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How to build a luxury home gym

In recent years, environments dedicated to fitness and training are increasingly important in luxury homes, thanks also to innovative hi-tech accessories and to the possibility of buying designer tools available on the luxury items market: here are the tips on how to create a gym in a luxury home.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• The tips to follow for a luxury home gym
  
• The best luxury equipment for a home gym
  
• The new hi-tech spaces of luxury homes

The tips to follow for a luxury home gym

The introduction of spaces designed for training and fitness inside a luxury home is a trend that has been going on for some time. Certainly the Covid-19 pandemic has however accentuated and accelerated this trend starting from 2020, leading to the current situation, that is a context in which interior design is increasingly attentive to the construction of home gyms. Obviously, when it comes to furnishing a luxury home - a topic that we address in a dedicated article -, even an environment designed only for physical activity must respect the style of the whole house and preserve its elegance: in this direction they also go the design and production of sports equipment and devices made by design brands. Before moving on to the best luxury equipment for a home gym, however, it is advisable to start with some general tips to follow to build a luxury home gym. The first thing to do is to identify the right environment to dedicate to fitness, so as to exploit the features of the home and, at the same time, use a room that lends itself to features for this purpose. Starting from the size, which must be at least 20 square meters, to allow you to move freely during training. You can opt for both the creation of an environment from scratch and for the change of use of a room previously used as a storage room, for example. In addition to the right size, it is also essential that the room chosen for the home gym has good air circulation, which is essential for oxygenating the body during physical activity, and therefore includes a window of adequate size or technology designed for the air exchange - a topic that we will explore later.

Returning to the need to move freely during training, a home gym must be functional and therefore not host surfaces and objects that can unnecessarily occupy space, such as armchairs, chairs, tables, wardrobes, and so on. In particular if you intend to insert luxury training tools, potentially even large ones - as we will see later -, or even to train in pairs and not always alone. Another fundamental element to consider in a home gym is its lighting: if the window can be used to facilitate the exchange of air, it is certainly an excellent solution also to bring light into the room, as well as the presence of mirrors - also useful for see each other while training and improve the technique - of the right artificial lighting - which will have to favor LED lamps - and the choice of suitable colors to paint the walls - preferably clear and bright. Finally, in order to get also entertained - perhaps during particularly long or monotonous workouts - a luxury home gym must also include a stereo system to listen to music or podcasts and - why not? - even a TV to be distracted from the fatigue with a series or a good movie. Last advice, but not least: when it comes to "creating" a new room in a luxury home, it is always good to rely on an interior designer, who is able to combine functional needs with the homogeneity between the single room dedicated to fitness and the rest of the house. Even in respect to a luxury home gym.

The best luxury equipment for a home gym

Once you have chosen and prepared the ideal room for fitness in a luxury home, you need also select the ideal equipment to train at your best. Obviously these depend a lot on the type of sport or training that you intend to carry out at home, but also on the style and taste of the owner. Several design gym equipment created for the home, functional but also classy and made to integrate with the home decor, have recently been launched in the luxury items market: let's discover the best luxury equipment for the home gym.

• TAPE FIT (Ever Life Design) - A series of gym equipment, designed by Monica Graffeo, which includes straps for training in suspension, brick and cork yoga mat, as well as weight bags and dumbbells, all made with natural materials and recyclable.
• Rock (Tom Dixon) - This is a 2,5 kg dumbbell in Green Forest marble, similar to a sculpture, also ideal for use simply as a piece of furniture.
• Tyngdlyftaren (Tingest) - These dumbbells designed by Swedish designer Alexander Lervik are available in marble (2 kg) and iron (3,5 and 7 kg), have a rough surface and a texture that prevents them from rolling.
• Ali (Giorgetti) - This punching bag takes the name of the great boxer Muhammad Ali, is made of thickened and velvety aniline leather, and available in three colors (ice white, mud and black).
• Ares (Giorgetti) - Let's stay in Giorgetti's house for this set of design dumbbells made of brass, copper, black ebony, onyx, Nero Marquinia, pink Portuguese marble, pietra serena and golden stone, all with identical shape but with a different weight in according to the material.
• Kjerag (FitWood) - This abdominal wheel made in Finland is ideal for both training and home decor, and is made of a natural or white lacquered birch plywood disc, with a handle made of stainless steel or aluminum.
• Body Building 2 (Atelier Biagetti) - Atelier Biagetti's collection of design gym equipment, launched in 2015, is refreshed with a touch of gold by the two designers, thanks to the golden BIOVEG leather (a recycled polyester, made with bottles of plastic).
• Wellness Ball Active Sitting (Technogym) - This gymnastic tool, designed to tone muscles and improve balance, is also an ideal dynamic sitting for improving posture.
• Bigfoot (Protek) - A retractable furniture system that includes several solutions, including the treadmill module for a zero footprint home fitness area.
• FORME Life (fuseproject) - The fuseproject home gym is enclosed in a large mirror, which serves as a storage for tools, but also as a touchscreen monitor to access fitness classes ranging from yoga to kickboxing, from weights to stretching.
• GYM BOX (James Wall) - The designer James Wall has instead thought of inserting the home gym in a box, a compact and light box that contains a real gym with lots of exercise equipment and also an adjustable bench.

The new hi-tech spaces of luxury homes

PAR 3 Finally, as we also note in our article on the best luxury hi-tech gadgets, the association between technology and luxury is no longer a novelty. In fact, more and more owners of luxury homes are building hi-tech spaces within their homes, equipping themselves above all with devices to create environments dedicated to fitness and wellness. The prices of these luxury hi-tech gadgets are obviously high, but some of these products, made by the most famous fashion brands, are truly exclusive and unique, managing to combine functionality and elegance. To close our journey into the world of luxury home gyms, it is appropriate to present all those hi-tech devices for the home that are ideal for offering maximum comfort and health to the owners of a luxury home.

These are mainly domestic spaces dedicated to wellness and personal care, such as mini spas, whirlpools, saunas, home gyms or small swimming pools. All accompanied by air filtration and ventilation technologies, as anticipated a few lines ago, as well as ultraviolet cleaning devices, chosen to improve air quality and eliminate harmful agents inside the house, especially in the rooms dedicated to training. Not forgetting all those spaces in luxury homes designed for entertainment, such as Oculus rooms, ideal for the use of VR viewers, spaces for enjoying 3D images and home theaters, namely rooms used as a home cinema.

Capri island: all about the most elegant and fashionable luxury destinations

There are luxury destinations for all tastes in Italy, but certainly the island of Capri in the Gulf of Naples is one of the most fascinating and exclusive, also thanks to the various glamorous options it offers to tourists who stay there. Let's discover the most exclusive glamorous locations in Capri and the other best Italian seaside destinations for a luxury holiday.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• The most luxurious facilities and the most glamorous options in Capri
  
• The best luxury seaside destinations in Italy

The most luxurious facilities and the most glamorous options in Capri

For those who want a luxury vacation, Italy is certainly a good idea, given that the Italian territory offers exclusive options of comfort and services in the most fascinating locations. But it is possible to identify some of the most exclusive and breathtaking landscape contexts of the beautiful country, such as that of the island of Capri in the Gulf of Naples. This location, in fact, is one of the most popular in Italy by those interested in a luxury holiday by the sea that combines the possibility of swimming in crystal clear waters, enjoying incredible views and, at the same time, enjoying all those comforts that only the best luxury hotels in the world offer to their guests. The island of Capri has always been a favorite destination for VIPs from all over the world or, more generally, for famous personalities, starting even with the Roman emperors, up to intellectuals of the caliber of Pablo Neruda or Edwin Cerio. The seas surrounding the island are certainly among the best in the world to navigate with one of the most exclusive luxury motorboats or yachts available on the market - which present in a dedicated article -, while the center of Capri is perfect for those who want stay in one of the best luxury resorts in Italy, surrounded by some of the most glamorous luxury locations in the world. Among these is certainly Punta Tragara, which is the privileged point from which to admire the famous Faraglioni of Capri. This exclusive part of the island has been loved by celebrities of all eras, such as Totò, Sophia Loren and Michael Jackson, up to the queen of today's social networks, Chiara Ferragni.

