Life Arts & Travel

Catering to the ultra-wealthy, the superyacht market demand for these opulent pleasure vessels is on the upswing—as are requests for private getaways to the world’s most exotic places. A few of the trends guiding the industry in 2023 include growing interest in eco-friendly features, technological conveniences and remote adventures.

Dubai, the United Arab Emirates’ most populous city, is witnessing a real estate boom due to three main factors: an increase in branded off-plan residences, prestigious beachfront communities attracting wealthy buyers, with demand exceeding supply; and holidaymakers flocking in to enjoy the amenities and proximity to major events.

The Range Rover Sport and Porsche Cayenne Coupe combine the benefits of the practical SUV with the performance of the blistering sports car in extravagant, high-powered vehicles, some models incorporating hybrid electric-vehicle technologies. Which machine achieves their shared goal best? The answer may depend on the driver’s preferences.

Monaco, the enchanting city-state on the French Riviera, possesses the world’s most expensive property market. Home of Monte Carlo, the Monaco Grand Prix and famous landmarks, Monaco also offers an agreeable tax system. Whether in the market to buy or rent, investors with the financial means cannot go wrong investing in Monaco real estate.

Compared to Germany’s Porsche, the UK’s Lotus is a small sports-car manufacturer known for its attention to fine detail and light cars. Its new Emira has entered the ring, challenging one of the segment’s leaders, the Porsche 718 Cayman GTS. Which of these high-achievers deserves the spot that only the world’s best sports car can hold?

Africa offers everything from lush nature reserves to barren deserts to seaside beaches, not to mention a varied assortment of animals. With so much to see and do, it is no wonder that Africa is a favourite destination for travellers. But you don’t have to rough it. Follow our travel feature to four of Africa’s most luxurious accommodations.

Mexico’s luxury-residential market is seeing a surge of interest from buyers in the US, Canada and Europe. Some intend to live in their new homes year-round, while many plan to treat them as vacation homes, renting them out the rest of the year. With demand outpacing supply in what many consider a Pacific paradise, prices are rising fast.

When it comes to a dual-purpose vehicle, few can beat the two top competing saloons, the BMW M3 G80 from Germany and the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio from Italy. Although Alfa Romeo has dominated the space for a few years, BMW is putting it through its paces. Alfa Romeo wins the prize for sheer elegance, but BMW triumphs in performance.

It shouldn’t surprise anyone that buyers worldwide are drawn to sun-kissed beaches and manicured golf courses. Palmares Ocean Living & Golf in Portugal’s Algarve has been a key part of the country’s housing hot streak. Foreigners comprise a large percentage of those buying into this piece of paradise, aided by the Golden Visa programme.

Water is a popular draw for those seeking once-in-a-lifetime vacations, but the world’s most majestic lakes are often overlooked in the shadow of ocean waters. Our travel feature tours the planet’s top four luxury resorts that combine tranquil escapism with scenery, history, culinary delights and adventure beside the most enchanting lakes.