Автор: karymsakov_qq4zn395

The designer and TV personality’s modern Venice retreat delivers warm, lived-in vibes with a side of her signature white-on-white palette. The designer and TV personality’s modern Venice retreat delivers warm, lived-in vibes with a side of her signature white-on-white palette.

The Microsoft cofounder is selling a modest four-bedroom home that borders his 66,000-square-foot compound in Medina, Washington.  The Microsoft cofounder is selling a modest four-bedroom home that borders his 66,000-square-foot compound in Medina, Washington. 

The British marque likely built less than 3,000 cars in total across several model lines during its 65-year history, which ended in 2020. The British marque likely built less than 3,000 cars in total across several model lines during its 65-year history, which ended in 2020.

Tim Heywood and Falcon Tenders have made a runabout with sophistication in spades. Tim Heywood and Falcon Tenders have made a runabout with sophistication in spades.

Drinks experts explain why stronger spirits are back. 

If you just read the headlines, you’d think everyone was running scared of alcohol; that there was only one way for drink’s strength to head – and that was down. But rather counter-intuitively, high-proof spirits are also on the up – not just in whisky (which has a tradition of cask-strength bottlings) but also gin, rum, and tequila.  

Take the new British luxury gin Aureus Vita – it’s bottled at 123.6 proof/61.8 percent abv, which is several degrees higher than most Navy Strength gins. The strength, the packaging, and the design of the still draw inspiration from the ‘Golden Ratio’ 1:1.618, which recurs in art, architecture, music, and nature (the gin’s proof represents a ratio of 1.618 to 1 between alcohol and water). Rich and powerful, in an almost cake-y type way, the gin sells for a punchy $235 per bottle.

See also: Why Runners Are Falling in Love with Wine, Beer, and Whisky Regions

The Botanist gin – which is made by Islay’s Bruichladdich distillery – recently launched a 100 proof/50 percent abv spin-off, The Botanist Distiller’s Strength, which offers an amped-up, but still extremely elegant, platform for its 22 foraged botanicals.

“I was inspired by Bruichladdich Distillery’s long practiced art of bottling whisky at 50% abv,” says head distiller Adam Hannett, “and at this strength, flavorful oils from distillation are enhanced, the viscosity is richer, and it’s this richness that carries the flavor of the spirit.”

Some more high-end aged sipping rums have been upping their proof as well, in a bid to position themselves more like a single malt whisky. The excellent Exception Cask Selection series from Foursquare in Barbados often features cask-strength and high-strength editions around the 120 proof (60 percent abv) mark. 

American whiskey has also been hitting the heights. Woodford Reserve recently released its strongest whisky to date, Woodford Reserve Distillery Series Chocolate Whisper Redux which is bottled at a whopping 139.4 proof (69.7 percent abv).

As agave drinkers get more discerning, there has also been a noticeable increase in high-strength tequilas and mezcals.

“The past few years have seen a big increase in high-proof products,” says Grover Sanschagrin, founder of US-based agave spirits recommendation app Tequila Matchmaker. “And we’ve seen higher-than-average ratings for high-proof products […] our users get quite excited to try them.’”

Top performers in a Tequila Matchmaker blind-tasting included Siembra Valles High Proof Tahona (99 proof/49.5 percent abv), Trujillo Manifesto 56 (92.6 proof/46.3 percent abv) and the ‘still-strength’ Santo Fino Blanco 110 (110 proof/55 percent abv) and Amatiteña Tequila Blanco Origen (98 proof/49 percent abv).

Sanschagrin believes “high-proof products, especially still-strength tequilas, are the closest thing to the source, and are often the most expressive of cooked agave […] Aroma and flavor can be muted because of the higher alcohol, but the finish will be a lot longer and evolve on the tongue, and the mouthfeel is often more full-bodied, thick, and oily.”

The Whisky Exchange’s head buyer Dawn Davies MW, however, is at pains to point out that more is not always more.