The most luxurious and exclusive hotel in this corner of paradise is certainly the Etro of the Hotel Punta Tragara, designed by Le Corbusier and chosen, over the years, also by Winston Churchill, also for its proximity to the famous restaurant Le Monzù, where it is possible to taste the unique dishes created by the starred chef Luigi Lionetti. From the luxury hotel in Punta Tragara it is possible to easily reach the Lido Da Luigi ai Faraglioni or even head towards other of the most glamorous places on Capri, following the Pizzolongo path that passes close to the Scoglio del Monacone and leads to the Matermania cave, the ruins of Villa Jovis and the neoclassical Villa Lysis. But the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking and unique views does not end here in Capri. It is in fact impossible not to mention the Phoenician Staircase that leads to Monte Solaro, from which you can also reach the Church of San Michele Arcangelo and admire the Punta Carena lighthouse. Truly unique locations for their beauty, but also exclusive for those wishing to stay near them. Like the lucky guests of the luxury hotel J.K. Place Capri, a high class structure that offers elegant rooms and one of the best kitchens in the Gulf of Naples, or even the Capri Tiberio Palace, a luxury hotel built inside a building dating back to the Nineteenth century and located a few meters away from the central Piazzetta of Capri. Finally, speaking of exclusive luxury hotels, it is also necessary to mention the Luxury Villa Excelsior Parco, which is located halfway between the port of Marina Grande and the aforementioned Piazzetta di Capri, equipped, among other services, also with two whirlpools with panoramic views, a roof garden and rooms decorated in a Mediterranean style including a terrace overlooking the sea. In short, the options for a luxury stay in Capri are really many - and they don't end there.

The best luxury seaside destinations in Italy

Following this focus on the most glamorous locations and the most exclusive options offered by the island of Capri, it is also appropriate to retrace together some of the many solutions that the Italian territory offers to organize a luxury holiday by the sea, especially in the South of Italy and in the islands. Let's start, however, from Liguria, which can boast the very famous Cinque Terre (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore), as well as another renowned location such as Portofino, a picturesque town suitable for hosting a luxury holiday, for its class hotel and excellent fish restaurants. For a luxurious and elegant beach holiday, the very first choice is the Amalfi Coast, which stretches from Sorrento and Ravello and is famous for the splendid cliffs and the fantastic bays formed by its inlets. The scenic beauty here is combined with the possibility of staying in various luxury hotels, especially in Amalfi and Positano. There are also other luxury destinations in Campania, in particular two islands: the aforementioned Capri, which is the favorite destination for VIPs in the Gulf of Naples, and also Ischia, where you can find every comfort and high quality services, from hotels, up to restaurants and spas. In Italy, however, there are two other most famous islands: Sardinia and Sicily.

Starting with the first, Sardinia's scenic beauties and incredible beaches are known all over the world, but the island is also known for the possibility of spending luxury holidays in different areas of the island. Surely one of these is the Costa Smeralda, in the North-West area, but the whole northern coast of Sardinia is perfect for finding both unique maritime views and top-level services, as in Stintino, Costa Paradiso and La Maddalena. Going further south, we obviously find Sicily, which boasts as many unique and breathtaking seaside resorts - which we present in a dedicated article - , as well as the possibility of spending luxurious and comfortable stays. A mention in this sense certainly goes to Taormina, a real jewel overlooking the Ionian Sea, with its Ancient Theater overlooking Mount Etna and various options for a stay in the name of luxury and elegance. Throughout the island you can find other locations with incredible seascapes and quality services, and in particular the Aeolian archipelago, north of Sicily, is at the top of the list, with Panarea first in the ranking for a luxury holiday by the sea. For those who are interested not so much in landscape and natural beauties, but rather those related to services and comforts, it is a must to mention Versilia, or the stretch of Tuscan coast that goes from Forte dei Marmi to Viareggio, famous in all over the world for its trendy clubs and for the frequentations of VIPs and foreign tycoons.

All about the Ghost Black Badge, the Rolls Royce limousine

The Rolls Royce brand has always been synonymous with elegance and class in the world of luxury cars, but with the Ghost Black Badge the British car manufacturer has truly reached the top of the combination of design and the most advanced technology: let's find out the features and prices of this super limousine.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• What is the Ghost Black Badge Rolls Royce
  
• The price of the Ghost Black Badge Rolls Royce
  
• The best luxury cars brands

What is the Ghost Black Badge Rolls Royce

The theme of luxury cars is already the main topic of a recent article, in which we talk about elegance on the one hand, but also the technological avant-garde and the comforts that these dream cars offer their owners. After focusing specifically on sports cars, unique in terms of propulsion, speed and acceleration, as well as on luxury campers, which we present in a dedicated post, the time has come to dedicate space to an incredible car recently presented by one of the most famous luxury car manufacturers in the world. If the Rolls Royce brand has always been synonymous with elegance and class in the world of luxury cars, with the Ghost Black Badge the British brand has truly reached the top in terms of the combination of design and the most advanced technology. The Ghost Black Badge is in fact the latest super limousine from Rolls Royce, being the 2022 edition of this luxurious and unique model, starting with its 21-inch wheels formed by 44 layers of carbon fiber, which they can not replace or adapt to any other Rolls Royces. But not only.

The new Ghost Black Badge has more power than previous models, reaching 600 horsepower and a sports car configuration, with four-wheel steering. Moving from the engine to the aesthetics, the bodywork can be colored in 44.000 different shades, that is the number of colors you can choose from, to which you can add others made to order for a truly unique car. Moving on to the interiors of the Ghost Black Badge, these are also fully customizable as regards the color choices and the furnishing elements, which include carbon inserts accompanied by an aluminum wire weave that form a three-dimensional rhomboid pattern accompanied by a veneer of worked briar. The optional equipment is also the result of craftsmanship, such as the optical fibers inserted by hand into the headliner that reproduce different constellations, which can be customized on request, as well as every other detail of the Ghost Black Badge. A truly unparalleled elegance for this Rolls Royce, which obviously also offers its owners all the latest technological tools in terms of safety, comfort and entertainment.

The price of the Ghost Black Badge Rolls Royce

As mentioned a few lines ago, the Ghost Black Badge designed and produced by Rolls Royce is fully customizable in every aspect in terms of equipment, colors and interior details. Obviously, all this possibility of customization means that the price of this incredible super luxury limousine can vary according to the choices and requests of the customers, who in any case must be willing to invest figures that only a few can afford.

The starting price of the Ghost Black Badge 2022 has been set by the British car manufacturer at 365.000 euros, but obviously the cost can rise. For this model of Rolls Royce it can even reach 650.000 euros, or even exceed it in the case of truly exclusive or eccentric requests. To give some references, just think that there are not many cars on the market capable of exceeding such a price. At least without bothering with supercars such as the Ferrari Daytona SP3 or the Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 (both with a base price of around 2 million euros).

The best brands of luxury cars

Obviously, Rolls Royce is one of the most famous (and expensive!) manufacturers of luxury cars, with respect to which some brands represent a guarantee in terms of quality and elegance, such as the aforementioned Italian excellence Ferrari and Lamborghini, without forgetting Maserati and Pagani. England too can boast some of the very first car manufacturers in history, which have made luxury on four wheels famous, such as, in addition to the aforementioned Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley and Lotus, all brands famous above all for their class and elegance of their models, also used by the British royal family. From Great Britain to Germany, the situation is similar, given that some of the most famous technical and stylistic excellence in the automotive field are German, such as Porsche, BMW, Mercedes and Audi, ideal for those who want a car that combines the maximum of quality in engines and cutting-edge technology.

Among the best brands of luxury cars, there is obviously also the American Tesla, born much more recently but grew up in great haste with its electric cars with unique performance and features, both in terms of technology and elegance and comfort. Finally, for anyone wishing to buy in Italy one of the models that are among the best luxury cars and sports supercars, it is also appropriate to address the topic of the 2022 supercar taxation, given that many of these models provide for the payment of the luxury tax for cars. Do you want to know more about the 2022 supercar taxation? Then we recommend reading our article specifically dedicated to the topic.

The most expensive luxury homes in the world and in Italy

Around our planet there are luxury homes which have an inestimable value ... or almost. We propose a trip among the most expensive homes in the world and the most expensive properties in Italy, to discover the prices of these incredible homes, their characteristics and the locations that host them and that increase their value.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• The most expensive houses in the world
  
• The most expensive houses in Italy

The most expensive houses in the world

The luxury real estate market is obviously the main focus of our articles, since it represents the sector we know best and in which we operate on a daily basis. We have dedicated several articles to the renovation of luxury homes, to the taxation that these require in Italy and also to the furnishing of the various environments and types of luxury homes - topics included in the dedicated section of our website. This time we want to offer an overview of the most expensive houses in the world and, of course, in Italy. These are unique properties, with multimillion-dollar valuations and truly exclusive: let's discover them, starting with the five most expensive homes in the world.

