Life Arts & Travel

Not everyone drives on a paved road, but most vehicles, even SUVs, are built to maneuver pavement and not dirt, rock and mud—except for the iconic, rugged off-roaders, the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wrangler. Each vehicle, while similar, is aimed at a slightly different market. But which one gets down and dirty best for a comparable price?

The pandemic has tested the resilience of every industry worldwide, including real estate. In Milan, higher-end properties have fared well, with demand outstripping supply. This historic city, a mixture of ancient and modern, is set to continue to excel and draw people from around the world seeking reasonably priced luxury properties.

The Greek island of Crete is as saturated in ancient history as breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by ocean waters and liberally endowed with beaches and mountains, contrast defines this magical place. We take you on a tour of the most rewarding spots to add to your itinerary, with culture, relaxation and luxury consistent themes.

South Africa is known as the Rainbow Nation due to its citizens’ willingness to welcome anyone to find their next home there. Foreign investment in the premium property market has stalled with the pandemic, political uncertainties and economic struggles. Even so, the country’s natural beauty and bounteous assets beckon to property buyers.

Despite attempted encroachments from the ever-popular luxury SUV, the luxury sedan still reigns in its class of automotive grandeur. Mercedes-Benz has long held the top spot with its matchless S-Class, but that doesn’t mean that others haven’t attempted a coup, including Lexus with its LS. If price is no object, buyers will probably stick with the inimitable Mercedes-Benz S-Class. But the less-expensive, feature-rich Lexus LS is worthy of careful consideration.

COVID-19 has dealt the global travel industry a heavy blow and has been merciless to the aviation industry. With passenger flights slashed by staggering percentages, large airlines are walking thin tightropes. However, segments of the industry are faring well, including the private-jet charter sector, which is finding that its unique blend of customized services is exactly what businesses and families are seeking during the pandemic—and likely will beyond it.

Dubai real estate regained its footing in 2019 and was off to the races as 2020 dawned. Then came a pandemic in March accompanied by lockdown measures, bringing much of the vibrant city to a halt. Dubai’s property market picked itself up more quickly than many other contenders and finished the year on a winning streak, but COVID-19 altered the must-have lists of buyers and renters of Dubai’s luxury property.

Although COVID-19 has devastated many industries, real estate is not one of them in many countries, including Canada. Buyers are vying for limited inventory, including of second-home properties in more rural settings as remote-work arrangements allow them to live anywhere with an internet connection. The Agency takes us on a tour of some of the most desirable available luxury properties in the cities and suburbs of Ontario and British Columbia.

Prime Central London has long been a target for investors seeking a combination of luxury, culture, history and access to all London offers. Despite various uncertainties, London properties define the word prime, with some catering to those who yearn for the best of both worlds: green spaces yet still urban. For the buyer who can afford it, an apartment in the heart of London is guaranteed to bring multiple returns.

What does BMW, the German maker of the ultimate driving machine, have in common with its British subsidiary Rolls-Royce, creator of the extreme-luxury grand sedan? These opulent-vehicle manufacturers are the star players in the full-size luxury SUV category. Although you can buy several BMW X7s for the price of one Rolls-Royce Cullinan, each of these extravagant vehicles is guaranteed to provide the ride of a lifetime for the whole family.