The Cannes Film Festival has always been more than a showcase for new films. It is a collision of cinema, status, money, ambition and theatre, played out for twelve days on one of the most famous stretches of seafront in Europe. The 79th Festival de Cannes, running from 12 to 23 May 2026, once again brings the world’s filmmakers, stars, financiers, journalists and hopeful gatecrashers to the French Riviera, while the Marché du Film turns the Palais des Festivals into the beating heart of the international film business.

Cannes was never meant to be ordinary

Cannes was conceived in the late 1930s as a cultural answer to political interference at the Venice Film Festival. The first event was due to open in September 1939, only for the outbreak of war to cancel it before it truly began. It finally launched in 1946, already combining serious cinema with Riviera spectacle: fireworks, parades, stars, official receptions and an instinct for pageantry that has never entirely left it.

That tension between art and theatre has defined Cannes ever since. By the 1950s, the festival had become a magnet for international celebrity, drawing everyone from Grace Kelly and Brigitte Bardot to Sophia Loren and Cary Grant. Yet it has also remained stubbornly political and sometimes combustible. In 1968, amid nationwide unrest in France, filmmakers including Jean-Luc Godard and François Truffaut helped bring the festival to a halt in solidarity with striking workers and students. Cannes is glamorous, certainly, but it has never been merely decorative.

From last year’s winners to the 2026 stage

The 2025 festival produced one of Cannes’ most resonant recent victories when Iranian director Jafar Panahi won the Palme d’Or for It Was Just an Accident. Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value took the Grand Prix, while Kleber Mendonça Filho won Best Director for The Secret Agent. The edition also delivered major star moments: Robert De Niro received an honorary Palme d’Or at the opening ceremony, and Denzel Washington was later surprised with one ahead of the premiere of Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest.

Cannes 2026 arrives with a different balance. This year’s Competition is widely seen as more auteur-driven and less dominated by large Hollywood studio films than some recent editions, but that does not mean a shortage of glamour. The festival opened with Pierre Salvadori’s period romantic comedy La Vénus électrique (The Electric Kiss), hosted by Eye Haïdara, while South Korean master Park Chan-wook presides over the main jury — a first for Korean cinema. His fellow jurors include Demi Moore, Ruth Negga, Chloé Zhao, Stellan Skarsgård, Paul Laverty, Isaach De Bankolé, Laura Wandel and Diego Céspedes.

The honours alone ensure heavyweight star presence. Peter Jackson received an honorary Palme d’Or during the opening ceremony, while Barbra Streisand is also being celebrated with an honorary Palme this year. In addition, John Travolta arrives with his directorial debut, Propeller One-Way Night Coach, adding a particularly old-school slice of Hollywood showmanship to the programme.

The films drawing attention in 2026

The Official Competition includes 22 films, with a striking concentration of internationally recognised auteurs. Among the most closely watched are Pedro Almodóvar’s Amarga Navidad, Asghar Farhadi’s Parallel Tales, Hirokazu Kore-eda’s Sheep in the Box, Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s All of a Sudden, Cristian Mungiu’s Fjord, László Nemes’ Moulin, Andrey Zvyagintsev’s Minotaur and Na Hong-jin’s Hope. Cannes in 2026 is not short of serious cinema.

It is not short of famous faces either. James Gray’s Paper Tiger brings Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson and Miles Teller into Competition, while Ira Sachs’ The Man I Love stars Rami Malek, Rebecca Hall, Tom Sturridge and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. These are not token celebrity bookings added to brighten a red carpet; they are embedded in major Competition titles, which is precisely where Cannes glamour is at its best.

The British presence is more substantial than it may first appear. ScreenUK counts 16 UK films and co-productions across Cannes 2026, including Clio Barnard’s I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning in Directors’ Fortnight, the UK co-production The End of It in Cannes Premiere, and the documentary Cantona among the Special Screenings. The BFI and British Council are also using Cannes to spotlight emerging UK filmmakers through the annual Great 8 showcase. Britain may not dominate the main Competition this year, but it is firmly in the room.

The wider international presence is just as important. Japan is the Marché du Film’s 2026 Country of Honour, with organisers highlighting five Japanese titles in the Festival’s Official Selection and a broader programme devoted to the country’s film, animation and content industries. India, too, remains visible around the festival and market through official representation, regional cinema promotion and red-carpet appearances, though it is one strand of a much larger global picture rather than the defining story of Cannes 2026.

The Marché du Film: where Cannes earns its keep

For most of the public, Cannes means stars on the red steps. For the industry, the real machinery is the Marché du Film, running from 12 to 20 May 2026. This year, the market reports 16,000 registered participants from more than 140 countries, with 40,000 industry professionals attending the wider festival, 1,700 buyers, 600 exhibiting companies, 1,500 festival and market screenings and 250 industry events. That is why Cannes matters even to people who never set foot on the red carpet: films are financed here, sold here, packaged here and sometimes saved here.

The United States, France and the United Kingdom remain the top three countries by market attendance in 2026, according to the Marché itself. Yet the market is unmistakably global, with Asia growing strongly, Japan expanding its presence sharply as Country of Honour, and emerging national pavilions from Africa, the Middle East and Latin America continuing to push further into the Cannes ecosystem.

This is the Cannes that tourists often miss. Behind the photocalls, sales agents are presenting packages, distributors are trying to judge future awards heat, producers are seeking finance, and national film bodies are fighting for attention in a marketplace where every half-hour coffee meeting may matter. The glamour is real, but so is the hustle.

A personal Cannes connection: Jack Stall Dead

One project which I am proud to have a direct connection with in this year’s Cannes market is Jack Stall Dead, the British action thriller from JKO Films and Salman Khan Films. The film involves an investigative reporter who uncovers the deadly secrets of a global cancer-cure company and then becomes the target of mercenaries sent to silence her. Her unlikely protector is a mysterious homeless man who proves to be former special agent Jack Stall, presumed dead for four years — raising the question of why someone wanted the world to believe he no longer existed.

I worked on Jack Stall Dead both as associate producer and second-unit DoP, working alongside the extremely talented Sean Brady, who had already served as director of photography on the pilot and naturally took the lead. My own camera background is mainly in stills photography and videography for high-street fashion brands such as NEXT and House of Fraser; in film, I have worked more often as a writer and producer. Working with a large RED camera rig on a feature film is an entirely different beast, and I was glad to have Sean doing most of the heavy lifting this time.

The film’s executive producers include Guy Allon and Rajesh Nair.

The action thriller is co-directed by Ali Jacko — the former five-times world kickboxing champion — and veteran filmmaker James Simpson, who has more than 30 films to his name, including productions featuring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, Charlize Theron and Sharon Stone.

Ali Jacko is the driving force behind Jack Stall Dead, having written, produced, starred in and co-directed the film. A former five-times world kickboxing champion who later built JKO Films, he brings both genuine action credibility and extraordinary personal determination to the project, carrying it from script to screen with the same discipline that defined his fighting career.

The lead cast of Jack Stall Dead also includes Natasha Henstridge, Iulia Vântur, Silvio Simac, Saulius Sungi and Chris Browning.

Natasha Henstridge became an international star with her unforgettable breakout performance in the sci-fi hit Species, and went on to appear in major studio favourites including The Whole Nine Yards and The Whole Ten Yards alongside Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry, and Maximum Risk opposite Jean-Claude Van Damme.

Iulia Vântur is one of Romania’s best-known television personalities, having spent a decade as a PRO TV news presenter before becoming a familiar primetime face as co-host of the hugely popular Dansez pentru tine. She has since built a successful parallel career in India as a singer and screen performer, with prominent Bollywood credits including Race 3 and Radhe, and more recent acclaim for her acting work in the award-winning short film Echoes of Us.

Both Natasha and Iulia had demanding material to tackle and trained hard for their roles, delivering very convincingly despite each suffering unrelated off-set injuries midway through filming.

Chris Browning is a prolific American character actor with a long screen career across film and prestige television. He has appeared in major features including 3:10 to Yuma, Terminator Salvation, The Book of Eli, Cowboys & Aliens and Bright, alongside memorable television roles in Sons of Anarchy, Ray Donovan, Bosch and Westworld.

Silvio Simac brings genuine action pedigree to the film: the Croatian-born actor is also a Taekwon-do World Gold Medallist, 14-time British champion and four-time European champion, with a screen career built around high-impact roles in action titles including Transporter 3, Unleashed, DOA: Dead or Alive and Undisputed II: Last Man Standing.

Saulius Sungis adds still more physical presence to the cast. Standing at 6ft 8in, the UK-based actor plays the brother of Silvio Simac’s character in Jack Stall Dead, giving the film’s action world another imposing screen figure

The film also features strong performances from Natasha Arancini; former SAS: Who Dares Wins winner Paige Zima; actress, singer and model Tiana Sakhno, who was featured in Issue one of Riviera Ready Magazine; Maria Luz Tremsal; and a special cameo from renowned US fashion photographer Joshua Michael Shelton, who flew from Los Angeles for his scenes and also took the incredible on-set stills for the film. Josh has also just finished post productio on Punkture, a film which he wrote and directed, starring Jay Tavare and Jay Irwin, and he will be taking it onto the festival circuit this year.

The scale of the stunt work was one of the most striking parts of the production. On some of the larger fight sequences, there were 40 to 50 stunt performers involved in a single scene, creating a genuine sense of physical mass and impact rather than relying on the illusion of action. The film’s fight choreography and stunt coordination were led by Samuel “Kefi” Abrikh.

Most people do not realise just how much work and commitment goes into making an independent film. That commitment started at the top: Ali Jacko used his world-champion determination to get this project off the ground and in the can, surviving on only a few hours’ sleep a day for months on end. On independent films, budgets are usually far smaller than on studio productions, which often means smaller crews and longer hours on set. Executive producer and line producer Guy Allon also survived on a few hours’ sleep a day, production manager Joynal Abdin sometimes doubled up as chef, and every member of the cast, crew and stunt team gave their all to make it happen. It is extremely satisfying to see the film reaching this stage.

The Raindance Villa Party

For British independent filmmakers, perhaps the most keenly anticipated social and networking event of the festival is the annual Raindance Villa Party in Cannes, hosted by Elliot Grove, founder of Raindance and the British Independent Film Awards, alongside actor-producer Sean Cronin of Magnificent Films. Now in its 12th annual edition, the 2026 party takes place at a private Cannes villa on 17 May, bringing together filmmakers, producers, sales agents, actors and festival regulars in a more relaxed setting than the frantic corridors of the Palais.

Raindance itself describes the gathering as “one of the most anticipated networking events of the festival”, and for Britain’s independent film community it has become a genuine Cannes institution — part party, part reunion, part opportunity to make the sort of chance connection that can still matter enormously in the film business.

When the Croisette locks up

There is, however, another Cannes entirely — the one you experience on foot.

The Grand Théâtre Lumière at the Palais hosts two evening gala screenings each night, generally around 7pm and 10pm, and when a major premiere is building the whole area becomes a controlled performance space. The red carpet is not merely laid out; it reorganises the town around itself. The road in front of the Palais and sections of the Croisette become difficult or impossible to cross in the usual way. Pedestrian flow is redirected. What looked like a simple five-minute walk on the map can suddenly become a long, slow negotiation through crowds, barriers and diverted foot traffic.

Anyone with meetings in the Marché, a panel to attend, or a screening to reach needs to factor this in. Cannes is not forgiving if you misjudge the timing. There is a useful workaround if you hold the right accreditation: walking along the marina behind the Palais can be longer in distance but far quicker in practice, because it avoids the worst of the Croisette gridlock.

And this is when the festival’s particular madness becomes most visible.

As the cars begin to sweep towards the Palais and the photographers gather, you will often see men and women standing on the pavement in full formal wear: women in gowns or cocktail dresses, men in dinner suits, sometimes alone, sometimes as couples, holding handwritten signs asking for a spare invitation. Not offering to buy one. Not trying to haggle. Simply hoping someone will give them a ticket. It is one of Cannes’ most surreal traditions, and it has been observed for years by festival veterans and critics alike.

The reason it looks so strange is that official Cannes screenings are not run like a normal public cinema. Access to the Festival’s screenings is by invitation; the invitations are free, strictly personalised and non-transferable, and the Festival states plainly that ticket sales are prohibited. In theory, then, there should be no secondary market. In practice, as with almost everything in Cannes, desire finds a way to make itself expensive.

One of the oddest things I have seen near the Croisette during a premiere build-up was a smartly dressed man holding a sign up towards the procession of VIP cars. It read: “I want to be an actor”, followed by his phone number. There was something both ridiculous and oddly admirable about it — Cannes reducing the entire dream of the film business to a placard on a street corner.

When I saw him, and the line of beautifully dressed ticket hopefuls nearby, I joked to a friend that the next year I should return with my own sign saying: “Give me £1 million”, followed by my PayPal address. At least it would be honest.

Glamour, amfAR and the price of access

If the official festival is disciplined, the parallel Cannes universe is anything but. Private dinners, yacht receptions, brand parties, rooftop gatherings and hotel takeovers multiply across the fortnight. Some are serious networking events; some are pure social theatre; most are a little of both. Cannes remains one of the few places where a director, a billionaire investor, a fashion house ambassador, a distributor, a celebrity stylist and a first-time producer can all plausibly end up in the same room before midnight.

The most famous side event is the amfAR Gala Cannes, held on 21 May 2026 at the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d’Antibes. This year’s gala is hosted by Geena Davis, with performances from Robbie Williams, Zara Larsson and PinkPantheress, plus a DJ set from Honey Dijon. Event chairs include figures such as Pedro Almodóvar, Angela Bassett, Rachel Brosnahan, Colman Domingo, Scarlett Johansson, Demi Moore, Michelle Yeoh and Jeffrey Wright.

The prices are just as staggering as the guest list. Official 2026 amfAR access begins at €17,500 for a Supporter Ticket, rises to €40,000 for a Philanthropist Ticket, and reaches €300,000 for the top table package. That is the legitimate route. Outside it, Cannes has long attracted brokers and touts trying to monetise the desperate desire to be in the right room. In 2025, Screen Daily reported black-market pitches for premiere and party access running into the thousands of dollars. The official rules are clear; the unofficial appetite is equally clear.

Dress code and etiquette

Cannes still takes its rituals seriously. For Grand Théâtre Lumière gala screenings, the Festival requires formal evening wear: long gowns or tuxedos, with certain elegant alternatives accepted. Trainers are not allowed for gala screenings, large bags are banned, and the Festival has now made explicit that nudity and excessively voluminous outfits which impede movement or seating are not permitted on the red carpet. Personal selfies, photos and filming on the steps are also prohibited.

For accredited guests, punctuality matters more than confidence. Once a screening seat has been allocated, Cannes guarantees it only up to a point: for gala screenings at the Grand Théâtre Lumière, your seat is held until 25 minutes before the screening. Beyond that, the Festival needs to manage entry, flow and security. It is not a place to arrive fashionably late unless you are one of the people everyone else is there to watch.

For readers travelling from Britain, the practical route is still usually Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, followed by road or rail towards Cannes. The official festival travel guidance notes that Express Bus 81 runs from Nice Airport Terminal 2 to Cannes SNCF station in around 45 minutes, with the Palais a short walk away. Once in town, accredited festival-goers can also use the PalmBus network with the Festival Pass QR code during the edition.

And for those without accreditation, Cannes is not entirely sealed off. The Cinéma de la Plage remains one of the festival’s most charming public-facing traditions, offering free open-air evening screenings on the beach from 9.30pm. It is a useful reminder that, beneath the security lines and exclusivity, Cannes still belongs to cinema lovers too.