• Antilia (Mumbai, India) - This skyscraper in the center of Mumbai is 190 meters high, for a total of 27 floors and over 37.000 square meters, and inside there are also a gym, various ballrooms, a cinema and a myriad of bedrooms, as well as including a helipad for 3 helicopters on the roof and a parking lot for 160 cars. All at the disposal of the owner Mukesh Ambani, the Indian oil and gas magnate, who employs 600 people. Estimated value: approximately 2 billion dollars.
• Villa Leopolda (French Riviera, France) - We move to Europe, precisely in France, for this property dates back more than 100 years ago, it is located in an estate on the bay between Monaco, Nice and Cannes (on the French Riviera) and includes a 7.430 square meter building, including 11 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms and a greenhouse. Estimated value: approximately 750 million dollars.
• Safra Mansion (São Paulo, Brazil) - We move to South America for the largest house in all of Brazil, owned by the Safra family of bankers from Sao Paulo, who were inspired by the French Villa Leopolda, but expanding its size , for a total of 130 bedrooms and two swimming pools. Estimated value: approximately 500 million dollars.
• The One (Bel-Air, California) - This huge residence spans approximately 100.000 square meters in the exclusive context of Bel-Air, California, offering owners a main house of approximately 73.900 square meters, for a total of 20 bedrooms, 30 bathrooms, a bowling alley and rooms for all kinds of entertainment. Estimated value: approximately 500 million dollars.
• Knightsbridge Mansion (London, England) - Let's go back to Europe, and precisely to London, for this building, born as a series of terraced houses then merged into a single white Victorian-style structure, very close to Hyde Park and Harrod's department stores, with a total area of ​​5.760 square meters divided over 7 floors. Estimated value: approximately 285 million dollars.

The most expensive houses in Italy

The time has come to focus on the Italian market for luxury homes, where prices certainly cannot compete with those of the most expensive homes in the world, but where there is certainly no lack of choice for those wishing to buy an exclusive property and that is positioned in a breathtaking location. Let's find out the ranking of the most expensive houses in Italy… with a small final surprise!

• Scandicci (Florence, Tuscany) - The most expensive luxury house in Italy is located near Scandicci, dates back to the sixteenth century and measures 2.800 square meters. The property is located within an estate that boasts a total area of ​​270.000 square meters (including parks, gardens, tree-lined avenues and a swimming pool) and consists of 3 floors above ground, a basement and two upper floors, which respectively house the sleeping area and an area dedicated to fitness as well as a large terrace overlooking the Tuscan hills. Estimated value: 25 million euros.
• Porto Rotondo (Olbia, Sardinia) - We move to Sardinia for this estate that covers 10.000 square meters of surface, and is located in the heart of the Costa Smeralda, within a location immersed in the Sardinian scrub and composed of 7 houses, for a total of 24 beds. This incredible property also includes a swimming pool equipped with a waterfall, a hydromassage area, the possibility of counter-current swimming and a diving board made from a rock. Estimated value: 19 and a half million euros.
• Poggibonsi (Siena, Tuscany) - The third most expensive property in Italy is, like the first, in Tuscany, but is located near Poggibonsi (Siena) and measures 600 square meters. This 12th-century estate includes a manor house, several cellars and a smaller house, for a total of 6 rooms, and offers a unique view of the surrounding Sienese hills. Estimated value: 18 million euros.
• Arzachena (Sassari, Sardinia) - From Tuscany we return to Sardinia, precisely to Arzachena (Sassari) for this property near the exclusive resort of Porto Cervo and designed to offer all possible comforts, including a spa, a large swimming pool, a bathroom turkish and a sauna, within a large and green estate. Estimated value: 17 million euros.
• Santa Margherita Ligure (Genoa, Liguria) - This property is located in Liguria, overlooking the Gulf of Portofino, and includes a main villa of 360 square meters, an annex, a swimming pool, a garden and a garage. Estimated value: 15 million euros.
• Mogliano Veneto (Treviso, Veneto) - We move to Veneto for this villa built in the eighteenth century, made unique by stuccos and frescoes dating back to the period of the Doges of Venice and by a private consecrated church. The property, currently used as a hotel, measures 2.600 square meters and is surrounded by a park of 40.000 square meters, which also houses a park with centuries-old trees and three spring lakes. Estimated value: 12 and a half million euros.
• Albisola Superiore (Savona, Liguria) - Here we are again in Liguria, but in the Savona area, for this villa with panoramic sea views and surrounded by a centuries-old park of 5.500 square meters. This luxury property includes a panoramic seawater swimming pool, terrace, porch, indoor pool with spa and fitness area, as well as an independent apartment of approximately 70 square meters. Estimated value: 12 million euros.
• Como (Lombardy) - One of the most expensive homes in Italy could not be missing a property on the shores of Lake Como, including a large dock to accommodate a boat. The house measures approximately 500 square meters, which includes a total of 10 rooms and 4 bathrooms, a terrace with a veranda overlooking the lake and an outbuilding including another 3 bedrooms and a study; all surrounded by a garden of about 4.000 square meters. Estimated value: 12 million euros.

To tell the truth, at Santandrea we also have a property for sale - without considering the private negotiations - which could appear in the ranking of the most expensive houses in Italy, namely the magnificent Pesceluna villa in Arzachena, nestled in the green hills behind Porto Cervo, in an enviable panoramic position and very close to an exclusive location like this area of ​​Sardinia, in fact. But there are also many other solutions for those wishing to buy a luxury villa among the most expensive in Italy. There are, for example, several luxury mountain chalets for sale, which we present in a dedicated article. For instance, we want to mention a few, such as the luxury chalet in Sestriere (Piedmont), close to the ski slopes and with an area of ​​over 600 square meters, which can be bought for about 5 and a half million euros.
For 7 million euros, on the other hand, it is possible to buy a chalet with a view of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio (Trentino Alto Adige), with interiors of about 500 square meters and exteriors of 1.500 square meters. The other places to focus on when buying a luxury chalet in the mountains are Cortina d'Ampezzo (as far as the Alps are concerned), Livigno and Courmayeur (in the Dolomites), where several properties even exceed the 10 million euro valuation. Even with regard to luxury castles for sale in Italy, which are the topic of another article, there is no shortage of options. A few examples? For about 5 million euros it is possible to purchase an estate of 7.520 square meters, located in San Miniato, on the hills near Pisa (Tuscany), and surrounded by 110 hectares of land. Near Trento, on the other hand, it is possible to buy Castel Valer, built in the 13th century in the Val di Non, for about 16 million euros. But the castles for sale in Italy are many more: to discover the others too, we suggest you take a tour on the website Castello in vendita.

What are the latest trends in luxury wellness?

Recently luxury wellness is increasingly in vogue, thanks to the possibility of using services dedicated to wellness and fitness in various facilities, but also to the launch of cutting-edge hi-tech accessories designed specifically for wellness. These technological gadgets bring wellness into luxury homes and are becoming increasingly popular.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• The new trends in luxury wellness
  
• Best gadgets for luxury wellness at home
  
• The best luxury hi-tech gadgets

The new trends in luxury wellness

Our journey into the world of luxury is enriched with another stage, this time concerning luxury wellness. In fact, the search for facilities and technological devices for the home created to offer all those features dedicated to wellness that does not focus only on comfort and services, but also on personal care at a broader level, is now increasingly widespread, including both fitness and a more introspective or, so to speak, “spiritual” component of wellness. We can speak of a sort of intellectual wellness that aims to combine physical health and beauty with services that privilege people's intelligence and curiosity, therefore mental wellness. This trend related to luxury wellness is also confirmed by the recent report referring to 2022 made by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) of Miami, which analyzes trends and data from wellness centers around the world. In our article dedicated to the best luxury spas in Italy, we underlined how even luxury tourism is increasingly moving in the direction of wellness, as confirmed by the introduction of various services related to wellness offered by the best luxury hotels in the world, but also from the most exclusive luxury cruises. But not only. The latest trends in luxury wellness also include trips aboard ships on research missions alongside scientists, such as those organized by the cruise lines Aurora Expedition and Hurtigruten through their citizen science programs in the Antarctic areas. and among the Norwegian fjords.

These "cultural" cruises obviously also offer state-of-the-art wellness centers, including saunas, massages and outdoor whirlpools with breathtaking views. As we said, however, luxury wellness is also focusing on the more spiritual aspects of wellness through yoga and meditation courses, but also scientific-cultural experiments and observations. As is also the case on Quasar Expeditions' luxury yacht Conservation, which will allow its 18 guests to observe the state of the waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands side by side with a team of scientists. Moving from the seas to the mainland, it is a must to mention the latest trends in wellness in luxury spas, increasingly open to courses in Zen meditative calligraphy, drawing, photography, ceramics and meditation, to develop creativity and the mind along with physical wellness. Always in this direction all the wellness services aimed at the intellectual and cultural aspect of the person go, such as the artistic-cultural themed podcasts made by the most famous museums in the world, such as the Metropolitan in New York, which created a content entitled “Frame of Mind” focused on the support that the use of art can give to the wellness of the person as a whole. In short, it is clear that the latest trends relating to luxury wellness indicate the direction of an integral care of the individual, which enhances physical wellness, but without neglecting the mental one.

The best gadgets for luxury wellness at home

The association between technology and luxury is no longer a novelty now, especially when it comes to luxury wellness. As we write in an article dedicated to furniture, more and more owners of luxury homes are equipping hi-tech spaces within their homes, equipping themselves with devices to create immersive environments or spaces dedicated to wellness and personal care. In fact, there are several luxury technological gadgets and hi-tech appliances for the home, ideal for offering maximum comfort to the owners and guests of a luxury home. In fact, domestic spaces dedicated to wellness and personal care are growing, such as mini spas, whirlpools, saunas, home gyms or small swimming pools.

