françoise Puzenat, Head of Monaco at BNP Paribas shared: 'We are delighted with the agreement reached with CFM Indosuez, a recognised player in the market and with all the assets needed to ensure the best possible continuity of service for our clients and the employees who join them. The sale of the Wealth Management business in Monaco is part of our strategic decision to refocus our local activities on a single platform. BNP Paribas will continue to develop its domestic commercial banking business line in Monaco, which includes corporate banking, private banking and retail banking.' The financial impact of the deal on Crédit Agricole S.A.'s Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio is expected to be minimal. "Indosuez gains BNP Paribas wealth management clients in Monaco" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