After Cannes: the Riviera rolls on to Monaco

Cannes does not quite hand the Riviera back when the closing ceremony ends. Less than two weeks later, attention shifts east to the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, taking place from 4 to 7 June 2026, with the race itself on Sunday 7 June. The crossover is natural: the same Côte d’Azur appetite for spectacle, yachts, celebrity and money simply migrates from red carpets to harbour views and pit lanes.

For visitors with the means — or the endurance — combining Cannes and Monaco remains one of the Riviera’s great maximalist itineraries. One fortnight is about cinema, the next about speed. Both are about access, theatre and the ancient pleasure of watching other people arrive in better cars than yours.

Cannes still matters

Cannes in 2026 is not a relic, and it is not merely a celebrity carousel. It remains a place where films can be launched into world conversation, where a festival screening can alter a director’s career, where the business of cinema is conducted with extraordinary concentration, and where the ridiculousness of the whole enterprise is never far from view.

That is why Cannes endures. It is high art and hard commerce, careful curation and shameless peacocking, one of the most serious cultural events in the world and, at street level, occasionally one of the funniest. On the Croisette, both truths can exist at once.

I’ve merged both drafts, rebuilt the piece around the stronger international/Croisette angle, rechecked the 2026 facts against live sources, and kept India to a brief, proportionate mention rather than a featured section. I also folded in your first-hand Croisette material as a central set-piece, which is far more distinctive than a generic festival preview.

From Magnum P.I. to Moët-flutes — a (brief) history

Beach clubs as we know them today are a relatively recent phenomenon. In fiction, Magnum P.I. introduced television viewers to a lush private enclave — the King Kamehameha Club — that served as a hang‑out for Thomas Magnum and his Vietnam buddies; the producers actually shot the 1980s scenes in Honolulu’s venerable Elks Club and other local venues. Real‑world beach clubs followed soon after. Florida restaurateur Jack Penrod began operating Penrod’s Beach Club in Fort Lauderdale and later Miami in the 1980s; in 1998 he merged it with Café Nikki to create Nikki Beach, blending French‑Riviera chic with Miami hedonism. The concept spread to Ibiza, Bali and beyond, bringing curated DJs, bottle‑service cabanas and day‑beds to sun‑seekers.

In Europe the trend collided with coastal laws. In France the coastline belongs to the maritime public domain, and the 1986 Littoral Law guarantees free pedestrian access; private operators can lease a beach but must leave at least 80 % of the shoreline unobstructed and cannot build permanent structures. Spain’s Ley de Costas divides the coast into a public domain and a mixed domain: the beach itself and the first line of surf belong to the state, while a 100‑metre protection zone and a further 400‑metre zone of influence may be occupied only under temporary concessions. Bars, pools and restaurants built behind that protection zone can be fenced off and operated exclusively — hence those high‑security pools you see beside the sand. You can’t own the beach, but you can own the chaise longues on a deck. The idea of a pool by the sea might sound absurd, but fresh water and chilled Champagne are essential when your hairdresser and Instagram feed demand perfection.

As competition escalated, clubs introduced Balinese beds with velvet cushions, private butlers, Wi‑Fi and even built‑in safes. Giant salt‑water pools let party‑goers splash without battling waves, while foam cannons and Champagne showers created viral scenes. Jack Penrod’s Nikki Beach remains the template: a white‑washed, boho‑chic aesthetic with live percussionists and midday fashion shows. Today you’ll find chain‑branded clubs (Nikki Beach, Purobeach, Blue Marlin) as well as independent spots courting aristocrats, super‑yacht owners and reality‑TV entourages. The beds, bottles and DJ line‑ups changed, but the formula remains simple: sun, status and selfies.

How we ranked the best

How does one define “the best” beach club? In true Riviera Ready style, I created a cheeky scoring formula mixing venue & amenities (30 %), location (20 %), clientele & vibe (20 %), cost & value (10 %) and exclusivity & perks (20 %). We looked at design (pools, day‑beds, cabanas, dining), service (massages, concierge), setting (turquoise bay or industrial port), crowd (glamour set or stag parties), price of beds/bottle service, membership rules, children policies and star sightings. Where possible we used public pricing and membership data; when clubs refused to divulge numbers, we relied on credible reports and aggregated commentary. Because beach‑clubs rarely publish their entire guest list, the gossip you’re about to read comes from first‑hand observations, travel editors and the occasional discreet waiter.

Marbella & Estepona: champagne wars on the Costa del Sol

This stretch of Andalusia is a magnet for Russian oligarchs, British reality stars and footballers’ wives — and for organized crime. Ocean Club Marbella sprawls across 9,000 m² with a salt‑water pool and Champagne‑spraying parties. Pre‑paid reservations are held until 4 p.m., guests must be “dressed to impress,” no hen‑party accessories or outside food is allowed, and tanning creams containing carotene are banned. Reviewers estimate around €250 (≈£216) per person for a day there, although the club keeps its official price list hidden behind VIP log‑ins. Nearby Dune Beach Club (from the same owners) is slightly more relaxed: single sun‑beds cost €40 (≈£35) including towels and waiter service, while big beds for up to three people cost €150 (≈£129) and come with a bottle of Miraval rosé.

Across town, Nikki Beach Marbella continues Penrod’s boho empire. It hosts lavish White Parties and “champagne World Tour” events, but still allows children during the day. Opium Beach Club draws a younger EDM crowd; in 2022 a gunman opened fire after a fight, injuring four and making international headlines. In 2018 hooded men tied up a security guard and torched Heaven Beach Club in Estepona, and in January 2025 the beach bar Azucar was burned down in Puerto Banús. Such incidents, though rare, underscore how lucrative these venues are for both legitimate entrepreneurs and the underworld.

Mijas & La Cala: chilled‑out alternatives

If Puerto Banús feels too blingy, head a few miles east towards Mijas Costa. Max Beach Mijas offers a stylish yet relaxed escape; a local guide describes it as “where elegance meets relaxation,” noting its contemporary design, pool and sun‑lounger area and direct beach access. The restaurant’s menu is upscale without the sticker shock of Marbella’s super‑clubs. Further along the coast in La Cala, Florida Mijas Beach provides a more affordable option with sunbeds on the sand and a casual bar serving local dishes and refreshing drinks. These venues attract families and locals as well as visitors; you’re unlikely to encounter Champagne‑spraying footballers, but you will get a sun lounger without re‑mortgaging your villa.

Barcelona & the Balearics: EDM playgrounds and chill‑out sanctuaries

Barcelona’s Go Beach Club offers transparent pricing: a Day Bed for two costs €100 (≈£86) including two drinks; Sofa Balinese beds for up to six cost €300 (≈£259) with €150 credit; the most decadent Balinese Garden bed seats eight and costs €650 (≈£561) with €300 to spend on food and drinks. Bastian Beach’s FAQ states that minors are permitted if accompanied, and the minimum‑spend for beds may be used towards food, drinks and shisha. For a more upscale vibe, Purobeach Barcelona sells day‑passes: sunbeds start at €85 (≈£73) including a welcome tray, towels and fruit; Balinese beds for two from €210 (≈£181); nomadic beds for four at €500 (≈£431) with champagne and snacks; and a Moët & Chandon cabana for eight at €1,000 (≈£863).

Ibiza remains the queen of the Balearics. Blue Marlin — the VIP magnet in Cala Jondal — charges €30 (≈£26) to hire a sun‑lounger plus a €50 (≈£43) minimum spend; big beds for up to four cost €100 (≈£86) hire with a €500 (≈£431) minimum spend, rising to €600 (≈£517) on Sundays. O Beach Ibiza (formerly Ocean Beach) sells packages from about €1,200 to €1,800 (≈£1,035–£1,553) for groups of five to ten, including a bottle and VIP service; the giant pool stage hosts aerial acrobats, “Hot Bed” brunches and foam parties, attracting influencers and hen parties. It’s an open secret that management sometimes comps beds and bottles for groups of photogenic women as a marketing ploy — simply dress up, smile and ask nicely at the front desk or know a promoter. While the vibe can be tacky, you might spot a Premier‑League footballer ordering magnums of rosé.

French Riviera: St‑Tropez & beyond

The Côte d’Azur is where beach clubs became fashion runways. Nikki Beach Saint‑Tropez charges €150 (≈£129) for a beach bed plus bottle service, offers pool access and enforces a “beach‑chic” dress code; the beach area is adults‑only. In the same bay, the legendary Club 55 — a humble shed turned celebrity canteen — still rents sunbeds for €40 (≈£35), umbrellas for €19 (≈£16) and huts for €59 (≈£51). Don’t even think of ordering lunch from your lounger; you must dress and dine at the rustic terrace, where Brigitte Bardot once tanned and where Leonardo DiCaprio occasionally pops in. The French laws requiring public access mean you can plonk your towel nearby for free, but there’s no waiter, no DJ and certainly no Moët.

Greece & the eastern Med: Mykonos and her sisters

On Mykonos, two clubs vie for the super‑yacht elite. Nammos pairs a turquoise bay with a price tag: cabanas can cost US$5,000 per day (≈£3,683), Champagne bottles stretch to US$140,000 (≈£103,138), and lunch for two runs around US$350 (≈£258). Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid recently partied there, as have Mariah Carey, Valentino Garavani and Lewis Hamilton. Scorpios, created in 2015 and now run by Soho House, offers a more spiritual take with Mediterranean cuisine, art installations and sunset rituals; it attracts the Hadid sisters and wellness‑minded creatives. On St Barths, the Caribbean outpost of Nikki Beach charges around €100 (≈£86) to rent a bed that seats three and requires bottle service starting from a few hundred euros. Shellona, the tanned neighbour, reserves its loungers for hotel guests until 1 p.m., after which the general public can use them.

Dubai: desert decadence meets maritime law

Dubai embraces the beach‑club concept with Middle‑Eastern opulence. At Nikki Beach Dubai, single sunbeds cost AED 150 (≈£30) on weekdays and AED 300 (≈£60) on weekends, including a soft drink and towel; beds near the pool that seat six require a minimum spend of AED 1,500 (≈£301). On weekends, front‑line beds cost AED 3,950 (≈£793) with a bottle of Dom Pérignon, while regular beds are AED 2,500 (≈£501) including a bottle of Champagne. Management enforces a “couples or mixed groups only” policy to deter bachelor parties. Zero Gravity offers more affordable fun: a day ticket is 100 AED (≈£20), sunbeds cost 200 AED (≈£40), and a private cabin is 1,000 AED (≈£201). With a glass‑fronted pool and daily brunches, it draws both Instagram models and Dubai’s after‑work crowd. Cove Beach, DRIFT Beach and White Beach at Atlantis round out the scene, each with their own “ladies’ day” packages and Shisha lounges. Remember: the U.A.E. has strict public‑decency laws, so leave the topless sunbathing for Mykonos.

Miami & the Americas: where it all began

Miami’s original Nikki Beach still charges a US$350 (≈£258) minimum spend for a daybed (up to four guests) and US$700 (≈£515) for a cabana (up to ten). There is no pool; the party happens on the sand under swaying palms. South Beach also hosts SLS South Beach’s Hyde Beach (known for celebrity‑hosted pool parties) and 1 Hotel’s Rooftop but those are more hotel pools than true beach clubs. In the Caribbean, many resorts include semi‑private “beach clubs” within all‑inclusive packages; at the more exclusive end, Nikki Beach St Barths charges around €100 (≈£86) per bed as noted earlier.

Los Angeles & Hawaii: private clubs for the one‑percent

California’s coastline is dotted with private membership clubs rather than day‑beds. Little Beach House Malibu (Soho House’s ocean‑front outpost) requires a separate Malibu Plus membership costing around US$1,000 (≈£737) for under‑27s and a connection to Malibu; existing Soho House members must apply and may be rejected. At the venerable Jonathan Club in Santa Monica, membership reportedly demands a US$50,000 initiation fee (≈£36,835), while Hollywood’s San Vicente Bungalows charges annual dues from US$4,200 (≈£3,094) plus an US$1,800 (≈£1,326) initiation fee — your fellow members include Oscar winners and media moguls. Unlike Mediterranean clubs, these venues ban photos and insist on collared shirts, and there are no rowdy Champagne showers.

Hawaii’s beach clubs are even more exclusive. The Mauna Kea Resort offers social and platinum memberships to homeowners, providing access to golf courses, tennis courts and the resort’s beach club. On the Big Island, Kohanaiki — a private residential community — charges a membership fee of around US$375,000 (≈£276,263) with annual dues of US$62,000 (≈£45,275). Amenities include an oceanfront beach club, restaurants, sports complex, bowling alley, movie theatre, spa and multiple pools. Golf Life Navigators notes that initiation fees for such clubs start at US$150,001+ (≈£110,506+). With membership only available to property owners and an on‑site helipad, don’t expect to waltz in off the sand.

Behind‑the‑scenes gossip & fashion highlights

Beach clubs aren’t just about sunbeds; they’re about spectacle and clever marketing. At Nikki Beach’s White Party, models in white bikinis and feather headpieces strut down the restaurant tables while drummers play “Love Generation.” At Mykonos’ Nammos, a plate of sushi can cost more than your flight, and you might see a reality star attempt to sabre a jeroboam of Dom Pérignon only to end up spraying half the crowd (true story). In Marbella, some clubs are rumoured to comp beds and bottles for groups of model‑esque women, hoping to attract deep‑pocketed men; conversely, solo men may be turned away unless they book a cabana. In Ibiza and Marbella the easiest way to score a complimentary bed is to assemble a group of glamorous friends, slide into a promoter’s DMs beforehand or simply approach the host desk with confidence — promoters know that a table full of photogenic women will draw paying VIPs. Many clubs institutionalise the practice via ladies’ days: for example The 305 West Beach in Dubai hosts a weekly girls’ day where, from 9 a.m., women can enjoy a sun bed with pool & beach access, five drinks and a dish for AED 275 (≈£55); restaurant seating with the same perks costs AED 250 (≈£50) and packages are first‑come‑first‑served, with cabanas available for an extra fee. Similar deals appear across Dubai and the Balearics, underscoring how important the female “Instagram effect” has become.

While some promotions are harmless, others come with strings attached. TripAdvisor reviews warn that certain Marbella clubs are essentially “pick‑up joints” where escorts ply their trade: one reviewer described Ocean Club Marbella as “full of prostitutes (Escort Girls)” who approach men, ask them to buy drinks and then offer themselves for evening entertainment; he noted that drinks were pricey and the club was “not suitable for families”tripadvisor.com. In other words, if you’re approached by a scantily dressed woman urging you to order Champagne, politely decline and move on.

Stag and hen parties have been both a blessing and curse: they fill VIP tables, but also create rowdy scenes that deter the “couture crowd.” Clubs like Purobeach and Scorpios explicitly ban fancy‑dress accessories. Celebrities often request secluded areas or arrive by boat; many clubs have private jetties for this reason. Staff whisper that some A‑listers tip five figures to have other guests moved away, while others (no names!) sneak in disguised under straw hats and pay the standard minimum spend. At Ibiza’s O Beach (Ocean Beach), co‑owner Wayne Lineker told journalists that UFC superstar Conor McGregor and YouTuber‑turned‑boxer KSI are among the club’s biggest spenders — McGregor arrives with a security entourage and creates “a parade,” while KSI once splashed out on hundreds of bottles of Champagne. Lineker also recalled singer Ed Sheeran dropping by for an impromptu performance, proving that anything can happen when the rosé is flowing. In Dubai, you might dine next to a sheikh or a tech billionaire; just don’t photograph them or you may find yourself escorted out. Organised‑crime figures occasionally appear, particularly in Marbella and Tulum, where recent shootings and arson attacks were linked to rival gangs. They’re usually easy to spot: surrounded by bodyguards and a small battalion of “girlfriends,” rarely leaving their cabana and communicating via earpiece. Unless you’re auditioning for a gangster film, give them a wide berth and enjoy your rosé elsewhere.