All accompanied by air filtration and ventilation technologies, as well as ultraviolet cleaning devices, chosen to improve air quality and eliminate harmful agents inside the home. But luxury wellness also concerns entertainment in free time, therefore from immersive environments and devices designed for those who want to better enjoy the virtual reality experience and make the most of the services offered by digital. We are talking about the Oculus rooms, ideal for the use of VR viewers, or even environments designed specifically for the use of 3D images, without forgetting the home theater, the room used as a home cinema room, to obtain at home the same effect given by the hall of a real cinema.

The best luxury hi-tech gadgets

In addition to this phenomenon, as anticipated, the luxury items market is also increasingly related with the technological one, thanks also to the creation of hi-tech gadgets by some of the most famous fashion brands in the world. In particular, the most exclusive luxury technological objects are designer smartwatches or devices dedicated to the use of music, podcasts and any type of audio file, such as innovative wireless earphones or super-technological headphones made with the highest quality materials. The prices of the best hi-tech gadgets are obviously high, but some of these products are truly exclusive and unique. Some examples? We can start with the MB 01 x Maison Kitsuné headphones produced by Montblanc, super-technological over-ear headphones that combine cutting-edge technology with a unique design, for a base price of 710 euros.

Remaining in the "musical" field, we can also mention the Louis Vuitton Horizon wireless earphones, which include proximity sensors, noise canceling and ambient listening modes, in addition to the case that also works as a power bank ... the cost? "Only" 1.010 euros. But Louis Vuitton's Horizon line does not stop at music, as it also includes the “Tambour Horizon Light Up” Smartwatch, a real hi-tech luxury item, thanks to the 1.2-inch circular AMOLED display in sapphire glass, surrounded by the ring with 24 LED-backlit Monogram flowers, for a price that exceeds 3.000 euros. To close this list of luxury hi-tech gadgets, let's go to the United States, given that the Apple Watch Series 7 created in collaboration with the Hermès maison is much more than a smartwatch, thanks to its series of dials and straps inspired by the French brand, universally known for the quality of its craftsmanship, to accompany the usual functions of the Apple Watch Series 7, but with a slightly higher price, which starts at around 1.900 euros.

All about the best luxury motorboats and yachts

Luxury motorboats are the best solution for anyone who wants to experience the sea with maximum freedom, without sacrificing comfort and elegance, representing a less expensive and demanding alternative to a yacht. Let's find out the best luxury motorboats, their prices and make a general point about luxury yachts and boats.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• The best luxury motorboats
  
• The prices of luxury motorboats
  
• All about yachts and luxury boats

The best luxury motorboats

Luxury motorboats generally fall into the category of motor boats under 10 meters in length, a feature that ensures several benefits to their owners. In fact, luxury motorboats are the best solution for anyone who wants to experience the sea with maximum freedom, without sacrificing comfort and elegance, thus representing a valid - but less expensive and demanding - alternative to a yacht. These boats have dimensions that allow them not to be subject to compulsory registration, making it easier to purchase the luxury motorboats for sale, but also to use them. Yes, because luxury boats under 10 meters do not need a boat license to be driven within 6 miles from the coast (distance to be respected during navigation), as long as the engine power does not exceed 40 horses. Luxury motorboats are therefore ideal for anyone who wants to approach navigation or perhaps prepare to obtain a boat license or for fishing lovers or, simply, for those who want to allow themselves maximum freedom during a holiday on the sea, without giving up the comfort offered by bigger boats. So let's find out which are the best luxury motorboats on the market.

• Marex 360 Cabriolet Cruiser - Let's start immediately with a small exception, given that this boat exceeds 10 meters (precisely 10,99 meters) and therefore cannot be driven without a boat license, but it is the best choice for those who do not want to give up comfort, even for its width of 3,4 meters.
• R35 Princess - Even this luxury motorboat is just over 10 meters (89 centimeters to be exact) and rewards both aesthetics, with its sporty lines, and speed, thanks to its hull and V8 petrol engines, which allow it to reach 50 knots of speed on the water.
• Cranchi Endurance 33 - We finally go below 10 meters for this sporty and spacious luxury motorboat (having a width of 3,5 meters), ideal for family cruises, thanks also to the retractable table to increase space and to its room open space.
• Scanner Envy 950 Touring - This 9,5-meter-long luxury motorboat features a stern living area equipped with a cushioned sundeck and a shaped sofa, as well as a kitchenette (including fridge, stove and worktop) hidden in a multifunctional piece of furniture incorporated close to the dinette.
• Joker Clubman 30 - In addition to the large bow sundeck measuring over 2,5 meters, this 9,5-meter luxury boat also includes a bathroom complete with ceiling shower and toilet, as well as space to accommodate more than 6 people.
• Axopar Brabus Shadow 500 - This 9,53 meter motorboat offers owners a maximum speed of over 50 knots, with unmatched acceleration times, but also great handling and luxurious and comfortable environments.
• Frauscher 1017 GT Air - A powerful and agile boat, but also very safe and elegant, with a length of 9.99 meters and a width of 2,99 meters.
• Jeanneau Merry Fisher 1095 Fly - This luxury motorboat is truly unique, given that, despite its 9,94 meters in length, it offers an outboard engine and three cabins, with interior volumes and stowage spaces beyond compare, as well as an area day with raised cockpit and sunbathing area in the bow, representing a super luxury solution for a family cruise in the name of comfort and absolute well-being.

The prices of luxury motorboats

The time has come to also discover the prices of some of the best luxury motorboats on the market. Generally, the cost of these boats is a few hundred thousand euros, but there are also cheaper options - with a price of less than 100.000 euros - or much more exclusive - close to a million euros valuation. Many of the manufacturers of these jewels of navigation were exhibitors at the 2022 Venice Boat Show, which we present in a dedicated article. But now let's find out the prices of some of the best luxury speedboats on the market.

• Nova Marina Black Shiver 140 - This 13,95-meter Italian luxury motorboat reaches 48 knots of maximum speed, thanks to a power exceeding 1.000. Starting price: about 1 million euros.
• Sacs Strider 15 - A 15-meter luxury boat with a power of almost 1.500 horsepower, for a top speed of 42 knots, with LED lights and a very large living area. Starting price: about 1 million euros.
• Nuova Jolly Prince 50 - Powerful (up to 1.700 horsepower in total) and fast (over 50 knots of maximum speed), but also spacious (15 meters) and elegant, this luxury motorboat ensures performance and style. Starting price: around 700.000 euros.
• Technohull SeaDna 999 Cabin - A maximum speed of 71 knots for this 10-meter-long luxury inflatable boat with an attractive style designed by the Englishman Adam Younger. Starting price: about 200.000 euros.
• Goldfish 29 Sport - This luxury motorboat can carry up to 8 passengers and is made of carbon fiber, with 520 horsepower diesel engines and a range that can exceed 400 nautical miles. Starting price: about 200.000 euros.
• Lomac Adrenalina 10.5 - Another jewel of Italian production with 600 horsepower, which develops a maximum speed of about 54 knots, but without neglecting elegance, guaranteed by a high quality as regards the interior finishes and the utmost attention in the space management. Starting price: about 100.000 euros.
• Zar 85SL - This 8,5-meter luxury motorboat can accommodate 12 passengers and exceed 50 knots of maximum speed even when fully loaded, as well as offering a sophisticated design. Starting price: about 79.000 euros.

All about yachts and luxury boats

Finally, to close this article about the best luxury motorboats, it is also appropriate to make a point on the types of yachts and luxury boats available on the market. It is fair to point out that there are no standardized parameters to establish the different types of yachts, but it is possible to try to identify different categories of luxury boats, based on some of their characteristics, including size and strength. Starting from technical specifications, motor cruising yachts favor space and comfort, with large spaces that allow you to stay comfortably on board and equipment for every need, but also elegance in design and attention to details. Open yachts, on the other hand, are a type of luxury boat designed to accommodate many people, with sofas in the bow and ample space to sit in the cockpit. Moving on to sailboats, this type of yacht is usually used for short tourist trips, but still comfortable for about 10 passengers. On the other hand, cruising sailing yachts are very big and ideal for long journeys, with the ability to sail for days and therefore the need for sufficient space for supplies.

Moving on to the classification by size in the world of yachts, we can identify four groups of luxury boats that can be considered yachts, all over 10 meters in length. Up to 24 meters we can talk about yachts, after which we can refer to large yachts (up to 40 meters), super yachts (up to 60 meters) and mega yachts (over 60 meters). Obviously the size of these luxury boats affects their price and maintenance costs, but also their resistance to weather conditions, namely the type of waves and the strength of the wind they are able to withstand. With respect to these characteristics, yachts can be divided into two classes: class A yachts, which can navigate even with waves of four meters and winds up to 70-80 km/h and class B yachts, designed to sail within 320 kilometers from the coast. There are also other categories of luxury boats that are becoming protagonists in the sector, namely electric yachts, which we present in a dedicated article, and private submarines, which are the subject of this article.

