For the ultrawealthy, privacy is the ultimate travel status symbol

"Classic markers of luxury travel, like five-star hotels and hard-to-get dinner reservations, are no longer enough for some ultrawealthy travelers. Instead, they're increasingly seeking a subtler status symbol: privacy. "The privacy factor is higher than it's ever been. In fact, we have some clients who are 'no more hotels,'" Rob DelliBovi, a luxury travel planner whose clients include celebrities and high-net-worth individuals, said. "Even the five-star hotel experience is too crowded.""

"The ultrawealthy are increasingly skipping luxury hotels and turning instead to private villas, private jets, and private chefs. A trend report from Capital One Travel last month found that 86% of luxury travelers said privacy and seclusion were top considerations when choosing where to stay, and 83% said exclusivity of access. "The true value of luxury lies in the guarantee of an exclusive experience that cannot be accessed by the general public," the report said."

"DelliBovi said this kind of travel was always popular with his celebrity clients, "who have a problem being seen literally anywhere." However, since the pandemic, and especially as we head into 2026, demand has skyrocketed among his high-net-worth clients. "Now it's some more of our investment banker types," he said. "People who would rent out a penthouse at a Four Seasons are like, 'What are my private home options?' Because even walking through the Four Seasons now can be a bit of a to-do.""

Ultrawealthy travelers now prioritize privacy and exclusivity over traditional luxury markers such as five-star hotels and hard-to-get dinner reservations. Many choose private villas, private islands, private jets and private chefs to avoid crowds and public exposure. Survey data shows 86% of luxury travelers rate privacy and seclusion as top considerations, and 83% prioritize exclusivity of access. Demand for off-market rentals and fully private experiences spiked after the pandemic and now includes financiers and other high-net-worth individuals beyond celebrities. Nondisclosure agreements and fully rented private properties are increasingly used to guarantee anonymity and exclusive access.

Read at Business Insider