The fashion is just as important. Expect lots of Jacquemus straw hats, Balmain bikinis, and off‑white linen for men. In Saint‑Tropez, Chanel hosts pop‑ups at beach clubs; in Ibiza, Dior once presented a capsule collection at El Silencio. Bring your biggest sunglasses and your smallest swimsuit, and remember: sun cream is your most essential accessory.

Felicity’s final word

Beach clubs epitomise the paradox of modern luxury travel: they offer curated decadence in spaces that, legally, belong to everyone. Today’s beds are bigger, the Champagne more expensive, and the Instagram stakes higher than ever. While some clubs feel like playgrounds for influencers, others remain bastions of discreet glamour where you might brush shoulders with royalty or a Hollywood legend. My advice? Choose your scene wisely. If you crave wellness vibes and sunset rituals, head for Scorpios. For Champagne‑soaked hedonism, it’s Ocean Club or Nammos. Budget‑conscious sun‑seekers should snag a hut at Club 55 or a €40 (≈£35) bed at Dune. Wherever you go, wear something fabulous, tip your waiter generously, and remember that the gossip is almost as important as the tan.

The Ferrari Roma: A Grand Tourer Built for Supercar Road Trips

Supercar road trips are at their best when the route is as seductive as the machine — and few journeys feel more cinematic than driving a Ferrari Roma from the Alps to the Amalfi Coast.

Ferrari’s front‑engined grand‑tourer hides a 3.9‑litre twin‑turbocharged V8 under its bonnet that delivers 612 horsepower and 561 lb‑ft of torque through an eight‑speed dual‑clutch transmission. The Roma Spider launches from 0–60 mph in about 3.3 seconds and will press on to nearly 199 mph — more than enough performance for a winding mountain pass. Despite the power, it is a legitimate grand tourer, with a 10.3 cubic‑foot boot for luggage and a 2+2 layout. The digital cockpit looks like a fighter‑jet, with a 16 inch instrument cluster and an 8.4 inch central touchscreen, but the car retains a certain old‑school charm, especially if you pack a pair of classic driving gloves.

Driving gloves aren’t some anachronistic affectation; early motorists used them to improve grip on the steering wheel and to protect hands from heat or cold. Today they still make long drives more comfortable and, frankly, look excellent when clasping a leather‑trimmed wheel. Slip a pair of fine leather gloves into the centre console alongside your sunglasses and you’ll feel like Steve McQueen.

Stelvio Pass and the Dolomites: Alpine Supercar Road Trips

My trip began in Lombardy’s Stelvio Pass, an asphalt serpent that coils up to 2,757 metres (about 9,045 feet) and is the highest paved mountain pass in the Eastern Alps. With 48 hairpin bends carved into the mountainside, it is a driver’s rite of passage. I climbed through conifer forests, past grazing cows and glacial torrents, the Roma’s V‑8 bellowing off the rock walls. Halfway up, hikers and motorcyclists waved from lay‑bys; in winter the road turns into a fairytale snowscape. At the summit, there’s time for bratwurst from a roadside hut and a shot of espresso before descending through alpine orchards.

Swing east and the Great Dolomite Road beckons. Starting from Bolzano and crossing Passo Pordoi and Passo Falzarego, this route combines sweeping straights and gentle curves. I traded carbon‑ceramic brakes for ski boots in Alta Badia, sliding down Corvara’s perfectly groomed pistes. Corvara sits at 1,568 metres (5,145 ft), and its 130 km of slopes link to over 1,100 km of runs across the Dolomiti Superski region. Even if you’re only intermediate, the gentle red runs funnel back into town. Check in to Hotel La Perla, a four‑star retreat with a pool and Finnish sauna. Alternatively, head to Madonna di Campiglio, a resort wedged between the Brenta Dolomites and the peaks of Adamello and Presanella where affluent Italian families flock for its car‑free centre, boutiques and glamorous cafés. Chalet del Sogno is an eco‑friendly hideaway built from sustainable timber—perfect for swapping stories of powder and petrol over grappa.

Beyond the pistes, San Cassiano offers sun‑soaked blue and red runs and the Hotel Fanes, a five‑star hotel perched on a sunny plateau. Val Gardena is 90 minutes from Innsbruck and boasts state‑of‑the‑art lifts and direct access to the Sella Ronda circuit; stay at Chalet Soldanella in Selva Gardena. For an intimate escape, Mi Chalet in La Villa offers a private retreat for two in Alta Badia.

Tuscany’s Via Chiantigiana: Convertibles and Chianti

Leaving the Alps behind, I pointed the Ferrari south towards Tuscany. The Via Chiantigiana between Florence and Siena is a ribbon of tarmac through rolling hills, vineyards and medieval villages. Here you drop the windows, inhale the scent of cypress trees and swap the roar of the engine for a more languid hum. The slower pace allows you to savour details: rows of vines fading into the horizon, arrow‑straight cypresses, winemakers waving from stone farmhouses. Pull into a cantina for a tasting of Chianti Classico with local pecorino and cured meats.

Base yourself at Castelfalfi in Montaione. Travel + Leisure readers crowned this medieval village surrounded by vineyards and olive groves their favourite resort in Italy for 2025. The estate offers a spa, fine‑dining restaurant La Rocca, a golf course (currently being redesigned), and even an adventure park with zip lines and climbing walls. You can practise your swing in the morning, sample truffle pasta at lunch and still make it to Siena’s Piazza del Campo by sunset.

Rome and the road south

From Chianti, head to Rome for a dose of automotive history and espresso. Park on the Janiculum Hill, take in the city’s domes and then retreat to the tranquillity of Villa d’Este on Lake Como—a detour north worth every mile. This 16th‑century palazzo became a hotel in 1873 and remains a benchmark for Italian hospitality, with sumptuous suites, lakeside gardens and even occasional private concerts by Andrea Bocelli. Don’t expect to pay less than a four‑figure nightly rate, but do expect to meet an ageing aristocrat at the breakfast buffet.

The Amalfi Coast: limoncello and hairpins

The Amalfi Coast road between Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello is the antithesis of a motorway: a narrow, cliff‑hugging lane with sheer drops and views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. Every bend reveals another pastel‑painted village or terraced lemon grove. With a supercar, you’ll want to drive early in the morning before tourist buses choke the route. The drive offers tight curves and panoramic sea views. Stop in Positano for sfogliatella and a dip in the turquoise bay; taste limoncello in Amalfi; explore Ravello’s gardens at Villa Rufolo. End the day at Le Sirenuse, a family‑run hotel perched above Positano with Moorish arches and a candlelit bar, or at the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento, which sits above the town’s marinas and has hosted everyone from Caruso to Hemingway. Alternatively, check into the Anantara Convento di Amalfi or the Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina when you inevitably decide to continue your road trip to Sicily.

What to Pack for Supercar Road Trips

A supercar adventure requires more than just a set of keys. Besides a snazzy pair of driving gloves, bring practical safety gear. Katherine Bitner’s road‑trip checklist recommends carrying up‑to‑date licence, registration and insurance documents, a roadside emergency kit with a flashlight, road flares and reflective triangles, a first‑aid kit, jumper cables or a portable jump starter, a spare tyre with a jack, a portable tyre inflator and a headlamp. Cash is useful for remote petrol stations that don’t accept cards. Keep your charging cables and a power bank handy for phones and cameras.

Recommended gear and supplies

Fine leather driving gloves

Not strictly essential, but absolutely in the spirit of the thing. They give you better grip on long drives, feel superb on a leather wheel and make you look faintly like you know Stirling Moss personally.

Licence, registration and insurance

Keep all your paperwork together in one slim waterproof pouch in the glovebox. It is gloriously unsexy, but you will be extremely pleased with yourself if anyone official asks for it.

Roadside emergency kit

Pack a proper kit with a torch, reflective triangle, warning vest and basic breakdown essentials. Italian mountain roads are beautiful, but they are not where you want to discover you are wildly under-prepared.

First-aid kit

A compact first-aid kit is worth having for everything from blisters and grazes to the small indignities of travel. Nothing dramatic — just the basics done properly.

Jumper cables or a portable jump starter

A grand tourer with a flat battery is still a flat battery. A portable jump starter takes up little room and can save a very expensive-looking wait at the roadside.

Spare tyre and jack

Check what your car actually comes with before you leave. Many modern performance cars prioritise weight saving over practicalities, which is delightful until you are staring at a puncture in the middle of nowhere.

Portable tyre inflator

Perfect for topping up tyres after a long, hot run through the mountains, and invaluable if pressure drops unexpectedly. Think of it as cheap insurance for your schedule.

Headlamp

Far more useful than using your phone torch between your teeth. Ideal if you need both hands free after dark.

Cash

Keep a little folded cash tucked away for remote petrol stations, tolls, coffees and those small old-school places that still treat card machines as a personal affront.

Charging cables and a power bank

Between maps, playlists, hotel confirmations and shameless photography stops, your phone will work hard. Bring proper charging cables and a power bank that can survive a full day on the move.

At a Glance

Best for

Drivers who like their road trips with equal parts adrenaline, aperitivo and absurdly good views.

Dream route

Stelvio Pass and the Dolomites, through Tuscany, then south to the Amalfi Coast.

Ideal car

A Ferrari Roma is the fantasy, but any refined grand tourer with luggage space and real road manners will do the job beautifully.

Best time to go

Late spring to early autumn, when the high passes are open and the coastal roads feel cinematic rather than washed out.

Signature stops

Stelvio Pass, Alta Badia, Castelfalfi, Positano, Ravello and a long lazy lunch with a view you will bore people about for years.

Final thoughts

Driving a Ferrari Roma from the snowy passes of the Alps to the lemon‑scented terraces of the Amalfi Coast is more than a holiday — it’s a sensual odyssey. It’s the tang of cold air at 9,000 feet, the smell of hot brake pads on the Stelvio’s hairpins, the warmth of Tuscan sun on bare forearms and the salt spray on the Amalfi road. Along the way you’ll sample bratwurst at a mountain hut, sip Chianti under medieval arches and toast your arrival on the coast with a glass of limoncello. Pack the right gear, book the right hotels and, above all, take your time — because the journey, not the destination, is the true luxury.

A capsule wardrobe should make spring dressing effortless, and on the sun-dappled promenades of the Côte d’Azur, the best-dressed men know that simplicity is the real luxury.

On the sun‑dappled promenades of the Côte d’Azur, the best‑dressed men embrace simplicity. They curate a capsule wardrobe that works as hard as they do, switching from a beach club to a late‑night soirée with minimal effort. Inspired by the sartorial ease of suave film characters (think the languid elegance of 1960s Bond and Jonathan Pine in The Night Manager), I’ve compiled the only 10 pieces you need this spring. This edit blends Savile Row heritage with the Italian concept of sprezzatura (that nonchalant neatness) and incorporates modern technology as practised by Mathieu Castanier—the Savile Row–trained tailor who uses a 3D configurator and AI‑assisted measurements to create bespoke suits and shoes. Whether you’re catching a flight to Nice or brunching in Notting Hill, these pieces will ensure you look as sharp as a well‑cut blazer.

1. The Suit: The Anchor of a Gentleman’s Capsule Wardrobe

A properly fitted suit anchors any capsule wardrobe. It should be versatile enough for a wedding, a meeting or an evening cocktail. Mid‑weight cloth (wool or linen) suits work year‑round and are recommended by The Guardian because something simple and neutral “will make the most long‑term sense”. Choose a soft‑shouldered cut in navy, charcoal or natural linen, with a jacket that nips gently at the waist and trousers that skim—not cling to—your hips. Have your tailor adjust the length so the trouser hem touches the middle to upper part of the back of the shoe with a slight break in front.

• High‑end: Sunspel’s lightweight travel suit is cut from luxurious crease‑free wool; its subtle melange and bluff pockets make it an investment piece. Drake’s corduroy suit (brown or navy) brings autumnal texture and speaks to Sprezzatura.
• Affordable: Uniqlo’s AirSense suit proves that a simple, well‑cut suit needn’t be expensive; the Japanese label’s tailoring is sleek despite the price. Marks & Spencer’s regular‑fit wool suit offers a smart mid‑weight option at £299.

Tailoring tip: Ask your tailor for side adjusters instead of belt loops (as Reiss does on its linen‑twill suit). They create a clean waistline and eliminate the need for belts.

2. Tailored trousers

Good trousers can be worn with almost anything—polo shirts, knitwear or blazers. A pleated wool pair from Cos or Suitsupply will add drape and comfort. The Guardian’s experts advise having them hemmed so they hit the middle/back of your shoe and show a modest break. For a warm‑weather alternative, invest in linen or cotton‑blend trousers with a high rise and side tabs.

• High‑end: Wax London’s pleated linen trousers (from the Aubyn suit) combine vintage‑style peak lapels with modern ease. Suitsupply’s tailored wool trousers have a canvas lining and 100 % wool construction.
• Affordable: Dockers original chinos offer a straight but not baggy fit; avoid stuffing the utilitarian pockets and keep the silhouette streamlined. M&S and Cos also sell pleated wool trousers around £110.

Tailoring tip: Have trousers altered while wearing your intended shoes. For loafers or trainers, hem slightly shorter; for boots, allow an extra centimetre of break.

3. The white Oxford shirt and the striped shirt

A crisp white Oxford or poplin shirt is a sartorial workhorse. It’s breathable and keeps you looking sharp. Go for organic cotton poplin or Oxford cloth; after washing, iron it when it’s slightly damp to achieve a smooth finish. A striped shirt (Breton or banker stripe) brings Riviera flair—wear it open over a vest with shorts and sandals in summer or buttoned under a jumper in autumn.

• High‑end: Reiss’s camp‑collar shirt in silk or linen has a flat V‑shaped collar and comes in claret or cream. Rise & Fall’s organic cotton poplin shirt (£72) offers Savile Row‑worthy finishing.
• Affordable: Uniqlo produces reliable Oxford shirts for around £30. Arket’s stripe shirt (£67) is a year‑round winner.

Style note: Channel the languid elegance of A Bigger Splash—pair your striped shirt with linen trousers and slip‑on espadrilles for a poolside aperitivo.

4. Lightweight knitwear

Spring on the Riviera can be cool in the evening. A simple crew‑neck jumper or merino roll‑neck adds warmth without bulk. Choose natural fibres: a merino or lamb’s‑wool crew neck is “less sweaty than a synthetic blend” and should sit flat around the neck so you can layer a thin T‑shirt underneath. A black roll‑neck jumper is timeless and fuss‑free.

• High‑end: Asket’s merino sweater (£100) is made from 100 % merino wool. Drake’s also offers refined knit polos and roll‑necks.
• Affordable: Community Clothing’s lamb’s‑wool crew (£69.50) provides quality at a sensible price. Uniqlo’s extra‑fine merino jumpers are an excellent budget option.

Styling inspiration: Think of Steve Jobs’ minimalist uniform—a dark roll‑neck can sharpen a suit and looks particularly rakish with sunglasses and tailored trousers.

5. Dark jeans and chinos

A pair of dark selvedge jeans and a pair of chinos cover casual and smart‑casual bases. A good pair of jeans is “the cornerstone of any capsule wardrobe”. Darker denim works for smart‑casual occasions where pale washes can feel too casual. Chinos in beige or olive provide an alternative; they should be straight but not baggy.

• High‑end: Levi’s and Wrangler still make excellent selvedge denim. Universal Works and YMC offer chinos with a workwear twist.
• Affordable: Uniqlo’s selvedge slim‑fit jeans (£39.90) are durable and heavy enough to wear year after year. Dockers’ original chinos (£80) are a solid high‑street option.