Ranking and cost of the most expensive rings in the world

Rings are those jewels that immediately catch the eye and that often also have a great symbolic or emotional value, but which ones are the most expensive in the world? What makes them so special and increases their price? Let's find out the ranking of the most expensive rings and the most expensive jewels in the world.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• What is the price of the most expensive rings in the world?
  
• The ranking of the most expensive jewels in the world

What is the price of the most expensive rings in the world?

Rings have always been among the jewels that most represent the elegance, luxury and wealth of the wearer, as well as often having an emotional value. This role of the rings is mainly due to the fact that they are the most prominent jewels and the first to be noticed, being on the hands. The value attributed to the most expensive rings in the world derives both from the precious materials with which they were made and from their workmanship, as well as from some specific characteristics that make them particularly valuable. The evaluation of a ring, and therefore its price, depends on various factors. Focusing on the cost of the most expensive rings in the world, it is appropriate to anticipate that almost all are engagement rings that some of the wealthiest VIPs in the world have given to their future wives: so let's find out which are the most expensive rings in the world.

• James Parker and Mariah Carey (10 million dollars) - The most expensive ring in this ranking is an engagement gift that did not do well for James Parker, as the wedding to Mariah Carey, the recipient of the jewel, did not materialized and it seems that the singer has even sold the 35-carat ring, valued at 10 million dollars and designed by Wilfredo Rosado.
• Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor (8,8 million dollars) - This diamond, gifted by British actor Richard Burton to actress Elizabeth Taylor, has a value of 8,8 million dollars, mainly due to the 33-carat diamond that it contains.
• Jay-Z and Beyoncé (5 million dollars) - This 18-karat devised ring by US designer Lorraine Schwartz was gifted by rapper and producer Jay-Z as an engagement ring to his future wife Beyoncé in 2008 and was purchased at a price of 5 million dollars.
• Kanye West and Kim Kardashian (4,5 million dollars) - Immediately behind in the ranking is the ring given by another rapper, Kanye West, to his wife Kim Kardashian, for a total of 15 carats and a cost of 4,5 millions dollars.
• Prince Rainier of Monaco and Grace Kelly (4,5 million dollars) - The same figure as the previous ring - 4,5 million dollars - is that of the current valuation of the 11-carat Cartier ring (composed of a diamond, mounted on platinum, emerald cut, flanked by two smaller diamonds) that Prince Rainier of Monaco gave to Grace Kelly in 1956.
• Alex Rodriguez and Jennifer Lopez (4,5 million dollars) - This 20-karat ring was a gift from former baseball player Alex Rodriguez to girlfriend Jennifer Lopez and is valued, like its predecessors, at around 4,5 million dollars.
• Donald Trump and Melania Trump (3 million dollars) - Former US President Donald Trump also spared no expense when, in 2014, he gave this 25-carat ring, valued at 3 million dollars, for his 10th wedding anniversary. dollars, to his wife Melania Trump.
• Aristotle Onassis and Jacqueline Kennedy (2,6 million dollars) - The engagement ring that J.F. Kennedy gave Jacqueline Kennedy as a gift in 1953 that included a 2,88-carat diamond and an emerald, but, after the death of the former US president, Jackie married Aristotle Onassis, who, in 1963, had the ring modified, adding another 2,12 carats of diamonds and bringing it to a weight of about 8 carats of diamonds and emeralds, for a value of 2,6 million dollars.

The ranking of the most expensive jewels in the world

Now that we have made a point about which are the most expensive rings in the world, it is time to broaden the horizon and find out which are the most expensive jewels on the planet. Obviously, this ranking is dominated by the most valuable diamonds in the world, which we present in detail in another article dedicated specifically to the topic. Here are the ten most expensive jewels ever sold, mainly in the context of the most exclusive luxury auctions.

• 10. Perfect Pink Diamond (23 million dollars) - This extremely precious pink-colored diamond weighs 14,23 carats, which corresponds to approximately 2,846 grams, and was sold in 2010 in Hong Kong at a house auction. English Christie's for 23 million dollars, which is the highest amount ever paid in Asia for a jewel.
• 9. Winston Blue Diamond (23,8 million dollars) - In ninth place in the ranking of the most expensive jewels in the world we find another diamond, this time of 13,22 carats and with an unmistakable intense blue color, which was purchased for an auction also organized by Christie's in 2014 in Geneva for 23,8 million dollars.
• 8. Chopard 201 watch (25 million dollars) - This incredible watch - for those interested in the topic of luxury watches, we suggest this article - has the dial set among 874 diamonds of different colors and shades, including some they even weigh 15 carats, for a total of 201 carats, hence the name of the watch itself.
• 7. Hutton-Mdivani jadeite necklace (27,4 million dollars) - Let's move on to another incredible jewel, that is this necklace produced by the famous Cartier house and composed of 27 jadeite pearls with a platinum and 18-karat gold clasp, as well as various rubies and diamonds set, sold at auction in 2014 for 27,4 million dollars.
• 6. Diamond bikini (30 million dollars) - Diamonds are always the protagonists, but this time they make up a bikini costume, designed by Susan Rosen in 2006, and composed of platinum and diamonds, for a total value of 30 million dollars.
• 5. Zoe Diamond (32 million 645.000 dollars) - This 9,75-carat diamond was auctioned at Sotheby's in New York in 2014 for 32 million 645.000 dollars and is characterized by a blue color that increases its rarity. and therefore the value.
• 4. Graff Pink Diamond (46 million dollars) - We find another diamond at the foot of the podium, that is this precious stone considered particularly rare, both for its color and for its size (weighs 24,78 carats), and currently owned from diamond dealer Laurence Graff, who bought it at a Sotheby's auction in 2010 in Geneva for 46 million dollars.
• 3. Incomparable diamond necklace (55 million dollars) - The name of this necklace would be enough to express its value, quantified in 55 million dollars, and produced by the Lebanese house Mouawad who made it with 18 karat gold, diamonds of various cuts and sizes (for a total of 230 carats) and above all with the Incomparable, that is a diamond with a dark yellow color and an incredible weight of 407,48 carats.
• 2. Pink Star Diamond (71,2 million dollars) - Also known as Steinmetz Pink, this pink diamond also falls into our ranking of the most expensive diamonds in the world, having been carved from a 132,5-carat rough stone extracted in 1999 in South Africa, before being cut and polished for two years by the Steinmetz Diamonds company, having changed names and owners over the years, to then become Pink Star in 2017 and be auctioned in Hong Kong for 71,2 million dollars to the Chow Thai Fook Entreprises industrial group.
• 1. Wittelsbach Graff Diamond (80 million dollars) - The most expensive jewel in the world is, without great surprises, another diamond, that is this blue gem weighing 35,56 carats extracted from the mines of Golconda (India), passed into Bavaria in the House of Wittelsbach and then purchased by Laurence Graff in 2008, and then cut and further refined it, bringing it to a weight of 31,06 carats, before it was sold to the former Emir of Qatar, Hamad bin Khalifa, in 2011 for the insane figure of 80 million dollars.

Buying a luxury suit: here are the best brands

Talking about which luxury suit to buy, for both men and women, it is always advisable to choose one of the best brands in the industry, to ensure class, quality and style. Let's discover the latest trends in luxury clothing, with a look at sustainability and at the rental option.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• Luxury suits for men
  
• Luxury dresses for women
  
• Sustainability and luxury clothes for rent

Luxury suits for men

Choosing the right luxury suit is essential for those who want to express their taste and, at the same time, the elegance and refinement that distinguish them from the very first glance. A luxury suit, both for men and women, is the maximum expression of style by the wearer, being the essential component of clothing as a whole, which can then be complemented by one of the best luxury watches in the world or even, especially as regards the female universe, from a luxury bag created by the best designers in the world. Returning to luxury clothes, there are some brands that stand out for their elegance and quality, both in terms of men’s and women's clothes. Let's start with the best brands of luxury men's suits, among which the Italian brands dominate, typically original, elegant and fine at the tailoring level, thanks to traditional manufacturing. Men's luxury suits can be chosen both for the office and for a ceremony or special occasion, but also just to express your taste in clothing.