“There’s this idea among some spirits drinkers that bigger is automatically better. But what matters more is balance; that the spirit is bottled at the strength that’s right for itself. I think for most spirits, the strength that carries flavor really well, but isn’t too alcohol forward, is actually round the 44-48 percent abv (88-96 proof) mark.”

There’s another, more cynical, reason why whiskey producers in particular may be leaning into high-proof, and that’s a simple case of over-supply, says Marten Lodewijks, managing director of drinks analyst IWSR.

“Through the pandemic there was a massive increase in demand, so whisky producers put more whisky into barrels. That demand then plateaued and is now starting to decline. So, there’s a whisky glut – which, for producers, is a challenge.

“If whisky producers can generate interest in higher-abv products then they don’t need to water down the whisky as much before bottling, and they get fewer bottles out of a barrel. So, there’s a concerted drive to push up the abv because then they can off-load more barrels at a premium.”

See also: Scotch Has Lost Its Way – Can It Come Back?

An advantage of high-strength spirits is you can dilute them to your taste. Scotch whisky has a strong (and very respectable) tradition of this – and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. The key is to add water in tiny increments (using a dropper helps), and taste as you go. You’ll find the whisky evolves and different characteristics come to the fore.

Another easy way to add dilution gradually is stirring with ice, and that’s why the Old Fashioned is such a great cocktail for showcasing high-strength whiskies.

On the agave front, Sanschagrin recommends using Pantera de Oro’s 106 proof (53 percent abv) cask-strength extra-añejo to make a Tequila Sazerac. “I make them at home all the time and it’s perfect for that.”

Max Venning, co-owner of the acclaimed Three Sheets cocktail bars in London, often uses tiny amounts of high-proof spirits to give his cocktail recipes a lift. “I might use a dash of agricole rum to give a drink a subtle funky, fermented note. Longer-aged, higher strength cask-aged spirits tend to have more vanilla and body which can be great for adding depth, texture and, often, sweetness to a drink.”

The Botanist Distiller’s Strength is great, he says, “because it allows you to get a martini really, really cold because you can stir it down for longer, without losing the intensity and nuance of its lovely wild, floral botanicals.”

Just sometimes, more is more.

From centuries-old Scottish mills to contemporary labels reworking classic silhouettes, these are the coveted British knitwear brands that ship to the states. 

Maybe it’s the nation’s temperamental climes that have helped breed such skilled artisans, but the British Isles (Scotland and Ireland in particular) make some of the world’s best knitwear.

While you’ll definitely find evidence of such amidst the collections of luxury houses – Dior and Burberry, in particular – there are some independent knitwear brands that shouldn’t be glossed over. These brands often have a direct involvement with the mills that make their products, and in some cases, familial ties, making the end result all the more special. Here, we explore some of the best that are worth your dime, ranging from centuries-old institutions to modern pioneers.

& Daughter

Founder Buffy Reid’s connection to knitwear is generational, starting with her grandmother, an avid knitter who passed on her woolly passion to Reid’s father. He built a career selling Donegal tweeds and Scottish cashmere to retailers like Browns, and in 2013, he worked with Reid to set up her own brand. Today, they work with five yarns and five makers from the same mills Reid’s father worked with, creating pieces that balance timelessness with style – think: pops of color and more modern silhouettes. The label has even caught the eyes of A-listers Cillian Murphy and Paul Mescal, who regularly endorse it.

and-daughter.com

John Smedley

This English brand proudly holds the title of having the world’s oldest manufacturing factory, established in 1784 at Lea Mills, Derbyshire. While it initially spun cotton and produced muslin, it came to be known for long johns after adding knitting machines in 1825. Today, the brand has expanded to craft a full wardrobe of pieces in luxury merino wool and cashmere, but their knits are the best place to start. Their traditional silhouettes make them a great port of call for classic design.