Tailoring tip: Wash raw denim as little as possible—spot clean when needed—and cuff it to show off your footwear. Chinos should be pressed and rolled for a relaxed look.

6. The trench coat or field jacket

Transitional weather demands an outer layer that shields you from showers without sacrificing style. A weather‑proof trenchcoat or overcoat is “non‑negotiable” in a temperate climate like the UK. Single‑ or double‑breasted options in cotton or gabardine echo the cinematic glamour of Humphrey Bogart yet still feel current. For something more casual, a field or utility jacket nods to Prada’s runway; sustainable versions can be found second‑hand or from heritage brands such as Carhartt, LL Bean, Belstaff and Barbour.

• High‑end: Mackintosh’s bonded cotton trench and Burberry’s iconic Kensington are investments that last decades. Belstaff’s Racemaster field jacket offers weatherproof practicality with a vintage feel.
• Affordable: Massimo Dutti’s double‑breasted trenchcoat (£299) offers a sharp silhouette. Carhartt’s Detroit jacket delivers rugged utility at around £130.

Style note: Belt the trench loosely rather than knotting it aggressively. For the field jacket, layer over knitwear or a hoodie on cool mornings.

7. Smart shirts: camp collar and denim

A camp‑collar or silk shirt brings subtle luxury to warm‑weather outfits. Look for a flat V‑shaped collar in a fluid fabric; Reiss’s Cuban‑collar shirt is a prime example. Choose a contrasting colour—cream under a grey suit or burgundy with black tailoring. Denim shirts, meanwhile, offer rugged versatility and nod to Americana; select one with reinforced cuffs and chest pockets.

• High‑end: Reiss’s silk camp‑collar shirt comes in bordeaux or cream. Drake’s Western denim shirt adds an Ivy‑League twist.
• Affordable: H&M and Zara produce well‑priced camp‑collar shirts, while Levi’s Wellthread Wilder shirt (£100) offers sustainable denim.

Styling inspiration: Echo the Riviera cool of Alain Delon—pair a camp‑collar shirt with linen trousers and loafers. A denim shirt layered over a white T‑shirt works on cooler days.

8. Footwear Essentials: White Trainers, Boots and Loafers

No capsule wardrobe is complete without versatile footwear. Minimal white trainers such as Adidas Stan Smiths or Common Projects have “been a style staple for decades” and go with everything from denim to suits. A pair of Chelsea or Derby boots is one of the most important foundations of a footwear collection, particularly in erratic British weather; polish regularly and get them resoled to prolong their lifespan. For warmer days or smart‑casual events, penny loafers are surprisingly adaptable: they can be understated in the office or add flair with colourful socks.

• High‑end: Mathieu Castanier’s bespoke penny loafers offer Savile Row craftsmanship and Italian ease. Drake’s and Crockett & Jones make durable Chelsea boots. Common Projects’ Original Achilles sneaker is the pared‑back white trainer of choice.
• Affordable: Adidas Stan Smiths (£68) or New Balance 550s deliver minimalism with comfort. Grenson’s Declan Chelsea boots (£290) provide quality at a mid‑range price. Russell & Bromley’s penny loafers (£225) give high‑street polish.

Maintenance tip: Rotate your shoes to allow them to dry naturally. Use shoe trees and polish leather weekly.

9. Accessories

Watches

An elegant watch elevates every outfit. The best new releases in 2026 range from accessible automatics to investment pieces. Breitling’s Superocean Heritage B01 42 revives the brand’s 1957 chronograph and pairs a reverse‑panda dial with a woven metal bracelet; at around £7,500, it’s a statement for collectors. Omega’s Seamaster Diver 300M Milano Cortina edition is a cool, all‑white homage to the 2026 Winter Games with a frost‑effect dial and Paralympic crest (~£8,800). For those seeking an entry‑level automatic, the Orient Bambino offers dress‑watch vibes, a leather strap and rose‑gold hands for under £300.

• High‑end: Consider Girard‑Perregaux’s Minute Repeater Flying Bridges for haute horlogerie with a tourbillon and minute repeater (price on application). Nomadic’s Black Shamrock Céad 126 is an Irish‑heritage chronometer with green sub‑dials and a shamrock‑shaped date window (£2,795).
• Affordable: Hamilton’s Jazzmaster Open Heart (£990) lets you glimpse its mechanical movement. Timex Marlin GMT (approx £150) and Citizen’s Eco‑Drive models power themselves by light, while Seiko and Casio produce robust automatics and digital watches.

Scarves and pocket squares

A colourful or tartan scarf “adds an elegant touch to more casual looks”. Choose breathable wool or cashmere and avoid synthetic blends to prevent itch. Pocket squares should be silk or linen; play with patterns but coordinate the colours with your tie or shirt.

Sunglasses

Look for acetate frames with UV protection. Persol’s folding sunglasses or Oliver Peoples’ vintage‑inspired styles pair well with linen suits. Affordable options from Cubitts or Ace & Tate offer quality lenses and timeless designs.

Grooming essentials

Great style starts with good grooming. Among the standout products tested by Ape to Gentleman are Chāmpo’s Pitta Growth Serum—an Ayurvedic‑inspired treatment that uses caffeine, creatine and chebula to support fine or thinning hair—and Harry’s sulphate‑free body wash, which cleanses without drying the skin. For hair health, Glowwa Men’s Hair Food capsules combine saw palmetto, pumpkin seed, L‑lysine and B‑vitamins to strengthen hair and nails. Horace’s gentle scalp exfoliator, with peppermint and jojoba beads, removes build‑up and reduces dandruff.

10. Finishing touches: attitude and care

A capsule wardrobe isn’t just about items; it’s about how you wear them. Emulate the ease of Riviera icons: push your sleeves up, leave the top two buttons undone on a camp‑collar shirt and cinch your trenchcoat belt nonchalantly. Invest in proper maintenance—dry‑clean suits sparingly, fold knitwear rather than hanging it, and rotate your shoes. Above all, buy pieces you love. As Gay Talese observed, “Putting on a beautifully designed suit elevates my spirit, extols my sense of self and helps define me as a man to whom details matter”.

With these 10 pieces, carefully selected accessories and a dash of Riviera insouciance, you’ll breeze through spring looking as polished as a Cannes red‑carpet regular.

Where the super rich go to escape tax tells us as much about power, politics and personal freedom as it does about yachts, penthouses and private banks.

Since the 1960s the world’s tax map has been redrawn by a handful of tiny jurisdictions that promise security, sun and negligible taxation. These are not just bolt‑holes for yachts and penthouses; they are a symptom of globalisation, politics and personal freedom. Monaco, Dubai, the British Virgin Islands (BVI), Luxembourg, Jersey and the Isle of Man have become magnets for high‑net‑worth individuals, celebrities, Formula One drivers and, in darker corners, organised criminals. In light of the recent war in the Gulf and the exodus of expatriates from Dubai, this article explores why people relocate, what these havens offer at different levels of wealth and status, and the moral questions that arise when citizens leave their home countries to avoid paying taxes.

Monaco – the ultimate gilded Tax Haven

Exclusivity, bank‑account checks and Formula One glamour

The tiny principality on the Côte d’Azur has long been the archetypal tax haven. Monaco levies no income, wealth or inheritance taxes for its residents and does not impose capital gains tax, a combination that saves high earners millions. Its status as a sovereign state means it can set its own fiscal policies, although French citizens must still pay French taxes. In return for tax exemption, Monaco demands financial solidity: prospective residents must open a bank account and deposit around €500,000 (£427,000); some banks require €2 million for non‑residents. According to the fintech firm Wise, minimum deposits start at €500,000 for residents and can reach €2 million.

Monaco’s membership rules partly explain why it is home to almost half of the Formula One grid. Drivers including Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris live there because the principality offers privacy, secure banking, low crime and proximity to European racetracks. Alpine Partners explains that the absence of personal, wealth and estate taxes allows athletes to retain more of their earnings, while real‑estate firms note the grand prix circuit’s historic allure and the prestige associated with Monaco. Residency requires spending at least 183 days per year in the principality, ensuring that the tax benefits are tied to genuine relocation.

Who moves and why?

Monaco’s local economy revolves around luxury consumption and asset management. It suits those earning in the £1‑5 million range (top sportspeople, hedge‑fund managers, celebrities) who desire both prestige and security. Its schools, healthcare, and low crime rates attract families, while its strict residency checks and high property prices (often £50,000 per square metre) act as barriers to all but the very wealthy. Residents must show a clean criminal record, sign leases or purchase property, and deposit funds in a local bank before obtaining a residency permit. The result is a micro‑state of about 40,000 residents where nearly one in three is a millionaire.

The United Arab Emirates – promises of 0 % income tax, now tested by war

The Golden Visa and fixed‑deposit route

Dubai is not a country but part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE); its tax regime has nonetheless attracted a flood of entrepreneurs, influencers and digital‑nomad millionaires. According to PwC’s tax summary, there is currently no personal income tax in the UAE, and individuals need not register or file personal tax returns. Businesses, however, are subject to a federal corporate tax introduced in 2023: the UAE government notes that corporate profits up to AED 375,000 (£80,500) are taxed at 0 % and profits above that are taxed at 9 %.

Dubai’s answer to Monaco’s residency requirements is the Golden Visa. One of the easiest routes involves placing a fixed deposit of AED 2 million (about £430,000) in a UAE bank. The deposit must be the applicant’s own funds and cannot be withdrawn for at least two years. Once the money is locked in, the government issues a renewable 5‑ to 10‑year visa; the entire process costs roughly AED 4,800‑5,700 in fees and takes 5–7 working days. The deposit route is popular because it avoids the vagaries of the property market and business investment.

Influencers, ex‑pats and the new “Bali”

The absence of personal income tax, combined with lenient social regulations and a glamorous lifestyle, drew a huge influencer community to Dubai. The Atlantic notes that the government actively courted creators via its “1 Billion Followers” summit and offered Golden Visas to influencers. However, when Iranian missiles hit the city during the 2026 Gulf war, the glossy façade cracked. Influencers posted images of smoke plumes and explosions; the day trader Mike Babayan noted that “people are packing up and leaving altogether”. Another influencer, Ralph Anthony Chiti, fled to London, saying he felt unable to speak freely in Dubai and that the city had become eerily empty.

Dubai’s government responded by threatening those who spread “rumours” about the war with prosecution. A British man was arrested for filming missiles, and campaigners warned that residents who post conflict images could face two years in prison. The Guardian reported that around 300,000 Britons and many other expatriates were trapped in the Gulf when hostilities erupted. As the perception of safety evaporated, talk among influencers turned to Bali as a new home: hot, Instagram‑friendly, cheaper and, crucially, far from Iran.

What about “Only Fanners” and high‑end escorts?

Dubai’s nightlife and permissive environment attracted a cohort of online content creators and escorts. The city’s wealth and anonymity offered a lucrative base for sex workers catering to wealthy expatriates. However, the Gulf war and the crackdown on social‑media posts have prompted many to leave; some returned to London, Paris or Los Angeles, while others decamped to Thailand or Indonesia, where visa rules are looser and digital work is tolerated. Reliable statistics are scarce, but anecdotal reports on social platforms suggest a noticeable migration away from the UAE to cheaper, less volatile destinations.

Who is Dubai for?

Dubai suits mid‑ to high‑income earners in tech, trading, and social media who want a cosmopolitan lifestyle without personal income tax. With the new corporate tax, true high‑net‑worth individuals may look elsewhere if they earn profits above AED 375,000. The fixed‑deposit visa demands roughly the same wealth threshold as Monaco’s bank deposit but offers a far larger property market and more relaxed residency requirements. The city’s hypermodern infrastructure appeals to digital nomads and entrepreneurs, but the events of 2026 show that political stability—not just tax policy—is essential.

The British Virgin Islands – 11 companies for every resident

Zero‑tax model and secrecy

The BVI is one of the Caribbean’s oldest and most notorious tax havens. Its International Business Companies Act of 1984 created a regime of zero corporate income tax, zero capital gains tax, zero inheritance tax and zero withholding tax for offshore companies. Companies pay a flat licensing fee of $350–$1,100 depending on authorised capital, and there are no foreign exchange controls, allowing free movement of capital. Property and payroll taxes apply domestically, but these are modest.

By September 2025 the BVI hosted 361,747 active companies, roughly 11 per resident (the population is about 32,000), and accounted for 40–45 % of global offshore companies. The jurisdiction channels 2.9 % of worldwide multinational financial activity and registers 8,348 new incorporations per quarter. Its role in profit shifting, ownership concealment and treaty shopping has been highlighted by the Tax Justice Network. The Panama Papers revealed that over half of the shell companies exposed were BVI entities. In 2025 the territory was grey‑listed by the Financial Action Task Force because of weak beneficial‑ownership transparency.

Suitability by wealth tier

The BVI’s appeal lies in its anonymity and simplicity. Entrepreneurs and multinational firms use BVI companies to hold assets, intellectual property or investment funds. There is no requirement to deposit money in local banks, and there are minimal residency obligations; thus the BVI suits corporate structures and individuals who need an offshore vehicle rather than a place to live. For individuals with £5 million+ in mobile assets, BVI entities can be used alongside residency in Monaco or Dubai. For the merely affluent seeking a physical home, the islands offer little: there is limited infrastructure and few cultural amenities.

Luxembourg – Europe’s discreet facilitator

History and tax machinery

In the 1960s Luxembourg reinvented itself as an offshore centre by encouraging banks to trade Eurobonds free of local taxes. Although Luxembourg’s statutory corporate tax rate is about 25 % (17 % corporate income tax plus surcharges), the effective rate can be as low as 1–2 % because of intricate tax structures, favourable rulings and a lack of transparency. For individuals, the country offers zero tax on royalties and long‑term capital gains (for holdings under 10 % of a company) and generous deductions for married couples, children, transport costs and medical expenses.

Luxembourg abolished bank secrecy and joined automatic information‑exchange regimes in the 2010s, but it still scores 55 / 100 on the Financial Privacy Index and features in the LuxLeaks and OpenLux scandals, which exposed secret tax rulings enabling multinationals to pay almost no tax. Around 80 % of profit shifting in the EU is channelled through Luxembourg and other havens.

Who benefits?

Luxembourg is attractive to corporations and ultra‑high‑net‑worth individuals who manage intellectual property, royalties or private equity funds. Unlike Monaco, there is no bank‑deposit requirement and no residency obligations for company directors. For individuals earning tens of millions, Luxembourg can reduce tax on dividends and capital gains to near zero. For middle‑class expatriates, however, the cost of living is high and tax advantages are minimal compared with neighbouring Belgium and Germany.

Jersey and the Isle of Man – Crown dependencies with (slightly) more rules

Jersey – high‑value residency and 20 % cap

Jersey is a British Crown dependency with its own fiscal system. There is no capital gains or inheritance tax, and personal income tax is capped at 20 %. Goods and services tax is only 5 %, and corporate income tax is 0 % except for financial services (10 %), utilities (20 %) and property income (20 %). Jersey attracts affluent immigrants through a High‑Value Residency programme: applicants must earn at least £1.25 million per year, pay £250,000 in annual taxes and have personal wealth exceeding £10 million. They must also purchase property worth at least £1.75 million for an apartment or £3.5 million for a house. These requirements limit entry to the ultra‑rich but provide a stable environment and quick access to London (40‑minute flight).

Jersey appeals to hedge‑fund managers and executives who need to remain close to the UK but want lower taxes. The island’s relatively strict residency obligations (living there for 183 days) and high property prices make it unsuitable for middle‑income earners. The corporate services sector is large and often used in tandem with BVI and Luxembourg structures to hold assets.