• Giorgio Armani - There is no need for great presentations for a designer like Giorgio Armani, father of a brand that has always renewed itself over the years but without ever giving up its essential features, namely simplicity and elegance, as also emerges from the collection of clothes by luxury that stands out for the great attention to detail - from the cuts of the jackets to the chosen colors -, the clean lines and the use of the highest quality materials.
• Balenciaga - The Parisian maison founded by Cristóbal Balenciaga is known worldwide for its contemporary forms that combine elegance and innovation.
• Dolce & Gabbana - Even Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana need no introduction, being now one of the most famous fashion brands in the world which, in its luxury clothes, conveys references to the Italian context and its traditions, making it one of the favorite brands of VIPs.
• Gucci - We remain in Italy for another luxury fashion giant, namely Gucci, a brand that has always been characterized by an innovative and modern approach to design, as also emerges from its men's suits, characterized by a noble touch and often identified by the logo " G ”repeated on the surface of all the garments.
• Prada - Speaking of luxury men's suits, it is impossible not to mention Prada, a master brand of minimalism and essentiality, with its classic and durable garments.
• Yves Saint Laurent - We return to France for another leading company in the field of luxury fashion, namely Yves Saint Laurent, known for its innovative and elegant luxury clothes.
• Tom Ford - We remain in Paris, but for a brand founded by the Texan Tom Ford, appreciated for his men's collections characterized by modern tailoring cuts, fine fabrics and bold color palettes.
• Boglioli - We return to Italy for a luxury clothing brand that is the symbol of Made in Italy, Boglioli, a brand known for the quality of its manufacturing and precious materials, with an innovative soul that never gives up on comfort.
• Brunello Cucinelli - Lightweight fabrics and precious yarns, worked by highly experienced tailors after a careful choice of materials and models, characterize the luxury men's suits by Brunello Cucinelli, a brand appreciated for clean lines combined with contemporary shapes and creative colors.
• Gabriele Pasini - An expression of ancient Neapolitan tailoring, Gabriele Pasini is a luxury clothing brand loved for traditional manufacturing and the care dedicated to every detail.
• Ermenegildo Zegna - We close this review of the best brands of men's luxury clothes with Zegna, which stands out for its precious hand-made details and exclusive fabrics used in the classic Italian style.

Luxury dresses for women

The time has come to move on to women's luxury clothes, at the center of the thoughts of every woman who wants to impress those who meet her. From luxury wedding or formal dresses to those designed for a gala evening or simply a special dinner, women's dresses created by the best designers in the world are always a guarantee of elegance, quality and refinement. But there are also some very interesting emerging brands, certainly as regards the prices of the luxury clothes they offer, but also for the freshness and novelty of the design. We discover the best brands of women's luxury clothes, selected for the quality of the materials, the captivating cuts, the original colors, but above all for their elegance.

• Louis Vuitton - This French fashion brand is famous all over the world for luxury bags and accessories, but also Louis Vuitton luxury clothes are a guarantee for the quality of the materials, the recognisability and the class of the lines.
• Prada - As far as Prada is concerned, what is written in relation to the men's luxury clothing collections may apply, with the addition of the greater variety of colors chosen by the Italian brand for women's clothing.
• Chanel - No introduction is needed for this French brand, internationally famous for its perfumes, but among the best in the world also for women's clothes, since the introduction of the iconic suit by its founder Coco Chanel, which has become a symbol of femininity declined in the world of work.
• Rixo - An emerging British brand, Rixo is known for its luxury vintage dresses, but declined with a modern touch, thanks to refined prints and sophisticated cuts.
• Cinq à Sept - French brand specializing in formal wear, Cinq à Sept offers sophisticated and classy dresses.
• Trussardi - We return to Italy for one of the best luxury clothing brands, namely Trussardi, world-famous for the creativity and refinement of its collections.
• Valentino - Speaking of women's luxury clothes it is impossible not to mention Valentino, king of Italian fashion in the world, with his exclusive and classy clothes, very elegant and a guarantee of the highest quality in the choice of materials and attention to detail.
• Givenchy - We close the list of the best luxury clothing brands for women with a French brand that makes the refinement of the garments and the quality of the fabrics its strengths, also with regard to the luxury women's clothing collections.

Sustainability and luxury clothes for rent

To some it might seem contradictory, but the link between the luxury market and the issues related to sustainability is getting closer and closer. In addition to the widespread use of second-hand items - which we present in another article -, the option of renting accessories and clothes is also destined to become a protagonist in the field of luxury fashion. The phenomenon that includes second hand luxury fashion, the rental of luxury products, recycling and other practices aimed at growing the sector by lightning the production chains and the consumption of materials takes the name of circular fashion. In fact, circularity, like sustainability, is an increasingly central keyword in the context of the luxury market. Thus, fashion brands are opening up to frontiers that are not yet explored today such as the rental of luxury goods (even if, as we have seen with respect to luxury bag, the trend is already growing).

If buying a bag or a luxury dress is an excessive step or, simply, you want to give yourself the whim of trying different models and changing them constantly, there is also the possibility of renting this type of accessory. To date, there are already several platforms where it is possible to rent a dress or a luxury accessory, such as the US portal Rent the Runway, which offers items from the most luxurious fashion brands (including Chanel and Prada, to name two). But also in Italy there are companies dedicated to the rental of clothes and luxury items, such as Drexcode, DressYouCan and Pleasedontbuy. From now to 2030, in fact, the luxury goods market is expected to become increasingly open to options such as rental, in the name of circularity and sustainability.

All about the best luxury electric cars

Electric cars are becoming protagonists also in the luxury market, starting from sports models, in which design is combined with the most advanced technology, up to hybrids and SUVs: let's find out which are the best electric and hybrid cars, the best SUVs and which electric car to buy in 2022.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• Which luxury electric car to buy in 2022
  
• The best luxury hybrid cars
  
• The best electric SUVs on the market

Which luxury electric car to buy in 2022

Luxury electric cars are able to combine the latest technologies in terms of engines and comfort with attention to issues related to sustainability and the use of "clean" energy. We already wrote about luxury campers in another article, but also about the best 2022 sports cars and, in general, about the current panorama of the most exclusive luxury cars. Over the course of 2022, several top-level sports cars were launched on the market, but in this article we want to focus on electric and hybrid models, including SUVs. So let's start our journey among luxury electric cars, also thanks to the help of the sector magazine Daze Technology.

• Audi A6 e-tron - This Audi offers the driver a double 476 horsepower engine, which allows it to reach 100 km/h in just under 4 seconds, using an 800 V battery that guarantees about 700 km of autonomy. Starting price: 73.200 euros.
• Porsche Taycan Turbo S - This electric model unleashes an impressive 761 horsepower, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2,8 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h, as well as including a specific gearbox for high speeds and a battery voltage of 800 V, for 412 km of autonomy a recharge up to 80% in 20 minutes. Starting price: 192.544 euros.
• Audi RS e-tron GT - Still in Germany, Audi's luxury electric sports car has a 646 horsepower engine, which allows it to go from 0 to 100 km/h in and 3,3 seconds, powered by a battery identical to that of the Porsche Taycan at high voltage (800 V) to allow fast recharges and maximum autonomy. Starting price: 107.300 euros.
• Tesla Model S Plaid - The performance of this Tesla makes it a sports car in its own right, given the enormous power of the engine (1.020 horsepower) and its speed superior to the rival Porsche Taycan, thanks to its three engines, an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2,1 seconds and a top speed of 322 km/h. Starting price: 130.970 euros.
• Mercedes EQS AMG - Closed the US parenthesis, we return to Germany for the first fully electric Mercedes sedan, whose AMG version exceeds 700 horsepower, which pushes a 5,22 meter long body, with a maximum speed limited to 210 km/h, also due to the enormous weight (2,5 tons). Starting price: 174.320 euros.
• BMW i4 M50 - We head to Bavaria for this 544 horsepower electric sports car, the most affordable in our ranking economically, but still equipped with the BMW M Sport sports package. Starting price: 72.970 euros.
• BMW i7 - We stay at BMW for this jewel designed both to entertain passengers, thanks to the 31,3-inch display of the Theater Screen system, and to express maximum power, using its 544 horsepower powertrain. Starting price: 144.870 euros.

The best luxury hybrid cars

In addition to the fully electric powered models, there are also several very interesting hybrid luxury cars on the market. At the top of the list of hybrid luxury cars we find the Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae which is powered by a non-supercharged V12 engine capable of developing an output of 780 horsepower. It must be said that the 600 examplaries of this incredible supercar (of which 350 Coupé and 250 Roadster) have already all been sold at a price of 330.000 euros each. From one Italian excellence to another, Ferrari also entered the world of electrification with its hybrid, the SF90 Plug-in, with its V6 engine, capable of delivering 830 horsepower.

We remain in Italy for another luxury hybrid car, the Alfa Romeo Tonale Mild Hybrid, with its 160 horsepower 1.5 hybrid engine and an average consumption of 20 kilometers per liter. Instead, we move to Germany for two hybrid models both from Audi: the first is one of the best hybrid cars on the market, namely the Audi A3 Sportback Mild Hybrid, able to travel over 50 kilometers autonomously, while the second is a sedan of super luxury, the Audi A8 2022, in the MHEV category diesel hybrid version, equipped with cutting-edge technologies in terms of digital instruments, but also characterized by classy finishes and precious materials, as well as great performance, thanks to its 286 horsepower that guarantee acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5,9 seconds.

The best electric SUVs in the market

Now that we know the best electric and hybrid luxury cars, before choosing which one to buy in 2022, it's time to turn our attention specifically to electric SUVs. This type of electric luxury car is increasingly in vogue, as shown by the many electric SUV models released in recent months and highly rated on the market: let's discover the best ones.