johnsmedley.com

Drake’s

Traipse through London’s most stylish neighborhoods, and it’s likely that the men will be wearing at least one garment from Drake’s. It’s a favorite amongst many for its contemporary silhouettes and high-end quality, and a quick peruse of the label’s social media shows a community of the city’s ‘it’ crowd endorsing its pieces. So if you’re looking for something more fashion-forward, head to their knitwear section. The Shetland line is made by knitters in the Scottish Borders, and come in fun prints and colors.

us.drakes.com

Johnstons of Elgin

With over 225 years of history, this family-run business is profoundly and proudly Scottish, yet their mission to get the nation’s knitted finery across the globe started back in 1799. Alexander Johnson (the first of eight generations at the helm) invested in international shipping to destinations such as Canada and Jamaica to ensure their woolly goods reached more corners of the world. Of course, that’s still the case today, so you can nab yourself an Argyle knit (a firm favorite in their collection) from its homeland.

johnstonsofelgin.com

N.Peal

Founded in 1938 by Nat Peal, who was hailed the «British King of Cashmere», the label N.Peal is known for its excellent cashmere collection which it crafted from sustainably sourced, 100 percent Mongolian cashmere. One of the label’s most popular edits are its James Bond sweaters, which were created for the movies Skyfall and Spectre, either inspired by or worn by 007 himself.

us.npeal.com

Survival of the richest? This is how the 1 percent are hiding in plain sight with underground bunkers. 

Billionaire bunkers — discreet, fortified, and increasingly designed to function as self-contained worlds – are fast becoming a new asset class. What was once the domain of Cold War paranoia and fringe survivalists has been rebranded for a post-pandemic, climate-anxious elite. Think less tinned food and tin foil hats, more filtered air systems, biometric access, and, yes, staff quarters, in case the apocalypse arrives with a dress code.

Why billionaire bunkers are on the rise

Interest in ultra-luxury bunkers has grown in recent years, shaped by a mix of global anxieties. Websites list everything from geopolitical tension and climate instability to pandemics and concerns about fragile infrastructure as reasons for investing. For many buyers, bunker projects are framed less as panic responses and more as long-term planning, sitting alongside private aviation, offshore holdings, and other tools designed to preserve mobility and security.

Companies such as UK-based Subterrenean Spaces and bespoke firms like BillionairesBunkers.com openly market high-end subterranean shelters as turnkey lifestyle solutions, offering everything from blast-resistant construction to biometric security systems and EMP shielding. These are not austere concrete vaults, but engineered environments designed to sustain families for extended periods without sacrificing comfort.

The cultural normalization of bunker ownership has also played a role. As Indulge Global reports, luxury bunkers are increasingly positioned as “wellness-forward sanctuaries,” complete with gyms, spas, and air-filtration systems that exceed hospital standards.

Location, design, and the experts behind the bunkers

Secrecy is fundamental to bunker projects, but certain regions have quietly emerged as preferred locations. In the United States, the Midwest remains popular thanks to stable geology, low seismic risk, and vast tracts of private land. States such as Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota also benefit from legacy fallout infrastructure that can be repurposed or expanded.

Internationally, New Zealand continues to attract UHNWI seeking geographic isolation and political stability, while Central Europe has seen the rise of ambitious conversions like Oppidum, a former Cold War bunker in the Czech Republic transformed into a luxury underground complex with private suites, wine vaults, and on-site medical facilities.

Design is where modern bunkers depart most dramatically from their utilitarian predecessors. Today’s builds integrate renewable energy systems, independent water and food supplies, and layered security – all concealed beneath interiors that resemble private members’ clubs more than military installations. Architects often collaborate with former military engineers, security consultants, and resilience specialists, working under strict non-disclosure agreements to protect client anonymity.

Perhaps the most widely discussed example is Mark Zuckerberg’s estate in Kauai, as reported on Wired, where planning documents revealed a substantial underground structure reportedly spanning thousands of square feet. While Zuckerberg has publicly described it as “a basement,” investigative reporting suggests the space includes reinforced doors, independent mechanical systems, and secure access tunnels. The project has become emblematic of how survival infrastructure is being reframed – not as fear, but foresight.