Isle of Man – the tax cap and quiet entrepreneurship

The Isle of Man, another Crown dependency, has personal income tax rates of 10 % on the first £6,500 of taxable income and 21 % above that, with a generous personal allowance of £14,750. There is no capital gains, inheritance, wealth or corporate income tax. Crucially, the Isle of Man offers a tax cap of £220,000 per year per individual (rising to £440,000 for couples), so high‑earning residents never pay more than this amount. The 2025 budget reduced the higher income‑tax rate from 22 % to 21 % and increased the personal allowance to £14,750, strengthening the island’s appeal.

The Isle of Man markets itself to entrepreneurs and retirees who want moderate cost of living, low crime and proximity to the UK. Property is cheaper than in Jersey or Monaco, and the tax cap makes it attractive for individuals earning £1–3 million per year. There are no bank‑deposit requirements, and residency can be established by renting or purchasing property and spending the majority of the year on the island. Tech start‑ups and e‑gaming companies have flourished under the island’s zero‑corporate‑tax regime.

Moral dimensions – freedom, fairness and the price of sunshine

High taxes and the exodus of artists

The notion of leaving home to avoid taxes is not new. In the 1970s Britain imposed a top marginal tax rate of 90 % on earned income after a 15 % surcharge on investment income. Mick Jagger explained that earning £100 meant the government took £90, making it hard to pay debts. When the Labour government raised the top rate to 98 % in 1974, musicians such as the Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, Jethro Tull, Tom Jones and Ringo Starr decamped to France, Switzerland, California and Monaco. Rod Stewart publicly complained that the 90 % rate made living in England “not worth it”. Only when Margaret Thatcher cut the top rate to 60 % in 1980 and 40 % in 1988 did the era of British tax exiles end.

This historical episode illustrates a recurring theme: high marginal tax rates can trigger migration among highly mobile workers. Economists argue that certain segments of the labour market, especially top earners with portable human capital, are responsive to taxes. From this perspective, some see tax havens as a necessary counterweight to over‑zealous governments.

Criticism – inequality and public services

Critics counter that tax havens undermine the social contract by eroding national tax bases and exacerbating inequality. The BVI and other havens facilitate profit shifting and ownership concealment, depriving governments of revenues to fund public goods. LuxLeaks revealed that multinational companies channel billions through Luxembourg to pay effective corporate rates of 1–2 %, while the BVI hosts a staggering number of shell companies relative to its population. These flows contribute to an estimated £492 billion in annual global tax losses.

A balanced view

The moral debate hinges on whether taxation is seen as a fee for civilised society or a penalty for success. Citizenship and residency are distinct legal concepts; the UK taxes citizens based on residence, not nationality, whereas the United States taxes citizens wherever they live. For British citizens, moving to Monaco or Dubai legitimately reduces their tax liability without breaking the law. However, when the super‑rich avail themselves of low‑tax regimes while benefiting from the UK’s infrastructure, education and rule of law, resentment understandably follows.

Governments bear some responsibility: excessively high tax rates (as in 1970s Britain) make avoidance attractive, while well‑designed systems can raise revenue without chasing away talent. The Isle of Man cap and Jersey’s flat 20 % rate demonstrate that moderate taxation can be competitive yet contribute to public services. On the other hand, Dubai’s hands‑off approach and the BVI’s secrecy show how near‑zero taxation can invite not just entrepreneurs but criminals, as seen in Marbella, where mafiosi mingle with millionaires and violent gangs now scare wealthy residents.

Conclusion: The Price of Paradise

For the super‑rich, tax havens are not interchangeable. Monaco is the Rolls‑Royce of fiscal refuges, combining zero income tax with glamour and strict residency checks – ideal for Formula One stars and hedge‑fund managers. Dubai sells a similar dream with no personal income tax and a Golden Visa, but the 2026 conflict revealed how quickly stability can vanish. The British Virgin Islands work best as a corporate address, offering near‑total secrecy, while Luxembourg excels at intricate tax optimisation for multinationals. Jersey and the Isle of Man provide lower‑profile alternatives with moderate taxes and proximity to the UK.

Ultimately, the decision to become a fiscal nomad reflects personal values as much as financial arithmetic. Some see paying taxes as a patriotic duty; others view high rates as punitive. As the world becomes more interconnected, the choice of tax haven will remain a barometer of political risk, lifestyle preferences and moral attitudes towards wealth. To paraphrase my favourite maxim, to understand the world, follow the money – and the mood.

The Easter holidays used to be about egg hunts and roast lamb. For the Riviera set they’re about something far more extravagant: a week of yacht races in turquoise seas, glamour on the grid at a Formula One track, or revelling in holy‑week processions before sipping cava under a palm tree. As Felicity Arganne, I’ve combed the world’s most extravagant social calendars to find out where celebrities, royals and assorted hangers‑on will be rubbing shoulders this Easter. Think Vanity Fair meets Tatler with a dash of champagne humour: we’re gossiping about where the superyachts drop anchor, who’s throwing the chicest party and how to dress like you own the harbour.

The Caribbean Regatta Circuit

BVI Spring Regatta, British Virgin Islands (23 – 29 March 2026)

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) open the Caribbean season with the Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival, a week‑long celebration that started in 1972 as a two‑day local race for 20‑foot Squibs and grew into an international festival. The event moved to Nanny Cay in 2002 and, by 2003, evolved into a week‑long festival with a “village” where locals and visitors mingle over rum punches, live music and fundraising for local charities. Edmiston describes it as a cornerstone of the Caribbean circuit where competitive racing meets sophisticated island soirées, and charter companies remind would‑be visitors that the regatta is as much about the parties as the sailing.

Social scene: Expect yacht‑hops, dockside concerts and dancing barefoot in the sand. Nanny Cay’s regatta village hosts nightly parties where teams and spectators mingle, while Scrub Island and Marina Cay provide more intimate soirées. The regatta has a proud community feel and supports BVI charities. Celebrities who love sailing—think Sir Richard Branson or Morgan Freeman—are known to drop by.

Flights & accommodation: There are no direct flights from London to Tortola (EIS); travellers usually connect via Antigua or St Martin. Recent deals found by Kayak show return flights from London to Tortola around £870–£910 in April. Resort prices vary: budget travellers can stay at Lambert Beach Resort (~£97 per night) while mid‑range options like Scrub Island Resort hover around £220 and luxury hideaways such as Peter Island Resort exceed £750. Book at least two months ahead and expect many resorts to require four‑night minimums.

What to wear: Nautical‑chic is de rigueur—white linen trousers, Breton stripes and oversized sun hats. For evening soirées pack a breezy maxi dress or a tailored blazer for men. Leave stilettos at home; deck shoes or wedges are practical on pontoons.

Insider gossip: Secure an invite to the Nanny Cay Crew Party—it’s where the latest charter rumours and boat‑swapping deals are whispered. There’s also a charity “poker run” across the islands; last year a Hollywood actor was rumoured to have lost his watch overboard after one too many Painkillers.

Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta (14 – 20 April 2026)

After charter captains began informally racing from Antigua to Guadeloupe in the 1960s, Antigua Sailing Week was created in 1967. By the 1980s, modern racing yachts outnumbered the wooden classics, so skippers Uli Pruesse and Kenny Coombs founded the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta in 1987. The regatta celebrates maritime heritage with fleets of vintage schooners and gaffers racing off English Harbour. Shoreside activities include cream teas and gig racing, a Concours d’Élégance for judging authenticity, and an open‑mic music night.

Social scene: Mornings are for racing; afternoons for rum‑punch picnics on Pigeon Beach. Evenings see captains and crew gather at the Admiral’s Inn for cream tea, followed by dancing aboard restored tall ships. Expect to spot yacht designers, fashion editors and members of the Onassis family.

Flights & accommodation: Kayak reports that afternoon flights from London to Antigua average £610 return, with September being the cheapest month (around £508) and December the most expensive. Stay in historic Nelson’s Dockyard in a restored 18th‑century building for around £150 per night, or splash out on a suite at Curtain Bluff or Jumby Bay (from £800). Budget travellers can find guesthouses in Falmouth Harbour for £80.

Dress code: Channel your inner Grace Kelly with wide‑brimmed hats, tailored shorts and silk scarves. For the Concours, vintage nautical attire is encouraged—think high‑waisted trousers and polished deck shoes.

Insider gossip: The most coveted invitation is the Concours d’Élégance prize‑giving on board the classic schooner Zaca (once owned by Errol Flynn). Word has it that an A‑list actress chartered a J‑Class yacht last year to celebrate her birthday.

Antigua Sailing Week (22 – 26 April 2026)

What began as a friendly race in 1967 has grown into one of the world’s major sailing events, drawing over 100 yachts and 1,500 crew. In 1988 the classic yachts broke away to form their own regatta, and in 2009 the Royal Ocean Racing Club Caribbean 600 race was added. For 2026, organisers are returning to the basics with four days of racing around the island and nightly parties at different beaches.

Social scene: Antigua Sailing Week is famous for its Reggae in the Park concert, where global acts play beneath Shirley Heights. Each night has a different theme—Lay Day at Pigeon Point features beach games and cocktail bars, while Dockyard Day offers craft markets and cultural performances. Expect to see yacht owners moor stern‑to and host lavish dock parties. Rumour has it that a royal family member disguised himself in a baseball cap at last year’s Lay Day.

Flights & accommodation: Fly to Antigua as above. Book a villa in English Harbour for groups (from £250 per night), mid‑range hotels like Copper and Lumber Store (£120–£170) or base yourself at the Inn at English Harbour for high‑end luxury (£350+). Many racing crews opt for shared villas to avoid the noise of the dock parties.

Dress code: During the day, sporty shorts, polo shirts and non‑slip deck shoes. At night, think Caribbean cocktail: bright dresses for ladies and linen trousers for men.

Insider gossip: The crew bar at Skullduggery Café is the place to hear which sailors are swapping teams; the winning boat traditionally buys shots for everyone.

St Barths Bucket Regatta (14 – 16 March 2026)

The Bucket Regatta began as a birthday party race in Nantucket in 1986—participants raced seven superyachts for bragging rights and a hardware bucket as a trophy. After stints in Newport, the event moved to St Barthélemy in 1995. Despite now attracting more than 40 superyachts, it remains fiercely non‑commercial and emphasises camaraderie over prize money. The 2026 social calendar lists a fleet welcoming party, dockside crew party, the famed Bucket Bash and a final awards ceremony with live music.

Social scene: St Barths is called the “Monaco of the Caribbean.” During race season Gustavia’s harbour is a forest of towering masts. Yacht hops, champagne tastings and fancy‑dress parties are the norm; the Golden Pineapple trophy is awarded not for sailing prowess but for party spirit. Expect to bump into tech billionaires, rock stars and designers at Nikki Beach after‑parties.

Flights & accommodation: There are no direct flights; visitors usually fly London–St Martin then hop on a 15‑minute puddle‑jumper to St Barths. Kiwi.com reports the cheapest one‑way flight from London to St Barths at £504 and average return fares around £1,113. Once on the island, hotels are expensive: BudgetYourTrip calculates an average nightly rate of $902 (about £703) with budget hotels around $608 (£474) and luxury properties averaging $1,269 (£990). Book months ahead; many hotels require five‑night minimums during Bucket week.

Dress code: Yacht‑club elegant. Ladies wear silk sundresses and wide‑brimmed hats; gentlemen opt for pastel trousers, boat shoes and crisp shirts. For Nikki Beach, think glamorous swimwear with kaftans and designer sunglasses.

Insider gossip: The Bucket Bash is legendary—last year a supermodel led the conga line while a tech CEO sprayed magnums of rosé. Keep an eye on the Golden Pineapple; insider betting on which crew wins the party award is as fierce as the racing.

Les Voiles de St Barth Richard Mille (21 – 27 April 2026)

Inspired by Les Voiles de Saint‑Tropez, Les Voiles de St Barth was founded in 2009 and quickly became one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious regattas. More than a thousand sailors compete across different classes, and the organisers aim to deliver Formula One‑style racing combined with a festive atmosphere. A Worth magazine piece notes that after a pandemic hiatus the regatta returned with legendary Nikki Beach parties, blow‑out celebrations and fireworks.

Social scene: Racing happens during the day, but the evenings are for concerts on the quay, Champagne‑fuelled dinners at Bagatelle and the famous closing fireworks. Non‑sailors can join corporate hospitality boats or charter small yachts to follow the races. Expect to spot pro sailors mingling with film producers and Parisian fashionistas.

Flights & accommodation: Same as the Bucket, though demand is slightly lower and hotel minimum stays are shorter. Flights via St Martin average £1,113 return and hotels range from boutique villas (£500+ per night) to hillside guesthouses (£300). For those on a budget there are a handful of self‑catering apartments from £150 per night.

Dress code: Effortless French chic. Breton stripes, straw boaters and espadrilles during the day; white trousers and silk blouses at night.

Insider gossip: Don’t miss the Nikki Beach closing party. One year the regatta’s honorary chairman danced on a table; this year rumours swirl that a well‑known horology brand will unveil a limited‑edition regatta watch during the event.

St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival (30 April – 10 May 2026)

For over 30 years, the St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival has been a rite of spring. It began in the early 1990s as a modest jazz gathering and has grown into a multi‑genre celebration drawing international stars. The main stage is at Pigeon Island National Landmark, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean; fringe events include Jazz on the Square and Tea‑Time Jazz. Artists who have graced the stage range from Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock to Rihanna and John Legend.

Social scene: This is where sailing boots are swapped for dancing shoes. During the day festivalgoers hike the Pitons or visit Marigot Bay; evenings are spent on Pigeon Island sipping rum punch while listening to reggae, soca and Afrobeat. The festival attracts musicians, Caribbean royalty and yacht crews recovering from Antigua Sailing Week.

Flights & accommodation: Flights from London to St Lucia are cheapest in September, averaging £441 (about $564), while December sees fares rise to around £800. The island’s hotels vary from budget guesthouses ($114/£89) to luxury resorts like Jade Mountain ($637/£497). Book early; the festival sells out quickly.

Dress code: Island‑casual. Light dresses, linen shirts, sandals and plenty of sunscreen. For night performances bring a pashmina—Caribbean nights can be breezy.

Insider gossip: Look out for impromptu jam sessions in Rodney Bay’s bars; in previous years, stars like Wyclef Jean have turned up unannounced. It’s also rumoured that an Oscar‑winning actor has a villa overlooking the main stage.

Down Under Glamour: Melbourne Grand Prix’s “Glamour on the Grid”

The Australian Grand Prix began in Adelaide in 1985 but moved to Melbourne in 1996 after a secret $60 million deal. Today, Melbourne’s Glamour on the Grid is often compared to the Met Gala. Harper’s Bazaar notes that the invite‑only opening night draws about 700 guests with over 600 on the waitlist; attendees walk an 83‑metre black carpet into the Marriott Bonvoy Lounge and are treated to free‑flowing champagne, gourmet menus and live music. Forte Magazine confirms that the 2024 edition was the eighth year of the event and marks the unofficial start of race weekend.

Social scene: This is where fashion houses and F1 drivers mingle. Guests start with a luxury pre‑party at the Pullman on Swanston before strolling the black carpet and exploring the pit lane. After the gala, VIPs decamp to private penthouse parties at Electric Bar or the rooftop at Crown Towers. You’re likely to spot Hollywood actors, supermodels and AFL stars.

Flights & accommodation: The journey down under is long; Farecompare records average return fares from London to Melbourne around $999 (about £779), with one‑way fares around $470/£367. Melbourne’s lodging spans from hostels like Space Hotel ($34/£27 per dorm bed) to mid‑range hotels in the CBD averaging $168/£131 and luxury suites such as Lanson Place Parliament Gardens at $317/£247 per night.

Dress code: Think Met Gala meets motorsport. Women wear couture gowns and statement jewellery; men favour sharp tuxedos or high‑fashion suits. Comfortable shoes are essential—the pit lane walk is long.