• Audi Q4 e-tron - This electric SUV made by Audi is powered by electric motors that guarantee a range of 519 km on a single charge. Starting price: 45.700 euros.
• Mercedes Benz EQA - This is the 100% electric version of the Mercedes GLA and is powered by a 66,5 kWh capacity battery, making it capable of covering approximately 424 km on a single charge. Starting price: 51.200 euros.
• BMW iX3 - This is the 100% electric model of the BMW X3 and represents BMW's electric option within the D-SUV market, also thanks to excellent driving fluidity, equipment and interior space. Starting price: 70.200 euros.
• Tesla Model Y - This model is the SUV version of the Tesla Model 3 and guarantees top-level performance, both in terms of range and power, leaving nothing to chance even with regards to interiors and finishes. Starting price: 66.000 euros.
• Jaguar i-Pace - The name Jaguar is enough to eliminate any doubt about the quality of this SUV, one of the first 100% electric luxury models in this segment, capable of developing 400 horsepower, with 4×4 traction and a 90 kWh battery that guarantees a range of 480 km. Starting price: 82.500 euros.
• Tesla Model X - Let's go back to Tesla, leader in the luxury electric car sector, for the Model X, or the SUV version of the Model S sedan, with which it shares the same type of battery (100 kWh), for an autonomy maximum of 565 km and a power that reaches 612 horsepower, also guaranteeing the driver 4-wheel drive and acceleration like a real supercar. Starting price: 120.000 euros.

Finally, closing this article on the best luxury electric cars, before choosing the model that's right for you, we want to suggest you to deepen the theme of the 2022 super car tax, by reading our article specifically dedicated to the topic.

All about the relation between luxury and social media

The luxury market is increasingly central in the world of social media and, more generally, in the digital sector, including the virtual one, which sees more and more fashion brands as protagonists. But also the art market is now consolidated in the metaverse, thanks to NFTs and crypto art. Let’s analyze the growing trend of the luxury market in the virtual world and on social media.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• The world of luxury on social media
  
• The growth of luxury in digital trends
  
• Luxury between NFTs and cryptocurrencies

The world of luxury on social media

The increasingly central role of digital with respect to the luxury market is no longer a novelty. Just like the importance that the virtual world, or the metaverse, is playing in this sector. This is testified by both the growth of the luxury real estate market in the metaverse and the massive investments of the most famous fashion brands in the virtual world, culminating in the Metaverse Fashion Week. However, focusing on the aspect of communication and marketing, it is important to emphasize the role that social media plays today in the strategies of brands operating in the luxury market. Social media, in fact, are crucial for luxury brands to arouse emotions and interest in the public in a genuine and spontaneous way, less formal and elitist than the communication language traditionally used in the luxury segment. Today, the interaction between the brand and the user on social media has become central in the marketing strategies of luxury brands, as well as the creation of digital content in collaboration with celebrities and influencers, decisive for increasing the popularity of brands, especially in specific market segments, such as that of the youngest.

Thus, the luxury communicated through social media brings the user to the center, as a co-creator of content within a virtual community centered on a specific brand, where consumers are not only recipients of a message, but interact and give opinions that contribute to the commercial decisions of the brand itself. Luxury brands can thus amplify and enhance their communication, obtain a realistic view of the market, receive feedback for product development, strengthen the relationship with existing customers and increase their loyalty, as well as being able to access all data voluntarily provided by the users themselves. Confirming this trend relating to the approach of luxury brands to social media, there are some data referring to Twitter, where, already in 2020, 86% of users had shown interest in viewing more content from the brands of the sector, and where, in 2021, there were over 400 million views regarding Live Fashion events broadcast on the platform (about 250 million more than the previous year). Among the luxury brands that have broadcast live streaming on Twitter are Louis Vuitton, which boasts over 9,3 million followers, as well as Balenciaga, Prada, Hermès, already pioneers in the metaverse, as we write in our article on the growth of the business connected to fashion in the virtual world.

The growth of luxury in digital trends

In our article about the Metaverse Fashion Week, we wrote that there are already many luxury brands that are present in the metaverse, including Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton and Moncler. These high fashion brands testify how the luxury market in the virtual world is already flourishing, also thanks to the many VIPs who have paved the way for the purchase of virtual products created by famous brands. In recent months, in fact, the metaverse has become the scene of the sale and purchase of luxury items, but the growth trend of the fashion and design sector in the metaverse is continuing exponentially, and is destined to move forward without slowing down. And there are various examples of this trend. One is the race to adopt Web3 undertaken by Gucci with its two NFT collections launched in 2022 and with the announcement of the inclusion of cryptocurrencies as a payment method for its products. This second aspect is a really important step, given that it will allow Gucci to unite its own Web3 digital community with the physical ones, as well as favoring different marketing strategies and facilitating the fight against counterfeiting, thanks to initiatives such as "#GucciGram" on social Instagram or the “FAKE/NOT” collection, at the center of an awareness campaign on the subject.

But there is another Italian fashion giant that has launched itself decisively on social media, namely Fendi, which has chosen to use Tik Tok to reach the market segment represented by the youngest, exploiting ad hoc content and partnerships with the influencers loved by young audiences. Moving on to French fashion brands, it is impossible not to mention Chanel as an example of using in a specific way any one of all the different social channels. The French luxury brand is in fact one of the most influential brands on social media in the luxury sector, thanks to an optimization of its contents to adapt them to each platform. This is how Chanel manages to make videos with millions of views (YouTube), to be at the center of industry narratives (Pinterest) and to publish iconic images of the brand or even generated by the user community (Instagram). The French luxury brand has thus managed to create its own unique communication language and, at the same time, to retain its audience. From Gucci to Fendi and Chanel, to Dolce & Gabbana, Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton, it is now evident that, although with different methods and strategies, all brands which operate in the luxury segment are now increasingly present and interested in the virtual world and, in general, to digital, as essential pillars for any brand that wants to be successful within what is currently the marketing ecosystem.

Luxury between NFTs and cryptocurrencies

And the growth of luxury in digital trends is also involving the world of art, in particular with the phenomenon of crypto art and art NFTs, which we present in more detail in a dedicated article. In particular, the relation between luxury brands and the virtual world is increasingly close, and also passes through the world of NFTs and cryptocurrencies. Going back to social media, in fact, and Twitter in particular, it should be emphasized that the 2022 Twitter Trends Report recorded a 320% increase in conversations on topics such as the relationship between NFTs and fashion or collectibles.

And here, for example, Dolce & Gabbana launched its "Genesis" NFT collection through a virtual discussion with Twitter Spaces, while Gucci chose Twitter to advertise the "#10KTFGucciGrail" NFT collection and launch "Supergucci" on Gucci Vault. In short, as also noted on the occasion of the Metaverse Fashion Week, the luxury fashion segment is expanding more and more rapidly in the virtual world, as well as all the commercial areas that are part of the luxury market. Experts, in fact, expect rapid and exponential growth of the metaverse, where more and more users are accumulating cryptocurrencies in their virtual wallets.

All about polo, the sport that combines history and luxury

How to play polo and what are the rules? Who are the players in this ancient sport practiced among royal families? Let's find out what polo is and why it has always been connected with the world of nobility, elegance and luxury.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• What is polo: rules and… players
  
• The history of polo, the sport of kings
  
• Polo between elegance and luxury

What is polo: rules and… players

Both in Italy and throughout the European continent, polo is certainly not one of the most popular sports. And sport is certainly not a recurring theme in our articles, but the exception is a must for a discipline so closely linked to the world of luxury and nobility. Before discovering these aspects of polo, however, it is appropriate to introduce some technical information about this sport, of which many may not know the rules and how they work. As has already happened in other articles, it is always good practice to start from the institutional definition available in the Treccani encyclopedia: "Equestrian sport that takes place between two teams of four riders each, who, by means of a special club (1,30 meters in length), they push a wooden or rubber ball (90 millimeters in diameter), trying to send it into the opponent's goal”. The first thing to note is obviously the presence of four particular players, as these are the horses that are ridden by the four players of each of the two teams. Consequently, many of the rules of the game are evidently designed to protect the health of both the player and the horse. Like that of the Line of the Ball rule, introduced so that each player always approaches the ball safely.

To mention other rules among the most important ones, it is appropriate to specify that the ball can be hit with both vertices of the club, that the game is made up of four, six, or eight times of seven minutes each, with intervals of three minutes, during which it is possible to replace the horses, which are forced to a very intense effort during the minutes of action and, as mentioned, above all that the goal of the players is to pass the ball through two poles using the clubs. As usual, the player who scores the most points in a match wins. These few elements should already be sufficient to make you understand why polo is certainly one of the sports for which a very important financial commitment is necessary to be able to obtain the technical equipment and to pay the considerable amount required for registration to private luxury clubs where you can practice it. But above all, it must be borne in mind that each player must have two or more horses available, because, if only one animal can manage to face all the times of a single game, it is impossible for a single horse to compete in all the official matches and sustain team training. In addition to this, it is also worth mentioning the cost for the shelter of the horses, as well as the salary of the stableman and the payment of the various registrations to the tournaments. In short, all considered, the annual expense needed to practice polo can be around 75.000 euros.

