Access to the best shopping, hospitality and healthcare remains key. London ranks first in the lifestyle rankings for its depth of offering across shopping, dining, hospitality, members’ clubs and quality of life. In the face of shifting tax regimes in the United Kingdom, the fact that London remains the top destination for lifestyle factors demonstrates the ongoing appeal of the British capital.
Shopping is becoming more private and curated, where stylists, trunk shows and invitation-only previews are the new norm. While craftsmanship remains central, there is a growing emphasis on heritage and sustainability for fashion and lifestyle brands. Bespoke collaborations and limited-edition artisan collections that reflect cultural narratives are highly sought-after, with fashion becoming a vehicle for identity and values.
The top destinations by number of retail shops for top brands are unsurprisingly Tokyo, Seoul, New York City, Paris and London – the fashion capitals of the world. Brands are also taking notice and opening permanent stores and pop-up shops in destinations such as St Moritz in February, and the Hamptons and the Côte d’Azur in August – demonstrating the growing importance for brands to follow their customers year-round.
Dining has become more than food – it is about storytelling and provenance. Immersive culinary experiences, often in secluded or private settings, put ethical sourcing and sustainability front and centre. Private dining with Michelin-starred chefs continues to appeal, while gastronomic clubs, such as The Arts Club, are blending fine dining with wellness and longevity. The Michelin Guide remains a standard measure of luxury. The top locations in the HNWI Hotspot Index for Michelin Guide restaurants include Tokyo and Paris, with more than 500 restaurants each, New York City, London and the Côte d’Azur, with more than 300 each.
The top destinations for the number of luxury hotels include Bali, London, Paris, New York City and Beijing, each with over 120 luxury hotels, according to classifications by STR, resort locations reign supreme by share of luxury compared to the total hotel supply. Turks and Caicos, Gstaad and Courchevel lead, with more than 75% of the total supply of hotel rooms being luxury. Personalisation is the key differentiator, with guests looking for bespoke experiences. Luxury hotels are responding by offering immersive cultural moments – from heritage tours and craft workshops to culinary storytelling. Wellness has also become a central pillar, with longevity retreats, silent spas and biohacking programmes becoming increasingly popular. Privacy is paramount, with off-market estates, private islands and member-only resorts rising in popularity by offering discretion and exclusivity. These often come with bespoke itineraries, private staff and integrated security.
Lifestyle choices are increasingly shaped by a blend of social influence, personalisation and a desire for meaningful experiences.
Clustering effects mean that friendship groups will tend to follow each other to specific destinations, often latching onto one individual’s lead when exploring new markets. For advisors and developers, timing is critical, and targeting the first arrival can set the tone for an entire cohort.
Private members’ clubs are also transforming. In a hyper-mobile world, global access is essential. Members’ club networks offer consistency across cities, while newer clubs are focusing on community, wellness and shared values. These spaces are multifunctional places to work, socialise and recharge. The modern club remains rooted in exclusivity, but increasingly emphasises bringing together people with similar interests across the globe.
Health is increasingly viewed as the ultimate form of wealth, driving investment in environments that support physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Urban settings are being reassessed for their impact on health, with many seeking space and access to nature in their secondary homes. Remote properties, particularly in places such as New Zealand, are attracting both domestic and international interest.
Wellness programmes at hotels and spas are guided by biometric data and include mindfulness, meditation and digital detoxes. The pursuit of peak performance is driving interest in clinics in Switzerland and California, among others, offering full-body scans, genetic testing and tailored protocols as part of annual health retreats.
The lifestyle of the global wealthy is being redefined. It is no longer just about accumulation but intentional living – where every choice reflects a deeper narrative of health, heritage and purpose.