Insider gossip: The hardest ticket in town is the post‑grid party at an undisclosed penthouse overlooking Albert Park. Rumours swirl that a pop megastar performed an impromptu set there last year. Arrive with someone who owns a team; otherwise you’ll be waiting behind the velvet rope.

Mediterranean Extravaganza

Ibiza’s Easter “Semana Santa” Parties

While Ibiza is famous for summer closings, its Easter pre‑season is an insider secret. Chinois Ibiza in the marina hosts a four‑night programme from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday called Semana Santa. Each night features headline DJs (Seth Troxler, Maz, Miguelle & Tons and Satori) and draws “one of the most glamorous and beautiful crowds on the island.” Guests are encouraged to dress in boho‑glam on the final night.

Social scene: Expect international DJs, influencers and European royals mixing on the dance floor, with champagne towers and Mediterranean tapas. Daytime is for yacht charters around Formentera, spa treatments and long lunches at La Oliva in Dalt Vila. The parties conclude by sunrise, when revellers head for churros at the old fish market.

Flights & accommodation: Farecompare notes that the average return flight from London to Ibiza costs only about $145 (£113), with one‑way fares around $41 (£32) and April being the cheapest month. Accommodation in Ibiza ranges widely: BudgetYourTrip lists an average hotel price of $240 (£187) with budget hotels around $83/£65 and luxury properties averaging $704/£549. Book early for the boho‑glam weekend—Chinois sells out quickly.

Dress code: The brief is “boho‑glam.” Think bejewelled kaftans, fringed dresses and metallic sandals. Men lean toward linen trousers, unbuttoned shirts and felt fedora hats. Flash tattoos are optional.

Insider gossip: Look for after‑hours soirees aboard a superyacht anchored off Talamanca. Rumour has it that a certain DJ owns a 90‑foot yacht specifically for sunrise sets.

Mallorca’s Semana Santa & Fira del Ram

Mallorca combines solemn tradition with island fun. Holy Week (Semana Santa) begins on Palm Sunday when godparents present children with decorated palm fronds (“palmones”) covered in sweets and toys. Throughout the week the island hosts processions culminating in a Good Friday re‑enactment of the Passion and the Procession of the Meeting on Easter Sundayabc-mallorca.com. The following Sunday, known as Angel Sunday, families picnic at spots like Bellver Castleabc-mallorca.com. Running concurrently is La Fira del Ram, a fairground with rides and food stands that gives the city a carnival atmosphereabc-mallorca.com.

Social scene: The religious processions are moving and photogenic, but the after‑dark scene belongs to tapas bars around Palma’s La Lonja. Jet‑setters often moor yachts in Puerto Portals and attend private finca parties in the Tramuntana mountains. The Fira del Ram brings families and influencers together for Ferris‑wheel selfies and candy floss. You may spot Spanish aristocrats at the Thursday “Dijous Bo” market.

Flights & accommodation: Kiwi.com lists the cheapest one‑way flight from London to Palma at £18, with average round‑trip prices around £115 and nonstop return fares from £91. Palma’s hotel prices are among the most affordable in this roundup: the average nightly rate is $126 (about £98), budget hotels average $62/£48 and luxury properties around $319/£249. For a splurge stay at La Residencia or Can Alomar (£300+), while boutique hotels in Palma’s old town are £100–£150.

Dress code: For processions, modest attire—light trousers or skirts and covered shoulders. For the Fira bring comfortable shoes and a playful outfit (think jeans and a frilled blouse). At yacht parties choose pastel linen and espadrilles.

Insider gossip: Palma’s aristocracy holds invitation‑only lunches after the Maundy Thursday procession. It’s said that a certain shipping heiress hosts the best one at her medieval palace—arrive bearing ensaimadas.

At a Glance: The Best High-Society Easter Getaways

BVI Spring Regatta, British Virgin Islands

Why go: A glamorous Caribbean sailing week with dockside parties, yacht-hops and an old-money social scene that still feels deliciously clubby.
Best for: Sailing enthusiasts, society regulars, discreet luxury and warm-weather escapism.
Typical return flight from London: Around £870–£910 with connections.
Accommodation: Budget from around £97 a night, mid-range around £220, luxury from £750+.
Dress code: Nautical chic by day, elegant resortwear by night.
Insider tip: The real gossip is rarely on the racecourse. It is traded at the crew parties and private marina gatherings after sunset.

Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, Antigua

Why go: Heritage yachts, old-world charm, beautiful harbour scenery and a social calendar with serious polish.
Best for: Traditionalists, classic yacht lovers and those who like their glamour with a touch of maritime history.
Typical return flight from London: Around £610 return on average.
Accommodation: Budget from about £80, mid-range around £150–£170, luxury from £350+.
Dress code: Refined Riviera style, vintage nautical touches and crisp linens.
Insider tip: The smartest conversations happen around the concours events and harbour-side drinks, not just at the main parties.

Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua

Why go: A livelier, more energetic Caribbean regatta with beach parties, big crews and a younger, more boisterous social mix.
Best for: High-energy travellers who want sailing, sunshine and proper party atmosphere.
Typical return flight from London: Around £610 return on average.
Accommodation: Villas from around £250 a night, mid-range stays around £120–£170, luxury from £350+.
Dress code: Relaxed Caribbean cocktail style with practical daywear for marinas and decks.
Insider tip: The beach parties and late dinners are where the crowd loosens up and the social peacocking really begins.

St Barths Bucket Regatta, St Barths

Why go: Superyachts, champagne, glamour and a Caribbean social scene so polished it practically glitters.
Best for: Ultra-luxury travellers, yacht-watchers and anyone who enjoys people-watching at a very expensive level.
Typical return flight from London: Around £1,113 return on average.
Accommodation: Budget around £474 a night, mid-range around £703, luxury from £990+.
Dress code: Yacht-club elegance, designer sunglasses, silk dresses and polished casual tailoring.
Insider tip: The official parties are glamorous, but the most coveted invitations are still the private yacht gatherings.

Les Voiles de St Barth Richard Mille, St Barths

Why go: World-class sailing by day, chic parties by night, and a French-Caribbean atmosphere that feels sharper and more fashion-led than many rivals.
Best for: Stylish travellers who want regatta glamour with a distinctly French twist.
Typical return flight from London: Around £1,113 return on average.
Accommodation: Roughly £150 for simpler self-catering options, rising to £500+ and well beyond for premium stays.
Dress code: Effortless French chic, resort tailoring, elevated beachwear and evening glamour without trying too hard.
Insider tip: The smartest crowd often drifts towards the closing parties and the island’s best-known beach venues after racing ends.

St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, St Lucia

Why go: Music, culture, tropical scenery and a more relaxed but still high-end crowd, with plenty of opportunities for stylish nights out.
Best for: Music lovers, romantics and travellers who want luxury without the harder-edged yacht-club mood.
Typical return flight from London: Roughly £441–£800 depending on timing and season.
Accommodation: Budget around £89, mid-range around £214–£274, luxury from about £497.
Dress code: Colourful resortwear, linen, statement accessories and something light for breezy evenings.
Insider tip: The best moments are not always on the main stage. Some of the most memorable evenings happen in bars and smaller live-music spots afterwards.

Melbourne Grand Prix and Glamour on the Grid, Australia

Why go: Formula One excitement with black-tie parties, luxury lounges and the sort of polished celebrity energy that attracts cameras and couture.
Best for: Fashion-conscious travellers, motorsport fans and anyone who enjoys their social calendar with a side of speed.
Typical return flight from London: Around £779 return on average.
Accommodation: Budget from around £27–£35 for hostel-style stays, mid-range around £131, luxury from about £247.
Dress code: Black tie, fashion-forward eveningwear and statement looks.
Insider tip: The real prestige lies in the invitation list. Being seen at the right pre-party can matter as much as being trackside.

Ibiza Semana Santa Parties, Ibiza

Why go: Early-season Ibiza with a glamorous crowd, stylish nightlife and a more insiderish feel than the high-summer circus.
Best for: Partygoers, fashion people and those who like their Easter with DJs and champagne rather than chocolate eggs.
Typical return flight from London: Around £113 return on average.
Accommodation: Budget around £65, mid-range around £187, luxury from £549.
Dress code: Boho-glam, metallic touches, elevated beachwear and late-night confidence.
Insider tip: The official club night is only the beginning. The whispers usually point towards whatever happens afterwards on the terraces and boats.

Mallorca Semana Santa and Fira del Ram

Why go: A fascinating blend of religious tradition, local festivity, family atmosphere and understated Mediterranean elegance.
Best for: Travellers who want culture, spectacle and a sophisticated Easter closer to home.
Typical return flight from London: Around £115 return on average.
Accommodation: Budget around £48, mid-range around £98, luxury from £249.
Dress code: Modest, polished clothing for processions; chic Mediterranean casual for lunches and evening drinks.
Insider tip: This is less about ostentatious celebrity spotting and more about elegant local society, discreet wealth and knowing where to linger after the formal events.

In Brief

From superyacht regattas in St Barths and the British Virgin Islands to Ibiza’s Easter parties, Mallorca’s Palm Sunday traditions and Melbourne’s glittering Grand Prix social circuit, Easter has become one of the most stylish times of year to travel. Whether your idea of a perfect break involves champagne on a marina terrace, couture at a black-tie race event or a Mediterranean procession followed by a long lunch, these are the destinations where glamour, spectacle and society still know how to put on a show.

Closing Thoughts

Easter is no longer a quiet holiday; it’s the unofficial start of the high‑society summer season. From the BVI’s rum‑soaked regatta village to the black‑carpet glamour of Melbourne’s pit lane and the boho‑glam dance floors of Ibiza, there’s an Easter getaway to suit every style. Pack your linen, polish your sunglasses and practise your air‑kissing—it’s going to be a season of sails, style and sensational gossip.

Petrol price shock: why now is the time to go electric

The spring of 2026 finds Britain in the middle of a fuel‑price rollercoaster. Following the US‑Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, global oil markets convulsed and the cost of unleaded at the pump surged. In the United States the price of a gallon of petrol jumped from $2.94 to $3.58 – a 20 % increase – and similar or greater spikes have been recorded worldwide. Cambodia’s fuel went up almost 68 %, Vietnam’s 50 %, Nigeria’s 35 % and Canada’s 28 %. Asia, dependent on the Strait of Hormuz for crude shipments, faces an effective closure of that vital passage, and Europe’s leaders are meeting urgently to consider releasing strategic reserves. The upshot? Filling a thirsty V8 grand tourer now costs a small fortune.

There’s a silver lining. While petrol prices shoot skywards, electric vehicles (EVs) offer stable running costs and, increasingly, the style, performance and range that define the classic grand tourer. As a motoring hack who’s spent his career hustling Bugattis along the Riviera and lounging on superyachts, I’ve always believed that life is too short for slow cars and small boats. It turns out the same is true for range anxiety: the newest electric GTs can comfortably cover the distance from London to the Lakes and back on a single charge. Here’s my pick of the best, written for discerning UK readers in miles and pounds – because that’s how we measure our adventures and our bank balances.

What makes an electric grand tourer?

A grand tourer has always been about effortless distance: a big engine, a long bonnet, and a boot large enough for a weekend’s luggage. Today’s electric GTs swap twelve cylinders for lithium cells, yet they still deliver:

• Serious range: over 250 miles per charge. A modern GT should eat up the M6 without you scanning for chargers every five minutes.
• Fast charging: the ability to add 150–250 miles during a coffee stop. Most of the cars below can jump from 10 % to 80 % in under half an hour.
• Luxury and romance: whisper‑quiet cabins trimmed in leather, wood and metal. Soft‑close doors and glass roofs are the new carburettors.
• Proper pace: instant torque that pins you to the seat and nimble handling. After all, the twisting B‑roads of Devon demand more than just straight‑line speed.

The leading electric grand tourers for 2026

Lucid Air Grand Touring

America’s Lucid has built a shockingly good four‑door GT. Car and Driver reckons the 2026 Lucid Air can travel 420–480 miles on a single charge – that’s London to Edinburgh with miles to spare. In real‑world testing the Grand Touring version covered 410 miles on the motorway, and reviewers declared that “for luxurious EV road‑tripping, the Lucid Air reigns supreme”. It’s quick too: optional Sapphire trim delivers over 1,200 bhp and sub‑2‑second 0–60 sprints. Inside you’re cocooned in an airy glasshouse with sustainably sourced wood and an elegant 34‑inch curved display. Lucid doesn’t yet sell cars officially in the UK, but expect prices to start around £55,000 for the Pure and climb to about £190,000 for the flagship – less than a new Bentley and with much smaller fuel bills.

Audi e‑tron GT

Think of the e‑tron GT as a Taycan in a finely tailored German suit. Top Gear reports that the updated car now packs a 105 kWh battery and Audi claims around 386 miles of range in the base quattro, 374 miles in the S and 365 miles for the RS. That means a weekend blast to Cornwall and back on one charge. Thanks to its 800‑volt architecture, a suitable fast charger can take you from 10 % to 80 % in just 18 minutes – time for a quick flat white. The e‑tron GT rides on adaptive air suspension and offers a plush cabin with digital instruments; yet its dual‑motor setup delivers between 576 bhp and 912 bhp and an addictive shove. In Britain, the quattro starts at around £89,500, the S at £108,000 and the riotous RS at £127,000.

Porsche Taycan & Cross Turismo

Porsche’s Taycan isn’t the longest‑legged EV, but it may be the most exhilarating. Car and Driver lists an EPA range of 252–292 miles and says the four‑door delivers some of the most agile handling and sheer driving satisfaction you can find. Even the base rear‑drive model is rapid, while the ballistic Turbo GT covers 0–60 mph in under two seconds. If you need more space for luggage or dogs, the Taycan Cross Turismo adds an estate‑like rear end and about 1,200 litres of cargo volume without sacrificing performance. Prices for UK‑bound Taycans start around £80,000 and climb past £180,000 for the Turbo GT. For those who value driver involvement over maximum range, it’s hard to beat.

Rolls‑Royce Spectre

Fancy electric motoring doesn’t come more decadent than the Rolls‑Royce Spectre. Car and Driver praises its super‑quiet cabin and peerless interior. Two electric motors produce 577 or 650 bhp, and the brand quotes an EPA‑estimated range of about 329 miles. The Spectre isn’t built for Nürburgring lap times; it’s a 2+2 fastback designed for sedate cruising along the Riviera or through the Cotswolds. Options include a starlight headliner, lambswool carpets and a boot lined in leather. The price? From around £300,000 – but as the world’s first electric Rolls‑Royce, it’s the stuff of motoring history.

Cadillac Celestiq

Cadillac’s Celestiq is a hand‑built four‑seat hatchback priced to rival Rolls‑Royce. Its Ultium battery delivers about 303 miles of range – decent but not class‑leading – and a 200 kW charger adds roughly 75 miles in ten minutes. The interior is spectacular: a 55‑inch glass dashboard, four individual climate zones and a 38‑speaker AKG audio system. Buyers can customise virtually every surface. Production is limited and right‑hand‑drive versions haven’t been confirmed, but expect a UK landing price of around £275,000. For extroverts who crave exclusivity, the Celestiq is a mobile art piece.

Mercedes‑Benz EQS

Mercedes bills the EQS as the S‑Class of electric cars, and it lives up to the name. Top Gear explains that the EQS rides on a bespoke platform with a 107.8 kWh battery. In single‑motor 450+ trim it offers a claimed 484‑mile range, while the dual‑motor EQS 580 drops to about 420 miles. It features rear‑axle steering for agility, predictive air suspension that shares pothole data with other Mercedes, and noise‑cancelling technology. Inside, the optional Hyperscreen envelops the dashboard in a 55‑inch slab of glass. Charging is capped at 200 kW, so a 10–80 % top‑up takes roughly 30 minutes. The EQS 450+ starts at around £100,000, making it a refined choice for long‑distance electric touring.