The history of polo, the sport of kings

But why has polo always been a noble sport, rather than expensive? Simple, because it was the sport practiced by kings. Indeed by all those who, in the Persian Empire, were part of the army cavalry. Yes, because it seems that polo was born as a form of exercise that warriors did to prepare for combat on horseback during military campaigns, already more than 2.500 years ago. It seems then that this sort of training for the Persian army's cavalry turned into a real sport - or rather, a game - in the sixth century BC, when the Persians challenged the Turkmen in the first documented polo match in history. This theory with respect to the military origin of polo as an exercise for cavalry is evident, for example, by the fact that the movement that each player makes to start the club from top to bottom in order to hit the ball faithfully reproduces the one made with a saber to hit an enemy. Polo then spread and established itself even within the Byzantine kingdom, where some rules were changed, but without distorting the game.

It seems that, precisely among the Byzantines, this sport was practiced in the first person by the sovereigns, including some who even died practicing polo - such as the basileus Alexander or the basileus John I of Trebizond. But the royal, or at least noble, tradition of polo has also continued in another of the most iconic kingdoms in the world, the English one. In Great Britain, in fact, polo arrived around the second half of the nineteenth century, definitively transforming itself from a game derived from a form of training for the cavalry of kings into a sport. The English crown then exported the polo to all the territories under its colonial rule, including those of the American continent, and in particular Argentina, but also to Europe, as evidenced by the first European polo club founded in 1868 in Malta and the first polo match in Italy in Rome (1903). The history of polo also includes illustrious players coming directly from the English royal family, including Prince Charles. In short, a real sport for a king.

Polo between elegance and luxury

The link that relates polo with the world of nobility, as we have seen, also translates into very high costs for those wishing to practice this sport or otherwise take an active part in it within a team. Also for this reason, currently polo - as well as many sports related to horse riding - is at the center of a race for sponsorships by large companies and multinationals belonging to the luxury market, which invest amounts ranging from thousands of euros up to millions. A leading brand of sponsorships in the world of polo is the U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), born even in 1890 and capable of billing over one and a half billion dollars a year, thanks also to important partnerships, such as the one with the Italia Polo Challenge in Cortina d'Ampezzo, and the fact of having become the technical sponsor, and therefore the official supplier, of the uniforms of the US national polo team.

To mention other well-known sponsors in Italy, just think of Mediolanum Private Banking and Sea Earth Sky-Yacht Consulting, a consulting company dedicated to the world of yachts - which we present in another article focused on new electric models. Moving on to the international giants that are configured as sponsorship leaders, Rolex could not be missing, which has always been linked to the world of horse riding - but not only -, and which we present more in detail in our article about the most expensive watches in the world. Very close in order of importance we find the car brand Land Rover, a leading brand in the luxury car sector and official sponsor of the FISE (Italian Federation of Equestrian Sports). In short, if polo was born thousands of years ago as a sport of kings and then spread above all in high society, even today it has not lost its status as a noble and luxurious game.

All about technological jewels and virtual jewelry in the metaverse

Technology and the virtual world are increasingly protagonists within the luxury market, starting from the best hi-tech jewels to virtual ones in the metaverse, where, in addition to the success of fashion brands, also producers of precious digital objects are becoming more and more central in this market.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• All about the best technological jewels
  
• NFT jewels in the metaverse
  
• Technological trends between metaverse and NFT

All about the best technological jewels

We already focused before on the increasingly close relationship that the world of luxury has with the most advanced technologies. In particular, so far we have focused above all on the virtual world, or the metaverse, but this time we want to dedicate space to another sector linked to luxury items, namely that of jewelry. There are some jewels, in fact, that are not only classy, ​​elegant and made of precious materials, but also designed to offer the latest features in terms of technology. These hi-tech jewels are luxury watches, bracelets or rings, but at the same time they are also cutting-edge devices, which manage to combine design, luxury and innovation. From the most technological features related to personal safety, to those now widespread on a large scale dedicated to fitness, to the tracking of biometric parameters, to nutrition and, more generally, to the sphere of wellness. Without forgetting entertainment. Let's discover some of the best technological jewels on the market, designed specifically for a female audience.

• WiseWear Calder - It is a smart bracelet designed to guarantee maximum safety for the wearer, since it is able not only to monitor the physical activity carried out daily and the progress obtained, but it is also designed to immediately reach contacts in memory with three touches in case of emergency or danger via the bluetooth connection with your smartphone, from which you can also receive all kinds of notifications. Other details? WiseWear Calder is also water resistant, has an average battery life of 72 hours with a full charge, is available in rose gold, gold and palladium colors and costs 325 dollars (about 300 euros).
• Leaf Nature Silver - This very particular jewel is configured as a pendant, a brooch or a bracelet and is used to monitor various biometric functions, including sleep, stress level, menstrual cycle, but also physical activity, without the need for be charged, thanks to its replaceable battery that lasts up to 6 months. Leaf Nature Silver costs around 90 euros and is available in rose gold, silver, gray or black.
• Stelle Audio Mini-Clutch Speaker - The luxury hi-tech accessory that combines the convenience of a fashionable handbag - including a mirror and a pocket for storing your belongings - with the entertainment guaranteed by a high-quality Bluetooth speaker audio, to be used to play the music you love or make hands-free calls. The Stelle Audio Mini-Clutch Speaker is made of a mix of purple fabric and metal (in the shades of gold, dazzling diamond and blue).
• Ringly Smart Ring - A ring designed to keep track of all aspects of physical activity - distances traveled, calories burned and average speed - but also to consult and manage the notifications of your associated smartphone. The Ringly Smart Ring is found in gold color with various types of precious stones (including tourmalinated quartz and green emerald).
• Spade Scallop Bangle Tracker - This wearable combines a minimal and elegant design - available in silver and gold versions - with cutting-edge technological features for monitoring physical activity, water consumption and calories, all powered by a replaceable battery button.
• Nimb Smartring - Another hi-tech ring that combines monitoring functions with those designed to guarantee assistance and support in the event of an emergency or danger, through a simple touch and using the integrated GPS to share your position.

NFT jewels in the metaverse

We have been following the theme of the virtual world for some time, as evidenced by our articles relating to both the growth of the luxury real estate market in the metaverse and the massive investments of the most famous fashion brands in the metaverse, culminating in the Metaverse Fashion Week, given that the virtual world has now become an increasingly central area for various businesses, even fundamental to be able to expand the market for luxury brands to the virtual world and, above all, to the market segment of the youngest, already accustomed and very active in the digital world. This trend is also part of the entire market trend linked to NFT jewels, that is, valuable virtual objects characterized by digital certificates that guarantee their uniqueness and authenticity, as we tell in an article dedicated specifically to NFT and to the theme of crypto art. In fact, recently a collection of sculptural jewels by the American artist Kris Ruhs has been created in a digital version, to be available in virtual reality, with the collaboration of the Sozzani Foundation of Milan.

These are seven unique jewels selected from the Kris Ruhs archive and transformed by the specialized company Xbinary into digital objects to be used in the metaverse and purchasable in the DressX marketplace, an international digital fashion platform. Another news of these months was the participation of Bulgari in the sixth edition of Viva Technology, the largest European fair in terms of technology and start-ups, with an exhibition of digital projects related to its luxury products, including an ecosystem of patented NFTs for NFT watches and high jewelry creations. At the same time as the event, Bulgari also launched Octo Finissimo Ultra, the thinnest mechanical watch in the world (only 1,8 millimeters thick) capable of offering exclusive access to a virtual work via QR code, and a collection of NFT high jewelry, which includes the Beyond Wonder - Bulgari's first virtual jewel.

Technological trends between metaverse and NFT

The technological trends described above are part of the context of an exponential growth recorded in recent months with respect to the new market generated by the metaverse - or rather, by the various existing metaverses - thanks above all to the sale and purchase of luxury items, whose market will be hosted for 10% of the total by the virtual world alone, according to an estimate by the credit institution Morgan Stanley, which, by 2030, identifies the value of the digital market for luxury goods at 45 billion euros in respect to more 400 totals for the sector. The world of art is no exception, given that crypto art is the basis of a dense commercial network of unique works, which can be purchased and sold as exclusive contents at staggering figures.

Suffice it to say that, over the course of 2021, crypto art generated an induced amount of 24,9 billion dollars linked to the sale of digital works of art. The luxury sector is therefore already a protagonist in the metaverse, thanks also to the work of the major fashion brands, such as Hugo Boss and Gucci, Balenciaga, Ralph Lauren, Burberry and Louis Vuitton who have signed various accessories and virtual products. In general, therefore, the business is rapidly moving into the metaverse, both as regards the luxury market and with respect to fashion in general, but also to that of jewelry and art.