What it actually costs to build a billionaire bunker

At the luxury end of the spectrum, bunker construction quickly moves into eight and nine-figure territory. These are not off-the-shelf shelters, but bespoke underground estates engineered to withstand everything from natural disasters to geopolitical disruption. According to Indulge Global, large-scale projects can start in the tens of millions, with fully customized builds reportedly reaching close to $100m, depending on scale and amenities.

Members-only developments are pushing costs even higher: the forthcoming Aerie bunker in Virginia, for example, is backed by a reported $300 million construction budget, with individual memberships priced at around $20m. Even more ‘accessible’ luxury bunkers, including converted missile silos in the U.S. Midwest, command seven-figure sums.

For the ultra-wealthy, bunker construction is no longer about preparing for the end of the world. It is about control, resilience, and optionality. In an unpredictable age, the ultimate luxury may not be where you can travel, but where you can safely stay, hidden in plain sight beneath it.

The opulent four-bedroom home is only for full buyout stays, with prices starting at roughly $13,300 per night. The opulent four-bedroom home is only for full buyout stays, with prices starting at roughly $13,300 per night.

Find out which parts of the world dominate the global property market in 2026. 

Perhaps you’re searching for a lucrative rental apartment; maybe it’s a complete relocation to find that dream home that always feels just out of reach. Whatever you’re looking for, it’s vital to get to grips with the global property markets and have a clear understanding of which are the most expensive.

After the ongoing uncertainty of the past few years, prime residential markets are now going from strength to strength, with prices broadly outperforming earlier predictions. After Covid-19 sent buyers heading for the countryside with longings for space, seclusion, and privacy being key driving forces behind new property sales, the masses are now back in cosmopolitan hubs – and price points reflect that. In the first half of 2025, Savills reports that average global prime residential capital values grew 0.7 percent, while rents increased 2 percent, signaling that demand from affluent buyers and renters remains robust.

As expected, there are some regions that not even a global pandemic or political unrest can shake. According to a recent report by Savills, Monaco remains at the top of the list as the most expensive place to buy property, thanks in no small part to its abundance of wealthy residents.

Ranked: The most expensive property markets in the world

Find out below which other regions and cities topped Savills’ list of the world’s most expensive property markets and the key reasons that buyers flock to them, even in troubled times.

Monaco, Europe — $5,249.56 per sq ft

Monaco topping the list of the most expensive property markets in the world should come as no surprise, with the French principality long regarded as a playground for the global elite.

But what exactly is it that makes Monaco’s property market so expensive? Firstly, its size: spread across a minuscule 0.8 sq miles (making it smaller than New York City’s Central Park), Monaco is beaten only by the Vatican City in the battle to be crowned the world’s smallest country, putting prime real estate in high demand.

The ultra-exclusive lifestyle afforded by owning property in Monaco is another major contributor to the cost of buying in this coveted destination. The Principality is brimming with fine-dining restaurants and designer boutiques, as well as a number of luxury yachting clubs – not to mention an extensive sporting calendar. If anywhere on earth has been designed specifically for wealthy individuals, it’s Monaco. The year-round sunshine, wealth-friendly taxes and prime location on the French Riviera don’t damage its immense appeal, either.

Hong Kong, Asia — $3,720 per sq ft

Despite a muted price growth, Savills has reported that Hong Kong remains the second most expensive residential property market (and the most expensive city) in the world, with an average prime capital value of $3,720 per sq ft.

The density of population is a key factor that makes Hong Kong so expensive, with over 7.5m people living in under 430 sq miles. And, despite demand, new properties are scarce with the city clinging on to its limited green spaces. Savills notes that political uncertainty and policy factors continue to constrain the market, which has seen modest declines in recent months.

See also: The Best Hotels in Hong Kong

New York, USA — $2,610 per sq ft

New York’s appearance on a list of the most expensive property markets in the world is another one that comes as little surprise. The average prime price is now $2,610 per sq ft, up slightly from earlier figures.