Tesla Model S

The elder statesman of EVs isn’t finished yet. The 2026 Tesla Model S can travel up to 410 miles on a charge, with the standard model’s range beaten only by the Lucid Air. The dual‑motor base car delivers 670 bhp, while the tri‑motor Plaid variant explodes to 60 mph in around two seconds. Car and Driver notes that the Model S “falls flat on luxury” and its controversial yoke steering wheel isn’t for everyone. Still, starting at about £74,000 it’s a relative bargain, and Tesla’s Supercharger network remains the gold standard for road‑trip convenience. If your budget doesn’t stretch to a Lucid or Rolls, the Model S offers huge range, explosive performance and the freedom to roam across Britain and Europe.

Electric Grand Tourers at a Glance

Lucid Air Grand Touring

Range: up to 480 miles
Price: roughly £55,000 to £190,000
Why it stands out: The long-distance king. The Lucid Air is the one for readers who want proper grand-touring range without giving up a sense of occasion. It feels futuristic, spacious and expensive in the right ways, with enough battery stamina to make a spring road trip feel gloriously easy.

Audi e-tron GT

Range: up to 386 miles
Price: roughly £89,500 to £127,000
Why it stands out: The sharp suit of the electric GT world. It blends handsome styling, rapid charging and real cross-country pace with the sort of cabin quality Audi still does very well. For many buyers, this is the sweet spot between drama and daily usability.

Porsche Taycan / Taycan Cross Turismo

Range: up to 292 miles
Price: roughly £80,000 to £180,000
Why it stands out: The driver’s choice. The Taycan is less about headline range and more about how beautifully it covers ground. The Cross Turismo adds welcome practicality for weekends away, making it especially appealing for buyers who want sports-car feel with grand-tourer versatility.

Rolls-Royce Spectre

Range: around 329 miles
Price: from about £300,000
Why it stands out: Electric luxury at its most theatrical. The Spectre is not about bargain-minded efficiency or Nürburgring bragging rights. It is about silence, craftsmanship and presence. For readers chasing the most glamorous electric road-trip machine, this is the fantasy choice.

Cadillac Celestiq

Range: around 303 miles
Price: about £275,000
Why it stands out: Rare, bespoke and unapologetically extravagant. The Celestiq is for buyers who want something few others will ever own. Its range is respectable rather than class-leading, but its design, cabin theatre and sheer exclusivity give it real editorial appeal.

Mercedes-Benz EQS

Range: up to 484 miles in the most efficient version
Price: from about £100,000
Why it stands out: The quiet achiever. The EQS majors on refinement, comfort and effortless long-distance cruising. For readers who care more about serenity than showing off, it is one of the most convincing electric road-trip cars on sale.

Tesla Model S

Range: up to 410 miles
Price: roughly £74,000 to £110,000
Why it stands out: Still one of the strongest all-rounders. It may not feel as plush as the newer luxury rivals, but it remains seriously quick, impressively long-legged and backed by the easiest charging network for road trips.

Tips for a romantic electric road trip

• Plan your charging stops: Use apps like Zap‑Map and the car’s own navigation to locate rapid chargers along your route. Many will be found at motorway services, pubs and hotels.
• Pre‑condition the battery: Activating your EV’s battery pre‑conditioning en route to a charger ensures you hit peak charge rates – important for those 18‑minute top‑ups.
• Take the scenic route: Electric GTs are quiet – savour the sound of birdsong on B‑roads rather than the din of a motorway.
• Pack light but smart: Even the roomy EQS and Celestiq have less boot space than a Range Rover. Soft bags fit better than hard cases.
• Savour the silence: Without a petrol engine, you can enjoy conversation, music or just the wind rustling through hedgerows. That’s romance in motion.

Final thoughts

Rising petrol costs and geopolitical uncertainty make this spring the perfect moment to embrace electric grand touring. Whether you opt for the space‑age Lucid Air, the Germanic precision of Audi and Porsche, the stately opulence of Rolls‑Royce and Mercedes, the bespoke extravagance of Cadillac or the tried‑and‑tested Tesla, each of these cars proves that an EV can deliver romance, style and serious range. Better yet, Britain’s charging network grows every month. So fill your picnic hamper, choose a favourite playlist and point your electric GT towards the horizon. The road ahead has never been quieter – or more exciting.

In Brief

Petrol prices are climbing, but electric grand tourers are now good enough to make the switch feel less like a compromise and more like an upgrade. The best of them combine striking design, real long-distance range, rapid charging and the kind of cabin comfort that turns a weekend drive into an event. For UK buyers planning spring escapes, the standout names are Lucid, Audi, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Tesla and, at the very top end, Rolls-Royce.

Lights, Camera, Check-In

Welcome to Lights, Camera, Check-In, Riviera Ready’s new regular dispatch from the world’s most seductive screen locations, infamous hotels and beautifully scandalous hideaways. And where better to begin than with Dirty Rotten Scoundrels — a glossy Riviera caper of conmen, grand hotels, polished terraces and old-money glamour?

Each week, we slip behind the velvet rope to explore one unforgettable location, hotel or theme tied to film, television, music and celebrity lore. For the truly fabulous addresses, the story won’t end there: selected locations will be explored in greater depth in the print and digital magazine, complete with exclusive editorials, insider detail and model shoots staged in the very places where fantasy and glamour meet.

Released in 1988, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a sun-drenched comedy directed by Frank Oz, produced by Bernard Williams, and starring Michael Caine, Steve Martin and Glenne Headly. A remake of the 1964 film Bedtime Story, it was shot largely on the French Riviera, with Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Cap-Ferrat, Antibes and Cannes standing in for the fictional Beaumont-sur-Mer, giving the film its irresistible air of elegant mischief.

Made for around $13 million, it was a solid commercial success, taking roughly $42 million at the box office, and was warmly received for the chemistry between Caine’s silkily polished conman and Martin’s gloriously vulgar fraudster, with the “Ruprecht” scenes becoming especially iconic.

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Locations: The Real Secret Weapon

Yet the film’s real secret weapon is location. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is one of the great Riviera fantasies: Michael Caine and Steve Martin swindling rich women in a world of terraces, linen and moral vacancy. The fictional Beaumont-sur-Mer is really Beaulieu-sur-Mer, and much of the film’s charm comes from very real Riviera opulence.

Beaumont-sur-Mer was really Beaulieu-sur-Mer

The film may invent its own elegant playground, but Beaumont-sur-Mer is essentially Beaulieu-sur-Mer in a slightly more wicked mood. The Riviera light, the polished facades and the easy air of inherited money give the story its deliciously decadent backdrop.

The “Grand Hotel” was the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat

The film’s “Grand Hotel” is the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, now part of Four Seasons, all polished grandeur and old-money poise. It is exactly the sort of place where one might expect a conman in a cream suit to glide across the terrace with perfect confidence.

The casino and gallery were just as glamorous

The casino scenes were shot at the Rotonde Lenôtre, while the “art gallery” is the glorious Fondation Ephrussi de Rothschild. Both locations help give the film its air of Riviera excess, where every room seems designed for seduction, deception or both.

Lawrence Jamieson’s villa was Villa Hier

Lawrence Jamieson’s villa was Villa Hier on Cap d’Antibes — not, alas, somewhere one can casually book for a naughty long weekend. Still, it adds another layer of fantasy to a film already dripping in style.

When the French Riviera Is as Glamorous as Fiction

It is one of those rare films where the locations do not merely frame the action; they practically become accomplices. And it is one of those even rarer Riviera stories where the reality is somehow every bit as glamorous as the fantasy, only with fewer imposters and slightly more tasteful lighting.

The golden age of secrecy

The Swiss bank account was once the ultimate shorthand for hidden wealth, discreet power and money that preferred not to explain itself.

In the 20th century a numbered account in Zurich or Geneva epitomised discretion. Switzerland’s Federal Banking Act of 1934 codified confidentiality by making it a criminal offence for bankers to disclose client details without authorisation; article 47 carries penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment. This legal shield attracted wealth from around the world, and Swiss banks still manage roughly a quarter of all cross‑border private wealth. They offered stability, currency diversification and expert wealth management, but secrecy was their unique selling point.

The laws that once sheltered the honest and the illicit were exploited. The Gold – the British drama based on the 1983 Brink’s‑Mat robbery – portrays how part of the stolen bullion was laundered through Swiss and Liechtenstein accounts; characters describe sending £13 million through British banks into a Swiss account and later bouncing it through Liechtenstein companies. Real‑world scandals such as the “Suisse Secrets” leaks underscore how criminals and politicians alike used numbered accounts to conceal assets.

The slow death of banking secrecy

Pressure from the United States’ Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) (2010) and the OECD’s Common Reporting Standard (CRS) forced Swiss and other offshore banks to exchange account information with tax authorities. A 2025 article notes that banking secrecy has “almost disappeared” as banks in Switzerland, Luxembourg and the Cayman Islands now report foreign clients’ details under CRS. The Irish Times reports that from 1 January 2026 Ireland, the UK and more than 40 other nations introduced rules requiring major crypto exchanges to collect full transaction records and report customers’ tax residency; by 2027 the UK, European Union, Cayman Islands, South Africa and others will automatically share that data. The crackdown shows that privacy is migrating from bank vaults to government databases.

Even Switzerland joined the transparency wave. Swiss banks automatically report foreign clients’ account details to their home tax authorities under CRS and report U.S. clients under FATCA. Although the information is exchanged government‑to‑government, there is no public register of beneficial owners. A 2018 Bloomberg/WealthManagement article observed that handing over client data to foreign tax agencies – once unthinkable – did not destroy Swiss banking; Switzerland remains the world’s pre‑eminent offshore wealth management hub with about $2.3 trillion of offshore assets. The number of Swiss banks has fallen from more than 300 before the financial crisis to 253, and compliance costs have increased, but the sector persists by emphasising investment expertise and lawful wealth planning.

Alternative privacy havens

As Switzerland was forced to open its vaults, other jurisdictions filled the void. An analysis of privacy havens highlights the following centres.

St Kitts & Nevis

The federation’s Confidential Relationships Act 1985 imposes criminal penalties on bankers, lawyers and accountants who divulge client information, while company laws allow incorporation without public disclosure of shareholders or beneficial owners. It also offers citizenship-by-investment and complies with CRS and FATCA, though disclosure is channelled through official routes rather than public access.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands still protect client information through modernised confidentiality laws, and there is no public ownership registry. Beneficial ownership information is accessible only to authorities. The jurisdiction also benefits from no income or capital gains taxes, with residency-by-investment available for those seeking a discreet base.

British Virgin Islands (BVI)

The BVI historically became synonymous with anonymous company ownership. Today it maintains a private beneficial ownership register under the BOSS Act, but it has stopped short of making that information public. It participates in CRS and FATCA, yet still offers VISTA trusts and sealed court proceedings that appeal to those seeking lawful discretion.

Singapore

Singapore has become a refined Asian alternative, with banking secrecy codified in Section 47 of the Banking Act, which prohibits unauthorised disclosure of client information. There is no public beneficial ownership registry, and while it complies with CRS and FATCA, those exchanges happen behind closed doors. Its Global Investor Programme adds another draw for internationally mobile wealth.

United Arab Emirates

In the UAE, banking confidentiality is embedded in law, and while companies must record beneficial owners, that information is not publicly available. The free zones remain attractive for company formation with minimal disclosure, while golden visa routes offer long-term residence for investors and entrepreneurs.

United States

The United States is the great irony of modern financial privacy. It does not participate in CRS, meaning non-U.S. persons can open bank or investment accounts in places such as Delaware or South Dakota without that information being automatically shared with foreign tax authorities. Several states also offer “quiet trust” laws that shield beneficiaries and keep proceedings sealed. FATCA remains aggressive in the other direction, of course, with foreign banks required to report U.S. taxpayers to the IRS.

Cook Islands and Liechtenstein

The Cook Islands make disclosure of trust information a criminal offence and maintain no public register. Liechtenstein, meanwhile, continues to offer foundations with anonymous beneficiaries and keeps its beneficial ownership register closed. Both jurisdictions participate in CRS, but preserve a strong layer of domestic confidentiality.

Panama and Monaco

Panama retains a reputation for private banking despite reforms following the Panama Papers, and its private foundation remains a useful structure for those seeking privacy. Monaco has joined CRS, yet still preserves a highly discreet private banking environment, with no public disclosures and residency routes for wealthy individuals.

These havens illustrate the modern reality: privacy has not disappeared, but it now survives inside a tighter legal framework. Client information is generally shielded from public view, yet must still be disclosed to authorities through formal channels when required. For many wealthy families, privacy today is less about secrecy for its own sake and more about control, security and discretion.

These havens illustrate that privacy now exists within a legal framework: client information is shielded from public view but must be disclosed to authorities upon legitimate request. Many also offer citizenship‑ or residency‑by‑investment programmes, reflecting how privacy and mobility intersect.

The crypto revolution and its dark side

While banks have been forced to cooperate with tax authorities, digital assets have created a borderless alternative. According to Henley & Partners’ Crypto Wealth Report 2025, there were 241,700 crypto millionaires worldwide in 2025 – a 40 % increase in one year – including 450 centi‑millionaires (holding £80 million+ of crypto) and 36 crypto billionaires. The report notes that “money has lost its home address”; with nothing more than a 12‑word seed phrase a person can control a billion pounds’ worth of Bitcoin from anywhere. Crypto allows wealth to be stored without the need for a banking relationship or a fixed jurisdiction.

Privacy‑enhancing cryptocurrencies such as Monero and Zcash employ stealth addresses, ring signatures and zero‑knowledge proofs to obscure transaction details. Chainalysis explains that while these “privacy coins” operate like cash in digital form, exchanges often cannot trace transactions once coins are withdrawn. This makes them attractive to people seeking discretion – from those hedging against political instability to criminals.

Illicit use is no longer a fringe phenomenon. TRM Labs’ 2026 Crypto Crime Report found that illicit crypto transaction volume reached US $158 billion in 2025, a 145 % increase from 2024. Sanctions‑related activity, particularly flows linked to Russia, dominated the increase. The report notes that although illicit activity accounted for only about 1.2 % of total crypto volume, crypto rails are now “deeply embedded in traditional economic activity”. In other words, crypto has become both a legitimate asset class and a tool for state‑sponsored sanctions evasion, cybercrime and organised crime.

Regulatory pushback: CARF and the end of anonymity

Governments are responding. The OECD’s Crypto‑asset Reporting Framework (CARF) – the crypto analogue to CRS – aims to make digital assets as transparent as bank deposits. Ireland, the UK and more than 40 jurisdictions began requiring exchanges to collect and share transaction data from 1 January 2026. The rules will expand across the EU, Cayman Islands, South Africa, Hong Kong, Singapore, Switzerland and the U.S. by 2028. Tax authorities will routinely receive information about who bought, sold or transferred crypto.

Switzerland has committed to implementing CARF. A March 2026 analysis notes that Swiss banks will have to treat crypto‑asset reporting as part of their core infrastructure: CARF will classify banks offering custody, brokerage or tokenisation services as Reporting Crypto‑asset Service Providers, requiring them to identify clients, collect tax‑relevant information and report it to the Federal Tax Authority. Swiss implementation has been postponed until 2027, creating a pre‑exchange phase in which banks must invest in data systems and compliance without immediate benefit. The message is clear: the days of anonymous crypto are numbered.

Reinvention of the Swiss bank

Rather than fading away, Swiss banks are reinventing themselves. The Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Laws 2026 report notes that Switzerland’s government and regulator FINMA have embraced blockchain, passing a DLT Law that allows tokenised securities and establishes DLT‑trading venues. SIX Digital Exchange AG has been licensed to provide a fully regulated trading, settlement and custody infrastructure for digital securities. Swiss banks are now piloting crypto custody services and integrating blockchain into wealth management, while still offering the stability and estate‑planning expertise that have long attracted high‑net‑worth families.

More importantly, Swiss privacy laws remain robust within the country. Article 47 of the Banking Act still criminalises unauthorised disclosure, and there is no public registry of beneficial owners. The exchange of information under CRS and FATCA occurs behind closed doors; your neighbour or competitor cannot look up your balance sheet. For many clients, the value of a Swiss bank today lies not in evasion but in trusted stewardship of multi‑generational wealth, tailored investment strategies and access to international networks.

Why the discreet still crave privacy

It is fashionable to portray all secrecy as nefarious. In reality, privacy remains a legitimate and sometimes essential objective. High‑profile individuals may wish to protect family members from kidnapping or extortion; entrepreneurs may need confidentiality when assembling a sensitive acquisition; philanthropists often donate anonymously to avoid public scrutiny or expectations. A London‑based executive might prefer to pay rent on a discreet pied‑à‑terre for a secret lover, or to buy art quietly to avert speculation about their finances. Others simply do not want their former spouses or business rivals poring over their bank statements. Privacy is not synonymous with tax evasion – it can be about safety, autonomy and dignified living.

Trump Crypto and the Politics of the Rug Pull

The latest twist is political. Crypto is no longer just a libertarian alternative to the Swiss bank account, or a speculative playground for young traders in hoodies. Under Donald Trump, it has become something stranger: a financial instrument wrapped in personal branding, political access and regulatory power.

That is why the phrase “rug pull” now hangs over parts of the conversation. In crypto slang, a rug pull is the nightmare scenario: insiders hype a token, attract buyers, extract value, then leave ordinary investors holding a collapsing asset. It is not a term to throw around lightly, but it captures the fear surrounding politically branded coins and insider-heavy ventures.

When a sitting president’s family can profit from crypto while that same administration shapes the rules of the market, the old Swiss problem of secrecy begins to look almost quaint. The Swiss bank at least had marble lobbies, compliance departments and a century of reputational discipline. Crypto offers speed, liquidity and borderless access, but it also offers something more dangerous: a market where charisma, political proximity and online frenzy can move billions before the ordinary investor has worked out who is holding the other side of the trade.

That leaves the old Swiss-bank question with a sharper edge. Has crypto replaced the discreet vault — or merely built a louder, faster and less accountable version of it?

Verdict: has crypto killed off the Swiss bank?

Not quite. Crypto has not killed the Swiss bank. It has exposed what the Swiss bank account really represented: not just a place to store money, but a fantasy of mobility, privacy and escape.

The old vault belonged to a world of discreet bankers, numbered accounts, private offices and legal architecture. The new wallet belongs to a world of exchanges, stablecoins, meme coins, digital signatures and political spectacle. One spoke in whispers; the other moves at the speed of a viral post.

So the Swiss bank is not dead. For the very rich, it remains useful, respectable and beautifully upholstered. But its myth has changed address. Crypto has taken the old dream of borderless money and stripped away the marble, the manners and much of the discretion. What remains is faster, louder, more volatile and, in the wrong hands, far easier to weaponise.

Swiss banks, for their part, have not been killed – they are evolving. They still manage £1.9 trillion (approx. £2.3 trillion converted to sterling) of offshore wealth; they offer trusted custody, multi‑jurisdictional tax planning, access to exclusive investments and, crucially, a lawful degree of privacy. They are embracing blockchain, building crypto custody platforms and preparing for CARF.

The age of hiding untaxed gold bars in Zurich vaults is over, but the desire for discretion endures. The wealthy will likely continue to diversify – holding some assets in regulated private banks, some in offshore trusts and perhaps a fraction in crypto. Far from being obsolete, Swiss banks may remain the quietly powerful partners of choice for those who wish their wealth to be managed, preserved and, yes, kept discreet.

A friend’s father worked on the construction of an exclusive resort in Anguilla in the early 1980s. When Malliouhana opened in 1984, rooms started at over a thousand pounds per night and it immediately attracted celebrities like Madonna and other ultra‑rich travellers. According to staff, some guests begged management to raise the rates because the “riff‑raff” were slipping in. The property was the brainchild of British couple Robin and Sue Ricketts, who teamed up with Leon Roydon and his wife Annette to bring understated elegance to Mead’s Bay. The first villa guests included Giorgio Armani and, after opening, stars ranging from Madonna and Harry Styles to Adele flocked to its 26‑acre paradise with 63 suites, two‑tiered infinity pool and restaurants devoid of clocks or visible TVs. Adventure tastes better with a side of luxury – and with that spirit, let’s explore the world’s most exclusive hotels.

London and British Icons

The Peninsula London – the capital’s new titan

London’s grand hotels have long catered to royalty and Hollywood royalty, but The Peninsula London, which opened in 2023 overlooking Hyde Park Corner, resets the bar. Entry‑level rooms start around £1,100 per night, but the Peninsula Suite is a different world entirely. It occupies up to 1,300 m² when connected to neighbouring suites and includes a terrace overlooking Hyde Park, a formal dining room, a grand piano, a private gym and a 13‑seat cinema. Hidden panels reveal high‑tech controls while a valet box allows staff to collect shoes for polishing without disturbing guests. When fully configured the suite costs about £50,000 per night. There is no helipad, but Peninsula operates a fleet of customised Bentleys and Rolls‑Royces and can arrange helicopter transfers to Battersea Heliport.

The Langham – Sterling Suite

Just north of Oxford Street, The Langham’s Sterling Suite measures 450 m², includes six bedrooms with Italian marble bathrooms, a media lounge, a piano and 24‑hour butler service. Rates begin around £24,000 per night. Guests enjoy a spa, indoor pool and Artesian bar for cocktails. The suite doesn’t offer a helipad, but the concierge will arrange helicopter or chauffeur transfers.

The Lanesborough – Royal Suite

Facing Hyde Park Corner, The Lanesborough’s Royal Suite spans 4,790 sq ft (about 445 m²) with seven bedrooms and two living rooms and includes neoclassical detailing, marble bathrooms, a dining room and a dedicated team of butlers. The suite costs around £24,000 per night and includes complimentary chauffeur‑driven Rolls‑Royce service.

Claridge’s – Royal Suite

Claridge’s is legendary for Art Deco glamour and impeccable service. Its Royal Suite measures 225 m² with two emperor beds and twin dressing rooms, a Gilbert & Sullivan grand piano, dining table for eight and round‑the‑clock butler service. The suite is decorated with hand‑painted national flowers honouring the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and costs around £21,600 per night.

The Dorchester – Harlequin Penthouse

The Dorchester, famous for its restaurants (Alain Ducasse holds three Michelin stars) and celebrity clientele, recently underwent a major renovation. Its most exclusive accommodation is the Harlequin Penthouse: a two‑bedroom, 1,776‑sq‑ft suite overlooking Hyde Park. Prices start at £7,540 per night. The penthouse features a marble‑and‑onyx living room and dining for eight, a pink‑marble bathroom reminiscent of old‑Hollywood glamour and a terrace with panoramic park views. Amenities include a butler, private access, a private staircase and a “Royal Household” shoeshine service: leave your shoes outside before midnight and they return polished.

The Connaught – Suite Collection

Mayfair’s Connaught exudes club‑like elegance. Rooms and suites start from around £930 per night; the Coburg Suite in its new Suite Collection begins at £1,440 per night and comes with a personal butler, complimentary cocktails mixed from the Connaught Bar and access to the Aman Spa. Guests can also have shoes buffed and clothes pressed.

Beyond London – Country‑house glamour

Britain’s grand country houses offer seclusion and scandal in equal measure. Cliveden House sits on 376 acres of National Trust parkland. Built in 1666 by the Duke of Buckingham for his mistress, it later became the Astor family’s country retreat and was the backdrop to the Profumo scandal in 1961 when war secretary John Profumo met Christine Keeler. Cliveden became a luxury hotel in 1985; guests arrive by vintage boat along the Thames or by helicopter and stay in suites named for aristocrats. Meghan Markle spent the night here before her wedding. The house offers an outdoor pool, spa, helipad and moorings on the river.

Not far away, Danesfield House in Buckinghamshire was completed in 1901 as a stately home for soap magnate Robert William Hudson. Used as RAF Medmenham for photographic interpretation during the Second World War, it reopened as a country‑house hotel in 1991. Set in 65 acres, the hotel has 55 bedrooms and a private tree‑lined drive with a helipad. Current packages start from around £299 per room and include dinner and gin‑tasting.

The World’s Most Exclusive Escapes

North Island, Seychelles

This private island in the Seychelles has only 11 villas. Ten 450‑m² beachside villas and a 750‑m² “Villa North” each come with a plunge pool, outdoor showers and direct beach access. All‑inclusive rates start from about €10,500 per night for a Beachfront Villa and €13,000 for Villa North. Rates include all meals, daily private dining experiences, a 24/7 villa host, daily massages, guided hikes and water sports. The island is reached via 15‑minute helicopter transfer or a 45‑minute boat ride from Mahé, making it ideal for travellers arriving by yacht or helicopter.

Frégate Island Private, Seychelles

Another Seychellois sanctuary, Frégate Island hosts just 17 villas, each with an infinity pool and jacuzzi, indoor and outdoor showers and its own butler and solar‑powered buggy. The island is ringed by seven beaches and home to giant Aldabra tortoises and rare birds. Guests arrive on a 15–20 minute helicopter flight from Mahé and are encouraged to explore conservation projects. Rates range from €3,500–6,000 per night.

The Brando, French Polynesia

Set on Tetiaroa atoll once owned by Marlon Brando, The Brando features 35 villas, each with a private plunge pool and outdoor bathtub. A one‑bedroom villa costs from US $3,215 (£2,500) per night for one person and $3,710 (£2,900) for two, while two‑ and three‑bedroom villas cost $7,420 (£5,700) and $11,130 (£8,600) respectively. Rates include meals, beverages, daily excursions, massages and bicycle use; transfers by the resort’s private airline Air Tetiaroa cost $680 per adult. Guests arrive by private aircraft or charter helicopter from Tahiti.

Laucala Island, Fiji

Owned by Red Bull co‑founder Dietrich Mateschitz, Laucala Island in Fiji spreads across 3,000 acres with only 25 villas. Rates start from around US $5,000 (£3,900) per night, which includes all meals, golf on an 18‑hole course, water sports, horse riding, a deep‑sea fishing boat, and even submarine dives. The island has its own runway for private jets; guests receive a personal buggy to explore.

Framed by water – underwater and over‑water marvels

The Muraka, Conrad Maldives

For the ultimate aquatic fantasy, the Muraka at Conrad Maldives is a two‑level residence with a bedroom 16 feet underwater. Above water, the suite offers a private infinity pool, living and dining areas and an outdoor deck; below, floor‑to‑ceiling windows reveal reef life around your king‑size bed. The 550‑m² residence includes three bedrooms, a private gym, a butler, and dedicated chef. It costs US $50,000 (≈£39,000) per night and is reached by seaplane or speedboat from the main resort.

Burj Al Arab, Dubai

The sail‑shaped Burj Al Arab remains a benchmark for ostentatious luxury. Its Royal Suite occupies two floors and costs 8,100 AED (£1,700) per night. Guests enjoy gold‑accented décor, a private cinema, library, personal elevator, rotating four‑poster bed, a team of butlers and access to a helipad. The Presidential Suite (5,500 AED/£1,150) and Ambassador Suite (3,200 AED/£670) also include butler service and panoramic Gulf views.

The Icehotel, Sweden

In Swedish Lapland, ICEHOTEL is rebuilt every winter from blocks of Torne River ice. Art suites carved by international artists are open from December to April, while a permanent ICEHOTEL 365 offers cold rooms year‑round. Prices on glamping.com start from $138 (£109) per night (additional guests cost $118 per adult). Guests sleep on reindeer hides and expedition sleeping bags and can warm up in the sauna and a nearby warm room. The hotel arranges dog‑sledding, ice sculpting and Northern Lights safaris.

Urban extravagance

Royal Penthouse Suite, Hotel President Wilson, Geneva

This is arguably the world’s most expensive suite. Occupying the entire top floor of the Hotel President Wilson, the Royal Penthouse Suite spans 18,000 sq ft (about 1,680 m²) and costs around US $80,000 (£63,000) per night. It offers 12 bedrooms, each with marble bathroom and Hermès toiletries; a Steinway grand piano and billiards table; views over Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc; and high‑security features such as bulletproof windows, a private lift and a safe room. A team of butlers, chef and chauffeur cater to guests’ every whim. Heads of state and rock stars appreciate the discreet helipad at Geneva airport nearby and the suite’s private limousine service.

The Mark Penthouse, New York City

The Mark’s penthouse is North America’s largest hotel suite. The duplex boasts five bedrooms, six bathrooms, two wet bars, a 25,000‑sq‑ft rooftop terrace overlooking Central Park and a living room beneath the building’s cupola that can transform into a ballroom. There are library and dining rooms, a kitchen with wine fridge and a master suite with his‑and‑hers bathrooms. The suite rents for US $75,000 (£59,000) per night and has hosted A‑listers such as Anna Wintour and Meghan Markle (who held her baby shower here). Guests arrive via private elevator; helicopter transfers can be arranged to the East 34th Street heliport.

Empathy Suite, Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas

Art meets excess at Las Vegas’s Empathy Suite, designed by Damien Hirst. At US $100,000 (£78,000) per night, it’s one of the world’s priciest hotel rooms. The two‑storey suite features two master bedrooms, massage rooms, a salt therapy room, a private bar and a cantilevered jacuzzi overlooking the Strip. A butler and chauffeured car are included.

Best for Yachts, Helicopters and Off‑the‑Beaten‑Path Arrival

• North Island and Frégate Island both have dedicated heliports and moorings for yachts; North Island guests often arrive on private yachts or the island’s helicopter.
• Laucala Island has its own airstrip for private jets and a marina for yachts; a miniature submarine waits for underwater adventures.
• The Brando and Muraka require private flights or seaplane transfers. Both can arrange yacht mooring on request.
• Cliveden House sits on the River Thames with a private mooring; guests may arrive by vintage wooden launch. Danesfield House also overlooks the Thames and offers a helipad.

Gossip, Celebrity Guests and Scandals

Exclusive hotels cultivate discretion, yet gossip always leaks. Malliouhana’s star‑studded guestbook includes Madonna, Adele and Harry Styles. The Dorchester has hosted Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor; the hotel’s original Harlequin Suite was where Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton honeymooned and where the actress kept her cache of jewels.

Cliveden’s political scandal remains Britain’s most infamous: in 1961 at the estate’s swimming pool, model Christine Keeler met war minister John Profumo, igniting an affair that toppled a government. More recently, Meghan Markle spent her last night before marrying Prince Harry there.

Across the Atlantic, The Mark’s penthouse regularly hosts fashion powerhouses and Hollywood royalty. Anna Wintour and Serena Williams hosted Meghan Markle’s baby shower, causing a paparazzi storm. At the Palms Casino Empathy Suite, rumours swirl of eye‑watering gambling losses and extravagant parties; the Damien Hirst sculptures alone are valued in the millions.

Conclusion

Adventure and luxury are not mutually exclusive – they’re complementary. From London suites with royal shoe‑shine services to underwater bedrooms in the Maldives and private islands reached only by helicopter, these hotels remind us that the journey can be as exhilarating as the destination. In the words of this traveller: “Adventure tastes better with a side of luxury.”