Several factors contribute to the cost of property in New York, most notably the lack of space; with virtually every bit of ground accounted for, the only way to build in the Big Apple is up and air space continues to be highly sought after. Savills also pointed toward rising domestic wealth, border re-openings, and city migration as key driving factors.

Of course, aside from the development intricacies, one of the main reasons why New York’s property market continues to be so expensive is the city’s sheer curb appeal. While Washington, DC is the US’s political hub, New York is the home of everything else: from fashion and art to finance and tech, the city that never sleeps remains the place to be.

Geneva, Switzerland – $2,460 per sq ft

While the Swiss capital of Zurich has its own impressively lucrative property market, it is the lakeside city of Geneva that has the world’s fourth most expensive with an average asking price of $2,460 per sq ft (per H1 2025). To those in the know, the high property prices in Geneva, and indeed the rest of Switzerland, are a no-brainer. Geneva not only boasts easy access to world-class skiing resorts in the form of the Alps and the Jura mountains but also acts as a worldwide hub for diplomacy and finance.

However, the Swiss government has taken measures to regulate the country’s housing market, with regulations preventing non-residents from buying in areas that aren’t designated ‘holiday zones.’ Unfortunately, Geneva doesn’t come under this jurisdiction, meaning international buyers will need to fully relocate and obtain the relevant visa to buy property in the city.

See also: Ranked: The World’s Most Expensive Ski Resorts

Tokyo, Japan – $2,330 per sq ft

Behind the bright lights of Tokyo’s most recognizable tourist spots and financial districts is an equally prosperous – and increasingly competitive – property market. Savills reports prime values at $2,330 per sq ft with one of the fastest capital growth rates globally: 8.8 percent.

Tight supply, strong domestic demand, and renewed international investor interest have all contributed to Tokyo’s competitive pricing. Tokyo’s most expensive residential neighborhoods include Azabu, Omotesando, and Toranomon.

Sydney, Australia – $1,990 per sq ft

Coming in at eight on Savills’ report of the most expensive property markets in the world is Sydney, where prospective buyers can expect to pay an average of $1,990 per sq ft following positive price growth throughout 2021.

Of course, Sydney speaks for itself when it comes to explaining its ever-growing property market. Its oceanfront location, laidback lifestyle, and unrivaled climate make it one of the world’s most desirable locations to live in, with the suburbs of the sprawling city proving to be more in demand than inner-city properties.

See also: Where to Buy Luxury Real Estate in 2026

Seoul, South Korea – $1,950 per sq ft

Seoul is now one of the world’s most expensive cities for prime residential property, with an average price of $1,950 per sq ft. Growth remains solid, supported by limited new supply, strong local demand, and a steady inflow of international buyers seeking lifestyle and investment properties.

Shanghai, China – $1,980 per sq ft

Shanghai continues to attract wealthy buyers and remains one of the most expensive cities in the world, with prime residential values averaging $1,980 per sq ft.

While transactional volumes have been subdued due to policy tightening and mortgage uncertainty, Shanghai’s standing as a financial and cultural hub preserves its pricing strength.

London, UK – $1,900 per sq ft

Although at one point the rise of working from home threatened to undermine London’s appeal, the threat failed to truly materialize, with the city currently undergoing a bounce-back. Savills reports average prime values of $1,900 per sq ft, noting a slight softening in some central districts.

London’s cosmopolitan appeal, prime property offerings, strong job market, abundance of culture, and wealth of green spaces continue to support high pricing. The rental market also remains robust, with prime rents rising faster than capital values.

Singapore – $1,810 per sq ft

Singapore is a standout for both cost and complexity of acquisition, with prime residential values averaging $1,810 per sq ft. While growth is modest, the city’s tightly controlled supply, high demand from affluent domestic and international buyers, and significant transaction costs make it one of the costliest markets globally.

Billed as the Oscars of the classic car world, the Peninsula Classics Best of the Best brings together the finest concours-winning cars on Earth.